bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient and visitor verbal aggression toward frontline health-care workers: a qualitative study of experiences and potential solutions
Authors: Myers Gina , Kowal Christopher
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Violence toward frontline health-care workers (HCWs) from patients and visitors is a pervasive issue that ranges from verbal and psychological abuse to physical assault. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased reports of escalated verbal workplace aggressions (VWPAs); however, most studies have been conducted internationally. Studies based in the USA have focused on physical violence experienced by nurses and paramedics in emergency situations. The purpose of this study is to learn about the experiences of different levels of frontline HCWs with VWPA from patients and visitors and discover ways to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative descriptive study asked registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and patient care technicians from one health-care system about their experiences with patient and visitor VWPA using an anonymous, voluntary open-ended survey and in-person interviews. In all, 31 participants completed the survey and 2 were interviewed. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Findings

Three themes emerged from the data: the experience, moving through and moving forward. Frontline HCWs described experiences of VWPA, indicating its forms, frequency and conditions. They used coping, along with personal and professional measures, to manage and move through the situation. Moving forward was captured as suggestions for the future and conveyed hope for a perfect state.

Originality/value

The experiences of frontline HCWs offered insight into how they perceive and cope with difficult encounters. Recommendations relate to not only implementing interventions that support frontline HCWs but also creating a culture where aggression is not tolerated and addressing perpetrator behavior is a priority.
The case study of the sharia insurance industry: how far is the spin-off policy being effectively implemented in Indonesia?
Authors: Arianty Erny , Utami Tuti S.B. , Yustiani Syanni , Haniyah Rizqi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the spin-off policy which includes clarity of objectives and criteria, implementation and monitoring and evaluation functions.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used is a qualitative method with a theme approach and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Data were obtained from the results of focus group discussions and AHP questionnaires with informants from Indonesian Sharia Insurance Association (AASI), the sharia life and general insurance industry, the Sharia Supervisory Board, the government and regulators.

Findings

The results of the research are the effectiveness of the clarity of goals and criteria has not been realized optimally, the effectiveness of increasing profitability has not been realized, and the effectiveness of the monitoring and evaluation functions by the government and regulators has been realized. The supporting factor that has the highest level of importance is the role of the government and regulator.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this research is that it has not used a wider range of profitability test tools and projections. The theoretical implication of this research is as a reference for robust research in identifying spin-off success factors because this study uses a mixed method where qualitative methods are used in the study using data from theory and expert informants from three parties: regulatory parties, associations (AASI) and the insurance company (life insurance and general insurance). These results form the basis for compiling a questionnaire with a quantitative method so that the data is become relevant based on theory (design) and practical side.

Practical implications

Practical implication of the study is that the Islamic insurance industry has to prepare to achieve condition of Tabarru funds and the investment reaches 50% of the main insurance fund. AASI, as the sharia insurance industry organization, continues innovating the most suitable form of spin-off that can be achieved by the Sharia business unit and also continues to coordinate with regulators to discuss existing problems. The government and regulators also support the implementation of the spin-off by providing convenience in various aspects such as spin-off period relaxation and government incentive and relaxation to enhance sharia insurance industry.

Originality/value

The contribution of the results of this research for the government and regulatory agencies is as input in setting policies and regulations related to spin-offs, for the industry is expected to be more prepared in terms of resources, commitment and strategy.
A study on adaptive performance, work-related psychological health and demographics in Episcopal Church bishops
Authors: Rowe Sean W. , Arghode Vishal , Bhattacharyya Som Sekhar
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research study was to explore the relationship between adaptive performance and work-related indicators of psychological well-being among ‘The Episcopal Church bishops.’

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical regression models were used in this research study to explore the relationship between adaptive performance and work-related psychological health.

Findings

There was a positive correlation between adaptive performance and work-related psychological health. Demographic factors did not correlate to adaptive performance. However, a negative correlation was observed between the years ordained as a bishop and the interpersonal adaptability dimension of adaptive performance.

Research limitations/implications

Managing work stress has been revealed as an integral part of adaptive performance and satisfaction in ministry. Interpersonal adaptability and reactivity could be understood, then, as useful vehicles for increasing the capacity of bishops to manage work stress. In this research, the authors applied the Scale for Individual Adaptive Performance and the two scales Scale of Satisfaction in Ministry and Scale of Emotional Exhaustion in Ministry .

Practical implications

The results provided insights into the behaviors necessary for adequate development of bishops in their role. The religious landscape was becoming more challenging from a revenue generation perspective. The resultant complexity and the financial strain would necessitate the need for development of different models of ministry for long-term sustainability. This could further necessitate a different set of knowledge creation related to a set of behavioral capacities like those of adaptive performance. Such insights would assist in the promotion and development of greater work-related psychological health in bishops while deepening their ability to deal with complex and uncertain environments. Furthermore, this would increase satisfaction in ministry through improved workplace management skills.

