bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiscale detrended cross-correlation coefficient: estimating coupling in non-stationary neurophysiological signals
Authors: Stylianou Orestis , Susi Gianluca , Hoffmann Martin , Suárez-Méndez Isabel , López-Sanz David , Schirner Michael , Ritter Petra
Published: November 2024

The brain consists of a vastly interconnected network of regions, the connectome. By estimating the statistical interdependence of neurophysiological time series, we can measure the functional connectivity (FC) of this connectome. Pearson’s correlation (rP) is a common metric of coupling in FC studies. Yet rP does not account properly for the non-stationarity of the signals recorded in neuroimaging. In this study, we introduced a novel estimator of coupled dynamics termed multiscale detrended cross-correlation coefficient (MDC3). Firstly, we showed that MDC3 had higher accuracy compared to rP and lagged covariance using simulated time series with known coupling, as well as simulated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signals with known underlying structural connectivity. Next, we computed functional brain networks based on empirical magnetoencephalography (MEG) and fMRI. We found that by using MDC3 we could construct networks of healthy populations with significantly different properties compared to rP networks. Based on our results, we believe that MDC3 is a valid alternative to rP that should be incorporated in future FC studies.
Association between sleep duration and three obesity indicators among middle-aged and elderly adults: findings from the NHANES 2005–2014
Authors: Jiang Mengjin , Shou Binyao , Shi Lihua , He Min
Published: November 2024

Objective

Obesity has emerged as a worldwide problem. In recent years, it has been verified that there is an association between sleep duration and obesity indicators. This provides a new approach to control obesity. In this study, the relationship between duration of sleep and body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) among Americans ≥45 years old was investigated.

Methods

Data was collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2014. The link between sleep duration and obesity indicators was analysed using multiple regression models and weighted smoothed curve fitting. Subgroup analysis was conducted to assess the consistency of the connection between sleep duration and obesity indicators across various groups.

Results

This study involved 7,118 males and 7,265 females, with an average age of 62.09. After total adjustment, sleep duration was negatively correlated with BMI (β = −0.19, 95%CI: −0.26, −0.12), WC (β = −0.36, 95%CI: −0.53, −0.19) and WHtR (β = −0.27, 95%CI: −0.38, −0.17). Subgroup analyses revealed more significant negative associations between sleep duration and BMI, WC, and WHtR among non-Hispanic White participants, and those without diabetes and hypertension.

Conclusion

Sleep duration was significantly negatively associated with BMI, WC, and WHtR, suggesting that longer sleep duration may contribute to lower obesity indicators in middle-aged and elderly Americans. Subgroup analysis showed that their negative correlation differed between races, diabetes, or hypertension status. However, additional prospective studies are required to validate these findings and investigate potential causal relationships.
Global hotspots and trends in tea anti-obesity research: a bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2024
Authors: Liu Shan , Fan Boyan , Li Xiaoping , Sun Guixiang
Published: November 2024

Background

The prevalence of obesity and its related ailments is on the rise, posing a substantial challenge to public health. Tea, widely enjoyed for its flavors, has shown notable potential in mitigating obesity. Yet, there remains a lack of exhaustive bibliometric studies in this domain.

Methods

We retrieved and analyzed multidimensional data concerning tea and obesity studies from January 2004 to June 2024, using the Web of Science Core Collection database. This bibliometric investigation utilized tools such as Bibliometrix, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer to gather and analyze data concerning geographical distribution, leading institutions, prolific authors, impactful journals, citation patterns, and prevalent keywords.

Results

There has been a significant surge in publications relevant to this field within the last two decades. Notably, China, Hunan Agricultural University, and the journal Food and Function have emerged as leading contributors in terms of country, institution, and publication medium, respectively. Zhonghua Liu of Hunan Agricultural University has the distinction of most publications, whereas Joshua D. Lambert of The State University of New Jersey is the most cited author. Analyses of co-citations and frequently used keywords have identified critical focus areas within tea anti-obesity research. Current studies are primarily aimed at understanding the roles of tea components in regulating gut microbiota, boosting fat oxidation, and increasing metabolic rate. The research trajectory has progressed from preliminary mechanism studies and clinical trials to more sophisticated investigations into the mechanisms, particularly focusing on tea’s regulatory effects on gut microbiota.

Conclusion

This study offers an intricate overview of the prevailing conditions, principal focus areas, and developmental trends in the research of tea’s role against obesity. It delivers a comprehensive summary and discourse on the recent progress in this field, emphasizing the study’s core findings and pivotal insights. Highlighting tea’s efficacy in obesity prevention and treatment, this study also points out the critical need for continued research in this area.
Association between copper and Achilles tendon disease: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen TianYang , Gu Yan , Zhang ZiHao , Chen ZhaoLiang , Zhang JingQuan , Leng Xiangyang
Published: November 2024

Background

There is a clear association between micronutrients and Achilles tendon disease (AT). An increase in micronutrients may alleviate AT symptoms and have a therapeutic effect. The aim of this study is to clarify the causal relationship between 15 micronutrients (copper, zinc, magnesium, vitamins A, C, E, D, B6, B12, folic acid, carotene, iron, selenium, calcium, and potassium) and AT.

