bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring consumers’ perceptions of online purchase decision factors: electroencephalography and eye-tracking evidence
Authors: Pšurný Michal , Mokrý Stanislav , Stavkova Jana
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Consumer behavior on the Internet is influenced by factors that can affect consumers’ perceptions and attention to products. Understanding these processes at the neurobiological level can help to understand consumers’ implicit responses to marketing stimuli. The objective of this study is to use electroencephalography (EEG) to investigate the differential effects of selected online purchase decision factors that are becoming increasingly important in online shopping.

Methods

Using event-related potentials (ERPs) and simultaneous eye-tracking measurements, we identified differences in the perception of utilitarian and hedonic products when the products are exposed together with visual elements of the factors review, discount, and quantity discount. The ERP analysis focused on the P200 and late positive potential components (LPP).

Results

By allowing free-viewing of stimuli during measurement, early automatic and later more complex attentional affective responses could be observed. The results suggest that the review and discount factors are processed faster than the product itself. However, the eye-tracking data indicate that the brain processes the factor without looking at it directly, i.e., from a peripheral view.

Discussion

The study also demonstrates the possibilities of using new objective methods based on neurobiology and how they can be applied, especially in areas where the use of neuroscience is still rare, yet so much needed to objectify consumers’ knowledge of their need satisfaction behavior.
Analysis of anterior corneal surface shape after replacing orthokeratology lenses carrying a small base curve diameter
Authors: Chen Minfeng , Zhao Sijun , Peng Lulu , Rong Yu , Zhu Chengwei , Lu Fan , Mao Xinjie
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The study analyzed the changes in corneal surface shape after replacing orthokeratology lenses carrying a small base curve (BC) diameter.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we included ~54 right eyes belonging to 54 myopic children who insisted on wearing an orthokeratology (ortho-k BC 6.0 mm) lens for more than 12 months and then replaced the second ortho-k (BC 6.0 mm or BC 5.0 mm) lens ~12 months. The children were categorized into two groups based on the design of the BC of the replaced ortho-k lens 6.0/5.0 and 6.0/6.0.

Results

The ratio of axial length (AL) elongation in the 6.0/5.0 group was significantly less than in the 6.0/6.0 group (−0.015 ± 0.014 mm/M vs. −0.005 ± 0.012 mm/M, t = −2.672, P = 0.010). After replacing the BC 5.0 ortho-k lens, the optical zone (8.19 ± 2.60 mm2 vs. 9.64 ± 1.57 mm2, t = −2.345, p = 0.023), reverse zone (31.64 ± 5.80 mm2 vs. 34.86 ± 4.61 mm2, t = −2.169, p = 0.035), and treatment zone (17.16 ± 3.94 mm2 vs. 22.96 ± 2.59 mm2, t = −6.049, p < 0.001) were all smaller than those in the 6.0/6.0 group. In the 6.0/5.0 group, the optical zone (wearing more than 1 month as first: 11.16 ± 2.12 mm2, the last inspection before replacing lens as before: 10.87 ± 1.90 mm2), reverse curve zone (first: 22.03 ± 3.11 mm2, before: 26.24 ± 5.06 mm2), and treatment zone (first: 35.97 ± 5.54 mm2, before: 37.11 ± 6.04 mm2) were all greater than these after replacing ortho-k lens (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Replacing an ortho-k lens with a smaller BC resulted in a larger decrease in the mean central corneal zone and a substantial increase in the paracentral corneal zone. In addition, the ortho-k lens with a smaller BC does not increase the decentration distance and contributes to effective myopia control.
Memristor-based model of neuronal excitability and synaptic potentiation
Authors: Kipelkin Ivan M. , Gerasimova Svetlana A. , Belov Alexey I. , Guseinov Davud V. , Kruglov Alexander V. , Serov Dmitry A. , Talanov Max O. , Mikhaylov Alexey N. , Kazantsev Victor B.
Published: November 2024

In this manuscript, we investigate the memristor-based implementation of neuronal ion channels in a mathematical model and an experimental circuit for a neuronal oscillator. We used a FitzHugh-Nagumo equation system describing neuronal excitability. Non-linearities introduced by the voltage-gated ion channels were modeled using memristive devices. We implemented three basic neuronal excitability modes including the excitable mode corresponding to a single spike generation, self-oscillation stable limit cycle mode with periodic spike trains and bistability between a fixed point and a limit cycle. We also found the spike-burst activity of mathematical and experimental models under certain system parameters. Modeling synaptic transmission, we simulated postsynaptic response triggered by periodic pulse stimulation. We found that due to the charge accumulation effect in the memristive device, the electronic synapse implemented a qualitatively bio-plausible synapse with a potentiation effect with increasing amplitude of the response triggered by a spike sequence.
The role of prenatal choline and its impact on neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Mujica-Coopman María F. , Paules Evan M. , Trujillo-Gonzalez Isis
Published: November 2024