Originality/value

Presently, very few studies empirically established the developmental needs of bishops as they entered, learned and grew into their leadership roles. Such insights would allow the formation programs for new bishops to be grounded in empirical data. Furthermore, this research study examined a largely unexplored population. This would provide a basis for a larger research agenda related to adaptive performance in judicatory leaders and their work-related psychological health. Consequently, it is posited that improved psychological health would result in better workplace learning.
Law enforcement against investment fraud: a comparison study from the USA and Canada with a case study on binary options in Indonesia
Authors: Sudarwanto Al Sentot , Kharisma Dona Budi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to propose a law enforcement strategy for investment fraud through comparative studies in the United States of America (USA), Canada and Indonesia, and to identify the factors that cause weak law enforcement on investment fraud with the object of a binary options case study in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is a type of legal research, namely, research based on legal materials (library-based). The legal materials used include primary legal materials and secondary legal materials. The approaches used are the statute approach, the case approach and the comparative approach. The data collection technique used in this research is a literature study. The analysis was carried out qualitatively by using an interactive model.

Findings

In 2022, the Indonesian Financial Services Authority (OJK) recorded that the total value of public losses because of investment fraud in Indonesia reached 117.4tn IDR. Weak law enforcement is the reason investment fraud thrives in society. Strategies that can be implemented to prevent investment fraud include early detection of new investment fraud modes through the whistleblower program, mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, criminal restitution and improvement of public financial literacy.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines the problems of law enforcement against investment fraud with a case study of binary options in Indonesia. A law enforcement strategy is built on identifying issues and adopting law enforcement policies against investment fraud in Canada and the USA.

Practical implications

For individuals, the results of this research can be used as reading material to increase their understanding of investment fraud. For the government, the results of this study can be a reference in an effort to eradicate the rise of investment fraud cases more effectively and create a safe digital economic space for investors.

Social implications

The results of this study are expected to be useful in providing recommendations for strategies to strengthen law enforcement against the problems of investment fraud cases so as to form a conducive investment climate in the sense of being safe, comfortable and profitable.

Originality/value

Legal frameworks to prevent investment fraud are rarely discussed. The rise in binary options cases that occur is an indication of weak law enforcement in the investment sector. Therefore, an in-depth study of law enforcement strategies to prevent investment fraud is needed, with comparative studies in the USA, Canada and Indonesia.
External stakeholders in the governance of slums in Ghana
Authors: Agyabeng Anthony Nkrumah , Bawole Justice Nyigmah , Ahenkan Albert , Mensah James Kwame , Preko Alexander
Published: July 2023

Purpose

In the space of slums are many stakeholders; the extent to which their assistance contributes to slum administration is sparsely studied. The study aims to examine how external stakeholders contribute to slum administration within the Ghanaian context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the stakeholder theory, the study used an exploratory qualitative design based on face-to-face, in-depth interviews among 21 respondents. Participants were purposively selected from stakeholder organisations and slum residents based on the stake in slums governance in Ghana.

Findings

The results indicate that stakeholders have contributed towards slums livelihoods in the general areas of housing, trading, skill development and capacity building. It shows that stakeholders’ contributions tend to enhance slums’ living conditions and affect local assemblies positively. The study finds that slum dwellers categorise stakeholders’ contributions as short-term relief and long-term solutions. Additionally, it emerged that in the areas of policy design, implementation and policy feedback, external stakeholders have supported the government in that regard.

Research limitations/implications

The conclusion drawn from the study is limited to the four communities and the stakeholder organisations. However, communities with similar characteristics globally might benefit from the findings.

Practical implications

The study uncovers a context-specific role and assistance of external stakeholders in the domain of slums. This provides a guide to the government regarding key areas of stakeholder collaboration towards slum governance in the Ghanaian context. Theoretically, this study has contributed to new knowledge about stakeholders’ contribution to the overall governance of slums.

Originality/value

The study expands the frontiers of knowledge in the field of slum administration by focusing on external stakeholders. This study departs from previous studies, which have examined, in broader perspectives, stakeholders’ roles within the space of slums.
Biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) by diverse marine bacteria in deep‐sea sediments
Authors: Zhao Sufang , Liu Renju , Wang Juan , Lv Shiwei , Zhang Benjuan , Dong Chunming , Shao Zongze
Published: July 2023

PET plastic waste entering the oceans is supposed to take hundreds of years to degrade and tends to accumulate in the deep sea. However, we know little about the bacteria capable of plastic degradation therein. To determine whether PET‐degrading bacteria are present in deep‐sea sediment, we collected the samples from the eastern central Pacific Ocean and initiated microbial incubation with PET as the carbon source. After enrichment with PET for 2 years, we gained all 15 deep‐sea sediment communities at five oceanic sampling sites. Bacterial isolation for pure culture and further growth tests confirmed that diverse bacteria possess degradation ability including Alcanivorax xenomutans BC02_1_A5, Marinobacter sediminum BC31_3_A1, Marinobacter gudaonensis BC06_2_A6, Thalassospira xiamenensis BC02_2_A1 and Nocardioides marinus BC14_2_R3. Furthermore, four strains were chosen as representatives to reconfirm the PET degradation capability by SEM, weight loss and UPLC‐MS. The results showed that after 30‐day incubation, 1.3%–1.8% of PET was lost. De‐polymerization of PET by the four strains was confirmed by the occurrence of the PET monomer of MHET and TPA as the key degradation products. Bacterial consortia possessing PET‐degrading potential are prevalent and diverse and might play a key role in the removal of PET pollutants in deep oceans.
ANTI‐PUBLIC FINANCE? The Democratic Effects of Municipal Bond Markets
Authors: Mizes James Christopher
Published: July 2023

