bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pollen metabarcoding reveals a broad diversity of plant sources available to farmland flower visitors near tropical montane forest
Authors: Montero B. Karina , Gamboa-Barrantes Nicole , Rojas-Malavasi Geovanna , Cristóbal-Perez E. Jacob , Barrantes Gilbert , Cascante-Marín Alfredo , Hanson Paul , Zumbado Manuel A. , Madrigal-Brenes Ruth , Martén-Rodríguez Silvana , Quesada Mauricio , Fuchs Eric J.
Published: January 2025

Despite the widely recognized role of pollinators in ecosystem services, we currently have a poor understanding of the contribution of Natural Protected Areas neighboring agricultural landscapes to crop pollinator diversity and plant-pollinator interactions. Here, we conducted monthly surveys over a period of one year to study the diversity of insect visitors in dominant fruit crops—avocado, plum, apple, and blackberry—and used pollen DNA metabarcoding to characterize the community of plant sources in and around low-intensive farmland bordered by protected montane forest in Costa Rica. We found that crops and native plants had distinct communities of flower visitors, suggesting the presence of fine-scale habitat differences. DNA metabarcoding coupled with a custom-built reference database, enabled us to identify plant sources among pollen samples with high taxonomic resolution (species or genus level). We found that insect visitors carried pollen from a large diversity of plant taxa, including species native to the montane forests and highland páramos of Costa Rica. The diversity and composition of plant sources were variable across fruit crops and insect groups. Wildflower visitors such as bumblebees and syrphid flies, use a diverse range of plant taxa at similar levels to managed honeybees. This indicates the potential contribution of a diverse community of insect visitors to the pollination services of fruit crops and native flora. Overall, our study suggests that low-intensive farming practices that promote the presence of common ruderals combined with nearby protected forests contribute to maintaining diverse insect communities that provide crucial pollination services.
A meta-analysis of the effects of nitrogen fertilizer application on maize (Zea mays L.) yield in Northwest China
Authors: Jiang Yuanbo , Li Haiyan , Ma Wenqiong , Yu Wenjing , Chen Junxian , Gao Yalin , Qi Guangping , Yin Minhua , Kang Yanxia , Ma Yanlin , Wang Jinghai , Xu Liting
Published: January 2025

Nitrogen fertilizer application is an important method for the production of high-quality maize. However, nitrogen fertilizer addition patterns vary according to regional climate, field management practices, and soil conditions. In this study, a meta-analysis was used to quantify the yield effects of nitrogen addition on maize, and meta-regression analysis and a random forest model were used to study the main factors affecting the yield effects of nitrogen addition on maize. The results showed that nitrogen addition significantly increased maize yield by 50.26%–55.72%, and a fluctuating increasing trend was observed with the advancement of the experimental year. The increase in maize yield upon nitrogen addition was the highest in Gansu Province, and showed a decreasing trend with the rise in average annual temperature, but did not change significantly with the average annual precipitation. Among the field management factors, the increase in maize yield was better with the variety Qiangsheng 51, topdressing at the jointing and tasseling stages (JS, TS), nitrogen application rate of 175–225 kg·ha-1, and controlled release of nitrogen fertilizer and urea (CRNFU) or the application of a combination of organic and inorganic nitrogen (OIF). Moreover, the positive effects of nitrogen fertilizer application on maize yield improved with soil pH, organic matter, available potassium, available phosphorus, and total nitrogen content; decreased with soil carbon and nitrogen ratio and available nitrogen (AN) content; and were enhanced in chestnut soil, clay, and at a bulk density of 1.2–1.4 g·cm-3. Random forest model and multifactorial optimization revealed that the effects of nitrogen addition on maize yield in Northwest China were primarily influenced by experimental year, variety, soil type, AN, and soil pH.
New horizons in smart plant sensors: key technologies, applications, and prospects
Authors: Zhang Fucheng , Li Denghua , Li Ganqiong , Xu Shiwei
Published: January 2025

As the source of data acquisition, sensors provide basic data support for crop planting decision management and play a foundational role in developing smart planting. Accurate, stable, and deployable on-site sensors make intelligent monitoring of various planting scenarios possible. Recent breakthroughs in plant advanced sensors and the rapid development of intelligent manufacturing and artificial intelligence (AI) have driven sensors towards miniaturization, intelligence, and multi-modality. This review outlines the key technologies in developing new advanced sensors, such as micro-nano technology, flexible electronics technology, and micro-electromechanical system technology. The latest technological frontiers and development trends in sensor principles, fabrication processes, and performance parameters in soil and different segmented crop scenarios are systematically expounded. Finally, future opportunities, challenges, and prospects are discussed. We anticipate that introducing advanced technologies like nanotechnology and AI will rapidly and radically revolutionize the accuracy and intelligence of agricultural sensors, leading to new levels of innovation.
Controlled-release nitrogen combined with ordinary nitrogen fertilizer improved nitrogen uptake and productivity of winter wheat
Authors: Ali Muhammad Fraz , Han Ruifeng , Lin Xiang , Wang Dong
Published: January 2025

