bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Universal detection of curved rice panicles in complex environments using aerial images and improved YOLOv4 model
Authors: Sun Boteng , Zhou Wei , Zhu Shilin , Huang Song , Yu Xun , Wu Zhenyuan , Lei Xiaolong , Yin Dameng , Xia Haixiao , Chen Yong , Deng Fei , Tao Youfeng , Cheng Hong , Jin Xiuliang , Ren Wanjun
Published: November 2022

Accurate and rapid identification of the effective number of panicles per unit area is crucial for the assessment of rice yield. As part of agricultural development, manual observation of effective panicles in the paddy field is being replaced by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imaging combined with target detection modeling. However, UAV images of panicles of curved hybrid Indica rice in complex field environments are characterized by overlapping, blocking, and dense distribution, imposing challenges on rice panicle detection models. This paper proposes a universal curved panicle detection method by combining UAV images of different types of hybrid Indica rice panicles (leaf-above-spike, spike-above-leaf, and middle type) from four ecological sites using an improved You Only Look Once version 4 (YOLOv4) model. MobileNetv2 is used as the backbone feature extraction network based on a lightweight model in addition to a focal loss and convolutional block attention module for improved detection of curved rice panicles of different varieties. Moreover, soft non-maximum suppression is used to address rice panicle occlusion in the dataset. This model yields a single image detection rate of 44.46 FPS, and mean average precision, recall, and F1 values of 90.32%, 82.36%, and 0.89%, respectively. This represents an increase of 6.2%, 0.12%, and 16.24% from those of the original YOLOv4 model, respectively. The model exhibits superior performance in identifying different strain types in mixed and independent datasets, indicating its feasibility as a general model for detection of different types of rice panicles in the heading stage.
The bZIP transcription factors in Liriodendron chinense: Genome-wide recognition, characteristics and cold stress response
Authors: Li Mingyue , Hwarari Delight , Li Yang , Ahmad Baseer , Min Tian , Zhang Wenting , Wang Jinyan , Yang Liming
Published: November 2022

The basic leucine zipper (bZIP) is a transcription factor family that plays critical roles in abiotic and biotic stress responses as well as plant development and growth. A comprehensive genome-wide study in Liriodendron chinense was conducted to identify 45 bZIP transcription factors (LchibZIPs), which were divided into 13 subgroups according the phylogenetic analysis. Proteins in the same subgroup shared similar gene structures and conserved domains, and a total of 20 conserved motifs were revealed in LchibZIP proteins. Gene localization analysis revealed that LchibZIP genes were unequally distributed across 16 chromosomes, and that 4 pairs of tandem and 9 segmental gene duplications existed. Concluding that segmental duplication events may be strongly associated with the amplification of the L. chinense bZIP gene family. We also assessed the collinearity of LchibZIPs between the Arabidopsis and Oryza and showed that the LchibZIP is evolutionarily closer to O. sativa as compared to the A. thaliana. The cis-regulatory element analysis showed that LchibZIPs clustered in one subfamily are involved in several functions. In addition, we gathered novel research suggestions for further exploration of the new roles of LchibZIPs from protein-protein interactions and gene ontology annotations of the LchibZIP proteins. Using the RNA-seq data and qRT-PCR we analyzed the gene expression patterns of LchibZIP genes, and showed that LchibZIP genes regulate cold stress, especially LchibZIP4 and LchibZIP7; and LchibZIP2 and LchibZIP28 which were up-regulated and down-regulated by cold stress, respectively. Studies of genetic engineering and gene function in L. chinense can benefit greatly from the thorough investigation and characterization of the L. chinense bZIP gene family.
Mechanistic decomposition and reduction in complex, context-sensitive systems
Authors: Burnston Daniel C.
Published: November 2022

Standard arguments in philosophy of science infer from the complexity of biological and neural systems to the presence of emergence and failure of mechanistic/reductionist explanation for those systems. I argue against this kind of argument, specifically focusing on the notion of context-sensitivity. Context-sensitivity is standardly taken to be incompatible with reductionistic explanation, because it shows that larger-scale factors influence the functioning of lower-level parts. I argue that this argument can be overcome if there are mechanisms underlying those context-specific reorganizations. I argue that such mechanisms are frequently discovered in neuroscience.
Peripheral non-enzymatic antioxidants as biomarkers for mood disorders: Evidence from a machine learning prediction model
Authors: Gong Yuandong , Lu Zhe , Kang Zhewei , Feng Xiaoyang , Zhang Yuyanan , Sun Yaoyao , Chen Weimin , Xun Guanglei , Yue Weihua
Published: November 2022

Background

Oxidative stress is related to the pathogenesis of mood disorders, and the level of oxidative stress may differ between bipolar disorder (BD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). This study aimed to detect the differences in non-enzymatic antioxidant levels between BD and MDD and assess the predictive values of non-enzymatic antioxidants in mood disorders by applying a machine learning model.

