bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein stability prediction by fine-tuning a protein language model on a mega-scale dataset
Authors: Chu Simon K. S. , Narang Kush , Siegel Justin B.
Published: July 2024

Protein stability plays a crucial role in a variety of applications, such as food processing, therapeutics, and the identification of pathogenic mutations. Engineering campaigns commonly seek to improve protein stability, and there is a strong interest in streamlining these processes to enable rapid optimization of highly stabilized proteins with fewer iterations. In this work, we explore utilizing a mega-scale dataset to develop a protein language model optimized for stability prediction. ESMtherm is trained on the folding stability of 528k natural and de novo sequences derived from 461 protein domains and can accommodate deletions, insertions, and multiple-point mutations. We show that a protein language model can be fine-tuned to predict folding stability. ESMtherm performs reasonably on small protein domains and generalizes to sequences distal from the training set. Lastly, we discuss our model’s limitations compared to other state-of-the-art methods in generalizing to larger protein scaffolds. Our results highlight the need for large-scale stability measurements on a diverse dataset that mirrors the distribution of sequence lengths commonly observed in nature.
Correlates of viral suppression among sexual minority men and transgender women living with HIV in Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Gyamerah Akua O. , Marr Alexander , Maleke Kabelo , Manyuchi Albert E. , Mirzazadeh Ali , Radebe Oscar , Lane Tim , Puren Adrian , Steward Wayne T. , Struthers Helen , Lippman Sheri A.
Published: July 2024

Sexual minority men (SMM) and transgender women in South Africa engage in HIV care at lower rates than other persons living with HIV and may experience population-specific barriers to HIV treatment and viral suppression (VS). As part of a pilot trial of an SMM-tailored peer navigation (PN) intervention in Ehlanzeni district, South Africa, we assessed factors associated with ART use and VS among SMM at trial enrolment. A total of 103 HIV-positive SMM and transgender women enrolled in the pilot trial. Data on clinical visits and ART adherence were self-reported. VS status was verified through laboratory analysis (<1000 copies/ml). We assessed correlates of VS at baseline using Poisson generalized linear model (GLM) with a log link function, including demographic, psychosocial, clinical, and behavioral indicators. Among participants, 52.4% reported ART use and only 42.2% of all participants had evidence of VS. Of the 49.5% who reported optimal engagement in HIV care (consistent clinic visits with pills never missed for ≥ 4 consecutive days) in the past 3-months, 56.0% were virally suppressed. In multivariable analysis, SMM were significantly more likely to be virally suppressed when they were ≥ 25 years of age (Adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] = 2.0, CI 95%:1.0–3.8); in a relationship but not living with partner, as compared to married, living together, or single (APR = 1.7, CI 95%:1.0–2.7), and optimally engaged in care (APR = 2.1, 95% CI:1.3–3.3). Findings indicate a need for targeted treatment and care support programming, especially for SMM and transgender women who are young and married/living with their partners to improve treatment outcomes among this population.
Somatostatin receptors in fibrotic myocardium
Authors: Castillero Estibaliz , Camillo Chiara , Erwin W. Clinton , Singh Sameer , Mohamoud Nafisa , George Isaac , Eapen Elizabeth , Dockery Keith , Ferrari Giovanni , Gupta Himanshu
Published: July 2024

A patient with a neuroendocrine tumor and history of coronary artery disease underwent PET with 68Ga-DOTATATE PET tracer for tumor visualization. Analysis of the scan showed uptake of 68Ga-DOTATATE in the left ventricle corresponding to previous myocardial infarct. 68Ga-DOTATATE binds by somatostatin receptors (SSTR) and it has been proposed that it may be useful for the detection of cardiac inflammatory lesions. We aimed to test whether SSTR could be upregulated in cardiac fibrotic scar. We analyzed SSTR in cardiac samples from patients with end-stage ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM, n = 8) and control hearts (n = 5). In mature ICM tissue, SSTR1 and SSTR2 expression was unchanged and SSTR5 expression was significantly decreased in ICM samples vs. control. Immunohistochemistry showed increased SSTR1 and SSTR2 in ICM. Areas with SSTR1 or SSTR2 staining were often adjacent to fibrotic areas. The majority of SSTR1 and SSTR2 staining localized in cardiomyocytes in fibrotic scar-rich areas where CD68 macrophage staining was not present. SSTR are occasionally upregulated in cardiac fibrotic areas. When using 68Ga-DOTATATE PET tracer to detect cardiac sarcoidosis or atherosclerotic plaque, the possibility of tracer uptake in fibrotic areas should be considered.
Testing effectiveness and implementation of a standardized approach to sexual dysfunction screening among adolescent and young adult-aged survivors of childhood cancer: A type I hybrid, mixed methods trial protocol
Authors: Demedis Jenna , Reedy Julia , Miller Kristen , Hu Junxiao , Klosky James L. , Dorsey Holliman Brooke , Peterson Pamela N. , Chow Eric J. , Studts Christina
Published: July 2024

Background

Approximately 20–50% of adolescent and young adult-aged childhood cancer survivors (AYA-CCS) experience sexual dysfunction (SD), although this healthcare need is widely underrecognized. Previous research from both AYA-CCS patients and their providers report that SD needs are unaddressed despite patient desires for SD discussions to be incorporated as part of their care. Patients and providers agree that standardized use of a patient-reported outcome measure may facilitate SD discussions; an SD screening approach was developed with patient and provider input. This study will measure the effectiveness of a standardized SD screening intervention and assess implementation outcomes and multilevel barriers and facilitators to guide future research.

