bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Oral Hygiene Behaviours and Cognitive Decline in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhu Zheng , Yang Zhongfang , Qi Xiang , Mao Weiyu , Pei Yaolin , Wu Bei
Published: October 2024

Aim

To evaluate the association between oral hygiene behaviour and cognitive decline in adults. The outcomes include changes in global cognitive function, visual attention, task switching and the risk of dementia.

Design

We conducted a systematic review following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses guidelines.

Data Sources

A systematic search of 11 databases and grey literature sources was conducted from inception to January 2024. We included interventional trials or cohort studies that investigated the effect of oral hygiene behaviours (e.g., toothbrushing, mouth washing, flossing, using toothpicks and cleaning dentures) on cognitive decline in adults.

Methods

Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed by two independent reviewers with expertise in conducting systematic reviews. Meta‐analyses were conducted using random‐effects models, and heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic and χ2 test.

Results

A total of eight studies (six intervention studies and two cohort studies) met inclusion criteria, including 261,772 participants. Follow‐up periods ranged from 30 days to 48 months for interventions and 9 to 18 years for cohorts. Toothbrushing was associated with a significantly slower decline in global cognitive overtime. Toothbrushing in older adults with moderate/severe dementia could achieve significant changes in cognitive decline. There was no significant difference between the effectiveness of toothbrushing performed by professionals and caregivers. Other oral hygiene behaviours, including dental flossing, using mouthwash, using toothpicks and cleaning dentures, were not associated with the risk of dementia.

Conclusions

Toothbrushing is linked to a decreased risk of dementia and improved global cognitive function. Promoting toothbrushing at least twice daily may significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Impact

These findings highlight the urgent need for programmes that encourage daily toothbrushing, particularly in nursing home settings and among older adults with moderate‐to‐severe dementia.
Desktop‐based virtual reality social platforms versus video conferencing platforms for online synchronous learning in higher education: An experimental study to evaluate students' learning gains and user experience
Authors: Di Natale Anna Flavia , Repetto Claudia , Villani Daniela
Published: October 2024

Background

Online synchronous learning in higher education frequently struggles to overcome the social presence gap, resulting in dissatisfaction and poor learning outcomes.

Objectives

This study examined the effectiveness of desktop‐based virtual reality (VR) social platforms compared to video conferencing (VC) platforms in enhancing students' learning gains and experiences in online synchronous learning.

Methods

The study used a within‐subject design, involving 34 college students in two online lecture modules, one via a VR social platform and another through a VC platform. Knowledge assessments occurred pre‐ and post‐modules and after 1 week. Students also completed post‐module questionnaires to evaluate their learning experience, in terms of social presence, easiness of use and perceived emotions. In‐depth interviews provided further insights into their experiences with both platforms.

Results

The study showed that using VR social platforms for online synchronous learning enhanced immediate knowledge, especially in students less interested in the content, yet it did not notably impact long‐term knowledge retention. Despite no significant findings in social presence from questionnaires, interviews indicated that the VR's heightened interactivity might be offset by the effect of not seeing others' real appearances in promoting social presence. Furthermore, the VC platform was found to be easier to use, attributed to its familiarity and user‐friendliness. Finally, students experienced increased fun, awe and interest, along with reduced boredom, when using the VR social platform.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the potential of VR to enrich online learning while underscoring the need for effective strategies facilitating a smooth integration into educational settings.
Community‐Acquired Pressure Injuries: Prevalence, Risk Factors and Effect of Care Bundles—An Integrative Review
Authors: Aloweni Fazila , Lim Siew Hoon , Gunasegaran Nanthakumahrie , Ostbye Truls , Ang Shin Yuh , Siow Kee Chen Elaine
Published: October 2024

Aim and Objectives

To summarise the evidence and present the state of the science on pressure injury care bundles in the community. Specifically, this review examined (i) the extent of pressure injury by studying its prevalence and incidence in the last 10 years, (ii) the risk factors associated with community‐acquired pressure injury and (iii) the components and outcomes associated with effective pressure injury care bundles in the community.

Background

PI care bundles have effectively reduced PI rates; however, there is limited evidence of care bundles used in community settings.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

This integrative review is guided by the Whittemore and Knafl framework and follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Quality appraisal was applied to assess the quality of selected articles. Data relevant to the review aims were extracted, and findings were synthesised and presented. PubMed, Medline, CINAHL and Web of Science were searched. Studies published in the English language between 2012 and 2022 were retrieved.

Results

A total of 89 articles were retrieved; 25 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies reported the point prevalence and period prevalence of community‐acquired pressure injuries, and only one study reported the incidence of community‐acquired pressure injuries. The point prevalence and period prevalence of community‐acquired pressure injury were 0.02% to 10.8% and 2.7% to 86.4%, respectively, and the cumulative incidence was 1.3%. The risk factors for community‐acquired pressure injury assessed vary between studies; older age, poor nutrition, immobility and multiple comorbidities are commonly reported. Socioeconomic and caregiving factors were not studied. Very few studies evaluated pressure injury care bundles in the community. Even so, the components of the pressure injury care bundle vary between studies.