Background

Blending controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer (CRNF) with ordinary nitrogen fertilizer (ONF) is a strategic approach to improve winter wheat nutrient management. This blend provides nitrogen (N) to winter wheat in a balanced and consistent manner, ensuring long-term growth, reducing nutrient loss due to leaching or volatilization, and increasing N use efficiency (NUE).

Aims

CRNF aims to enhance N application suitability, optimizes soil nutrient dynamics, and its widespread use can boost crop NUE and yield. The study investigates how different CRNF and ONF blending ratios affect soil N content, winter wheat growth, and yield.

Methods

The experiment used two N application rates of 192(N1) and 240(N2) kg ha-1 of ONF, with five different blending ratios CRNF. The proportions of CRNF were 0%(F1), 30%(F2), 50%(F3), 70%(F4), and 100%(F5), respectively. The effects of changes in soil nitrate concentration, dry matter accumulation, N uptake, and transportation at various growth stages and yield were analyzed.

Results

CRNF at the jointing and anthesis stages helps maintain nitrate N levels throughout the growth cycle. Compared to full CRNF application at different N rates, this method also reduces nitrate N leaching in the soil. The 0-60 cm soil layer was primarily influenced by increasing the proportion of CRNF, especially from jointing to maturity. CRNF promotes a higher plant population during the turning green and jointing stages by increasing soil N content, thereby establishing a strong yield foundation for winter wheat. It increases winter wheat N accumulation and correlates positively with soil N content during key growth stages.

Conclusion

Winter wheat grain yield has increased, with significant yield increases observed at 70% blending with a higher amount of N at 240 kg ha-1 and achieved a 2.8% increase in NUE and a 3.0%-15.3% increase in grain yield. In order to improved winter wheat yields through effective N utilization, N2 application (240 kg ha-1) with the combination of (F4) 30% ONF + 70% CRNF would be recommended for northwest region of Shaanxi province in China. By increasing the amount of N accumulation at the anthesis stage, N transport is significantly increased after anthesis, and N accumulation and distribution ratio in grains are significantly increased at maturity.
Dynamic analysis of growth characteristics, secondary metabolites accumulation, and an in-depth understanding of anthraquinones biosynthesis in Rubia cordifolia Linn.
Authors: Lian Conglong , Liu Xiuyu , Guo Kaihua , Yang Hao , Yang Jingfan , Lan Jinxu , Chen Suiqing
Published: January 2025

Rubia cordifolia is a well-known plant used in oriental medicine plant, and is also serves as the primary traditional source of plant red dyestuffs. With the current depletion of natural resources of R. cordifolia, it is critical to conduct cultivation studies on the R. cordifolia. Here, we report on the dynamic growth characteristics and secondary metabolite accumulation of cultivated R. cordifolia, as well as the discovery of important genes involved in anthraquinone biosynthesis. The results showed that R. cordifolia grows better in sunny environments than in shaded environments, and its triennials better than its biennials, base on the biomass and the concentration of the primary components purpurin and mollugin. The dynamic accumulation of purpurin and mollugin content suggested that 30 June to 15 October is a fair window for harvesting R. cordifolia, and the possibility of a specific transition connection during the purpurin and mollugin biosynthesis process. Furthermore, we sequenced R. cordifolia using SMRT technology for the first time and obtained 45,925 full-length transcripts, 564 alternative splicing events, 3182 transcription factors, 6454 SSRs, and 6361 lncRNAs. We hypothesized an anthraquinone biosynthetic pathway and found 280 full-length transcripts that may be involved in anthraquinone biosynthesis in R. cordifolia. In addition, RT-qPCR was used to detect the relative expression levels of 12 candidate ungenes in the above- and underground parts of R. cordifolia. Above all, our findings have crucial implications for the field management of cultivation and harvesting of cultivated R. cordifolia, and also provide useful genetic information for clarifying the potential genes involved in anthraquinone biosynthesis.
Academic outcomes of inclusive education in typically developing children
Authors: Bakoč Andrijana , Brojčin Branislav , Banković Slobodan , Glumbić Nenad , Đorđević Mirjana
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The fact that inclusive education has existed in Bosnia and Herzegovina for twenty years opens the question of how it affects typically developing children, among other things. This paper aims to examine the differences in general knowledge and mathematics of typically developing students with regard to whether they attend classes that include students with intellectual disabilities or not, as well as to determine the relationship of their knowledge with teachers’ characteristics and the inclusiveness of schools they attend.

