bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depression mediates the association between health literacy and health-related quality of life after myocardial infarction
Authors: Kirchberger Inge , Fischer Simone , Raake Philip , Linseisen Jakob , Meisinger Christine , Schmitz Timo
Published: February 2024

Introduction

So far, health literacy (HL) and its related factors in patients with acute myocardial infarction received little attention. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the associations between the different dimensions of HL and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and factors that may affect these relations in patients after acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods

All survivors of AMI between June 2020 and September 2021, from the Myocardial Infarction Registry Augsburg (n=882) received a postal questionnaire on HL [Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ)], HRQOL (MacNew Heart Disease HRQOL questionnaire) and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire). From the 592 respondents, 546 could be included in the analysis. Multivariable linear regression models were performed to investigate the associations between the nine subscales of the HLQ and the total score and three subscales of the MacNew questionnaire. A mediation analysis was performed to estimate direct and indirect effects of HL on HRQOL taking into account the mediating effect of depression.

Results

In the sample of 546 patients (72.5% male, mean age 68.5 ± 12.2 years), patients with poor education showed significantly lower HLQ scores. Significant associations between the subscales of the HLQ and the MacNew were found, which remained significant after adjustment for sociodemographic variables with few exceptions. More than 50% of the association between HL and HRQOL was mediated by depression in seven HLQ subscales and a complete mediating effect was found for the HLQ subscales ‘Actively managing my health’ and ‘Appraisal of health information’.

Discussion

Depression mediates the associations between HL and disease-specific HRQOL in patients with myocardial infarction.
Assessing the causal relationship between psychiatric disorders and obstructive sleep apnea: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization
Authors: Mi Chuanhao , Hou Ajiao , Liu Yinqin , Qi Xianghua , Teng Jing
Published: February 2024

Background

Extensive observational evidence suggests an association between psychiatric disorders (PDs) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but their causal relationship remains unexplored. The objective of this study was to examine the causal relationship between PDs and OSA.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted with summary genetic data from the FinnGen and Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC). Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode methods were employed to ascertain causal influence. Sensitivity analysis employing various methodologies assessed the robustness of the findings. Furthermore, multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) was used to clarify if the exposures independently caused OSA.

Results

MR analysis showed that genetically determined major depressive disorder (MDD) increased the risk of OSA (IVW odds ratio [OR]: 1.377, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.242–1.526, P = 1.05×10-9). Sensitivity analysis showed no evidence of pleiotropy and heterogeneity. In MVMR, the significant association persisted after adjusting for BMI, smoking, and alcohol consumption. No conclusive evidence indicated the causal impact of other psychological characteristics on OSA. In the reverse MR analyses, there was no causal effect of OSA on PDs.

Conclusion

This study suggests a causal effect of MDD on OSA risk. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and understand how MDD contributes to OSA development, potentially aiding in reducing OSA incidence.
Sleep, mood disorders, and the ketogenic diet: potential therapeutic targets for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
Authors: Choi Jinyoung , Kang Jiseung , Kim Tae , Nehs Christa J.
Published: February 2024

Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are serious psychiatric conditions that cause a significant reduction in quality of life and shortened life expectancy. Treatments including medications and psychosocial support exist, but many people with these disorders still struggle to participate in society and some are resistant to current therapies. Although the exact pathophysiology of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia remains unclear, increasing evidence supports the role of oxidative stress and redox dysregulation as underlying mechanisms. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species generated by metabolic processes and antioxidant systems that can cause damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA. Sleep is a critical regulator of metabolic homeostasis and oxidative stress. Disruption of sleep and circadian rhythms contribute to the onset and progression of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and these disorders often coexist with sleep disorders. Furthermore, sleep deprivation has been associated with increased oxidative stress and worsening mood symptoms. Dysfunctional brain metabolism can be improved by fatty acid derived ketones as the brain readily uses both ketones and glucose as fuel. Ketones have been helpful in many neurological disorders including epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease. Recent clinical trials using the ketogenic diet suggest positive improvement in symptoms for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia as well. The improvement in psychiatric symptoms from the ketogenic diet is thought to be linked, in part, to restoration of mitochondrial function. These findings encourage further randomized controlled clinical trials, as well as biochemical and mechanistic investigation into the role of metabolism and sleep in psychiatric disorders. This narrative review seeks to clarify the intricate relationship between brain metabolism, sleep, and psychiatric disorders. The review will delve into the initial promising effects of the ketogenic diet on mood stability, examining evidence from both human and animal models of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The article concludes with a summary of the current state of affairs and encouragement for future research focused on the role of metabolism and sleep in mood disorders.
A multi-case study of the vertically integrated health-care at county-level in rural China: towards holistic and dynamic governance
Authors: Xu Wenhui , Zhu Li , Peng Zixuan , Chen Xu
Published: February 2024

Background

In contrast to the Grading Diagnosis and Treatment System (GDTS), Vertically Integrated Health-care at County-level (VIHC) is a strategic policy in rural China. This research intends to analyze the shift in governance paradigm with regard to the adjustment of the power structure and interest relationships among various participants, using the building of VIHC as a cut-in point.