Conclusions

Pressure injury development is associated with a complex interplay of factors. Socioeconomic and caregiving factors were not examined in any of the papers. There is a lack of understanding of the components and outcomes associated with effective pressure injury care bundles in the community.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Despite their prevalence, community‐acquired pressure injuries (CAPIs) are often underreported due to inadequate follow‐up and reporting mechanisms.

Although the risk factors for CAPIs vary across studies, older age, impaired mobility, multiple comorbidities and malnutrition consistently emerge as key contributors.

Pressure injury preventive care bundles are more commonly used in the acute care setting rather than the community setting.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Nursing‐Based Sleep Promotion Intervention Effectiveness for Post Cardiac Surgery Patients: Systematic Review
Authors: Hweidi Issa M. , Jebreel Omar H. , Alhawatmeh Hossam N. , Jarrah Mohamad I. , Abu‐Awwad Awwad A. , Hweidi Mohammed I.
Published: October 2024

Background

Sleep is a fundamental prerequisite for physical and mental health. Poor quality of sleep is common among post‐cardiac surgery patients and leads to serious health conditions.

Objective

To conduct a systematic review that investigates the effectiveness of eye masks, earplugs and deep‐breathing exercise on sleep quality among post‐cardiac surgery patients.

Design

A systematic review of interventional studies was established to meet the PRISMA guidelines.

Methods

PRISMA guidelines were used to assess the findings of 11 selected studies that met the inclusion criteria, published between 2007 and 2023 across four databases: CINAHL, JDNR, MEDLINE and PubMed. The search was conducted on 23 November 2023.

Results

The 11 most eligible studies were analysed. All of them were interventional, encompassing a total of 787 participants. Randomised controlled trials were the most common design. Interventions included eye masks, earplugs and deep‐breathing exercises. The Richards‐Campbell Sleep Questionnaire was the most used assessment scale. Most of the reviewed studies found that the use of non‐pharmacological interventions (eye masks, earplugs and deep‐breathing exercise) significantly improves the quality of sleep. These interventions were also found to have potentially positive effects on reducing pain and delirium experienced by patients after undergoing cardiac surgery.

Conclusions

Non‐pharmacological interventions (eye masks, earplugs and deep‐breathing exercise) were found to be cost‐effective interventions that could be easily applied in the clinical setting and are effective in improving the quality of sleep among patients after cardiac surgery.
Boundary Conditions for Organizations in the Anthropocene: A Review of the Planetary Boundaries Framework 10 Years On
Authors: Williams Amanda , Perego Paolo , Whiteman Gail
Published: October 2024

We systematically review business research concerning the planetary boundaries framework: A natural science framework that identifies nine Earth system boundaries that govern the safe operating space for humanity. Ten years after the introduction of the planetary boundaries in business studies, we pose two critical questions: How has the planetary boundaries concept been integrated into business studies and how has research on each of the nine boundaries advanced? Our review demonstrates growing scholarly interest in both questions. However, the topic remains niche with critical gaps, with most studies published in sustainability‐focused journals and only occasionally in mainstream journals. Theoretical development remains fragmented and of greater concern, a systems perspective is lacking in empirical studies: Most articles focus solely on one issue – climate change – and there is almost no cross‐analysis between boundaries. We contrast this with evidence that the planetary pressures of the Anthropocene are approaching dangerous thresholds and make the provocative assertion that planetary boundaries are not simply the foundation for specialized research on corporate sustainability but rather are the necessary boundary conditions for all business studies in the Anthropocene. We call for a transformation in how business scholars theorize, measure and engage.
Salivary Antimicrobial Peptide in Patients With Dementia Before and After Clinical Oral Rehabilitation Programme: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Chen Ming‐An , Yang Yuan‐Han , Liu Ching‐Kuan , Matsuo Koichiro , Hsu Chih‐Cheng , Lin Ying‐Chu , Huang Hsiao‐Ling
Published: October 2024

Background

Emerging evidence suggests a link between salivary metabolite changes and neurodegenerative dementia, with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) implicated in its pathogenesis.

Objective

We investigated the effects of a clinical oral rehabilitation programme tailored for dementia patients on salivary flow rate, AMP levels and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL).

Methods

Eligible patients were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EG; n = 28) or the control group (CG; n = 27). Both groups received a leaflet on oral health. In addition, the EG received an oral care intervention that included individual lessons on oral muscle exercises and oral self‐care practices. Saliva samples and OHRQoL data were collected at baseline and follow‐up visits. Generalised estimating equation models were used to analyse the changes over time.

