bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of moisture content in dry‐cured beef ham by measuring the impedance of the surface
Authors: Yamaguchi Aoto , Muramoto Takayuki
Published: May 2024

Dry‐cured beef ham quality is determined by moisture content; however, it is hard to do non‐destructive monitoring. We investigated whether the internal moisture content of dry‐cured beef ham could be determined from the impedance of the surface, which is removed at the time of eating. Supraspinatus muscle samples from Japanese Shorthorn steers were dried for different periods. The samples were then divided into the parts to be removed (surface) and edible parts. Their respective impedance and moisture content were measured, and the correlation between these two parameters was investigated. A negative correlation was observed between the impedance and moisture content of the surface and the shallow and deep sections of the edible part. There was also a negative correlation between the impedance of the surface and the moisture content of the shallow and deep sections of the edible part. Therefore, the results of this study indicate that during drying, the moisture content in the shallow and deep sections of dry‐cured hams can be estimated by measuring the impedance of the surface. This non‐destructive method of measuring the moisture content of dry‐cured hams can help in regulating the moisture content during drying to produce high‐quality dry‐cured hams.
Reaction‐norm animal model analysis of average daily gain heat tolerance in purebred Duroc pigs
Authors: Fukuzawa Yo , Ogawa Shinichiro , Okamura Toshihiro , Nishio Motohide , Ishii Kazuo , Takahashi Hiroshi , Satoh Masahiro
Published: May 2024

The present study aimed to genetically improve growth performance under high‐heat environments by specifically designing a reaction‐norm animal model (RNAM) for purebred Duroc pigs in Japan. A total of 54,750 records of average daily gain (ADG) measured for pigs reared at four farms in different prefectures were analyzed. Estimated maximum daily temperatures at the respective farm locations were used to calculate the average cumulative thermal load (TL). The TL values served as an indicator of high‐heat environments for pigs. The plausible cumulative period length and threshold temperature for calculating TL were determined to be 8 weeks until just before shipping and 25°C, respectively. Variance components were estimated via RNAM analysis using TL as a linear covariate. The estimated additive genetic variances under both responsive and non‐responsive to TL were found to be significant. Moreover, the estimated heritability of ADG ranged from 0.38 to 0.73 for TL values of 0–8. These results suggest that the RNAM developed holds the potential for improving the genetic ability of growth under high‐heat environments in pigs.
Parent‐identified gaps in preparation for the postpartum period in the United States: An integrative review
Authors: Nazarenko Danielle N. , Daniel Ariel L. , Durfee Stephanie , Agbemenu Kafuli
Published: May 2024

Background

In the United States, 35% of all pregnancy‐related deaths occur between 24 h and 6 weeks after delivery, yet the first outpatient visit is not typically scheduled until 6 weeks postpartum. Thus, the ability to independently navigate this period is critical to maternal well‐being and safety. However, previous research suggests that many women feel unprepared to manage the challenges they encounter during this time, and there is a current need to synthesize the existing evidence. Therefore, the purpose of this integrative review is to describe parent‐identified gaps in preparation for the postpartum period in the United States.

Methods

Using the Integrative Review framework by Whittemore and Knafl, a systematic search of Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Web of Science, and a hand‐search was conducted for peer‐reviewed articles published in English between 1995 and 2023. Results were reported according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies that met eligibility criteria were synthesized in a literature matrix.

Results

Twenty‐two studies met inclusion criteria. Four themes were identified: Mental Health Concerns, Physical Concerns, Infant Feeding and Care Concerns, and General Concerns and Recommendations. Many women, regardless of parity, reported feeling unprepared for numerous postpartum experiences, including depression, anxiety, physical recovery, breastfeeding, and infant care. Parents reported difficulty differentiating normal postpartum symptoms from complications. Hospital discharge teaching was viewed as simultaneously overwhelming and inadequate. Parent recommendations included the need for earlier and more comprehensive postpartum preparation during pregnancy, delivered in multiple formats and settings. Parents also reported the need for earlier postpartum visits and improved outpatient support.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that many parents in the United States feel unprepared to navigate a wide variety of emotional, physical, breastfeeding, and infant‐care experiences. Future research should explore innovative educational approaches to postpartum preparation during pregnancy as well as outpatient programs to bridge the current gaps in postpartum care.
Experiences of birthing people during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Analysis of comments from the 2020 Wisconsin Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS)
Authors: Salm Ward Trina C. , Abu Zahra Tuleen , Payjapoh Chuthamas , Oladebo Tinuola
Published: May 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has taken a significant toll on the US population, with birthing people having special clinical needs. The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a population‐based surveillance system for monitoring birthing people's experiences. Comment data from the PRAMS survey can provide further insight into birthing people's experiences. This study aims to use PRAMS data to describe pandemic‐related experiences in a representative sample of birthing people in Wisconsin to help inform future emergency preparedness planning.

Methods

This study analyzed 2020 Wisconsin PRAMS data for births in March or later. Content analysis of pandemic‐related comment data was conducted, and quantitative data on demographic characteristics and pandemic‐related experiences were examined.

