bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical activity in users with Type 2 Diabetes in Family Health Centres in Copiapó
Authors: Jiménez S. , Fernández-Cao J. C. , Miranda-Krause R. , Berrios J , Correa G. , Trigo D. , Flores J , Vega F. , López A. , Rojas C.
Published: December 2024

Physical activity has been demonstrated to be an effective intervention for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2)(1,2). However, only 13.3% of the Chilean population are physically active(3,4). To our knowledge, there is no data on the physical activity performed by the diabetic population in Chile. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the level of physical activity in patients with DM2 in the Family Health Centres (CESFAM) of Copiapó (Chile).

The study employed a cross-sectional design, utilizing data from 25 participants in the CODIACO cohort. The study population comprised individuals of both sexes, between 30 and 65 years of age, diagnosed with DM2 and users of the CESFAMs of Copiapó, and who also had mobile devices capable of installing the accelerometry application ‘Physics Toolbox Sensor Suite’. Pregnant and lactating women, patients with diabetic neuropathy or nephropathy, cancer, and severe inflammatory or infectious diseases were excluded. They were asked to activate and deactivate the application for 7 to 12 days, This mean the device had to be turned on at the beginning of an activity (waking) and off at the end of the day (bedtime), registering all daily activities. The percentages of time spent in each of the four body positions (upright, sitting, crouching, and lying down) were obtained from the total time spent using accelerometry(5). Once the Shapiro-Wilk test was P>0.05, all comparisons were made between times spent in each of the body positions using a one-factor ANOVA, with post-hoc analysis using Tukey’s test. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The CODIACO study was approved by the Scientific Research Ethics Committee of the Universidad of Atacama. The project was funded by FONDECYT N° 11180794.

There was an average daily activity of 9.6hr (upright = 2.2;sitting = 4.9;crouching = 0.7; supine = 1.6hr) in the sample. The one-factor ANOVA showed significant differences between all positions (P<0.001). The pos-Hoc test revealed a significantly longer time was observed in the sitting position, according to the z-axis position (51.32 ± 12.5% of the total time) compared to the upright (23.5 ± 8.7 %), supine (17.4 ± 3.2 %) or crouching (7.78 ± 0.6 %) positions (P < 0.050). Furthermore, differences were observed in the time spent in the upright position and the time spent in the supine (P<0.05) or crouching (P<0.05) positions, and between sitting and crouching positions (P<0.05).

This study demonstrated that patients diagnosed with DM2 at the CESFAM of Copiapó spent a significant portion of their daily activity in a sedentary and low position, with minimal engagement in an upright one. Since upright positions are associated with physical activities such as walking, climbing stairs, toileting, and cooking, obtaining 23.5% in this position suggests a lack of engagement in these activities.
An examination of factors that influence infant growth in the first weeks of life
Authors: O’Dwyer F. , Murphy B. , Ali M. , Sanecka M. , O’Reilly S. , O’Sullivan A.
Published: December 2024

Childhood obesity is a serious public health concern worldwide. One in five children are overweight or obese in Ireland1. Suboptimal growth, either in pregnancy or infancy, can increase the risk of obesity in childhood2. National policy fails to recognise early life exposures as potential contributors to Ireland’s obesity epidemic. This research examines the impact of ‘Labour and Birth’, ‘Birth Weight Status’, and ‘Maternal BMI’ on infant growth in the first weeks of life.

This research is a secondary analysis of data collected as part of the WellFed study, a randomised placebo-controlled trial investigating the effect of a maternal dietary supplement comprised of a milk protein hydrolysate and yeast beta-glucan (Wellmune®) (LS-23-07-OSullivan). The supplement does not influence the present findings. Mother and infant anthropometrics were measured during two study visits, at approximately 4 and 8-weeks postpartum. Participants completed a series of questionnaires to obtain basic demographic, birth and lifestyle data. Infant weight and length percentiles were calculated using the UK-WHO 0-2 years: weight-for-age percentiles and the UK-WHO 0-2 Years: length-for-age percentiles for both males and females. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 27).

Data from 51 mother-infant dyads show infants delivered via cesarean section weighed less at the 4-week (4.1 ± 0.4 vs 4.5 ± 0.5 kg, p = 0.015) and 8-week follow-up (5.1 ± 0.5 vs 5.5 ± 0.6 kg, p = 0.021) and were shorter at the 8-week follow-up (56.3 ± 1.9 vs 57.7 ± 2.0 cm, p = 0.030) compared to infants born vaginally. Infants born following induction were significantly heavier at the 8-week follow-up compared to those not-induced (5.8 ± 0.7 vs 5.2 ± 0.5 kg, p = 0.006). In this cohort, 40% of infants were classified as large-for-gestational-age (LGA). Across the 8-week study period, 50% of LGA infants dropped two or more growth percentiles.

