bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application and Performance of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Detection, Diagnosis and Prediction of Dental Caries (DC)—A Systematic Review
Authors: Khanagar Sanjeev B. , Alfouzan Khalid , Awawdeh Mohammed , Alkadi Lubna , Albalawi Farraj , Alfadley Abdulmohsen
Published: April 2022

Evolution in the fields of science and technology has led to the development of newer applications based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology that have been widely used in medical sciences. AI-technology has been employed in a wide range of applications related to the diagnosis of oral diseases that have demonstrated phenomenal precision and accuracy in their performance. The aim of this systematic review is to report on the diagnostic accuracy and performance of AI-based models designed for detection, diagnosis, and prediction of dental caries (DC). Eminent electronic databases (PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus, Web of science, Embase, Cochrane, Saudi Digital Library) were searched for relevant articles that were published from January 2000 until February 2022. A total of 34 articles that met the selection criteria were critically analyzed based on QUADAS-2 guidelines. The certainty of the evidence of the included studies was assessed using the GRADE approach. AI has been widely applied for prediction of DC, for detection and diagnosis of DC and for classification of DC. These models have demonstrated excellent performance and can be used in clinical practice for enhancing the diagnostic performance, treatment quality and patient outcome and can also be applied to identify patients with a higher risk of developing DC.
Students Tele-All: Self-Efficacy and Self-Reflection as Measures of Student Success in Telepractice Training
Authors: Worek Amanda , Sabo Kathryn K. , Eddy Emily Z. , Plummer Laura , Baldwin Jane , Reidy Patricia A. , Hildebrand Mary W. , Riotte Mary , Wong John
Published: April 2022

With an increasing demand for telepractice services, the need for telepractice education is more important than ever. In addition to learning how to deliver these services, certain clinical and technological skills learned through telepractice apply more broadly to in-person care. Evaluating students’ abilities to master these skills is necessary to ensure clinical skill competence. We utilized self-efficacy ratings and self-reflections to determine student growth after hands-on telepractice training among nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology students. Students across disciplines demonstrated growth in all measured skill areas and reported overall increased confidence. Students with less prior telepractice experience reported greater increased confidence in seven measured competency areas than students with more prior telepractice experience. The number of completed sessions at the end of student placements was correlated with increased confidence for one measured skill area. Regardless of whether or not students had prior experience when starting their placement, as the number of telepractice sessions completed increased, thus did students’ confidence levels. The results of this study support telepractice as a viable clinical education tool for student growth and the use of self-efficacy and self-reflection as valuable tools for monitoring the effectiveness of telepractice clinical learning activities.
Anomalous PBTI Effects in N-Type Super Junction under High Gate Voltage Stress
Authors: Tang Hua , Xu Hang , Chen Lin , Zhu Hao , Sun Qingqing
Published: April 2022

In this work, an anomalous thick oxide-degradation phenomenon in n-type 650-V class super-junction VDMOS transistors is investigated. An unexpected threshold voltage (Vt) decrease was observed with high positive bias temperature instability stress, and the saturation current (IDsat) increases with the stress time. Repeatable and reproducible behaviors have been achieved from multiple devices under test. Based on simulation and experimental results, it is found that the high-energy electrons (caused by high positive gate voltage) in the n-type region at the bottom of the gate oxide layer (top of the N-pillar) are injected into the gate oxide. The high-energy electrons generate electron-hole pairs during the transport to the anode, leaving holes in the gate oxide layer, and thus decreased Vt and increased IDsat. Finally, C-V measurement is also carried out which further confirms the above analysis.
Mobility Management Issues and Solutions in 5G-and-Beyond Networks: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Siddiqui Maraj Uddin Ahmed , Qamar Faizan , Tayyab Muhammad , Hindia MHD Nour , Nguyen Quang Ngoc , Hassan Rosilah
Published: April 2022

The fully accomplished standardization of the new mobile generation has led to the deployment of fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks to gratify enormous traffic volume for Internet services. The current centralized mobility system could not be sufficient to manage an explosive increase in data volume and is considered a steadily rising issue in modern wireless communication. A new technique that can affluently handle traffic problems and completely avoid network breakdown chances is indispensable. Recently, distributed mobility management (DMM) was introduced to overcome the inevitable obstacles that destructively impact the existing networks. Specifically, a novel design based on the deployment of distributed mobility anchors, closer to the terminal points, was introduced. Several works have been proposed to build DMM solutions with different focuses for 5G-and-beyond networks (B5G), which are also referred to as sixth-generation solutions (6G). In this paper, we present the potential and benefits of flat network design for efficient and fast routing of traffic and furnish the effectiveness of the scheme toward mobility management in B5G by delineating recent research works. We also present the current limitations, challenges, and future research directions for seamless mobility to achieve the desired objectives in the current 5G and upcoming 6G cellular communications.
A Mechanically Controlled Switchable Wideband Frequency–Selective Rasorber/Absorber
Authors: Wang Liansheng , Xia Dongyan , Fu Quanhong , Ding Xueyong , Wang Yuan
Published: April 2022

