bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A protocol for mobilising novel finance models for collaborative health promotion and disease prevention initiatives: taking a smart capacitating investment approach in the Invest4Health project
Authors: Lane Joanna , Edwards Rhiannon T. , Babarczy Balázs , Whiteley Holly , Oruganti Vidya , Rutten-van Mölken Maureen , Costongs Caroline , Jani Anant R. , Wordsworth Sarah , Maassen Alison , Tsiachristas Apostolos , Davies Jacob , Stavenow Bengt , van Vliet Jolanda , Wright Steve , Papartyte Lina , Camaradou Jennifer Catherine , Koleva-Kolarova Rositsa
Published: January 2025

Background

The prevalence of preventable non-communicable disease (NCD) underpins the need for a life-course and cross-sectoral approach to population health that is grounded in health promotion and disease prevention. European Union (EU) countries typically spend 6 to 13% of gross domestic product (GDP) on health care, yet less than 3% of this is dedicated to prevention. The extent to which spending in other sectors prevents avoidable ill-health is largely unknown. The lack of fiscal space post-COVID-19 means shifting from models of care built around treatment to those with greater emphasis on prevention will require innovative, evidence-based investment within and between sectors. The term “smart capacitating investment” (SCI) has previously been used to understand how to best boost social infrastructure investment in education, health, transport and housing across the EU. Here we take that idea further by exploring the applicability of SCI to public health financing to improve population health and well-being.

Aim

To explore and develop innovative SCI models and tools that enable collaboration and investment across health ecosystems for enhanced health promotion and disease prevention, test them in diverse real-world settings, and create a roadmap for large-scale implementation.

Methods

The Invest4Health (I4H) project brings together transdisciplinary expertise in epidemiology, public health, health economics, population science, business management, finance, implementation and social sciences, digital health innovation, and regional health systems. The project consists of eight work packages which span the exploration and conceptualisation of SCI in public health; the characterisation of SCI-compatible business and finance models; piloting and evaluation of these models in four European testbeds (Sweden, Germany, Spain and Wales UK); and exploring the opportunities for sustainable replication and scaling of SCI and future research.

Discussion

We present an introduction to the I4H project, the concept of SCI applied to public health, plus key points for discussion internationally.
Socio-economic inequalities in access to COVID-19 tests in France in 2020: evidence from the EPICOV socio-epidemiological cohort
Authors: Geoffard Pierre-Yves , Jusot Florence , Sireyjol Antoine , Warszawski Josiane , Bajos Nathalie
Published: January 2025

Background

Testing for COVID-19 has been strongly recommended for individuals experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms or those with a close relative who tested positive. In France, tests were free of charge until mid-October 2021 and became widely available after June 2020. Our main objective was to investigate whether access to COVID-19 testing in France was associated with socio-economic conditions, considering gender and ethno-racial status.

Methods

A random population-based cohort survey was conducted in France in May 2020 and November 2020, including 95,388 participants aged 18 and over. We used logistic regressions to identify how having been tested in 2020 was associated with socio-economic status and exposure factors among two groups of individuals. The first group consisted of individuals who had no close relative test positive but reported experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms, such as cough, fever, dyspnea, or sudden onset of ageusia, dysgeusia, or anosmia (N = 12,729). The second group included individuals, with or without symptoms, who reported that a close relative had tested positive for COVID-19 (N = 5,360).

Findings

In both groups, testing was more frequent among individuals living in urban areas. For individuals who had no close relative test positive but reported COVID-19-like symptoms, women were 1.04 (95%CI [1.01–1.06]) more likely than men to be tested, and testing decreased with age up to 35. Individuals holding a university degree were (1.08 [1.04–1.12]) more likely than those who only completed high school to be tested, as well as those in one of the three top income deciles with reference to the bottom decile (OR 1.07, [1.02–1.13] for the top decile). Ethno-racial status was not significantly associated with testing. For respondents who had a close relative test positive, testing was strongly associated with having experienced some symptoms, especially after September 1 (OR 1.34, 95%CI [1.30–1.39]). However, there was no link between testing and income, education, or ethno-racial status.

Interpretation

When an individual experiences symptoms but has no close relative who is positive, the motivation to test to avoid transmitting the virus to relatives by isolating oneself is particularly strong. This strategy makes sense when there are actual possibilities to isolate, which may explain why higher income and education positively impact the propensity to test. For individuals who had a close relative test positive, most socio-economic variables were no longer related to testing once infection risk was controlled for. The availability of tests at no cost is not sufficient in itself to eliminate socio-economic inequalities in testing.
Intensive smoking cessation intervention in a nature-based setting: a feasibility study of the Danish gold standard program
Authors: Liljendahl Mie Sylow , Staal Sanne , Tønnesen Hanne
Published: January 2025

