bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An authentic learner-centered planetary health assignment: A five-year evaluation of student choices to address Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action)
Authors: McLean Michelle , Phelps Charlotte , Smith Jessica , Maheshwari Neelam , Veer Vineesha , Bushell Dayna , Matthews Richard , Craig Belinda , Moro Christian
Published: November 2022

A Code Red has been declared for the planet and human health. Climate change (e.g., increasing temperatures, adverse weather events, rising sea levels) threatens the planet's already declining ecosystems. Without urgent action, all of Earth's inhabitants face an existential threat. Health professions education should therefore prepare learners to not only practice in a changing world, but authentic educational activities should also develop competencies for global and planetary citizenship. Planetary health has been integrated across the five-year Bond University (Australia) medical curriculum. It begins in the second week of Year 1 and ends with a session on Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare in the General Practice rotation in the final year. The purpose of this article is to describe the outcomes of the first 5 years (2018–2022) of a learner-centered planetary health assignment, underpinned by the 2030 United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in the second year of a five-year medical program. Using systems and/or design thinking with a focus on SDG13 (Climate Action) plus a second SDG of choice, self-selected teams of 4–6 students submit a protocol (with feedback) to develop a deliverable “product” for an intended audience. Data analysis of the first 5 years of implementation found that the most frequently selected SDGs in addition to SDG13 were: SDG12 Sustainable Production and Consumption (41% of teams), mostly relating to healthcare emissions and waste; SDG3 Health and Well-being (22%), generally involving the impact of air pollution; and SDG6 Clean Water and Sanitation (15%). A survey at the concluding conference garnered student feedback across various criteria. The planetary health assignment is authentic in that teams provide solutions to address climate change. Where appropriate, final “products” are sent to local or federal ministers for consideration (e.g., policy proposals) or integrated into the curriculum (e.g., learning modules). We believe that the competencies, attitudes, and values fostered through engagement with planetary health. Throughout the medical program, as evidenced by their evaluations, stands students in good stead to be change agents, not only in clinical practice but in society. An awareness has been created about the need for planetary citizenship in addition to global citizenship.
Association of simple renal cysts with metabolic syndrome in adults
Authors: Shen Wei-Chen , Sun Zih-Jie , Chou Chieh-Ying , Chou Yu-Tsung , Lu Feng-Hwa , Yang Yi-Ching , Chang Chih-Jen , Wu Jin-Shang
Published: November 2022

Background and aims

Metabolic syndrome is common nowadays and may increase risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular complications and even mortality. Renal cysts are also frequently found during routine examination. However, the relationship between simple renal cysts (SRCs) and metabolic syndrome remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association of SRCs with metabolic syndrome.

Methods

A total of 16,216 subjects aged ≥18 years were enrolled in this study. SRCs were diagnosed with ultrasonography by finding: sharp, thin posterior walls, a round/oval shape, absence of internal echoes, and posterior enhancement. SRCs were categorized by number (0, 1, and ≥2) and size (<2 and ≥2 cm). Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to the consensus statement from the International Diabetes Federation.

Results

In multivariate analysis, SRCs were positively related to metabolic syndrome (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.06–1.34). The risk of metabolic syndrome was higher for SRCs with a number ≥2 (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.08–1.68) and size ≥2 cm (OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.10–1.61). When considering the SRC number and size concomitantly, SRCs with a number ≥2/size ≥2 cm (OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.02–1.98) or <2/size ≥2 cm (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.04–1.62) were positively related to metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions

Simple renal cysts were found to be related to a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, and the association is more significant in those with larger (sizes ≥2cm) or plural (numbers ≥2) SRCs.
Unpacking the root causes of gambling in the Asian community: Contesting the myth of the Asian gambling culture
Authors: Colby Mia Han , Hires Ben , Le Lisette , Sauma Dawn , Yau Man Yoyo , Chu MyDzung Thi , Rubin Heang Leung
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Problem gambling is a public health issue both in the United States and internationally and can lead to mental health and socioeconomic concerns for individuals, families, and communities. Large epidemiological studies on problem gambling have neglected to include working-class, immigrant Asian Americans, who are at higher risk for problem gambling. The lack of data on Asian American gambling may explain a subsequent lack of culturally and linguistically appropriate treatment and prevention services. Additionally, the invisibility of Asian American data in published literature has helped to perpetuate a commonly held myth of an Asian gambling culture. This stereotype of the “Asian gambler” is a form of anti-Asian racism which serves to ignore and minimize the root causes of problem gambling in the Asian American community.

Methods

Utilizing a community-based participatory research approach, 40 interviews were conducted with the local Khmer (n = 12), Chinese (n = 20), Korean (n = 3), and Vietnamese (n = 5) immigrant communities in the Greater Boston region to assess how problem gambling manifests in the local Asian community. Interviews were conducted in language by bilingual/bicultural community fieldworkers experienced in serving their respective communities. Flyers and social media were used to recruit participants. The interviews were coded into themes which provided a better understanding of the patterns of systemic issues contributing to problem gambling in the Asian American community.