Observations from this study highlight a high prevalence of LGA infants in this cohort which raises concern for the national prevalence of LGA infants in Ireland. Interventions during labour and birth were shown to influence infant growth in this study. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into the relationship between early life exposures and growth during infancy and childhood. Implementing healthcare policies focusing on reducing the number of elective birthing procedures performed and targeting obesity amongst women of reproductive age are possible measures that can be implemented to help tackle the obesity crisis in Ireland.
The prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intakes and risk of excessive intakes in adults in Ireland: Findings from the National Adult Nutrition Survey II
Authors: Kehoe L. , Buffini M. , McNulty B. , Kearney J.M. , Flynn A. , Walton J.
Published: December 2024

Adequate nutrition is important for health at all life stages with micronutrients having an important role in long term health, cognition, healthy development and ageing(1). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of inadequate intakes and risk of excessive intakes of micronutrients among adults aged 19-64 years and 65 years and over, from a nationally representative sample of adults in Ireland.

Analyses were based on the National Adult Nutrition Survey II (NANS II) (2020-21) of 19-92 year olds in the Republic of Ireland (n 1000) (19-64y: 718, ≥65y: 282) (www.iuna.net). Food and beverage intake data (including nutritional supplements) were collected via two independent 24-hour telephone dietary recalls (at least 7 days apart, with each day of the week accounted for in the sampling plan). To assist with the recall, older adults (≥65years) were asked to record their foods the day before the dietary recall and all participants were provided with a photographic food atlas before the scheduled dietary recall. Nutrient intakes were estimated using Nutritics© based on UK food composition data which was updated to include recipes of composite dishes, nutritional supplements, fortified foods and generic Irish foods that were commonly consumed. Usual intakes of micronutrients were calculated via the NCI-method using SAS© Enterprise Guide. The prevalence of inadequate intakes of micronutrients (excluding energy under-reporters)(2) was estimated using estimated average requirements established by the US Institute of Medicine (IOM) (vitamin D)(3), the UK Department of Health (DOH) (thiamin, vitamin B12)(4) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (all other micronutrients)(5). The risk of excessive intake was evaluated by comparing intakes to tolerable upper intake levels (ULs) established by the US Food and Nutrition Board (vitamin C, iron)(6) and EFSA (all other micronutrients)(7).

Among those aged 19-64 years, a large proportion of adults had inadequate intakes of vitamin D (61%), vitamin C (41%), folate (37%), calcium (32%), zinc (28%), vitamin B6 (26%), riboflavin (23%), vitamin A (16%) and iron (8%; up to 14% for females). Similarly, a large proportion of adults aged 65 years and over had inadequate intakes of vitamin D (48%), vitamin C (43%), folate (36%), zinc (35%), calcium (31%), vitamin B6 (29%), riboflavin (21%), vitamin A (13%) and iron (11%; up to 13% for females).

The proportion of adults with intakes exceeding the UL was negligible for retinol, vitamins D, E, C, B6, preformed niacin, folic acid, calcium and iron (19-64y: <0.3%; ≥65y: <0.7%) and for zinc (19-64y: 2%; ≥65y: 1%).

These findings indicate that based on current dietary patterns, significant numbers of adults in Ireland have inadequate intakes of key micronutrients and highlight the need to investigate targeted dietary strategies to address these low intakes among this population group.
Modified diet adherence to nutrition standards in long-term care facilities
Authors: Deasy E , Sheedy H. , Kent G.
Published: December 2024

Dysphagia is more common in older age and is present in up to 70% in long-term care facilities (LTCFs)(1). Thus, the demand for texture-modified diets (TMDs), required to ensure safe nutrition for residents, is high. Individuals with dysphagia are at greater risk of malnutrition, poorer health outcomes and quality of life(2). Moreover, TMDs are less energy- and nutrient-dense due to necessary processing(3). Consequently, TMDs require additional planning and fortification to meet nutrient requirements for this cohort. The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework describes drink thickness (level 0-4) and food textures (level 3-7; liquidisedregular), to ensure standard textural characteristics of foods and drinks, however, there is little guidance for food providers in Ireland on how to prepare TMDs to meet nutritional requirements. Whether TMDs in LTCFs meet nutrition standards for food provision in Ireland is unknown. Our aim was to conduct a clinical audit, evaluating adherence of TMDs in a LTCF in Cork, Ireland, to the BDA Nutrition and Hydration Digest(4).

Samples of the daily menu, i.e. all meals, snacks and drinks for IDDSI level 3,4,5 and 6 were weighed over a 2-day period, representing the maximum food and beverages available to residents. Recipes were confirmed with the catering department. Nutritional analysis was conducted using Nutritics©. Nutritional composition was compared to the nutrition standards of the BDA for food providers for nutritionally vulnerable individuals (total daily targets:1840-2772kcal, 79-92g protein; main courses: 800kcal, 27g protein).

