bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing Workplace Civility: a systematic review and meta-analysis of definitions, measurements, and associated factors
Authors: Peng Xue
Published: November 2023

This research article focuses on the significance of Workplace Civility, defined as the respectful and courteous behavior exhibited by individuals toward their colleagues in the workplace. The primary objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review and a meta-analysis that synthesizes existing research by: (1) identifying operational definitions of the construct, (2) underlying the strongest correlations with other variables, (3) summarizing the effective strategies for promoting Workplace Civility, and (4) highlighting gaps in the literature, using the theory-characteristics-context-methodology (TCCM) framework. Multiple databases were meticulously searched, yielding 691 results, and ultimately 51 documents were included in the systematic review final sample following the application of predefined exclusion criteria. Then, a meta-analysis has been conducted including those studies with sufficient statistical data (k = 24) which allowed us to calculate 45 Effect Sizes. The review findings expose a notable dearth of research on Workplace Civility when compared to studies on incivility. This dearth highlights the pressing need for additional research endeavors to precisely define Workplace Civility, establish a robust theoretical framework, and develop reliable scales for its measurement. Related to the desirable correlates, organizational commitment, job satisfaction and mental health showed a high ES value, and for undesirable correlates, intention to quit showed a high ES value, while Emotional exhaustion only reached a medium ES value and physical symptoms showed a low ES value. Importantly, this study emphasizes that fostering civility in the workplace can yield significant benefits such as improved physical and mental well-being for workers, reduced burnout, and absenteeism rates. Thus, the promotion of civility in the workplace not only leads to healthier organizations but also enhances cost-efficiency, effectively averting the loss of both human and economic capital.
The effect of self-directed online metacognitive listening practice on Chinese EFL learners' listening ability, metacognition, and self-efficacy
Authors: Pei Tao , Suwanthep Jitpanat , Lu Huashan
Published: November 2023

Research into metacognitive listening instruction under the Metacognitive Pedagogical Cycle (MPC) has been growing in recent decades, but its effects on L2 listening comprehension, metacognitive awareness, and self-efficacy remain inconclusive. In this mixed-method study, we developed a self-directed online listening practice based on the MPC and investigated its effects on 89 Chinese intermediate EFL learners over 14 weeks. Learners were assigned to either an experimental group, which used the online metacognitive listening practice, or a control group, which used the traditional listening practice without stressing metacognitive awareness. Multiple data sources (listening tests, questionnaires, reflective notes, and interviews) were used to assess learners' listening comprehension, metacognitive awareness, and listening self-efficacy. Results showed that online metacognitive listening practice significantly improved the learners' listening comprehension, but there was little evidence that it increased metacognitive awareness or listening self-efficacy. This study suggests that deploying online listening practice under MPC is a more effective way to improve L2 learners' listening comprehension than traditional listening practice. However, the task-setting of MPC and the task-dependence of self-efficacy may constrain the development of some factors of metacognitive awareness and self-efficacy.
The role of teacher empathy and immediacy in Chinese EFL students’ affective learning outcomes: unveiling the associations
Authors: Wang Nana , Kang Jiafang
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The positive influences of teacher-student interpersonal communication skills on second language (L2) students have been considerably endorsed in the literature. However, the contribution of teacher empathy and immediacy behaviors, as realizations of such skills, to students’ affective learning outcomes is unaddressed in L2 research.

Methods

To fill this gap, three scales were distributed among a sample of 350 Chinese EFL students to see if teachers’ empathy and immediacy correlate with and predict students’ affective learning outcomes.

Results

The results of correlation analysis revealed strong and positive relationships among teacher empathy, teacher immediacy, and learners’ affective learning outcomes. Moreover, the results of multiple regression indicated that Chinese EFL teachers’ empathy and immediacy could predict about 65 and 60% of changes in the learners’ affective learning outcomes, respectively.

Discussion

Implications of the study for EFL teachers’ interpersonal communication skills development and emotional literacy are discussed. Future research trends are also presented at the end of the article.
Prevalence of depression among Science students during the COVID-19 pandemic period in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdulrahman Mahmoud Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The present study aimed to examine the prevalence of depression among science students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A survey-based study was conducted on 521 science students at Al Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, using Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI), during the course of the semester.

Results

Showed that the Most students were female (62.19%). Sadness symptoms were observed among 59.69% of the students. We found a 77.74% overall prevalence of depression among students. Most individuals reported moderate BDI (25.34%), but extremely severe BDI was also reported in 7.29% of individuals. The BDI scores were highly significantly correlated with gender, education, and field of specialty (< 0.001) based on different statistical tests. BDI scores were significantly associated with number of the demographic and academic variables (p < 0.05).

