bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection for environmental variance shifted the gut microbiome composition driving animal resilience
Authors: Casto-Rebollo Cristina , Argente María José , García María Luz , Pena Ramona Natacha , Blasco Agustín , Ibáñez-Escriche Noelia
Published: July 2023

Background

Understanding how the host’s microbiome shapes phenotypes and participates in the host response to selection is fundamental for evolutionists and animal and plant breeders. Currently, selection for resilience is considered a critical step in improving the sustainability of livestock systems. Environmental variance (VE), the within-individual variance of a trait, has been successfully used as a proxy for animal resilience. Selection for reduced VE could effectively shift gut microbiome composition; reshape the inflammatory response, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels; and drive animal resilience. This study aimed to determine the gut microbiome composition underlying the VE of litter size (LS), for which we performed a metagenomic analysis in two rabbit populations divergently selected for low (n = 36) and high (n = 34) VE of LS. Partial least square-discriminant analysis and alpha- and beta-diversity were computed to determine the differences in gut microbiome composition among the rabbit populations.

Results

We identified 116 KEGG IDs, 164 COG IDs, and 32 species with differences in abundance between the two rabbit populations studied. These variables achieved a classification performance of the VE rabbit populations of over than 80%. Compared to the high VE population, the low VE (resilient) population was characterized by an underrepresentation of Megasphaera sp., Acetatifactor muris, Bacteroidetes rodentium, Ruminococcus bromii, Bacteroidetes togonis, and Eggerthella sp. and greater abundances of Alistipes shahii, Alistipes putredinis, Odoribacter splanchnicus, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, and Sutterella, among others. Differences in abundance were also found in pathways related to biofilm formation, quorum sensing, glutamate, and amino acid aromatic metabolism. All these results suggest differences in gut immunity modulation, closely related to resilience.

Conclusions

This is the first study to show that selection for VE of LS can shift the gut microbiome composition. The results revealed differences in microbiome composition related to gut immunity modulation, which could contribute to the differences in resilience among rabbit populations. The selection-driven shifts in gut microbiome composition should make a substantial contribution to the remarkable genetic response observed in the VE rabbit populations.
A scoping review of the research literature on eating and body image for transgender and nonbinary adults
Authors: Heiden-Rootes Katie , Linsenmeyer Whitney , Levine Samantha , Oliveras Mark , Joseph Miriam
Published: July 2023

Background

Eating disorder treatment approaches and outcome studies have historically centered almost exclusively on cisgender populations. Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) adults are underrepresented in general and intervention research despite being at increased risk for eating and body image-related problems.

Aims

This scoping review was designed to gather and examine the research with TGNB adults who experience eating and body image related problems, as well as clinical studies on the effectiveness of treatment approaches.

Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used for reporting this review. MEDLINE and PsychInfo were used as electronic databases for searching subject terms. Inclusion criteria for studies required the quantitative measurement or qualitative exploration of body image or eating for TGNB adults. The relevant data were extracted and summarized based on quantitative findings and qualitative themes.

Results

After review of over 1258 articles, 59 studies met criteria and data were extracted and summarized. Factors associated with eating disorders and body image problems across studies suggests gender-affirming medical interventions are effective and emphasized treatment for an eating disorder is warranted alongside gender affirming medical care. Body image was associated with eating patterns aimed at meeting gendered ideals of body shape and size. There was variation in guiding theories and absence of consensus in the definition of transgender in the review studies. This likely demonstrates the changing language, social acceptance of TGNB people and identities, diagnostic criteria, and clinical conceptualizations of eating and body image.

Conclusions

Future research should consider the use of theory for guiding inclusion of salient social factors influencing eating patterns, body image, and treatment outcomes. In addition, future research is needed that centers on nonbinary and genderqueer populations, as well as those from minoritized racial and ethnic groups to inform culturally appropriate concerns, needs, and treatment modalities.
Advanced mandibular reconstruction with fibular free flap and alloplastic TMJ prosthesis with digital planning
Authors: Pyne Justin M. , Davis Clayton M. , Kelm Ryan , Bussolaro Claudine , Dobrovolsky Walter , Seikaly Hadi
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Resection of the mandible and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) without formal reconstruction is a devastating condition that negatively affects all aspects of the patient's life. We have approached the reconstruction of mandibular defects that include the condyle with simultaneous reconstruction with a vascularized free fibular flap (FFF) using Surgical Design and Simulation (SDS) and alloplastic TMJ prosthesis. The objective of this study is to report the functional and quality of life (QOL) outcomes in a cohort of patients that had undergone our reconstructive protocol.

Methods

This was a prospective case series of adult patients that underwent mandibular reconstruction with FFF and alloplastic TMJ prosthesis at the our center. Pre-operative and post-operative maximum inter-incisal opening (MIO) measurements were collected, and patients completed a QOL questionnaire (EORTC QLQ—H&N35) during those perioperative visits.

