bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viperin-like proteins interfere with RNA viruses in plants
Authors: Kamel Radwa , Aman Rashid , Mahfouz Magdy M.
Published: June 2024

Plant viruses cause substantial losses in crop yield and quality; therefore, devising new, robust strategies to counter viral infections has important implications for agriculture. Virus inhibitory protein endoplasmic reticulum-associated interferon-inducible (Viperin) proteins are conserved antiviral proteins. Here, we identified a set of Viperin and Viperin-like proteins from multiple species and tested whether they could interfere with RNA viruses in planta. Our data from transient and stable overexpression of these proteins in Nicotiana benthamiana reveal varying levels of interference against the RNA viruses tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), and potato virus x (PVX). Harnessing the potential of these proteins represents a novel avenue in plant antiviral approaches, offering a broader and more effective spectrum for application in plant biotechnology and agriculture. Identifying these proteins opens new avenues for engineering a broad range of resistance to protect crop plants against viral pathogens.
A smooth vetch (Vicia villosa var.) strain endogenous to the broad-spectrum antagonist Bacillus siamensis JSZ06 alleviates banana wilt disease
Authors: Ruan Yan-Nan , Nong Caihong , Jintrawet Attachai , Fan Huacai , Fu Libo , Zheng Si-Jun , Li Shu , Wang Zhi-Yuan
Published: June 2024

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (Foc TR4), poses a significant threat to banana production globally, thereby necessitating effective biocontrol methods to manage this devastating disease. This study investigates the potential of Bacillus siamensis strain JSZ06, isolated from smooth vetch, as a biocontrol agent against Foc TR4. To this end, we conducted a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate the antifungal activity of strain JSZ06 and its crude extracts. Additionally, genomic analyses were performed to identify antibiotic synthesis genes, while metabolomic profiling was conducted to characterize bioactive compounds. The results demonstrated that strain JSZ06 exhibited strong inhibitory activity against Foc TR4, significantly reducing mycelial growth and spore germination. Moreover, scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed substantial ultrastructural damage to Foc TR4 mycelia treated with JSZ06 extracts. Genomic analysis identified several antibiotic synthesis genes, and metabolomic profiling revealed numerous antifungal metabolites. Furthermore, in pot trials, the application of JSZ06 fermentation broth significantly enhanced banana plant growth and reduced disease severity, achieving biocontrol efficiencies of 76.71% and 79.25% for leaves and pseudostems, respectively. In conclusion, Bacillus siamensis JSZ06 is a promising biocontrol agent against Fusarium wilt in bananas, with its dual action of direct antifungal activity and plant growth promotion underscoring its potential for integrated disease management strategies.
The link between social comparison orientation and domain-specific risk-taking: exploring the mediating role of two dimensions of trait competitiveness
Authors: Wang Yuqian , Elliot Andrew J. , Derrington Edmund , Li Yansong
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Our recent research has demonstrated that social comparison orientation of ability (SCO-ability) is an antecedent of trait competitiveness (TC), and TC mediates the relation between SCO-ability and domain-specific risk-taking. TC is a multi-dimensional trait, therefore we sought to expand on prior research by examining whether SCO-ability predicted two distinct dimensions of TC: hypercompetitive orientation (HCO) and self-development competitive orientation (SDCO).

Methods

We investigated how these different dimensions of TC mediated the relation between SCO-ability and both overall and domain-specific risk-taking in two correlational studies of 622 college students (313 males, mean age = 22.10, SD = 2.35) and 717 adult workers (368 males, mean age = 27.92, SD = 5.11).

Results

We found that SCO-ability positively predicted HCO. Together, SCO-ability and HCO predicted overall risk-taking and risk-taking in the recreational and ethical domains in both samples. HCO mediated the relation between SCO-ability and both overall risk-taking and risk-taking in the recreational and ethical domains. Additionally, SCO-ability positively predicted SDCO. SCO-ability and SDCO mainly predicted risk-taking in the recreational domain in both studies. SDCO mediated the relation between SCO-ability and risk-taking only in the recreational domain.

Discussion

Collectively, the findings above advance our understanding of the relation between competition and risk-taking by using differentiated measures of TC (HCO and SDCO). Our findings suggest that HCO is more strongly related to risk-taking than SDCO, thereby refining the possible role of SCO-ability and TC in predicting overall risk-taking and domain-specific risk-taking.
English language learning anxiety and academic burnout in Chinese freshmen: a chain mediating approach
Authors: Zheng Shuang , Zhang Junliang , Wang Jingming , Shen Ruiqing
Published: June 2024

Background

The university stage is critical for cultivating and enhancing students’ practical English proficiency, encompassing listening, speaking, reading, writing, and translation skills. Losing interest in English studies at this stage not only hampers the development of practical English competence but also has a negative impact on future employment and personal growth.