Methods

The sample included 331 students from 18 regular elementary school classes. The sample was divided into two subsamples – respondents who attended classes that included students with intellectual disabilities and respondents who attended classes that did not include any students with disabilities. The Peabody Individual Achievement Test – revised was used to assess general knowledge and mathematics, while My Thinking About Inclusion Scale, Bender Classroom Structure Questionnaire, Teacher Efficacy for Inclusive Practices, and Inclusive Process Evaluation Scale were used for assessing the teacher and school variables.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found between the two subsamples. The schools’ inclusiveness was related to better achievements of all respondents, mainly in terms of work organization. The examined teachers’ characteristics established different relationships with academic achievements in different subsamples.

Conclusion

Attending classes with a student with intellectual disability did not negatively affect the academic achievements of other students in class. The school’s inclusiveness in terms of work organization was positively related to the academic achievement of all students, while the relation of teachers’ characteristics with students’ achievements is a complex phenomenon that requires further research. Given the results obtained, to achieve better academic outcomes, teachers in classrooms attended by students with intellectual disability should be encouraged to use metacognitive and individualized teaching strategies. Furthermore, school principals and school administration would contribute to the success of all students by organizing the school on the principles of inclusion.
Feasibility of a videoconferencing-based parent-mediated intervention: a mixed-method pilot study
Authors: Geoffray Marie-Maude , Bourgeois-Mollier Maeva , Maleysson-Baste Maud , Gallifet Natacha , Dochez Sara , Bonis Gaelle , Jay Agathe , Jurek Lucie
Published: January 2025

Background

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents early communication and social challenges, necessitating timely and accessible intervention. Pre-school Autism Communication Therapy (PACT), a parent-mediated intervention, empowers parents to facilitate their child’s development. However, accessibility issues often hinder families from accessing evidence-based intervention. This pilot study assessed the feasibility of videoconferencing-based PACT as a precursor for a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Methodology

A mixed-methods approach integrated quantitative retrospective measures and semi-structured interviews. Participants included children diagnosed with ASD who received PACT, and PACT-trained professionals with videoconferencing experience. Feasibility was assessed through audio and video quality, internet stability, and session length. Professionals’ experiences were analyzed using a qualitative thematic analysis. Autism severity, parent–child interaction, and therapeutic changes were also described.

Results

Nine parent–child dyads and eight PACT therapists were included in the study. Videoconferencing-based PACT intervention proved feasible, with 95.1% of the 41 sessions rated as feasible on the scale. Technical challenges such as audio quality (7.3%) and screen sharing (19.1%) have emerged, which therapists circumvented to maintain intervention quality. Autism severity and parent–child interaction showed positive trends, supported by qualitative findings reporting increased parental confidence and enhanced synchrony. The core components of PACT were successfully adapted to the remote setting.

Conclusion

This pilot study suggests that delivering PACT via videoconferencing is a feasible approach to enhance the accessibility of evidence-based interventions for ASD. Larger-scale research with rigorous controls is required to validate these promising findings. An ongoing multicenter randomized trial aims to address this gap.
Japanese-as-a-foreign-language acquisition affects native Chinese lexical processing among Chinese learners
Authors: Cai Fengxiang , Fei Xiaodong , Song Qichao
Published: January 2025

Existing research has primarily focused on the influence of the native language on second language (L2) acquisition and processing, with less attention given to whether L2 acquisition affects native language processing. This study examines Chinese learners of Japanese, focusing on the orthographic and phonological similarities between two-character words in Chinese and Japanese. It investigates how these similarities affect native Chinese lexical processing at intermediate and advanced stages of Japanese learning and explores the predictive effect of L2 lexical processing efficiency on native language lexical processing efficiency at different stages of L2 learning. Through a comparison with native Chinese speakers who have not learned Japanese, the results indicate that L2 Japanese acquisition significantly impacts native Chinese lexical processing for Chinese learners of Japanese. Additionally, although there are some indications of the effects of orthographic and phonological similarities between Chinese and Japanese on native Chinese processing, the overall impact appears to be relatively weak. Moreover, the impact of L2 proficiency on lexical processing is influenced by L2 lexical processing efficiency, with both factors being closely related and jointly affecting lexical processing. Based on these results, this study proposes a potential pathway for native Chinese lexical processing among Chinese learners of Japanese.
Psychosocial distress in people with overweight and obesity: the role of weight stigma and social support
Authors: Timkova Vladimira , Mikula Pavol , Nagyova Iveta
Published: January 2025

