bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in Sleep Referrals and Related Medical Conditions in a Local Chest Unit in Hong Kong
Authors: Le An Emmanuel , Yee Kwok Sang Wilson , Tseng Cee Zhung Steven , Wong Sze Man
Published: September 2024

Objective: To understand obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) epidemiology and associated comorbidities in a Chest Unit in Hong Kong, and to better understand sleep referrals to enhance screening assignment.

Design: A prospective, observational case-series study from a Chest Unit in Hong Kong.

Subjects: Patients, aged ≥17 years old or older and referred to Wong Tai Sin Hospital for polysomnography, were recruited from the 15th of September 2022–31st of January 2023.

Methods: Demographic, anthropometric, and phenotypic characteristics were collected. Questionnaires (Epworth Sleepiness Scale [ESS], Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) were completed and polysomnography was performed on the following night. The presence of OSA was defined as apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥5 events·h -1.

Results: A total of 303 patients were recruited. The prevalence of OSA amongst the referred patients was 91%, and ischaemic heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension accounted for 16.3%, 34.8%, and 63.4%, respectively. In addition, 43.4% of patients fulfilled the definition of depression according to their PHQ-9 score (≥5).

Conclusion: This observational study showed that the appropriateness of referrals for sleep tests was adequate, with 91% of patients having OSA. The majority of them are overweight or obese and presented with hypertension, diabetes, and mild depression, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
AI in Clinical Neurology: Revolutionising Patient Care and Navigating Ethical Frontiers
Authors: Gergi Laith
Published: September 2024

THE transformative effect of AI integration in clinical neurology was a focal point of the 10th European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Annual Congress, held in Helsinki, Finland, from 29th June–2nd July 2024. This topic was explored in depth in a dedicated studio session entitled ‘Revolutionizing Clinical Neurology: The Transformative Impact of AI’, chaired by Raphael Wurm, Medical University of Vienna, Austria, and member of the EAN Resident and Research Fellow Section (RRFS) and Communication Committee. The main goal of the session was to comprehensively explore the ethical implications, challenges, and opportunities that AI presents in reshaping patient care.
Mapping globalised Chinese webnovels: Genre blending, cultural hybridity, and the complexity of transcultural storytelling
Authors: Ren Xiang
Published: September 2024

Recent years have seen a significant surge in the global popularity of Chinese webnovels as an emerging form of participatory transcultural storytelling. This research combines computational and interpretive textual analysis to map the cultural features embedded in webnovel content, aiming to identify the genre elements, common lexicon, and story themes of 4040 translated Chinese webnovels on global platforms. The analysis shows the hybridisation of Chinese cultures, digital cultures, and genre fiction elements in webnovel storytelling, contributing to the growing spectrum of diverse voices in international self-publishing. Simultaneously, webnovels depict a varied mosaic of imagined China, based on both cultural sharing and nonsharing within today's complex Chinese society and beyond the notion of ‘Chineseness’ rooted in common heritage or official values, amplifying diverse perspectives like subcultures and resistances in transcultural storytelling. While webnovels bear witness to China's cultural outreach and digital prowess converging in a new storytelling form, this research posits that their cultural production remains bound within a material process where borderless digital cultures collide with the imposed boundaries of platformed publishing and government control.
Implementation of digital tools in VET: Experienced support and technology acceptance
Authors: Würges Sarah , Aprea Carmela
Published: September 2024

Among pressures and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, progressive digitalisation has resulted in changes in vocational learning environments. Therefore, a well-planned and didactically sensible implementation of digital tools is indispensable. The aim of this article is to discuss how experienced support from teachers/trainers influences trainees’ acceptance of digital note-taking apps and video conferencing systems, and what requirements there are for support. These factors were measured based on the technology acceptance model and social support theory using an online questionnaire (mixed methods) of 891 trainees from different training occupations in Germany.
The results show, that ‘Support trough instruction/communication/time resources/ organisation’ is relevant for the embedding of digital tools at the learning venues schools and workplaces. Experienced support influenced trainees’ technology acceptance of the tools. In summary, didactically sensible teaching of basic digital skills ensures progress in the sense of digitalisation and, thus, the future employees of ‘Industry 4.0’ emerge from ‘Vocational Education 4.0’.
Understanding animal-oriented social media collaboration in Australia’s 2019–20 bushfire crisis
Authors: Karhu Mari , Rantasila Anna , Olsson Thomas , Häkkilä Jonna
Published: September 2024

