Search Results (24)

Background: Postbiotics are bioactive compounds derived from inactivated probiotic microorganisms that show potential for preventing and treating inflammatory diseases. This review aimed to evaluate the evidence on their therapeutic effects in inflammatory conditions. Methods: A search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from 2014 to 2024 identified 39 eligible studies. Article selection was conducted using the Rayyan platform, risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane ROB 2 tool, and results were visualized with ROBVIS. Bibliometric networks were constructed using VOSviewer. Due to data heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not performed; therefore, results were described and presented graphically. Results: The most commonly used microorganisms belonged to the Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacteriaceae families, with heat inactivation as the predominant method. Postbiotics exert multifaceted anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine expression, influencing immune cell signaling pathways, and strengthening epithelial barrier integrity. They regulate immune mechanisms such as the Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 balance, indicating their potential in treating inflammatory bowel diseases, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic syndrome. However, the heterogeneity of studies, their limitations, and risk of bias require cautious interpretation. Conclusions: Future research should focus on standardizing postbiotic preparations, conducting long-term clinical trials, and analyzing synergistic effects of different strains. Postbiotics offer a promising approach to managing inflammation, with potential applications in functional foods and nutraceuticals. Full article

The categories for call center conversation data are valuably used for reporting business results and marketing analysis. However, they typically lack clear patterns and suffer from severe imbalance in the number of instances across categories. The call center conversation categories used in this study are Payment, Exchange, Return, Delivery, Service, and After-sales service (AS), with a significant imbalance where Service accounts for 26% of the total data and AS only 2%. To address these challenges, this study proposes a model that ensembles meta-information generated through Named Entity Recognition (NER) with machine learning inference results. Utilizing KoBERT (Korean Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers) as our base model, we employed Easy Data Augmentation (EDA) to augment data in categories with insufficient instances. Through the training of nine models, encompassing KoBERT category probability weights and a CatBoost (Categorical Boosting) model that ensembles meta-information derived from named entities, we ultimately improved the F1 score from the baseline of 0.9117 to 0.9331, demonstrating a solution that circumvents the need for expensive LLMs (Large Language Models) or high-performance GPUs (Graphic Process Units). This improvement is particularly significant considering that, when focusing solely on the category with a 2% data proportion, our model achieved an F1 score of 0.9509, representing a 4.6% increase over the baseline. Full article

Experiential graphic design (XGD) has increased in importance over the past decade, with technological advances and a focus on user engagement. While the acronym XGD has been used for years, many practitioners prefer the older acronym, EGD, which stands for environmental graphic design. XGD, however, more accurately reflects the field’s scope, which combines multiple design disciplines to enhance user experience through the visual interpretation of ideas in physical spaces. The objective of this study was to perform an extensive bibliometric analysis of the existing literature on XGD topics across a wide range of spatial contexts, with particular emphasis on open public spaces and enclosed architectural environments, structured around four research questions related to the following: (1) foundational studies and the evolution of the literature, (2) the main keywords and research trends, (3) XGD application environments, and (4) XGD’s key roles. The methodology involved analyzing 245 records on the XGD topic from the Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). Based on a comprehensive review of the literature, this study offers a general overview of XGD, exploring its applications across different built environments. In addition, it pairs theoretical concepts with practical examples to demonstrate XGD’s key roles, highlighting current trends, future developments, and the need to establish educational frameworks in the XGD field. Full article