We aimed to assess the role of weight stigma and social support in depression, anxiety, and loneliness controlling for sociodemographic and clinical variables. A total of 189 adults with overweight/obesity were included. Participants were recruited from outpatient clinics by general practitioners which covered all regions of Slovakia. Correlation analyses and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. Participants experienced weight-related teasing (40.4%), unfair treatment (18.0%), and discrimination (14.1%). We found an association between lower age, female sex and psychological distress. No role of obesity indicators in psychosocial distress was identified, except for a small association between body mass index and depression in correlation analyses. Significant associations between experienced weight stigma/self-stigmatization and psychosocial distress weakened when variables related to the social support system were added to the linear regression. Poor social support was strongly associated with depression, anxiety, and loneliness. The explained variance in the final regression models was 42, 44, and 54%, respectively. Weight stigma negatively affects mental health and a sense of belonging while it seems to be a more significant contributor to psychosocial distress compared to obesity per se. Interventions targeting weight-related self-stigmatization and social relationships may mitigate the negative impact of weight stigma on psychosocial well-being.
Cultivating mathematical mindset via online video interventions: a mixed-methods investigation in Chinese higher education
Authors: Xu Xiaoyu , Broadbent Jaclyn , Zhang Qiaoping
Published: January 2025

Freshmen often encounter significant challenges in adapting to the complexity of university-level mathematics and independent learning. These challenges necessitate the development of strong self-regulated learning (SRL) skills to successfully navigate the demands of higher education. Building on mindset theory, this study explores how mathematical mindset-oriented interventions can support freshmen’s mathematics learning during their transition to higher education mathematics, particularly in an online setting. This mixed-methods study involved 306 freshmen, who participated in an online calculus tutorial program, with 118 engaged in the mindset intervention and 188 serving as controls. The intervention significantly altered the students’ perceptions of mathematics and improved their SRL strategies. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, t-tests, and Structural Equation Modeling to examine the relationships between mathematical mindset, SRL, and academic achievement. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 18 students were thematically analyzed to provide deeper insights into students’ experiences and mindset development. Students with a mathematical mindset demonstrated enhanced SRL strategies and superior mathematical achievement. However, the fact that some students with a fixed mindset also achieved high levels of mathematical success points to the intervention’s complex influence on academic confidence and achievement. These findings highlight the need for ongoing research into the mathematical growth mindset at the tertiary level and for adapting educational strategies to the changing dynamics of online education and diverse cultural backgrounds.
“If you prick us, do we not bleed?” Antisemitism and psychosocial health among Jews in Germany
Authors: Shani Maor , Goldberg Dana , van Zalk Maarten H. W.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Amid escalating global antisemitism, particularly following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, this study addresses critical gaps in understanding the psychosocial impact of antisemitism on Jewish communities worldwide.

Methods

Focusing on the Jewish community in Germany, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of 420 Jewish individuals (mean age = 40.71 years, SD = 15.90; 57% female). Participants completed measures assessing four distinct forms of perceived and experienced antisemitism: everyday discrimination, microaggressions (subtle antisemitism and collective experiences such as encountering antisemitic comments on social media), vigilance against antisemitism, and perceived prevalence of antisemitism. Psychosocial outcomes—including depression, anxiety, subjective well-being, and social participation—were also measured. Data were analyzed using correlation analyses and multiple linear regressions, and Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) identified distinct groups based on shared perceptions and experiences of antisemitism and levels of Jewish identification.

Results

Results indicate that experiences of antisemitism, particularly everyday discriminatory acts, were significantly associated with poorer mental health outcomes and reduced social participation. The LPA revealed three distinct groups, with the high-identity, high-antisemitism group (53% of the sample) reporting significantly higher anxiety levels than those with average identification and more rare experience with antisemitism.

Discussion

These findings underscore the pervasive nature of antisemitism and its detrimental effects on the well-being of Jewish individuals. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to promote resilience within Jewish communities and calls for broader societal efforts to combat antisemitism.
Female athletes explicitly gesture in emotional situations
Authors: Adams Y. , Augenstein M. , Furley P. , Krieg A. , Born P. , Helmich I.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Both appraisal emotion approaches and self-regulation theory emphasize that appraising an event as conducive or detrimental to one’s current goals may trigger an affective response that can be observed nonverbally. Because there may be a female advantage in the inhibition and self-regulation of emotions, we hypothesized that female but not male athletes regulate emotions during sports through explicit nonverbal behaviors.

