bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology-Controlled Multi-Layer Construction for Efficient and Durable Electrochromic Properties of Amorphous WO3 Films
Authors: Kim Cheong-Ha , Kim Hye-Min , Kim Yu-Sung , Lee In-Sik , Cha Byung-Chul , Kim Dae-Wook
Published: January 2024

The electrochromic device represents an emerging technology to conserve energy and mitigate greenhouse gas concentrations. Higher electrochromic performance and durability are imperative to achieve its widespread application. However, electrochromic devices frequently encounter issues
such as cracking and feeling of the surface during extended cycles of ion intercalation/deintercalation. Hence, this study proposes a morphology-controlled multi-layer structure for achieving a crack-free surface with stable performance. The fabricated multi-layer films consisted of smaller
particles in the bottom layer and larger particles in the top layer, resulting in a crack-free surface. The combination of increased electrolyte accessibility in the top layer and reduced diffusion length in the bottom layer contributed to swift and efficient electrochromic performance. Furthermore,
a crack-free surface with reduced residual stress and controlled grain boundary improved cycle stability. Our findings present innovative models for metal oxide-based electrochromic materials and offer valuable insights for designing multi-layer structures.
Communication and coordination of care for people living with HIV: a qualitative study of the patient perspective
Authors: Warner Sherridan , Cheung Daniel , Condon Ashleigh , Cunningham Juliet , Bailie Jodie , Minc Ariane , Herbert Simone , Edmiston Natalie
Published: January 2024

Background

There is growing consensus that primary health care (PHC) providers have an important role in providing holistic, preventative care for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). In regional Australia, HIV care is primarily delivered through specialist services, thus adequate coordination and communication between specialist and PHC professionals is crucial. This study aimed to explore patient experiences of the coordination of care and health care professional communication for PLHIV in regional Australia.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with PLHIV in a regional area of Australia were conducted in March to April 2022. Interviews were conducted via video conferencing, face-to-face, or via telephone call. Interviews were audio-recorded and manually transcribed. Transcripts were coded inductively and thematic analysis was conducted to explore perspectives on communication and coordination.

Results

Thirteen participants were interviewed. Most participants were male, aged 50–70, were diagnosed with HIV more than ten years ago, and had been living in regional Australia long-term. Through qualitative analysis, themes emerged in the following areas: (1) Patient perception of care coordination; (2) Patient understanding of modality of communication; (3) Positive attitudes towards communication between healthcare professionals; and (4) Concerns for information sharing between healthcare professionals. Many participants highlighted lack of clarity around care coordination as a key issue in their healthcare, with some citing themselves as the primary care coordinator. Participants identified that coordination and communication between PHC professionals and specialist services are essential in the delivery of their health care, but some were hesitant for this to occur. Hesitancy was entrenched in some patients’ distrust of healthcare due to previous experiences of confidentiality breaches and stigma.

Conclusion

This study identifies the need for clarity in coordination between health care professionals to deliver safe and effective HIV care, which may occur through care plans. Patient support for communication between healthcare providers may be strengthened by ensuring trust in the people and systems involved. Eliminating stigma in healthcare as well as building more trustworthy electronic-based communication technologies are essential components to trust-building between PLHIV and healthcare systems.
Association between suicide attempts and anemia in late-life depression inpatients
Authors: Li Jie , Wang Lan , Wang Ziyi , Zhao Fengxue , Sun Yadi , Lu Ying , Yang Lei
Published: January 2024

Background

Anemia is strongly associated with late-life depression (LLD), however, few studies have investigated the relationship between anemia and suicide attempts in LLD patients. It is still challenging to predict suicide risk in patients with depression. Therefore, there is growing interest in potential biomarkers of depressive disorders and suicidal behavior, which may play a significant role in the early diagnosis and treatment of depression. This study aimed to compare serum ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, and erythrocyte parameter levels in patients with LLD with those in healthy older adults, and the relationship between serum ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, and suicide attempts in patients.

Methods

Serum ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, and erythrocyte parameter levels were measured in 66 hospitalized LLD patients (30 without suicide attempt, 36 with suicide attempt) and 47 healthy individuals. All participants were surveyed for basic conditions and suicide attempts, and depression was assessed in LLD patients.

Results

Serum ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean platelet volume and plateletcrit levels were significantly lower in LLD patients compared with healthy older adults (P < 0.05). Further analysis of the relationship between serum ferritin, folate, and vitamin B12 levels and LLD patients’ suicide attempts and showed a significant negative association between serum folate and vitamin B12 and suicide attempts (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Serum ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean platelet volume and plateletcrit levels were significantly lower in LLD patients than in healthy older adults. In addition, reduced serum folate and vitamin B12 levels in patients may have some effect on suicide attempts. More mechanistic studies are needed to further explain this association.
T1 mapping as a quantitative imaging biomarker for diagnosing cervical cancer: a comparison with diffusion kurtosis imaging
Authors: Zhang Zanxia , Liu Jie , Zhang Yong , Qu Feifei , Grimm Robert , Cheng Jingliang , Wang Weijian , Zhu Jinxia , Li Shujian
Published: January 2024

Background

T1 mapping can potentially quantitatively assess the intrinsic properties of tumors. This study was conducted to explore the ability of T1 mapping in distinguishing cervical cancer type, grade, and stage and compare the diagnostic performance of T1 mapping with diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI).