Methods

This multi-site, mixed methods, type 1 effectiveness-implementation hybrid trial will be evaluated using a pre-post design (NCT05524610). The trial will enroll 86 AYA-CCS (ages 15–39) from two cancer centers in the United States. The SD intervention consists of core fundamental functions with a “menu” of intervention options to allow for flexibility in delivery and tailoring in variable contexts. Effectiveness of the intervention on facilitating SD communication will be measured through patient surveys and clinical data; multivariable logistic regression will be used for the binary outcome of self-reported SD screening, controlling for patient-level predictors. Implementation outcomes will be assessed using mixed methods (electronic health record abstraction, patient and provider surveys, and provider interviews. Quantitative and qualitative findings will be merged using a joint display to understand factors affecting intervention success.

Implications

Identification and treatment of SD in AYA-CCS is an important and challenging quality of life concern. The type 1 hybrid design will facilitate rapid translation from research to practice by testing the effects of the intervention while simultaneously identifying multilevel barriers and facilitators to real-world implementation. This approach will inform future testing and dissemination of the SD screening intervention.
Philosophy leading the way: An interdisciplinary approach to study communication of severe diagnoses
Authors: Consolandi Monica
Published: July 2024

This paper explores a brand-new interdisciplinary approach applied to an enduring problem: the communication of severe diagnoses. The moment when physicians explain the diagnosis to patients and their relatives is sensitive, particularly for a disease that is rarely diagnosed early. The first part of the article is dedicated to the context of this delicate doctor-patient interaction. With this framework in mind, the paper delves into the innovative interdisciplinary methodology developed in the pilot study Communi.CARE, conducted in a hospital in Northern Italy, which focuses on the diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). SARS-CoV-2 impact on the study development is highlighted. The study aims to explore the topic by combining different areas of expertise, including medicine, philosophy, sociology, and psychology. The contribution of philosophy is here presented as essential: it has a leading role in the conception of the study, its development, and the elaboration of results. It is shown throughout the study, from methodology to the analysis of results. Strengths and weaknesses of the methodology are discussed. In conclusion, further philosophical considerations on effective and ethical communication in this delicate context are recommended.
Optimal image quality and radiation doses with optimal tube voltages/currents for pediatric anthropomorphic phantom brains
Authors: Chen Li-Guo , Kao Hung-Wen , Wu Ping-An , Sheu Ming-Huei , Huang Li-Chuan
Published: July 2024

Objective

Using pediatric anthropomorphic phantoms (APs), we aimed to determine the scanning tube voltage/current combinations that could achieve optimal image quality and avoid excessive radiation exposure in pediatric patients.

Materials and methods

A 64-slice scanner was used to scan a standard test phantom to determine the volume CT dose indices (CTDIvol), and three pediatric anthropomorphic phantoms (APs) with highly accurate anatomy and tissue-equivalent materials were studied. These specialized APs represented the average 1-year-old, 5-year-old, and 10-year-old children, respectively. The physical phantoms were constructed with brain tissue-equivalent materials having a density of ρ = 1.07 g/cm3, comprising 22 numbered 2.54-cm-thick sections for the 1-year-old, 26 sections for the 5-year-old, and 32 sections for the 10-year-old. They were scanned to acquire brain CT images and determine the standard deviations (SDs), effective doses (EDs), and contrast-to noise ratios (CNRs). The APs were scanned by 21 combinations of tube voltages/currents (80, 100, or 120 kVp/10, 40, 80, 120, 150, 200, or 250 mA) and rotation time/pitch settings of 1 s/0.984:1.

Results

The optimal tube voltage/current combinations yielding optimal image quality were 80 kVp/80 mA for the 1-year-old AP; 80 kVp/120 mA for the 5-year-old AP; and 80 kVp/150 mA for the 10-year-old AP. Because these scanning tube voltages/currents yielded SDs, respectively, of 12.81, 13.09, and 12.26 HU, along with small EDs of 0.31, 0.34, and 0.31 mSv, these parameters and the induced values were expediently defined as optimal.

Conclusions

The optimal tube voltages/currents that yielded optimal brain image quality, SDs, CNRs, and EDs herein are novel and essentially important. Clinical translation of these optimal values may allow CT diagnosis with low radiation doses to children’s heads.
The association between HIV-related stigma, HIV knowledge and HIV late presenters among people living with HIV (PLHIV) attending public primary care clinic settings in Selangor
Authors: Bin Ahmad Mohd Zulfikry , Md. Yasin Mazapuspavina , Mat Nasir Nafiza , Mohamad Mariam
Published: July 2024

Introduction

HIV late presenters were defined as individuals presenting with a CD4 count below 350 cells/μL or with an AIDS-defining event, according to the European Late Presenter Consensus working group. Early diagnosis and treatment of HIV have proven beneficial for people living with HIV (PLHIV), reducing the burden on healthcare systems, and contributing to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. However, in Malaysia, over 50% of newly diagnosed HIV patients present late, leading to increased morbidity and premature mortality. This study aims to determine the prevalence of late HIV presenters and its association with HIV-related stigma and HIV knowledge among PLHIV attending public primary care clinics in Selangor.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at selected public health clinics in Selangor, involving PLHIV aged 18 years and older, who were diagnosed since 2019. HIV-related stigma was measured using the Malay version of Berger’s HIV Stigma Scale, and HIV knowledge was assessed using the Malay version of Brief HIV-KQ-18. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with late HIV presentation.