Methods

All nonverbal hand movement behavior of right-handed female and male tennis athletes was recorded during competitive matches. All immediate nonverbal expressions after point losses and wins were coded by two independent blind raters applying the NEUROpsychological GESture (NEUROGES®) system.

Results

No gender differences were found for overall hand movement activity. Female athletes executed more fall gestures than males as well as in space and both-handed act as a unit hand movements. In contrast to males, female athletes spent significantly more time with both-handed pantomime gestures (e.g., performing an imaginary backhand), particularly when losing points.

Discussion

Increased expressions of pantomime gestures in female athletes after losing indicate that women regulate negative emotions nonverbally through explicit hand movements. Thus, female athletes seem to nonverbally cope with their negative emotional arousal through explicit nonverbal behaviors in order to control performance.
Barriers to self-management engagement among community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a qualitative study
Authors: Sun Jingxian , Zhao Yayi , Wang Aihong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Self-management is crucial for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to enhance cognitive health and mitigate the potential risk of dementia. However, maintaining consistent engagement in self-management strategies seems a challenge for older adults with MCI. This study sought to gain insights into the barriers to self-management engagement among community-dwelling older adults with MCI.

Methods

This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach. Purposive sampling was used to recruit a diverse group of participants with MCI, aged 60 and above, residing in the provinces of Hubei, Jiangsu, Henan, and Anhui in China. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between January and May 2023, allowing for an in-depth exploration of participants’ experiences and perceptions. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to thematic analysis to capture the essence of the participants’ narratives.

Results

Twenty-six participants participated in the formal semi-structured interviews. The following themes and subthemes were identified: “inappropriate perceptions of MCI” (“low perception of risk from MCI” and “supposition of little personal control over MCI”), “elder self-neglect”, and “lack of available information or support services about MCI”.

Discussion

This study highlights significant barriers to self-management engagement among community-dwelling older adults with MCI, emphasizing the importance of developing tailored interventions that address misconceptions and self-neglect and enhance the availability of information and support services. These findings suggest avenues for policymakers and healthcare providers to foster more effective self-management practices in this population, promoting cognitive health and slowing potential progression to dementia.
Awareness, knowledge, and attitudes of the Belgian general population towards paternal perinatal depression: a descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Akalin Ayse , D’haenens Florence , Tricas-Sauras Sandra , Vermeulen Joeri , Demedts Dennis , Buyl Ronald , Fobelets Maaike
Published: January 2025

Background

Paternal perinatal depression affects 10% of fathers, implying a significant burden on families and public health. A better insight into the population’s health literacy could guide professionals and policymakers in addressing these men and making better use of existing healthcare options. It is also crucial for caregivers, as they play a vital role in identifying symptoms, encouraging help-seeking, and reducing stigma. This study aimed to explore the awareness, knowledge, and attitudes of the general population in Belgium towards paternal perinatal depression, using the validated DDads (Depression in Dads) questionnaire.

Methods

This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted between March and May 2020-2022 using convenience sampling. Participants aged over 18 years, with a good understanding of Dutch and residing in the Brussels-Capital Region or Flemish Brabant were invited to participate. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi² analysis, and independent sample t-test.

Results

A total of 314 participants, including women (n=165) and men (n=149) completed the questionnaire. Anxiousness was the most frequently cited mental health problem for men during their partners’ pregnancy (82.5%) and in the postnatal period (68.5%). Over one-third (37.3%) viewed paternal depression as a ‘normal’ part of the transition to fatherhood. The recommended treatment for paternal depression was mostly non-pharmacological, with family support ranking first (79.9%) and seeking support from informal networks being the most recommended approach (45.2%). New personality characteristics such as withdrawal, cynicism, raging attacks, and irritability, among others, were seen as common symptoms (64.6%). Although 70% of respondents believed that perinatal depression requires specialized treatment, only 39.2% agreed that all men should be screened for depression during pregnancy.

