bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychosocial well-being among individuals with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis treatment and their caregivers: a protocol of a mixed method study in Sri Lanka and Poland
Authors: Bulathwatta Darshika Thejani , Borchet Judyta , Rudnik Agata , Bidzan Mariola
Published: December 2023

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) can be identified as one of the non-communicable diseases (NCDs) which affect millions of people worldwide, including in Sri Lanka and Poland. The prevalence of CKD has been rising over the last three decades due to the identification of CKD with unknown etiology and the increment of NCDs such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus among the Sri Lankan population. Poland can be identified as a European country that has 4 million patients with CKD, which is the second most common chronic disease in the country. CKD is associated with the physical, economic, psychological, and social burden on patients and their caregivers. The current study is aimed to investigate the psychosocial well-being of CKD patients and their caregivers in Sri Lanka and Poland. The current study is a mixed-method study aimed to investigate the psychosocial well-being of individuals with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis and their caregivers in Sri Lanka and Poland. Participants in the quantitative part of the project will be individuals with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis from Sri Lanka (n = 63) and Poland (n = 63) who are currently undergoing hemodialysis treatment. Kidney Disease Quality of Life-Sort Form, Beck Depression Scale, Test of Self-Conscious Affect, The Courtauld Emotional Control Scale, Acceptance of Illness Scale, and a demographic and medical information sheet will be used in both Sri Lankan and Polish samples. Apart from that, the qualitative phase of the study will involve semi-structured interviews with individuals diagnosed with CKD, selected randomly from the initial part of the research, and their close relatives. Notably, the participant count will remain undetermined, as this approach addresses the inherent challenges of exploratory research.
Reliability and validity of the Nepean Beliefs Scale for delusions and overvalued ideas in chronic schizophrenia: analysis of a preliminary pilot study
Authors: Ishigaki Takuma , Shimada Takeshi , Tanoue Hiroki , Yoshinaga Naoki , Nishiguchi Yuki , Ishikawa Ryotaro , Hosono Masahito
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The Nepean Beliefs Scale by Brakoulias et al. is an interview-based multidimensional instrument that measures pathological beliefs in various psychiatric disorders. This study examined the reliability and validity of Nepean Beliefs Scale (NBS) for delusions and overvalued ideas in patients with chronic-phase schizophrenia. Methods: Multiple raters at two healthcare settings examined the beliefs of 28 individuals with schizophrenia using the NBS. Concurrently, PANSS, PDI-21, BCIS, PHQ-9 and GAD-7 were administered.

Results

The NBS had high reliability and correlation with relevant scales.

Discussion

The NBS was found to have sufficient reliability and validity for assessing the pathological beliefs of patients with chronic schizophrenia. Although NBS is an easy-to-instruct instrument, it should be noted that appropriate explanations and examples should be added to instructions to obtain reliable responses from patients with chronic schizophrenia.
Leveraging collaborative research networks against antimicrobial resistance in Asia
Authors: He Shiying , Shrestha Pami , Henry Adam Douglas , Legido-Quigley Helena
Published: December 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health security threat requiring research collaboration globally and regionally. Despite repeated calls for international research collaboration in Asia, literature analyzing the nature of collaborative AMR research in Asia has been sparse. This study aims to describe the characteristics of the AMR research network in Asia and investigate the factors influencing collaborative tie formation between organizations.

Methods

We carried out a mixed-methods study by combining social network analysis (SNA) and in-depth interviews. SNA was first conducted on primary data to describe the characteristics of the AMR research network in Asia. Exponential random graph models (ERGMs) were then used to examine the influence of factors such as organization type, country affluence levels, regional proximity and One Health research on collaborative tie formation among organizations. In-depth interviews were conducted with network participants to provide contextual insights to the quantitative data.

Results

The results reveal that the research network exhibits a core-periphery structure, where a minority of organizations have a significantly higher number of collaborations with others. The most influential organizations in the network are academic institutions from high-income countries within and outside Asia. The ERGM results demonstrate that organizations prefer to collaborate with others of similar organization types, country-based affluence levels and One Health domains of focus, but also with others across different World Health Organization regions. The qualitative analysis identified three main themes: the challenges that impede collaboration, the central role of academic institutions, and the nature of collaborations across One Health domains, giving rise to important empirical milestones in understanding AMR research in Asia.

