bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epilepsy is associated with the accelerated aging of brain activity in sleep
Authors: Hadar Peter N. , Westmeijer Mike , Sun Haoqi , Meulenbrugge Erik-Jan , Jing Jin , Paixao Luis , Tesh Ryan A. , Da Silva Cardoso Madalena , Arnal Pierrick , Au Rhoda , Shin Chol , Kim Soriul , Thomas Robert J. , Cash Sydney S. , Westover M. Brandon
Published: November 2024

Objective

Although seizures are the cardinal feature, epilepsy is associated with other forms of brain dysfunction including impaired cognition, abnormal sleep, and increased risk of developing dementia. We hypothesized that, given the widespread neurologic dysfunction caused by epilepsy, accelerated brain aging would be seen. We measured the sleep-based brain age index (BAI) in a diverse group of patients with epilepsy. The BAI is a machine learning-based biomarker that measures how much the brain activity of a person during overnight sleep deviates from chronological age-based norms.

Methods

This case–control study drew information of age-matched controls without epilepsy from home sleep monitoring volunteers and from non-epilepsy patients with Sleep Lab testing. Patients with epilepsy underwent in-patient monitoring and were classified by epilepsy type and seizure burden. The primary outcomes measured were BAI, processed from electroencephalograms, and epilepsy severity metrics (years with epilepsy, seizure frequency standardized by year, and seizure burden [number of seizures in life]). Subanalyses were conducted on a subset with NIH Toolbox cognitive testing for total, fluid, and crystallized composite cognition.

Results

138 patients with epilepsy (32 exclusively focal and 106 generalizable [focal seizures with secondary generalization]) underwent in-patient monitoring, and age-matched, non-epilepsy controls were analyzed. The mean BAI was higher in epilepsy patients vs controls and differed by epilepsy type: −0.05 years (controls) versus 5.02 years (all epilepsy, p < 0.001), 5.53 years (generalizable, p < 0.001), and 3.34 years (focal, p = 0.03). Sleep architecture was disrupted in epilepsy, especially in generalizable epilepsy. A higher BAI was positively associated with increased lifetime seizure burden in focal and generalizable epilepsies and associated with lower crystallized cognition. Lifetime seizure burden was inversely correlated with fluid, crystallized, and composite cognition.

Significance

Epilepsy is associated with accelerated brain aging. Higher brain age indices are associated with poorer cognition and more severe epilepsy, specifically generalizability and higher seizure burden. These findings strengthen the use of the sleep-derived, electroencephalography-based BAI as a biomarker for cognitive dysfunction in epilepsy.
Effects of dual-task paradigm on the injury potential during landing among individuals with chronic ankle instability
Authors: Zhong Cheng , Luo Xin , Gao He , Zhang Teng , Zhu Xiaoxue , Huang Xueke , Shen Peixin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) causes maladaptive neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system, which may lead to high injury potential under dual-task conditions. This study aims to explore the effects of dual-task paradigm on the injury potential during landing among individuals with CAI.

Methods

Twenty participants with CAI (4 female and 16 male, 12 were affected with their right limbs and 8 were affected with their left limbs, 20.4 ± 1.7 years, 176.9 ± 5.0 cm, and 72.0 ± 11.1 kg) and eighteen without CAI (6 female and 12 male, 20.2 ± 1.5 years, 173.5 ± 7.0 cm, and 70.3 ± 10.8 kg) were recruited. They drop-landed on a trap-door device, with their affected or matched limbs on a flippable platform, under single- (drop-landing only) and dual-task (drop-landing while subtracting of serial threes) conditions. A twelve-camera motion capture system was used to capture the kinematic data. Two-way ANOVA with mixed design (CAI vs non-CAI groups by single-vs dual-task conditions) was used to analyze the data.

Results

Significant group-by-condition interactions were detected in the ankle inversion angle (P = 0.040, η2p = 0.012) and ankle inversion angular velocity (P = 0.038, η2p = 0.114). Both indicators decreased among individuals without CAI from single-to dual-task conditions, while remained unchanged among those with CAI; and they were higher among individuals with CAI under both single- and dual-task conditions, compared to those without CAI.

Conclusion

Individuals with CAI have a reduced ability to limit ankle inversion compared to those without CAI. Under dual-task conditions, individuals without CAI limited their ankle inversion, while those with CAI did not. Drop-landing, especially under dual-task conditions, poses a high risk of excessive ankle inversion for individuals with CAI.
Women football observers’ experiences: a perspective from system justification and glass ceiling
Authors: Eratli Şirin Yeliz , ÖZ Günseli
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The legitimization theory of the system explains that despite people’s inherent drive towards personal and group interests, they tend to support social systems. Understanding the sources of social pressure and the glass ceiling perceptions of female football observers is the main aim of this study in terms of examining attitudes within the legitimized system. To this end, the study sought to answer how female football observers are constructed in a marginalized position within the male-dominated football culture through sources of social pressure, and how they accommodate the acceptance of legitimizing the system despite encountering glass ceiling barriers in the context of Turkey.

