bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of osteopathic craniosacral techniques: a meta-analysis
Authors: Amendolara Alfred , Sheppert Alexander , Powers Ryan , Payne Andrew , Stacey Stephen , Sant David
Published: October 2024

Background

Craniosacral osteopathic manipulative medicine—also known as craniosacral therapy (CST)—is a widely taught and used component of osteopathic medicine. This paper seeks to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the clinical effectiveness of CST compared to standard care, sham treatment, or no treatment in adults and children.

Methods

A search of Embase, PubMed, and Scopus was conducted on 10/29/2023 and updated on 5/8/2024. There was no restriction placed on the date of publication. A Google Scholar search was conducted to capture grey literature. Backward citation searching was also implemented. All randomized controlled trials employing CST for any clinical outcome were included. Studies not available in English as well as studies that did not report adequate data were excluded. Multiple reviewers were used to assess for inclusions, disagreements were settled by consensus. PRISMA guidelines were followed in the reporting of this meta-analysis. Cochrane’s Risk of Bias 2 tool was used to assess for risk of bias. All data were extracted by multiple independent observers. Effect sizes were calculated using a Hedge’s G value (standardized mean difference) and aggregated using random effects models. The GRADE system was used to assess quality of evidence.

Results

The primary study outcome was the effectiveness of CST for selected outcomes as applied to non-healthy adults or children and measured by standardized mean difference effect size. Twenty-four RCTs were included in the final meta-analysis with a total of 1,613 participants. When subgroup analyses were performed by primary outcome only, no significant effects were found. When secondary outcomes were included in subgroup analyses, results showed that only Neonate health, structure (g = 0.66, 95% CI [0.30; 1.02], Prediction Interval [−0.73; 2.05]) and Pain, chronic somatic (g = 0.34, 95% CI [0.18; 0.50], Prediction Interval [−0.41; 1.09]) show reliable, statistically significant effect. However, these should not be interpreted as positive results as wide prediction intervals, high bias, and statistical limitations temper the real-world implications of this finding.

Conclusions and relevance

CST demonstrated no significant effects in this meta-analysis, indicating a lack of usefulness in patient care for any of the studied indications.

Pre-registration available at https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/54K6G.

Systematic Review Registration

https://osf.io/54k6g.
Case report: The efficacy of adding high doses of intravenous vitamin C to the combination therapy of atezolizumab and bevacizumab in unresectable HCC
Authors: Kian Waleed , Remilah Areen A. , Shatat Celine , Spector Maria , Roisman Laila C. , Ryvo Larisa
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) plays a vital role in human physiology, serving as both an antioxidant and a cofactor in enzymatic reactions. High-dose intravenous Vitamin C can achieve significantly elevated plasma concentrations, potentially enhancing its anticancer effects. This case study explores the synergistic impact of high-dose intravenous vitamin C in combination with bevacizumab and atezolizumab in the treatment of a patient with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Case presentation

A 68-year-old male was diagnosed with unresectable HCC, presenting with elevated liver enzymes and an alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level of 2018 ng/mL. Initial treatment with atezolizumab and Bevacizumab commenced in February 2022. Although imaging indicated stable disease, AFP levels decreased modestly to 1,526 ng/mL, while liver function tests remained elevated, accompanied by further clinical deterioration and weight loss. Subsequently, intravenous vitamin C (30 grams) was introduced into the treatment regimen. This addition led to a rapid and significant reduction in AFP levels, normalization of liver function tests, and marked improvement in clinical symptoms. The patient continued on this combined regimen of vitamin c, atezolizumab, and bevacizumab. Four months later, CT scans revealed significant tumor shrinkage and necrosis. As of 30 months post-diagnosis, the patient remains on the regimen with normal liver function and an AFP level of 1.8 ng/mL, maintaining normal activities and stable weight.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of combining high-dose intravenous vitamin C with Bevacizumab and atezolizumab, which proved to be safe and resulted in significant clinical and radiological improvements in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Further studies are recommended to explore the potential of this combination therapy.
Prevention and potential remedies for antibiotic resistance: current research and future prospects
Authors: Khan Rabiya Tabbassum , Sharma Vanshika , Khan Sofia Sharief , Rasool Shafaq
Published: October 2024