The implementation of nature-based interventions has demonstrated a positive impact on health outcomes and overall wellbeing. The knowledge of nature-based smoking cessation interventions is sparse but might offer potential benefits for smokers undertaking an intensive smoking cessation program. This study assessed the feasibility in real life of the 6-week Danish Intensive Gold Standard Program (GSP) for smoking cessation in nature compared to the standard setting in primary healthcare. This feasibility study followed up with 81 out of 90 (90%) participants in a nature-based setting and 56,480 out of 58,772 (96%) participants in a standard setting. All participants received the intensive GSP and were registered after providing informed consent in the national Danish STOPbase between 2018 and 2023. Feasibility was assessed using the following indicators: primarily successful quitting after 6 months, secondarily at the end of the 6-week program, as well as compliance and satisfaction—all obtained through interviews. All indicators were similarly high in both settings. After 6 months, 43% had successfully quit in the nature-based setting and 37% in the standardized setting without statistical significance (RR 1.25, 95% CI: 0.80–1.94). The nature-based setting was feasible and appeared to produce similar outcomes as the standard setting for the 6-week intensive GSP in Denmark in real life.
Prevalence and characteristics of HPV vaccine hesitancy among parents of adolescent females across Saudi Arabia
Authors: Othman Sahar , Ghamri Ranya , Alhamadah Wala , Alsatty Anwaar , Khesfaty Dhuha , Alghamdi Ohoud , Arbaein Ragad , Baglagel Alaa M. , Khayyat Jumana , Almalki Bushra
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) is pivotal in preventing HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer. However, vaccine hesitancy and their related factors among parents of adolescent females present a significant obstacle to achieving high vaccination rates. HPV vaccine hesitancy among parents of adolescents and their related factors have been studied at the regional level in Saudi Arabia, but national-level data are not available. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and characteristics of HPV vaccine hesitancy among parents of adolescent females in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia among parents of adolescent females aged 11–17 years between November and December 2022. The participants completed a self-administered online questionnaire containing the validated Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (VHS), which was originally developed in 2015 by the WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on immunization. Descriptive statistics, univariate binomial regression, and multivariate binary logistic regression were employed for statistical analysis.

Results

Among the 667 participants who completed the questionnaire, 34% were hesitant about immunizing their adolescent daughters with the HPV vaccine. A few demographic variables were significantly associated with vaccine hesitancy, including lower household income and living in the southern region. In addition, lack of recommendation by their healthcare provider and inconvenience related to immunization with the vaccine were also associated with higher levels of hesitancy.

Conclusion

HPV vaccine hesitancy remains high among parents of adolescent females in Saudi Arabia. More effort needs to be directed toward educating parents, especially during doctor’s visits, in order to increase the acceptance and vaccination rates.
Leveraging AI-driven nudge theory to enhance hand hygiene compliance: paving the path for future infection control
Authors: Bhattacharjee Samiksha , Bhattacharya Sudip
Published: January 2025

Hand hygiene is critical for preventing infections, yet maintaining compliance remains challenging across healthcare, schools, and communities. Despite strong evidence, lapses occur due to cognitive barriers, understaffing, limited resources, and antimicrobial resistance. Behavioral science highlights factors like time constraints and cognitive biases affecting adherence, with compliance rates as low as 40%. Nudge theory, developed by Thaler and Sunstein, offers promising solutions by using subtle interventions, like visual or auditory cues, to encourage hand hygiene without imposing strict regulations. Recent innovations integrate artificial intelligence (AI) with nudges, enhancing compliance through real-time feedback. AI-powered systems, such as smart dispensers and wearable devices, provide reminders using visual or auditory cues at critical moments. For example, dispensers may light up or chime when a healthcare worker enters a patient’s room, prompting hand hygiene. Studies show these AI-driven interventions significantly improve compliance, with rates increasing by up to 30% in some cases. AI can also analyze patterns of non-compliance, deploying personalized nudges during high-risk periods. Combining nudge theory with gamification, such as team-based competitions and rewards, further reinforces positive habits. However, implementing AI solutions in countries like India faces challenges, including limited resources, resistance to new technologies, and cultural barriers. Despite hurdles, integrating AI-driven nudges with behavioral strategies has the potential to transform hand hygiene practices. This approach fosters accountability, reduces infection rates, and ensures safer patient care by embedding compliance into daily routines, paving the way for sustainable improvements in infection control.
Esports physical exercise/performance matrix 1.0 country factsheets: results and analyses from Serbia
Authors: Zhou Xuanyu , Hu Yuwen , Matic Radenko M. , Popovic Stevo
Published: January 2025