A mechanically controlled switchable wideband frequency–selective rasorber/absorber, with the transmission window inside the absorption band, based on a frequency–selective surface and a rotatable metal plate, is presented in this paper. The absorption of the switchable rasorber/absorber is over 90%, from 3.9 GHz to 11.77 GHz, when the rotatable metal plate is parallel to the rest of the layers, and its transmission coefficient can reach up to 0.62 at 11.6 GHz, with the rotatable metal plate perpendicular to the rest of the layers. The mechanism of wideband absorption and transmission are explained by monitoring and analyzing the surface current distribution at the absorption and transmission frequencies. The control method is simple, reliable and accurate. It has application value in communication and radar stations.
Inverted-L Shaped Wideband MIMO Antenna for Millimeter-Wave 5G Applications
Authors: Patel Amit , Vala Alpesh , Desai Arpan , Elfergani Issa , Mewada Hiren , Mahant Keyur , Zebiri Chemseddine , Chauhan Dharmendra , Rodriguez Jonathan
Published: April 2022

Interconnected three-element and four-element wideband MIMO antennas have been proposed for millimeter-wave 5G applications by performing numerical computations and carrying out experimental measurements. The antenna structure is realized using Rogers 5880 substrate (εr = 2.2, tan δ = 0.0009), where the radiating element has the shape of an inverted L with a partial ground. The unit element is carefully designed and positioned (by orthogonally rotating the elements) to form three-element (case 1) and four-element (case 2) MIMO antennas. The interconnected ground for both cases is ascertained to increase the practical utilization of the resonator. The proposed MIMO antenna size is (0.95λ × 3λ) for case 1 and (2.01λ × 1.95λ) for case 2 (at the lowest functional frequency). Both the designs give an impedance bandwidth of approximately 26–40 GHz (43%). Moreover, they achieve greater than 15 dB isolation and more than 6 dBi gain with an ECC value lower than 0.02, which meets the MIMO diversity performance thus making the three-element and four-element MIMO antennas the best choice for millimeter-wave 5G applications.
Sawmill Willingness to Pay Price Premiums for Higher Quality Pine Sawtimber in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Regmi Arun , Grebner Donald L. , Willis John L. , Grala Robert K.
Published: April 2022

The southeastern United States is widely regarded as a leading region for intensively managed, short rotation pine forests. One drawback of this intensive approach is the production of more juvenile wood with lower quality properties that are less desirable for solid end uses. Improved construction sectors (e.g., housing) demand larger diameter sawtimbers. Delaying the final harvest allows for the production of larger diameter higher quality solid wood; however, this approach may incur additional costs to the landowner, which may disincentivize extending the rotation without additional monetary compensation. Sawmills are a primary consumer of pine sawtimber and exert a strong influence on stumpage prices. Therefore, understanding the importance of wood quality to sawmills is important for understanding price dynamics. To explore this aspect, we conducted a mail survey of softwood sawmills in the southeastern United States to determine willingness to pay price premiums for higher quality pine sawtimber. Most sawmills (57%) were willing to pay price premiums. The mean willingness to pay, estimated using a tobit regression, ranged from USD 4.22/ton to USD 12.98/ton. Sawlog size, procurement radius, sawlog grade, and the number of employees positively influenced sawmills’ willingness to pay a price premium for higher quality sawtimber, while sawmills’ processing capacity and the number of years in business had a negative impact. The results will be useful to landowners considering delaying the final harvest to grow large diameter sawtimber.
Dynamic Changes in Volatile Compounds of Shaken Black Tea during Its Manufacture by GC × GC–TOFMS and Multivariate Data Analysis
Authors: Xue Jinjin , Liu Panpan , Yin Junfeng , Wang Weiwei , Zhang Jianyong , Wang Wei , Le Ting , Ni Dejiang , Jiang Heyuan
Published: April 2022

Changes in key odorants of shaken black tea (SBT) during its manufacture were determined using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) combined with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC–TOFMS) and multivariate data analysis. A total of 241 volatiles was identified, comprising 49 aldehydes, 40 esters, 29 alcohols, 34 ketones, 30 aromatics, 24 alkenes, 17 alkanes, 13 furans, and 5 other compounds. A total of 27 volatiles had average relative odor activity values (rOAVs) greater than 1, among which (E)-β-ionone, (E,Z)-2,6-nonadienal, and 1-octen-3-one exhibited the highest values. According to the criteria of variable importance in projection (VIP) > 1, p < 0.05, and |log2FC| > 1, 61 discriminatory volatile compounds were screened out, of which 26 substances were shared in the shaking stage (FL vs. S1, S1 vs. S2, S2 vs. S3). The results of the orthogonal partial least squares discriminate analysis (OPLS-DA) differentiated the influence of shaking, fermentation, and drying processes on the formation of volatile compounds in SBT. In particular, (Z)-3-hexenol, (Z)-hexanoic acid, 3-hexenyl ester, (E)-β-farnesene, and indole mainly formed in the shaking stage, which promoted the formation of the floral and fruity flavor of black tea. This study enriches the basic theory of black tea flavor quality and provide the theoretical basis for the further development of aroma quality control.
Isolation and Characterization of High-Ethanol-Tolerance Lactic Acid Bacteria from Australian Wine
Authors: Jin Gang , Jiranek Vladimir , Hayes Aaron Mark , Grbin Paul R.
Published: April 2022