Results

Findings from 1406 respondents indicated that many birthing people were affected by the pandemic, including changes in healthcare visits and employment. One hundred respondents commented on pandemic‐related experiences; four interrelated themes emerged from content analysis: changed nature and quality of healthcare, limited social support, increased anxiety, stress, or fear, and employment or financial burden. Most comments discussed negative impacts; some expressed positive aspects.

Discussion

Findings suggest opportunities for improving support for birthing people during public health emergencies, for example, through developing healthcare policies and public health guidelines that prioritize the protective mechanisms of social support for birthing people, identifying additional and immediately accessible policy protections to support birthing and postpartum people (e.g., insurance and paid leave) during public health emergencies, and implementing additional screening and support to help address increased mental health needs during public health emergencies.
Unveiling The Mother Tongue Factor in Dream Work: A Qualitative Ethnographic Exploration of Clinical Psychologists' Engagement with the Ullman's Experiential Dreamwork Group Approach
Authors: Campo‐Redondo Maria Susana , Alshamsi Aysha Rubaia
Published: May 2024

This study explores the impact of utilizing the mother tongue on psychologists' acquisition of proficiency in the Ullman's experiential dreamwork group approach. Employing a qualitative ethnographic methodology, the research documents the immersive training experiences within the Ullman approach, subject to subsequent analysis, by a Muslim clinical psychologist in training, whose native language is Arabic, engaging in the experiential dreamwork conducted in English. The findings confirms the pivotal role of the mother tongue in fostering group cohesion and facilitating emotional processing within the Ullman framework. Furthermore, the research underscores the significance of language in shaping the holistic learning experience, emphasizing the imperative consideration of linguistic and cultural implications inherent in this distinctive training process for clinical psychologists. A nuanced understanding of the impact of language on experiential learning enhances our comprehension of the intricate interplay between language, emotions and personal development among trainees in clinical psychology. Beyond individual learning encounters, the research prompts a broader contemplation on the incorporation of linguistic and cultural factors in the training of clinical psychologists.
Marginal changes at bone‐level implants supporting dental prostheses with or without intermediate standardised abutments after 36 months: Randomised controlled clinical trial
Authors: Maceiras Lucía , Liñares Antonio , Nóvoa Lourdes , Batalla Pilar , Mareque Santiago , Pérez Javier , Blanco Juan
Published: May 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the changes at marginal bone level at implants restored with screw‐retained prosthesis connected directly to the implants or with an intermediate abutment, after 3‐year follow‐up.

Material and Methods

Thirty‐six partially edentulous patients received 72 implants. Each patient received 2 implants and a 2–4‐unit screw‐retained implant‐prosthesis. The test group implants received a screw‐retained prosthesis connected directly to the implant shoulder, the control group prosthesis were connected through a 3‐mm standardised intermediate abutment. Clinical and radiological data were recorded at baseline and at 6‐, 12‐, and 36‐month follow‐up.

Results

At 36 months, the mean marginal bone loss was 0.13 ± 0.18 mm for the control group and 0.20 ± 0.24 for the test group, with no significant differences between groups (p > .05). Clinical variables (Probing Pocket Depth, Bleeding on Probing and Plaque Index) at 36 months also showed no significant difference between groups. Minor complications frequency was 6.7% in the control group and 5.3% in test group. None of the groups suffered from mayor complications. Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) showed a General Satisfaction mean score in the control group of 9.40 (SD 0.82) and 9.37 (SD 1.06) in the test group with no significant differences between groups.

Conclusions

Bone‐level implants restored with screw‐retained partial prostheses with or without intermediate abutments showed similar radiographic and clinical outcomes after 3 years.
Discomfort/pain due to peri‐implant probing at titanium and zirconium implants: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bussmeyer Florian , Saminsky Michael , Eickholz Peter
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study was designed to compare discomfort/pain after periodontal and peri‐implant probing in patients with titanium compared with zirconium implants.

Methods

One examiner recruited and examined 70 patients, each of whom had a dental implant with a contralateral tooth; 37 patients had titanium implants of various types and 33 patients had zirconium implants; one implant was analyzed for each patient. Periodontal and peri‐implant probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were assessed. Immediately after probing, patients rated their discomfort/pain with a visual analog scale (VAS). The emergence profiles of implant crowns were assessed on periapical radiographs of the implants.

Results

Seventy patients with a median age of 55 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 42–65 years), including 43 females and 16 current smokers, were examined. The mean PPD and bleeding on probing (BOP) were higher around implants than around teeth (p < .001). CAL and suppuration were well‐balanced between implants and teeth. Peri‐implant probing caused significantly more discomfort/pain than periodontal probing [median VAS score: 12.5 (IQR 4–22) vs. 9 (2–15); p < .001]. Logistic regression revealed that discomfort/pain after peri‐implant probing was less intense in patients who had taken analgesic medication (p = .021) and around titanium implants (p = .037).

