bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of educational environment with the prevalence of myopia: a cross-sectional study in central China
Authors: Peng Wei , Zhang Zikang , Wang Fei , Sun Shaoming , Sun Yining
Published: June 2023

Purposes

This study was to estimate the prevalence of myopia among primary school students in Hefei, China, and evaluate the association of educational environment with myopia.

Methods

This study was a cross-sectional study, and recruited primary school students in grades 1–6. Children underwent a stepwise ophthalmic examination, which included visual acuity and objective cycloplegic refraction to identify children with myopia. Under the guidance of parents, children completed a questionnaire, including gender, region, grade and several indicators related to education. The study analyzed the risk factors by using a logistic regression and assessed feature importance by using a random forest algorithm.

Results

A total of 3,596 primary school students were involved in this analysis, and the overall prevalence of myopia was 27.1%. Gender, grade, education level of the father, education level of the mother, academic level of children, hours of homework per day on weekends, number of after-school tutoring per week and frequency of extracurricular reading were significantly associated with myopia. There was no significant association between the amount of homework per day on school days and myopia after adjusting for covariates. In terms of educational environment, the top 3 factors were academic level of children, homework on weekends and after-school tutoring.

Conclusions

Educational environment with high educational loads was associated with the high prevalence of myopia. Reducing the burden of studying, especially that after class, was an effective way to prevent myopia.
Experiences of aftermath of COVID-19 in relation to social, financial and health related aspects among previously hospitalized patients: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Nandonik Ahmed Jojan , Das Pooja Shangjucta , Ahmed Tanvir , Parvez Anwar , Kabir Zarina Nahar
Published: June 2023

Background

There is increasing evidence of long-term consequences of COVID-19. The world has seen multidimensional impact of the pandemic and Bangladesh is no exception to that. Policymakers in Bangladesh laid out strategies to curb the initial spread of COVID-19. However, long-term consequences of COVID-19 received little or no attention in the country. Evidence suggests that people presumed to be recovered face multidimensional post-covid consequences. This study aimed to describe the aftermath of COVID-19 in relation to social, financial and health related aspects among previously hospitalized patients.

Methods

This descriptive qualitative study includes participants (n = 14) who were previously hospitalized for COVID-19 and returned home after recovery. The participants were part of a mixed method study from which they were purposively selected. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted over telephone. Inductive content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

Twelve sub-categories emerged from the data analysis which converged into five main categories. The main categories includedperspective on physical health,financial struggle,life adjustment,interplay between different domains, andspontaneous support.

Conclusion

The lived experiences of COVID-19 recovered patients highlighted multidimensional impact on their daily lives. Physical and psychological wellbeing found to be related to the effort of restoring financial status. People’s perception about life altered due to pandemic, for few the pandemic was an opportunity to grow while others found it difficult to accept the hardship. Such multidimensional post COVID-19 impact on people’s lives and wellbeing holds considerable implication for response and mitigation plan for future related pandemics.
Issues and complexities in safety culture assessment in healthcare
Authors: Ellis Louise A. , Falkland Emma , Hibbert Peter , Wiig Siri , Ree Eline , Schultz Timothy J. , Pirone Christy , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: June 2023

The concept of safety culture in healthcare—a culture that enables staff and patients to be free from harm—is characterized by complexity, multifacetedness, and indefinability. Over the years, disparate and unclear definitions have resulted in a proliferation of measurement tools, with lack of consensus on how safety culture can be best measured and improved. A growing challenge is also achieving sufficient response rates, due to “survey fatigue,” with the need for survey optimisation never being more acute. In this paper, we discuss key challenges and complexities in safety culture assessment relating to definition, tools, dimensionality and response rates. The aim is to prompt critical reflection on these issues and point to possible solutions and areas for future research.
Mapping obesity and diabetes’ representation on Twitter: the case of Italy
Authors: Lenzi Francesca Romana , Iazzetta Ferdinando
Published: June 2023

One of the main functions of public health is to monitor population health to identify health problems and priorities. Social media is increasingly being used to promote it. This study aims to investigate the field of diabetes and obesity and related tweets in the context of health and disease. The database extracted using academic APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) allowed the study to be run with content analysis and sentiment analysis techniques. These two analysis techniques are some of the tools of choice for the intended objectives. Content analysis facilitated the representation of a concept and a connection between two or more concepts, such as diabetes and obesity, on a purely text-based social platform such as Twitter. Sentiment analysis therefore allowed us to explore the emotional aspect related to the collected data related to the representation of such concepts. The results show a variety of representations connected to the two concepts and their correlations. From them it was possible to produce some clusters of elementary contexts and structure narrative and representational dimensions of the investigated concepts. The use of sentiment analysis and content analysis and cluster output to represent complex contexts such as diabetes and obesity for a social media community could increase knowledge of how virtual platforms impact fragile categories, facilitating concrete spillovers into public health strategies.
Co-adaptation of Streptococcus mutans to simulated microgravity and silver nitrate
Authors: Fernander Mizpha C. , Spurgeon Kelyah , Graves Jada , Guess Wynter , Miller Jordan , Mangum Chanell , Graves Joseph L. , Thomas Misty D.
Published: June 2023