Method

Data for the research were collected through in-depth individual interviews (9 female observers) using qualitative research methods. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis. After a comprehensive analysis of the interview transcripts, four themes emerged:

Findings

Gender-based positive and negative experiences; Glass Ceiling: Organizational Factors; Legitimization of Hierarchy-Reducing Myths; and Hope for Future Intragroup Progress within the Current System.

Recommendations

Our analysis reveals that female football observers, identified as match officials, indicate changes in authoritarian attitudes within recent institutional policies during their stadium experiences, characterized towards a more rational, female observer, and referee-focused stance. Additionally, entrenched stereotypes and legitimizing myths reducing hierarchy appear to generally establish legitimacy for female match officiating within the legitimization process. The research results suggest the importance for policymakers in the central referee committee in Turkey to consider the dimensions of legitimization both verbally and in writing when creating policies regarding women.
The paradox of convenience: how information overload in mHealth apps leads to medical service overuse
Authors: Zhong Lingling , Cao Junwei , Xue Fengtao
Published: November 2024

Background

Mobile health applications (mHealth) have become an indispensable tool in the healthcare industry to provide users with efficient and convenient health services. However, information overload has led to significant information overload problems in mHealth applications, which may further lead to overuse of medical services.

Methods

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between information overload and overuse of medical services in mHealth applications through health belief model (HBM). Data were collected from 1,494 respondents who were sampled through a simple random approach. A structured questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection from mobile APP users in Guangdong Province between February 4, 2024, and February 20, 2024. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data to investigate the effects of information overload on users’ perceived severity, susceptibility, treatment benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, and action cues, which further influence the overuse of health care services.

Results

The study found that information overload significantly affected users’ perceived severity, susceptibility, treatment benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, and action cues, and subsequently affected overuse of health care services. These results provide valuable insights for mHealth application developers, healthcare providers, and policy makers.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of effectively managing information delivery in mHealth applications to reduce the risk of overuse of healthcare services. The study not only highlights the dark side of information overload in mHealth applications, but also provides a framework to understand and address the challenges associated with information overload and service overuse in the mHealth context.
Social participation and cognitive activities as explanation factor for the association between income and self-rated health for older adults
Authors: Buß A. M. , Wittmann F. G. , Pabst A. , Luppa M. , Oey A. , Blotenberg I. , Cardona M. I. , Weise S. , Bauer A. , Kosilek R. P. , Bader F. , Brettschneider C. , Wiese B. , Hoffmann W. , Frese T. , Gensichen J. S. , König H.-H. , Thyrian J. R. , Riedel-Heller S. G.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Health disparities pose a considerable challenge for older adults individuals, particularly those with a heightened risk of developing dementia. Discrepancies in health status among various income brackets are only partially attributable to structural factors such as working and living conditions or the quality of food. The aim of this study was therefore to explore whether and to what extent various health-promoting behaviors can explain the association between household income and self-rated health among older people at risk of dementia.

Methods

The sample consisted of 845 participants (average age 68.9 years; 52.6% female) from the AgeWell.de study, an intervention trial aiming to preserve cognitive function. The participants exhibited an increased risk of dementia, defined by a CAIDE (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia) score of at least nine points. To explore the relationship between household income and self-rated health, measured using the EQ-5D-VAS, a regression analysis was conducted. This association was then examined using four mediation analyses that included health-promoting behaviors such as fruit and vegetable consumption, social participation, physical activities, and cognitive activities.

Results

The results reveal a positive association between higher income and self-rated health. This relationship is mediated by social participation. Additionally, cognitive activities were found to partially mediate this correlation. Neither physical activities nor fruit and vegetable consumption could account for the association between income and self-rated health.

Conclusion

The findings have the potential to advance research on the correlation between income and health among older age cohorts at risk of developing dementia. They highlight the potential significance of social engagement and cognitive activities for health and may inspire the development of strategies aimed at enhancing accessibility to activities such as cultural events, educational institutions, and participation in courses for a wider audience.
Population health and community health: brokering the two through art and community engagement
Authors: Galiatsatos Panagis , Hailey-Fair Kimberly , Johnson Marcie , Vanderpool Elisabeth A. C. , Stewart Rosalyn W. , Alexander Karen , Magsamen Susan
Published: November 2024