The Serbian Country Factsheets on Physical Exercise and Performance for Esports Players provide a foundational assessment of nine physical exercise and performance indicators tailored to esports athletes. This study utilizes Serbia’s Esports Physical Exercise/Performance Matrix 1.0 framework, integrating recent peer-reviewed studies and nationally representative secondary data to evaluate these indicators. However, insufficient data was identified, with all indicators scoring zero due to unreliable evidence. This fact highlights a critical need for targeted health initiatives within Serbia’s esports community. Considering the strong correlation between physical fitness and cognitive skills essential for esports success, the findings suggest that prolonged physical inactivity may impair Serbian players’ competitive potential. Serbia risks falling behind in this rapidly evolving field without a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach to health promotion tailored for esports. This factsheet is a pioneering resource for Serbian esports, aiming to stimulate further research, inform policy adjustments, and foster community engagement to build a healthier and more resilient esports population.
Problematic internet use and its relationship with eating disorders
Authors: Ruiz-Centeno Claudia , Cueto-Galán Raquel , Pena-Andreu Jose Miguel , Fontalba-Navas Andrés
Published: January 2025

Problematic Internet use has been associated with eating disorders. An increasing number of young adults are using social media, and a variety of content promoting anorexia and bulimia (pro-anorexia and pro-bulimia) has been identified. The aim of this study is to qualitatively analyze this content to understand how it affects individuals with eating disorders or those at risk. Content selection was carried out through non-random intentional sampling and based on the following criteria: the most prominent content on each platform in terms of the number of interactions, created within less than 5 years old, and displaying pro-ana and/or pro-mia content in English or Spanish. In total, 6 digital platforms were analyzed, including 57 resources (videos, images, blog entries, chat messages, PDF files, and group descriptions). The discourse was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The analyzed content includes numerous tips and tricks promoting eating disorders. Additionally, a widespread positive sentiment towards low weight and thinness was observed, while negative sentiments were associated with eating, gaining weight, etc. It has been demonstrated that self-esteem in adolescents and young adults can be affected by social media use, leading to body dissatisfaction that may result in increased use of these platforms with access to pro-anorexia and pro-bulimia content, which can contribute to the development of these disorders. The continuous variation and removal of this content, and the health problems it poses, requires further study of these digital resources and how users access them, in order to establish preventive measures to ensure health in the future.
Association between atmospheric particulate matter pollution during pregnancy and premature birth in China: a meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Bingbing , Jiang Xinye
Published: January 2025

Objective

The impact of maternal exposure to outdoor particulate matter during pregnancy on preterm birth is still inconsistent, particularly under the unique atmospheric particulate matter pollution conditions in China, where the effects on preterm birth remain poorly understood. The study intends to evaluate the correlation between atmospheric particulate matter pollution (PM2.5 and PM10) during pregnancy and premature birth in China through a Meta-analysis.

Methods

The Chinese databases (CNKI and Wanfangdata), and the English databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase) were searched to collect literature related to exposure to atmospheric particulate matter during pregnancy in China and premature birth. A Meta-analysis was conducted using Stata12.0 software.

Results

A total of 29 studies were included in this study (15 cross-sectional studies, 11 cohort studies, and 3 case–control studies), covering more than 30 provinces (municipalities directly under the Central Government) in China, with a total sample size of 9,283,110 people. The Meta-analysis results showed that the risk of premature birth with the OR value was 1.03 (95%CI:1.011.06) for exposure to PM2.5 in mid-pregnancy, 1.03 (95%CI:1.011.04) for exposure to PM2.5 in late pregnancy, 1.07 (95%CI:1.051.10) for exposure to PM2.5 throughout pregnancy, and 1.04 (95%CI:1.001.07) for exposure to PM10 throughout pregnancy. No correlation was found between exposure to atmospheric particulate matter at other times and the occurrence of premature birth.

Conclusion

Although our results indicate that exposure to atmospheric particulate matter during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth among pregnant women in China, the association is relatively weak. Additionally, the results may be influenced by potential confounding factors. Therefore, further detailed research is needed to explore the relationship between particulate matter exposure and preterm birth or other adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Human papillomavirus vaccination hesitancy among young girls in Ethiopia: factors and barriers to uptake
Authors: Sendekie Ashenafi Kibret , Abate Biruk Beletew , Adamu Betelhem Anteneh , Tefera Aschalew Mulatu , Mekonnen Kaleab Temelket , Ashagrie Melkam Alemu , Tadesse Yabibal Berie , Dagnaw Abera Dessie , Melaku Mequannent Sharew , Bizuneh Gizachew Kassahun
Published: January 2025

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations protect against HPV infections. The infection might lead to vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, genital warts, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia lesions, and cervical cancer. This study assessed hesitancy of HPV vaccination, associated factors, and barriers to vaccination among youth girls in Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among female undergraduate students at the University of Gondar, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, between July and August 2022. The data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A simple random sampling method was used to recruit participants. The data were entered and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the participants’ demographic characteristics. Logistic regression was performed to identify the significant factors associated with acceptance of the HPV vaccine. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The study included 423 participants with a mean age of 22.5 ± 6.7 years. Only more than one-third (35.2, 95% CI: 27.2–44.1) received the HPV vaccine. Currently, more than one-fourth (27.9, 95% Cl: 21.4–33.8) of participants are hesitant to receive the HPV vaccine. Higher monthly income (AOR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.08–6.34), good knowledge of the HPV vaccine (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.12–4.87), and a positive attitude towards the vaccine (AOR = 3.03, 95% CI: 1.63–9.56) were significantly associated with acceptance of HPV vaccination. Safety concerns (63.1%), misinformation (42.8%), and parental concerns (42.3%) about the HPV vaccine were among the top perceived reported barriers to receiving the HPV vaccine.