Aims

This study aimed to explore to how English language learning anxiety (ELLA) affects academic burnout (AB) of freshman in China and explores the role of academic peer support (APS) and academic self-efficacy (ASE) in the relationship between the two.

Methods

The study involved 1,355 college students who completed English Language Learning Anxiety Scale, the English Academic burnout Scale, Academic Peer Relationship Scale, the Academic Self-efficacy Scale.

Results

AB was significantly impacted by ELLA. ELLA and AB were mediated by ASE. Another factor that acted as a mediator between ELLA and AB was APS. ELLA and AB were mediated by a chain reaction involving ASE and APS.

Conclusion

The chain mediation model validated in this study, providing valuable insights into the effects of freshmen’s ELLA on AB in China, as well as practical insights into the prevention and intervention of ELLA and AB in other current college students.
Bridging technology and care: integrating web-based PROMs in mental health services for refugees: a study on clinician training and technology adoption
Authors: Moeller Stine Bjerrum , Kring Lotte
Published: June 2024

This study explores the integration of a web-based electronic database technology containing patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) with electronic health records for refugees with PTSD, emphasizing the systematic inclusion of patient perspectives in clinical decision-making. Our research addresses the notable gap in literature regarding training clinicians for the competent integration of health information technology in healthcare. The training program developed aimed at equipping clinicians, particularly inexperienced with technology, to effectively utilize an electronic PROM system for collecting systematic patient information. Our study is set in the context of the Mental Health Services (MHS) in Denmark, focusing on a specialized clinic for treating trauma-affected refugees. The multidisciplinary team involved in this project reflects a wide range of healthcare professionals. The training program employed a variety of activities over nearly 2 years, adapting to feedback and aiming to engage clinicians in continuous improvement processes. Analyzing qualitative data with thematic analysis we interpreted that the training’s extended focus on discussion of the implementation process, with limited hands-on experience, potentially reinforced clinicians’ hesitations toward new technology, rather than reducing them. Clinicians prioritized immediate concerns over potential long-term benefits. Despite this, their approach reflects a strong commitment to patient welfare and careful evaluation of new practices. Notably, there were also positive engagements with the technology, highlighting its potential in patient care. This study concludes that the successful integration of technology in clinical settings hinges on its alignment with clinicians’ workflows, respect for their professional judgment, and clear benefits to patient care.
Are surveys blind to sexual and gender diversity? Reflections and an open proposal
Authors: Royo Raquel , Aristegui Iratxe , Silvestre Maria
Published: June 2024

This article presents an open proposal on how to include questions that capture different gender identities and sexual orientations in quantitative research. Our theoretical framework is feminist theory and the evolution of feminist debates on identity categories, where the introduction of an intersectional gender perspective has been an important paradigm shift. We have compiled different previous categorization proposals and consider the consequences of not including categories that reflect identity diversity in surveys in order to finally offer our proposal for operationalizing identities. The proposal aims to ensure comparability in longitudinal studies and, at the same time, to incorporate new identity frameworks and an intersectional perspective in quantitative methodology research.
Women's experiences of sexual harassment in the retail clothing industry: a grounded theory study
Authors: Akbari Maryam , Kaveh Mohammad Hossein , Cousins Rosanna
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sexual harassment is a significant problem in workplaces all over the world. Women's reactions to sexual harassment are influenced by various factors. The aim of the current study was to investigate how women respond sexual harassment in the retail clothing industry.

Methods

In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with 16 women aged 23–44 years (mean 29.18 years) employed for at least 3 years in clothes shops in Shiraz, Iran. A grounded theory approach was used to analysis the data and raise hypotheses.

Results

The main perpetrators of sexual harassment for female saleswomen were male customers. The women experienced conflict-induced stimulation (core phenomenon) when they were faced with sexual harassing behaviors (causal conditions). Such stimulation prompted three types of coping strategies: silence, avoidance, or confrontation. Intervening factors like the characteristics of the Iranian society (including family mores, state-imposed hijab regulations, patriarchal culture, educational system, and regulatory monitoring) and contextual factors (including individual and environmental factors and particularly employer expectations) were found to influence the selection of strategies used as well as their potential consequences in challenging situations.

Conclusion

The current study used a grounded theory approach to produce an explanatory storyline that can be tested. Sexual harassment induces conflict-induced stimulation and responses are influenced by intervening conditions, contextual factors, selected strategies, and the perceived consequences of the response. The findings of the grounded theory study suggest that there are negative consequences, particularly in terms of lack of employer support and losing one's job, shame, and family disapproval which act as barriers for female saleswomen to counteracting sexual harassment from male customers. Such an understanding can also be applied to develop educational policies to support women as well as ameliorate the prevalence of this essentially illegal problem.
The lived experiences and perceptions of middle-aged adults in Dominica who have survived severe storms—a qualitative exploration
Authors: LeBlanc Josie-Ann , Jones Waneisha , Harewood Heather
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The Eastern Caribbean island of Dominica has experienced diverse negative effects from the North Atlantic hurricane season, including deadly storms like Hurricane Maria in 2017. Vulnerability is increased by geographic location, small island developing state (SIDS) status, and ecosystem characteristics. A variety of negative health effects including stress and anxiety are caused by powerful storms. The perspectives of middle-aged (the “sandwich generation”) survivors in this post-storm milieu are understudied.

