bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensorimotor Impairment in Aging and Neurocognitive Disorders: Beat Synchronization and Adaptation to Tempo Changes
Authors: von Schnehen Andres , Hobeika Lise , Houot Marion , Recher Arnaud , Puisieux François , Huvent-Grelle Dominique , Samson Séverine
Published: July 2024

Background:

Understanding the nature and extent of sensorimotor decline in aging individuals and those with neurocognitive disorders (NCD), such as Alzheimer’s disease, is essential for designing effective music-based interventions. Our understanding of rhythmic functions remains incomplete, particularly in how aging and NCD affect sensorimotor synchronization and adaptation to tempo changes.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate how aging and NCD severity impact tapping to metronomes and music, with and without tempo changes.

Methods:

Patients from a memory clinic participated in a tapping task, synchronizing with metronomic and musical sequences, some of which contained sudden tempo changes. After exclusions, 51 patients were included in the final analysis.

Results:

Participants’ Mini-Mental State Examination scores were associated with tapping consistency. Additionally, age negatively influenced consistency when synchronizing with a musical beat, whereas consistency remained stable across age when tapping with a metronome.

Conclusions:

The results indicate that the initial decline of attention and working memory with age may impact perception and synchronization to a musical beat, whereas progressive NCD-related cognitive decline results in more widespread sensorimotor decline, affecting tapping irrespective of audio type. These findings underline the importance of customizing rhythm-based interventions to the needs of older adults and individuals with NCD, taking into consideration their cognitive as well as their rhythmic aptitudes.
Unraveling the Threads: Sleep Difficulties, Neighborhood Physical Disorder, and Subjective Cognitive Decline in Older Americans
Authors: Esiaka Darlingtina , Odo Obinna , Luth Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

Background:

Research suggests that the neighborhood in which people live can be a risk or protective factor for various health outcomes, including cognitive decline to Alzheimer’s disease. Similar to the impact of neighborhood on health outcomes, sleep difficulties have been linked to cognitive function in older adults. However, few studies have examined how neighborhood physical disorders moderate the effects of sleep on subjective cognitive decline (SCD).

Objective:

The study examined the moderating effect of neighborhood factors on the relationship between sleep difficulties and SCD.

Methods:

Data were obtained from 2,494 respondents (1,065 males and 1,429 females) from Wave 11 of the National Health and Aging Trends (NHATS) data. Sleep difficulties were operationalized as the presence of difficulties in falling and staying asleep. Neighborhood physical disorder (e.g., vandalism, graffiti) was based on interviewer observations of respondents’ neighborhoods. SCD was operationalized as subjective reports of increasing or worse memory loss in the past 12 months and present memory rating. We utilized Linear regression to test neighborhood physical disorder as a moderator of the relationship between sleep difficulties and SCD.

Results:

We found a significant interaction between sleep difficulties and neighborhood physical disorder on SCD (β=0.046, p = 0.031, 95% CI[0.00,0.51], p < 0.001). Participants who reported higher average sleep difficulties and higher levels of neighborhood physical disorder were more likely to report SCD.

Conclusions:

Our findings add to inform future health interventions and policy recommendations that address modifiable sources of cognitive decline and risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Understanding Racial Disparities in Dementia Prevalence Among Veterans
Authors: Arenson Melanie , Bahorik Amber , Xia Feng , Peltz Carrie , Cohen Beth , Yaffe Kristine
Published: July 2024

Background:

Black and Hispanic older adults have greater incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias relative to White adults, but factors underlying these disparities are not well understood, limiting the ability to address them.

Objective:

To determine the impact of demographics, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and risk factors, social determinants of health (SDOH), and neuropsychiatric risk factors on racial/ethnic disparities in dementia risk among Veterans.

Methods:

We examined a random sample of 1,579,919 older Veterans (age ≥55) without dementia who received care from the VHA from October 1, 1999 to September 30, 2021. All variables were extracted from national VHA data. We used Cox proportional hazard regression models to examine change in variance in risk of dementia across racial/ethnic groups.

Results:

During follow up (mean 11.1 years), 13% of Veterans developed dementia. Relative to White Veterans, the adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) for developing dementia in sex-adjusted models with age as timescale were 1.65 (95% CI, 1.63–1.67) for Black Veterans and 1.50 (95% CI, 1.44–1.56) for Hispanic Veterans. In the model examining CVD and risk factors, AHRs were 1.53 (95% CI, 1.50–1.55) for Black Veterans and 1.38 (95% CI, 1.33–1.44) for Hispanic Veterans. In the model examining SDOH, AHRs were 1.46 (95% CI, 1.43–1.49) for Black Veterans and 1.34 (95% CI, 1.29–1.40) for Hispanic Veterans.