Methods

Peripheral uric acid (UA), albumin (ALB), and total bilirubin (TBIL) were measured in 1,188 participants (discover cohort: 157 with BD and 544 with MDD; validation cohort: 119 with BD and 95 with MDD; 273 healthy controls). An extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model and a logistic regression model were used to assess the predictive effect.

Results

All three indices differed between patients with mood disorders and healthy controls; in addition, the levels of UA in patients with BD were higher than those of patients with MDD. After treatment, UA levels increased in the MDD group, while they decreased in the BD group. Finally, we entered age, sex, UA, ALB, and TBIL into the XGBoost model. The area under the curve (AUC) of the XGBoost model for distinguishing between BD and MDD reached 0.849 (accuracy = 0.808, 95% CI = 0.719–0.878) and for distinguishing between BD with depression episode (BD-D) and MDD was 0.899 (accuracy = 0.891, 95% CI = 0.856–0.919). The models were validated in the validation cohort. The most important feature distinguishing between BD and MDD was UA.

Conclusion

Peripheral non-enzymatic antioxidants, especially the UA, might be a potential biomarker capable of distinguishing between BD and MDD.
Assessment of psychometric properties of the self-stigma inventory for Iranian families of persons who use drugs
Authors: Dinmohammadi Mohammadreza , Jalali Amir , Naderipour Arsalan
Published: November 2022

Background

Substance use disorder (SUD) and its related problems take a toll on the individual, family, and society. This study was conducted to determine the psychometric properties of the self-stigma scale in the families of persons who use drugs (PWUDs) in Iran.

Methods

This was a methodological and psychometric study. The study population consisted of 311 family members of PWUDs visiting outpatient and inpatient addiction treatment centers in Kermanshah who were selected using convenience sampling. The 14-item Self-Stigma Inventory for Families (SSI-F), which was developed by Yildiz et al. in 2019 using interviews and scales connected with stigma, was applied. The ten steps developed by Wilde et al. were used in this study for cultural validation. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) (140 samples) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) (311 subjects) were used to confirm the construct validity, and the test-retest method was used to confirm the reliability of the tools. Cronbach's alpha was also used to test the internal consistency of the tools.

Findings

The results of EFA and CFA scales in families of PWUDs were confirmed with three factors and 14 items. The reliability degree of the tools was confirmed as 0.891 and the Cronbach's alpha was confirmed as 0.879 using the test-retest method. Pearson's correlation coefficient indicated a positive and significant status between the scale's items/factors and the scale itself.

Conclusion

Generally, the results showed that the PWUDs SSI-F scale in Iranian families was valid and reliable with three factors and 14 items, and it can be used to conduct relevant studies.
Peripheral blood cytokines as potential diagnostic biomarkers of suicidal ideation in patients with first-episode drug-naïve major depressive disorder
Authors: Xu Yayun , Liang Jun , Gao Wenfan , Sun Yanhong , Zhang Yuanyuan , Shan Feng , Ge Jinfang , Xia Qingrong
Published: November 2022

Objective

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability, with a high risk of suicidal ideation (SI). Few studies have evaluated the potential of multiple cytokines as biomarkers for SI in patients with MDD. In the present study, we examined the serum levels of multiple cytokines in patients with first-episode drug-naïve MDD, with the aim to discover and identify serum cytokines-based biomarkers for identification of SI in MDD.

Methods

A total of 55 patients with first-episode drug-naïve MDD were enrolled and divided into two groups: 26 MDD patients without SI and 29 MDD patients with SI. Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation was used to estimate SI. A total of 37 cytokines were measured using Multiplex Luminex Assays. The levels of serum cytokines between MDD patients without SI and MDD patients with SI were compared and diagnostic values of different cytokines were evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve method for discriminating MDD patients with SI from MDD patients without SI. The relationship between the group and the abnormal cytokines were investigated in multiple linear regression models, with adjustments for age, gender, BMI, smoking, and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-24 (HAMD-24) scores.

Results

The levels of CCL26 and VEGF in MDD patients with SI were significantly lower than those in MDD patients without SI (all P < 0.05). On the contrary, the levels of IL-17C, CXCL10, and TNF-β in MDD patients with SI were significantly higher than those in MDD patients without SI (all P < 0.05). Moreover, the results of multiple linear regression revealed that group was a significant independent predictor of serum IL-17C, CCL-26, VEGF, and TNF-β levels (all P < 0.05). In terms of CXC10, group was also likely to be a significant independent predictor (β = 0.257, P = 0.063). Furthermore, the AUC values of IL-17C and TNF-β were 0.728 and 0.732, respectively. Additionally, a combined panel of IL-17C and TNF-β achieved a high accuracy in discriminating MDD patients with SI from MDD patients without SI (AUC = 0.848, sensitivity = 75.9%, specificity = 72.7%).

