bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer morbidity and mortality trends in Trinidad and Tobago (2008–2018)
Authors: Gopaul Chavin D. , Singh Aruna , Williams Akil , Ventour Dale , Thomas Davlin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Cancer is a leading cause of death in the Caribbean, and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is no exception. Evidence suggests that cancer incidence and mortality may vary based on demographic factors across the different cancer types. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and mortality trends associated with cancer cases in Trinidad and Tobago for the period 2008–2018, across different age groups, gender, and ethnicity.

Methods

Data on 15,029 incident cancer cases were reported to the Dr. Elizabeth Quamina Cancer Registry between 2008 and 2018. The retrospective data were analyzed by sex, ancestry, and age, and were reported using Trinidad and Tobago population statistics for the period 2008–2018.

Results

The incidence of prostate and breast cancers was high among males and females, respectively. Among males, the highest cancer mortality was associated with prostate, lung, colon, blood, and pancreatic cancers, respectively. Among females, the highest cancer mortality was associated with breast, ovary, colon, blood, and pancreatic cancers. The frequency of occurrence of the top five cancer sites was the highest among Afro-Trinidadians followed by Indo-Trinidadians. Most females diagnosed with breast cancer were at a localized stage, while most males diagnosed with breast cancer were at a distant or regional stage. Most individuals diagnosed with blood cancer were at a distant stage. For lung and colon cancer, the stage of diagnosis for most males and females was either distant or unknown. Majority of males are diagnosed with prostate cancer at an unknown stage.

Conclusions

The findings indicate highest cancer incidence and mortality occur among Afro-Trinidadians. The stage at diagnosis varies across cancer types and gender.
Volume of the proximal half of the thoracic aorta is the most comprehensive FDG-PET/CT indicator of arterial aging throughout adulthood
Authors: Hurstel Moira , Joly Laure , Imbert Laetitia , Zimmermann Gaetan , Roch Véronique , Schoepfer Pauline , Lamiral Zohra , Salvi Paolo , Benetos Athanase , Verger Antoine , Marie Pierre-Yves
Published: June 2023

Introduction

18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) and computed tomography (CT) features of the proximal and more elastic half of the thoracic aorta are known to correlate with aorta stiffness in older populations. This prospective study aimed to analyze the changes in these FDG-PET/CT features between young, middle-aged, and older adults, and investigate associations with arterial stiffness and blood pressure (BP).

Methods

Young (< 40 years), middle-aged (40-to-60 years), and older (> 60 years) adults, who underwent an FDG-PET/CT, were prospectively recruited. FDG-PET/CT features of the proximal half of the thoracic aorta were analyzed relative to the age categories, BP and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), a reference indicator of aorta stiffness.

Results

We included 79 patients (38 women; 22 young, 19 middle-aged, and 38 older adults). An increase in age category was associated with increases in mean standardized uptake values (SUVs) of blood and aorta and most significantly in aorta SUV heterogeneity, represented by SUV standard deviation (SUV-SD), aorta calcification volume, and the aorta volume indexed to body surface area. However, this indexed aorta volume was the sole variable: (i) exhibiting a stepwise increase from young (median: 25 cm3/m2 [interquartile range: 20–28 cm3/m2]), to middle-aged (41 [30–48] cm3/m2, p < 0.001 vs. Young), and older (62 [44–70] cm3/m2, p < 0.001 vs. middle-age) adults, and (ii) selected in the multivariate predictions of systolic, diastolic, and pulse BP. Indexed aorta volume was also a multivariate predictor of PWV but in association with SUV-SD and hypertension.

Conclusion

In a population of patients referred to an FDG-PET/CT investigation, the indexed volume of the proximal and more elastic half of the thoracic aorta is the most comprehensive indicator of arterial aging. This imaging parameter exhibits a stepwise increase from young to middle-aged and older adults, is strongly linked to inter-individual changes in both arterial stiffness and BP, and thus, could help assess the early phases of arterial aging.

Trial registration ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT03345290. Registered 17 November 2017, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03345290?term=NCT03345290&draw=2&rank=1
The predictive role of personality traits and demographic features on post-traumatic stress disorder in a sample of COVID-19 hospitalized patients
Authors: Mousavi Nazanin , Effatpanah Mohammad , Molaei Aghil , Alesaeidi Samira
Published: June 2023

Background

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients suffer from psychological and psychiatric disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Because there was no comprehensive study on psychological factors in hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Iran, we investigated the predictive role of personality traits and demographic features on post-traumatic stress disorder in COVID-19 hospitalized patients.

Results

In this research method first, 160 patients selected randomly and completed relevant questionnaires, which are prepared online. We examined the multivariate linear regression between the mentioned variables. The results showed that the independent variables are able to predict changes in post-traumatic stress disorder (P < 0.001). The percentage of explanation of changes in dependent variables was equal to 0.77, 0.65, 0.71, and 0.68, respectively.