The arts and aesthetic experiences have fostered and enhanced relationships between diverse, distinct groups in an effort to build comradery, trust, and engagement. In regards to collaborations between health systems and communities, taking into account strategies to build such relationships is vital in an effort to assure a bidirectional collaboration that implements public health insight and resources effectively. There are many factors warranting consideration when building effective community engagement for health promotion between healthcare systems and local community organizations and residents. Such factors include, but are not limited to, homophily, transitivity, structural holes, and maintaining weak ties. In this brief review, we will explore how the arts can be utilized to broker relationships for healthcare systems implementing community engagement with partnering, diverse social networks. Specifically, we will explore the role of the arts and aesthetic experience to create homophily, foster transitivity and balance, enhance collaboration and build meaningful connections between healthcare systems and social networks to more effectively address health concerns for all involved.
The relationship between sleep duration and physical activity level among Norwegian adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Grasaas Erik , Hysing Mari , Sandbakk Øyvind
Published: November 2024

Background

Failure to adhere to sleep and physical activity recommendations among adolescents constitutes a public health problem. However, the associations between sleep duration and adolescents’ physical activity levels remain less explored. The aims of this paper were twofold: (1) to describe sleep and physical activity levels among Norwegian school-based adolescents, stratified by school level and sex and (2) to explore the association between sleep and physical activity levels.

Methods

Data were derived from the 2022 Norwegian Ungdata Survey, totaling 63,113 adolescents from lower (aged 13 to 16 years) and upper (aged 16 to 19 years) secondary schools. Study variables were measured using single-item questions from the Ungdata survey and collected through an electronic questionnaire administered during school hours. Logistic regressions were performed using crude analysis and adjusted for Socioeconomic status (SES) and grade level (age).

Results

In lower secondary school, 57.0% of girls and 44.7% of boys reported sleeping less than the recommended 8 h, whereas in upper secondary school, the rate was 74.9% among girls and 74.3% among boys. Girls consistently reported more sleep problems, feeling more tired at school or during activities, and less physical activity than boys across school levels. Sleep duration was a significant predictor for all levels of weekly physical activity among girls across school levels, with the highest odds revealed in upper secondary school among those being active 5 times a week (B = 1.32; 95% CI [1.24 to 1.40]). Sleep duration was a predictor for being active 5 times a week for boys across school levels (B = 1.22; 95% CI [1.17 to 1.27]).

Conclusion

About half of younger adolescents and three-quarters of older adolescents do not adhere to the sleep recommendation. Lower levels of physical activity were consistently reported by girls than boys. Sleep duration consistently predicted a 20 to 30% higher likelihood of being active at least 5 days a week across sex and school levels. These findings underscore the critical role of sleep duration relations to higher physical activity levels among Norwegian adolescents. Government and policymakers should encourage healthy sleep and PA habits by explicitly incorporating guidelines into the curriculum.
Patient-informed exploration of the aftermath of a diagnostic problem or mistake based on results of a national survey
Authors: Gleason Kelly T. , Yuan Christina T. , Haskell Helen , Anderson Michelle A. , Evered Jane A. , McDonald Kathryn M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Despite the prevalence and devastating consequences of diagnostic breakdowns, there have been minimal efforts to systematically collect patient insight into diagnostic problems and mistakes. Collaborating with patient advocates to guide how patient-derived insights are interpreted and used is a critical, yet often overlooked, approach to identifying actionable solutions that speak to patients' priorities.

Objective

We collaborated with patient advocate co-authors to guide our understanding of findings from a mixed methods survey on diagnostic problems and mistakes, and report implications for patient engagement at three levels of action: (1) individual level before, during, after encounters (micro); (2) within health service delivery systems (meso); and (3) policy advocacy (macro).

Methods

Our research team applied narrative elicitation methods to conduct a novel survey about Americans' diagnostic experiences in a national, population-based survey. We shared early results with patient co-authors who highlighted the importance of further exploring how health systems and clinicians address the aftermath of diagnostic mishaps. Based on their input, we summarized the quantitative and qualitative survey results about the aftermath and worked with our patient co-authors to explore how findings might inform actionable next steps, including efforts to catalyze patient action, quality improvement efforts, and policy reform.

Results

Of the 3,684 survey respondents, about a third (33.0%, 1,216/3,684) of screened households reported diagnostic problems and mistakes in the past four years involving either themselves (18.9%, 697/3,684) or someone close to them (14.1%, 519/3,684). In the aftermath of a diagnostic mishap, over a third reported that someone in the healthcare setting where the mistake occurred acknowledged the mistake (35.9%, 432/1,204). In qualitative findings, reports that the health system “did nothing” surfacing as the most common response. Patient co-authors confirmed the results resonated with their experiences and emphasized the need for health systems to take accountability when a mishap occurs and to take follow-up actions to prevent future mishaps.