Methods

We employed the Mendelian randomization (MR) method to analyze the causal effects of micronutrients on the risk of AT. The SNPs related to micronutrients were obtained from a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) of circulating micronutrients in European populations. Outcome data were obtained from a meta-analysis of AT in European-ancestry participants from the Finnish FINNGEN BIOBANK. The main analysis was conducted using the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method, with additional sensitivity and pleiotropy analyses performed.

Results

Inverse variance weighting results indicated a causal relationship between copper and AT (P = 0.003, OR = 0.899, 95% CI = 0.839–0.964). Sensitivity analysis validated the robustness and reliability of this finding.

Conclusion

This study revealed a causal relationship between copper and AT, with copper serving as a protective factor. This provides evidence of the causality between copper and AT, offering new insights for clinical research and therapeutic approaches in AT.
Tumor seeding across specialties: a systematic review
Authors: Kipnis Pavel , Ramanathan Diya , Hoehn Richard , Jethwa Ashok R. , Karakla Daniel W. , Rohr Bethany , Sutter Christopher M. , Mark Jonathan R. , Khaja Sobia F. , Li Shawn , Thuener Jason , Carroll Bryan T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Understanding shared characteristics underlying reported tumor seeding episodes can reveal when tumor seeding is most likely to occur and guide clinical decision making. Our goal was to systematically review tumor seeding across specialties and determine what types of instrumentation and primary tumor histology are associated with tumor seeding.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science, per PRISMA guidelines. Publications ranged from 1965 to 2022, and studies with five or more reports of seeding were included. Papers were sorted by specialty and assigned a PRISMA Level of Evidence, and data analysis was conducted based on whether each paper supported the clinical significance of seeding.

Results

7,165 papers were screened with 156 papers included for analysis. Overall, there were 8,161 cases of tumors seeding across specialties with the majority from general surgery, gastroenterology, and urology. Laparoscopy (n=1,561) and needle biopsy (n=3,448) were most frequently implicated, and carcinomas (n=5,778) and adenocarcinomas (n=1,090) were the most common primary tumor types.

Discussion

Upon review of the most updated (2023) versions of the NCCN and NICE guidelines across all cancer types, there were identified gaps in the coverage of tumor seeding within these guidelines, with tumor seeding being entirely absent from certain guidelines and partially absent from others.

Conclusions

Given the high cumulative reports of seeding and the deadly and disseminated nature of secondary disease, it is important to consider seeding risk when manipulating tumors and to modify current cancer care guidelines (NCCN/NICE) to ensure that they appropriately address seeding risk.
Cannabidiol inhibits transient receptor potential canonical 4 and modulates excitability of pyramidal neurons in mPFC
Authors: Han Yujun , Wang Shuting , Xiang Yu , Chang Liuliu , Wang Xian , Ren Shimin , Guo Fei , Li Tianyu , Liu Zhiqiang , Li Yang
Published: November 2024

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, has been extensively studied for its potential therapeutic effects on various central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including epilepsy, chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, and stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of CBD have not been fully elucidated due to the complexity of their targets. In this study, we reported that the transient receptor potential canonical 4 (TRPC4) channel, a calcium-permeable, non-selective cation channel, could be inhibited by CBD. TRPC4 is highly abundant in the central nervous system and plays a critical role in regulating axonal regeneration, neurotransmitter release, and neuronal network activity. Here, we used whole-cell electrophysiology and intracellular calcium measurements to identify the inhibitory effects of CBD on TRPC4, in which CBD was found to inhibit TRPC4 channel with an IC50 value of 1.52 μM TRPC4 channels function as receptor-operated channels (ROC) and could be activated by epinephrine (EP) via G proteins. We show that CBD can inhibit EP-evoked TRPC4 current in vitro and EP-evoked neuronal excitability in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). These results are consistent with the action of TRPC4-specific inhibitor Pico145, suggesting that TRPC4 works as a functional ionotropic receptor of CBD. This study identified TRPC4 as a novel target for CBD in the CNS and suggested that CBD could reduce the pyramidal neuron excitability by inhibiting TRPC4-containing channels in the mPFC.
Variation in adherence measures as a function of calculation methods
Authors: Rohay Jeffrey M. , Dunbar-Jacob Jacqueline M.
Published: November 2024

Aim

We aim to compare different operational definitions of medication adherence as well as examine the within-patient variability among these measures among patients treated for multiple comorbid conditions.

