bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment failure among Sub-Sahara African children living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Walle Belete Gelaw , Tiruneh Chalie Marew , Wubneh Moges , Chekole Bogale , Kassaw Amare , Assefa Yibeltal , Abebe Kelemu , Yigzaw Zeamanuel Anteneh
Published: October 2024

Background

Antiretroviral treatment failure is a global issue, particularly in developing countries such as Sub-Saharan Africa. Prior research findings were highly variable and inconsistent across areas. As a result, the goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children receiving antiretroviral medication in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

To find qualifying papers, we searched databases (such as PubMed, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library). The data were retrieved using Microsoft Excel and exported to STATA Version 14 for analysis. To check for publication bias, we employed Egger and Begg’s regression tests. A random-effects model was used to assess the pooled prevalence of treatment failure due to high levels of variability.

Results

Following the removal of duplicated articles and quality screening, a total of 33 primary articles were determined to be appropriate for inclusion in the final analysis for this study. Overall, the pooled prevalence of treatment failure among HIV-infected children was 25.86% (95% CI: 21.46, 30.26). There is great variety across the included studies, with the majority of them being conducted in Ethiopia. Cameroon had the greatest pooled prevalence of treatment failure among HIV-infected children, at 39.41% (95% CI: 21.54, 57.28), while Ethiopia had the lowest, at 13.77% (95% CI: 10.08, 17.47).

Conclusions

The pooled estimate prevalence of treatment failure among HIV-infected children in Sub-Saharan Africa was high. The implementation of national and international policies and strategies on ART clinic care services should be given special focus in order to reduce treatment failure in children living with HIV/AIDS.

Trial registration

The protocol has been registered in the PROSPERO database under the registration number CRD-429011.
Differences in sarcopenia indices in elderly Japanese women and their relationships with obesity classified according to waist circumference, BMI, and body fat percentage
Authors: Nishida Chihiro , Iemitsu Motoyuki , Kurihara Toshiyuki , Kishigami Keiko , Miyachi Motohiko , Sanada Kiyoshi
Published: October 2024

Background

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is defined as a decrease in lean body mass and an increase in body fat mass (BFM) due to aging. Detecting SO in elderly women is important from the perspective of extending healthy life expectancy. While various indices of SO are currently used, there is no global consensus regarding diagnostic criteria for SO. This study aimed to examine the relationship between obesity indices (waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage (BFP)) and sarcopenia indices (total body muscle mass (TBM), appendicular lean mass (ALM), skeletal mass index (SMI)), and physical function (gait speed (GS), handgrip strength (HGS)).

Methods

Subjects were 170 community-dwelling healthy elderly women aged 65–79 years (mean: 72.7 ± 5.78 years) who underwent measurements for WC, BMI, and BFP. A WC of ≥ 90cm was defined as the obese group, BMI was determined as weight (kg) divided by height squared (m2) and a cutoff of ≥ 25 kg/m2 was used to define the obesity group. BFM was measured using the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method and BFP was calculated from body weight and a cutoff of ≥ 30% was used to define the obesity group. TBM and ALM (kg) were measured using the BIA method, ALM (kg) was corrected for height (m2) to obtain SMI (kg/m2). Physical function was assessed by GS and HGS, which were measured by the 5-m walk test and a digital grip strength meter, respectively.

Results

When obesity was assessed using BMI, WC and BFP, obese individuals had higher TBM, ALM and SMI, and lower GS among the sarcopenia indicators. HGS did not differ significantly between the non-obese and obese groups.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest HGS is thought to reflect muscle strength without being affected by obesity indices, suggesting that it may be useful in detecting possible sarcopenia in obese individuals.
Association of brown adipose tissue activity with circulating sex hormones and fibroblast growth factor 21 in the follicular and luteal phases in young women
Authors: Taniguchi Hirokazu , Hashimoto Yuka , Dowaki Narumi , Nirengi Shinsuke
Published: October 2024

Background

Thermogenesis is influenced by fluctuations in sex hormones during the menstrual cycle in premenopausal women. The thermogenic activity and mass of brown adipose tissue (BAT) are regulated by endocrine factors, including sex hormones and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). However, the relationship between human BAT and these endocrine fluctuations within individuals remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to assess variations in BAT activity between the luteal and follicular phases and identify correlations with circulating levels of sex hormones and FGF21.

Methods

Healthy young women were enrolled in an observational study. Measurement of BAT activity and blood analyses were performed in both the follicular and luteal phases. BAT activity was analyzed using thermography with 2-h cold exposure. Plasma 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and FGF21 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A comparative analysis within individuals was conducted in 13 women to compare the follicular and luteal phases. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis was carried out in 21 women during the follicular phase only.