Extensive evidence demonstrates that prenatal nutrition is crucial for adequate fetal development. Specifically, maternal choline intake plays a significant role in gene expression, epigenetics, and cell membrane formation. Preclinical models have shown that maternal dietary intake improves the development of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. This review focuses on the role of prenatal choline intake and discusses its potential role in neurodevelopmental disorders especially since choline has emerged as a promising coadjutant to mitigate cognitive and developmental disorders. However, more evidence regarding timing, dosage, and molecular mechanisms is needed. In this review, we discuss the impact of prenatal choline availability, evidence from current models, and gaps to address in how choline may impact the symptomology and manifestation of Rett syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and Down syndrome. Our ultimate goal is to highlight the importance of choline for maternal health and its potential beneficial impact on neurodevelopmental disorders.
Association of Body Roundness Index and A Body Shape Index with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: insights from NHANES 2015–2018 data
Authors: Pan Xue , Liu Fang , Fan Jiayi , Guo Qihan , Guo Mengfei , Chen Yuxin , Sun Jingyao , Cao Xuezhao
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study examines the relationship between several anthropometric indices-Body Roundness Index (BRI), A Body Shape Index (ABSI), Waist-to-Weight Index (WWI), Waist Circumference (WC), and Body Mass Index (BMI)-and the prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2015 to 2018.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 7,004 adult participants was conducted using NHANES 2015–2018 data. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were employed to assess the association between BRI, ABSI, and OSA. Non-linear relationships were explored via smooth curve fitting and threshold effect analysis using a two-part linear regression model. Subgroup analyses identified sensitive populations, and the discriminatory power of the indices in screening OSA was assessed using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

The analysis revealed a significant positive association between BRI and OSA, with a threshold effect observed at a BRI of 4.3. Below this threshold, OSA risk increased with higher BRI; however, no significant association was found above this threshold. Similarly, ABSI demonstrated a threshold effect at 8.2, with OSA risk positively associated to the left and negatively associated to the right. Subgroup analyses indicated stronger associations in younger and non-diabetic populations. ROC analysis identified BRI as a promising predictive tool for OSA, with an AUC of 0.64 (95% CI: 0.62–0.65).

Conclusion

BRI demonstrates significant potential as a predictive index for OSA incidence, warranting further large-scale prospective studies to validate these findings.
Case report: Triple-negative breast cancer with low tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes infiltration and good prognosis: a case of Tall Cell Carcinoma with Reversed Polarity and review of the literature
Authors: Jiao Shuoying , Chen Junpeng , Shen Jiumei , Peng Ajing , Chen Ruifu , Lai Baoyong , Luo Chunhua , Fan Yingyi , Pei Xiaohua
Published: November 2024

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a great challenge for clinical management due to the high rate of metastatic recurrence and lack of recognised therapeutic targets, while tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) infiltration in TNBC has been discovery provides an opportunity for immunotherapy, and studies have suggested that the level of TILs infiltration is positively correlated with TNBC survival. We found a rare case of TNBC with low TILs infiltration but good prognosis, named Tall Cell Carcinoma with Reversed Polarity (TCCRP), and we investigated it from the perspective of TILs infiltration in order to improve the clinical data of TCCRP.

Case presentation

a 54-year-old woman with a left breast mass, breast ultrasound showed BI-RADS IVb, puncture diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma, postoperative pathology showed papillary structure, cubic and high columnar arrangement of cells, nuclei far away from the base, interstitial fibroplasia, diagnosed as TCCRP. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the tumours were triple-negative breast cancer (negative for ER, PR, and HER-2), with a low Ki-67 proliferation index. TILs were < 10%, with a small infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, positive expression of SMA and FAP, and IDH2, PIK3CA gene mutation. The patient underwent postoperative chemotherapy, 11 months follow-up, no recurrence and metastasis.

Conclusion

TCCRP is a rare TNBC with inert biological behaviours and good prognosis. We found low infiltration of TILs in the pathological tissue of this case, which may be a characteristic of TCCRP, and the presence of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAF) in the interstitium of the tumour in this case may have suppressed the anti-tumour immunity to some extent, and further studies on the immune characteristics of the tumour microenvironment (TME) in TCCRP are needed.
Long-term survival in metastatic gastric cancer patient with Apatinib plus S-1 maintenance treatment following first-line chemotherapy—case report
Authors: Wang Zhen , Li Hao , Guan Yue , Wu Mingshuang , Hu Manqing , Fang Chenchen , Wu Huaxing , Yang Maopeng
Published: November 2024

Aim

Gastric cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality and the fifth most common cancer globally. In China, many patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage and cannot be operated on, so the prognosis is very poor. The role of maintenance therapy after first-line chemotherapy in gastric cancer is still unclear. Apatinib is a small-molecule VEGFR-2 TKI and is currently approved for third-line treatment after failure of second-line chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer. In this article, we use case reports to illustrate its effectiveness and to study what effective maintenance treatments are available for gastric cancer.

Methods

The main treatment is chemotherapy and targeted therapy. We reported a 68-year-old man with a diagnosis of advanced gastric cancer with liver metastasis. From 12/2014 to 05/2015 Oxaliplatin + S-1(dose) chemotherapy for 6 cycles, the efficacy of partial response (PR) evaluation. After the patient’s oral S-1 + Apatinib (dose) to maintain the therapeutic usage and dosage, the patient is well tolerated, the tumor is reviewed regularly, and the condition is stable. The patient was finally infected with the COVID-2019 in May 2023, resulting in death after ineffective treatment.