The increasing threat of antibiotic resistance and shrinking treatment options for infections have pushed mankind into a difficult position. The looming threat of the return of the pre-antibiotic era has caused a sense of urgency to protect and conserve the potency of antibiotic therapy. One of the perverse effects of antibiotic resistance is the dissemination of its causative agents from non-clinically important strains to clinically important strains and vice versa. The popular saying “Prevention is better than cure” is appropriate for tackling antibiotic resistance. On the one hand, new and effective antibiotics are required; on the other hand, better measures for the use of antibiotics, along with increased awareness in the general public related to antibiotic use, are essential. Awareness, especially of appropriate antibiotic use, antibiotic resistance, its dissemination, and potential threats, can help greatly in controlling the use and abuse of antibiotics, and the containment of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic drugs’ effectiveness can be enhanced by producing novel antibiotic analogs or adding adjuvants to current antibiotics. Combinatorial therapy of antibiotics has proven successful in treating multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. This review aims to highlight the current global situation of antibiotic resistance and discuss the methods used to monitor, prevent, inhibit, or reverse bacterial resistance mechanisms in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
WSSS-CRAM: precise segmentation of histopathological images via class region activation mapping
Authors: Pan Ningning , Mi Xiangyue , Li Hongzhuang , Ge Xinting , Sui Xiaodan , Jiang Yanyun
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Fast, accurate, and automatic analysis of histopathological images using digital image processing and deep learning technology is a necessary task. Conventional histopathological image analysis algorithms require the manual design of features, while deep learning methods can achieve fast prediction and accurate analysis, but rely on the drive of a large amount of labeled data.

Methods

In this work, we introduce WSSS-CRAM a weakly-supervised semantic segmentation that can obtain detailed pixel-level labels from image-level annotated data. Specifically, we use a discriminative activation strategy to generate category-specific image activation maps via class labels. The category-specific activation maps are then post-processed using conditional random fields to obtain reliable regions that are directly used as ground-truth labels for the segmentation branch. Critically, the two steps of the pseudo-label acquisition and training segmentation model are integrated into an end-to-end model for joint training in this method.

Results

Through quantitative evaluation and visualization results, we demonstrate that the framework can predict pixel-level labels from image-level labels, and also perform well when testing images without image-level annotations.

Discussion

Future, we consider extending the algorithm to different pathological datasets and types of tissue images to validate its generalization capability.
Investigating the effects of combined treatment of mesalazine with Lactobacillus casei in the experimental model of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Bahrami Shabnam , Babaei Nahid , Esmaeili Gouvarchin Ghaleh Hadi , Mohajeri Borazjani Jaleh , Farzanehpour Mahdieh
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a common gastrointestinal disorder in affluent nations, involves chronic intestinal mucosal inflammation. This research investigated the effects of combined probiotic treatment of Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) and mesalazine on disease activity index and inflammatory factors in the UC model.

Methods

20 male BALB/c mice were utilized and divided into four groups. To induce UC, all groups received 100 μL of 4% acetic acid (AA) intra-rectally. The first group received phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (as a control group), the second group was treated with L. casei, the third group was treated with mesalazine and, the fourth group was treated with L. casei and mesalazine. Treatment with L. Casei and mesalazine commenced after the manifestation of symptoms resulting from UC induction. Finally, the mice were euthanized and the disease activity index, myeloperoxidase activity, nitric oxide rate, cytokines level (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and, gene expression (iNOS, COX-2, and cytokines) were evaluated.

Results

The combined treatment of L. casei and mesalazine led to a significant decrease in the levels of NO, MPO and inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the expression of cytokines, iNOS and COX-2 genes decreased in mice treated with the combination.

Discussion

This study shows that combined treatment of L. casei and mesalazine improves of experimental UC, which can be attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties of L. casei and mesalazine. In conclusion, this combination therapy can be considered a suitable option for the management of UC.
The impact of aerobic exercise dose based on ACSM recommendations on patients with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cui Wenlai , Hu Zepeng , Li Jian , Wang Siji , Xu Ruilin
Published: October 2024

Background

To explore the effects of different dose of aerobic exercise on motor function, balance, mobility, and quality of life in Parkinson’s disease patients, aiming to provide insights into determining the optimal aerobic exercise dose for treating PD.

Methods

Searching was conducted in four databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The dose of aerobic exercise intervention was evaluated based on the recommendations of the American College of Sports Medicine regarding the development and maintenance of cardiorespiratory health, muscle strength, and functional mobility in patients with PD. The exercise intervention dose of the included studies were first classified into high ACSM compliance and low ACSM compliance based on meeting 4/6 of the ACSM recommendations. The reliability of the results was then validated using the criterion of meeting 5/6 of the ACSM recommendations. Comparisons of the effects of aerobic exercise dose on Motor function, Balance, Mobility, and QOL in PD patients using standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

When using the 4/6 ACSM compliance criterion, 17 studies were categorized as high ACSM compliance and 12 as low ACSM compliance. The SMD ratios for high versus low ACSM compliance were: UPDRS-III (−0.79: −0.18), BBS (0.60: 0.05), TUG (−0.60: −0.60), and QOL (−1.05: −0.15). When using the 5/6 ACSM compliance criterion, 11 studies were categorized as high ACSM compliance and 19 as low ACSM compliance. The SMD ratios for high versus low ACSM compliance were: UPDRS-III (−0.95: −0.38), BBS (0.48: 0.37), TUG (−0.71: −0.55), and QOL (−0.7: 0.04).