Discussion

Patients and care partners not only want and deserve acknowledgement of diagnostic problems or mistakes in their own care, they also want assurance that steps are being taken to prevent similar events from happening to others. Across micro-, meso-, and macro-levels of action, working with patients to understand and act on contributors to diagnostic breakdowns is aligned with high-reliability organizing principles.
Seeing Eye to Eye: How Culture Affects Our Understanding of Others’ Minds
Authors: Pathare Manali , Hout Michael C.
Published: November 2024

Have you ever thought about how and what other people think? It is interesting to wonder, right? Well, humans have a skill that helps us understand other people’s perspectives and feelings. It is called theory of mind, and it is very important for being social, communicating with others, and for understanding their behavior. But did you know that the culture you grew up in can affect how good you are at understanding other people? If your culture taught you to work together with other people and think about others, you might be especially good at understanding others’ thoughts and feelings. In fact, we can even see this difference in the way people look at things! In this article, we explore how our eyes can show us how good we are at understanding others.
Comparative perceptions of sexual harassment among athletes across different competitive levels
Authors: Zach Sima , Davidovitz Maayan , Cohen Rona
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Despite evidence that sports arenas are grooming ground for sexual harassment, consensus is still lacking what this term constitutes. The aim of this study is to examine how athletes of different levels and non-athletes perceive sexual harassment in sports through the lens of the Institutional Theory.

Method

Hundred and thirty pre-service physical education teachers (competitive and non-competitive athletes) and 53 Olympic athletes, rated 27 items divided into four levels of sexual harassment regarding men coaches' behaviors towards women athletes, on a scale of 1 (does not constitute sexual harassment) to 4 (constitutes sexual harassment to a great extent).

Findings

Non-Olympic athletes rated the behaviors as constituting sexual harassment to a greater degree than Olympic athletes, in all categories, as did women participants compared to man. Both genders rated sexual harassment and exploitation as the most severe factor followed by Sexist behavior, yet the more competitive the athletes, the less they perceived such behaviors as disturbing. The Professional contact factor was rated as the least disturbing, with women rating it as less disturbing than men.

Conclusions

The study underscores the ambiguity surrounding the definition of sexual harassment in sports, emphasizing the necessity for clear boundaries to establish acceptable behavior. Such clarity is essential to ensure that all athletes feel safe within the sporting environment. It emphasizes the importance of zero tolerance for all harassing behaviors, regardless of severity, and the implementation of comprehensive policies and training programs in sport organizations. Moving forward, promoting respect, safety, and awareness, along with ongoing research and evaluation, are crucial for creating inclusive and safe sporting environments.
China’s agricultural land transfer: carbon emissions driver or opportunity? The pivotal role of rural human capital revealed
Authors: Quan Tianshu , Zhang Hui , Quan Tianli , Yu Yi
Published: November 2024

Research has found that the transfer of agricultural land in China has to some extent led to agricultural carbon emissions. Therefore, it is urgent to systematically analyze the reasons for carbon emissions caused by agricultural land transfer, find ways to mitigate the increase in agricultural carbon emissions, and achieve low-carbon and sustainable development of agriculture. This article analyzes the relationship between agricultural land transfer, rural human capital, and agricultural carbon emissions in 30 sample provinces in China based on property rights incentives and scale operation theory, using the system GMM model, adjustment model, and threshold model. The results indicate that the transfer of agricultural land has, to some extent, intensified agricultural carbon emissions, with an increase of 0.003 units per unit of agricultural land transfer intensity. Rural human capital has mitigated the carbon emissions resulting from agricultural land transfer and played a corrective role. Under varying levels of rural human capital, there exists a dual threshold effect on the impact of agricultural land transfer on carbon emission intensity, exhibiting a pattern of ‘ineffectiveness-promotion-inhibition’. The analysis of regional heterogeneity reveals significant differences in the relationship between agricultural land transfer and carbon emissions between major grain-producing areas and non-grain-producing areas. It is worth noting that in the northern region, the transfer of agricultural land exacerbates carbon emissions, whereas in the southern region, higher levels of rural human capital effectively curb the growth of carbon emissions. Furthermore, the impact of agricultural land transfer on carbon emissions is not confined to specific regions, indicating that its environmental consequences transcend administrative boundaries and spread geographically, displaying distinct time-dependent characteristics.
Urethra-preserving and dorsal capsule fenestration with robot-assisted simple prostatectomy for severe LUTS in small prostate: a case report
Authors: Wen Lijie , Zhang Yue , He Yi , Yu Yang , Yang Bo
Published: November 2024

Background

Small prostates (volume <30 ml) induce bladder outlet obstruction with pathophysiological changes distinct from those associated with large prostates. Treatment options often include transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) or transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Existing treatments have issues with high recurrence and complication rates. Therefore, we aim to explore a new minimally invasive surgical approach for patients with severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and a small prostate.

Methods

A patient with severe LUTS and a small prostate was admitted to the Department of Urology at the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University. The patient had no median lobe but presented with multiple bladder stones. Relevant data (IPSS score, urine flow rate, operation time, hemoglobin drop, catheterization time, hospitalization time, residual urine) were collected before and after surgery to assess the safety and efficiency.