In the past decade, social media has served as a vehicle for sharing information and coordinating actions during sudden crises. However, much of the research has focused on local communities directly affected by crisis and the human recipients of aid. This paper explores a case where handicraft makers across the globe collaborated on social media—namely Facebook—to help Australian wildlife during the 2019–20 bushfire crisis. Based on 12 semi-structured interviews, we report how animal-centered visual content spread through a broader hybrid media system, arousing emotions that played a crucial role in increasing awareness of the crisis and catalyzing action. The findings highlight how participants actively sought possibilities for utilizing their knowledge and expertise within the project and experienced receiving immaterial rewards and benefits as compensation for their efforts. The findings also show how participants had various roles in the collaborative initiative—alternating between online and offline environments. However, the ongoing crisis coupled with the related pressure and stress, the rapidly increasing number of helpers, communication ambiguities, and technological challenges, led to chaos, heightened emotions, and fueled dissension within the group. These factors posed challenges to collaboration, further highlighting the negative and toxic communication cultures of social media. This paper enriches our understanding of how social media can enable, but also challenge, bottom-up community-driven, animal-oriented solidarity actions and long-distance crisis collaboration.
Research progress of exosomes from different sources in myocardial ischemia
Authors: Yan Huan , Ding Huang , Xie Ruo-Xi , Liu Zhi-Qing , Yang Xiao-Qian , Xie Ling-Li , Liu Cai-Xia , Liu Xiao-Dan , Chen Li-Yuan , Huang Xiao-Ping
Published: September 2024

Ischemic heart disease refers to the imbalance between the supply and demand of myocardial blood; it has various causes and results in a class of clinical diseases characterized by myocardial ischemia (MI). In recent years, the incidence of cardiovascular disease has become higher and higher, and the number of patients with ischemic heart disease has also increased year by year. Traditional treatment methods include drug therapy and surgical treatment, both of which have limitations. The former maybe develop risks of drug resistance and has more significant side effects, while the latter may damage blood vessels and risk infection. At this stage, a new cell-free treatment method needs to be explored. Many research results have shown that exosomes from different cell sources can protect the ischemic myocardium via intercellular action methods, such as promoting angiogenesis, inhibiting myocardial fibrosis, apoptosis and pyroptosis, and providing a new basis for the treatment of MI. In this review, we briefly introduce the formation and consequences of myocardial ischemia and the biology of exosomes, and then focus on the role and mechanism of exosomes from different sources in MI. We also discuss the role and mechanism of exosomes pretreated with Chinese and Western medicines on myocardial ischemia. We also discuss the potential of exosomes as diagnostic markers and therapeutic drug for MI.
Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy and the risk of diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Cho Injeong , Lim Seohyun , Kwon Minjae , Chung Seung Min , Moon Jun Sung , Yoon Ji Sung , Won Kyu Chang
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is known to affect patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and cause adverse renal outcomes. We aimed to analyze the association between CAN and diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Method

We enrolled 254 DM patients (mean age, 56.7 ± 15.2 years; male: female ratio, 1.17:1) with 19 (7.5%) type 1 DM patients and 235 (92.5%) type 2 DM patients. All patients had undergone cardiovascular autonomic function tests between January 2019 and December 2021 in a tertiary hospital in Korea. Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy was categorized as normal, early, or definite after measuring three heart rate variability parameters. Diabetic kidney disease refers to a persistently elevated urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR ≥30 mg/g) or reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2). Logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed.

Results

Patients with elevated uACR (n=107) and reduced eGFR (n=32) had a higher rate of definite CAN. After adjusting for covariates, definite CAN was associated with elevated uACR (OR=2.4, 95% CI 1.07-5.36) but not with reduced eGFR (OR=3.43, 95% CI 0.62-18.90). A total of 94 patients repeated uACR measurements within 2 years (mean follow-up, 586.3 ± 116.8 days). Both definite and early CAN were independent risk factors for elevated uACR (HR=8.61 and 8.35, respectively; both p<0.05). In addition, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, ACE inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists were independent protective factors for elevated uACR (HR=0.96, 0.25, and 0.07, respectively; all p<0.05).

Conclusion

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy is a potential indicator of DKD. Comprehensive management of DKD in the early stages of CAN may prevent microalbuminuria.
Undernutrition and associated factors among lactating mothers in Chiro district, eastern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Fekadu Mesfin , Egata Gudina , Mengestie Bezatu , Adem Hassen Abdi , Usso Ahmedin Aliyi
Published: September 2024

Background

Maternal undernutrition during lactation is a worldwide public health problem. It causes impaired cognitive ability, poor productivity, irreversible loss, and intergenerational malnutrition, which has harmful effects on the next generation. Overall, there is little information on undernutrition and risk factors among lactating mothers, especially in resource-poor settings, including Ethiopia. This study assessed undernutrition and associated factors among lactating mothers in rural Chiro district, eastern Ethiopia.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 629 lactating mothers in the Chiro district from July 2–30, 2019. Data were collected from participants using pretested, structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Data were entered using EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with undernutrition.