Methods

Electronically monitored adherence data from a study on comorbid conditions were examined using three different calculation methods. DAILY adherence calculated the number of administrations divided by the number prescribed, without considering inter-dose interval. TIMING used predefined inter-dose intervals. Measures were aggregated to six 30-day periods. A PILLCOUNT approach counted the total administrations divided by the expected number in each 30-day period. Within-patient variability was computed based on DAILY and TIMING results for each 30-day period.

Results

Results varied by adherence calculation method. PILLCOUNT demonstrated the largest adherence rates (89%–92%); DAILY rates were lower (79%–85%); and TIMING was the lowest (62%–68%) over the 6-month period. TIMING within-patient variability (29%–35%) was larger than DAILY (20%–25%).

Discussion

Differences among the three methods confirm the importance of the adherence definition. TIMING may underestimate medicinal effects because patients may take medication as instructed (e.g., with meals) rather than at fixed intervals. PILLCOUNT may overestimate adherence by not accounting for inconsistent use. DAILY may best provide daily estimates of correct administration. Higher variability for TIMING may indicate patients are more likely to vary time between doses. Adherence calculation methods are important in interpreting results. Variability measures provide a more complete picture of adherence and may raise the likelihood of effects on biological outcomes. We propose studies of adherence include calculation method in the definition of adherence.
Application and mechanism of Chinese herb medicine in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Liu Yuqiao , Fan Yue , Liu Jibin , Liu Xiyang , Li Xiuyan , Hu Jingqing
Published: November 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver condition closely associated with metabolic syndrome, with its incidence rate continuously rising globally. Recent studies have shown that the development of NAFLD is associated with insulin resistance, lipid metabolism disorder, oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Therapeutic strategies for NAFLD include lifestyle modifications, pharmacological treatments, and emerging biological therapies; however, there is currently no specific drug to treat NAFLD. However Chinese herb medicine (CHM) has shown potential in the treatment of NAFLD due to its unique therapeutic concepts and methods for centuries in China. This review aims to summarize the pathogenesis of NAFLD and some CHMs that have been shown to have therapeutic effects on NAFLD, thus enriching the scientific connotation of TCM theories and facilitating the exploration of TCM in the treatment of NAFLD.
Kinematic stability in cardiac locomotor synchronization during regular walking
Authors: Kibushi Benio
Published: November 2024

In locomotion, previous studies have identified a phenomenon known as cardiac locomotor synchronization (CLS), characterized by the phenomenon where heartbeats consistently occur at a specific time within the locomotor cycle. While the physiological significance of CLS is well recognized, its kinematic benefits remain uncertain. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the kinematic benefits of CLS under regular walking. Smoothness of walking and local dynamic stability was assessed through the RMS of center of mass acceleration (RMS-CoMacc) and maximum Lyapunov exponent (maxL). It was hypothesized that stronger CLS would lead to reduced RMS-CoMacc and maxL. Thirteen participants performed a 10-minute walk at 5.0 km/h. The electrocardiogram and the motion capture data were recorded. To evaluate the CLS, phase coherence (λ) between cardiac and walking step rhythm was computed. The high and low-phase coherence was defined as λ ≥ 0.1 (λhigh) and λ < 0.01 (λlow); corresponding RMS-CoMacc and maxL values were compared for each state. Although the λhigh was significantly higher than λlow, no significant differences in RMS-CoMacc and maxL were observed between the high and low states. The relatively weak CLS observed herein might not have led to a reduction in RMS-CoMacc and maxL. In addition, regular walking speed might be a velocity at which it is challenging to generate intervention effects. Hence, the CLS appears to have negligible impact on the smoothness of walking or local dynamical stability at a 5.0 km/h.
Clockwork precision: egg-laying-induced rise of body temperature is seasonally programmed in a wild bird
Authors: Guillemette Magella , Seyer Yannick , Viain Anouck
Published: November 2024

There is long time interest about the phenology of plants and animals living in seasonal environments as research in that field would help to understand the coping mechanisms leading to a higher fitness. For instance, it has been shown several decades ago that birds prepare themselves 2–4 months before the actual start of the breeding season by slowly growing reproductive organs. In parallel, the resting metabolic rate increase during reproduction in various vertebrates including mammals, reptiles, and birds. Recently, it has been reported that body temperature of a marine bird species was reaching an annual peak during egg-laying, raising the question about the seasonal dynamic of this important physiological feature. Using data loggers implanted in the abdominal cavity of female Common Eiders (Somateria mollissima mollissima) for a full year, we show here that daily body temperature (Tb.daily) is slowly increasing first and then accelerating at the approach of the laying period. Because the rise of Tb.daily is tightly associated with egg-laying in this species, we also analysed the influence of ambient temperature (water and air) and photoperiod on this seasonal dynamic. Based on the various mechanisms at work and a parsimonious interpretation of the data, we conclude that photoperiod is the main cue driving the seasonal breeding program of eiders. Although the laying dates of the instrumented females were highly clustered over a period of 4 years, we speculated that the remaining variation observed was the result of eco-physiological challenges occurring over the years.
Enhancing cross-cultural well-being: a mixed methods study on critical thinking, cultural intelligence, and eudaimonic well-being in arts students’ cultural identity development
Authors: Peng Yue
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This research explores the role of critical thinking and cultural intelligence in psychological well-being through the lens of cultural identity development. It aims to understand how individuals think critically and navigate different cultural challenges that influence their psychological wellbeing.