Background: Body representation is a complex process involving sensory, motor, and cognitive information. Frequently, it is disrupted after a stroke, impairing rehabilitation, emotional functioning, and daily functioning. The human figure graphic representation has emerged as a holistic tool to assess post-stroke outcomes. Objectives: This systematic review examines the methodologies of human figure representation tests and their application in assessing post-stroke body representation, emphasizing its role in bridging subjective patient experiences with objective metrics. Methods: This review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. A literature search was conducted through the databases PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, collecting publications eligible for qualitative analysis. We selected studies where patients drew human figures in the study design to assess body representation, involving exclusively the adult stroke population. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of bias. Results: Ten studies were analyzed. The tool demonstrated versatility in capturing unilateral spatial neglect, emotional disturbances, and functional independence. Qualitative metrics and quantitative indices correlated with cognitive deficits, mood disorders, and activities of daily living. Human figure representation also predicted rehabilitation outcomes, with improvements aligning with motor recovery. Innovations included digital quantification of evaluation metrics. Conclusions: Human figure graphic representation is a low-cost, adaptable tool bridging motor, cognitive, and emotional assessments in stroke survivors. While methodological variability persists, AI-driven analytics and standardized frameworks could enhance objectivity. Future research should prioritize validating parameters and developing hybrid models combining traditional qualitative insights with machine learning, thus advancing precision neurorehabilitation and personalized care. Full article

Background: A family of persistent organic pollutants, known as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are extensively found in the environment and may be harmful to the cardiovascular system. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are required to thoroughly evaluate the association between PCB exposure and cardiovascular disease (CVDs), despite the fact that studies on the subject have produced inconsistent results. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between PCBs exposure and cardiovascular disease risk in order to provide more conclusive data to promote public health actions. Methods: The studies that met the inclusion criteria were screened out using the databases PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library. The comprehensive effect size (OR) was calculated using the random-effects model; the study’s heterogeneity was analyzed using I² statistics; the major reasons of heterogeneity were identified using subgroup analysis; and publication bias graphically was measured using the Egger’s test. Results: A meta-analysis of 11 studies revealed that total PCBs (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.20–1.75), non-dioxin-like PCBs (NDL-PCBs) (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.15–1.53), and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs) (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.10–1.57) were all found to be positively associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. Subgroup analysis revealed that study type, biomaterials, and literature quality were the most significant drivers of variation. Furthermore, certain PCB homologues, such as non-dioxin-like (NDL)-PCB153 and dioxin-like (DL)-PCB118, are highly related with cardiovascular disease. Conclusions: According to this meta-analysis, exposure to PCBs may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Notwithstanding major drawbacks, our results emphasize the significance of lowering exposure to PCBs and offering a solid theoretical basis for public health initiatives. Full article

Background/Objectives: Directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) inform the epidemiologic statistical modeling confounders to determine close to true causal relationships in a study context. They inform the inclusion of the predictive model variables that affect the causal relationship. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is frequently diagnosed, aggressive, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Determining factors affecting both the guideline-concordant treatment receipt and survival outcomes for early-stage lung cancer will help inform future statistical models aiming to achieve a close to true causal relationship. Methods: Peer-reviewed original research published during 2002–2023 was identified through PubMed, Embase, Web of Sciences, Clinical trials registry, and the gray literature. DAGitty version 3.1, an online software program, developed implied DAGs and integrated DAG graphics. The evidence synthesis for constructing directed acyclic graphs (ESC-DAGs) protocol was utilized to guide DAG development. The conceptual models utilized were Andersen and Aday for factors affecting treatment receipt and Shi and Steven for survival outcome factors. Results: A total of 36 studies were included in the DAG synthesis out of 9421 retrieved across databases. Eight studies served in the synthesis of treatment receipt DAG, while 28 studies were used for the survival outcomes DAG. There were 10 causal paths and 13 covariates for treatment receipt and 2 causal pathways and 32 covariates for survival outcomes. Conclusions: There are very few studies reporting on factors affecting early-stage NSCLC guideline-concordant care receipt compared to factors affecting its survival outcomes in the past two decades of original research. Future investigations can utilize data extracted in the current study to develop a meta-analysis informing effect size. Full article