Results

Six patients were included in the study. The median patient age was 53 years. Heat map analysis of the QOL questionnaire revealed that patients reported a positive clinically significant change in the domains of pain, teeth, mouth opening, dry mouth, sticky saliva, and senses (relative change of 2.0, 3.3, 3.3, 2.0, 2.0, and 1.0 respectively). There were no negative clinically significant changes. There was a median perioperative MIO increase of 15.0 mm, and this was statistically significant ( p  =  0.027).

Conclusions

This study highlights the complexities involved in mandibular reconstruction with involvement of the TMJ. Based on our findings, patients can obtain an acceptable QOL and good function following simultaneous reconstruction with FFF employing SDS and an alloplastic TMJ prosthesis.

Graphical Abstract
Recent progress in research on Momordica charantia polysaccharides: extraction, purification, structural characteristics and bioactivities
Authors: Zhan Kai , Ji Xiaolong , Luo Lei
Published: July 2023

Momordica charantia (M. charantia), as a common edible vegetable and herb, is mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. M. charantia polysaccharides (MCPs), as the main pharmacologically active component in M. charantia, are water-soluble polysaccharides with an average molecular weight of 4–900 kDa. The extraction methods of MCPs mainly include hot water extraction, acid extraction, alkali extraction, ultrasonic extraction, enzyme extraction and three-phase partitioning extraction, and different extraction methods will affect the yield of MCPs. MCPs possess a variety of bioactivities, including antidiabetic, antiaging, antioxidant, antiviral, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects. The purpose of this review is to systematically summarize the latest research progress of MCPs in extraction, purification, structural characterization, and biological activity. In addition, the structure–activity relationship will be further discussed. We believe that this review will provide a useful reference for the investigation, production, and application of MCPs in functional foods and therapeutic agents.

Graphical Abstract
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics study for delay tomato fruit ripening by sound waves
Authors: Jeong Mi-Jeong , Ko Byoung Joon , Kim Joo Yeol
Published: July 2023

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most consumed vegetables worldwide. The ripening of tomato is performed for its freshness and represented by color and gene expression. In our previous study, we performed molecular analyses on tomato ripening with and without sound-wave treatment. In the present study, we performed metabolomics analysis of ripening tomatoes with and without sound-wave treatment to expand our knowledge of tomato ripening. To achieve this goal, tomatoes at 7, 10, and 14 d of ripening were selected and analyzed via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and gas chromatography–MS (GC–MS). A total of 33 major metabolites, including 14 LC–MS- and 19 GC–MS-derived metabolites, were assigned based on variable importance projection and p values and subjected to statistical analysis. Apparent morphology and partial least squares–discriminant analysis were consistent with the general ripening process based on color. Moreover, metabolomics analysis showed similar experimental results to those of previous studies. The quantification of metabolites with LC–MS showed decreasing levels of adenosine, tryptophan, and phytosphingosine upon sound-wave treatment. In GC–MS analysis, 4-Aminobutanoic acid and aspartic acid were decreased upon sound-wave treatment. On the other way, the quantity of malic acid, citric acid, and sucrose was increased with the treatment. The findings of this study can assist in the application of sound-wave treatment for delaying ripening in tomatoes and improving their market value.
Development and characterization of an intra‐articular fracture mediated model of post‐traumatic osteoarthritis
Authors: Valerio Michael S. , Pace William A. , Dolan Connor P. , Edwards Jorge B. , Janakiram Naveena B. , Potter Benjamin K. , Dearth Christopher L. , Goldman Stephen M.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to develop and characterize a closed intra‐articular fracture (IAF) mediated post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) model in rats to serve as a testbed for putative disease modifying interventions.

Methods

Male rats were subject to a 0 Joule (J), 1 J, 3 J, or 5 J blunt‐force impact to the lateral aspect of the knee and allowed to heal for 14 and 56 days. Micro‐CT was performed at time of injury and at the specified endpoints to assess bone morphometry and bone mineral density measurements. Cytokines and osteochondral degradation markers were assayed from serum and synovial fluid via immunoassays. Histopathological analyses were performed on decalcified tissues and assessed for evidence of osteochondral degradation.

Results

High‐energy (5 J) blunt impacts consistently induced IAF to the proximal tibia, distal femur, or both while lower energy (1 J and 3 J) impacts did not. CCL2 was found to be elevated in the synovial fluid of rats with IAF at both 14‐ and 56‐days post‐injury while COMP and NTX‐1 were upregulated chronically relative to sham controls. Histological analysis showed increased immune cell infiltration, increased osteoclasts and osteochondral degradation with IAF relative to sham.