Methods

This phenomenological qualitative study describes the perceptions of middle-aged (35–55 years) Dominicans, purposively recruited with gatekeeper assistance from communities stratified according to four natural hazard vulnerability categories designated by the Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica (CREAD), regarding their lived experiences in the context of severe storms. Data was collected between June and August 2022, using primarily Zoom-based semi-structured, individual interviews (12 of 13), guided by the principles of saturation and maximum variation. Verbatim interview transcripts were thematically analyzed with constant comparison using an ATLAS.ti-supported hybrid deductive-inductive coding frame. Reflexivity and contact summary sheets were used to minimize bias.

Results

Ten women and three men from diverse CREAD vulnerability and sociodemographic backgrounds were recruited. Data condensation yielded three organizing themes: (i) “The diverse health effects of severe storms”, (ii) “Response to and recovery from severe storms”, and (iii) “Preparedness and precaution for severe storms”. These themes encapsulated the health impacts of severe storms on Dominicans and elucidated the role of facilitating and barricading resilience factors.

Discussion

Severe storms produced direct and indirect mental, social, and physical health impacts on middle-aged Dominicans, including anxiety and burnout. Participants used faith-based, tangible community-based support, and emotional mechanisms to cope with and demonstrate resilience. Better risk communication and early warning systems would improve population readiness. Persistent dispirited attitudes toward storm preparedness among some participants suggest the need for targeted methods to enhance community involvement in disaster planning, including traditional approaches like “coup-de-main” (self-help).
Status of professional mental health help-seeking intention associated factors among medical students: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Qiu Lei , Wangzhou Kaixin , Liu Yudan , Ding Jindong , Li Hui , Ma Jinhui
Published: June 2024

Aim

Low professional help-seeking intention (PHSI) hinders effective treatment of mental illness. PHSI among Chinese students is still understudied and under-recognized. This study aimed to evaluate the status of PHSI and its associated risk factors among Chinese medical students.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Hainan province, South China, between January 1, 2021, and May 31, 2021. A total of 2182 medical students were recruited and surveyed via an anonymous structured questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with PHSI.

Results

Among the 2182 medical students (mean age 21.0 years (SD = 3.70), 61.5% females), those with and without PHSI were 72.0% and 28.0%, and 16.4% with moderate to severe depression. Male students, those with a high level of depression stigma, serious family dysfunction, and heavy dependence on mobile phones were significantly less likely to seek professional mental health help, with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.5, 2.0, 2.1, and 1.7, respectively.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of Chinese medical students demonstrate low PHSI, influenced by factors such as gender, depression stigma, family dysfunction, and mobile phone dependence. Future interventions aimed at increasing medical students’ PHSI should prioritize reducing depression stigma, mitigating reliance on mobile phone use, and enhancing family function to address these key barriers to seeking professional mental health support.
Assessing the validity and reliability of the 10-item Persian version of the perceived stress scale in post-surgery patients
Authors: Sharif-Nia Hamid , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan , Hoseinzadeh Esmail , Kaveh Omolhoda , Fatehi Reza , Nowrozi Poorya
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) is commonly used to measure stress levels in postoperative patients, as research shows that high levels of stress can affect postoperative outcomes. By using the PSS-10, healthcare providers can understand patients’ psychological well-being before and after surgery, helping improve recovery and overall health. This study focuses on assessing the reliability and validity of the 10-item Persian version of the PSS (PSS-10-P) in postoperative patients.

Methods

In a methodological study conducted between October to December 2023, a sample of 400 patients who had undergone surgery in 17 Shahrivar Hospital, Amol, Iran were selected using a convenience sampling method. The PSS-10 scale utilized in the study was translated, and its psychometric properties were evaluated through assessments of construct validity, including exploratory (n = 200) and confirmatory (n = 200) factor analysis, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. Furthermore, the study examined the internal consistency of the scale to ensure its reliability.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 44.38 (SD= 13.49) years. The results of exploratory factor analysis with Promax rotation extracted two factors accounting for 83.82% of the variance comprising 10 items. After necessary modifications during CFA, the final model was approved. As for reliability, the Cronbach’s alpha, CR, and MaxR for all constructs were greater than 0.7, demonstrating good internal consistency and construct reliability.