Discussion

The study found significant symptoms of depression among students who displayed characteristics of depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, students should undergo psychological counseling during difficult pandemic periods to prevent depression and mental stress.
Understanding medical aspects of violent crimes in Sweden’s region Skåne: a retrospective cross-sectional design of the ViCS project
Authors: Ringqvist Alexandra , Aloumar Basem , Wingren Carl Johan , Ekelund Ulf , Khoshnood Ardavan M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

While there has been a reduction in specific homicide categories in Sweden, the last decade has witnessed an increase in the overall rate. The escalation is predominantly linked to heightened gun violence associated with criminal gangs. As a result, Sweden faces an extreme rate of shootings and firearm-related homicides, constituting one of the most severe instances across Europe. However, comprehensive scientific studies on this phenomenon are lacking. This paper presents the design of the Violent Crimes in Skåne (ViCS) project, which aims to investigate violent crimes requiring hospitalization or causing death in Sweden’s region Skåne from a medical, forensic, and criminological perspective. The project aims to examine the epidemiology and trends of violent crimes, injury profiles, treatments, patient outcomes, causes of death, and victim demographics.

Methods and analysis

Using a retrospective cross-sectional design, ViCS will examine trauma by violent crimes from 2000 to 2019. Data will be sourced from several institutions, including hospital records from nine emergency hospitals, and the National Board of Forensic Medicine Agency. The project aims to study medical and criminological aspects of violent crimes, primarily focusing on assaults involving firearms, sharp weapons, blunt instruments, kicks, punches, and other types of assault like strangulation. Data analysis will involve descriptive and inferential statistics.

Discussion

ViCS aims to contribute to the limited body of knowledge about victims of violent crimes in Sweden. The findings may inform evidence-based interventions in medical, forensic, and criminological fields, potentially enabling targeted prevention strategies and improvements in emergency care for victims.
Predictors of mental health problems during the COVID-19 outbreak in Egypt in 2021
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Suzan , Awwad Fuad A. , Ismail Emad A. A. , Kibria B. M. Golam , Abonazel Mohamed R.
Published: November 2023

Background

With the widespread outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many countries, including Egypt, have tried to restrict the virus by applying social distancing and precautionary measures. Understanding the impact of COVID-19-induced risks and social distancing measures on individuals' mental health will help mitigate the negative effects of crises by developing appropriate mental health services. This study aimed to investigate the most contributing factors that affected individuals' mental health and how individuals' mental health has changed over the lockdown period in Egypt in 2021.

Methods

The study draws on a nationally representative sample from the combined COVID-19 MENA Monitor Household Survey conducted by the Economic Research Forum. The data were collected in Egypt by phone over two waves in February 2021 and June 2021. The total number of respondents is 4,007 individuals. The target population is mobile phone owners aged 18–64 years. The 5-item World Health Organization Well-Being Index (WHO-5) is used to assess the individuals' mental health over the past 2 weeks during the pandemic. Penalized models (ridge and LASSO regressions) are used to identify the key drivers of mental health status during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

The mean value of mental health (MH) scores is 10.06 (95% CI: 9.90–10.23). The average MH score for men was significantly higher than for women by 0.87. Rural residents also had significantly higher MH scores than their urban counterparts (10.25 vs. 9.85). Middle-aged adults, the unemployed, and respondents in low-income households experienced the lowest MH scores (9.83, 9.29, and 9.23, respectively). Individuals' mental health has deteriorated due to the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Regression analysis demonstrated that experiencing food insecurity and a decrease in household income were independent influencing factors for individuals' mental health (p < 0.001). Furthermore, anxiety about economic status and worrying about contracting the virus had greater negative impacts on mental health scores (p < 0.001). In addition, women, middle-aged adults, urban residents, and those belonging to low-income households were at increased risk of poor mental health (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings reveal the importance of providing mental health services to support these vulnerable groups during crises and activating social protection policies to protect their food security, incomes, and livelihoods. A gendered policy response to the pandemic is also required to address the mental pressures incurred by women.
Bridging the humanitarian-development divide in a protracted crisis: a case study of the use of a central plant to supply oxygen for COVID-19 case management in South Sudan
Authors: Olu Olushayo Oluseun , Freeman Alex Yao Sokemawu , Waya Joy Luba Lomole , Guyo Argata Guracha , Kanu Benedict , Tukuru Michael , Maleghemi Sylvester
Published: November 2023