Results

After Oxaliplatin combined with S-1 regimen, the effect was up to PR. S-1 combined with Apatinib maintenance therapy after first-line chemotherapy, the patient has survived for more than 7 years without progression.

Conclusions

The current treatment of advanced gastric cancer is not satisfactory. The combined application of S-1 and Apatinib in gastric cancer maintenance therapy deserves further study. Maintenance therapy for gastric cancer has attracted wide attention, and more large-scale clinical research is under way.
Chronic alcohol-related myopathy: a closer look at the role of lipids
Authors: Ganjayi Muni Swamy , Krauss Thomas A. , Willis Craig R. G. , Baumann Cory W.
Published: November 2024

Chronic alcohol-related myopathy (CAM), characterized by muscle atrophy and weakness, arises from prolonged excessive ethanol (EtOH) intake. The precise mechanisms by which EtOH induces skeletal muscle atrophy are not fully understood. This article posits that the pathophysiology of CAM may be significantly influenced by how EtOH modifies lipid profiles and alters lipid composition and content in skeletal muscle. We review existing literature on lipid alterations in CAM-afflicted individuals and analogous animal models, discuss EtOH’s direct and indirect effects on skeletal muscle lipids, and present specific instances where lipids contribute to muscle atrophy. This article advocates for a novel viewpoint, suggesting that lipid dysregulation may be the principal factor in EtOH-induced muscle wasting, offering a different angle to approach CAM research and treatment strategies.
Tobacco/Isatis intercropping system improves soil quality and increase total production value
Authors: Wang Zhongyan , Guo Xiaomeng , Cao Shoutao , Yang Mingfeng , Gao Qiang , Zong Hao , Shang Xianchao , Gao Yun , Zhang Li , Yang Long , Zhang Miao , Sun Mingming , Hou Xin
Published: November 2024

Continuous tobacco monocropping has caused soil degradation and yield reduction in China. Intercropping, as a specific and efficient cropping pattern, is highly associated with the enhancement of soil quality and land-use efficiency. Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)- Isatis (Isatis tinctoria L.) intercropping can significantly alleviate pests and diseases, and improve soil potential and fertility in tobacco fields. In this study, comparative analysis of three different tobacco-Isatis intercropping (B2, B3, B4) and tobacco monocropping (B1) on the soil nutrients, enzyme activities, and microbial community were conducted. B2, B3, and B4 importantly increased the contents of organic matter, available potassium, and available phosphorus content of the soil by 17.38%, 7.76%, and 2.78%, respectively. Moreover, B2 enhanced the activities of sucrase, urease, and catalase of soil by 2.35 times, 3.16 times, and 4.47 times, respectively, and B3 enhanced the activities of sucrase, urease, and catalase of soil by 2.74 times, 3.22 times, and 3.11 times, respectively. The intercropping pattern also optimized the structure of the soil microbial community. The relative abundances of Acidobacteriota, Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadota, Planctomycetota, Nitrospirota, and Verrucomicrobiota in B3 and B4 were higher than those in B1. Positive links in soil bacterial correlation networks accounted for 47%, and soil bacteria formed a highly interactive and complex network. And compared with the B1, Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were lower abundance in B2 and B4, Ascomycota were lower abundance in B3 and Mortierellomycota were lower abundance in B2 and B3. Compared with monocropping, the chemical composition of tobacco leaves was harmoniously improved and the total production value of tobacco fields was significantly higher. The content of reducing sugar, total sugar, nicotine, potassium, and two-sugar ratio of leaves were increased after intercropping. The proportion of top-grade tobacco leaves after roasting in B2, B3, and B4 treatments were increased by 8.19%, 16.74%, and 27.32%, respectively. The study constructs insights into microbial community interactions at in tobacco/Isatis intercropping systems, and may facilitate the further development of tobacco/Isatis intercropping systems.
Exploring the impact of physical exercise on mental health among female college students: the chain mediating role of coping styles and psychological resilience
Authors: Cao Longan , Ao Xiaorong , Zheng Zhirong , Ran Zhengban , Lang Jun
Published: November 2024

Background

Female college students are a high-risk group for psychological conflicts, and they are more likely to adopt negative coping styles under stress, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems, as well as pose hidden threats to the healthy development of school education and social work. Although physical exercise is an important means of effectively alleviating the psychological health of female college students, and there may be a close relationship between coping styles and psychological resilience with physical exercise and psychological health, specific ways to promote the psychological health of female college students by influencing their coping styles and enhancing their psychological resilience have yet to be explored.

Methods

The present study employed a cross-sectional design to investigate a sample of Chinese undergraduate female college students. A total of 659 participants were recruited during the second half of the 2023–2024 academic year, and they all completed assessments including the Physical Activity Rating Scale, College Mental Health Scale, Brief Coping Styles Questionnaire, and Psychological Resilience Scale. Subsequently, descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze the obtained reliable data.