Conclusions

Peri‐implant probing caused significantly more discomfort/pain than periodontal probing. Patients who had taken analgesic medication experienced less discomfort and pain with peri‐implant probing than those who had not; furthermore, titanium implants were associated with less pain than zirconium implants.
Exploring the potential relationship between short sleep risks and cognitive function from the perspective of inflammatory biomarkers and cellular pathways: Insights from population‐based and mice studies
Authors: You Yanwei , Li Jinwei , Zhang Yang , Li Xingtian , Li Xinming , Ma Xindong
Published: May 2024

Aims

The molecular mechanism of short‐sleep conditions on cognition remains largely unknown. This research aimed to investigate associations between short sleep, inflammatory biomarkers and cognitive function in the US population (NHANES data 2011–2014) and explore cellular mechanisms in mice.

Methods

Systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) was calculated using blood‐cell based biomarkers. Further, we employed integrated bioinformatics and single‐cell transcriptomics (GSE137665) to examine how short sleep exposure influenced the molecular pathways associated with inflammation in the brain. To explore the signaling pathways and biological processes of sleep deprivation, we carried out enrichment analyses utilizing the GO and KEGG databases.

Results

Population results showed that, compared with normal sleep group, severe short sleep was associated with lower cognitive ability in all the four tests. Moreover, a higher SII level was correlated with lower scores of cognitive tests. In mice study, elevated activation of the inflammatory pathway was observed in cell subgroups of neurons within the sleep deprivation and recovery sleep cohorts. Additionally, heightened expression of oxidative stress and integrated stress response pathways was noted in GABAergic neurons during sleep deprivation.

Conclusion

This study contributed to the understanding of the influence of short sleep on cognitive function and its cellular mechanisms.
Assessing the impact of preventative measures to limit the spread of Toxoplasma gondii in wild carnivores of Madagascar
Authors: Rasambainarivo Fidisoa T. , Randrianarisoa Santatra , Rasolofoniaina Olivier A. , Rice Benjamin L. , Metcalf C. Jessica E.
Published: May 2024

Novel multihost pathogens can threaten endangered wildlife species, as well as humans and domestic animals. The zoonotic protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is transmitted by members of Felidae and can infect a large number of animal species, including humans. This parasite can have significant health consequences for infected intermediate hosts and could further endanger wild carnivore populations of Madagascar. Building on an empirical characterization of the prevalence of the pathogen in local mammals, we used mathematical models of pathogen transmission in a multihost community to compare preventative measures that aim to limit the spread of this parasite in wild carnivores. Specifically, we examined the effect of hypothetical cat vaccination and population control campaigns on reducing the risk of infection by T. gondii in wild Eupleridae. Our model predicted that the prevalence of exposure to T. gondii in cats would be around 72% and that seroprevalence would reach 2% and 43% in rodents and wild carnivores, respectively. Reducing the rodent population in the landscape by half may only decrease the prevalence of T. gondii in carnivores by 10%. Similarly, cat vaccination and reducing the population of definitive hosts had limited impact on the prevalence of T. gondii in wild carnivorans of Madagascar. A significant reduction in prevalence would require extremely high vaccination, low turnover, or both in the cat population. Other potential control methods of T. gondii in endangered Eupleridae include targeted vaccination of wild animals but would require further investigation. Eliminating the threat entirely will be difficult because of the ubiquity of cats and the persistence of the parasite in the environment.
Quantifying the impacts of future shoreline modification on biodiversity in a case study of coastal Georgia, United States
Authors: Coleman Daniel J. , Gittman Rachel K. , Landry Craig E. , Byers James E. , Alexander Clark R. , Coughlin G. Paul , Woodson C. Brock
Published: May 2024

People often modify the shoreline to mitigate erosion and protect property from storm impacts. The 2 main approaches to modification are gray infrastructure (e.g., bulkheads and seawalls) and natural or green infrastructure (NI) (e.g., living shorelines). Gray infrastructure is still more often used for coastal protection than NI, despite having more detrimental effects on ecosystem parameters, such as biodiversity. We assessed the impact of gray infrastructure on biodiversity and whether the adoption of NI can mitigate its loss. We examined the literature to quantify the relationship of gray infrastructure and NI to biodiversity and developed a model with temporal geospatial data on ecosystem distribution and shoreline modification to project future shoreline modification for our study location, coastal Georgia (United States). We applied the literature‐derived empirical relationships of infrastructure effects on biodiversity to the shoreline modification projections to predict change in biodiversity under different NI versus gray infrastructure scenarios. For our study area, which is dominated by marshes and use of gray infrastructure, when just under half of all new coastal infrastructure was to be NI, previous losses of biodiversity from gray infrastructure could be mitigated by 2100 (net change of biodiversity of +0.14%, 95% confidence interval −0.10% to +0.39%). As biodiversity continues to decline from human impacts, it is increasingly imperative to minimize negative impacts when possible. We therefore suggest policy and the permitting process be changed to promote the adoption of NI.
Predicting lung exposure of intramuscular niclosamide as an antiviral agent: Power‐law based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Kim Taeheon , Jung Woojin , Cho Sangeun , Kim Gwanyoung , Yun Hwi‐yeol , Chae Jung‐woo
Published: May 2024