Conclusions:

SDOH and CVD and risk factors accounted for the greatest amount of variance in racial/ethnic disparities in dementia risk. Cardiovascular disease and SDOH are strong possible targets for interventions designed to reduce these disparities.
Association of Anxiety and Unspecified Emotional Distress Obtained from a Medical Records Linkage System with Incident Cognitive Outcomes in a Population-Based Setting
Authors: Syrjanen Jeremy A. , Krell-Roesch Janina , Kremers Walter K. , Fields Julie A. , Scharf Eugene L. , Knopman David S. , Petersen Ronald C. , Vassilaki Maria , Geda Yonas E.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Studies that assess cognition prospectively and study in detail anxiety history in the participants’ medical records within the context of brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease are limited.

Objective:

To examine the associations of anxiety and unspecified emotional distress (UED) acquired throughout a person’s life with prospectively collected cognitive outcomes.

Methods:

Mayo Clinic Study of Aging participants who were cognitively unimpaired at baseline were included. Anxiety and UED data were abstracted from the medical record using the Rochester Epidemiology Project (REP) resources and were run separately as predictors in our models. The data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models for the outcomes of incident mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia and using linear mixed effects models for the outcomes of global and domain specific cognitive z-scores and included key covariates.

Results:

The study sample ( n = 1,808) had a mean (standard deviation) age of 74.5 (7.3) years and 51.4% were male. Anxiety was associated with increased risk of MCI and dementia and was associated with lower baseline cognitive z-scores and accelerated decline over time in the global, memory, and attention domains. UED was associated with faster decline in all domains except visuospatial but did not show evidence of association with incident cognitive outcomes. These results varied by medication use and timing of anxiety.

Conclusions:

Anxiety and UED both showed inverse associations with cognition. Utilization of anxiety and UED data from across the life course, as available, from the REP system adds robustness to our results.
Undetected Association Between Fatty Acids and Dementia with Lewy Bodies: A Bidirectional Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhai Weijie , Zhao Anguo , Wei Chunxiao , Xu Yanjiao , Cui Xinran , Zhang Yan , Meng Lingjie , Sun Li
Published: July 2024

Background:

Although observational studies indicated connections between fatty acids (FAs) and Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, uncertainty persists regarding how these relationships extend to dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

Objective:

To explore the potential causal relationships between FAs and the development of DLB, thus clarifying these associations using genetic instruments to infer causality.

Methods:

We applied a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) approach. Genetic data were obtained from a DLB cohort, comprising 2,591 cases and 4,027 controls of European descent. Eight FAs, including linoleic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, monounsaturated fatty acid, omega-3 fatty acid, omega-6 fatty acid, polyunsaturated fatty acid, saturated fatty acid, and total fatty acid, were procured from a comprehensive GWAS of metabolic biomarkers of UK Biobank, conducted by Nightingale Health in 2020 (met-d), involving 114,999 individuals. Our analysis included inverse-variance weighted, MR-Egger, weighted-median, simple mode, and weighted-mode MR estimates. Cochran’s Q-statistics, MR-PRESSO, and MR-Egger intercept test were used to quantify the heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy of instrumental variables.

Results:

Only linoleic acid showed a significant genetic association with the risk of developing DLB in the univariate MR. The odds ratio for linoleic acid was 1.337 with a 95% confidence interval of 1.019–1.756 (pIVW = 0.036). Results from the MVMR showed that no FAs were associated with the incidence of DLB.

Conclusions:

The results did not support the hypothesis that FAs could reduce the risk of developing DLB. However, elucidating the relationship between FAs and DLB risk holds potential implications for informing dietary recommendations and therapeutic approaches in DLB.
Prevalence of Dementia and Cognitive Impairment in East Africa Region: A Scoping Review of Population-Based Studies and Call for Further Research
Authors: Yenesew Muluken A. , Krell-Roesch Janina , Fekadu Betelhem , Nigatu Dabere , Endalamaw Aklilu , Mekonnen Alemtsehay , Biyadgie Mulugeta , Wubetu Gizachew Y. , Debiso Alemu T. , Beyene Kassu M. , Kelkile Teshome S. , Enquobahrie Daniel A. , Mersha Tesfaye B. , Eagan Danielle E. , Geda Yonas E.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Population-based research on the prevalence and determinants of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and cognitive impairment is scarce in East Africa.

Objective:

To provide an overview of community- and population-based studies among older adults on the prevalence of dementia and cognitive impairment in East Africa, and identify research gaps.

Methods:

We carried out a literature search using three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar) using pertinent search terms.

