bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of dermal circadian pathways by a novel topical formulation
Authors: DeHaven Charlene , Wheeler Stephanie , Langerveld Anna , Johns C. Bryan
Published: September 2024

Skin health is impacted by a wide range of intrinsic and extrinsic factors (J Dermatol Sci, 2017, 85, 152), including those that impact circadian rhythm, such as sleep disruption (Textbook of Aging Skin, 2016), UV (Biomed Aging Pathol, 2013, 3, 161) and blue light (Int J Cosmet Sci, 2019, 41, 558). Disruption of the skin's endogenous circadian balance, even by a consistently late bedtime, has deleterious effects on multiple measurements of skin health, including hydration, skin barrier protection, microbiome counts and skin regeneration, among others (Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol, 2022, 15, 1051). Skin repair processes occur at night and help to maintain important aspects of skin health (FEBS Lett, 2021, 595, 2413). Interest is increasing in the development of topical products that help restore proper circadian function. This study demonstrates that a proprietary topical formulation regulates new and established gene and protein biomarkers of circadian entrainment and circadian rhythm, demonstrating the product's potential to maintain appropriate dermal diurnal balance.
Macrophage polarization in human periapical lesions in relation to histopathological diagnosis, clinical features and lesion volume: An ex vivo study
Authors: Visarnta Supanant , Ratisoontorn Chootima , Panichuttra Anchana , Sinpitaksakul Phonkit , Chantarangsu Soranun , Dhanuthai Kittipong
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate M1 and M2 macrophage polarization in radicular cysts and periapical granulomas through an immunohistochemical analysis and the correlation between macrophage polarization and histopathological diagnosis, clinical characteristics and lesion volume using cone‐beam computed tomography.

Methodology

Periapical biopsies diagnosed as radicular cysts (n = 52) and periapical granulomas (n = 51) were analysed by immunohistochemical method. Teeth with periapical lesion with no history of root canal treatment (primary lesion) and lesions persistent to root canal treatment (persistent lesions) were included. Pathological diagnosis, patients' age, gender and clinical characteristics were obtained from treatment records. A cone‐beam computed tomographic periapical volume index (CBCTPAVI) score was assigned to each periapical lesion based on the volume of the lesion. Immuno‐expressions of CD68 and CD163 were quantified. The CD68/CD163 ratio was adopted to represent M1 or M2 macrophage polarization. Mann–Whitney U test was used to determine the different CD68/CD163 ratio between groups of radicular cyst and periapical granuloma. Spearman's correlation test was performed to assess the correlation between the CD68/CD163 ratio and lesion volume and CBCTPAVI score.

Results

Radicular cysts and periapical granulomas had CD68/CD163 median of 2.05 (IQR = 1.33) and 1.26 (IQR = 0.81), respectively. A significantly higher CD68/CD163 ratio was observed in radicular cysts (p < .001). In contrast, periapical granulomas had significantly lower median of CD68/CD163 ratio. Larger lesions had a higher median of CD68/CD163 ratio, while smaller lesions had lower median of CD68/CD163 ratio (p = .007, rs = .262). CD68/CD163 ratio was significantly correlated with the CBCTPAVI score in the overall periapical lesions (p = .002, rs = .306). The higher CD68/CD163 ratio in larger lesions indicated a higher degree of M1 polarization compared to smaller lesions. Regarding the pathological diagnosis, there was a significant positive correlation between CBCTPAVI score and CD68/CD163 ratio in periapical granulomas (p < .001, rs = .453), whereas the negative correlation was observed for radicular cysts (p < .001, rs = −.471).

Conclusions

Periapical granulomas are characterized by a M2‐dominant macrophage polarization, while radicular cysts have significantly higher M1 macrophages. The higher degree of M1 macrophage polarization was significantly correlated with larger volume and higher CBCTPAVI scores of overall periapical lesion and periapical granuloma.
Packaging, perception, and acceptability: a comprehensive exploration of extrinsic attributes and consumer behaviours in novel food product systems
Authors: Mehta Annu , Serventi Luca , Kumar Lokesh , Morton James D. , Torrico Damir D.
Published: September 2024