Methods

We carry out a multi-case study to investigate the paradigms of health governance when building VIHC in three different rural counties in China.

Results

There were exchanges between government and other participants, vertical and horizontal collaborations among government divisions, and prompt responses to public requirements. County C’s local administration, in particular, placed a strong emphasis on bureaucratic power and collaboration between various departments both within and outside of administrative boundaries. In contrast, County B’s local administration emphasized the independence of healthcare practitioners and worked to win their support. In contrast to the previous two governments, County A encouraged social actors to participate and saw a little improvement in performance.

Conclusion

In examining the health reform in rural China, this study paints a picture of the development of the health governance paradigm. In rural China, a comprehensive and dynamic governance paradigm was created through the integration of the health decision-making process, which was driven by the public’s health needs, the operation mechanism, which featured both competition and cooperation, and the action logic of sharing responsibility.
Examining the impact of chronic diseases on activities of daily living of middle-aged and older adults aged 45 years and above in China: a nationally representative cohort study
Authors: Ai Zhonghua , Tang Churou , Wen Xuan , Kartheepan Karthikesu , Tang Songyuan
Published: February 2024

Background

China has by far one of the fastest-aging populations in the world. Increasing age is often accompanied by an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and impaired Activities of Daily Living (ADL). The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of chronic diseases on ADL in Chinese middle-aged and older adults and to provide a scientific basis for delaying the impairment of ADL and prolonging the self-care life expectancy of middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

This investigation utilized the survey information of 10,096 middle-aged and older adults from the China Health and Aging Tracking Survey (CHARLS) of 2011 as baseline data, then followed up this cohort until 2018, and performed multifactorial analyses using Cox proportional risk models to explore the strength of the associations between chronic diseases and the risk of impaired ADL in middle-aged and older adults.

Results

Among the middle-aged and older adult population, the presence of hypertension was associated with a 38% higher risk of impaired ADL compared to those without the condition (HR = 1.38,95% CI:1.24–1.54); the involvement of heart disease was associated with a 27% higher risk of impaired ADL compared to those without the condition (HR = 1.27,95% CI:1.10- 1.46); the existence of arthritis was associated with a 38% higher risk of impaired ADL in middle-aged and older adults compared to those without arthritis (HR = 1.38,95% CI:1.25–2.08); additionally, the risk of impaired ADL with one or ≥ 2 chronic diseases was increased by 34% (HR = 1.34, 95% CI:1.18–1.52) and 84% (HR = 1.84, 95% CI:1.63–2.08) in middle-aged and older adult individuals, respectively.

Conclusion

Hypertension is a risk factor for impaired ADL at any age in the subjects of this study. Examining the association between the number of chronic diseases and impairment in activities of daily living, it was revealed that the risk of ADL impairment increased with the number of chronic diseases in both the middle-aged (45–59 years) and older adult (60–74 years) groups.
HIV/AIDS in Indonesia: current treatment landscape, future therapeutic horizons, and herbal approaches
Authors: Jocelyn  , Nasution Fadli Mubaroq , Nasution Natasya Assyifa , Asshiddiqi M. Hanafi , Kimura Nidya Haschita , Siburian Madeline Hana Tasya , Rusdi Zata Yumni Nabila , Munthe Annisa Renzu , Chairenza Ivina , Ginting Munthe Michelle C. F. Br. , Sianipar Putri , Gultom Surya Perdana , Simamora David , Uswanas Irene Rosari , Salim Emil , Khairunnisa Khairunnisa , Syahputra Rony Abdi
Published: February 2024