To sustain life on extended space missions, it is essential to maintain clean potable water. NASA currently uses iodine as the primary biocide in the potable water dispenser on the International Space Station and has recently proposed a potential switch to silver-based antimicrobials. Streptococcus mutans is the primary etiological agent of dental caries, part of the normal oral flora, and would endure direct exposure to water from the potable water dispenser. In our previous work, we examined the 100-day adaptive response of Streptococcus mutans to simulated microgravity (sMG). Here, we examined the evolutionary co-adaptation of S. mutans under sMG and silver nitrate (AgNO3) to evaluate the consequences of using silver as a primary biocide in space and the impact on the evolution of microbes from the oral microbiome. To do this, we adapted four populations of S. mutans under sMG and co-adapted four populations in simulated microgravity and silver nitrate using high-aspect ratio vessels for 100 days. Genomic analysis at multiple time points showed that S. mutans in sMG evolved variants consistent with our previous findings (SMU_1307c and SMU_399) while also acquiring novel mutations in the glutathione reductase gorA. The co-adapted populations showed mutations specific for the environment in ciaH/R, PBP1a, trkA, and trkB. We also assessed virulence phenotypes, and while simulated microgravity increased antibiotic susceptibility, sucrose-dependent adhesion, and, in some populations, acid tolerance, co-adaptation to silver nitrate reversed these effects. Overall, these data show that the use of silver as a biocide in simulated microgravity can evolve strains with novel genotypic and phenotypic traits that could alter virulence.
Comparative analysis of gut fungal composition and structure of the yaks under different feeding models
Authors: Zhu Yanbin , Cidan Yangji , Sun Guangming , Li Xin , Shahid Muhammad Akbar , Luosang Zhaxi , Suolang Zhaxi , Suo Lang , Basang Wangdui
Published: June 2023

The yaks that inhabit the Tibetan plateau are a rare breed that is closely related to local economic development and human civilization. This ancient breed may have evolved a unique gut microbiota due to the hypoxic high-altitude environment. The gut microbiota is susceptible to external factors, but research regarding the effects of different feeding models on the gut fungal community in yaks remains scarce. In this study, we compared and analyzed the composition and variability of the gut fungal community among wild yaks (WYG), house-feeding domestic yaks (HFG), and grazing domestic yaks (GYG). The results revealed that Basidiomycota and Ascomycota were the most preponderant phyla in the gut fungal community, regardless of feeding models. Although the types of dominant fungal phyla did not change, their abundances did. Intergroup analysis of fungal diversity showed that the Shannon and Simpson indices of WYG and GYG were significantly higher than those of HFG. Fungal taxonomic analysis showed that there were 20 genera (Sclerostagonospora and Didymella) that were significantly different between WYG and GYG, and 16 genera (Thelebolus and Cystobasidium) that were significantly different between the WYG and HFG. Furthermore, the proportions of 14 genera (Claussenomyces and Papiliotrema) significantly decreased, whereas the proportions of eight genera (Stropharia and Lichtheimia) significantly increased in HFG as compared to GYG. Taken together, this study indicated that the gut fungal composition and structure differ significantly between yaks raised in different breeding groups.
Mitigation of heat stress effects on laying hens' performances, egg quality, and some blood parameters by adding dietary zinc-enriched yeasts, parsley, and their combination
Authors: Cornescu Gabriela Maria , Panaite Tatiana Dumitra , Untea Arabela Elena , Varzaru Iulia , Saracila Mihaela , Dumitru Mihaela , Vlaicu Petru Alexandru , Gavris Teodor
Published: June 2023

Objective

Finding natural, handy and efficient nutritional solutions to prevent and mitigate negative effects caused by environmental heat stress and to be applied to large-scale laying hen industry.

Research design

A 3-weeks trial was conducted on 128 laying hens TETRA-SL LL (50 weeks of age) housed in 8 cages/group, 4 laying hens/cage, 32 laying hens/group, under heat stress conditions (34±1°C). The basal diet on corn and soybean meal was formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenic. Compared to Control group diet (C), experimental groups E1 included 1% zinc-enriched yeast; E2 included 2% parsley and E3 included 1% zinc-enriched yeast combined with 2% parsley to minimize the heat stress effects.

Methods

The parsley and the zinc-enriched yeast were analysed for their chemical composition, total polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, minerals, vitamin E and incorporated into the ration structure. Production parameters, egg quality, biochemical and haematological profiles of blood samples were analysed during the trial.

