bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decadal changes in nocturia among American middle‐aged and older men
Authors: Luo Zhenjun , Wang Jie , Huang Shuai , Hao Xiaowei , Lv Kaikai , Lv Chao , Yang Guorong , Yuan Qing
Published: November 2024

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of nocturia in middle‐aged and elderly men and evaluate its associated factors and changes over time.

Methods

Data of middle‐aged and older men aged ≥40 years from the 2007–2008 and 2017–2020 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were retrospectively analyzed. The prevalence of nocturia was estimated using participant questionnaires on nocturia, lifestyle‐related factors, and health factors, and its decadal changes were examined using multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine related factors associated with the prevalence of nocturia.

Results

The prevalence of nocturia was 38.0% in 2007–2008 and 39.6% in 2017–2020, with no significant increase observed (P = 0.3989). Being a non‐Hispanic black was positively correlated with nocturia (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.54, 1.22–1.93, P < 0.001), whereas the correlation with being a Mexican American disappeared (AOR = 1.25, 0.90–1.73, P = 0.187). Diabetes (AOR = 1.32, 1.07–1.64, P = 0.010) and sleep disorders (AOR = 1.31, 1.07–1.60, P = 0.008) showed a statistically significant positive correlation with nocturia, whereas a significant negative correlation was observed between employment (AOR = 0.66, 0.54–0.82, P < 0.001) and nocturia. Above‐high‐school education (AOR = 0.60, 0.47–0.76, P < 0.001) showed a constant trend toward a negative correlation with nocturia. The correlation between high school education or general educational development and nocturia disappeared (AOR = 0.81, 0.62–1.05, P = 0.112).

Conclusion

Diabetes and sleep disorders contribute to the development of nocturia, while work and high educational attainment can actively combat nocturia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1308–1314.
Associations among frailty conditions and pain indicators: Data from 22 356 European older adults
Authors: Sentandreu‐Mañó Trinidad , Marques‐Sule Elena , Deka Pallav , Tomás José M , Pintado Leiver Andrés Romero , Klompstra Leonie , Atef Hady
Published: November 2024

Aim

Recent studies supported the presence of a relationship between pain and frailty, but more research is needed to highlight the pain–frailty association. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and the influence of different pain indicators on frailty while controlling for age, sex and country.

Methods

This observational study used data from the sixth wave of the SHARE survey. A sample of 22 356 community‐dwelling individuals aged >60 years from six European countries (Spain, Estonia, France, Greece, Czech Republic and Sweden) was analyzed. The pain was measured through assessment of medication used for joint pain or other types of pain, pain location, polypharmacy and pain level. Frailty was assessed with the modified Fried Frailty phenotype.

Results

Pain indicators, especially widespread pain and pain severity, were significantly associated with prefrailty (odds ratio 3.30, 95% CI 2.40, 4.55; and odds ratio 0.61, 95% CI 0.51, 0.72) and frailty status (odds ratio 4.69, 95% CI 3.31, 6.67; and odds ratio 0.37, 95% CI 0.30, 0.44). Advancing age and female sex consistently correlated with increased prefrailty (odds ratio 1.06, 95% CI 1.05, 1.07; and odds ratio 1.36, 95% CI 1.22, 1.53) and frailty risk (odds ratio 1.11, 95% CI 1.10, 1.12; and odds ratio 1.71, 95% CI 1.48, 1.96). Country‐specific differences emerged, with Spaniards showing higher odds ratios of prefrailty and frailty compared with Swedish, French and Czech individuals, whereas Greeks showed elevated odds ratios compared with Spaniards. The factors associated jointly explained 27.5% of the variance in frailty categories.

Conclusion

Significant associations were identified, particularly with widespread pain and pain severity, highlighting their impact on frailty. Country‐specific variations in frailty prevalence were observed, alongside consistent associations with advancing age and female sex. These findings provide valuable insights into the intricate interplay between pain and frailty, offering the potential for targeted interventions in older adults' care through tailored pain management strategies. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1362–1369.
After second year male European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) do not signal age through repertoire size or song bout length over a 1‐year period
Authors: Dharmasiri Maheshi E. , Barber Colleen A. , Horn Andrew G.
Published: November 2024

In many passerine species, male song functions as an honest signal of male quality. Male age is one of these qualities, yielding benefits that are direct (e.g. breeding experience) and/or indirect (e.g. viability and good genes). Male European Starlings Sturnus vulgaris are open‐ended learners with long and complex songs that add songs to their repertoire throughout their life. We investigated whether repertoire size and song bout duration change with respect to male age from one year to the next in an Atlantic Canadian population of European Starlings. We found that male repertoire size and song bout length did not increase significantly in ASY (after second year) males over a 1‐year period. Similarly, we did not detect a relationship between male condition and either repertoire size or song bout length from this small sample. Other aspects of song may be better at signalling male age to females in our population.
Psychometric Testing of the Cross‐Culturally Adapted Thai Version of the Caregiver Self‐Efficacy in Contributing to Patient Self‐Care Scale in Caregivers of Patients With Chronic Illnesses
Authors: Chaiyawan Saowannee , Suwanno Jom , Bunsuk Chonchanok , Kumanjan Wanna , Klinjun Nuntaporn , Srisomthrong Kannika , Thiamwong Ladda
Published: November 2024

Aim

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Caregiver Self‐Efficacy in Contributing to Patient Self‐Care Scale (CSE‐CSC).

