bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sex differences in conditioned pain modulation effects and its associations with autonomic nervous system activities in healthy, younger individuals: a pilot study
Authors: Uzawa Hironobu , Takeuch Shinta , Nishida Yusuke 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Sex differences in conditioned pain modulation (CPM) have not been sufficiently explored.

Objectives:
This pilot study aimed to examine sex differences in CPM effects and associations between autonomic activities and CPM effects in healthy, younger individuals.

Methods:
University students were recruited from February to March 2021 and divided by sex. They remained seated for 10 minutes as a rest period, then immersed their right hands in cold water for 2 minutes as a cold period. The pressure pain threshold (PPT) was measured after each period, presenting the CPM index (%) using the formula: (PPTcold/PPTrest) × 100. Autonomic nervous system variables were calculated using the formula—(autonomic variablecold/autonomic variablerest) × 100—and suffixed by “index” such as low-frequency/high-frequency (LF/HF) index. Some psychological questionnaires were self-recorded. Sex differences in the CPM index were statistically compared, and a simple linear regression analysis between the CPM and autonomic indices was conducted.

Results:
Thirty-two participants were analyzed (14 women and 18 men; aged 21.1 ± 0.6 and 20.9 ± 0.3 years, respectively). Conditioned pain modulation effects were not different at 127.0 ± 19.1% in women and 124.0 ± 18.7% in men. The LF/HF index, LF normalized unit (nu) index (LFnu), and HFnu index had significant predictor variables for the CPM index across overall samples. The LF/HF index and LFnu index were significant predictor variables for the CPM index for women but not for men.

Conclusions:
Conditioned pain modulation effects between groups seem to be similar. The LF/HF and LFnu indices in women were significant, indicating that descending pain modulations in women might be more associated with autonomic activities than those in men.
An Experimental Anatomic CBCT Study on the Correlations Between MB1 and MB2 of the Mesio-Vestibular Root of the Upper First Molars
Authors: Fiorillo Luca , D’Amico Cesare , La Rosa Giusy Rita Maria , Calanna Francesco , Pappalardo Alfio , Pedullà Eugenio 
Published: February 2024

This experimental anatomic study aimed to investigate the correlations between the mesio-vestibular canal (MB1) and the second mesio-vestibular canal (MB2) of the mesio-vestibular root of the upper sexts using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. A total of 24 extracted maxillary first molars were collected and subjected to CBCT imaging. The presence, location, and morphology of MB1 and MB2 canals were evaluated using axial, coronal, and sagittal CBCT sections. The interrelation between MB1 and MB2 canals was assessed, including their separate canals, merging, and division points. Among the 24 maxillary first molars examined, 86.5% demonstrated the presence of an MB2 canal in addition to MB1. The MB2 and MB1 were confluent in 80% of the cases with a confluent height of 4,16 mm. The mean distance between MB1 and MB2 canals was 1.85 mm. This study provides detailed information on the anatomic correlations between MB1 and MB2 canals of the mesio-vestibular root in the upper sexts using CBCT imaging. The high prevalence of MB2 canals suggests their significance in endodontic procedures and emphasizes the importance of thorough exploration and identification during root canal treatment. The knowledge of the location and morphology of these canals can aid in successful endodontic therapy and enhance treatment outcomes.
Function and application of traditional Chinese medicine inheritance calculate system
Authors: Tang Shihuan , Yang Hongjun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance Calculate System (TCMICS) is a computational tool designed to facilitate the analysis of diseases, symptoms, syndromes, prescriptions, and acupoints based on databases of existing prescriptions, medical cases, or compound formulas. The software, currently updated to version 3.5, comprehensively presents the relationships between diseases, symptoms, syndromes, prescriptions, herbal medicines, and acupoints. TCMICS integrates the functions of importing, retrieving, and analyzing diseases, syndromes, symptoms, tongue manifestations, pulse manifestations, herbal medicines, prescriptions, medical cases, and related information. It includes 7 functional modules: statistical analysis, prescription analysis, symptom analysis, tongue manifestation analysis, pulse manifestation analysis, acupoint analysis, and comprehensive analysis. TCMICS has been recognized by academicians, national TCM veterans, and renowned TCM clinics in Beijing, Shanghai, Guizhou, Shandong, Tianjin, and so on. It is regarded as an important tool for inheriting the academic thoughts and clinical experience of renowned TCM veterans and has been applied to the inheritance of Chinese medical expertise and analysis of TCM literature, as well as the development of TCM products.
The effects of environmental changes on the endocrine regulation of feeding in fishes
Authors: Volkoff Helene 
Published: February 2024