Municipal bonds are a financial instrument once largely limited to North America. Today, they are appearing in international development reports as a novel best‐practice for closing the world's infrastructure funding gap and for promoting democracy. Critics of financialization have argued that municipal bonds have had the opposite effect: they have deepened austerity, ceded control of democratic municipalities to the global financial industry, and depoliticized public decision‐making. Yet in this article, I observe a relationship between democracy, politics and finance which contrasts with the now common uses of ‘financialization’ popularized by critical scholars in Euro‐American universities. I argue that, elsewhere in the world, capital markets have come to be understood as an important element of democratization. To make this argument, I develop the concept of ‘financial publics’—a group of strangers participating in a reflexive and reciprocal style of address through which they negotiate their financial relationships with one another. Using this concept, I analyze data drawn from over two years of ethnographic research on one of the most noteworthy experiments in municipal finance in the global South: the City of Dakar's failed attempt to issue the first ever municipal bond on the Regional Stock Exchange of West Africa.
Global distribution, toxicity to humans and animals, biodegradation, and nutritional mitigation of deoxynivalenol: A review
Authors: Tu Yuang , Liu Shiqi , Cai Peiran , Shan Tizhong
Published: July 2023

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the main types of B trichothecenes, and it causes health‐related issues in humans and animals and imposes considerable challenges to food and feed safety globally each year. This review investigates the global hazards of DON, describes the occurrence of DON in food and feed in different countries, and systematically uncovers the mechanisms of the various toxic effects of DON. For DON pollution, many treatments have been reported on the degradation of DON, and each of the treatments has different degradation efficacies and degrades DON by a distinct mechanism. These treatments include physical, chemical, and biological methods and mitigation strategies. Biodegradation methods include microorganisms, enzymes, and biological antifungal agents, which are of great research significance in food processing because of their high efficiency, low environmental hazards, and drug resistance. And we also reviewed the mechanisms of biodegradation methods of DON, the adsorption and antagonism effects of microorganisms, and the different chemical transformation mechanisms of enzymes. Moreover, nutritional mitigation including common nutrients (amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and microelements) and plant extracts was discussed in this review, and the mitigation mechanism of DON toxicity was elaborated from the biochemical point of view. These findings help explore various approaches to achieve the best efficiency and applicability, overcome DON pollution worldwide, ensure the sustainability and safety of food processing, and explore potential therapeutic options with the ability to reduce the deleterious effects of DON in humans and animals.
Processed foods: From their emergence to resilient technologies
Authors: Knorr Dietrich , Sevenich Robert
Published: July 2023

Humans need food processing assuring food safety, quality, and functionality to sustain their life. The ongoing debates regarding food processing require rational and scientific data about food processing and processed foods. This study deals with the importance, origins, and history of processing, defining processes and discussing existing food classification systems and provides recommendations for future food process development. Descriptions and comparisons of technologies for food preservation, their resource efficiency, and beneficial aspects in relation to traditional processing are summarized. Possibilities for pretreatments or combination application and related potentials are provided. A consumer‐oriented paradigm change is presented using the potential of resilient technologies for food product improvements rather than the traditional adaptation of raw materials to existing processes. Means for food science and technology research toward dietary changes by transparent, gentle, and resource‐efficient processes for consumers food preference, acceptance, and needs are provided.
The role of DNA in criminal indictments in Israel
Authors: Buchnik Esther , Ariel Barak , Domb Avi , Treves Nir , Gafny Ron
Published: July 2023

In their investigations of criminal cases, law enforcement agencies rely heavily on forensic evidence. Numerous studies have examined the scientific and technological advancements of DNA testing, but little evidence exists on how the availability of DNA evidence influences prosecutors' decisions to move cases forward in the criminal justice system. We created a new database by juxtaposing data from the Forensics Division of the Israel Police, which recorded the presence (or not) of DNA profiles in criminal cases (n = 9862), and data on the indictment decision for each case (2008–2019). Rates of indictments are computed for each case, and trend lines are used to present variations in the rates of indictment decisions with and without DNA profiles. Approximately 15% of all criminal cases without DNA presented to the prosecutor's office are subsequently prosecuted, compared with nearly 55% of cases with DNA profiles. The presence of DNA evidence influences the prosecutor's decision to move a case forward in the criminal justice system. Utilizing a scientific approach to prosecute offenders is a welcome development; however, DNA evidence is not infallible, and caution must be exercised in regard to DNA's overuse in the legal system.
Effects of pretreatment methods on the physicochemical properties of dried longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) pulps
Authors: Deng Yuanyuan , Lai Chunxiang , Zhang Yan , Zhou Pengfei , Liu Guang , Tang Xiaojun , Li Ping , Zhao Zhihao , Zhang Mingwei , Wei Zhencheng
Published: July 2023