Results

Undernutrition among lactating mothers was 26.9% (95% CI: 23.2%, 30.2%). Female-headed household (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI:0.13, 0.94), medium (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.95) and rich (AOR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.51) wealth quintiles, lack of dietary advice (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.39), chewing khat (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.23, 2.70), low dietary diversity (AOR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.82, 5.29), and household food insecurity (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI:1.47, 9.20) were factors significantly associated with undernutrition.

Conclusions

Around one in every four lactating mothers in rural eastern Ethiopia had undernutrition. Poor wealth, lack of dietary feeding advice, substance use disorder, low minimum dietary diversity, and household food insecurity were factors significantly associated with the undernutrition of lactating mothers. Thus, focusing on implementing existing strategies/programs for effective nutritional interventions and poverty alleviation that enhance food security status would be essential to improving the nutritional status of lactating mothers and children.
A CD8+ T cell related immune score predicts survival and refines the risk assessment in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Li Zeyi , Jin Peng , Xiang Rufang , Li Xiaoyang , Shen Jie , He Mengke , Liu Xiaxin , Zhu Hongming , Wu Shishuang , Dong Fangyi , Zhao Huijin , Liu Han , Jin Zhen , Li Junmin
Published: September 2024

Although advancements in genomic and epigenetic research have deepened our understanding of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), only one-third of patients can achieve durable remission. Growing evidence suggests that the immune microenvironment in bone marrow influences prognosis and survival in AML. There is a specific association between CD8+ T cells and the prognosis of AML patients. To develop a CD8+ T cell-related immune risk score for AML, we first evaluated the accuracy of CIBERSORTx in predicting the abundance of CD8+ T cells in bulk RNA-seq and found it significantly correlated with observed single-cell RNA sequencing data and the proportions of CD8+ T cells derived from flow cytometry. Next, we constructed the CTCG15, a 15-gene prognostic signature, using univariate and LASSO regression on the differentially expressed genes between CD8+ THigh and CD8+ TLow groups. The CTCG15 was further validated across six datasets in different platforms. The CTCG15 has been shown to be independent of established prognostic markers, and can distill transcriptomic consequences of several genetic abnormalities closely related to prognosis in AML patients. Finally, integrating this model into the 2022 European LeukemiaNet contributed to a higher predictive power for prognosis prediction. Collectively, our study demonstrates that CD8+ T cell-related signature could improve the comprehensive risk stratification and prognosis prediction in AML.
Investigating the interplay between segregation and integration in developing cortical assemblies
Authors: Barabino Valerio , Donati della Lunga Ilaria , Callegari Francesca , Cerutti Letizia , Poggio Fabio , Tedesco Mariateresa , Massobrio Paolo , Brofiga Martina
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The human brain is an intricate structure composed of interconnected modular networks, whose organization is known to balance the principles of segregation and integration, enabling rapid information exchange and the generation of coherent brain states. Segregation involves the specialization of brain regions for specific tasks, while integration facilitates communication among these regions, allowing for efficient information flow. Several factors influence this balance, including maturation, aging, and the insurgence of neurological disorders like epilepsy, stroke, or cancer. To gain insights into information processing and connectivity recovery, we devised a controllable in vitro model to mimic and investigate the effects of different segregation and integration ratios over time.

Methods

We designed a cross-shaped polymeric mask to initially establish four independent sub-populations of cortical neurons and analyzed how the timing of its removal affected network development. We evaluated the morphological and functional features of the networks from 11 to 18 days in vitro (DIVs) with immunofluorescence techniques and micro-electrode arrays (MEAs).

Results

The removal of the mask at different developmental stages of the network lead to strong variations in the degree of intercommunication among the four assemblies (altering the segregation/integration balance), impacting firing and bursting parameters. Early removal (after 5 DIVs) resulted in networks with a level of integration similar to homogeneous controls (without physical constraints). In contrast, late removal (after 15 DIVs) hindered the formation of strong inter-compartment connectivity, leading to more clustered and segregated assemblies.

Discussion

A critical balance between segregation and integration was observed when the mask was removed at DIV 10, allowing for the formation of a strong connectivity among the still-separated compartments, thus demonstrating the existence of a time window in network development in which it is possible to achieve a balance between segregation and integration.
Every-other-day fasting inhibits pyroptosis while regulating bile acid metabolism and activating TGR5 signaling in spinal cord injury
Authors: Song Honghu , Pang Rizhao , Chen Zhixuan , Wang Linjie , Hu Xiaomin , Feng Jingzhi , Wang Wenchun , Liu Jiancheng , Zhang Anren
Published: September 2024