Lactic acid bacteria are very important in winemaking. In this study, 108 lactic acid bacteria isolates were obtained from high-ethanol-content (~17% (v/v)) Grenache wines during uninoculated malolactic fermentation (MLF). The 16S rRNA and species-specific PCR showed that 104 of these were Oenococcusoeni, three were Lactobacillus hilgardii, and one was Staphylococcus pasteuri. AFLP of HindIII and MseI digests of the genomic DNA of the O. oeni strains was developed for the first time to discriminate the strains. The results showed that the method was a suitable technique for discriminating the O. oeni strains. Based on the cluster analysis, nine O. oeni strains were chosen for inclusion in an ethanol tolerance assay involving monitoring of optical density (ABS600nm) and viable plating. Several O. oeni strains (G63, G46, G71, G39) survived and grew well in MRS-AJ with 17% (v/v) ethanol, while the commercial O. oeni reference strain did not. Strain G63 could also survive and grow for 168 h after inoculation in MRS-AJ medium with 19% (v/v) ethanol. These results suggest that O. oeni G63, G46, G71, and G39 could potentially be used as MLF starters for high-ethanol-content wines. All three L. hilgardii strains could survive and grow in MRS-AJ with 19% (v/v) ethanol, perhaps also indicating their suitability as next-generation MLF starter cultures.
Toxicity, Antioxidant Activity, and Phytochemicals of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Leaves Cultivated in Southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Nadeem Hafiz Rehan , Akhtar Saeed , Sestili Piero , Ismail Tariq , Neugart Susanne , Qamar Muhammad , Esatbeyoglu Tuba
Published: April 2022

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is one of the most common aromatic herbs, a rich source of bioactive compounds, and is used extensively to add aroma and flavor to food. The leaves, both in fresh and dried form, are used as a culinary ingredient in different cultures. O. basilicum is also famous for its therapeutic potential and preservation effects. The present study investigated the cytotoxicity of basil at three different growth stages (GS), i.e., GS-1 (58 days of growth), GS-2 (69 days of growth), and GS-3 (93 days of growth) using the brine shrimp lethality assay. The results revealed that cytotoxicity was influenced by GS and the concentration of extracts. Aqueous extracts of basil at a concentration of 10 to 1000 µg/mL did not show notable toxicity. The lowest mortality rate, i.e., 8.9%, was recorded for GS-2 at the highest tested dose of basil extracts. The mortality rate at GS-1, GS-2, and GS-3 was found to be 26.7 ± 3.34%, 8.91 ± 0.10%, and 16.7 ± 0.34%, respectively, at 1000 µg/mL. GS-2 basil powder with the lowest toxicological risk was extracted with different solvents, viz., n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethanol, and water. The highest concentration of plant secondary metabolites including total phenolic acid, flavonoids, and tannin content was observed in ethanol extracts. Ethanol extracts also exhibited the highest antioxidant activity in DPPH, FRAP and H2O2 assays. LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis presented ethanol extracts of basil as a promising source of known health-promoting and therapeutic compounds such as rosmarinic acid, ellagic acid, catechin, liquiritigenin, and umbelliferone. The results suggest basil, a culinary ingredient, as a potential source of bioactive compounds which may offer an array of health promoting and therapeutic properties.
Analyzing Consumer Perception on Quality and Safety of Frozen Foods in Emerging Economies: Evidence from Albania and Kosovo
Authors: Hasani Arbenita , Kokthi Elena , Zoto Oltjana , Berisha Kaltrina , Miftari Iliriana
Published: April 2022

Freezing technology is one of the most well established long-term preservation techniques for producing high-quality, nutritious foods with prolonged shelf-life. Frozen foods (FFs) are a significant section of the global food market experiencing rapid growth. It also represents an alternative to small producers in developing countries to add value to their products in a competitive market. However, unfairly, FFs are often perceived as less qualitative than fresh produce, although studies have shown that some FFs have higher nutritional values than fresh products. This study’s aim is to analyze consumers’ perceptions in the two Balkan countries towards FFs. A total of 380 questionnaires were completed in both countries (182 in Kosovo and 198 in Albania). Consumers’ perceptions towards FFs were measured through eleven items using a five-point Likert scale. The items addressed issues related to the quality and safety of FFs, information on FFs, and the impact of origin on the perception of FFs. The differences between populations were tested with the t-test and correlation analysis with the bootstrapping method for sociodemographic factors. The results show that Kosovo consumers generally show a higher positive attitude toward FFs than Albanian consumers. Albanian consumers prefer fresh foods over FFs. The lack of trust in food safety institutions was expressed with concern for the conditions of the frozen chain applied both on the imported and domestic frozen products. Similarly, the findings show that Albanian consumers are willing to pay more than the baseline price to obtain fresh products instead of frozen compared with Kosovo consumers. Additional studies are needed to explore whether the lack of trust in food safety institutions inhibits the successful development of FFs in Albania and Kosovo. In both countries, responsible authorities should help consumers to have a more profound knowledge of the quality of FFs and boost these activities to increase farmers’ incomes and play an active role in reducing food loss and waste.
Tool Embodiment Is Reflected in Movement Multifractal Nonlinearity
Authors: Pratviel Yvan , Deschodt-Arsac Veronique , Larrue Florian , Arsac Laurent M.
Published: April 2022