Conclusion

According to these results, the Persian version of PSS-10 has a valid structure and acceptable reliability. This scale can be used by health professionals in many ways.
The effect of social activities on the alienation and family resilience of Chinese caregivers for children with autism: a latent class analysis
Authors: Zheng Lin , Long Chen , Choi Wongyu
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in China often experience alienation due to societal stigma. While this alienation detrimentally impacts their mental well-being, family resilience serves as a protective factor. Previous research has predominantly examined the social support derived from social activities but has neglected to delve into the specific patterns of these activities. The primary objective of this study was twofold: firstly, to gain insights into the various social activities engaged in by caregivers of children with autism in China, and secondly, to ascertain the influence of these social activities on alienation and family resilience.

Methods

Between June and August 2023, a cross-sectional survey was carried out across multiple cities in Jilin Province, aiming to gather data from a total of 205 Chinese caregivers of children with autism. Data collection was conducted through the utilization of a structured questionnaire. The assessment of social activity involved the completion of 12 questionnaires, while alienation was evaluated using the Generalized Alienation Scale (GSAS), and family resilience was gauged through the Chinese version of the Family Resilience Scale (FaRE). The classification of social activities was conducted through latent class analysis (LCA), while the impact of these social activities on alienation and family resilience was examined using linear regression analysis.

Results

The findings revealed that social activities can be categorized into five types (Low, Self-Recreation, Communication, Web Surfing, High). Communication social activities were found to reduce family resilience(β=.332, p<0.01), while high social activities were associated with reduced alienation(β=-.349, p<0.05) and increased family resilience(β=.417, p<0.01).

Conclusion

Supporting these particular types of social activities has the potential to reduce alienation and bolster family resilience among caregivers for children with autism in China.
Similarities and differences between eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder in childhood and adolescence: a systematic review
Authors: Di Luzio Michelangelo , Bellantoni Domenica , Bellantoni Anna Laura , Villani Valeria , Di Vincenzo Cristina , Zanna Valeria , Vicari Stefano , Pontillo Maria
Published: June 2024

Background

The developmental age, comprising childhood and adolescence, constitutes an extremely important phase of neurodevelopment during which various psychiatric disorders can emerge. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Eating Disorders (ED) often manifest during this critical developmental period sharing similarities but also differences in psychopathology, neurobiology, and etiopathogenesis. The aim of this study is to focus on clinical, genetic and neurobiological similarities and differences in OCD and ED.

Methods

This study is based on a PubMed/MEDLINE and Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trial (CENTRAL). The research adhered to the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Results

The aforementioned search yielded an initial collection of 335 articles, published from 1968 to September 2023. Through the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 324 articles were excluded, culminating in a final selection of 10 articles.

Conclusions

Our findings showed both differences and similarities between OCD and ED. Obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms are more prevalent in ED characterized by a binge/purge profile than in those with a restrictive profile during developmental age. OC symptomatology appears to be a common dimension in both OCD and ED. When presents, OC symptomatology, exhibits transversal characteristic alterations in the anterior cingulate cortex and poorer cognitive flexibility. These correlations could be highlighted by genetic overlaps between disorders. A comprehensive definition, integrating psychopathological and neurobiological aspects could significantly aid treatment selection and thereby influence the prognosis of these patients.
Study on the evaluation and influencing factors of contracted residents on the coordination of primary medical institutions
Authors: Xu Lingfeng , Xu Na , Jiang Xiaoli , Peng Haibo , Wu Yixuan , Lang Zihan , Zhou Lifang , Ma Dongping , Chen Zhongming , Yin Chengliang , Yu Qianqian
Published: June 2024

Background

The implementation of family doctor contract service is a pivotal measure to enhance primary medical services and execute the hierarchical diagnosis and treatment system. Achieving service coordination among various institutions is both a fundamental objective and a central element of contract services.

Objective

The study aims to assess residents’ evaluations and determining factors related to the coordination of health services within primary medical institutions across different regions of Shandong Province. The findings intend to serve as a reference for enhancing the coordination services offered by these institutions.

Methods

The study employed a multi-stage stratified random sampling method to select three prefecture-level cities in Shandong Province with different economic levels. Within each city, three counties (districts) were randomly sampled using the same method. Within each county (district), three community health service centers and township health centers implementing family doctor contract services were selected randomly. Face-to-face questionnaire surveys were conducted with contracted residents using the coordination dimension of the revised Primary Care Assessment Tools Scale (PCAT) developed by the research team. Data analysis was conducted using such methods as one-way analysis of variance and multiple linear regression.