Conclusion

This study provides preliminary support for the potential of aerobic exercise to improve certain clinical symptoms in patients with PD. Furthermore, the results indicate that compliance to higher doses of aerobic exercise, as per ACSM standards, may contribute to improvements in motor function, balance, mobility, and quality of life for patients with PD. However, due to the heterogeneity in the studies and the influence of factors that have not yet been fully explored, these conclusions should be interpreted with caution. More high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed in the future to further verify and clarify the effects of aerobic exercise.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier PROSPERO: CRD42024517548.
A CT-based machine learning model for using clinical-radiomics to predict malignant cerebral edema after stroke: a two-center study
Authors: Zhang Lingfeng , Xie Gang , Zhang Yue , Li Junlin , Tang Wuli , Yang Ling , Li Kang
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This research aimed to create a machine learning model for clinical-radiomics that utilizes unenhanced computed tomography images to assess the likelihood of malignant cerebral edema (MCE) in individuals suffering from acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

The research included 179 consecutive patients with AIS from two different hospitals. These patients were randomly assigned to training (n = 143) and validation (n = 36) sets with an 8:2 ratio. Using 3DSlicer software, the radiomics features of regions impacted by infarction were derived from unenhanced CT scans. The radiomics features linked to MCE were pinpointed through a consistency test, Student’s t test and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method for selecting features. Clinical parameters associated with MCE were also identified. Subsequently, machine learning models were constructed based on clinical, radiomics, and clinical-radiomics. Ultimately, the efficacy of these models was evaluated by measuring the operating characteristics of the subjects through their area under the curve (AUCs).

Results

Logistic regression (LR) was found to be the most effective machine learning algorithm, for forecasting the MCE. In the training and validation cohorts, the AUCs of clinical model were 0.836 and 0.773, respectively, for differentiating MCE patients; the AUCs of radiomics model were 0.849 and 0.818, respectively; the AUCs of clinical and radiomics model were 0.912 and 0.916, respectively.

Conclusion

This model can assist in predicting MCE after acute ischemic stroke and can provide guidance for clinical treatment and prognostic assessment.
Effect of vitamin C supplementation on outcomes in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Wenhao , Wang Peng , Wan Jun , Tan Yaheng , Liu Yuyang , Chen Qiwen , Zheng Yuxin , Yu Xueying , Fan Sitong , Jorge Luis Cuyubamba Dominguez , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

Background

Since the emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), millions of lives have been lost, posing formidable challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. Our study aims to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin C supplementation in reducing in-hospital mortality rates and shortening the length of ICU or hospital stays among patients diagnosed with COVID-19.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted, sourcing data from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Our analysis focused on randomized clinical trials comparing the efficacy of vitamin C supplementation with standard care in adult COVID-19 patients.

Results

Through meticulous examination of 11 clinical trials, our meta-analysis found that vitamin C supplementation did not reduce in-hospital mortality rates in COVID-19 patients compared to those receiving standard care (Risk Ratio [RR] = 0.85; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.62–1.17; p = 0.31). Similarly, the analysis indicated no significant difference in the length of ICU stays between both cohorts. Additionally, the occurrence of other adverse events was found to be similar across both groups treated with vitamin C supplementation and standard care (all p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Vitamin C supplementation did not reduce in-hospital mortality or ICU stay durations in patients with COVID-19. The interpretation of these findings is limited by the small number of available studies and participants, which affects the strength of the conclusions.

Clinical trial registration

Identifier CRD42024497474.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and its association with latent tuberculosis infection and all-cause mortality in the US adult population: a cohort study from NHANES 2011–2012
Authors: Huang Yingxiu , Ao Ting , Zhen Peng , Hu Ming
Published: October 2024

Background

There has been little study done on the possible connection between all-cause mortality and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), particularly in individuals with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). The objective of this research was to examine the correlation between the NLR and LTBI, along with their effects on all-cause mortality in a cohort of individuals who had either LTBI or not.

Methods

This research incorporated data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2012, with a total of 4938 subjects involved. To investigate the connection between LTBI and variables, multivariable logistic regression models were used. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models and Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival curves were employed to examine the association between NLR and all-cause death in individuals with and without LTBI.

Results

When analyzed as a continuous variable, The calculated odds ratios (ORs) for the different models-Model 1, Model 2, and Model 3 were 0.86, 0.83, and 0.84 (P < 0.005). NLR was evaluated as a categorical parameter, revealing that individuals in the tertile T3 had a notably lower rate of LTBI in comparison to those in the T1 group. After adjusting for different confounders, the odds ratio for T3 varied in the various models, being 0.75 (0.60∼0.95), 0.69 (0.54∼0.89), and 0.71 (0.56∼0.92), respectively. Additionally, higher NLR was significantly link to a greater risk of all-cause mortality in individuals with or without LTBI. Following multivariate adjustment, an 8% (Model 3, HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.05–1.12, P < 0.001) greater risk of mortality from all-cause was linked to every unit rise in NLR.