The rising demand for medicinal oxygen due to the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated an underlying chronic shortage of the commodity in Africa. This situation is particularly dire in protracted crises where insecurity, dysfunctional health facilities, poor infrastructure and prohibitive costs hinder equitable access to the commodity. Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Health of South Sudan, with the guidance of its partners, procured and installed a pressure swing adsorption central oxygen supply plant to address the shortfall. The plant aimed to ensure a more sustainable and technologically appropriate medicinal oxygen supply system for the country and to bridge the humanitarian and development divide, which had always been challenging. This article discusses the key issues, challenges and lessons associated with the procurement and installation of this plant. The major challenges encountered during the procurement and installation of the plant were the time it took to procure and install in the face of urgent needs for medicinal oxygen and its short and long-term sustainability. Lessons learnt include the need for exhaustive and evidence-based considerations in deciding on which source of medicinal oxygen to deploy in protracted crisis settings. The successful installation and operationalization of the plant demonstrated that it is possible to bridge the humanitarian-development divide amidst the complexities of a protracted crisis and an ongoing pandemic. The Ministries of Health, with the support of its partners, should assess and document the impact of this and other similar central oxygen production plants in protracted crisis settings regarding their sustainability, cost, and effectiveness on medicinal oxygen supply. The Ministry of Health of South Sudan should expedite the finalization and operationalization of the longer-term public-private partnership and continue to monitor the quality of oxygen produced by this plant.
Health risk assessment of heavy metal pollution and its sources in agricultural soils near Hongfeng Lake in the mining area of Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Cui Wengang , Mei Yan , Liu Suihua , Zhang Xinding
Published: November 2023

Background

Accelerated modern industrial processes, extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers and remaining issues of wastewater irrigation have led to an increasingly severe composite pollution of heavy metals in arable land. Soil contamination can cause significant damage to ecological environments and human health. Mineral resource mining can result in varying degrees of heavy metal pollution in surrounding water systems and soil. As a plateau lake, Hongfeng Lake has a fragile watershed ecosystem. Coupled with the rapid development of the current socio-economy and the ongoing activities of mining, urbanization and agricultural development, the water and soil environment of the lake and arable land are facing serious heavy metal pollution. Therefore, the situation warrants attention.

Methods

This study focused on characterizing soil types and conducted sampling and laboratory testing on the farmland soil in Hongfeng Lake. The integrated Nemero comprehensive pollution assessment and potential ecological pollution assessment methods were used to evaluate the heavy metal pollution status. The APCS-MLR model was employed to explore the sources of heavy metal pollution. In addition, the human health risk model was used to analyze the association between heavy metal content in cultivated land and human health risks.

Results

The single-factor pollution of each element was ranked in descending order: Hg > As > Pb > Cr > Cd, with Hg being the main pollutant factor. The entire area was subjected to mild pollution according to the pollution index. Pollution source analysis indicated two main pollution sources. Hg, As, Pb and Cr pollution mainly resulted from Source 1 (industrial and natural activities), accounting for 71.99%, 51.57%, 67.39% and 68.36%, respectively. Cd pollution was mainly attributed to Source 2 (agricultural pollution source), contributing 84.12%. The health risk assessment model shows that heavy metals posed acceptable carcinogenic risks to humans rather than non-carcinogenic risks. As was the main non-carcinogenic risk factor, while Cr was the main carcinogenic risk factor, with higher risks in children than adults.

Conclusion

Our study identified the heavy metal pollution in farmland soil in Hongfeng Lake, evaluated and analyzed the pollution sources and identified the heavy metal elements in cultivated lands that have the greatest impact on human health risks. The aim of this study is to provide a scientific basis for soil heavy metal pollution control.
Recalls of tattoo and permanent makeup inks in the United States and a follow-up microbiological survey of inks with a previous recall history
Authors: Yoon Sunghyun , Kondakala Sandeep , Moon Mi Sun , Huang Mei-Chiung J. , Periz Goran , Foley Steven L. , Kweon Ohgew , Kim Seong-Jae
Published: November 2023

In this study, we collected voluntary recall records of tattoo and permanent makeup ink from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) Enforcement Report Database. The recall records contain information, such as recall date, manufacturer, ink color, reason for recall, and the microorganisms detected from the ink samples. Between 2003 and 2021, a total of 15 voluntary tattoo ink recalls occurred in the U.S. market, involving over 200 tattoo inks marketed by 13 manufacturers and one distributor. Fourteen recalls were due to microbial contamination, and one recall was due to allergic reaction. As follow-up, a microbiological survey of 28 tattoo inks of new batches from seven manufacturers having products that were previously recalled was conducted. Aerobic plate count (APC) and enrichment culture methods based on the FDA’s Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM) were used to detect microbial contamination. The results revealed that six out of 28 tattoo inks were contaminated with bacteria and were produced by two manufacturers. The level of microbial contamination was less than 250 CFU/g in three of the tattoo inks and between 1 × 103 and 1 × 105 CFU/g in the other three inks. Eleven bacterial isolates were identified, including spore-forming Bacillus-related species and potentially pathogenic species. Overall, this study shows that some tattoo ink products produced by manufacturers with a recall history continue to be contaminated with microorganisms. This highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and quality control of such products.
Resistance of freshwater sediment bacterial communities to salinity disturbance and the implication for industrial salt discharge and climate change-based salinization
Authors: Tammert Helen , Kivistik Carmen , Kisand Veljo , Käiro Kairi , Herlemann Daniel P. R.
Published: November 2023