Results

At the 3‐month follow‐up, EG showed significantly lower histatin 5 (HTN‐5) levels (β = −0.08; effect size [ES] = 0.72) than CG. At 6 months, EG exhibited improved salivary flow rate (β = 0.89; ES = 0.89) and OHRQoL (β = 6.99; ES = 1.31) compared to CG. Changes in salivary flow rate (β = 4.03), HTN‐5 level (β = −0.78) and beta‐defensin 2 level (BD‐2) (β = −0.91) at 3 months predicted improved OHRQoL at 6 months (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our clinical oral rehabilitation programme reduced the level of salivary HTN‐5, increased salivary flow rate and enhanced OHRQoL in dementia patients. Furthermore, changes in salivary flow rate, HTN‐5 level and BD‐2 level were associated with improvements in patients' OHRQoL.
Effects of Playing an Interactive Educational App on Children's Learning and Executive Function
Authors: Gao Chunying , Wang Fuxing , Chen Jiaxue , Tong Yu , Chen Yinghe
Published: October 2024

Children are increasingly using educational apps, but little research has been conducted to determine their effectiveness. The current study compared the effect of an interactive touchscreen app to the effect of a noninteractive video about the app on young children's Chinese characters learning and executive functions (EFs). In a mixed between‐within design, 50 children aged 5 to 6 years old were randomly assigned to play the app on touchscreen or to watch a noninteractive video about the app. Results showed that children in the app condition made more progress from the pretest to the posttest in Chinese characters learning, and more improvement in working memory scores and inhibitory capacity scores compared to the video condition. Results suggest that interactive literacy apps on touchscreens benefit children's learning and EFs. Future research should continue to focus on the impact of different forms of touchscreen use on children's executive functioning.
Weak association between total alpha‐synuclein reflex tear levels and non‐motor symptoms burden in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Camacho‐Ordonez Azyadeh , Hernández‐Medrano Ana Jimena , Cervantes‐Arriaga Amin , Rodríguez‐Violante Mayela
Published: October 2024

Background

Alpha‐synuclein (αSyn) is critical to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Recognition of non‐motor symptoms as clinical manifestations of PD suggests aggregation of αSyn in extranigral areas.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the association between total αSyn levels in reflex tears with non‐motor symptoms.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 25 people living with PD (PwP) and 38 age‐matched healthy controls (HC). Total αSyn reflex tear levels were measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. PwP were evaluated using the Non‐Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), the Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS), Hoehn and Yahr Stage (HY), and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

Results

Total αSyn reflex tear levels were significantly higher in PwP when compared with HC (1.77 pg/mL [IQR 1.75–1.79] vs. 1.73 pg/mL [IQR 1.70–1.75], p < 0.001). The urinary domain was negatively correlated with total αSyn levels in tears (r = −0.416, p = 0.048). No correlation was observed between total αSyn levels in reflex tears with MDS‐UPDRS, HY, or MoCA.

Conclusions

Total αSyn levels in reflex tears can differentiate PD from HC. In addition, total αSyn reflex tear levels were associated with the urinary domain of NMSS but are not associated with motor and cognitive symptoms, nor HY. Therefore, our findings suggest that it does not reflect ongoing dopaminergic neurodegeneration.
Structures for quality assurance and measurements for kidney replacement therapies: A multinational study from the ISN‐GKHA
Authors: Ekrikpo Udeme E. , Davidson Bianca , Calice‐Silva Viviane , Karam Sabine , Osman Mohamed A. , Arruebo Silvia , Caskey Fergus J. , Damster Sandrine , Donner Jo‐Ann , Jha Vivekanand , Levin Adeera , Nangaku Masaomi , Saad Syed , Tonelli Marcello , Ye Feng , Okpechi Ikechi G. , Bello Aminu K. , Johnson David W.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Optimal care for patients with kidney failure reduces the risks of adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular events and death. We evaluated data from the third iteration of the International Society of Nephrology Global Kidney Health Atlas (ISN‐GKHA) to assess the capacity for quality service delivery for kidney failure care across countries and regions.

Method

We explored the quality of kidney failure care delivery and the monitoring of quality indicators from data provided by an international survey of stakeholders from countries affiliated with the ISN from July to September 2022.

Results

One hundred and sixty seven countries participated in the survey, representing about 97.4% of the world's population. In countries where haemodialysis (HD) was available, 81% (n = 134) provided standard HD sessions (three times weekly for 3–4 h per session) to patients. Among countries with peritoneal dialysis (PD) services, 61% (n = 101) were able to provide standard PD care (3–4 exchanges per day). In high‐income countries, 98% (n = 62) reported that >75% of centers regularly monitored dialysis water quality for bacteria compared to 28% (n = 5) of low‐income countries (LICs). Capacity to monitor the administration of immunosuppression drugs was generally available in 21% (n = 4) of LICs, compared to 90% (n = 57) of high‐income countries. There was significant variability between and within regions and country income groups in reporting the quality of services utilized for kidney replacement therapies.

Conclusion

Quality assurance standards on diagnostic and treatment tools were variable and particularly infrequent in LICs. Standardization of delivered care is essential for improving outcomes for people with kidney failure.

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Assembling the picture of stomatal evolution
Authors: Clark James W.
Published: October 2024

This article is a Commentary on Fortin & Friedman (2024), 245: 40–48.
Epidemiological Features of 4777 Cysts and Odontogenic Tumors Based on the 2022 WHO Classification
Authors: Rees Victoria , Klare Matías , Samaniego Valentina , Leiva Felipe , Jara René , Martínez Rondanelli Benjamín , González Providell Sergio
Published: October 2024

Objective

The epidemiology of cysts and odontogenic tumors is important for differential diagnosis and treatment strategies. We aimed to describe the epidemiological features of cysts and odontogenic tumors in the Chilean population using the current WHO classification.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed 22,914 biopsy requests received between January 1984 and September 2023 at the oral pathology department, School of Dentistry, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile. Patients diagnosed with cysts of the jaws and odontogenic tumors were selected and information regarding age, sex, and location was recorded.