Conclusion

This result showed that more than a quarter number of youth girls are still hesitant to receive HPV vaccinations. To increase vaccination acceptance, interventions should focus on awareness-raising programs about HPV infection and vaccines and addressing safety and parental concerns.
Impact of neighborhood safety on adolescent physical activity in Saudi Arabia: gender and socio-economic perspectives
Authors: Addas Abdullah
Published: January 2025

Background and objectives

Adolescent physical activity is a critical determinant of long-term physical and mental health. However, the factors influencing activity levels remain underexplored in rapidly urbanizing regions such as Saudi Arabia, where changing built environments pose unique challenges.

Methods

This study examined the relationship between neighborhood safety perceptions and physical activity levels among 1,500 adolescents aged 14–17 years in the cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, representing a mix of urban and suburban settings. This study used a cross-sectional design with data collected through a validated self-reported questionnaires and interviews; the data were analyzed through multivariate regression.

Results

The results indicate that adolescents who perceived higher traffic-related safety concerns engaged in 30% less physical activity compared to those in safer neighborhoods (p < 0.01). Female adolescents were 20% more likely than male adolescents to report safety concerns (p < 0.05), while those residing in villas engaged in 15% more physical activity than their peers living in flats (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

These findings underscore the significant role of neighborhood safety in shaping adolescent health behaviors, particularly regarding traffic management and accessibility. These results contribute to the growing evidence regarding the influence of built environments on youth health and wellbeing in rapidly urbanizing regions. The study offers actionable policy recommendations for urban planners and public health officials to create safer, more inclusive environments that encourage physical activity, especially among female adolescents. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs and incorporate objective measures, such as wearable activity trackers, to assess the long-term impact of neighborhood safety interventions on adolescent health outcomes.
The research progress of biologics in elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA)
Authors: Li Yujie , Liu Yifan , Tian Yanhui , Gu Huimin , Meng Qingliang , Cui Jiakang , Ma Junfu
Published: January 2025

Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) is a distinct subtype of rheumatoid arthritis characterized by heightened treatment challenges due to immune aging and the complexity of comorbidities. This review systematically summarizes the definition, clinical features, epidemiological trends, therapeutic challenges, and the potential applications of biologic agents in EORA. It primarily focuses on the efficacy, safety, and individualized treatment strategies associated with various biologic agents. Studies indicate that biologics, such as TNF-α inhibitors, IL-6 inhibitors, and JAK inhibitors, can significantly reduce inflammation and improve joint function in EORA patients. However, their long-term use is closely linked to increased risks of infections, thrombosis, and malignancies, underscoring the importance of personalized treatment approaches and dynamic monitoring. Moreover, the advent of novel biologic agents, including IL-17 and IL-23 inhibitors, as well as second-generation JAK inhibitors, offers additional therapeutic options for refractory patients and demonstrates substantial potential in optimizing both efficacy and safety. With the rapid progress of precision medicine and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, gene profiling, biomarker analysis, and AI-assisted decision-making are gradually steering EORA treatment towards more personalized and precise strategies. However, the high cost of treatment and the limited accessibility of these technologies remain significant barriers in clinical practice. Future research should focus on validating the long-term safety of novel therapies and refining individualized treatment strategies to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.
Enhancing Africa’s agriculture and food systems through responsible and gender inclusive AI innovation: insights from AI4AFS network
Authors: Ozor Nicholas , Nwakaire Joel , Nyambane Alfred , Muhatiah Wentland , Nwobodo Cynthia
Published: January 2025

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into agriculture holds urgent and transformative potential for enhancing food security across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a region acutely impacted by climate change and resource constraints. This paper examines experiences from the Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture and Food Systems (AI4AFS) Innovation Research Network, which provided funding to innovative projects in eight SSA countries. Through a set of case studies, we explore AI-driven solutions for pest and disease detection across crops such as cashew, maize, tomato, and cassava, including a real-time health monitoring tool for Nsukka Yellow pepper. Using participatory design, and key informant interview, robust monitoring and evaluation, and incorporating ethical frameworks, the research prioritizes gender equality, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability in AI development and deployment. Our results demonstrate that responsible AI practices can significantly enhance agricultural productivity while maintaining low carbon footprints. This research offers a unique, localized perspective on AI’s role in addressing SSA’s agricultural challenges, with implications for global food security as demand rises and environmental resources shrink. Key recommendations include establishing robust policy frameworks, strengthening capacity-building efforts, and securing sustainable funding mechanisms to support long-term AI adoption. This work provides the global community, policymakers, and stakeholders with critical insights on establishing ethical, responsible, and inclusive AI practices that can be adapted to similar agricultural contexts worldwide, contributing to sustainable food systems on an international scale.
Phenology analysis for trait prediction using UAVs in a MAGIC rice population with different transplanting protocols
Authors: Taniguchi Shoji , Sakamoto Toshihiro , Nakamura Haruki , Nonoue Yasunori , Guan Di , Fukuda Akari , Fukuda Hirofumi , Wada Kaede C. , Ishii Takuro , Yonemaru Jun-Ichi , Ogawa Daisuke
Published: January 2025