Results

A total of 400 participants were included in the study, with 60.0% (n = 240, 95% CI: 55.0–65.0) classified as late presenters. The participants had a mean age of 30.29 (±7.77) years. The risk factors for late presenters were high levels of HIV-related stigma (aOR = 1.049, 95% CI: 1.034–1.063, p-value <0.001), low levels of HIV knowledge (aOR = 0.709, 95% CI: 0.646–0.778, p-value <0.001), tertiary education background (aOR = 15.962, 95% CI: 1.898–134.235, p-value = 0.011), and being single (aOR = 3.582, 95% CI: 1.393–9.208, p-value = 0.008).

Conclusion

This study highlights the association between high levels of HIV-related stigma, low levels of HIV knowledge, and late HIV presentation. Interventions targeting stigma reduction and HIV education can promote early testing and prompt access to care, improving health outcomes for PLHIV.
Relationship between protein conformational stability and its immunogenicity when administering antigens to mice using adjuvants—Analysis employed the CH2 domain in human antibodies
Authors: Oyama Kosuke , Ueda Tadashi
Published: July 2024

Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) play a crucial role in the immune system by breaking down antigens into peptide fragments that subsequently bind to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. Previous studies indicate that stable proteins can impede CD4+ T cell stimulation by hindering antigen processing and presentation. Conversely, certain proteins require stabilization in order to activate the immune response. Several factors, including the characteristics of the protein and the utilization of different adjuvants in animal experiments, may contribute to this disparity. In this study, we investigated the impact of adjuvants on antigen administration in mice, specifically focusing on the stability of the CH2 domain. Consequently, the CH2 domain induced a stronger IgG response in comparison to the stabilized one when using Alum and PBS (without adjuvant). On the other hand, animal experiment using Freund’s adjuvant showed the opposite results. These findings indicate the significance of considering the intrinsic conformational stability of a protein when eliciting its immunogenicity, particularly within the context of vaccine development.
Identification of potent inhibitors of HDAC2 from herbal products for the treatment of colon cancer: Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, MM/GBSA calculations, DFT studies, and pharmacokinetic analysis
Authors: Khanal Madan , Acharya Arjun , Maharjan Rajesh , Gyawali Kalpana , Adhikari Rameshwar , Mulmi Deependra Das , Lamichhane Tika Ram , Lamichhane Hari Prasad
Published: July 2024

The histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), an enzyme involved in gene regulation, is a potent drug target for the treatment of colon cancer. Phytocompounds having anticancer properties show the ability to interact with HDAC2 enzyme. Among the compounds, docking scores of caffeic acid (CA) and p-coumaric acid (pCA) with HDAC2 showed good binding efficacy of -5.46 kcal/mol and -5.16 kcal/mol, respectively, with small inhibition constants. The higher binding efficacy of CA compared to pCA can be credited to the presence of an extra oxygen atom in the CA molecule, which forms an additional hydrogen bond with Tyr297. The HDAC2 in complex with these molecules was found to be stable by analyzing RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and SASA values obtained through MD simulations. Furthermore, CA and pCA exhibited low MM/GBSA free energies of -16.32 ± 2.62 kcal/mol and -17.01 ± 2.87 kcal/mol, respectively. The HOMO and LUMO energy gaps, dipole moments, global reactivity descriptor values, and MEP surfaces showed the reactivity of the molecules. The favourable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties, along with absence of toxicity of the molecules determined using ADMET analysis, suggested both the acids to be regarded as effective drugs in the treatment of colon cancer.
Possible involvement of three-stemmed pseudoknots in regulating translational initiation in human mRNAs
Authors: Huang Xiaolan , Du Zhihua
Published: July 2024

RNA pseudoknots play a crucial role in various cellular functions. Established pseudoknots show significant variation in both size and structural complexity. Specifically, three-stemmed pseudoknots are characterized by an additional stem-loop embedded in their structure. Recent findings highlight these pseudoknots as bacterial riboswitches and potent stimulators for programmed ribosomal frameshifting in RNA viruses like SARS-CoV2. To investigate the possible presence of functional three-stemmed pseudoknots in human mRNAs, we employed in-house developed computational methods to detect such structures within a dataset comprising 21,780 full-length human mRNA sequences. Numerous three-stemmed pseudoknots were identified. A selected set of 14 potential instances are presented, in which the start codon of the mRNA is found in close proximity either upstream, downstream, or within the identified three-stemmed pseudoknot. These pseudoknots likely play a role in translational initiation regulation. The probability of their existence gains support from their ranking as the most stable pseudoknot identified in the entire mRNA sequence, structural conservation across homologous mRNAs, stereochemical feasibility as demonstrated by structural modeling, and classification as members of the CPK-1 pseudoknot family, which includes many well-established pseudoknots. Furthermore, in four of the mRNAs, two or three closely spaced or tandem three-stemmed pseudoknots were identified. These findings suggest the frequent occurrence of three-stemmed pseudoknots in human mRNAs. A stepwise co-transcriptional folding mechanism is proposed for the formation of a three-stemmed pseudoknot structure. Our results not only provide fresh insights into the structures and functions of pseudoknots but also unveil the potential to target pseudoknots for treating human diseases.
Innate lymphoid cells are activated in HFRS, and their function can be modulated by hantavirus-induced type I interferons
Authors: García Marina , Carrasco García Anna , Weigel Whitney , Christ Wanda , Lira-Junior Ronaldo , Wirth Lorenz , Tauriainen Johanna , Maleki Kimia , Vanoni Giulia , Vaheri Antti , Mäkelä Satu , Mustonen Jukka , Nordgren Johan , Smed-Sörensen Anna , Strandin Tomas , Mjösberg Jenny , Klingström Jonas
Published: July 2024