Conclusion

Based on results from the current study, our data indicates that a 5 J blunt‐forced impact adequately and consistently induces hallmark osteoarthritic changes to the articular surface and subchondral bone at 56 days after IAF. Marked development of PTOA pathobiology suggest this model will provide a robust testbed for screening putative disease modifying interventions that might be translated to the clinic for militarily relevant, high‐energy joint injuries.
The coloniality of migration and integration: continuing the discussion
Authors: Astolfo Giovanna , Allsopp Harriet
Published: July 2023

The journal Comparative Migration Studies has published a series of articles engaging with critiques of migrant integration. This piece wishes to contribute to such discussion, reflecting back on early critiques of integration as a concept and as a process, and reviewing more recent publications. The aim is to widen the reflection on decolonising the field by including urban postcolonial and southern instances, as well as insights from two funded projects.
Lessons learned from a virtual Community-Based Participatory Research project: prioritizing needs of people who have diabetes and experiences of homelessness to co-design a participatory action project
Authors: Tariq Saania , Grewal Eshleen K. , Booth Roland , Nat B. , Ka-Caleni Thami , Larsen Matt , Lawson Justin , Whaley Anna , Walsh Christine A. , Campbell David J. T.
Published: July 2023

In Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR), people with shared lived experiences (co-researchers) identify priority needs and work collaboratively to co-design an action-oriented research advocacy project. For this to occur, academic researchers must build mutually respectful partnerships with co-researchers by establishing trust. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, our objective was to virtually assemble a group of co-researchers (people with diverse but relevant experiences of homelessness and diabetes) and academic researchers who engaged in the CBPR process to identify a project that would address the difficulties of diabetes management while experiencing homelessness. Co-researchers were recruited to the committee from community homeless-serving organizations. Six co-researchers, one peer researcher and three academic researchers from Calgary, Alberta met virtually for bi-weekly committee meetings, from June 2021 to May 2022 to explore barriers to diabetes management and to complete a priority-setting exercise to determine the focus of our collective project. After reflecting on our virtual CBPR experience we present lessons learned related to: i) technical challenges and logistical considerations, ii) meeting virtually and building rapport, iii) driving engagement, and iv) challenges of transitioning from virtual to in-person meeting format. Overall, the process of conducting a CBPR project virtually to engage a group of co-researchers during a pandemic presents its challenges. However, a virtual CBPR project is feasible and can lead to meaningful experiences that benefit all group members, both from the community and academia.
Humans versus AI: whether and why we prefer human-created compared to AI-created artwork
Authors: Bellaiche Lucas , Shahi Rohin , Turpin Martin Harry , Ragnhildstveit Anya , Sprockett Shawn , Barr Nathaniel , Christensen Alexander , Seli Paul
Published: July 2023

With the recent proliferation of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models capable of mimicking human artworks, AI creations might soon replace products of human creativity, although skeptics argue that this outcome is unlikely. One possible reason this may be unlikely is that, independent of the physical properties of art, we place great value on the imbuement of the human experience in art. An interesting question, then, is whether and why people might prefer human-compared to AI-created artworks. To explore these questions, we manipulated the purported creator of pieces of art by randomly assigning a “Human-created” or “AI-created” label to paintings actually created by AI, and then assessed participants’ judgements of the artworks across four rating criteria (Liking, Beauty, Profundity, and Worth). Study 1 found increased positive judgements for human- compared to AI-labelled art across all criteria. Study 2 aimed to replicate and extend Study 1 with additional ratings (Emotion, Story, Meaningful, Effort, and Time to create) intended to elucidatewhypeople more-positively appraise Human-labelled artworks. The main findings from Study 1 were replicated, with narrativity (Story) and perceived effort behind artworks (Effort) moderating the label effects (“Human-created” vs. “AI-created”), but only for the sensory-level judgements (Liking, Beauty). Positive personal attitudes toward AI moderated label effects for more-communicative judgements (Profundity, Worth). These studies demonstrate that people tend to be negatively biased against AI-created artworks relative to purportedly human-created artwork, and suggest that knowledge of human engagement in the artistic process contributes positively to appraisals of art.
Clinicopathological study and management of masses in the sinonasal cavity and nasopharynx: a case series of 42 cases
Authors: Patel Ushma , Chauhan Hetal , Patel Nirmal
Published: July 2023

Background

Different types of space-occupying lesions can arise from the nasal cavity and nasopharynx. They can be neoplastic (benign and malignant) or nonneoplastic lesions producing wide range of clinical symptoms. The correlations of clinical, radiological and histopathological findings are necessary in these types of cases.

The aim of the study is to evaluate clinical behaviours of sinonasal cavity and nasopharyngeal masses, to correlate the radiological and pathological findings of masses, to evaluate the methods for early diagnosis of masses and to determine and evaluate the outcome of sinonasal cavity and nasopharyngeal masses following various modalities of treatment.

Materials and methods

This was a prospective study conducted in a tertiary care hospital of Vadodara, Gujarat. A total 42 cases were included in the study. Clinical, demographic, radiological and histopathological details were noted in each case. Follow-up period was about 3 months to 18 months in the study.

Observation

A total 42 cases were included in the study with 20 benign neoplastic lesions, 19 malignant lesions, and 3 nonneoplastic lesions. The incidence was noted between 8 and 75 years of age with a male to female ratio of 2:23. Angiofibroma was the most common benign neoplastic lesion. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common malignant lesion noted. Thirty-three patients were successfully operated for the excision of tumour. The most common symptom was nasal obstruction present in 66.67% of cases followed by swelling over local site in 62% of cases followed by nasal discharge in our study.