Results

Interviewees provided insights into the underlying issues of poverty and social and cultural loss due to immigration as root causes for problem gambling in the Asian American community. The interviews indicate that many individuals in these Asian immigrant communities, who are striving to make a living off low-wage and stressful jobs, struggle to integrate into American society. They often lack culturally appropriate and accessible social and recreational activities, a void that casinos capitalize on through targeted behaviors.

Discussion

Research must address the social and structural barriers in the Asian American communities rather than relying on the “Asian gambler” stereotype and assuming interventions for a general American problem gambler will work for Asian immigrants. The research points to a need for gambling interventions and services that are centered on lived experiences.
An emotion analysis in learning environment based on theme-specified drawing by convolutional neural network
Authors: He Tiancheng , Li Chao , Wang Jiayang , Wang Minjun , Wang Zhenghao , Jiao Changyong
Published: November 2022

Emotion in the learning process can directly influence the learner's attention, memory, and cognitive activities. Several literatures indicate that hand-drawn painting could reflect the learner's emotional status. But, such an evaluation of emotional status, manually conducted by the psychologist, is usually subjective and inefficient for clinical practice. To address the issues of subjectivity and inefficiency in the painting based emotional analysis, we conducted an exploration of a painting based emotional analysis in learning environment by using convolutional neural network model. A painting image of 100 × 100 pixels was used as input for the model. The instant emotional statue of the learner was collected by filling out a questionnaire and was reviewed by a psychologist and then used as the label for training the convolutional neural network model. With the completion of convolutional, full-connected, and classification operations, the features of the painting image were learned from the underlying pixel matrix to the high-level semantic feature mapping. Then the emotional classification of the painting image could be made to reflect the learner's emotional status. Finally, the classification result by the model was compared with the result manually conducted by a psychologist to validate the model accuracy. We conducted an experiment in a university at Hangzhou, and 2,103 learners joined in the experiment. The learner was required to first fill out a questionnaire reporting emotional status in the learning process, and then to complete a theme-specified painting. Two thousand valid paintings were received and divided into training dataset (1,600) and test dataset (400). The experimental result indicated that the model achieved the accuracy of 72.1%, which confirmed the effectiveness of the model for emotional analysis.
Disease burden and risk factors of ischemic heart disease in China during 1990–2019 based on the Global Burden of Disease 2019 report: A systematic analysis
Authors: Li Yanting , Zhang Jun
Published: November 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the disease burden and risk factors of ischemic heart disease (IHD) in China, during 1990–2019, through a systematic analysis using the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 report in order to provide first-hand information for primary and secondary prevention of IHD in China.

Methods

Data on the rates of incidence, death, years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of IHD were obtained from GBD2019 to determine the disease burden and risk factors of IHD in China.

Results

The rates of incidence, death, YLLs, YLDs, and DALYs of IHD in China increased at different levels during 1990–2019. The annual rate of change in incidence, death, YLLs, YLDs, and DALYs of IHD were 1.31%, 1.57%, 0.93%, 1.14%, and 0.94%, respectively. In 2019, the YLDs of IHD in Chinese women were higher, while the rates of incidence and death, YLLs, and DALYs were lower in Chinese women than in Chinese men. The disease burden of IHD had significant age differences, and people aged ≥70 years had the highest disease burden. A total of 24 risk factors were associated with the rates of death and DALYs of IHD, and the five most significant risk factors were high systolic blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), smoking, ambient particulate matter pollution, and intake of a high-sodium diet. From 1990 to 2019, a high annual rate of change in IHD-related deaths and DALYs was observed due to ambient particulate matter pollution, high body mass index (BMI), and intake of a diet high in processed meat.

Conclusion

The results of the study revealed that the disease burden of IHD in China was on the rise, especially in people aged ≥70 years. The main disease burden of IHD in male patients was premature death and that in female patients was disability. Environmental, behavioral, and metabolic factors were considered the three main risks of the disease burden of IHD, with metabolic factors having the greatest impact. Therefore, periodic health check-ups and high-risk factor interventions for key populations should be strengthened from the grassroots level, which are conducive to further reducing the disease burden of IHD in China.
Using scenario videos with Theatre Testing method to adapt a peer navigation model to improve street-connected youth's access to HIV care in Kenya and Canada
Authors: MacEntee Katie , Lee Edward Ou Jin , Oudshoorn Abe , Abramovich Alex , Kiptui Reuben , Ayuku David , Van Berkum Amy , Saarela Olli , Tang Thai-Son , Apondi Edith , Wachira Juddy , MacDonald Sue-Ann , Braitstein Paula
Published: November 2022