Hantaviruses cause the acute zoonotic diseases hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Infected patients show strong systemic inflammation and immune cell activation. NK cells are highly activated in HFRS, suggesting that also other innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) might be responding to infection. Here, we characterized peripheral ILC responses, and measured plasma levels of soluble factors and plasma viral load, in 17 Puumala virus (PUUV)-infected HFRS patients. This revealed an increased frequency of ILC2 in patients, in particular the ILC2 lineage-committed c-Kitlo ILC2 subset. Patients’ ILCs showed an activated profile with increased proliferation and displayed altered expression of several homing markers. How ILCs are activated during viral infection is largely unknown. When analyzing PUUV-mediated activation of ILCs in vitro we observed that this was dependent on type I interferons, suggesting a role for type I interferons—produced in response to virus infection–in the activation of ILCs. Further, stimulation of naïve ILC2s with IFN-β affected ILC2 cytokine responses in vitro, causing decreased IL-5 and IL-13, and increased IL-10, CXCL10, and GM-CSF secretion. These results show that ILCs are activated in HFRS patients and suggest that the classical antiviral type I IFNs are involved in shaping ILC functions.
The two-component system TtrRS boosts Vibrio parahaemolyticus colonization by exploiting sulfur compounds in host gut
Authors: Zhong Xiaojun , Liu Fuwen , Liang Tianqi , Lu Ranran , Shi Mengting , Zhou Xiujuan , Yang Menghua
Published: July 2024

One of the greatest challenges encountered by enteric pathogens is responding to rapid changes of nutrient availability in host. However, the mechanisms by which pathogens sense gastrointestinal signals and exploit available host nutrients for proliferation remain largely unknown. Here, we identified a two-component system in Vibrio parahaemolyticus, TtrRS, which senses environmental tetrathionate and subsequently activates the transcription of the ttrRS-ttrBCA-tsdBA gene cluster to promote V. parahaemolyticus colonization of adult mice. We demonstrated that TsdBA confers the ability of thiosulfate oxidation to produce tetrathionate which is sensed by TtrRS. TtrRS autoregulates and directly activates the transcription of the ttrBCA and tsdBA gene clusters. Activated TtrBCA promotes bacterial growth under micro-aerobic conditions by inducing the reduction of both tetrathionate and thiosulfate. TtrBCA and TsdBA activation by TtrRS is important for V. parahaemolyticus to colonize adult mice. Therefore, TtrRS and their target genes constitute a tetrathionate-responsive genetic circuit to exploit the host available sulfur compounds, which further contributes to the intestinal colonization of V. parahaemolyticus.
Collaborative songwriting as and for artistic activism
Authors: Flower Imogen
Published: July 2024

This article explores collaborative songwriting as a form of artistic activism – the creation, performance and/or distribution of art to advance social justice – and demonstrates its potential both in terms of the process of songwriting and the songs that result from it. In doing so, it compares two songwriting workshops facilitated as part of Sex Worker’s Opera (SWO), a grassroots musical theatre project by and for sex workers, drawing on participant observation, archival research and music elicitation interviews. In unpacking the contingent nature of this potential, it evaluates the practical significance of different intentions and material constraints, approaches to fostering ownership and solidarity, and the balance between structure and freedom in facilitating the workshops. Critically, the findings suggest that public engagement, alongside a commitment to community leadership, can help to harness the activist potential of the practice. Looking at how collaborative songwriting can function as and for artistic activism – through creative processes and cultural products – the article emphasizes the opportunity this practice offers for marginalized groups to reclaim cultural space and to challenge norms of silencing in both the cultural and political spheres.
The Mediating Effect of Nunchi in the Relationship between Clinical Competence and Communication Skill among Nursing Students
Authors: Lee Jae Kyung , Eun Young , Park Seon Hwa ,   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis
Published: July 2024

This study was conducted to understand the clinical competence, communication skill, and of nursing students, and to establish a method to improve clinical competence by identifying the relationship and mediating effect between them. The purpose of this study was to determine the mediating effect of Nunchi in the relationship between clinical competence and communication skill of nursing students. The subjects of the study were 278 students in their fourth year of a four-year university in S and M cities. Data analysis was performed through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis using SPSS 21.0. As a result of the study, clinical competence and communication skill showed a significant positive correlation with Nunchi, and Nunchi was found to have a full mediating effect in the relationship between clinical competence and communication skill. Based on the results of this study, it is believed that developing and applying a Nunchi improvement training program to improve clinical competence will be useful in improving the communication skills of nursing students.
Towards data-driven contracts in real estate
Authors: Wiesweg Niklas , Bernhold Torben
Published: July 2024