Results

4226 (18.4%) were cysts, and 551 (2.4%) were odontogenic tumors, ranging from 2 to 97 years old. Males represented 54.4% and females 45.7% of the total sample. The most prevalent cysts were radicular cysts (58.6%), dentigerous cysts (17.9%), and odontogenic keratocysts (13.3%). The most prevalent odontogenic tumors were odontomas (40.1%) and conventional ameloblastoma (17.6%).

Conclusions

Our study was the first retrospective analysis to determine the epidemiological features of both cysts and odontogenic tumors together, based on the 2022 WHO classification. This is relevant as it offers a potential basis for comprehensive comparisons of the epidemiological features of these entities, which could contribute to an accurate differential diagnosis, therefore, leading to more effective therapeutic interventions.
AP1c and SOC1 Form a Regulatory Feedback Loop to Regulate Flowering Time in Soybean
Authors: Li Haiyang , Liao Chunmei , Yang Hui , Kong Lingping , Liu Shuangrong , Wei Jin , Chen Haili , Zhao Xiaohui , Liu Baohui , Kong Fanjiang , Chen Liyu
Published: October 2024

Flowering time is a key agronomic trait that directly affects soybean yield. Both APETALA1 (AP1) and SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CO 1 (SOC1) regulate flowering time in soybean, but their genetic and regulatory relationships have not been clarified. Here, we report that AP1c physically interacted with two SOC1 proteins, SOC1a and SOC1b, and that these SOC1s upregulated the expression of AP1c, promoting flowering. Moreover, AP1c repressed the expression of the SOC1s by directly binding to their promoters, thus preventing plants from flowering too early. These findings indicate that AP1c and SOC1s form a regulatory feedback loop that regulates flowering time. Importantly, we identified an exceptional allele, AP1cG, that was selected for during soybean domestication and promotes the early‐flowering phenotype in cultivated soybean. Collectively, our work identifies a previously unknown allelic combination potentially useful for both classical and molecular soybean breeding.
Deductive Inference and Mental Agency
Authors: Peacocke Christopher
Published: October 2024

To give a good account of deductive inference, we need to recognise two new relations, one in the realm of contents, the other in the psychological realm of mental action. When these new relations are properly coordinated, they can supply an account of what it is for a thinker to be making a deductive inference. The account endorses the condition that in deductive reasoning, a thinker must take the premises to support the conclusion. The account is distinguished from the positions of Broome, Ryle, and Wright.
Designing a Nurse‐Led eHealth Cardiac Rehabilitation Program: Insights From Participant Experiences and Qualitative Feedback
Authors: Su Jing Jing , Paguio Jenniffer Torralba , Wang Weidi , Batalik Ladislav
Published: October 2024

Background

This study examines the perspectives of individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD) on a nurse‐led eHealth cardiac rehabilitation (NeCR) program, which included a website, tele‐monitoring device, and social media chatroom.

Methods

Using a descriptive qualitative approach, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 18 participants to capture their feedback and experiences with the NeCR program.

Results

Participants found the NeCR program valuable in addressing gaps in cardiac rehabilitation services in China, empowering them to make behavioral changes and enhancing their social motivation. However, they also highlighted the need for a more user‐friendly website, better symptom management during exercise, and stronger privacy protections in the peer networking chatroom. The study concludes that the NeCR program is feasible in providing accessible rehabilitative services at home post‐discharge. Recommendations include improving the self‐monitoring platform for ease of use, incorporating immediate symptom management guidance during exercise, and ensuring a secure environment for online peer support.

Conclusions

These findings offer crucial insights for developing patient‐centered eHealth cardiac rehabilitation services, emphasizing the importance of user‐friendly design, effective symptom management features, and privacy protection in promoting participant engagement with e‐platforms.

Trial Registration

ChiCTR1800020411 (http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=33906)
Nourishing Educational Success: Evaluating the Relationship Between Healthy Eating Habits and Educational Outcome
Authors: Bonner Drew , Davis Shannon N.
Published: October 2024

This analysis extends previous research on the relationship between healthy eating habits and adolescent educational outcomes by examining long‐term, rather than proximate, associations. Utilizing self‐reported survey data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 (NLSY97), we evaluate the correlations between healthy eating and student high school grades and high school completion. The results of the analysis partially support the hypothesis that healthy eating habits facilitate positive educational outcomes, as healthy eating was a significant predictor of high school grades, but not high school completion. Healthy eating does not mediate the relationships between household characteristics, achievement norms and educational outcomes. However, the improved diet quality of students within marginalized groups positively influences their educational success. The results of the analysis point to important social implications related to food access and education, as racial and gendered inequities in socioeconomic status, socialization, and food insecurity levels simultaneously likely explain some differences in adolescent educational outcomes.
Analysis of bleeding outcomes in patients with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia in the A‐TREAT clinical trial
Authors: Poston Jacqueline N. , Brown Siobhan P. , Ginsburg Amy Sarah , Ilich Anton , Herren Heather , El Kassar Nahed , Triulzi Darrell J. , Key Nigel S. , May Susanne , Gernsheimer Terry B.
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite prophylactic platelet transfusions, hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia is associated with bleeding; historical risk factors include hematocrit (HCT) 25%, activated partial thromboplastin time 30 s, international normalized ratio 1.2, and platelets5000/μL.