The daily TMDs of the LTCF provided [mean (SD)] 1928 (334) kcal, 73 (0.0) g protein (level 3); 1646 (62) kcal, 52 (2.0) g protein (level 4); 1323 (91) kcal, 45 (3.0) g protein (level 5); 1506 (75) kcal, 53 (5.0) g protein (level 6). On analysis of main courses, lunch meals provided 534 (99) kcal, 20 (3.0) g protein (level 3); 436 (0.3) kcal, 16 (0.8) g protein (level 4); 399 (16) kcal, 12 (1.0) g protein (level 5); 353 (13) kcal, 14 (0.3) g protein (level 6), while evening meals provided 770 (58) kcal, 33 (7.0) g protein (level 3); 561 (33) kcal, 19 (0.4) g protein (level 4); 305 (39) kcal, 9 (0.4) g protein (level 5); 379 (52) kcal, 18 (6.0) g protein (level 6).

Across levels, there was poor adherence to energy and protein standards. Only level 3 provided sufficient daily energy and met protein targets for evening meal, potentially explained by the use of full fat milk as a dilutant to create the correct consistency. Guidance is needed for food providers of all LTCFs in Ireland on how to prepare TMDs for nutritionally vulnerable individuals. Future research should investigate actual food consumption, malnutrition risk, oral nutritional supplementation use and training of food providers in LTCFs.
Food growing: building community and food resilience
Authors: Nancheva N. , Mulrooney H.
Published: December 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of the UK food system(1). Currently, 46% of fruit and vegetables are imported(1), making the UK vulnerable. Recent events such as war in Ukraine, volatile fuel prices and crop failures attributed to climate change have exacerbated this(1), with global food prices reflected in the cost-of-living crisis(2). Food is not just a source of nutrition, but of personal and cultural identity(3), with potential to impact on the extent to which people feel that they belong to a place or community. Community food growing schemes such as allotments remain popular in the UK(4). They could increase food resilience and security through growing produce, otherwise imported. The impact of a community growing scheme based in south London was explored. The scheme, a small farm allotment, was established by a Hong Kong farmer to grow produce including traditional Asian vegetables. It also aims to encourage collective efforts e.g. co-farming, through use of shared and private spaces. Focusing on traditional Asian vegetables, it offers bespoke advice, support and education via workshops, online mentoring and traineeships.

Evaluation of this scheme was undertaken with ethics approval from Kingston University London. Using participatory non-extractive methods, qualitative and quantitative data were obtained using questionnaires and optional interviews with attendees of workshops (n = 52), online mentees (n = 2), and trainees (n = 3).

All participants described themselves as Asian, Chinese or Hongkongers. More than two thirds (69.1%) had been in the UK for a relatively short time (up to 24 months). Both experience of, and knowledge about, growing food were low amongst participants, although this varied by group. While none of the trainees had previous food growing experience, half of online mentees and more than quarter (26.9%) of workshop attendees had some. All of the online mentees and over half (53.8%) of workshop attendees described themselves as having some knowledge about growing food. The most common reasons given for their involvement were an interest in urban growing/agriculture and practical (rather than theoretical) skills acquisition. Asian vegetables had multiple meanings for participants. Most commonly, they related to aspects of home, demonstrating the importance of culturally specific foods in evoking memories of people, place and time. Asked whether taking part in growing could help them build a sense of belonging within the UK Hong Kong community, responses were almost entirely affirmative for a variety of reasons.

This highlights the multiple roles of food in people’s lives, and the potential for food to be used as a bridge between different groups, and as a bridge between their original and current homes. It also emphasises the role that growing food could play in cultural identity and pride, potentially building belonging as well as food resilience.
UK university students’ perceptions about the benefits and value of personalised nutrition advice delivered by the web-based eNutri app
Authors: Kelly E. , Weech M. , Fallaize R. , Hwang F. , Lovegrove J. A.
Published: December 2024

University students often make less healthful dietary choices whilst at university however, do not typically receive advice and support to help them eat more healthily(1,2). A tool which could be provided to students to promote more favourable dietary behaviours is the eNutri web-based app which includes a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and delivers automated personalised nutrition advice (PNA) and a diet quality score (DQS) consisting of 11 food/nutrient components(3). The PNA includes scores and general advice for each component and, for the user’s three lowest scoring components, recommends which foods to eat more/less frequently to improve their DQS. As part of a 4-week intervention study, we aimed to explore the perceptions of the eNutri PNA in UK university students.

As part of this intervention, 14 students from the Universities of Reading and Hertfordshire completed the eNutri FFQ and received their PNA. At the end of the study, they rated how much they agreed with statements about the perceived value and benefit (if any) of the eNutri PNA tool, on a 6-point scale ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree. The percentage of respondents reported is the total number who responded “somewhat agree”, “agree”, or “strongly agree” to each statement.

Of the 14 students, 79% were female with a mean age of 25y (range = 18-37y) and mean BMI of 24.7kg/m2 (range = 19.4-31.9kg/m2). At baseline, the average importance of a healthy diet to the participants (n = 13) was rated at 7.2 out of 10 (with 0 being ‘not important at all’ and 10 being ‘very important’). In total, 57% of respondents indicated that they felt they ‘were eating a healthier diet because of the eNutri advice received’ and only 14% reported that ‘the advice did not motivate them to make changes to their diet’. Furthermore, 64% of respondents indicated that the ‘eNutri PNA gave them confidence in their ability to make changes to their diet’ and that it ‘supported them to do so’. Half of the students agreed that ‘they would want to use eNutri long term to track their progress and receive regular PNA’. In addition, 79% agreed that ‘eNutri should be offered to all university students to help them make healthier food choices’, and that if eNutri was offered to them for free by their university, ‘it would be a valuable student benefit’ and they ‘would want to use it again’.