Background

The CSE‐CSC scale was developed congruently with the Caregiver Contribution to Self‐Care of Patient with Chronic Illness Inventory (CC‐SC‐CII) to assess caregiver self‐efficacy (CSE), the motivation factor of caregiving. Its applicability in Asian populations, including Thailand, was limited.

Methods

Psychometric tests were guided by COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) principles. This included translating the English version into Thai, following the principles of good practice for the translation and cultural adaptation process for patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measures. Nine nursing experts evaluated the content validity. The analysis included caregivers of patients with chronic conditions from 16 primary care centres in Thailand. We tested the structural validity using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and concurrent validity for CC‐SC‐CII‐v2. We tested the scale's reliability with methods for multidimensional and unidimensional constructs, the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and measurement error variance.

Results

Kappa coefficient (k = 1.00) indicated the scale's excellent content validity. The final analysis included a total of 407 samples. The EFA with the first split‐half subsample (n = 194) extracted a two‐dimensional structure. One reflected CSE in Maintenance and Monitoring behaviour and another captured CSE in Management behaviour. CFA with the second split‐half subsample (n = 213) and the overall sample (n = 407) supported the scale's bidimensional model with high factor loadings. Each dimension and the overall CSE‐CSC scale positively correlated with each scale and the overall CC‐SC‐CII‐v2. McDonald's ω and Cronbach's α (both ranged from 0.91–0.94) indicated excellent internal reliability. Test–retest reliability showed ICCs between 0.95 and 0.96. Measurement error yielded satisfactory results.

Conclusion

Testing of the Thai CSE‐CSC scale supported validity and reliability, indicating that the scale can apply to Thai caregivers. This scale can be used in clinical practice and research to evaluate CSE in contribution to patient self‐care.
Self‐reduction triggered color tuning of Eu3+‐doped aluminosilicate glass for solid‐state white illumination
Authors: Chen Hang , Zhou Chunming , Chen Xu , Min Chang , Lin Shenghui , Li Yanbin , Zhou Tianyuan , Kang Jian , Shi Chaofan , Shao Cen , Han Pengde , Strek Wieslaw , Chen Hao , Zhang Le
Published: November 2024

Rare earth‐doped transparent glass, boasting high transmittance and excellent luminescent properties, holds great potential in the field of all‐inorganic solid‐state white illumination. Currently reported single‐structure solid‐state white lighting usually has the problems of low color rendering index (CRI) and high correlated color temperature (CCT) due to the lacking of red light emission. In this work, a novel single‐structure MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–Eu2O3 (MAS: Eu) glass with color tuning was prepared by the simple glass melting process. Interestingly, the prepared Eu3+‐doped aluminosilicate glass possessed a unique capability to achieve color emission under different excitation wavelengths. The reason for this was attributed to the good self‐reduction capability of the MAS glass, which effectively reduced Eu3+ to Eu2+ under an air atmosphere. Meanwhile, only by regulating the Eu3+ doping concentration, the MAS glass also achieved a tunable emission from blue to white to red light under 380 nm excitation. The acquisition of white light was realized through the multispectral emission of blue–green light emitted by Eu2+ and orange–red light emitted by Eu3+. Remarkably, the single‐structure MAS glass doped with 8 wt.% Eu3+ successfully achieved high‐quality white light and high thermal stability, exhibiting a high CRI of 86, a low CCT of 2761 K, good chromaticity parameters of (0.407 and 0.3192), and the emission intensity at 423 K remains above 86.35% that of room temperature. Meanwhile, the doped Eu3+ exceeded 12 wt.%, without any observable concentration quenching. Moreover, the MAS: Eu glass showed a high transmittance of 90 and a moderate thermal conductivity of 1.45 W/mK (epoxy resin ∼0.17 W/mK). These results would dramatically inspire the development of high‐quality solid‐state white lighting applications.
Low sintering shrinkage and high strength of porous mullite–zirconia ceramics: Effect of AlF3 and ZrSi2 contents
Authors: Shao Yueqi , Xia Chenhe , Xu Jie , Wang Hanke , Feng Xiaoying , Gao Feng
Published: November 2024

Low‐shrinkage porous mullite–zirconia ceramics were prepared using Al and ZrSi2 as raw materials and AlF3 as the whisker catalyst through foam‐gelcasting and freeze‐drying methods. The oxidation of Al and ZrSi2 combined with the Kirkendall effect and volume expansion was employed to reduce the sintering shrinkage, while the mullitization was promoted by the reaction between AlF3 and extra ZrSi2, and ZrO2 were generated to enhance the compressive strength as the reinforcing phase. The effect of AlF3 and ZrSi2 content on the microstructure and properties of porous mullite‐zirconia were explored. These ceramics exhibited high porosity (73.75%–85.02%) and compressive strength (2.98–17.71 MPa), low shrinkage (0.47%–10.89%) and thermal conductivity (0.228–0.462 W/(m·K)). In particular, the porous mullite–zirconia ceramics with great compressive strength (4.01 MPa) companied with near‐zero shrinkage (0.47%) at the AlF3 content of 15 wt% and extra ZrSi2 content of 20 wt% by introducing the reinforcing phase (ZrO2). Additionally, the temperature difference around 950°C of the porous ceramics during the heating test proved the exceptional application on thermal insulation.
Trajectories of Coping With Persistent Smell and Taste Dysfunction After a Covid‐19 Infection—A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Sandvik Pernilla , Neuman Nicklas , Flodin Maja , Lövestam Elin
Published: November 2024

Aim

To explore trajectories of understanding and managing persistent chemosensory dysfunction after COVID‐19 in patients undergoing clinical treatment.

