bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on hospitalizations of children with neurologic impairment
Authors: Thomson Joanna , Richardson Troy , Auger Katherine A. , Brady Patrick W. , Hall Matt , Hartley David , Schondelmeyer Amanda C. , Shah Samir S.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Children with neurologic impairment (NI) are frequently hospitalized for infectious and noninfectious illnesses. The early period of the COVID‐19 pandemic was associated with overall lower pediatric hospitalization rates, particularly for respiratory infections, but the effect on utilization for children with NI is unknown.

Method

This multicenter retrospective cohort study included hospitalizations of children 1–18 years of age with NI diagnosis codes from 49 children's hospitals. We calculated the percent change in the median weekly hospitalization volumes and the hospitalization resource intensity score (H‐RISK), comparing the early‐COVID era (March 15, 2020 to December 31, 2020) with the pre‐COVID era (same timeframe of 2017–2019). Percent change was calculated over the entire study period as well as within three seasonal time periods (spring, summer, and fall/winter). Differences between infectious and noninfectious admission diagnoses were also examined.

Results

Compared with the pre‐COVID era, there was a 14.4% decrease (interquartile range [IQR]: −33.8, −11.7) in the weekly median number of hospitalizations in the early‐COVID era; the weekly median H‐RISK score was 11.7% greater (IQR: 8.9, 14.9). Hospitalizations decreased for both noninfectious (−11.6%, IQR: −30.0, −8.0) and infectious (−35.5%, IQR: −51.1, −31.3) illnesses in the early‐COVID era. This decrease was the largest in spring 2020 and continued throughout 2020.

Conclusions

For children with NI, there was a substantial and significant decrease in hospitalizations for infectious and noninfectious diagnoses but an increase in illness severity during the early‐COVID era compared with the pre‐COVID era. Our data suggest a need to reconsider current thresholds for hospitalization and identify opportunities to support and guide families through certain illnesses without hospitalization.
Service delivery challenges in HIV care during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic: results from a site assessment survey across the global IeDEA consortium
Authors: Brazier Ellen , Ajeh Rogers , Maruri Fernanda , Musick Beverly , Freeman Aimee , Wester C. William , Lee Man‐Po , Shamu Tinei , Crabtree Ramírez Brenda , d'Almeida Marcelline , Wools‐Kaloustian Kara , Kumarasamy N. , Althoff Keri N. , Twizere Christella , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Tanser Frank , Messou Eugène , Byakwaga Helen , Duda Stephany N. , Nash Denis ,   the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Interruptions in treatment pose risks for people with HIV (PWH) and threaten progress in ending the HIV epidemic; however, the COVID‐19 pandemic's impact on HIV service delivery across diverse settings is not broadly documented.

Methods

From September 2020 to March 2021, the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) research consortium surveyed 238 HIV care sites across seven geographic regions to document constraints in HIV service delivery during the first year of the pandemic and strategies for ensuring care continuity for PWH. Descriptive statistics were stratified by national HIV prevalence (<1%, 1–4.9% and ≥5%) and country income levels.

Results

Questions about pandemic‐related consequences for HIV care were completed by 225 (95%) sites in 42 countries with low (n= 82), medium (n= 86) and high (n= 57) HIV prevalence, including low‐ (n= 57), lower‐middle (n= 79), upper‐middle (n= 39) and high‐ (n= 50) income countries. Most sites reported being subject to pandemic‐related restrictions on travel, service provision or other operations (75%), and experiencing negative impacts (76%) on clinic operations, including decreased hours/days, reduced provider availability, clinic reconfiguration for COVID‐19 services, record‐keeping interruptions and suspension of partner support. Almost all sites in low‐prevalence and high‐income countries reported increased use of telemedicine (85% and 100%, respectively), compared with less than half of sites in high‐prevalence and lower‐income settings. Few sites in high‐prevalence settings (2%) reported suspending antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic services, and many reported adopting mitigation strategies to support adherence, including multi‐month dispensing of ART (95%) and designating community ART pick‐up points (44%). While few sites (5%) reported stockouts of first‐line ART regimens, 10–11% reported stockouts of second‐ and third‐line regimens, respectively, primarily in high‐prevalence and lower‐income settings. Interruptions in HIV viral load (VL) testing included suspension of testing (22%), longer turnaround times (41%) and supply/reagent stockouts (22%), but did not differ across settings.

Conclusions

While many sites in high HIV prevalence settings and lower‐income countries reported introducing or expanding measures to support treatment adherence and continuity of care, the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in disruptions to VL testing and ART supply chains that may negatively affect the quality of HIV care in these settings.
Cardiovascular risk factors among patients with acute unilateral inner ear hypofunction: A case–control study
Authors: Simões João Filipe Carvalho Pereira Mano , Vlaminck Stephan , Seiça Raquel , Acke Frederic , Miguéis António
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) and their impact on acute unilateral inner ear hypofunction (AUIEH), including acute unilateral peripheral vestibulopathy (AUPVP), sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) and acute unilateral audiovestibular hypofunction (AUAVH).