Methods

The quantitative analysis utilizes various scales to elucidate the correlation between critical thinking beliefs, cultural intelligence, and well-being. The qualitative exploration employing NVivo 20.0 uncovers the interplay between critical thinking, cultural intelligence, and well-being in the construction of cultural identity and psychological selfhood.

Results

The research results show a significant positive correlation between critical thinking, cultural intelligence, and psychological well-being. Themes such as well-being, cultural intelligence, critical thinking, and facing challenges illustrate how individuals navigate obstacles to achieve a meaningful and purposeful life. The findings from both the quantitative and qualitative analyses provide a comprehensive understanding of how critical thinking, cultural intelligence, and well-being intersect and influence individuals’ perceptions of themselves and their cultural identities.

Discussion

The research results suggest that developing critical thinking and cultural intelligence positively impacts individuals’ psychological well-being in cultural identity development. This can lead to greater belonging and acceptance in diverse cultural settings.
Research on intervention strategies for fire rescue personnel’s competency frustration: EEG experimental validation
Authors: Wang Yarong , Zhang Runyu , Liu Ying , Ren Jie , Zhang Guosheng
Published: November 2024

In order to accurately measure the level of competency frustration and what measures to take to alleviate the negative effects of competency frustration, 35 graduate students were selected to verify the effect of the frontal lobe α asymmetry (FAA) as a judgement of the competence frustration level using EEG experimental method. On this basis, through two stopwatch stopping experiments, 108 fire rescue personnel were selected to conduct the experiments to investigate the intervention effects of developmental feedback and compassion-focused therapy in turn. The results showed that frontal α asymmetry could be used as an EEG indicator for judging competency frustration, and the intervention method of compassion-focused therapy reduced the level of competency frustration of the subjects, while developmental feedback interventions did the opposite. The difference in the effects of the two intervention methods indicates that when intervening in competence frustration, it is easier to reduce the competency frustration by focusing on the subjects themselves than focusing on the completion of the task.
Everyone is searching for it and those who acquired it enjoy better mental health: a latent profile analysis of Chinese adolescents’ meaning in life
Authors: Zhou Xiaohua , Yu Lu , Deng Chen , Ren Yaoxiang , Du Meng
Published: November 2024

Objective

One factor associated with rising rates of depression and anxiety among youth is a lack of meaning in life (MIL). The importance of living a meaningful and purposeful life cannot be overstressed, especially for adolescents who are in a critical life stage and have recently experienced a 3-year-long global health crisis, namely the COVID-19 pandemic. Although previous studies have examined adolescents’ MIL, the majority of them adopted a variable-centered approach. The present study adopts a person-centered approach to investigate the updated MIL among Chinese adolescents in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demographic factors related to profile classification, and the differences in mental health among adolescents in different MIL classes.

Methods

A questionnaire assessing MIL, depression, anxiety, stress, and demographic information was administered to 1,196 Chinese adolescents (mean age = 13.07 ± 0.58; 44.73% were female individuals). A three-step latent profile analysis was conducted.

Results and discussion

This study revealed that (1) adolescents can be categorized into three classes: high MIL, medium MIL, and low and searching MIL. (2) Adolescents from intact families with higher educated mothers were more likely to be classified as high MIL class rather than low MIL class. Furthermore, (3) adolescents with high MIL experienced the best mental health outcomes, those with medium MIL experienced moderate mental health, and those with low MIL, who were still searching for MIL, exhibited the poorest mental health. External support may be necessary in the search process for Chinese adolescents. Future research could explore the process of searching for MIL and identify the challenges adolescents encounter when developing their sense of MIL.
Running, walking, and cross-country skiing: how to shape adolescents’ personalities through physical activity?
Authors: Gao Yucheng , Che Li , Li Xiaotian
Published: November 2024

Adolescence is crucial for personality development, and sports play a significant role. This study investigates the impact of various sports on the personality traits of junior high and high school students in Shandong Province, focusing on neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Utilizing data from the “Database of Youth Health,” we employed Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) and Generalized Structural Equation Modeling (GSEM) to analyze the effects of physical activity on personality development. Findings reveal that walking significantly enhances openness and decreased neuroticism, while jogging/running substantially improves extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Cross-country skiing, however, negatively impacts all assessed personality traits. In addition, the importance of gender differences in the relationship between physical activity and personality development was revealed. The results offer insights for promoting adolescent personality development through targeted sports activities.
A scoping review of interaction dynamics in minimally verbal autistic individuals
Authors: Boorom Olivia , Liu Talia
Published: November 2024