Results and conclusion

The study revealed two significant correlations among female college students, namely the associations between physical exercise, coping styles, psychological flexibility, and mental health. Specifically, physical exercise exhibited a positive relationship with positive coping styles and psychological resilience while displaying a negative association with negative coping styles and mental health. Moreover, psychological resilience demonstrated a positive correlation with positive coping styles but displayed negative relationships with both negative coping styles and mental health. Additionally, there was a negative relationship observed between positive coping styles and mental health. Furthermore, it was found that physical exercise significantly impacted the mental health of female college students in a detrimental manner; meanwhile, coping styles and psychological resilience played crucial mediating roles in linking physical exercise to mental health outcomes. Ultimately, our mediation model sheds the underlying mechanisms through which physical exercise predicts mental health levels among female college students; these findings underscore the importance of promoting physical exercise as an effective means to enhance overall well-being.
Effects of an exercise intervention on maternal depression, anxiety, and fatigue: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Haoran , Mu Qinglei , Lv Xunjin , Chen Shuainan , He Hao
Published: November 2024

Background

Existing meta-analyses suggest that exercise intervention may play a crucial therapeutic role in improving maternal depression, anxiety and fatigue symptoms. However, the efficacy varies across different exercise content, duration, frequency, cycle, intensity, format and intervention period.

Objective

Using meta-analysis to propose the best intervention program and examine the effect of exercise intervention on maternal depression, anxiety, and fatigue.

Methods

Five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI) were searched from inception to June 2024, a total of 37 literatures were included. The methodological quality of the included literatures was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and the PEDro scale. When heterogeneity was high, we used random-effects models. Funnel plots were used to assess publication bias. Sensitivity analysis was used to verify the robustness of the combined results. Subgroup analysis was used to explore sources of heterogeneity.

Results

Exercise has beneficial effects on the improvement of maternal depression [g = −0.71, 95%CI (−0.93, −0.49), p = 0.00], anxiety [g = −1.09, 95%CI (−1.42, −0.76), p = 0.00] and fatigue [g = −0.64, 95%CI (−0.88, −0.40), p = 0.00] symptoms. Postnatal interventions may be more effective than prenatal. Low-moderate intensity yoga with group + individual, 4–5 times/week, 40–60 min/time, duration 4–8 weeks is most effective in improving depressive symptoms. Low-intensity yoga with group + individual, 4–5 times/week, 40–60 min/time, duration 4–8 weeks is most effective for improving anxiety symptoms. Low-intensity Pilates with group, 1–2 times/week, 40–60 min/time, duration 4–8 weeks is most effective for improving fatigue symptoms.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrates the positive effect of exercise on improving maternal depression, anxiety and fatigue and suggests the best intervention program. Maternal perceptions that postpartum exercise is safer may account for the better outcomes of postpartum intervention. Further higher quality and large-scale trials are needed to substantiate our findings.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, CRD42024567987.
Relationships between dyadic coping, marital adjustment, and post-traumatic growth in patients with maintenance hemodialysis patients and their spouses
Authors: Zhang Qi , Cao Heng
Published: November 2024

Aim

To measure the relationships between dyadic coping, marital adjustment, and post-traumatic growth in patients with maintenance hemodialysis and their spouses.

Background

Post-traumatic growth is common in patients facing maintenance hemodialysis. However, studies tend to focus on these patients as individuals rather than as part of a couple. Dyadic coping in a couple is important for their marital adjustment; however, little is known about how a couple's dyadic coping influences their marital adjustment and impacts their posttraumatic growth.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted among patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis and their spouses. Patients were recruited between December 2021 and October 2022 using convenience sampling from the blood purification centers of two first-class tertiary hospitals. A total of 230 couples (460 individuals) of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis and their spouses were enrolled. A general condition questionnaire, the dyadic coping scale, and the Locke-Wallace marital adjustment scale were used for assessments and data entry and analysis were performed using EpiData 3.1, SPSS 25.0, and Mplus 8.4.

Results

The dyadic coping of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis was positively correlated with both marital adjustment and posttraumatic growth, as was the dyadic coping of their spouses. The marital adjustment of both patients and their spouses was found to partially mediate the association between dyadic coping and posttraumatic growth.

Conclusion

Subject-mediated effects between the levels of dyadic coping, marital adjustment, and posttraumatic growth were established for both patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis and their spouses, and it was found that the marital adjustment in both showed varying degrees of mediation in the relationship between their dyadic coping and posttraumatic growth.

Impact

The findings of the study suggest that attention should be given to promoting dyadic coping behaviors in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis and their spouses. It is recommended that nurses offer both education and support to couples to promote dyadic coping.
Exploring factors influencing the quality of life in diabetes: a network analysis-based study
Authors: Chen Lu , Li Ling , Qiao Kexin , Qiao Zhengxue , Xiang Ying , Zhou Jiawei , Bu Tianyi , Hu Xiaomeng , Ke Siyuan , Kan Yuecui , Liu Xuan , Ji Yanping , Qiu Xiaohui , Yang Yanjie
Published: November 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore the key pathways leading to low quality of life in type 2 diabetes patients by means of network analysis, so as to provide the possibility of effective interventions.