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐five patients consecutively diagnosed with AUPVP, SSNHL or AUAVH and 250 sex‐ and age‐matched controls were included. Cases presented a mean age of 58.6 ± 14.7 years and included 59 women and 66 men. The correlation between CVRFs (high blood pressure [HBP], diabetes mellitus [DM], dyslipidemia [DLP], cardiocerebrovascular disease [CCVD]) and AUIEH was assessed by multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis.

Results

A higher prevalence of CVRFs was identified in patients than in controls (30 individuals with DM, 53 with HBP, 45 with DLP and 14 with a previous history of CCVD, p < .05). A significantly elevated risk of AUIEH was found in patients with two or more CVRFs (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 5.11; 95% CI 2.23–11.70). Previous CCVD individually predicted AUIEH (OR 8.41; 95% CI 2.36–29.88). Subgroup analysis showed the same tendency for AUPVP and SSNHL.

Conclusion

Acute unilateral inner ear hypofunction patients presented significantly more CVRFs than controls, and the presence of two or more CVRFs was associated with AUIEH. Future studies evaluating vascular risk in AUIEH may include AUPVP and SSNHL patients from the same source population to better characterize risk profiles that can indicate a vascular origin.

Level of Evidence

3b
The Genetic Testing Experience of Individuals with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Richards Sydney , Mu Weiyi , Nusbaum Rachel , Lincoln Katherine , Solimine Julie
Published: December 2022

Background

The perspective and experiences of individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) regarding genetic testing is limited.

Objectives

To determine if anticipated benefits and negative consequences of genetic testing noted in prior studies have occurred in a surveyed group of patients with PD and to identify reasons why some individuals with PD have not had testing.

Methods

Individuals were surveyed from 22 support/advocacy groups throughout the US. Information about patient demographics and genetic testing were assessed, along with the consequences experienced after testing or anticipated by those who have not had testing. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient, ANOVA, and independent sample t‐test were utilized for data analysis.

Results

Of the genetic testing group (n = 78), most received testing through a research study (44.9%) or a Direct‐to‐Consumer company (46.2%). Most did not meet with a genetic counselor before (87.2%) or after testing (64.1%). Fewer positive and fewer negative consequences were reported after testing compared to the consequences anticipated by those who have not undergone testing (P < 0.001, all comparisons). Of the non‐genetic testing group (n = 166), 49.4% did not undergo testing because they were not aware it was available and 38.0% because their doctor did not offer it.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate the need for providers to have genetic testing discussions with PD patients, who may otherwise seek testing via Direct‐to‐Consumer companies or be unaware it is available. Collaborations with genetic counselors trained in providing anticipatory guidance may assist patients in forming more realistic expectations regarding the consequences experienced after genetic testing for PD.
The existence and averaging principle for stochastic fractional differential equations with impulses
Authors: Zou Jing , Luo Danfeng , Li Mengmeng
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a class of fractional stochastic differential equations (SFDEs) with impulses is considered. By virtue of Mönch's fixed point theorem and Banach contraction principle, we explore the existence and uniqueness of solutions to the addressed system. Furthermore, with the aid of the Jensen inequality, Hölder inequality, Burkholder–Davis–Gundy inequality, Grönwall–Bellman inequality, and some novel assumptions, the averaging principle of our considered system is obtained. At the end of this paper, an example is provided to illustrate the theoretical results.
Investigation of the properties and aging mechanisms of vulcanized hydrogenated nitrile rubber in different mediums
Authors: Li Shikun , Zhou Haiyue , Zheng Fangyuan , Du Zhengpeng , Cai Rongqiang , Li Daozhuang , Zhang Zeng , Wang Hongzhen , Li Zaifeng
Published: December 2022

Packer rubber cylinders in oil drilling operations must withstand high pressure, high temperature, and destruction of mediums. To ensure the long‐term service time of the hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR) packer rubber cylinders, it is essential to understand the aging mechanism of HNBR in different aging environments. Four HNBR with various acrylonitrile contents (ACN 17%, 21%, 34%, and 43%) were prepared in this work, and effect of CN content on the mechanical properties, aging resistance, and dynamic mechanical properties of HNBR were investigated respectively. It was observed that the higher the CN content, the stronger the mechanical properties of the HNBR, and the mechanical properties of HNBR with high CN content decayed rapidly at high temperatures. According to the thermo‐oxidative aging data, the cross‐linking reactions were investigated during the thermo‐oxidative aging of HNBR, leading to a decrease in the properties of HNBR. In a high temperature (180°C) aqueous medium, the chemical structure of HNBR underwent dramatic changes. The CN group is converted to CONH2 and COO− group, and the resulting COO− reacted further with CONH2 in deionized water and with metal ions (Ca2+ or Mg2+) in mineralized and oily water to form cross‐linking network, and the possible aging mechanisms of HNBR in different mediums were given.
A study of the fracture mechanisms of hybrid carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates reinforced by thin‐ply
Authors: Ramezani Farin , Carbas Ricardo J. C. , Marques Eduardo A. S. , Ferreira Antonio M. , da Silva Lucas F. M.
Published: December 2022

