bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Load Balancing for Dual-Mode Communication Networks in the Power Internet of Things
Authors: Xu Kunpeng , Li Zheng , Yan Yunyi , Dai Hongguang , Wang Xianhui , Chen Jinlei , Fei Zesong
Published: October 2023

As an important part of the power Internet of Things, the dual-mode communication network that combines the high-speed power line carrier (HPLC) mode and high-speed radio frequency (HRF) mode is one of the hot directions in current research. Since non-uniform transmission demands for power consumption information can lead to link congestion among nodes, improving the network load-balancing performance becomes a critical issue. Therefore, this paper proposes a load-balancing routing algorithm for dual-mode communication networks, which is achieved in dual-mode communication networks by adding alternate paths and proxy coordinator (PCO) node election mechanism. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm achieves the load-balanced distribution of power consumption information transmission. The proposed scheme reduces the delay and packet loss rate, as well as improving the throughput of dual-mode communication compared to existing routing algorithms.
Deep Learning-Based Depression Detection from Social Media: Comparative Evaluation of ML and Transformer Techniques
Authors: Bokolo Biodoumoye George , Liu Qingzhong
Published: October 2023

Detecting depression from user-generated content on social media platforms has garnered significant attention due to its potential for the early identification and monitoring of mental health issues. This paper presents a comprehensive approach for depression detection from user tweets using machine learning techniques. The study utilizes a dataset of 632,000 tweets and employs data preprocessing, feature selection, and model training with logistic regression, Bernoulli Naive Bayes, random forests, DistilBERT, SqueezeBERT, DeBERTA, and RoBERTa models. Evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score are employed to assess the models’ performance. The results indicate that the RoBERTa model achieves the highest accuracy ratio of 0.981 and the highest mean accuracy of 0.97 (across 10 cross-validation folds) in detecting depression from tweets. This research demonstrates the effectiveness of machine learning and advanced transformer-based models in leveraging social media data for mental health analysis. The findings offer valuable insights into the potential for early detection and monitoring of depression using online platforms, contributing to the growing field of mental health analysis based on user-generated content.
A Disturbed Voussoir Beam Structure Mechanical Model and Its Application in Feasibility Determination of Upward Mining
Authors: Zhang Yujiang , Wang Yining , Cui Bingyuan , Feng Guorui , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Chunwang , Zhang Zhengjun
Published: October 2023

China is endowed with a large quantity of residual coal resources that require upward mining. The stability of interburden strata structures and accurate determination are crucial for safe mining. Therefore, we established a mechanical model of disturbed voussoir beam structures of interburden strata in upward mining. The model was solved, and stability analysis and instability mechanism analysis were conducted. Based on this model, a new method for determining the feasibility of upward mining was proposed and applied to the upward mining of coal seam No. 7 in Baijiazhuang Coal Mine. A physical simulation experiment and numerical simulation were conducted to validate the method. Through research, it was found that the model had two instability mechanisms: rotation instability and sliding instability. When the disturbance load crossed the critical block of the structures, the model was most likely to experience sliding instability. When the disturbance load acted entirely on the critical block, rotation instability was more likely to occur. The result of the determination, performed using the new method, showed that there was no rotation instability or sliding instability in the interburden strata structures of coal seam No. 7, indicating that the coal seam could be mined upward. This result was consistent with the determinations using the statistical method, “three-zone” method, and balanced surrounding rock method. Physical and numerical simulations revealed that the upward mining of coal seam No. 7 caused the subsidence, rotation, and separation compaction of the interburden strata structures but that the structures remained stable. The results indicate that the proposed model and method have accuracy and applicability, being able to guide the practical feasibility determination of upward mining.
P-Doped Modified Porous Carbon Derived from ZIF-8 for Enhanced Capacitive Performance
Authors: Guo Congxiu , Li Guilin , Wu Yujia , Wang Xuhui , Niu Yu , Wu Jiao
Published: October 2023

Porous carbon materials derived from ZIF-8 have attracted extensive research attention on account of their large surface area, tunable mesoporosity and abundant nitrogen content. However, directly carbonized ZIF-8 usually suffers from a low electronic conductivity, poor wettability and relatively low mesoporosity, which severely restricts their capacitive performance. Herein, P-doped modified carbon materials derived from ZIF-8 (ZPCs) were synthesized by using nontoxic phytic acid as a phosphorus source, followed by carbonization at high temperature. Benefiting from its relatively high specific surface area of 911.7 m2 g−1 and higher ratio of mesopores, as well as N, O and P doping, ZPC-1000 delivers the largest specific capacity, up to 219.4 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, among the prepared samples and an outstanding cycle span, retaining 100% capacity after 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1. In this work, we highlight the strategy of constructing a synergistic effect between high mesoporosity and heteroatom doping, which can greatly boost the capacitive performance of carbon materials.
Root Fragment Amendments Increase Nematode Density and Mycobiome Stochasticity in Douglas-Fir Seedlings
Authors: Super Laura , Gorzelak Monika A. , Guy Robert D.
Published: October 2023