The impact of salinization on freshwater ecosystems became apparent during the 2022 ecological disaster in the Oder River, located in Poland and Germany, which was caused by salt discharge from mining activities. How bacterial communities respond to salinization caused by industrial salt discharge, or climate change-driven events, depends on the sensitivity of these complex bacterial communities. To investigate the sensitivity of bacterial communities to pulse salinization, we performed an experiment in the salinity range from 0.2 to 6.0. In addition, we sampled similar salinities in the littoral zone of the Baltic Sea where the bacterial communities are permanently exposed to the aforementioned salinities. To simulate a major disturbance, we included an ampicillin/streptomycin treatment in the experiment. Although the addition of antibiotics and increase in salinity had a significant impact on the water bacterial richness and community composition, only antibiotics affected the sediment bacterial community in the experiment. In contrast, sediment bacterial communities from the Baltic Sea littoral zone clustered according to salinity. Hence, sediment bacterial communities are more resistant to pulse changes in salinity than water bacteria but are able to adapt to a permanent change without loss in species richness. Our results indicate that moderate pulse salinization events such as industrial salt discharge or heavy storms will cause changes in the water bacterial communities with unknown consequences for ecosystem functioning. Sediment bacterial communities, however, will probably be unaffected in their ecosystem functions depending on the disturbance strength. Long-term disturbances, such as sea level rise or constant salt discharge, will cause permanent changes in the sediment bacterial community composition.
Impact of waterpipe smoking on the salivary microbiome
Authors: Senaratne Nikitha Lalindri Mareena , Chong Chun Wie , Yong Lim Shu , Yoke Ling Fong , Gopinath Divya
Published: November 2023

Background

While oral mirobial dysbiosis due to tobacco smoking has been studied thoroughly, there is limited data on the effect of waterpipe smoking on the oral microbiome. This study aims to compare the salivary microbiome between waterpipe smokers and non-smokers.

Materials and methods

Unstimulated saliva samples were collected from 60 participants, 30 smokers and 30 non-smokers in Kuala Lumpur and Klang Valley, Malaysia. DNA extraction was performed using the Qiagen DNA mini kit, and the 16S rRNA bacterial gene was amplified and sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Sequencing reads were processed using DADA2, and the alpha and beta diversity of the bacterial community was assessed. Significantly differentiated taxa were identified using LEfSe analysis, while differentially expressed pathways were identified using MaAsLin2.

Results

A significant compositional change (beta diversity) was detected between the two groups (PERMANOVA P < 0.05). Specifically, the levels of phylum Firmicutes and genus Streptococcus were elevated in smokers, whereas phylum Proteobacteria and genus Haemophilus were depleted compared to non-smokers. At the species level, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus salivarius, and Streptococcus gingivalis were enriched in smokers. We observed significant differences in the abundance of thirty-seven microbial metabolic pathways between waterpipe smokers and non-smokers. The microbial pathways enriched in smokers were those implicated in polymer degradation and amino acid metabolism.

Conclusion

The taxonomic and metabolic profile of the salivary microbiome in waterpipe smokers compared to healthy controls exhibited a paradigm shift, thus, implying an alteration in the homeostatic balance of the oral cavity posing unique challenges for oral health.
Common ground: the opportunity of male contraceptives as MPTs
Authors: Vahdat Heather L. , Nickels Logan M.
Published: November 2023

Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) and male contraceptive methods are currently in development to address unique and critical needs facing the global reproductive health community. Currently, MPT products in development are exclusively female-focused due to the readily available nature and regulatory precedent offered by female contraceptive active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs); however, the opportunity to explore codevelopment with male contraceptive methods, which are at a comparatively early stage of development, should not be overlooked. These fields face parallel challenges including research and development, commercialization, regulatory approval, and market uptake, and these parallels can inform strategic alignment between the fields. One challenge that precludes codevelopment, however, is the path to market and associated funding models for these innovative, yet underappreciated fields. Without candid review, reconsideration, prioritization, and innovation led by the donor and investment communities, product developers will have no compelling reason to consider accepting the added regulatory and fiscal burden associated with combining development streams.
Severity of sleep apnea impairs adipose tissue insulin sensitivity in individuals with obesity and newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Rodrigues Sara , Bortolotto Luiz Aparecido , Beyl Robbie A. , Singh Prachi
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder associated with increased risk for the development of type 2 diabetes. While studies have examined the effects of sleep on whole-body insulin sensitivity, little is known about the effects of sleep on adipose tissue insulin sensitivity in patients with OSA. We analyzed if the severity of OSA, measured by apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), is associated with adipose tissue insulin sensitivity.