Results

The sample included 3,859 contracted residents. The coordination dimension score of primary medical institutions averaged 3.41 ± 0.18, with the referral service sub-dimension scoring 3.60 ± 0.58 and the information system sub-dimension scoring 3.34 ± 0.65. The overall score of the referral service sub-dimension surpassed that of the information system sub-dimension. Regression results indicated that the city’s economic status, the type of contracted institutions, gender, education, marital status, income, occupation, health status, and endowment insurance payment status significantly influenced the coordinated service score of primary medical institutions (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The coordination of primary medical institutions in Shandong Province warrants further optimization. Continued efforts should focus on refining the referral system, expediting information infrastructure development, enhancing the service standards of primary medical institutions, and fostering resident trust. These measures aim to advance the implementation of the hierarchical diagnosis and treatment and two-way referral system.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of human papillomavirus and self-sampling among adult women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Shao Juan , Ke Huihui , Jiang Cui , Sun Huanmei , Han Hongyu , Zhu Jianlong , Chen Li , Wang Yingchen , Gu Jiashi , Duan Yingchun
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of human papillomavirus (HPV) and self-sampling among adult women.

Methods

The cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study included adult women at Shanghai Pudong Hospital from October 14, 2022, to March 31, 2023. The questionnaire contained demographic information, knowledge, attitude and practice dimensions. Factors associated with KAP and self-sampling were identified by multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 1843 valid questionnaires were collected. The average knowledge, attitude, and practice score was 10.09 ± 5.60, 26.76 ± 3.80, and 6.24 ± 2.20, respectively. Urban residents (estimate = 0.705, p < 0.001), suburban residents (estimate = 0.512, p < 0.001), as well as individuals with undergraduate degrees and higher (estimate = 0.535, p < 0.001), were associated with good knowledge, while individuals lacking a history of HPV infection (estimate = −0.461, p < 0.001) and married individuals (estimate = −0.185, p < 0.001) were less likely to have good knowledge. Higher knowledge scores (estimate = 0.087, p < 0.001) and individuals with undergraduate education and above (estimate = 1.570, p < 0.001) were associated with a positive attitude. Being married (estimate = 0.291, p = 0.049) was associated with good practice, whereas not engaging in sexual activity (estimate = −0.959, p < 0.001) or lacking a history of HPV infection (estimate = −0.499, p = 0.011) were associated with unfavorable practices. Minorities (OR = 2.787, p = 0.038) and individuals with multiple sexual partners (OR = 2.297 for two partners, OR = 2.767 for three or more partners, p = 0.020 and p = 0.022) were positively associated with self-sampling. However, higher knowledge (OR = 0.952, p = 0.026) and attitude scores (OR = 0.929, p = 0.015) were negatively associated with self-sampling.

Conclusion

Demographic and behavioral factors significantly influenced KAP scores and self-sampling behaviors regarding HPV. Urban residency, higher education levels, positive attitudes, and minority status correlated with favorable outcomes, while factors like marriage and lack of sexual activity were associated with less favorable practices.
Risk assessment industry driven approach in occupational health and safety
Authors: Hollá Katarína , Kuricová Alena , Kočkár Samuel , Prievozník Pavol , Dostál Filip
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Risk assessment and management in companies plays a significant role in the prevention section of any field. In the field of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), its inconsistent or incorrect application has a direct impact on the life and health of employees. In some companies, even today, it is not properly implemented and adequate procedures and methods are not used. The article discusses the development of a step-by-step procedure for risk assessment in industrial environments in the area of OHS.

Methods

Main parts of the model and its steps present the partial results of a survey conducted on a sample of 500 small and micro enterprises in the field of risk assessment and the systematic procedure developed following the main survey results. The survey covered only enterprises located in the construction, manufacturing, transport and storage and agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors, which is also a significant statistical feature. Within the structure of respondents, statistical features such as: size of enterprise, sector, region by work are identified. Only enterprises with size by number of employees - micro enterprises from 1 to 9 employees and small enterprises from 10 to 49 employees - were included for the survey.

Results

New elements of the methods were integrated into the developed systematic procedure, which was subsequently validated in 7 plants of the one company on the same position. The application of the developed model was verified by an expert group consisting of 7 members, an odd number, and the developed checklists and risk register were applied. On the basis of the verification, the model, checklist and risk register were corrected. In addition, the scoring method and the risk matrix were also used, but they did not contain new elements.

Discusion

The procedure is still in use today and employees have been trained to use it. On the basis of the developed methodology and the Checklist, the procedure has been transposed into the European OiRA tool and can be used by companies throughout the European Union.
Innovative house structures for malaria vector control in Nampula district, Mozambique: assessing mosquito entry prevention, indoor comfort, and community acceptance
Authors: Francisco Micanaldo Ernesto , Watanabe Kozo
Published: June 2024

Background

Insecticide-treated mosquito bed nets and indoor residual spraying are widely used for malaria vector control. However, their effectiveness can be affected by household members’ habits, requiring alternative approaches toward malaria vector control.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of modified houses in preventing mosquito entry; to assess the impact of house modifications on indoor air conditions and evaluate the acceptability of modified houses in the community where the study was conducted.