In today's global markets, the constant arrival of new products represents a challenge for the food industry to offer distinct choices to consumers, primarily due to the parallel sensory attributes and pricing structures of the available food options. Innovators must employ methodologies beyond traditional sensory analysis to ensure the product's success. Researchers must, therefore, explore the entire product experience to understand its influence on consumer behaviours. Food choices are multifaceted, influenced by various factors, including individual physiological and psychological characteristics and intrinsic and extrinsic product attributes. As a result, consumers' decisions are shaped by the multisensory information derived from products they encounter in supermarkets. This review aims to comprehensively examine the factors influencing consumer food choices, from initial product encounters to consumption. The review explores the impact of repetitive tasting on the consumer's attitudes and intentions towards novel products. Additionally, the review investigates which extrinsic attributes capture consumer attention in supermarket settings. It also delves into the effects of extrinsic product attributes on both explicit and implicit emotions and expectations raised about the sensory properties of the product and, ultimately, their purchasing behaviours.
The future of hybrid foods: will consumers embrace dairy‐plant blends?
Authors: Curutchet Ana , Arcia Patricia , Rodríguez Arzuaga Mariana
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the perception of Uruguayan consumers towards hybrid dairy‐like products, including beverages and yogurts made with a mix of milk and plant proteins from canola, hemp, or soy. The study was conducted online with 261 participants, using a 2 × 4 experimental design to analyse consumer responses to product type and protein source. Results showed that dairy yogurt was the most preferred. Among plant protein ingredients, canola and hemp were the most and least preferred, respectively. Consumers rated each product on purchase intention, environmental friendliness, and other attributes through a comprehensive questionnaire. Findings indicated significant variation in purchase intentions based on product and protein type. Canola‐based products were seen as more environmentally friendly compared to soy. Attributes such as ‘Healthy’, ‘Contains calcium’, and ‘Contains proteins’ positively affected purchase intentions, while negative perceptions about flavour impacted intentions adversely. Cluster analysis revealed significant differences across clusters regarding protein preferences and product types.
Design and construction of in vitro digestive simulation model
Authors: Li Yan , Yuan Zihong , Shi Aliu , Xiang Zhiyuan , Zhang Huaping
Published: September 2024

The utilisation of in vitro digestive simulation models holds significant importance in the development, quality control, and safety evaluation of functional foods. This review presents an overview of the classification, design, and construction methods of in vitro digestive models while summarising the emerging trends towards miniaturisation and intelligence. Miniaturisation technology enhances the ability of these models to simulate physiological processes within the human digestive system more accurately, thereby improving experiment repeatability and controllability. Intelligent technology further facilitates optimal design, data collection, and analysis for in vitro digestive models.
Assessment of the synergy degree of China's food safety risk governance policy tools based on text mining and machine learning methods
Authors: Sha Di , Qin Ke , Zhu Lv , Qian He , Wu Linhai
Published: September 2024

Implementing proactive and effective policy tools is essential for governments to manage food safety risks. Existing studies have overlooked the synergistic effects among policy tools for governing food safety risks in China. This study uses policy tool synergy to develop a quantitative model to evaluate the degree of synergy among policy tools for food safety risk governance by considering its vertical, horizontal, and temporal dimensions. Using the Top2Vec topic model and text mining techniques, we examined 558 policy documents implemented by the central and six provincial governments. The findings reveal that China's food safety risk governance system has established a collaborative mechanism, with the Administration for Market Regulation, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Health Commission playing crucial roles in policy implementation. Vertical and horizontal synergies between the upper and lower levels of government and among departments at the same level are crucial for enhancing comprehensive synergy.
Low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry: a new approach for monosaccharide identification in sugar solutions
Authors: Asghari Ali , Sultana Afroza , Khalloufi Seddik
Published: September 2024

Monosaccharides such as glucose, fructose, and galactose are the building blocks of oligosaccharides and act as the major energy sources in our body. These three monosaccharides are the most prominent in food processing and widely consumed analytes, found in fruits or milk. Although several analytical methods are available to identify and quantify sugar solutions, their drawbacks urge the search for better possible alternatives. A simple, rapid, and efficient method for identifying monosaccharides (ᴅ‐fructose, ᴅ‐galactose, and ᴅ‐glucose) was investigated using low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR), exploring the applicability and reliability of this machine. The transverse (T2) relaxation curve was analysed to distinguish monosaccharides from each other. The increasing monosaccharide concentration in the sugar solution causes leftward shifts in signals, indicating a gradual reduction in the mobility of water molecules. The addition of sugar generated a secondary peak, which assisted in identifying monosaccharides. Notably, fructose exhibited distinct behaviour from that of glucose and galactose. The regression coefficient consistently exceeded 0.98, indicating the reliability of this experiment. LF‐NMR encountered challenges in differentiating stereo‐isomeric glucose and galactose. However, quantification of monosaccharides from known binary mixtures (water and one monosaccharide) is possible by preparing standard curves of different concentrations of sugars. These standard curves can be either T2 or the total surface area of the peaks as a function of sugar concentration. The study concludes that LF‐NMR has potential for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of monosaccharides in pure solutions or powdered samples. It is hoped that the rapid and easy way of monosaccharide identification by simple analysis of peaks obtained from NMR spectra will enhance its accessibility for users. However, it also acknowledges limitations in applying this method to complex systems (mixtures of different sugars in a solution).
Delta Immature Platelet Fraction Is Associated With Mortality in Bacteremia Patients
Authors: Shih Pei‐Chun , Wang Yi‐Hua , Chen Shey‐Ying , Tseng Min , Hsu Cheng‐An , Yang Ming‐Yan , Wang Hsin‐Yao , Lee Jia‐Arng
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Immature platelet fraction (IPF) for differentiating bacteremia has been explored, whereas its prognostic correlation remains uncertain. This study aims to confirm the predictive capability of IPF for bacteremia and investigate its association with prognosis.