Relatively little is known about whole-plant fungal communities (mycobiome) and associated soil nematodes, especially with respect to woody plant seedlings and disturbance caused by forest harvesting. In a growth chamber experiment, we tested simulated clear-cut soil conditions on shoot biomass, total soil nematode density, and the shoot and root mycobiome of Douglas-fir, Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, seedlings. Soil treatments included unamended bare soil and soil amended with root segments of kinnikinnick, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng., pinegrass, Calamagrostis rubescens Buckley, or P. menziesii seedlings. We used next-generation Illumina sequencing and the PIPITS pipeline to obtain fungal taxa used for mycobiome community richness and Jaccard-based taxonomic normalized stochasticity ratio to assess mycobiome community assembly stochasticity. Total nematode density, measured from Baermann funnel extractions, increased in soils supplemented with A. uva-ursi or C. rubescens root segments. Root mycobiomes were more stochastic in the A. uva-ursi than P. menziesii or the bare conditions, whereas the shoot mycobiome was more stochastic in the C. rubescens treatment than in the P. menziesii treatment. Our results suggest that refugia plants impact the phyto-biome, in this case plant-associated nematodes and the stochasticity of root and shoot mycobiome community assembly, while not showing noticeable impacts on above-ground plant growth.
Profile of PKS and NRPS Gene Clusters in the Genome of Streptomyces cellostaticus NBRC 12849T
Authors: Komaki Hisayuki , Tamura Tomohiko
Published: October 2023

Polyketides and nonribosomal peptides are major secondary metabolites in members of the genus Streptomyces. Streptomyces cellostaticus is a validly recognized species and the type strain produces cellostatin. However, little is known about whether it has the potential to produce diverse polyketides and nonribosomal peptides. Here, we sequenced the whole genome of S. cellostaticus NBRC 12849T and surveyed polyketide synthase (PKS) and nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) gene clusters in the genome. The genome encoded 12 PKS, one NRPS and eight hybrid PKS/NRPS gene clusters. Among the 21 gene clusters, products of 10 gene clusters were annotated to be an annimycin congener, fuelimycins, lankamycin, streptovaricin, spore pigment, flaviolin, foxicin, blasticidin, lankacidin and an incarnatapeptine congener via our bioinformatic analysis. Although the other clusters were orphan and their products were unknown, five of them were predicted to be compounds derived from two independent diketides, a tridecaketide, a triketide and a tetraketide with a cysteine residue, respectively. These results suggest that S. cellostaticus is a source of diverse polyketides and hybrid polyketide/nonribosomal peptides, including unknown and new secondary metabolites.
Valorization of Different Dairy By-Products to Produce a Functional Dairy–Millet Beverage Fermented with Lactobacillus paracasei as an Adjunct Culture
Authors: Alwohaibi Azzah A. A. , Ali Asmahan A. , Sakr Sally S. , Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , Alhomaid Raghad M. , Alsaleem Khalid A. , Aladhadh Mohammed , Barakat Hassan , Hassan Mohamed F. Y.
Published: October 2023

Fermented dairy products not only have a long shelf-life but also have beneficial nutritional values. The products are deficient in dietary fiber and certain bioactive compounds. Adding grains to dairy products is a widespread practice to improve the nutritional and economic aspects. In this work, we studied the effect of fermented millet–milk beverages (FMBs) using pearl millet grains and three different dairy by-products (sweet whey, sweet buttermilk, and skimmed milk). A control treatment prepared with water was also manufactured for comparison. Samples were continuously prepared and fermented using a commercial yogurt starter culture (YC-381) containing L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus, and a pure strain of L. paracasei subsp. Paracasei. Four FMBs (water based: WB-FMB, whey based: WHB-FMB, buttermilk based: BMB-FMB, and skimmed milk based: SMB-FMB) were analyzed during cold storage at 4 °C for up to 15 days for chemical, microbiological properties, minerals content, antioxidant properties, glycemic index, and glycemic load on days 1, 8, and 15. The sensory characteristics of the FMBs were also evaluated during cold storage (4 °C/15 days). In general, the progression of acidity was slower in SMB-FMB and WHB-FMB samples during fermentation compared to in the BMB-FMB sample. The longest fermentation time was for the SMB-FBM sample (3 h), while the shortest was for the BMB-FMB sample (1.5 h). Reflecting the good manufacturing practices, all samples were free of coliform, mold, and yeast. No bacterial growth was detected in the WB-FMB sample at days 8 and 15 of storage, while the growth of Lactobacillus spp. and S. thermophilus was significantly higher (9.97 ± 0.01 and 9.48 ± 0.06, respectively) in the BMB-FMB sample compared to in the other three FMBs. The FMBs produced using dairy by-products had more antioxidant properties. All samples were better perceived during sensory evaluation by panelists than the water-based sample, except for the BMB-FMB sample, in which a bitter taste appeared. In the BMB-FMB sample, the proteolytic degree was significantly higher (4.8 ± 0.09) after 3 h of fermentation by about 460% than in the fresh sample. All samples had a low glycemic index and glycemic load. In addition, acidity progression was slower in SMB-FMB and WHB-FMB samples during fermentation and storage compared to the WB-FMB sample. Therefore, it could be recommended that it is more beneficial to prepare fermented millet–milk beverages using dairy by-products and suitable starter cultures under optimal fermentation conditions instead of using water to maximize the nutritional and economic aspects.
Optimization and Dispersion Tailoring of Chalcogenide M-Type Fibers Using a Modified Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Salnikov Nikolay I. , Andrianov Alexey V. , Anashkina Elena A.
Published: October 2023