HIV/AIDS is still a major worldwide health concern, and Indonesia is making efforts to mitigate its effects. Antiretroviral therapy (ARV), which aims to decrease viral replication, boost immunological function, and lengthen the lifespans of persons living with HIV/AIDS, is the cornerstone of Indonesia’s strategy. The availability of ARV has significantly increased, yet problems including stigma and the requirement for regular medication adherence still exist. To address the broader needs of those affected by HIV/AIDS, Indonesia lays a major focus on comprehensive care, which includes mental health and social support, in addition to ARV. Data show that, despite progress, there is still a stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, which affects patient outcomes and access to care. With vigorous research into cutting-edge antiretroviral medications and treatment techniques, Indonesia has a thriving future therapeutic landscape. The goals of these programs are to increase treatment effectiveness, decrease side effects, and increase access to cutting-edge treatments. Preventive methods, such as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), are making progress, and efforts to find a cure are gaining prominence. Notably, HIV/AIDS management plan of Indonesia heavily relies on natural remedies. Patient care incorporates traditional Indonesian medicine, such as jamu and several herbal medicines. Although there is little scientific proof to support the effectiveness of these herbal remedies, complementary and alternative therapies frequently employ them to manage symptoms and promote general wellness. In terms of the 95-95-95 targets, Indonesia is making an effort to comply with these international goals by seeking to diagnose 95% of HIV-positive individuals, provide sustained ARV to 95% of those diagnosed, and achieve viral suppression in 95% of ARV recipients. Although there are gaps in reaching these aims, progress is being made, in part because of the aforementioned challenges. In summary, Indonesia employs a multimodal approach to HIV/AIDS management, including traditional herbal cures, continuous research into cutting-edge treatments, and conventional ARV. In order to enhance overall health outcomes and create a healthier society, the future of HIV/AIDS treatment in Indonesia is concentrated on expanding therapeutic alternatives, reaching the 95-95-95 targets, decreasing stigma, and improving access to care.
The impact of income level on skeletal muscle health in rural Chinese older residents: a study of mediating effects based on dietary knowledge
Authors: Zhang Xiaochen , Wang Gangyi , Ma Jiwei , Bai Huijing
Published: February 2024

China’s rural residents have basically solved the problem of subsistence, but due to aging, the prevalence of sarcopenia (abbreviated as sarcopenia) has been increasing year by year, especially the skeletal muscle health of the rural older residents has not been sufficiently paid attention to, so analyses of the impact of income level on the skeletal muscle health of the older people in rural areas of China are of great practical significance. Based on the annual data of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) in 2006, 2009, and 2011, we introduced the mediator variable of dietary knowledge and used the Probit model regression, mediation effect model, and instrumental variable regression to assess the skeletal muscle health status of the rural older people in China and explore the mechanism of the influence of the income level on the skeletal muscle health of the rural older residents in China. The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of income level on the skeletal muscle health status of older adults living in rural areas of China and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. By analyzing the findings of this study, our aim is to establish a correlation between the economic status and skeletal muscle health of older adults in rural communities, as well as elucidate the influence of income level and dietary knowledge on their skeletal muscle health. Through the attainment of these objectives, we hope to provide valuable insights and recommendations for enhancing skeletal muscle health among the rural older population in China. Based on our research findings, it can be inferred that there was a significant association between the financial status of rural older adults and their skeletal muscle health. Additionally, the prevalence of sarcopenia was lower among individuals with higher income levels, and there was a negative correlation between the prevalence of sarcopenia and the level of dietary knowledge among rural older individuals. The knowledge of dietary knowledge level of rural older people plays a mediating role in the income level and the prevalence of sarcopenia. Moreover, with the change in income level and the increase in age, the change in skeletal muscle health status showed obvious heterogeneity, in which the effect on the relatively younger (65–70 years old) samples was greater. Therefore, sustained income growth remains an effective way to improve the skeletal muscle health of older rural residents. At the same time, improving dietary knowledge and dietary quality among the older people is important in preventing a decline in muscle strength and physical function and in preventing the onset of sarcopenia.
How do governance visions, institutions and practices enable urban sustainability transformations? A study of Battambang and Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Authors: Lord Fiona , Prior Jason
Published: February 2024

Whilst research has highlighted the challenges of rapid urbanization in Cambodia, few studies have focused on increased interest within Cambodia on how reforming urban governance can support urban sustainability transformations. Addressing this research gap, this study explores how urban governance might enable sustainability transformations in two second-tier cities—Battambang and Sihanoukville—in Cambodia, based on the analysis of open-ended interviews with fifty-five representatives involved in the development and implementation of urban sustainability plans and policies for these cities. The findings identify how urban governance visions, institutions and practices can be strengthened to enable sustainability transformations within these cities. The study highlights that alignment between the three tiers of governance—meta-governance (visions and worldviews), second-tier (structural and institutional) and third-tier (day-to-day interactions) is needed for urban sustainability transformations.
A secret language of aggression: disgust expressions are treated as cues of impending social exclusion among women
Authors: Krems Jaimie Arona , French Juliana , Filip-Crawford Gabrielle
Published: February 2024

Attending to women's intrasexual competition generates a straightforward prediction: Insofar as women actors sometimes use distinct tactics of aggression (e. g., related to social exclusion), women targets might possess distinct interpretations of and reactions to those tactics. We test this using one such tactic common among women: disgust expressions directed at targets of desired social exclusion. Across four experiments with U.S. adults (N = 1,019), women (more than men) (1) interpret same-gender disgust (but not anger) facial expressions potentially directed toward them as cues of impending social exclusion, and (2) report being hurt in reaction to these expressions, whether imagined or recalled. Further, (3) women (but not men) who are more dispositionally concerned with social belonging (but not vulnerability to disease) report greater hurt. Women seem to possess distinct interpretations of and reactions to aggression tactics that they uniquely and recurrently face. Identifying these often lesser-studied challenges women face may reveal additional, overlooked features of women's strategic social cognition and behavior.
Understanding the trade-offs between climate change-induced aridity and agricultural water demand in the Souss basin, Morocco
Authors: Attar Oumaima , Brouziyne Youssef , Bouchaou Lhoussaine , El Bilali Ali , Ait Brahim Yassine , Chehbouni Abdelghani
Published: February 2024