Theatre testing (TT) method demonstrates whole or portions of an evidence-based intervention to stakeholders to elicit feedback on context-specific adaptations and future implementation. The Peer Navigator Project (PNP) studied the adaptation and implementation of Peer Navigators in five urban sites to increase street-connected youth (SCY) access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment in Canada and Kenya. TT was used with SCY, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to collect feedback on the optimal characteristics of the PNs (e.g., social identities) and their professional activities and responsibilities in each site. Sites scripted unique scenarios of PNs supporting SCY and interacting with social service providers. Local actors were employed, and the scenarios were filmed and edited into videos alongside audience discussion questions. Videos were screened to separate audiences of SCY (n = 40), healthcare providers (n = 12), and community stakeholders (n = 59). Facilitated discussion about the scenarios were recorded as data, and transcripts were analyzed thematically by the research team. The scenario videos are presented as a unique adaptation to the TT method. The adaptations were time-consuming and limited the ability to present responsive changes while presenting the method to different audiences. They were also effective at maintaining presentation fidelity and eliciting diverse and meaningful responses from different stakeholder groups. One site successfully adapted the method for use in a physically distanced manner that complied with COVID-19 public health regulations. TT using video scenarios is an engaging approach that garners rich responses from diverse stakeholder groups about the adaptation of evidence-based interventions preparing for implementation in international settings.
Seasonal variation in the morphokinetics of in-vitro-derived bovine embryos is associated with the blastocyst developmental competence and gene expression
Authors: Yaacobi-Artzi Shira , Kalo Dorit , Roth Zvi
Published: November 2022

Summer heat stress is a major cause of reduced development of preimplantation embryos. Nevertheless, seasonal effects on embryo morphokinetics have been less studied. We used a non-invasive time-lapse system that allows continuous monitoring of embryos to study the seasonal impact on embryo morphokinetics. The experiments were performed during the cold and the hot seasons. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were aspirated from ovaries, in-vitro-matured, and fertilized. Putative zygotes were cultured in an incubator equipped with a time-lapse system. The cleavage and blastocyst formation rates were lower in the hot vs. the cold season (p < 0.01). The kinetics of the embryos differed between seasons, reflected by a delay in the second cleavage in the hot vs. the cold season (p < 0.03). The distribution of the embryos into different morphological grades (good, fair, and poor) throughout the first three cleavages differed between seasons, with a higher proportion of good-grade embryos in the hot season (p < 0.03). Cleaved embryos were categorized as either normal or abnormal, based on their first cleavage pattern. Normal cleavage was defined as when the first cleavage resulted in two equal blastomeres and further classified as either synchronous or asynchronous, according to their subsequent cleavages. Abnormal cleavage was defined as when the embryo directly cleaved into more than two blastomeres, it cleaved unequally into two unevenly sized blastomeres, or when the fusion of already divided blastomeres occurred. The proportion of abnormally cleaved embryos was higher in the hot season vs. the cold one (p < 0.01), reflected by a higher proportion of unequally cleaved embryos (p < 0.02). In the cold season, abnormally cleaved embryos had a lower potential to develop into blastocysts relative to their normally cleaved counterparts (p < 0.001). Blastocysts that developed in the cold and the hot seasons differed in the expression of genes that related to the cell cycle (STAT1; p < 0.01), stress (HSF1; p < 0.03), and embryo development (ZP3; p < 0.05). A higher expression level was recorded for the STAT1 and UHRF1 genes in blastocysts that developed from unequally vs. the synchronously cleaved embryos (p < 0.04). We provide the first evidence for a seasonal effect on embryo morphokinetics, which might explain the reduced embryo development during the hot season.
Earthquake early warning systems based on low-cost ground motion sensors: A systematic literature review
Authors: Chandrakumar Chanthujan , Prasanna Raj , Stephens Max , Tan Marion Lara
Published: November 2022

Earthquake early warning system (EEWS) plays an important role in detecting ground shaking during an earthquake and alerting the public and authorities to take appropriate safety measures, reducing possible damages to lives and property. However, the cost of high-end ground motion sensors makes most earthquake-prone countries unable to afford an EEWS. Low-cost Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based ground motion sensors are becoming a promising solution for constructing an affordable yet reliable and robust EEWS. This paper contributes to advancing Earthquake early warning (EEW) research by conducting a literature review investigating different methods and approaches to building a low-cost EEWS using MEMS-based sensors in different territories. The review of 59 articles found that low-cost MEMS-based EEWSs can become a feasible solution for generating reliable and accurate EEW, especially for developing countries and can serve as a support system for high-end EEWS in terms of increasing the density of the sensors. Also, this paper proposes a classification for EEWSs based on the warning type and the EEW algorithm adopted. Further, with the support of the proposed EEWS classification, it summarises the different approaches researchers attempted in developing an EEWS. Following that, this paper discusses the challenges and complexities in implementing and maintaining a low-cost MEMS-based EEWS and proposes future research areas to improve the performance of EEWSs mainly in 1) exploring node-level processing, 2) introducing multi-sensor support capability, and 3) adopting ground motion-based EEW algorithms for generating EEW.
Solar-wind/magnetosphere coupling: Understand uncertainties in upstream conditions
Authors: Di Matteo Simone , Sivadas Nithin
Published: November 2022