Results

A statistically significant (p < 0.05) average egg weight was noticed on E2 and E3 compared to Control group, and also during the 1st week compared to the 2nd and the 3rd experimental weeks. Average daily feed intake values were highly significant (p < 0.001) on E3 group compared to C, E1, E2, and on the 2nd week compared to the 3rd experimental week (p < 0.021). Feed conversion rate was highly significant (p < 0.001) during the 2nd and the 3rd experimental weeks compared to the 1st week. The average daily egg production was highly significant (p < 0.001) within 1st week compared to the 2nd and 3rd weeks. A highly significant (p < 0.001) yolk coloration was noticed on E2 and E3 groups. The malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration decreased significantly (p < 0.05) to all experimental groups compared to Control group during the 14th and 28th days of storage.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the two ingredients minimized the heat stress effects on production performance parameters with a demonstrated antioxidant capacity role by delaying the lipid peroxidation during different storage time periods.
Navigating Life With HIV as an Older Adult on the Kenyan Coast: Perceived Health Challenges Seen Through the Biopsychosocial Model
Authors: Mwangala Patrick N. , Wagner Ryan G. , Newton Charles R. , Abubakar Amina
Published: June 2023

Objectives: This study explores the perceptions of adults living with HIV aged ≥50 years (recognized as older adults living with HIV—OALWH), primary caregivers and healthcare providers on the health challenges of ageing with HIV at Kilifi, a low literacy setting on the coast of Kenya.

Methods: We utilized the biopsychosocial model to explore views from 34 OALWH and 22 stakeholders on the physical, mental, and psychosocial health challenges of ageing with HIV in Kilifi in 2019. Data were drawn from semi-structured in-depth interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed. A framework approach was used to synthesize the data.

Results: Symptoms of common mental disorders, comorbidities, somatic symptoms, financial difficulties, stigma, and discrimination were viewed as common. There was also an overlap of perceived risk factors across the physical, mental, and psychosocial health domains, including family conflicts and poverty.

Conclusion: OALWH at the Kenyan coast are perceived to be at risk of multiple physical, mental, and psychosocial challenges. Future research should quantify the burden of these challenges and examine the resources available to these adults.
Analysis of the Sound Field Structure in the Cabin of the RRJ-95NEW-100 Prototype Aircraft
Authors: Lavrov Vladimir , Moshkov Petr , Strelets Dmitry
Published: June 2023

The results of in-flight experiments to determine the structure of the sound field in the cabin and pressure fluctuation fields on the surface of the fuselage of the RRJ-95NEW-100 prototype aircraft are presented here. Wall pressure fluctuation spectrums are obtained for three zones of measuring windows (forward, center, and rear fuselage) in cruising flight mode. The effect of the jet on the pressure fluctuation levels in the tail fuselage is considered. For an aircraft without an interior, the contribution of the main sources to the total intensity calculated through A-weighted overall sound pressure levels is determined. It has been determined that the main noise sources in the cabin of the RRJ-95NEW-100 prototype aircraft in cruising flight mode are pressure fluctuation fields on the fuselage surface (turbulent boundary layer noise) and the air conditioning system. The ratio between the sources varies along the length of the cabin.
Genetic and Epigenetic Factors in Risk and Susceptibility for Childhood Asthma
Authors: Miteva Dimitrina , Lazova Snezhina , Velikova Tsvetelina
Published: June 2023

Asthma is a common respiratory disease that affects people of all ages, characterized by considerable heterogeneity in age, clinical presentation, genetics, epigenetics, environmental factors, treatment response, and prognostic outcomes. Asthma affects more than 330 million people worldwide, of which 33% are children under 14 years, and 27% are adults whose first symptoms occurred in childhood. However, the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of childhood allergic diseases and asthma are still not fully understood. Here, we conducted a biomedical narrative review of genes associated with the risk, severity, and susceptibility of childhood asthma since it differs from asthma in adults regarding their pathophysiology, development, and outcomes. We also systematized the available information on epigenetic changes associated with childhood asthma.
Antimicrobial Properties and Mode of Action of Cryptdin-4, a Mouse α-Defensin Regulated by Peptide Redox Structures and Bacterial Cultivation Conditions
Authors: Wang Yi , Song Yuchi , Yan Shaonan , Hiramine Rina , Ohnishi Yuki , Yokoi Yuki , Nakamura Kiminori , Kikukawa Takashi , Ayabe Tokiyoshi , Aizawa Tomoyasu
Published: June 2023

Cryptdin-4 (crp4) is an enteric α-defensin derived from mice, and is a main mediator of immunity to oral infections and a determinant of the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Structurally, crp4 exists in two states: the oxidized form (crp4oxi), constrained by three invariant disulfide bonds, and the reduced form (crp4red) with six free thiol groups, both of which exist in the intestinal tract. In this study, the antibacterial mechanisms of crp4 in both forms under aerobic and anaerobic conditions were investigated using Escherichia coli (E. coli), an anaerobic facultative bacterium, as a model. Fluorescent dye studies revealed that both crp4oxi and crp4red exhibited antimicrobial activity against cells cultured under aerobic conditions via rapid membrane depolarization. Furthermore, the antioxidant treatment experiments suggested that only crp4oxi exhibited antimicrobial activity by the induction and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, under anaerobic culture conditions, the ability of both forms to disrupt the function of bacterial membranes decreased and activity was greatly reduced, but crp4red maintained some antimicrobial activity. This activity may be due to the inhibition of intracellular functions by DNA binding. Altogether, these data indicate that, according to its redox structure and the environmental redox conditions, crp4 could perform different antimicrobial activities via different mechanisms.
Antimicrobial and Anti-Infective Activity of Natural Products—Gaining Knowledge from Novel Studies
Authors: Fernandes Elizabeth S. , da Silva Figueiredo Isabella F. , Monteiro Cinara R. A. V. , Monteiro-Neto Valério
Published: June 2023