Several pretreatment methods were used before hot air drying to determine the effects of pretreatment on the physicochemical properties of dried longan pulps to address issues of low efficiency and excessive browning of pulps in dried longan. The results showed that pretreatment methods such as sodium chloride steeping, hot blanching, and freeze‐thawing reduced the moisture content in dried longan pulps and increased the hardness of dried longan pulps. Ultrasound, microwave, and hot blanching methods reduced the degree of browning of dried longan pulps. Freeze thawing led to a decrease in polysaccharide content in dried longan pulps. The use of ultrasound‐ and microwave‐based pretreatment methods increased the contents of free phenolics and total phenolics and increased the oxygen radical absorbance capacity indices. Alkenes and alcohols constituted the primary volatile flavor substances in longan. It was inferred that it was favorable to use the hot blanching method before subjecting the samples to conditions of hot air drying as the moisture content and degree of browning could be reduced effectively. The results reported herein can potentially help manufacturers improve drying efficiency. The results provide a platform to produce high‐quality products from dried longan pulps.

Practical Application

Longan pulps should be subjected to conditions of the hot blanching method before subjecting the samples to conditions of hot air drying to reduce the moisture content and degree of browning. The results reported herein can help manufacturers improve the drying efficiency of pulps. The results can be exploited to produce high‐quality products from dried longan pulps.
Mitigation of undesirable volatile aroma compounds in kefir by freeze drying and vacuum evaporation
Authors: Kesler Megan K. , González‐Orozco Brianda D. , Barringer Sheryl A. , Alvarez Valente B.
Published: July 2023

Commercial kefir was recently found to be effective in curing recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection when consumed alongside antibiotic treatment. However, kefir products have limited acceptance among Western consumers due to their characteristic flavor and texture. Plain, unsweetened commercial kefir with 1% milkfat was subjected to vacuum evaporation and freeze‐drying processes to assess the effect on volatile organic compound concentration, sensory quality, and microbial viability. Vacuum evaporation and freeze‐drying both significantly decreased the concentration of 26 out of 27 volatiles in the kefir (p < 0.05), by an average of 61%. Vacuum evaporation exhibited an apparent greater reduction than freeze‐drying in the concentrations of the ketones and aldehydes, while freeze‐drying showed a more noticeable reduction in the concentrations of the acids, alcohols, and esters. While lowering the concentration of volatiles did not significantly improve the average consumer acceptance of commercial kefir, both treatments showed differences in the range of acceptability responses. Both treatments also produced a small but significant reduction in the concentrations of Lactobacillus and Lactococcus species present.
Structural characterization of different starch–fatty acid complexes and their effects on human intestinal microflora
Authors: Li Dan , Wang Xin , Wang Jilite , Wang Mingchun , Zhou Jiaping , Liu Suwen , Zhao Juan , Li Jing , Wang Hao
Published: July 2023

Resistant starch type 5 (RS5), a starch–lipid complex, exhibited potential health benefits in blood glucose and insulin control due to the low digestibility. The effects of the crystalline structure of starch and chain length of fatty acid on the structure, in vitro digestibility, and fermentation ability in RS5 were investigated by compounding (maize, rice, wheat, potato, cassava, lotus, and ginkgo) of different debranched starches with 12–18C fatty acid (lauric, myristic, palmitic, and stearic acids), respectively. The complex showed a V‐type structure, formed by lotus and ginkgo debranched starches, and fatty acid exhibited a higher short‐range order and crystallinity, and lower in vitro digestibility than others due to the neat interior structure of more linear glucan chains. Furthermore, a fatty acid with 12C (lauric acid)‐debranched starches complexes had the highest complex index among all complexes, which might be attributed to the activation energy required for complex formation increased with the lengthening of the lipid carbon chain. Therefore, the lotus starch–lauric acid complex (LS12) exhibited remarkable ability in intestinal flora fermentation to produce short‐chain fatty acid (SCFAs), reducing intestinal pH, and creating a favorable environment for beneficial bacteria.
Characterization of bioprocessed white and red sorghum flours: Anti‐nutritional and bioactive compounds, functional properties, molecular, and morphological features
Authors: Sharma Rajan , Sharma Savita , Bhandari Manisha , Bobade Hanuman , Sohu R S , Singh Baljit
Published: July 2023