Methods

The study involved 1,011 adult type 2 diabetes patients from a tertiary hospital in Harbin. Data was collected through questionnaires, and network analysis was performed using R software to assess the centrality and predictability of each node.

Results

“Depression” and “Submission” (weight = 0.26), “Depression” and “Physiological field” (weight = -0.16), exhibit the strongest associations. Overall, “Depression” has the highest weight in the association with diabetes symptom, regarding betweenness, “Depression” and “Submission” exhibit the highest scores, Furthermore, the analysis of closeness centrality reveals that “Depression” and “Submission” share the highest level of proximity, it suggests that they have the shortest distances to other network factors in our research network.

Conclusion

Depression and Submission are likely to be key factors affecting the quality of life of people with diabetes. Providing psychological support and scientific coping strategies for diabetes patients may be an effective way to help them live a better life.
Association between the American Heart Association’s New Life’s Essential 8 Metrics and Depression Symptom in U.S General Adults, Finding from NHANES 2005-2018
Authors: Ruan Zhuoer , Zhu Jie , Xu Shengnan , Liang Jinghong , Shi Shengqiao
Published: November 2024

Background

The American Heart Association (AHA) recently introduced a new metric for promoting cardiovascular health (CVH) called Life’s Essential 8 (LE8). However, there has been no investigation into the relationship between levels of LE8 and the risk of depression symptom. Therefore, our objective was to determine this association using a nationally representative sample of U.S adults.

Methods

Utilizing cross-sectional data from the NHANES spanning the years 2005 to 2018, we computed scores for both overall CVH and individual LE8 components. The survey-weighted logistic regression models were conducted to determine whether LE8 was associated with depression symptom.

Results

A total of 25,357 adults aged 20 and above were included in the study, representing a population of 1,184 million non-institutionalized U.S residents. The study revealed that individuals with positive scores in both individual and total LE8 metrics were less likely to experience depressive symptoms compared to those with negative scores. Furthermore, a significant negative linear trend was observed, showing that as the overall number of favorable LE8 scores increased, the likelihood of depressive symptoms decreased.

Conclusion

Attaining a higher CVH score, as defined by the LE8, is strongly linked to a lower risk of experiencing depressive symptoms in adult residents of the U.S.
#FamilyisLove: understanding extreme life experiences and psychological profile of pre-service teachers in the Philippines
Authors: Dechavez January
Published: November 2024

Despite the focus of studies in other countries that emphasize the significant impact of household and school experiences on child development, in the Philippines, the few studies available tend to focus on the prevalence of suicide cases, bullying, and other school experiences that impact mental health. No explicit studies relate demographic information, relationships and past experiences, personality variables, and household treatment among Filipino students with regard to their own mental wellbeing. Thus, with the primary aim of describing the psychological profile of second-year pre-service teachers taking Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education for the academic year 2019–20 and to identify possible interventions and propose policy recommendations to promote mental healthcare, wellbeing, and resilience, the Basic Personality Inventory (BPI) results and focus group discussion interview texts were utilized for this investigation. The explanatory sequential mixed methods research was employed to undertake a study of student participants (n = 91) aged 18–35 years (X̄ = 19.9 years, SD = 2.00) using descriptive statistical tools for quantitative data derived from BPI results and textual/thematic analysis (visual and content) for qualitative data. The dominant personality variables reported as areas of weakness were thinking disorder, persecutory ideas, deviation, and self-depreciation. On the other hand, the identified areas of strength were cooperativeness, capacity for self-criticism, cheerfulness, and socially responsible attitudes. Finally, familial relationships/household treatment and previous experiences at home and in school contributed to the respondents’ strengths and weaknesses. For this reason, various mental health-related intervention activities, policies, and programs are recommended.
COVID-19 vaccination survey and anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG responses in a human cohort from Schistosoma mansoni-endemic villages in Mayuge District, Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Niu Mimi , Mu Yi , Adriko Moses , Candia Rowel , Jones Malcolm K. , McManus Donald P. , Egwang Thomas G. , Cai Pengfei
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in devastating health and economic consequences worldwide. Vaccination has been a central pillar for COVID-19 prevention and control. Understanding the immunomodulatory effects of helminth infections on COVID-19 vaccine-induced immune responses and vaccine efficacy is crucial to the development and deployment of effective vaccination strategies in low- and middle-income countries with a high prevalence of worms.

Methods

In September 2022, we conducted a cross-sectional, population-based survey in five Schistosoma mansoni endemic villages in Mayuge District, Uganda (n = 450). The prevalence of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths was determined by the Kato-Katz (KK) technique on two stool samples collected from each participant. A subset of individuals (n = 204) were interviewed in a COVID-19 vaccination survey. IgG levels against the SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 subunit (anti-S1 IgG) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in collected serum samples.