Discussion

The nasal cavity contains different types of epithelial (squamous, neural, olfactory) and mesenchymal (bone, cartilage, muscle and vascular) tissues. Tumours can arise from any of these tissues. Symptomatology is indistinguishable from nasal polypi, chronic rhinosinusitis and granulomatous diseases of the nose. Utmost care is needed in the examination and diagnosis of these cases before starting the treatment.

Conclusion

Clinical, radiological and histopathological correlations are necessary in sinonasal masses as it will be helpful in deciding the treatment plan and any adjunctive treatment if necessary like chemoradiation in malignant lesions. Continuous follow-up is also necessary to look for patency of nasal cavity, any complication and recurrence.
A dataset of normalized difference vegetation index in the Three-river Headwaters during 2000-2018
Authors:   College of Geography and Tourism , Qufu Normal University, LIU Peixia ,   Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Network Observation and Modeling , Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, WANG Junbang ,   Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Network Observation and Modeling , Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, WANG Meng ,   College of Geography and Tourism , Qufu Normal University, SUN Xiaofang ,   College of Geography and Tourism , Qufu Normal University, ZHU Duoping ,   Institute of Desertification Studies, Chinese Academy of Forestry
Published: July 2023

Vegetation is an important component of the terrestrial ecosystem. The changes of vegetation are assumed to well indicate the dynamic changes of the ecosystem. However, the changing global climate and the intensifying human activities have a great effect on vegetation growth, which particularly highlights the implications to monitor and assess vegetation changes. Vegetation changes are usually measured by vegetation indexes. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) based on remote sensing is widely used in the studies on vegetation changes and climate impact. In this study, we used the spectral reflectance data product (MOD09Q1) of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) from 2000 to 2018 to calculate the NDVI (with a spatial resolution of 250m and temporal step of 8 days). The S-G filtering method of the TIMESAT3.2 software is applied to remove the noise in the NDVI time series for the reconstruction of time series. In this way, we finally obtained this dataset, which is open to the public for sharing and downloading. It is expected to support further studies on the dynamic changes of vegetation in the Three-river Headwaters.
VCP promotes tTAF-target gene expression and spermatocyte differentiation by downregulating mono-ubiquitylated H2A
Authors: Butsch Tyler J. , Dubuisson Olga , Johnson Alyssa E. , Bohnert K. Adam
Published: July 2023

Valosin-containing protein (VCP) binds and extracts ubiquitylated cargo to regulate protein homeostasis. VCP has been studied primarily in aging and disease contexts, but it also affects germline development. However, the precise molecular functions of VCP in the germline, particularly in males, are poorly understood. Using the Drosophila male germline as a model system, we find that VCP translocates from the cytosol to the nucleus as germ cells transition into the meiotic spermatocyte stage. Importantly, nuclear translocation of VCP appears to be one crucial event stimulated by testis-specific TBP-associated factors (tTAFs) to drive spermatocyte differentiation. VCP promotes the expression of several tTAF-target genes, and VCP knockdown, like tTAF loss of function, causes cells to arrest in early meiotic stages. At a molecular level, VCP activity supports spermatocyte gene expression by downregulating a repressive histone modification, mono-ubiquitylated H2A (H2Aub), during meiosis. Remarkably, experimentally blocking H2Aub in VCP-RNAi testes is sufficient to overcome the meiotic-arrest phenotype and to promote development through the spermatocyte stage. Collectively, our data highlight VCP as a downstream effector of tTAFs that downregulates H2Aub to facilitate meiotic progression.
An inducible model of chronic hyperglycemia
Authors: Tucker Tori R. , Knitter Courtney A. , Khoury Deena M. , Eshghi Sheida , Tran Sophia , Sharrock Abigail V. , Wiles Travis J. , Ackerley David F. , Mumm Jeff S. , Parsons Michael J.
Published: July 2023

Transgene driven expression of Escherichia coli nitroreductase (NTR1.0) renders animal cells susceptible to the antibiotic metronidazole (MTZ). Many NTR1.0/MTZ ablation tools have been reported in zebrafish, which have significantly impacted regeneration studies. However, NTR1.0-based tools are not appropriate for modeling chronic cell loss as prolonged application of the required MTZ dose (10 mM) is deleterious to zebrafish health. We established that this dose corresponds to the median lethal dose (LD50) of MTZ in larval and adult zebrafish and that it induced intestinal pathology. NTR2.0 is a more active nitroreductase engineered from Vibrio vulnificus NfsB that requires substantially less MTZ to induce cell ablation. Here, we report on the generation of two new NTR2.0-based zebrafish lines in which acute β-cell ablation can be achieved without MTZ-associated intestinal pathology. For the first time, we were able to sustain β-cell loss and maintain elevated glucose levels (chronic hyperglycemia) in larvae and adults. Adult fish showed significant weight loss, consistent with the induction of a diabetic state, indicating that this paradigm will allow the modeling of diabetes and associated pathologies.
impacto do momento ESG no apreçamento de ações
Authors: Sverner Carolina , Minardi Andrea , Tassinari Moraes Fernando
Published: July 2023