Conclusion

We thus recommend leveraging academic institutions as “integrators” to bridge differences, increasing funds channelled towards research capacity building to alleviate structural barriers to collaboration, streamlining collaborative mechanisms to overcome cumbersome administrative hurdles, and increasing efforts to establish trust between all organizations.
Implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in Mexico: a systematic literature review using the RE-AIM framework
Authors: Bueno Angela K. , Vilar-Compte Mireya , Cruz-Villalba Valeria , Rovelo-Velázquez Natalia , Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Pérez-Escamilla Rafael
Published: December 2023

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global strategy to encourage health facilities to promote, support, and protect breastfeeding by implementing a package of policies and practices known as the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. Prior studies have found that implementing the Ten Steps has a positive impact on breastfeeding outcomes. Yet, little is known about the implementation of the Ten Steps in Mexico. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review to evaluate the reach, efficacy/effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of the Ten Steps in Mexico, using the RE-AIM framework. The systematic literature review included studies published in English or Spanish without date restrictions. Two of the authors coded each of the articles through a harmonized data extraction tool, and group meetings were used to discuss any discrepancies. The reviewed data were managed in the Rayyan platform. The risk of study bias was assessed through the Johanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists. Of the 1,123 articles initially identified, 6 met the review inclusion criteria. None of the articles evaluated the reach and maintenance of the Ten Steps. The articles identified major gaps in the implementation of the Ten Steps. Most of the articles had important limitations in terms of their quality. In Mexico, it is necessary to rethink the BFHI and employ multiple strategies to improve implementation of the Ten Steps, including developing transparent BFHI monitoring mechanisms that produce data on implementation and that are publicly available, as well as investing in implementation research and evaluation to generate strong evidence to support the adoption and efficient maintenance of the Ten Steps in health facilities in Mexico. When properly implemented, BFHI becomes central to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding. Therefore, it is essential for Mexico to position BFHI as a top priority of the country's public policy agenda.

Systematic Review Registration

identifier: CRD42021248118.
Patterns and trends of hepatitis C virus infection in Jordan: an observational study
Authors: Abu-Dayyeh Issa , Chemaitelly Hiam , Ghunaim Mohammad , Hasan Thaer , Abdelnour Amid , Abu-Raddad Laith J.
Published: December 2023

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection levels in Jordan remain uncertain. No HCV national population-based survey has ever been conducted in the country. To meet the World Health Organization’s target of reducing HCV incidence to ≤5 per 100,000 people per year by 2030, it is essential to determine the infection levels, identify affected individuals and populations, and provide appropriate treatment using direct-acting antivirals to individuals carrying the virus.

Methods

The study utilized the HCV testing database of 28,798 attendees of Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories in Jordan, covering the period from January 19, 2010, to May 26, 2023. Cross-sectional and cohort study analyses were conducted, including estimating HCV antibody (Ab) prevalence, examining associations with HCV Ab positivity, determining the HCV viremic rate, and estimating HCV incidence rate using a retrospective cohort study design.

Results

A total of 27,591 individuals, with a median age of 31.3 and 52.9% being females, underwent HCV Ab testing, while 1,450 individuals, with a median age of 42.2 and 32.8% being females, underwent HCV RNA PCR testing. The study sample HCV Ab prevalence was 4.0% (95% CI: 3.7–4.2%). After applying probability weights, the weighted HCV Ab prevalence was 5.8% (95% CI: 4.6–7.3%). Age was strongly associated with HCV Ab positivity, particularly among individuals aged 50 years or older, who had 10-fold higher odds of being HCV Ab positive compared to those aged 10–19 years. Males had 2.41-fold higher odds of testing positive for HCV Ab compared to females. The HCV viremic rate was 54.1% (95% CI: 43.0–65.0%). The cumulative incidence of HCV infection, after 5 years of follow-up, was estimated to be 0.41% (95% CI: 0.17–0.99%). The HCV incidence rate was calculated at 1.19 per 1,000 person-years (95% CI, 0.50–2.87).

Conclusion

Prevalence and incidence of HCV infection were substantial, estimated at ~5% and 1 per 1,000 person-years, respectively, and highlighting the presence of core groups actively engaged in the virus’ acquisition and transmission. The high observed viremic rate indicates the need for expanding HCV treatment efforts to effectively control HCV transmission in Jordan. Utilizing quality diagnostic laboratories and innovative testing strategies is key to identifying infection carriers and facilitating linkage to treatment and care.
What are effective strategies to respond to the psychological impacts of working on the frontlines of a public health emergency?
Authors: Neil-Sztramko Sarah E. , Belita Emily , Hopkins Stephanie , Sherifali Diana , Anderson Laura , Apatu Emma , Kapiriri Lydia , Tarride Jean Eric , Bellefleur Olivier , Kaasalainen Sharon , Marr Sharon , Dobbins Maureen
Published: December 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the healthcare and public health sectors. The impact of working on the frontlines as a healthcare or public health professional has been well documented. Healthcare organizations must support the psychological and mental health of those responding to future public health emergencies.

Objective

This systematic review aims to identify effective interventions to support healthcare workers’ mental health and wellbeing during and following a public health emergency.

Methods

Eight scientific databases were searched from inception to 1 November 2022. Studies that described strategies to address the psychological impacts experienced by those responding to a public health emergency (i.e., a pandemic, epidemic, natural disaster, or mass casualty event) were eligible for inclusion. No limitations were placed based on study design, language, publication status, or publication date. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion and a third reviewer when needed. Results were synthesized narratively due to the heterogeneity of populations and interventions. Outcomes were displayed graphically using harvest plots.