Results

The overall schistosomiasis and hookworm prevalence rates in the five villages were 36.4% (166/450) and 36.9% (168/450), respectively. Within the cohort, 69.78% (314/450) of the subjects had a positive anti-S1 IgG response. COVID-19 vaccination coverage among the interviewed participants was 93.14% (190/204; 95% CI, 88.8% − 95.9%). However, 81% (154/190) of COVID-19 vaccinees had an anti-S1 IgG titre ≤200. In an adolescent group receiving a single dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine (n = 23), an inverse correlation was observed between anti-S1 IgG antibody level/titre and faecal egg count. Within the above group, anti-S1 IgG levels/titres were significantly lower in subjects with moderate or heavy S. mansoni infection (n = 5) than those in KK-negative individuals (n = 9).

Conclusion

Although the acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccination was high, the majority of participants received only a single vaccine dose and the overall anti-S1 IgG titres in confirmed vaccinees were low. Moderate-to-heavy schistosome infections blunted the antibody responses following vaccination with a single dose of BNT162b2. These observations confirm the necessity for a second COVID-19 vaccine dose for two-dose primary immunization series and call for implementation research that may inform the development of a ‘treat and vaccinate’ policy during vaccination roll-out in regions with heavy worm burdens.
Development and validation of the Integrative Vitality Scale
Authors: Yoon Seok In , Park Hui Yeong , Chung Sun Yong , Kim Jong Woo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Vitality is a construct based on traditional vitalism, and is a concept similar to energy (Qi), passion, and motivation as the essential power possessed by organisms. Recently, various methods and tools have been designed to evaluate vitality as a health indicator. This study aimed to develop and validate an Integrative Vitality Scale (IVS) based on traditional Eastern medicine and modern psychology.

Methods

We conducted two online surveys and one pre-post comparison with Korean adults. Descriptive statistics and factor analysis were performed for scale development, and correlation and regression analysis were performed for validation.

Results

Exploratory (n = 348) and confirmatory (n = 349) factor analyses showed that two subfactors (physical and psychological vitality) best represented integrative vitality. The IVS-total and subscales had good internal consistency (α = 0.89–.094) and test-retest reliability (r = 0.71–0.80). Ten health-related experts (e.g., doctors, clinical psychologists, and counselors) evaluated the IVS as having excellent content validity. The IVS-total and subscales had a high correlation with existing vitality-related scales but a low correlation with pathological symptoms such as hypomania, suggesting convergent and discriminant validity. The IVS-total and subscales were negatively correlated with depression and fatigue but positively correlated with well-being and quality of life, suggesting criterion validity. The IVS had additional predictive power for depression, fatigue, and well-being even after controlling for existing vitality-related scales, suggesting incremental validity. Finally, after 16 weeks of mindfulness training (n = 28), IVS-total and subscales significantly increased.

Discussion

These findings suggested that the IVS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing physical and psychological vitality. Furthermore, the IVS could be used as a clinical indicator to predict symptoms related to low energy, such as depression and fatigue, and as an indicator of sustainable well-being.
Impact of visual impairments on cognitive functions in older adults: insights from NHANES data
Authors: Fu Xiangxiang , Du Zhenni , Ying Jianing , Zhu Qianwei
Published: November 2024

Background

Visual impairments (VI) are common in the older adults and may affect cognitive functions through mechanisms such as reduced sensory input and increased social isolation. Although current understanding of this association is incomplete, evidence suggests a potential link between poor vision and cognitive decline. This study aims to investigate the relationship between Subjective Visual Impairment (SVI), Objective Visual Impairment (OVI), and cognitive decline in the older adults, and assess whether these associations remain significant after controlling for multiple confounding factors.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the years 1999–2002 were utilized, focusing on participants aged 60 and above. A total of 2,522 eligible participants were analyzed to assess their cognitive function and visual status. Weighted logistic regression models were used to explore the relationship between cognitive status and VI, progressively adjusting for confounding variables. Non-linear associations between cognitive score and VI were further explored using restricted cubic spline analysis.

Results

Visual impairments were significantly associated with worse cognitive function. Participants with SVI had a 3.437-fold higher risk of cognitive decline compared to those without SVI (95% CI: 2.648–4.461, p < 0.001). After adjusting for multiple covariates, the association remained significant (adjusted OR for SVI: 1.921, 95% CI: 1.346–2.742, p = 0.001; adjusted OR for OVI: 3.075, 95% CI: 1.740–5.433, p = 0.001). The restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a non-linear relationship between cognitive score and visual impairment, suggesting that the impact of visual impairment on cognitive decline varies across different levels of cognitive function.

Conclusion

This study highlights a significant association between visual impairment and cognitive decline, even after controlling for multiple potential influencers. The findings support the integration of vision assessments into older adults care to identify and address vision problems early, potentially mitigating cognitive decline. The discovery of non-linear relationships further suggests that vision interventions may be particularly vital at certain stages of cognitive scores.
Longitudinal analysis of insulin resistance and sarcopenic obesity in Chinese middle-aged and older adults: evidence from CHARLS
Authors: Xu Chunyan , He Ling , Tu Yansong , Guo Canhui , Lai Hurong , Liao Caifeng , Lin Chuyang , Tu Huaijun
Published: November 2024

Objective

The correlation between surrogate insulin resistance (IR) indices and sarcopenic obesity (SO) remains uncertain. This study aimed to assess the association between six IR surrogates—triglyceride-glucose (TyG), TyG-waist circumference (TyG-WC), TyG-waist-to-height ratio (TyG-WHtR), triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL), metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR), and Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI)—and SO risk in a middle-aged and older population in China.