Conclusions

Recognition of paternal depression symptoms was relatively low but higher among females, participants with higher education, and those aware of paternal depression. Professional support recommendations were limited, especially among young people and those without children. The terms ‘paternal perinatal depression’ and ‘perinatal mental health’ are poorly understood. The findings highlight critical gaps in awareness and attitudes, offering valuable insights. Future research should develop tailored interventions to support men’s mental well-being during the perinatal period. Targeted awareness campaigns and healthcare improvements are crucial for addressing this issue.
Reflecting on partnerships established and sustained over four cycles of a federally funded cancer prevention and control research program: lessons learned for community-academic networks
Authors: Adams Swann Arp , Workman Lauren , Sakhuja Mayank , Yelton Brooks , Wickersham Karen E. , Fairman Ciaran , Eberth Jan , Heiney Sue , Hebert James R. , King Jaron H. , Hucek Freda Allyson , Schaurer Lauren , Friedman Daniela B.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funded Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network (CPCRN) is a national network which aims to accelerate the adoption and implementation of evidence-based cancer prevention and control strategies and interventions in communities, enhance large-scale efforts to reach underserved populations and reduce their cancer-related health disparities, and develop the capacity of the dissemination and implementation work force specifically in cancer prevention and control.

Methods

Our site has been a part of the CPCRN since its inception in 2002 with the exception of the 2004–2009 funding cycle. As community-based participatory research is a core value of our center, we examined the development and continued engagement of our community partners using a qualitative, inductive approach to identify emergent themes from focus group sessions with current and past investigators.

Results

Several key themes were identified from our analysis including long-term commitment to community partnerships and interconnectedness with other work, authentic approach, valuing our community as experts, and mutual benefits.

Discussion

With our results, we provide evidence of common community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles which have supported the sustained engagement with those racial minorities who are most vulnerable in our community. While future analysis is planned to utilize this same approach with our community partners, this work marks an important step in reflecting upon the approaches which have led to our success and how they can be applied in future collaborations to maximize impact and sustained health improvements.
Analysis report on trends in public infectious disease control in China
Authors: Zhang Zhaoting
Published: January 2025

Background

The prevention and control of public infectious diseases is a significant issue in the global health sector. Controlling infectious diseases is crucial for maintaining public health. As the most populous country in the world, China still faces a series of new challenges in the control of public infectious diseases. Therefore, it is of great significance to conduct an in-depth analysis of the trends in the control of public infectious diseases.

Methodology

This study selects the death rate, incidence rate, proportion of prevention and control funds input, and the proportion of professional technical personnel in China from 2018 to 2023 as research samples and conducts statistical analysis through multiple linear regression. Overall, factors such as the incidence rate, proportion of prevention and control funds input, and proportion of professional technical personnel can explain 98.7% of the trend changes in the infectious disease death rate.

Results

Through multiple regression analysis, the regression coefficient value of 0.001 for the incidence rate indicates a significant positive impact on the mortality rate, meaning that an increase in the incidence of infectious diseases leads to a rise in mortality. The regression coefficient value of −0.012 for the proportion of funding input suggests a significant negative impact on the mortality rate, implying that increased investment in prevention and control funds will correspondingly reduce the mortality rate of infectious diseases. On the other hand, merely increasing the number of professional and technical personnel is not sufficient to control the spread of infectious diseases; comprehensive use of various prevention and control measures is required for effective public infectious disease control.

Conclusion

Public infectious disease prevention and control is a complex process that requires the consideration of multiple factors, rather than merely changing a single factor, particularly in controlling incidence rates and reasonably allocating funds. By refining the analysis of infectious disease control strategies and integrating diverse preventive and intervention measures, it is possible to better control the spread and mortality of infectious diseases, thereby protecting public health and safety.
The impact of neighborhood environment on the mental health: evidence from China
Authors: Lei Kaiqi , Yang Jianke , Ke Xiwang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The community environment is a significant social determinant affecting individual mental health.

Purpose

This study explores the impact mechanisms and urban-rural heterogeneity in the relationship between socioeconomic status and individual mental health, focusing on community environmental perceptions and neighborhood interactions.

Methods

This study used data from the 2021 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS), selecting a sample of 1,974 respondents. First, a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was employed for path analysis. Second, a bias-corrected nonparametric percentile bootstrap method was used to test for mediation effects and estimate confidence intervals. Finally, the heterogeneity of the mediation model across urban and rural communities was examined based on community type.

Results

The results indicate that socioeconomic status is the primary determinant of mental health disparities. The mechanisms of environmental perception and social interaction play significant roles in bridging health disparities between social classes. Moreover, these mediating effects show considerable urban-rural heterogeneity. Specifically, the environmental perception mechanism has a stronger impact on rural residents, while social interaction mechanisms are more pronounced in urban communities.