Conclusion

Results from the study revealed a negative correlation between NLR and the likelihood of LTBI as well as a higher risk of death from all causes. Therefore, NLR may be a helpful technique for risk categorization in the adult LTBI in the United States. To clarify the underlying mechanisms and any therapeutic implications of these findings, more investigation is necessary.
Correlation between fruit consumption and 10-year all-cause mortality in patients with dyslipidemia
Authors: Zheng Yuanjuan , Sun Feifei , Ye Suling , Zhu Jinzhou , Ma Yu , Shan Mengmeng , Li Shaomi , Chen Yingying , Li Jie
Published: October 2024

Background

Consuming fruit provides health benefits. Reportedly, increased fruit consumption reduces the risks of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. However, existing studies have not clarified the effect of fruit consumption on mortality risk in patients with dyslipidemia. This study aimed to assess the correlation between the consumption of different types of fruits and all-cause mortality in patients with dyslipidemia.

Methods

A total of 2,184 patients with dyslipidemia were included in this study, and trends in the correlation between the frequency of consumption of different types of fruits and the 10-year all-cause mortality risk in patients with dyslipidemia were analyzed by smoothed curve fitting, Cox regression, and Kaplan–Meier curve analysis. Subgroup analysis and interaction test were applied to analyze the stability of the effect of apple consumption on 10-year all-cause mortality in patients with dyslipidemia.

Results

Smoothed curve fitting and Cox regression analyses revealed a significant reduction in the 10-year all-cause mortality risk in patients with dyslipidemia who consumed apples 3–4 times/week (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43–0.87, p = 0.007) and in those who consumed bananas 3–4 times/week (HR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.52–0.98, p = 0.039), with a more pronounced effect in patients who consumed both apples and bananas (HR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.30–0.99, p = 0.045). Other fruits did not exhibit similar effects.

Conclusion

Consuming apples or bananas 3–4 times/week significantly improved the 10-year survival rate in patients with dyslipidemia, and the effect was even more profound in patients who consumed both fruits.
In-vitro anti-acne activity of Teucrium oliverianum methanolic extract against Cutibacterium acnes
Authors: Al-Ghanayem Abdullah A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Acne vulgaris is a skin infection widely seen in adolescents between 10–19 years with males affected more than females. It mainly affects the face but may also affect the back and chest. The symptoms vary with mild acne manifesting as comedones and moderate acne as inflammatory lesions (papulopustular), nodules, and mild scarring while severe acne has the same symptoms that have not subsided within 6 months of treatment. Various treatments including topical medications containing different antibiotics are used to treat acne. Recently, herbal treatments have been shown as better alternatives to conventional treatment. Teucrium oliverianum Ging. ex Benth (Lamiaceae) is traditionally used for skin infections such as wound healing and biofilm formation.

Methodology

Methanolic extract of T. oliverianum was subjected to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis, and its antibacterial effect against Cutibacterium acnes. The anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects were also assessed using HaCaT cells infected with C. acnes. The cytotoxicity of the extract was evaluated using a neutral red uptake assay, and anti-inflammatory effects were determined by measuring TNF-α, IL-1β, INF-γ, and COX2 inhibition. The antioxidant action was assessed by ROS generation in HaCaT cells infected with C. acnes.

Results

LC-MS analysis of the extract showed the presence of 16 different metabolites with L-carnitine, esculin sesquihydrate, and gamma-linoleic acid as major metabolites. The methanolic extract of T. oliverianum showed an antibacterial effect against C. acnes with an IC50 value of 263.2 μg/mL. The extract attenuated the cytotoxicity of C. acnes on the HaCaT cell and the IC50 was found to be 676.2 μg/mL. It also decreased dose-dependently the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, INF-γ, and inhibited COX2 in the HaCaT cells infected with C. acnes. It also decreased the generation of reactive oxygen species.

Conclusion

The results support the use of T. oliverianum as an anti-acne agent but it possesses mild antibacterial action. It showed anti-inflammatory effects in HaCaT cells infected with C. acnes. It is also an effective antioxidant and decreased the generation of reactive oxygen species. Comparison of the anti-acne effects and adverse reactions of extract with other treatments will provide more insight into its clinical efficacy and toxicity.
Examination of language, cognitive, and mathematical skills in childhood endocrine diseases
Authors: Çavuşoğlu Ebrar , Savaş Merve , Dilek Emine , Elgörmüş Yusuf , Kahraman Beğen Senanur
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Children diagnosed with endocrine disorders may exhibit atypical development and may encounter challenges in language, academic, and cognitive skills, as well as social–emotional issues. The objective of this study was to identify potential therapeutic requirements in the areas of language, cognition, and mathematical skills among children with endocrine disorders who experience school failure. This will enable an early evaluation of speech and language disorders and the planning of interventions to be possible.

Methods

In this study, children with endocrine disorders were compared with their normally developing peers in terms of language, cognition, mathematical skills, and psychosocial characteristics. In this study, 15 children diagnosed with endocrine disorders (8 females, 7 males; mean age: 10, SD: 2) and 15 children with normal development (8 females, 7 males; mean age: 10, SD: 2) participated. The participants were subjected to the Test of Language Development-Primary: Fourth Edition Turkish Revision (TOLDP-4:T), the Turkish Nonword Repetition Test (TNRT), the Turkish Multilingual Sentence Repetition Test (LITMUS-TR), the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-R), the Problem-Solving Test (PST), the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale-Child Version (RCADS-CV), the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory (CSEI), and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).