The main stress component which creates delamination in bonded single lap joints with composite adherends is the transverse tensile stress. Therefore, the following study investigates the behavior of composite laminates (reference and hybrid laminates reinforced by thin‐ply) under transverse tensile loading. Texipreg HS 160T700 and NTPT‐TP415 were used as the conventional carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) and thin‐ply respectively. Hybrid composite laminates were studied using different amounts of thin‐ply, applied through the thickness. The manufactured laminates, of unidirectionally stacked construction, were tested under transverse tensile loading. Digital image correlation was performed to investigate the average peel strain distribution for the composite and to better understand the phenomena associated to the use of hybrid laminates. Experimental results show that the reinforced hybrid composite laminates, created using thin‐plies, present higher failure load compared to the reference conventional CFRP or thin‐ply laminates. This was found to be due to the higher ductility enabled by the presence of thin‐plies. Distributing a constant amount of thin‐ply through the thickness was found to increase the laminate transverse strength, as the thin‐ply laminates act as a barrier against crack propagation. A representative volume element was studied for each configuration since this numerical method brings the opportunity to investigate the studied configurations in microscale.
Dynamic tracing of fecal bacteria processes from a river basin to an estuary using a 2D/3D model
Authors: Huang Guoxian , Falconer Roger , Lin Binliang , Xu Chenghui
Published: December 2022

In this study fecal bacteria processes have been investigated using the EFDC 2D/3D model, based on local refinements using an orthogonal curvilinear grid system and with the model being applied to Ribble river basin, through the estuary, and into the Fylde Coast. The input fluxes from numerous minor rivers and streams within the basin were solved using a grid‐based distributed hydrological model (GDHM) and a river network 1D model (RNM1D), developed by the authors. The detailed measured hydrodynamic data, included tide levels and nearshore ADCP 3D velocity field data at four sites and with data being recorded over a 2‐week period. During this period continuous monitoring using four types of tracers was also undertaken across the Ribble basin, which included sampling for E. coli (EC) and Intestinal Enterococci (IE) parameters. Monitoring devices, in the form of buoys, were also used and moved with currents, driven by upstream discharges, tides, waves and wind. The results showed: (i) the grid system gave a detailed topographical representation of the transition zones from the river system to the estuary and coast, with the hydrodynamic and related solute transport processes being well represented; and (ii) the model predicted results fit generally well with the water stage, 3D flow velocity profiles (with some errors in the bottom and surface layers), and E. coli concentrations. The tracer paths from the injection sites were simulated using a Lagrangian particle tracking method, which showed that the tracer from the north bank outfalls and the Ribble river could propagate to the highly popular bathing beaches at Blackpool, particularly under the action of South Westerly winds. More detailed solutions and refinements (e.g., wave driven by the wind and density flows caused by different salinities, temperatures, and suspended sediment concentrations) need to be considered in the next stage of this study.
Chemistry of Quinoline Based Heterocycle Scaffolds: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Rajni  , Versha  , Singh Lakhwinder , Rana Ravi , Bendi Anjaneyulu
Published: December 2022

Quinoline is a significant scaffold among heterocyclic compounds and can be used as a key building block for the development of novel medications. Quinoline and its derivatives are recognised as biologically active substances with a number of pharmacological properties. Nowadays, quinoline‐ based heterocycle scaffolds have achieved a prominent position in medicinal chemistry due to their significant pharmacological and biological properties. The discovery and creation of cutting‐edge medications to treat a variety of diseases is an example of the usefulness of these compounds. The current study outlines the range of methods available to create different quinolone‐based heterocycle scaffolds and their advantageous therapeutic applications using the literature that has been published up to 2022.
Highly Luminescent Earth‐Benign Organometallic Manganese Halide Crystals with Ultrahigh Thermal Stability of Emission from 4 to 623 K
Authors: Tan Guang‐Hsun , Chen Yu‐Neng , Chuang Yung‐Tang , Lin Hao‐Cheng , Hsieh Chung‐An , Chen Yi‐Sheng , Lee Tzu‐Yi , Miao Wen‐Chien , Kuo Hao‐Chung , Chen Li‐Yin , Wong Ken‐Tsung , Lin Hao‐Wu
Published: December 2022

The phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diode (PC‐LED) has become an indispensable solid‐state lighting and display technologies in the modern society. Nevertheless, the use of scarce rare‐earth elements and the thermal quenching (TQ) behavior are still two most crucial issues yet to be solved. Here, this work successfully demonstrates a highly efficient and thermally stable green emissive MnI2(XanPO) crystals showing a notable photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 94% and a super TQ resistance from 4 to 623 K. This unprecedented superior thermal stability is attributed to the low electron–phonon coupling and the unique rigid crystal structure of MnI2(XanPO) over the whole temperature range based on the temperature‐dependent photoluminescence (PL) and single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) analyses. Considering these appealing properties, green PC‐LEDs with a power efficacy of 102.5 lm W−1, an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 22.7% and a peak luminance up to 7750 000 cd m−2are fabricated by integrating MnI2(XanPO) with commercial blue LEDs. Moreover, the applicability of MnI2(XanPO) in both micro‐LEDs and organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) is also demonstrated. In a nutshell, this study uncovers a candidate of highly luminescent and TQ resistant manganese halide suitable for a variety of emission applications.
Unrevealing Temporal Mechanoluminescence Behaviors at High Frequency via Piezoelectric Actuation
Authors: Zhou Tianhong , Chen Haisheng , Guo Jiaxing , Zhao Yanan , Du Xiaona , Zhang Qingyi , Chen Wenwen , Bian Taiyu , Zhang Zhi , Shen Jiaying , Liu Weiwei , Zhang Yang , Wu Zhenping , Hao Jianhua
Published: December 2022