Methods

Patients with complete blood count (CBC) on the blood culture day (D1) and the preceding day (D0) were retrospectively recruited and categorized into bacteremia and nonbacteremia groups. Immature platelet (IP) analysis, alongside CBC, was conducted. Delta IPF, defined by the absolute values of D1 minus D0 results was calculated. The ability to distinguish bacteremia from nonbacteremia patients, and the correlation with mortality were analyzed.

Results

From February to December 2020, a total of 150 patients were enrolled, with 75 having bacteremia. The specificity for delta IPF ≥3.4% to predict bacteremia was 97.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 90.7–99.7). When delta IPF ≥3.4% combined with procalcitonin ≥0.5 (ng/mL), the sensitivity was 90.5% (95% CI: 69.6%–98.8%). Within the bacteremia group, delta IPF and the proportion of patients with delta IPF ≥1.5% were significantly higher in nonsurvival, while delta platelet levels did not. Furthermore, delta IPF ≥1.5% was independently associated with 30‐day mortality (adjusted odds ratio: 3.88, 95% CI: 1.2%–11.4%; p = 0.020). The 30‐day survival curve demonstrated a significant difference between patients with delta IPF ≥1.5% and those without (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Delta IPF correlates with mortality in bacteremia patients. Our findings suggest IPF not only helps detect bacteremia but also predicts prognosis in the early stage.
Networks of persistence: A new framework for protracted displacement from a Georgian lens
Authors: Dmello Jared R. , Mitchneck Beth
Published: September 2024

Millions of internally displaced people are living in their own countries in a temporary status called ‘protracted displacement’, a term not without its debates. We use a social network analysis database to assess how social interactions and demographic characteristics, including the relative location of resettlement, may contribute to IDP integration during the first 2 years of displacement. Our analysis of information from 57 internally displaced individuals in the aftermath of the 2008 Russo‐Georgian War, finds that networks of persistence, rather than survival or integration, characterize patterns of protracted displacement within 2 years of displacement. This suggests a need for rethinking the mainstream definitions to ensure vital resources are provided to displaced populations to promote timely integration.
Effects of pollination and plant genotype on Ustilago maydis disease development on the ears of maize inbreds and maize‐teosinte near‐isogenic lines
Authors: Bhatta Usha , Smith Shavannor M.
Published: September 2024

Ustilago maydis, the fungus that causes corn smut disease, leads to significant economic losses in maize cultivars. A key feature of successful plant pathogens is their ability to utilize the plant–pathogen relationship to influence disease progression. Greenhouse experiments examined how pollination and plant genotype affect disease incidence and severity of U. maydis infection. Four U. maydis susceptible maize inbreds (B73, H95, Mo17, and Golden Bantam), and two U. maydis resistant maize‐teosinte near‐isogenic lines (NIL1 and NIL2) were utilized for this work. Three‐hundred and sixty plants (pollinated and unpollinated) from the six plant genotypes were inoculated with U. maydis and assessed based on five phenotypic traits [(1) disease incidence, (2) gall number, (3) gall weight, (4) disease severity, and (5) area under disease progress curve]. All pollinated plants demonstrated significantly (p < .001) lower disease incidence, gall number, gall weight, area under the disease progress curve, and severity in comparison to the unpollinated plants. Both pollinated resistant NILs demonstrated significantly (p < .001) less disease development than the pollinated susceptible maize plants and two unpollinated NILs. Therefore, disease resistance to U. maydis was dependent upon pollination and plant genotype. This provides novel evidence that pollination can significantly improve resistance to U. maydis in different plant genotypes. Enhanced disease resistance observed in the resistant NILs after pollination indicates pollination‐mediated resistance is one of the resistance mechanisms functioning in the resistant NILs. Integration of pollination‐mediated resistance and resistance introgressed from a maize progenitor will be useful for improving resistance to U. maydis and management of the disease.
Genetic Diversity and Response of Melon Accessions toMonosporascus cannonballus
Authors: de Freitas Sabrina Queiroz , Negreiros Andréia Mitsa Paiva , de Sousa Nunes Glauber Henrique , Cavalcante Allinny Luzia Alves , Santos Fernanda Jessica Queiroz , Viana Dariane Monteiro , de Assis Melo Naama Jessica , Sales Júnior Rui
Published: September 2024