Methods

The study employed longitudinal data obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) between 2011 and 2015, involving 6,395 participants. We used multivariate logistic regression models to examine the link between six surrogates and SO. Nonlinear relationships were evaluated using restricted cubic spline analysis, and subgroup analyses were conducted for validation. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess predictive capabilities.

Results

Over the course of a 4-year follow-up period, 319 participants (5.0%) developed SO. In the fully adjusted model, all six surrogates were significantly associated with SO. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) per standard deviation increase were 1.21 (1.08–1.36) for TyG, 1.56 (1.39–1.75) for TyG-WC, 2.04 (1.81–2.31) for TyG-WHtR, 1.11 (1.01–1.21) for TG/HDL, 1.67 (1.50–1.87) for METS-IR, and 1.74 (1.55–1.97) for CVAI. Notably, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR, TG/HDL, METS-IR, and CVAI exhibited nonlinear correlations with SO. Conversely, TG/HDL did not exhibit a significant association during subgroup analysis. Furthermore, TyG-WHtR had a significantly larger area under the receiver operating characteristic curve than other indices.

Conclusion

The results indicated that TyG, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR, METS-IR, and CVAI were significantly and positively associated with SO incidence. Meanwhile, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR, METS-IR, and CVAI showed nonlinear relationships with SO. Specifically, TyG-WHtR may be the most appropriate indicator for predicting SO among middle-aged and older Chinese adults.
Associations between modifiable risk factors and cognitive function in middle-aged and older Chinese adults: joint modelling of longitudinal and survival data
Authors: Ran Qin , Yang Fang , Su Qin , Li Peng , Hu Yaoyue
Published: November 2024

Background

Stronger associations between modifiable risk factors and cognitive function have been found in younger than older adults. This age pattern may be subject to mortality selection and non-ignorable missingness caused by dropouts due to death, but this remains unclear.

Methods

Longitudinal data from 9,562 adults aged 50 and older from Waves 1–4 (2011–2018) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were used. Cognitive function was assessed repeatedly using a battery of cognitive tests. Joint models of longitudinal and survival data were applied to examine the associations of modifiable risk factors with cognitive function and mortality.

Results

Worse cognitive function score was associated with being female (coefficient[β] = −1.669, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.830, −1.511, p < 0.001), low education (β = −2.672, 95%CI: −2.813, −2.530, p < 0.001), rural residence (β = −1.204, 95%CI: −1.329, −1.074, p < 0.001), stroke (β = −0.451, 95%CI: −0.857, −0.051, p = 0.030), probable depression (β = −1.084, 95%CI: −1.226, −0.941, p < 0.001), and current smoking (β = −0.284, 95%CI: −0.437, −0.133, p < 0.001); whereas dyslipidaemia (β = 0.415, 95% CI: 0.207, 0.626, p < 0.001), heart disease (β = 0.513, 95% CI: 0.328, 0.698, p < 0.001), overweight (β = 0.365, 95% CI: 0.224, 0.506, p < 0.001) and obesity (β = 0.264, 95% CI: 0.048, 0.473, p = 0.014) were associated with better cognitive function. These associations changed less than 5% when the longitudinal and survival data were modelled separately. An increase in cognitive function over age was associated with reduced mortality risk (hazard ratio: 0.418, 95%CI: 0.333, 0.537, p < 0.001). The association between socioeconomic disadvantage and cognitive function was more evident in women than in men, while the associations of socioeconomic disadvantage and lifestyle with cognitive function increased with age.

Conclusion

Mortality selection and non-ignorable missingness caused by dropouts due to death played a minor role in the associations between modifiable risk factors and cognitive function in middle-aged and older Chinese adults.
Does physical activity affect social skills and antisocial behavior? The gender and only child status differences
Authors: Yang Yuke , Gao Yan , Yi Xiangren , Hu Yining , Zhao Liangyu , Chen Lu , Sui Wenze , Zhang Shuoqin , Ma Sen
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aims to explore the effects of physical activity on adolescents' social skills and antisocial behavior, as well as gender and only child status differences among Chinese adolescents.

Methods

We used longitudinal data, collecting baseline data for 2021–2022 and follow-up in 2022–2023. A total of 3,206 students were enrolled, including 1,510 males (Age ± SE: 13.62 ± 1.69) and 1,696 females (Age ± SE: 14.09 ± 1.85), 1,339 only children (Age ± SE: 13.76 ± 1.95), and 1,867 non-only children (Age ± SE: 13.95 ± 1.66). The fixed effects model was used to identify the effects of different types of physical activity on adolescent social behavior and the heterogeneity analysis.