Real estate management, and therefore the procurement of these ser- vices, is increasingly undergoing a digital transformation. At its core, the institutional structure, i.e., cooperation and contract design, is a decisive element for information logistics between corporate and RESP. What se- lection criteria/characteristics of service providers do clients use when de- ciding to outsource real estate-related services? How important are these criteria, in particular price and data-driven business, for the decision? The results show that price is the most important criterion in the procurement decision. This is followed in descending order by the relationship between expectations and the actual service result as well as the type of partner- ship. Despite the increasing importance and influence of digitalisation, da- ta flow is the least important criterion.
The effect of financial distress on accounting misstatements during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Adiwibowo Akhmad Sigit , Nurmala Putri
Published: July 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of financial distress on accounting misstatements and to find out whether the COVID-19 pandemic moderates the relationship between financial distress and accounting misstatements. This study uses data from property and real estate companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the period from 2017 to 2021. The total research sample is 145 entities. The statistical methodology used in this study is panel regression analysis with the following steps: selecting the best regression model, classical assumption testing, and regression testing to determine coefficient values and significance levels. The results of this study show that financial distress has no significant effect on accounting misstatements. This study also finds empirical evidence that the COVID-19 pandemic does not moderate the relationship between financial distress and accounting misstatement. Although accounting misstatements have been a research topic for many years, little attention has been paid to their impact on companies experiencing financial distress and crises. Further research still needs to be carried out regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the relationship between financial distress and accounting misstatement using a sample of companies that have a high multiplier effect. It is hoped that the results of this study can provide additional references to prove that agency theory and prospect theory can explain accounting misstatements.
Efeito da raspagem dental associada a clorexidina sobre os níveis de pressão arterial, nitrito salivar e bactérias do dorso lingual: estudo piloto
Authors: Campos Fabiana Martins de Oliveira , Cortelli Sheila Cavalca , Costa Fernando de Oliveira , Aquino Davi R. , Fernandes Marissol , Viégas Ruy Felipe Melo , Cortelli José R.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUÇÃO: Bactérias localizadas na porção posterior da língua são capazes de converter nitrato em nitrito. Assim, a redução bacteriana associada ao uso de clorexidina (CHX) poderia limitar essa conversão que leva a eventos indesejáveis, como o aumento da pressão arterial (PA). OBJETIVO: Esse estudo piloto avaliou o impacto da raspagem dental (RD) associada ao uso de CHX nos níveis linguais das espécies Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus mutans, Actinomyces naeslundii, Veillonella atypica, Veillonella parvula, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis e Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Comparou-se os valores de PA e de nitrito salivar antes e após a terapia. O desfecho primário foi a diferença na quantificação bacteriana lingual entre o pré e o pós-tratamento. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos 40 participantes, alocados em dois grupos de tratamento (n=20 cada): grupo RD e grupo RD + CHX (20ml de solução a 0,12%/bochecho de 30 segundos/2 vezes ao dia por 14 dias). As diferenças nos níveis bacterianos foram mais frequentes entre os pacientes que usaram CHX. RESULTADOS: Os níveis de nitrito e de PA foram similares em ambos os grupos, tanto antes quanto após a terapia. CONCLUSÃO: Na população estudada, a disponibilidade de nitrito salivar não foi influenciada pelo uso de CHX. Por se tratar de um estudo piloto, futuros estudos clínicos prospectivos de longa duração e com maiores populações devem ser conduzidos para confirmar ou não os presentes achados.
Melhora na qualidade de vida de pacientes adultos diabéticos acometidos por doença periodontal, após terapia periodontal não-cirúrgica: revisão sistemática
Authors: Dantas Rafaela Lantyer Marques , Ferreira Camila Lopes , Marco Andrea Carvalho de , Rovai Emanuel Silva , Caneppele Taciana Marco Ferraz , Jardini Maria Aparecida Neves
Published: July 2024

INTRODUÇÃO: Algumas doenças comuns da cavidade bucal podem influenciar o bem-estar geral dos indivíduos, destacando-se a doença periodontal, que interfere na qualidade de vida (QV) das pessoas em diversos aspectos além do físico, como na função mastigatória, na aparência e até nas relações interpessoais. OBJETIVO: Essa revisão sistemática teve como objetivo avaliar se o tratamento periodontal não cirúrgico, comparado à ausência de tratamento, melhora a QV de pacientes diabéticos. Para isso, foi realizada uma revisão de estudos clínicos randomizados e estudos clínicos controlados, de acordo com os parâmetros internacionais de transparência em revisões sistemáticas e metanálises (PRISMA statement). MÉTODOS: A revisão foi cadastrada na base PROSPERO, e foi traçada uma estratégia de busca sobre o assunto nas bases de dados MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Registro Central de Ensaios Controlados da Cochrane e EMBASE. RESULTADOS: Seis estudos preencheram todos os critérios de elegibilidade e foram selecionados para a revisão sistemática (4 estudos clínicos randomizados e 2 estudos controlados). Cinco estudos demonstraram melhora na QV de pacientes adultos diabéticos após tratamento periodontal, e apenas 1 não observou mudanças estatisticamente significativas em nenhum dos domínios de QV avaliados pelo questionário utilizado. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados dessa revisão sistemática sugerem que o tratamento periodontal não cirúrgico leva a uma melhora tanto na QV geral quanto na QV relacionada à saúde bucal (QVRSB) de pacientes adultos diabéticos acometidos de doença periodontal.
Sucesso clínico, radiográfico e tomográfico de tratamento endodôntico convencional: relato de caso
Authors: Gonçalez Piai Gabriela , Ricci Vivan Rodrigo , Vieira da Costa Julyano , Tolentino Elen Souza , Nascimento de Souza Pinto Gustavo
Published: July 2024