Results

The findings of the study indicate that children with endocrine disease have lower performance in language, cognition, and mathematical skills compared to their healthy peers. Otherwise, they do not differ in terms of social–emotional status assessed by psychological scales.

Discussion

These findings suggest that while children with endocrine disorders face challenges in academic and cognitive domains, their social-emotional development remains relatively unaffected. Early identification and intervention in language, cognition, and mathematical skills may help address the academic struggles of these children, potentially improving their school performance and overall well-being.
The role of social–emotional competencies in interpersonal relationships: a structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Lin Jing , Zhang Letong , Kuo Yi-Lung
Published: October 2024

Social–emotional competencies, a crucial non-academic factor for K-12 students to be competent 21st century citizens, are receiving increasing research attention. Based on the 2,801 self-reports of grades 4–8 students from four schools in China, this study scrutinized the associations between adolescents’ five core competencies and their interpersonal relationships. Results indicated that five competencies acted as mediators between parent–child relationships and students’ relationships with teachers and peers. In addition to the girls’ advantage in five competencies, the results also demonstrated the gender and grade differences in the association. Boys had more indirect links and girls had both direct and indirect associations. There were grade differences in the mediating role of social awareness. The study’s findings may advance our understanding of the parental influence on Chinese students’ social–emotional competencies and provide a more nuanced picture of the conditions and interplay that foster or hinder students’ proficiency in these competencies in schools and families.
Psychological status of general population 1 year after the outbreak of COVID-19: a cross-sectional study based on SCL-90
Authors: Chen Xia , Hu Yue , Deng Yuan , Wang Xin , Yang Xiao , Wang Ying , Lian Yanli , Wang Shiping , Xiang Xinju , Liu Chan , Wu Fang , Chen Shaochuan , Li Huimin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The mental health of populations is usually affected after a disaster event. However, it is not known what the level of mental health of Chinese population 1 year after COVID-19, nor what factors influence it.

Aim

This study aimed to examine the mental health status of general population in Chengdu 1 year after COVID-19, and then analyse influencing factors.

Method

This study is a cross-sectional survey based on the SCL-90 questionnaire. Continuous data were described as M and SD, and counting data were described as frequencies(n) and percentages (%). Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical inference, and significance variables were included in the binary logistic regression equation for multivariate analysis.

Results

There were 172 participants with positive screening results. Age, marital status, number of kids, self-perceived health and the presence of chronic disease had an effect on screening results. Logistic regression analysis showed that age and self-perceived health were the main influencing factors.

Discussion

Young people aged 18–19 and those who consider themselves not very healthy were at higher risk of poor mental health 1 year after the COVID-19 outbreak.

Impact statement

Community institutions and community workers should focus on the mental health status of people 1 year after COVID-19, with a focus on people with poor self-perceived health and younger age groups, and take early preventive measures.
Assist me or replace me? Uncovering the influence of AI awareness on employees’ counterproductive work behaviors
Authors: Bai Shizhen , Zhang Xiaoxue , Yu Dingyao , Yao Junru
Published: October 2024

Objective

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory (COR), the research aims to reveal the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) awareness on employees’ mental health and behaviors, particularly examining whether and how employees’ AI awareness impacts their counterproductive work behaviors (CWB) in human-intelligence collaborations.

Methods

Data was collected from 327 Chinese employees who collaborated with AI in sales, manufacturing, logistics, and other industries. The measurement instruments included scales for AI awareness, psychological contract (PC), emotional exhaustion (EE), and counterproductive work behavior (CWB). We used Hayes’s PROCESS macro to analyze the data.

Findings

AI awareness had a significant positive impact on CWB (β = 0.448, p < 0.01). PC and EE play a role as partial mediators in the relationship between AI awareness and CWB. The mediating pathways consist of three sequences: “AI awareness → PC → CWB,” “AI awareness → EE → CWB” and “AI awareness → PC → EE → CWB,” with the respective contributions to the overall effect amounting to 8.04, 18.53, and 4.91%.

Discussion

Our research contributes to the study of AI in the management field by elucidating the relationship between AI awareness and CWB, as well as the mediating mechanisms of this relationship, which enriches the literature on CWB and expands the understanding of the associations between AI and CWB.
The COM-B model: a cross-sectional survey assessing capability, opportunities, and motivation to follow the MIND diet among informal female caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias
Authors: Guzman Jacqueline , Aguiñaga Susan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease or dementia has been correlated with poor dietary patterns in caregivers. Dietary patterns like The Mediterranean-DASH diet intervention for neurodegenerative delay (MIND) diet have the potential to reduce the negative health outcomes associated with caregiving. Our objective was to assess capabilities, opportunities, and motivation of caregivers to follow the MIND diet using the COM-B model approach.