Methods

Five traditional and five modified houses were constructed in Nampula district, Mozambique and underwent a 90-day overnight indoor mosquito collection using Centers for Disease Control and nitride ultraviolet light traps during the rainy season. Mosquitoes were identified morphologically. Indoor temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide levels and wind speed were also collected. The Student’s t-test was used to compare the means of the number of mosquitos and environmental factors between both house types. A binomial form of the Generalized Linear Model identified the factors associated with the community volunteer’s preference for house type.

Results

Modified houses reduced the number of Anopheles by an average of 14.97 mosquitos (95% CI, 11.38–18.56, p < 0.000) and non-Anopheles by 16.66 mosquitoes (95% CI, 8.23–25.09, p < 0.000). Although fewer mosquitoes were trapped in modified houses compared to traditional ones, the modifications were more effective against Anopheles (94% reduction) than for non-Anopheles (71% reduction). The average temperature increased at 0.25°C in modified houses but was not statistically significant (95% CI, −0.62 to 0.12, p = 0.181). Community volunteers preferred modified houses due to reduced mosquito buzzing. The efficacy of modified houses including its acceptability by community, highlight its potential to lower malaria risk. Effective integration of modified houses into the vector control strategy will require raising awareness among communities about malaria risks associated with house structure and training them to modify their houses.
Co-design of a walking activity intervention for stroke survivors
Authors: Wittink H. , van Gessel C. , Outermans J. , Blatter T. , Punt M. , van der Lugt R.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Stroke survivors may not maintain gains made in gait performance after task-oriented circuit training. Behavior change interventions may enhance the long-term adoption of physical activity. This study uses a co-design methodology to develop an intervention and tools to facilitate physical and exercise therapists in supporting an active lifestyle in stroke survivors, which is defined as a lifestyle that integrates daily walking performance with day-to-day activity.

Objectives

(1) To describe the insights generated during the co-design process; and (2) To describe the tools that were developed during the co-design process.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team consisting of staff members of the Royal Dutch Society for Physical Therapy, exercise and physical therapists specializing in neurorehabilitation and conducting task-oriented circuit class training in primary care settings or day therapy centers within residential care facilities, stroke survivors and their carers, experts in measuring movement behavior in stroke survivors, a company specializing in manufacturing sensors and related software, behavior change specialists, and co-designers all collaborated in a three-stage (define, develop, and deliver) co-design process.

Results

In the design process, the team iteratively developed a prototype accelerometer system for measuring walking performance with a feedback function for stroke survivors and their therapists and a prototype toolbox for therapists to support the facilitation of behavior change in their stroke survivors.

Discussion

This study shows how co-design can be applied to develop interventions for stroke survivors. Both the prototype system for measuring walking performance and the toolbox incorporate behavior change techniques to support a more physically active lifestyle in stroke survivors. Further research will investigate the feasibility of the intervention.
Electronic tongue made of gelatin self-supporting films on printed electrodes to detect lactose
Authors: Piccinin Ana C. V. , Coatrini-Soares Andrey , Franco Giuliana T. , Bondancia Thalita J. , Coatrini-Soares Juliana , Oliveira Osvaldo N. , Mattoso Luiz H. C.
Published: June 2024

An electronic tongue was developed for the detection of lactose content in commercial foods. This was accomplished by employing optimized detection units comprised of gelatin films and information visualization methods for data analysis. The films incorporating gelatin, tannic acid, and zein, served as the basis for the sensors, whose electrodes were screen printed using carbon black ink. Self-supporting films were produced using various combinations of these materials, some of which had limited solubility in water (from 33% to 36%). They were hydrophobic and yielded reproducible electrical impedance spectra to be used as sensing units. Lactose detection experiments were conducted using various standard concentrations and commercial food samples. Capacitance decreased with lactose concentration at low frequencies, with films lacking a hydrophobic coating showing higher capacitance signals (exceeding 200 nF). Low limits of detection were obtained for the most sensitive films, as low as 2.03 × 10−19 mol/L, comparable to existing biosensors to detect lactose. Combining data from four sensing units in an electronic tongue allowed for the differentiation of lactose concentrations ranging from 1 × 10−20 mol/L to 1 × 10−6 mol/L using the interactive document mapping (IDMAP) projection technique, leading to a silhouette coefficient of 0.716. The discriminatory power of the electronic tongue was validated by distinguishing between lactose-containing and lactose-free food products. These findings highlight the potential of electronic tongues made with sustainable materials for applications in food quality assessment and lactose intolerance management.
On the overall properties of young neutron stars: an application to the Crab pulsar
Authors: Bernal Cristian G. , Frajuca Carlos , Hirsch Henrique D. , Minari Beatriz , Magalhaes Nadja S. , Selbach Lucas B.
Published: June 2024