Mechanoluminescence (ML) materials present widespread applications. Empirically, modulation for a given ML material is achieved by application of programmed mechanical actuation with different amplitude, repetition velocity and frequency. However, to date modulation on the ML is very limited within several to a few hundred hertz low‐frequency actuation range, due to the paucity of high‐frequency mechanical excitation apparatus. The universality of temporal behavior and frequency response is an important aspect of ML phenomena, and serves as the impetus for much of its applications. Here, we push the study on ML into high‐frequency range (∼250 kHz) by combining with piezoelectric actuators. Two representative ML ZnS:Mn and ZnS:Cu, Al phosphors were chosen as the research objects. Time‐resolved ML of ZnS:Mn and ZnS:Cu, Al shows unrevealed frequency‐dependent saturation and quenching, which is associated with the dynamic processes of traps. From the point of applications, this study sets the cut‐off frequency for ML sensing. Moreover, by in‐situ tuning the strain frequency, ZnS:Mn exhibits reversible frequency‐induced broad red‐shift into near‐infrared range. These findings offer keen insight into the photophysics nature of ML and also broaden the physical modulation of ML by locally adjusting the excitation frequency.
Nonlocal de Sitter gravity and its exact cosmological solutions
Authors: Dimitrijevic Ivan , Dragovich Branko , Rakic Zoran , Stankovic Jelena
Published: December 2022

Abstract

This paper is devoted to a simple nonlocal de Sitter gravity model and its exact vacuum cosmological solutions. In the Einstein-Hilbert action with Λ term, we introduce nonlocality by the following way: $$ R-2\Lambda =\sqrt{R-2\Lambda}\kern1em \sqrt{R-2\Lambda}\to \sqrt{R-2\Lambda}\kern1em F\left(\square \right)\kern1em \sqrt{R-2\Lambda} $$
R
−
2
Λ
=

R
−
2
Λ

R
−
2
Λ

→

R
−
2
Λ

F

□

R
−
2
Λ

, where $$ F\left(\square \right)=1+{\sum}_{n=1}^{+\infty}\left({f}_n{\square}^n+{f}_{-n}{\square}^{-n}\right) $$
F

□

=
1
+

∑

n
=
1

+
∞

f
n

□
n

+

f

−
n

□

−
n

is an analytic function of the d’Alembert-Beltrami operator □ and its inverse □−1. By this way, R and Λ enter with the same form into nonlocal version as they are in the local one, and nonlocal operator F(□) is dimensionless. The corresponding equations of motion for gravitational field gμν are presented. The first step in finding some exact cosmological solutions is solving the equation $$ \square \sqrt{R-2\Lambda}=q\sqrt{R-2\Lambda} $$
□

R
−
2
Λ

=
q

R
−
2
Λ

, where q = ζΛ (ζ ∈ R) is an eigenvalue and $$ \sqrt{R-2\Lambda} $$

R
−
2
Λ

is an eigenfunction of the operator □. We presented and discussed several exact cosmological solutions for homogeneous and isotropic universe. One of these solutions mimics effects that are usually assigned to dark matter and dark energy. Some other solutions are examples of the nonsingular bounce ones in flat, closed and open universe. There are also singular and cyclic solutions. All these cosmological solutions are a result of nonlocality and do not exist in the local de Sitter case.
Quasiconvexity preserving property for fully nonlinear nonlocal parabolic equations
Authors: Kagaya Takashi , Liu Qing , Mitake Hiroyoshi
Published: December 2022

This paper is concerned with a general class of fully nonlinear parabolic equations with monotone nonlocal terms. We investigate the quasiconvexity preserving property of positive, spatially coercive viscosity solutions. We prove that if the initial value is quasiconvex, the viscosity solution to the Cauchy problem stays quasiconvex in space for all time. Our proof can be regarded as a limit version of that for power convexity preservation as the exponent tends to infinity. We also present several concrete examples to show applications of our result.
[18F]mFBG PET-CT for detection and localisation of neuroblastoma: a prospective pilot study
Authors: Samim Atia , Blom Thomas , Poot Alex J. , Windhorst Albert D. , Fiocco Marta , Tolboom Nelleke , Braat Arthur J. A. T. , Viol Sebastiaan L. Meyer , van Rooij Rob , van Noesel Max M. , Lam Marnix G. E. H. , Tytgat Godelieve A. M. , de Keizer Bart
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Meta-[18F]fluorobenzylguanidine ([18F]mFBG) is a positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer that allows for fast and high-resolution imaging of tumours expressing the norepinephrine transporter. This pilot study investigates the feasibility of [18F]mFBG PET-CT for imaging in neuroblastoma.