Interaction dynamics provide information about how social interactions unfold over time and have implications for communication development. Characterizing social interaction in autistic people who are minimally verbal (MV) has the potential to illuminate mechanisms of change in communication development and intervention. The purpose of this scoping review was to investigate the current evidence characterizing interaction dynamics in MV autistic individuals, methods used to measure interaction dynamics in this population, and opportunities for future research. Articles were included if participants were diagnosed with autism, considered MV, if interaction occurred with a human communication partner during live in-person interaction, and if variables were derived by measuring the relationship between behaviors in both partners. The seven articles included in this review demonstrate that limited research describes interaction dynamics in this population, and that behavioral coding measures can be leveraged to assess constructs such as turn-taking, social contingency, and balance in social interactions. While there is some evidence describing how MV autistic individuals and their communication partners construct reciprocal interaction, there is variability in how interaction dynamics are measured and limited evidence describing individual differences. Recommendations for future research are discussed.
Effect of match location on the playing style of teams coached by ‘Pep’ Guardiola
Authors: Pueyo Luis , Murillo Víctor , Álvarez Javier , Sarmiento Alberto , Amatria Mario
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Analysis in football seeks to find the performance factors that bring teams closer to success.

Methods

This study aims to analyze the playing styles of two teams managed by Pep Guardiola (F.C. Barcelona and Manchester City) based on match location (home or away). Two methods of analysis were used: descriptive statistics through chi-square tests to evaluate game characteristics and the polar coordinates technique to analyze the relationships between the different lines of each team (goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders, and forwards).

Results

The results showed that F.C. Barcelona maintained a consistent playing style regardless of location, exhibiting significant differences only in actions that involved shots or header (p = 0.035), with better performance at home. In contrast, Manchester City displayed significantly different performance in action success (p < 0.001), level of play elaboration (p = 0.004), density (p = 0.033), duration (p = 0.036), and actions that included a shot (p = 0.001) depending on the location. Additionally, qualitative analyses revealed differences in the relationships among the team lines according to match location, with Manchester City displaying more variability in these interactions than F.C. Barcelona.

Discussion

The study concludes that although Guardiola applies a consistent set of strategies, match location has a greater influence on Manchester City’s performance, suggesting that this team adjusts its playing style on the basis of contextual conditions. These findings highlight the importance of considering factors such as location when preparing tactics to increase the probability of success in elite football.
An historical overview of artificial intelligence for diagnosis of major depressive disorder
Authors: Liu Hao , Wu Hairong , Yang Zhongli , Ren Zhiyong , Dong Yijuan , Zhang Guanghua , Li Ming D.
Published: November 2024

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology holds immense potential in the realm of automated diagnosis for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), yet it is not without potential shortcomings. This paper systematically reviews the research progresses of integrating AI technology with depression diagnosis and provides a comprehensive analysis of existing research findings. In this context, we observe that the knowledge-driven first-generation of depression diagnosis methods could only address deterministic issues in structured information, with the selection of depression-related features directly influencing identification outcomes. The data-driven second-generation of depression diagnosis methods achieved automatic learning of features but required substantial high-quality clinical data, and the results were often obtained solely from the black-box models which lack sufficient explainability. In an effort to overcome the limitations of the preceding approaches, the third-generation of depression diagnosis methods combined the strengths of knowledge-driven and data-driven approaches. Through the fusion of information, the diagnostic accuracy is greatly enhanced, but the interpretability remains relatively weak. In order to enhance interpretability and introduce diagnostic criteria, this paper offers a new approach using Large Language Models (LLMs) as AI agents for assisting the depression diagnosis. Finally, we also discuss the potential advantages and challenges associated with this approach. This newly proposed innovative approach has the potential to offer new perspectives and solutions in the diagnosis of depression.
Assessment of human health risks posed by toxic heavy metals in Tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus) from the Cauvery River, India
Authors: Gupta Nikita , Arunachalam Sathiavelu
Published: November 2024