Melon holds significant economic importance for Brazilian agribusiness. It exhibits high polymorphism and genetic variability, yet knowledge regarding its genetic diversity and response to root diseases remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the genetic diversity and response of melon plant accessions to Monosporascus cannonballus. Two trials were conducted involving 29 melon accessions and a commercial hybrid of the yellow melon plant, Natal RZ. In the first trial, the accessions and the commercial hybrid were grown in the field under a randomised complete block design with three replications. They were evaluated for fruit‐related descriptors: number of fruits per plant (NFP), average fruit weight, shape index, pulp thickness, pulp firmness (PF) and total soluble solids (TSS). Standardised Euclidean distances were calculated on the basis of the results, and the accessions were grouped using the UPGMA method. In the second trial, the melon plant accessions and commercial hybrid were cultivated in a greenhouse under a completely randomised design with 12 replications. For inoculation, wheat grains infested with M. cannonballus isolate CMM‐2429 were used. Evaluations were conducted 60 days after transplanting, assessing the incidence and severity of the disease, and biometric variables. The study revealed genetic variability among the evaluated accessions for fruit descriptors and response to M. cannonballus. Most divergent accessions were A16, A53, NZR, A28, A51 and A44, with divergence primarily observed in NFP, PF and TSS. Promising accessions for breeding programmes aimed at resistance to M. cannonballus included A01, A04, A25, A27 (moderately resistant) and A26 (highly resistant to the pathogen).
Assessing the Compatibility of Streptomyces saraceticus With Pesticides and the Efficacy in Controlling Root‐Knot Nematode
Authors: Chen Ying‐Yu , Tsay Tung‐Tsuan , Chen Peichen
Published: September 2024

Streptomyces saraceticus strain 31 (SS31) exhibits antagonistic activities against a variety of phytopathogenic bacteria, fungi and nematodes. In our effort to integrate SS31 into an effective pest management programme for controlling plant pathogens, we assessed the toxicities of 74 pesticides commonly employed in agricultural production on SS31 using paper disc assays. Most of the test insecticides, acaricides, nematicides and plant growth regulators showed no antagonistic effects towards SS31. However, all six tested herbicides, glyphosate, paraquat, glufosinate‐ammonium, quizalofop‐ethyl, pendimthalin and butralin exerted strong inhibitory effects on SS31. Among the 42 tested fungicides, half of them, including acid amides, strobilurins, carbamates, antibiotics and morphine displayed no detrimental effects on SS31. Notably, copper‐based fungicides demonstrated high toxicity to SS31. Although chlorothalonil and thiophanate methyl + streptomycin displayed inhibitory effects on SS31, applying these pesticides with SS31 in pot tests resulted in a lower Meloidogyne incognita galling index compared with the mock control under greenhouse conditions. Additionally, applying SS31 with carbofuran or ethoprop effectively controlled M. incognita. These findings can provide strategies to refine application timing and enhance the beneficial effects of SS31.
Outcomes of One‐Stage Arthroscopic Ankle and Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis with External Fixation for Septic Ankle and Hindfoot Arthritis: A Case‐Series Study
Authors: Li Wenjing , Zhang Baozhou , Li Ying , Du Hui , Wu Yong
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The occurrence of infection in the ankle and hindfoot presents a formidable surgical challenge. Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding its treatment strategies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcomes of one‐stage arthroscopic ankle and tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis with external fixation in the treatment of septic ankle and hindfoot arthritis.

Methods

A retrospective consecutive case‐series study was conducted involving six patients diagnosed with acute or chronic septic ankle or hindfoot arthritis, who underwent operative intervention entailing thorough debridement, arthroscopically assisted one‐stage ankle or TTC fusion, and external fixation. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle‐hindfoot score and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score were determined preoperatively and at the final follow‐up. Demographic and clinical data, inclusive of perioperative and postoperative complications, were recorded. Comparisons of AOFAS ankle‐hindfoot score and VAS pain score between preoperative measures and those at the final follow‐up were conducted using paired t‐tests or paired Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests.

Results

The study cohort comprised two males and four females, with a mean age of 48.7 years (range, 26–75) at the time of surgical intervention. At the final follow‐up (mean, 26.5 months; range, 16–48), the AOFAS scores exhibited a significant improvement, ascending from an initial mean of 38.8 (range, 12–57) to 80.0 (range, 54–92) (p = 0.007). VAS scores indicated a substantial reduction in pain, decreasing from 6.5 (range, 4–9) to 0 (range, 0–5) (p = 0.046). All patients had achieved osseous consolidation, with a hindfoot infection control rate of 100%.

Conclusion

One‐stage arthroscopic ankle and TTC arthrodesis with external fixation is as an effective therapeutic choice for septic ankle or hindfoot arthritis. This approach yields favorable outcomes characterized by effective infection control, favorable osseous consolidation, and significant functional restoration of the affected limb.
Medically Assisted Reproduction and Partnership Stability
Authors: Pelikh Alina , Remes Hanna , Metsä‐Simola Niina , Goisis Alice
Published: September 2024