Despite advances in the development of antimicrobial drugs in the last centuries, antimicrobial resistance has consistently raised in the last decades, compromising their effectiveness. Novel antimicrobial compounds, especially from natural sources, including plants, microorganisms, and animals, have since become a growing area of research. In this context, studies covering the investigation of their ability to combat resistant microorganisms, either by neutralization or inactivation of pathogen resistance mechanisms and virulence properties, have gained attention. Herein, a collection of 19 manuscripts focused on the antimicrobial and anti-infective activity of natural products, including their mechanisms of action, in silico evidence of antimicrobial activity, synergistic associations with antibiotics, and other aspects, will be discussed.
Antioxidant and Anti-Diabetic Properties of Olive (Olea europaea) Leaf Extracts: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Mansour Hanem M. M. , Zeitoun Ashraf A. , Abd-Rabou Hagar S. , El Enshasy Hesham Ali , Dailin Daniel Joe , Zeitoun Mohamed A. A. , El-Sohaimy Sobhy A.
Published: June 2023

(1) Objective: The main objective of the current study was to evaluate in vitro and in vivo an antioxidant property of three genotypes of olive leaf extract (OLE) (picual, tofahi and shemlali), and furthermore to assess potential activity in the treatment and/or prevention of diabetes mellitus type II and related implications. (2) Methodology: Antioxidant activity was determined by using three different methods (DDPH assay, reducing power and nitric acid scavenging activity). In vitro α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and hemolytic protective activity were assessed for the OLE. Five groups of male rats were used in in vivo experiment for evaluating the antidiabetic potential of OLE. (3) Results: The genotypes of the extracts of the three olive leaves exhibited meaningful phenolic and flavonoids content with superiority for picual extract (114.79 ± 4.19 µg GAE/g and 58.69 ± 1.03 µg CE/g, respectively). All three genotypes of olive leaves demonstrated significant antioxidant activity when using DPPH, reducing power and nitric oxide scavenging activity with IC50 ranging from 55.82 ± 0.13 to 19.03 ± 0.13 μg/mL. OLE showed a significant α-glucosidase inhibition activity and dose-dependent protection from hemolysis. In vivo experimentation revealed that the administration of OLE alone and the combination of OLE+ metformin clearly restored the blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin, lipid parameters and liver enzymes to the normal level. The histological examination revealed that the OLE and its combination with metformin successfully repaired the liver, kidneys and pancreatic tissues to bring them close to the normal status and maintain their functionality. (4) Conclusion: Finally, it can be concluded that the OLE and its combination with metformin is a promising treatment for diabetes mellitus type 2 due to their antioxidant activity, which emphasizes the potential use of OLE alone or as an adjuvant agent in the treatment protocol of diabetes mellitus type II.
Chemical Components and Antioxidant Activity of Geotrigona sp. and Tetragonisca fiebrigi Stingless Bee Cerumen Reduce Juglone-Induced Oxidative Stress in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Ferreira Isamara Carvalho , Côrrea Raíssa Cristina Darroz , Orué Sarah Lam , Leite Daniel Ferreira , da Rocha Paola dos Santos , Cardoso Claudia Andrea Lima , Mussury Rosilda Mara , Vit Patricia , de Picoli Souza Kely , dos Santos Edson Lucas , Campos Jaqueline Ferreira
Published: June 2023

Cerumen is a bee product produced exclusively by stingless bees, resulting from a mixture of beeswax and plant resins. The antioxidant activity of bee products has been investigated since oxidative stress is associated with the onset and progression of several diseases that can lead to death. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of cerumen produced by the Geotrigona sp. and Tetragonisca fiebrigi stingless bees, in vitro and in vivo. The chemical characterization of cerumen extracts was performed by HPLC, GC, and ICP OES analyses. The in vitro antioxidant potential was evaluated by DPPH• and ABTS•+ free radical scavenging methods, and in human erythrocytes subjected to oxidative stress with AAPH. In vivo, the antioxidant potential was evaluated in Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes subjected to oxidative stress with juglone. Both cerumen extracts presented phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and metallic minerals in their chemical constitution. The cerumen extracts showed antioxidant activity by capturing free radicals, reducing lipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes, and reducing oxidative stress in C. elegans, observed by the increase in viability. The results obtained indicate that cerumen extracts from Geotrigona sp. and Tetragonisca fiebrigi stingless bees may be promising against oxidative stress and associated diseases.
Optimum Handle Location for the Hand-Assisted Sit-to-Stand Transition: A Tool
Authors: Bagheri Arash , Alexander Keith
Published: June 2023