Conclusions

These results suggested that circulating IL-17C and TNF-β may hold promise in the discovery of biomarkers for identification of SI in MDD.
Toward the upscaling of school nutrition programs in Dubai: An exploratory study
Authors: AlGurg Reem , Abu Mahfouz Nour , Otaki Farah , Alameddine Mohamad
Published: November 2022

Background

School nutrition programs impact the intellectual, social, and emotional development of school children, as well as their future risk of developing Non-Communicable Diseases. While many stakeholders are involved in the development, implementation, and evaluation of school nutrition programs in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, little is known about the complementarity among those stakeholders, and the means to upscale school nutrition programs while ensuring effective, efficient, and equitable implementation. Accordingly, this study aims at exploring the perceptions of a diverse group of stakeholders, positioned at differing levels of the public health and education ecosystems in the United Arab Emirates, in relation to current guidelines and practices around the planning, implementation, and evaluation of school nutrition programs in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Methods

The current study relied on a qualitative design, based on semi-structured key informant interviews. A total of 29 interviews were carried out. Those interviewees included leaders and directors from different institutions, decision- and policy- makers, nutritionists and dieticians, school nurses and nurse managers, and school principals and vice principals. All stakeholders were interviewed by the research team. Data was transcribed, and then thematically analyzed using the health systems' model as an analytic framework.

Results

The thematic analysis of interview data identified five interrelated themes. The first theme relates to the limited coordination across regulatory local and federal entities, and the multiplicity of guidelines issued by the different stakeholders. The challenges around the human and financial resourcing of school nutrition programs constituted the second theme. The third theme was the weakly coordinated implementation efforts. The fourth theme was the need for better performance measurement, and the fifth theme flagged the need for improved inclusiveness for health needs and cultural preferences of the diverse student body in Dubai (given that there are citizens from more than 200 nationalities co-existing in Dubai).

Conclusion

This study emphasizes that all the involved stakeholders need to better collaborate to upscale the school nutrition program in Dubai. This will require the formation of a unified governing body, which would identify and develop a single stream of resources, and sets in place a reliable, all encapsulating and equitable implementation plan along with an overarching monitoring and evaluation framework.
Optimizing spinal cord injury care in Canada: Development of a framework for strategy and action
Authors: Rivera Joanna Marie B. , Yousefi Charlene , Cheng Christiana L. , Norman Cameron D. , Legare Jeanne , McFarlane Alana , Noonan Vanessa K.
Published: November 2022

National health strategies are integral in defining the vision and strategic direction for ensuring the health of a population or for a specific health area. To facilitate a national coordinated approach in spinal cord injury (SCI) research and care in Canada, Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, with support from national experts and funding from the Government of Canada, developed a national strategy to advance SCI care, health, and wellness based on previous SCI strategic documents. This paper describes the development process of the SCI Care for Canada: A Framework for Strategy and Action. Specifically, it covers the process of building on historical and existing work of SCI in Canada through a thorough review of literature to inform community consultations and co-creation design. Furthermore, this paper describes planning for communication, dissemination, and evaluation. The SCI Care Strategic Framework promotes an updated common understanding of the goals and vision of the SCI community, as well as strengths and priorities within the SCI system regarding care, health, and wellness. Additionally, it supports the coordination and scaling up of SCI advancements to make a sustainable impact nationwide focusing on the needs of people living with SCI.
“When I woke up I was so worried and ashamed, I thought it was a disease”: Adolescent boys’ transitions through puberty in Kenya
Authors: Carney Allison , Mulei Titus , Kurao Daniel , Hagstrom Christine , Sommer Marni
Published: November 2022

Growing evidence suggests a need for more focused attention on boys’ experiences of puberty in sub-Saharan Africa to assure healthy transitions into young adulthood. Existing research remains limited on the masculinity norms shaping boys’ maturation experiences in Kenya. To help fill this gap, we conducted a comparative case study using qualitative methodologies with 16–19-year-old male youth in rural and urban Kenya, and with adults interacting in boys’ daily lives. Findings suggest that Kenyan boys experience shame, confusion and silence around changes happening in their bodies; face pressures from new societal expectations as they become young men; and have adolescent lives shaped by minimal supervision, increased peer pressures and engagement in more risky health behaviors. Additional research and targeted interventions on boys transitioning through puberty and early adolescence are needed to better understand their vulnerabilities and prevent or reduce their engagement in unsafe behaviors.
Asteroseismic inferences from the study of non-linearities in δ Sct stars
Authors: Lares-Martiz Mariel
Published: November 2022

Many pulsating star light curves must be interpreted strictly within the framework of a non-linear theory. The detection of non-linear interactions between pulsation modes has increased due to the ultra-precise photometric data provided by space missions. For this reason, it is now possible and essential to continue the effort of building data-driven non-linear pulsation models. The analysis of non-linear stellar light curves has become a fundamental challenge in asteroseismology in the era of space missions. In this article, a diagnostic method is presented. It is based on an observational characterization of the non-linear behavior of high-amplitude delta Scuti (HADS) stars. It diagnoses the nature of non-linear pulsations in δ Sct stars of lower amplitudes. It potentially provides an extra hint for identifying a radial mode and determine its radial order n. Additionally, it could show signatures of moderate to rapid rotation in these stars. Overall, this article shows the capabilities for making asteroseismic inferences from studying combination frequencies in δ Sct stars.
A novel approach for the treatment of Jacob II and III fractures of the lateral humeral condyle in children: Percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation with ultrasound localization
Authors: Deng Changzong , Shen Zhien , Wang Kai , Xu Wenbin , Du Weibin , Zhuang Wei
Published: November 2022