Every-other-day fasting (EODF) is a form of caloric restriction that alternates between periods of normal eating and fasting, aimed at preventing and treating diseases. This approach has gained widespread usage in basic research on neurological conditions, including spinal cord injury, and has demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects. Additionally, EODF is noted for its safety and feasibility, suggesting broad potential for application. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effects of EODF on spinal cord injury and to investigate and enhance its underlying mechanisms. Initially, the SCI rat model was utilized to evaluate the effects of EODF on pathological injury and motor function. Subsequently, considering the enhancement of metabolism through EODF, bile acid metabolism in SCI rats was analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS), and the expression of the bile acid receptor TGR5 was further assessed. Ultimately, it was confirmed that EODF influences the activation of microglia and NLRP3 inflammasomes associated with the TGR5 signaling, along with the expression of downstream pyroptosis pathway related proteins and inflammatory cytokines, as evidenced by the activation of the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pyroptosis pathway in SCI rats. The results demonstrated that EODF significantly enhanced the recovery of motor function and reduced pathological damage in SCI rats while controlling weight gain. Notably, EODF promoted the secretion of bile acid metabolites, activated TGR5, and inhibited the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pyroptosis pathway and inflammation in these rats. In summary, EODF could mitigate secondary injury after SCI and foster functional recovery by improving metabolism, activating the TGR5 signaling and inhibiting the NLRP3 pyroptosis pathway.
Research hotspots and trends of epigenetic therapy in oncology: a bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2023
Authors: Li Sisi , Liang Xinrui , Shao Qing , Wang Guanwen , Huang Yuxin , Wen Ping , Jiang Dongping , Zeng Xiaohua
Published: September 2024

Background

Epigenetics denotes heritable alterations in gene expression patterns independent of changes in DNA sequence. Epigenetic therapy seeks to reprogram malignant cells to a normal phenotype and has been extensively investigated in oncology. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of epigenetic therapy in cancer, providing a comprehensive overview of current research, identifying trends, and highlighting key areas of investigation.

Methods

Publications concerning epigenetic inhibitors in cancer spanning 2004 to 2023 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Co-occurrence analysis using VOSviewer assessed current status and focal points. Evolutionary trends and bursts in the knowledge domain were analyzed using CiteSpace. Bibliometrix facilitated topic evolution and revealed trends in keywords. National, institutional, and author affiliations and collaborations were also examined.

Results

A total of 2,153 articles and reviews on epigenetic therapy in oncology were identified, demonstrating a consistent upward trend over time. The United States (745 papers), University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (57 papers), and Stephen B. Baylin (27 papers) emerged as the most productive country, institution, and author, respectively. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified five primary clusters: tumor, DNA methylation, epigenetic therapy, expression, and immunotherapy. In the past 5 years, newly emerging themes with increased centrality and density include “drug resistance,” “immunotherapy,” and “combination therapy.” The most cited publication reviewed current understanding of potential causes of epigenetic diseases and proposed future therapeutic strategies.

Conclusion

In the past two decades, the importance of epigenetic therapy in cancer research has become increasingly prominent. The United States occupies a key position in this field, while China, despite having published a large number of related papers, still has relatively limited influence. Current research focuses on the “combination therapy” of epigenetic drugs. Future studies should further explore the sequencing and scheduling of combination therapies, optimize trial designs and dosing regimens to improve clinical efficacy.
Effects of video-guided active breaks with curricular content on mental health and classroom climate in chilean schoolchildren aged 6 to 10: study protocol for a multicentre randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zapata-Lamana Rafael , Robles-Campos Alejandra , Reyes-Molina Daniel , Rojas-Bravo Jorge , Salcedo Lagos Pedro , Chávez-Castillo Yasna , Gajardo-Aguayo Jorge , Villalobos Jacqueline Valdebenito , Arias Ana María , Sanhueza-Campos Cristian , Ibarra Mora Jessica , Reyes-Amigo Tomás , Cristi-Montero Carlos , Sánchez-Oliva David , Ruiz-Hermosa Abel , Sánchez-López Mairena , Poblete-Valderrama Felipe , Celis-Morales Carlos , Martorell Miquel , Carrasco-Marín Fernanda , Albornoz-Guerrero Javier , Parra-Rizo María Antonia , Cigarroa Igor
Published: September 2024

Background

The incidence of mental health issues in children is increasing worldwide. In Chile, a recent surge in reports of deteriorating mental health among school populations and an increase in complaints related to poor school climate have been observed. Physical activity, specifically active breaks in the classroom, has shown positive effects on children’s health. However, evidence regarding its impact on mental health and school climate in children is limited.