Methods

We examined the relationship between sleep parameters and adipose tissue insulin sensitivity in non-diabetic participants with obesity and newly diagnosed OSA who underwent overnight polysomnography and a 2 h oral glucose tolerance test during which circulating free fatty acids were measured. In total, 16 non-diabetic participants with obesity and newly diagnosed OSA (sex, 81.3% males; mean age, 50.9 ± 6.7 y; BMI, 36.5 ± 2.9 kg/m2; AHI, 43 ± 20 events/h) were included in the analysis.

Results

In our study participants, AHI is inversely associated with free-fatty acid suppression during oral glucose challenge (R = −0.764, p = 0.001). This relationship persisted even after statistical adjustment for age (R = −0.769, p = 0.001), body mass index (R = −0.733, p = 0.002), waist-to-hip ratio (R = −0.741, p = 0.004), or percent body fat mass (R = −0.0529, p = 0.041). Furthermore, whole-body insulin sensitivity as determined by the Matsuda index was associated with percent REM sleep (R = 0.552, p = 0.027) but not AHI (R = −0.119, p = 0.660).

Conclusion

In non-diabetic patients with OSA, the severity of sleep apnea is associated with adipose tissue insulin sensitivity but not whole-body insulin sensitivity. The impairments in adipose tissue insulin sensitivity may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
How We Found Three New Species of Penguins
Authors: Tyler Joshua , Younger Jane L.
Published: November 2023

Usually, it is easy to tell species apart by what they look like, for example, a blue whale and a horse. Chinstrap and Adelie penguins are closely related species, but we can still tell them apart by their unique color patterns. However, sometimes different species look incredibly similar, and we must use special methods to tell them apart. These are called cryptic species. Gentoo penguins live across a large area, including Antarctica and many sub-Antarctic Islands. It has been suspected that gentoos might really be more than one species. To test this, we looked at their DNA and measured their flippers, legs, and beaks to compare gentoos living in four locations. We found differences that told us that there are at least four species of gentoo penguins, not just one species as previously thought.
Co-existence of peripheral fatigue of the knee extensors and jump potentiation after an incremental running test to exhaustion in endurance trained male runners
Authors: Márquez Gonzalo , González-Hernandez Jorge , Jiménez-Reyes Pedro , Colomer-Poveda David , Boullosa Daniel
Published: November 2023

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of an incremental running exercise until exhaustion on twitch responses and jump capacity in endurance trained runners. For this purpose, 8 experienced endurance male runners were required to perform neuromuscular function tests before and after a submaximal running bout (control condition -CTR-) or an incremental running test to volitional exhaustion (experimental conditions -EXP-). The twitch interpolation technique was used to assess voluntary activation and muscle contractile properties before and after each condition (CTR and EXP). Countermovement jump was also used to assess the stretch-shortening cycle function before and after both conditions. In addition, rating of perceived exertion, heart rate, blood lactate and skin temperature were also recorded. Only EXP improved jump performance, however, it was also accompanied by a reduction in maximal voluntary contraction and the peak twitch force of the knee extensors evoked by electrical stimulation at 10 Hz (Db10). It is likely that reductions in maximal voluntary contraction may be related to an excitation-contraction coupling failure (i.e. low-frequency fatigue) as suggest the reduction in the Db10. The current results confirm that acute changes in jump performance may not be appropriate to evaluate acute fatigue in endurance trained runners.
The effectiveness of one “physical education minute” during lessons to develop concentration in 8- to 10-year-old schoolchildren
Authors: Polevoy Georgiy , Cazan Florin , Padulo Johnny , Ardigò Luca Paolo
Published: November 2023