Results

The patient was 72 years old with a prostate volume of 22.14 ml, a preoperative IPSS score of 28, PSA of 0.314 ng/ml, maximum urine flow rate of 3.5 ml/s, and a prostate MRI PI-RADS score of 2. The patient underwent robot-assisted cystolithotomy, urethra-preserving prostatectomy and dorsal capsule fenestration. The surgery lasted 105 min, with a postoperative hemoglobin drop of 3 g/L. There was no continuous bladder irrigation postoperatively, and the catheter was removed after 10 days. The patient was hospitalized for 4 days and followed up for 24 months. At 6 months postoperative, the patient had an IPSS score of 6, a QoL score of 1, a urine flow rate of 18 ml/s, and residual urine of 8 ml, with nocturia occurring 1–2 times. At 24 months postoperative, the patient had an IPSS score of 7, a QoL score of 1, a urine flow rate of 21 ml/s, and residual urine of 15 ml, with nocturia occurring 1 time.

Conclusion

Robot-assisted urethra-preserving prostatectomy and dorsal capsule fenestration is a promising alternative treatment for patient with severe LUTS due to a small prostate in both long-term safety and efficacy. Further large-sample controlled studies are needed for additional evaluation and validation.
In vitro toxicological evaluation of pouched portioned oral nicotine products
Authors: Keyser Brian M. , Leverette Robert , McRae Reagan , Wertman John , Shutsky Tom , Szeliga Ken , Makena Patrudu , Jordan Kristen G.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Modern oral nicotine pouch products (ONPs) are a category of oral nicotine products which contain pharmaceutical-grade nicotine, flavors, and other food-grade ingredients but no tobacco leaf. Recent reports indicate that ONPs in general do not contain (or only at minimal levels) the harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHCs) identified in cigarette smoke, suggesting their potential as alternative products for reducing harm from cigarette smoking.

Methods

We assessed in vitro toxicological effects of eight ONPs, designated as modern oral (MO) 1 to 8 along with an ONP, an oral tobacco (snus), and a combustible cigarette market comparator using established regulatory toxicological assays including Ames, in vitro micronucleus (ivMN), and neutral red uptake (NRU) assays.

Results

The MO test products 1-7 ZYN wintergreen, and General Snus white mint were negative for mutagenicity (Ames assay), genotoxicity (ivMN), and cytotoxicity (NRU). The combustible cigarette was positive in all three assays. The MO-8 test product was negative for mutagenicity; however, it was positive in the ivMN and NRU assays at concentrations either 42 to 135-fold based on the ivMN i to iv treatment schedule or 60-fold higher, respectively, when compared to combustible cigarettes.

Discussion

Thus, the MO test products are likely to be less harmful than combustible cigarettes and are alternatives to cigarettes. However, understanding of long-term effects of ONPs in general requires additional research.
Characterization of dynamic compliance of the respiratory system in healthy anesthetized dogs
Authors: Raillard Mathieu , Mosing Martina , Raisis Anthea , Auckburally Adam , Beaumont Georgina , Downing Frances , Heselton Charlotte , MacFarlane Paul , Portier Karine , Robertson Josephine , Soares Joao Henrique Neves , Steblaj Barbara , Wringe Elliot , Levionnois Olivier L.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In clinical practice, evaluating dynamic compliance of the respiratory system (Cdyn) could provide valuable insights into respiratory mechanics. Reference values of Cdyn based on body weight have been reported, but various factors may affect them and the evidence is scanty. This study aimed to establish a reference interval for Cdyn and identify associated variables.

Methods

Data were collected from 515 client-owned dogs requiring anesthesia, excluding those with lower airway disease. The dogs were anesthetized, the tracheas intubated, and lungs ventilated at clinicians' discretion across 11 centers in six countries, with no restrictions on anesthesia protocols or ventilation settings, except avoiding inspiratory pauses. Three Cdyn measurements from three consecutive breaths per dog were recorded using a standardized form, which also documented factors affecting Cdyn identified through literature and an online survey. Various spirometry technologies were used. The substantial variance in Cdyn measurements led to a comprehensive analysis using a multiple linear regression model. Multicollinearity (variables highly correlated with each other) was addressed by investigating, transforming, or excluding factors. Initial simple linear regression assessed each variable's individual effect on Cdyn, followed by a multiple linear regression model constructed via stepwise forward selection and backward elimination.

