bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Singular spectrum analysis-based image sub-band decomposition filter banks
Authors: Evers Julia , Evers Florian , Goppelt Florian , Schmidt-Vollus Ronald 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThis paper presents a novel type of a filter bank for image decomposition that incorporates “singular spectrum analysis” (SSA). SSA is based on “singular value decomposition” (SVD).The presented filter banks provide good directional selectivity. Sub-band images highlight exposed directional features such as 0∘,90∘,+ 45∘, and − 45∘of the input image. The proposed method can be seen as a tool to separate an image into layers or to present an image as a sum of its high-frequency directional components and a low-frequency approximation.
Recognition of cooking activities through air quality sensor data for supporting food journaling
Authors: Gerina Federica , Massa Silvia M. , Moi Francesca , Reforgiato Recupero Diego , Riboni Daniele 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Unhealthy behaviors regarding nutrition are a global risk for health. Therefore, the healthiness of an individual’s nutrition should be monitored in the medium and long term. A powerful tool for monitoring nutrition is a food diary; i.e., a daily list of food taken by the individual, together with portion information. Unfortunately, frail people such as the elderly have a hard time filling food diaries on a continuous basis due to forgetfulness or physical issues. Existing solutions based on mobile apps also require user’s effort and are rarely used in the long term, especially by elderly people. For these reasons, in this paper we propose a novel architecture to automatically recognize the preparation of food at home in a privacy-preserving and unobtrusive way, by means of air quality data acquired from a commercial sensor. In particular, we devised statistical features to represent the trend of several air parameters, and a deep neural network for recognizing cooking activities based on those data. We collected a large corpus of annotated sensor data gathered over a period of 8 months from different individuals in different homes, and performed extensive experiments. Moreover, we developed an initial prototype of an interactive system for acquiring food information from the user when a cooking activity is detected by the neural network. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that adopts air quality sensor data for cooking activity recognition.
Dynamic resource provisioning for cyber-physical systems in cloud-fog-edge computing
Authors: Xu Zhanyang , Zhang Yanqi , Li Haoyuan , Yang Weijing , Qi Quan 
Published: June 2020

AbstractCyber-Physical Systems(CPS) serves as an interdisciplinary effort that incorporates cyber vector as well as physical vector. The latter can generate exponentially growing amounts of data. How to process CPS big data systematically and efficiently is the key to the breakthrough of offering prospective and personalized services for each individual user and entity involved. In recent years, much research has been proactively conducted on advancing specific scenario or algorithm. However, few surveys value their integration. For good measure, the synthesis remains a fundamental challenge. Subsequently, we fill the gap in the literature by constructing cloud computing, fog computing and edge computing as a whole to inspire on new architectures and cross utilizations. Moreover, bringing the enthusiasm of traditionally solitude entities into play is crucial. In this exploratory study, we examine definitions of CPS as well as the three aforementioned computing paradigms and then shed new light on comprehensively established frameworks. We also survey on the application level of Cloud-Fog-Edge Computing in CPS respectively and dive into diversified algorithms and strategies to embed big data applications into a more intelligent and convenient society with current deficiencies and future research directions followed.
A novel apidaecin Api-PR19 synergizes with the gut microbial community to maintain intestinal health and promote growth performance of broilers
Authors: Wu Shengru , Wang Jian , Zhu Liqin , Ren Hao , Yang Xiaojun 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) have been used as growth promoters to maintain animal intestinal health and improve feed efficiency in broilers by inhibiting pathogen proliferation. In view of the growing emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogen strains and drug residue issues, novel treatments are increasingly required. This study aimed to compare two antimicrobial approaches for managing pathogen infection and maintaining animal intestinal health in broilers by supplying Apidaecin Api-PR19 and AGPs over 42 d of a feeding trial.