Background: The aging process contributes to the decline in physical capacity that leads to loss of independence in performing life activities. Immobility and instability are the most significant predictors and indicators of physical disability and dependence. As a result, a variety of assistive devices exist to address immobility and instability in older adults, including walkers, canes, crutches, wheelchairs and handrails. Sit-to-stand (STS) transitions are the most common transitions in daily mobility activities. The ability to perform STS transitions successfully is therefore one of the most important activities to focus attention on. As a result of physical deterioration, older adults will sooner or later be faced with their physical limitations, and in particular, will not be able to provide enough torque at critical body joints to make the STS transition. Aim: This paper suggests employing two-arm assistance using two handles located symmetrically in the body’s sagittal plane. During the aging process, people are faced with varying levels of muscle deterioration and body constraints and consequently require different levels of assistance to complete the transition successfully. This paper aims to develop a tool to find the optimum handle location for people based on their body constraints to reduce knee torque (identified as the critical joint in the STS transition). These findings are also used to measure the effects of assistive device handle position on the biomechanics of the two-arm assisted STS transition. Methods: For this purpose, a theoretical tool was developed by integrating human body kinetics with a multi-objective genetic algorithm to find the optimum hand force required at the seat-off point for a set of potential handle locations. The tool was set to achieve the minimum knee torque within the defined body constraints and assumptions. In line with the physics of the STS transition, the “seat-off point”, when subjects lose their seat support, was chosen as the most challenging point of the task. This was coupled with the “nose over toes” posture recommended to older adults by occupational therapists. Results and Discussion: The schematic of the developed tool shows that the best handle locations requiring the minimum torques at the body joints are positioned in handle zone 2, where the handles are placed vertically above the knee and below the hip joints and horizontally located ahead of the hip and behind the knee joints. Within this handle zone, both components of the hand forces (vertical downward and horizontal backward) provide assisting torque to all the body joints and consequently reduce the torques required at body joints.
A Novel MDM2-Binding Chalcone Induces Apoptosis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wermelinger Guilherme Freimann , Rubini Lucas , da Fonseca Anna Carolina Carvalho , Ouverney Gabriel , de Oliveira Rafael P. R. F. , de Souza Acácio S. , Forezi Luana S. M. , Limaverde-Sousa Gabriel , Pinheiro Sergio , Robbs Bruno Kaufmann
Published: June 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) represents ~90% of all oral cancers, being the eighth most common cancer in men. The overall 5-year survival rate is only 39% for metastatic cancers, and currently used chemotherapeutics can cause important side effects. Thus, there is an urgency in developing new and effective anti-cancer agents. As both chalcones and 1,2,3-triazoles are valuable pharmacophores/privileged structures in the search for anticancer compounds, in this work, new 1,2,3-triazole-chalcone hybrids were synthesized and evaluated against oral squamous cell carcinoma. By using different in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches, we demonstrated that compound 1f has great cytotoxicity and selectivity against OSCC (higher than carboplatin and doxorubicin) and other cancer cells in addition to showing minimal toxicity in mice. Furthermore, we demonstrate that induced cell death occurs by apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. Moreover, we found that 1f has a potential affinity for MDM2 protein, similar to the known ligand nutlin-3, and presents a better selectivity, pharmacological profile, and potential to be orally absorbed and is not a substrate of Pg-P when compared to nutlin-3. Therefore, we conclude that 1f is a good lead for a new chemotherapeutic drug against OSCC and possibly other types of cancers.
Current Therapies for Cholestatic Diseases
Authors: Méndez-Sánchez Nahum , Coronel-Castillo Carlos E. , Ordoñez-Vázquez Ana L.
Published: June 2023

Cholestasis is a condition characterized by decrease in bile flow due to progressive pathological states that lead to chronic cholestatic liver diseases which affect the biliary tree at the intrahepatic level and extrahepatic level. They induce complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, malignancies, bone disease and nutritional deficiencies that merit close follow-up and specific interventions. Furthermore, as those conditions progress to liver cirrhosis, there will be an increase in mortality but also an important impact in quality of life and economic burden due to comorbidities related with liver failure. Therefore, it is important that clinicians understand the treatment options for cholestatic liver diseases. With a general view of therapeutic options and their molecular targets, this review addresses the pathophysiology of cholangiopathies. The objective is to provide clinicians with an overview of the safety and efficacy of the treatment of cholangiopathies based on the current evidence.
A Robust Brain Tumor Detector Using BiLSTM and Mayfly Optimization and Multi-Level Thresholding
Authors: Mahum Rabbia , Sharaf Mohamed , Hassan Haseeb , Liang Lixin , Huang Bingding
Published: June 2023