Fishes are exposed to natural and anthropogenic changes in their environment, which can have major effects on their behaviour and their physiology, including feeding behaviour, food intake and digestive processes. These alterations are owing to the direct action of environmental physico-chemical parameters (i.e. temperature, pH, turbidity) on feeding physiology but can also be a consequence of variations in food availability. Food intake is ultimately regulated by feeding centres of the brain, which receive and process information from endocrine signals from both brain and peripheral tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract. These endocrine signals stimulate or inhibit food intake, and interact with each other to maintain energy homeostasis. Changes in environmental conditions might change feeding habits and rates, thus affecting levels of energy stores, and the expression of endocrine appetite regulators. This review provides an overview of how environmental changes and food availability could affect feeding and these endocrine networks in fishes.
This article is part of the theme issue ‘Endocrine responses to environmental variation: conceptual approaches and recent developments’.
Thyroid hormone links environmental signals to DNA methylation
Authors: Seebacher Frank , Little Alexander G. 
Published: February 2024

Environmental conditions experienced within and across generations can impact individual phenotypes via so-called ‘epigenetic' processes. Here we suggest that endocrine signalling acts as a ‘sensor' linking environmental inputs to epigenetic modifications. We focus on thyroid hormone signalling and DNA methylation, but other mechanisms are likely to act in a similar manner. DNA methylation is one of the most important epigenetic mechanisms, which alters gene expression patterns by methylating cytosine bases via DNA methyltransferase enzymes. Thyroid hormone is mechanistically linked to DNA methylation, at least partly by regulating the activity of DNA methyltransferase 3a, which is the principal enzyme that mediates epigenetic responses to environmental change. Thyroid signalling is sensitive to natural and anthropogenic environmental impacts (e.g. light, temperature, endocrine-disrupting pollution), and here we propose that thyroid hormone acts as an environmental sensor to mediate epigenetic modifications. The nexus between thyroid hormone signalling and DNA methylation can integrate multiple environmental signals to modify phenotypes, and coordinate phenotypic plasticity at different time scales, such as within and across generations. These dynamics can have wide-ranging effects on health and fitness of animals, because they influence the time course of phenotypic adjustments and potentially the range of environmental stimuli that can elicit epigenetic responses.
This article is part of the theme issue ‘Endocrine responses to environmental variation: conceptual approaches and recent developments’.
Streptomyces herbicida sp. nov., a novel actinomycete with antibacterial and herbicidal activity isolated from soil
Authors: Luo Yanfang , Ling Ling , Zhang Kun , Song Zhengke , Zhang Lida , Li Jiaxin , Chen Jie , Xiang Wensheng , Wang Xiangjing , Zhao Junwei 
Published: February 2024