Results
Compared with the broilers that were only fed a corn-soybean basal diet (CON group), supplementation with Api-PR19 and AGP (respectively named the ABP and AGP groups) both increased the feed conversion efficiency. When compared with the AGP group, Api-PR19 supplementation could significantly increase the organ index of the bursa of fabricius and subtype H9 antibody level in broiler chickens. Moreover, when compared with the CON group, the intestinal villus height, intestinal nutrient transport, and intestinal sIgA content were all increased in the Api-PR19 group, while AGP supplementation was harmful to the intestinal villus height and intestinal nutrient transport. By assessing the antibacterial effect of Api-PR19 and antibiotics in vitro and in vivo, we found that Api-PR19 and antibiotics both inhibited the growth of pathogens, including Escherichia coli and Campylobacter jejuni. Furthermore, by using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the beneficial bacteria and microbiota in broilers were not disturbed but improved by apidaecin Api-PR19, including the genera of Eubacterium and Christensenella and the species of uncultured_Eubacterium_sp, Clostridium_asparagiforme, and uncultured_Christensenella_sp, which were positively related to improved intestinal development, absorption, and immune function.

Conclusion
Apidaecin Api-PR19 treatment could combat pathogen infection and had little negative impact on beneficial bacteria in the gut compared to antibiotic treatment, subsequently improving intestinal development, absorption, and immune function.
Translation and cultural adaptation of EORTC QLQ-LC 29 into Nepalese language for lung cancer patients in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Sunil , Shrestha Sudip , KC Bhuvan , Sapkota Binaya , Khadka Anil , Khanal Saval , Koller Michael 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
The quality of life (QoL) of patients with lung cancer (LC) may be affected by disease-related limitations such as patients’ functioning, the severity of symptoms, financial problems resulting along with the side effects of the treatment. The objective of this study was to translate LC-specific QoL questionnaire EORTC QLQ-LC29 into Nepalese language for Nepalese LC patients.

Methods
In the process of translation, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) translations guidelines were followed. The translated questionnaire was pilot-tested in a sample of 15 patients with LC. Descriptive statistics were calculated with SPSS version 21.0.

Results
All steps of the EORTC translation guideline were followed successfully. Fifteen lung cancer patients were included in the pilot study. Sixty percent were male and the mean age was 49.87 (range 21–76 years). For all items not related to thoracic surgery, patients used the entire range of the response options from 1 to 4 and no missing responses were observed. The highest mean (indicating a high symptom burden) was observed for the item number. 35 (shortness of breath; Mean = 3.33, SD = 1.11) and the lowest mean for an item number. 45 (dizzy; Mean = 1.73, SD = 0.96).

Conclusion
The Nepalese version of EORTC QLQ-LC29 is a result of a successfully conducted rigorous translation procedure, and is highly comprehensible as well as acceptable to Nepalese LC patients. Thus, the Nepalese version of EORTC QLQ-LC29 is ready to be used in international clinical studies as well as in Nepalese clinical practice.
Computed tomography for myocardial characterization in ischemic heart disease: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Assen M. van , Vonder M. , Pelgrim G. J. , Von Knebel Doeberitz P. L. , Vliegenthart R. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThis review provides an overview of the currently available computed tomography (CT) techniques for myocardial tissue characterization in ischemic heart disease, including CT perfusion and late iodine enhancement. CT myocardial perfusion imaging can be performed with static and dynamic protocols for the detection of ischemia and infarction using either single- or dual-energy CT modes. Late iodine enhancement may be used for the analysis of myocardial infarction. The accuracy of these CT techniques is highly dependent on the imaging protocol, including acquisition timing and contrast administration. Additionally, the options for qualitative and quantitative analysis and the accuracy of each technique are discussed.
Microvascular decompression for hemifacial spasm: a review of twenty-one operated cases
Authors: Patankar Amey P. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Microvascular decompression of facial nerve provides definitive and long-term cure for hemifacial spasm. We review our experience of treating hemifacial spasm by microvascular decompression.

Objectives
To evaluate the results of microvascular decompression of facial nerve for hemifacial spasm and to discuss the critical steps during surgery necessary to achieve a good result.