Results

Plasma 17β-estradiol and progesterone levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase, whereas plasma FGF21 level was significantly higher in the follicular phase. Comparison analysis found no significant differences in cold-induced BAT activity between the follicular and luteal phases in young women. Correlation analysis in both comparison and sensitivity analyses found that plasma 17β-estradiol and progesterone levels were not associated with BAT activity, whereas plasma FGF21 levels were significantly and positively correlated with BAT activity only in the follicular phase. In addition, plasma 17β-estradiol levels in the follicular phase were significantly and positively associated with plasma FGF21 levels in both the comparison and sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

The thermogenic activity of BAT during cold exposure was comparable between the follicular and luteal phases in young women. Higher BAT activity was associated with elevated levels of plasma FGF21 only in the follicular phase, which is related to increased plasma 17β-estradiol levels.
Ten-year trends of delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery (DSBCS) in Sweden: a register-based study
Authors: Viberg Andreas , Bro Tomas , Behndig Anders , Kugelberg Maria , Zetterberg Madeleine , Nilsson Ingela , Lundström Mats
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To study the trend of delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery (DSBCS) in Sweden in the past decade.

Methods

This register-based cohort study utilized data from the Swedish National Cataract Register (NCR) from 2010 through 2019. Register files from patients who underwent cataract surgery in both eyes during the study period were linked using their social security numbers. Bilateral surgeries on different days were classified as DSBCS. The study investigated the association between DSBCS within 3 months and several variables with stratification and multivariate logistic regression. The following variables were used: operation year, region, private or public unit, age, sex, indication for surgery, type of intraocular lens (IOL), preoperative visual acuity, ocular comorbidity, posterior capsule rupture and perioperative difficulties.

Results

During the study period, 368,106 patients underwent DSBCS, of which 62.6% (n = 230,331) had bilateral surgery within 3 months. The median time between the surgeries was 61 days (interquartile range 26–161 days), showing regional variations. Better visual acuity in the fellow eye, presence of ocular comorbidity, various perioperative events and complications were associated with longer time to surgery of the second eye. Conversely, cataract surgery in more recent years, private clinic, increasing age, anisometropia and multifocal IOL were associated with shorter timespan between surgeries.

Conclusions

The majority of DSBCS were conducted within a 3-month timeframe, with the interval between surgeries decreasing throughout the study period. Several rational factors were associated with the time difference, in addition to regional variations. Many patients would probably benefit from less time between the surgeries, and we encourage a clinical practice taking the whole patient’s visual function into account.
Identification of necroptosis genes and characterization of immune infiltration in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Zhang Huan , He Yongqiang , Zhao Yuqing , Axinbai Malina , Hu Yuwei , Liu Shilei , Kong Jingmin , Sun Jinhui , Zhang Liping
Published: October 2024

Background

The most common progressive form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is characterized by the development of cirrhosis, and requires liver transplantation. We screened for the differentially expressed necroptosis-related genes in NASH in this study, and analyzed immune infiltration through microarray and bioinformatics analysis to identify potential biomarkers, and explore the molecular mechanisms involved in NASH.

Methods

The GSE24807 microarray dataset of NASH patients and healthy controls was downloaded, and we identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Necroptosis-related differential genes (NRDEGs) were extracted from these DEGs, and functionally annotated by enrichment analyses. The core genes were obtained by constructing gene co-expression networks using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Finally, the transcription factor (TF) regulatory network and the mRNA-miRNA network were constructed, and the infiltrating immune cell populations were analyzed with CIBERSORT.

Results

We identified six necroptosis-related genes (CASP1, GLUL, PYCARD, IL33, SHARPIN, and IRF9), and they are potential diagnostic biomarkers for NASH. In particular, PYCARD is a potential biomarker for NAFLD progression. Analyses of immune infiltration showed that M2 macrophages, γδ T cells, and T follicular helper cells were associated with the immune microenvironment of NASH, which is possibly regulated by CASP1, IL33, and IRF9.

Conclusions

We identified six necroptosis-related genes in NASH, which are also potential diagnostic biomarkers. Our study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms and immune microenvironment of NASH.
Prevalence, rate, and predictors of virologic failure among adult HIV-Infected clients on second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Tanzania (2018–2020): a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mwavika Ester Timothy , Kunambi Peter Ponsian , Masasi Samuel Joseph , Lema Nsiande , Kamori Doreen , Matee Mecky
Published: October 2024

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been proven to be highly effective in reducing the impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. However, as more people receive initial ART treatment, the risk of developing resistance and eventual treatment failure increases, leading to the need for second-line treatment regimens. Understanding the factors that contribute to virologic failure to second-line ART is crucial in preventing switching to the more expensive and toxic third-line regimens. This study provides information on the prevalence, rate, and predictors of virologic failure (VF) among clients on second-line ART in Tanzania.

Results

We followed 4718 clients for 15100 person-years (PY) of observations. Of them, 1402 (29.72%) experienced virologic failure at a rate of 92.85 per 1000 PY of observations (95% CI 88.11, 97.84). Factors that were associated with VF included: having a viral load count of ≥ 1000 copies/mL during first-line ART, with a hazard ratio (HR) 4.65 (95% CI 3.57, 6.07), using lopinavir (LPV/r) as a protease inhibitor during second-line ART (HR 4.20 (95% CI 3.12, 7.10), having a CD4 count < 200 cells/mm3 during second-line ART (HR 1.89 (95% CI 1.46, 2.44), and being on ART for 13–35 months (HR 8.22 (95% CI 2.21, 30.61). Paradoxically, having a CD4 count < 200 cells/mm3 during first-line ART treatment was associated with a reduced risk of virologic failure (HR 0.77 (95% CI 0.60, 0.99).