In this brief report, we present a model that complements the well-established canonical model for the spin evolution of rotation-powered pulsars, which is typically used to estimate ages, spin-down luminosity, and surface magnetic fields of middle-aged pulsars. We analytically explore the growth of the magnetic field during a pulsar’s early history, a period shortly after supernova explosion from which the neutron star forms, encompassing the hypercritical phase and subsequent reemergence of the magnetic field. We analyze the impact of such growth on the early dynamics of the pulsar. Investigations into a pulsar’s magnetic evolution are not new, and we expand the knowledge in this area by examining the evolutionary implications in a scenario governed by growth functions. The proposed growth functions, calibrated with data from the Crab pulsar, exhibit satisfactory physical behaviors.
Changes in echocardiographic indices and left ventricular strain values by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography following pre-anesthetic oral pimobendan administration compared with intravenous pimobendan in dogs
Authors: Jeong Yijin , Kim Bumseok , Kim Sung-Soo , Lee Kichang , Yoon Hakyoung
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The effects of pre-anesthetic single-dose oral pimobendan during inhalational anesthesia, including the comparison with the effects of single intravenous pimobendan under anesthesia, remain unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to determine changes in hemodynamic and echocardiographic parameters induced by pre-anesthetic administration of oral pimobendan under isoflurane general anesthesia and to compare them with those induced by intravenous pimobendan.

Methods

Thirteen clinically normal dogs (4 laboratory and 9 client-owned dogs) with no clinical signs and not on any medical treatment were included. Anesthesia was performed three times: no pimobendan (Control), oral pimobendan (PIMO PO, 0.3 mg/kg), and intravenous pimobendan (PIMO IV, 0.15 mg/kg). Echocardiographic and hemodynamic parameters were monitored at 30-min intervals in all groups.

Results

Compared to the Control group, end-systolic volume index (ESVI) and normalized left ventricular internal diameter at end-systole (LVIDSN) were significantly lower, and fractional shortening (FS) and ejection fraction (EF) were significantly higher in the PIMO PO and IV groups (p < 0.001). Global radial strain (GRS) was significantly higher in the PIMO PO and IV groups (p = 0.015).

Conclusion

Under general anesthesia, oral pimobendan preserved LV systolic and myocardial function in a manner comparable to intravenous pimobendan. Pre-anesthetic administration of oral pimobendan can be used to compensate for cardiac systolic function in dogs who require therapeutic and diagnostic procedures under general anesthesia with potential risk of circulatory failure.
Effects of concentrate feeding sequence on VFA production, and cecal microbiota of Dezhou donkeys by metagenomic technology
Authors: Cai Changyun , Xie Lan , Xing Jingya , Lu Ting , Qi Xingzhen , Li Lanjie , Chen Xue , Akhtar Muhammad Faheem , Jin Yaqian , Liu Guiqin
Published: June 2024

Microorganisms residing in the cecum of donkeys are crucial for physiological processes, nutrient metabolism, and immune function. Feeding methods can affect the dynamic balance of animal gut microbiota, thereby affecting indicators such as volatile fatty acids. This study explores suitable feeding methods to promote actual production by changing the feeding order of concentrate. Fifteen Dezhou donkeys with similar age and weight profiles were randomly divided into three groups with the concentrate feeding sequence: fiber-to-concentrate (FC), concentrate-to-fiber (CF), and total mixed ration (TMR). The experiment spanned a duration of 82 days. The analyses conducted were primarily aimed at determining the effects of feeding on gut microbes, primarily using metagenomic sequencing techniques. The experimental findings revealed that the levels of valeric acid were notably higher in the CF and TMR groups compared to the FC group (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the feeding sequence exerts a certain impact on the microbial composition within the cecum of Dezhou donkeys. At the phylum level, the predominant microbiota consisted of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, with the CF group displaying a higher relative abundance of Firmicutes compared to both the FC and TMR groups. At the genus level, Prevotella, Bacteroides, and Fibrobacter were the dominant bacterial genera identified in cecum. The functional gene annotation analysis indicated a significantly lower abundance of lacZ (K01190), Por/nifJ (K03737), and ppdK (K01006) genes in CF group relative to the FC and TMR groups (p < 0.05), highlighting their roles in galactose metabolism and glycolysis, respectively. Moreover, the CF group exhibited a higher concentration of antibiotic resistance genes (tetO and tet44) in the gut microbiota compared to the TMR and FC groups (p < 0.05), underscoring the presence of numerous antibiotic resistance genes within the phyla Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria. In conclusion, different precision feed sequences significantly impact the levels of volatile fatty acids in Dezhou fattening donkeys, modify the composition and functional genes of the cecal microbiota, and elucidate the microbial mechanisms influenced by the feeding sequence on the growth and metabolism. These insights are anticipated to provide a foundation for the rational design of precision feed sequences in practical agricultural settings.
Computed tomographic evaluation of the proximity of needles placed for perineural anesthesia of the palmar digital nerves to synovial structures in the foot: an ex vivo study
Authors: Gruyaert Mounia , Oosterlinck Maarten , Haspeslagh Maarten , Nagy Annamaria
Published: June 2024

Background

Potential synovial penetration following palmar digital nerve blocks has not been investigated.