Methods

One hundred fifty-seven patients with pathologically confirmed cervical cancer were enrolled in this prospectively study. T1 mapping and DKI were performed. The native T1, difference between native and postcontrast T1 (T1diff), mean kurtosis (MK), mean diffusivity (MD), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were calculated. Cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) and adenocarcinoma (CAC), low- and high-grade carcinomas, and early- and advanced-stage groups were compared using area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves.

Results

The native T1 and MK were higher, and the MD and ADC were lower for CSCC than for CAC (all p < 0.05). Compared with low-grade CSCC, high-grade CSCC had decreased T1diff, MD, ADC, and increased MK (p < 0.05). Compared with low-grade CAC, high-grade CAC had decreased T1diff and increased MK (p < 0.05). Native T1 was significantly higher in the advanced-stage group than in the early-stage group (p < 0.05). The AUROC curves of native T1, MK, ADC and MD were 0,772, 0.731, 0.715, and 0.627, respectively, for distinguishing CSCC from CAC. The AUROC values were 0.762 between high- and low-grade CSCC and 0.835 between high- and low-grade CAC, with T1diff and MK showing the best discriminative values, respectively. For distinguishing between advanced-stage and early-stage cervical cancer, only the AUROC of native T1 was statistically significant (AUROC = 0.651, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Compared with DKI-derived parameters, native T1 exhibits better efficacy for identifying cervical cancer subtype and stage, and T1diff exhibits comparable discriminative value for cervical cancer grade.
Respectful maternity care in Israel during the Covid-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study of associations between childbirth care practices and women’s perceptions of care
Authors: Palgi-Hacker Hagar , Sacks Emma , Landry Megan
Published: January 2024

Background

Respectful maternity care is a crucial part of quality care and is associated with better health outcomes. Early in the Covid-19 pandemic, reports from across the world indicated that infection containment measures were often implemented in ways that resulted in disrespectful care of women during facility-based childbirths in violation of evidence-based practices. This study aimed to explore the associations between childbirth care practices and perceptions of care as satisfactory and respectful among women who delivered in Israeli hospitals during the first six months of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional self-administered online survey was conducted to explore women’s perceptions of maternity care using an adapted version of the WHO Community Survey Tool for measuring how women are treated during facility-based childbirth. Multivariate logistic regression models evaluated the associations between sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric information, and measurements of childbirth experiences and women’s perceptions of receiving respectful and satisfactory care.

Results

The responses of 981 women were included in the analysis. While the majority of women perceived the care they received as both respectful (86.54%) and satisfactory (80.22%), almost 3 in 4 women (72.68%) reported experiencing at least one type of disrespectful care. Positive communication with the medical staff and respect for autonomy were associated with a more positive birth experience for women. Women were more likely to perceive their care as respectful if they did not feel ignored (AOR = 40.11;22.87–70.34). Perception of satisfactory care was more likely among women who had the opportunity to discuss preferences with the medical staff (AOR = 10.15; 6.93–14.86). Having Covid-19 procedures explained increased the likelihood of reporting respectful and satisfactory care (AOR = 2.89;1.91–4.36; AOR = 2.83;2.01–4).

Conclusion

Understanding which care practices are associated with women’s perceptions of care at facility-based births is critical to ensuring quality care. The findings of this study can inform future work and research aimed at enhancing respectful maternity care during times of crisis and beyond.
Evaluating the effect of recombinant human growth hormone treatment on sleep-related breathing disorders in toddlers with Prader–Willi syndrome: a one-year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Guo Haiyan , Fu Jinrong , Zhou Yufeng , Luo Feihong , Cheng Ruoqian
Published: January 2024

Background

Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy is beneficial for children with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) in improving short stature and metabolism, but the effect of early rhGH treatment on respiratory and sleep parameters for PWS children under three years old remains elusive. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the impact of rhGH treatment on sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBDs) for toddlers with PWS.

Methods

A total of 17 age-matched PWS patients receiving rhGH treatment (rhGH group) and 17 control individuals not receiving rhGH treatment (non-rhGH group) were recruited for this study between October 2018 and January 2023. Data related to polysomnography-polygraphy (PSG) and serum levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) were collected.

Results

The mean age in the rhGH group was 20.76 ± 9.22 months, which was comparable to that of the non-rhGH group (25.23 ± 13.81 months). The demographic and anthropometric parameters were similar across the two groups after 52 weeks of treatment. Administration of rhGH to toddlers did not exert adverse effects on the obstructive apnea–hypopnea index (OAHI), central apnea index (CAI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), mean percutaneous oxygen saturation (SpO2), lowest SpO2, duration when SpO2 is lower than 90%, or proportion of the patients with SpO2 lower than 90%. Furthermore, the increased IGF-1 z-score and IGFBP-3 level did not worsen SRBDs.

Conclusion

Treatment with rhGH for 52 weeks on young toddlers with PWS showed no deleterious effects on SRBDs. This shed more light on the importance of initiating rhGH therapy early in PWS patients.
Risperidone plasma level, and its correlation with CYP2D6 gene polymorphism, clinical response and side effects in chronic schizophrenia patients
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Huang Jing , Lu Jianjun , Li Xuemei , Tang Hui , Shao Ping
Published: January 2024

Background

To explore the influence of CYP2D6 genetic polymorphism on risperidone metabolism, thereby affecting risperidone’s effects and safeties in patients with chronic schizophrenia.