A novel actinobacterial strain (NEAU-HV9T) showing antibacterial activity against Ralstonia solanacearum and herbicidal activity against Amaranthus retroflexus L. was isolated from soil sampled in Bama yao Autonomous County, Hechi City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The strain is aerobic and Gram-positive. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that strain NEAU-HV9T belonged to the genus Streptomyces and showed high 16S rRNA sequence similarity to Streptomyces panaciradicis 1MR-8T (98.90 %), Streptomyces sasae JR-39T (98.89 %) and Streptomyces barringtoniae JA03T (98.69 %) and less than 98.5 % similarity to other members of the genus Streptomyces. The cell wall of strain NEAU-HV9T contained ll-diaminopimelic acid and the whole-cell hydrolysates were galactose, mannose and ribose. The predominant menaquinones were composed of MK-9(H2) and MK-9(H8). The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylinositol. The major fatty acids were C16 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and C17 : 1
ω8c. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain NEAU-HV9T was 70.6 mol%. Furthermore, the strain could be clearly distinguished from its closely related type strains by the combination of DNA–DNA hybridization results and some phenotypic characteristics. Meanwhile, strain NEAU-HV9T displayed herbicidal activity. Therefore, strain NEAU-HV9T represents a novel species within the genus Streptomyces, for which the name Streptomyces herbicida sp. nov. is proposed, with strain NEAU-HV9T (=CCTCC AA 2019088T=DSM 113364T) as the type strain.
Pain Expectations, Experiences and Coping Strategies Used By Post-operative Patients: A Descriptive Phenomelogical Study
Authors: Sakyi Richard , Boateng Edward Appiah , Diji Abigail Kusi-Amponsah , Afful Kenneth Adjei , Nimoh Vincent Afriyie , Ajanaba Philomena Asakeboba , Adjei Mabel Dorothy , Apiribu Felix , Dzomeku Veronica Millicent 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesPost-operative pain is still an unresolved problem worldwide including limited-resource countries such as Ghana. Earlier studies have mainly focused on post-operative pain experiences of patient with little attention on their pain expectations and coping strategies, however exploring these other areas can help to better manage post-operative pain. The current study sought to explore pain expectations, post-operative pain experiences, and coping strategies used by adult surgical patients.MethodsA descriptive phenomenological design approach was used to study nine purposively sampled surgical patients who were receiving care at a regional hospital in Ghana. Participants were individually interviewed before and during the post-operative period to share their opinions on their pain expectations, postoperative pain experiences and coping strategies. The semi-structured individual interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and content analyzed to generate themes which described participants’ accounts.ResultsParticipants comprised of six females and three males; their ages ranged from 24 to 40 years who underwent major surgeries. Three main themes were derived from this study, diverse pain expectations and experiences, post-operative pain effects and post-operative pain coping strategies. The study revealed that participants have different pain expectations and experiences, surgical pain affected their activities of daily living and emotions. Participants coped with the postoperative pain by using personal strategies and seeking support from nurses.ConclusionPain expectation of surgical patients affects their post-operative pain experiences. Surgical patients use coping strategies in their post-operative pain management. More needs to be done in reducing surgical patients’ experience of Post-operative pain.
A study of accounting mechanism from an ethnic lens; a case of Belis marriage in East Sumba, Indonesia
Authors: Hermawan Marko S. , Nomleni Andriani Grace Irene 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThis study describes the accounting mechanism for an ethnic marriage in East Sumba, Indonesia. Blended with a rich culture of Indonesia’s familial piety (Kekeluargaan), the accounting perspective is argued as a root of Indonesia’s norm and plays an important role in defining accounting mechanisms in the Indonesian context.Design/methodology/approachThe study observes the Belis traditional marriage in East Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, in a qualitative approach. About 12 in-depth interviews from indigenous East Sumba sources, a direct field observation and a historical content analysis were used.FindingsTraditional objects, local caste and spiritual karma are key factors in determining the Belis marital mechanism, which is intertwined with the Kekeluargaan norm. Marriage involves the unification of assets and liabilities bound to the newlyweds and their extended family and neighbors. The Kekeluargaan underpins the cooperation of both sides of the families with the manifestation of the parties concerned and is connected in mutual understanding based on harmony and respect.Practical implicationsThis study suggests that accountants in Indonesia should factor in the organizational cultural context. They can do this by fostering relationships, integrating cultural norms into accounting practices and adopting a broader perspective that considers the impact on multiple stakeholders for more effective accounting.Originality/valueThe value of this study challenges the perspective from a non-western point of view that accounting and Kekeluargaan relate to one another and align the role of culture as a context in accounting.
Designing an empathetic user-centric customer support organisation: practitioners’ perspectives
Authors: Sheth Jagdish N. , Jain Varsha , Ambika Anupama 
Published: February 2024

Purpose
This study aims to develop an empathetic and user-centric customer support service design model. Though service design has been a critical research focus for several decades, few studies focus on customer support services. As customer support gains importance as a source of competitive advantage in the present era, this paper aims to contribute to industry and academia by exploring the service design model.

Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted a theories-in-use approach to elucidate mental models based on the industry’s best practices. In-depth interviews with 62 professionals led to critical insights into customer service design development, supported by service-dominant logic and theory of mind principles.

Findings
The ensuing insights led to a model that connects the antecedents and outcomes of empathetic and user-centric customer service design. The precursors include people, processes and technology, while the results are user experience, service trust and service advocacy. The model also emphasises the significance of the user’s journey and the user service review in the overall service design.

Research limitations/implications
The model developed through this study addresses the critical gap concerning the lack of service design research in customer support services. The key insights from this study contribute to the ongoing research endeavours towards transitioning customer support services from an operational unit to a strategic value-creating function. Future scholars may investigate the applicability of the empathetic user service design across cultures and industries. The new model must be customised using real-time data and analytics across user journey stages.

Practical implications
The empathetic and user-centric design can elevate the customer service function as a significant contributor to the overall customer experience, loyalty and positive word of mouth. Practitioners can adopt the new model to provide superior customer service experiences. This original research was developed through crucial insights from interviews with senior industry professionals.