Conclusions

In Tanzania, approximately 30% of adult clients on second-line ART experience VF at a rate of 92.71 per 1000 person-years. This high virologic failure rate underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions, such as enhancing adherence support, optimizing drug regimens, and regular viral load monitoring. These interventions will reduce the need for switching to the more costly and toxic third-line ART therapy and are also crucial for achieving the UNAIDS goal of 95% viral suppression among treated individuals by 2030.
Measurement of validity and reliability of Bengali-translated Incontinence Severity Index questionnaire
Authors: Nipa Shamima Islam , Sriboonreung Thanyaluck , Paungmali Aatit , Phongnarisorn Chailert
Published: October 2024

Objective

The purpose of the study was to verify the psychometric properties of the Bengali-translated Incontinence Severity Index (ISI) questionnaire.

Materials and methods

A test–retest data collection method was conducted with 47 respondents using the Bengali-translated ISI questionnaire.

Results

The mean age of the respondents was 41.4 years; standard deviation (S.D.) ± 9.90. Most of the women were suffering with moderate severity of urinary incontinence 48.9% (n = 23). The present study determined that Bengali-translated ISI questionnaire was valid and reliable. In addition, present study reflected on the content validity of the Bengali version of ISI questionnaire was 1 > 0.75; internal consistency α = 0.80 and intra-class correlation (ICC) = 0.86 respectively.

Conclusion

The Bengali version of ISI questionnaire is valid and reliable measurement tool to extent the severity of urinary incontinence in the cultural context of Bangladesh.
The impact of environmental factors on Egyptian children with delayed language development
Authors: Baz Hemmat , Hammad May Fathi , Zayed Ahmed Mohamed , Amer Ayman
Published: October 2024

Background

The current study was aimed at constructing a questionnaire for evaluating the role of variant environmental factors on language acquisition in the three surrounding levels of communication that include familial level, preschool or nursery level, and surrounding social environmental level among children with delayed language development (DLD) due to environmental deprivation. The current study was a retrospective case–control study that was performed on 100 Egyptian Arabic-speaking children aged from 2 to 5 years. The study was carried out among preschool age children in the Mansoura governmental and private preschools (53 males and 47 females). They were divided into 2 groups: Group I (case group) consisted of 50 children with DLD due to environmental deprivation, and group II (control group) consisted of 50 typically developed children.

Results

The present study demonstrated several factors for prediction of DLD due to environmental deprivation. Univariable analysis revealed multiple factors as number of hours that parents present at home, time of the mother’s job, the relation between the child and the mother, the parents select certain time to talk and play with their child, joint attention of the mother, mother asking her child what he wants, long time using multimedia, divorce as a traumatic stress, bad social performance, and low socioeconomic status. Multivariate analysis revealed that longer time of the mother’s job and less time the mother select to talk and play with her child were the environmental deprivation factors which had the most precipitating effect on predicting DLD.

Conclusions

The constructed Arabic questionnaire was proved to be valid, reliable, and homogenous and is likely to produce consistent responses in evaluating the variant environmental factors on language development among children with DLD due to environmental deprivation in the three surrounding communications levels.
The joint physics and data-driven geometrical factor of array laterolog in layered formations
Authors: Wang Lei , Han Yueyang , Li Zhiqiang , Hao Donghan , Deng Shaogui
Published: October 2024

Numerical geometrical factors (GFs) are developed for array laterolog measurements in 1D cylindrically and planarly layered formations. The kernel of GFs assumes that laterolog responses can be expressed in terms of the linear superposition of formation resistivities at different units. Two techniques, namely physics-driven modeling and data-driven approximation, have been used to ensure the computational accuracy and efficiency of GFs. Physics-driven modeling uses a 3D finite-element algorithm to generate high-precision and fully labeled GF data and library. Subsequently, these predetermined data are trained offline using classical neural network algorithms to establish an implicit relationship between the formation parameters and GFs. The joint physics and data-driven GFs present three main advantages. First, they enable the direct representation of the spatial sensitivity of layered formations laterally and horizontally in vertical and horizontal wells. Second, GFs can be used to calculate the array laterolog responses rapidly. The computation speed can be enhanced thousands of times in comparison with traditional physic-driven modeling, allowing for real-time data processing. Another noteworthy aspect is that GF forward modeling can handle formations with arbitrary layers, thereby resolving the fixed-layer modeling issue inherent in traditional data-driven methods. Third, the GFs can be used to approximate the derivative of the logging response with respect to formation resistivity, significantly reducing the complexity of the Jacobian matrix calculation for deterministic inversion. These numerical GFs not only serve as an excellent alternative simulator for the array laterolog but will also be helpful to accelerate the modeling and inversion of other logging measurements in layered structures.
The characteristics of volcanic lithofacies and volcanic reservoirs in the Permian Jiamuhe formation, Southern Zhongguai rise, Junggar Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Chen Hongfei , Pang Xiongqi , Bao Liyin , Gao Jun , He Naixiang
Published: October 2024