M-type optical fibers in which a core is surrounded by a thin ring layer with a higher refractive index have attracted increasing attention in recent years. One of their advantageous features is the ability to operate a non-fundamental LP02 mode possessing unusual dispersion properties, namely, a zero-dispersion wavelength (ZDW) shifted to the short wavelength region relative to the material ZDW. The LP02 mode can be selectively excited since it is predominantly localized near the core, while the fundamental LP01 and other higher modes are localized near the ring (for proper fiber parameters). In this paper, we present a comprehensive theoretical analysis of effective dispersion tailoring for the HE12 mode of highly nonlinear chalcogenide glass fibers (for which the LP mode approximation fails due to large refractive index contrasts). We demonstrate fiber designs for which ZDWs can be shifted to the spectral region < 2 μm, which is of great interest for the development of mid-IR supercontinuum sources and frequency-tunable pulse sources with standard near-IR pumping. We obtained the characteristic equation and solved it numerically to find mode fields and dispersion characteristics. We show the possibility of achieving dispersion characteristics of the HE12 mode with one, two, three, and four ZDWs in the wavelength range of 1.5–5.5 μm. We used a modified genetic algorithm (MGA) to design fibers with desired dispersion parameters. In particular, by applying an MGA, we optimized four fiber parameters and constructed a fiber for which HE12 mode dispersion is anomalous in the 1.735–5.155 μm range.
Evaluation of Physicochemical Characteristics and Sensory Properties of Cold Brew Coffees Prepared Using Ultrahigh Pressure under Different Extraction Conditions
Authors: Chen Shiyu , Xiao Ying , Tang Wenxiao , Jiang Feng , Zhu Jing , Zhou Yiming , Ye Lin
Published: October 2023

Although cold brew coffee is becoming increasingly popular among consumers, the long coffee extraction time is not conducive to the further development of the market. This study explored the feasibility of ultrahigh pressure (UHP) to shorten the time required for preparing cold brew coffee. The effects of pressure and holding time on the physicochemical characteristics and sensory evaluation of UHP-assisted cold brew coffee were also determined. The extraction yield; total dissolved solid, total phenol, and melanoid content; antioxidant capacity; and trigonelline and chlorogenic acid contents of UHP-assisted cold brew coffee increased as the pressure increased. The extraction yield and the total dissolved solid, total phenol, total sugar, and chlorogenic acid and trigonelline contents were higher when the holding time was longer. The HS-SPME-GC/MS analysis demonstrated that the furan, aldehyde, and pyrazine contents in coffee increased as the pressure and holding time increased. The pressure did not significantly impact the concentrations of volatile components of esters and ketones in coffee samples. However, the increase in holding time significantly increased the ester and ketone contents. The sensory evaluation results revealed that as pressure rose, the intensities of nutty, fruity, floral, caramel, and sourness flavors increased, whereas bitterness and sweetness decreased. Longer holding time increased nutty, caramel, sour, bitter, sweet, and aftertaste flavors. Principal component analysis (PCA) results indicated that holding time is a more crucial factor affecting the physiochemical indices and flavor characteristics of coffee. UHP can shorten the preparation time of cold brew coffee. Pressure and holding time significantly affected the physiochemical indices and volatile components of UHP-assisted cold brew coffee. UHP-assisted cold brew coffee had lower bitterness, higher sweetness, and a softer taste than conventional cold brew coffee.
Recent Trends in the Application of Oilseed-Derived Protein Hydrolysates as Functional Foods
Authors: Garbacz Katarzyna , Wawrzykowski Jacek , Czelej Michał , Czernecki Tomasz , Waśko Adam
Published: October 2023

Oilseed-derived proteins have emerged as an excellent alternative to animal sources for the production of bioactive peptides. The bioactivities exhibited by peptides derived from plant proteins encompass a wide range of health-promoting and disease-preventing effects. Peptides demonstrate potential capabilities in managing diseases associated with free radicals and regulating blood pressure. They can also exhibit properties that lower blood sugar levels and modify immune responses. In addition to their bioactivities, plant-derived bioactive peptides also possess various functional properties that contribute to their versatility. An illustration of this potential can be the ability of peptides to significantly improve food preservation and reduce lipid content. Consequently, plant-derived bioactive peptides hold great promise as ingredients to develop functional products. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of the research progress made in the elucidation of the biological activities and functional properties of oilseed-derived proteins. The ultimate objective is to enhance the understanding of plant-derived bioactive peptides and provide valuable insights for further research and use in the food and medicine industries.
Natural Antimicrobial Mixtures Disrupt Attachment and Survival of E. coli and C. jejuni to Non-Organic and Organic Surfaces
Authors: Corcionivoschi Nicolae , Balta Igori , Butucel Eugenia , McCleery David , Pet Ioan , Iamandei Maria , Stef Lavinia , Morariu Sorin
Published: October 2023