Conclusion

People’s personality traits play a key role in facing and responding to stressful environmental events for instance COVID-19 pandemic, and as a result, some personality traits such as conscientiousness protect people from stress even though, neuroticism personality trait cause instability and make people more stresses, identifying these traits and treating them is.
Towards an objective measurement of sleep quality in non-human animals: using the horse as a model species for the creation of sleep quality indices
Authors: Greening Linda , Allen Sian , McBride Sebastian
Published: June 2023

Sleep disturbance is observed across species, resulting in neurocognitive dysfunction, poor impulse control and poor regulation of negative emotion. Understanding animal sleep disturbance is thus important to understand how environmental factors influence animal sleep and day-to-day welfare. Self-reporting tools for sleep disturbance commonly used in human research to determine sleep quality cannot be transferred to non-verbal animal species research. Human research has, however, successfully used frequency of awakenings to create an objective measurement of sleep quality. The aim of this study was to use a novel sleep-quality scoring system for a non-human mammalian species. Five separate sleep quality indices calculations were developed, using frequency of awakenings, total sleep time and total time spent in different sleep states. These indices were applied to a pre-existing data set of equine sleep behaviour taken from a study investigating the effects of environmental change (lighting and bedding) on the duration of time in different sleep states. Significant treatment effects for index scores both differed and aligned with the original sleep quantity results, thus sleep quality may be a useful alternative measurement of sleep disturbance that could be used to investigate impactful (emotional, cognitive) effects on the animal.
Attitudes toward and knowledge of collaboration of dental and medical practice among medical students in Southern India: a cross-sectional questionnaire survey
Authors: Atul Kumar Harshit , Uppoor Ashita , Kadakampally David , Unnikrishnan B , Mithra Prasanna
Published: June 2023

Background: Enhancing oral health care services provided through inter-professional collaboration between medical and dental practitioner is important, and even essential. The purpose of this study is to assess the attitude toward and knowledge of medical-dental collaborative practice among medical students attending colleges in Southern India.

Methods: A cross sectional questionnaire survey was conducted by inviting 900 medical students and interns of medical colleges in coastal South India with prior information and permission. The questionnaire consisted of 11 questions to assess attitude toward and knowledge of medical-dental collaborative practice and was distributed in pen & paper format to participants who agreed to take part in the study.  Chi square test was employed for data analysis. The responses obtained were correlated with age, gender and year of study of participants using Pearson’s correlation test

Results: Most of the students agreed that oral health was an integral part of systemic health, however participants disagreed on attending compulsory rotation in dentistry at a statistically significant level (p<0.05), moreover participants did not agree with physicians having an active role in motivating their patients for regular dental check-up. 82% of the medical students believe that dental check-up should be included in health packages under health insurance. A statistically significant (p<0.05) difference was observed among 3 rd year & 4 th year students and interns and also it was found that female students provided more positive responses towards medical-dental collaboration.

Conclusions: Even though medical students showed fairly positive attitudes and knowledge towards dentistry, the analysis within the study groups showed that knowledge and attitudes regarding the collaborative practice worsened over the academic years among the medical students.
Attitude towards dengue control efforts with the potential of digital technology during COVID-19: partial least squares-structural equation modeling
Authors: Purnama Sang Gede , Susanna Dewi , Achmadi Umar Fahmi , Eryando Tris
Published: June 2023

Background: Dengue fever is still a public health issue in Indonesia, and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, integrated digital technology will be required for its control. This study aims to identify critical indicators influencing attitudes towards dengue control related to the potential for implementing digital technology.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey, with 515 people willing to fill out an online questionnaire. The analysis was conducted using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). There were 46 indicators used to assess attitudes toward dengue control, which were organized into six variables: the need for digital information systems, perceptions of being threatened with dengue, the benefits of dengue control programs, program constraints, environmental factors and attitudes in dengue control.

Results:  The source of information needed for dengue control was mainly through social media. There was a positive relationship between perception of environmental factors to perception of dengue threat, perception of program constraints, perception of program benefits, and perception of digital technology needs. Perception of program benefits and threatened perception of dengue have a positive relationship with perception of digital technology needs.

Conclusions: This model showed the variables perception of digital technology and perception of benefits had a positive association with attitude towards dengue control
Evaluating the clinical outcomes of thulium fiber laser (TFL) in comparison to holmium laser in the treatment of urinary tract stones – A systematic review
Authors: Tritanto Rio , Deswanto Isaac
Published: June 2023

Holmium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Ho:YAG) had been considered the gold standard for treating urinary tract stones. However, advancements in laser technology have introduced thulium fiber laser (TFL) as a potential alternative. Preliminary studies have indicated that TFL may have certain advantages over Ho:YAG laser in lithotripsy.

This systematic review compared the clinical outcomes of TFL and Ho:YAG laser for urinary tract stone treatment, focusing on operating time, stone-free rate (SFR), retropulsion, and complications.