The convective hot-air drying technology can cause physicochemical, nutritional, and organoleptic losses in the mango (Mangifera indica). The present Systematic Review was carried out with the objective of comparing mango dehydration technologies to identify the effects on the physicochemical, nutritional, and organoleptic properties of the fruit. Through a review of published scientific and conference papers in the Scopus database, adjusted to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, a total of 134 documents dated between 2000 and December 6 of 2022 were obtained; 76 of these documents were finally included in the bibliographic and theoretical analysis. Selection parameters emphasizing the relationship between the articles and the research topic, evidenced by including at least one of three dehydration technologies and the fruit of interest with an experimental or theoretical approach to the dehydration subject; review articles and surveys were excluded. Correlation graphs of bibliographic variables were made using the data mining software VantagePoint (version 15.1), which was graphically restructured in Microsoft Excel with the support of statistical analysis. Of the resulting articles, it was found that the countries with authors who participated most in scientific production like India, Brazil, Colombia, the United States, and Thailand, were those related to mango production or importation. Furthermore, the freeze-drying technology allows operating at lower temperatures than convective hot-air drying, contributing to the preservation of ascorbic acid, among other compounds. The refractance window has the shortest operation time to obtain moisture values between 10 and 20%. The dehydrated samples using the refractance window are smooth, homogeneous, non-porous, and comparable to the color obtained with freeze-drying, which is acceptable for industrial applications. Full article

Background: The number of corneal transplants is rising, with the aim to treat a spectrum of diseases ranging from dystrophies to corneal opacities caused by trauma or chemical burns. Refractive outcomes after this procedure are often impossible to predict and associated with high levels of astigmatism. However, there are many techniques that affect the reduction of astigmatism and improve the quality of life of patients. Objectives: The aim was to compare the improvement in postoperative visual acuity (logMAR) and amount of corneal astigmatism (Diopters) after corneal keratoplasty in patients who additionally underwent a surgical procedure, which affects the reduction in postoperative astigmatism, and to determine the most effective method. Search Methods and Selection Criteria: A thorough search was carried out across online electronic databases including PubMed, Embrase, Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, using combinations containing the following phrases: postoperative astigmatism, post-keratoplasty astigmatism, anterior lamellar keratoplasty (ALK), deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK), posterior lamellar keratoplasty, endothelial keratoplasty (EK), penetrating keratoplasty (PK), corneal transplant, keratoplasty, refractive surgery, kerato-refractive surgery, laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), and femtosecond LASIK. This was to determine all English-language publications that discuss refractive operations for postoperative or post-keratoplasty astigmatism. These bibliographies were searched for English-language publications published between 2010 and 2023. We proceeded to review each detected record’s reference list. Data Extraction: Study characteristics such as study design, sample size, participant information, operations performed, and clinical outcomes were all extracted. Data Statistical Analyses: The Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (version 3.3.070, 2014) was used to perform the analysis. The threshold of 0.05 for p-values was considered statistically significant. All effect sizes are reported as standardized differences (Std diff) in means with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and visualized graphically as forest plots. Publication bias is presented as a funnel plot of standard error by Std diff in means. Four methods were used to evaluate the heterogeneity among the studies: Q-value, I², chi-square (χ²), and tau-squared. Main Results: We included 21 studies that randomized 1539 eyes that underwent corneal transplantation surgery either by PKP, DALK, or DSEAK techniques. The results showed the most significant improvement in the visual acuity and significant decrease in the corneal astigmatism after laser surgery procedures, like femtosecond-assisted keratotomy after DALK and PKP and LASIK after DSEAK. Full article

Over the last decades, the analysis of complex microbial communities by high-throughput sequencing of marker gene amplicons has become routine work for many research groups. However, the main challenges faced by scientists who want to make use of the generated sequencing datasets are the lack of expertise to select a suitable pipeline and the need for bioinformatics or programming skills to apply it. Here, we present MetaXplore, an interactive, user-friendly platform that enables the discovery and visualization of amplicon sequencing data. Currently, it provides a set of well-documented choices for downstream analysis, including alpha and beta diversity analysis, taxonomic composition, differential abundance analysis, identification of the core microbiome within a population, and biomarker analysis. These features are presented in a user-friendly format that facilitates easy customization and the generation of publication-quality graphics. MetaXplore is implemented entirely in the R language using the Shiny framework. It can be easily used locally on any system with R installed, including Windows, Mac OS, and most Linux distributions, or remotely via a web server without bioinformatic expertise. It can also be used as a framework for advanced users who can modify and expand the tool. Full article