This research investigated the effectiveness of percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation in children with Jacob II and III lateral humeral condyle fractures. 28 children with Jacob II and III lateral humeral condyle fractures were treated with percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation under ultrasound localization, followed by cast immobilization for 4–5 weeks at our institution from January 2018 to April 2022. X-rays were evaluated on the first postoperative day to assess fracture reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. After 2 and 4 weeks, x-rays were taken to assess fracture healing and the presence of discomfort and infection was evaluated. After confirming fracture healing and callus formation, the cast and Kirschner wire were removed. Rehabilitation exercises were conducted following removal to restore elbow function. At the last follow-up, most results were excellent (n = 25) and good (n = 3) according to Flynn's criteria. Moreover, according to the Mayo Elbow Functional Score Scale (MEPS), all 28 children had excellent scores, with no significant difference in MEPS scores between the lesion and healthy sides (t = 1.533, p > 0.05). The present study substantiated that our novel approach is more convenient and effective, brings less trauma and complications and no radiation and deserves clinical promotion.
Survival of a patient with multiple-recurrent giant retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma for 15 years: A case report
Authors: Xia Hao , Fang Fang , Yuan Haijuan , Tu Yimei
Published: November 2022

Background

Retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RPLS) is a variety of soft tissue sarcoma that originates from mesenchymal cells. A tumor measuring greater than 30 cm is called a “giant liposarcoma.” A part of the neoplasm tends to grow in size, recur locally, or metastasize distantly. In those with such a condition, long-term survival is uncommon. Therefore, it is necessary to present a uniform and optimized program to improve the prognosis.

Methods

By successfully treating a multiple-recurrent giant retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma (RP DDLPS) in July 2010, we hope to devise more comprehensive strategies to improve diagnosis, therapy, and outcome.

Results

In July 2010, we thoroughly resected a giant multifocal RPLS with a concomitant part of the gastric wall. The histopathological examination revealed a high-grade (grade III) dedifferentiated liposarcoma. The patient was discharged uneventfully on the 15th postoperative day. She relapsed after 16 months and needed another complete excision. After 9 months, she died after the fourth recidive. The patient had experienced four recurrences and underwent operations with 15 years of follow-up.

Conclusions

The above demonstrates that we were able to successfully treat the multirecurrent giant RPLS, despite the patient’s poor medical condition, with meticulous management. Moreover, this indicates that long-term survival could be achieved for high-grade RP DDLPS.
Developing and validating a multivariable prediction model for predicting the cost of colon surgery
Authors: Taha Anas , Taha-Mehlitz Stephanie , Ochs Vincent , Enodien Bassey , Honaker Michael D. , Frey Daniel M. , Cattin Philippe C.
Published: November 2022

Hospitals are burdened with predicting, calculating, and managing various cost-affecting parameters regarding patients and their treatments. Accuracy in cost prediction is further affected when a patient suffers from other health issues that hinder the traditional prognosis. This can lead to an unavoidable deficit in the final revenue of medical centers. This study aims to determine whether machine learning (ML) algorithms can predict cost factors based on patients undergoing colon surgery. For the forecasting, multiple predictors will be taken into the model to provide a tool that can be helpful for hospitals to manage their costs, ultimately leading to operating more cost-efficiently. This proof of principle will lay the groundwork for an efficient ML-based prediction tool based on multicenter data from a range of international centers in the subsequent phases of the study. With a mean absolute percentage error result of 18%–25.6%, our model's prediction showed decent results in forecasting the costs regarding various diagnosed factors and surgical approaches. There is an urgent need for further studies on predicting cost factors, especially for cases with anastomotic leakage, to minimize unnecessary hospital costs.
Impact of offspring endothelial function from de novo hypertensive disorders during pregnancy: An evidence-based review
Authors: Abdull Sukor Aslah Nabilah , Ankasha Sheril June , Ugusman Azizah , Aminuddin Amilia , Mokhtar Norfilza Mohd , Zainal Abidin Shahidee , Ahmad Mohd Faizal , Hamid Adila A.
Published: November 2022