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed and ScienceDirect for original articles published within the last 5 years, comparing the clinical outcomes of Ho:YAG and TFL in lithotripsy. Inclusion criteria were English-language studies focusing on Ho:YAG and TFL laser energy for urinary tract stones, with accessible full-text articles comparing clinical outcomes. Excluded were studies discussing lasers for conditions other than urinary tract stones or using lasers other than TFL and Ho:YAG. Four studies (544 procedures) met the criteria and underwent risk of bias assessment using Risk of Bias 2 (ROB-2) for randomized trials and Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) for cohort studies. The data were presented in tables and charts.

In this review, TFL demonstrated a shorter operating time compared to Ho:YAG (and higher stone-free rates in two studies. TFL also had a lower incidence of stone retropulsion. Intra-operative complication rates varied between the groups for ureterorenoscopy (URS) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) procedures, while TFL had a higher rate of prolonged haematuria during mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures. Postoperative complications were similar in both groups. Limitations of this review include procedural and laser setting heterogeneity, a small number of studies, and the lack of registration and protocols.

In conclusion, TFL is an effective and safe alternative to Ho:YAG laser for lithotripsy, offering shorter operation time, higher stone-free rates, and reduced stone retropulsion.
PKD1 gene mutation and ultrasonographic characterization in cats with renal cysts
Authors: Jaturanratsamee Kotchapol , Jiwaganont Palin , Sukumolanan Pratch , Petchdee Soontaree
Published: June 2023

Background: Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) has a complex phenotype partly explained by genetic variants related to this disease. Ultrasonography is a promising approach for defining clinical signs. This study aimed to assess kidney characteristics in cats with Polycystin-1 (PKD1) gene mutations and wild-type cats. Kidney characteristics were identified by ultrasonography.

Methods: A total of 108 cats of variable breeds aged an average of 37.01±3.50 months were included. Blood examination and biochemical tests were evaluated. For cystic formation, renal ultrasound was performed. The PKD1 gene mutation was identified via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. Matrix correlation and effectiveness of ultrasound for PKD1 mutation detection were determined.

Results: The results showed that 19.44% of cats had PKD1 mutations, a high prevalence in Persian and Persian-related breed cats. Our results demonstrated the characteristics of kidneys in wild-type cats and cats with gene mutations. Based on ultrasonography results, there was an association between cats with gene mutations and cyst formation. The findings indicated that ultrasound did not detect cysts in cats aged 4-36 months, supporting the evidence that PKD1 gene mutations may not be present. This study found high sensitivity and renal specificity ultrasound for PKD1 heterozygous mutation. Moreover, cystic formation via renal ultrasound showed an increased risk for PKD1 mutation 2,623 times compared to normal kidneys.

Conclusions: Ultrasonographic examination, coupled with genetic investigations, may help to clarify the phenotypic variability of PKD1. The phenotypic profile of PKD1 will guide therapeutic outcomes and reduce the prevalence of PKD morbidity and mortality in cats.
The impact of shift-work light conditions on tissue-specific circadian rhythms of canonical clock genes: insights from a mouse model study
Authors: Koritala Bala S. C. , Dakup Panshak P. , Porter Kenneth I. , Gaddameedhi Shobhan
Published: June 2023

Background: The natural day-night cycle synchronizes our circadian rhythms, but modern work practices like night shifts disrupt this pattern, leading to increased exposure to nighttime light. This exposure is linked to various health issues. While some studies have explored the effects of night shifts on human circadian rhythms, there is limited research on the consequences of long-term exposure to shift-work light conditions. Rodents can provide valuable insights into these effects. This study aimed to examine how short- or long-term exposure to rotating shifts and chronic jetlag affects the core circadian oscillators in the liver and skin of mammals.

Methods: C57BL/6J male mice were subjected to simulated shift-work light conditions, including short-term or long-term rotating shifts and chronic jet-lag conditions. Liver and skin samples were collected every four hours over a 24-hour period on the second day of constant darkness. RNA was extracted and qRT-PCR analysis was conducted to measure the circadian gene expression in liver and skin tissues. Circadian rhythm analysis using CircaCompare compared the control group to mice exposed to shift-work light conditions.

Results: The liver's circadian clock is significantly altered in mice under long-term rotating shift conditions, with a lesser but still noticeable impact in mice experiencing chronic jetlag. However, short-term rotating shift conditions do not significantly affect the liver's circadian clock. Conversely, all three simulated shift conditions affect the skin's circadian clock, indicating that the skin clock is more sensitive to shift-work light conditions than the liver clock. Compared to the liver, the skin's circadian clock is greatly affected by long-term rotating shift conditions.