The contact and adherence of bacteria to various surfaces has significant consequences on biofilm formation through changes in bacterial surface structures or gene expression with potential ramifications on plant and animal health. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of organic acid-based mixtures (Ac) on the ability Campylobacter jejuni and Escherichia coli to attach and form biofilm on various surfaces, including plastic, chicken carcass skins, straw bedding, and eggshells. Moreover, we aimed to explore the effect of Ac on the expression of E. coli (luxS, fimC, csgD) and C. jejuni (luxS, flaA, flaB) bacterial genes involved in the attachment and biofilm formation via changes in bacterial surface polysaccharidic structures. Our results show that Ac had a significant effect on the expression of these genes in bacteria either attached to these surfaces or in planktonic cells. Moreover, the significant decrease in bacterial adhesion was coupled with structural changes in bacterial surface polysaccharide profiles, impacting their adhesion and biofilm-forming ability. Essentially, our findings accentuate the potential of natural antimicrobials, such as Ac, in reducing bacterial attachment and biofilm formation across various environments, suggesting promising potential applications in sectors like poultry production and healthcare.
Geographical Indication Characteristics of Aroma and Phenolic Acids of the Changping Strawberry
Authors: Wu Linxia , Wang Xinlu , Hao Jianqiang , Zhu Ning , Wang Meng
Published: October 2023

Strawberry is the most consumed berry fruit worldwide due to its unique aroma and high nutritive value. This fruit is also an important source of phenolic compounds. Changping strawberries are recognized as a national agricultural product of geographical indication (GI) due to their unique flavor. Widely accepted standards for identifying GI strawberries from non-GI strawberries are currently unavailable. This study compared the aroma and phenolic acid composition of GI and non-GI strawberries. Furthermore, the characteristic aroma and phenolic acid markers of GI strawberries were determined. A classification model based on the markers was established using Fisher discriminant analysis (FDA). In this study, six groups of strawberries with variety name of “Hongyan”, including GI strawberries from Changping and non-GI strawberries from Changping, Miyun, Pinggu, Shunyi, and Tongzhou, were collected. A total of 147 volatile substances were discovered using gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The contents of a few compounds principally responsible for the distinctive aroma in GI strawberries were in the top three of the six groups, providing GI strawberries with a generally pleasant fragrance. OPLS–DA identified isoamyl butyrate and trans-2-octen-1-ol as characteristic markers. Enrichment analysis indicated that beta-oxidation of very long-chain fatty acids, mitochondrial beta-oxidation of very long-chain fatty acids, fatty acid biosynthesis, and butyrate metabolism played critical roles in volatile compound biosynthesis. The total phenolic content was 24.41–36.46 mg/kg of fresh weight. OPLS–DA results revealed that cinnamic acid could be used as a characteristic phenolic acid marker of GI strawberries. Based on the three characteristic markers, FDA was performed on the different groups, which were then divided. The separation of strawberry samples from different origins using the three characteristic markers was found to be feasible. These findings help effectively understand the aroma and phenolic acid composition of strawberries and contribute to the development of strawberries with a pleasant fragrance and health benefits.
Magnetic Polypyrrole-Gelatin-Barium Ferrite Cryogel as an Adsorbent for Chromium (VI) Removal
Authors: Milakin Konstantin A. , Taboubi Oumayma , Hromádková Jiřina , Bober Patrycja
Published: October 2023

Polypyrrole-gelatin aerogels, containing magnetic barium ferrite (BaFe) particles, (PPy-G-BaFe) were synthesized by oxidative cryopolymerization and used as adsorbents for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous media. The removal was performed at pH 4, which was shown to be the optimal value, due to HCrO4− being the dominant species in these conditions and its more favorable adsorption and reduction compared to CrO42−, present at pH > 4. It was found that the presence of magnetic BaFe particles had no effect on the adsorption performance of PPy aerogels in terms of capacity and kinetics, which was attributed to its relatively low content in the composite. After the adsorption, the presence of chromium in the composites was confirmed by EDX and its electrostatic interaction with the adsorbent was pointed at by vibrational spectroscopy, corresponding to the accepted adsorption mechanism. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model pointing at chemisorption being the rate-limiting step. The adsorption isotherm data was best fitting with the Temkin model. The maximum adsorption capacity, calculated using the Langmuir model, was 255.8 mg g−1 (the maximum experimental value was 161.6 mg g−1). Additionally, the possibility of Cr(VI) adsorption in the presence of Cl−, Br−, NO3− and SO42− as interfering ions was shown.
Impact of COVID-19 Infection on Health-Related Quality of Life, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment by Symptom-Based Long COVID Status and Age in the US
Authors: Di Fusco Manuela , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Anatale-Tardiff Laura , Coetzer Henriette , Yehoshua Alon , Alvarez Mary B. , Allen Kristen E. , Porter Thomas M. , Puzniak Laura , Cha-Silva Ashley S. , Lopez Santiago M. C. , Sun Xiaowu
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 infection adversely impacts patients’ wellbeing and daily lives. This survey-based study examined differences in patient-reported COVID-19 symptoms, Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) among groups of patients defined based on age and symptom-based long COVID status. Symptomatic, COVID-19-positive US outpatients were recruited from 31 January–30 April 2022. Outcomes were collected via validated instruments at pre-COVID, Day 3, Week 1, Week 4, Month 3 and Month 6 following infection, with changes assessed from pre-COVID and between groups, adjusting for covariates. EQ-5D-5L HRQoL and WPAI scores declined in all groups, especially during the first week. Long COVID patients reported significantly higher symptoms burden and larger drops in HRQoL and WPAI scores than patients without long COVID. Their HRQoL and WPAI scores did not return to levels comparable to pre-COVID through Month 6, except for absenteeism. Patients without long COVID generally recovered between Week 4 and Month 3. Older (>50) and younger adults generally reported comparable symptoms burden and drops in HRQoL and WPAI scores. During the first week of infection, COVID-19-related health issues caused loss of 14 to 26 work hours across the groups. These data further knowledge regarding the differential impacts of COVID-19 on clinically relevant patient groups.
Stress Management in Healthcare Organizations: The Nigerian Context
Authors: Nwobodo Ezinne Precious , Strukcinskiene Birute , Razbadauskas Arturas , Grigoliene Rasa , Agostinis-Sobrinho Cesar
Published: October 2023