Many studies of solar-wind coupling with the magnetosphere depend on the properties of the solar wind impacting the magnetosphere. Our ability to estimate these properties relies heavily on spacecraft measurements at the first Lagrangian point (L1), far upstream of the Earth. Our best estimates of these are made by time-shifting the observations to the bow shock nose. Hence, we are uncertain of the solar wind parameters that affect the magnetosphere. Apart from instrumental errors, the uncertainty stems from many simplifying assumptions that ignore the inherent variability of the solar wind at L1 (e.g., solar wind meso-scale structures, transverse gradients) as well as physical processes downstream (e.g., the effect of the foreshock, structured bowshock, magnetosheath plasma, variable solar wind propagation). These uncertainties can lead us to significantly misinterpret the magnetosphere and ionosphere response, adding avoidable research time and expense. While multi-spacecraft missions can reduce uncertainty by gradually filling our knowledge gaps, there will always be a certain degree of uncertainty in determining relevant solar wind parameters that impact the magnetosphere. Estimating this uncertainty and correcting for them in our studies is crucial to the advancement of our field and, in particular, 1) our understanding of the solar-wind/magnetosphere coupling, 2) global magnetospheric simulations, and 3) space weather forecasting. In the next decade, paired with novel multi-spacecraft missions, we make a case for placing financial and organizational resources to support quantifying, understanding and correcting for uncertainties in upstream solar wind conditions.
Anterior Gradient 2 is a Significant Prognostic Biomarker in Bone Metastasis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Jin-Jin , Wang Shuai , Guan Zhong-Ning , Zhang Jin-Xi , Zhan Ri-Xin , Zhu Jian-Long
Published: November 2022

Background: The study aimed to detect DEGs associated with BRCA bone metastasis, filter prognosis biomarkers, and explore possible pathways.

Methods: GSE175692 dataset was used to detect DEGs between BRCA bone metastatic cases and non-bone metastatic cases, followed by the construction of a PPI network among DEGs. The main module among the PPI network was then determined and pathway analysis on genes within the module was performed. Through performing Cox regression, Kaplan-Meier, nomogram, and ROC curve analyses using GSE175692 and GSE124647 datasets at the same time, the most significant prognostic biomarker was gradually filtered. Finally, important pathways associated with prognostic biomarkers were explored by GSEA analysis.

Results: The 74 DEGs were detected between bone metastasis and non-bone metastasis groups. A total of 15 nodes were included in the main module among the whole PPI network and they mainly correlated with the IL-17 signaling pathway. We then performed Cox analysis on 15 genes using two datasets and only enrolled the genes with p < 0.05 in Cox analysis into the further analyses. Kaplan-Meier analyses using two datasets showed that the common biomarker AGR2 expression was related to the survival time of BRCA metastatic cases. Further, the nomogram determined the greatest contribution of AGR2 on the survival probability and the ROC curve revealed its optimal prognostic performance. More importantly, high expression of AGR2 prolonged the survival time of BRCA bone metastatic patients. These results all suggested the importance of AGR2 in metastatic BRCA. Finally, we performed the GSEA analysis and found that AGR2 was negatively related to IL-17 and NF-kβ signaling pathways.

Conclusion: AGR2 was finally determined as the most important prognostic biomarker in BRCA bone metastasis, and it may play a vital role in cancer progression by regulating IL-17 and NF-kB signaling pathways.
Flight Procedure Analysis for a Combined Environmental Impact Reduction: An Optimal Trade-Off Strategy
Authors: Otero Evelyn , Tengzelius Ulf , Moberg Bengt
Published: November 2022

Many attempts have been made to reduce aviation’s environmental impact, as aviation traffic has grown exponentially in recent decades. While some approaches focus on technology and fuel alternatives, others strive to develop improved operational measures within air traffic management as a short-term action to mitigate aviation-induced climate change, as well as air pollution. In this work, different flight procedures are analyzed in terms of emissions and noise impact to define optimal trade-offs. The investigation is based on flight data recorders, emissions, and noise prediction models. An aircraft trajectory simulation code with flight procedure optimization is also implemented to define an environmentally optimal trajectory. The results show that while noise and the emissions proportional to the burned fuel may be reduced for some trajectories, other non-CO2 emissions could drastically increase if too low idle-thrust levels are reached. Therefore, a minimum threshold for idle thrust is suggested as a key factor to define a truly optimal trajectory in terms of CO2 emissions, non-CO2 emissions, and noise.
Identifying Working Trajectories of the Wheat Harvester In-Field Based on K-Means Algorithm
Authors: Yang Lili , Wang Xinxin , Li Yuanbo , Xie Zhongxiang , Xu Yuanyuan , Han Rongxin , Wu Caicong
Published: November 2022

Identifying the in-field trajectories of harvests is important for the activity analysis of agricultural machinery. This paper presents a K-means-based trajectory identification method that can automatically detect the “turning”, “working”, and “abnormal working” trajectories for wheat harvester in-field operation scenarios. This method contains two stages: clustering and correction. The clustering stage performs by the two-step K-means iterative clustering method (D-K-means). In the correction stage, the first step (M1) is performed based on the three distance features between the trajectory segments and the cluster center of the trajectory segments. The second step (M2) is based on the direction change of the “turning” and “abnormal working” trajectories. The third correction step (M3) is based on the operating characteristics to specify the start and stop positions of the turning. The developed method was validated by 50 trajectories. The results for the three trajectories and the five time intervals from 1 s to 5 s both have f1-scores above 0.90, and the f1-score using only the clustering method and the method of this paper increased from 0.55 to 0.95. After removing the turning and abnormal operation trajectories, the error of calculating farmland area with distance algorithm is reduced by 17.04% compared with that before processing.
Molecular Mechanisms Regulating the Oil Biosynthesis in Olive (Olea europaea L.) Fruits Revealed by Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: Qu Jipeng , Chen Zhenyong , Wang Bixia , Feng Shiling , Tong Zhaoguo , Chen Tao , Zhou Lijun , Peng Zhengsong , Ding Chunbang
Published: November 2022