Three Posnerian networks of attention (alerting, orienting, and executive control) have been distinguished on the bases of behavioural, neuropsychological, and neuroscientific evidence. Here, we examined the trajectories of these networks throughout the human lifespan using the various Attention Network Tests (ANTs), which were specifically developed to measure the efficacy of these networks. The ANT Database was used to identify relevant research, resulting in the inclusion of 36 publications. We conducted a graphical meta-analysis using network scores from each study, based on reaction time plotted as a function of age group. Evaluation of attentional networks from childhood to early adulthood suggests that the alerting network develops relatively quickly, and reaches near-adult level by the age of 12. The developmental pattern of the orienting network seems to depend on the information value of the spatial cues. Executive control network scores show a consistent decrease (improvement) with age in childhood. During adulthood (ages 19–75), changes in alerting depend on the modality of the warning signal, while a moderate increase in orienting scores was seen with increasing age. Whereas executive control scores, as measured in reaction time, increase (deterioration) from young adulthood into later adulthood an opposite trend is seen when scores are based on error rates. Full article

The evolution from traditional industrial maintenance to sustainable maintenance (SM) is pivotal within an existing industrial ecosystem. This study, utilising an umbrella review (UR), critically examines this transition, highlighting its increased importance in maintenance decision-making (MDM). Using a sample (n = 20) of reviews, we synthesised meta-, methodological-, and content-based evidence and performed bibliometric, thematic and statistical analyses. For the bibliometric and thematic/conceptual analyses, we used the R bibliometrix package. The results show that the early research focuses mainly on theoretical aspects, while recent studies examine the practical implications. Also, comprehensive studies evaluating the benefits of implementing environmental and social aspects within MDM are still lacking. For that reason, we switched the attention to content-based data, from which we identified 43 distinct criteria discussed. For the analysis of criteria, the Bayesian Network Analysis with Gaussian Copula Graphical Model (BNA-GCGM) method was used. Although the evidence shows that environmental pollution, energy consumption and health and safety of workers are the most discussed criteria, the BNA-GCGM suggests that labour costs, resource consumption, employee satisfaction and energy consumption, among others, are the most influential criteria in the network analysis. Interestingly, after distinguishing studies into pre- and post-2021 research, the results show that pre-2021 research is primarily focused on economic and technical factors, reflecting a profit-oriented approach. The post-2021 analysis suggests a discernible shift towards more balanced considerations by incorporating social and environmental factors, suggesting a more socially responsible approach. Finally, while SM is gaining momentum, further empirical and practical research are required to demonstrate the advantages that SM offers in the light of the upcoming Industry 5.0. Full article

The purpose of our study is to examine whether cancer and treatments are associated with job loss or changes in employment status. Eight prospective studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, with a population aged 18–65 years, analyzing treatment regimen and psychophysical and social status in post-cancer follow-up of at least 2 years. In the meta-analysis, a comparison was made between recovered unemployed cases and cases from a standard reference population. Results are summarized graphically using a forest plot. We showed that cancer and subsequent treatment are risk factors for unemployment with an overall relative risk of 7.24 (lnRR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.32–2.63) or for change in employment status. Individuals undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment and those with brain and colorectal cancers are more likely to develop disabilities that negatively affect the risk of unemployment. Finally, variables such as low level education, female sex, older age, and being overweight before starting therapy are associated with higher risk of unemployment. In the future, it will be necessary for people with cancer to have access to specific health, social welfare, and employment support programs. In addition, it is desirable that they become more involved in their choice of therapeutic treatment. Full article