Results:

After screening 445 publications, we identified four publications on the population-based prevalence of dementia, and three on cognitive impairment. Prevalence rates varied from 6– 23% for dementia, and 7– 44% for cognitive impairment, among participants aged≥50–70 years. Old age and a lower education level were risk factors for dementia and cognitive impairment. Physical inactivity, lack of a ventilated kitchen, and history of central nervous system infections and chronic headache were associated with increased odds of dementia. Female sex, depression, having no spouse, increased lifetime alcohol consumption, low income, rural residence, and low family support were associated with increased odds of cognitive impairment. Potential misclassification and non-standardized data collection methods are research gaps that should be addressed in future studies.

Conclusions:

Establishing collaborative networks and partnering with international research institutions may enhance the capacity for conducting population-based studies on dementia and cognitive impairment in East Africa. Longitudinal studies may provide valuable insights on incidence, as well as potential risk and protective factors of dementia and cognitive impairment, and may inform the development of targeted interventions including preventive strategies in the region.
Functional regulation of hydroxyproline, ascorbic acid and lipid peroxidation during GABA chitosan nanoparticles mediated liver regeneration
Authors: Shilpa J. , Nebu G.T.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Liver is a vital organ and the role of Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) conjugated chitosan nanoparticles in enhancing the hepatocyte proliferation was reported. To understand the influence of these nanoparticles on various biochemical parameters during enhanced liver regeneration will improve its clinical significance.

OBJECTIVE:

To highlight the influence of GABA chitosan nanoparticles on ascorbic acid, hydroxyproline and lipid peroxidation levels during liver regeneration.

METHODS:

Intraperitoneal administration of nanoparticles was done to partially hepatectomised female Sprague Dawley rats (GCNP) and compared the biochemical parameters with sham operated control (C) and with no treatment (PHNT) cases.

RESULTS:

The hydroxyproline content was increased in the liver of GCNP when compared to PHNT ( P < 0.05). The lipid peroxidation level was increased ( P < 0.01) in PHNT compared to the control whereas, decreased in GCNP when compared ( P < 0.01) with PHNT. There was a significant increase ( P < 0.01) in the ascorbic acid content in PHNT when compared with C. It was significantly decreased ( P < 0.01) in GCNP when compared with PHNT.

CONCLUSION:

This highlighted the therapeutic implications of lipid peroxidation, hydroxyproline and ascorbic acid in GABA chitosan nanoparticles mediated liver regeneration, which will have immense clinical relevance in maintaining liver health.
Speech Biomarkers in Huntington’s Disease: A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study in Premanifest Mutation Carriers
Authors: Saft Carsten , Jessen Julia , Hoffmann Rainer , Lukas Carsten , Skodda Sabine
Published: July 2024

Speech alterations have been reported in manifest Huntington’s disease (HD) and premanifest mutation carriers (preHD). The aim of our study was to explore these alterations in preHD and whether they can be used as biomarkers. 13 preHD mutation carriers performed reading task, sustained phonation task and syllable repetition tasks at baseline and after 21 months, as well as clinical examination and MRI. Syllable repetition capacity and self-chosen velocity of single syllable repetition differed significantly between time points. There were no changes in clinical ratings or MRI volumetry. Measurements of speech might be sensitive tools for monitoring subclinical changes in preHD.
How Information Affects Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Kurpershoek Elisabeth , Visser Leonie N.C. , Malekzadeh Arjan , de Bie Rob M.A. , Dijk Joke M. , Hillen Marij A.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) need to receive adequate information to manage their disease. However, little is known about how information provision affects patients.

Objective:

To conduct a scoping review of the literature on the relationship between content, timing, manner of delivery, and source of PD-specific information on the one hand, and patient outcomes on the other.

Methods:

All literature reporting about original data and published until April 2024 in peer-reviewed journals was searched in MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid) and PsychInfo (Ovid). Subsequently, data were extracted and synthesized.

Results:

40 publications describing the effects of information provision or patients’ evaluation thereof were retrieved. Four categories of patient outcomes were described, namely 1) evaluation and experience of information provision; 2) physical functioning; 3) psychosocial well-being; and 4) quality of life. In intervention studies, patients generally valued the provided information. Findings from cross-sectional and qualitative studies showed the importance of tailoring information to individuals’ needs and capabilities. Due to variation in study designs and outcomes, no unambiguous conclusions could be drawn regarding the relationship between information and outcomes.