In the current investigation, white and red sorghum grains were exposed to bioprocessing techniques, such as soaking, germination, fermentation, and dual processing (both germination and fermentation). Germination and fermentation resulted in improved bioactive profile attributing to better antioxidant activity, whereas a reduction in antinutrient components was observed. On the other hand, soaking had decreased phenolic components and anti‐nutritional factors attributing to their leaching in the soaking water. A significant change in the functional properties and color profile was also observed on bioprocessing. It also caused alterations in the morphological structure of the starch–protein matrix and molecular interactions of certain functional groups that reveal the synthesis of certain new bioactive compounds in the flour. The alterations in the bioprocessed flours occurred due to the structural breakdown attributing to the activity of hydrolytic enzymes that were activated during the processing treatments. Bioprocessing was also responsible for the degradation of the starch granules and unfolding of the protein matrix, thus altering the in vitro nutrient digestibility of the flours. Principal component analysis was used to authenticate the differences between different treatments and observations recorded. These bioprocessed flours could be potential ingredients for several valorized cereal products.
Hydrolysis of chlorogenic acid in sunflower flour increases consumer acceptability of sunflower flour cookies by improving cookie color
Authors: Verde Christine Lo , Pacioles Criselda Toto , Paterson Natalie , Chin Jamie , Owens Cedric P. , Senger Lilian W.
Published: July 2023

Sunflower meal, a byproduct of sunflower oil pressing, is not commonly used in alkaline baking applications. This is because chlorogenic acid, the main phenolic antioxidant in sunflower seeds, reacts with protein, giving the baked product a green discoloration. Our group previously demonstrated that a chlorogenic acid esterase from Lactobacillus helveticus hydrolyzes chlorogenic acid in sunflower dough cookie formulations, resulting in cookies that were brown instead of green. This study presents a sensory analysis to determine the acceptability of enzymatically upcycled sunflower meal as an alternative protein source for those allergic to meals from legumes or tree nuts. We hypothesized that the mechanism of esterase‐catalyzed chlorogenic acid breakdown does not influence the cookies’ sensory properties other than color and that consumers would prefer treated, brown cookies over non‐treated cookies. Cookies made from sunflower meal were presented under green lights to mask color and tested by 153 panelists. As expected, the sensory properties (flavor, smell, texture, and overall acceptability) of the treated and non‐treated cookies were not statistically different. These results corroborate proximate analysis, which demonstrated that there was no difference between enzymatically treated and non‐treated cookies other than color and chlorogenic acid content. After the cookie color was revealed, panelists strongly preferred the treated cookies with 58% indicating that they “probably” or “definitely” would purchase the brown cookies, whereas only 5.9% would buy green, non‐treated cookies. These data suggest that esterase‐catalyzed breakdown of chlorogenic acid represents an effective strategy to upcycle sunflower meal for baking applications.

Practical Application

Sunflower meal is currently used as animal fodder or discarded. A major factor preventing sunflower meal use is its high chlorogenic acid content, which causes a green discoloration of baked goods made from sunflower meals under alkaline conditions. This study presents a sensory analysis in which panelists evaluate cookies made with sunflower flour that was treated with an esterase that breaks down chlorogenic acid. The results show that enzymatic treatment prevents greening and that panelists strongly prefer esterase‐treated, non‐green cookies, thus demonstrating the feasibility of utilizing sunflower flour in baking applications.
Making virtual species less virtual by reverse engineering of spatiotemporal ecological models
Authors: Malinowska Katarzyna , Markowska Katarzyna , Kuczyński Lechosław
Published: July 2023

The virtual species (VS) and virtual ecologist (VE) approaches are useful tools that allow testing different methodological aspects of species distribution modelling. However, methods used to generate VS so far lack solutions that can ensure a high degree of biological realism, taking into account spatial and temporal variability of population densities.

We have developed a method for generating dynamic VS that can reconstruct their living prototypes in a realistic way. The framework consists of fitting a spatiotemporal model to real abundance data, generating a VS population from that model over the entire study area and spanning the whole study period, calibrating the VS, and obtaining the VE data by sampling from the VS. The effectiveness of the developed approach has been illustrated by data from large‐scale and long‐term bird abundance monitoring, using the whinchat Saxicola rubetra as a study system. We evaluated how well the spatiotemporal model can reconstruct the ‘true’ system by comparing response curves and population trends between those used to generate the VS (i.e. what constitutes the ‘truth’) and those estimated from the replicated instances of VE data. In addition, we performed a sensitivity analysis to test how the varying sampling effort affects the accuracy of trend estimation.

The synthetic VE data thoroughly reconstructed the real monitoring data. Response curves from generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs), fitted to these two types of data, showed high concordance, as indicated by the 95% confidence intervals of coverage probability of 87.7%–99.8% (mean 96.9%). The population trend estimated from the VE data accurately reconstructed the ‘true’ trend calculated from VS (coverage probability: 82.3%).