Design

A descriptive qualitative interview study with a realist approach.

Method

Data were collected in Sweden, from August 2022 to March 2023 through semi‐structured interviews with 30 patients undergoing treatment for long‐lasting smell and taste dysfunction resulting from COVID‐19. Thematic analysis was applied in a process that involved continuous discussions and refinement of codes into themes and subthemes.

Results

Three main themes were identified: (1) Understanding the sensory alterations, which includes subthemes of Searching for validation and Seeking remedies; (2) Practical coping strategies, encompassing Adapted eating and Managing olfactory training and (3) Navigating the emotional landscape, featuring Self‐persuasion and suppression and The ambivalence of acceptance. These themes highlight the cyclic and fluid nature of coping with the dysfunction, reflecting a dynamic process of adaptation. Despite treatment options like olfactory training, participants frequently experienced frustration due to limited perceived improvement and the psychological toll of managing their condition.

Conclusion

The study highlights the complex and personal nature of coping with long‐term smell and taste dysfunction post‐COVID‐19. Coping strategies varied widely and evolved over time, reflecting a dynamic process of adaptation. The emotional and psychological impact was profound, underscoring the need for comprehensive treatment approaches that include both physiological and psychological support. There is a need for more effective interventions and support mechanisms to improve the quality of life for those affected by these persistent symptoms.

Implications

This study contributes to the understanding of COVID‐19's long‐term effects on smell and taste, highlighting the need for ongoing support from health care, further research into effective interventions, and a comprehensive approach to care for individuals affected by these conditions.

Impact

This study addresses trajectories and challenges of coping with persistent chemosensory dysfunction. Findings emphasise the complexity of managing persistent chemosensory dysfunction and the critical role of personalised care. The study contributes to knowledge for nurses in understanding patients with chemosensory dysfunction.

Reporting Method

This research adheres to the EQUATOR guidelines: Standards for reporting qualitative research (SRQR).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
miR‐155 promotes m6A modification of SOX2 mRNA through targeted regulation of HIF‐1α and delays wound healing in diabetic foot ulcer in vitro models
Authors: Peng Jiarui , Zhu Hong , Ruan Bin , Duan Zhisheng , Cao Mei
Published: November 2024

Objective

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are one of the most destructive complications of diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to link miR‐155 and SOX2 with DFU to explore the regulation of wound healing by DFU and its potential mechanism.

Methods

Human keratinocytes (HaCaT) were induced with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) to construct DFU models in vitro. AGE‐induced HaCaT cells were subjected to CCK‐8 assays, flow cytometry, and wound healing assays to evaluate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration capacity, respectively. RT–qPCR and Western blotting were used to determine gene and protein expression levels, respectively. N6‐methyladenosine (M6A) levels in total RNA were assessed using an M6A methylation quantification kit.

Results

Our results suggested that the inhibition of miR‐155 promoted wound healing in an in vitro DFU model, while the knockdown of HIF‐1α reversed this process, and that HIF‐1α was a target protein of miR‐155. In addition, knockdown of HIF‐1α promoted the m6A level of SOX2 mRNA, inhibited the expression of SOX2, and inhibited the activation of the EGFR/MEK/ERK signaling pathway, thus inhibiting the proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells and promoting the apoptosis of HaCaT cells, while overexpression of SOX2 reversed this effect. We also found that METTL3 knockdown had the opposite effect of HIF‐1α knockdown.

Conclusions

Inhibition of miR‐155 promoted the expression of HIF‐1α and attenuated the m6A modification of SOX2 mRNA, thereby promoting the expression of SOX2 and activating the downstream EGFR/MEK/ERK signaling pathway to promote wound healing in an in vitro DFU model.
Spray Drying Microencapsulation of Antioxidant Bioflavonoids: A Bibliometric Analysis and Review on Recent Research Landscape (2013–2023) and Process Optimization
Authors: Chan Wen Shan , Teoh Khe Xin , Leong Joey Natalie , Che Zain Mohamad Shazeli
Published: November 2024