The demands of the school day, which includes multiple lessons, require sustained attention from students; this can be challenging, especially for young children. Concentration of attention is a critical cognitive function that impacts learning. This study involved 129 healthy schoolchildren aged 8–10 years (spanning grades 2 and 3) from a regular secondary school in Kirov, Russian Federation. A “physical education minute” (PEM), consisting of various physical exercises, was introduced during the middle of a regular lesson for the experimental group (EG), while the control group (CG) continued with their regular studies. Concentration and attention were assessed before and after the PEM using the Bourdon test. The Bourdon test results indicated a significant decrease in concentration during the lesson for the CG (p < 0.001), while the EG exhibited significant improvement in concentration after the PEM (p < 0.001). The effect size was large, demonstrating a substantial impact of this break for physical activity on concentration. It can be concluded that implementing a set of exercises in the form of a PEM in the middle of a lesson significantly improves concentration among students aged 8–10. This study underscores the effectiveness of integrating short breaks for physical activity into the daily classroom routine, ultimately benefiting students' attention, learning, and overall educational experience. Further research could explore additional factors affecting concentration and the long-term effects of the PEM on cognitive development.
Rare adrenal cavernous hemangioma: a case report highlighting diagnostic challenges
Authors: Antar Ryan Michael , Farag Christian Mark , Youssef Kirolos , Xu Vincent , Drouaud Arthur , Panitch Noah , Tariq Zoon , Alzeer Ali , Whalen Michael J.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Adrenal cavernous hemangiomas are rare benign vascular tumors that pose significant diagnostic challenges. Despite their benign nature, features overlapping with malignancies often complicate management decisions.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old male presented with a 4.4 cm necrotic left adrenal mass discovered incidentally on imaging. His medical history included papillary thyroid carcinoma, with subsequent thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine ablation. Evaluations for hiccups revealed multiple lung nodules, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and anemia. Given the patient’s previous cancer history, elevated aldosterone/renin ratio, and mass size, our multidisciplinary tumor board decided to proceed with a left adrenalectomy. Post-surgical pathology confirmed a diagnosis of adrenal cavernous hemangioma.

Conclusion

The occurrence of ambiguous adrenal mass with other pathologies, such as our patient’s papillary thyroid carcinoma, complicates the diagnostic and therapeutic landscape. As demonstrated in our case, opting for surgery remains a viable solution for adrenal cavernous hemangiomas, especially for masses greater than 4 cm. Interdisciplinary collaboration, exemplified by our tumor board’s decision-making process, is crucial for optimal management. This case underscores the need for a multifaceted approach when confronting adrenal masses with such diagnostic ambiguity.
Dromedary camel’s welfare: literature from 1980 to 2023 with a text mining and topic analysis approach
Authors: Masebo Naod T. , Zappaterra Martina , Felici Martina , Benedetti Beatrice , Padalino Barbara
Published: November 2023

Dromedary camels are the preferable livestock species in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Most of the world’s camel populations are managed under a subsistence/extensive system maintained by migratory pastoralists but intensification is getting more frequent. Even though recently the welfare of camels has been receiving more attention, in many countries there are no regulations to protect their health and welfare. The objectives of this article were to explore the main research topics related to camel welfare, their distribution over time and to highlight research gaps. A literature search was performed to identify records published in English from January 1980 to March 2023 on Dromedary camel welfare via Scopus®, using “Camel welfare,” “Camel behaviour,” “She-camel” and “Camel management” as search words. A total of 234 records were retained for analysis after automatic and manual screening procedures. Descriptive statistics, text mining (TM) and topic analysis (TA) were performed. The result shows that even though there were fluctuations between years, records on camel welfare have increased exponentially over time. Asia was the region where most of the corresponding authors were located. The first five most frequent words were, “milk,” “calv,” “behaviour,” “femal,” and “breed,” the least frequent word was “stabl.” TA resulted in the five most relevant topics dealing with “Calf management and milk production,” “Camel health and management system,” “Female and male reproduction,” “Camel behaviour and feeding,” and “Camel welfare.” The topics that contained the oldest records were “female and male reproduction” and “camel health and management system” (in 1980 and 1983, respectively), while the topic named “camel behaviour and feeding” had the first article published in 2000. Overall, even though topics related to camel behaviour and welfare are receiving more attention from academia, research is still needed to fully understand how to safeguard welfare in Dromedary camels.
Health Burden and Driving Force Changes Due to Exposure to PM2.5 and O3 from 2014 to 2060 in a Typical Industrial Province, China
Authors: Zhu Chuanyong , Zhu Changtong , Qiu Mengyi , Gai Yichao , Li Renqiang , Li Ling , Wang Chen , Yang Na , Wang Baolin , Sun Lei , Yan Guihuan , Xu Chongqing
Published: November 2023

While air quality in China has improved significantly in recent years, the population is becoming increasingly vulnerable to air pollution due to the aging population. In this study, we assessed premature deaths attributable to long- and short-term exposures to PM2.5 and O3, as well as their driving forces in Shandong from 2014 to 2060 based on county-level near-real-time air pollutant concentration datasets and projected concentrations of PM2.5 and O3. We found that the concentrations of PM2.5 and O3 in most districts and counties from Shandong are still higher than the corresponding concentration limit of Grade II. Premature mortality caused by long- and short-term exposures to PM2.5 decreased by 13,045 and 8092 in 2020 compared with those in 2014, respectively. Furthermore, premature mortality attributable to short-term exposure to O3 was 36.08% higher than that due to short-term exposure to PM2.5 in 2020. The results of the driving force analysis indicate that the health benefits brought about by the improvement in air quality have been offset by the changes in population age structure. In the future, the increase in O3 concentration and population aging are the top two driving forces having adverse effects on the health burden. This study provides support for controlling the health risks of PM2.5 and O3 pollution, especially for the development of dual-pollutant concentration targets and synergistic control strategies.
ConF: A Deep Learning Model Based on BiLSTM, CNN, and Cross Multi-Head Attention Mechanism for Noncoding RNA Family Prediction
Authors: Teragawa Shoryu , Wang Lei
Published: November 2023