Methods

We performed a post hoc analysis of bleeding outcomes and risk factors in participants with hematologic malignancy and hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia enrolled in the American Trial to Evaluate Tranexamic Acid Therapy in Thrombocytopenia (A‐TREAT) and randomized to receive either tranexamic acid (TXA) or placebo.

Results

World Health Organization (WHO) grade 2+ bleeding occurred in 46% of 330 participants, with no difference between the TXA (44%) and placebo (47%) groups (p = 0.66). Overall, the most common sites of bleeding were oronasal (18%), skin (17%), gastrointestinal (11%), and genitourinary (11%). Among participants of childbearing potential, 28% experienced vaginal bleeding. Platelets ≤5000/μL and HCT < 21% (after adjusting for severe thrombocytopenia) were independently associated with increased bleeding risk (HR 3.78, 95% CI 2.16–6.61; HR 2.67, 95% CI 1.35–5.27, respectively). Allogeneic stem cell transplant was associated with nonsignificant increased risk of bleeding versus chemotherapy alone (HR 1.34, 95% CI 0.94–1.91).

Discussion

The overall rate of WHO grade 2+ bleeding was similar to previous reports, albeit with lower rates of gastrointestinal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding was common in participants of childbearing potential. Platelets ≤5000/μL remained a risk factor for bleeding. Regardless of platelet count, bleeding risk increased with HCT < 21%, suggesting a red blood cell transfusion threshold above 21% should be considered to mitigate bleeding. More investigation is needed on strategies to reduce bleeding in this population.
Older Chinese migrants’ social connectedness in Aotearoa New Zealand during Covid-19
Authors: Rankine Matt , Li Hua , Tian Tian , Beddoe Liz
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION: The Covid-19 pandemic potentially increased loneliness among older Chinese migrants. There is a paucity of literature on the use of digital technology by this older population in Aotearoa New Zealand. Computer-mediated communication may assist in ameliorating loneliness through maintaining connections.
METHOD: Using semi-structured interviews, two groups of participants were recruited from a social work agency serving older adults in a small study conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand. Three community social workers who work with this population were interviewed along with five older Chinese migrants.
FINDINGS: Community social workers recognised the potential for digital technology to enhance connectedness for older migrants, although they were concerned by the barriers posed by skills, confidence, and language. The older migrants did not report loneliness and reported good social connections. Having time available to learn new skills, most older participants embraced digital technology, with some concerns about the possible risks of using digital platforms, a concern shared by social workers.
IMPLICATIONS: The impact of Covid-19 globally changed how people could interact with one another and carry out daily routines. This small study confirms the potential for enhanced connections for older migrants, particularly under pandemic conditions utilising communications technology.
Extended King integral for modeling of parametric array loudspeakers with axisymmetric profiles
Authors: Li Shao-Zhe , Zhuang Tao , Zhong Jia-Xin , Lu Jing
Published: October 2024

Parametric array loudspeakers have been widely used in audio applications for generating directional audio beams. However, accurately calculating audio sound with a low computational load remains challenging, even for basic axisymmetric source profiles. This work addresses this challenge by extending the King integral in linear acoustics to incorporate both cumulative and local nonlinear effects, under the framework of the quasilinear solution without the paraxial approximation. The proposed method exploits the azimuthal symmetry in cylindrical coordinates to simplify modeling. To further improve computational efficacy, fast Hankel and Fourier transforms are employed for the radial and beam radiation directions, respectively. Numerical results with both uniform and focusing profiles demonstrate the advantages of the proposed approach over the traditional spherical wave expansion and direct integration methods, especially for larger aperture sizes. Specifically, for typical configurations with source aperture size of 0.2 m, we observe at least a 24-fold improvement in computational speed and a 227-fold reduction in memory requirements. These advancements allow us, for the first time, to present the sound field radiated by parametric array loudspeakers with a large aperture size of up to 0.5 m, without paraxial approximations. The implementation codes are available on https://github.com/ShaoZhe-LI/PAL_King.
Paediatric staphyloma classification: new perspectives via ultrawide field three-dimensional swept-source optical coherence tomographic angiography
Authors: Sun Limei , Hou Aohan , Zheng Shuxin , Zhang Linyan , Qin Lu , Ding Xiaoyan
Published: October 2024

Aim

To employ ultrawide field three-dimensional swept-source optical coherence tomographic angiography (UWF 3D SS-OCTA) modality, integrating novel strategies, posterior eye curvature maps and posterior eye height maps, in characterising the features and disease associations of posterior staphyloma in paediatric patients. This study seeks to compare paediatric staphylomas to established adult classifications, identify distinct paediatric patterns and introduce a new classification system for paediatric staphyloma using advanced multimodal imaging.

Methods

UWF 3D SS-OCTA imaging, integrating posterior eye curvature maps and posterior eye height maps strategies, was employed to analyse staphyloma presentations in the paediatric cohort. These data were then set against the traditionally established adult classifications. Additionally, the aetiology of staphylomas was investigated.