The southern Zhongguai Rise has gained wide attentions due to its commercial hydrocarbon discoveries from volcanic deposits in Jinlong Oilfield. An integrated analysis of geologic and geophysical data assists in determination and depiction of volcanic lithology and volcanic facie, characterization of volcanic reservoirs, and discussion of constrains on volcanic lithology and lithofacies. The conclusions suggest that two types of volcanic lithology, including volcaniclastic rocks and silicic molten lava, can be identified based on cores. In addition, two types of volcanic lithofacies can be delineated according to cores and wireline responses. Whereas explosive facies are mainly developed in the early depositional period, the effusive facies are developed through the depositional period. Furthermore, the reservoir space predominantly consists of pores and fractures according to thin sections. The physical property varies with time; that is, the porosity distribution varies slightly. In contrast, permeability distribution varies significantly. The volcanic reservoirs can be generally attributed to high-porosity and low-permeability reservoirs in volcaniclastic rocks or silicic molten lava. The volcanic lithofacies, facies distribution, diagenism, and paleogeomorphology exert controls on physical property and reservoir performance of volcanic reservoirs together.
An experimental study of the anisotropic and dispersion signature of shale reservoirs: Implications for seismic well tie
Authors: Long Teng , Chen Feng , Han De-hua , Sun Min , McNease Joseph D , Zheng Yingcai
Published: October 2024

To investigate velocity anisotropy and dispersion in lacustrine shales, we conducted laboratory measurements of acoustic properties at seismic frequencies (2–100 Hz) and ultrasonic frequencies (1 MHz) under varying effective pressures. Our study reveals significant transverse isotropy, accompanied by notable velocity dispersion and attenuation, with anisotropy coefficients ranging from 0.45 to 0.74 for P waves and 0.44 to 0.95 for S waves. Attenuation exhibited a weak dependence on frequency and pressure but showed a strong positive correlation with the clay content. We interpreted the data by integrating geologic and physical analyses. Using rock-physics modeling and the propagation matrix method, we found that velocity dispersion primarily caused a mismatch between seismic data and synthetic seismograms, whereas anisotropy had minimal impact on near-offset seismic data. Our findings suggest that anisotropy and dispersion observed at the core scale persist at the seismic scale. Incorporating these effects into seismic workflows is crucial for improving data processing, inversion, and reservoir characterization. This study provides valuable insights for exploration and production strategies in the study area and similar settings.
Approach to the Patient: Diagnosis and Treatment With Growth Hormone of Turner Syndrome and Its Variants
Authors: Zhou Zhibo , Qiang Jiaqi , Hao Na , Guo Xiaoyuan , Yao Fengxia , Yang Hongbo , Jiang Yulin , Zhu Huijuan , Chen Shi , Pan Hui
Published: October 2024

Context

Turner syndrome (TS) is characterized by a partial or complete absence of the second X chromosome in female individuals. Here, patients with Xp deletion involving SHOX haploinsufficiency caused by unbalanced X-autosome translocations were discussed and considered as TS variants.

Objective

This work aimed to expand the current knowledge of TS and unbalanced X-autosome translocations and to suggest the definition, clinical characteristics, diagnosis workflow, and growth hormone (GH) treatment strategy of TS and its variants.

Methods

A 9.0-year-old patient of TS variant with tall target height (+2.03 SD) but low height velocity (3.6 cm/y) and height (−1.33 SD) was evaluated as an example. Reports of patients similar to the index patient were systematically searched for in MEDLINE and EMBASE and summarized. A diagnosis workflow and scores for risk assessment of GH treatment (RiGHT scores) for TS variants were also proposed in this study.

Results

According to the diagnosis workflow, the girl's karyotype was confirmed as 46,X,der(X)t(X;7)(p11.3; p14.1), and was evaluated as low risk using RiGHT scores. After 2-year GH treatment, she had a significantly increased height (−0.94 SD). Additionally, a total of 13 patients from 10 studies were summarized, characterized as short stature, growth retardation, craniofacial abnormalities, disorders of intellectual development, and psychomotor delays. Risk assessment of GH treatment using RiGHT scores was also applied in these 13 patients.

Conclusion

The patients with Xp deletion caused by unbalanced X-autosome translocations should be considered as TS variants. The diagnosis workflow and RiGHT scores is a useful approach for clinicians in addressing complex cases of TS variants with GH treatment in clinical practice.
Activation of the heat shock response as a therapeutic strategy for tau toxicity
Authors: Stanley Taylor R. , Otero Elizabeth M. , Knight Amy L. , Saxton Aleen D. , Ding Xinxing , Borgen Melissa , Kraemer Brian C. , Kim Guisbert Karen S. , Guisbert Eric
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer's disease is associated with the misfolding and aggregation of two distinct proteins, beta-amyloid and tau. Previously, it has been shown that activation of the cytoprotective heat shock response (HSR) pathway reduces beta-amyloid toxicity. Here, we show that activation of the HSR is also protective against tau toxicity in a cell-autonomous manner. Overexpression of HSF-1, the master regulator of the HSR, ameliorates the motility defect and increases the lifespan of transgenic C. elegans expressing human tau. By contrast, RNA interference of HSF-1 exacerbates the motility defect and shortens lifespan. Targeting regulators of the HSR also affects tau toxicity. Additionally, two small-molecule activators of the HSR, Geranylgeranylacetone (GGA) and Arimoclomol (AC), have substantial beneficial effects. Taken together, this research expands the therapeutic potential of HSR manipulation to tauopathies and reveals that the HSR can impact both beta-amyloid and tau proteotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease.
A Drosophila model for mechanistic investigation of tau protein spread
Authors: Bankapalli Kondalarao , Thomas Ruth E. , Vincow Evelyn S. , Milstein Gillian , Fisher Laura V. , Pallanck Leo J.
Published: October 2024