Introdução: As lesões periapicais atuam como barreiras que impedem a difusão de microrganismos para os tecidos adjacentes. Objetivo: Este artigo relata o caso clínico de uma paciente de 36 anos com a queixa principal de dor de dente persistente, tendo sido aconselhada anteriormente por vários dentistas a extrair o dente afetado. Relato de caso: A paciente mencionou dor irradiada para o ouvido e desconforto leve durante a mastigação no lado direito da mandíbula. Durante o exame clínico, foi observada mobilidade de grau 2 no dente #46 e uma profundidade de sondagem de 8 mm na vestibular desse dente. A radiografia periapical revelou presença de cárie na face distal e uma lesão periapical que se estendia cervicalmente, com envolvimento da furca. Uma tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC) foi solicitada, mostrando ausência de tábua óssea vestibular. O diagnóstico foi de periodontite apical assintomática, e o tratamento indicado foi o tratamento endodôntico convencional. Resultados: Após um acompanhamento de 8 meses, uma melhora significativa na lesão periapical foi observada radiograficamente. No acompanhamento de 1 ano, a TCFC revelou regressão total da lesão com formação de osso trabecular. Conclusão: A ausência de sinais clínicos e imagiológicos de foco de infecção, juntamente com a regressão total dos sintomas da paciente, confirma o sucesso do tratamento endodôntico.
Aproximaciones a la inmersión y su percepción auditiva
Authors: Casales Alejandro
Published: July 2024

En el presente artículo, expone los resultados de un experimento que consistió en analizar la percepción auditiva y su inmersión con la intermediación de la écfrasis. En su ejecución, 400 participantes dispusieron de una instalación sonora donde se reprodujo un paisaje sonoro inmersivo en repetición continua durante tres semanas. La metodología para el análisis fue cualitativa representativa. Los 400 participantes fueron divididos en dos grupos, 200 respondieron individualmente una encuesta controlada mediante 6 conceptos: 10.08% relacionaron su experiencia inmersiva con la relajación, 9.22% meditación, 9.04% profundidad, 9.04% tranquilidad, 8.27% paz y 8.1% inmersión. Los otros 200 respondieron la encuesta sin restricciones y sus conceptos más importantes fueron: 7.6% tranquilidad, 5.9% paz y 4.4% relajación. En los resultados los dos grupos expresaron coincidencias, mediante los conceptos tranquilidad, relajación y paz. Por último, mediante una selección aleatoria simple se eligió un número significativo de écfrasis para exponer el efecto de la inmersión.
Las redes de comunicación del reino Fungi. Modelos curatoriales en el arte contemporáneo
Authors: Trujillo Tamayo Alexandra
Published: July 2024

En este artículo, buscamos poner en diálogo los conceptos de arte-tecnología-naturaleza, a través de observaciones sobre la capacidad que tienen los hongos para transmitir mensajes fotosensibles, cinéticos y orgánicos; acercando el proceso curatorial de obras artísticas al proceso comunicacional generado por la red de micelio. La red de micelio como un modelo comunicacional que performa en la curaduría de obras de arte y la tecnología ubicuiscente podría ser una forma de entender los fenómenos referenciales que se llevan a cabo en la creación artística. Consideramos que el proceso de creación artística está arraigado en una serie de dinámicas relacionales que, en su interacción con los contextos en los que se desarrollan, generan propuestas curatoriales que se relacionan de tal forma que expanden posibilidades varias de conexión estética. Nos preguntamos, más allá del uso de tecnologías y dinámicas referenciales en el campo de las artes, ¿cuáles son los mecanismos comunicacionales que operan en el arte contemporáneo para la realización de obras con similitudes conceptuales e incluso estéticas, en este marco histórico-temporal particular?
Más allá del autor invitado: la invitación abierta a todos los autores
Authors: Gómez Moreno Pedro Pablo
Published: July 2024

Las secciones de una revista dan cuenta del devenir histórico de la misma. En este sentido, cuáles y cuántas deberían ser las sesiones de la revista Calle14 fue una cuestión que nos planteamos en 2008, cuando nos encontrábamos en el camino de pensar lo que sería Calle14 como proyecto institucional de la naciente Facultad de Artes ASAB.
Análisis tecnológico en Gmelina arborea Roxb. proveniente de rodales juveniles puros y mezclados en México
Authors: Hernández-Álvarez Efrén , Ruiz-Blandon Bayron Alexander , Gómez-Cárdenas Martín , Quiñonez-Barraza Gerónimo
Published: July 2024