Occupational psychosocial stress can increase the risk of several cardiometabolic diseases. Healthcare workers worldwide experience exceptionally high levels of occupational stress, leading to serious individual, organizational, and societal problems. This narrative review seeks to provide information about the overall consequences of having over-stressed healthcare workers and ascertain how it eventually holds back the advancement of healthcare. In addition, we present a review of the concept, study, and theories related to stress management in order to deeply understand this issue, providing a theoretical perspective of stress management and the subtle concepts of stress, stress management, healthcare structure, and organization in Nigeria. The current literature has shown that Nigerian healthcare workers are more stressed due to long working hours, caregiving responsibilities, and psychological contact with patients. Healthcare workers are more likely to experience stress and burnout than other professions. The level of stress in the healthcare sector has garnered a lot of attention in this regard because of the negative impact of stress on both staff and patients. However, health policies and better working conditions need to be adopted. Collaborative efforts from policymakers, healthcare institutions, and other stakeholders are necessary to prioritize the well-being and productivity of healthcare professionals in the journey toward a more robust and equitable healthcare system.
Assessment of the Knowledge and Practice of Infection Control among Radiographers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Gareeballah Awadia , Al-sehli Samah Matar , Al-mutairi Rana Theeb , Gameraddin Moawia , Alsharif Walaa , Elzaki Maisa , Alshoabi Sultan Abdulwadoud , Alsultan Kamal Dahan , Alzain Amel F. , Omer Awatif M. , Hamd Zuhal Y.
Published: October 2023

Effective control of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) involves a collaborative effort among various healthcare stakeholders, including healthcare workers, patients, and professionals. Radiographers, as essential members of the healthcare team, play a crucial role in HAI prevention by diligently adhering to standard infection control precautions (SICP) and maintaining a high level of knowledge regarding infection control procedures. The study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of radiographers concerning infection control in radiology departments in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia in the period from February to May 2022, with data collected using an online survey in the form of a google forms questionnaire disseminated through social media as an electronic link and including the patient’s demographic characteristic such as age, gender, education level, experience, and prior infection control training and multiple closed ended questions to assess knowledge of standard infection control precautions and the practice of infection control. Overall, 113 participants responded to the survey and entered their responses directly, and the data were analyzed using the SPSS (statistical package for social science). Results: The study revealed that the mean score of knowledge and awareness of the practice of infection control among radiographers in Saudi Arabia was (63.0 and 61.9, respectively), which were considered moderate levels. Females were significantly more knowledgeable about infection control and more aware of the practice than males (p-values = 0.019). The participants who previously attended courses of infection control training had a significantly higher score with a mean rank of (60.9) than those who had not (43.4), (p-value = 0.013). The radiographers’ level of experience, age, and academic qualification had no significant influence on overall knowledge and practice of infection control (p-values > 0.05). Conclusions: In Saudi Arabia, radiographers have a moderate level of knowledge and practice of infection control. There is a need for an ongoing training and education program for practicing radiographers to ensure they perform better in infection control measures.
Experiences of Women with Disabilities in Accessing Maternal Healthcare Services: A South African Case Study
Authors: Mheta Doreen , Sibiya Maureen Nokuthula , Nkosi Pauline Busisiwe
Published: October 2023