Objective

This work outlines the design, measurements, intervention program, and potential efficacy of the “Active Classes + School Climate and Mental Health” project. This project will assess a 12-week program of active breaks through guided videos with curricular content in the school classroom, and its effects on mental health and school climate as its primary indicators. Additionally, it will measure physical activity, physical fitness, motor competence, and academic performance in students aged 6–10 years in the Biobío province, Chile, as secondary indicators. Methodology: A multicenter randomized controlled trial involving 823 students from 1st to 4th grade (6–10 years old), six schools (three intervention and three control) will be conducted in the Biobío region, Chile. Participants belonging to the intervention group will implement video-guided active breaks through the “Active Classes” web platform, featuring curricular content, lasting 5–10 min and of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity, twice a day, Monday to Friday, over a span of 12 weeks. Expected Results/Discussion: To our knowledge, this will be the first study in Chile to evaluate the effects of incorporating video-guided active breaks with curricular content on mental health variables and school climate in schoolchildren. Thus, this study contributes to the scarce evidence on the effects of video-guided active breaks on mental health variables and school climate in schoolchildren worldwide. Additionally, it will provide crucial information about active teaching methodologies that have the potential to positively contribute to the wellbeing of students, thus addressing the problems of mental health and climate in Chilean schools. ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT06423404.
Comparative plastome assembly of the yellow ironweed (Verbesina alternifolia) using Nanopore and Illumina reads
Authors: Tomasello Salvatore , Manzo Eleonora , Karbstein Kevin
Published: September 2024

Chloroplast genomes (plastomes) represent a very important source of valuable information for phylogenetic and biogeographic reconstructions. The use of short reads (as those produced from Illumina sequencing), along with de novo read assembly, has been considered the “gold standard” for plastome reconstruction. However, short reads often cannot reconstruct long repetitive regions in chloroplast genomes. Long Nanopore (ONT) reads can help bridging long repetitive regions but are by far more error-prone than those produced by Illumina sequencing. Verbesina is the largest genus of tribe Heliantheae (Asteraceae) and includes species of economic importance as ornamental or as invasive weeds. However, no complete chloroplast genomes have been published yet for the genus. We utilized Illumina and Nanopore sequencing data and different assembly strategies to reconstruct the plastome of Verbesina alternifolia and evaluated the usefulness of the Nanopore assemblies. The two plastome sequence assemblages, one obtained with the Nanopore sequencing and the other inferred with Illumina reads, were identical, except for missing bases in homonucleotide regions. The best-assembled plastome of V. alternifolia was 152,050 bp in length and contained 80, 29, and four unique protein-coding genes, tRNAs, and rRNAs, respectively. When used as reference for mapping Illumina reads, all plastomes performed similarly. In a phylogenetic analysis including 28 other plastomes from closely related taxa (from the Heliantheae alliance), the two Verbesina chloroplast genomes grouped together and were nested among the other members of the tribe Heliantheae s.str. Our study highlights the usefulness of the Nanopore technology for assembling rapidly and cost-effectively chloroplast genomes, especially in taxonomic groups with paucity of publicly available plastomes.
Online interpersonal trust and online altruistic behavior in college students: the chain mediating role of moral identity and online social support
Authors: Sun Daokai , Lin Yingying , Liao Chuanjing , Pan Lili
Published: September 2024

Background

The prevalence of online altruistic behaviors among the college students has attracted widespread attention. However, the factors influencing this are still unclear. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship and mechanism of online interpersonal trust, moral identity, online social support and online altruistic behavior among college students.

Methods

The survey was conducted among 986 Chinese college students using the Interpersonal Trust Scale for the Internet, Moral Identity Scale, The Internet Social Support Questionnaire for College Students and The Internet Altruistic Behavior Questionnaire for College Students.

Results

Moral identity, online social support, online interpersonal trust and online altruistic behavior were significantly positively correlated (r = 0.09–0.39, p < 0.01). Online social support plays a partial mediating role in the relation between online interpersonal trust and online altruistic behavior, accounting for 33.76% of the total effect, while moral identity and online social support play a chain mediating role in the relation between online interpersonal trust and online altruistic behavior, accounting for 2.23% of the total effect.

Conclusion

Online interpersonal trust not only directly affects college students’ online altruistic behavior, but also indirectly influences it through moral identity and online social support.
State of the maternal healthcare continuum in Guinea, awaiting the next Demographic and Health Survey: the case of the five communes of Conakry in 2022
Authors: Leno Niouma Nestor , Leno Daniel William Athanase , Sow Abdoulaye , Kambadouno Gaston , Camara Alioune , Mayaka Serge , Delamou Alexandre
Published: September 2024

Background

The continuum of maternal health care ensures consistency in the delivery of care from pregnancy to the postnatal period. It recommends a minimum of 4 antenatal visits, skilled birth attendance, and 42 days of postnatal care. This approach helps reduce maternal deaths. The aim of this study was to estimate the proportion of women who had completed the different stages of the continuum of maternal health care (four antenatal visits, given birth under the care of qualified personnel, and received postnatal care within 42 days of delivery).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted in the five communes of Conakry, using a two-stage cluster sampling for data collection. Results were described using medians and percentages. The proportions of women in the continuum of care, and at the different stages of this continuum, have been weighted. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with non-completion of the different stages of the maternal health care continuum among the women included in this study.