Conclusions:

This scoping review identified how PD patients acquire information and revealed a lack of systematic research into the effect of information on patient outcomes. Future studies should assess 1) what information is currently provided by clinicians; 2) what additional information might be beneficial to provide; and 3) how information can be effectively aligned to benefit patients. This will eventually yield insight into how information might optimally empower PD patients.
Population-adjusted national rankings in the Olympics
Authors: Duncan Robert C. , Parece Andrew
Published: July 2024

Ranking countries in the Olympic Games by medal counts clearly favors large-population countries over small ones, while ranking by medals-per-capita produces national rankings with very small population countries on top. We discuss why this happens, and propose a new national ranking system for the Olympics, also based upon medals won, which is inclusive in the sense that countries of widely-varying population can achieve high rankings. This population-adjusted probability ranking ranks countries by how much evidence they show for high capability at Olympic sports. In particular, it ranks countries according to how improbable their medal counts would be in an idealized reference model of the Games which posits that all medal-winning nations have equal propensity per capita for winning medals. The ranking index U is defined using a simple binomial sum. Here we explain the method, and we present population-adjusted national rankings for the last three summer Olympics (London 2012, Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, held in 2021). If the advantages of this ranking method come to be understood by sports media covering the Olympics and by the interested public, it could be widely reported alongside raw medal counts, thus adding excitement and interest to the Olympics.
Association between whole egg consumption and depression among older adults: Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study (BLAS)
Authors: Fakhrzadeh Hossein , Moodi Mitra , Sajadi Hezaveh Zohreh , Kami Atefe , Arzaghi Seyed Masoud , Esmaeili Aliakbar , Khodabakhshi Huriye , Khorashadizadeh Masoumeh , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Sharifi Farshad
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Egg consumption may be associated with the risk of depression. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to assess this possible relationship in the context of the Birjand longitudinal aging study (BLAS). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study PHQ-9 was used to assess depression in a total of 1364 adults above 60 years of age, participating in the first stage of BLAS between September 2018 to April 2019. Socio-demographic information, anthropometric indices, and number of whole eggs consumed per week were assessed. Depression was assessed across the egg consumption groups: low (≤1 eggs/week), moderate (≥2 to ≤3 eggs/week), and high (≥4 eggs/week), and the association was investigated using logistic regression. RESULTS: Mean egg intake in the studied population was 2.4 eggs/week. In the crude model and after adjustment for age and sex, moderate and high egg consumption were both associated with lower risk of depression in older adults (P≤0.05). Adjustment for more confounding variables revealed that only moderate egg consumption protected against depression, while high egg consumers were still at risk of depression. CONCLUSION: Both moderate and high egg intake had reverse association with depression, and reduced the odds of depression among the elderly to approximately 30–40%. Future longitudinal studies could better confirm this association.
Lifestyle intervention in workers with obesity and sedentary behavior: A pilot study for the “OTTiMo LavorO” project
Authors: Giuseppina Bernardelli , Francesca Gori , Rezarta Kolleshi , Laura Tomaino , Antonella Di Maggio , Alessandra Piontini , Maria Rosaria Ingenito , Daniela Lucini , Vito De Gennaro Colonna , Vigna Luisella
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Workplace barriers to physical activity (PA) and sedentary work contribute to obesity. Workplace lifestyle interventions are needed to reduce sedentary behavior. OBJECTIVE: The study evaluates the effects of a self-monitoring PA protocol plus diet on general health of workers with obesity. METHODS: Thirty-nine workers affected by obesity were enrolled in this pilot intervention study. Monthly and daily PA diary, six-minute walking test (6MWT), Short Form-36 health survey (SF-36), and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) results were evaluated prior (T0) and at the end of the study (T1). A personalized low-calorie diet based on the Mediterranean diet model was also implemented. Participants followed the protocol from one to three months depending on the date of recruitment. RESULTS: Significant improvements in SF36 and GPAQ scores were recorded, along with reductions in sedentary activity, weight, and BMI (p < 0.001). 6MWT significantly increased from 462.5 [412.5–500] m at T0 to 500 [462.5–550] m at T1 (p < 0.001). A multiple linear regression analysis to investigate the impact of selected covariates (PA, body weight reduction, and sedentary time) on the 6MWT was significant in men. CONCLUSIONS: PA self-monitoring protocols and diets are effective and sustainable for workplace interventions. PA should be part of daily medical practice and occupational physicians should encourage behavioral changes in workers.
Functional ankle taping correction on plantar foot ulcer healing in diabetic patients: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Elfahl Ahmed , Aly Sobhy , Elfeky Heba