Este artigo investiga se a melhora das práticas ambientais, sociais e de governança (ESG) das empresas, refletida na alteração do rating ESG gera um prêmio positivo e significativo nos retornos de suas ações. Para isso, foram coletados dados das ações que compõem o S&P500 e criado um fator Momento ESG (alto momento menos baixo momento) controlado por tamanho, a partir de um portfólio long-short rebalanceado anualmente, seguindo o procedimento empregado por Fama e French (1993). Os resultados apontaram prêmio de risco positivo e significante para o fator de Momento ESG quando estimados via regressão crosssectional em dois estágios. Esse prêmio, apesar de se manter positivo em todas as regressões, perde significância ao utilizarmos o método dos momentos generalizados (GMM) para a estimação. De forma similar, foi construído um fator ESG, contemplando as notas de forma estática, para validar uma hipótese adicional de que há um prêmio de risco negativo vinculado a esse fator na explicação dos retornos cross section das ações. Os resultados obtidos para o fator ESG indicaram prêmio de risco negativo e significante quando estimados por regressão crosssectional em dois estágios. Esse prêmio, apesar de se manter negativo na maioria das regressões, perde significância ao utilizarmos o GMM para estimação.
A questão da segurança jurídica em securitização da tokenização dos certificados das cédulas de produto rural verde e dos créditos do carbono
Authors: Nogueira Elizete Antunes Teixeira
Published: July 2023

O objetivo deste estudo consistiu em demonstrar a segurança jurídica no processo de financeirização por meio da securitização da tokenização dos certificados das cédulas de produto rural verde e dos títulos dos créditos do carbono. Realizou-se uma pesquisa exploratória, descritiva e documental com ênfase no marco regulatório das securitizadoras, Lei nº 14.430/22. Concluiu-se que a securitização por tokenização tem potencial para ampliar as alternativas para financiamentos e investimentos por meio de produtos inovadores, como: emissões dos certificados das cédulas de produto rural verde e dos títulos dos créditos do carbono, proporcionando liquidez dos mercados secundários e desenvolvimento sustentável de baixo carbono. Além da segurança jurídica interna, haja vista a alienação fiduciária em garantia por constituir o patrimônio de afetação, sendo necessárias definições legais interjurisdições.
The generalized sustainability credit rating system
Authors: Zeidan Rodrigo , Onabolu Seye
Published: July 2023

This article describes the steps required to generalize a sustainability credit rating system based on the analytical hierarchy process. We argue that such systems are ideal for commercial banks to improve their lending processes. Starting with the model by Zeidan et al. (2015), we transform the SCSS from a closed to an open platform by adding country and industry variables, two additional possible answers, and an explicit way to generate forward default probabilities. Finally, we illustrate the final report that could be used for similar models to help make banks greener. The final reports are generated after initial tests on a database of 100+ public companies, with over 1,000+ Monte Carlo simulations conducted in six months following the initial assessments.
Short-selling, the supply side
Authors: De Sales Casula Daniel , De-Losso Rodrigo
Published: July 2023

One widely accepted idea is that high lending fees predict negative returns, since high fees capture negative information held by short sellers on the demand side. Tradition sees the supply side as passive, with stock lenders acting as price takers. Recent evidence, however, shows that lenders are not truly passive. This paper analyzes the Brazilian stock loan market, disentangling shifts in the shorting supply and demand curves to understand the mechanism linking the supply side and stock returns. We also connect the shorting supply curve with news reports and verify how lenders react to new information. Our results indicate that lenders decrease the loan supply when they predict negative future returns and use new information to change supply conditions, indicating that lenders are not price takers.
Staining ability of herbal tea preparations on a nano-filled composite restorative material – an in-vitro study
Authors: Narkedamalli Raj Kumar , Muliya Vidya Saraswathi , Pentapati Kalyana Chakravarthy
Published: July 2023

Background: Discoloration of tooth-colored restorations due to various factors is one of the principal causes behind the failure of aesthetics. There has been an surge in the consumption of herbal beverages in recent times and the dietary factors play a potential role in the discoloration tooth-coloured restorations. This study was done to juxtapose the staining ability of green tea (GT), moringa tea (MT), and hibiscus tea (HT) on a nano-filled composite restorative material.

Methods: The study was conducted in-vitro on composite samples prepared using moulds. 112 discs were prepared from FiltekTM Z350XT composite using a brass mould lined with mylar strips. Samples were divided into GT, MT, HT, and artificial saliva (AS) groups and immersed in freshly prepared beverages for 15 minutes each day for 45 days. Digital reflectance spectrophotometer was utilized to record color at baseline, 30, and 45 days. Repeated-measures ANOVA with a post-hoc Bonferroni test was used to compare groups within each group. ANOVA with a post-hoc Games Howell test was used to compare mean differences in ΔE among the groups.