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are one of the most effective tools for crop monitoring in the field. Time-series RGB and multispectral data obtained with UAVs can be used for revealing changes of three-dimensional growth. We previously showed using a rice population with our regular cultivation protocol that canopy height (CH) parameters extracted from time-series RGB data are useful for predicting manually measured traits such as days to heading (DTH), culm length (CL), and aboveground dried weight (ADW). However, whether CH parameters are applicable to other rice populations and to different cultivation methods, and whether vegetation indices such as the chlorophyll index green (CIg) can function for phenotype prediction remain to be elucidated. Here we show that CH and CIg exhibit different patterns with different cultivation protocols, and each has its own character for the prediction of rice phenotypes. We analyzed CH and CIg time-series data with a modified logistic model and a double logistic model, respectively, to extract individual parameters for each. The CH parameters were useful for predicting DTH, CL, ADW and stem and leaf weight (SLW) in a newly developed rice population under both regular and delayed cultivation protocols. The CIg parameters were also effective for predicting DTH and SLW, and could also be used to predict panicle weight (PW). The predictive ability worsened when different cultivation protocols were used, but this deterioration was mitigated by a calibration procedure using data from parental cultivars. These results indicate that the prediction of DTH, CL, ADW and SLW by CH parameters is robust to differences in rice populations and cultivation protocols, and that CIg parameters are an indispensable complement to the CH parameters for the predicting PW.
Assessing factors influencing adolescent sexual debut in Nigeria: a multi-cluster survival analysis approach
Authors: Correa Fabio Mathias , Omaku Peter Enesi , Braimah Joseph Odunayo
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Early sexual debut is an area of concern in Nigeria with implications for reproductive health.

Methods

This study addresses this by proposing a more effective survival model—one that incorporates both independent and identically distributed (IID) and Besag intrinsically conditional auto-regressive (ICAR) random effect priors, using a generalised additive model that accounts for both individual and spatial influences on age at first sex. We analyse data from the 2018 Nigerian NDHS survey and compare our model with existing models: a model without the cluster frailty effect, a model that ignores the Besag ICAR and includes the IID, and a model that ignores the IID and includes only the Besag ICAR.

Results

Our approach, which combines independent and spatial random effects, outperforms others based on statistical criteria (Deviation Information Criterion and the Widely Applicable Information Criterion).

Discussion

As shown in this study, the proposed model effectively captures the complexity of age at first sex. In addition, visualisations reveal significant geographic and social clusters with high rates of early sexual debut in Nigeria. These findings highlight the importance of considering multi-level clustering to better understand and promote healthy sexual behaviour among young Nigerians through targeted interventions.
The impact of competition for picking wild edible mushrooms and the opportunity cost for rural communities: the case of Castile and León (Spain)
Authors: de Frutos Madrazo Pablo , Latorre Minguell Joaquín , Martín-Cervantes Pedro Antonio , Martínez Peña Fernando
Published: January 2025

Picking wild edible mushrooms is a key activity both for rural as well as urban communities. Studies into the topic support the notion of the major socio-economic benefits, which increase both producer as well as consumer surplus. However, to date, no study has estimated picking harvests in the way this study does or what effects these might have on local communities with regard to other activities, both in terms of work and leisure time. This study explores both issues, taking as an indicator a variable used in conventional analysis in other sectors, yet which thus far has not been employed in wild edible mushroom picking: productivity value. The chosen study area is the autonomous community of Castile and León, a Spanish region with an important and long-running mycological tradition. Using the decision-making method between individuals’ leisure time and work time, the authors test the corresponding hypotheses. The results that emerge for the years analyzed (2013 and 2014) support the hypothesis of distorting/moderating effects related to the effects of picking yields on pickers’ income and their impact on the individual supply for labor function of pickers.
Impacts of neighborhood restaurant density on adults’ dietary quality: evidence from an IV-LASSO approach in China
Authors: Tang Yalin , Zhu Maoran , Zong Jian , Zheng Xuyuan , Liu Chengfang
Published: January 2025