De novo hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) which consist of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia affect maternal and offspring morbidity and mortality, and potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in the offspring. It is well known that de novo HDP causes various maternal complications, including cardiovascular diseases, placental abruption and liver and kidney failure. However, there are studies suggesting that offspring of pregnancies complicated by de novo HDP have an increased risk of long-term cardiovascular disease. The endothelium is an important regulator of vascular function, and its dysfunction is highly associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases. Hence, this review aimed to systematically identify articles related to the effect of de novo HDP on the endothelial function of the offspring. A computerized database search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Medline from 1976 until 2022. A total of 685 articles were obtained. We identified another three additional articles through review articles and Google Scholar. Altogether, we used 13 articles for data extraction. All studies reported that endothelial function was impaired in the offspring of de novo HDP. This is most likely attributed to impaired vasodilation, subclinical atherosclerosis formation, inflammation, and dysregulated epigenetic regulation of endothelial functions.
Antibiotic removal does not affect cecal microbiota balance and productive parameters in LP robust rabbit line
Authors: Montoro-Dasi Laura , Lorenzo-Rebenaque Laura , Ramon-Moragues Adrian , Pérez-Gracia Maria Teresa , de Toro María , Marin Clara , Villagra Arantxa
Published: November 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is an important threat to public health worldwide, being one of the main death causes in 2050. Moreover, global health is currently underpinned by the “One Health” concept, whereby livestock is strictly related to human and environmental health. However, in the case of the meat rabbit industry, antibiotic additives are still added to prevent gastrointestinal diseases. Current food and consumer awareness require the implementation of sustainable production systems, where robustness and resilience are increasingly important. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of antibiotic feed supplementation on microbiota, and productive performance during the rabbit growing period in a robust genetic line. For this purpose, a total of 432 weaned rabbits were randomly housed, cecum samples were taken on the weaning day and at the end of the growing period (28 and 61 days of age, respectively), and 16S rRNA sequencing analysis was performed. Results showed a higher microbiota complexity at the end of growing in both experimental groups. Firmicutes represented the dominant phylum of the cecal community, followed by Bacteroidota in both groups. Moreover, Victivallis and Escherichia-Shigella genera were only identified in the experimental group without antibiotic supplementation at the end of the growing period. In conclusion, antibiotic feed supplementation had no effect on microbiota composition and productive performance in the robust genetic line reared. These results evidence the importance of the development of rabbit robust genetic lines as an alternative tool to antibiotic administration in epizootic enteropathy control.
A Novel Glycolysis-Related Long Noncoding RNA Signature for Predicting Overall Survival in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zeng Jianmin , Li Man , Dai Kefan , Zuo Bingyu , Guo Jianhui , Zang Lu
Published: November 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to construct a glycolysis-related long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) signature to predict the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer (GC).

Methods: Glycolysis-related genes were obtained from the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB), lncRNA expression profiles and clinical data of GC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA). Furthermore, univariate Cox regression analysis, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and multivariate Cox regression analysis were used to construct prognostic glycolysis-related lncRNA signature. The specificity and sensitivity of the signature was verified by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. We constructed a nomogram to predict the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates of GC patients. Besides, the relationship between immune infiltration and the risk score was analyzed in the high and low risk groups. Multi Experiment Matrix (MEM) was used to analyze glycolysis-related lncRNA target genes. R “limma” package was used to analyze the mRNA expression levels of the glycolysis-related lncRNA target genes in TCGA. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was employed to further explore the biological pathways in the high-risk group and the glycolysis-related lncRNA target gene.

Results: A prognostic signature was conducted based on nine glycolysis-related lncRNAs, which are AL391152.1, AL590705.3, RHOXF1-AS1, CFAP61-AS1, LINC00412, AC005165.1, AC110995.1, AL355574.1 and SCAT1. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) values at 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year were 0.765, 0.828 and 0.707 in the training set, and 0.669, 740 and 0.807 in the testing set, respectively. In addition, the nomogram could efficaciously predict the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates of the GC patients. Then, we discovered that GC patients with high-risk scores were more likely to respond to immunotherapy. GSEA revealed that the signature was mainly associated with the calcium signaling pathway, extracellular matrix (ECM) receptor interaction, and focal adhesion in high-risk group, also indicated that SBSPON is related to aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, citrate cycle, fructose and mannose metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway and pyrimidine metabolism.

Conclusion: Our study shows that the signature can predict the prognosis of GC and may provide new insights into immunotherapeutic strategies.
Special Issue “1st Online Conference on Algorithms (IOCA2021)”
Authors: Werner Frank
Published: November 2022

This Special Issue of Algorithms is dedicated to the 1st Online Conference on Algorithms (IOCA 2021), which was held completely online from 27 September to 10 October 2021 [...]
Phase-Type Survival Trees to Model a Delayed Discharge and Its Effect in a Stroke Care Unit
Authors: Garg Lalit , McClean Sally , Meenan Brian , Barton Maria , Fullerton Ken , Buttigieg Sandra C. , Micallef Alexander
Published: November 2022