The concept of integrated water resource management requires an in-depth analysis of water inflows into a river basin. Population growth and the uncertainties associated with climate change are causing increased water stress and droughts, which are impacting agriculture. Hence the need for studies on the impact of climate change on demand-supply interactions in river basins. In this study, a generic decision support system, ModSim, was used; for the first time in the region; to examine the agricultural water usage and demands over Souss basin in Morocco. ModSim was calibrated over the period from 1990 to 2019 using recorded data about physical processes and hydraulic infrastructures features and management. The simulations succeeded in replicating different deficit episodes at the various irrigated perimeters. During the simulated period from 2012 to 2019, it was observed that the water supplies for the different dams in the basin experienced a decline ranging from 38% to 89%. As a result, the average total unmet demand for surface water from reservoirs in irrigated areas reached 201 mm3 between 1990 and 2019 and the monthly average demand increases by 55% in the dry season, compared to the demands in the rest of the year. The significant amount of unmet demand across all sites suggests that demands are satisfied by the withdrawal of water from groundwater resources. The adopted approach has proven to be a useful decision support tool to understand water resources planning challenges. Water managers require such reliable tools to represent the basin's water trade-offs. Thus, additional investigation to improve the representation of groundwater/surface water interaction approaches is required to enhance the evaluation of the consequences of different uses, especially in arid and semi-arid regions with significant water stress such as Souss. A conceptual framework as well as a detailed discussion have been produced in order to guide efficient water management and governance.
Effect of high-pressure homogenization on maize starch-stearic acid and maize starch-stearic acid-whey protein complexes
Authors: Han Kaijie , Wu Yuewei , Peng Xiangyuan , Zhou Binran , Wang Fang , Liu Xia
Published: February 2024

The maize starch (MS)-stearic acid (SA) and MS-SA-whey protein (WP) complexes were prepared using the high-pressure homogenization (HPH). Results from X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that MS-SA complexes presented an increase in the long-range molecular order with increasing the homogenization pressure, and MS-SA-WP complexes showed only an increase with increasing the homogenization pressure from 10 to 50 MPa. Results from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Raman spectroscopy showed that the amount of complexes and the short-range order of both MS-SA and MS-SA-WP complexes increased with increasing the homogenization pressure. The addition of WP to MS-SA altered significantly the structure and digestion of complexes. Results revealed that MS-SA-WP complexes have more ordered structure and lower digestion than the corresponding MS-SA complexes. The digestibility of all complexes decreased with increasing the homogenization pressure. There was a significant correlation between the digestibility and structural characteristics of complexes. Complexes with better structural stability have better anti-digestion properties. The obtained results are helpful in understanding the structure and digestibility of complexes prepared by HPH, which is valuable for controlling the quality and nutrition of starchy food.
Metagenomic profiling of viral and microbial communities from the pox lesions of lumpy skin disease virus and sheeppox virus-infected hosts
Authors: Sharko Fedor S. , Mazloum Ali , Krotova Alena O. , Byadovskaya Olga P. , Prokhvatilova Larisa B. , Chvala Ilya A. , Zolotikov Ustin E. , Kozlova Alexandra D. , Krylova Anastasia S. , Grosfeld Erika V. , Prokopenko Anastasia V. , Korzhenkov Aleksei A. , Patrushev Maxim V. , Namsaraev Zorigto B. , Sprygin Alexander V. , Toshchakov Stepan V.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

It has been recognized that capripoxvirus infections have a strong cutaneous tropism with the manifestation of skin lesions in the form of nodules and scabs in the respective hosts, followed by necrosis and sloughing off. Considering that the skin microbiota is a complex community of commensal bacteria, fungi and viruses that are influenced by infections leading to pathological states, there is no evidence on how the skin microbiome is affected during capripoxvirus pathogenesis.

Methods

In this study, shotgun metagenomic sequencing was used to investigate the microbiome in pox lesions from hosts infected with lumpy skin disease virus and sheep pox virus.

Results

The analysis revealed a high degree of variability in bacterial community structures across affected skin samples, indicating the importance of specific commensal microorganisms colonizing individual hosts. The most common and abundant bacteria found in scab samples were Fusobacterium necrophorum, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Helcococcus ovis and Trueperella pyogenes, irrespective of host. Bacterial reads belonging to the genera Moraxella, Mannheimia, Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus and Micrococcus were identified.