Niclosamide, a potent anthelmintic agent, has emerged as a candidate against COVID‐19 in recent studies. Its formulation has been investigated extensively to address challenges related to systemic exposure. In this study, niclosamide was formulated as a long‐acting intramuscular injection to achieve systemic exposure in the lungs for combating the virus. To establish the dose–exposure relationship, a hamster model was selected, given its utility in previous COVID‐19 infection studies. Pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis was performed using NONMEM and PsN. Hamsters were administered doses of 55, 96, 128, and 240 mg/kg with each group comprising five animals. Two types of PK models were developed, linear models incorporating partition coefficients and power‐law distributed models, to characterize the relationship between drug concentrations in the plasma and lungs of the hamsters. Numerical and visual diagnostics, including basic goodness‐of‐fit and visual predictive checks, were employed to assess the models. The power‐law‐based PK model not only demonstrated superior numerical performance compared with the linear model but also exhibited better agreement in visual diagnostic evaluations. This phenomenon was attributed to the nonlinear relationship between drug concentrations in the plasma and lungs, reflecting kinetic heterogeneity. Dose optimization, based on predicting lung exposure, was conducted iteratively across different drug doses, with the minimum effective dose estimated to be ~1115 mg/kg. The development of a power‐law‐based PK model proved successful and effectively captured the nonlinearities observed in this study. This method is expected to be applicable for investigating the drug disposition of specific formulations in the lungs.
The necessity for a simple and reliable screening tool for developmental concerns: Validity of the ESSENCE‐Q
Authors: Honda Hideo
Published: May 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Yasumitsu‐Lovell et al. on pages 1611–1621 of this issue.
Biogeography of larches in eastern Siberia – using single nucleotide polymorphisms derived by genotyping by sequencing
Authors: Haupt Sarah , Bernhardt Nadine , Killing Stefanie , Meucci Stefano , Herzschuh Ulrike , Zakharov Evgenii S. , Harpke Dörte , Pestryakova Luidmila A. , Kruse Stefan
Published: May 2024

The present distribution of Siberian boreal forests that are dominated by larches (Larix spp.) is influenced, to an unknown extent, by glacial history. Knowing the past treeline dynamics can improve our understanding of future treeline shifts under changing climate. Here, we study patterns in the genetic variability of Siberian Larix to help unravel biogeographic migration routes since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM).

We infer the spatial distribution and the postglacial demographic history of Larix using genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived through genotyping by sequencing (GBS) from 130 individuals sampled across eastern Siberia.

Our analysis gives statistical support for two or three clusters, spanning from western to eastern Siberia. These clusters reveal a genetic structure influenced by isolation resulting from geographical distance, barriers imposed by geographic features, and distinct glacial histories. Assuming three clusters, our demographic inference indicates that the common ancestor of the current Larix populations existed in northeast Siberia well before the LGM. This suggests that Larix persisted in the northern region throughout previous glacials.

Our genetic studies suggest that Larix likely survived the cold LGM in northern refugia, enabling a fast colonization of Siberia. Instead of complete repopulation from southern areas postglacially, the northernmost Larix expansion during the Holocene seems to have benefitted from refugial populations ahead of the treeline. Present‐day migration is expected to be slow initially, due to the absence of current refugial populations in the far north, in contrast to the early‐Holocene situation.
Health literacy and medication health literacy in adolescents: Highlights from HBSC/WHO
Authors: Gaspar Susana , Guedes Fábio Botelho , Cerqueira Ana , Gaspar Tânia , Machado Maria do Céu , de Matos Margarida Gaspar
Published: May 2024

Health literacy (HL) is an essential health determinant that could encourage the adoption of individual and community protective behaviours that contribute to public health. This study aims to analyse the associations between HL and medication HL (MHL) in 4015 adolescents from the Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children (HBSC/WHO). Data were collected from the HBSC/WHO questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multinomial logistic regression were performed. 62.4% of participants have a moderate level of HL and 29.1% have a high level of HL. The youngest boys, and those who have a low level of MHL in the different dimensions presented (expiration date, recycling, side effects, illegal sale and safety), have a low level of HL. The oldest girls have a moderate level of HL. Also, girls with a high level of MHL, reported a high level of HL. MHL, namely, the expiration date, recycling, side effects and safety dimensions in adolescents is significantly related to and positively associated with HL. The results will enable us to highlight to family professionals and public policies the importance of HL and MHL promotion in adolescents.
Subjective well‐being levels of classroom teachers
Authors: Özcan Mehmet
Published: May 2024