Methods

In a prospective, single-centre study, we recruited children with neuroblastoma, referred for meta-[123I]iodobenzylguanidine ([123I]mIBG) scanning, consisting of total body planar scintigraphy in combination with single-photon emission computed tomography-CT (SPECT-CT). Within two weeks of [123I]mIBG scanning, total body PET-CTs were performed at 1 h and 2 h after injection of [18F]mFBG (2 MBq/kg). Detected tumour localisations on scan pairs were compared. Soft tissue disease was quantified by number of lesions and skeletal disease by SIOPEN score.

Results

Twenty paired [123I]mIBG and [18F]mFBG scans were performed in 14 patients (median age 4.9 years, n = 13 stage 4 disease and n = 1 stage 4S). [18F]mFBG injection was well tolerated and no related adverse events occurred in any of the patients. Mean scan time for [18F]mFBG PET-CT (9.0 min, SD 1.9) was significantly shorter than for [123I]mIBG scanning (84.5 min, SD 10.5), p < 0.01. Most tumour localisations were detected on the 1 h versus 2 h post-injection [18F]mFBG PET-CT. Compared to [123I]mIBG scanning, [18F]mFBG PET-CT detected a higher, equal, and lower number of soft tissue lesions in 40%, 55%, and 5% of scan pairs, respectively, and a higher, equal, and lower SIOPEN score in 55%, 30%, and 15% of scan pairs, respectively. On average, two more soft tissue lesions and a 6-point higher SIOPEN score were detected per patient on [18F]mFBG PET-CT compared to [123I]mIBG scanning.

Conclusion

Results of this study demonstrate feasibility of [18F]mFBG PET-CT for neuroblastoma imaging. More neuroblastoma localisations were detected on [18F]mFBG PET-CT compared to [123I]mIBG scanning. [18F]mFBG PET-CT shows promise for future staging and response assessment in neuroblastoma.

Trial registration

Dutch Trial Register NL8152.
Impact of transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair on central sleep apnoea
Authors: Paulus Michael G. , Liedtke Tobias , Hamerle Michael , Schach Christian , Maier Lars S. , Stadler Stefan , Birner Christoph , Debl Kurt , Arzt Michael , Unsöld Bernhard , Meindl Christine
Published: December 2022

Aims

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and its subtype central sleep apnoea (CSA) are highly prevalent in patients with heart failure and associated with worse prognosis. Whereas pharmacological therapy of heart failure has been shown to ameliorate CSA, results from previous studies on the effect of mitral regurgitation therapy on SDB are contradicting. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (TEER) on prevalence and severity of CSA.

Methods and results

We enrolled 47 patients undergoing TEER for symptomatic mitral regurgitation in a prospective study. Secondary mitral regurgitation and left ventricular ejection fraction < 50% were present in 79% and 68% of patients, respectively. Respiratory polygraphy was performed before TEER in a compensated condition and four weeks after the procedure. 34 patients completed the follow-up. At baseline, 19 (56%) patients showed moderate-to-severe SDB, of whom 13 (68%) were classified as CSA. Both apnoea-hypopnoea index and percentage of recorded time spent in Cheyne-Stokes respiration strongly decreased from baseline to follow-up (median [IQR] 16 [7–30] vs. 7 [4–15] /h, p = 0.007; 6 [0–34] vs. 0 [0–8] %, p = 0.008). Median relative reduction of central apnoea index was 75% (p = 0.023), while obstructive apnoea index did not change significantly. Increase in stroke volume after TEER and high systolic pulmonary artery pressure at baseline predicted a > 50% reduction of both Apnoea-hypopnoea index and Cheyne-Stokes respiration.

Conclusion

TEER is associated with a significant short-term reduction of CSA and Cheyne-Stokes respiration in high-risk patients, strengthening its value as an effective treatment option for advanced heart failure.

Graphical abstract
Deep Learning Object Detection for Image Analysis of Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis cerasi L.) on Yellow Sticky Traps
Authors: Salamut Christian , Kohnert Iris , Landwehr Niels , Pflanz Michael , Schirrmann Michael , Zare Mohammad
Published: December 2022