Patients and methods
Twenty-one cases of hemifacial spasm operated by the author were analysed. All the patients underwent microvascular decompression of the facial nerve by the retromastoid approach. Preoperative and postoperative videos of the patients were made with their consent. Patient outcome and complications were analysed.

Results
Twenty patients had complete resolution of the spasm after surgery. The second operated patient had facial palsy with hearing loss in the immediate postoperative period and recurrence of the spasm after 6 months of surgery. Postoperative mild transient facial weakness in one patient, mild sensory-neural hearing loss in two, delayed facial palsy which resolved completely in two patients, transient facial twitching which responded to carbamazepine in one and paradoxical CSF rhinorrhea treated successfully by lumbar drainage in one patient were the complications noted.

Conclusion
Hemifacial spasm is best treated by surgery, and our results compare favourably with those in the existing literature. Sensorineural hearing loss and facial nerve palsy are the main complications to be expected during the learning curve.
Evaluation of F wave and split hand index in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Mohammed Noor H. , Hamdan Farqad B. , Al-Mahdawi Akram M. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by gradual disturbance of both upper and lower motor neurons (LMN). In ALS, muscle wasting favors the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) and first dorsal interosseous (FDI), with relative preservation of abductor digiti minimi (ADM).

Objectives
To interpret F wave changes in the context of upper and LMN dysfunction and the differences in dysfunction between spinal motoneurons innervating the APB and ADM.

Patients and methods
Forty-four subjects were studied (22 patients with ALS and 22 controls). F wave was elicited by 50 electrical stimuli from the median and ulnar nerves, and the split hand index (SHI) was measured.

Results
F latency mean, median, and maximum and F amplitude mean, median, and maximum F/M amplitude ratio were increased in patients with versus those without pyramidal signs. Limb-onset ALS patients showed the biggest reduction in SHI. The APB muscle of patients with no detectable wasting and upper MN (UMN) signs showed reduced F wave persistence, mean F wave latency and amplitudes, increased index repeater neuron and index F repeater, and mean F/M amplitude ratio.

Conclusion
There is enhanced segmental motoneuronal excitability following UMN dysfunctions. SHI appears to be a diagnostic biomarker for ALS. Abnormal F parameters recorded from APB muscle can distinct patients with ALS from the normal controls to a greater extent than do the APB/ADM and FDI/ADM compound muscle action potential amplitude ratios.
Sex does not clinically influence the functional outcome of total knee arthroplasty but females have a lower rate of satisfaction with pain relief
Authors: Clement N. D. , Weir D. , Holland J. , Deehan D. J. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
The aims were to assess whether sex had a clinically significant independent influence on the outcome of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) according to the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score, Short Form (SF-) 12 scores and patient satisfaction at 1 year.

Methods
A retrospective cohort of 3510 primary TKA were identified. Patient demographics, comorbidities, WOMAC and SF-12 scores were collected preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. Patient satisfaction were assessed at 1 year.

Results
There were 1584 males and 1926 females. The preoperative WOMAC and SF-12 scores were significantly (p < 0.001) worse in females but were not greater than the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). When adjustments had been made for confounding differences, females showed a significantly greater improvement in their function (1.5 points, p = 0.03) and total (1.5 points, p = 0.03) WOMAC scores compared to males, but these were not greater than the MCID. When adjustments had been made for confounding differences, females were less likely to be satisfied with their pain relief (p = 0.03) relative to males.

Conclusion
Sex does not clinically influence the knee specific outcome (WOMAC) or overall generic (SF-12) health 1 year after TKA. However, satisfaction with pain relief after TKA was significantly less likely in female patients.