This paper presents ConF, a novel deep learning model designed for accurate and efficient prediction of noncoding RNA families. NcRNAs are essential functional RNA molecules involved in various cellular processes, including replication, transcription, and gene expression. Identifying ncRNA families is crucial for comprehensive RNA research, as ncRNAs within the same family often exhibit similar functionalities. Traditional experimental methods for identifying ncRNA families are time-consuming and labor-intensive. Computational approaches relying on annotated secondary structure data face limitations in handling complex structures like pseudoknots and have restricted applicability, resulting in suboptimal prediction performance. To overcome these challenges, ConF integrates mainstream techniques such as residual networks with dilated convolutions and cross multi-head attention mechanisms. By employing a combination of dual-layer convolutional networks and BiLSTM, ConF effectively captures intricate features embedded within RNA sequences. This feature extraction process leads to significantly improved prediction accuracy compared to existing methods. Experimental evaluations conducted using a single, publicly available dataset and applying ten-fold cross-validation demonstrate the superiority of ConF in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and other performance metrics. Overall, ConF represents a promising solution for accurate and efficient ncRNA family prediction, addressing the limitations of traditional experimental and computational methods.
Bioinspired Garra Rufa Optimization-Assisted Deep Learning Model for Object Classification on Pedestrian Walkways
Authors: Yang Eunmok , Shankar K. , Kumar Sachin , Seo Changho
Published: November 2023

Object detection in pedestrian walkways is a crucial area of research that is widely used to improve the safety of pedestrians. It is not only challenging but also a tedious process to manually examine the labeling of abnormal actions, owing to its broad applications in video surveillance systems and the larger number of videos captured. Thus, an automatic surveillance system that identifies the anomalies has become indispensable for computer vision (CV) researcher workers. The recent advancements in deep learning (DL) algorithms have attracted wide attention for CV processes such as object detection and object classification based on supervised learning that requires labels. The current research study designs the bioinspired Garra rufa optimization-assisted deep learning model for object classification (BGRODL-OC) technique on pedestrian walkways. The objective of the BGRODL-OC technique is to recognize the presence of pedestrians and objects in the surveillance video. To achieve this goal, the BGRODL-OC technique primarily applies the GhostNet feature extractors to produce a set of feature vectors. In addition to this, the BGRODL-OC technique makes use of the GRO algorithm for hyperparameter tuning process. Finally, the object classification is performed via the attention-based long short-term memory (ALSTM) network. A wide range of experimental analysis was conducted to validate the superior performance of the BGRODL-OC technique. The experimental values established the superior performance of the BGRODL-OC algorithm over other existing approaches.
Expertise in Coach Development: The Need for Clarity
Authors: Nash Christine , Ashford Michael , Collins Loel
Published: November 2023

In this position paper, we start by identifying the issues inherent to coach development; we then consider the current status of coach development and present our position before concluding with key points and suggesting resolutions for the issues. Our intention is to propose the progression of appropriate practices and approaches for the professional development and preparation of coaches. In coach development, a lack of clarity exists at both organisational and individual levels, particularly around the role of and aims for coach developers. Organisationally, we consider a radical reframing required to progress the profession of coach development. We also suggest that many individuals currently involved in coach development do not possess the requisite knowledge to move the field forward. Our aspirations for coach development include recognising the need for expertise and what it looks like in practice. Coaching and coach development interactions should examine particular coaching challenges, concentrating on the thought processes and decision-making strategies necessary to solve them. This necessitates a bespoke, problem-based approach to learning.
Development of Synthesis Strategy of Ferric and Clayey Flat Ceramic Membranes
Authors: Chihi Rania , Comite Antonio , Mansour Lamjed , Hraiech Sana , Ayari Fadhila
Published: November 2023

Ceramic membranes prepared with flat sheet configuration using local materials, iron ore and bentonite, are reported in this investigation. The feedstocks used were fully characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and laser diffraction/light scattering. In order to optimize the preparation conditions, the effect of sintering temperature on the microstructure of ferric and clayey membranes was assessed. Results obtained with SEM, confirmed by optical microscopy, indicate that the optimized sintering temperature was in the vicinity of 900 °C. The properties of the fabricated membranes were characterized in terms of mass and thickness loss throughout a determined period of time. The experimental results present a negligible variation in the rate of mass change, which suggested the stability of the synthesized membranes. Both the ferric and clayey membranes exhibit a prevalence of mesopores in their pore distribution. These results suggest that these specific membranes could be employed as cost-effective and environmentally friendly materials. Furthermore, they hold promise for potential applications in gas treatment processes.
Thermochemical Treatment of Nigerian Raw Clays for Oil and Gas Drilling Operations
Authors: Ogolo Oghenerume , Arinkoola Akeem O. , Ngene Peter , Ogbaga Chukwuma C. , Osisanya Samuel
Published: November 2023