Access to maternal healthcare services is a challenge in most low- and middle-income countries. South Africa is one of the countries striving to improve the accessibility of maternal healthcare services. Although South Africa has put some interventions in place to improve the accessibility of maternal healthcare services, vulnerable women including women with disabilities are still facing numerous challenges when trying to access these services. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of women with disabilities in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa in accessing public maternal healthcare services. The objectives of this study were to describe the experiences of women with disabilities in accessing maternal healthcare services during pregnancy, childbirth and post-partum care; explore the inhibitors of access to maternal healthcare services for women with disabilities; and explore the facilitators of access to maternal healthcare services for women with disabilities. Twelve women with disabilities (four with physical impairments, four with hearing impairments and four with visual impairments) were interviewed for this study. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed utilising the Framework of Assessing Access to Maternal Healthcare Services by Peters et al., 2008. Our study found that narrow passages and information in inaccessible formats were a challenge for women with visual impairments. Women with hearing impairments faced communication difficulties due to the lack of sign language interpreters in most facilities. Moreover, healthcare professionals displayed unfavourable attitudes toward women with hearing impairments, and these women were often overlooked when seeking help. The women with physical impairments encountered inaccessible buildings, narrow passages, small consultation rooms and equipment that is not adjustable, such as beds and scales.
Feasibility and Outcomes of Meta Salud Diabetes Behavioral Health Intervention: A Pilot Study of a Community Health Worker-Administered Educational Intervention to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease and Its Complications among Hispanic Patients with Type-2 Diabetes
Authors: Nuño Tomas , Torres Maria Rocio , Soto Sheila , Sepulveda Refugio , Aceves Benjamin , Rosales Cecilia Ballesteros
Published: October 2023

Background: Hispanics in the United States experience a greater burden of type-2 diabetes (T2D), with a prevalence rate (17%) more than twice that of non-Hispanic whites (8%). Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among people with T2D. A culturally appropriate behavioral health intervention that addresses healthy lifestyle promotion is an impactful approach for health systems with scarce medical resources and a high prevalence of chronic conditions, including obesity and high blood pressure, which increase the likelihood of CVD mortality among type-2 diabetics. Purpose: To assess the feasibility and outcomes of a behavioral intervention to decrease CVD and complications in a Hispanic diabetic population. Methods: Meta Salud Diabetes (MSD), a behavioral intervention effective in a Mexican population, consists of a 13-week intervention addressing CVD and T2D knowledge and risk reduction. It was implemented in a sample of Hispanic diabetic patients from two federally qualified health centers (FQHCs). Clinical and behavioral variables were measured at baseline, postintervention, and 1-year follow-up. Results: The feasibility of MSD was rated as successful by all FQHC staff and well-received by both staff and study participants, with positive remarks about the culturally relevant components of the intervention. The sample size was n = 30 (baseline), n = 23 (postintervention), and n = 19 (1-year follow-up). Of note, quantitative results showed trending decreases in Hba1c (7.06; 6.80; 6.30), blood pressure (132/83; 126/80; 123/78), and total cholesterol (160; 159; 154). Conclusion: MSD is a feasible intervention and can address the need to improve health outcomes among Hispanic patients with T2D.
Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program: 10-Year Outcome and Follow-Up from a Screening Center in Germany
Authors: Thangavelu Kruthika , Martakis Kyriakos , Feldmann Silke , Roth Bernhard , Herkenrath Peter , Lang-Roth Ruth
Published: October 2023

Regular reporting of quality control is important in newborn hearing screening, ensuring early diagnosis and intervention. This study reports on a population-based newborn hearing screening program in North-Rhine, Germany and a hospital-based screening at a University Hospital for 2007–2016. The two-staged ‘screening’ and ‘follow-up’ program involving TEOAE and AABR recruited newborns through participating birth facilities. Results were sent to the regional tracking center, and the data were analyzed based on recommended benchmarks. The percentage of newborns from the participating birth facilities in the region increased from 1.4% in 2007 to 57.5% in 2016. The 10-year coverage rate for these newborns was 98.7%, the referral rate after a failed two-step screening was 3.4%, and the lost-to-follow-up rate was 1%. At the hospital, >95% of the screened newborns completed screening within 30 days, the 10-year referral rate was 5%, and 64% were referred within 3 months of age. The median time for screening completion was 6 days after birth, for referral it was 74 days after birth, and for diagnosis it was 55 days after birth. Regional–centralized tracking centers with uniform structure are necessary for proper quality control. Obligatory participation of birthing facilities and quality reports may improve performance, but the recommended quality criteria need considerable financial and infrastructural expenditure.
The Roles of transformer-2 (tra-2) in the Sex Determination and Fertility of Riptortus pedestris, a Hemimetabolous Agricultural Pest
Authors: Ying Jinjun , Wang Haiqiang , Wang Biyun , Mao Zeping , Chen Youyuan , Li Junmin , Zhang Chuanxi , Zhuo Jichong
Published: October 2023