A brain tumor refers to an abnormal growth of cells in the brain that can be either benign or malignant. Oncologists typically use various methods such as blood or visual tests to detect brain tumors, but these approaches can be time-consuming, require additional human effort, and may not be effective in detecting small tumors. This work proposes an effective approach to brain tumor detection that combines segmentation and feature fusion. Segmentation is performed using the mayfly optimization algorithm with multilevel Kapur’s threshold technique to locate brain tumors in MRI scans. Key features are achieved from tumors employing Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG) and ResNet-V2, and a bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) network is used to classify tumors into three categories: pituitary, glioma, and meningioma. The suggested methodology is trained and tested on two datasets, Figshare and Harvard, achieving high accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and area under the curve (AUC). The results of a comparative analysis with existing DL and ML methods demonstrate that the proposed approach offers superior outcomes. This approach has the potential to improve brain tumor detection, particularly for small tumors, but further validation and testing are needed before clinical use.
Research and Experiment on a Bionic Fish Based on High-Frequency Vibration Characteristics
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chen Yu , Wang Zhuo , Ma Hongwen
Published: June 2023

This paper takes the high-frequency vibration characteristics of a bionic robot fish as the research object. Through research on the vibration characteristics of a bionic fish, we quantified the role of voltage and beat frequency in high-speed and stable swimming. We proposed a new type of electromagnetic drive. The tail is made of 0° silica gel to simulate the elastic characteristics of fish muscles. We completed a series of experimental studies on the vibration characteristics of biomimetic robotic fish. Through the single-joint fishtail underwater experiment, the influence of vibration characteristics on parameters during swimming was discussed. In terms of control, the central mode generator control method (CPG) control model is adopted, and a replacement layer is designed in combination with particle swarm optimization (PSO). By changing the elastic modulus of the fishtail, the fishtail resonates with the vibrator, and the swimming efficiency of the bionic fish is improved. Finally, through the prototype experiment, it is found that the bionic robot fish can achieve high-speed swimming through high-frequency vibration.
Design and Simulation of On-Orbit Assembly System Based on Insect-Inspired Transportation
Authors: Shi Yuetian , Hou Xuyan , Gao Guowei , Na Zhonglai , Liu Yuhui , Deng Zongquan
Published: June 2023

In response to the requirements of large-scale space in-orbit assembly and the special environment of low gravity in space, this paper proposes a small robot structure with the integration of assembly, connection, and vibration reduction functionalities. Each robot consists of a body and three composite mechanical arms-legs, which can dock and transfer assembly units with the transport spacecraft unit, and also crawl along the edge truss of the assembly unit to a designated location to complete in-orbit assembly while ensuring precision. A theoretical model of robot motion was established for simulation studies, and in the research process, the vibration of the assembly unit was studied, and preliminary adjustments were made to address the vibration issue. The results show that this structure is feasible for in-orbit assembly schemes and has good adjustment ability for flexible vibration.
Correlates of COVID-19 Preventative Behaviors before and after Vaccination Availability
Authors: Kimbler Kristopher J. , Gromer Caleb , Ayala Melissa , Casey Brianna
Published: June 2023

As the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, various preventative behaviors and eventually vaccinations became available to decrease the spread of the virus. The current study examined a variety of variables (i.e., age, COVID-19-related economic hardship, interpersonal concern, personality, fear of COVID-19, normative beliefs, political beliefs, and vaccine hesitancy) to better understand predictors of preventative behaviors and vaccination status at different points throughout the pandemic. Online questionnaires, administered through Qualtrics, were used to collect data using two convenience samples. One was a small sample (N = 44) of non-student participants before the vaccine was readily available. The other sample (N = 274) included college student participants and occurred after the vaccine had been available to all participants. Results suggest that several variables (i.e., fear of COVID-19, normative beliefs, interpersonal concern, and openness) were consistent predictors of public health behaviors at both points in time and across differently aged samples. Other variables (i.e., agreeableness, extraversion, conscientiousness, and economic hardship) were less consistent with their relationships with public health behaviors. Implications related to both research and public health are discussed.
The Vagal Nerve, Inflammation, and Diabetes—A Holy Triangle
Authors: Sorski Liat , Gidron Yori
Published: June 2023