Results

A total of 20,018 records were screened, with 36 unique studies included in the review, 15 randomized controlled trials, and 21 quasi-experimental studies. Results indicate that psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and mind–body interventions may reduce symptoms of anxiety, burnout, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, with the lowest risk of bias found among psychotherapy interventions. Psychoeducation appears most promising to increase resilience, with mind–body interventions having the most substantial evidence for increases in quality of life. Few organizational interventions were identified, with highly heterogeneous components.

Conclusion

Promoting healthcare workers’ mental health is essential at an individual and health system level. This review identifies several promising practices that could be used to support healthcare workers at risk of adverse mental health outcomes as they respond to future public health emergencies.

Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=203810, identifier #CRD42020203810 (PROSPERO).
The association between intimate partner violence type and mental health in migrant women living in Spain: findings from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bentley Abigail , Riutort-Mayol Gabriel
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The association between intimate partner violence (IPV) and mental health has been clearly established in the literature, however the differential associations between IPV type and mental health are less well understood, particularly in migrant groups who are at increased risk of both IPV and poor mental health. Under-studied and emerging forms of violence such as economic abuse and technology-facilitated abuse must be considered alongside more traditionally studied forms of IPV in order to fully understand the complex nature of violence. This study makes a novel contribution to the literature by assessing multiple forms of IPV including psychological, physical, sexual, economic and technology-facilitated IPV and their relationship with symptoms of depression and anxiety in migrant women, disaggregated by IPV type.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of migrant women living in the Valencian Community of Spain was conducted, to assess experiences of IPV and symptoms of mental health. Regression analysis from the Bayesian perspective was performed.

Results

1,998 women accessed the survey. They had an average age of 37, and came predominantly from Europe (49%), namely Western Europe, followed by Latin America (38%). The majority had been in Spain between 1 and 3 years, and 80% had resident status. A total of 1,156 responded to questions on violence and mental health. Results showed that the prevalence of IPV was high, with 59% of women reporting any experience of violence. Economic abuse was the most commonly reported form of violence, and showed the strongest relationship with symptoms of depression. Sexual violence was the strongest predictor of anxiety. In both cases, in the presence of violence, the odds of having more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety increases by over 2.25. Technology-facilitated abuse was as detrimental to women’s mental health as face-to-face violence.

Discussion

The findings from the study are relevant to researchers, policy-makers and service providers. They highlight the complex nature of IPV experiences faced by migrant women and the importance of understanding how different types of IPV can impact migrant mental health, in order to ensure survivors receive adequate care.
A mass event of paraquat poisoning via inhalation
Authors: Shi Mengdi , Zeng Mei , Jian Tianzi , Yu Guangcai , Genjiafu Aerbusili , Zhang Xiangxing , Guo Lanlan , Shang Ruikai , Zhou Zhiqiang , Zhang Tongyue , Jian Xiangdong , Kan Baotian
Published: December 2023

Objective

In January 2023, a rare event of collective inhalation paraquat poisoning occurred in Shandong, China. To analyze the clinical characteristics of an event of respiratory tract paraquat poisoning through inhalation.

Methods

Clinical data from eight patients with paraquat inhalation poisoning were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The patients were mainly exposed to paraquat via the respiratory tract. The main clinical manifestations were ocular and respiratory irritation. Lung computed tomography (CT) showed that all eight patients had varying degrees of lung injury, mainly manifesting as exudative lesions. Laboratory tests revealed arterial blood gas hypoxemia, abnormal white blood cell count, and increased neutrophil ratio. Sufficient glucocorticoid impact therapy was effective, and all eight patients survived.

Conclusion

Eight patients experienced chest tightness, shortness of breath, and varying degrees of lung injury due to inhalation of paraquat through the respiratory tract. The early use of glucocorticoids and other comprehensive treatment measures, active prevention and treatment of lung infections, and protection of organ function have beneficial effects in such cases.
Integrating AI tools in teacher professional learning: a conceptual model and illustrative case
Authors: Tammets Kairit , Ley Tobias
Published: December 2023

This conceptual paper aims to explore the complex nature of integrating AI technologies in teacher professional learning, highlighting the potential for AI to synergize teacher noticing and decision-making processes, support adaptive teaching, foster alignment with competence frameworks, and cultivate professional vision, thereby framing teacher practices within the framework of professional vision. We argue that rather than looking at the process of adopting AI solutions by teachers from a technology perspective or how teachers contribute to designing and developing such tools, we take the perspective of the teacher and ask how such tools are meaningfully integrated into teacher practices. In our conceptual paper, we illustrate the case of a novel approach to the teacher training model where the development of teacher' professional vision and professional learning is combined with the design of the AI solutions. We argue the importance of involving teachers into the design of AI solutions through professional learning models to support teachers to develop knowledge-based reasoning skills and at the same time to learn about pedagogical concepts and develop new mental models.
Security and privacy of pet technologies: actual risks vs user perception
Authors: Harper Scott , Mehrnezhad Maryam , Leach Matthew
Published: December 2023