Results

The UWF 3D SS-OCTA modality, when integrated with posterior eye curvature maps and posterior eye height map, showcased superior imaging detail and better classification compared with UWF scanning laser ophthalmoscope, offering a more nuanced view of staphyloma patterns in paediatric patients. Specifically, only 54.7% of the paediatric cohort fit into previously recognised categories. The paediatric group displayed prominent temporal and inferior temporal staphylomas, likely linked to the high prevalence of peripheral vascular diseases. The study led to the proposal of five unique paediatric staphyloma classifications.

Conclusions

The UWF 3D SS-OCTA modality with posterior eye curvature maps and posterior eye height maps offers unparalleled insights into staphyloma patterns, especially in paediatric patients. Paediatric staphylomas exhibit a unique presentation, divergent from adults, with two novel types identified. The findings underline the importance of updating classification systems, ensuring they reflect the realities observed in paediatric pathology and diagnostics.
You have to work twice as hard as a woman to show that you are competent. Experiences, opportunities and workplace gender harassment for Sport and Exercise Medicine practitioners working in elite sport in Australia
Authors: Cowan Sallie M , Girdwood Michael , Haberfield Melissa , Mosler Andrea Britt , Bruder Andrea M , Mahony Kate , Forsdike Kirsty , McNeil Nicola , Beerworth Kate A , Menaspa Miranda , Inge Phillipa , White Sue , Harris Rachel , Castricum Adam , Crossley Kay M
Published: October 2024

Objective

Our aim was to investigate (1) gender representation, (2) opportunities and training and (3) harassment experiences in Sport and Exercise Medicine (SEM) practitioners working in elite sport in Australia.

Methods

All titled Australian Physiotherapy Association Sport and Exercise Physiotherapists, SEM Physicians and Registrars and doctors and physiotherapists (SEM practitioners) currently/previously/aspiring to work in Australian elite sport were invited to participate in a bespoke online survey and the Gender Experiences Questionnaire.

Results

For SEM practitioners currently working in elite sport, men worked more paid hours each week (mean difference (MD) 12.2 (95% CI 5.5 to 19.0)) and more paid weeks each year (MD 6.8 (95% CI 1.2 to 12.5)). Women SEM practitioners (both currently and previously) were more likely than men to work with women, rather than men athletes. All women SEM practitioners experienced significantly more gender harassment, infantilisation, work/family policing and gender policing than men. For SEM practitioners (both current and previous), there were no gender differences in how practitioners found out about or were recruited to their elite sports roles. Women were four times more likely than men to report that their gender or sexual orientation influenced their opportunities in elite sport. Most roles were not advertised with direct approach being the most common method of job recruitment.

Conclusion

Women SEM practitioners currently working in elite sport worked less paid hours per week and less paid weeks per year. All SEM practitioners were appointed to positions without established procedures, and there were significant challenges for women SEM practitioners in the elite sport workplace with women facing considerably more gender harassment than men.
Excess potential years of working life lost in six countries from Latin America and Europe in 2020 and 2021
Authors: Silva-Peñaherrera Michael , Benavides Fernando G
Published: October 2024

Objective

This descriptive study aimed to measure the excess all-cause mortality potential years of working life lost (PYWLL) in the working-age population of six Ibero-American countries in 2020 and 2021.

Methods

This study was based on all-cause deaths for the age group 15–69 years for men and women in six countries: Colombia, Costa Rica, México, Peru, Portugal and Spain. The expected PYWLL was the average value determined from the previous 5 years (2015–2019). To estimate the excess of PYWLL, the expected PYWLL was subtracted from the observed PYWLL values for 2020 and 2021, separately.

Results

In the four Latin American countries, the excess PYWLL per death was approximately double (between 12 and 16 years) that of the two European countries (between 3 and 9 years).

Conclusions

The loss of working-age individuals will probably have a profound social and economic recovery impact, affecting families and communities. The informal employment and labour market structures may be contributing to the adverse effects of the pandemic in the region. Investing in universal, comprehensive and sustainable health and social protection systems in the Latin American countries is crucial to build resilience against current and future crises.
Effect of nostril occlusion and mouth sealing in the measurement of sniff nasal inspiratory pressure
Authors: Shah Neeraj M , Rossel Anne , Abdulaziz Bawan , Sheridan Shauna , Madden-Scott Sophie , Radcliffe Gillian , D’Cruz Rebecca , Suh Eui-Sik , Steier Joerg , Hart Nicholas , Murphy Patrick Brian , Ramsay Michelle , Kaltsakas Georgios
Published: October 2024

Sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) is used to assess respiratory muscle strength in neuromuscular diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The effect of contralateral nostril occlusion and mouth sealing on SNIP measurement are unclear. 81 participants were included (16 healthy, 39 patients with limb-onset ALS and 26 patients with bulbar-onset ALS). SNIP was obtained with combinations of mouth open/sealed and contralateral nostril open/occluded. Occluding the contralateral nostril (with mouth closed) increased SNIP by 12 cmH
2
O (95% CI 4, 20; p=0.003) in the healthy participants, by 9 cmH
2
O (95% CI 5, 12; p<0.001) in the limb-onset cohort and by 10 cmH
2
O (95% CI 5, 14; p<0.001) in the bulbar-onset cohort. Opening the mouth decreased SNIP by 19 cmH
2
O (95% CI 5, 34; p<0.009) in healthy participants, by 8 cmH
2
O (95% CI 4, 13; p<0.001) in the limb-onset cohort and by 13 cmH
2
O (95% CI 7, 19; p<0.001) in the bulbar-onset cohort. With contralateral nostril occlusion, 11% fewer individuals would have qualified for non-invasive ventilation. In conclusion, contralateral nostril occlusion increased SNIP compared with standard technique, likely reflecting true strength. Opening the mouth reduced SNIP, emphasising the need for good mouth sealing. Documenting SNIP technique is important for longitudinal assessments and clinical decision-making.
Geese as keystone species in the Low Arctic of central Canada: the Karrak Lake Research Station
Authors: Alisauskas Ray T. , Kellett Dana K. , Samelius Gustaf , Slattery Stuart M.
Published: October 2024

True abundance of lesser snow ( Anser caerulescens caerulescens, Linnaeus 1758) and Ross's geese ( Anser rossii, Cassin 1861, collectively referred to as “light geese”, in North America had been unknown in the 1980s. However, different indices of abundance suggested steady increases at the time. The Karrak Lake Research Station (KLRS) was established partly because it was not known if the breeding biology from more southern latitudes (the only information available at the time) was representative of more northern colonies where 90% of the midcontinent population of lesser snow geese nested. Visits in 1990 confirmed the continued importance of Karrak Lake and surrounding areas in Canada’s central Arctic to a large nesting concentration of both snow and Ross's geese documented previously. Key activities at KLRS were (1) colony-wide annual monitoring of nesting goose abundance and nesting performance and (2) large-scale marking efforts to monitor survival, range-wide abundance, distribution, and exploitation rate from hunter harvest and natural mortality rate. The scope of research expanded to include their interaction with local vegetation and other sympatric wildlife, including Arctic foxes ( Vulpes lagopus, Linnaeus 1758), king eiders ( Somateria spectabilis, Linnaeus 1758), long-tailed ducks ( Clangula hyemalis, Linnaeus 1758), and cackling geese ( Branta hutchinsii). Following exponential growth in the 1990s and 2000s, nesting populations of light geese at Karrak lake collapsed since 2012, presenting a unique opportunity to examine how local ecosystems recover and revert from heavy grazing by hyperabundant geese.
Isospin sum rules in charmed baryon weak decays
Authors: Luo Jin-Feng , Wang Di
Published: October 2024

Isospin symmetry is the most precise flavor symmetry. The effective Hamiltonian of charm quark weak decay is zero under the isospin lowering operators $$I_-^n$$

I
-
n

, which permits us to generate isospin sum rules through several master formulas. In this work, we derive the master formulas of isospin sum rules for the two- and three-body non-leptonic decays of singly and doubly charmed baryons. Hundreds of isospin sum rules are derived to test of isospin symmetry and provide hints for the new decay modes. The isospin sum rules for multi-body decays are not broken by the intermediate resonances and hence can be used to study the isospin partners of exotic hadrons.
Complete electroweak $$\mathcal {O}\left( N_c^2\right) $$ two-loop contributions to the Higgs boson masses in the MSSM and aspects of two-loop renormalisation
Authors: Bahl Henning , Meuser Daniel , Weiglein Georg
Published: October 2024

Results for the full electroweak two-loop contributions of $$\mathcal {O}\left( N_c^2\right) $$

O

N
c
2

, where $$N_c$$

N
c

is the colour factor, to the Higgs-boson masses in the MSSM are obtained using a Feynman-diagrammatic approach including the full dependence on the external momentum. These corrections are expected to constitute the dominant part of the two-loop corrections that were still missing up to now. As a consequence of working at $$\mathcal {O}\left( N_c^2\right) $$

O

N
c
2

, the relevant two-loop self-energies decompose into products of one-loop integrals, giving rise to a transparent analytical structure of the self-energies. We compare different renormalisation schemes for $$\tan (\beta )$$

tan
(
β
)

, the ratio of the vacuum expectation values of the two Higgs doublets, and demonstrate under which conditions different renormalisation schemes can be related to each other via a simple reparametrisation. We explicitly show that this is in general not possible for mixed renormalisation schemes due to the presence of evanescent terms. In our numerical analysis, the new corrections are compared with already known two-loop contributions and the experimental uncertainty of the mass of the observed Higgs boson. While smaller than the already known two-loop corrections, the new terms are typically larger in size than the experimental uncertainty. This underlines the relevance of the so-far unknown electroweak two-loop contributions.
Su(3) symmetry analysis in charmed baryon two body decays with penguin diagram contribution
Authors: Xing Zhi-Peng , Shi Yu-Ji , Sun Jin , Xing Ye
Published: October 2024

An increasing number of experimental measurements from the BESIII, Belle, and Belle-II collaborations encourage investigations into charmed baryon two-body decay processes. By including contributions from the penguin diagrams that are ignored in previous studies, we perform a global analysis with SU(3) flavor symmetry. Assuming all form factors are real, we achieve a remarkable minimal $$\chi ^{2}/d.o.f = 0.788$$