Methods

Sixty-nine subjects with chronic schizophrenia treated with risperidone were recruited. CYP2D6 genotypes was determined using targeted sequencing and translated into phenotype using activity system. Risperidone plasma concentrations were measured using HPLC. Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) were used to evaluate the existence and severity of psychiatric symptoms, Barnes Akathisia Scale (BAS) and Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS) for neurological side effects. Metabolic and endocrine status assess were also included.

Results

The plasma drug concentrations varied hugely among individuals. Intermediate metabolizer (IM) group had higher plasma levels of RIP and dose corrected RIP concentration, RIP/9-OH-RIP ratio and C/D ratio than normal metabolizer (NM) group (p < 0.01). There was no statistic difference between responders and non-responders in dose-adjusted plasma concentrations and ratios of RIP/9-OH-RIP and C/D. The occurrence of EPS was related to active moiety levels in 4th week (p < 0.05). The prolactin (PRL) levels in two follow-ups were both significantly higher than baseline (p < 0.01). PRL change from baseline to week 4 and week 8 were both positively associated with active moiety concentration detected in week 4 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The risperidone plasma levels have great inter- and intraindividual variations, and are associated with the CYP2D6 phenotypes, as well as the changes in serum prolactin in patients diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia.
The mediating effect of dysmorphic concern in the association between avoidant restrictive food intake disorder and suicidal ideation in adults
Authors: Salameh Gaelle , El Khoury Nour , Hallit Rabih , Malaeb Diana , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil
Published: January 2024

Background

Reflecting on the existing literature on suicidal ideation and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), this article investigates the complex relationship between them, hypothesizing about the possibility of dysmorphic concerns, being a mediator linking ARFID to suicidal ideation.

Methods

Using a snowball sampling approach, a survey was created on Google Forms and circulated across messaging applications and social media networks (WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger). The sample involved 515 participants recruited between February and March 2023. The questionnaire included the following scales: Nine-items Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder screen (NIAS), Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire (DCQ), and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). When filling the questionnaire, respondents were warned that they can experience distress when answering certain questions and received information about mental health services. Five hundred fifteen adults participated in this study, with a mean age of 27.55 ± 10.92 years and 60.1% females.

Results

After adjusting over potential confounders (i.e., age, education, marital status, and household crowding index), analyses showed that dysmorphic concerns fully mediated the association between avoidant restrictive eating and suicidal ideation. Higher avoidant restrictive eating was significantly associated with more dysmorphic concerns, and higher dysmorphic concerns were significantly associated with the presence of suicidal ideation. Finally, avoidant restrictive eating was not significantly associated with suicidal ideation.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential indirect link between ARFID and suicidal ideation mediated by dysmorphic concerns. While no direct connection was observed between ARFID and suicidal ideation, the presence of dysmorphic concerns appeared to be a crucial factor in amplifying the risk of suicidal ideation in individuals with ARFID. This emphasizes the importance of addressing dysmorphic concerns alongside ARFID treatment to enhance mental health interventions and outcomes.
Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale for the Transtheoretical Model: a confirmatory analysis among Chinese children and adolescents
Authors: Yao Liying , Zhou Ke , Zhou Yanli , Kueh Yee Cheng , Liu Hongyou , Liu Zhongbiao , Pan Mingzhu , Kuan Garry
Published: January 2024

Background

Self-efficacy has been recognized as a critical component in people’s participation and maintenance of physical activity. This study aims to validate the Chinese version of the Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (ESE) among Chinese children and adolescents using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on two primary and two secondary schools in central China. The ESE scale was translated into Chinese (ESE-C) using the standard forward-backward translation method. Data were analyzed using Mplus 8 for the CFA.

Results

The final model showed a satisfactory level of goodness-of-fit (CFI = 0.918; TLI = 0.905; SRMR = 0.043; RMSEA = 0.066), indicating a good construct validity of the ESE-C for children and adolescents in mainland China. Furthermore, the final ESE-C model achieved composite reliability values of 0.963 and average variance extraction values of 0.597, indicating sufficient convergent and discriminant validity. Besides, the Cronbach’s alpha value was 0.964, demonstrating excellent internal consistency of the ESE-C scale.

Conclusion

The ESE-C scale is a valid instrument for assessing exercise self-efficacy among children and adolescents in mainland China.
Possible prognostic impact of PKCι genetic variants in prostate cancer
Authors: Hafeez Amna , Shabbir Maria , Khan Khushbukhat , Trembley Janeen H. , Badshah Yasmin , Zafar Sameen , Shahid Kanza , Shah Hania , Ashraf Naeem Mahmood , Hamid Arslan , Afsar Tayyaba , Almajwal Ali , Marium Afifa , Razak Suhail
Published: January 2024

Background

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been linked with prostate cancer (PCa) and have shown potential as prognostic markers for advanced stages. Loss of function mutations in PKCι have been linked with increased risk of malignancy by enhancing tumor cell motility and invasion. We have evaluated the impact of two coding region SNPs on the PKCι gene (PRKCI) and their prognostic potential.