As IoT becomes more and more commonplace, it is expanding into many different industries. One of these rapidly growing industries is pet tech, technologies designed to aid with the care of pets, expected to reach a market value of $3.7 billion by 2026. As with all IoT technologies, these devices introduce new security, privacy, and safety risks to their users and their homes. Despite these risks, the security and privacy (SP) of these devices, and their users’ concerns regarding these issues, remain an under-researched field, leaving the users of these devices at risk of attack and unable to effectively protect themselves. In this paper, we perform two studies to address this research gap. First, we perform an SP analysis of 20 popular pet tech apps, finding serious security vulnerabilities, as well as poor SP practices. Among our findings, 2 out of 20 apps exposed user login and account details in non-encrypted traffic and 14 communicated with trackers before the user could consent. Second, we perform a user study of 593 participants across 3 different countries (United Kingdom, United States, Germany) to gain an understanding of what technologies are in use, incidents that have or they believe may occur, as well as the methods used by participants to protect their online SP compared to pet tech. We perform a demographic analysis of these results, finding many similarities across the countries and genders, as well as a few differences in concerns and expectations. We study the state of the security and privacy of pet technologies and the awareness, concerns, and desires of users. We find that 521 participants do believe that a range of attacks may occur targeting their pet tech. Despite this, they take fewer precautions with these devices, exposing themselves and their pets to the possible risks and harms of these technologies.
Unmet Need for Family Planning and Spousal Separation in Nepal: A Spatial and Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Kim Yoona , Hendrickson Zoé Mistrale , Shakya Manju , Park Young Su , Jung Myunggu
Published: December 2023

Objectives: In Nepal, where increasing numbers of married couples live apart due to migration, progress in reducing unmet need for family planning (UMN) is stagnant. This study aims to identify spatial patterns of UMN of married women and spousal separation in Nepal and explore associations between UMN and spousal separation at individual- and district-levels.

Methods: We used 2016 Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys data to conduct spatial and multilevel logistic analyses.

Results: This study shows evidence of similar geographical patterns in UMN of married women and spousal separation. At the individual level, women living with their spouses had 88% (aOR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.11–0.13) decreased odds of experiencing UMN compared to those living apart from their spouses. While not statistically significant, increasing odds of UMN were observed with higher prevalence of spousal separation at the district level.

Conclusion: This study contributes to the existing literature by showing similar geographical patterns of UMN and spousal separation across Nepal and demonstrating both individual and contextual effects of spousal separation on UMN among married women. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed.
Comparison of the Declared and Simulated Real-Use Noise Data during Wood Sanding Using a Hand-Held Power Sander
Authors: Dado Miroslav , Schwarz Marián , Salva Jozef , Jankovič Richard , Hnilica Richard
Published: December 2023

The hand-held power sander is a frequently used tool in woodworking, and it is a significant source of risk in terms of dust, vibration, and, notably, noise. The purpose of a hand-held power sander manufacturer’s noise emission statement is to provide information that is useful for assessing the risks associated with noise exposure and should assist users in selecting a hand-held power sander with reduced noise emissions. The stated levels of emitted noise obtained in accordance with a harmonized test procedure may not, in all circumstances, give a reliable indication of the actual risk of noise exposure during the typical use of a hand-held power sander. The aim of this work was to investigate the difference between the values declared by the manufacturers of hand-held power sanders and the measured noise values during actual use. The measurements of the equivalent sound pressure levels were carried out using an integrating–averaging sound level meter (B&K, model 2245) during the sanding of beech and spruce wood with different types of hand-held electric sanders (belt, random orbital, and orbital) with abrasives of coarse, medium, or fine grit. Upon comparing the measured and declared noise values, differences ranging from −6.3 dB to 19 dB(A) were identified for distinct sander types. The results of this study show that the use of declared noise emission values during risk assessments underestimates the magnitude of operator noise exposure.
Thermal Performance of a Flat-Plate Solar Collector for Drying Agricultural Crops
Authors: Al Kindi Fatema , Al-Shukaili Talal , Pathare Pankaj B. , Al Jahwari Farooq , Al-Azri Nasser , Al Ghadani Ohood
Published: December 2023

In this study, the finite volume method was used to evaluate the thermal performance of a flat-plate solar collector used to dry agricultural crops. A 3D numerical model was created and used to predict the outlet air velocities and temperatures for three inlet air velocities. When compared with experimental measurements, the numerical predictions showed good agreement under all testing conditions. Then, the numerical model was used to predict the internal airflow and heat transfer characteristics of the collector. The internal baffles were found to increase the dwell time and efficiency but also promote flow separation, which resulted in flow loss. In addition, the collector has a transparent cover that results in a substantial heat loss, which can be mitigated by adding a vacuum gap between the flow inside the collector and the cover. Increasing the flow rate increased the heat loss and decreased the heat uptake, which decreased the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the collector. Because the heat was lost through long-wavelength radiation via the transparent cover and sidewalls, coating the absorber plate with black matte paint to increase the solar radiation absorption coefficient did not improve the drying performance.
Effects of Organic Fertilizers with Different Maturities on Soil Improvement and Soybean Yield
Authors: Xie Haotian , Wei Yujie , Yi Ceng , Wang Yan , Zhao Zhuqing , Liu Xinwei
Published: December 2023