Recent advances in neuroscience have linked dynamical systems theory to cognition. The main contention is that extended cognition relies on a unitary brain-body-tool system showing the expected signatures of interaction-dominance reflected in a multifractal behavior. This might be particularly relevant when it comes to understanding how the brain is able to embody a tool to perform a task. Here we applied the multifractal formalism to the dynamics of hand movement while one was performing a computer task (the herding task) using a mouse or its own hand as a tool to move an object on the screen. We applied a focus-based multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis to acceleration time series. Then, multifractal nonlinearity was assessed by comparing original series to a finite set of surrogates obtained after Iterated Amplitude Adjusted Fourier transformation, a method that removes nonlinear multiscale dependencies while preserving the linear structure of the time series. Both hand and mouse task execution demonstrated multifractal nonlinearity, a typical form of across-scales interactivity in cognitive control. In addition, a wider multifractal spectrum was observed in mouse condition, which might highlight a richer set of interactions when the cognitive system is extended to the embodied mouse. We conclude that the emergence of multifractal nonlinearity from a brain-body-tool system pleads for recent theories of radical tool embodiment. Multifractal nonlinearity may be a promising metric to appreciate how physical objects—but also virtual tools and potentially prosthetics—are efficiently embodied by the brain.
Comparative Karyotype Analysis of Parasitoid Hymenoptera (Insecta): Major Approaches, Techniques, and Results
Authors: Gokhman Vladimir E.
Published: April 2022

A comprehensive review of main approaches, techniques and results of the chromosome study of parasitic wasps is given. In this group, the haploid chromosome number ranges from n = 3 to 23. Distribution of parasitic wasp species by the chromosome number is bimodal, with two obvious modes at n = 6 and 11. Karyotype analysis based on routinely stained preparations of mitotic chromosomes can be used to identify members of taxonomically complicated parasitoid taxa and to distinguish between them. Morphometric study effectively reveals subtle differences between similar chromosome sets of parasitic wasps. If combined with meiotic analysis and/or cytometric data, information on mitotic karyotypes can highlight pathways of the genome evolution in certain parasitoid taxa. C- and AgNOR-banding as well as staining with base-specific fluorochromes detected important interspecific differences within several groups of parasitic wasps. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is successfully used for physical mapping of various DNA sequences on parasitoid chromosomes. These techniques demonstrate that heterochromatic segments are usually restricted to pericentromeric regions of chromosomes of parasitic wasps. Haploid karyotypes carrying one or two nucleolus organizing regions (NORs) are the most frequent among parasitoid Hymenoptera. In combination with chromosome microdissection, FISH could become a powerful tool exploring the genome evolution of parasitic wasps. Perspectives of the comparative cytogenetic study of parasitoid Hymenoptera are outlined.
Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Decellularized Xenograft-3D CAD/CAM Carved Bone Matrix Personalized for Human Bone Defect Repair
Authors: Chen Meng-Yen , Fang Jing-Jing , Lee Jeng-Nan , Periasamy Srinivasan , Yen Ko-Chung , Wang Hung-Chou , Hsieh Dar-Jen
Published: April 2022

About 30–50% of oral cancer patients require mandibulectomy and autologous fibula reconstruction. Autograft is the gold standard choice because of its histocompatibility; however, it requires additional surgery from the patient and with possible complications such as loss of fibula leading to calf weakening in the future. Allograft and xenograft are alternatives but are susceptible to immune response. Currently, no personalized bone xenografts are available in the market for large fascial bone defects. In addition, a large-sized complex shape bone graft cannot be produced directly from the raw material. We propose the use of porcine bones with 3D CAD/CAM carving to reconstruct a personalized, wide range and complex-shaped bone. We anticipate that patients can restore their native facial appearance after reconstruction surgery. Supercritical CO2 (SCCO2) technology was employed to remove the cells, fat and non-collagenous materials while maintaining a native collagen scaffold as a biomedical device for bone defects. We successfully developed 3D CAD/CAM carved bone matrices, followed by SCCO2 decellularization of those large-sized bones. A lock-and-key puzzle design was employed to fulfil a wide range of large and complex-shaped maxillofacial defects. To conclude, the 3D CAD/CAM carved bone matrices with lock and key puzzle Lego design were completely decellularized by SCCO2 extraction technology with intact natural collagen scaffold. In addition, the processed bone matrices were tested to show excellent cytocompatibility and mechanical stiffness. Thus, we can overcome the limitation of large size and complex shapes of xenograft availability. In addition, the 3D CAD/CAM carving process can provide personalized tailor-designed decellularized bone grafts for the native appearance for maxillofacial reconstruction surgery for oral cancer patients and trauma patients.
PolyX2: Fast Detection of Homorepeats in Large Protein Datasets
Authors: Mier Pablo , Andrade-Navarro Miguel A.
Published: April 2022