To obtain new solitary wave solutions for non-linear directional couplers using optical meta-materials, a new extended direct algebraic technique (EDAT) is used. This model investigates solitary wave propagation inside a fiber. As a result, twin couplers are the subject of this study. Kerr law is the sort of non-linearity addressed there. Because it offers solutions to problems with large tails or infinite fluctuations, the resulting solution set is more generalized than the current solution because it is turned into a fractional-order derivative. Furthermore, the found solutions are fractional solitons with spatial–temporal fractional beta derivative evolution. In intensity-dependent switches, these nonlinear directional couplers also serve as limiters. Non-linearity alters the transmission constants of a system’s modes. The significance of the beta derivative parameter and mathematical approach is demonstrated graphically, with a few of the extracted solutions. A parametric analysis revealed that the fractional beta derivative parameter has a significant impact on the soliton amplitudes. With the aid of the advanced software tools for numerical computations, the categories of semi-dark solitons, singular dark-pitch solitons, single solitons of Type-1 along with 2, intermingled hyperbolically, trigonometric, and rational solitons were established and evaluated. We also discussed sensitivity analysis, which is an inquiry that determines how sensitive our system is. A comparative investigation via different fractional derivatives was also studied in this paper so that one can easily understand the correlation with other fractional derivatives. The findings demonstrate that the approach is simple and efficient and that it yields generalized analytical results. The findings will be extremely beneficial in examining and comprehending physical issues in nonlinear optics, specifically in twin-core couplers with optical metamaterials. Full article

Patients are the most important actors in clinical research. Therefore, patient preference information (PPI) could support the decision-making process, being indisputable for research value, quality, and integrity. However, there is a lack of clear guidance or consensus on the search for preference studies. In this blueprint, an openly available and regularly updated patient preference management system for an integrated database (PPMSDB) that contains the minimal set of data sufficient to provide detailed information for each study (the so-called evidence tables in systematic reviews) and a high-level overview of the findings of a review (summary tables) is described. These tables could help determine which studies, if any, are eligible for quantitative synthesis. Finally, a web platform would provide a graphical and user-friendly interface. On the other hand, a set of APIs (application programming interfaces) would also be developed and provided. The PPMSDB, aims to collect preference measures, characteristics, and meta-data, and allow researchers to obtain a quick overview of a research field, use the latest evidence, and identify research gaps. In conjunction with proper statistical analysis of quantitative preference measures, these aspects can facilitate formal evidence-based decisions and adequate consideration when conducting a structured decision-making process. Our objective is to outline the conceptual infrastructure necessary to build and maintain a successful network that can monitor the currentness and validity of evidence. Full article

The genetic basis of migraine is rather complex. The rs2651899 in the PR/SET domain 16 (PRDM16) gene, the rs10166942 near the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8 (TRPM8) gene, and the rs11172113 in the LDL receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) gene, have been associated with migraine in a genome-wide association study (GWAS). However, data from subsequent studies examining the role of these variants and their relationship with migraine remain inconclusive. The aim of the present study was to meta-analyze the published data assessing the role of these polymorphisms in migraine, migraine with aura (MA), and migraine without aura (MO). We performed a search in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Public Health Genomics and Precision Health Knowledge Base (v7.7) databases. In total, eight, six, and six studies were included in the quantitative analysis, for the rs2651899, rs10166942, and rs11172113, respectively. Cochran’s Q and I2 tests were used to calculate the heterogeneity. The random effects (RE) model was applied when high heterogeneity was observed; otherwise, the fixed effects (FE) model was applied. The odds ratios (ORs) and the respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the effect of each variant on migraine. Funnel plots were created to graphically assess publication bias. A significant association was revealed for the CC genotype of the rs2651899, with the overall migraine group (RE model OR: 1.32; 95% CI: 1.02–1.73; p-value = 0.04) and the MA subgroup (FE model OR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.12–1.74; p-value = 0.003). The rs10166942 CT genotype was associated with increased migraine risk (FE model OR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.18–1.57; p-value < 0.0001) and increased MO risk (FE model OR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.17–1.69; p-value = 0.0003). No association was detected for the rs11172113. The rs2651899 and the rs10166942 have an effect on migraine. Larger studies are needed to dissect the role of these variants in migraine. Full article