Results: Maximum discoloration was observed in the GT, followed by HT and MT, with the least being in the AS group at the end of 30 and 45 days (P<0.001 and P<0.001) respectively.

Conclusions: The universal nano-filled composite material showed clinically detectable discoloration when exposed to Green Tea, Hibiscus Tea, and Moringa Tea which increased with time. Herbal beverages have the potential to cause discoloration of the composite resin which is often the choice of material for anterior aesthetic restorations.
Perception and attitude towards online clinical modules: a cross-sectional study among medical students from two countries
Authors: Islam Heraa , Nazeer Muhammed Mohsin , Lakshmi Sindhura , Kapoor Aditi , Jahan Afraz , Doddamani Akhila , Kamath Nagaraja , Ehsan Muhammed , Nair Suma
Published: July 2023

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly affected the world, including the education system, in various ways. In this study, we intended to explore the merits and demerits of online clinical learning and its effect on medical education from a student’s perspective. The study also assessed final-year medical students’ perception of and attitude towards, online clinical modules. This observational study was carried out in the Department of Community Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal (KMC) in collaboration with King’s College London, UK (KCL). In our study, a total of 42 students were enrolled, with 37 students from KMC and 5 students from KCL. In total 81% of students reported that they were not willing to continue with the online mode of learning. The abrupt switch to e-learning without prior preparation has exposed some pitfalls that must be attended to. Contrary to other fields, the medical field places much importance on offline clinical teaching, which has recently been impacted by the shift to online teaching. The survey responses were analysed for the improvisation of online clinical modules as well as to come up with better ideas and outcomes since this mode of learning may have to continue till the spread of the disease is under control.
Lessons learned during the health crisis caused by COVID-19 in the work of the nursing professional: A systematic review
Authors: Meneses-La-Riva Monica Elisa , Fernández-Bedoya Víctor Hugo , Suyo-Vega Josefina Amanda , Grijalva-Salazar Rosario Violeta , Ocupa-Cabrera Hitler Giovanni , Alvarado- Suyo Sofía Almendra , Ocupa-Meneses Giovanni Di Deus
Published: July 2023

The health crisis caused by COVID-19 impacted the dynamics of the work of health professionals, specifically in nursing professionals who were aware of the essential need for care and a safe environment to reduce in-hospital risks and mortality indicators. The study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence on the lessons learned during the health crisis in the work of the nursing professional, and the analysis of scientific articles published between 2020 and 2023 in the Scopus databases, obtaining a total of 30 articles. The findings show that there is a need to adopt health contingency policies to respond to health crises, as well as to establish and apply coping strategies in health professionals to avoid the impact on their mental health. Additionally, it is important to recognize their role in society. In conclusion, contingency policies and coping strategies must be developed to ensure the safety and well-being of nursing professionals and prevent the impact on their mental health during health crises like the one caused by COVID-19. Furthermore, it is important to recognize and value the fundamental role of nursing professionals in disease prevention and care in society and continue to work on developing policies and support strategies for health professionals to ensure their safety and well-being during health crises.
TitrationAnalysis: a tool for high throughput binding kinetics data analysis for multiple label-free platforms
Authors: Li Kan , Huntwork Richard H.C. , Horn Gillian Q. , Alam S. Munir , Tomaras Georgia D. , Dennison S. Moses
Published: July 2023

Label-free techniques including Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and Biolayer Interferometry (BLI) are biophysical tools widely used to collect binding kinetics data of bimolecular interactions. To efficiently analyze SPR and BLI binding kinetics data, we have built a new high throughput analysis tool named the TitrationAnalysis. It can be used as a package in the Mathematica scripting environment and ultilize the non-linear curve-fitting module of Mathematica for its core function. This tool can fit the binding time course data and estimate association and dissociation rate constants (ka and kd respectively) for determining apparent dissociation constant (KD) values. The high throughput fitting process is automatic, requires minimal knowledge on Mathematica scripting and can be applied to data from multiple label-free platforms. We demonstrate that the TitrationAnalysis is optimal to analyze antibody-antigen binding data acquired on Biacore T200 (SPR), Carterra LSA (SPR imaging) and ForteBio Octet Red384 (BLI) platforms. The ka, kd and KD values derived using TitrationAnalysis very closely matched the results from the commercial analysis software provided specifically for these instruments. Additionally, the TitrationAnalysis tool generates user-directed customizable results output that can be readily used in downstream Data Quality Control associated with Good Clinical Laboratory Practice operations. With the versatility in source of data input source and options of analysis result output, the TitrationAnalysis high throughput analysis tool offers investigators a powerful alternative in biomolecular interaction characterization.
The influence of bipolar disorder medication on sexual performance
Authors: Chyćko Małgorzata , Czarnota Julia , Cichoń Katarzyna , Kromer Agata , Łapaj Monika , Zapała Magdalena Alicja , Środoń Agnieszka , Cholewa Małgorzata Maria , Gawryś Agnieszka , Wilk Joanna
Published: July 2023

Sexual performance is one of the key aspects of good quality of life, both in healthy people and patients suffering from various mental disorders. Besides many reasons causing poor sexual performance, like mental condition itself, medication can alter one's ability to achieve satisfaction in sex. Sexual dysfunction is listed among one of side effects of psychotropic medications. Aim of this work is to determine an influence of pharmacotherapy on sexual function in patients with bipolar disorder. 