This research aims to reveal the subjective well‐being levels of classroom teachers with the explanatory sequential design method of mixed method research. In the quantitative part of the study, the subjective well‐being levels of the classroom teachers were analysed according to the variables of gender, age, region of employment, professional experience, educational status and grade level taught, and the qualitative part was designed with the phenomenology method and examined according to the sub‐dimensions of school engagement and teaching efficacy. In the quantitative part of the study, there were 340 participants, and the Teacher Subjective Well‐being Questionnaire was used, while in the qualitative part, 27 participants were included, and the subjective well‐being level was examined according to the sub‐dimensions of school engagement and teaching efficacy. While the subjective well‐being levels of the participants did not differ significantly according to the variables of the region of employment, educational status and grade level taught, they differed significantly according to the variables of age and professional experience. In addition, the participants stated that the factors affecting school engagement were professional commitment, responsibility, working environment, being valued, being respected, belonging and conscience, respectively. The areas that positively affected their teaching eff icacy were field and pedagogical knowledge, communication, technology and classroom management, respectively, and those that negatively affected their teaching efficacy were pedagogical knowledge, communication, classroom management and lesson planning.
Including immigrant voices in local mechanisms of citizen participation? Insights from the crucial case of Barcelona
Authors: Triviño‐Salazar Juan Carlos , Climent‐Ferrando Vicent
Published: May 2024

The deliberative democracy and governance literature indicates that the challenge of participatory mechanisms (e.g., participatory budgeting, citizen assemblies) is to be inclusive of all citizens, especially marginalized ones from the political system. Immigrants as a marginalized group are a target of inclusion. Asking the circumstances under which these mechanisms promote immigrants' effective inclusion is still a pending question. This article proposes a theoretical model centered on their inclusion in these mechanisms. We apply our model to the incorporation of immigrants into Barcelona's Neighborhood Council Meetings, revamped under the radical‐left Barcelona en Comú‐led government (2015–2023). Findings show that opening participatory mechanisms for immigrants did not build de facto inclusionary dynamics in Barcelona. We explained such findings on the mismatch between the political quest to deepen democracy and promote social justice through participatory mechanisms and the limitations to implement practices leading to a pluralist engagement with immigrants.
Brief intervention for chronic liver disease patients with alcohol use disorder in a hepatology outpatient unit: Effects and limitations
Authors: Hara Nagisa , Hiraoka Atsushi , Nakai Masato , Shiraki Makoto , Namisaki Tadashi , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Hisanaga Takuro , Takahashi Hirokazu , Ohama Hideko , Tada Fujimasa , Sakamoto Naoya , Nakao Kazuhiko , Takami Taro , Eguchi Yuichiro , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: May 2024

Aim

It is not uncommon to encounter outpatients in the hepatology department with harmful alcohol habits. When treating such chronic liver disease (CLD) patients, an adequate intervention method for harm reduction of alcohol use, such as brief intervention (BI) or BI and nalmefene, should be considered. This study aimed to elucidate the clinical effectiveness of BI for CLD patients affected by harmful alcohol use.

Methods

From June 2021 to 2023, 123 Japanese CLD outpatients (hepatitis B virus : hepatitis C virus : alcoholic liver disease : others = 32:18:42:31) with an Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score of ≥8 at the initial interview and a repeat interview with AUDIT 9 months later were enrolled. Clinical features related to patient behavior following the initial AUDIT interview were retrospectively evaluated, and compared between patients without and with BI treatment.

Results

For the non‐BI and BI groups, baseline AUDIT score (median 10 [interquartile range (IQR) 9–13] vs. 12 [IQR 10–17], p = 0.016) and relative change in AUDIT score (median 0 [IQR −3 to 2] vs. −3 [IQR −7 to 0], p < 0.01) showed significant differences, whereas there was no significant difference between the groups for AUDIT score at the time of the second interview (p = 0.156). Following BI, significant improvements were observed for items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, and 10 of AUDIT (each p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with an alcohol use disorder as well as those with alcohol dependency who received BI showed a significant decline in AUDIT score, although the score of the follow‐up AUDIT indicated continued alcohol use disorder. In addition to BI, medication with nalmefene should be considered, based on individual factors.
Adaptive apparel for people with disabilities: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Rana Md. Rafiqul Islam , McBee‐Black Kerri , Swazan Ishtehar Sharif
Published: May 2024

This systematic literature review examines research on adaptive apparel for people with disabilities (PWDs), an underrepresented consumer group. Using the scientific procedures and rationales for systematic literature reviews (SPAR‐4‐SLR) protocol and the theories, contexts, characteristics, and methods (TCCM) framework, 51 articles from three academic databases were analyzed based on specific keywords and inclusion/exclusion criteria. The review highlighted advancements addressing the needs of PWD consumers, such as innovative designs, user‐centered methodologies, and inclusive marketing. However, there remain gaps in areas like disability types, methodologies, cultural factors, and societal barriers. The implications of this research underscore the urgent need for the apparel industry to prioritize inclusivity and adaptability, emphasizing that addressing these gaps can lead to broader societal acceptance and empowerment for PWDs. Moreover, this review enhances the understanding of adaptive apparel for PWD consumers, providing insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and fashion‐forward solutions.
Chemical modification of sesame protein by acylation reactions: characterisation and evaluation of functional properties
Authors: Castillo‐Ortega M.A. , García‐Barradas O. , Mendoza‐López M.R. , Mondragón‐Vásquez K. , Jiménez‐Fernández M.
Published: May 2024