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: High pressure in diabetic foot plantar areas causes ulcer formation, leading to disability and amputations. Around 25% of diabetics experience foot ulcers, with prevalence rates varying among Africans, Asians, and Europeans. Egypt has the highest rates, ranging from 6.1% to 29.3%. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of functional ankle taping correction on plantar foot ulcer healing in diabetic patients. METHODS: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial design. A total of 70 patients with plantar foot ulcers PFUs were randomly divided into two groups: group A, which received ankle taping in addition to usual medical therapy and debridement, and group B, which received ankle taping without routine medical treatment and debridement. Over two months, all patients underwent evaluation using a Walkway pressure monitoring system, goniometer, wound workstation, and saline injection. This evaluation aimed to determine maximal peak plantar pressure, active ankle dorsiflexion, wound area, and volume sequentially. RESULTS: Initially, there was no meaningful difference between the two groups. However, after eight weeks of treatment, there was a substantial impact, as indicated by a p-value of 0.001 and an f-value of 87.49 for treatment effect at 95% CI.Furthermore, a statistically significant interaction was found between treatment and time in the ankle-taping group between pre-and post-treatment. However, no difference was identified in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The correction of ankle taping has a significant impact on various factors, including peak plantar pressure, ankle dorsiflexion, wound area, and wound volume. This correction leads to a reduction in peak plantar pressure, wound area, and volume while also enhancing active ankle dorsiflexion.
Work ability meetings – Challenges and Resolutions, a survey to Finnish occupational physicians
Authors: Honkonen Niina , Lamminpää Anne , Liira Juha
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Work ability meetings (WAM) are an essential and common tool of disability management in occupational health services in Finland. Meetings are held between an employee, a supervisor, and an occupational physician (OP). The aim is mainly to support work ability. OBJECTIVES: To describe challenges and resolutions in the meetings as described by OPs. METHODS: An internet survey was emailed to the members (n = 1304) of the Finnish Society of Occupational Health Physicians in August 2014. We asked physicians to describe those WAMs they had attended, especially challenges and resolutions concerning WAM. RESULTS: A total of 302 (23%) OPs responded to the survey. Most severe of the challenges were personal conflicts and a lack of confidence between the parties at the workplace. Also, the participants’ views may differ about the purpose and goal of the meeting. The respondents noted that the employer might be unable to organize modified work for disabled employees. As a resolution, OPs need to prepare well and maintain their professional and neutral role in WAMs in all cases. OPs also mentioned the need for training in insurance medicine and rehabilitation as well as skills as a mediator. CONCLUSIONS: WAM is a potential tool for return to work and disability management in collaboration between employees, employers, and occupational health when all the participants reach a common goal and become aware of their role in the process. OPs need to recognize possible conflicting interests and contact each party before WAM. Keeping confidentiality in WAMs is a crucial matter.
Musculoskeletal disorders and diseases in healthcare workers. A scoping review
Authors: Rossetto Gianluca , Sala Emma , Albertelli Ivan Ferdinando , Donatoni Claudio , Mazzali Marco , Merlino Valeria , Paraggio Emilio , De Palma Giuseppe , Lopomo Nicola Francesco
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: The impact of work-related tasks with potential biomechanical overload on the musculoskeletal system represents an essential socio-economical challenge. OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to map the current literature to identify musculoskeletal disorders and diseases among healthcare professionals and define the approaches used to assess these problems. METHODS: The analysis was developed according to the JBI methodologies for scoping reviews and reported following the PRISMA-ScR framework. RESULTS: We conducted specific searches on online databases; of the 357 articles initially identified, only 118 met the inclusion criteria. CONCLUSIONS: Despite some discrepancies in their unambiguous identification, the presence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in healthcare professionals is unequivocal. On the other hand, using technology as a supporting evaluation tool still needs to be explored. Furthermore, several improvements are required to enhance the quality of work and simplify the analysis across studies.
Effects of laptop screen height on neck and shoulder muscle fatigue and spine loading for office workers
Authors: Guo Zenghui , Chen Zhiyuan , Pai Junjun , Fang Bin , Liang Wenhao , Su Guosheng , Zheng Feng