Homorepeat sequences, consecutive runs of identical amino acids, are prevalent in eukaryotic proteins. It has become necessary to annotate and evaluate this feature in entire proteomes. The definition of what constitutes a homorepeat is not fixed, and different research approaches may require different definitions; therefore, flexible approaches to analyze homorepeats in complete proteomes are needed. Here, we present polyX2, a fast, simple but tunable script to scan protein datasets for all possible homorepeats. The user can modify the length of the window to scan, the minimum number of identical residues that must be found in the window, and the types of homorepeats to be found.
Central Core Disease: Facial Weakness Differentiating Biallelic from Monoallelic Forms
Authors: Cotta Ana , Souza Lucas Santos , Carvalho Elmano , Feitosa Leticia Nogueira , Cunha Antonio , Navarro Monica Machado , Valicek Jaquelin , Menezes Miriam Melo , Neves Simone Vilela Nunes , Xavier-Neto Rafael , Vargas Antonio Pedro , Takata Reinaldo Issao , Paim Julia Filardi , Vainzof Mariz
Published: April 2022

Central Core Disease (CCD) is a genetic neuromuscular disorder characterized by the presence of cores in muscle biopsy. The inheritance has been described as predominantly autosomal dominant (AD), and the disease may present as severe neonatal or mild adult forms. Here we report clinical and molecular data on a large cohort of Brazilian CCD patients, including a retrospective clinical analysis and molecular screening for RYR1 variants using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). We analyzed 27 patients from 19 unrelated families: four families (11 patients) with autosomal dominant inheritance (AD), two families (3 patients) with autosomal recessive (AR), and 13 sporadic cases. Biallelic RYR1 variants were found in six families (two AR and four sporadic cases) of the 14 molecularly analyzed families (~43%), suggesting a higher frequency of AR inheritance than expected. None of these cases presented a severe phenotype. Facial weakness was more common in biallelic than in monoallelic patients (p = 0.0043) and might be a marker for AR forms. NGS is highly effective for the identification of RYR1 variants in CCD patients, allowing the discovery of a higher proportion of AR cases with biallelic mutations. These data have important implications for the genetic counseling of the families.
Diachroneity Rules the Mid-Latitudes: A Test Case Using Late Neogene Planktic Foraminifera across the Western Pacific
Authors: Lam Adriane R. , Crundwell Martin P. , Leckie R. Mark , Albanese James , Uzel Jacob P.
Published: April 2022

Planktic foraminifera are commonly used for first-order age control in deep-sea sediments from low-latitude regions based on a robust tropical–subtropical zonation scheme. Although multiple Neogene planktic foraminiferal biostratigraphic zonations for mid-latitude regions exist, quantification of diachroneity for the species used as datums to test paleobiogeographic patterns of origination and dispersal is lacking. Here, we update the age models for seven southwest-Pacific deep-sea sites using calcareous nannofossil and bolboform biostratigraphy and magnetostratigraphy, and use 11 sites between 37.9° N and 40.6° S in the western Pacific to correlate existing planktic foraminiferal biozonations and quantify the diachroneity of species used as datums. For the first time, northwest and southwest Pacific biozones are correlated and compared to the global tropical planktic foraminiferal biozonation. We find a high degree of diachroneity in the western Pacific, within and between the northwest and southwest regions, and between the western Pacific and the tropical zonation. Importantly, some datums that are found to be diachronous between regions have reduced diachroneity within regions. Much work remains to refine regional planktic foraminiferal biozonations and more fully understand diachroneity between the tropics and mid-latitudes. This study indicates that diachroneity is the rule for Late Neogene planktic foraminifera, rather than the exception, in mid-latitude regions.
Computerized Analysis of Mammogram Images for Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Authors: Almalki Yassir Edrees , Soomro Toufique Ahmed , Irfan Muhammad , Alduraibi Sharifa Khalid , Ali Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Breast cancer is widespread worldwide and can be cured if diagnosed early. Using digital mammogram images and image processing with artificial intelligence can play an essential role in breast cancer diagnosis. As many computerized algorithms for breast cancer diagnosis have significant limitations, such as noise handling and varying or low contrast in the images, it can be difficult to segment the abnormal region. These challenges could be overcome by proposing a new pre-processing model, exploring its impact on the post-processing module, and testing it on an extensive database. In this research work, the three-step method is proposed and validated on large databases of mammography images. The first step corresponded to the database classification, followed by the second step, which removed the pectoral muscle from the mammogram image. The third stage utilized new image-enhancement techniques and a new segmentation module to detect abnormal regions in a well-enhanced image to diagnose breast cancer. The pre-and post-processing modules are based on novel image processing techniques. The proposed method was tested using data collected from different hospitals in the Qassim Health Cluster, Qassim Province, Saudi Arabia. This database contained the five categories in the Breast Imaging and Reporting and Data System and consisted of 2892 images; the proposed method is analyzed using the publicly available Mammographic Image Analysis Society database, which contained 322 images. The proposed method gives good contrast enhancement with peak-signal to noise ratio improvement of 3 dB. The proposed method provides an accuracy of approximately 92% on 2892 images of Qassim Health Cluster, Qassim Province, Saudi Arabia. The proposed method gives approximately 97% on the Mammographic Image Analysis Society database. The novelty of the proposed work is that it could work on all Breast Imaging and Reporting and Data System categories. The performance of the proposed method demonstrated its ability to improve the diagnostic performance of the computerized breast cancer detection method.
ICT and Women’s Health: An Examination of the Impact of ICT on Maternal Health in SADC States
Authors: Mlambo Courage , Sibanda Kin , Ntshangase Bhekabantu , Mvuyana Bongekile
Published: April 2022