Method

Female caregivers (n = 299, mage = 37.7 ± 13.7) participated in an online survey. Majority were White (72%) and cared for someone with Alzheimer's disease (42.6%). The survey included at least one question for each of the 6 COM-B subcomponents: psychological capability, physical capability, social opportunity, physical opportunity, reflective motivation, and automatic motivation.

Results

Most caregivers were not consuming the MIND diet as only 8.4% reported normally eating the MIND diet items. Caregivers (36.5%) were slightly confident or not confident at all in cooking and eating the MIND diet. Participants (67.1%) reported that consuming the MIND diet would somewhat to very much be supported by friends and family. Budget, time, and transportation were selected as the main barriers. Budget, cooking skills, access to food and stores, and family support were the main facilitators.

Discussion

Strategies to increase capability, opportunities, and motivation for the MIND diet are needed to improve caregivers' health. Future MIND diet interventions should improve budget planning and cooking skills of caregivers (capabilities), make MIND diet food items accessible to them (opportunity) and incorporate social support from family and friends (motivation).
The ethics of knowledge sharing: a feminist examination of intellectual property rights and open-source materials in gender transformative methodologies
Authors: Goldmann Leah , Welbourn Alice , Gillespie Diane , Ghebrebhran Nastnet , Barro Lufuno , Siebert Sara , Kagoya Hawa , Michau Lori , Kohli Anjalee , Musuya Tina , Kusiima Sonia Rebecca
Published: October 2024

Debates on intellectual property rights and open source frequently stem from the business sector and higher education, where goals are typically oriented toward profit, academic status, credit, and/or reputation. What happens if we reconsider the ethics of intellectual property rights and open source when our driving motivation is advancing women's health and rights? How does this prioritization complicate our assumptions of copyright and open access? How can we embark on a journey that validates the complex realities of multiple stakeholders who have good intent, but do not always consider the unintended impacts and the broader power dynamics at play? This paper explores the tensions and nuances of sharing methodologies that aim to transform harmful gender norms in an ecosystem that does not always consider the complex challenges behind intellectual property and open-source material. As a thought-collective dedicated to using a feminist approach to unpack and promote the principles of ethical, effective, and sustainable scale, we hope to underscore how the current research and debates on intellectual property rights and open-source material have good aims but may also fall short in encompassing the realities of gendered social norms change in and with communities around the world. We conclude with key recommendations for donors, researchers, International Development Corporations, International Non-Governmental Organizations, and those interested in using or adapting dynamic, gender transformative materials created by others.
Changes in the nutritional, flavor, and phytochemical properties of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. ‘Dahongpao’ whole fruits during enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation
Authors: Li Yurong , Guo Long , Mao Xiaoxue , Ji Chen , Li Wenji , Zhou Zhiqin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Currently, the large-scale consumption of fresh citrus fruits in the form of juices, jams, and purees results in significant quantities of waste consisting of citrus peels, pulp, and seeds.

Methods

To improve the utilization rate of whole citrus fruits and reduce the generation of processing waste, the best pre-optimized enzymatic fermentation conditions were used to treat whole citrus fruits and to analyse the changes in nutritional and active components (Enzymatic: pectinase, cellulase, hemicellulase added at a ratio of 1:1:1 for 63.326 min at a temperature of 60°C, with 0.506% of each enzyme added; Fermentation: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus TR08, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. Plantarum CICC 6257, and Limosilactobacillus fermentum CCFM1139 were added at a ratio of 1:1:1 for 30 h, with the concentration was 108 CFU/mL, and the total amount added was 6%).

Results

Results showed that after enzymatic hydrolysis, the mineral elements (Nitrogen, phosphorus), total amino acid, vitamin C, and organic acid content increased. For soluble sugars, the contents of fructose and glucose increased, whereas the sucrose content decreased. Fermentation had a minimal effect on the mineral content; however, the total amino acid, vitamin C, and soluble sugar contents decreased. Additionally, when comparing the samples after enzymatic fermentation to those after enzymatic hydrolysis alone, the total phenols, total flavonoids, carotenoids and antioxidant activities were significantly increased by 1.39, 1.49, 1.21 and 3.79 folds, respectively.

Discussion

This study addresses the challenges of utilizing fruit residue in the current market, including high treatment costs and environmental pollution, by providing a novel perspective on the enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation of whole red oranges. Furthermore, it aims to improve the nutritional, functional, and health benefits of citrus fruit products.
Use of butorphanol as a local anaesthetic for pain management in calves undergoing umbilical hernia repair
Authors: Interlandi Claudia , Spadola Filippo , Neve Veronica C. , Tabbì Marco , Di Pietro Simona , Giudice Elisabetta , Macrì Daniele , Costa Giovanna L.
Published: October 2024