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Due to the unfavourable neck-shoulder muscle loads caused by poor posture, the people who use the laptop for a long time may face the risk of neck and shoulder injuries. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study investigates the impact of the screen height on the muscle activation of head flexion, neck and shoulder, and the cervical spine torque to provide the favorite screen height for laptop user. METHODS: Twelve healthy young participants completed a15-minute task of the reading at the four different screen heights. sEMG signals of the splenius capitis (SC) and upper trapezius (UT) were measured and calculated the root mean square (RMS) and mean power frequency (MPF) to determine muscle fatigue. The different height of laptop users was simulated and the forces on the spine of users at different screen heights were analyzed by Jack. RESULTS: Adjusting the height of the laptop screen can effectively reduce head flexion and muscle activity of SC and UT, and has a positive effect on reducing fatigue of SC, but has no significant effect on UT. CONCLUSIONS: Adjusting the height of the laptop screen can delay the occurrence of SC muscle fatigue to a certain extent. The joint analysis of sEMG spectrum and amplitude reports that the screen heights of D15 and D45 have the highest and the lowest frequency of fatigue, respectively. At the same time, the moment of spineT1/T2 and spineL4/L5 decrease with the increase of screen height.
Adaptive orthogonal directional total variation with kernel regression for CT image denoising
Authors: Xue Xiying , Ji Dongjiang , Xu Chunyu , Zhao Yuqing , Li Yimin , Hu Chunhong
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Low-dose computed tomography (CT) has been successful in reducing radiation exposure for patients. However, the use of reconstructions from sparse angle sampling in low-dose CT often leads to severe streak artifacts in the reconstructed images. OBJECTIVE: In order to address this issue and preserve image edge details, this study proposes an adaptive orthogonal directional total variation method with kernel regression. METHODS: The CT reconstructed images are initially processed through kernel regression to obtain the N-term Taylor series, which serves as a local representation of the regression function. By expanding the series to the second order, we obtain the desired estimate of the regression function and localized information on the first and second derivatives. To mitigate the noise impact on these derivatives, kernel regression is performed again to update the first and second derivatives. Subsequently, the original reconstructed image, its local approximation, and the updated derivatives are summed using a weighting scheme to derive the image used for calculating orientation information. For further removal of stripe artifacts, the study introduces the adaptive orthogonal directional total variation (AODTV) method, which denoises along both the edge direction and the normal direction, guided by the previously obtained orientation. RESULTS: Both simulation and real experiments have obtained good results. The results of two real experiments show that the proposed method has obtained PSNR values of 34.5408 dB and 29.4634 dB, which are 1.2392–5.9333 dB and 2.828–6.7995 dB higher than the contrast denoising algorithm, respectively, indicating that the proposed method has good denoising performance. CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the method in eliminating strip artifacts and preserving the fine details of the images.
Multiobjective optimization guided by image quality index for limited-angle CT image reconstruction
Authors: He Yu , Wang Chengxiang , Yu Wei , Wang Jiaxi
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Due to the incomplete projection data collected by limited-angle computed tomography (CT), severe artifacts are present in the reconstructed image. Classical regularization methods such as total variation (TV) minimization, ℓ0 minimization, are unable to suppress artifacts at the edges perfectly. Most existing regularization methods are single-objective optimization approaches, stemming from scalarization methods for multiobjective optimization problems (MOP). OBJECTIVE: To further suppress the artifacts and effectively preserve the edge structures of the reconstructed image. METHOD: This study presents a multiobjective optimization model incorporates both data fidelity term and ℓ0-norm of the image gradient as objective functions. It employs an iterative approach different from traditional scalarization methods, using the maximization of structural similarity (SSIM) values to guide optimization rather than minimizing the objective function.The iterative method involves two steps, firstly, simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique (SART) optimizes the data fidelity term using SSIM and the Simulated Annealing (SA) algorithm for guidance. The degradation solution is accepted in the form of probability, and guided image filtering (GIF) is introduced to further preserve the image edge when the degradation solution is rejected. Secondly, the result from the first step is integrated into the second objective function as a constraint, we use ℓ0 minimization to optimize ℓ0-norm of the image gradient, and the SSIM, SA algorithm and GIF are introduced to guide optimization process by improving SSIM value like the first step. RESULTS: With visual inspection, the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), root mean square error (RMSE), and SSIM values indicate that our approach outperforms other traditional methods. CONCLUSIONS: The experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our method and its superiority over other classical methods in artifact suppression and edge detail restoration.
Meta-Analysis: Impact of Sustainable Development on Pedagogical Approaches in Education
Authors: Hafeez Rabia , Muhammad Akram Tayyaba , Nazir Asim
Published: July 2024