Results

The best-fitting model identified a linear relationship between Cdyn and body mass when the following conditions were met: high BCS (Body Condition Score), orotracheal tubes <7% smaller than predicted, the use of a D-lite flow sensor, and the absence of a high FIO2 (>80%) exposure for more than 10 minutes before Cdyn measurement. In cases where these conditions were not met, additional factors needed to be incorporated into the model. Low (1/9, 2/9, 3/9) and medium (4/9, 5/9) BCS, an orotracheal tube of the predicted size or larger and longer inspiratory times were associated with increased Cdyn. The use of alternative spirometry sensors, including Ped-lite, or prolonged exposure to high FIO2 levels resulted in decreased Cdyn.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Establishing a reference interval for Cdyn proved challenging. A single reference interval may be misleading or unhelpful in clinical practice. Nevertheless, this study offers valuable insights into the factors affecting Cdyn in healthy anesthetized dogs, which should be considered in clinical assessments.
Isolation and evaluation of multi-functional properties of lactic acid bacteria strains derived from canine milk
Authors: Liu Yunjiang , Zeng Yueyan , Chen Li , Xin Jialiang , Zhong Zhijun , Liu Haifeng , Fu Hualin , Zhou Ziyao , Peng Guangneng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are Gram-positive bacteria that produce lactic acid during fermentation, with some strains enhancing host health by modulating the gut microbiota, boosting immune responses, and reducing inflammation.

Methods

In this study, 6 LAB strains were isolated from two dog milk samples, and their probiotic properties were comprehensively evaluated. The evaluation included growth properties, stress resistance, antipathogen activity, adhesion activity, safety assessment, antioxidant capacity, and prebiotic metabolites assessment.

Results

In comparison to the control strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG, all 6 LAB isolates exhibited favorable probiotic properties. Additionally, the results of the antioxidant tests indicated that these strains demonstrated high tolerance to 0.5 mmol/L H2O2 and exhibited significant scavenging abilities for the free radicals 1,1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine (DPPH) and hydroxyl (OH−). Furthermore, the 6 LAB isolates were found to produce elevated concentrations of prebiotic metabolites, including exopolysaccharides (EPS), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and bile salt hydrolase (BSH).

Discussion

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of LAB isolates derived from canine milk. These isolates exhibited multifunctional properties, with strain L221 performing the best overall, making it a promising candidate for probiotic use in dogs.
Artificial Intelligence and Its Role in Shaping Organizational Work Practices and Culture
Authors: Murire Obrain Tinashe
Published: November 2024

The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming organizational landscapes, significantly influencing work practices and triggering cultural shifts. This study explores the role of AI in reshaping organizational work practices and examines the resulting cultural transformation. Through a systematic literature review, this study synthesizes existing research to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI’s impact on organizational landscapes. A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing peer-reviewed articles, books, and conference papers to identify key themes related to AI-driven changes in work practices, including automation, decision making, and employee roles. It also explores how these changes influence organizational culture, particularly shifts toward innovation, agility, and continuous learning, alongside challenges like resistance to change and ethical concerns. While AI adoption promises benefits such as enhanced efficiency, productivity, and innovation, it also presents significant challenges related to cultural alignment, employee resistance, ethical concerns, and leadership communication. Effective leadership, transparent communication, and investments in skills development emerge as pivotal strategies for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring successful AI implementation. The findings offer insights into the complex interplay between AI adoption and cultural transformation, highlighting gaps in the current research and suggesting directions for future studies. This study serves as a valuable resource for academics and practitioners seeking to understand the broader implications of AI on organizational structures and culture.
The Effect of Collaborative Learning Service Quality on the Innovative Work Behavior of High-Tech Engineers
Authors: Lee Sunghee , Kim Boyoung
Published: November 2024

Corporations are increasingly looking beyond inter-company collaborations to multidimensional collaborative activities between departments and organizational members within the company to strengthen innovative market competitiveness. High-tech corporations, specifically, are adopting collaborative learning approaches to promote work capability among engineers from the perspective of developing new technologies and increasing productivity. This study aimed to empirically verify the effect of the service quality of collaborative learning programs on the innovative work behavior of engineers in high-tech companies. Job autonomy, self-efficacy, and learning transfer were set as mediating variables and their effects on innovative work behavior were analyzed. The sample comprised 298 high-tech engineers in South Korea. Collaborative learning service quality was found to have a direct positive effect on job autonomy, self-efficacy, and learning transfer. However, job autonomy and self-efficacy did not influence innovative work behavior through learning transfer. On the other hand, collaborative learning quality had a positive effect on innovative work behavior through learning transfer. Thus, improving the service quality of collaborative learning programs in high-tech corporations can enhance learning transfer within the organization, leading to innovative business outcomes. Moreover, to maximize the effectiveness of collaborative learning, the service quality of learning programs can be improved by prioritizing learning transfer rather than job autonomy or self-efficacy.
Comment on Ssuna et al. Animal Welfare Guidelines for International Development Organisations in the Global South. Animals 2024, 14, 2012
Authors: Hockenhull Jo , Burden Faith A. , Clancy Cara , Watson Tamlin , Kubasiewicz Laura M.
Published: November 2024