Insect populations appear with a high spatial, temporal and type-specific diversity in orchards. One of the many monitoring tools for pest management is the manual assessment of sticky traps. However, this type of assessment is laborious and time-consuming so that only a few locations can be controlled in an orchard. The aim of this study is to test state-of-the art object detection algorithms from deep learning to automatically detect cherry fruit flies (Rhagoletis cerasi), a common insect pest in cherry plantations, within images from yellow sticky traps. An image annotation database was built with images taken from yellow sticky traps with more than 1600 annotated cherry fruit flies. For better handling in the computational algorithms, the images were augmented to smaller ones by the known image preparation methods “flipping” and “cropping” before performing the deep learning. Five deep learning image recognition models were tested including Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN) with two different methods of pretraining, Single Shot Detector (SSD), RetinaNet, and You Only Look Once version 5 (YOLOv5). R‑CNN and RetinaNet models outperformed other ones with a detection average precision of 0.9. The results indicate that deep learning can act as an integral component of an automated system for high-throughput assessment of pest insects in orchards. Therefore, this can reduce the time for repetitive and laborious trap assessment but also increase the observed amount of sticky traps
Designing financial incentives for health behaviour change: a mixed-methods case study of weight loss in men with obesity
Authors: van der Pol Marjon , McDonald Matthew , Collacott Hannah , Dombrowski Stephan U. , Harris Fiona M. , Kee Frank , Avenell Alison , Gray Cindy , Skinner Rebecca , Hoddinott Pat ,   on behalf of the ‘Game of Stones’ team
Published: December 2022

Aim

Designing financial incentives for health behaviour change requires choices across several domains, including value (the size of the incentive), frequency of incentives, and direction (gain or loss). However, the rationale underlying complex incentive design is infrequently reported. Transparent reporting is important if we want to understand and improve the incentive development process. This paper describes a mixed methods approach for designing financial incentives for health behaviour change which involves stakeholders throughout the design process.

Subject and methods

The mixed methods approach focuses on incentives for weight loss for men with obesity living in areas with high levels of disadvantage. The approach involves: (a) using an existing framework to identify all domains of a financial incentive scheme for which choices need to be made, deciding what criteria are relevant (such as effectiveness, acceptability and uptake) and making choices on each domain on the basis of the criteria; (b) conducting a survey of target population preferences to inform choices for domains and to design the incentive scheme; and (c) making final decisions at a stakeholder consensus workshop.

Results

The approach was implemented and an incentive scheme for weight loss for men living with obesity was developed. Qualitative interview data from men receiving the incentives in a feasibility trial endorses our approach.

Conclusion

This paper demonstrates that a mixed methods approach with stakeholder involvement can be used to design financial incentives for health behaviour change such as weight loss.

Trial registration number

NCT03040518. Date: 2 February 2017.
Iron acquisition strategies in pseudomonads: mechanisms, ecology, and evolution
Authors: Kümmerli Rolf
Published: December 2022

Iron is important for bacterial growth and survival, as it is a common co-factor in essential enzymes. Although iron is very abundant in the earth crust, its bioavailability is low in most habitats because ferric iron is largely insoluble under aerobic conditions and at neutral pH. Consequently, bacteria have evolved a plethora of mechanisms to solubilize and acquire iron from environmental and host stocks. In this review, I focus on Pseudomonas spp. and first present the main iron uptake mechanisms of this taxa, which involve the direct uptake of ferrous iron via importers, the production of iron-chelating siderophores, the exploitation of siderophores produced by other microbial species, and the use of iron-chelating compounds produced by plants and animals. In the second part of this review, I elaborate on how these mechanisms affect interactions between bacteria in microbial communities, and between bacteria and their hosts. This is important because Pseudomonas spp. live in diverse communities and certain iron-uptake strategies might have evolved not only to acquire this essential nutrient, but also to gain relative advantages over competitors in the race for iron. Thus, an integrative understanding of the mechanisms of iron acquisition and the eco-evolutionary dynamics they drive at the community level might prove most useful to understand why Pseudomonas spp., in particular, and many other bacterial species, in general, have evolved such diverse iron uptake repertoires.
UPSIDES Mental Health Peer Support in Face of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Actions and Insights
Authors: Goldfarb Yael , Grayzman Alina , Meir Lion Gai , Grundman Shimri Hadas , Rabinian Meirav , Lachman Max , Epstein Paula Garber , Ben-Dor Inbar Adler , Naaman Adi , Puschner Bernd , Moran Galia S.
Published: December 2022

The outburst of the COVID-19 pandemic challenged vulnerable populations such as individuals with significant mental illness. In this fresh focus, we describe the innovative development of the UPSIDES mental health peer support intervention, in face of the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel. While the research program is still ongoing, in this paper we focus on the processes and lessons learned from dealing with the rapidly changing circumstances of the pandemic. We portray additional activities conducted above and beyond the UPSIDES protocol in order to maintain continuation and prevent dropout. We learned that an essential combination of keeping a close adherence with the core peer principles and UPSIDES’ systematic program and the use of flexible telecommunication means, helped to maintain social connection and service users’ participation throughout these times. The sudden pandemic challenges appeared to level out power imbalances and accelerated the formation of reciprocal and supportive relational interactions within the intervention. These processes highlight experiential knowledge as a unique asset, and peer support services as useful in supporting individuals with significant mental illness throughout COVID-19.
An analysis of approximation algorithms for iterated stochastic integrals and a Julia and Matlab simulation toolbox
Authors: Kastner Felix , Rößler Andreas
Published: December 2022