Brain protein aggregates are a hallmark of neurodegenerative disease. Previous work indicates that specific protein components of these aggregates are toxic, including tau (encoded by MAPT) in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. Increasing evidence also indicates that these toxic proteins traffic between cells in a prion-like fashion, thereby spreading pathology from one brain region to another. However, the mechanisms involved in trafficking are poorly understood. We therefore developed a transgenic Drosophila model to facilitate rapid evaluation of candidate tau trafficking modifiers. Our model uses the bipartite Q system to drive co-expression of tau and GFP in the fly eye. We found age-dependent spread of tau into the brain, represented by detection of tau, but not of GFP. We also found that tau trafficking was attenuated upon inhibition of the endocytic factor dynamin (encoded by shi) or knockdown of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β, encoded by sgg). Further work revealed that dynamin promoted tau uptake in recipient tissues, whereas GSK-3β appeared to promote tau spread via direct phosphorylation of tau. Our robust and flexible system will promote the identification of tau-trafficking components involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.
A fome é amarela
Authors: Costa Adriane Paula , Souza Cristiane Castro Carvalho de , Angrisano Luciana , Faria Patrícia Alves de , Lima Polyana Rodrigues de Almeida , Pitts Priscilla Farias
Published: October 2024

Este caso de ensino aborda o retorno da fome e da insegurança alimentar (IA) no Brasil, após o país ter deixado o Mapa da Fome da ONU em 2014. Os personagens principais são Maria Silva, sua filha, seu filho e seu pai, moradores da Vila Estrutural, Brasília (DF). A família está em situação de insegurança alimentar grave e, ao conversar com Betinho, busca compreender como o Brasil voltou a ser assolado pela fome. A descontinuidade e o enfraquecimento de várias políticas públicas, o encerramento do Conselho Nacional de Segurança Alimentar (Consea), em 2019, e a grave crise causada pela COVID-19 são alguns pontos que se entrelaçam na análise do retorno da fome. Somam-se a esses fatores a negação por parte de burocratas e políticos acerca do problema, o paradoxo de o Brasil ser um grande produtor agrícola e os números elevados do desperdício de alimentos. Busca-se debater o papel das funções estatais e da burocracia brasileira nas políticas públicas de combate à fome.
Matrix-based modeling for multi-objective resource management optimization in construction infrastructure and transport operations
Authors: Φαρμάκης Παναγιώτης
Published: October 2024