Gmelina arborea es una especie que ostenta valor económico en los mercados forestales, esencialmente por la versatilidad de su biomasa, su rápido crecimiento y la calidad de su madera. Los objetivos principales de esta investigación fueron evaluar la dendrometría, la biomasa, el suelo y las propiedades físicas y mecánicas de la madera en dos rodales de 18 años. En parcelas rectangulares de 1000 m2 se recabó información dasométrica de 20 árboles, además de fracciones de madera para ensayos físicos-mecánicos en laboratorio. En términos estadísticos, la G. arborea del rodal mezclado presentó mayor diámetro (7.3 %) y biomasa del fuste (5.1 %), además de un impacto en las propiedades mecánicas (8.1 %) y la dureza en sus diferentes ejes (long. 6.2 %, rad. 1.5 % y tang. 6.3 %). Se deduce que los rodales mezclados contribuyen a una mayor biomasa y a madera de mejor resistencia y calidad en G. arborea.
Effect of Adding Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Mesocarp Fibers to Cement Composites
Authors: Gamarra-Romero Luis Ferroel , Gonzales Mora Héctor Enrique , Cipra-Rodriguez José Alberto , Cárdenas-Oscanoa Aldo Joao
Published: July 2024

The construction industry's ongoing pursuit of eco-friendly materials has led to extensive research into fiber cement composites (FCC), particularly those utilizing natural fibers such as oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) mesocarp fiber (OPMF) from Peru. This study examined the physical, mechanical, and chemical effects of adding different proportions of OPMF (0, 3, 6, and 9%) in manufacturing FCCs. This addition resulted in reduced values regarding density, porosity, and modulus of rupture, as well as in increased moisture content and thickness reduction. The FCC containing 3% OPMF exhibited the most favorable performance thanks to its higher density and its lower water absorption and porosity when compared to the control board (0%-OPMF). Micro-images revealed minor microcracks and interfacial gaps, indicative of debonding, which compromises the properties of the FCC. Furthermore, an infrared spectrum analysis demonstrated an increase in hydroxyl group vibrations with an increased fiber proportion.
Arauca: Educar en Escenarios de Triple Afectación
Authors: Sánchez Espitia Keilyn Julieth
Published: July 2024

Este artículo de investigación de corte documental, tiene como objetivo situar los impactos de la convergencia del conflicto armado, las disputas por la frontera y la migración (triple afectación), en los procesos educativos en el departamento de Arauca. También, busca reconocer ejercicios de resistencia y estrategias de promoción de derechos humanos y construcción de paz, gestadas desde el sector educativo, en respuesta a los mismos. Para dar alcance a este pro-pósito, se realizó la revisión de literatura de segundo orden, priorizando archivos recientes especializados en el territorio que permitieran generar un análisis contrastado de la denominada triple afectación. Como principales hallazgos se encuentran, una realidad poco documentada, a pesar de lo apremiante que resulta su abordaje; espirales de violencia que permean las escuelas y las trayectorias vitales de sus integrantes, intensificadas por el abandono estatal; liderazgos y colectividades escolares que abanderan la paz en medio de fuegos entrecruzados que no cesan.
Este artículo es derivado de los antecedentes del proyecto doctoral Narrativas de (des)arraigo territorial: capacidades comunitarias en contextos de frontera, posacuerdo y migración, adscrito al Doctorado Interinstitucional en Educación de la Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas.
The COPE / DOAJ / OASPA / WAME Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Moussa Salim
Published: July 2024

Four publishing-related organizations, the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), the Open Access Scholarly Publishers Association (OASPA), and the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME), the first being dedicated specifically to the creation and dissemination of ethics policies, established a set of 16 principles related to journal and publisher transparency and “best” publishing practices. The first, second, third and fourth versions were published in 2013, 2015, 2018, and 2022, respectively. Membership of these organizations implies that members can only become such if they satisfy these principles. This paper compares the four versions to appreciate how the content has changed over time, as a historical endeavor to gather how publishing ethics has progressed over time. An assessment is also made to determine whether all principles are related to transparency and best principles, and if any may be missing. We concluded that the 16 principles offer broad guidance to several important aspects related to journal and publishing ethics and management. However, the vast majority are in general excessively broad, occasionally vague, or lack sufficient examples or specifics, despite the slight improvement between versions 3 and 4. We argue further that these weaknesses may limit their practical application. Until September 2022, there was no transparency regarding the consequences for any members that might violate, or not abide by, these principles. In the light of these arguments, we are of the opinion that the 16 principles of “best” publishing practices merit additional improvements.
With sensitive eyes: ECEC teachers’ visual gaze and related reflections on pedagogical actions in toddler groups using eye-tracking glasses
Authors: Ukkonen-Mikkola Tuulikki , Isotalo Susanna , Chaudhuri Saswati , Salminen Jenni , Merjovaara Olli , Lindén Carita , Rutanen Niina
Published: July 2024