In general, university students indicated the eNutri PNA tool supported them to eat healthier and providing access to the wider student population would be beneficial to encourage healthy eating at university. These findings along with the quantitative data from the PNA intervention which is currently being analysed will support the development of larger, suitably-powered studies to confirm these findings.
Nutrition and health claims on fibre; consumer perceptions, understanding and behavior
Authors: Tann E. , Dye L. , Boyle N. , Adolphus K.
Published: December 2024

The importance of dietary fibre consumption for health is widely recognised. However, there is a clear ‘fibre gap’ between actual and recommended fibre consumption(1,2). In the UK, average fibre intake is 18g(1). Fibre intake increases in relation to income, with fibre consumption particularly low in low-income households(3). The absence of a UK reference intake value for dietary fibre means nutrition and health claims are a key route for food manufacturers to promote dietary fibre to consumers(4). The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between perception of valence and understanding of approved fibre related nutrition and health claims, and marketing messages, and the intention to purchase products displaying these claims or messages.

An online survey was used to examine perception of valence and understanding of fibre-related nutrition and health claims, and any effects these claims, and other marketing messages related to fibre have on intention to purchase products, amongst the general population and individuals on a lower income in the UK. Data was collected from 560 respondents, with 84 classified as lowincome, based on an annual household income of below £17,100(5). Chi-squared tests were performed to examine associations, with post-hoc tests applied as appropriate.

Perception of valence was found to be significantly associated with intent to purchase for all the health and nutrition claims that were tested (p<0.001), such that participants who perceived a claim or term to be positive, were more likely to report that they would purchase a product displaying the claim. Three of the eight nutrition claims that were tested demonstrated a significant association between understanding and perception of valence (p<0.01), with only two demonstrating a significant association between understanding and intent to purchase (p<0.05). All four of the health messages that were tested demonstrated a significant association between perception of valence and intent to purchase (p<0.001), three demonstrated a significant association between understanding/interpretation and perception of valence (p<0.01), and two demonstrated a significant association between understanding/interpretation and intent to purchase (p<0.05). Thus, for many of the health claims and some health messages that were tested, there was no evidence to suggest that participants who understood the meaning of the claims would be more likely to perceive them positively or be more inclined to purchase a product displaying the claim or message.

Regardless of consumer understanding, claims must be perceived positively to significantly impact intent to purchase, so effort must be made to promote positive attitudes towards dietary fibre, and its associated health benefits. The wording of some claims may not be conducive to positive perceptions of dietary fibre.
Sustainability metrics of the UK diet using myfood24
Authors: Williams G. , Hasenböhler A. , Hamilton A. , Galazoula M. , Cade J.E.
Published: December 2024

Promotion of sustainable healthy diets requires comprehensive metrics to assess environmental impact of foods consumed1. Existing food systems are failing to meet the needs of current and future generations, by operating outside several planetary boundaries. Promoting healthy diets from sustainable food systems is central to realizing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Standard food composition tables do not include sustainability metrics. The aim of this work was to add UK focussed sustainability metrics to the food composition table used in myfood24.

Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), land and water use were added to each food item in the myfood24 UK generic and branded databases. This is recorded as per 100g of product. The values for GHGE2 takes account of factors including production method, land use management, feed used, soil and climate, processing and transport of both the product and aspects of its production e.g., fertiliser and feed. Values were weighted for UK trade statistics to reflect values for the UK food supply. Land use and freshwater withdrawals were also added.

Exploration of the sustainability metrics in the myfood24 database by food category show, as expected, that meat (1.5 kg CO2eq, SD 1.4), fish (1.8 kg CO2eq, SD 1.0) and dairy (1.3 kg CO2eq, SD 0.8) plus dried herbs/spices (1.4 kg CO2eq, SD 1.2) have the highest GHGE per 100g. In the meat category, beef and lamb had GHGE ∼3.8 kg CO2eq with pork and chicken having lower values ∼1.0 kg CO2eq. Plant based protein sources had much lower GHGE per 100g, with pulses at 0.3 CO2eq (SD 0.2) and nuts at 0.2 CO2eq (SD 0.2). Land use was by far the highest per 100g for lamb (63 m2year/day, SD 18) with beef next at 8 m2year/day (SD 4). Chocolate (5 m2year/day, SD 2) was the sixth highest food category for land use. Drinks, vegetables, fruit and potatoes had the lowest land use values. Regarding water use, seafood per 100g had high values at 484l/day (SD 167), followed by nuts (218l/day, SD 172), lamb (171l/day, SD 36) and rice (164l/day SD 42). Drinks, potatoes and breads had the lowest land use values per 100g.