Despite the increasing use of medically assisted reproduction (MAR) in modern societies, there is limited evidence on whether conceiving with MAR or remaining involuntarily childless after MAR is associated with partnership stability. While older age, the more advantaged socioeconomic position of women undergoing MAR and their strong fertility intentions could lead to higher partnership stability, the experience of infertility and undergoing MAR may have an opposite effect, especially if couples remain involuntarily childless. Using data on Finnish nulliparous couples from 1995–2017 (N = 149,884) and event‐history models, we compare the risk of separation of couples who remained childless after MAR (N = 3871), who conceived through MAR (N = 14,474), who conceived naturally without MAR (N = 167,962) or with a prior history of MAR (N = 2273). Couples who remained childless after MAR had a higher risk of separation than couples who conceived with MAR or naturally. The higher risk of separation decreased over time since the discontinuation of treatments but persisted over the longer term. There were no differences in the risk of separation between couples who conceived with MAR or naturally. The results suggest that involuntary childlessness after MAR is associated with an increased risk of separation while undergoing MAR/experiencing infertility does not seem to play a role.
Effect of maternal prebiotic supplementation on human milk immunological composition: Insights from the SYMBA study
Authors: Divakara Nivedithaa , Dempsey Zac , Saraswati Chitra , Garssen Johan , Silva Desiree , Keelan Jeffrey A. , Christophersen Claus T. , Cooper Matthew N. , Prescott Susan L. , Palmer Debra J. , Verhasselt Valerie , Macchiaverni Patricia
Published: September 2024

Background

Immunomodulatory proteins in human milk (HM) can shape infant immune development. However, strategies to modulate their levels are currently unknown. This study investigated whether maternal prebiotic supplementation alters the levels of immunomodulatory proteins in HM.

Methods

The study was nested within the SYMBA double‐blind randomized controlled trial (ACTRN12615001075572), which investigated the effects of maternal prebiotic (short‐chain galacto‐oligosaccharides/long‐chain fructo‐oligosaccharides) supplementation from <21 weeks gestation during pregnancy until 6 months postnatal during lactation on child allergic disease risk. Mother–child dyads receiving prebiotics (n = 46) or placebo (n = 54) were included in this study. We measured the levels of 24 immunomodulatory proteins in HM collected at 2, 4, and 6 months.

Results

Cluster analysis showed that the overall immunomodulatory protein composition of milk samples from both groups was similar. At 2 months, HM of prebiotic‐supplemented women had decreased levels of TGF‐β1 and TSLP (95% CI: −17.4 [−29.68, −2.28] and −57.32 [−94.22, −4.7] respectively) and increased levels of sCD14 (95% CI: 1.81 [0.17, 3.71]), when compared to the placebo group. At 4 months, IgG1 was lower in the prebiotic group (95% CI: −1.55 [−3.55, −0.12]) compared to placebo group.

Conclusion

This exploratory study shows that prebiotic consumption by lactating mothers selectively alters specific immunomodulatory proteins in HM. This finding is crucial for understanding how prebiotic dietary recommendations for pregnant and lactating women can modify the immune properties of HM and potentially influence infant health outcomes through immune support from breastfeeding.
11. Cervicogenic headache and occipital neuralgia
Authors: Lefel Nicole , van Suijlekom Hans , Cohen Steven P. C. , Kallewaard Jan Willem , Van Zundert Jan
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Cervicogenic headache (CEH) and occipital neuralgia (ON) are headaches originating in the occiput and that radiate to the vertex. Because of the intimate relationship between structures based in the occiput and those in the upper cervical region, there is significant overlap between the presentation of CEH and ON. Diagnosis starts with a headache history to assess for diagnostic criteria formulated by the International Headache Society. Physical examination evaluates range of motion of the neck and the presence of tender areas or pressure points.

Methods

The literature for the diagnosis and treatment of CEH and ON was searched from 2015 through August 2022, retrieved, and summarized.

Results

Conservative treatment includes pain education and self‐care, analgesic medication, physical therapy (such as reducing secondary muscle tension and improving posture), the use of TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), or a combination of the aforementioned treatments. Injection at various anatomical locations with local anesthetic with or without corticosteroids can provide pain relief for a short period. Deep cervical plexus block can result in improved pain for less than 6 months. In both CEH and ON, an occipital nerve block can provide important diagnostic information and improve pain in some patients, with PRF providing greater long‐term pain control. Radiofrequency ablation of the cervical facet joints can result in improvement for over 1 year. Occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) should be considered for the treatment of refractory ON.

Conclusion

The treatment of CEH preferentially consists of radiofrequency treatment of the facet joints, while for ON, pulsed radiofrequency of the occipital nerves is indicated. For refractory cases, ONS may be considered.
The longitudinal patterns of depression subtypes and stressors in depression severity in the Canadian longitudinal study on aging (CLSA)
Authors: Su Yingying , Li Muzi , Schmitz Norbert , Meng Xiangfei
Published: September 2024

Aim

The current study aims to characterize the longitudinal patterns of depression subtypes and investigate the associations among the stability of depression subtypes, COVID‐19‐related stressors, and depression severity.

Methods

The study utilized data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, which is a national, long‐term study of Canadian adults aged 45 and older (n = 12,957). Latent profile analysis was used to identify latent depression subtypes. Latent transition analysis was then applied to assess the stability of these subtypes over time. Hierarchical multivariate linear regression was used to explore the relationships among these identified depression subtypes, COVID‐19‐related stressors, and depression severity among males and females, respectively.