International Development Organisations (IDOs) undertake critical work to improve the lives of people across the world, particularly in the Global South [...]
Deformation Distribution Characteristics and Seismic Hazard of the Xianshuihe Fault Zone Based on GNSS and InSAR Data
Authors: Yao Junkai , Chen Changyun , Liang Jingwei , Tao Bingfeng , Wei Qingmeng , Du Yongyan
Published: November 2024

The spatial distribution characteristics and slip rate in the Xianshuihe Fault Zone (XSHFZ) are still subject to controversy, and the segments where creeping movement occurs within the fault remain unclear. In this paper, the three-dimensional deformation field of the XSHFZ and its neighboring areas is obtained by integrating InSAR and GNSS data. Subsequently, based on the three-dimensional deformation field, an elastic dislocation model is employed to analyze the slip rate, locking state, and creeping movement within the XSHFZ. The results show that the XSHFZ is a typical sinistral strike–slip fault with compressional characteristics. The slip rate of the XSHFZ ranges from 9.3 to 14.3 mm/yr. The average strike–slip rate of the Qianning and Kangding segments surpasses that of the eastern and western segments, while the Moxi segment exhibits the lowest slip rate. The locking depth of the XSHFZ is estimated to be between 13 and 26 km, with shallow creep movement predominantly concentrated in three segments: Daofu, Qianning, and Kangding, where the shallow creep rate ranges from 1.5 to 4.9 mm/yr. The XSHFZ is known for its short recurrence period of strong earthquakes and frequent seismic activities. A quantitative study of fault slip rates, locking depth, and creeping movement provides essential support for analyzing its seismic hazards. The seismic hazard of each segment of the Xianshuihe Fault Zone (XSHFZ) was analyzed based on the principle of seismic moment balance. The areas with high seismic hazards in the Xianshuihe Fault Zone correspond to the locations of seismic gaps along the fault. Specifically, the Qianning segment and the Yalahe and Selaha faults within the Kangding segment are associated with seismic gaps and are at risk of experiencing earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.9, 6.9, and 6.6, respectively. The results highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and preparedness measures to mitigate the seismic risks present in the XSHFZ.
Advancing Arabic Word Embeddings: A Multi-Corpora Approach with Optimized Hyperparameters and Custom Evaluation
Authors: Allahim Azzah , Cherif Asma
Published: November 2024