Level of evidence II
Prognostic retrospective cohort study.
Radiological middle turbinate variations and their relation to nasal septum deviation in asymptomatic adult
Authors: El-Anwar Mohammad Waheed , Ali Atef Hamed , Almolla Rania Mostafa , Abdulmonaem Ghada , Raafat Ashraf , Hassan Mohamed Elsayed 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundMiddle turbinate (MT) is one of the important anatomical and physiological structures of the nasal cavity. After the widespread use of nasal endoscope and paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT), many MT variations have been described. This study aimed to determine the incidence of MT variations by computed tomography (CT) in asymptomatic adult, their relation to each other, and to deviated septum (DS).ResultsIn the included 86 subjects (172 MTs), pneumatized MT was the most common MT variation followed by paradoxical MT (PMT). Septal deviation did not appear to affect occurrence of pneumatized or PMT. Fifty-nine percent of the reported bilateral PMT were associated with pneumatized MT, while 35.7% of unilateral PMT were associated with pneumatized MT with non-significant difference.ConclusionMT variations in adults are common mainly pneumatized MT then PMT with no apparent relation to septum deviation.
Downregulated brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein-1 inhibits osteogenesis of BMSCs through p53 in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Mao Xiaofei , Li Xiaoguang , Hu Wei , Hao Siwei , Yuan Yifang , Guan Lian , Guo Bin 
Published: June 2020

ABSTRACT
The bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs)-mediated abnormal bone metabolism can delay and impair the bone remodeling process in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our previous study demonstrated that the downregulation of brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1 (BMAL1), a circadian clock protein, inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via enhanced GSK-3β in diabetic BMSCs. In this article, we confirmed that the downregulated BMAL1 in T2DM played an inhibitory role in osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Upregulation of BMAL1 in the diabetic BMSCs significantly recovered the expression pattern of osteogenic marker genes and alkaline phosphatase (Alp) activity. We also observed an activation of the p53 signaling pathways, exhibited by increased p53 and p21 in diabetic BMSCs. Downregulation of p53 resulting from overexpression of BMAL1 was detected, and when we applied p53 gene silencing (shRNA) and the p53 inhibitor, pifithrin-α (PFT-α), the impaired osteogenic differentiation ability of diabetic BMSCs was greatly restored. However, there was no change in the level of expression of BMAL1. Taken together, our results first revealed that BMAL1 regulated osteogenesis of BMSCs through p53 in T2DM, providing a novel direction for further exploration of the mechanism underlying osteoporosis in diabetes.
Hospital and health administrator level barriers and priorities for National Neonatal Hearing Screening in Pakistan: A thematic analysis
Authors: Mumtaz Nazia , Saqulain Ghulam 
Published: June 2020

Objectives: To investigate the Barriers and Priorities accorded by hospital and health administrators to neo-natal hearing screening.
Methods: This qualitative exploratory descriptive study employing purposive sampling technique was conducted in Islamabad, over a period of 18 months from 1st August 2015 to 31st January 2017. Sample included the stakeholders i.e., Heads of public sector hospitals of Islamabad including Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Capital Hospital, and Federal Government Services Hospital, Islamabad. Study included in depth interviews using a self-structured interview guide and audio recording. Recorded data was transcribed followed by thematic analyses which was manually drawn and verified.
Results: The Outcomes from thematic analysis were drawn as Planning, Essential requirements for NNHS, High risk screening, education, Existence of skilled maternal & newborn health workers. Hearing screening equipment//facility instrumentation, Logistic support, Health ministry support and Financial cover are also significant outcomes. Lack of awareness in the public and professionals regarding the importance of early identification of HI, poor health infrastructure, burden on tertiary care and lack of referral top the list of barriers to initiation of NNHS program at hospital administrative level.
Conclusion: The Barriers to NNHS identified at Hospital and Health care administrator level include lack of awareness, poor health infrastructure, burden on tertiary care and lack of referrals. Inherent barriers to NNHS cover the spectrum of lack of liaison/ linkages between obstetrics and other departments, deliveries at homes especially in rural areas, poor follow-up, scarcity of technical and adequately trained manpower. Intangible barriers to NNHS comprise lack of health care information system, attitudinal barriers, inadequate fiscal resources, and lack of integrated approach at intra departmental levels.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.1965
How to cite this:Mumtaz N, Saqulain G. Hospital and health administrator level barriers and priorities for National Neonatal Hearing Screening in Pakistan: A thematic analysis. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(5):1036-1041. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.1965
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Seroprevalence, risk factors and impact of Toxoplasma gondii infection on haematological parameters in the Ashanti region of Ghana: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Agordzo Samuel Kekeli , Badu Kingsley , Addo Mathew Glover , Owusu Christian Kwasi , Mutala Abdul-Hakim , Tweneboah Austine , Abbas Dawood Ackom , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame 
Published: June 2020