The development of the restaurant industry has disrupted food consumption patterns, while evidence on how restaurants impact dietary quality remains limited and inconsistent. This study is one of the first to demonstrate a non-linear, inverted U-shaped relationship between local restaurant density and dietary quality, leveraging data from four rounds of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). To mitigate endogeneity issues, our analyses employ a LASSO-selected Instrumental Variable (IV) approach. Our results show that before reaching the threshold, the increase in neighborhood restaurant density, primarily driven by indoor restaurants, leads to improvements in residents’ dietary quality. However, once past the threshold, higher restaurant density reduces dietary quality, mainly driven by fast food restaurants. These effects are more pronounced among males with higher-income, and those living in urban and eastern China. The mechanisms underlying these relationships include the increased frequency of eating outside home (OH), with the similar inverted U-shaped relationship observed for dietary diversity further explaining our findings. We recommend supplementing neighborhoods with limited access to dining options through indoor restaurants, and mitigating the negative effects of excessive restaurants density, especially that of fast-food restaurants.
Early one-stage posterior-only surgery for congenital cervicothoracic scoliosis in children: medium- and long-term follow-up
Authors: Zhang Cefei , Liu Fuyun , Xu Ke , Hu Weiming , Xia Bing , Zhao Yufeng
Published: January 2025

Objective

The purpose of this study is to investigate the medium- and long-term correction outcomes and complications of early one-stage posterior-only surgery for congenital cervicothoracic scoliosis in children.

Methods

From March 2006 to March 2022, we retrospectively investigated 33 consecutive cases of congenital cervicothoracic scoliosis treated by one-stage posterior-only surgery, including 15 males and 18 females, with a mean age of 3.2 years. Radiographic parameters, including segmental scoliosis, distal compensatory curve, T1 tilt, clavicle angle, neck tilt, coronal balance distance, segmental kyphosis, and sagittal vertical axis, were measured preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the last follow-up. The results of the measurements were statistically analyzed using paired-sample t-tests. Complications were recorded.

Results

The mean operation time was 199.8 min (100–340 min) with an average blood loss of 261.5 ml (80–600 ml). The mean follow-up period was 75.8 months (28–182 months). Fusion levels averaged 3.4 segments (2–6 segments). The segmental scoliosis was improved from 48.2° ± 10.7° preoperatively to 10.0° ± 6.0° postoperatively (P < 0.001), with a correction rate of 79.3% ± 11.2%. The distal compensatory curve was spontaneously corrected from 23.4° ± 9.8° preoperatively to 9.2° ± 5.7° postoperatively (P < 0.001), with a correction rate of 58.8% ± 19.4%. One case of pleural rupture, three cases of transient nerve root injury, one case of Horner syndrome, and two cases of pleural effusion. Two cases underwent revision surgery due to loss of correction.

Conclusion

Early one-stage posterior-only surgery for congenital cervicothoracic scoliosis in children can effectively correct the local deformities and improve the appearance, and the medium- and long-term correction outcomes are satisfactory. Hemivertebra resection without internal fixation may be considered for some very young children. For the higher level of thoracic hemivertebra, the osteotomy level being shifted down one vertebra is a feasible and safer surgical procedure.
High-parameter immunophenotyping reveals distinct immune cell profiles in pruritic dogs and cats
Authors: McDonald Erin , Kehoe Eric , Deines Darcy , McCarthy Mary , Wright Brie , Huse Susan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Immunophenotyping is a powerful tool for grading disease severity, aiding in diagnosis, predicting clinical response, and guiding the development of novel therapeutics.

Methods

This pilot study employs high parameter immunophenotyping panels (15 markers for dog, 12 for cat) and leverages unsupervised clustering to identify immune cell populations. Our analysis uses machine learning and statistical algorithms to perform unsupervised clustering, multiple visualizations, and statistical analysis of high parameter flow cytometry data. This method reduces user bias and precisely identifies cell populations, demonstrating its potential to detect variations and differentiate populations effectively. To enhance our understanding of cat and dog biology and test the unsupervised clustering approach on real-world samples, we performed in-depth profiling of immune cell populations in blood collected from client-owned and laboratory animals [dogs (n = 55) and cats (n = 68)]. These animals were categorized based on pruritic behavior or routine check-ups (non-pruritic controls).

Results

Unsupervised clustering revealed various immune cell populations, including T-cell subsets distinguished by CD62L expression and distinct monocyte subsets. Notably, there were significant differences in monocyte subsets between pruritic and non-pruritic animals. Pruritic dogs and cats showed significant shifts in CD62LHi T-cell subsets compared to non-pruritic controls, with opposite trends observed between pruritic cats and dogs.