As one of the most important crops for oil, olive (Olea europaea L.) is well-known worldwide for its commercial product “virgin olive oil” containing high-content fatty acids and many secondary metabolites. The molecular mechanisms underlying the enhanced oil content in olive remain unclear. To further investigate the molecular mechanisms of olive oil biosynthesis, we selected two olive cultivars, i.e., Kalinjot (JZ) and Coratina (KLD), at three maturity stages (MI-1, MI-3, and MI-6) for transcriptomic analysis based on Nanopore sequencing. Significant differences were observed in oil content between JZ and KLD during three maturity stages. Enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in metabolic pathways of photosynthesis, amino acid biosynthesis, response to stress, and energy metabolism, in particular, fatty acid metabolism. A total of 170 (31.54% of 539 genes involved in oil synthesis) DEGs were further investigated based on expression analysis to identify their molecular functions in oil biosynthesis in olive. A co-expression network based on 714 transcription factors and their targeted genes in oil biosynthesis was constructed. Our study provided novel experimental evidence to investigate the molecular mechanisms of olive oil biosynthesis and to improve the breeding of olive varieties with enhanced oil contents.
Metabolic Resistance to Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase-Inhibiting Herbicide Cyhalofop-Butyl in a Chinese Echinochloa crus-galli Population
Authors: Yang Qian , Yang Xia , Zhu Jinlei , Wei Tian , Lv Min , Li Yongfeng
Published: November 2022

A population of Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv obtained from direct-seeding rice fields in Jiangxi Province, China, exhibited high resistance levels (13.5-fold) to the acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase)-inhibiting herbicide cyhalofop-butyl. Compared with the susceptible (S) population, this resistant (R) population evolved a cross-resistance to aryloxyphenoxypropionates (APPs) herbicides metamifop (2.9-fold) and fenoxapro-p-ethyl (4.1-fold), cyclohexanediones (CHDs) herbicide clethodim (4.7-fold), phenyl pyrazoline (DEN) herbicide pinoxaden (6.4-fold), and evolved multiple-resistance to acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicide penoxsulam (3.6-fold), and auxin mimic herbicides quinclorac (>34.7-fold) and florpyrauxifen-benzyl (2.4-fold). ACCase gene sequencing did not reveal the existence of any known mutation point conferring with herbicide resistance. In addition, three metabolic inhibitors—one glutathione—S-transferase (GST) inhibitor (NBD-Cl), and two cytochrome P450 inhibitors (malathion and PBO)—did not reverse the cyhalofop-butyl resistance. Furthermore, enhanced metabolic rates of more than 60% 24 h after treatment with the active compound cyhalofop acid was observed in R plants compared to S plants. Hence, enhanced metabolism activity endows a non-target-site resistance to cyhalofop-butyl in the R population of E. crus-galli. Future research will be required to determine what metabolizing enzyme genes are responsible for cyhalofop-butyl resistance in E. crus-galli.
Limitations of Spatial Judgment Bias Test Application in Horses (Equus ferus caballus)
Authors: Marliani Giovanna , Vannucchi Irene , Kiumurgis Irini , Accorsi Pier Attilio
Published: November 2022

Affective states are of increasing interest in the assessment of animal welfare. This research aimed to evaluate the possible limitations in the application of a spatial judgment bias test (JBT) in horses, considering the influence of stress level, personality traits, and the possible bias due to the test structure itself. The distinction between two positions, one rewarded (Positive) and the other not (Negative), was learned by 10 horses and 4 ponies,. Then, the latency to reach three unrewarded ambiguous positions (Near Positive, Middle, Near Negative) was measured. Furthermore, the validated Equine Behavior Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ) was employed to assess personality traits. Fecal and hair cortisol levels were measured through radioimmunoassay (RIA), and the frequency of behavioral stress indicators was recorded. Results showed that horses that had the rewarded position (Positive) on the right approached Near Negative and Middle faster than those that had Positive on the left. Certain personality traits influenced the latency to reach Middle and Near Positive, but chronic stress did not seem to affect horses’ judgment bias. This preliminary study highlighted several limitations in the employment of spatial JBT for the assessment of affective state in horses and that personality traits can partially influence the cognitive process. Further research is needed to refine the use of this test in horses, considering the peculiarities both of species and of individuals.
Next-Generation Sequencing of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains Isolated from Patients Hospitalized in the University Hospital Facilities
Authors: Koreň Ján , Andrezál Michal , Drahovská Hana , Hubenáková Zuzana , Liptáková Adriána , Maliar Tibor
Published: November 2022