Attainment of sexual and reproductive health is regarded as a human rights matter. Notwithstanding this, maternal mortality continues to be a major public health concern in low-income countries, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa. Maternal mortality remains high in Africa, yet there are information communication technologies (ICTs) (such as the internet, mobile communication, social media, and community radios) that have the potential to make a difference. Making effective use of all of these ICTs can considerably decrease preventable maternal deaths. ICTs, particularly mobile devices, offer a platform for access to health information and services that can bring change in areas where health infrastructure and resources are often limited. However, for Southern Africa, maternal mortality remains high despite the presence of ICT tools that have transformative potential to improve maternal health. In light of this, this study sought to examine the impact of ICT on maternal health. The study was quantitative in nature, and it used panel data that covered the period from 2000–2018. The Mean Group and Pooled Mean Group cointegration techniques and a generalised method of moments panel technique were used for estimation purposes. Results showed that ICT has a negative effect on maternal health. This shows that ICT tools contribute positively to maternal health. The study gave a number of recommendations. The mobile gender gap should be closed (digital inclusion), mobile network connectivity boosted, and digital platforms must be created in order to enhance the transformative potential of ICT in improving health outcomes.
Promoting Laparoscopic Anterior Approach for a Very Low Presacral Primary Neuroendocrine Tumor Arising in a Tailgut Cyst
Authors: Di Nuzzo Maria Michela , De Werra Carlo , Pace Mirella , Franca Raduan Ahmed , D’Armiento Maria , Bracale Umberto , Lionetti Ruggero , D’Ambra Michele , Calogero Armando
Published: April 2022

Background: Tailgut cysts are rare congenital lesions that develop in the presacral space. As they can potentially conceal primary neuroendocrine tumors, surgical excision is suggested as the treatment of choice. However, specific management guidelines have yet to be developed. A posterior approach is usually preferred for cysts extending to the third sacral vertebral body. Conversely, a transabdominal approach is preferred for lesions extending upward to achieve an optimal view of the surgical field and avoid injuries. Case report: Here, we report a case of a 48-year-old man suffering from perianal pain and constipation. Digital rectal examination and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a presacral mass below the third sacral vertebral body. A laparoscopic transabdominal presacral tumor excision was performed. The final histological diagnosis was a rare primary neuroendocrine tumor arising from a tailgut cyst. The postoperative course was uneventful, and no signs of recurrence were observed at the six-month follow-up. Conclusions: This study may help establish more well-grounded recommendations for the surgical management of rectal tumors, demonstrating that the laparoscopic transabdominal technique is safe and feasible, even for lesions below the third sacral vertebral body. This approach provided an adequate view of the presacral space, facilitating the preservation of cyst integrity, which is essential in cases of malignant pathologies.
Laboratory-Based Rationale for Targeting the Protein Homeostasis Network in AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Bianchi Giada , Moscvin Maria , Comenzo Raymond L.
Published: April 2022

AL amyloidosis is an incurable plasma cell dyscrasia with limited therapeutic options. The pathogenetic mechanism in AL amyloidosis is the deposition of insoluble fibrillary aggregates of misfolded immunoglobulin (Ig) free light chains (FLC) and chaperone proteins in target organs. Therefore, AL amyloidosis is the prototypic, protein-toxicity hematologic disorder. Based on laboratory evidence of increased, constitutive proteotoxic stress, PCs are intrinsically vulnerable to agents that target proteins whose function is to guarantee that nascent polypeptides either reach a functional conformation or are disposed of (proteostasis network). The clinical efficacy of proteasome inhibitors (PIs), such as bortezomib, in the treatment of plasma cell (PC) disorders has provided proof of concept that disrupting protein homeostasis is an effective and generally safe therapeutic approach. Therefore, the intrinsic biology of PC offers us the opportunity to rationally develop therapies that target this distinct proteostasis vulnerability of PC dyscrasias. In this manuscript, we will review the laboratory rationale for the effectiveness of FDA-approved and investigational agents targeting protein homeostasis in AL amyloidosis and related PC disorders.
Monitoring Lead Concentration in the Surrounding Environmental Components of a Lead Battery Company: Plants, Air and Effluents—Case Study, Kenya
Authors: Otieno Jeremiah , Kowal Przemysław , Mąkinia Jacek
Published: April 2022