Η παρούσα Διδακτορική Διατριβή παρουσιάζει μια ολιστική μεθοδολογία για την αποδοτική επίλυση προβλημάτων πολυκριτηριακής βελτιστοποίησης στον τομέα της διαχείρισης τεχνικών και συγκοινωνιακών υποδομών της επιστήμης του Πολιτικού Μηχανικού. Ειδικότερα, μοντελοποιούνται κατάλληλα τόσο παράμετροι λήψης απόφασης (προτεραιότητα στην εξυπηρέτηση, μονοσήμαντη αντιστοίχιση, εναλλακτικές επιλογές κλπ) όσο και προτιμήσεις ή περιορισμοί που απορρέουν από τις φυσικές και επιχειρησιακές ανάγκες του εκάστοτε προβλήματος. Παράλληλα η Μητρωική Άλγεβρα χρησιμοποιείται για την δόμηση της αντικειμενικής συνάρτησης ώστε να αξιολογηθεί το πόσο κοντά είναι μια υποψήφια λύση στην επίτευξη των στόχων της διαχείρισης, ενώ οι γενετικοί αλγόριθμοι επιλέχτηκαν για την επίλυση καθώς αποτελούν ένα ισχυρό εργαλείο βελτιστοποίησης ικανό να παρέχει γρήγορα και αξιόπιστα αποδοτικές λύσεις. Επιπλέον, η αναπτύχθηκε μια χωρική προσέγγιση βασισμένη στην υλοποίηση του Αλγορίθμου Ray Casting για την αποτελεσματική εξερεύνηση οποιουδήποτε χώρου για προβλήματα όπου η βέλτιστη χωροθέτηση εγκαταστάσεων ή υποδομών είναι το κύριο ζητούμενο. Οι μεθοδολογίες που αναπτύχθηκαν στο πλαίσιο της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής, με μικρές διαφοροποιήσεις προσαρμοσμένες στις ιδιαιτερότητες του κάθε προβλήματος, εφαρμόζονται σε τρία από τα πιο κρίσιμα προβλήματα της διαχείρισης τεχνικών έργων και συγκοινωνιακών υποδομών, τα οποία είναι η χωροθέτηση των εργοταξιακών εγκαταστάσεων (Construction Site Layout Planning, CSLP) υπό συνθήκες στενότητας χώρου ή μη, η μοντελοποίηση δικτύου κόμβων και ακτινωτών συνδέσεων (Hub and Spoke, H&S) επικεντρωμένο στις θαλάσσιες μεταφορές μικρών αποστάσεων (Short Sea Shipping transportation), καθώς και η διαχείριση της εφοδιαστικής αλυσίδας σε επιχειρησιακό επίπεδο, με τη λειτουργία κέντρων διανομής τύπου cross-docking συμπεριλαμβανομένου και του σχεδιασμού της δρομολόγησης στόλου (Cross Docking with Vehicle Route Planning, CDVRP). Τα αποτελέσματα από όλες τις μελέτες περίπτωσης και τα επιχειρησιακά σενάρια που εξετάστηκαν επικυρώνουν την ευρωστία των μοντέλων στην παροχή αποδεκτών (σχεδόν βέλτιστων) λύσεων όσον αφορά τόσο την ποιότητα της λύσης (αντικατοπτρίζοντας τους στόχους βελτιστοποίησης ικανοποιώντας παράλληλα τους περιορισμούς/προτιμήσεις που έχουν τεθεί) όσο και την υπολογιστική αποδοτικότητα (αποδεκτός χρόνος εκτέλεσης), παρέχοντας έτσι ένα χρήσιμο εργαλείο για καλά ενημερωμένη υποστήριξη αποφάσεων στη διαχείριση τεχνικών και συγκοινωνιακών υποδομών.
Reduction of chickens use to perform in vitro pre-screening of novel anticoccidials by miniaturisation and increased throughput of the current Eimeria tenella compound-screening model
Authors: Arias-Maroto Sara , Aguiar-Martins Kelsilandia , Regidor-Cerrillo Javier , Ortega-Mora Luis , Marugan-Hernandez Virginia
Published: October 2024

We have developed an in vitro model for the evaluation of potential anticoccidial properties of novel compounds aimed to control chicken coccidiosis, a costly disease for the poultry industry. This disease is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria (Apicomplexa), and it is mainly controlled by chemoprophylaxis with ionophores and chemical anticoccidials; however, there is an overall agreement about the limitation of these traditional drugs and the need to improve current methods of control. Anticoccidial activities of novel compounds is currently evaluated by expensive experiments that involve large numbers of chickens. The use of our in vitro model for the pre-screening of essential oils led to a reduction of 67% of the chickens used in the in vivo trials for validation. Eimeria parasites can only complete their life cycle in their animal host, therefore chickens are required for their propagation as they cannot be propagated in vitro. In this study, we describe how further optimisation of this in vitro model by miniaturisation can have an additional impact in reduction of the number of chickens used for the generation of parasite stocks for provision of the in vitro model. We have estimated that the use of one chicken could support the evaluation of 10 compounds with a 96-well plate format versus only two compounds with a 24-well plate format, which means an 80% reduction in chicken use. In this study we have proved that the miniaturisation into a 96-well plate format perfectly mimics the invasion and replication observed before in the 24-well plate format. In addition, the 96-well plate format has allowed the simultaneous pre-screening of higher numbers of anticoccidial drugs at different concentrations following streamlined protocols in a more cost-effective way, factors that are beneficial for a wider uptake of the model by other researchers investigating anticoccidial compounds.
Psychological factors and diabetic foot ulceration: a scoping review of the bi-directional relationship between diabetic foot ulcer healing and mental health factors
Authors: Hanlon Michelle , McGuire Brian , C MacGilchrist , Dunne Rosie , Kirwan Ellen , Ní Neachtain Deirdre , Dhatariya Ketan , Blanchette Virginie , Durand Hannah , Dragomir Anda , C McIntosh
Published: October 2024

Introduction Diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) is a major complication of diabetes and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Psychological factors are believed to play a role in wound healing, but it remains uncertain if psychological interventions can help individuals with an active DFU, or a history of DFUs, to achieve complete or improved wound healing or prevent recurrence. Objective The objective of the proposed scoping review is to investigate the emotional consequences/burden of living with DFU and to examine how psychosocial factors may impact progression and management of ulcerations. Methods This review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) will guide the reporting of results. Discussion While factors such as stress, depression, social support, and adherence to treatment have been identified as variables that may negatively affect DFU healing, there is a need for a greater understanding of how psychological and behavioural variables such as these may influence ulcer incidence, healing and recurrence in people with diabetes. This review will comprise of a broad and systematically mapped synthesis of the identified data. Findings will be used to provide a better understanding of the bi-directional relationship between DFU and psychological variables and will provide direction for the development or adaptation of a tailored psychological intervention that will aim to optimise wellbeing and improve outcomes for individuals with DFU.
Bearing witness: Medical education and reflecting on the Holocaust then and now
Authors: Caleb Amanda M. , Schmude Michelle
Published: October 2024