Carbapenem-resistant (CR) Klebsiella pneumoniae represents an urgent worldwide threat. We focused on CR K. pneumoniae in selected facilities of the University Hospital Bratislava (UHB) to investigate sequence types (STs), clonal relatedness, and antimicrobial resistance. Suspected carbapenem-nonsusceptible K. pneumoniae strains were obtained from hospitalized patients. Further examination included carbapenemase confirmation, cgMLST, and quantitative susceptibility testing. Of the total 41 CR K. pneumoniae strains, 26 (63.4%) were determined as ST11 in hospital No. 1; of these ST11, 22 (84.6%) were found in the first internal clinic. Six (14.6%) ST258 and three (7.3%) ST584 occurred in hospital No. 2; the most, i.e., four (66.7%), ST258 were detected in the geriatric clinic. In hospital No. 3, we found two (4.8%) ST584 and one (2.4%) ST258. Of the ST11 set, 24 (92.3%) produced NDM-1. Furthermore, seven (87.5) ST258 and five (100%) ST584 strains generated KPC-2. Antimicrobial resistance was as follows: ertapenem 97.6%, meropenem 63.4%, tigecycline 7.3%, eravacycline 7.3%, and colistin 2.5%. We revealed a presumably epidemiological association of ST11 with transmission, particularly in the first internal clinic of hospital No. 1, while ST258 and ST584 were related to interhospital dissemination between medical facilities No. 2 and No. 3. It is essential to prevent the circulation of these pathogens within and between healthcare facilities.
Real-Life Experience of Molnupiravir in Hospitalized Patients Who Developed SARS-CoV2-Infection: Preliminary Results from CORACLE Registry
Authors: Lupia Tommaso , Corcione Silvia , Shbaklo Nour , Boglione Lucio , Torresan Stefano , Pinna Simone Mornese , Rizzello Barbara , Bosio Roberta , Fornari Valentina , Brusa Maria Teresa , Borrè Silvio , De Rosa Francesco Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Real-life experience of molnupiravir treatment is lacking, especially in people hospitalized for underlying diseases not related to COVID-19. We conducted a retrospective analysis regarding molnupiravir therapy in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted for underlying diseases not associated with COVID-19. Forty-four patients were included. The median age was 79 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 51–93 years), and most males were 57,4%. The median Charlson Comorbidity Index and 4C score were, respectively, 5 (IQR: 3–10) and 9.9 (IQR: 4–12). Moreover, 77.5% of the patients had at least two doses of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, although 10.6% had not received any SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Frequent comorbidities were cardiovascular diseases (68.1%), and diabetes (31.9%), and most admissions were for the acute chronic heart (20.4%) or liver (8.5%) failure. After molnupiravir started, 8 (18.1%) patients developed acute respiratory failure, and five (11.4%) patients died during hospitalisation. Moreover, molnupiravir treatment does not result in a statistically significant change in laboratory markers except for an increase in the monocyte count (p = 0.048, Z = 1.978). Molnupiravir treatment in our analysis was safe and well tolerated. In addition, no patients’ characteristics were found significantly related to hospital mortality or an increase in oxygen support. The efficacy of the molecule remains controversial in large clinical studies, and further studies, including larger populations, are required to fill the gap in this issue.
Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials Comparing Cefazolin to Cefuroxime, Ceftriaxone, and Cefamandole for Surgical Site Infection Prevention
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J. , Haseeb Abdul , Alamer Ahmad , Almalki Ziyad S. , Alahmari Abdullah K. , Khan Amer H.
Published: November 2022

Surgical site infections are among the most prevalent and costly healthcare-associated infections, resulting in poor patient outcomes and even death. Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is widely used for surgical prophylaxis in a variety of surgical disciplines. Although previous studies showed that cefazolin is effective in preventing surgical site infections, other agents, such as cefuroxime and ceftriaxone, were used excessively for surgical patients. The present analysis included only clinical trials comparing the efficacy of cefazolin to cefuroxime, ceftriaxone, and cefamandole in lowering SSIs using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Review Manager software (RevMan version 5.4) was used to conduct the meta-analyses. A total of 12,446 patients were included in the study. Among these patients, 6327 patients received cefazolin and 6119 patients received cefamandole, cefuroxime, or ceftriaxone. Our analysis showed that cefazolin is as effective as cefuroxime, cefamandole, and ceftriaxone in preventing surgical site infections. Hence, our findings have provided evidence for the use of cefazolin before surgeries because of its efficacy, as previous studies showed that it is inexpensive and safer than other agents.
The Energy Consumption and Robust Case Torque Control of a Rehabilitation Hip Exoskeleton
Authors: Andersson Rabé , Björsell Niclas
Published: November 2022

Gait disorders, muscle weakness, spinal cord injuries (SCIs) and other work-related disorders have increased the need for rehabilitation exoskeletons—specifically, for the hip because a huge percentage of mechanical power comes from the hip joint. However, realising a lightweight rehabilitation hip exoskeleton for mobility and at-home use with reliable control is challenging. The devices developed are restricted by a joint actuator and energy source design and tend to have various uncertainties. Thus, this study tested the robustness of four optimal controller cases in a simulation-based environment. We sought to determine whether the most robust optimal controller consumed less energy and demonstrated better performance in tracking the desired signal. The robustness of the optimal cases was tested with the hip torque signals of healthy subjects. The number of sit-to-stand (STS) instances and the walking distance at various speeds were calculated. The results showed that the most robust case controller was more energy efficient for STS, but not for walking activity. Furthermore, this study provides compelling evidence that various optimal controllers have different degrees of robustness and effects on energy consumption.
Special Issue on Intelligent Computing for Big Data
Authors: Wang Wei , Man Ka Lok
Published: November 2022