The problem of hospital patients’ delayed discharge or ‘bed blocking’ has long been a challenge for healthcare managers and policymakers. It negatively affects the hospital performance metrics and has other severe consequences for the healthcare system, such as affecting patients’ health. In our previous work, we proposed the phase-type survival tree (PHTST)-based analysis to cluster patients into clinically meaningful patient groups and an extension of this approach to examine the relationship between the length of stay in hospitals and the destination on discharge. This paper describes how PHTST-based clustering can be used for modelling delayed discharge and its effects in a stroke care unit, especially the extra beds required, additional cost, and bed blocking. The PHTST length of stay distribution of each group of patients (each PHTST node) is modelled separately as a finite state continuous-time Markov chain using Coxian-phase-type distributions. Delayed discharge patients waiting for discharge are modelled as the Markov chain, called the ‘blocking state’ in a special state. We can use the model to recognise the association between demographic factors and discharge delays and their effects and identify groups of patients who require attention to resolve the most common delays and prevent them from happening again. The approach is illustrated using five years of retrospective data of patients admitted to the Belfast City Hospital with a stroke diagnosis.
Development of Quality Digital Innovation by Optimally Utilizing Company Resources to Increase Competitive Advantage and Business Performance
Authors: Hidayat Saiful , Setiawan Margono , Rohman Fatchur , Hussein Ananda Sabil
Published: November 2022

Purpose: This study aims to find out how to increase the competitive advantage of a company through the development of digital innovation that utilizes company resources optimally to improve business performance. Namely, the aim is to examine the effect of company resources on digital innovation and business performance, and the effect of company resources on business performance through digital innovation. Methods: This study uses a quantitative research approach. Observations were made in a cross-section/one shot in 2022. The population of this study was the ISP industry in Indonesia, which amounted to 474 companies, and the unit of observation was the management. Samples were taken from 240 respondents. This study used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the causality correlational relationship between constructs. Results: The hypothesis testing shows that company resources have a significant direct effect on business performance, and company resources have a significant indirect effect on business performance through digital innovation. The indirect effect of company resources on business performance through digital innovation is more dominant than the direct effect of company resources on business performance. Conclusions: Improving business performance and competitive advantage will be better achieved by optimizing the utilization of the company’s existing resources to develop digital innovation, compared to directly increasing the company’s resources to improve business performance.
Direct In-Situ Capture, Separation and Visualization of Biological Particles with Fluid-Screen in the Context of Venus Life Finder Mission Concept Study
Authors: Weber Robert E. , Petkowski Janusz J. , Weber Monika U.
Published: November 2022

Evidence of chemical disequilibria and other anomalous observations in the Venusian atmosphere motivate the search for life within the planet’s temperate clouds. To find signs of a Venusian aerial biosphere, a dedicated astrobiological space mission is required. Venus Life Finder (VLF) missions encompass unique mission concepts with specialized instruments to search for habitability indicators, biosignatures and even life itself. A key in the search for life is direct capture, concentration and visualization of particles of biological potential. Here, we present a short overview of Fluid-Screen (FS) technology, a recent advancement in the dielectrophoretic (DEP) microbial particle capture, concentration and separation. Fluid-Screen is capable of capturing and separating biochemically diverse particles, including multicellular molds, eukaryotic cells, different species of bacteria and even viruses, based on particle dielectric properties. In this short communication, we discuss the possible implementation of Fluid-Screen in the context of the Venus Life Finder (VLF) missions, emphasizing the unique science output of the Fluid-Screen instrument. FS can be coupled with other highly sophisticated instruments such as an autofluorescence microscope or a laser desorption mass spectrometer (LDMS). We discuss possible configurations of Fluid-Screen that upon modification and testing, could be adapted for Venus. We discuss the unique science output of the Fluid-Screen technology that can capture biological particles in their native state and hold them in the focal plane of the microscope for the direct imaging of the captured material. We discuss the challenges for the proposed method posed by the concentrated sulfuric acid environment of Venus’ clouds. While Venus’ clouds are a particularly challenging environment, other bodies of the solar system, e.g., with liquid water present, might be especially suitable for Fluid-Screen application.
Quality Characteristics of Noodles Processed from Rice Grains of the Ratoon Crop
Authors: Xiao Zhengwu , Liao Chengjing , Hu Yuping , Zhang Keqian , Chen Jiana , Cao Fangbo , Fang Shengliang , Huang Min
Published: November 2022

Rice noodles are usually manufactured using rice grains of the main crop. There is limited information available on rice noodles processed from ratoon rice grains. In this study, two-year field experiments were conducted to compare the cooking and texture properties of noodles and the grain chemical properties of ratoon crops with those of main crops from two rice cultivars (Guichao 2 and Zhenguiai) that are widely used for processing noodles. Results showed that the cooked break rate and the cooking loss rate of rice noodles processed from grains of the ratoon crop were similar to those of the main crop in both cultivars; however, changes in texture of cooked rice noodles processed from grains of the ratoon crop compared with the main crop were cultivar-dependent, being significantly softer in Zhenguiai but not in Guichao 2. Hardness and chewiness of cooked rice noodles were significantly negatively correlated with amylopectin content in milled rice grains in Zhenguiai, indicating that amylopectin content is a key chemical property determining the texture differences between rice noodles processed from grains of ratoon and main crops.
Effects of Different Deproteinization Methods on the Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharides from Flos Sophorae Immaturus Obtained by Ultrasonic Microwave Synergistic Extraction
Authors: Zhong Wenting , Yang Chunmiao , Zhang Yongze , Yang Dongsheng
Published: November 2022