Results

We found that 26.9% of women had completed all stages of the maternal health care continuum, while 73.1% had not. While 56.7% received four antenatal visits, only 29.5% delivered under the care of a qualified healthcare professional. Key factors associated with discontinuity were not attending school (AOR 1.825: 1.594–2.089), unemployment (AOR 4.588: 3.983–5.285), having two or more living children (AOR 1.890: 1.016–1.296), and not receiving a free Long-Lasting Insecticidal Net at the first Antenatal Care.

Conclusion

Maternal care discontinuity is a major issue in Guinea. The country's Health Development Plan had set an expected level for maternal care which has not been met as of 2022. The completeness of care is influenced by various factors, including individual socio-demographic characteristics and factors related to the organization, availability, and quality of health services. To reduce maternal and child mortality rates, it is essential to improve interpersonal communication during antenatal care, ensure the availability of quality health services, and conduct a national study on maternal health service quality and maternal satisfaction. This will help establish a proper continuum of care for mothers and children.
Visitation, communication, and participation: an ethical and respectful strategy for engaging Australian South Sea Islander communities when sharing their lived experiences
Authors: Bobongie-Harris Francis , Youse Zia , Quakawoot Gordon
Published: September 2024

This study examines the experiences of three Australian South Sea Islanders from the same community who are part of a larger research team scheduled to engage in an archaeological research project in Mackay, Queensland, in 2021. The aim of the project was to highlight Australian South Sea Islander knowledge, voices, and lived experiences. However, owing to COVID-19 and persistent lockdowns in Queensland and New South Wales, the project faced significant delays. The timeline was adjusted, with plans to reintroduce the project to the community after an 18-month hiatus, aiming to rekindle interest and encourage participation. This study focuses on designing a community engagement strategy that builds on established protocols for researchers working with Australian South Sea Islander communities. The strategy includes three key steps: visitation, communication, and participation. By integrating the Tok Stori methodology—an Indigenous research approach from the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu—the strategy supports the decolonisation of the collaborative research process, enabling the sharing of Australian South Sea Islander lived experiences in a culturally safe manner. The authors provide contextualised reflections, offering insights from an Australian South Sea Islander perspective.
Hyperspectral imaging combined with deep learning models for the prediction of geographical origin and fungal contamination in millet
Authors: Nie Saimei , Gao Wenbin , Liu Shasha , Li Mo , Li Tao , Ren Jing , Ren Siyao , Wang Jian
Published: September 2024

Millet is one of the major coarse grain crops in China. Its geographical origin and Fusarium fungal contamination with ergosterol and deoxynivalenol have a direct impact on food quality, so the rapid prediction of the geographical origins and fungal toxin contamination is essential for protecting market fairness and consumer rights. In this study, 600 millet samples were collected from twelve production areas in China, and traditional algorithms such as random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM) were selected to compare with the deep learning models for the prediction of millet geographical origin and toxin content. This paper firstly develops a deep learning model (wavelet transformation-attention mechanism long short-term memory, WT-ALSTM) by combining hyperspectral imaging to achieve the best prediction effect, the wavelet transformation algorithm effectively eliminates noise in the spectral data, while the attention mechanism module improves the interpretability of the prediction model by selecting spectral feature bands. The integrated model (WT-ALSTM) based on selected feature bands achieves optimal prediction of millet origin, with its accuracy exceeding 99% on both the training and prediction datasets. Meanwhile, it achieves optimal prediction of ergosterol and deoxynivalenol content, with the coefficient of determination values exceeding 0.95 and residual predictive deviation values reaching 3.58 and 3.38 respectively, demonstrating excellent model performance. The above results suggest that the combination of hyperspectral imaging with a deep learning model has great potential for rapid quality assessment of millet. This study provides new technical references for developing portable and rapid hyperspectral imaging inspection technology for on-site assessment of agricultural product quality in the future.
The economic contribution of camel-based livestock systems in North-African drylands: the case of East and South Moroccan provinces
Authors: Amsidder Lina , Alary Véronique , Duteurtre Guillaume , Mnaouer Ihssane
Published: September 2024

In Africa, camel herding is often viewed as a subsistence or ancient activity restricted to marginal drylands and arid or desert zones. However, camel products are increasingly sold in many cities, and camels are more and more used for tourist purposes. We can also see various public or private interventions in the arid zones aiming to develop processing units for milk or meat based on a business model. This present research aimed to evaluate the multiple economic and non-economic contributions of camel activities in North African drylands through analysis at the household and territorial levels using a multifunctional approach. Based on a study in five provinces of East and South Morocco, this article proposes a framework based on rural livelihoods and ecosystemic services for assessing the contribution of camel rearing to the rural economy and territorial development. It highlighted the multiple economic and non-economic functions of this activity, including domestic, trade, and services, as well as cultural attachment and local knowledge. We conclude by discussing current changes in camel herding, between supporting specialization for value chain participation and maintaining the overall sustainability of the camel systems in dryland areas.
Using Wearable Technology to Detect, Monitor, and Predict Major Depressive Disorder—A Scoping Review and Introductory Text for Clinical Professionals
Authors: Walschots Quinty , Zarchev Milan , Unkel Maurits , Kamperman Astrid
Published: September 2024