For the approximation and simulation of twofold iterated stochastic integrals and the corresponding Lévy areas w.r.t. a multi-dimensional Wiener process, we review four algorithms based on a Fourier series approach. Especially, the very efficient algorithm due to Wiktorsson and a newly proposed algorithm due to Mrongowius and Rößler are considered. To put recent advances into context, we analyse the four Fourier-based algorithms in a unified framework to highlight differences and similarities in their derivation. A comparison of theoretical properties is complemented by a numerical simulation that reveals the order of convergence for each algorithm. Further, concrete instructions for the choice of the optimal algorithm and parameters for the simulation of solutions for stochastic (partial) differential equations are given. Additionally, we provide advice for an efficient implementation of the considered algorithms and incorporated these insights into an open source toolbox that is freely available for both Julia andMatlabprogramming languages. The performance of this toolbox is analysed by comparing it to some existing implementations, where we observe a significant speed-up.
Development research on an AI English learning support system to facilitate learner-generated-context-based learning
Authors: Lee Donghwa , Kim Hong-hyeon , Sung Seok-Hyun
Published: December 2022

For decades, AI applications in education (AIEd) have shown how AI can contribute to education. However, a challenge remains: how AIEd, guided by educational knowledge, can be made to meet specific needs in education, specifically in supporting learners’ autonomous learning. To address this challenge, we demonstrate the process of developing an AI-applied system that can assist learners in studying autonomously. Guided by a Learner-Generated Context (LGC) framework and development research methodology (Richey and Klein in J Comput High Educ 16(2):23–38,https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02961473, 2005), we define a form of learning called “LGC-based learning,” setting specific study objectives in the design, development, and testing of an AI-based system that can facilitate Korean students’ LGC-based English language learning experience. The new system is developed based on three design principles derived from the literature review. We then recruit three Korean secondary-school students with different educational backgrounds and illustrate and analyze their English learning experiences using the system. Following this analysis, we discuss how the AI-based system facilitates LGC-based learning and further issues to be considered for future research.
Identifying emerging topics in the peer-reviewed literature to facilitate curriculum renewal and development
Authors: Amos Andrew James , Lee Kyungmi , Sen Gupta Tarun , Malau-Aduli Bunmi S.
Published: December 2022

This article reports a bibliometric analysis of emerging topics in the psychiatric literature indexed in the MEDLINE database as a technique for renewal of clinical training curricula. Summary data of English-language articles indexed in the MEDLINE database between 1971-2018 were downloaded. Emerging topics in nine demi-decades between 1972-1976 and 2012-2016 were identified by the incremental incidence of individual Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) compared with previous years. Co-word analysis was used to investigate and visualise the relationships between emerging topics in each demi-decade. Summaries of 18 million articles annotated with psychiatric/psychological MeSH were retrieved and used to identify emerging topics. Peaks in the number of articles annotated by the top 20 emerging topics in 9 demi-decades coincided with release of the third and fourth editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual which codifies psychiatric diagnoses. Themes emerging from network visualisations of the most common emerging MeSH in each demi-decade were consistent with movements in psychiatric/psychological theory and practice since the 1970s, including the recent focus on psychological and social factors implicated in suicide and suicide prevention. The identification of emerging topics within the published medical literature is a viable technique for use in curriculum renewal projects as a counterweight to biases driven by expert judgement. While indices like MEDLINE make the published literature an appealing initial step in building an empirical basis for curriculum development, it also demonstrates the potential value of less public and less structured data, such as health service electronic medical records.
A continuum framework for phase field with bulk-surface dynamics
Authors: Espath Luis
Published: December 2022

This continuum mechanical theory aims at detailing the underlying rational mechanics of dynamic boundary conditions proposed by Fischer et al. (Phys Rev Lett 79:893, 1997), Goldstein et al. (Phys D Nonlinear Phenom 240:754–766, 2011), and Knopf et al. (ESAIM Math Model Numer Anal 55:229–282, 2021). As a byproduct, we generalize these theories. These types of dynamic boundary conditions are described by the coupling between the bulk and surface partial differential equations for phase fields. Our point of departure within this continuum framework is the principle of virtual powers postulated on an arbitrary part $$\mathcal {P}$$
P
where the boundary $$\partial \mathcal {P}$$

∂
P

may lose smoothness. That is, the normal field may be discontinuous along an edge $$\partial ^2\mathcal {P}$$

∂
2

P

. However, the edges characterizing the discontinuity of the normal field are considered smooth. Our results may be summarized as follows. We provide a generalized version of the principle of virtual powers for the bulk-surface coupling along with a generalized version of the partwise free-energy imbalance. Next, we derive the explicit form of the surface and edge microtractions along with the field equations for the bulk and surface phase fields. The final set of field equations somewhat resembles the Cahn–Hilliard equation for both the bulk and surface. Moreover, we provide a suitable set of constitutive relations and thermodynamically consistent boundary conditions. In Knopf et al. (2021), a mixed (Robin) type of boundary condition for the chemical potentials is proposed for the model in Fischer et al. (1997), Goldstein et al. (2011). In addition to this boundary condition, we also include this type of mixed boundary condition for the microstructure, that is the phase fields. Lastly, we derive the Lyapunov-decay relations for these mixed type of boundary conditions for both the microstructure and chemical potential.
Prediction of high-speed debris motion in the framework of time-fractional model: theory and validation
Authors: Malendowski Michał , Sumelka Wojciech , Gajewski Tomasz , Studziński Robert , Peksa Piotr , Sielicki Piotr W.
Published: December 2022