Discussion

This study is the first to investigate capripox virus-associated changes in the skin microbiome using whole-genome metagenomic profiling. The findings will provide a basis for further investigation into capripoxvirus pathogenesis. In addition, this study highlights the challenge of selecting an optimal bioinformatics approach for the analysis of metagenomic data in clinical and veterinary practice. For example, direct classification of reads using a kmer-based algorithm resulted in a significant number of systematic false positives, which may be attributed to the peculiarities of the algorithm and database selection. On the contrary, the process of de novo assembly requires a large number of target reads from the symbiotic microbial community. In this work, the obtained sequencing data were processed by three different approaches, including direct classification of reads based on k-mers, mapping of reads to a marker gene database, and de novo assembly and binning of metagenomic contigs. The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques and their practicality in veterinary settings are discussed in relation to the results obtained.
Uncontrolled pain: a call for better study design
Authors: Hyndman Timothy H. , Bowden Ross S. , Woodward Andrew P. , Pang Daniel S. J. , Hampton Jordan O.
Published: February 2024

Studies assessing animal pain in veterinary research are often performed primarily for the benefit of animals. Frequently, the goal of these studies is to determine whether the analgesic effect of a novel treatment is clinically meaningful, and therefore has the capacity to improve the welfare of treated animals. To determine the treatment effect of a potential analgesic, control groups are necessary to allow comparison. There are negative control groups (where pain is unattenuated) and positive control groups (where pain is attenuated). Arising out of animal welfare concerns, there is growing reluctance to use negative control groups in pain studies. But for studies where pain is experimentally induced, the absence of a negative control group removes the opportunity to demonstrate that the study methods could differentiate a positive control intervention from doing nothing at all. For studies that are controlled by a single comparison group, the capacity to distinguish treatment effects from experimental noise is more difficult; especially considering that pain studies often involve small sample sizes, small and variable treatment effects, systematic error and use pain assessment measures that are unreliable. Due to these limitations, and with a focus on farm animals, we argue that many pain studies would be enhanced by the simultaneous inclusion of positive and negative control groups. This would help provide study-specific definitions of pain and pain attenuation, thereby permitting more reliable estimates of treatment effects. Adoption of our suggested refinements could improve animal welfare outcomes for millions of animals globally.
Risk factors for the development of stifle injuries in canine agility athletes
Authors: Kieves Nina R. , Shoben Abigail , Markley Arielle Pechette
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Our aim was to determine risk factors for developing stifle injuries in canine agility athletes. We hypothesized that increased weight, increased frequency of competing, and greater number of runs/day would increase risk.

Study design

Internet based survey, n = 4,197.

Methods

Individuals with at least one dog who had competed in agility in the past 3 years were eligible. Injury history was defined as an injury to the stifle that kept the dog from participating in agility for >1 week. Logistic regression models were used to estimate associations between variables of interest and injury history.

Results

Handlers of 216 dogs reported a history of injury. The majority were cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury (101/216), and patella luxation (40/216). In the final model, five variables were independently associated with odds of stifle injury (in addition to age). Heavier dogs (adjusted for height), Border Collies, male dogs neutered <10 months, female dogs spayed before their first heat cycle, handlers aged 18–24, and teeter contact behavior were associated with increased risk.

Conclusion

Heavier dogs were more likely to report injury, but there was no association with injury and increased number of competition days, or runs/day. The Border Collie breed was at the highest risk of injury. There was substantial risk for stifle injury with early spay/neuter. Additionally, a significant increase in risk of injury was reported for younger (18–24) vs. older handlers (65+). Athlete fitness level, conformation, and genetic predisposition to injury may play the most significant role in the development of injury.
Impact of Transplantation Timing on Renal Graft Survival Outcomes and Perioperative Complications
Authors: Uhl M. , Waeckel T. , Seizilles De Mazancourt E. , Taha F. , Kaulanjan K. , Goujon A. , Beretta A. , Papet J. , Dupuis H. , Panis A. , Peyrottes A. , Lemaire A. , Larose C. , Bettler L. , Pues M. , Joncour C. , Stempfer G. , Ghestem T. , De Sousa P.
Published: February 2024