Sustainable development in education system can lead towards an innovative and productive world.  In this study, meta-analytical approach is used to provide key themes of education for sustainable development (ESD), its basic competencies, and pedagogies. The main agenda of ESD is to achieve the goals of sustainable development (SD) by 2030. This review article focuses on an educational perspective that strengthens the educational institutions and empowers all the stakeholders. The current study shows the practices of last ten years to manifest that sustainable development is a significant tool in education. The primary focus of SD is to ensure advancement in the field of skill development. By following this process, teaching becomes constructive and meaningful. In this study, the meta-analysis research method is followed, reporting the analysis of more than sixty (60) research articles. The results and findings were interpreted through a screening process. The results showed that there is a positive and significant effect of sustainable development in the domain of education. Therefore, ESD competencies and pedagogies validate the performance of teachers, students, and all the stakeholders who desire to attain expertise in their respective practices.
Role of Communication Competence, Self-Control, and Professional Excellence in Enhancing the Performance of Academic Departmental Heads: An Evaluative Analysis
Authors: Saddiqa Ayesha , Tariq Shahnila , Mushtaq Sidra
Published: July 2024

A paramount element in the overall education process is the leadership of educational institutions. Communication, professional excellence, and self-control help the departmental heads to interact with communities, teachers and parents of students for the formation of character education. The current study investigated the relationship between professional excellence, self-control, and communication competence among the heads of academic departments. It was assumed that communication competence and self-control correlate with professional excellence. It was assumed that communication competence and self-control correlate with professional excellence. It was also assumed that Self-control is probable to predict professional excellence in academic departmental heads. Also, it was hypothesized that there is expected to be a difference in demographics and professional excellence in academic departmental heads. Purposive sampling technique and correlational research design were used to gather data from the academic heads. Self-Perceived Communication Competence Scale (SPCC), the Desirability of Control Scale, and the Professional Excellence Scale were used as measurement tools for present study. The results discovered a noteworthy correlation between communication competence and professional excellence. Also, a positive relationship was found between self-control and professional excellence, showing the importance of self control for the departmental heads. The findings can be used to implement a policy for the recruitment/ appointment of competent departmental heads, in order to maintain conducive working environment.
The History of Communication Studies across the Americas: An Introduction
Authors: Park David W. , Pooley Jefferson , Simonson Peter , Herrero Esperanza
Published: July 2024

This special section investigates the history of communication and media studies across national and linguistic contexts in the Americas. It maps transnational entanglements that have shaped communication inquiry in the multiple forms it has taken in South and North America and the Caribbean. At the same time, the section’s articles attend to political, institutional, and cultural dynamics that shaped the field in different national and local contexts. In so doing, the special section throws light on topics and regions that have received little attention in English-language literature, and draws attention to historic lines of hegemony, exclusion, resistance, and alternative traditions of research across the hemisphere. In this editors’ introduction, we outline the origins of the collective effort, connect it to parallel projects in two Latin American journals, and introduce the outstanding essays that follow. | Esta sección especial investiga la historia de los estudios sobre comunicación y medios en los diferentes contextos nacionales y/o lingüísticos de las Américas. Para ello, mapea los múltiples enlaces transnacionales que han dado forma a la investigación de la comunicación en sus vertientes norte y sudamericanas, así como en el Caribe. A la vez, los artículos de esta sección prestan atención particularmente a distintos contextos nacionales y locales. De esta manera, esta sección especial nos permite iluminar algunos de los temas y algunas de las regiones que han permanecido oscurecidas por la literatura anglofona, prestando especial atención a las líneas históricas de hegemonía, exclusión y resistencia, así como a las tradiciones de investigación alternativas que se han dado en el hemisferio. En esta introducción a cargo de los editores, señalamos los orígenes de este esfuerzo colectivo, lo conectamos con otros proyectos similares que se han dado en dos revistas latinoamericanas y, finalmente, introducimos los maravillosos ensayos que conforman esta sección especial.
Appraisal of the UN Sustainable Development Goals: A Look Back and a Way Forward
Authors: Ukwuru M. U.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to assess the progress made on the SDGs, explore remaining challenges, and analyze the future prospects for sustainable development. The analysis revealed uneven progress on the SDGs, with advancements in some areas like poverty reduction, but significant hurdles in climate change and inequality. The study identified the need for increased focus on financing mechanisms, technological innovation, and public awareness campaigns to accelerate progress. The study emphasizes the continued importance of the SDGs and the urgency of global commitment to achieve them. It concludes with a call to action for various stakeholders to contribute towards a sustainable future.
An economic analysis of Zambian commercial farmers' response to producer price of Maize
Authors:   , Mendamenda Davison Katolo
Published: July 2024

Since the 1970s agricultural production in Zambia has been poor. The degree of self-sufficiency in major food crops has been declining (from 97 percent in 1964-66 to 79 percent in the 1978-80 period). This performance has been attributed to varying factors, within and outside the economy. One of the factors, advanced is the alleged price unresponsiveness of the commercial farmers. The commercial farmers' share of the total production of maize (staple food crop) has declined over the years. With all the advantages of farming skills, financial means and technological package these farmers possess, there have been different views expressed as to their declining share of maize production. It is against the foregoing background that this economic analysis has been found necessary to determine how responsive these farmers are to producer price of maize. The ultimate goal is to see if indeed producer price can be used as a policy instrument to stimulate increased total national production of maize. The study makes use of the Nerlovian model but assuming one year lag in the price variables. The results are not conclusive as regards the responsiveness. Stepwise regression could not come up with a model using initial data. First differencing of the data came up with a model which was finally used. Unfortunately, the results were inconclusive on determining presence of autocorrelated errors. The adjusted R was only 0.46. In view of this it was thought the results had some bias and coming up with substantive conclusions vis a vis the statistical results would be premature. In conclusion the study gives some recommendations for future research. In view of the distinct regional differences in the distribution of of the various types of farmers, infrastructural facilities, weather and other variables, it is recommended to undertake regional studies incorporating these variables. Need for improved and additional data for these studies and others in the agricultural sector are indicated.
Breeding bird occurrence in mid-Missouri forest fragments
Authors:   , Mitchell Margaret R.
Published: July 2024