Lead (Pb) pollution from smelters and lead–acid battery has become a serious problem worldwide owing to its toxic nature as a heavy metal. Stricter regulations and monitoring strategies have been formulated, legislated and implemented in various parts of the world on heavy metal usage. Developed countries such as the USA and in Europe largely operate within the set standards, however, developing countries such as Kenya, Nigeria and India, with limited regulatory capacity, resources and sufficient data, face poor Pb waste management and exposure of the population to health risks. This study assessed the pollution concerns from Associated Battery Manufacturers (East Africa) Limited (ABM), located in the Nairobi Industrial Area in Kenya. Samples of air, extracts from plants (leaves) and factory wastewaters were taken from different operations units, prepared and analysed with Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Pb traces remained fairly controlled with averages of 1.24 ± 0.42 parts per million (ppm), 1.21 ± 0.02 ppm and 0.29 ± 0.01 ppm in the air, plant extracts and effluents, respectively. The conducted research shows that the obtained lead concentrations in the air, wastewater and surrounding plants exceeded the recommended standards, and are potentially harmful not only to workers, but also to the surrounding villages.
Disparities in COVID-19 Information Sources and Knowledge in South Korea
Authors: Jang Sou Hyun
Published: April 2022

Applying Dervin’s sense-making theory, this study aims to examine the factors associated with the numbers and types of COVID-19 information sources, and the association between information sources and knowledge during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. An online survey was conducted among adults (19–69 years old) in December 2020. Ordinary least squares (OLS) and logistic regression were conducted to examine (1) the associated factors with the numbers and types of COVID-19 information sources, and (2) whether the number and types of COVID-19 information sources predict the correct COVID-19 knowledge. On average, the participants utilized five different sources to find COVID-19 information. The information need was related to the number and type of information sources, while the information barrier was only related to the number of sources. Participants who utilized more sources and who utilized online sources were more likely to possess the correct knowledge regarding COVID-19 while utilizing the government website; however, doctors, as a source, were negatively related to COVID-19 knowledge. There should be more support for individuals with lower socioeconomic status, as they tend to look for fewer sources, while finding more sources is positively related to better COVID-19 knowledge.
CAttSleepNet: Automatic End-to-End Sleep Staging Using Attention-Based Deep Neural Networks on Single-Channel EEG
Authors: Li Tingting , Zhang Bofeng , Lv Hehe , Hu Shengxiang , Xu Zhikang , Tuergong Yierxiati
Published: April 2022

Accurate sleep staging results can be used to measure sleep quality, providing a reliable basis for the prevention and diagnosis of sleep-related diseases. The key to sleep staging is the feature representation of EEG signals. Existing approaches rarely consider local features in feature extraction, and fail to distinguish the importance of critical and non-critical local features. We propose an innovative model for automatic sleep staging with single-channel EEG, named CAttSleepNet. We add an attention module to the convolutional neural network (CNN) that can learn the weights of local sequences of EEG signals by exploiting intra-epoch contextual information. Then, a two-layer bidirectional-Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) is used to encode the global correlations of successive epochs. Therefore, the feature representations of EEG signals are enhanced by both local and global context correlation. Experimental results achieved on two real-world sleep datasets indicate that the CAttSleepNet model outperforms existing models. Moreover, ablation experiments demonstrate the validity of our proposed attention module.
The Impact of the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Workers: An Italian Retrospective Study
Authors: Buresti Giuliana , Rondinone Bruna Maria , Gagliardi Diana , Petyx Marta , D’Ancona Fortunato Paolo , Pezzotti Patrizio , Riccardo Flavia , Iavicoli Sergio
Published: April 2022

Healthcare workers (HCWs) played an essential role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. The Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority (INAIL) and the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS) developed a retrospective study to analyze and understand trends and characteristics of infections among HCWs during the first wave of the pandemic. Between May and September 2020, Italian Regions retrospectively collected anonymous data regarding HCWs infected from the beginning of the pandemic until 30 April 2020 from their administrative sources through a questionnaire asking for socio-demographic and occupational information about the characteristics of contagion and disease outcome. Almost 16,000 valid questionnaires were received. Logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effect of age, gender, geographical macro area, profession, and pre-existing health conditions on the likelihood of HCWs developing more severe forms of COVID-19 (at least hospitalization with mild symptoms). All predictor variables were statistically significant. HCWs at higher risk of developing a more severe disease were males (OR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.44–2.51), older than 60 years of age (OR: 6.00; 95% CI: 3.30–10.91), doctors (OR: 4.22; 95% CI: 2.22–9.02), working in Lombardy (OR: 55.24; 95% CI: 34.96–87.29) and with pre-existing health conditions (OR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.43–2.51). This study analyses the main reasons for the overload put on the National Health Service by the first wave of the pandemic and the risk of infection for HCWs by age, gender, occupational profile and pre-existing health conditions. Improved knowledge, availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and a tight vaccination campaign for HCWs strongly changed the trend of infections among HCWs, with substantial elimination of serious and fatal cases.
Machine Learning and Lean Six Sigma to Assess How COVID-19 Has Changed the Patient Management of the Complex Operative Unit of Neurology and Stroke Unit: A Single Center Study
Authors: Improta Giovanni , Borrelli Anna , Triassi Maria
Published: April 2022