Nighttime organ transplantation aims to decrease cold ischemia duration, yet conflicting data exists on its impact on graft function and perioperative complications. This multicenter TRANSPLANT’AFUF study including 2,854 patients, transplanted between 1 January 2011, and 31 December 2022, investigated nighttime kidney transplantation’s impact (8:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m.) versus daytime (8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) on surgical complications and graft survival. Overall, 2043 patients (71.6%) underwent daytime graft, while 811 (28.4%) underwent nighttime graft. No impact was observed of timing of graft surgery on graft survival with a median survival of 98 months and 132 months for daytime and nightime grafting, respectively (p = 0.1749). Moreover, no impact was observed on early surgical complications (Clavien I-II = 20.95% for DG and 20.10% for NG; Clavien III-IV-V = 15.42% for DG and 12.94% for NG; p = 0.0889) and late complications (>30 days) (Clavien I-II = 6.80% for DG and 5.67% for NG; Clavien III-IV-V = 12.78% for DG and 12.82% for NG; p = 0.2444). Noteworthy, we found a significant increase in Maastricht 3 donors’ rates in nighttime transplantation (5.53% DG vs. 21.45% NG; p < 0.0001). In conclusion, nighttime kidney transplantation did not impact early/late surgical complications nor graft survival.
A Review of Machine Learning’s Role in Cardiovascular Disease Prediction: Recent Advances and Future Challenges
Authors: Naser Marwah Abdulrazzaq , Majeed Aso Ahmed , Alsabah Muntadher , Al-Shaikhli Taha Raad , Kaky Kawa M.
Published: February 2024

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of global mortality and responsible for millions of deaths annually. The mortality rate and overall consequences of cardiac disease can be reduced with early disease detection. However, conventional diagnostic methods encounter various challenges, including delayed treatment and misdiagnoses, which can impede the course of treatment and raise healthcare costs. The application of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, especially machine learning (ML) algorithms, offers a promising pathway to address these challenges. This paper emphasizes the central role of machine learning in cardiac health and focuses on precise cardiovascular disease prediction. In particular, this paper is driven by the urgent need to fully utilize the potential of machine learning to enhance cardiovascular disease prediction. In light of the continued progress in machine learning and the growing public health implications of cardiovascular disease, this paper aims to offer a comprehensive analysis of the topic. This review paper encompasses a wide range of topics, including the types of cardiovascular disease, the significance of machine learning, feature selection, the evaluation of machine learning models, data collection & preprocessing, evaluation metrics for cardiovascular disease prediction, and the recent trends & suggestion for future works. In addition, this paper offers a holistic view of machine learning’s role in cardiovascular disease prediction and public health. We believe that our comprehensive review will contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge in this essential area.
Research on Gangue Detection Algorithm Based on Cross-Scale Feature Fusion and Dynamic Pruning
Authors: Wang Haojie , Fan Pingqing , Ma Xipei , Wang Yansong
Published: February 2024

The intelligent identification of coal gangue on industrial conveyor belts is a crucial technology for the precise sorting of coal gangue. To address the issues in coal gangue detection algorithms, such as high false negative rates, complex network structures, and substantial model weights, an optimized coal gangue detection algorithm based on YOLOv5s is proposed. In the backbone network, a feature refinement module is employed for feature extraction, enhancing the capability to extract features for coal and gangue. The improved BIFPN structure is employed as the feature pyramid, augmenting the model’s capability for cross-scale feature fusion. In the prediction layer, the ESIOU is utilized as the bounding box regression loss function to rectify the misalignment issue between predicted and actual box angles. This approach expedites the convergence speed of the network while concurrently enhancing the accuracy of coal gangue detection. Channel pruning is implemented on the network to diminish model computational complexity and weight, consequently augmenting detection speed. The experimental results demonstrate that the refined YOLOv5s coal gangue detection algorithm outperforms the original YOLOv5s algorithm, achieving a notable accuracy enhancement of 2.2% to reach 93.8%. Concurrently, a substantial reduction in model weight by 38.8% is observed, resulting in a notable 56.2% increase in inference speed. These advancements meet the detection requirements for scenarios involving mixed coal gangue.
A Quantum-Inspired Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm for Parking Lot Rental to Shared E-Scooter Services
Authors: Nardin Antonella , D’Andreagiovanni Fabio
Published: February 2024

Electric scooter sharing mobility services have recently spread in major cities all around the world. However, the bad parking behavior of users has become a major source of issues, provoking accidents and compromising urban decorum of public areas. Reducing wild parking habits can be pursued by setting reserved parking spaces. In this work, we consider the problem faced by a municipality that hosts e-scooter sharing services and must choose which locations in its territory may be rented as reserved parking lots to sharing companies, with the aim of maximizing a return on renting and while taking into account spatial consideration and parking needs of local residents. Since this problem may result difficult to solve even for a state-of-the-art optimization software, we propose a hybrid metaheuristic solution algorithm combining a quantum-inspired ant colony optimization algorithm with an exact large neighborhood search. Results of computational tests considering realistic instances referring to the Italian capital city of Rome show the superior performance of the proposed hybrid metaheuristic.
Adaptive Antenna Array Control Algorithm in Radiocommunication Systems
Authors: Wnuk Marian
Published: February 2024