The maturity degree of organic fertilizer affects its application effect, but this application effect difference and the underlying reasons for it remain largely unclear. This study explored the effects of cattle manure compost with different maturities on soybean yield, soil physicochemical properties, and biological properties, and the underlying reasons for the differences in the application effects of organic fertilizers with different maturities. The results showed that the T21d treatment (GI = 62.5%, germination index) had the optimal effect on increasing soybean yield, and its effect on improving basic soil physicochemical properties, active organic matter components, enzyme activity, and microbial diversity was the most obvious. Compared with the control (CK), the soybean yield was increased by 15.1% under T21d treatment, and the soil organic matter (OM), alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), and available potassium (AK) contents were increased by 29.9%, 25.0%, 22.2%, and 8.4%, respectively; the dissolved organic matter (DOM), extractable humus (HE), humic acid (HA), and fulvic acid (FA) contents in the soil were increased by 96.5%, 22.6%, 16.7%, and 30.6%, respectively; and the activities of soil phosphatase, neutral protease, urease, and cellulase were increased by 45.4%, 164.1%, 33.9%, and 128.9%, respectively. However, the fertilizer efficiency under the T28d, T45d, and T60d treatments with high-maturity organic fertilizers was lower than that under T21d. In general, the appropriate maturity of organic fertilizers has a positive effect on soil improvement and yield increase, but the excessive maturity of organic fertilizers reduces their application effects.
The Analysis of Short-Term Differential Expression of Transcription Factor Family Genes in Diploid and Tetraploid Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties during Blast Fungus Infection
Authors: Xu Minghong , Li Dayong , Leng Zitian , Liu Keyan , Wang Chenxi , Wang Yingkai , Meng Weilong , Yu Lintian , Zhang Chunying , Ma Jian , Wang Ningning
Published: December 2023

The necessity to understand plant adaptations to environmental stressors is underscored by the role of polyploidy in species evolution. This study focuses on the superior stress resistance exhibited by autotetraploid rice, which arises from chromosome doubling, in comparison to its diploid donor. We provide a quantitative analysis that highlights the differing susceptibilities of diploid (GFD-2X) and autotetraploid (GFD-4X) rice to rice blast disease, with GFD-2X being significantly more susceptible. Our investigation centers on transcription factors (TFs), which are crucial in regulating biological stress responses, by analyzing their expression in the face of a pathogen attack. This study uncovers variations in the number and expression timing of differentially expressed TF genes, providing a quantitative view of GFD-4X’s resistance. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses confirm the role of specific pathways, including “response to stimulus” and the “MAPK signaling pathway,” in resistance mechanisms. An extensive analysis of protein–protein interaction networks further clarifies the complex role of TFs during stress responses. The rationale for our experimental approach is rooted in the imperative to decipher the molecular basis of disease resistance across different ploidies, which has implications for crop enhancement. The conclusion from our research is that autotetraploid rice has a unique and more effective defense response regulation system, facilitated by transcription factors, when faced with rice blast disease. This finding provides a foundation for future genetic strategies aimed at improving crop resistance.
Does Direct MRI Tenography Improve the Diagnostic Performance of Low-Field MRI to Identify Artificially Created Soft-Tissue Lesions within the Equine Cadaveric Digital Flexor Tendon Sheath?
Authors: Aßmann Anton , Ohlerth Stefanie , Hartmann Silvana , Torgerson Paul , Bischofberger Andrea
Published: December 2023

Tenosynovitis of the digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) is diagnosed using ultrasonography and contrast tenography. Nevertheless, making a precise preoperative diagnosis is challenging. This study aimed to determine and compare the sensitivity and specificity of low-field MRI and MRI tenography (MRIt) to detect artificially created soft-tissue lesions in the DFTS. In 21 DFTSs, 118 lesions were made tenoscopically in the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT), deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), manica flexoria (MF) and proximal scutum. MRI and MRI, following intrathecal gadolinium administration (MRIt), were performed. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI and MRIt were calculated and compared. Proximal scutum lesions were less frequently identified by MRI (Sensitivity 38%, specificity 96%) compared to MRIt (Sensitivity: 50%, p = 0.80; specificity: 96%, p = 1). This was similar for SDFT lesions (Sensitivity: 39% versus 54%, p = 0.72; specificity: 93% versus 96%, p = 1). MRI detected DDFT lesions (sensitivity 34%; specificity 100%) better than MRIt (sensitivity 32%, p = 0.77; specificity 98%, p = 1). This was similar for MF lesions (MRI sensitivity 61%; specificity 100% vs. MRIt sensitivity 50%, p = 0.68; specificity 96%, p = 1). Lesion size was significantly associated with MRI or MRIt diagnosis (p = 0.001). The intrathecal administration of gadolinium did not significantly improve the ability of low-field MRI to diagnose artificial DFTS tendon lesions. Small lesion length was a significant discriminating factor for lesion detection. MRI and MRIt specificity were high, thus being helpful in diagnosing an intact structure.
Probiotic-Fermented Distillers Grain Alters the Rumen Microbiome, Metabolome, and Enzyme Activity, Enhancing the Immune Status of Finishing Cattle
Authors: Mei Shihui , He Guangxia , Chen Ze , Zhang Rong , Liao Yixiao , Zhu Mingming , Xu Duhan , Shen Yanjuan , Zhou Bijun , Wang Kaigong , Wang Chunmei , Zhu Erpeng , Chen Chao
Published: December 2023