Results

Distinct depression subtypes were identified. Except for atypical depression, other depression subtypes showed greater stability over time. We also found that melancholic depression (B = 9.432) and typical depression (B = 6.677) were strongly associated with depression severity during the pandemic. Health‐related stressors (B = 0.840), conflict (B = 3.639), difficulties accessing resources (B = 0.927), separation from family (B = 0.840), and caregiving experience (B = 0.764), were significantly associated with increased depression severity. Sex‐specific analyses also revealed differences in the associations between stressors and depression severity between males and females.

Conclusions

This study contributes valuable insights into the latent clustering of depression subtypes and their stability. Stressors were associated with increased depression severity, with distinct associations observed among males and females. These findings have implications for targeted early interventions and integrated clinical management strategies by providing the evidence base for tailored mental health care during and after the pandemic.
Affective evaluation and exposure perception of everyday mobile phone usage situations
Authors: Link Sarah C. , Eggeling Marie , Abacioglu Ferdinand , Boehmert Christoph
Published: September 2024

To understand citizens’ reactions to the 5G rollout, their affective reaction and perception of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF‐EMF) exposure are of interest. Although precursor studies on 2G–4G have investigated exposure perception mostly quantitatively, the present study applied a qualitative exploratory approach. A number of 35 individual interviews and 6 focus groups with the same participants were conducted in December 2022. Participants were recruited from several locations in Germany, where 5G rollout was at different stages. Interactive tasks, particularly an affective evaluation task and a ranking task, encouraged participants to consider their affect regarding mobile communications and their exposure perception. This approach allowed the participants to first engage with the topic of mobile communications/5G in an intuitive way, before talking about their specific beliefs on RF‐EMF exposure. Several pictures showing a person (1) interacting with a mobile phone, (2) surrounded by other peoples’ mobile phones, or (3) in the vicinity of mobile phone base stations (antennas) were used as stimulus materials. Data were analyzed using an exploratory content analysis. In the affective evaluation task participants revealed more negative associations with base stations than with mobile phones. The analysis showed that the reasons for their evaluation were very diverse, whereby exposure to RF‐EMF only played a subordinate role. Further, the ranking task indicated that most participants (n = 20) felt more exposed from base stations than from mobile devices. Results are mostly in‐line with the literature on 2G–4G and do not indicate a substantially different exposure perception for 5G.
Corporate influence, conservative “model bills,” and state economic outcomes
Authors: Biolsi Christopher , Leguizamón J. Sebastián
Published: September 2024

Researchers have found positive relationships between economic freedom and economic growth and negative relationships between lobbying and growth. We test the impact of policies induced by lobbying for free markets, using state‐level data to evaluate the effects of high enactment rates for bills advocated by a prominent free‐market lobbyist, the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Our approach accounts for the probability ALEC targets states. We find that, holding constant existing economic freedom, there is no effect on output, possibly negative effects on employment, and wage increases. States raise more revenue and increase expenditures. Poverty and inequality rise.
Predictors and patterns of suicidal ideation disclosures among American adults
Authors: Rodriguez Taylor R. , Bandel Shelby L. , Daruwala Samantha E. , Anestis Michael D. , Anestis Joye C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

When experiencing suicidal thoughts, many individuals do not tell others, making it difficult to ensure suicide prevention resources reach those who need it.

Methods

The current study utilizes a large sample of US adults who have experienced suicidal ideation in their lifetime (n = 1074) to examine predictors of disclosures. We also explore who participants disclose to and how helpful these disclosures are rated.

Results

A majority (n = 812, 75.6%) reported disclosing. Black and Hispanic participants were less likely to disclose than White participants. Those who were never married were more likely to disclose, as were those who have attempted suicide. Mental healthcare utilization and favorable attitudes toward mental healthcare were also positive predictors of disclosure. More participants reported disclosing to a personal connection (n = 532, 65.5%) than a mental health professional (n = 282, 34.8%). On average, most sources were rated as neither helpful nor harmful.

Conclusion

The study highlights those who may be at a higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts but going unidentified. To increase helpfulness of disclosures, suicide prevention programming should emphasize training for laypersons and professionals on how to effectively respond when someone reveals that they are thinking of suicide.
Metabolic politics: A comparative synthesis
Authors: Barua Maan
Published: September 2024

New arrangements of power are emerging in response to the turbulence generated by the quest to improve life and render it productive. This paper specifies such arrangements by developing the concept of metabolic politics: an apparatus that shifts from discipline to power regulating material, bodily, and environmental transformations. The dominant function of metabolic politics is to render the transformative capacities of living bodies and the circulatory dynamics of materials into object‐targets of governance. Through a comparative analysis of regulating pollution from industrial poultry units in Britain and India, the paper identifies logics of a metabolic politics and distinguishes these from the biopolitics of populations. Metabolic politics entails interventions targeting a milieu rather than deviant populations; its actions are directed at transformative capacities of bodies in addition to improving their productivity; its modes of governance operates via regulation and not just discipline; and its techniques of operation proceed through modulation instead of enclosure. Metabolic politics is a transversal form of power. It is situated and historically contingent, rather than uniform and universal. As a response to crises generated by the industrialisation and cheapening of life, metabolic politics furnishes vital insights into the administration and governance of the contemporary living and material world.
Differentiated Instruction in Chemistry Education
Authors: Ibnuzaman Siti Nur Fatin Hakimah , Mohd Khalid Siti Sarah , Subramani Thulasi , Nazar Siti Atiqah , Baharudin Anis Afidah , Razak Siti Aminah Mohamad
Published: September 2024