Spray drying has become a prevalent method for microencapsulating antioxidant bioflavonoids, offering cost‐effectiveness and suitability for commercial nutraceutical production. Yet, challenges persist due to powder instability stemming from material compatibility issues and suboptimal operating conditions. A bibliometric analysis spanning 2013–2023 explored this research domain, revealing a burgeoning interest globally, notably from China, India, and Brazil. Keyword analysis highlighted prevalent themes like response surface methodology and process optimization, emphasizing maltodextrin's frequent use in encapsulation. Research delved into critical parameters such as wall material selection, compound‐to‐wall ratio, and operational optimization encompassing flow rate and inlet temperature. These insights drive advancements in spray drying technology, enabling the production of premium‐quality nutraceutical ingredients while addressing stability concerns. This research underscores the significance of optimizing spray drying processes to enhance the efficacy and shelf life of bioflavonoid‐based nutraceuticals for commercial viability.
Effect of magnetic resonance imaging protocol on decision‐making for positioning of dental implants in edentulous cases
Authors: Parize Hian , Meier Norbert , Kleinheinz Johannes , Laganá Dalva Cruz , Sesma Newton , Bohner Lauren
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the influence of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol on the decision‐making for the positioning of dental implants in edentulous arches in comparison to planning based on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methods

One phantom was scanned with CBCT and two MRI protocols (T1‐ and T2‐weighted). Two calibrated examiners performed digital implant planning (coDiagnostiX, Dental Wings), considering a digital prosthetic planning and alveolar ridge surface scan. Four implants were planned for each patient dataset, and the angular deviation between the long axis of the implants and the prosthetic planning occlusal plane was measured.

Results

Each examiner planned 40 implants, 12 implants with CBCT and 28 implants with MRI (16 with T1 and 12 with T2 images). Significant differences in angle deviation were observed between CBCT, T1, and T2 in the anterior region for both examiners (p = 0.009 for examiner 1 and p = 0.042 for examiner 2). Implants planned with CBCT showed significantly lower angular deviation than those based on the T1 and T2 scans for both examiners (p = 0.028 and p = 0.046 for examiner 1 and p = 0.028 and p = 0.027 for examiner 2). No significant difference in angular deviation was found between T1 and T2 for both examiners (examiner 1: p = 0.600, examiner 2: p = 0.916).

Conclusion

Compared to CBCT planning, the MRI protocol influenced decision‐making for anterior dental implants, with angular deviations within acceptable clinical thresholds, but further studies are needed to validate these findings.
The Effects of Shrimp Waste Added to Broiler Diets on Growth Performance, Slaughter and Carcass Characteristics, Intestinal Morphology, Bone Traits, and Fatty Acids in the Meat
Authors: Onbaşılar Esin Ebru , Gündoğar Umut Can , Çapar Akyüz Hilal , Yalçın Sakine , Ahlat Ozan , Yüceer Özkul Banu , Çelebi Berkay , Bundur Atakan , Gebeş Emre Sunay , Ünal Necmettin , Özbeyaz Ceyhan
Published: November 2024

Recycling animal waste is crucial for the circular economy, promoting environmental and sustainability. This study aimed to assess the impact of shrimp waste added to broiler diets on growth performance, slaughter and carcass characteristics, intestinal morphology, bone traits, and fatty acids in the meat. In the study, 315 ROSS‐308 male broiler chicks were utilised as the animal subjects. The experiment consisted of five groups based on the timing and amount of shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) waste addition to their diet (Control [C], 1% added the first 11 days [1% FED], 1% added during fattening [1% DF], 2% added during the first 11 days [2% FED], 2% added during fattening [2% DF]). The differences in body weight, body weight gain, total feed intake and total feed conversion ratio, carcass parameters, relative internal organ weights, and fatty acids of thigh and breast meat among the groups were found to be statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). The addition of shrimp waste to the diet only significantly affected the VH/CD ratio in the jejunum, with the C group showing a lower ratio (p < 0.05). Adding shrimp waste to the diet only affected the seedor index of the femur among the characteristics of the leg bones, and an interaction between the period and the group was observed for this trait (p < 0.05). According to the results, up to 2% shrimp waste can be added to the diet without adversely affecting broiler performance, carcass quality, villus and bone properties, and fatty acid composition. The use of shrimp waste in feed can benefit the broiler industry and protect to environment.
Unravelling Uncertainty Inception: When We Really Know That We Don't Know?
Authors: Cunha Lara Daniela Matos , Ventura Filipa , Pestana‐Santos Márcia , Lomba Lurdes , Santos Margarida Reis
Published: November 2024

Through technical rationality, healthcare professionals address instrumental problems by applying the theory and technique arising from scientific knowledge. Nevertheless, the divergent situations of practice characterised by uncertainty, instability, and uniqueness place nurses in a positivist epistemological dilemma. Decision‐making under uncertainty is a challenge that nurses face in clinical practice daily. Nurses anticipate critical events based on the interaction between (un)known factors of clinical reasoning, putting uncertainty tolerance into perspective. With undeniable epistemological relevance, few nursing researchers have addressed this issue. Based on the insights garnered from the panel held at the 26th International Nursing Philosophy Conference, this discussion paper examines the inception of uncertainty within nursing reasoning, intertwining introspection, abstraction, and the rich discussions from the conference. Accordingly, the philosophical underpinnings of the perceived experience of uncertainty will be briefly addressed, while framing the decision‐making challenges faced by nurses. A compelling dimension of nursing care emerges when we delve into the inception of uncertainty, prompting a deeper examination of the interplay between its perception and consciousness in clinical practice, and the gravitation of uncertainty in the process of empirical reasoning. Navigating uncertainty involves varying individual responses, influenced by tolerance levels. Moral appropriateness is determined by their adaptability rather than solely their positivity or logical consistency, highlighting constancy as a quality demanding alignment with an understanding of challenges.
The Impact of Early Indication of Living Donor Liver Transplantation on the Outcomes of Patients With Propionic Acidemia: A Single‐Center Experience
Authors: Nakao Toshimasa , Sakamoto Seisuke , Shimizu Seiichi , Fukuda Akinari , Uchida Hajime , Yanagi Yusuke , Komine Ryuji , Kodama Tasuku , Ninomiya Aoi , Yamada Masaki , Ono Hiroshi , Nosaka Shunsuke , Horikawa Reiko , Kasahara Mureo
Published: November 2024