The aim of the study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of butorphanol and lidocaine, alone or in combination, in calves undergoing surgical repair of umbilical hernia. The study was conducted in 60 calves of different breeds. Xylazine 0.3 mg/kg was administered intramuscularly to all animals in the study. The animals were then divided into three groups (n = 20) that received different treatments with lidocaine at 4.5 mg/kg and butorphanol at 0.02 mg/kg. The L group received lidocaine both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally, the B group received butorphanol both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally, and finally the LB group received lidocaine by infiltration of the surgical planes and butorphanol intraperitoneally. Heart and respiratory rates, haemoglobin oxygen saturation, non-invasive blood pressure and temperature were recorded during surgery. Response to the surgical stimulus was scored on a cumulative numerical scale that included percentage changes in HR, RR and SAP. Postoperative pain was assessed by three independent observers, blinded to treatment, using the UNESP-Botucatu Unidimensional Composite Pain Scale (UNESP-Botucatu UCPS-IV) for the assessment of postoperative pain in cattle. The course of physiological variables was appropriate for patients under anaesthesia. No subject required rescue intraoperative analgesia. In group L, 4 subjects at 40 m and 5 subjects at 50 m required postoperative rescue analgesia. Both butorphanol alone and the combination of butorphanol and lidocaine showed excellent intraoperative and postoperative scores. Furthermore, this combination did not cause any cardiopulmonary or other adverse effects. Based on the results of this study, both butorphanol alone and the co-administration of butorphanol and lidocaine administered locally proved to be safe and effective in providing adequate and long-lasting analgesia in calves, helping to reduce postoperative discomfort and maintaining adequate animal welfare.
An overview of SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins with relevance to improved diagnostic and therapeutic platforms
Authors: Chung Christopher , Irudayaraj Pratiba , Lallow Emran , Xu Ziyang , Park Young K. , Kudchodkar Sagar B. , Montaner Luis J. , Srinivasan Alagarsamy , Muthumani Kar
Published: October 2024

In the past 25 years, the world has witnessed outbreaks of illnesses in humans from three different coronaviruses. Both the SARS-CoV outbreak of 2003 and the MERS-CoV outbreak of 2013 resulted in overall low fatalities in part due to inefficient human-to-human spread of each virus. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2, which emerged in 2019, was highly efficient at human-to-human spread and caused a global pandemic resulting in millions of casualties. Zoonotic transmission of viruses, including the three coronaviruses, poses an ongoing threat that cannot be ignored. In this review, we have focused on the diagnostics and therapeutics fronts using SARS-CoV-2 as a model. Specifically, we have selected proteins associated with the virus particles as targets and discussed various platform technologies. These insights hold the potential to inform the development of more effective therapeutics and vaccines not only for SARS-CoV-2 but also for future viral pandemics, thus contributing to global health on a broader scale.
Benefits of Property Assessed Clean Energy Programs and Securitization of Property Assessed Clean Energy Loans
Authors: Liaw K. Thomas
Published: October 2024

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs finance energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements to residential and commercial properties with a special tax assessment added to property taxes. This paper surveys the literature and documents the quantitative estimates of the environmental and economic benefits. This paper extends to discuss the securitization of PACE loans. The issuance of PACE green bonds frees up capacity for more PACE improvements. In addition, we summarize the concerns raised after the programs have been implemented. Those concerns include consumer protection, audit after program implementation, and lien-related risks for lenders. We discuss those concerns and suggest measures to continue to grow PACE financing. The success of PACE programs will contribute to reducing carbon emissions, mitigating climate change and to achieving six of the seventeen United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Hemophagocytosis of the Hilar Pulmonary Lymph Nodes Is a More Sensitive Indicator of the Severity of COVID-19 Disease than Bone Marrow Hemophagocytosis
Authors: Jusovic-Stocanin Amira , Kaemmerer Elke , Ihle Hannah , Autsch Angelina , Kleemann Sandra , Sanft Juliane , Hubig Michael , Mall Gita , Gassler Nikolaus
Published: October 2024