Differentiated Instruction (DI) is a comprehensive approach that addresses a variety of students’ requirements and needs in a classroom environment, including their interests, readiness, and learning styles. The idea behind this approach is based on the belief that every classroom is unique. Thus, educators should review and modify their teaching practice from time to time. Hence, this study aims to identify the learning methods in differentiated instruction, their advantages, and challenges to implement in chemistry education using qualitative methods through semi-structured interviews. Seven secondary school teachers with 10 years of teaching experience in Chemistry were selected purposely for this study. To achieve the research objectives, thematic analysis is used, involving reading through the data and analyzing them according to the themes. The experts validate the updated questioning instrument prepared by the researchers to ensure the validity of the questionnaire. Findings reveal that most of them have specific experiences of using differentiated pedagogy to teach chemistry. Three of them described that students, who tend to master visual-spatial intelligence, can interpret and enhance their understanding of a chemistry concept through drawing,  namely for the formation of ionic bonds and covalent bonds. For students, who master linguistic-verbal intelligence, teachers can use presentation activities to enhance their understanding of the chemistry concept. Hence, it can promote active learning, encourage students to ask questions, increase students' confidence level in performing classroom activities and other advantages. Conversely, the difficulty faced by the teachers in implementing DI is time constraint. Hence, differentiated instruction is a valuable and practical approach to addressing the diverse needs of students, promoting engagement, collaboration, and the development of essential skills for lifelong learning. Integrating DI principles can contribute significantly to creating enriching and effective learning environments as education evolves.
Technology, Pedagogy and Knowledge Element (TPACK) in The Malaysian Automotive Industry In-House Training Framework
Authors: Zulkifli Nor Mohamad , Suhairom Nornazira , Abd Wahid Nur Husna
Published: September 2024

In order to ensure that the Malaysian automotive industry is able to compete with the world market, continuous workplace learning must be in place. This is to ensure existing employees in the automotive industry maintain productivity and competitiveness. This study is conducted to identify the element of TPACK to further explore the component of in-house training framework for the automotive industry. This study uses a sequential exploratory mixed method model as a research design. The components of TPACK for the in-house training framework have been identified through the use of expert interviews. The interview phase featured seven panels, including technical trainers and academics with expertise in automotive industry. Data on the suitability of the TPACK elements was gathered quantitatively using questionnaires. The survey included 114 automotive technical trainers in total as a sample. Pedagogical knowledge (PK) comprises 22 out of the 36 training elements that were found to be the majority. The findings of this study also suggest the importance for technical trainers to integrate the TPACK model in the development of in-house training in the automotive industry. By integrating the TPACK model, a comprehensive in-house training can be developed and implemented.
Perception of Student Readiness in Mastering Core Skills of the Malaysian Skills Certificate / Persepsi Kesediaan Penguasaan Pelajar Dalam Kemahiran Teras Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Saudi Muhammad ‘Aqil , Abdul Rahman Khairul Anuar , Hashim Suhaizal
Published: September 2024

The Malaysian Skills Certification (SKM) is implemented as a formal certificate of recognition for individuals who demonstrate the ability acquired or practiced efficiently to perform a task. Among the aspects emphasized in Malaysian skills certification are core abilities. Therefore, this study aims to look at the perception of students' mastery readiness of core abilities among students of the Faculty of Technical and Vocational Education (FPTV), Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia. This study uses a quantitative approach with a survey research design. Using a questionnaire instrument based on SKM level 3 core skills assessment module which consists of six elements namely effective communication, information technology awareness, leadership skills, workplace ethics, administrative skills and health, safety and environmental implementation awareness. The study sample consisted of 92 final year students from General Machining, Building Construction, Catering, Welding & Metal Fabrication, Electrical & Electronics, Creative Multimedia and Refrigeration & Air Conditioning courses. The study's results underwent analysis via the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software. This analysis encompassed both descriptive techniques, such as percentages, means, and standard deviations, as well as inferential methods, including T-tests and ANOVA. The study's findings indicate that FPTV students' perception of their readiness to master the core abilities required for Malaysian skills certification is notably high. Therefore, students who will take the SKM verification will be at a high level of mastery readiness. These skills are essential to create a highly skilled workforce that has mastered technical skills as well as core skills.
Around the Gauss circle problem: Hardy's conjecture and the distribution of lattice points near circles
Authors: Lester Stephen , Wigman Igor
Published: September 2024