In this work, a newly proposed fractional derivative framework is used for the prediction of high-speed debris motion. The paper focuses on the mathematical formulation of the equation of motion, in which the damping term is generalised using the fractional derivative. The capacity of the proposed approach to predict the motion of debris is justified by the experimental results. Furthermore, the mathematical formulation has been verified by extensive parametric studies on spherical projectiles. The general conclusion is that the elaborated formulation is more reliable compared to the classical approach or, in other words, the fractional viscous damping term (proportional to the fractional velocity of debris) provides a better description of the complexity of the real drag force.
Sources of teacher efficacy in teaching reading: success, sharing, and support
Authors: Ryan Mary , Hendry Graham D.
Published: December 2022

Teacher self- and collective efficacy are important motivational factors in determining teachers’ effort in their professional practice. Teachers’ higher levels of self- and collective efficacy are positively associated with student achievement in specific domains, and teachers’ enhanced wellbeing and commitment to their profession. This qualitative study explores primary teachers’ own views about naturalistic and characteristic experiences and influences that have strengthened and weakened their efficacy in teaching reading. Five themes of naturalistic sources of enhancement in self- and collective efficacy are identified that are consistent with predictions of Bandura’s social cognitive theory and studies involving interventions in schools by expert trainers. The themes are combined into a model of growth in teachers’ efficacy and can potentially inform decision-making in schools in supporting and enhancing teachers’ self- and collective efficacy when teaching reading.
EFL learners' learning styles and their reading performance
Authors: Banaruee Hassan , Farsani Danyal , Khatin-Zadeh Omid
Published: December 2022

Language learners struggle with achieving their highest reading competence, particularly when they sit standardized tests with authentic advanced passages. The related literature shows a significant gap in suggesting specific techniques or strategies for individuals to develop a reading competence. To fill this gap, this study investigated the potential relationship between EFL learners' reading performance and their learning styles. One hundred thirty-seven participants were administered the TOEFL PBT for their recruitment test, at which the reading scores were evaluated and analyzed. Ehrman and Leaver’s Questionnaire (2003) was used to classify participants’ learning styles in an ectenic-synoptic continuum. We used the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient to find any potential correlation between learners' performance and their scores as an ectenic or a synoptic learner. The results revealed a positive correlation between synoptic learners and success in the reading tasks. Consequently, a regression model provided the classification of successful learners at reading tests. Knowing that teachers have a variety of learners in their classes and their preferred learning styles can help course instructors to design activities that will exercise a range of cognitive processes and perspectives.
A human-centered, health data-driven ecosystem
Authors: Stevens G. , Hantson L. , Larmuseau M. , Verdonck P.
Published: December 2022

New forms of digital care are introducing new methods of communication, care delivery, data sharing, and access to health information. The internet of things, in which sensors continuously transmit data on all types of processes, hold great promise for the care industry. Medical sensors could for instance allow clinicians to remotely monitor their patients and to take immediate actions when required. Furthermore, healthy people can be monitored as well, so that potential health issues can be either prevented or detected much earlier on. While there is clear agreement on the potential of the so-called internet of medical things, the scattering of data among the different stakeholders in care remains a critical challenge to overcome in order for this new technology to prove its added value. A human-centered, health-data-driven ecosystem in order to tackle these problems is given. The model consists out of four data quadrants: administrative and financial, logistics and facility, medical, and paramedical generating data based on four different questions: ‘who am I?’, ‘where am I?’, ‘Am I healthy?’, and ‘how do I recover?’. It frames how data from all these different sources needs to be integrated by technology surrounding the central client in different environments. The connection and integration of this generated data can come from different sources like devices, platforms, humans, etc. Three possible flows have been described on how this integration and connection can be achieved based on edge and fog computing, cloud computing and centralized computing.
The Role of the Secretariat in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: González Domínguez Pablo
Published: December 2022

In “Who Guards the ‘Guardians of the System’? The Role of the Secretariat in WTO Dispute Settlement,”1 Joost Pauwelyn and Krzysztof Pelc argue that the Secretariat of the World Trade Organization (WTO Secretariat) has more influence over dispute resolution than the staff of any comparable tribunal. This influence is the result of the institutional design of the WTO, but also of unexpected factors that extended the mandate of the WTO Secretariat beyond what was originally conceived. The authors claim that this influence has brought benefits but has also raised questions of legitimacy and accountability. It has also had unintended––and not necessarily positive––legal effects. In this Essay, I offer a comparative view of the Secretariat of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (the IACtHR Secretariat). I first wish to complement Pauwelyn and Pelc's analysis and provide another point of reference to understand the degree of influence that the WTO Secretariat has over dispute resolution. Second, I wish to provide some comparative insights as to the benefits and challenges that come with the existence of a permanent Secretariat playing a pivotal role within international judicial or quasi-judicial systems.