Methods

Genotypic association of non-synonymous PKCι SNPs rs1197750201 and rs1199520604 with PCa was determined through tetra-ARMS PCR. PKCι was docked with interacting partner Par-6 to determine the effect of these variants on PKCι binding capabilities. Molecular dynamic simulations of PKCι docked with Par-6 were performed to determine variant effects on PKCι protein interactions. The possible impact of changes in PKCι protein interactions on epithelial cell polarity was hypothesized.

Results

PKCι rs1199520604 mutant genotype TT showed association with PCa (p = 0.0055), while rs1197750201 mutant genotype AA also showed significant association with PCa (P = 0.0006). The binding interaction of PKCι with Par-6 was altered for both variants, with changes in Van der Waals energy and electrostatic energy of docked structures.

Conclusion

Genotypic analysis of two non-synonymous PKCι variants in association with PCa prognosis was performed. Both variants in the PB1 domain showed potential as a prognostic marker for PCa. In silico analysis of the effect of the variants on PKCι protein interactions indicated they may be involved in PCa progression through aberration of epithelial cell polarity pathways.
Acute caval thrombosis leading to obstructive shock in the early post insertion period of an inferior vena cava filter: a case report and literature review
Authors: Gao ShuTing , Chen YunFei , Huang YaTing , Dang YiPing , Li YiQing
Published: January 2024

Background

Obstructive shock is extremely rare in clinical practice and is caused by acute blood flow obstruction in the central vessels of either the systemic or pulmonary circulation. Utilizing inferior vena cava filters (IVCFs) to prevent pulmonary embolism (PE) is associated with some potential complications, such as inferior vena cava thrombosis (IVCT). Shock as a direct result of IVCT is rare. We present a case of obstructive shock secondary to extensive IVCT caused by inadequate anticoagulant therapy after the placement of an IVCF.

Case presentation

A 63-year-old male patient with a traffic accident injury presented orthopaedic trauma and lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT). He experienced sudden and severe abdominal pain with hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, oliguria and peripheral oedema 5 days after IVCF placement and 3 days after cessation of anticoagulant therapy. Considering that empirical anti-shock treatment lasted for a while and the curative effect was poor, we finally recognized the affected vessels and focused on the reason for obstructive shock through imaging findings—inferior vena cava thrombosis and occlusion. The shock state immediately resolved after thrombus aspiration. The same type of shock occurred again 6 days later during transfer from the ICU to general wards and the same treatment was administered. The patient recovered smoothly in the later stage, and the postoperative follow-up at 1, 3, and 12 months showed good results.

Conclusion

This case alerts clinicians that it is crucial to ensure adequate anticoagulation therapy after IVCF placement, and when a patient presents with symptoms such as hypotension, tachycardia, and lower limb and scrotal oedema postoperatively, immediate consideration should be given to the possibility of obstructive shock, and prompt intervention should be based on the underlying cause.
Cocaine regulates antiretroviral therapy CNS access through pregnane-x receptor-mediated drug transporter and metabolizing enzyme modulation at the blood brain barrier
Authors: Colón Ortiz Rodnie , Knerler Stephen , Fridman Lisa B. , Mercado Alicia , Price Amira-Storm , Rosado-Franco Jose J. , Wilkins Hannah , Flores Bianca R. , Orsburn Benjamin C. , Williams Dionna W.
Published: January 2024

Background

Appropriate interactions between antiretroviral therapies (ART) and drug transporters and metabolizing enzymes at the blood brain barrier (BBB) are critical to ensure adequate dosing of the brain to achieve HIV suppression. These proteins are modulated by demographic and lifestyle factors, including substance use. While understudied, illicit substances share drug transport and metabolism pathways with ART, increasing the potential for adverse drug:drug interactions. This is particularly important when considering the brain as it is relatively undertreated compared to peripheral organs and is vulnerable to substance use-mediated damage.

Methods

We used an in vitro model of the human BBB to determine the extravasation of three first-line ART drugs, emtricitabine (FTC), tenofovir (TFV), and dolutegravir (DTG), in the presence and absence of cocaine, which served as our illicit substance model. The impact of cocaine on BBB integrity and permeability, drug transporters, metabolizing enzymes, and their master transcriptional regulators were evaluated to determine the mechanisms by which substance use impacted ART central nervous system (CNS) availability.

Results

We determined that cocaine had a selective impact on ART extravasation, where it increased FTC’s ability to cross the BBB while decreasing TFV. DTG concentrations that passed the BBB were below quantifiable limits. Interestingly, the potent neuroinflammatory modulator, lipopolysaccharide, had no effect on ART transport, suggesting a specificity for cocaine. Unexpectedly, cocaine did not breach the BBB, as permeability to albumin and 4 kDa FITC-dextran, as well as tight junction proteins and adhesion molecules remained unchanged. Rather, cocaine selectively decreased the pregnane-x receptor (PXR), but not constitutive androstane receptor (CAR). Consequently, drug transporter expression and activity decreased in endothelial cells of the BBB, including p-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and multidrug resistance-associated protein 4 (MRP4). Further, cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymatic activity increased following cocaine treatment that coincided with decreased expression. Finally, cocaine modulated adenylate kinases that are required to facilitate biotransformation of ART prodrugs to their phosphorylated, pharmacologically active counterparts.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that additional considerations are needed in CNS HIV treatment strategies for people who use cocaine, as it may limit ART efficacy through regulation of drug transport and metabolizing pathways at the BBB.
The critically ill older patient with sepsis: a narrative review
Authors: Ibarz Mercedes , Haas Lenneke E. M. , Ceccato Adrián , Artigas Antonio
Published: January 2024