Hardy conjectured that the error term arising from approximating the number of lattice points lying in a radius‐ disc by its area is . One source of support for this conjecture is a folklore heuristic that uses i.i.d. random variables to model the lattice points lying near the boundary and square root cancellation of sums of these random variables. We examine this heuristic by studying how these lattice points interact with one another and prove that their autocorrelation is determined in terms of a random model. Additionally, it is shown that lattice points near the boundary which are “well separated” behave independently. We also formulate a conjecture concerning the distribution of pairs of these lattice points.
Aircraft Electrothermal Pulse Deicing
Authors: Khodakarami Siavash , Agarwal Vaibhav , Kabirzadeh Pouya , Solecki Alexandra , Hoque Muhammad Jahidul , Yang Wentao , Stokowski Nicole , Jacobs Joshua , Chatterji Arindam , Lovelace Edward , Stillwell Andrew , Miljkovic Nenad
Published: September 2024

Ice formation and accumulation on aircraft is a major problem in aviation. Icing is directly responsible for aircraft incidents, limiting the safety of air travel and requiring expensive, and sometimes ineffective deicing strategies. Furthermore, electrification of aircraft platforms leads to difficulties with integration of legacy deicing methods such as pneumatic boots. In this work, we study electrothermal pulse deicing capable of efficient and rapid removal of ice from aircraft wings. The pulse approach enables the efficient melting of a thin (<100 μm) ice layer on the wing surface to limit parasitic heat losses. Only the interface is melted, with the rest of the ice sliding on the melt lubrication layer due to aerodynamic forces. To study pulse deicing, we developed a transient thermal-hydrodynamic numerical model that accounts for multiple phases and materials, specific and latent heating effects, melt layer hydrodynamics, as well as boundary layer effects. To identify optimal deicing strategies, we use our model to study the effects of heater thickness (50 μm < th < 1 mm), substrate electrical insulation thickness (10 μm < ti < 1 mm), pulse duration (0.4 s < Δtpulse < 4.5 s), and pulse energy. Optimum operating points are identified for large (Boeing-747), midsize (Embraer-E175), and small (Cessna-172) aircraft. The scale-dependent thermal-hydraulic model results are used to estimate input conditions required for deicing and integrated into an electrical model considering energy storage, power electronics, integration, and layout, to achieve overall volumetric and gravimetric power density optimization.
Coupled Wall Boiling and Population Balance Model for High Void Fraction Flows Under Sub-Cooled Nucleate Boiling Regime: Model Development and Validation
Authors: Tom Sachin , Srivastava Atul
Published: September 2024

The subcooled flow boiling of water in a vertical annulus channel is studied numerically at low-pressure conditions. The two-fluid model is developed with flow-regime dependent interfacial transfers for mass, momentum, and energy using the algebraic interfacial area density (AIAD) framework. A discrete population balance model is used to mechanistically determine the vapor bubble diameter in the flow channel by considering the bubble aggregation and breakup effects. Energy balance at the heated wall for the subcooled nucleate boiling is handled using a suitable wall boiling model. A coupling is achieved between the discrete population balance and the wall boiling model for the nucleation and the growth rate of the vapor bubbles along the heated wall. The developed model simulates the reference experimental cases of flow boiling in a vertical channel for various flow and thermal conditions. At low wall heat flux, the wall boiling generates vapor bubbles near the heated wall and within the bubbly flow regime. With an increase in the wall heat flux, the aggregation and evaporation cause the formation of larger bubbles, which progress toward the flow channel core region, a phase that is representative of the transitional flow regime. The model's capability to predict such flow regime transition is validated with the experimental results. The bubble aggregation is found to be dominant compared to the breakup, and thus, proper choice of the aggregation factor is important for the accurate prediction of vapor parameters for the subcooled flow boiling at low-pressure conditions.
The Current Status of Leisure Constraints, Leisure Sports Behaviors, and Active Aging Among Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Qiu Yajun , Shang Yi , Tian Haibo , Yang Dongjun
Published: September 2024

Background: Against the backdrop of China’s active response to population aging, an increasing number of older adults are participating in leisure sports activities to enrich later life and experience active aging. However, when participating in these activities, older adults encounter constraints that affect their leisure sports behaviors. Methods: To understand the current state of leisure constraints, leisure sports behaviors, and active aging among Chinese seniors, we collected 1,581 surveys from older adults in Zhejiang Province, China. A stepwise regression model was used to explore the relationships between leisure constraints and leisure sports behavior as well as between leisure sports behavior and active aging. Results: The respondents’ leisure sports were characterized by light-intensity, moderate duration, high-frequency, and long-term participation with various leisure constraints, such as a lack of organized leisure sports activities. However, the respondents reported that their aging status was positive. Leisure constraints were negatively associated with leisure sports behavior, and self-constraint had a significant impact on leisure sports behavior. Leisure sports behavior positively affected the active aging of older participants and was positively associated with the four subdimensions of active aging: health, participation, security, and lifelong learning. Conclusion: High-frequency and long-term participation in leisure sports is an effective strategy for Chinese seniors to promote active aging. However, there are still many constraints that limit the leisure sports behaviors of older adults. Implications: The findings may inspire Chinese older adults to achieve active aging through leisure sports and provide support for the literature.