Background

Liver transplantation has been indicated for propionic acidemia (PA) patients with frequent metabolic decompensation and performed as an enzyme replacement therapy. We retrospectively evaluated the outcomes of patients with PA and analyze the appropriate timing of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

Methods

We reviewed 12 children with PA who underwent LDLT, who were divided into early (period from the first episode of metabolic decompensation to LDLT < 1 year; n = 6) and late (> 1 year; n = 6) indication groups depending on the timing of LDLT.

Results

The patient and graft survival rates were 100% in 12 children with PA, and the median observation period was 61 months (5–193 months). None of the patients experienced any episodes of metabolic decompensation after LDLT. The timing of LDLT did not influence the incidence of surgical complications. Two patients in the late indication group had episodes of cardiac arrest and long QT syndrome before LDLT, and one patient showed prolongation of QT interval after LDLT. Two of the six patients in the late indication group had findings of metabolic stroke of the brain on MRI before LDLT. Although LDLT improved the findings of metabolic stroke, a decrease in development quotient score was shown in the post‐LDLT course.

Conclusions

LDLT may be an effective therapeutic option for improving metabolic control. Early LDLT might be help prevent cardiomyopathy and neurological impairment.
Implementation and Effectiveness of a Nurse‐Led Oral Hygiene Program for Schoolchildren: A Quasi‐Experimental Study
Authors: Mohamed Amal H. , Ali Howayda Mohammed , Berdida Daniel Joseph E. , Agunod Cyrelle D. , Santos Adelina M.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Good oral hygiene is essential for schoolchildren's well‐being. However, lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor oral hygiene practices may predispose to oral‐related diseases. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a nurse‐led oral hygiene program on schoolchildren's knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Design

A quasi‐experimental design with pre‐and‐post‐test was used.

Sample

Using the convenience sampling technique, we recruited 400 schoolchildren, aged 11–12 and in grades 5–6, from two primary schools in Egypt.

Methods

The study was conducted from September 2022 to May 2023. The Oral Hygiene Program served as the primary intervention. This program contains health education topics (e.g., the importance of oral hygiene, techniques for effective tooth brushing, and dietary choices that promote dental health). Three visits were conducted (Visit 1: introduction of the program purpose and objectives and pre‐test scores collection, Visit 2: implementation of oral hygiene topics, and Visit 3: post‐test scores collection). We used three self‐report instruments (Oral Health Knowledge Questionnaire, Hiroshima University's Dental Behavioral Inventory, and Oral Health Practice Questionnaire) for pre‐ and post‐test. Paired T test and Pearson correlation analysis were used for data analysis.

Results

After the intervention program, the oral hygiene program effectively enhanced schoolchildren's knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The post‐intervention mean scores were 7.83 ± 0.488 (knowledge), 6.63 ± 1.7 (practices), and 9.33 ± 1.1 (attitudes). High statistically significant differences were noted between schoolchildren's oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices before and after implementing the program (p = 0.000).

Conclusion

There were enhancements in the level of knowledge, with improved positive attitudes and satisfactory practices among schoolchildren after the implementation of the oral hygiene program. Integrating oral hygiene programs into the general curriculum in primary schools and training school nurses, caregivers, and teachers in implementing oral hygiene programs could improve oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices for preventing oral problems.
Immune Response in Cattle Trypanosomosis and Trypanotolerance: Main Findings and Gaps
Authors: Somé Gnohion Fabrice , Séré Modou , Somda Bienvenu Martin , Dayo Guiguigbaza‐Kossigan , Ouédraogo Georges Anicet , Boulangé Alain , Maarifi Ghizlane , Chantal Isabelle , Berthier‐Teyssedre David , Thévenon Sophie
Published: November 2024

Trypanosome parasites of the genus Trypanosoma cause African animal trypanosomosis, a devastating livestock disease plaguing sub‐Saharan Africa. Unlike many protozoan parasites, these extracellular blood‐borne pathogens directly engage the host's immune system. While the mouse model has provided valuable insights, a comprehensive understanding of the bovine immune response to trypanosomes remains elusive. Addressing the immune response in cattle, the most relevant host species, and how it takes part in mitigating the negative impact of the disease could contribute to setting up sustainable control strategies. This review summarises the current knowledge of the immune response in cattle during trypanosomosis. Following a brief overview of infection processes and bovine trypanotolerance, we present advances in the regulation of host innate, inflammatory and adaptive responses and delve into the key immunological players involved in immunoactivities and immunosuppression. We discuss how these mechanisms contribute to tolerance or susceptibility to infection, highlighting critical gaps in knowledge that require further investigation.
Militarized policing in the hinterlands: A Blackwater training ground and the cultural conceptions of security
Authors: Kanosky Alison J.
Published: November 2024