Results: Pharmacotherapy in patients suffering from bipolar disorder can cause a multitude of side effects, including malfunction in sexual performance. Extent of severity in poor sexual life depends on many factors among which are: type of drug taken, whether there are one or more drugs taken at the same time. Seems to be observed that quetiapine shows the least negative effect on sexual performance. Additionally, highest risk of sexual malfunction is observed in patients with polytherapy.  

Conclusion: Besides topics investigated in the following research, there are additional factors like duration and severity of the disease, gender and age. There are many variables needed to be taken into consideration, but there is potential of choosing proper medication for a patient with least possible side effects and to allow them to perform more successful sex life, which directly corresponds with better quality of life.
Migraine headaches as a complication of the atrial fibrillation ablation procedure: case report
Authors: Sekuła Michał Jakub , Pawłucki Piotr , Maciak Anna , Chyła Jakub , Smoluchowski Krzysztof , Sokół Dorota , Piotrowska Paulina , Zimna Aleksandra
Published: July 2023

The balloon cryoablation (CA) procedure is an established method for the permanent treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Like other surgical interventions, it is associated with the potential development of early and late complications, including neurological ones such as migraine. We report a case of migraine headaches after the CA procedure. 25-year-old man with paroxysmal AF, without comorbidities, underwent balloon CA. On the second day after the procedure, the patient developed visual symptoms typical of migraine aura. After 30 minutes, these symptoms disappeared and appeared classic migraine headache attack. Similar episodes occurred over the following days. A focal central nervous system lesion was ruled out and a diagnosis of migraine with aura was made. The patient received a typical migraine attack treatment. The attacks ceased within two weeks. 3 months later during the follow-up visit at the neurology clinic no abnormalities were detected. We decided to check if the migraine is a rare complication of AF ablation surgery. Many studies do not include migraine headaches at all in the neurological complications of ablation. However, based on some studies, it may seem that the incidence of migraine as a complication of ablation is underestimated.
Enhancing the Reach of Socially Missioned Nonprofits: Insights from a TOC-LP Application
Authors: McKie Erin C. , Ahire Sanjay Laxman
Published: July 2023

Socially missioned nonprofit organizations exist to connect at-risk populations to critical healthcare, food, and financial services. However, these organizations face several internal (resource infrastructure, management capability) and external (multiple stakeholders, client demographics and capabilities) constraints within which they must work to attain their goal of helping people in need. The extant academic literature offers a variety of solutions to such allocation problems for use in for-profit organizations. Yet noted differences in the operational systems of for-profit and nonprofit operations limit practitioners’ capabilities to readily leverage these tools. Thus, in this paper, we extend the applicability of classic resource allocation principles to the context of nonprofit operations’ outreach efforts. We describe a detailed case study analysis at one nonprofit organization (SC Thrive) wherein we implemented the theory of constraints–linear programming framework to help maximize the effectiveness of outreach initiatives carried out by the organization. Based on the results from our stepwise, nonlinear yield model, SC Thrive is now capable of doubling the annual number of applications submitted by potential beneficiaries for assistance services.

History: This paper was refereed.
A Practice-Oriented Overview of Call Center Workforce Planning
Authors: Koole Ger M. , Li Siqiao
Published: July 2023