This study explored early childhood education and care (ECEC) teachers’ visual gaze and related reflections on pedagogical actions during pedagogical activities in groups of children under three years of age in Finland. The data were collected from play and teacher-guided activities using mobile eye-tracking glasses, the retrospective thinking aloud (RTA) method, and semi-structured interviews. The results showed that even though the teachers were surprised about some aspects of the visual gaze metrics, they reflected on and gave reasons for their visual gazes on children. When observing gaze data from play, teachers explained the high amount of gaze by citing children’s particular needs. When observing gaze data from guided activities, teachers reflected on children’s unpredictable behavior and noted that the children’s need for support in concentration was linked to more gazes by the teacher. The findings showed that both during play and guided activities, children seeking a gaze and the position of children in the classroom influenced the number of teachers’ gazes. In the teachers’ explanations of their visual gaze and related pedagogical actions, five categories were identified: protection; physical and emotional availability, teaching and learning; facilitation; and initiatives. This explorative study showed that teachers utilize their knowledge concerning children’s individuality, development, and learning when they explain their decisions concerning their visual gaze and pedagogical activities with toddlers. The use of mobile eye-tracking technology is relatively new; therefore, its applications to ECEC are pioneering for the development of the field in relation to the practices and research of toddlers’ groups and groups with older children in ECEC
Disclosure of Product Information After Price Competition
Authors: Woo Hee Yeul
Published: July 2024

We study under what conditions product information sufficiently unravels in a competitive environment. Information sufficiently unravels if the consumer makes the same purchasing decision as under complete information. The consumer is uncertain about the sellers’ product characteristics while she has private information about her preference for differentiated products. In contrast to the prior literature, we focus on the case where the sellers compete to attract the consumer by disclosing product information only after they set prices for their individual products. We provide a necessary and sufficient condition on the consumer’s relative comparison of one seller’s product to the other’s for every outcome to be sufficient unraveling under comparative and non-comparative advertisements, respectively. We show, by example, that competition may enhance information disclosure only if the consumer has limited reasoning capability.
Forecasting the Risk of Cryptocurrencies: Comparison and Combination of GARCH and Stochastic Volatility Models
Authors: Prüser Jan
Published: July 2024

The high returns of cryptocurrencies have attracted many investors in recent years. At the same time the evolution of cryptocurrencies is characterized by extreme volatility. For investors, it is therefore key to gauge the risks related to an investment in cryptocurrencies. We provide a comparison of several GARCH and stochastic volatility models for forecasting the risk of cryptocurrencies over the out-of-sample period from 28.09.2018 to 28.02.2023. It turns out that the widely used GARCH(1,1) does not provide accurate risk predictions. In contrast, adding t-distributed innovations or allowing for regime changes improves the accuracy in both model classes. Finally, we consider a Bayesian decision-guided approach with discount learning to combine the different models and provide robust evidence that combining the model predictions leads to accurate combined risk predictions.
Effect of conifer afforestation on the occurrence and food availability for Zaedyus pichiy (Xenarthra: Chlamyphoridae) in the north-western Patagonian steppe of Argentina
Authors: Gallo Jorge A. , Fasola Laura , Abba Agustín M.
Published: July 2024

The grasslands and shrub areas of the Patagonian steppe are the most frequent habitat for the “Near Threatened” armadillo, known as pichi (Zaedyus pichiy). Dense exotic conifer plantations are replacing the steppe in Argentinean northern Patagonia. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of conifer afforestation on the occurrence and food availability in a Z. pichiy population in north-western Patagonia. Fifteen sites in the native steppe and 50 in exotic pine plantations were sampled. We recorded the number of signs of pichi’s presence and the diversity of invertebrates. Signs of Z. pichiy presence decreased in pine afforestation compared to the native steppe. Additionally, we found a decrease in the abundance, richness, diversity, and biomass of arthropods in pine plantations. Therefore, the presence of pine plantations in the steppe reduces the main food items of Z. pichiy and also eliminates the native steppe vegetation structure that provides preferred places to dig burrows. Pine monocultures do not provide a suitable habitat for Z. pichiy and may exacerbate the degradation of an already disturbed environment.
Boundary value problems for integro-differential and singular higher-order differential equations
Authors: Anceschi Francesca , Calamai Alessandro , Marcelli Cristina , Papalini Francesca
Published: July 2024

We investigate third-order strongly nonlinear differential equations of the type

(

Φ

(

k

(

t

)

u

″

(

t

)

)

)

′
=
f

(

t
,
u

(

t

)

,
u
′

(

t

)

,

u

″

(

t

)

)

,

a.e. on

[

0
,
T

]

,

\left(\Phi \left(k\left(t){u}^{^{\prime\prime} }\left(t)))^{\prime} =f\left(t,u\left(t),u^{\prime} \left(t),{u}^{^{\prime\prime} }\left(t)),\hspace{1em}\hspace{0.1em}\text{a.e. on}\hspace{0.1em}\hspace{0.33em}\left[0,T],

where

Φ

\Phi

is a strictly increasing homeomorphism, and the non-negative function

k

k

may vanish on a set of measure zero. Using the upper and lower solution method, we prove existence results for some boundary value problems associated with the aforementioned equation. Moreover, we also consider second-order integro-differential equations like

(

Φ

(

k

(

t

)

v
′

(

t

)

)

)

′
=
f

t
,

∫

0

t

v

(

s

)

d
s
,
v

(

t

)

,
v
′

(

t

)

,

a.e. on

[

0
,
T

]

,

\left(\Phi \left(k\left(t)v^{\prime} \left(t)))^{\prime} =f\left(t,\underset{0}{\overset{t}{\int }}v\left(s){\rm{d}}s,v\left(t),v^{\prime} \left(t)\right),\hspace{1em}\hspace{0.1em}\text{a.e. on}\hspace{0.1em}\hspace{0.33em}\left[0,T],

for which we provide existence results for various types of boundary conditions, including periodic, Sturm-Liouville, and Neumann-type conditions.