Flos Sophorae Immaturus (FSI) serves as one of the Chinese medicinal herbs of homologous provenance, whose polysaccharides constitute part of the active compounds that exert their pharmacological properties. Single-factor and response surface methodology were employed to investigate optimal extraction conditions for the ultrasonic-microwave synergistic extraction (UMSE) of polysaccharides from FSI (PFSI), which were deproteinized by Sevage, papain, and trichloroacetic acid methods, and the antioxidant potential of PFSI by contrasting deproteinization methods based on free-radical scavenging capacity. The optimum conditions for UMSE extraction of PFSI were 500 W microwave power, 265.887 W ultrasonic power, 20.078 min extraction time, and 94.995:1 liquid-to-material ratio. Meanwhile, the sequence of the single factors on the yield of polysaccharides indicated that microwave power > extraction time > D liquid to material ratio > B ultrasonic power, and that the obtained average value of polysaccharide yield was 37.05%, which was analogous to the predicted value of 37.17%, indicating that the optimization method was reasonable. In vitro, the antioxidant assay demonstrated that PFSI, with or without deproteinization, had a definite capability to scavenge oxidative free radicals. This research provides a theoretical basis for the industrial production of PFSI as a natural antioxidant, and a scientific basis for its industrial development.
Influence of the Diffusivity and Transmittance of a Plastic Greenhouse Cover on the Development of Fungal Diseases in a Cucumber Crop
Authors: Ávalos-Sánchez Eugenio , Moreno-Teruel María Ángeles , Molina-Aiz Francisco Domingo , López-Martínez Alejandro , Peña-Fernández Araceli , Baptista Fátima , Valera-Martínez Diego Luis
Published: November 2022

Mediterranean greenhouses are usually covered by plastic materials (films); these films allow light to pass through them, modifying some of their characteristics. The properties of the plastic cover influence the development of greenhouse crops. In addition, it can influence the stresses that the plants endure and the development of fungal diseases in the crop. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect that an experimental film cover, with high transmittance and high light diffusivity, produces on the development of fungal diseases on a cucumber crop (Cucumis sativus L.). Two different film covers were compared: (i) commercial film (transmittance of 85%; diffusivity of 60%); and (ii) experimental film (transmittance of 90%; diffusivity of 55%). The study was carried out across two autumn–winter crop cycles in a multi-span greenhouse divided into two isolated sectors. Three fungal diseases caused the main damage to the cucumber crop: downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis), powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginia) and gummy stem blight (Didymella bryoniae). In the case of powdery mildew, a greater severity in the sector was observed with the commercial film in comparison with the sector with the experimental film, with significant statistical differences between the two sectors in both crop cycles. Downy mildew and gummy stem blight were fungal diseases with less presence than downy mildew, and a greater presence of these two fungal diseases in the sector with the commercial film was also observed in both crop cycles.
Mitigating Ammonia and Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Stored Pig Slurry Using Chemical Additives and Biochars
Authors: Pereira José L. S. , Perdigão Adelaide , Marques Francisco , Wessel Dulcineia F. , Trindade Henrique , Fangueiro David
Published: November 2022

Slurry storage is a significant source of NH3 and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The aim of this laboratory study was to assess the effects of different chemical additives and biochars on the emissions of NH3, N2O, CO2, and CH4 during the short-term storage of pig slurry. The experiment was performed using Kilner jars filled with raw slurry as control and six treatment additives (5% w/w): acidified slurry, alkalinized slurry, neutralized slurry, agroforestry biochar, cardoon biochar, and elderberry biochar. The gas emissions were measured for 30 days, and the composition of the slurries was determined. During short-term storage, the results of this laboratory study indicated that the NH3 emissions were reduced by 58% by acidification and by 20% by the biochars (Agroforestry, Cardoon, and Elderberry treatments), while neutralization reduced this loss by only 12%. Nitrous oxide emissions were not reduced by the chemical additives (Acidified, Alkalinized, and Neutralized treatments), while this loss was increased by 12% by the biochars. Carbon dioxide, CH4, and global warming potential emissions were not affected by the chemical additives and biochars. Furthermore, the absence of differences between the biochars may be related to their similar composition. Regarding the influence of the studied additives on NH3 losses, it can be concluded that acidification was the best mitigation measure and the biochars were quite similar due to their composition. Furthermore, neutralization had the advantage of sanitizing the slurry, but only had a mild impact on NH3 preservation.
Quality Characteristics of Japonica Rice in Southern and Northern China and the Effect of Environments on Its Quality
Authors: Ma Zhongtao , Ma Huizhen , Chen Zhifeng , Chen Xinyi , Liu Guodong , Hu Qun , Xu Fangfu , Wei Haiyan , Zhang Hongcheng
Published: November 2022