Results

(1) We found that skipping rope (β = 2.284, t = 5.76), walking (β = 3.495, t = 9.53), cycling (β = 1.271, t = 3.21), jogging (β = 2.614, t = 5.92), and badminton (β = 1.409, t = 2.96) had a positive impact on adolescents' social skills. Tag games (β = −1.615, t = −3.83), swimming (β = −2.862, t = −4.42), dancing (β = −1.11, t = −2.29), and skiing (β = −2.771, t = −3.27) had a negative impact on adolescents' social skills. Skipping rope (β = −1.596, t = −5.86), walking (β = −1.814, t = −7.44), cycling (β = −1.066, t = −4.07), and jogging (β = −1.617, t = −5.30) tended to reduce adolescents' antisocial behavior. Tag games (β = 1.685, t = 5.54), swimming (β = 0.947, t = 2.06), ice skating (β = 1.772, t = 2.71), and skiing (β = 1.468, t = 2.31) tended to increase adolescents' antisocial behavior. In addition, we found that these effects differ by gender and only child status. (2) Boys had significantly higher participation rates in activities. Only children had higher participation rates in skipping rope, baseball or softball, and volleyball, but non-only children had higher participation rates in walking, cycling, jogging, other aerobic exercises, and badminton. (3) Girls had higher social skills, but boys and only children had significantly higher rates of antisocial behavior.

Conclusion

Our results provide a novel understanding that can inform interventions and improvements in social behavior among Chinese adolescents. Stakeholders such as educators, policymakers, and health professionals can develop more tailored and effective strategies to promote positive social development among adolescents.
Can AI teach me employability? A multi-national study in three countries
Authors: Aditya Dev , Silvestri Krizia , Otermans Pauldy CJ
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the impact of using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) teacher for current Higher Education (HE) students from three countries. The study utilized an AI avatar powered by a fine-tuned Large Language Model (LLM), OIMISA, which is trained solely for teaching and learning applications. The AI teacher provided a 9-lesson course on employability and transferable skills. In total 207 students across the three institutions enrolled in the programme. The results demonstrate a noteworthy completion rate of over 47%, along with high levels of engagement across all student cohorts and high satisfaction rates from the students. These show the potential for AI-based virtual teachers across countries for students of HE compared to the use of MOOC platforms.
The effect of AI on pink marketing: the case of women’s purchasing behavior using mobile applications
Authors: Beyari Hasan
Published: November 2024

This research looks in detail at the dynamics of pink marketing and its effect on the purchase behavior of Saudi women through mobile applications, with an emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a moderator. Furthermore, this study assesses the effects of customized pink marketing strategies – product, price, promotion, and place – on buying intentions and behaviors. A closed-ended questionnaire was adopted to measure constructs associated with women’s mobile app purchase behavior influenced by pink marketing and AI elements. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was the study tool used to examine how AI affects women’s consumer behavior and how it influences pink marketing. The results suggest that each component of the pink marketing mix significantly influences buying behavior, especially price and promotion. Additionally, AI has a significant moderating effect, improving the personalization and effectiveness of marketing activities. The results of this study highlight the essential role of AI in forming consumer engagement in the digital market, providing useful input for marketers who intend to target women in Saudi Arabia. This study complements the understanding of gender marketing in the digital era and provides a vision for the possibility of AI fundamentally changing traditional approaches.
Anxiety and depressive symptoms as predictors of substance use initiation among adolescents living on and near a Tribal reservation in the Great Plains region of the U.S.
Authors: Barry Caroline M. , Jagtiani Ashna , Livingston Melvin D. , Talavera-Brown Sierra , LaBounty Hannah , Atkinson Eugena , Skinner Juli R. , Komro Kelli A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study examines the impacts of anxiety and depressive symptoms on subsequent initiation of alcohol use, cannabis use, and prescription opioid misuse among diverse adolescents attending high schools on or near a Tribal reservation in a rural Great Plains region of the U.S.

Methods

In collaboration with Emory University and a Great Plains Tribal nation's behavioral health organization, a community randomized trial of 20 high schools was conducted to prevent substance misuse. Surveys administered at four time points (fall and spring of 10th and 11th grade) included the GAD-7, PHQ-8, and items assessing lifetime alcohol use, cannabis use, prescription opioid misuse, and covariates (age, gender, race, and food insecurity). The analytic sample included students with data at two or more time points (n = 455) from control schools (k = 10). Approximately half of the sample identified as American Indian only or American Indian/White only, and 36%–39% as White only.

Results

Adjusted generalized estimating equations showed that every 5-point increase in anxiety symptoms was associated with 1.28 and 1.29 times the odds of initiating alcohol and cannabis use respectively the following semester. Similarly, every 5-point increase in depressive symptoms was associated with 1.25, 1.34, and 1.38 times the odds of initiating alcohol use, cannabis use, and prescription opioid misuse respectively the following semester.

Discussion

Results show a consistent 25%–38% increased odds of certain types of substance use initiation following increases in anxiety and depressive symptoms among adolescents. Findings underscore the need for targeted prevention and intervention to address mental health issues among a historically marginalized population. Addressing mental health concerns earlier may mitigate later substance use risks and sequelae for rural and American Indian youth.