In systemic hyper-inflammation, as in severe COVID-19 disease, there are pronounced disorders of the hematological and lymphatic systems with prognostically relevant hemophagocytosis of the bone marrow. The current work aimed to address the importance of hemophagocytosis in the lymph nodes of patients with severe COVID-19 disease. From 28 patients who died of severe COVID-19 infection, samples of the vertebral bone marrow and lymph nodes from the cervical, hilar, para-aortic, mesenteric and inguinal locations were morphologically and immunohistologically (CD163, CD68, CD61, CD71, CD3, CD20, CD138) examined for the possible presence of hemophagocytosis. In the single-center study at the University Hospital Jena, a total of 191 hemophagocytes were found in the bone marrow and a total of 780 hemophagocytes in the lymph nodes in a standardized area of 21,924 mm2 per tissue sample. With 370 hemophagocytes, hilar lymph nodes were most frequently affected (370/780; 47.44%; 95%-CI: [43.94, 50.95]), followed by cervical lymph nodes (206/780; 26.41%; 95%-CI: [23.41, 29.59]), para-aortic lymph nodes (125/780; 16.03%; 95%-CI: [13.58, 18.73]) and inguinal/mesenteric lymph nodes (79/780; 10.13%; 95%-CI: [8.155, 12.4]). Based on the standard area (21,924 mm2), the difference in the number of hemophagocytes in the bone marrow and in the hilar lymph nodes was statistically significant (p < 0.05), while this did not apply to the lymph nodes from the other locations. In fatal COVID-19 disease, hemophagocytosis is particularly found in the hilar lymph nodes and is therefore a better indicator of the severity of the disease than hemophagocytosis in the bone marrow. The findings provide some evidence for the concept of compartmentalized human host responses to life-threatening infections.
Exploring the Dual Benefits of Fermented and Non-Fermented Garlic Powder on Growth, Antioxidative Capacity, Immune Responses, and Histology in Gray Mullet (Liza ramada)
Authors: Basuini Mohammed F. El , Shaban Mahasen M. E. A. , El-Hais Abdelaziz M. , Soliman Ali A. , Abu-Elala Nermeen M. , Teiba Islam I. , Alhoshy Mayada , Sallam Ghada R. , Shadrack Ronick Spenly , Mzengereza Kumbukani , Shehata Akram Ismael
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the effects of dietary garlic powder and fermented garlic powder supplementation at 1% and 2% levels on growth performance, digestive tract efficacy, blood biochemistry, immunity, and antioxidant status of Liza ramada (n = 225 fish; 86.00 ± 0.42 g) over a 60-day period. Fish fed diets supplemented with both forms of garlic at both levels exhibited significantly improved final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio compared to the control group. Digestive enzyme activities (amylase, lipase, and protease) were significantly enhanced in all supplemented groups. Blood biochemical analysis revealed reduced glucose levels and increased total protein in garlic-supplemented groups, with no adverse effects on liver or kidney function markers. Immune parameters, including lysozyme activity, bactericidal activity against Streptococcus agalactiae, alternative complement pathway (ACP), and respiratory burst (NBT), were significantly enhanced in garlic-supplemented groups, with fermented garlic showing more pronounced effects. Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and GPx) were also significantly increased in all supplemented groups, particularly in those fed fermented garlic. No significant differences in survival rates were observed among treatments. The results suggest that both garlic powder and fermented garlic powder supplementation, especially at the 2% level, can effectively improve growth, feed utilization, immune function, and antioxidant status in L. ramada. Fermented garlic generally demonstrated superior effects, indicating its potential as a beneficial feed additive in aquaculture. Based on these findings, it is recommended to incorporate fermented garlic powder at a 2% level in L. ramada diets to optimize growth performance and health status. Further research is warranted to investigate the long-term effects and cost-effectiveness of this supplementation strategy in commercial aquaculture settings.
Numerical Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Use of Endplates in Front Wings in Formula One Cars under Multiple Track Operating Conditions
Authors: Laguna-Canales Aldo Saul , Urriolagoitia-Sosa Guillermo , Romero-Ángeles Beatriz , Martinez-Mondragon Miguel , García-Laguna Miguel Angel , Yparrea-Arreola Reyner Iván , Mireles-Hernández Jonatan , Carrasco-Hernández Francisco , Urriolagoitia-Luna Alejandro , Urriolagoitia-Calderón Guillermo Manuel
Published: October 2024

The last change in the technical regulations of Formula One that came into force in 2022 brought with it significant changes in the aerodynamics of the vehicle; among these, those made to the front wing stand out since the wing was changed to a more straightforward shape with fewer parts but with no less efficiency. The reduction in its components suggests that if one part were to suffer damage or break down, the efficiency of the entire front wing would be affected; however, from 2022 to date, there have been occasions in which the cars have continued running on the track despite losing some of the endplates. This research seeks to understand the endplates’ impact on the front wing through a series of CFD simulations using the k-ω SST turbulence model. To determine efficiency, the aerodynamic forces generated on the vehicle’s front wing, suspension, and front wheels were compared in two different operating situations using a model with the front wing in good condition and another in which the endplates were removed. The first case study simulated a straight line at a maximum speed where the Downforce is reduced by 2.716% while the Drag and Yaw increase by 7.092% and 96.332%, respectively, when the model does not have endplates. On the other hand, the second case study was the passage through a curve with a decrease of 17.707% in Downforce, 6.532% in Drag, and 22.200% in Yaw.
Properties and Applications of Complex Fractal–Fractional Operators in the Open Unit Disk
Authors: Attiya Adel A. , Salahshour Soheil , Ibrahim Rabha W. , Yassen Mansour F.
Published: October 2024

A fractal–fractional calculus is presented in term of a generalized gamma function (ℓ−gamma function: Γℓ(.)). The suggested operators are given in the symmetric complex domain (the open unit disk). A novel arrangement of the operators shows the normalization associated with every operator. We investigate a number of significant geometric features thanks to this. Additionally, some integrals, such the Alexander and Libra integral operators, are associated with these operators. Simple power functions are among the illustrations that are provided. Additionally, the formulation of the discrete ℓ−fractal–fractional operators is conducted. We demonstrate that well-known examples are involved in the extended operators.