Sodium-based bentonite is used for drilling operations because of its high swelling capacity. This type of bentonite clay is not sourced locally in many oil- and gas-producing nations. However, low-swelling clays (calcium- and potassium-based) are in abundant quantities in most of these countries. Hence, there is a need to convert low-swelling bentonite clays to sodium-based bentonite. The method used to convert low-swelling clays is more applicable to calcium-based bentonite. This research investigated a thermochemical treatment method that converted potassium-based bentonite to sodium-based bentonite. The raw clay materials were sourced from Pindinga (P) and Ubakala (U) clay deposits in Nigeria. An X-ray diffractometer (XRD), an energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to characterize the raw clay samples. Mud slurry was prepared by mixing 22 g of the local raw clays, 3 wt.% soda ash, and MgO at concentrations between 1 and 3 wt.% and heating at 90 °C. The result showed that the viscosities of samples P and U increased from 6 to 26 and 8 to 35.5 cP before and after thermochemical treatment, respectively. Also, due to the thermochemical treatment, the samples’ yield point, consistency factor, consistency index, and thixotropy behavior were all significantly improved.
Recognizing New Types of Stacking Interactions by Analyzing Data in the Cambridge Structural Database
Authors: Malenov Dušan P. , Zarić Snežana D.
Published: November 2023

Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) is the largest repository of crystal data, containing over 1.2 million crystal structures of organic, metal–organic and organometallic compounds. It is a powerful research tool in many areas, including the extensive studying of noncovalent interactions. In this review, we show how a thorough analysis of CSD crystal data resulted in recognition of novel types of stacking interactions. Even though stacking interactions were traditionally related to aromatic systems, a number of crystallographic studies have shown that nonaromatic metal–chelate rings, as well as hydrogen-bridged rings, can also form stacking interactions. Joined efforts of a CSD analysis and quantum chemical calculations showed that these new stacking interactions are stronger than stacking interactions of aromatic species and recognized them as very important attractive forces in numerous supramolecular systems.
Poly(lactic acid) and Its Blends for Packaging Application: A Review
Authors: De Luca Stefano , Milanese Daniel , Gallichi-Nottiani Duccio , Cavazza Antonella , Sciancalepore Corrado
Published: November 2023

Biopolymers obtained from renewable resources are an interesting alternative to conventional polymers obtained from fossil resources, as they are sustainable and environmentally friendly. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester produced from 100% renewable plant resources and plays a key role in the biopolymer market, and is experiencing ever-increasing use worldwide. Unfortunately, this biopolymer has some usage limitations when compared with traditional polymers; therefore, blending it with other biopolymers, such as poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA), poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT) and different poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA), is considered an interesting method to improve it significantly, customize its properties and extend the range of its applications. The following review highlights, in its first part, the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of PLA in comparison to the other biopolymers listed above, highlighting the various drawbacks of PLA. The second part of the review deals with recent developments, results, and perspectives in the field of PLA-based blends.
Sexual Dysfunction in Female Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—Sneak Peek on an Important Quality of Life Determinant
Authors: Rogoznica Marija , Perica Dražen , Borovac Barbara , Belančić Andrej , Matovinović Martina
Published: November 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multisystemic disease with a high global burden and chronic complications. Sexual dysfunction (SD) in patients with T2DM is an often-overlooked complication, despite its high impact on quality of life (QoL). Female sexual disorders can affect women of reproductive age as well as menopausal women. Proposed mechanisms are intertwining a variety of physiological, neurological, vascular, hormonal, and psychological variables. The impairment of sexual function has been linked to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, neuropathy, and hormonal abnormalities. There are many different manifestations of female sexual dysfunction, such as insufficient sexual desire, diminished arousal, difficulty in eliciting orgasm, and pain during sexual engagement. Numerous studies have shown that the QoL of patients living with diabetes mellitus (DM) is lower than that of those without DM. SD in women with T2DM leads to deteriorated QoL. Treatment must be individualized based on the diagnosis and the sexual dysfunction as well as underlying medical, psychological, and interpersonal issues. The goal of modern medical care for patients living with diabetes is not to delay death but to improve their health and QoL. The present review article aimed to raise awareness about female sexual dysfunction in patients with T2DM and to provide an overview of its impact on QoL.