Sepsis is a significant public health concern, particularly affecting individuals above 70 years in developed countries. This is a crucial fact due to the increasing aging population, their heightened vulnerability to sepsis, and the associated high mortality rates. However, the morbidity and long-term outcomes are even more notable. While many patients respond well to timely and appropriate interventions, it is imperative to enhance efforts in identifying, documenting, preventing, and treating sepsis. Managing sepsis in older patients poses greater challenges and necessitates a comprehensive understanding of predisposing factors and a heightened suspicion for diagnosing infections and assessing the risk of sudden deterioration into sepsis. Despite age often being considered an independent risk factor for mortality and morbidity, recent research emphasizes the pivotal roles of frailty, disease severity, and comorbid conditions in influencing health outcomes. In addition, it is important to inquire about the patient's preferences and establish a personalized treatment plan that considers their potential for recovery with quality of life and functional outcomes. This review provides a summary of the most crucial aspects to consider when dealing with an old critically ill patient with sepsis.
Small object Lentinula Edodes logs contamination detection method based on improved YOLOv7 in edge-cloud computing
Authors: Chen Xuefei , Sun Shouxin , Chen Chao , Song Xinlong , Wu Qiulan , Zhang Feng
Published: January 2024

A small object Lentinus Edodes logs contamination detection method (SRW-YOLO) based on improved YOLOv7 in edge-cloud computing environment was proposed to address the problem of the difficulty in the detection of small object contaminated areas of Lentinula Edodes logs. First, the SPD (space-to-depth)-Conv was used to reconstruct the MP module to enhance the learning of effective features of Lentinula Edodes logs images and prevent the loss of small object contamination information, and improve the detection reliability of resource-limited edge devices. Meanwhile, RepVGG was introduced into the ELAN structure to improve the efficiency and accuracy of inference on the contaminated regions of Lentinula Edodes logs through structural reparameterization. This enables models to run more efficiently in mobile edge computing environments while reducing the burden on cloud computing servers. Finally, the boundary regression loss function was replaced with the WIoU (Wise-IoU) loss function, which focuses more on ordinary-quality anchor boxes and makes the model output results more accurate. In this study, the measures of Precision, Recall, and mAP@0.5 reached 97.63%, 96.43%, and 98.62%, respectively, which are 4.62%, 3.63%, and 2.31% higher compared to those for YOLOv7. Meanwhile, the SRW-YOLO model detects better compared with the current advanced one-stage object detection model, providing an efficient, accurate and practical small object detection solution in mobile edge computing environments and cloud computing scenarios.
Seasonality of associations between production of indigenous foods and food security status of mother-child dyads in Kisumu County, Kenya
Authors: Tonui Kenneth Kipngeno , Onyango Agatha Christine , Ouma Collins
Published: January 2024

Background

Food insecurity is a major predicament for rural populations, especially mothers and children, whose livelihoods are often dependent on rain-fed agriculture. Indigenous foods have the potential of mitigating food insecurity as they can thrive in poor agro-ecological conditions. However, the associations between indigenous food production and food security status of mothers and children drawn from rural contexts has not been expansively assessed. Food insecurity evident by high food poverty rates remain high in Kisumu County due to over-reliance on food imports from other counties. The objective of the study was to assess seasonality in associations between production of selected indigenous foods (kidney beans, soya beans, millet, cassava, sweet potatoes, groundnuts, green grams, cow peas, amaranth leaves, spider plant leaves, black night shade leaves, mangoes, guavas, lime, and tamarind) and food security status of mothers and children during planting and harvesting seasons.

Methods

We used a longitudinal study design adopting both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. A structured questionnaire assessed production of selected indigenous foods in the sampled households, Household Food Insecurity Access Scale for mother’s food security status and Prevalence of Underweight for children’s food security status. Ordinal logistic regression was used to derive odds ratio (OR), which assessed strength of associations between dependent variables (mother’s and children’s food security status) and independent variables (production of selected indigenous foods). Significance was determined at α ≤ 0.05.

Results

Results demonstrated that during planting season, production of kidney beans decreased the odds of mothers being severely food insecure by 53% (OR = 0.469, 95% CI = 0.228–0.964, p = 0.039). In the same season, sorghum production demonstrated 3.5 times increase in odds of children being severely food insecure (OR = 3.498, 95% CI = 1.454–8.418, p = 0.005). During harvesting season, production of kidney beans was associated with a 62% reduction in the odds of children being severely food insecure (OR = 0.379, 95% CI = 0.190–0.754, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Production of some of the selected indigenous foods demonstrated significant odds of predicting mother’s and children’s food security status across both study seasons. An intervention-based study approach that would best establish causal associations of indigenous food production and food security status is recommended.
Semmes Weinstein monofilament test for detection of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: sensitivity and specificity
Authors: Aithal Vishnumoorthy , Bhat Smitha
Published: January 2024

Background

Peripheral neuropathy predisposes to diabetic foot and this predilection is worsened by poorly controlled sugars. Diabetic foot increases the mortality and morbidity associated with diabetes. Thus, it is crucial to screen for diabetic polyneuropathy. Early detection of diabetic polyneuropathy improves foot care and decreases morbidity. This study aimed to assess the sensitivity of Semmes Weinstein monofilament test in the diagnosis of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. Forty-three Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients availing IP/OP services of a Medical College Hospital were included for the study. Patients underwent Semmes Weinstein monofilament test, following which they were subjected to nerve conduction study of both lower limbs.