The expanding Arabic user base presents a unique opportunity for researchers to tap into vast online Arabic resources. However, the lack of reliable Arabic word embedding models and the limited availability of Arabic corpora poses significant challenges. This paper addresses these gaps by developing and evaluating Arabic word embedding models trained on diverse Arabic corpora, investigating how varying hyperparameter values impact model performance across different NLP tasks. To train our models, we collected data from three distinct sources: Wikipedia, newspapers, and 32 Arabic books, each selected to capture specific linguistic and contextual features of Arabic. By using advanced techniques such as Word2Vec and FastText, we experimented with different hyperparameter configurations, such as vector size, window size, and training algorithms (CBOW and skip-gram), to analyze their impact on model quality. Our models were evaluated using a range of NLP tasks, including sentiment analysis, similarity tests, and an adapted analogy test designed specifically for Arabic. The findings revealed that both the corpus size and hyperparameter settings had notable effects on performance. For instance, in the analogy test, a larger vocabulary size significantly improved outcomes, with the FastText skip-gram models excelling in accurately solving analogy questions. For sentiment analysis, vocabulary size was critical, while in similarity scoring, the FastText models achieved the highest scores, particularly with smaller window and vector sizes. Overall, our models demonstrated strong performance, achieving 99% and 90% accuracies in sentiment analysis and the analogy test, respectively, along with a similarity score of 8 out of 10. These results underscore the value of our models as a robust tool for Arabic NLP research, addressing a pressing need for high-quality Arabic word embeddings.
Hematologic Toxicity Profiles and the Impact of Hemoglobin Nadir and Transfusion on Oncologic Outcome in Definitive Radiochemotherapy for Cervical Cancer
Authors: Meixner Eva , Wermes Laura , Hoeltgen Line , von Diest Lisa Antonia , Sandrini Elisabetta , Harrabi Semi , Seidensaal Katharina , Hoegen-Saßmannshausen Philipp , Vinsensia Maria , König Laila , Arians Nathalie , Debus Jürgen , Hörner-Rieber Juliane
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Definitive radiochemotherapy with concomitant cisplatin 40 mg/m2 weekly represents the standard of care for locally advanced cervical cancer. Current studies (KEYNOTE-A18 and INTERLACE) are intensifying this regimen at the cost of increased hematologic toxicity. We aimed to evaluate influencing factors on hematotoxicity to ensure the safe application of radiochemotherapy. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 147 patients, who received definitive radiochemotherapy between 2000 and 2019 and evaluated laboratory parameters before, after, and at each chemotherapy cycle to evaluate the occurrence, course, and profile of hematotoxicity. Further, we assessed the impact of hemoglobin levels and transfusion on oncological outcomes. Results: In a high-risk cervical cancer population with 82.3% of women with FIGO ≥ III stage, the 1-, 2-, and 5-year rates of overall survival (OS) were 89.1%, 74.7%, and 63.3%, and local control (LC) rates were 90.1%, 86.1%, and 75.0%, respectively. Grade 3 leukopenia was present in 2.1% and grade 3 anemia in 4.3%. No higher grade ≥ 4 hematotoxicity was observed. Absolute hemoglobin levels significantly reduced after the fourth cycle, with a median time from the start of therapy to hemoglobin nadir of 36 days. A lower hemoglobin nadir (<9 g/dL) was significantly associated with inferior LC. Red blood cell transfusion was applied in 44.9% of the women; the necessity of transfusion was significantly correlated to inferior OS, LC, and distant control. Conclusions: Our results suggest the need for special consideration of increased hematotoxicity and consistent implementation of anemia therapy, particularly from the fourth RT week onwards, to enable full-course definitive radiochemotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer patients.
Severity of Symptoms as an Independent Predictor of Poor Outcomes in Patients with Advanced Cancer Presenting to the Emergency Department: Secondary Analysis of a Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Qdaisat Aiham , Stroh Elizabeth , Reyes-Gibby Cielito , Wattana Monica K. , Viets-Upchurch Jayne , Li Ziyi , Page Valda D. , Fatima Huda , Chaftari Patrick , Elsayem Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Patients with advanced cancer often present to the emergency department (ED) with pain and distressing symptoms that are not systematically evaluated. The current study investigated the association of symptom severity with the diagnosis of delirium and short-term survival. Methods: In this secondary analysis of a prospective randomized study of delirium among advanced cancer patients in the ED, in which symptoms were assessed by the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI), we analyzed the distribution of MDASI item scores by 90-day mortality (Kolmogorov–Smirnov), the association of MDASI item scores with short-term mortality (logistic regression models), and the symptoms in those with or without delirium (Mann–Whitney U test or chi-square test). Results: Of the 243 patients included, 222 (91.4%) had complete MDASI scores. The MDASI median symptom scores for pain, fatigue, and interference with work were the highest. A significant difference in MDASI item score distribution with 90-day mortality was observed for fatigue (p = 0.018), shortness of breath (p < 0.001), difficulty remembering (p = 0.038), lack of appetite (p = 0.035), drowsiness (p < 0.001), feeling sad (p = 0.031), and interference with walking (p < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression models, shortness of breath (adjusted OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.04–1.26, p = 0.005) and drowsiness (adjusted OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.05–1.33, p = 0.008) were associated with 90-day mortality, adjusting for age, race, performance status, and cancer type. The median total MDASI score was significantly higher in patients with delirium than in those without (88, IQR 83–118 vs. 80, IQR 55–104; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patients with advanced cancer presenting to the ED had severe symptoms, some of which were associated with shorter survival. These findings underscore the necessity of systematic symptom assessment, focusing on shortness of breath, drowsiness, fatigue, difficulty remembering, lack of appetite, feeling sad, and feeling distressed, to enhance clinical decision-making and improve the care of patients with advanced cancer. Additional longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the improvement in symptoms and quality of life for these patients.
Arterial Infusion and Isolated Perfusion in Combination with Reversible Electroporation for Locally Relapsed Unresectable Breast Cancer
Authors: Aigner Kornelia , Selak Emir , Pizon Monika , Aigner Karl Reinhard
Published: November 2024

Background: Relapsed unresectable triple-negative breast cancer is a demanding disease with only a few treatment options. Especially for patients with unresectable tumor masses, a treatment that offers rapid tumor shrinkage is needed. If patients are exhausted from several treatment lines, systemic side effects have to be avoided. Reversible electroporation has shown to be effective for breast cancer if combined with systemic bleomycin and/or cisplatin. To enhance the local effect and reduce the systemic side effects, we combined reversible electroporation with regional chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: Patients with advanced metastasized and relapsed breast cancer received regional chemotherapy via intra-arterial infusion and isolated thoracic perfusion combined with percutanous reversible electroporation. Circulating tumor cells (CETCs/CTCs) were counted before and 24 h after the treatment. Tumor response was evaluated by CT (computer tomography) control. Results: A total of 21 treatments were conducted for 14 patients who had a mean tumor size of 7.6 cm (standard deviation 3.3 cm). Higher local drug levels are present with arterial infusion compared to venous infusion and result in enhanced response rates. Circulating tumor cells decreased or stayed stable for 24 h after the treatment for 11 and 8 cases, respectively. An increase was observed in two cases. A total of 13 patients showed a clinical response with tumor shrinkage that led to resectability. One patient did not respond to the treatment regimen. Conclusions: The combination of reversible electroporation with intra-arterial chemotherapy is feasible and results in a good clinical response with neglectable side effects. The treatment is repeatable and can lead to resectability.