Through addition of sustainability metrics to food and nutrient composition databases we can measure the impact of food intake in relation to both nutrients and sustainability. This linked data will help us to understand how to adapt our diets to be healthier and better for the planet.
Across the multiverse: exploring a diverse set of specifications related to cross-sectional and prospective associations between adolescent alcohol use and emotional problems
Authors: Halladay J. , Visontay R. , Slade T. , Devine E. K. , Smout S. , Andrews J. L. , Champion K. E. , Teesson M. , Sunderland M.
Published: December 2024

Background

The relationship between adolescent alcohol use and emotional problems remains unclear and contradictory. These inconsistencies may in part be due to differences in the measurement and operationalization of alcohol use and emotional problems across studies, as well as confounder selection and missing data decisions. This study explores the associations between common specifications of adolescent alcohol use and emotional problems in a large sample of adolescents.

Methods

A multiverse analysis (also known as specification curve analysis or vibration of effects) was done with 7680 unique model specifications in a large longitudinal sample of 6639 Australian adolescents (aged ~14.7–15.7, 2021–2022).

Results

While alcohol use and emotional problems nearly universally co-occurred in minimally adjusted cross-sectional models (98–99%), the operationalization of emotional problems, temporality of prospective relationships, and choice of confounders substantially impacted findings. Emotional problems appeared to predict later alcohol use more-so than the reverse, depression-focused measures yielded more consistent associations with alcohol use than anxiety-focused measures, and certain confounders (i.e. conduct, ADHD, smoking) explained most of the associations between adolescent alcohol use and emotional problems. Missing data decisions and whether outcomes were modelled continuously v. dichotomously had minimal impact on findings.

Conclusions

While adolescent alcohol use and emotional problems commonly co-occur, inconsistencies in the magnitude, direction, and significance of effects are closely tied to researcher decisions that are often made arbitrarily.
Implementing interpersonal psychotherapy globally: a content analysis from 31 countries
Authors: Mootz Jennifer J. , Weissman Myrna M.
Published: December 2024

While there is ample evidence for the efficacy of IPT, confirmed through the results of the efficacy review, on the ground implementation factors are less well understood. We compiled a book on the global reach of IPT by requesting contributions from local authors through word-of-mouth methods. This approach resulted in reports from 31 countries across six continents and 15 diverse populations within the US that spanned the age range and types of usage. In this paper, our aim was to collate and summarize book contributors' descriptions of barriers and facilitators as related to their experiences of implementing IPT across the 31 countries. We conducted a conceptual content analysis and then applied the updated Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR) to deductively organize the barriers and facilitators into its five domains. Most found IPT to be relevant and acceptable and described minor variations needed for tailoring to context. National level policies and mental health stigma were highlighted in the outer setting. Availability of specialists and general and mental health infrastructure were considerations relevant to the inner setting. Many sites had successfully implemented IPT through delivery by nonspecialized providers, although provider workload and burnout were common. Clients faced numerous practical challenges in accessing weekly care. Primary strategies to mitigate these challenges were use of telehealth delivery and shortening of the intervention duration. Most programs ensured competency through a combination of didactic training and case supervision. The latter was identified as time-intensive and costly.
Confidence regained: Providence and prayer in the works of Catherine of Siena, Anne Conway and Simone Weil
Authors: Koenig Katrin
Published: December 2024

In this article I explore three ways of reflecting on faith in God's providence and correlative understandings of prayer. My study suggests a praxeological understanding of the doctrine of providence as tacit knowledge. First, I present the soteriological dialogical approach of Catherine of Siena, from her late medieval Dialogue on providence. Secondly, I analyse the quietist vitalist approach of the early modern English philosopher Anne Conway in her Principles of Philosophy. Thirdly, I reflect on the critical, non-interventionist approach of the French philosopher and mystic Simone Weil. I conclude by discussing the interrelation between providence and prayer.
The interaction between luminance polarity grouping and symmetry axes on the ERP responses to symmetry
Authors: Dering Benjamin , Wright Damien , Gheorghiu Elena
Published: December 2024