Results

Forty six and half percentage of patients had diabetic peripheral neuropathy, taking NCS as gold standard.Of these 80% of the cases were also detected by the monofilament test.The specificity of the monofilament test was 100%. Positive predictive value was 100% and negative predictive value was 85.19% and the overall accuracy of the test was 90.7%.

Conclusions

In this study, we found that sensitivity and specificity of the SWM test are fairly high; thus, it can be used as a valid screening tool for DPN in resource limited settings, such as India.
Short-term forecasting of German generation-based CO2 emission factors using parametric and non-parametric time series models
Authors: Ostermann Adrian , Bajrami Arian , Bogensperger Alexander
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on forecasting German generation-based CO2 emission factors to develop accurate prediction models, which help to shift flexible loads in time with low emissions. While most existing research relies on point forecasts to predict CO2 emission factors, the presented methods are utilized to perform interval forecasts. In addition, compared to other studies, recent data that extends over a long period is used. The study describes the used data and discusses the concept of walk-forward validation. Further, various models are employed and tuned to forecast the emission factors, including benchmark, parametric (e.g., SARIMAX), and non-parametric (bagging, random forest, gradient boosting, CNN, LSTM, MLP) models. The study reveals that all applied parametric and non-parametric models yield better results than the benchmark models, while the gradient boosting model has the lowest mean absolute error with 40.66 gCO2/kWh, the lowest mean absolute percentage error 8.17%, and the random forest has the lowest root mean square error with 57.61 gCO2/kWh. However, the potential of the deep learning models was not fully exploited. In a live application, the implementation effort should be evaluated against the benefit of better prediction.
Higher rates of fully preserved posterior cruciate ligament in total knee arthroplasty using a double tibial cut: a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cinotti Gianluca , Ripani Francesca Romana , Perciballi Beatrice , La Torre Giuseppe , Giannicola Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

Purpose

In cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty, posterior cruciate ligament damage may occur during tibial cutting. A prospective randomized study was conducted to investigate whether a novel tibial cutting technique was more effective than the currently used techniques.

Materials and methods

Patients undergoing cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty were recruited in a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. In 25 patients (group 1) the tibial cut was performed using a double tibial cut technique; in 25 (group 2) and 25 (group 3) patients, the bone island and en bloc resection techniques were performed, respectively. Posterior cruciate ligament integrity and femoral rollback were assessed at the end of surgery. The Oxford Knee Score, WOMAC score and range of motion were assessed postoperatively.

Results

Posterior cruciate ligament was completely preserved in 92% of patients in group 1 and in 64% in group 2 and 3, respectively (p = 0.03). The Oxford Knee Score and WOMAC scores did not differ between groups (p = 0.4). The mean knee flexion was 126.4°, 121.5° and 123.9° in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p = 0.04). The femoral rollback at 120° flexion was 80.7%, 72.2% and 75.4% in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The double cut technique preserves the posterior cruciate ligament at significantly higher rates than the bone island or en bloc resection techniques. Better posterior cruciate ligament preservation may improve the femoral rollback and knee flexion.

Level of evidence

Prospective randomized controlled trial, Level I.
Association of Elevated Serum Branched-chain Amino Acid Levels With Longitudinal Skeletal Muscle Loss
Authors: Imai Dan , Nakanishi Naoko , Shinagawa Natsuko , Yamamoto Shinta , Ichikawa Takahiro , Sumi Madoka , Matsui Takaaki , Hosomi Yukako , Hasegawa Yuka , Munekawa Chihiro , Miyoshi Tomoki , Okamura Takuro , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Okada Hiroshi , Sakui Norihiro , Sasano Ryoichi , Hamaguchi Masahide , Fukui Michiaki
Published: January 2024

Context

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are substrates for protein synthesis. Although their intake may contribute to an increase in skeletal muscle mass, elevated serum BCAA levels have been reported to be associated with insulin resistance, potentially resulting in decreased skeletal muscle mass.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the association between elevated serum BCAA levels and longitudinal skeletal muscle loss.

Design and Setting

A cohort analysis was conducted, in which serum amino acids were analyzed in healthy individuals who underwent a medical health checkup at Kameoka Municipal Hospital (HOZUGAWA study), Japan.

Patients

Seventy-one participants (37 men and 34 women) underwent follow-up checkups after the baseline visit. The follow-up duration was 1.2 ± .4 years.

Main Outcome Measures

The relationship between fasting baseline serum BCAA levels and lifestyle factors, body composition, blood test results, dietary history, and changes in skeletal muscle mass was evaluated.