Four types of japonica rice including non-soft japonica rice from northern China planted in the northern region (NSJRNN), non-soft japonica rice from northern China planted in the southern region (NSJRNS), non-soft japonica rice from southern China planted in the southern region (NSJRSS), and soft japonica rice from southern China planted in the southern region (SJRSS) were adopted as materials to reveal the quality characteristics of japonica rice in southern and northern China and the effect of environments on its quality. Compared with NSJRNN, higher temperatures during the grain-filling stage in southern China resulted in poor processing and appearance qualities of NSJRNS and NSJRSS. Due to the increased protein content (PC), the eating qualities of NSJRNS and NSJRSS were bad. While for SJRSS, with low apparent amylose content (AAC) and few large-sized starch granules, the eating quality was better than that of NSJRNS and NSJRSS and even comparable to NSJRNN. Therefore, with a relative high PC of rice under high temperature condition in southern China, it could be one of the effective ways to reduce AAC appropriately to obtain a good eating quality of rice.
Study on the Selection of Processing Process and Parameters of Platycodon grandiflorum Seeds Assisted by Machine Vision Technology
Authors: Wu Weifeng , Cheng Ying , Tu Keling , Ning Cuiling , Yang Chengmin , Dong Xuehui , Cao Hailu , Sun Qun
Published: November 2022

Seed processing is an important means of improving seed quality. However, the traditional seed processing process and parameter adjustment are highly empirically dependent. In this study, machine vision technology was used to develop a seed processing method based on the rapid extraction of seeds’ material characteristics. Combined with the results of clarity analysis and the single seed germination test, the seed processing process and parameters were determined through data analysis. The results showed that several phenotypic features were significantly or highly significantly correlated with clarity, but fewer phenotypic features were correlated with viability. According to the probability density distribution of pure seeds and impurities in the features that were significantly correlated with seed clarity, the sorting parameters of length, width, R, G, and B were determined. When the combination of width (≥0.8 mm) + G (<75) was used for sorting, the recall of pure seeds was higher than 91%, and the precision was increased to 98.6%. Combined with the specific production reality, the preliminary determination of the Platycodon grandiflorum seed processing process was air separation—screen (round hole sieve)—color sorting. Then, four commercialized Platycodon grandiflorum seed lots were sorted by this process using corresponding parameters in the actual processing equipment. Subsequently, the seed clarity and germination percentage were significantly improved, and the seed quality qualification rate was increased from 25% to 75%. In summary, by using machine vision technology to quickly extract the material characteristics of the seeds, combined with correlation analysis, probability density distribution plots, single feature selection, and combination sorting comparisons, the appropriate processing process and corresponding sorting parameters for a specific seed lot can be determined, thus maximizing the seed quality.
Long-Term Conservation Tillage and Precision Nutrient Management in Maize–Wheat Cropping System: Effect on Soil Properties, Crop Production, and Economics
Authors: Pramanick Biswajit , Kumar Mritunjay , Naik Banavath Mahesh , Kumar Mukesh , Singh Santosh Kumar , Maitra Sagar , Naik B. S. S. S. , Rajput Vishnu D. , Minkina Tatiana
Published: November 2022

Intensive tillage coupled with imbalanced nutrient management in maize–wheat systems in low-carbon calcareous soils often results in poor productivity vis-à-vis degradation in soil health. Conservation tillage viz. permanent bed planting (PB) and zero tillage (ZT)/direct seeding with residue retention coupled with precision nutrient management might improve soil properties and yield of crops. Concerning this, a long-term experiment was conducted from 2014–2015 to 2020–2021 with a maize–wheat cropping system at TCA, Dholi farm of RPCAU, Pusa. Treatments consisted of three main plots of different tillage practices, viz. PB, ZT, and conventional tillage (CT) and three sub-plots of nutrient management options, viz. farmers’ fertilization practice (FFP), site-specific nutrient management with Nutrient Expert® (NE) software, and GreenSeeker (GS) based nitrogen-management. From this study, it was observed that both the PB and ZT resulted in about 31–33% and 43–45% improvement in SOC and water-soluble aggregates (WSA), respectively, comparing them under CT. These two conservation tillage practices also improved the other soil bio-chemical properties. Better soil properties under PB and ZT helped in the improvement of system yield by about 13–18% comparing yield under CT. Moreover, both these tillage practices showed an additional net return of USD 330–USD 400 over CT. PB was found a bit better over ZT concerning soil properties, yield, and economics. Comparing nutrient management options, precision nutrition using NE and GS showed significant improvement in the soil bio-chemical parameters, yield, and economics of the cropping system over FFP. SSNM using NE showed slightly better results than GS. Thus, from this long-term study, it can be concluded that the permanent bed system with residue retention and precision nutrition using Nutrient Expert® software are the best options concerning tillage and nutrient management, respectively, for improvement of the soil properties of problematic calcareous soils, thereby, enhancing the yield and economics of the maize–wheat cropping system.