A total of 30 Simmental crossbred cattle (6.50 months old, 265.0 ± 22.48 kg) were randomly divided into three groups, with 10 heads per group, and fed for 45 days. The diet treatments consisted of the Control group without PFDG supplementation, the PFDG-15% group with 15% PFDG substituting for 15% concentrate, and PFDG-30% group with 30% PFDG substituting for 30% concentrate. The results showed that compared with the Control group, the average daily gain (ADG) of the cattle in the PFDG-30% group decreased significantly (0.890 vs. 0.768 kg/d, p = 0.005). The serum malondialdehyde content of cattle in the PFDG-15% and PFDG-30% groups decreased significantly (p = 0.047) compared to that of the Control group. However, the serum superoxide dismutase activity of cattle in the PFDG-30% group was significantly higher than that of the Control group (p = 0.047). Meanwhile, both the PFDG-15% and PFDG-30% groups (1758.47 vs. 2061.30 μg/mL) showed higher serum levels of immunoglobulin G, while the interleukin-10 concentration was lower in the PFDG-30% group (p = 0.027). In addition, the PFDG-15% and PFDG-30% groups shifted the rumen microbiota by improving the abundances of F082 (related to propionic acid production) and fiber-degrading bacteria (Lachnospiraceae_UGG-009 and Prevotellaceae_UCG-001) and reducing the abundance of the disease-associated bacteria Selenomonas. A Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis illustrated that three key metabolic pathways, including phenylalanine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, and tryptophan metabolism, were enriched in the PFDG-15% group, but eight key metabolic pathways, including arachidonic acid metabolism, were enriched in the PFDG-30% group. Importantly, both the PFDG-15% and PFDG-30% groups increased (p < 0.01) the activities of cellulase, lipase, and protease in the rumen. Finally, the different bacterial abundance in the rumen was associated with changes in the ADG, serum antioxidant capacity, immune status, rumen enzyme activity, and metabolites. These results suggest that PFDG alters rumen microbiome abundance, metabolome, and enzyme activity for enhancing serum antioxidant capacity and the immune status, but when the supplemental level reaches 30%, it has a negative effect on ADG and the anti-inflammatory factors in finishing cattle.
Effects of Dietary β-Glucan Feeding Strategy on the Growth, Physiological Response, and Gut Microbiota of Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, under Low Salinity
Authors: Qiao Yanbing , Han Fenglu , Lu Kunyu , Zhou Li , Rombenso Artur , Li Erchao
Published: December 2023

An eight-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of a dietary β-glucan application strategy on the growth performance, physiological response, and gut microbiota of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) (0.49 ± 0.17 g) under low salinity. Six feeding strategies were established, including a continuous β-glucan-free diet group (control), a continuously fed group with a 0.1% β-glucan diet (T1), and groups with the following intermittent feeding patterns: 1 day of β-glucan diet and 6 days of β-glucan-free diet (T2), 2 days of β-glucan diet and 5 days of β-glucan-free diet (T3), 3 days of β-glucan diet and 4 days of β-glucan-free diet (T4), and 4 days of β-glucan diet and 3 days of β-glucan-free diet (T5) each week. No significant differences in growth performance among all the groups were found, although the condition factor was significantly higher in the T3 group than in the T1 and T5 groups (p < 0.05). The T-AOC and GPX activities were significantly lower in the T3 group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The MDA content was also significantly lower in the T2 group than in the T3 and T4 groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, the mRNA expression of the Pen3a gene was significantly upregulated in the hepatopancreas of the T4 group compared to the control and T5 groups (p < 0.05), and the Toll gene was also significantly upregulated in the T3 group compared to the T1 and T2 groups (p < 0.05). Dietary β-glucan induced changes in the alpha diversity and composition of the gut microbiota in different feeding strategies. The beta diversity of the gut microbiota in the T2 group was significantly different from that in the control group. The results of a KEGG analysis showed that gut function in the carbohydrate metabolism, immune system, and environmental adaptation pathways was significantly enhanced in the T3 group. These findings provide evidence that the intermittent feeding strategy of β-glucan could alleviate immune fatigue, impact antioxidant ability, and change gut microbiota composition of L. vannamei under low salinity.
Evaluation of Two Recombinant Protein-Based Vaccine Regimens against Campylobacter jejuni: Impact on Protection, Humoral Immune Responses and Gut Microbiota in Broilers
Authors: Gloanec Noémie , Guyard-Nicodème Muriel , Brunetti Raphaël , Quesne Ségolène , Keita Alassane , Chemaly Marianne , Dory Daniel
Published: December 2023