Research in recent decades shows that private military and security contractors have reshaped the tenor and reach of US military power abroad while also accelerating the militarization of domestic policing. Previous work on militarized policing has primarily centered on urban environments. This article examines Blackwater North, a facility in a rural Illinois community, which provided privatized, militarized police training from 2007 through 2010. Drawing from newspaper accounts, government records, and ethnographic fieldwork conducted in the community after the facility's closure, I analyze residents’ recollections of the local support of and opposition to Blackwater North. I argue that local supporters promoted a culture of perpetual preparedness that positioned militarized policing as a rational form of harm reduction, as well as one that could yield economic benefits to struggling host communities. I also examine the opposition and analyze the insider/outsider divides that emerged within the debate surrounding Blackwater North. At stake for both supporters and opponents were differing cultural conceptions of what increases, and what erodes, security. This case study focuses on rural spaces’ role in the landscape of militarized policing and illuminates the cultural processes by which privatized military power and militarized policing become accepted and resisted at the community level.
Linking phylogenetic niche conservatism in bacterial communities in sorghum root compartments revealed by the Hongyingzi cultivar
Authors: Zhao L. , Luo Z. , Hu Z. , Zhang Y. , Zhao T. , Zhong Y. , Wang X.
Published: November 2024

The root system harbours complex bacterial communities, which are critical for plant growth and health. Significant differences exist between bacterial communities in the root compartments; however, limited reports have explored their phylogenetic composition and niche conservatism in the root system of sorghum.

We used the sorghum Hongyingzi cultivar as test plant, and applied 16S rRNA high‐throughput sequencing and various statistical approaches.

Phylogenetic composition of bacterial communities in root compartments were primarily driven by closely related species with similar environmental adaptations. We also found evidence of phylogenetic niche conservatism in bacterial communities for edaphic factors in the various root compartments, with pH and available N playing essential roles in shaping community composition. Environmental threshold analysis revealed threshold ranges of dominant taxa for pH and available N, indicating wider adaptive thresholds for more abundant taxa. Reconstruction of ancestral states suggested evolutionary changes in adaptability of certain bacterial taxa to edaphic factors, suggesting a shift towards slightly acidic, high N environments and reflecting the prolonged mutual interaction between bacteria and plants in cultivated soils.

These findings enhance our understanding of environmental responses and evolutionary dynamics of root‐associated microbiota in young sorghum plants and provide novel insights into ecological adaptations, shedding light on their responses to environmental factors. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the ecological dynamics of root‐associated microbiota and offers analytical pathways for exploring the nutritional regulation of root microbiota.
The unstable social networks of students: Where does dissimilarity drive tie dissolution?
Authors: Franken Rob , Bekhuis Hidde , Tolsma Jochem
Published: November 2024

Social relations between demographically dissimilar people are less likely to last. But up till now, why relations with dissimilar friends, confidants, or even sport partners are less stable has remained unclear. We argue that the faster dissolution of ties to dissimilar others may stem from their weaker embeddedness in our social networks. We may feel less emotionally close to those who differ from us in key social dimensions such as gender, age, and education, and these alters may fulfill fewer roles (e.g., friend and study partner, or ‘multiplexity’). Moreover, their dissimilarity may hinder their ability to form relations with others in our social network. In this contribution, we investigate the impact of ego‐alter dissimilarity on the stability of friendships, confidants, and study and sport relations, while acknowledging multiplexity—recognizing that the same alter may serve different roles. We find that ego‐alter age dissimilarity is associated with tie dissolution; relations are less stable and consistently so across emotional and instrumental network layers. Gender and education dissimilarity do not impact relationship stability among our sample of Dutch students. The better alters are embedded in ego's network, the more stable are their ties. Relational embeddedness (i.e., emotional closeness and role overlap) predominantly affects the stability of confidants and friendship relations; structural embeddedness (i.e., alters having ties to ego's other alters) predominantly affects the stability of study relations. This also explains why relations with differently aged alters are less stable.
The power functions of Begg's and Egger's tests for publication bias
Authors: Michael Haben
Published: November 2024

Publication bias undermines the results of meta‐analyses and other systematic reviews. Applying a formal test for publication bias is therefore a part of many protocols for conducting a meta‐analysis. To be effective in this role, the tests must have good power to detect the presence of publication bias. We derive the local limiting power functions and study the Pitman relative efficiency for two popular tests, Begg's and Egger's tests. The analysis suggests that the differences between the two arise out of built‐in robustness properties of Begg's test. These work to its detriment in the commonly used Gaussian model, but leave it with better efficiency when study effects are heavy‐tailed or skew.
DeepJEB: 3D Deep Learning-Based Synthetic Jet Engine Bracket Dataset
Authors: Hong Seongjun , Kwon Yongmin , Shin Dongju , Park Jangseop , Kang Namwoo
Published: November 2024