Discussion

These findings underscore the importance of advancing veterinary immunophenotyping, expanding our knowledge about marker expression on circulating immune cells and driving progress in understanding veterinary-specific biology and uncovering new insights into various conditions and diseases.
A framework for quantifying the multisectoral burden of animal disease to support decision making
Authors: Lysholm Sara , Chaters Gemma L. , Di Bari Carlotta , Hughes Ellen C. , Huntington Ben , Rushton Jonathan , Thomas Lian
Published: January 2025

Animal diseases have wide-ranging impacts in multiple societal arenas, including agriculture, public health and the environment. These diseases cause significant economic losses for farmers, disrupt food security and present zoonotic risks to human populations. Additionally, they contribute to antimicrobial resistance and a range of environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions. The societal and ecological costs of livestock diseases are frequently underrepresented or unaddressed in policy decisions and resource allocations. Social cost–benefit analysis (SCBA) offers a comprehensive framework to evaluate the broad impacts of animal diseases across different sectors. This approach aligns with the One Health concept, which seeks to integrate and optimize the health of humans, animals and the environment. Traditional economic evaluations often focus narrowly on profit maximization within the livestock sector, neglecting wider externalities such as public health and environmental impacts. In contrast, SCBA takes a multi-sectoral whole-system view, considering multiple factors to guide public and private sector investments toward maximizing societal benefits. This paper discusses three separate sector specific (Animal health, Human health, Environmental health) methodologies for quantifying the burden of animal diseases. It then discusses how these estimates can be combined to generate multisectoral estimates of the impacts of animal diseases on human societies and the environment using monetary values. Finally this paper explores how this framework can support the evaluation of interventions from a One Health perspective though SCBA. This integrated assessment framework supports informed decision-making and resource allocation, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes, enhanced animal welfare, and greater environmental sustainability.
Algorithms for Calculating Generalized Trigonometric Functions
Authors: Dronyuk Ivanna
Published: January 2025

In this paper, algorithms for calculating different types of generalized trigonometric and hyperbolic functions are developed and presented. The main attention is focused on the Ateb-functions, which are the inverse functions to incomplete Beta-functions. The Ateb-functions can generalize every kind of implementation where trigonometric and hyperbolic functions are used. They have been successfully applied to vibration motion modeling, data protection, signal processing, and others. In this paper, the Fourier transform’s generalization for periodic Ateb-functions in the form of Ateb-transform is determined. Continuous and discrete Ateb-transforms are constructed. Algorithms for their calculation are created. Also, Ateb-transforms with one and two parameters are considered, and algorithms for their realization are built. The quantum calculus generalization for hyperbolic Ateb-functions is constructed. Directions for future research are highlighted.
Isolation of Acetic Acid-Producing Bacterial Strains and Utilization as Microbial Inoculants in Sorghum Silages
Authors: Leite Guilherme Medeiros , Santos Edson Mauro , de Oliveira Juliana Silva , Pereira Danillo Marte , de Oliveira Celso José Bruno , Cavalcanti Jorge Vinicius Fernandes Lima , de Lima Vanessa Maria Rodrigues , de Lima João Paulo Vieira de Melo Fernandes , Gomes Paloma Gabriela Batista , Edvan Ricardo Loiola , Miranda Rafael de Souza , Ferreira Daniele de Jesus , Negrão Fagton de Mattos , Zanine Anderson de Moura
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to isolate, characterize, and identify acetic acid-producing lactic acid bacteria from fresh sorghum plants and silage, and to evaluate the effect of the isolates as microbial inoculants on taxonomic diversity and silage fermentation quality. For the first experimental stage, eight experimental silos were prepared, and the fresh sorghum plant cv. BRS Ponta Negra (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.) was sampled to characterize and identify the bacteria. Five strains were chosen to be inoculated in the second experimental stage, in a 7 × 2 factorial design, with seven treatments and two opening times, in four replications. Four types of species were identified, with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum predominating at 72.73%. There was an interaction effect between treatments and opening times on effluent losses, gas losses, the population of lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, and lactic acid content. The aerobic stability treatments that stood out were Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (GML 66) and Weissella cibaria, which showed 71.75 and 68.87 h of stability. The use of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (GML 66) as a microbial inoculant in sorghum silage increased the dry matter content, reduced effluent losses, and improved dry matter recovery. It also reduced the yeast population in the silage, promoting greater aerobic stability in the silage.
Unlocking the Power of Eggs: Nutritional Insights, Bioactive Compounds, and the Advantages of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Enriched Varieties
Authors: Usturoi Marius Giorgi , Rațu Roxana Nicoleta , Crivei Ioana Cristina , Veleșcu Ionuț Dumitru , Usturoi Alexandru , Stoica Florina , Radu Rusu Răzvan-Mihail
Published: January 2025