Proteins are commonly used ingredients to impart certain non‐nutritional properties to foods. Consequently, the industry is constantly seeking to enhance proteins that provide these attributes to food products. Therefore, the aim of this research was to extract the protein from sesame seeds and evaluate the effect of chemical modification through acylation with lauroyl chloride and acetic anhydride on functional properties (solubility index, emulsifying, foaming, swelling and water‐holding and oil‐holding capacity). Chemical modification was successfully demonstrated using FTIR spectroscopy and X‐rays. It was found that acylation with lauroyl chloride or acetic anhydride altered the physicochemical and functional properties, particularly at pH 10. Both reactions exhibited substitution degrees exceeding 20%. Chemical modification via acylation resulted in significant improvements in water and oil retention capacity, emulsifying activity and foaming activity. Thermal analysis revealed significant changes in the modified samples, altering their denaturation temperature, leading to the conclusion that chemical modifications through acylation with lauroyl chloride or acetic anhydride offer benefits in certain functional properties relevant to the food industry. They also represent an opportunity to diversify the application of a by‐product obtained from sesame oil extraction.
Exploring the lived experience of Arab male patients on intermittent catheterization after spinal cord injury: A phenomenological study
Authors: Abuzied Yacoub , Al‐Amer Rasmieh , Saleh Mohammad Y. N. , Somduth Shreemathie , AlBashtawy Mohammed , Ali Amira Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Background

Intermittent catheterization (IC) has been identified as one of the critical techniques used by spinal cord injury (SCI) patients to cope with emptying the bladder, despite several problems impeding this procedure.

Aim

The study aimed accordingly to explore the lived experience of Arab male patients on IC after their SCI.

Design

This study was carried out by using a descriptive qualitative approach with a phenomenological analysis of data.

Methods

A qualitative study was carried out on 10 Arab male patients from the Rehabilitation Hospital at King Fahad Medical City (KFMC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia who were utilizing intermittent catheters following SCI. The interviews were analysed using Husserl's phenomenology and the Colaizzi method of data analysis.

Results

Two major themes and six sub‐themes were identified from exploring the patients experience. These themes are as follows: Theme 1: The Way to IC; with two sub‐themes: (i) ‘service provided and acceptance’ and (ii) ‘educational experience’; Theme 2: Lifestyle and self‐adaptation; with four sub‐themes: (i) ‘Flexibility and freedom’, (ii) ‘Physical access to the community’, (iii) ‘Traveling’ and (iv) ‘Work and Social life balance’.

Conclusion

It is evident that using an intermittent catheter among patients with SCI influenced almost all aspects of the participant's life, including their social lives and body image appearance.
The buying of freedom: Migrant workers and the “Azad” Visa in the Persian Gulf1
Authors: Babar Zahra
Published: May 2024

The six monarchies of the Persian Gulf are considered to be the world's third largest hub of international migration, having over the decades drawn millions of labour migrants to occupy a range of jobs across all tiers of the labour market. Despite decades of an unabated inward flow of foreign workers, none of the regional governments consider themselves to be destinations for permanent settlement or immigration. To meet their domestic labour needs and simultaneously avoid becoming immigrant‐based societies, the Gulf States have developed elaborate mechanisms of migration control. The overarching goal of the much vilified “kafala” system has above all else been to ensure the temporariness of migrants' duration of stay. By tying migrants' visa status directly to their employer‐sponsors and to short duration work contracts, the Gulf states have managed to cycle workers in and out of the country without making an efforts towards integration or adding to their citizen population. However, the precarities, dependencies and immobilities this visa regime imposes on labour migrants has generated a phenomenon of migrants actively seeking means by which to evade it. This paper explores Pakistani migrants' efforts to gain “legal” entry into the Gulf labour markets through pursuing the “Azad” or “free” visa. These visas are in essence sold (at a fairly high cost) to potential migrants via the profit‐oriented transnational labour recruitment system that brings migrants from Asia to the Gulf.
Disproportionate mental health presentations to emergency departments in a coastal regional community in Australia of first nation people
Authors: Higgins Oliver , Sheather‐Reid Rachel B. , Chalup Stephan K. , Wilson Rhonda L.
Published: May 2024