Background Despite advocacy from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and The Lancet Commission on medicine, Nazism, and the Holocaust, Holocaust education is lacking in medical education. To address this gap, students at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM) viewed an Association of American Medical College (AAMC) webinar about medicine during the Holocaust as part of the required curriculum for first year medical students introduced in 2022. Methods As part of their doctoring course, Physician and Patient Centered Care (PPCC), students viewed the AAMC webinar “The legacy of the role of medicine during the Holocaust and its contemporary relevance” and participated in two structured reflections: a written reflection on how webinar topics inform students' professional development and a verbal reflection on learning from the Holocaust to develop a sense of moral courage, advocacy, and activism in medicine. Researchers conducted qualitative analysis of written reflections and analyzed session surveys to determine key themes and impact of the session. Results Of the 108 enrolled in PPCC, 59 (54.6%) completed a post session Likert scale survey assessing the impact of the webinar on their personal and professional development. As an average, respondents moderately agreed that the webinar impacted their personal and professional development, with 91% slightly, moderately, or strongly agreeing. Additionally, thematic analysis of required written reflections indicated a majority of students (62.5%) identified the need for additional medical humanities education about the Holocaust and its relevance to medicine. Conclusion Holocaust education encourages medical students to bear witness to past medical atrocities and critically assess the profession and their personal–professional growth. Continued structured integration of the Holocaust in medical education supports critical self-reflection and the development of morally courageous physicians who endorse and practice social accountability in medicine.
Computer Simulation and Simulation of Mechanical and Electrical Equipment based on Artificial Intelligence Algorithms
Authors: Zhang Ying
Published: October 2024

The computer in mechanical and electrical equipment can now detect equipment faults through simulation thanks to the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which makes it convenient to monitor mechanical and electrical equipment. This paper begins with a quick introduction to Agent and the Agent system, explains how Agent is applied in the current context, then analyzes the hierarchical fault diagnostic model, identifies its flaws, and suggests improvement techniques. To increase the model’s accuracy and speed of operation, the contract net model and D-S (Dempster-Shafer) evidence theory are then incorporated. Finally, simulation experiments are used to confirm the accuracy and consistency of this model. According to the experimental findings, this optimization model runs at a pace that is noticeably faster than that of other models when subjected to the same workload, demonstrating the model’s efficacy. Models 1, 2, and 3 are put side by side to demonstrate how clearly multi-task processing may cut down on the model’s running time. In the second experiment, samples of mechanical and electrical equipment defect data are taken from two groups. The results of the comparative experiments demonstrate that the optimized model in this work can be reliable up to a maximum of 0.91 and a minimum of 0.63. It is demonstrated that the model in this work is rational by the fact that among the four types of fault prediction, the optimized model’s reliability is significantly greater than the traditional model’s. The research described in this publication therefore has some reference value for computer simulation of electromechanical equipment.
Network Data Intrusion Detection and Data Feature Extraction of Electromechanical Facilities from Machine Learning
Authors: Xu Ting , Wang Lijun , Hu Yanhong , Tong Xuming
Published: October 2024

With the rapid development of Internet technology, network security issues have become more complex and changeable. Various intrusion methods threaten the information network environment in the Electromechanical Facility (EF) system. This paper focuses on EF to study the relevant detection methods and data feature extraction in complex network intrusions. Firstly, four common machine learning algorithms are used to calculate the data set. The advantages and disadvantages of each algorithm are analyzed after tuning and comparison. Secondly, a network intrusion detection algorithm is proposed based on Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) principal component analysis. It uses RFE to reduce the number of features and improve the elimination judgment index to align with the detection requirements of information network datasets. Finally, a fault diagnosis method is proposed based on empirical pattern decomposition and support vector machine under Renyi entropy complexity measurement. This method trains and identifies the Renyi entropy of several basic pattern components obtained by decomposing empirical patterns as feature vectors. The results show that the RFE method judged by random forest removes irrelevant features, and the evaluation index is improved to align with the network dataset’s detection requirements. It reduces the data dimension, reduces the operation time, and improves the accuracy of a few attack types. The comprehensive final detection effect is better than other algorithms. Additionally, the embedded operating system construction method based on the protection mechanism realizes the separate storage of the operating system and key data. Also, it can prevent the network system from being maliciously invaded, ensuring the stability of the instrument operation under harsh working conditions.
An Improved Hyper Spectral Imaging for Accurate Disease Diagnosis in Sustainable Medical Environments
Authors: Cho Ok Hue
Published: October 2024