The proposed method for generating VS and VE data by reverse engineering of the spatiotemporal ecological model reproduces well the properties of the original system, substantially increasing the ecological realism of simulation results. The method may have further applications in evaluating various modelling techniques used to study species range dynamics, where real‐world properties are of particular importance, like conservation and invasion biology or climate change impact assessment.
Identifying thresholds for clinically meaningful change among clients of drug and alcohol services using the Australian Treatment Outcomes Profile
Authors: Deacon Rachel M. , Mills Llewellyn , Bruno Raimondo , Mammen Kristie , Dunlop Adrian , Childs Steven , Shakeshaft Anthony , Holmes Jennifer , Lintzeris Nicholas
Published: July 2023

Aims

The Austraian Treatment Outcomes Profile (ATOP) is a brief clinical outcomes tool used widely in the Australian alcohol and other drugs treatment sector to monitor clients’ substance use, health, wellbeing and clinical risk factors. It has demonstrated reliability and validity, and has recommended clinical cut‐offs for assessing single‐occasion client‐rated health scores. This study determined clinically meaningful change thresholds for ATOP substance use and health and wellbeing variables for use by clinicians in monitoring client progress, and for quality improvement and service evaluation.

Design, Setting and Participants

A framework for assessing clinically meaningful changes scores was developed by (1) calculating statistically reliable change thresholds using data‐driven techniques with a reference sample of clinical ATOP data and (2) conducting a multi‐disciplinary subject matter expert group to review the utility and validity of data‐derived clinically meaningful change. The study was conducted within Outpatient Alcohol and Other Drug treatment services in New South Wales, Australia. The reference sample comprised 6100 ATOPs from clients at entry to public outpatient Alcohol and Other Drug treatment services; the subject matter expert group comprised 29 key stakeholders from the specialist alcohol and other drug treatment sector.

Measurements and Findings

We used the Reliable Change Index method to calculate clinically meaningful change thresholds for ATOP variables. For substance use variables, a change of 30% in days of use in the last 28 (minimum 4 days) was the threshold for clinically meaningful change for substance use; for health and wellbeing variables, a change of 2 or more points in psychological health, physical health or quality of life scores (measured on 0–10 scales) was the minimum clinically meaningful change.

Conclusions

Clinically meaningful change thresholds have been proposed for Australian Treatment Outcomes Profile substance use and health and wellbeing items, based on statistical reliability and subject matter expert assessment. These will be used in the development of an outcomes metric for assessing change and assigning meaning in aggregated data for evaluation of services.
Intrauterine colonization with Gardnerella vaginalis and Mobiluncus mulieris induces maternal inflammation but not preterm birth in a mouse model
Authors: Joseph Andrea , Lewis Emma L. , Ferguson Briana , Guan Yuxia , Anton Lauren , Elovitz Michal A.
Published: July 2023

Problem

Preterm birth (PTB) remains a leading cause of childhood mortality. Recent studies demonstrate that the risk of spontaneous PTB (sPTB) is increased in individuals with Lactobacillus‐deficient vaginal microbial communities. One proposed mechanism is that vaginal microbes ascend through the cervix, colonize the uterus, and activate inflammatory pathways leading to sPTB. This study assessed whether intrauterine colonization with either Gardnerella vaginalis and Mobiluncus mulieris alone is sufficient to induce maternal‐fetal inflammation and induce sPTB.

Method of study

C56/B6J mice, on embryonic day 15, received intrauterine inoculation of saline or 108 colony‐forming units of G. vaginalis (n = 30), M. mulieris (n = 17), or Lactobacillus crispatus (n = 16). Dams were either monitored for maternal morbidity and sPTB or sacrificed 6 h post‐infusion for analysis of bacterial growth and cytokine/chemokine expression in maternal and fetal tissues.

Results

Six hours following intrauterine inoculation with G. vaginalis, M. mulieris, or L. crispatus, live bacteria were observed in both blood and amniotic fluid, and a potent immune response was identified in the uterus and maternal serum. In contrast, only a limited immune response was identified in the amniotic fluid and the fetus after intrauterine inoculation. High bacterial load (108 CFU/animal) of G. vaginalis was associated with maternal morbidity and mortality but not sPTB. Intrauterine infusion with L. crispatus or M. mulieris at 108 CFU/animal did not induce sPTB, alter pup viability, litter size, or maternal mortality.

Conclusions

Despite inducing an immune response, intrauterine infusion of live G. vaginalis or M. mulieris is not sufficient to induce sPTB in our mouse model. These results suggest that ascension of common vaginal microbes into the uterine cavity alone is not causative for sPTB.
The impact of acute SARS‐CoV‐2 on testicular function including insulin‐like factor 3 (INSL3) in men with mild COVID‐19: A longitudinal study
Authors: Lauritsen Mette Petri , Kristensen Thomas Leineweber , Hansen Christine Bo , Schneider Uffe Vest , Talbot Anna Lando , Skytte Anne‐Bine , Petersen Jørgen Holm , Johannsen Trine Holm , Zedeler Anne , Albrethsen Jakob , Juul Anders , Priskorn Lærke , Jørgensen Niels , Westh Henrik , Freiesleben Nina la Cour , Nielsen Henriette Svarre
Published: July 2023

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) may affect the male reproductive system as it uses angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE)2, which is expressed in testicular tissue, as an entry point into the cell. Few studies have evaluated the long‐term effects of mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) on testicular function, and insulin‐like factor 3 (INSL3) levels have not previously been assessed during acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on testicular function including INSL3 and the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in semen in non‐hospitalised men with mild COVID‐19.