We give an overview of the practice and science of call center workforce planning, in which we evaluate the commonly used methods by their quality and the theory by its applicability. As such, this paper is useful for developers and consultants interested in the background and advanced methodology of workforce management and for researchers interested in practically relevant science.
Characteristics of Early Onset Dementia and Caring Experiences and Service Needs of Family Caregivers: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Kim Jin Ha , Lee Gyungjoo
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this mixed methods study was to explore the caring experiences of the family caregivers of patients with early-onset dementia, and identify the characteristics of early-onset dementia.Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using Colaizzi‘s phenomenological method to explore the caring experiences and service needs of ten family caregivers. A quantitative study was carried out by secondary data analysis to compare the differences in disease characteristics and comorbidities between early and late-onset dementia.Results: The experiences of the family caregivers of patients with early-onset dementia were ‘Learning about dementia’, ‘Away from everyday life’, ‘Facing dementia’, and ‘Barely managing’. The study also revealed that one out of five dementia patients had early-onset dementia. However, most dementia services are concentrated on late-onset dementia. Thus, the family and caregivers of early-onset dementia patients experience relatively inadequate services.Conclusion: This study’s findings identified the characteristics of early-onset dementia, as well as the caring experiences and service needs of family caregivers from a more holistic perspective, and will contribute to the development of adequate nursing intervention programs and policies in the future.
The Role of Early Toxic Interaction with Fathers in Males with Bipolar Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Anahita Khodabakhshi-Koolaee
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The etiology of bipolar disorder (BD), a most debilitating mental illness worldwide, focuses on childhood traumatic experiences, some concerning parents. This study explored the role of early toxic interaction with fathers in males with BD.Methods: This qualitative study used a descriptive phenomenological approach and purposive sampling in Tehran, Iran, in 2022. The data were generated through 12 semi-structured interviews with males with BD who visited psychiatric centers in Tehran, Iran. The interviews continued until data saturation. The collected data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method.Results: The data revealed thirteen subthemes comprising three main themes: the experience of living in constant neglect and rejection, living with fear and abandonment, and reflection of the father’s past interactive patterns in the son’s life.Conclusion: Living in neglect, fear, and abandonment, and repeating past interactive patterns in current life were some of the bitter life experiences of men with BD, who considered the problematic relationship and misbehavior of their fathers to be somewhat effective in the formation of their life problems, but reported that they could not help themselves with personal and social adaptation. Individual and supportive psychotherapies with drug therapy can help the rehabilitation and recovery of these patients.
StructuralEquation Model of End-of-Life Nursing Performance of Home Visiting Nurses
Authors: Kim Sukhee , Jang Soongnang
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to build a structural model for explaining and predicting end-of-life care performance of home-visiting nurses.Methods: This study was conducted using data from 360 home-visiting nurses that fit the structural equation model collected from May 3 to September 2, 2019. These data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and structural equation modeling to determine factors that could influence end-of-life care performance.Results: Our proposed structural model demonstrated a fine fitness level. Our proposed structural model was also able to describe end-of-life care performance with an accuracy of 35.5%. Visiting nursing types, experience of end-of-life care education, attitudes toward nursing care of the dying, and end-of-life care stress were confirmed as key factors that could influence end-of-life care performance. Meanwhile, death-related anxiety was not a factor influencing end-of-life care performance.Conclusion: Findingsof this study suggest that the aforementioned key factors can improve the performance of home-visiting nurses in providing end-of-life care. Therefore, expanding home nursing services, developing end-of-life nursing education at home, and implementing programs to reduce stress and improve positive attitudes toward end-of-life care are necessary for home-visiting nurses who provide end-of-life care.
The Effects of Patient Safety Culture Perception and Safety Control on the Patient Safety Management Activities of Psychiatric Ward Nurses
Authors: Park Dea-Gyu , An Hyo-Ja
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To provide basic data to find ways to increase the patient safety management activities of psychiatric ward nurses and establish measures for patient safety.Methods: The research was conducted with psychiatric nurses who had worked for > 6 months in 9 psychiatric hospitals across 3 regions. Data collection spanned June 16 to July 7, 2022, the research tools being patient safety culture perception, safety control, and patient safety nursing activities.Results: A hierarchical regression analysis showed the factors influencing patient safety management activities. In Model 1, factors of the position of the subject and number of accident reports in the past year appeared significant (F=6.63, p<.001); the explanatory power was 9.8 %. In Model 2, patient safety culture perception appeared significant (F=15.26, p<.001); explanatory power increased to 45.1 %. In Model 3, safety control appeared significant (F=14.63, p<.001); explanatory power increased to 46.6 %. Among the perceptions of patient safety culture, communication, and procedures, incident-reporting frequency and hospital environment were identified as significant.Conclusion: The factors for psychiatric nurses' patient safety management activities are patient safety culture perception and safety control. Patient safety culture perception is a particularly important factor, and a strategy is needed to increase it.
Factors associated with Brain Function in Patients with Eating Disorders
Authors: Kong Seong Sook
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors associated with brain function in patients with eating disorders.Methods: Patients(N=171) who visited 'M' clinic for eating disorders participated. Data were collected from June 2022 to September 2022 using self-reported questionnaires.Results: Problems with brain function were observed in the deep limbic system in 84.8%, basal ganglia in 78.9%, the anterior cingulate in 74.3%, the prefrontal lobe in 55.6%, and the temporal lobe in 34.5%. Additionally, 55.6% of the participants had more than moderate anxiety, and 32.2% were suspected of having obsessive-compulsive disorder. Anxiety, obsessive-compulsion, and eating psychopathology(ineffectiveness, impulse regulation, social insecurity, body dissatisfaction, perfectionism, and bulimia) were significantly associated factors of brain function.Conclusion: It was found that problems of brain function can be identified in a more convenient way by evaluating brain function through the Amen Brain System Checklist (ABSC), a self-reporting test tool, instead of brain imaging. Through brain function evaluation by the ABSC at the initial interview, more suitable interventions can be selected for patients. In future studies, it is necessary to evaluate the effect of practical interventions according to changes in brain function of patients with eating disorders.