Conclusions: The study findings indicate more pronounced disturbances in the canonical clock genes of the skin compared to the liver under simulated shift-work light conditions. These results suggest that the skin clock is more vulnerable to the effects of shift-work.
Aging of the society: the European perspective
Authors: Kiniorska Iwona , Brambert Patryk , Kamińska Wioletta , Kopacz-Wyrwał Iwona
Published: June 2023

Population aging is a key risk for the future of Europe. Th e Old Continent has to face ever-stronger new demographic trends and fi nd eff ective strategies to address them. In this study, we evaluate the progress of population aging in Europe in the period of 2008–2021. Th e broad time span of our considerations concerns the years 1960–2100. We present our new typological approach to the areas of unbalanced age structure. Its classifi cation includes four groups of countries with various distribution of aging measures, i.e., the percentage of people aged 65 and over and the dynamics of its growth. We observe that the largest group is composed of countries exceeding arithmetic means for both above-mentioned aging measures, which are located mainly in Eastern and Southern Europe. According to stages of aging by median age, most of these countries reached the stage of very old population in the 1990s
Influence winter swimming on post-exercise regeneration and quality of life of people practicing recreational sports
Authors: Zając Kacper , Kupczak Agata , Dolińska Anna , Wilczek Mateusz , Górka Dariusz , Białoń Natalia , Górka Mikołaj
Published: June 2023

Entry
Swimming is a stress factor for the body, depending on the level of adaptation to this stimulus, there may be different reactions of the body. Therefore, the contraindications and risks of immersion in cold water, such as drowning or hypothermia, should be taken into account. The study was aimed at assessing the impact of cold baths on well-being and post-exercise regeneration.
Materials and methods
The study involved 244 people who regularly practice recreational sports and swim.
Conclusions
Swimming has a positive effect on well-being and post-workout regeneration.
It is important to conduct more research to obtain the data needed to determine the long and short term effects of swimming in the context of recreational activities.
Multiplicity of positive solutions for a Kirchhoff type problem without asymptotic conditions
Authors: Qian Xiaotao
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we are concerned with the multiplicity of positive solutions for the following Kirchhoff type problem
\[
\begin{cases}
-\bigg({\varepsilon}^2a+{\varepsilon}b\int_{\mathbb{R}^3} |\n u|^2dx\bigg)\Delta u+u=Q(x)|u|^{p-2}u, & x\in\mathbb{R}^3,\\
u\in H^1\big(\mathbb{R}^3\big), \quad u> 0, & x\in\mathbb{R}^3,
\end{cases}
\]
where $\varepsilon> 0$ is a small parameter, $a,b> 0$ are constants, $4< p< 6$, $Q$
is a nonnegative continuous potential and does not satisfy any asymptotic condition.
Combining Nehari manifold and concentration compactness principle, we study how the shape of the graph of $Q(x)$ affects the number of positive solutions.
The Role of University-Industry Linkage in Creating a Functional Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria
Authors: Agbo Nnaemeka M. , Nnajiofor Francisca N.
Published: June 2023

This study was on the role of university-industry linkage in creating a functional technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Nigeria. The study specifically looked into the concept of TVET, types of university-industry linkage, reasons for university-industry linkage, current status of university-industry linkage, challenges mitigating university-industry linkage, strategies for effective university-industry linkage in the universities and the role of viable university-industry linkage in creating a functional technical and vocational education and training. It was noted that in order to build a viable linkage between the universities and the industries, legislators at both federal and state levels need to come up with laws and policies that will foster university-industry linkage with clear implementation strategies, compulsory periodic internship for both lecturers and students, integration of professionals from the industries in the TVET curricula planning and implementation processes. It was concluded that when a strong linkage is established between the universities and industries, TVET will receive the dividends and as such be made functional and effective.
Impact of the Center of Excellence Vocational High School Program on the Interest of New Learners
Authors: Susatya Edhy , Triatmaja Adhy Kurnia , Suratno Eko , Faisyal Fachri Fandi
Published: June 2023

The main problem of private schools is the difficulty of finding new learners (NL), exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, making private schools even more slumped, including private Centers of Excellence Vocational High School (VHS CoE). Research objectives is to analyze; (1) promotion strategies for the private VHS CoE, (2) the impact of the VHS CoE on the interest of NL, and (3) the benefits of the VHS CoE. Qualitative descriptive research methods. The research sample was four private VHS CoE. Stages of research; (1) formulate problems, (2) determine the subject, (3) compile interview guidelines, (4) collect data, (5) sort and analyze data, (6) make conclusions. The results: (1) the private VHS CoE conduct direct socialization to pre-VHS, school residents, related institutions, and the community, and form a management team. Direct socialization is the most effective promotion strategy compared to other strategies, (2) the VHS CoE has an impact on NL interest fluctuatingly. The school program is the main consideration for NL to register at VHS CoE, while according to interests and talents is the main reason for NL to choose a flagship expertise program, and (3) the benefits of the VHS CoE, among others; improving the quality of schools, making it easier to get a job, and according to industry needs. The results of the study are expected to be the consideration of relevant agencies in making policies for the VHS CoE and for preparing strategies for capturing NL for private vocational schools.
Development of Web-Based Learning Media Using Google Sites in Vocational High School Informatics Subjects
Authors: Yanto Rudi , Waskito Waskito , Effendi Hansi , Purwanto Wawab
Published: June 2023