"Objectives: This study was conducted to explore the relationship between forest fragmentation and current avian populations in central Missouri in light of the island biogeographic theory of MacArthur and Wilson (1967). The theory was first developed in reference to fauna of oceanic islands. More recently, it has been applied to patches or "islands" of habitat in terrestrial situations (Moore and Hooper 1975, Galli et al. 1976, Morse 1977, Whitcomb 1977, Robbins 1979, Whitcomb et al. 1981) such as forest fragments in an agricultural matrix. The concept emphasizes area size and distance to a colonizing source as important factors in determining species richness (MacArthur and Wilson 1967). The continued fractionation of natural habitat into insular parcels suggests the importance of the development of terrestrial island biogeographic theory to the construction of long-range biological conservation strategies. Forest fragments in Missouri represent a complicated island system. In contrast to the oceanic island system, non-forested habitats which surround terrestrial forest islands do not restrict movement of birds to the same extent as an ocean barrier. In addition, an edge habitat bounding each forest island provides for another community of birds that can affect the species present. Previous research in the central oak-hickory ecosystem has not addressed species/area relationships. Specific objectives of this thesis are: 1. To assess avian species richness in forest fragments of different sizes during the breeding season. 2. To investigate the impact of vegetative structure, area shape, isolation, and area size of forest fragments on the distribution and abundance of avian species. 3. To ascertain avian species-area relationships, and make recommendations for management of oak-hickory forests for area-sensitive bird species."--Page 3.
Effects of fluorene on zooplankton communities
Authors:   , Paulson Robert Lloyd
Published: July 2024

The effect of the hydrocarbon, fluorene, on zooplankton communities was assessed in 14 experimental ponds. Ponds were exposed to a single addition of either 0.12, 0.5, 2.0, 5.0 or 10.0 mg/liter fluorene. There was no dose-related response of zooplankton densities to fluorene. The addition of 0.5 and 0.12 mg/liter fluorene had no detectable affect on any aspect of the zooplankton community while the 2.0 mg/liter treatment seemed to enhance rotifer densities. The 5.0 and 10.0 mg/liter treatments were the only treatments to adversly impact zooplankton communities and caused similar changes to occur within the community. Zooplankton densities were reduced by more than 95 percent upon the addition of 5.0 and 10.0 mg/liter fluorene and zooplankton community structure was significantly changed as indicated by increased community diversity, increased similarity with control ponds, an increase in cladoceran body size, and a shift in cladoceran community composition. In these two treatments, rotifers recovered to pre-treatment levels within three weeks, copepods within eight weeks, and cladocerans within eight to ten weeks. Changes in zooplankton communities exposed to 5.0 and 10.0 mg/liter fluorene are thought to be the result of changing intercommunity interactions such as competition and predation and changing intracommunity interactions such as predation and food quality and quantity. Daily production of Ceriodaphnia reticulata ranged from [less than] 1 to 26 mg/m^3. Production estimates were unable to detect sublethal effects of fluorene. However, chronic laboratory exposure of Ceriodaphnia reticulata to fluorene concentrations greater than 0.154 mg/liter resulted in significant increases in development time of the various life stages and a significant decrease in production of young. Laboratory single-species test overestimated the toxicity of fluorene in field situtations but provided adequate protection for field communities.
A pilot testing of ERHAP : elderly resident housing assessment program
Authors:   , Ray Susan Marie
Published: July 2024

This study is part of a larger ongoing line of inquiry to develop information useful in promoting the independence of elderly individuals in their homes. This study utilizes an artificial intelligence system to develop an accurate evaluation tool used to evaluate the homes of elderly individuals. The specific purpose of the current pilot test is to determine the accuracy at which ERHAP identifies inadequacies in the homes of elderly individuals. A sample of fifty elderly individuals 65 years of age and older participated in the study. The elderly household member was interviewed by the researcher using the ERHAP questionnaire. ERHAP simultaneously examines the functional capabilites of the elderly individual and the environment in which the elderly individual lives.
A numerical study on the rotational motion of an axisymmetric particle in a viscous fluid
Authors:   , Leu Rong-jin
Published: July 2024

"The motion of a single particle in an inertialess unbounded Newtonian fluid has been studied for more than 100 years. The applications of such problems in industry are: the transport of slurries in pulp processing, the extrusion of molten plastics, the motion of oil droplets in polymeric fluids during oil recovery, the manufacture of films or magnetic tapes, and so forth. Similar problems are also encountered in the study of natural substances such as atmo­spheric aerosols. For the past few years, environmental engineers have shown great interest in the measurement of the particle size distribution and the design of sampling instruments for these aerosols, but they all met with diffi­culties due to a lack of basic understanding about their hydrodynamic behavior in various external fields. Thus, a fundamental understanding of this problem is clearly useful and important to making progress in many modern technological areas."--Page 1.