Hyper spectral imaging (HSI) has emerged as a powerful technique for accurate disease diagnosis in medical environments. It provides high-resolution images with detailed spectral information, making it possible to identify subtle differences between healthy and diseased tissues. However, current HSI systems face challenges in terms of accuracy and efficiency, limiting their widespread application in sustainable medical environments. To overcome these challenges, our team has developed an improved HSI system that utilizes state-of-the-art spectral imaging technology and machine learning algorithms. This system is capable of capturing and analyzing a wider range of spectral data, enabling more precise identification of disease-specific spectral signatures. Furthermore, our system has been optimized to operate with minimal power consumption, making it environmentally friendly and suitable for sustainable medical environments. The improved HSI system has been successfully tested in clinical settings and has shown promising results in accurately diagnosing various diseases such as cancer, dermatitis, and cardiovascular conditions. Its high accuracy and fast processing time make it a valuable tool for early disease detection and treatment planning. Moreover, the ability to operate with low energy consumption makes it a sustainable solution for medical facilities in resourcelimited areas. In addition to its accuracy and efficiency, our improved HSI system is also user-friendly and can be easily integrated into existing medical imaging systems.
Deep Learning-based Emotion Recognition Algorithms in Music Performance
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Muquan , Pan Shuang
Published: October 2024

In the realm of artificial intelligence and musicology, emotion recognition in music performance has emerged as a pivotal area of research. This paper introduces EmoTrackNet, an integrated deep learning framework that combines sparse attention networks, enhanced one-dimensional residual Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with an improved Inception module, and Gate Recurrent Units (GRUs). The synergy of these technologies aims to decode complex emotional cues embedded in music. Our methodology revolves around leveraging the sparse attention network to efficiently process temporal sequences, thereby capturing the intricate dynamics of musical pieces. The incorporation of the 1D residual CNN with an upgraded Inception module facilitates the extraction of nuanced features from audio signals, encompassing a broad spectrum of musical tones and textures. The GRU component further refines the model’s capability to retain and process sequential information over longer timeframes, essential for understanding evolving emotional expressions in music. We evaluated EmoTrackNet on the Soundtrack dataset a comprehensive collection of music pieces annotated with emotional labels. The results demonstrated remarkable improvements in the accuracy of emotion recognition, outperforming existing models. This enhanced performance can be attributed to the integrated approach, which efficiently combines the strengths of each component, leading to a more robust and sensitive emotion detection system. EmoTrackNet’s novel architecture and promising results pave the way for new avenues in musicology, particularly in understanding and interpreting the emotional depth of musical performances. This framework not only contributes significantly to the field of music emotion recognition but also has potential applications in music therapy, entertainment, and interactive media where emotional engagement is key.
Digital Protection and Inheritance Path of Intangible Cultural Heritage based on Image Processing Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Jingxuan
Published: October 2024

This research paper introduces a novel approach in the realm of digital preservation and inheritance of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) through a Customized 3D Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). The core of this study lies in the development of an advanced image processing algorithm tailored to accurately recognize, categorize, and archive diverse forms of ICH, which include traditional performances, ceremonies, oral traditions, and crafts. Utilizing a volumetric 3D CNN, this paper demonstrates how complex ICH elements can be effectively captured and analyzed, overcoming the limitations of traditional 2D image processing methods. The network is trained on a comprehensive dataset of ICH imagery, ensuring sensitivity to the subtle nuances and dynamic nature of these cultural expressions. This paper highlights the algorithm’s capability in not only safeguarding the visual aspects of ICH but also in providing an interactive, digital medium for education and cultural dissemination. The proposed method shows significant promise in aiding the efforts of cultural preservationists and educators, offering a technologically advanced pathway for the protection and inheritance of the world’s rich, yet vulnerable, cultural heritage. This study sets a precedent in the interdisciplinary field of cultural heritage conservation, digital technology, and artificial intelligence, providing a scalable and effective solution for global ICH preservation initiatives.
Federated Diverse Self-ensembling Learning Approach for Data Heterogenity in Drive Vision
Authors: Manimaran M , Dhilipkumar V
Published: October 2024

Federated learning (FL) has developed as an efficient framework that can be used to train models across isolated data sources while also protecting the privacy of the data. In FL a common method is to construct local and global models together, with the global model (server) informing the local models and the local models (clients) updating the global model. Most present works assume clients have labeled datasets and the server has no data for supervised learning (SL) problems. In reality, clients lack the competence and drive to identify their data, while the server may host a tiny amount. How to reasonably use serverlabeled and client-unlabeled data is crucial in semi-supervised learning (SSL) and Cclientdata heterogeneity is widespread in FL. However, inadequate high-quality labels and non-IID client data, especially in autonomous driving, decrease model performance across domains and interact negatively. To solve this Semi-Supervised Federated Learning (SSFL) problem, we come up with a new FL algorithm called FedDSL in this work. We use self-ensemble learning and complementary negative learning in our method to make clients’ unsupervised learning on unlabeled data more accurate and efficient. It also coordinates the model training on both the server side and the clients’ side. In an important distinction to earlier research that kept some subset of labels at each client, our method is the first to implement SSFL for clients with 0% labeled non-IID data. Our contributions include the effectiveness of self-ensemble learning by using confidence score vector for calculating only for the current model performing data filtering and initiated negative learning by showing the data filtering performance in the beginning rounds. Our approach has been rigorously validated on two significant autonomous driving datasets, BDD100K and Cityscapes, proving to be highly effective. We have achieved state-of-the-art results and the metric that is utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of each detection task is mean average precision (mAP@0.5). Astonishingly FedDSL performs nearly as well as fully-supervised centralized training approaches, despite the fact that it only uses 25% of the labels in the Global model.