Type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) is a common chronic disease and a substantial risk factor of other fatal illnesses. At its core is insulin resistance, where chronic low-level inflammation is among its main causes. Thus, it is crucial to modulate this inflammation. This review paper provides scientific neuroimmunological evidence on the protective roles of the vagal nerve in T2DM. First, the vagus inhibits inflammation in a reflexive manner via neuroendocrine and neuroimmunological routes. This may also occur at the level of brain networks. Second, studies have shown that vagal activity, as indexed by heart-rate variability (HRV), is inversely related to diabetes and that low HRV is a predictor of T2DM. Finally, some emerging evidence shows that vagal nerve activation may reduce biomarkers and processes related to diabetes. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to test the effects of vagal nerve activation on T2DM and its underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Exploring the Psychosocial Factors between Adaptive and Maladaptive Use of Gaming among Korean Adolescents
Authors: Kim Bee , Kim Nami
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Various studies have been conducted on the effects of video (online, mobile, and console) games on users’ lives and psychological health. However, the effectiveness of a game can vary depending on user characteristics. This study explored the level of game use and its associated psychosocial factors among adolescents. (2) Methods: Survey data were compiled from 582 middle and high school students. Frequency analysis, the chi-square test, and analysis of variance were performed using SPSS Windows software, version 23.0. (3) Results: First, it was confirmed that there were no differences in the levels of self-esteem, morality, or life satisfaction between the adaptive game use and normal groups, but these were higher than those of the maladaptive game use group. However, at the level of self-control, the adaptive group scored lower than the normal group but higher than the maladaptive group. Second, the adaptive and normal groups exhibited comparatively lower levels of aggression, anxiety, depression, loneliness, academic stress, and social stress in school. Third, they also exhibit relatively high levels of social intelligence, social capital, and friendship support. (4) Conclusions: The adaptive and general game-use groups showed similar levels of psychosocial factors, whereas the maladaptive game-use group exhibited lower levels of positive psychological and social factors. Based on these results, developing an intervention program that reduces maladaptation and increases adaptive gaming use is necessary. Future follow-up studies are needed to confirm how positive and negative psychosocial factors affect adaptive and maladaptive game use as protective and risk factors, respectively.
Body Image Perception and Satisfaction of Junior High School Students: Analysis of Possible Determinants
Authors: Song Huizi , Cai Yepeng , Cai Qian , Luo Wen , Jiao Xiuping , Jiang Tianhua , Sun Yun , Liao Yuexia
Published: June 2023

Body image (BI) is a multidimensional construct that refers to one’s perceptions of and attitudes toward one’s own physical characteristics. Adolescence is a critical developmental stage in which concerns about BI increase. Therefore, the present cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate body image and aesthetic body shape standards in a sample of middle school students living in China. The researchers gathered demographic information, as well as height and weight data, for their study. They used a body silhouette to assess body image perception and body shape aesthetics and calculated two indexes: BIP, which measures the accuracy of self-perception and the estimation of bodily dimensions, and BIS, which indicates the difference between an individual’s perceived and ideal body images. A total of 1585 students in three grades at two middle schools were included in the study (759 = female, mean age = 13.67 ± 0.90; 839 = male, mean age = 13.70 ± 0.90). The results showed that the BIP bias rate of middle school students was 55.7%, and the BI dissatisfaction rate was 81.0%. Females tended to overestimate their body shape and desire to be thinner compared to males. Students with a higher BMI grading were more prone to underestimating their body shape and aspiring to be thinner. Furthermore, 8.6% of students chose underweight as the ideal body type for boys, while 22.6% chose underweight as the ideal body type for girls. In conclusion, there are significant gender differences in the aesthetic standards of body shape, and adolescents believe that for women, a thin body shape is beautiful.
Phenolic Composition and Wound Healing Potential Assessment of Moroccan Henna (Lawsonia inermis) Aqueous Extracts
Authors: El Massoudi Soukaina , Zinedine Abdellah , Rocha João Miguel , Benidir Meryem , Najjari Ilham , El Ghadraoui Lahsen , Benjelloun Meryem , Errachidi Faouzi
Published: June 2023

The present study aims at valorizing Moroccan Henna (Lawsonia inermis) by developing healing formulations for cosmetic and therapeutic uses. For such a goal, the plant was collected from three locations in southeastern Morocco (Alnif, Tafraoute Sidi Ali and Tazarine). Phytochemical analysis of Henna leaves was performed by determining phenolic compound contents, and flavonoids and tannins in it, through its aqueous extracts. Then, specific formulations were prepared using aqueous extracts of L. inermis to assess their in vivo wound healing potential in Swiss albino mice used as animal models. Results disclosed that phenolic compounds (13.48%), as well as flavonoid (9.25%) and tannin (2.57%) contents are higher in Henna leaf extracts from Alnif, while Tazarine Henna aqueous extract was found to be richer in saponins (0.32%). Exclusion chromatographic analysis on Sephadex G50 gel corroborates the obtained results and shows that Lawsone levels (Henna coloring agent) are higher in Henna collected from Alnif. Aqueous Henna leaf extracts, at a dose of 10% in petroleum jelly, have been assessed for their ability to heal induced burns in mice. Healing monitoring, carried-out with Henna extracts on mice batches and those of two control batches (mice batch treated with petroleum jelly alone and batch treated with petroleum jelly containing 1% (flamazine), showed a great reduction in burnt surface with an accentuated contraction percentage (CP) and complete re-epithelialization duration (CRD) at 21 days in the 3 studied Henna-based formulations. These findings suggest the interest of potential development of Henna-based formulations, as a source of phenolic compounds, for further dermatological, cosmetic and therapeutic applications.
Product Market Competition, Corporate Investment, and Firm Value: Scrutinizing the Role of Economic Policy Uncertainty
Authors: Olalere Oluwaseyi Ebenezer , Mukuddem-Petersen Janine
Published: June 2023