This study aims to create web-based instructional media with Google Sites and then assess the media's validity, practicability, and efficacy. This research used the R & D (Research and Development) technique with the 4-D development model (Four-D Model). Data collection used 3 types of questionnaires consisting of media, material, and language validation questionnaires. To test the effectiveness of the media, pretest and posttest questions were used, which had gone through a process of validation, reliability, discriminatory power and level of difficulty. The test results of all validations show that an average validity index of 0,919 in the Very Eligible criteria. Media practicality is in the Very Practical category, with an average practicality percentage of 84.91% across instructors and students. The media's effectiveness level is Effective Enough, with an average N-Gain score of 60.77% and a substantial T-Test value of 0.000, indicating that it may be utilized effectively in SMK Informatics learning. This study conducted trials on students who had just implemented the Merdeka curriculum.
TEORIAS DO MACROCOSMO E DO MICROCOSMO: UMA INTRODUÇÃO
Authors: Mendes Jefferson
Published: June 2023

Os conceitos de microcosmo e macrocosmo tem uma longa e profícua trajetória na relação e tentativa do ser humano em estabelecer algum parâmetro com o universo. Na verdade, podemos considerar como um campo de investigação que possibilitou criar panoramas sobre a visão do ser humano como uma porção do universo, como uma escala que simboliza a união — sempre numa relação hierárquica — entre o cosmos e os agentes sociais. Assim sendo, esse artigo pretende — de forma concisa — criar um pequeno panorama sobre as teorias do macrocosmos e microcosmos no intuito de categorizar trabalhos diversos ao longo dos processos formativos culturais — de Anaxímenes até Plotino.
DETERMINAÇÃO E FICÇÃO NAS INVESTIGAÇÕES FILOSÓFICAS
Authors: Silva Bernardes Leonardo
Published: June 2023

resumo: As Investigações Filosóficas são apresentadas nesse artigo a partir de duas chaves, determinação e ficção. A determinação corresponde ao eixo de transformação de um pensamento que redefine a função de elementos normativos no interior de uma linguagem instituída fundamentalmente a partir de práticas. A ficção, por sua vez, consiste numa estratégia para fazer ver aquilo que está mais além do que nos permite enxergar a adesão incondicional (cegueira) aos nossos quadros normativos, sendo por isso uma estratégia tão fecunda quanto perturbadora. O artigo terá cumprido seu propósito se deixar a impressão de que este já antigo livro contém ainda sementes de muitos pensamentos imprescindíveis ao mundo do século XXI.  

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Wittgenstein. determinação. ficção. pragmática. Investigações Filosóficas.  

ABSTRACT: Philosophical Investigations are presented in this article from two keys, determination and fiction. Determination corresponds to the axis of transformation of a thought that redefines the function of normative elements within a language fundamentally instituted from practices. Fiction, in turn, consists in a strategy to make us see beyond what the unconditional adherence (blindness) to our normative frameworks allows us to see, being therefore a strategy as fruitful as disturbing. The article will have served its purpose if it leaves the impression that this already old book still contains the seeds of many thoughts indispensable to the world of the 21st century.

KEYWORDS: Wittgenstein. determination. fiction. pragmatic. Philosophical Investigation.
Monocular polarized three-dimensional absolute depth reconstruction technology for multi-target scenes
Authors: Li Xuan , Liu Zhiqiang , Cai Yudong , Yan Jinke , Wu Wenxin , Guo Gao , Shao Xiaopeng
Published: June 2023

The traditional polarization three-dimensional (3D) imaging technology
has limited applications in the field of vision because it can only
obtain the relative depth information of the target. Based on the
principle of polarization stereo vision, this study combines camera
calibration with a monocular ranging model to achieve high-precision
recovery of the target’s absolute depth information in multi-target
scenes. Meanwhile, an adaptive camera intrinsic matrix prediction
method is proposed to overcome changes in the camera intrinsic matrix
caused by focusing on fuzzy targets outside the depth of field in
multi-target scenes, thereby realizing monocular polarized 3D absolute
depth reconstruction under dynamic focusing of targets at different
depths. Experimental results indicate that the recovery error of
monocular polarized 3D absolute depth information for the clear target
is less than 10%, and the detail error is only 0.19 mm. Also,
the precision of absolute depth reconstruction remains above 90% after
dynamic focusing on the blurred target. The proposed monocular
polarized 3D absolute depth reconstruction technology for multi-target
scenes can broaden application scenarios of the polarization 3D
imaging technology in the field of vision.
Study of 256 fiber array biaxial LiDAR optical assembly measurements
Authors: Ye Yingjie , Xia Maopeng , Kong Deyao , Zhai Wenchao , Xu Mingming , Ge Peng , Zhou Anran , Zheng Xiaobing
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a method for measuring the optical assembly results based on multi-beam biaxial LiDAR. This method analyzes the optical assembly parameters of a LiDAR system affecting the LiDAR operation, and an experimental measurement system is built using a collimator to simulate the infinity imaging field. An InGaAs infrared camera is used to take pictures of the laser spot from the LiDAR transmitter and receiver, and then fit the laser spot images with Gaussian equations to calculate the biaxial LiDAR optical assembly results. Finally, the possible effecting factors of LiDAR alignment results are analyzed. This method is experimentally proven to achieve the measurement of the optical assembly results of a large scale multi-beam LiDAR. The possibility of further optimizing the measurement method by shaping the transmit laser is also reported.
Exit pupil quality analysis and optimization in freeform afocal telescope systems
Authors: Bauer Aaron , Zhang Chi , Rolland Jannick P.
Published: June 2023