Heavy metal toxicity is a serious threat to human health due to its bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and persistent nature in the environment including aquatic systems. In the recent past, heavy metal contamination in the environment has occurred due to various anthropogenic sources. The concentration of potentially toxic heavy metals was determined by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy in Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), a highly farmed and consumed fish species in southern parts of India. The mean levels of Fe were found to be higher in major organs of the fish with the highest levels in liver (Mean 1554.4 ± 1708.7 mg/kg) and lowest in the muscles (Mean 130.757 ± 33.3 mg/kg). Correlation Matrix analysis revealed relationships between the occurrence of various heavy metals in different organs of fish and indicated similar origins and chemical properties. Target hazard quotient for Cd, Co, Pb, and Cr in the Liver, Co and Cr in the Gills, and Co in Muscle were > 1 for adults, which showed a significant health risk from the combined effects of these metals. The potential health risk to humans, according to the cancer risk (CR) assessment is attributed mainly to Cd and Cr levels. Overall, moderate fish consumption is advised to limit the bioaccumulation of heavy metals over prolonged exposure and associated health risks.
The effects of electronic cigarette use patterns on health-related symptom burden and quality of life: analysis of US prospective longitudinal cohort study data
Authors: Cao Yue , Zhang Xuxi , Fearon Ian M. , Li Jiaxuan , Chen Xi , Xiong Yuming , Zheng Fangzhen , Zhang Jianqiang , Sun Xinying , Liu Xiaona
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between e-cigarette (EC) use patterns and health-related symptoms (fatigue, pain, and emotional problems) as well as general quality of life (QoL).

Methods

Data were analyzed from 7,225 adults across Waves 1–6 of the US Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study. Current combustible cigarette (CC) or EC use patterns included dual CC/EC use, exclusive EC use, non-current use of CC or EC, and exclusive CC smoking. Multivariate linear mixed-effects models were used to investigate longitudinal associations between EC use patterns, and symptom burdens/QoL scores.

Results

Those who were not currently smoking or vaping reported the lowest fatigue, pain, and emotional problems, and the best QoL, among the four groups (all p < 0.001). Compared to exclusive CC smoking, exclusive EC use was associated with a significant decrease of 0.065 units in average fatigue (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.121, −0.009), of 0.206 units in average pain (95% CI: −0.355, −0.058), and of 0.103 units in average QoL scores (95% CI: −0.155, −0.051), with emotional problems similar over time.

Conclusion

Exclusive EC users had less health-related symptoms and better QoL than those who were exclusive CC smokers. This should be taken into account when assessing the harm reduction potential of ECs.
Coxiellaburnetii (Q fever) exposure in wildlife professionals
Authors: de França Danilo Alves , Kmetiuk Louise Bach , Rodrigues Orlei José Domingues , Panazzolo Giovanni Augusto Kalempa , Morikawa Vivien Midori , de Lima Duré Ana Íris , Langoni Helio , Fávero Giovani Marino , Biondo Alexander Welker
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Although occupational exposure to Coxiella burnetii has been studied previously, the zoonotic risk in wildlife environments remains unclear and has yet to be fully established.

Methods

Accordingly, the present study aimed to serologically assess professionals with daily contact with free-living and captive wildlife in Paraná State, Brazil, along with the potential associated risk factors for C. burnetii exposure.

Results

Overall, 25 out of 309 (8.1%) wildlife professionals were seropositive, including 6/54 (11.1%) national and 7/125 (5.6%) state park employees, 6/92 (6.5%) zookeepers, and 6/38 (15.8%) animal service workers, with titers ranging from 32 to 128. No statistical association was found between seropositivity and associated risk factors, including the working location.

Discussion

Our results differ from those of previous studies in Brazil, which found 8/893 (0.9%) indigenous, 1/18 (5.5%) police officers, and 44/200 (22.0%) former Black slaves to be seropositive. This study is the first serological investigation of C. burnetii among park rangers, zookeepers, and animal service workers in Brazil, showing no statistically significant risk factors for seropositivity. As the seroprevalence in this study was higher than that in previous surveys of healthy (asymptomatic) human populations, C. burnetii exposure may also be an occupational risk for wildlife professionals owing to their contact with the natural environment in Brazil.
Assessment of online pharmacy applications in India by employing the mobile application rating scale
Authors: Sattar Anum , Naveed Safila , Rehman Hina , Usman Shahnaz , Jamshed Shazia
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Over the past few years, the technology powering mobile devices such as smartphones has made significant progress. Furthermore, the healthcare industry is always progressing and actively embracing the latest technological advancements to achieve the highest level of efficiency. With the rising prevalence of smartphones and internet connection, customers are benefiting from reduced prices, convenient home delivery, and effortless accessibility through online pharmacies. Internet-based pharmacies facilitate the internet-based transaction of health-related products, such as drugs, dietary supplements, and various other wellbeing products.

Objective of study

The study assessed digital pharmacy applications in India using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) on Android and iOS devices, aiming to evaluate their quality.

Methods

An investigation examined the digital pharmacy applications in India that were accessible via the Android Market and App Store. The applications were assessed by two researchers using the MARS questionnaire, a tool that evaluates 23 variables categorized into five domains: Engagement, Functionality, Aesthetics, Information, and Subjective Quality. The grading system spanned from one to five for every category.

Results

A Google Play Store and App Store investigation revealed 40 online pharmacy apps in India, with 13 rejected. Seven were non-English language-related apps and seven were not downloaded. Thirteen were chosen and evaluated using the MARS Scale. The MARS demonstrated significant positive associations across its components, namely Engagement, Functionality, Aesthetics, and Information. Specifically, greater levels of user functionality were shown to be indicative of superior app aesthetics and engagement. The mean rating of the 13 apps fell between the range of 3.11 to 4.32 on a 5-point scale.