Campylobacter infections in humans are traced mainly to poultry products. While vaccinating poultry against Campylobacter could reduce the incidence of human infections, no vaccine is yet available on the market. In our previous study using a plasmid DNA prime/recombinant protein boost vaccine regimen, vaccine candidate YP437 induced partial protective immune responses against Campylobacter in broilers. In order to optimise vaccine efficacy, the vaccination protocol was modified using a protein prime/protein boost regimen with a different number of boosters. Broilers were given two or four intramuscular protein vaccinations (with the YP437 vaccine antigen) before an oral challenge by C. jejuni during a 42-day trial. The caecal Campylobacter load, specific systemic and mucosal antibody levels and caecal microbiota in the vaccinated groups were compared with their respective placebo groups and a challenge group (Campylobacter infection only). Specific humoral immune responses were induced, but no reduction in Campylobacter caecal load was observed in any of the groups (p > 0.05). Microbiota beta diversity analysis revealed that the bacterial composition of the groups was significantly different (p ≤ 0.001), but that vaccination did not alter the relative abundance of the main bacterial taxa residing in the caeca. The candidate vaccine was ineffective in inducing a humoral immune response and therefore did not provide protection against Campylobacter spp. infection in broilers. More studies are required to find new candidates.
Correction: Borecka et al. Development of the Latanoprost Solid Delivery System Based on Poly(l-lactide-co-glycolide-co-trimethylene carbonate) with Shape Memory for Glaucoma Treatment. Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 7562
Authors: Borecka Aleksandra , Rech Jakub , Janeczek Henryk , Wilińska Justyna , Kasperczyk Janusz , Kobielarz Magdalena , Grieb Paweł , Turek Artur
Published: December 2023

In the original publication [...]
Enhanced Detection of Subway Insulator Defects Based on Improved YOLOv5
Authors: Huang Lifeng , Li Yongzhen , Wang Weizu , He Zemin
Published: December 2023

Insulators, pivotal to the integrity of railway catenaries, demand impeccable functioning to prevent system failures. Their consistent assessment is vital for railway safety. Current insulator evaluations in subways predominantly involve human intervention, a method fraught with inefficiencies, inaccuracies, and oversights, exacerbated by the complex backdrop of subway tunnels and minuscule defect dimensions. This study introduces an enhanced algorithm, anchored in the YOLOv5 framework, to refine insulator defect identification. Challenges in defect detection include limited, imbalanced data samples and adaptability. Addressing this, an accurate catenary model mirrors the subway line’s architecture, facilitating the creation of synthetic instances of both intact and impaired insulators. An atomization technique augments the dataset volume, fortifying the algorithm’s resilience in reduced visibility conditions, such as fog. Tackling sample equilibrium, the study introduces an equilibrium loss function, assigning disparate weights to various sample categories during training, thereby sharpening the algorithm’s focus on positive instances, particularly those that are challenging to discern, and rectifying the disproportion in sample categories. Incorporating lightweight structures like GhostNet and the Efficient Channel Attention Network (ECA-Net) channel attention scheme not only diminishes the network’s computational demands, thereby elevating the detection capabilities, but also minimizes superfluous data processing, enhancing the accuracy in identifying smaller targets. Empirical analyses indicate substantial model optimization: a size reduction to 60 pp of its original (from 15 MB to 9 MB), a near 1.4 pp increase in mean average precision (mAP) to 96.57%, and a tripling of the detection speed (from 30 to 90 FPS). Real-world image assessments further reveal a mAP improvement of approximately 2.5 pp (reaching 98.43%), confirming the model’s suitability for real-time applications.
Evaluating the Usability and Functionality of Intelligent Source Code Completion Assistants: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hliš Tilen , Četina Luka , Beranič Tina , Pavlič Luka
Published: December 2023