Passion for a classic research area of computer science, artificial intelligence (AI), has experienced new momentum in recent years [...]
Grid-Based Vessel Deviation from Route Identification with Unsupervised Learning
Authors: Antunes Nuno , Ferreira João C. , Pereira José , Rosa Joana
Published: November 2022

The application of anomaly-monitoring and surveillance systems is crucial for improving maritime situational awareness. These systems must work on the fly in order to provide the operator with information on potentially dangerous or illegal situations as they are occurring. We present a system for identifying vessels deviating from their normal course of travel, from unlabelled AIS data. Our approach attempts to solve problems with scalability and on-line learning of other grid-based systems available in the literature, by applying a dynamic grid size, adjustable per vessel characteristics, combined with a binary-search tree method for data discretization and vessel grid search. The results of this study have been validated during the Portuguese Maritime Trial in April 2022, conducted by the Portuguese navy along the southern coast of Portugal.
The Relationship between the Ability to Cope with Unexpected Perturbations and Mechanical and Functional Ankle Instability
Authors: Steinberg Nili , Tenenbaum Galit , Zeev Aviva , Witchalls Jeremy , Waddington Gordon
Published: November 2022

We aimed to examine the associations between ankle instability, identified by mechanical and functional assessments, and an individual’s ability to cope unexpected perturbations. Sixty students were assessed for five different mechanical/functional ankle instability assessments: the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), history of previous ankle sprains, the Ankle Instability Instrument (AII) questionnaires, proprioception ability, and mechanical instability. The point where participants lost postural balance due to an unexpected perturbation was recorded when participants were standing on BalanceTutor-Treadmill® with eyes open-SO, eyes closed-SC, tandem-dominant-leg forward-TD, tandem non-dominant-leg forward-TND, single-leg same side-SLSS, single-leg opposite side-SLOS and walking. Significant correlations were found between: CAIT and perturbation in the TND-position; AII scores and perturbations in TD and TND positions; ankle sprains and perturbations in SC, ND, and NTD positions; and proprioception ability and perturbations in SO, SC, TD, TND, and walking (p < 0.05). No correlations were found between mechanical assessments and perturbations. Survival-analyses showed significant differences in coping with perturbations between individuals identified with CAI in 4/5 mechanical/functional assessments compared to those with no-CAI in 4/5 assessments (p < 0.05). Functional ankle instability and proprioception ability were associated with the ability to cope with unexpected perturbations when starting from different standing/walking positions. Individuals with ‘stable’ ankles in most mechanical/functional assessments had better ability to cope perturbations than those with ‘unstable’ ankles.
A Fitting Recognition Approach Combining Depth-Attention YOLOv5 and Prior Synthetic Dataset
Authors: Zhang Jie , Lei Jin , Qin Xinyan , Li Bo , Li Zhaojun , Li Huidong , Zeng Yujie , Song Jie
Published: November 2022

To address power transmission lines (PTLs) traveling through complex environments leading to misdetections and omissions in fitting recognition using cameras, we propose a fitting recognition approach combining depth-attention YOLOv5 and prior synthetic dataset to improve the validity of fitting recognition. First, datasets with inspection features are automatically synthesized based on prior series data, achieving better results with a smaller data volume for the deep learning model and reducing the cost of obtaining fitting datasets. Next, a unique data collection mode is proposed using a developed flying-walking power transmission line inspection robot (FPTLIR) as the acquisition platform. The obtained image data in this collection mode has obvious time-space, stability, and depth difference, fusing the two data types in the deep learning model to improve the accuracy. Finally, a depth-attention mechanism is proposed to change the attention on the images with depth information, reducing the probability of model misdetection and omission. Test field experiments results show that compared with YOLOv5, the mAP5095 (mean average precision on step size 0.05 for thresholds from 0.5 to 0.95) of our depth-attention YOLOv5 model for fitting is 68.1%, the recall is 98.3%, and the precision is 98.3%. Among them, AP, recall, and precision increased by 5.2%, 4.8%, and 4.1%, respectively. Test field experiments verify the feasibility of the depth-attention YOLOv5. Line field experiments results show that the mAP5095 of our depth-attention YOLOv5 model for fittings is 64.6%, and the mAPs of each class are improved compared with other attention mechanisms. The inference speed of depth-attention YOLOv5 is 3 ms slower than the standard YOLOv5 model and 10 ms to 15 ms faster than other attention mechanisms, verifying the validity of the depth-attention YOLOv5. The proposed approach improves the accuracy of the fitting recognition on PTLs, providing a recognition and localization basis for the automation and intelligence of inspection robots.
Comparison of Electromyographic Activity during Barbell Pullover and Straight Arm Pulldown Exercises
Authors: Muyor José M. , López-Miñarro Pedro A. , Alacid Fernando
Published: November 2022