Emergency department (ED) presentations for mental health (MH) help‐seeking have been rising rapidly in recent years. This research aims to identify the service usage demographic for people seeking MH care in the ED, specifically in this case, to understand the usage by First Nation people. This retrospective cohort study examined the sociodemographic and presentation characteristics of individuals seeking MH care in two EDs between 2016 and 2021. Data were collected using existing records and analysed using descriptive univariate analysis with statistical significance between the two sites determined using chi‐squared test, p < 0.05. The overall data presented in this analysis show an overall ED mental health presentation rate of 12.02% for those who identified as ‘Aboriginal but not Torres Strait Islander origin’, 0.36% as ‘Both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’ and 0.27% as ‘Torres Strait Islander’ totalling 12.63%. This is an overrepresentation compared to the regional population of 4.9%. One site recorded 14.1% of ED presentations that identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, over double the site's demographic of 6.3%. Given the disproportionately high representation of First Nation people in MH‐related ED presentations, further research is required to prioritise a First Nation research perspective that draws on First Nation research methods, such as yarning and storytelling to understand the unique cultural needs and challenges experienced by First Nation people accessing MH care via ED. Understanding the demographic is but one step in supporting the Cultural Safety needs of First Nation people. Additionally, research should be designed, governed and led by First Nation researchers.
Seroprevalence of Protective Antibodies Against Influenza and the Reduction of the Influenza Incidence Rate: An Annual Repeated Cross‐Sectional Study From 2014 to 2019
Authors: Guiomar Raquel , Pereira da Silva Susana , Costa Inês , Conde Patricia , Cristóvão Paula , Rodrigues Ana Paula , Fernandes Aida , Dias Ana Paula , Couto Ana Rita , Ramos Angélica , Moita Carina , Rodrigues Carina , Vale Fátima , Caldeira Filomena , Bruges Armas Jácome , Pereira‐Vaz João , Alves José , Freitas Ludivina , Martins Luis , Milho Luís , Mota‐Vieira Luisa , Lopes Lurdes , Freitas Margarida , Pessanha Maria Ana , Correia Maria , Marques Maria Helena , Cardoso Maria João , Peres Maria João , Cunha Mário , Amantegui Patricia , Mota Paula , Lopes Paulo , Pereira Paulo , Viseu Regina , Cabral Rita , Côrte‐Real Rita , Almeida Sofia , Soares Vânia , Mansinho Kamal , Hungnes Olav , Nunes Baltazar
Published: May 2024

Background

Seroepidemiological studies provide estimates of population‐level immunity, prevalence/incidence of infections, and evaluation of vaccination programs. We assessed the seroprevalence of protective antibodies against influenza and evaluated the correlation of seroprevalence with the cumulative annual influenza incidence rate.

Methods

We conducted an annual repeated cross‐sectional seroepidemiological survey, during June–August, from 2014 to 2019, in Portugal. A total of 4326 sera from all age groups, sex, and regions was tested by hemagglutination inhibition assay. Seroprevalence and geometric mean titers (GMT) of protective antibodies against influenza were assessed by age group, sex, and vaccine status (65+ years old). The association between summer annual seroprevalence and the difference of influenza incidence rates between one season and the previous one was measured by Pearson correlation coefficient (r).

Results

Significant differences in seroprevalence of protective antibodies against influenza were observed in the population. Higher seroprevalence and GMT for A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) were observed in children (5–14); influenza B seroprevalence in adults 65+ was 1.6–4.4 times than in children (0–4). Vaccinated participants (65+) showed significant higher seroprevalence/GMT for influenza. A strong negative and significant correlation was found between seroprevalence and ILI incidence rate for A(H1N1)pdm09 in children between 5 and 14 (r = −0.84; 95% CI, −0.98 to −0.07); a weak negative correlation was observed for A(H3N2) and B/Yamagata (r ≤ −0.1).

Conclusions

The study provides new insight into the anti‐influenza antibodies seroprevalence measured in summer on the ILI incidence rate in the next season and the need for adjusted preventive health care measures to prevent influenza infection and transmission.
Principles, mechanism, and identification of S‐scheme heterojunction for photocatalysis: A critical review
Authors: Molaei Mohammad Jafar
Published: May 2024

Semiconductor photocatalysis has been extensively used in the degradation of pollutants and the production of hydrogen fuel. The main drawback in the application of semiconductor photocatalysis is the rapid recombination of charge carriers. Several strategies have been applied to improve charge carrier separation to preserve them for imparting in photocatalytic reactions. Among the modifications that are made in the photocatalytic systems, the construction of different types of heterostructures, including type II, Z‐scheme, p–n junction, and Schottky junction, has received great attention. Recently, emerging S‐scheme heterojunctions have been shown to be able to preserve powerful charge carriers for photocatalytic reactions, which is not the case in other heterostructures. In this review, principles and mechanisms of charge transfer in S‐scheme heterostructures are discussed, and important semiconductors that have been used in the construction of this type of heterojunctions are reviewed. Methods for identification of S‐scheme heterojunction, challenges, and prospects have been addressed.
Magnesium aluminate spinel transparent ceramics with high optical and mechanical performance by Y3Al5O12 sintering additive
Authors: Luo Haoming , Han Dan , Zhang Jian , Wang Shiwei
Published: May 2024

High‐quality magnesium aluminate spinel (MAS) transparent ceramics were successfully fabricated using Y3Al5O12 (YAG) as the sintering additive. The influence of the YAG content on the sintering behavior, microstructure, and optical properties of the MAS transparent ceramics was systematically investigated. A 4 mm‐thick sample with 0.01 wt.% YAG hot isostatic pressed at 1600°C achieved the highest in‐line transmittance of 84.0% at 400 nm and the flexural strength of the sample was as high as 347.3 MPa, which represents the highest‐performing reported MAS transparent ceramics that were sintered with oxide additives.
Role of ferroptosis in neuroimmunity and neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis revealed by multi‐omics data
Authors: Wu Tao , Ning Shangwei , Zhang Huixue , Cao Yuze , Li Xia , Hao Junwei , Wang Lihua
Published: May 2024