Originality/value
This research is the original work developed through the key insights from the interview with senior industry professionals.
The effect of justice on hospital workers’ self-efficiency with the mediating role of job stress: a structural equation analysis approach
Authors: Moosavi Saeideh , Ghalenoei Mehran , Maleki Aisa , Kalhor Rohollah 
Published: February 2024

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the effect of the Diamond Justice model on self-efficiency with the mediating role of job stress among the staff of Qazvin hospitals affiliated with Qazvin University of Medical Sciences. This study is a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study conducted among the staff of Qazvin hospitals affiliated with Qazvin University of Medical Sciences in 2020.

Design/methodology/approach
Sampling was performed using the structural equation method. Data collection tools included three sections: demographic information, justice and self-efficiency questionnaire and job stress questionnaire. Data were finally analyzed using SPSS software version 26 and AMOS version 23 at a significance level of 0.05.

Findings
The structural equation model’s standard estimation coefficients show that all existing paths are at a significant level. Finally, the regression analysis showed that justice is inversely related to stress level (ß = −0.185, p = 0.015). Justice is directly related with self-efficiency (ß = 0.282, p < 0.001).

Originality/value
Justice, stress and self-efficacy have been measured in various studies among health workers. However, a fitting model showing these three variables’ interaction was necessary. Therefore, this study tries to conceptualize the multifaceted relationships of the components of these concepts by presenting a model.
E-grocery service loyalty: integrating food quality, e-grocery quality and relationship quality (young customers’ experience with local food)
Authors: Suhartanto Dwi , Dean David , Farhani Iklima 
Published: February 2024

Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the loyalty formation model on e-grocery service incorporating food quality, e-grocery quality and relationship quality as determinants of loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach
The quantitative approach was used by using 353 data from young Indonesian customers with purchasing experience of local food through e-grocery service. The hypothesized relationships between variables were tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings
The results confirm that local food quality, e-grocery service quality and the relationship quality elements of a sense of community and attitudinal attachment, are all loyalty drivers. Next, mediation tests reveal that local food quality and e-grocery service quality influence customer loyalty through customers’ attitudinal attachment and a sense of community.

Practical implications
This study recommends that managers of e-grocery services of local food businesses could benefit from the development of attachment and a sense of community among their young clients. Furthermore, to develop loyalty among young customers, offering high-quality local food as well as e-grocery services is suggested.

Originality/value
To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first examination of the e-grocery service loyalty in the context of local food.
Seismic behaviour of the non-straight steel beams in the structural plans
Authors: Rashidiyan Farshid , Mirghaderi Seyed Rasoul , Mohebbi Saeed , Kavei Sina 
Published: February 2024

Purpose This research study focuses on investigating the seismic performance of non-straight beams in steel structures and exploring the mechanism by which plastic hinges are formed within these beams. The findings contribute to the understanding of their behaviour under seismic loads and offer insights into their potential for enhancing the lateral resistance of the structure. The abstract of the study highlights the significance of corners in structural plans, where non-coaxial columns, diagonal elements or beams deviating from a straight path are commonly observed. Typically, these non-straight beams are connected to the columns using pinned connections, despite their unknown seismic behaviour. Recognizing the importance of generating plastic hinges in special moment resisting frames and the lack of previous research on the involvement of these non-straight beams, this study aims to address this knowledge gap.Design/methodology/approachThis study examines the seismic behaviour and plastic hinge formation of non-straight beams in steel structures. Non-straight beams are beams that connect non-coaxial columns and diagonal elements, or deviate from a linear path. They are usually pinned to the columns, and their seismic contribution is unknown. A critical case with a 12-m non-straight beam is analysed using Abaqus software. Different models are created with varying cross-section shapes and connection types between the non-straight beams. The models are subjected to lateral monotonic and cyclic loads in one direction. The results show that non-straight beams increase the lateral stiffness, strength and energy dissipation of the models compared to disconnected beams that act as two cantilevers.FindingsThe analysis results reveal several key findings. The inclusion of non-straight beams in the models leads to increased lateral stiffness, strength and energy dissipation compared to the scenario where the beams are disconnected and act as two cantilever beams. Plastic hinges are formed at both ends of the non-straight beam when a 3% drift is reached, contributing to energy damping and introducing plasticity into the structure. These results strongly suggest that non-straight beams play a significant role in enhancing the lateral resistance of the system. Based on the seismic analysis results, this study recommends the utilization of non-straight beams in special moment frames due to the formation of plastic hinges within these beams and their effective participation in resisting lateral seismic loads. This research fills a critical gap in understanding the behaviour of non-straight beams and provides valuable insights for structural engineers involved in the design and analysis of steel structures.Originality/valueThe authors believe that this research will greatly contribute to the knowledge and understanding of the seismic performance of non-straight beams in steel structures.