Discussion

The study emphasizes the importance of addressing environmental pollution and enhancing community social interactions as key strategies to reduce health disparities. Improving ecological governance and fostering community engagement, are essential for narrowing the health gap across socioeconomic groups.
Awareness, attitude, and acceptance of newborn screening for sickle cell disease among health workers and caregivers at primary healthcare centers in Gwagwalada Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Hezekiah A Isa , Oparaugo Chisomaga Ifeanyi , Ajetomobi Grace Doyin , Fasina Ayomide Esther , Chianumba Reuben Ikechukwu , Nnodu Obiageli Eunice
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Newborn Screening (NBS) is a public health program designed to identify and provide early interventions for infants with genetic disorders such as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Lack of awareness and unwillingness to participate in the NBS by caregivers and some healthcare workers are major contributing factors impeding NBS for SCD.

Objective

To evaluate the level of awareness and acceptance of NBS for SCD and the determinant factors influencing caregivers in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.

Methods

The study employed a descriptive, quantitative design using questionnaires administered to healthcare workers and caregivers at immunization and antenatal clinics of 10 selected Primary Healthcare Centers (PHC) in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.

Result

A total of 357 participants, comprising 301 caregivers and 56 health care workers responded to the questionnaires. Among the caregivers, 171 (57.2%) were not aware of NBS for SCD. Two hundred and ninety (97%) expressed willingness to participate in the NBS. However, 32 (10.6%) indicated reluctance to accept positive results of SCD. The majority, 175 (59.1%) of the caregivers strongly agreed that NBS for SCD helps in the early detection and management of SCD, while 7 (2.4%) disagreed. Notably 272 (90.4%) of the caregivers had secondary and tertiary education. Among the healthcare workers, 39 (73.6%) were aware of NBS for SCD and 30 (73.2%) have recommended it to caregivers.

Conclusion

This study revealed a low level of awareness of NBS for SCD among caregivers. However, there was a high level of acceptance among them. The level of awareness is high among healthcare workers. Education emerged as the major factor determining the knowledge and attitude of caregivers toward NBS for SCD.
Monkeypox-related knowledge and vaccination willingness among HIV-diagnosed and -suspected males: a cross-sectional survey in Changsha
Authors: Zhou Yingying , Wang Jiemin , Xie Zhi
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to update baseline data on monkeypox (mpox)-related knowledge and vaccination willingness among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diagnosed and suspected males.

Methods

The cross-sectional survey was conducted in Changsha, a provincial capital in China, during 5 JULY to 5 SEPTEMBER 2023. Among the three study groups, the participants in the “previously diagnosed” group were recruited from a cohort of HIV-infected patients. The “newly diagnosed” and the “suspected” groups were recruited from the outpatients and grouped according to their confirmatory test results. The the exploratory factor analysis was firstly applied to capture the latent structure of participants’ response to the questionnaire about monkeypox. The component and factor scores were compared between groups using the Kruskal-Wallis H tests. The chi-square test was then used to assess the difference of mpox vaccination willingness between MSM and non-MSM in each group. Finally, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the determinants of vaccination willingness.

Results

A total of 481 males were included in the final analysis. The results revealed that there was a gap in knowledge about monkeypox between the three participant groups. The vaccination willingness rate of HIV-infected participants was above 90%, while the rate in the HIV-suspected group was 72.60%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the previously diagnosed group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.314, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.105–0.940) and the suspected group (aOR = 0.111, 95% CI: 0.034–0.363) had a lower level of vaccination willingness and they were referred to the newly diagnosed group. Participants in the age groups ranging 25–34 (aOR = 0.287, 95% CI: 0.086–0.959) and 35–44 (aOR = 0.136, 95% CI: 0.039–0.478) years showed a lower level of vaccination willingness, referred to the 15–24 year age group. A better knowledge about monkeypox was associated with a higher level of vaccination willingness (aOR = 1.701, 95% CI: 1.165–2.483). Additionally, a considerable percentage of heterosexual individuals in each group indicated their acceptance of monkeypox vaccines.

Conclusion

An overall high level of vaccination willingness was observed among HIV-infected and-suspected male individuals with disparities noted among those with different HIV infection status, knowledge levels of monkeypox, and age. Addressing the existing knowledge gap and engaging people with persistent risks—regardless of their sexual orientation—for a timely HIV diagnosis may facilitate vaccine-based mitigation measures against monkeypox.
U-shaped association between sleep duration and frailty in Chinese older adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Song Yanliqing , Liu Haoqiang , Gu Kenan , Liu Yue
Published: January 2025

Objective

As the population ages, understanding the association between sleep patterns and physical frailty in older adults is crucial for formulating effective health interventions. This study aimed to explore the relationship among nap time, nighttime sleep duration, and physical frailty in older Chinese individuals; establish recommended sleep times; and provide a scientific and reasonable basis for the prevention and management of frailty in older adults.