χ
2

/
d
.
o
.
f
=
0.788

and find that the contribution of the amplitude proportional to $$V_{cb}^*V_{ub}$$

V

cb

∗

V

ub

is of the order $$\sim 0.01$$

∼
0.01

, comparable with the contribution of the tree-level diagram. Additionally, by using the KPW theorem to reduce the number of amplitudes from 13 to 7 in the leading contribution, it becomes possible to consider the complex form factor case for the leading IRA amplitude in the global analysis. However, the analysis of complex form factors significantly conflicts with the experimental data $$Br(\Xi _c^0\rightarrow \Xi ^-\pi ^+)$$

B
r
(

Ξ
c
0

→

Ξ
-

π
+

)

, and by excluding this data, $$\chi ^2/d.o.f$$

χ
2

/
d
.
o
.
f

is reduced from 5.95 to 1.19. Although the analysis of complex form factors shows a significant central value of the penguin diagram contribution, the large errors from the corresponding form factors make it a challenge to precisely determine its true contribution. Consequently, the direct CP violation in decay processes is predicted to be approximately zero. With more data in future experiments, the penguin diagram contribution with the amplitude proportional to $$V_{cb}^*V_{ub}$$

V

cb

∗

V

ub

will be precisely determined, allowing for a more accurate prediction of CP violation. Our analysis necessitates further theoretical investigations and experimental measurements in the future.
An Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Tabu Search and Hyperchaos
Authors: Ma Xiaojuan , Wang Zhifei , Wang Chunhua
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose a digital image encryption scheme based on Tabu Search (TS) algorithm and Chen’s hyperchaos system. First, in order to enhance the security of the algorithm and resist the known-plaintext attack, the key is associated with the ordinary image, and the hash value generated by the ordinary image is used as the initial value of the hyperchaotic system. Moreover, the TS algorithm is used to obtain the optimal subsequence to scramble the sub-block image, which ensures the scrambling effect of the algorithm. In addition, for the sake of minimizing the correlation of neighborhood pixels and strengthening the effect of scrambling, the ordinary image is divided into blocks for scrambling and diffusion. Through simulation and experiments, the key sensitivity, differential attack and pure ciphertext attack are analyzed. Compared with the other encryption schemes, the results verify the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed scheme.
Hamiltonian Properties of Augmented k-Ary n-Cubes with Faulty Edges
Authors: Ma Xiaolei
Published: October 2024

The augmented [Formula: see text]-ary [Formula: see text]-cube [Formula: see text] is a recently proposed interconnection network that combines the structural characteristics of [Formula: see text]-ary [Formula: see text]-cube [Formula: see text] and augmented cube [Formula: see text], with better features. In this paper, we investigate the Hamiltonian properties of augmented [Formula: see text]-ary [Formula: see text]-cubes. We prove that the augmented [Formula: see text]-ary [Formula: see text]-cube with any [Formula: see text] (resp. [Formula: see text]) faulty edges admits a fault-free Hamilton cycle (resp. Hamilton path).
SEA4DQ 2024 Workshop Summary
Authors: Menzies Tim , Xu Bowen , Jin Kang Hong , Zhang Jie M. , Gesi Jiri , Sen Sagar , Cassoli Beatriz , Jourdan Nicolas , Shi Jieke , Nguyen Phu , Golendukhina Valentina
Published: October 2024

Welcome to the sixth edition of the workshop on Machine Learning Techniques for Software Quality Evaluation (SEA4DQ 2024), held in Brazil, July 16th, 2024, co-located with ESEC / FSE 2024 [1]. Three papers from all over the world were submitted, and all of them were accepted based on the overall positive reviews. The program also featured two keynotes by Denys Poshyvanyk on Towards an Interpretable Science of Deep Learning for Software Engineering: A Causal Inference View and Qinghua Lu on Responsible AI Engineering from A Data Perspective.
Glutathione: A Key Regulator of Extracellular Matrix and Cell Death in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Li Fudong , Li Shaofei , Shi Yangyang , Lin Feng , Rui Lining , Shi Jiangang , Sun Kaiqiang
Published: October 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a degenerative disease accompanied by the loss of nucleus pulposus cells and the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM), which tends to be associated with lower back pain. The ECM and various types of cell death in IVDD are regulated by multiple factors, such as inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. The glutathione (GSH) redox system is the most important antioxidant defense system in cells. GSH is one of the most abundant thiol antioxidants in mammalian cells, which functions directly and indirectly by scavenging peroxides through the GSH redox system. In these reactions, GSH is oxidized by electrophilic substances, such as reactive oxygen species and free radicals, to form glutathione disulfide to exert antioxidative effects. It has been reported that GSH can protect cells against the damage of oxidative stress and various pathophysiological stimulus that can lead to different types of cell death. In addition, it was reported that the level of GSH widely participates in apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, and oxidative stress in many diseases including osteoarthritis and IVDD. Therefore, we summarized the effects of GSH on ECM metabolism and cells’ functions during IVDD. In addition, we summarized the regulatory effects of small molecule compounds on GSH to explore potential ways to regulate the level of GSH. Better understanding the underlying role of GSH in regulating IVDD will facilitate the goal of preventing and retarding the progress of IVDD in the future.