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have impacted various fields, including mechanical engineering. However, the development of diverse, high-quality datasets for structural analysis remains a challenge. Traditional datasets, like the jet engine bracket dataset, are limited by small sample sizes, hindering the creation of robust surrogate models. This study introduces the DeepJEB dataset, generated through deep generative models and automated simulation pipelines, to address these limitations. DeepJEB offers comprehensive 3D geometries and corresponding structural analysis data. Key experiments validated its effectiveness, showing significant improvements in surrogate model performance. Models trained on DeepJEB achieved up to a 23% increase in the coefficient of determination and over a 70% reduction in mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) compared to those trained on traditional datasets. These results underscore the superior generalization capabilities of DeepJEB. By supporting advanced modeling techniques, such as graph neural networks (GNNs) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs), DeepJEB enables more accurate predictions in structural performance. The DeepJEB dataset is publicly accessible online.
Repurposing as a Decommissioning Strategy for Complex Systems: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hewa Witharanage Shenal Dilanjaya , Otto Kevin , Li Wen , Holtta-Otto Katja
Published: November 2024

Managing the waste of decommissioned complex systems (e.g., aircraft and wind turbines) is a growing issue. In this review, we investigate repurposing as a potential solution. The objectives are to identify strategies that can enable repurposing and identify the research gaps hindering those strategies. We analyzed 104 journal articles published in the last decade. We identified four proactive strategies that can be applied before the decommissioning stage and three reactive strategies that can be applied after the decommissioning stage. The proactive strategies are local ecosystem-focused repurposing, modular design, efficient disassembly methods, and component-embedded design and health information. The reactive strategies are decision support methods for repurposable component selection, function and context-based repurposing opportunities, and business models for repurposing. Six research gaps were identified, hindering the strategies due to the lack of support methods for repurposing, strategy scope limitations, and repurposing opportunity limitations. We identified that two repurposing examples were most commonly studied (wind turbine blades and electric vehicle batteries). Addressing the research gaps through design could uncover new repurposing opportunities. The resulting opportunities could follow similar processes addressed under the two well-researched examples, enabling repurposing as an advantageous and sustainable decommissioning strategy for complex systems.
The Unsteady Shock–Boundary Layer Interaction in a Compressor Cascade—Part II: High-Fidelity Simulation
Authors: Klose Bjoern F. , Morsbach Christian , Bergmann Michael , Munoz Lopez Edwin J. , Hergt Alexander , Kügeler Edmund
Published: November 2024

In the second part of this three-paper series, high-fidelity simulations of the transonic cascade TEAMAero at the aerodynamic design point with Rein=1.35×106 and Main=1.21 are presented. A high-order discontinuous Galerkin spectral element method with finite-volume subcell shock capturing is employed to simulate the flow based on an implicit large eddy simulation (LES) scheme and advanced over several buffeting cycles to reliably capture the shock unsteadiness. A study on the spanwise domain size shows that the shock oscillation amplitude decreases with increasing span, although its frequency and mean location remain fixed through the simulations. By comparing high- and low-resolution LES results, it is further presented that deviations from under-resolution are mostly limited to the separated region past the shock, where the high-fidelity results match experimental results more closely. In addition to the LES, low-fidelity unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes is shown to capture the shock unsteadiness correctly, but at a reduced amplitude and fails to match the force distributions on the blade surface. Through examination of instantaneous flow features, space–time relations and spectral proper orthogonal decomposition, a basic analysis of the shock–boundary layer interaction is presented and indicates that velocity perturbations travel upstream through the subsonic boundary layer and periodically cause oblique shock waves, transporting the information from the boundary layer into the passage.
CRISPR spacers acquired from plasmids primarily target backbone genes, making them valuable for predicting potential hosts and host range
Authors: Androsiuk Lucy , Maane Sivan , Tal Shay
Published: November 2024

In recent years, there has been a surge in metagenomic studies focused on identifying plasmids in environmental samples. Although these studies have unearthed numerous novel plasmids, enriching our understanding of their environmental roles, a significant gap remains: the scarcity of information regarding the bacterial hosts of these newly discovered plasmids. Furthermore, even when plasmids are identified within bacterial isolates, the reported host is typically limited to the original isolate, with no insights into alternative hosts or the plasmid’s potential host range. Given that plasmids depend on hosts for their existence, investigating plasmids without the knowledge of potential hosts offers only a partial perspective. This study introduces a method for identifying potential hosts and host ranges for plasmids through alignment with CRISPR spacers. To validate the method, we compared the PLSDB plasmids database with the CRISPR spacers database, yielding host predictions for 46% of the plasmids. When compared with reported hosts, our predictions achieved 84% concordance at the family level and 99% concordance at the phylum level. Moreover, the method frequently identified multiple potential hosts for a plasmid, thereby enabling predictions of alternative hosts and the host range. Notably, we found that CRISPR spacers predominantly target plasmid backbone genes while sparing functional genes, such as those linked to antibiotic resistance, aligning with our hypothesis that CRISPR spacers are acquired from plasmid-specific regions rather than insertion elements from diverse sources. Finally, we illustrate the network of connections among different bacterial taxa through plasmids, revealing potential pathways for horizontal gene transfer.