Methods

On the basis of the 2020 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study database, demographic information, health data, and lifestyle information of the research subjects were obtained. A total of 5,761 survey participants were included, and logistic regression and restricted cubic splines were used to explore the association between sleep duration and frailty.

Results

In our cross-sectional analysis, the duration of napping in older adults did not show a significant correlation with frailty. The optimal nighttime sleep interval for older adults was 7–8 h, and the maximum health benefit was achieved when nighttime sleep reached 7.5 h. Compared with older adults in China who slept 6–8 h at night, those with a sleep duration of <6 h (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.36–1.82) were more likely to be frail. After adjusting for all covariates such as smoking, multimorbidity, self-rated health, social events, education level, and frequency of physical activity, we found no interaction between gender and age concerning sleep duration.

Conclusion

The potential correlation between nighttime sleep duration and frailty in older adults is basically U-shaped. Older Chinese adults with a moderate nighttime sleep duration of 7–8 h exhibited the lowest likelihood of frailty than their counterparts. The duration of napping is not related to the likelihood of frailty in older people. Thus, the importance of sufficient nighttime sleep for the health of older adults must be emphasized.
Perceived benefits, costs, and relationships on provincial doctors’ inclination to participate in urban–rural medical consortia in Central China: a social exchange theory perspective
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Ma Liang , Ma Wenjie , Kang Dingding , Mao Yiqing
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to investigate the perceived benefits, costs, and relationships that influence doctors’ inclination to participate in urban–rural medical consortia (URMC). Furthermore, the study analyzes how perceived relationships moderate the impact of perceived benefits and costs on the inclination to take part in URMC.

Methods

The study was conducted between September 2022 and June 2023 utilizing an online survey in Henan Province, Central China, which included 749 respondents from provincial hospitals. Chi-square and hierarchical logistic regressions were used to determine the perceived factors of the participants’ inclination.

Results

The study indicated that 85.4% doctors demonstrated a strong inclination to participate. Doctors who perceived significant financial benefits, non-financial benefits, and relationships had a high level of inclination to participate. Doctors who perceived high executive costs and technical costs were less likely to express a high level of inclination to participate. When doctors perceived a strong relationship, the influence of perceived non-financial benefits on their inclination to participate tended to be weaker.

Conclusion

This study enhances the understanding of physicians’ motivations for participating in URMC and may inform program leadership and policymakers concerned with developing or enhancing rural medical services. It is essential for managers to enhance incentive mechanisms, strive to minimize both actual and perceived costs, and facilitate the establishment of high-quality professional relationships between provincial physicians and their counterparts in county-level healthcare institutions.
Growth dynamics of Indian infants using latent trajectory models in pooled survey datasets
Authors: Saji Aswathi , Baby Jeswin , Antony Prem , Sinha Srishti , Bandyopadhyay Sulagna , Jose Joby K. , Kurpad Anura V. , Thomas Tinku
Published: January 2025

Background

National survey data show that age- and sex-standardized weight and length measurements decline early in Indian children. In population-level longitudinal data, early detection of growth trajectories is important for the implementation of interventions. We aimed to identify and characterize distinct growth trajectories of Indian children from birth to 12 months of age residing in urban and rural areas.

Methods

Pooled data from four interventional and non-interventional longitudinal studies across India were used for the analysis. Latent class mixed modeling (LCMM) was employed to identify groups of children with similar trajectories over age. The trajectories named Classes of Children were created for length-for-age Z scores (LAZ) and weight-for-age Z scores (WAZ) based on place of birth, residential area, and maternal education.

Results

We identified two latent classes for LAZ in boys and three latent classes for LAZ in girls, and four classes for WAZ were identified in both boys and girls. The first class for LAZ, with the highest proportion of children (>80% of children), did not decline or increase with age; In boys, Class 1 was close to the WHO median, whereas in girls, Class 1 was lower than the WHO median from birth. The LAZ classes of remaining boys and girls declined with age (slope, μdg= − 1.04; 95% CI: −1.09, −0.99 for boys and μdg= − 0.69; 95% CI: −0.76, −0.63 for girls). The first trajectory of WAZ (approximately 50% of children) for boys (μdg=0.13; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.16) and the second trajectory of WAZ for girls (μdg=0.24; 95% CI: 0.18, 0.30) increased with age, while the remaining trajectories of WAZ declined with age.

Conclusion

There is heterogeneity in the growth of Indian children in the first year of life, which was identified by distinct types of growth trajectories. The predominant trajectories of both LAZ and WAZ did not decline with age, while most other trajectories demonstrated an initial decline.