Objectives

To evaluate the proximity of needles placed for palmar digital nerve blocks to nearby synovial structures using computed tomography (CT).

Study design

Descriptive observational study.

Methods

In 18 cadaver forelimbs, sequential injection of the navicular bursa (NB), distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) and digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) was performed using 3, 5 and 10 mL diluted radiodense contrast medium, respectively. After each synovial injection, 25 gage needles were placed over the palmar digital nerves at the proximal aspect of the ungular cartilages (distal injections) and 1 cm further proximally (proximal injections), and CT examination was performed. Subsequently, needles were removed, and the synovial structures further distended with the same volume as for the first injection. Perineural needle placement and image acquisition were repeated. The distance between the needle tip and adjacent synovial structures was measured (mm) in reconstructed images. Results were analyzed in separate general linear mixed models, to determine the effect of needle position and synovial distension on the distance from the tip of the needle to the NB, DFTS and DIPJ.

Results

Synovial penetration was confirmed following 12/420 (3%) needle placements (NB n = 5, 1 after proximal and 4 after distal injections; DIPJ n = 2, DFTS n = 2, NB or DIPJ n = 3, all after distal injections). The mean distance from the needle tip to the NB and DIPJ was significantly smaller after the second distension (NB: p = 0.025; DIPJ: p < 0.001) and with the distal needle placements (NB: p < 0.001; DIPJ: p < 0.001). For the DFTS, the distance from the needle tip was significantly smaller with the proximal needle placements (p = 0.001).

Main limitations

Ex-vivo study.

Conclusion

There is a small risk of synovial penetration when performing palmar digital nerve blocks, especially when distension of adjacent synovial structures is present.
Study on the Influence of a Powered Nacelle on the Wake Vortex Characteristics of Wide-Body Aircraft
Authors: Wang Hexiang , Wu Junqiang , Guo Qiuting , Liu Guangyuan , Wu Jifei , Liu Dawei , Tao Yang , Xiong Neng
Published: June 2024

The aircraft wake vortex is an important factor affecting flight safety; as an important part of the aircraft, the powered nacelle will inevitably have an important impact on the aircraft wake vortex, so it is of great practical significance to research it. The present study focused on the numerical simulation of the wake flow of large aircraft (as the front aircraft) and the comparative analysis of the influence of engine jets on the wake flow. In order to meet the accuracy requirements and control the consumption of computing resources, LES and RANS methods were compared, and the RANS method was finally selected for subsequent calculation. The dynamic effect of jet flow was simulated by simplifying the boundary conditions of the inlet fan and outlet bypass as the mass flow boundary condition. The simulation results showed that the engine nacelle will have a significant impact on the morphology of the aircraft wake flow (position and strength of the main vortex in the wake flow system), which is caused by the vortices formed under the shear flow and separated flow of the nacelle. However, the nacelle will not significantly change the total strength of the wake vortex (half-plane circulation). The engine jet intensity causes additional turbulent mixing, which will accelerate the fusion of the nacelle vortex and ultimately change the intensity ratio of the inner wing vortex and the wingtip vortex, affecting the trajectory of the wake of the mean vortex. The study provides a corresponding reference for the following research on a wake vortex by a powered nacelle.
ADHD Symptoms in Middle Childhood: The Role of Child Attachment and Maternal Emotional Availability in an Inpatient Clinical Sample
Authors: Augustin Michaela , Mall Volker , Licata-Dandel Maria
Published: June 2024

Background: Child ADHD symptoms are highly prevalent in middle childhood, alongside impairment in social functioning. The parent–child relationship has been shown to play an important role; however, studies investigating specific facets of the parent–child relationship in ADHD symptomatology in middle childhood have been neglected. We assumed that higher ADHD symptoms were associated with both (1) lower maternal emotional availability (EA) and (2) lower child attachment security. Moreover, (3) we aimed to explore which specific EA dimensions were associated with ADHD symptoms. Methods: In a socio-pediatric clinic in Germany, 71 inpatient mother–child dyads (child age: M = 7.70, SD = 1.06; n = 54 boys) were assessed. Clinical data about child ADHD symptoms (Child Behavior Checklist 6–18 subscale “attention deficit/hyperactivity problems”), maternal EA (free play), and child attachment representation (Attachment Story Completion Task, GEV-B) were analyzed cross-sectionally. Results: Controlling for child oppositional behavior and sex, child ADHD symptoms were associated with overall maternal EA, and more specifically non-hostility, but not with child attachment representation. Conclusions: Our results imply that the role of parent–child interaction quality should be considered in the treatment of ADHD. Bidirectional effects cannot be ruled out.