Symmetry is a salient visual feature in the natural world, yet the perception of symmetry may be influenced by how natural lighting conditions (e.g., shading) fall on the object relative to its symmetry axis. Here, we investigate how symmetry detection may interact with luminance polarity grouping, and whether this modulates neural responses to symmetry, as evidenced by the Sustained Posterior Negativity (SPN) component of Event-Related Potentials (ERPs). Stimuli were dot patterns arranged either symmetrically (reflection, rotation, translation) or quasi-randomly, and by luminance polarity about a grouping axis (i.e., black dots on one side and white dots on the other). We varied the relative angular separation between the symmetry and polarity-grouping axes: 0, 30, 60, 90 deg. Participants performed a two interval-forced-choice (2IFC) task indicating which interval contained the symmetrical pattern. We found that accuracy for the 0 deg polarity-grouped condition was higher compared to the single-polarity condition for rotation and translation (but not reflection symmetry), and higher than all other angular difference (30, 60, 90) conditions for all symmetry types. The SPN was found to be separated topographically into an early and late component, with the early SPN being sensitive to luminance polarity grouping at parietal-occipital electrodes, and the late SPN sensitive to symmetry over central electrodes. The increase in relative angular differences between luminance polarity and symmetry axes highlighted changes between cardinal (0, 90 deg) and other (30, 60 deg) angles. Critically, we found a polarity-grouping effect in the SPN time window for noise only patterns, which was related to symmetry type, suggesting a task/ symmetry pattern influence on SPN processes. We conclude that luminance polarity grouping can facilitate symmetry perception when symmetry is not readily salient, as evidenced by polarity sensitivity of early SPN, yet it can also inhibit neural and behavioral responses when luminance polarity and symmetry axes are not aligned.
Efficacy and Safety of Prehospital Blood Transfusion in Traumatized Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hamed Abdelelah Abdelgadir , Shuib Sharfeldin Mohammed , Elhusein Amal Mohamed , Fadlalmola Hammad Ali , Higazy Omnia Abdalla , Mohammed Insaf Hassan , Mohamed Bahja Siddig , Abdelmalik Mohammed , Al-Sayaghi Khaled Mohammed , Saeed Abdalrahman Abdullatif Mohmmed , Hegazy Samya Mohamed , Albalawi Saud , Alrashidi Abdullah , Abdallah Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Background:

Approximately five million individuals have traumatic injuries annually. Implementing prehospital blood-component transfusion (PHBT), encompassing packed red blood cells (p-RBCs), plasma, or platelets, facilitates early hemostatic volume replacement following trauma. The lack of uniform PHBT guidelines persists, relying on diverse parameters and physician experience.

Aim:

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of various components of PHBT, including p-RBCs and plasma, on mortality and hematologic-related outcomes in traumatic patients.

Methods:

A comprehensive search strategy was executed to identify pertinent literature comparing the transfusion of p-RBCs, plasma, or a combination of both with standard resuscitation care in traumatized patients. Eligible studies underwent independent screening, and pertinent data were systematically extracted. The analysis employed pooled risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MD) for continuous variables, each accompanied by their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results:

Forty studies were included in the qualitative analysis, while 26 of them were included in the quantitative analysis. Solely P-RBCs alone or combined with plasma showed no substantial effect on 24-hour or long-term mortality (RR = 1.13; 95% CI, 0.68 - 1.88; P = .63). Conversely, plasma transfusion alone exhibited a 28% reduction in 24-hour mortality with a RR of 0.72 (95% CI, 0.53 - 0.99; P = .04). In-hospital mortality and length of hospital stay were mostly unaffected by p-RBCs or p-RBCs plus plasma, except for a notable three-day reduction in length of hospital stay with p-RBCs alone (MD = -3.00; 95% CI, -5.01 to -0.99; P = .003). Hematological parameter analysis revealed nuanced effects, including a four-unit increase in RBC requirements with p-RBCs (MD = 3.95; 95% CI, 0.69 - 7.21; P = .02) and a substantial reduction in plasma requirements with plasma transfusion (MD = -0.73; 95% CI, -1.28 to -0.17; P = .01).

Conclusion:

This study revealed that plasma transfusion alone was associated with a substantial decrease in 24-hour mortality. Meanwhile, p-RBCs alone or combined with plasma did not significantly impact 24-hour or long-term mortality. In-hospital mortality and length of hospital stay were generally unaffected by p-RBCs or p-RBCs plus plasma, except for a substantial reduction in length of hospital stay with p-RBCs alone.
The Chinggisid Crisis of the mid-fourteenth century: reasons and consequences
Authors: Biran Michal , Landa Ishayahu
Published: December 2024

This article analyses the collapse of the Mongol empire in the mid- to late fourteenth century (1330s to 1390s) across Eurasia, looking at three facets of the Crisis: environmental—focusing on climate change; epidemiological—exploring the Black Death's impact on the fall of the Chinggisids; and political—mainly the dilution of the Chinggisid charisma due to the halt of expansion. We argue that the main facet of the Crisis was political, and that it derived from the nomadic culture of the Mongols. This was the same political culture that enabled them to establish their huge empire. However, an integral part of this political culture was the need to secure the support of the nomadic elites who were also the backbone of the Mongol army. This proved to be much harder in a reality of excessive natural disasters on the one hand and the erosion of the Chinggisid charisma due to the renunciation of the ideal of world conquest on the other. The result was a growing number of elite groups who contested for power while nominally retaining the framework of the Chinggisid principle, among whom the imperial sons-in-law played a significant part, as well as the shrink and fragmentation of the Chinggisid polities that survived the Crisis.
The quest for early detection of retinal disease: 3D CycleGAN-based translation of optical coherence tomography into confocal microscopy
Authors: Tian Xin , Anantrasirichai Nantheera , Nicholson Lindsay , Achim Alin
Published: December 2024