An important element of modern telecommunications is wireless radio networks, which enable mobile subscribers to access wireless networks. The cell area is divided into independent sectors served by directional antennas. As the number of mobile network subscribers served by a single base station increases, the problem of interference related to the operation of the radio link increases. To minimize the disadvantages of omnidirectional antennas, base stations use antennas with directional radiation characteristics. This solution allows you to optimize the operating conditions of the mobile network in terms of reducing the impact of interference, better managing the frequency spectrum and improving the energy efficiency of the system. The work presents an adaptive antenna algorithm used in mobile telephony. The principle of operation of adaptive systems, the properties of their elements and the configurations in which they are used in practice are described. On this basis, an algorithm for controlling the radiation characteristics of adaptive antennas is presented. The control is carried out using a microprocessor system. The simulation model is described. An algorithm was developed based on the Mathcad mathematical program, and the simulation results of this algorithm, i.e., changes in radiation characteristics as a result of changing the mobile position of subscribers, were presented in the form of selected radiation characteristics charts.
Fuel Burn Method Assessment Using Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast and European Reanalysis Data: Limited Flight Sample Analysis
Authors: Krajček Nikolić Karolina , Papoči Petar , Nikolić Dario , Antulov-Fantulin Bruno
Published: February 2024

Fuel burn during the actual route flown is an important indicator of aircraft operational efficiency. This study aims to assess and systematically evaluate the method for fuel consumed during flights using data from the automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS-B), European reanalysis (ERA5) meteorological dataset, and BADA 3 performance. A literature background and comprehensive methodology are provided for fuel estimation using track data. The airborne part of the trajectory was used to estimate the total trip fuel consumed during several flights of a commercial airliner. The calculated fuel burn is compared with measured fuel consumption from the flight data recorder (FDR). The results show that fuel consumption for the entire airborne part of the trajectory can be estimated with an average error of 1.2% and with a standard deviation of 1.3%. Detailed results of fuel burn for individual flight phases, from the initial climb to the approach, are also presented. In addition, this paper also discusses the sources of errors and the potential applications of the method for network operations and environmental monitoring.
Genetic Parameter Estimation and Selection for Resistance to Gastrointestinal Nematode Parasites in Sheep—A Review
Authors: Cunha Samla Marques Freire , Willoughby Olivia , Schenkel Flavio , Cánovas Ángela
Published: February 2024

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) are a major problem affecting sheep production systems worldwide. The flocks infected with GINs can undergo significant economic losses due to a decrease in productivity, the animals’ deaths, and the costs associated with treatments. The over-reliance on anthelmintics in the past years to eliminate GINs has resulted in the development of resistance against the available commercial anthelmintics. Genetically resistant animals can be used in mating systems to improve the overall flock resistance. This review aimed to summarize the estimated genetic parameters for resistance traits and genetic gains through the use of genetic/genomic selection for resistance to GINs in sheep. Heritability estimates from the literature ranged from 0.00 to 0.46 for fecal egg counts, 0.12 to 0.37 for packed cell volume/hematocrit, 0.07 to 0.26 for FAffa MAlan CHArt (FAMACHA©), from 0.10 to 0.37 for blood parameters, and 0.19 for Immunoglobulin A. Genetic correlations between traits measuring resistance to GINs and production traits ranged from negative to positive values in the literature. Genetic gains are possible when genetic/genomic selection for GIN resistance is applied. Therefore, genetic/genomic selection can be used to improve flocks’ resistance to GINs as a sustainable approach in sheep production systems.
The Occurrence of Microplastics in Donax trunculus (Mollusca: Bivalvia) Collected along the Tuscany Coast (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Malloggi Chiara , Nalbone Luca , Bartalena Silvia , Guidi Margherita , Corradini Carlo , Foti Antonino , Gucciardi Pietro G. , Giarratana Filippo , Susini Francesca , Armani Andrea
Published: February 2024