Conclusion

This is the first study to utilize the MARS scale to assess the efficacy of online pharmacy applications in India. This research enhanced the functionality and quality of various online pharmacy applications utilized in India.
Sustainable digital rent: a transformative framework for value dynamics in the digital age
Authors: Özdilek Ünsal
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This paper introduces the concept of Sustainable Digital Rent (SDR), highlighting the shift from traditional economic rent based on tangible assets to rent derived from digital platforms. At the heart of this shift is the “value state,” a dynamic balance between constructive expectations and destructive information. As digital platforms generate increasing amounts of information, expectations are increasingly met and shared more efficiently with all users, leading to a reduction in individual and general motivational, emotional, and cognitive engagement. These platforms, now essential to modern life, facilitate online activities that reduce as well physical engagement and natural interactions, thereby impacting cognitive function and physical health. By extracting rent directly, digital platform operators limit the benefits users could gain to support their mental and physical well-being.

Methods

This paper empirically defines and estimates SDR using the collective estimates of price, cost, and income (PCI) as practiced in North American real estate appraisal, demonstrated through abstract art rent. Our approach provides a new perspective on valuing intangible assets, such as knowledge, by showing the shift from expectation to information, governed by the value state in cognitive evaluations. Emphasizing interdisciplinary relevance, the method underscores the need for an efficient mechanism to redistribute SDR benefits to digital platform users, supporting fair and equitable digital development.

Results and discussion

The results show that digital rent is driven primarily by cognitive and informational content, demonstrating the need for redistribution mechanisms to address the growing inequality on digital platforms. The use of abstract art as a case study provides a convenient and illustrative way to explore how intangible assets, like digital rents, can be evaluated and redistributed. SDR offers insights into how digital rents can be captured and redistributed equitably, ensuring that platform users and creators benefit from the knowledge economy’s growth. The findings underscore the relevance of measuring SDR to guide policy recommendations aimed at reducing digital monopolization and promoting sustainable digital development.
“Solutions” are not the answer
Authors: Davies Todd , Loghmani-Khouzani Taha , Fath Brian D.
Published: November 2024

Academics and policy-makers often frame their work by defining “problems” and proposing “solutions.” While this approach is effective in closed systems, where problems can be clearly defined, we critique its application to open systems, where such clarity is not possible. We highlight how narrowly framed “solutions” can lead to unintended consequences and policy incoherence when applied to open systems, and advocate for a rhetorical shift from “problems and solutions” to “challenges and responses.” This reframing acknowledges the dialectical nature of interacting with open systems and encourages decision-makers to engage in a continuous and evolving praxis, where challenges are addressed iteratively, rather than problems being solved once and for all. We argue that this approach is more realistic, avoiding the pitfalls of short-term solutionism by promoting a more holistic and ongoing engagement with complex, open systems.
Towards SDG 11: How Urban Greenery Can Help Us Build Sustainable Cities
Authors: Azmeer Amjad , Tahir Furqan , Al-Ghamdi Sami G.
Published: November 2024

In 2015, the United Nations launched 17 Sustainable Development Goals—efforts that should be taken to ensure the wellbeing of people and the planet by 2030. One of these goals aims to make cities sustainable by addressing environmental, social, and economic impacts to ensure cities are livable for future generations. This goal is important because more than half the world lives in cities now. Meeting the needs of many people in cities will not be easy, particularly with global problems like the hot temperatures experienced in cities, pollution, climate change, and food shortages. This is where urban greenery could help. Urban greenery includes the trees, parks, and other plants you see in cities. Greenery can help make our cities sustainable, providing benefits like cleaning the air, cooling the city in hot summer temperatures, and preventing flooding during heavy rains. Greener cities could make life better and healthier for everyone.
Robots that Can Survive the Egg Drop
Authors: Johnson William R. , Kramer-Bottiglio Rebecca
Published: November 2024

If you ever did the egg drop challenge, you know it is hard to build something that can protect a fragile egg from crashing into the ground and breaking. Engineers are building soft robots called tensegrity robots, which are designed to survive harsh crashes. The word tensegrity comes from “tension” and “integrity”. It means the robot is made of stiff bars held together with stretchy cables. This flexible structure helps a tensegrity robot absorb the impact from crashes. Someday, these robots might be used to explore dangerous places like deep caves or other planets. These robots could fall off cliffs or into craters. Right now, engineers are making tensegrity robots better and easier to control. In this article, we will explain how tensegrity robots work. We will discuss their advantages, their disadvantages, and what they can be used for.
The impact of family and friend support of physical activity on the participation in physical activity within Indigenous individuals in Saskatoon
Authors: Mainra Nisha K. , Ironside Avery K. , Johnson Shara R. , Rolfes Tayha T. , Fatima Muqtasida A. , Melanson Kendra , Foulds Heather J. A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Social support within Indigenous worldviews is recognized as a component of health and has been associated with physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Physical Activity (PA) is a modifiable behaviour that can help reduce risks of disease and benefit many dimensions of health. The purpose of this study was to compare the physical activity of Indigenous adults in Saskatchewan with and without family/friend support of PA.