The rising popularity of wearable devices allows for extensive and unobtrusive collection of personal health data for extended periods of time. Recent studies have used machine learning to create predictive algorithms to assess symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) based on these data. This review evaluates the clinical relevance of these models. Studies were selected to represent the range of methodologies and applications of wearables for MDD algorithms, with a focus on wrist-worn devices. The reviewed studies demonstrated that wearable-based algorithms were able to predict symptoms of MDD with considerable accuracy. These models may be used in the clinic to complement the monitoring of treatments or to facilitate early intervention in high-risk populations. In a preventative context, they could prompt users to seek help for earlier intervention and better clinical outcomes. However, the lack of standardized methodologies and variation in which performance metrics are reported complicates direct comparisons between studies. Issues with reproducibility, overfitting, small sample sizes, and limited population demographics also limit the generalizability of findings. As such, wearable-based algorithms show considerable promise for predicting and monitoring MDD, but there is significant room for improvement before this promise can be fulfilled.
Restoring Model of a Pneumatic Artificial Muscle with Structure Parameters: Analysis and Identification
Authors: Nguyen Minh Ky , Trinh Van Chon , Vo Ngoc Yen Phuong , Le Thanh Danh
Published: September 2024

This paper will develop the restoring model of a commercial pneumatic artificial muscle (PAM) based on a McKibben structure, which comprises an elastic element connected with a viscoelastic element in parallel. The elastic element is generated by compressed air inside the rubber bellow; meanwhile, the viscoelasticity is affected by the rubber material. In particular, the viscoelastic property of the rubber material is proposed based on the Maxwell model. Instead of derivative of integer orders, an equation of motion of the fractional model is introduced to better capture the amplitude- and frequency-dependent property of the viscoelasticity of the PAM. The equation expressing the hysteresis loop due to the viscoelasticity of the PAM material will then be analyzed and built. A water cycle algorithm is employed to determine the optimal set of the proposed model. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed model, a comparison between the simulation calculated from the proposed model and experimental data is considered under harmonic force excitation. This study’s results give potential insight into the field of system dynamic analysis with the elastic element being PAM.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Selected Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganisms in Optimizing Plant Growth and Soil Health in Diverse Soil Types
Authors: Pabar Sándor Attila , Kotroczó Zsolt , Takács Tünde , Biró Borbála
Published: September 2024

This study explores the efficacy of bio-efficient solutions, specifically plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs), in sustainable soil management. This research was conducted in 2020. It evaluates the impact of various single microbial inoculants, including Enterobacter ludwigii, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Kosakonia cowanii, and Trichoderma harzianum, on plant growth soil enzyme activity and organism abundance. Perennial ryegrass and mustard were used as test plants, in controlled environmental conditions. The results show generally positive effects of microbial inoculants on plant biomass (E. ludwigii increased ryegrass biomass by 9.75%, and P. fluorescens increased mustard biomass by up to 38.81% compared to the control) and on soil microbial activities. Our study further investigated the combined application of all these strains in five different soil types and textures. The results highlight the significance of soil physicochemical properties in determining inoculant efficacy; we found that clayey soils with higher colloid content support more robust microbial activity. Additionally, using natural clay minerals like alginite for enhancing soil conditions showed promising interactions with microbial inoculants, although application requires further optimization. These findings suggest that integrating microbial inoculants in sustainable agricultural practices could enhance plant growth, improve soil health, and reduce the need of chemical fertilizers. Future research should aim to refine the combinations and application methods of these bio-efficient solutions for broader agricultural applicability.
Novel Model for Pork Supply Prediction in China Based on Modified Self-Organizing Migrating Algorithm
Authors: Song Haohao , Wang Jiquan , Xu Gang , Tian Zhanwei , Xu Fei , Deng Hong
Published: September 2024