Afocal telescopes are often used as foreoptics to existing imaging systems to allow for application flexibility. To properly combine an afocal telescope with an existing imaging system, the exit pupil of the afocal telescope and the entrance pupil of the imaging system must be coincident. Additionally, the exit pupil of the afocal telescope must be well-formed; that is, it must be the correct size and shape to mitigate pupil-matching challenges. This work introduces processes for designing freeform afocal telescopes with an emphasis on understanding how to analyze and control the exit pupil quality of such systems. The included 3-mirror design examples demonstrate the advantages of using freeform surfaces in afocal systems and quantify the tradeoffs required to improve the exit pupil quality.
Double filter iterative ghost imaging for high quality edge and image acquisition
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Feng Deli , Wang Gangcheng , Huang Jipeng , Huang Heyan , Liu Xuan , Li Xinwei , Feng Yueshu , Sun Haizhu , Song Lijun
Published: June 2023

Improving imaging quality and reducing time consumption are the key problems that need to be solved in the practical application of ghost imaging. Hence, we demonstrate a double filter iterative ghost imaging method, which adopts the joint iteration of projected Landweber iterative regularization and double filtering based on block matching three dimensional filtering and guided filtering to achieve high-quality image reconstruction under low measurement and low iteration times. This method combines the advantages of ill-posed problem solution of projected Landweber iterative regularization with double filtering joint iterative de-noising and edge preservation. The numerical simulation results show that our method outperforms the comparison method by 4 to 6 dB in terms of peak signal-to-noise ratio for complex binary target ‘rice’ and grayscale target ‘aircraft’ after 1500 measurements. The comparison results of experiments and numerical simulations using similar aircraft targets show that this method is superior to the comparison method, especially in terms of richer and more accurate edge detection results. This method can simultaneously obtain high quality reconstructed image and edge feature information under low measurement and iteration times, which is of great value for the practical application fields of imaging and edge detection at the same time, such as intelligent driving, remote sensing and other fields.
Mathematical modeling the order of driver gene mutations in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Lingling , Hu Yulu , Xu Yunshan , Tang Sanyi
Published: June 2023

Tumor heterogeneity is a large obstacle for cancer study and treatment. Different cancer patients may involve different combinations of gene mutations or the distinct regulatory pathways for inducing the progression of tumor. Investigating the pathways of gene mutations which can cause the formation of tumor can provide a basis for the personalized treatment of cancer. Studies suggested that KRAS, APC and TP53 are the most significant driver genes for colorectal cancer. However, it is still an open issue regarding the detailed mutation order of these genes in the development of colorectal cancer. For this purpose, we analyze the mathematical model considering all orders of mutations in oncogene, KRAS and tumor suppressor genes, APC and TP53, and fit it on data describing the incidence rates of colorectal cancer at different age from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results registry in the United States for the year 1973–2013. The specific orders that can induce the development of colorectal cancer are identified by the model fitting. The fitting results indicate that the mutation orders with KRAS → APC → TP53, APC → TP53 → KRAS and APC → KRAS → TP53 explain the age–specific risk of colorectal cancer with very well. Furthermore, eleven pathways of gene mutations can be accepted for the mutation order of genes with KRAS → APC → TP53, APC → TP53 → KRAS and APC → KRAS → TP53, and the alternation of APC acts as the initiating or promoting event in the colorectal cancer. The estimated mutation rates of cells in the different pathways demonstrate that genetic instability must exist in colorectal cancer with alterations of genes, KRAS, APC and TP53.
Effects of intra-abdominal hypertension on maternal-fetal outcomes in term pregnant women: A systematic review
Authors: Arruda Correia Maria Luisa , Peixoto Filho Fernando Maia , Gomes Júnior Saint Clair , Peixoto Maria Virginia Marques
Published: June 2023

Objective

To carry out a systematic review to assess the effects of intra-abdominal hypertension on maternal-fetal outcomes.

Methods

The search was carried out between 28th June to 4th July 2022 on the Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020206526). The systematic review was performed according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: The PRISMA Statement. To assess the methodological quality and control the risk of bias, New Castle was used.

Results

A total of 6203 articles were found. Of these, 5 met the selection criteria for a full reading. The selected studies included a total of 271 pregnant women, of which 242 underwent elective cesarean section and measurement of intra-abdominal pressure via a bladder catheter. In both pregnant women groups, the lowest intra-abdominal pressure values were found in the supine position with left lateral tilt. Prepartum values in normotensive women with singleton pregnancy (7.3±1.3 to 14.1 ± 1 mmHg) were lower than in gestational hypertensive disorders (12.0±3.3 to 18.3±2.6 mmHg). In postpartum, the values decreased in both groups but were even lower in normotensive women (3.7±0.8 to 9.9 ± 2.6 mmHg vs 8.5 ± 3.6 to 13.6 ± 3.3 mmHg). The same was true for twin pregnancies. The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment index ranged from 0.6 (0.5) to 0.9 (0.7) in both groups of pregnant women. The placental malondialdehyde levels were statistically (p < 0.05) higher in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia (2.52±1.05) than normotensive (1.42±0.54).