Results

In both men and women, serum BCAA levels were positively correlated with body weight, body mass index, skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), and serum triglycerides but inversely correlated with serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In men, fasting serum BCAA levels were inversely associated with the rate of change in SMI (adjusted β = −.529, P = .006), and elevated BCAA levels were independently associated with a longitudinal decrease in skeletal muscle mass (odds ratio: 1.740; 95% confidence interval: 1.023-2.960 per 50 nmol/mL serum BCAAs increase).

Conclusion

Increased circulating BCAAs could be an indicator of skeletal muscle loss in men.
Functional results one-year following the anti-VEGF therapy in macular pathology
Authors: Anton Nicoleta , Neacșu Alina Mihaela , Branișteanu Daniel Constantin , Barac Ileana Ramona , Geamanu Aida , Iancu Raluca , Pârvulescu Ruxandra Angela , Sporea Corina , Doroftei Bogdan , Bogdănici Camelia Margareta , Ilie Ovidiu-Dumitru
Published: January 2024

This investigation aims at evaluating the functional results 1-year following anti-VEGF therapy in macular pathology. Material and method: This is a retrospective examination that was carried out on 57 patients with macular pathology out of 108 at Sf. Spiridon Hospital in Iasi. 57 patients with macular pathology were included in the investigation, respectively 57 eyes, 24 eyes with diabetic macular edema and 33 with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Eyes in which less than 6 intravitreous injections were performed (less than one-year of follow-up) as well as those without oct control examinations and without adequate controls were excluded. Results: Visual acuity improves considerably after the therapy was performed in both patients experiencing diabetic macular edema (370 vs 320 microns) and in those with age-related macular degeneration (320 vs 260 microns), while the average thickness of the central macula decreases considerably after therapy. Conclusions: In this study, the therapy with intravitreal Aflibercept was associated with improving the functional and anatomical outcomes, keeping the increasing trend up to one-year of therapy in those who received a minimum of three injections.
Improvement of the quality of life and the physical activity status in women with osteoporosis and osteopenia following physical activity intervention program
Authors: Argeșanu Roxana Diana , Brîndușe Lăcrămioara Aurelia , Mogoș Cosmina Iustina , Bratu Eugenia Claudia , Armean Petru , Cucu Maria Alexandra
Published: January 2024

Background. Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone density, affecting predominantly women, especially after menopause, and it is associated with a decrease in the quality of life. It is a known fact that a low level of physical activity represents a substantial risk for osteoporosis. Purpose. The purpose of the survey is to compare the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with osteoporosis and osteopenia before and after a physical exercise intervention.
Material and method. A prospective descriptive survey on 70 women with osteoporosis and osteopenia was carried out between April 2021 and February 2023 in the ambulatory of the Clinical Emergency Hospital “Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu”, Bucharest, Romania. Data are collected using medical docu-ments (sociodemographic and anthropometric data, comorbidities, bone density level, osteoporosis treatment, etc), the Interna-tional Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) (physical activity level), and the Romanian version of the SF-36 (health-related quality of life).
Results. The study included 70 female patients with osteoporosis (41.4%) and osteopenia (58.6%). All of the SF-36 doma-ins and the summary scales (physical and mental component scores) revealed significantly (except Social Functioning, p=0.158) higher mean values postinterventional than the baseline mean scores. The most remarkable improvements were observed in the following domains: Role limitation due to physical problems (18.5; p=0.003), Role limitation due to emotional problems (14.7; p=0.018), and General health (14.0; p<0.001).
Conclusions. All dimensions of quality of life were significant improved after the exercise intervention program in the patients with osteoporosis and osteopenia.
Λογοτεχνικές βιογραφίες και λογοτεχνικές διαδρομές
Authors: Μαυροειδή Μαρία-Άννα
Published: January 2024