This study explores the nutritional benefits and health implications of omega-3- and omega-6-enriched eggs, positioning them within the context of functional foods aimed at improving public health outcomes. With rising consumer interest in nutritionally fortified foods, omega-enriched eggs have emerged as a viable source of essential fatty acids, offering potential benefits for cardiovascular health, inflammation reduction, and cognitive function. This research examines enrichment techniques, particularly dietary modifications for laying hens, such as the inclusion of flaxseed and algae, to enhance omega-3 content and balance the omega-6-to-omega-3 ratio in eggs. The findings indicate that enriched eggs provide significantly higher levels of essential fatty acids and bioactive compounds than conventional eggs, aligning with dietary needs in populations with limited access to traditional omega-3 sources like fish. This study further addresses consumer perception challenges, regulatory constraints, and environmental considerations related to sustainable production practices. The conclusions underscore the value of omega-enriched eggs as a functional food that aligns with health-conscious dietary trends and recommend ongoing research to refine enrichment methods and expand market accessibility.
Deep Learning-Enhanced Diagnosis of Sow Pregnancy Through Low-Frequency Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Kim Tae-kyeong , Choi Yo-Han , Hong Jun-Seon , Park Hyun-Ju , Kim Yong-Min , Kim Jo-Eun , Lee Ji-Hwan , Sa Soo-Jin , Jeong Yong-Dae , Kim Jin-Soo , Cho Hyun-chong
Published: January 2025

The escalating demand for pork highlights the importance of swift and accurate pregnancy diagnosis in sows, a crucial factor in farm profitability. The prevalent use of low-frequency ultrasound devices in this context poses a challenge owing to the suboptimal resolution of the resultant images. This study introduces an innovative approach for sow pregnancy diagnosis using deep learning techniques to analyze low-frequency ultrasound images. Our methodology encompasses the development and comparative analysis of three distinct classification models: ViT-H, ConvNeXt-xlarge, and Xception. These models aim to improve diagnostic accuracy. AutoAugment was used to augment the data to expand the training dataset, thereby enhancing the robustness of the models under varied conditions. Results indicate a notable improvement in diagnostic performance, with the implementation of AutoAugment leading to significant achievements in the models, reflected by AUC values of 0.865, 0.856, and 0.866. These outcomes affirm the viability of deep learning in the effective management of sow pregnancies in livestock farms and suggest potential applications in broader animal husbandry contexts. This research marks a significant contribution to the evolution of agricultural technologies, presenting a scalable and efficacious solution for sow pregnancy diagnosis.
Possible Factors Concerning the Crossing of Formosan Ferret-Badger Rabies over the Daan River in Miaoli County, Taiwan
Authors: Lai Cheng-Hung , Wang Mei-Chuan , Hsu Chia-Ning , Chang Chun-Yi , Inoue Satoshi , Fei Chang-Young
Published: January 2025

The first detection of Formosan ferret-badger (FFB) rabies on the main island of Taiwan occurred in July 2013. National surveillance reports indicated that prior to 2023, rabies outbreaks were limited to the southern region of the Daan River, which was considered a natural barrier preventing the spread northwards. However, in 2023, four new cases of rabid FFBs emerged in Miaoli County, located north of the Daan River, suggesting that the epizootic had crossed the river. Several factors may have contributed to the ability of reservoir FFBs to cross over the Daan River. Firstly, there was a decrease in rainfall in the upstream area of the Daan River in 2023. Secondly, the construction of the Shilin Weir by the Taiwan Power Company in the upstream area of the Daan River aimed to prioritize water diversion for hydropower generation while ensuring domestic water supply for Miaoli County and Taichung City. Lastly, there was an unusual increase in the number of roadkill FFBs during the rainy season of 2023. The decreased rainfall in FFB habitats in the mountains and the near-dry condition of the upstream Daan River caused by the Shilin Weir in 2023, allowing FFBs to easily cross the Daan River into Miaoli County. The evidence of unusually increased FFB activity in 2023 supports the speculation that FFBs crossed the Daan River, introducing FFB rabies into Miaoli County.
The Multi-Resolution Migration Imaging Method for Grounded Electrical Source Transient Electromagnetic Virtual Wavefield
Authors: Lu Kailiang , Li Xiu , Yue Jianhua , Fan Ya’nan , Yang Qinrun , Teng Xiaozhen
Published: January 2025

The traditional source uses a square wave with a fixed fundamental frequency to excite transient electromagnetic (TEM) fields, with harmonic energy primarily concentrated in the low-frequency range, limiting the detection resolution of the TEM. The differential pulse, composed of two square waves with identical pulse widths but opposite polarities, concentrates harmonic energy more effectively. By adjusting the pulse width of the differential pulse, the concentration frequency band of harmonic energy can be changed, enabling multi-resolution detection of geological structures at different depths. In this study, TEM fields are excited using differential pulses of varying pulse widths during power supply. A preconditioned precise integration time-sweeping wavefield reverse transformation method is applied to interpret the virtual wavefield from the diffusion field, effectively improving the numerical accuracy and noise resistance of the virtual wavefield. Then, the finite-difference migration imaging method is used to obtain imaging profiles for differential pulses of different pulse widths, and stacking techniques are applied to acquire high-resolution characteristics of electrical interfaces at various depths. Finally, the feasibility of the method is verified through a complex geological model. By comparing the relative anomalies of square waves and differential pulses with different pulse widths, the results show that the electromagnetic anomalies for differential pulses are increased by 53.7%. Therefore, using differential pulses as the excitation source leads to higher-resolution electromagnetic responses, which in turn result in high-resolution imaging.