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and confocal microscopy are pivotal in retinal imaging, offering distinct advantages and limitations. In vivo OCT offers rapid, noninvasive imaging but can suffer from clarity issues and motion artifacts, while ex vivo confocal microscopy, providing high-resolution, cellular-detailed color images, is invasive and raises ethical concerns. To bridge the benefits of both modalities, we propose a novel framework based on unsupervised 3D CycleGAN for translating unpaired in vivo OCT to ex vivo confocal microscopy images. This marks the first attempt to exploit the inherent 3D information of OCT and translate it into the rich, detailed color domain of confocal microscopy. We also introduce a unique dataset, OCT2Confocal, comprising mouse OCT and confocal retinal images, facilitating the development of and establishing a benchmark for cross-modal image translation research. Our model has been evaluated both quantitatively and qualitatively, achieving Fréchet inception distance (FID) scores of 0.766 and Kernel Inception Distance (KID) scores as low as 0.153, and leading subjective mean opinion scores (MOS). Our model demonstrated superior image fidelity and quality with limited data over existing methods. Our approach effectively synthesizes color information from 3D confocal images, closely approximating target outcomes and suggesting enhanced potential for diagnostic and monitoring applications in ophthalmology.
The Roles of Nutrient Loading and River Discharge on the Phytoplankton Dynamics in the Semi‐Enclosed Sea
Authors: Sun Ruohan , Kang Xinyi , Xia Meng
Published: December 2024

Understanding spatiotemporal variations in phytoplankton biomass is crucial to the health of marine ecosystems. Therefore, the Finite Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM)‐based Ecological Model (Integrated Compartment Model) was implemented to assess nutrient and phytoplankton dynamics in the Bohai Sea from 2010 to 2019. From 2010 to 2013, dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) levels in the Bohai Sea were higher (∼0.400 and 0.030 mg/L, respectively) in nearshore areas compared to other years. During the summer and fall, the spatial distribution of the DIN/DIP ratio in the Bohai Sea exhibited a double‐core structure. Higher values (>100) were primarily concentrated in the central region of the Liaodong Bay and south of the Central Basin near the Yellow River Estuary. Statistical analyses and numerical experiments revealed that increasing DIP loading from rivers had a greater effect on phytoplankton biomass in the Laizhou and Bohai Bays than increasing DIN loading. However, the phytoplankton biomass in the Liaodong Bay was strongly influenced by both increasing DIN and DIP loading from rivers. Notably, the increase in phytoplankton biomass resulting from increasing DIN loading exceeded that from increasing DIP loading by 17% in the Liaodong Bay. The reduction in river discharge weakened circulation at the river mouths, thereby partially retaining surface phytoplankton. This was more predominant in the nearshore areas of the Yellow River owing to the higher river discharge in August 2019. This study provides valuable insights for the management and conservation of marine ecosystems.
Probiotics as an adjunctive therapy in periodontitis treatment—reality or illusion—a clinical perspective
Authors: Baddouri Lamyae , Hannig Matthias
Published: December 2024

Periodontitis, a prevalent oral health issue, involves various microorganisms and clinical effects. This review examines probiotics as adjunctive therapy for periodontitis by analyzing forty clinical studies. Findings showed mixed results due to differences in study design, probiotic types, and clinical parameters; however, probiotics improved outcomes in severe cases. Caution is advised when interpreting these results, as longer follow-up periods reveal variability and potential regression in effects.
The impact of proton pump inhibitors on brain health based on cross-sectional findings from the Rhineland Study
Authors: Alaeddin Nersi , Koch Alexandra , Etteldorf Rika , Stingl Julia C. , Breteler Monique M.B. , de Vries Folgerdiena M.
Published: December 2024

Reports linking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) with cognition and dementia show conflicting results, with limited evidence on underlying biological mechanisms. However, existing studies did not investigate brain microstructure, which could provide valuable insights into early structural changes indicative of cognitive decline. Analyses were based on cross-sectional baseline data from the Rhineland Study (n = 7,465; mean age 55.3 ± 13.7 years, range 30–95 years, 56.5% women). Using multivariate linear regression, we investigated associations between PPI use and cognition and brain macro- and microstructural measures (fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) as measures of white matter integrity). Analyses were stratified by short-term (< 3 years) and long-term (≥ 3 years) PPI use, with additional age stratification (< 65 years; ≥65 years) for cognitive outcomes. PPI users, especially younger individuals, showed poorer global cognition and working memory. Notably, younger long-term users had worse total memory. PPI use was not associated with brain volume or FA, but both short-term and long-term users showed higher MD in cognitive-related brain regions. Our findings indicate that prolonged PPI use, particularly in younger long-term users, is associated with poorer cognitive performance. Moreover, PPI users showed higher MD, indicating potential white matter integrity disruptions. Further research is needed to ascertain causality and underlying mechanisms behind PPI-related cognitive decline.
Associative learning via eyeblink conditioning differs by age from infancy to adulthood
Authors: Konrad Carolin , Neuhoff Lina , Adolph Dirk , Goerigk Stephan , Herbert Jane S. , Jagusch-Poirier Julie , Weigelt Sarah , Seehagen Sabine , Schneider Silvia
Published: December 2024