In most holometabolous insects, transformer-2 (tra-2) is an auxiliary gene required for sex determination, exerting a crucial role in regulating sexual differentiation; however, the study of tra-2 in hemimetabolous insects remains very sparse and limited to just a few species. In this study, we investigated the sequence and expression profile of the tra-2 gene in the bean bug, Riptortus pedestris, an agricultural pest belonging to the Heteroptera order. Three non-sex-specific splicing isoforms of Rptra-2 were found, Rptra-2293, Rptra-2284, and Rptra-2299, which shared most exons and exhibited similar expression throughout all stages of development, with particularly elevated levels in the embryo, ovary, and testis. RNAi knockdown experiments revealed that the suppression of Rptra-2 in nymphs led to abnormal females, characterized the formation of male-specific external genital, and also caused longer nymph duration. Knockdown of the expression of the Rptra-2 gene in newly emergent virgin females would cause ovarian arrest, and injecting the 8th-day virgin females with dsRptra-2 also caused a noticeable decline in the offspring numbers. Conversely, in dsRptra-2-treated males, the testes maintained normal morphology but experienced impaired reproductive capacity, attributed to diminished sperm viability. These findings highlight the crucial role of Rptra-2 in the sex determination and fertility of R. pedestris, providing valuable insights into the sex determination mechanisms of hemimetabolous insects.
Internet-of-Things Edge Computing Systems for Streaming Video Analytics: Trails Behind and the Paths Ahead
Authors: Ravindran Arun A.
Published: October 2023

The falling cost of IoT cameras, the advancement of AI-based computer vision algorithms, and powerful hardware accelerators for deep learning have enabled the widespread deployment of surveillance cameras with the ability to automatically analyze streaming video feeds to detect events of interest. While streaming video analytics is currently largely performed in the cloud, edge computing has emerged as a pivotal component due to its advantages of low latency, reduced bandwidth, and enhanced privacy. However, a distinct gap persists between state-of-the-art computer vision algorithms and the successful practical implementation of edge-based streaming video analytics systems. This paper presents a comprehensive review of more than 30 research papers published over the last 6 years on IoT edge streaming video analytics (IE-SVA) systems. The papers are analyzed across 17 distinct dimensions. Unlike prior reviews, we examine each system holistically, identifying their strengths and weaknesses in diverse implementations. Our findings suggest that certain critical topics necessary for the practical realization of IE-SVA systems are not sufficiently addressed in current research. Based on these observations, we propose research trajectories across short-, medium-, and long-term horizons. Additionally, we explore trending topics in other computing areas that can significantly impact the evolution of IE-SVA systems.
Relationship of Acylcarnitines to Myocardial Ischemic Remodeling and Clinical Manifestations in Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Belenkov Yuri N. , Ageev Anton A. , Kozhevnikova Maria V. , Khabarova Natalia V. , Krivova Anastasia V. , Korobkova Ekaterina O. , Popova Ludmila V. , Emelyanov Alexey V. , Appolonova Svetlana A. , Moskaleva Natalia E. , Shestakova Ksenia M. , Privalova Elena V.
Published: October 2023

Background: Progressive myocardial remodeling (MR) in chronic heart failure (CHF) leads to aggravation of systolic dysfunction (SD) and clinical manifestations. Identification of metabolomic markers of these processes may help in the search for new therapeutic approaches aimed at achieving reversibility of MR and improving prognosis in patients with CHF. Methods: To determine the relationship between plasma acylcarnitine (ACs) levels, MR parameters and clinical characteristics, in patients with CHF of ischemic etiology (n = 79) and patients with coronary heart disease CHD (n = 19) targeted analysis of 30 ACs was performed by flow injection analysis mass spectrometry. Results: Significant differences between cohorts were found for the levels of 11 ACs. Significant positive correlations (r > 0.3) between the medium- and long-chain ACs (MCACs and LCACs) and symptoms (CHF NYHA functional class (FC); r = 0.31−0.39; p < 0.05); negative correlation (r = −0.31−0.34; p < 0.05) between C5-OH and FC was revealed. Positive correlations of MCACs and LCACs (r = 0.31−0.48; p < 0.05) with the left atrium size and volume, the right atrium volume, right ventricle, and the inferior vena cava sizes, as well as the pulmonary artery systolic pressure level were shown. A negative correlation between C18:1 and left ventricular ejection fraction (r = −0.31; p < 0.05) was found. However, a decrease in levels compared to referent values of ACs with medium and long chain lengths was 50% of the CHF-CHD cohort. Carnitine deficiency was found in 6% and acylcarnitine deficiency in 3% of all patients with chronic heart disease. Conclusions: ACs may be used in assessing the severity of the clinical manifestations and MR. ACs are an important locus to study in terms of altered metabolic pathways in patients with CHF of ischemic etiology and SD. Further larger prospective trials are warranted and needed to determine the potential benefits to treat patients with CV diseases with aberrate AC levels.
Suicidal Ideation and Death by Suicide as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Spanish-Speaking Countries: Systematic Review
Authors: Valle-Palomino Nicolás , Fernández-Mantilla Mirtha Mercedes , Talledo-Sebedón Danae de Lourdes , Guzmán-González Olinda Victoria , Carguachinchay-Huanca Vanessa Haydee , Sosa-Lizama Alfonso Alejandro , Orlandini-Valle Brunella , Vela-Miranda Óscar Manuel
Published: October 2023