IMPORTANCE

Plasmids are notorious for their role in distributing antibiotic resistance genes, but they may also carry and distribute other environmentally important genes. Since plasmids are not free-living entities and rely on host bacteria for survival and propagation, predicting their hosts is essential. This study presents a method for predicting potential hosts for plasmids and offers insights into the potential paths for spreading functional genes between different bacteria. Understanding plasmid-host relationships is crucial for comprehending the ecological and clinical impact of plasmids and implications for various biological processes.
Growth promotion on maize and whole-genome sequence analysis of
Bacillus velezensis
D103
Authors: Zhang Yating , Zhang Ning , Bi Xinyue , Bi Tong , Baloch Faryal Babar , Miao Jianjia , Zeng Nan , Li Bingxue , An Yingfeng
Published: November 2024

Root-associated microorganisms, particularly plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from the
Bacillus
genus, play a crucial role in enhancing crop yield and health. In this study, a
Bacillus
strain was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of maize and identified as
Bacillus velezensis
D103. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the potential of D103 as a PGPR. Laboratory tests demonstrated that D103 is capable of nitrogen fixation, inorganic phosphorus solubilization, potassium solubilization, and the synthesis of indole-3-acetic acid, ammonia, siderophores, amylase, protease, cellulase, β-1,3-glucanase, and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase. Additionally, D103 exhibited swimming and swarming motility, biofilm formation, and an antagonistic activity against pathogenic fungi. Genome mining identified genes associated with growth promotion and biocontrol activities. In a hydroponics experiment, maize plants treated with a D103 suspension at a cell density of 10
3
CFU·mL
−1
resulted in the most pronounced showed significant growth stimulation, with shoot length and total root length increasing by 43% and 148%, respectively. These results support the potential of D103 as an effective PGPR for promoting maize crop growth.

IMPORTANCE

In this study, we assessed the capacity of D103 to promote plant growth and examined the effects of hydroponic experiments inoculated with this strain on the growth of maize seedlings. We sequenced and analyzed the complete genome of D103, identifying several genes and gene clusters associated with plant growth promotion and resistance to pathogenic fungi, thus revealing the plant growth-promoting mechanisms of this strain. The isolation and characterization of new strains with beneficial traits are essential for expanding microbial resources available for biofertilizer production. Collectively, these findings highlight the promising potential of
Bacillus velezensis
D103 as a biofertilizer for agricultural applications.
Revealing sRNA expression profiles of NDM-5-producing CRKP and explore the role of sRNA207 in NDM-5-producing CRKP resistance
Authors: Xie Chonghong , Bai Yibo , Li Yan , Cui Bing , Cheng Guixue , Liu Jianhua , liu Yong , Qin Xiaosong
Published: November 2024

New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-5 (NDM-5)-producing carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(CRKP) is characterized by high virulence, high morbidity, and mortality, and the detection rate in children has increased in recent years. Therefore, it is urgent to develop new therapeutic targets and strategies. Non-coding small RNA (sRNA)-mediated RNA-based therapies offer a new direction for the treatment of bacterial infections, especially resistant bacteria. This study first analyzed the transcriptional expression profiles of NDM-5-producing CRKP and Carbapenem-susceptible
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(CSKP) isolates from the clinic by RNA-seq. A total of 4,623 genes were obtained, of which 307 genes were differentially expressed in NDM-5-producing CRKP, and these differentially expressed genes are mainly related to metabolism. Then, by analyzing the length and secondary structure of genes that could not match the reference gene and non-redundant protein database, we obtained 268 sRNAs, of which 13 sRNAs were differentially expressed in NDM-5-producing CRKP. After the expression level of differentially expressed sRNA was verified by RT-PCR to be consistent with that of RNA-seq, we chose sRNA207 as our research target. By knockdown of sRNA207 and
smf-1
(the predicted target mRNA of sRNA207) in the strain, we found that increased expression of sRNA207 promoted biofilm formation by stabilizing expression of
smf
-1, which in turn affected the resistance of NDM-5-producing CRKP to carbapenems. This provides a new approach to treat CRKP infection.

IMPORTANCE

sRNAs form a regulatory network that regulates bacterial virulence, drug resistance, and other functions by targeting mRNAs. However, sRNA expression profile and function of NDM-5-producing carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(CRKP) are still unknown. In this study, we analyzed the sRNA expression profiles of NDM-5-producing CRKP obtained from clinical by referring to the methods of previous articles. A total of 268 candidates sRNAs were obtained, of which 248 were newly discovered. More importantly, 13 sRNAs were differentially expressed in NDM-5-producing CRKP compared with CSKP. We knocked down sRNA207 in NDM-5-producing CRKP to validate its effect on
smf
-1, biofilm, and resistance of strains. We also confirmed the role of
smf
-1 in biofilm formation and drug resistance of NDM-5-producing CRKP by constructing
smf
-1-knockdown strain. The results suggest that
smf
-1 is the target gene of sRNA207. Increased expression of sRNA207 in NDM-5-producing CRKP stabilizes
smf
-1 expression, which in turn affects the resistance of the strains through biofilm formation.