As artificial intelligence advances, source code completion assistants are becoming more advanced and powerful. Existing traditional assistants are no longer up to all the developers’ challenges. Traditional assistants usually present proposals in alphabetically sorted lists, which does not make a developer’s tasks any easier (i.e., they still have to search and filter an appropriate proposal manually). As a possible solution to the presented issue, intelligent assistants that can classify suggestions according to relevance in particular contexts have emerged. Artificial intelligence methods have proven to be successful in solving such problems. Advanced intelligent assistants not only take into account the context of a particular source code but also, more importantly, examine other available projects in detail to extract possible patterns related to particular source code intentions. This is how intelligent assistants try to provide developers with relevant suggestions. By conducting a systematic literature review, we examined the current intelligent assistant landscape. Based on our review, we tested four intelligent assistants and compared them according to their functionality. GitHub Copilot, which stood out, allows suggestions in the form of complete source code sections. One would expect that intelligent assistants, with their outstanding functionalities, would be one of the most popular helpers in a developer’s toolbox. However, through a survey we conducted among practitioners, the results, surprisingly, contradicted this idea. Although intelligent assistants promise high usability, our questionnaires indicate that usability improvements are still needed. However, our research data show that experienced developers value intelligent assistants highly, highlighting their significant utility for the experienced developers group when compared to less experienced individuals. The unexpectedly low net promoter score (NPS) for intelligent code assistants in our study was quite surprising, highlighting a stark contrast between the anticipated impact of these advanced tools and their actual reception among developers.
TChecker: A Content Enrichment Approach for Fake News Detection on Social Media
Authors: GabAllah Nada , Sharara Hossam , Rafea Ahmed
Published: December 2023

The spread of fake news on social media continues to be one of the main challenges facing internet users, prohibiting them from discerning authentic from fabricated pieces of information. Hence, identifying the veracity of the content in social posts becomes an important challenge, especially with more people continuing to use social media as their main channel for news consumption. Although a number of machine learning models were proposed in the literature to tackle this challenge, the majority rely on the textual content of the post to identify its veracity, which poses a limitation to the performance of such models, especially on platforms where the content of the users’ post is limited (e.g., Twitter, where each post is limited to 140 characters). In this paper, we propose a deep-learning approach for tackling the fake news detection problem that incorporates the content of both the social post and the associated news article as well as the context of the social post, coined TChecker. Throughout the experiments, we use the benchmark dataset FakeNewsNet to illustrate that our proposed model (TChecker) is able to achieve higher performance across all metrics against a number of baseline models that utilize the social content only as well as models combining both social and news content.
Data-Quality Assessment for Digital Twins Targeting Multi-Component Degradation in Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)-Enabled Smart Infrastructure Systems
Authors: Barimah Atuahene Kwasi , Niculita Octavian , McGlinchey Don , Cowell Andrew
Published: December 2023

In the development of analytics for PHM applications, a lot of emphasis has been placed on data transformation for optimal model development without enough consideration for the repeatability of the measurement systems producing the data. This paper explores the relationship between data quality, defined as the measurement system analysis (MSA) process, and the performance of fault detection and isolation (FDI) algorithms within smart infrastructure systems. This research employs a comprehensive methodology, starting with an MSA process for data-quality evaluation and leading to the development and evaluation of fault detection and isolation (FDI) algorithms. During the MSA phase, the repeatability of a water distribution system’s measurement system is examined to characterise variations within the system. A data-quality process is defined to gauge data quality. Synthetic data are introduced with varying data-quality levels to investigate their impact on FDI algorithm development. Key findings reveal the complex relationship between data quality and FDI algorithm performance. Synthetic data, even with lower quality, can improve the performance of statistical process control (SPC) models, whereas data-driven approaches benefit from high-quality datasets. The study underscores the importance of customising FDI algorithms based on data quality. A framework for instantiating the MSA process for IIoT applications is also suggested. By bridging data-quality assessment with data-driven FDI, this research contributes to the design of digital twins for IIoT-enabled smart infrastructure systems. Further research on the practical implementation of the MSA process for edge analytics for PHM applications will be considered as part of our future research.
FiMa-Reader: A Cost-Effective Fiducial Marker Reader System for Autonomous Mobile Robot Docking in Manufacturing Environments
Authors: Bian Xu , Chen Wenzhao , Ran Donglai , Liang Zhimou , Mei Xuesong
Published: December 2023

Accurately docking mobile robots to various workstations on the factory floor is a common and essential task. The existing docking methods face three major challenges: intricate deployment procedures, susceptibility to ambient lighting, and incapacity to recognize product information during the docking process. This paper devises a novel approach that combines the features of ArUco and Data Matrix to form a composite marker termed “DataMatrix-ArUco-Hybrid” (DAH). The DAH pattern serves as a fiducial marker capable of concurrently providing both target pose information and product information. Detection of the DAH pattern is conducted by a cost-effective fiducial marker reader system, called “FiMa-Reader”, which comprises an embedded processing unit and an infrared camera equipped with a 940 nm fill-light to overcome lighting issues. The FiMa-Reader system effectively detects the DAH pattern under both well-lit and dimly lit conditions. Additionally, the implementation of the FiMa-Reader system leads to significant improvements in positioning accuracy, including an 86.42% improvement on the x-axis, a 44.7% improvement on the y-axis, and an 84.21% improvement in angular orientation when compared to traditional navigation methods. The utilization of FiMa-Reader presents an economically viable system capable of guiding mobile robots’ positioning with high precision in various indoor lighting conditions.