This study examines the effects of product market competition on corporate investment and firm value and the moderating role of economic policy uncertainty on this relationship. The firm-level data of 1971 listed corporate firms for BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries during 2009–2020 were used, totaling 23,652 observations. Using the GMM estimates, our results depict that product market competition significantly influences corporate investment and firm value in BRIC countries. The result also reveals that economic policy uncertainty plays a significant role in the impact of product market competition on corporate investment and firm value at Brazilian, Russian, Indian, and Chinese firms. The study’s findings contribute to the body of knowledge by providing new evidence on the relationship between PMC, corporate investment, and firm value. These findings are vital for policymakers and regulatory bodies to focus on economic uncertainty in a competitive environment without jeopardizing investment returns in emerging markets.
Teaching Life Skills in Physical Education within Different Teaching Traditions: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lenzen Benoît , Buyck Yoann , Bouvier Axelle
Published: June 2023

This narrative review of the latest papers on life skills development in physical education (PE) aims to identify and discuss different types of life skills programmes in PE in relation with four PE teaching traditions (PETTs), their variation across contexts (e.g., primary school, secondary school, teacher education), and the inherent tensions between the teaching and learning of subject knowledge and the development of life skills. We have carried out an identification and selection process close to those used in systematic reviews, resulting in 13 papers meeting all the inclusion criteria. These peer-reviewed articles show that teaching life skills in PE covers a wide range of possible combinations between three types of programmes (isolated, juxtaposed, or integrated) and the respective PETTs in which they are rooted (sport-techniques, health education, values and citizenship and/or physical culture education). These combinations as well as the (groups of) life skills targeted in the 13 programmes we reviewed do not seem to depend on the contexts in which they are implemented. The relationship between subject knowledge, in particular sports/motor skills, and life skills is approached differently depending on the combinations that have been identified.
Employability Is a Journey: Conceptualising Processual Employability as a Career Identity Emergence Process
Authors: Zhang Huaiyuan , Zhang Xiaojun , Brewer Gayle
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to conceptualise processual employability with identity theory to reflect the amorphous and developmental nature of employability. Through literature review, we propose a model demonstrating how the career identity emergence process is linked with processual employability behaviour through four stages of identity change: Identity Enactment, Identity Validation, Identity Construction, and Identity Exploration. Each stage is driven by the tension between the individual’s current career identity and the experienced social interactions with a changing Individual–World of Work Interface, which eventually constitutes an iterative process of employability suitable for the individual career context. It thus clarifies how the pursuit of an achieved career identity drives processual employability in a fast-changing social context and provides a holistic view of employability as a journey of identity changes. This review responds to the call for integrating developmental and sustainable views into employability and also enriches identity-based employability theories.
Assessment of Supporting Visual Learning Technologies in the Immersive VET Cyber-Physical Learning Model
Authors: Veber Matej , Pesek Igor , Aberšek Boris
Published: June 2023

Humanity faces diverse technological, societal, and sociological challenges. Digitalization is being integrated into every aspect of our lives. Technologies are developing rapidly and the ways in which we live and learn are changing. Young people are acquiring information and learning in a different way than in the recent past. Education systems are no longer keeping up with the development of technology. Education systems need to adapt and introduce technologies that motivate students and ultimately contribute to higher learning goals. To this end, we need to develop modern learning models that support education and technological development. In previous research, we developed and evaluated a state-of-the-art learning model, the CPLM. We built on this with a new study, in which we assessed the difference between the cognitive activities of attention and meditation in students during the viewing of a classical educational video, a 360° video, and an AR app on a screen. We found that the 360° video had the greatest impact on students’ attention and is consequently suitable for initially motivating students in the proposed learning model. We made a proposal for a modern educational model and possibilities for further research.
Comparative Study of the Attitudes and Perceptions of University Students in Business Administration and Management and in Education toward Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Almaraz-López Cristina , Almaraz-Menéndez Fernando , López-Esteban Carmen
Published: June 2023

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a disruptive technology that nowadays has countless applications in many day-to-day and professional domains. Higher education institutions need to adapt both to changes in their processes and to changes in curricula brought on by AI. Studying students’ attitudes toward AI can be useful for analyzing what changes in AI teaching need to be implemented. This article uses an electronic survey to study the attitudes of Spanish students in the fields of economics and business management and education. A learning experience was also implemented with a small subset of students as a hands-on introduction to AI, where students were prompted to reflect on their experiences as users of AI. The results show that students are aware of AI’s impact and are willing to further their education in AI, although their current knowledge is limited due to a lack of training. We believe that AI education should be expanded and improved, especially by presenting realistic use cases and the real limitations of the technology, so that students are able to use AI confidently and responsibly in their professional future.