Methods

The Family Influence on Physical Activity questionnaire was used to record the extent and forms of family/friend support of PA. The Godin Shepard Leisure Exercise Questionnaire (GSLEQ) was used to measure weekly PA, including moderate PA (MPA), vigorous PA (VPA), exercise frequency (WEF) and GSLEQ scores.

Results

Indigenous participants overall, First Nations and Cree participants specifically with family/friend involvement in PA reported greater weekly WEF and GSLEQ scores. Indigenous participants overall and First Nations participants specifically with family and friends who watch them engage in PA reported greater weekly VPA and GSLEQ scores. Among First Nations and Cree participants specifically, those with family/friends encouragement of PA reported greater weekly VPA, WEF and GSLEQ scores. Furthermore, First Nations participants with active family/friends reported significantly greater weekly VPA (36.8 ± 51.5 min·week−1 vs. 80.2 ± 108.5 min·week−1; p = 0.01). Greater weekly VPA was found in Métis participants with family/friend involvement in PA and with family/friends who watch them engage in PA (67.6 ± 59.6 min·week−1 vs. 29.5 ± 40.8 min·week−1; p = 0.01).

Discussion

Social support, specifically family/friends involvement, has a significant impact on Indigenous participation in PA.
Methodological guidelines for a rapid appraisal of agricultural innovation systems under agroecology (RAAIS-AE)
Authors: Ouerghemmi Hassen , Frija Aymen , Shiri Zahra , Rejeb Hichem
Published: November 2024

The agricultural innovation system (AIS) is an approach that considers agricultural innovation from a multidisciplinary perspective. The Rapid Appraisal of Agricultural Innovation Systems is one of the commonly used operational methods. It involves a series of structured and participatory activities, including interviews, focus group discussions, and stakeholder workshops, to identify the actors, institutions, and relationships involved in the AIS, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the system. This approach has been structured in such a manner that it adapts easily to different contexts where different stakeholders, such as developers, academicians, and policymakers are working with community members on innovation. A reflection on the concept -what to know (the requirements) and what to get (the outputs) is necessary for coming up with practical, reflective analysis and applicable procedures for a deeper understanding of the context where the innovations are introduced. Following this will enable us to fully understand the bottlenecks in transitioning from conventional systems to an agroecological model thus pinpointing potential entry points for promoting these systems’ dissemination and scaling.
Primary dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the gallbladder: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Lan , Lin Tingting , Hai Yubin , Yu Kai , Bu Fan , Lu Ji , Wang Xiuli , Li Miao , Shi Xiaoju
Published: November 2024

Background

Liposarcoma (LPS) is a kind of malignancy of soft tissue usually found in the retroperitoneal, limb, or neck region, and some may be detected with delayed symptoms (pain or palpable mass), and less frequently occurs in organs of the digestive system. In contrast, Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is a common histological subtype of LPS. The present study reported a case of dedifferentiated liposarcoma originating in the gallbladder. Differentiated liposarcoma originating from the gallbladder is rarely reported.

Case description

A 64-year-old female patient presented to our hospital with a painless abdominal mass. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed that the gallbladder had lost its normal shape, and a 9.1 cm × 7.1 cm × 12.1 cm mass was seen in the area of the gallbladder fossa and the right upper abdomen below it, which had an irregular morphology, inhomogeneous density, and nodular calcification, with marked inhomogeneous enhancement on enhancement scan. Preoperative tumor markers and liver function indicators were not abnormal. With suspicion of a giant malignant tumor of the gallbladder, she underwent a cholecystectomy combined with abdominal mass resection. After surgery, the tumor and gallbladder, were completely resected, and postoperative pathological results confirmed the diagnosis of dedifferentiated liposarcoma deriving from gallbladder. After surgery, the patient and his family refused to continue treatment. After 15 months follow-up, the patient remains asymptomatic and does not show any signs of recurrence. And she is now under continued follow - up.

Conclusions

Treatment of dedifferentiated liposarcoma is still at exploratory stage, and a lack of clinical evidence for this condition might hinder access to clinical trials and studies. Currently, the treatment of choice for dedifferentiated liposarcoma remains radical resection. In the available clinical studies, there are no robust data to support clinical use of neoadjuvant and adjuvant radiochemotherapy. As with other diseases, the use of radiotherapy and chemotherapy before and after surgery may be a potential future treatment.