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate, intracellular, apicomplexan parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. Although the global prevalence of toxoplasmosis has been estimated to be approximately 30%, there is limited seroprevalence data in Ghana, with a dearth of information on the impact of T. gondii on haematological parameters in exposed persons. Methods: Questionnaires were administered to 300 consenting individuals to obtain demographic information and assessment of their risk of exposure to T. gondii. Using anti- T. gondii IgG/IgM combo test kits, seropositivity to parasite-specific IgG and/or IgM was determined. A haematological analyser was used to measure haematological parameters. Results: There was an overall seroprevalence of 50.3% (n=151), with 49.7% (n=149) of the study participants seropositive for IgG and 1% (n=3) testing positive for IgM. Furthermore, the observed seroprevalence among pregnant women was 56.4% (n=62). With regard to settlement type, a seroprevalence of 55.6% was observed in the rural community, 50.6% in the peri-urban community and 47.1% in the urban community. The study identified cat ownership, contact with cat litter, contact with raw meat [RR (95% CI: 1.76 (1.23-2.53), 1.66 (1.03-2.67), 1.25(1.00-1.57)] and age (p<0.001) as risk factors for infection. Analyses of haematological data revealed significant reduction in the white blood cell, lymphocytes and mean corpuscular volume levels in seropositive males (p=0.0223, 0.0275, and 0.0271) respectively. Only the mean corpuscular volume of seropositive females reduced significantly as compared to the seronegative counterparts (p=0.0035). Conclusions: About half of the study population, including women of reproductive age carried antibodies against T. gondii, raising concerns about the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis and anaemia. We, therefore, recommend that screening for Toxoplasma gondii be included in the routine screening of pregnant women seeking antenatal care and further investigation should be conducted on the haematological implications of infection in humans.
Validating the Developmental and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA) in a clinical population with high-functioning autism
Authors: Coscini Nadia , Srinivasan Ramya , Skuse David 
Published: June 2020

Background: With increasing numbers of referrals to health services for assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the Developmental and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA) has been suggested as a useful screening instrument to assist in prioritising patients for review. It is an online interview for parents that has been previously validated for ASD in a non-clinical community sample of twins. Our study aimed to evaluate its predictive validity in a complex clinically-referred sample of children with suspected high-functioning autism. Methods: The sample comprised 136 children (females = 53; males = 83) who were referred for ASD assessment at the Social Communication Disorder Clinic (SCDC) at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Parents completed the DAWBA online prior to undergoing a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) assessment. This included completing the Developmental, Dimensional and Diagnostic Interview (3di) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Two clinicians independently rated the DAWBA using DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and compared results to the MDT outcome, which was considered gold standard. Results: Compared with an MDT assessment, the DAWBA interview demonstrated good sensitivity (0.91) but poor specificity (0.12). Overall, 64% of cases were accurately assigned as case/non-case. Estimates of positive (0.66) and negative (0.43) predictive validity were influenced by the relatively high prevalence of ASD in the study sample (65%). Conclusion: The DAWBA online interview has excellent sensitivity in a clinical population of complex neurodevelopmental disorders, containing a high prevalence of ASD, but specificity was poor. As the SCDC offers tertiary opinions on disputed cases of suspected ASD, the population cohort limits the generalisability of these results. Further evaluation is required in community child mental health or paediatric services.