Background: In health, it is important to promote the effectiveness, efficiency and adequacy of the services provided; these concepts become even more important in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, where efforts to manage the disease have absorbed all hospital resources. The COVID-19 emergency led to a profound restructuring—in a very short time—of the Italian hospital system. Some factors that impose higher costs on hospitals are inappropriate hospitalization and length of stay (LOS). The length of stay (LOS) is a very useful parameter for the management of services within the hospital and is an index evaluated for the management of costs. Methods: This study analyzed how COVID-19 changed the activity of the Complex Operative Unit (COU) of the Neurology and Stroke Unit of the San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona University Hospital of Salerno (Italy). The methodology used in this study was Lean Six Sigma. Problem solving in Lean Six Sigma is the DMAIC roadmap, characterized by five operational phases. To add even more value to the processing, a single clinical case, represented by stroke patients, was investigated to verify the specific impact of the pandemic. Results: The results obtained show a reduction in LOS for stroke patients and an increase in the value of the diagnosis related group relative weight. Conclusions: This work has shown how, thanks to the implementation of protocols for the management of the COU of the Neurology and Stroke Unit, the work of doctors has improved, and this is evident from the values of the parameters taken into consideration.
A Robot-Mediated Activity Using the Nao Robot to Promote COVID-19 Precautionary Measures among Older Adults in Geriatric Facilities
Authors: Blavette Lauriane , Rigaud Anne-Sophie , Anzalone Salvatore Maria , Kergueris Clément , Isabet Baptiste , Dacunha Sébastien , Pino Maribel
Published: April 2022

Precautionary measures (e.g., social distancing, mask wearing, washing hands regularly) to limit the transmission of the Coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) have been put in place worldwide. However, a limited understanding of precautionary measures and low compliance with them has been observed in older adults with neurocognitive disorders, persons with intellectual disability, or mental illness. The objective of this study is to create and evaluate a robot-mediated activity to deliver information on COVID-19 precautionary measures in an accessible and engaging way using the humanoid robot Nao. An interactive scenario explaining and demonstrating COVID-19 precautionary measures is created using the verbal and non-verbal behaviours of the robot. The scenario (≈5 min) is presented to 124 users of a geriatric hospital, including the following: older patients (n = 45), accompanying persons (n = 39), and health professionals (n = 40). The data regarding perceived usefulness, acceptability, and accessibility are collected using a questionnaire. A video analysis of the participants’ behaviour during the interaction with the robot is performed to examine the quality of engagement in the activity. The results show a good acceptance, satisfaction, and perceived usefulness of the robot-mediated activity. These findings suggest that robot-mediated interventions using humanoid robots can be an effective tool for the delivery of health promotion information.
A Meta-Analytic Framework for Developing Protocols to Attend Child and Adolescent Victims of Sexual Violence
Authors: Trevizan Flávia Fernandes , Siqueira Regiane Máximo , Aragão Aílton de Souza , dos Santos Hugo Henrique , de Oliveira Sabino Fabiano Henrique
Published: April 2022

Violence against children and adolescents is a global public health problem. In Brazil, there are challenging boundaries for professionals in the protection network in general and for health professionals in particular. Moreover, among other factors, there is the challenge of referral, due to weaknesses in decision making, given the nature of sexual violence and how it is managed by healthcare services. This study aims to propose a Meta-Analytic framework to support the referral of young victims of sexual violence, considering levels of severity, independent of factors such as how protection systems are structured and managed and the local laws in force. We propose a Meta-Analytic approach, developed using the fundamentals of Delphi and DPSIR (Drivers, Pressures, State, Impact, and Response Model of Intervention), from the perspective of Value-Focused Thinking. The Delphi method was structured in two stages: the first stage aimed to identify and classify typical cases of sexual violence; the second stage used the DPSIR model, with the aim of identifying the decision criteria for typical cases that occur in a given municipality. The main outcomes are: (i) the application of the modified Delphi participatory method within the context of local social policies; (ii) the construction of a value tree based on Value-Focused Thinking; and (iii) the identification and systematization of criteria that most interfere with the evaluation of cases of sexual violence, which can be used for multi-criteria decision making.
Self-Weighing Behaviors of Diverse Community-Dwelling Adults Motivated for a Lifestyle Change
Authors: Fukuoka Yoshimi , Oh Yoo-Jung
Published: April 2022

We aimed to understand adults’ self-weighing behaviors and explore significant predictors of body mass index (BMI) accuracy based on self-reported height and weight in a diverse sample of community-dwelling adults. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 531 adults participating in a physical activity program or a weight loss program were analyzed. Participants’ self-reported and objectively measured weight, height, weight scale ownership, self-weighing behaviors, and medical history were collected. Results: The mean age (standard deviation) was 50.0 (12.0) years with a range of 24 to 78 years. Out of 531 participants, 455 (85.7%) were women. The study population was diverse (58.9% non-White). In total, 409 (77.0%) participants had a weight scale at home, but only 222 (41.8%) weighed themselves at least once a week. The weight and BMI underestimation became much more significant as the participant’s weight increased (p ≤ 0.001). Employment status, high cholesterol, and low objectively measured weight were significant predictors of self-reported BMI accuracy after controlling for potential confounding factors (p < 0.05). Interestingly, ownership of a home weight scale and the frequency of self-weighing behavior were not significantly associated with the accuracy of self-reported BMI (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The accuracy of the participants’ BMI, based on self-reported height and weight, was significantly associated with employment status, high cholesterol, and low objectively measured weight, suggesting that BMI accuracy depends on multi factors.