Pullover and straight arm pulldown exercises are commonly used in resistance exercise programs to improve sports performance or in physical activity health programs. This study aimed to evaluate the individual electromyographic (EMG) activity of the pectoralis major (clavicular, sternal, and costal portions), latissimus dorsi, anterior deltoid, triceps brachii, and rectus abdominis muscles in a barbell pullover exercise at a 100% biacromial width and a straight arm pulldown exercise at a 100% and 150% biacromial width and to compare the EMG activity in these selected muscles and exercises. Twenty healthy and physically active adults performed a set of eight repetitions of each exercise against 30% of their body mass. The barbell pullover exercise presented a higher EMG activity (p ≤ 0.01) than the straight arm pulldown exercise in both biacromial widths in all evaluated muscles except for the latissimus dorsi and the triceps brachii. These muscles showed the highest EMG activity in the straight arm pulldown exercise at both biacromial widths. In all of the exercises and muscles evaluated, the concentric phase showed a greater EMG activity than the eccentric phase. In conclusion, the barbell pullover exercise can highlight muscle activity in the pectoralis major (mainly in the sternal and lower portions), triceps brachii, and rectus abdominis muscles. However, the straight arm pulldown exercise at 100% and 150% biacromial widths could be a better exercise to stimulate the latissimus dorsi and triceps brachii muscles. Moreover, all exercises showed significantly greater EMG activity (p < 0.001) in the concentric phase than in the eccentric phase for all the evaluated muscles.
A Review of the Scheduling Problem within Canadian Healthcare Centres
Authors: Little Connor , Choudhury Salimur
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the current literature regarding nurse scheduling and physician scheduling in Canada is reviewed. Staff scheduling is a vital aspect of healthcare which has immediate positive benefits when optimized. It is also a very complex optimization problem, often involving conflicts, human evaluation and time constraints. Four categories of problems are reviewed: staff scheduling, physician scheduling, operating room scheduling, and outpatient scheduling, each focusing on a different aspect of resource scheduling and involving unique considerations. Numerous different heuristics and algorithms have been implemented and tested in dozens of hospitals across Canada with nearly universal positive results. Despite the obvious benefits, continued implementations of the optimization software is uncommon.
Quality Evaluation of Plant Oil Blends Interesterified by Using Immobilized Rhizomucor miehei Lipase
Authors: Brzezińska Rita , Bryś Joanna , Giers Olga , Bryś Andrzej , Górska Agata , Ostrowska-Ligęza Ewa , Wirkowska-Wojdyła Magdalena
Published: November 2022

The aim of this research was to evaluate the quality and oxidative stability of enzymatically interesterified plant oil blends. The model plant oil blends consisted of tomato seed oil and coconut oil, which were applied to enzymatic interesterification in the presence of a microbial lipase. To obtain quality characteristics of the enzymatically interesterified oil blends, the following analyses were performed: fatty acids composition and their distribution in internal position (sn-2) in triacylglycerols, oxidative induction time, melting profile, acid value (AV), and peroxide value (PV). The analyzed oil blends contain 6 to 25% monounsaturated fatty acids and 16 to 42% polyunsaturated fatty acids. Additionally, it was noticed that the major monounsaturated fatty acid was oleic acid, with its contribution ranging from 9 to 19%. In most cases, oleic and linoleic acids occupied the sn-2 position of the triacylglycerol molecules, with their contribution reaching 35 to 72% and 34 to 71%, respectively. The enzymatically interesterified oil mixtures were characterized by a relatively long oxidation induction time (41–87 min). Melting profiles of the tested samples revealed the presence of a diversified number of endothermic peaks. The AV and PV of the tested oil blends exceeded 10 mg KOH g−1 fat and 1 meq O2 kg−1 fat, respectively. In conclusion, the tested interesterified plant oil blends are characterized by acceptable thermal and oxidative stability and fatty acid profile.
Using an Online Tool to Apply a Person-Centred Approach in Audiological Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study
Authors: Scarinci Nerina , Tulloch Kristen , Meyer Carly , Ekberg Katie , Lind Christopher
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to explore the experiences of adult clients with hearing loss and their audiologists in using an online tool, the Living Well Tool (LWT), during initial audiology appointments. The LWT is designed to help clients identify when and where it is most important for them to communicate effectively and live well with hearing loss. A total of 24 adult clients with hearing loss and two audiologists participated in this study. Clients were invited to complete the LWT prior to their next audiology appointment, however, most clients chose to use the LWT in-session with their audiologist. Following the appointment, clients and audiologists participated in individual qualitative semi-structured interviews to explore their experiences of using the LWT, and the extent to which the LWT facilitated person-centred care. Qualitative analysis five key themes which reflected participants’ experiences and perceptions of using the LWT: (1) the LWT enhances audiological care; (2) the LWT supports person-centred audiological care; (3) the use of the LWT should be individualised; (4) users value comprehensiveness; and (5) users value accessibility. This study demonstrated that the LWT supported the provision of person-centred audiological care, providing a flexible, comprehensive and accessible means for audiologists to gain an understanding of their clients’ needs and preferences. However, it was also noted that the use of a tool must be individualised and accessible for all.