Previous studies have found that ferroptosis plays an important role in a variety of neurological diseases. However, the precise role of ferroptosis in the multiple sclerosis patients remains uncertain. We defined and validated a computational metric of ferroptosis levels. The ferroptosis scores were computed using the AUCell method, which reflects the enrichment scores of ferroptosis‐related genes through gene ranking. The reliability of the ferroptosis score was assessed using various methods, involving cells induced to undergo ferroptosis by six different ferroptosis inducers. Through a comprehensive approach integrating snRNA‐seq, spatial transcriptomics, and spatial proteomics data, we explored the role of ferroptosis in multiple sclerosis. Our findings revealed that among seven sampling regions of different white matter lesions, the edges of active lesions exhibited the highest ferroptosis score, which was associated with activation of the phagocyte system. Remyelination lesions exhibit the lowest ferroptosis score. In the cortex, ferroptosis score were elevated in neurons, relevant to a variety of neurodegenerative disease‐related pathways. Spatial transcriptomics demonstrated a significant co‐localization among ferroptosis score, neurodegeneration and microglia, which was verified by spatial proteomics. Furthermore, we established a diagnostic model of multiple sclerosis based on 24 ferroptosis‐related genes in the peripheral blood. Ferroptosis might exhibits a dual role in the context of multiple sclerosis, relevant to both neuroimmunity and neurodegeneration, thereby presenting a promising and novel therapeutic target. Ferroptosis‐related genes in the blood that could potentially serve as diagnostic and prognostic markers for multiple sclerosis.
Design of multi‐epitope chimeric vaccine against Monkeypox virus and SARS‐CoV‐2: A vaccinomics perspective
Authors: Al‐Madhagi Haitham , Kanawati Adeela , Tahan Zaher
Published: May 2024

The current era we experience is full with pandemic infectious agents that no longer threatens the major local source but the whole globe. Almost the most emerging infectious agents are severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS CoV‐2), followed by monkeypox virus (MPXV). Since no approved antiviral drugs nor licensed active vaccines are yet available, we aimed to utilize immunoinformatics approach to design chimeric vaccine against the two mentioned viruses. This is the first study to deal with design divalent vaccine against SARS‐CoV‐2 and MPXV. ORF8, E and M proteins from Omicron SARS‐CoV‐2 and gp182 from MPXV were used as the protein precursor from which multi‐epitopes (inducing B‐cell, helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells and interferon‐ɣ) chimeric vaccine was contrived. The structure of the vaccine construct was predicted, validated, and docked to toll‐like receptor‐2 (TLR‐2). Moreover, its sequence was also used to examine the immune simulation profile and was then inserted into the pET‐28a plasmid for in silico cloning. The vaccine construct was probable antigen (0.543) and safe (non‐allergen) with strong binding energy to TLR‐2 (−1169.8 kcal/mol) and found to have significant immune simulation profile. In conclusion, the designed chimeric vaccine was potent and safe against SARS‐CoV‐2 and MPXV, which deserves further consideration.
High‐intensity interval training mitigates the progression of periodontitis and improves behavioural aspects in rats
Authors: Pereira Ramona Ramalho de Souza , Castro Giselle Bicalho de , Magalhães Caíque Olegário Diniz e , Costa Karine Beatriz , Garcia Bruna Caroline Chaves , Silva Gabriela , Carvalho Jaqueline do Carmo Lima , Machado Alan Rodrigues Teixeira , Vieira Etel Rocha , Cassilhas Ricardo Cardoso , Pereira Luciano José , Dias‐Peixoto Marco Fabrício , Andrade Eric Francelino
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate the effects of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) on periodontitis (PD) progression and behavioural outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight Wistar rats were divided into four groups: non‐trained (NT); non‐trained with PD; HIIT with PD; and HIIT. The HIIT protocol, involving daily treadmill sessions, spanned 8 weeks, with PD induced by ligature after the 6th week. Behavioural tests were conducted to assess anxiety and memory. Post euthanasia, we evaluated the systemic inflammatory profile and oxidative stress markers in the hippocampus and amygdala. A morphological evaluation and elemental composition analysis of the mandibular alveolar bone were performed.

Results

PD exacerbated alveolar bone level, bone surface damage and alterations in calcium and phosphorus percentages on the bone surface (p < .05), while HIIT attenuated these changes (p < .05). HIIT improved systemic inflammatory markers altered by PD (tumour necrosis factor [TNF]‐α, interleukin [IL]‐10, TNF‐α/IL‐10 and IL‐1β/IL‐10 ratios, p < .05). PD animals exhibited lower total antioxidant capacity and levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in the amygdala and hippocampus, respectively (p < .05). HIIT maintained these parameters at levels similar to those in NT animals. HIIT improved anxiety and memory outcomes altered by PD (p < .05).

Conclusions

HIIT attenuates systemic inflammation, anxiety and memory outcomes promoted by PD.