Conclusions

Prepartum intra-abdominal pressure values in normotensive women were close or equal to intra-abdominal hypertension and compatible with gestational hypertensive disorders even in the postpartum period. IAP values were consistently lower in supine position with lateral tilt in both groups. Significant correlations were found between prematurity, low birth weight, pregnant women with hypertensive disorders, and increased intra-abdominal pressure. However, there was no significant association of dysfunction in any system in the relationship between intra-abdominal pressure and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment. Despite the higher malondialdehyde values in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia, the findings were inconclusive. Given the observed data on maternal and fetal outcomes, it would be recommended that intra-abdominal pressure measurements be standardized and used as a diagnostic tool during pregnancy.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration: October 9th, 2020, CRD42020206526.
Women’s empowerment and contraceptive use: Recent evidence from ASEAN countries
Authors: Efendi Ferry , Sebayang Susy Katikana , Astutik Erni , Reisenhofer Sonia , McKenna Lisa
Published: June 2023

Background

A fundamental element of gender equity are women’s rights to reproductive choice. Women’s empowerment is often linked to enabling decisions around contraceptive use and reduced fertility worldwide, although limited evidence is currently available around contraceptive use and decision making in ASEAN countries.

Objective

To examine the association between women’s empowerment and contraceptive use in five selected ASEAN member states.

Methods

Data from the latest Demographic and Health Survey of Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, The Philippines, and Timor-Leste were used. The main outcome was contraceptive use among married women (15–49 years) from these five countries. We considered four indicators of empowerment: labor force participation; disagreement with reasons for wife beating; decision-making power over household issues; and knowledge level.

Results

Labor force participation was found to be significantly associated with contraceptive use in all nations. Disagreement with justification of wife beating was not significantly related to contraceptive use in any country. Decision-making power (higher) was only associated with contraceptive use in Cambodia, while higher knowledge levels were associated with contraceptive use in Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Conclusion

This study suggests women’s labor force participation is an important determinant of contraceptive use. Policies designed to open the labor market and empower women through education should be implemented to enable women’s participation. Gender inequality may also be tackled by engaging women in decision-making processes at national, community and family levels.
Quality, productivity, and economic implications of exoskeletons for occupational use: A systematic review
Authors: Fournier Daniel E. , Yung Marcus , Somasundram Kumara G. , Du Bronson B. , Rezvani Sara , Yazdani Amin
Published: June 2023

The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize the current state of knowledge on the quality and productivity of workers and their work while wearing exoskeletons, as well as the economic implications of exoskeletons for occupational use. Following the PRISMA guidelines, six databases were systematically searched for relevant journal articles, written in English, and published since January 2000. Articles meeting the inclusion criteria had their quality assessed using JBI’s Checklist for Quasi-Experimental Studies (Non-Randomized Experimental Studies). A total of 6,722 articles were identified and 15 articles focusing on the impact of exoskeletons on quality and productivity of exoskeleton users while performing occupational tasks were included in this study. None of the included articles evaluated the economic implications of exoskeletons for occupational use. This study revealed several quality and productivity measures (e.g., endurance time, task completion time, number of errors, number of task cycles completed) used to evaluate the impact of exoskeletons. The current state of the literature suggests that quality and productivity impacts of exoskeleton use are dependent on task characteristics that should be considered when adopting exoskeletons. Future studies should evaluate the impact of exoskeleton use in the field and on a diverse pool of workers, as well as its economic implications to better support decision-making in the adoption of exoskeletons within organizations.
Biomechanical variables in Icelandic horse riders and the effect on tölt performance: A pilot study
Authors: Sätter J. K. , McGawley K. , Connysson M. , Staunton C. A.
Published: June 2023

Aim

To identify how riding rein direction (left and right) and rider asymmetry affect tölt performance in Icelandic horses.

Methods

Two horses were ridden in tölt by four riders on both left and right reins. Riders wore pressure insoles that measured the total absolute force (FAbs) and absolute force difference (FDiff) in their left and right feet in the stirrups. A 3D motion-analysis system recorded the degrees of side-to-side movement in the pelvis (RollP) and in the thoracolumbar region (RollT). Lateral advanced placement (LAP) and duty factor (DF) were calculated to determine tölt performance. One-way ANOVAs were used to assess the effect of rein direction on rider asymmetry variables (FAbs, FDiff, RollP and RollT) and tölt performance (LAP, DF) on a group level (n = 8). Within-subject Spearman rank correlations (ρ) were computed to determine the effect of rider asymmetry variables on tölt performance on an individual level.