Suicidal behaviors and constructs are putting at risk the accomplishment of Objective 3 of Agenda 2030 for sustainable development in Spanish-speaking countries. The current study’s principal objective is to explain the presence of suicidal ideation and deaths by suicide as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spanish-speaking countries based on a review of the scientific literature. The PRISMA model was used as the main method while considering the criteria of periodicity, language, typology, and country in order to choose the 28 articles that were analyzed from the following three databases: SCOPUS, Web of Science, and ProQuest Coronavirus Research Database. Suicidal ideation and death by suicide exhibited a growth trend during the COVID-19 pandemic, including post-pandemic, especially in kids, adolescents, and young women of university age belonging to lower socioeconomic strata and presenting risk factors like living in rural areas, poor mental health, unemployment, and family death due to COVID-19.
Optic Pathway Gliomas in Pediatric Population—Current Approach in Diagnosis and Management: Literature Review
Authors: Modrzejewska Monika , Olejnik-Wojciechowska Joanna , Roszyk Agnieszka , Szychot Elwira , Konczak Tomasz Dariusz , Szemitko Marcin , Peregud-Pogorzelski Jarosław Władysław
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the authors present a clinical picture of the diagnosis and current treatment regimens of optic pathway glioma in the pediatric population, with an emphasis on the role of an ophthalmic diagnosis in the differentiation and monitoring of lesions. Glioma is the most common optic nerve tumor in children. Material: Articles in PubMed, Scholar and Website were reviewed, taking into account current standards of management related to sporadic or NF1-related optic glioma, epidemiology, location, course of the disease, clinical manifestations, histological types of the tumor, genetic predisposition, diagnostic ophthalmic tests currently applicable in therapeutic monitoring of the tumor, neurological diagnosis, therapeutic management and prognosis. The importance of current screening recommendations, in line with standards, was emphasized. Results: Glioma occurs in children most often in the first decade of life. Initially, they may be asymptomatic, and clinically ophthalmic changes are associated with the organ of vision or with systemic changes. Gliomas associated with the NF1 mutation have a better prognosis for sporadic gliomas. Diagnosis includes radiological imaging methods/MRI/ophthalmology/OCT and visual acuity log MAR assessment. The basis of treatment is clinical observation. In the case of disease progression, surgical treatment, chemotherapy and targeted therapy are used. Conclusion: Further research into novel techniques for detecting gliomas would allow for early monitoring of the disease.
Evolution of Coronary Stent Platforms: A Brief Overview of Currently Used Drug-Eluting Stents
Authors: Brami Pierre , Fischer Quentin , Pham Vincent , Seret Gabriel , Varenne Olivier , Picard Fabien
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, is the leading cause of death worldwide, and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) have been demonstrated to improve the prognosis of these patients on top of optimal medical therapy. PCIs have evolved from plain old balloon angioplasty to coronary stent implantation at the end of the last century. There has been a constant technical and scientific improvement in stent technology from bare metal stents to the era of drug-eluting stents (DESs) to overcome clinical challenges such as target lesion failure related to in-stent restenosis or stent thrombosis. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of these adverse events has led DESs to evolve from first-generation DESs to thinner and ultrathin third-generation DESs with improved polymer biocompatibility that seems to have reached a peak in efficiency. This review aims to provide a brief historical overview of the evolution of coronary DES platforms and an update on clinical studies and major characteristics of the most currently used DESs.
Evolving Clinical–Translational Investigations of Cerebroprotection in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Li Yinghui , Schappell Laurel E. , Polizu Claire , DiPersio James , Tsirka Stella E. , Halterman Marc W. , Nadkarni Neil A.
Published: October 2023

Ischemic stroke is a highly morbid disease, with over 50% of large vessel stroke (middle cerebral artery or internal carotid artery terminus occlusion) patients suffering disability despite maximal acute reperfusion therapy with thrombolysis and thrombectomy. The discovery of the ischemic penumbra in the 1980s laid the foundation for a salvageable territory in ischemic stroke. Since then, the concept of neuroprotection has been a focus of post-stroke care to (1) minimize the conversion from penumbra to core irreversible infarct, (2) limit secondary damage from ischemia-reperfusion injury, inflammation, and excitotoxicity and (3) to encourage tissue repair. However, despite multiple studies, the preclinical–clinical research enterprise has not yet created an agent that mitigates post-stroke outcomes beyond thrombolysis and mechanical clot retrieval. These translational gaps have not deterred the scientific community as agents are under continuous investigation. The NIH has recently promoted the concept of cerebroprotection to consider the whole brain post-stroke rather than just the neurons. This review will briefly outline the translational science of past, current, and emerging breakthroughs in cerebroprotection and use of these foundational ideas to develop a novel paradigm for optimizing stroke outcomes.
Development of a Graph-Based Collision Risk Situation Model for Validation of Autonomous Ships’ Collision Avoidance Systems
Authors: Hwang Taewoong , Youn Ik-Hyun
Published: October 2023

In the maritime industry, the systematic validation of collision avoidance systems of autonomous ships is becoming an increasingly important issue with the development of autonomous ships. The development of collision avoidance systems for autonomous ships faces inherent risks of programming errors and has mostly been tested in limited scenarios. Despite efforts to verify these systems through scenario testing, these scenarios do not fully represent the complex nature of real-world navigation, limiting full system verification and reliability. Therefore, this study proposed a method for analyzing collision risk situations extracted from AIS data through graph-based modeling and establishing validation scenarios. This methodology categorizes collision risk scenarios according to their centrality and frequency and demonstrates how simple collision risk situations gradually evolve into harsh situations.