Microplastics (MPs) (0.1 µm–5 mm particles) have been documented in oceans and seas. Bivalve molluscs (BMs) can accumulate MPs and transfer to humans through the food chain. BMs (especially mussels) are used to assess MPs’ contamination, but the genus Donax has not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to detect and characterize MPs in D. trunculus specimens collected along the Tuscan coast (Italy), and to assess the potential risk for consumers. The samples (~10 g of tissue and intervalval liquid from 35 specimens) were digested using a solution of 10% KOH, subjected to NaCl density separation, and filtered through 5 μm pore-size filters. All items were morphologically classified and measured, and their mean abundance (MA) was calculated. Furthermore, 20% of them were analyzed by Raman spectroscopy and, based on the obtained results, the MA was recalculated (corrected MA) and the annual human exposure was estimated. In the 39 samples analyzed, 85 items fibers (n = 45; 52.94%) and fragments (n = 40; 47.06%) were found. The MA was 0.23 ± 0.17 items/grww. Additionally, 83.33% of the items were confirmed as MPs (polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate). Based on the correct MA (0.18 MPs/grww), D. trunculus consumers could be exposed to 19.2 MPs/per capita/year. The health risk level of MPs was classified as level III (moderate).
Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component 1 Regulates Cellular Stress Responses and Inflammatory Pathways in Chronic Neuroinflammatory Conditions
Authors: Jo Seong-Lae , Hong Eui-Ju
Published: February 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and is one of the neurodegenerative diseases that are caused by neuronal death due to various triggers. Neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the development of AD. The neuroinflammatory response is manifested by pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α; various chemokines; nitrous oxide; and reactive oxygen species. In this study, we evaluated the relevance of progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), which is expressed in the brain cells during the induction of neuroinflammation. A lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced chronic neuroinflammation model and Pgrmc1 knockdown cells were used to assess the inflammatory cytokine levels, AD-related factors, inflammation-related signaling, and cell death. Pgrmc1 knockout (KO) mice had higher IL-1β levels after treatment with LPS compared with those of wild-type (WT) mice. Furthermore, Pgrmc1 KO mice had higher levels of inflammatory factors, endoplasmic reticulum stress indicators, and AD-associated markers compared with those of WT mice who underwent LPS treatment or not. Finally, these indicators were observed in vitro using U373-MG astrocytes. In conclusion, the loss of PGRMC1 may promote neuroinflammation and lead to AD.
Applications of Microseismic Monitoring Technique in Coal Mines: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Liu Fei , Wang Yan , Kou Miaomiao , Liang Changhui
Published: February 2024

China’s coal mines have to extend to greater depths for the exploitation of more mineral resources, and they have suffered catastrophic mining-induced disasters, such as rockbursts, water inrushes, coal and gas outbursts, and roof fall accidents. The microseismic monitoring technique is a practical tool for mine safety management, which is extensively utilized in many Chinese coal mines. Microcracks of coal/rock masses are recorded as microseismicities in the field, and the potential mining-induced instabilities can be assessed by in-depth analysis of the microseismic parameters. This study provides a state-of-the-art review of the achievements and developments of the microseismic monitoring technique in coal mines. It also presents some prospects for improving the location accuracy of microseismicity, efficient and intelligent processing of the microseismic data, comprehensive assessment of coal/rock instabilities, and development of new microseismic monitoring equipment. This study is valuable for mine safety management and may contribute to improving the deep mining production.
Special Issue on Transportation Big Data and Its Applications
Authors: Ma Xiaolei , Chen Xinqiang , Dai Zhuang
Published: February 2024

Large-scale traffic sensors are strategically deployed across various infrastructures and modes of transportation (e [...]
Design of an Internal Focusing Tube Lens for Optical Inspection Systems
Authors: Jeon Daeje , Park Jungjin , Ryu Jaemyung , Choi Hojong
Published: February 2024

The numerical aperture (NA) of objective lens optical (inspection) systems has been increased to achieve higher resolution. However, the depth of focus decreases with an increase in the NA, and focusing becomes difficult. Therefore, the entire optical lens in currently developed optical inspection systems must be moved to focus within the depth of focus. To achieve a high resolution, many lenses are used in optical inspection systems, increasing the size and weight of the optical systems. To address this issue, a focus control group was placed on a tube lens that could adjust its focus based on the movement of the sample in front of the objective lens. Therefore, we developed a focus range increment to focus on the range of the optical inspection system. Using objective lenses with focal lengths of 30 and 60 mm and tube lenses with a focal length of 300 mm, optical systems for 10× and 5× inspection were constructed. In the designed optical systems, the weights of the objective lenses with focal lengths of 30 and 60 mm were calculated to be approximately 844 and 570 g, respectively. These values confirm that the weight of the moving group can be reduced.
Video-Based Gaze Detection for Oculomotor Abnormality Measurements
Authors: Harpaz Eran , Bar-Or Rotem Z. , Rosset Israel , Ben-Ami Edmund
Published: February 2024

Measuring oculomotor abnormalities in human subjects is challenging due to the delicate spatio-temporal nature of the oculometric measures (OMs) used to assess eye movement abilities. Some OMs require a gaze estimation accuracy of less than 2 degrees and a sample rate that enables the detection of movements lasting less than 100 ms. While past studies and applications have used dedicated and limiting eye tracking devices to extract OMs, recent advances in imaging sensors and computer vision have enabled video-based gaze detection. Here, we present a self-calibrating neural network model for gaze detection that is suitable for oculomotor abnormality measurement applications. The model considers stimuli target locations while the examined subjects perform visual tasks and calibrate its gaze estimation output in real time. The model was validated in a clinical trial and achieved an axial accuracy of 0.93 degrees and 1.31 degrees for horizontal and vertical gaze estimation locations, respectively, as well as an absolute accuracy of 1.80 degrees. The performance of the proposed model enables the extraction of OMs using affordable and accessible setups—such as desktop computers and laptops—without the need to restrain the patient’s head or to use dedicated equipment. This newly introduced approach may significantly ease patient burden and improve clinical results in any medical field that requires eye movement measurements.