Results

LAP was closer to 25% on the left rein compared to the right rein (mean difference: 1.8±1.2%; F(1,7)= 16.333; p = 0.005, η2p= 0.700). In addition, DF was lower on the left rein compared to the right rein (mean difference: 1.9±0.8%; F(1,7)= 41.299; p<0.001, η2p= 0.855). Individual relationships between RollT and LAP ranged from small negative to very large positive and reached significance for one rider (ρ =0.730; p = 0.040). Individual relationships between RollP and DF ranged from very large negative to very large positive and reached significance for two riders (ρ =0.731; p = 0.040;ρ = -0.723 p = 0.043).

Conclusion

Rein direction might influence tölt performance. Individual relationships between rider asymmetry and tölt performance were highly variable and reached significance in some instances, indicating that the relationship between rider asymmetry and tölt performance is highly individual. This type of biomechanical data can be used to provide valuable feedback to guide equestrians and coaches.
A procedure for risk assessment of check dam systems: A case study of Wangmaogou watershed
Authors: Wang Lin , Zu Qiang , Zhang Qiang
Published: June 2023

Flood-based hydrodynamic damage to check dam systems on the Loess Plateau of China occurs frequently, and there is a strong desire to carry out risk assessments of such check dam systems. This study proposes a weighting method that combines the analytic hierarchy process, entropy method, and TOPSIS to assess the risk of check dam systems. The combined weight-TOPSIS model avoids weight calculation only considers the influence of subjective or objective preference and the bias of the single weighting method. The proposed method is capable of multi-objective risk ranking. It is applied to the Wangmaogou check dam system located in a small watershed on the Loess Plateau. The result of risk ranking matches the reality of the situation. The gray correlation theory model is utilized to rank the risks in the same research area and compared with the results of the combined weight-TOPSIS model. The combined weight-TOPSIS model is more favorable to risk assessment than the gray correlation theory model. The resolution level and decisive judgment of the combined weight-TOPSIS model are more advantageous. These results are in line with the actual conditions. It proves that the combined weight-TOPSIS model can provide a technical reference for the risk assessment of check dam systems in small watersheds.
A validation of the Dutch version of the Awareness of Narrative Identity Questionnaire (ANIQ-NL)
Authors: Dierdorp Nadischa Helena , Vanderveren Elien , Hallford David John , Hermans Dirk
Published: June 2023

Individuals build a narrative identity through the construction of an internalised, unfolding life story based on significant autobiographical memories. The current study validated a Dutch version of the Awareness of Narrative Identity Questionnaire (ANIQ-NL), which assesses how aware individuals are of having a narrative identity as well as their perception of the global coherence within their autobiographical memories, specifically, in terms of temporal ordering, causal connections and thematic integration. The questionnaire was administered to 541 adults (65.1% female,Mage= 34.09,SDage= 15.04, age range = 18–75). The results of a confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence for a four-factor structure, consisting of awareness and the three coherence subscales. The factor loadings of the items varied between .67 and .96. Moreover, the ANIQ-NL subscales showed good to excellent internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alphas ranging from .86 to .96. Furthermore, higher levels of perceived autobiographical memory coherence were found to be significantly correlated to lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. The ANIQ-NL was determined to be a valid and reliable tool to measure narrative identity awareness and perceived narrative coherence. Future research could utilise the ANIQ-NL to further investigate the role of narrative identity in psychological well-being.
Benefits, outcomes and challenges of teaching contemporary art in Wisconsin K-12 art classrooms
Authors: Bae Jaehan
Published: June 2023

This study looks at the lived experiences of Wisconsin K-12 art teachers who teach contemporary art. While research suggests that student learning is enhanced by meaningful instruction in contemporary art, more knowledge is needed to inform art education theory and practice. The study methodology was grounded in descriptive phenomenology and data included surveys, one-on-one interviews and focus group interviews, which were analysed using thematic analysis. Reported benefits of teaching contemporary art included enhanced relevance and increased student excitement and engagement. Other outcomes included the development of novel pedagogies by teachers and the increased visibility of art programmes in school and community. Challenges for teachers included the need to supplement material- and product-based lessons, the complexity of addressing controversial issues and the increased preparation time required to create original contemporary art units. Potential limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are provided.
Editorial
Authors: Hancock Joseph H.
Published: June 2023

In this editorial, Hancock discusses the future of the journal Fashion, Style & Popular Culture (FSPC). He outlines the historical topics the journal has featured such as ‘Cultural Appropriation’, ‘Black Lives Matter’, ‘Latin Culture’, ‘LGBTQIA’, ‘Queer’, ‘Sexuality and Erotica’, ‘Porn’, ‘Body Diversity’ and twice for ‘Retail and Merchandising Technologies’; revealing how FSPC has been in sync with the zeitgeist following Intellect’s publishing motto of original ideas and thoughts.

This issue is dedicated to Jude Tallichet, a colleague and close friend whose complex, funny, profound and moving art encapsulates the same spirit animating our journal. We appreciate and admire your dedication and love from your friend Joy Sperling and your family at Fashion, Style & Popular Culture (FSPC).