Materials and methods

This longitudinal study included 36 non‐hospitalised SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive men (median age 29 years). Inclusion was within seven days following a positive SARS‐CoV‐2 reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction test. Reproductive hormone levels, semen parameters, and the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in oropharyngeal and semen samples were assessed during acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (baseline) and at three‐ and six‐month follow‐up. Wilcoxon matched‐pair signed‐rank (two samples) test was used to assess time‐related alterations in reproductive hormone levels and semen parameters.

Results

Lower plasma testosterone (T) (total and calculated free (c‐fT)) and higher luteinising hormone (LH) concentrations were observed during acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (baseline) compared to three‐ and six‐month follow‐up. Consequently, ratios of c‐fT/LH were lower at baseline compared to three‐ and six‐month follow‐up (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Concomitantly, lower INSL3 concentrations were observed at baseline compared to three‐month follow‐up (p = 0.01). The total number of motile spermatozoa was also lower at baseline compared to six‐month follow‐up (p = 0.02). The alterations were detected irrespective of whether the men had experienced SARS‐CoV‐2‐related fever episodes or not. No SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA was detected in semen at any time point.

Discussion and conclusion

This study showed a reduction in testicular function, which was for the first time confirmed by INSL3, in men mildly affected by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The risk of transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA via semen seems to be low. Febrile episodes may impact testicular function, but a direct effect of SARS‐CoV‐2 cannot be excluded.
CCL21‐Ser expression in melanoma cells recruits CCR7+ naïve T cells to tumor tissues and promotes tumor growth
Authors: Miyamoto Megumi , Kawato Yuki , Fujie Ryonosuke , Kurowarabe Kaoru , Fujiwara Kakeru , Nobusawa Reika , Hayashi Ryota , Iida Kei , Ohigashi Izumi , Hayasaka Haruko
Published: July 2023

CCL21‐Ser, a chemokine encoded by the Ccl21a gene, is constitutively expressed in the thymic epithelial cells and stromal cells of secondary lymphoid organs. It regulates immune cell migration and survival through its receptor CCR7. Herein, using CCL21‐Ser‐expressing melanoma cells and the Ccl21a‐deficient mice, we demonstrated the functional role of cancer cell‐derived CCL21‐Ser in melanoma growth in vivo. The B16‐F10 tumor growth was significantly decreased in Ccl21a‐deficient mice compared with that in wild‐type mice, indicating that host‐derived CCL21‐Ser contributes to melanoma proliferation in vivo. In Ccl21a‐deficient mice, tumor growth of melanoma cells expressing CCL21‐Ser was significantly enhanced, suggesting that CCL21‐Ser from melanoma cells promotes tumor growth in the absence of host‐derived CCL21‐Ser. The increase in tumor growth was associated with an increase in the CCR7+ CD62L+ T cell frequency in the tumor tissue but was inversely correlated with Treg frequency, suggesting that naïve T cells primarily promote tumor growth. Adoptive transfer experiments demonstrated that naïve T cells are preferentially recruited from the blood into tumors with melanoma cell‐derived CCL21‐Ser expression. These results suggest that CCL21‐Ser from melanoma cells promotes the infiltration of CCR7+ naïve T cells into the tumor tissues and creates a tumor microenvironment favorable for melanoma growth.
Alizarin old and new: Extraction techniques for coloration, advances in detection methods for historical textiles and novel applications as a functional dye
Authors: Do Khai Ly , Mushtaq Asim , Zhao Feng , Su Miao
Published: July 2023

The current study provides the first review of alizarin, a natural dye, in terms of its historical aspects and its potential for functional applications in textiles. The review begins with a brief overview of natural alizarin and its occurrence in Rubiaceae family plants, followed by a discussion of alizarin acquisition from its botanical sources through conventional and advanced extraction methods. A special emphasis of this study is on the identification of natural alizarin colourants in archaeological and cultural textiles by using analytical methods based on reflectance, Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and chromatographic profiles. In addition, the functional properties of natural alizarin, including its antimicrobial activity, anti‐oxidant activity, insect repellence and ultraviolet protection, are analysed. This paper summarises the methods for obtaining alizarin for coloration, as well as advanced techniques for detecting alizarin in historical textiles, and potential applications of natural alizarin as a functional textile dye.
Cardiac morbidity and the cause of death in elderly patients with prostate cancer and incidental cardiac uptake on bone scintigraphy
Authors: Juntunen Eero , Suomalainen Olli , Mätzke Sorjo , Heliö Tiina , Loimaala Antti , Uusitalo Valtteri
Published: July 2023