Associative learning is a key feature of adaptive behaviour and mental health, enabling individuals to adjust their actions in anticipation of future events. Comprehensive documentation of this essential component of human cognitive development throughout different developmental periods is needed. Here, we investigated age-related changes in associative learning in key developmental stages, including infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. We employed a classical delay eyeblink conditioning paradigm that consisted of two sessions with a total of 48 paired trials. Our initial hypothesis was that performance in associative learning would increase linearly with age. However, our findings suggest that performance peaks during the primary school years: Children in this age-group exhibited superior performance compared to all other age-groups and displayed the most consistent and least variable learning. Adults and adolescents exhibited faster association learning than infants. An additional learning session supported learning in infants and adolescents indicating that during these developmental stages, consolidation processes are vital for learning. A comprehensive account of the development of associative learning may inform theories on aetiology and treatment options in clinical psychology and neurosciences.
Preparation, structural characterisation, absorption and calcium transport studies of walnut peptide calcium chelate
Authors: Zheng Weizhe , Wang Jianing , Yao Xiaoyue , Li Siting , Chen Zhou , Qi Bing , Ma Aijin , Jia Yingmin
Published: December 2024

Preparation of walnut peptide calcium chelates and their calcium translocation and absorption.
H3PO3 promoted reactions of thioamides with 2-substituted benzyl alcohols
Authors: Duari Surajit , Maity Srabani , Biswas Subrata , Roy Arnab , Elsharif Asma M. , Biswas Srijit
Published: December 2024

A methodology for the synthesis of thioesters, benzothiazines and S-substituted heterocycles from thioamides and 2-hydroxy/2-aminobenzyl alcohols.
Probing the synergistic effects of amino compounds in mitigating oxidation in 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets in aqueous environments
Authors: Kumar Jai , Tan Jiayi , Soomro Razium Ali , Sun Ning , Xu Bin
Published: December 2024

A systematic investigation was carried out to explore the potential of various amino compounds as antioxidants for Ti3C2Tx MXenes.
Advances in the catalysis of reduction of nitroaromatics and its mechanism: a tutorial review
Authors: Guo Wenjie , Zheng Yisha , Xiang Wenlong , Zhang Yanhui
Published: December 2024

This paper reviews the research on the conversion of nitroaromatics to aminoaromatics through catalysis.
Asymmetric cyano-rich crystalline carbon nitride with a powerful dipole field for efficient hydrogen peroxide photosynthesis
Authors: Yu Wenying , Xing Rui , Tian Na , Wang Yinghui , Zhang Na , Zhang Yihe , Deng Yanxi , Huang Hongwei
Published: December 2024

An asymmetric cyano-rich crystalline g-C3N4 was prepared, showing high H2O2 yield, attributed to the critical roles of robust spontaneous polarization, definite interlayer charge transfer channel, and long-range ordered in-plane structure.
Antioxidant defense of Ephemera danica larvae (Ephemeroptera: Ephemeridae) − seasonal and longitudinal impact of the trout farm
Authors: Tatović Anđelina Z. , Živić Miroslav Ž. , Mirčić Dejan , Stojanović Katarina Z. , Perić-Mataruga Vesna D. , Marković Zoran Z. , Todorović Dajana D. , Stojanović Zoran M. , Božanić Milenka LJ. , Živić Ivana M.
Published: December 2024

This study involves investigation on the seasonal and longitudinal effects of the trout farm on the Crnica River on the chemical composition of water and sediment, structure, and composition of the macrozoobenthos communities and molecular biomarkers of oxidative stress, such as activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and the amount of total glutathione (GSH) in larvae of Ephemera danica (Müller 1764). To analyze the changes in the composition of the macrozoobenthos community caused by fish farm effluents, several macrozoobenthos indices were used. The potential impact of trout farm effluents on the macrozoobenthos community was evident at the CR2 sampling site, where the saprobic index (SI) reached its highest value and the BMWP (Biological Monitoring Working Party) score was at its lowest. This indicates that the fish pond had negative effect on water quality and reduced the diversity of the macrozoobenthos community. All components of antioxidant defense showed minimum activity in autumn and maximum in summer. The most sensitive biomarker to the effects of the trout farm effluents was the change in the GPx activity. This biomarker showed higher sensitivity in relation to most sensitive macrozoobenthos indices − SI, BMWP, and MBMWPPO (Modified Biological Monitoring Working Party Present Only). Seasonal changes in abiotic factors were more pronounced than changes in abiotic factors along the sites, which we consider to be influenced by the fish pond and refer to as longitudinal changes. Therefore, the seasonal changes in environmental abiotic factors had a greater impact than the fish farm on the examined biomarkers and the structural and compositional parameters of the macrozoobenthos communities. Regarding seasons, most pronounced farm effects could be seen in autumn, when synergistic impact of pollutants, such as NO2– and NH3, and abiotic parameters of water and sediment (Cr and Ni) had a negative effect on the macrozoobenthos community, but primarily on the components of the antioxidant defense in E. danica which caused decrease in the number of specimens in autumn, as much as 10-fold less than in summer.