Pork supply prediction is a challenging task of significant importance for pig producers and administrators, as it aids decision-making and maintains the pork supply–demand balance. Previous studies failed to consider impact factors like the month-age transfer principle of pigs, epidemic factors, and the simultaneous import and export volumes of pork, leading to the absence of a quantitative prediction model for pork supply. In this background, we proposed a novel quantitative prediction model of pork supply that incorporates pork production and pork import/export volumes. First, a prediction model for pork production that takes into account the month-age transfer principle of pigs and epidemic factors was presented, along with a recursive model of the pig-herd system. A novel method based on a modified self-organizing migrating algorithm (MSOMA) was proposed for calculating the quantity of monthly newly retained sows (NRS). Furthermore, the pork-production prediction model considered the epidemic factor as a random disturbance term (RDT), and a prediction method based on MSOMA and a back-propagation neural network (MSOMA-BPNN) was introduced to predict such disturbance terms. Second, the proposed MSOMA-BPNN was employed to predict pork import and export volumes. The pork supply was subsequently determined based on the predicted pork production, as well as the pork import and export volumes. The proposed pork supply prediction model was applied to forecast China’s pork supply from 2010 to 2023. The results validate the high effectiveness and reliability of the proposed model, providing valuable insights for decision makers. The empirical results demonstrate that the proposed model is a promising and effective tool for predicting the pork supply. To our knowledge, this is a novel tool for pork supply prediction, considering the pig-herd system and pork import and export volumes from a systemic perspective. These features allow for consideration of the scientific formulation of a pig production plan, the establishment of early warning mechanisms to deal with epidemic situations and emergencies, and the regulation of pork supply and demand balance.
Genotype and Nitrogen Source Influence Drought Stress Response in Oil Palm Seedlings
Authors: Ruiz-Romero Rodrigo , De la Peña Marlon , Ayala-Díaz Iván , Montoya Carmenza , Romero Hernán Mauricio
Published: September 2024

As a significant global source of vegetable oil, the oil palm’s ability to withstand abiotic stresses, particularly drought, is crucial for sustainable agriculture. This is especially significant in tropical regions, where water scarcity is becoming more common. Nitrogen, a vital nutrient, plays an essential role in various physiological and biochemical processes in plants, directly influencing growth and stress tolerance. This study investigates the interaction between nitrogen sources (ammonium vs. nitrate) and drought stress in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) seedlings, which is critical in enhancing productivity in this economically important crop. The experiment evaluated five commercial oil palm genotypes, which were supplied with nitrogen solutions (15 mM NH4+ or NO3−) for 46 days, followed by 30 days of progressive drought. The results showed that drought conditions universally reduced the biomass, with ammonium-fed plants exhibiting greater shoot biomass sensitivity than nitrate-fed plants. Drought also significantly decreased the chlorophyll a, PhiPS2, and root-reducing sugar levels—critical indicators of photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant health. The effects on the root architecture were complex, with ammonium nutrition differentially influencing the lateral root length under well-watered versus drought conditions, highlighting nitrogen forms’ nuanced role in root development. Importantly, substantial genotypic variability was observed in most traits, affecting the responses to both the nitrogen source and drought stress. This variability suggests that certain genotypes may be better suited to cultivation in specific environmental conditions, particularly drought-prone areas. In conclusion, this study underscores the intricate interplay between nitrogen nutrition, genotypic variability, and drought tolerance in oil palm seedlings. These findings highlight the need to integrate these factors into agricultural management strategies to improve resilience and productivity in oil palm plantations.
Utilizing Hydrophobic Sand to Construct an Air-Permeable Aquiclude to Enhance Rice Yield and Lodging Resistance
Authors: Ma Xiaoyan , Wu Jing , Su Yuming , Qin Shengyi , Pilla Francesco
Published: September 2024

Global climate change and persistent droughts lead to soil desertification, posing significant challenges to food security. Desertified lands, characterized by high permeability, struggle to retain water, thereby hindering ecological restoration. Sand, a natural resource abundant in deserts, inspired our proposal to design hydrophobic sand and construct Air-permeable Aquicludes (APAC) using this material. This approach aims to address issues related to the ecological restoration of desertified lands, food security, and the utilization of sand resources. Reclamation of desertified land and sandy areas can simultaneously address ecological restoration and ensure food security, with soil reconstruction being a critical step. This study investigated the effects of constructing an Air-permeable Aquiclude (APAC) using hydrophobic sand on rice yield and lodging resistance, using clay aquitard (CAT) and plastic aquiclude (PAC) as control groups. The APAC enhanced soil oxygen content, increased internode strength, and improved vascular bundle density, substantially reducing the lodging index and increasing yield. This research finds that the APAC (a) increased internode outer diameter, wall thickness, fresh weight, and filling degree; (b) enhanced the vascular bundle area by 11.11% to 27.66% and increased density; (c) reduced the lodging index by 37.54% to 36.93% (p < 0.01); and (d) increased yield to 8.09 t·hm−2, a rise of 12.05% to 14.59% (p < 0.05), showing a negative correlation with lodging index. These findings suggest that APAC has very good potential for desertified land reclamation and food security. In conclusion, the incorporation of hydrophobic sand in APAC construction considerably strengthens rice stem lodging resistance and increases yield, demonstrating considerable application potential for the reclamation of desertified and sandy land and ensuring food security.