Cardiac transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is a possible incidental finding on bone scintigraphy imaged due to prostate cancer. We investigated its significance in 1426 elderly prostate cancer patients (>70 years) who underwent bone scintigraphy in three nuclear medicine departments in Finland. Patients with Perugini grade two or three uptakes were considered positive for cardiac uptake. Heart failure diagnoses and pacemaker implantations were collected from the hospital's records. Mortality data were gathered from the Finnish national statistical service (Statistics Finland). The Median follow‐up time was 4 years (interquartile range: 2−5 years). Cardiac uptake was detected in 37 individuals (2.6%), and it was associated with an elevated risk of both overall and cardiovascular death in univariable analysis. However, cardiac uptake did not predict overall mortality in the multivariable analysis when adjusted to age, bone metastases or the diagnosis of heart failure (p > 0.05). The risk of heart failure was higher in patients with cardiac uptake (47% vs. 15%, p < 0.001), while the risk of pacemaker implantations was not elevated (5% vs. 5%, p = 0.89). In conclusion, cardiac uptake on bone scintigraphy imaged due to prostate cancer is associated with an elevated risk of heart failure and both overall and cardiovascular death. However, cardiac uptake was not independently associated with overall mortality when adjusted to age, bone metastasis or heart failure. Therefore, they are essential to consider when incidental cardiac uptake is detected on bone scintigraphy. The need for pacemaker implantation was not elevated in patients with cardiac uptake.
The crucial role of CTCF in mitotic progression during early development of sea urchin
Authors: Watanabe Kaichi , Fujita Megumi , Okamoto Kazuko , Yoshioka Hajime , Moriwaki Miki , Tagashira Hideki , Awazu Akinori , Yamamoto Takashi , Sakamoto Naoaki
Published: July 2023

CCCTC‐binding factor (CTCF), an insulator protein with 11 zinc fingers, is enriched at the boundaries of topologically associated domains (TADs) in eukaryotic genomes. In this study, we isolated and analyzed the cDNAs encoding HpCTCF, the CTCF homolog in the sea urchin Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus, to investigate its expression patterns and functions during the early development of sea urchin. HpCTCF contains nine zinc fingers corresponding to fingers 2–10 of the vertebrate CTCF. Expression pattern analysis revealed that HpCTCF mRNA was detected at all developmental stages and in the entire embryo. Upon expressing the HpCTCF‐GFP fusion protein in early embryos, we observed its uniform distribution within interphase nuclei. However, during mitosis, it disappeared from the chromosomes and subsequently reassembled on the chromosome during telophase. Moreover, the morpholino‐mediated knockdown of HpCTCF resulted in mitotic arrest during the morula to blastula stage. Most of the arrested chromosomes were not phospholylated at serine 10 of histone H3, indicating that mitosis was arrested at the telophase by HpCTCF depletion. Furthermore, impaired sister chromatid segregation was observed using time‐lapse imaging of HpCTCF‐knockdown embryos. Thus, HpCTCF is essential for mitotic progression during the early development of sea urchins, especially during the telophase‐to‐interphase transition. However, the normal development of pluteus larvae in CRISPR‐mediated HpCTCF‐knockout embryos suggests that disruption of zygotic HpCTCF expression has little effect on embryonic and larval development.
From cryogenic to on‐scalp magnetoencephalography for the evaluation of paediatric epilepsy
Authors: Feys Odile , De Tiège Xavier
Published: July 2023

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a neurophysiological technique based on the detection of brain magnetic fields. Whole‐head MEG systems typically house a few hundred sensors requiring cryogenic cooling in a rigid one‐size‐fits‐all (commonly adult‐sized) helmet to keep a thermal insulation space. This leads to an increased brain‐to‐sensor distance in children, because of their smaller head circumference, and decreased signal‐to‐noise ratio. MEG allows detection and localization of interictal and ictal epileptiform discharges, and pathological high frequency oscillations, as a part of the presurgical assessment of children with refractory focal epilepsy, where electroencephalography is not contributive. MEG can also map the eloquent cortex before surgical resection. MEG also provides insights into the physiopathology of both generalized and focal epilepsy. On‐scalp recordings based on cryogenic‐free sensors have demonstrated their use in the field of childhood focal epilepsy and should become a reference technique for diagnosing epilepsy in the paediatric population.

What this paper adds

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) contributes to the diagnosis and understanding of paediatric epilepsy.

On‐scalp MEG recordings demonstrate some advantages over cryogenic MEG.
The impact of common law on the volume of legal services: An international study
Authors: Dia Enzo , Melitz Jacques
Published: July 2023

We show that the heavy use of legal services relative to output in the US is not a peculiarity of the country but applies to common law countries in general. It can likely be attributed largely to better ability to contract and adapt to changes in the environment. Yet common law also opens significantly more room for rent seeking by lawyers than civil law. Thereby the costs could outweigh the benefits. In supporting this last thesis, we control for other factors besides common law favouring legal services, including real output per capita, openness, and ease of entry into the legal profession.