Στην παρούσα διατριβή μελετώνται οι μυθολογικές προσωπικότητες της Φαίδρας, της Δηιάνειρας, της Διδώς, της Αριάδνης και της Πηνελόπης, όπως αυτές εμφανίζονται στην αρχαία ελληνική και ρωμαϊκή λογοτεχνία, με στόχο την απόδειξη της ενότητας του χαρακτήρα τους, παρά τις εκάστοτε διαφοροποιήσεις στην παρουσίασή τους από συγγραφέα σε συγγραφέα. Συγκεκριμένα, η μελέτη ξεκινά από την πρώτη εκτεταμένη εμφάνιση των ηρωίδων αυτών στα έργα τα οποία λαμβάνονται ως πρότυπα και φτάνει μέχρι και την ποίηση του Οβιδίου. Εντός της ποίησης του Οβιδίου παρουσιάζονται οι ομοιότητες και οι διαφορές που εμφανίζουν οι ηρωίδες σε σύγκριση με τα πρότυπά τους, αλλά και ο διαφορετικός τρόπος με τον οποίο τις παρουσιάζει ο ίδιος ο Οβίδιος μέσα στα έργα του. Το επιχείρημα που υποστηρίζεται στην παρούσα μελέτη είναι πως ο Οβίδιος δεν μεταχειρίζεται τις μυθολογικές αυτές προσωπικότητες με σκοπό να τις παρουσιάσει με τρόπο ώστε να αποκλίνουν από τις πρότυπες ιστορίες, αλλά οι αποκλίσεις που δημιουργούνται οφείλονται στη θέαση των ηρωίδων σε διαφορετικές χρονικές στιγμές. Με άλλα λόγια, σε όλα τα έργα πρόκειται για τις ίδιες μυθικές περσόνες ιδωμένες σε διαφορετική συναισθηματική στιγμή και όχι για παραλλαγμένες παρουσιάσεις τους. Το ίδιο υποστηρίζεται πως συμβαίνει και εντός των έργων του Οβιδίου, στα οποία το συναίσθημα των ηρωίδων εξελίσσεται από έργο σε έργο, παράλληλα με τις προσωπικότητες των γυναικείων μορφών που το βιώνουν, οι οποίες με τη σειρά τους ωριμάζουν μαζί με το συναίσθημά τους. Ως εκ τούτου, ο χαρακτήρας τους σκιαγραφείται με στοιχεία αντιφατικά, τα οποία όμως δικαιολογούνται όταν μελετηθούν ως διαφορετικές εκφάνσεις μιας ενιαίας προσωπικότητας, καθιερώνοντας έτσι και την ενότητα του εκάστοτε χαρακτήρα. Οι μέχρι τώρα μελέτες οι οποίες αναλύουν αυτές τις μυθολογικές μορφές επικεντρώνονται στην απεικόνιση του χαρακτήρα τους ως διαφορετικού στα διάφορα έργα. Η παρούσα μελέτη αποδεικνύει πως η κάθε ηρωίδα παραμένει ίδια σε όλα τα έργα (εντός και εκτός του Οβιδίου) και εξελίσσεται συνεχώς. Η εξέλιξη αυτή αιτιολογεί τις διάφορες αντιφάσεις που προκύπτουν. Τέλος, πολλές αντιφάσεις προκύπτουν και από το γεγονός ότι από έργο σε έργο διαφοροποιείται το λογοτεχνικό είδος μέσα στο οποίο εκτυλίσσονται οι ιστορίες, κάτι το οποίο ο αναγνώστης οφείλει να λαμβάνει υπόψη του όταν μελετά τις συμπεριφορές των ηρωίδων. Το λογοτεχνικό είδος (έπος, ελεγεία κ. ά.) αποτελεί γενικά καθοριστικό παράγοντα για τον τρόπο που παρουσιάζονται οι ήρωες και δεν συντελεί στην αμφισβήτηση του ενιαίου του χαρακτήρα τους.
Efficient algorithms and novel big data management techniques and their applications in ubiquitous computing
Authors: Βονιτσάνος Γεράσιμος
Published: January 2024

Η εξόρυξη δεδομένων έχει σημαντικό ρόλο στο πεδίο της πληροφορικής και της ανάλυσης δεδομένων. Με την ολοένα και αυξανόμενη παραγωγή και αποθήκευση δεδομένων από διάφορες πηγές, όπως βάσεις δεδομένων, κινητές συσκευές, κοινωνικά μέσα και αισθητήρες, η ανάγκη για αποτελεσματικά εργαλεία που μπορούν να εξάγουν γνώση και μοτίβα από αυτά τα δεδομένα έχει καταστεί πιο επιτακτική από ποτέ. Η διαδικασία της εξόρυξης δεδομένων αποσκοπεί στην ανακάλυψη συνδέσεων, προτύπων και πληροφοριών από μεγάλα, πολύπλοκα και δομημένα, ή μη, σύνολα δεδομένων. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, επιτρέπει την ανίχνευση τάσεων, βασικών χαρακτηριστικών, αλληλεπιδράσεων και συσχετίσεων. Η εφαρμογή της εξόρυξης δεδομένων καλύπτει πολλούς κλάδους, όπως επιχειρηματική ανάλυση, βιοπληροφορική, χρηματοοικονομική πρόβλεψη, κοινωνική ανάλυση, αναγνώριση προτύπων, ανάλυση συναισθήματος κ.ά. Στον τομέα της τεχνικής, οι αλγόριθμοι εξόρυξης δεδομένων περιλαμβάνουν αλγορίθμους συσταδοποίησης, ταξινόμησης, παραγωγής κανόνων, ανίχνευσης ανωμαλιών κ.ά. Επίσης, χρησιμοποιούνται εργαλεία ανάλυσης δεδομένων και προγράμματα οπτικοποίησης για την παρουσίαση αναλυτικών εικόνων και πληροφοριών. Η διατριβή επικεντρώνεται στην εφαρμογή της εξόρυξης δεδομένων σε διάφορους κλάδους. Περιλαμβάνει μελέτη τεχνικών, εφαρμογή του Apache Spark για την αντιμετώπιση προκλήσεων με την επεξεργασία ετερογενών και ημι-δομημένων δεδομένων, και αναλύει πώς η χρήση πλατφορμών, όπως το Apache Spark μπορεί να χρησιμοποιηθεί αποτελεσματικά για τη μοντελοποίηση και διαχείριση δεδομένων. Επίσης, εστιάζεται η εφαρμογή του Apache Spark στο πλαίσιο της εξόρυξης γνώμης για τη διαχείριση πολιτισμικών δεδομένων. Η κύρια προσέγγιση είναι η αξιοποίηση της ανάλυσης μεγάλων συνόλων δεδομένων με τη χρήση του εργαλείου Spark streaming για την ανάκτηση πολύτιμων πληροφοριών και απόψεων σε πραγματικό χρόνο.