Movement Control Research Articles

MotorNet, a Python toolbox for controlling differentiable biomechanical effectors with artificial neural networks

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are a powerful class of computational models for unravelling neural mechanisms of brain function. However, for neural control of movement, they currently must be integrated with software simulating biomechanical effectors, leading to limiting impracticalities: (1) researchers must rely on two different platforms and (2) biomechanical effectors are not generally differentiable, constraining researchers to reinforcement learning algorithms despite the existence and potential biological relevance of faster training methods. To address these limitations, we developed MotorNet, an open-source Python toolbox for creating arbitrarily complex, differentiable, and biomechanically realistic effectors that can be trained on user-defined motor tasks using ANNs. MotorNet is designed to meet several goals: ease of installation, ease of use, a high-level user-friendly application programming interface, and a modular architecture to allow for flexibility in model building. MotorNet requires no dependencies outside Python, making it easy to get started with. For instance, it allows training ANNs on typically used motor control models such as a two joint, six muscle, planar arm within minutes on a typical desktop computer. MotorNet is built on PyTorch and therefore can implement any network architecture that is possible using the PyTorch framework. Consequently, it will immediately benefit from advances in artificial intelligence through PyTorch updates. Finally, it is open source, enabling users to create and share their own improvements, such as new effector and network architectures or custom task designs. MotorNet’s focus on higher-order model and task design will alleviate overhead cost to initiate computational projects for new researchers by providing a standalone, ready-to-go framework, and speed up efforts of established computational teams by enabling a focus on concepts and ideas over implementation.

Analisis Implementasi Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Apron Movement Control dalam Pelayanan Pemanduan Kendaraan Di Bandar Udara Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Palembang

In serving aviation activities on the air side, the role and supervision required in managing airside traffic from the Apron Movement Control Unit or AMC. When monitoring and providing services on the air side, the AMC unit must comply with the main tasks and functions that have been determined in order to achieve the monitoring and service tasks in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that has been determined in article 217 paragraph (1) of Law Number 1 of 2009 concerning flight. This research aims to find out how the SOP for Apron Movement Control (AMC) Personnel is implemented and what obstacles are faced by AMC Personnel in vehicle piloting services (VVIP vehicles, project vehicles, criminal vehicles) at Palembang's Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport. This research uses a qualitative approach with types and sources of data, namely primary data and secondary data. This research was carried out from August 2023 to February 2024 at Palembang's Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport. The results of this research are that the implementation of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Apron Movement Control in the Vehicle Guidance Service at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport in Palembang went well and smoothly, apart from that there were several obstacles such as miscommunication between the AMC and other related parties. resulting in information being received repeatedly so that the information received by the AMC becomes inaccurate. And the lack of harmony between officials when leaving an event held airside can result in a lack of effectiveness in using the FOLLOW ME car.

Research and Simulation Analysis of Fuzzy Intelligent Control System Algorithm for a Servo Precision Press

With the rapid development of the manufacturing industry toward intelligence and flexibility, traditional mechanical presses are unable to meet the increased stamping requirements due to the difficulties in achieving variable speed control and changing slide motion trajectories. Servo presses, driven directly by servo motors, can realize the flexible control of press movement and have become the trend in the industry for future development. The independent research and development of servo press control systems has become a popular topic and challenge in the domestic press industry. This paper proposes a new type of press transmission mechanism suitable for high-precision stamping, analyzes the working principle of its transmission mechanism, and provides a detailed analysis and discussion on the main research methods of fuzzy intelligent control for servo presses, including fuzzy model and basic control algorithms, fuzzy modeling and control of nonlinear systems, fuzzy predictive control, and stability analysis of fuzzy control systems. Based on the principle of the control scheme, a closed-loop control system block diagram and mathematical model for servo high-precision presses are established. Taking the physical prototype parameters of the STSZG1-250 as an example, the control system is dynamically simulated and verified using Simulink modules. Finally, their role and effects in intelligent control, and prospects for the development of fuzzy intelligent control, are discussed.

Fiber laser irradiation in chemical solution for micro fabrication: Mechanisms and applications

The laser and electrochemical hybrid machining (LECM) could realize high-efficient and quality processing of difficult-to-cut materials and has become a research topic in microfabrication. However, it was difficult to ensure the stability and efficiency of laser transmission in chemical solutions, and an external voltage and auxiliary cathode should be added. In the present study, a novel fiber laser irradiation in chemical solution (LICS) has been proposed to process microstructures. The surface microstructures and chemical composition of the surfaces processed by LICS, laser irradiation in the ultrapure water, and electrochemical machining were compared. In LICS the materials were removed by laser processing and the following high-temperature gradient induced electrochemical dissolution. The high temperature gradient induced electrochemical dissolution could enhance the MRR and improve the surface quality. LICS can be regarded as a novel LECM process. The machining efficiency of LICS had been improved by 46.2 % compared with that laser irradiation in the ultrapure water, and the proportion of laser-induced electrochemical dissolution was 31.6 % in the LICS process. Further, the effects of laser power, chemical solution concentration, and optical fiber end movement control on the processing of micro grooves were explored, considering the dimension, MRR, and surface roughness. A front gap of smaller than 0.8 mm between the optical fiber end and workpiece was recommended during LICS. The repeated feeding of optical fiber was proposed to improve the depth-to-width ratio of the micro grooves fabricated by LICS. Finally, LICS was used to process microstructures with the controlled profiles on the nickel-based superalloy and titanium alloy workpieces without a recast layer, which holds great potential in surface microfabrication and texturing.

Toward Precise Modeling of Dopamine Release Kinetics: Comparison and Validation of Kinetic Models Using Voltammetry.

Dopamine (DA) is a neurotransmitter present within the animal brain that is responsible for a wide range of physiologic functions, including motivation, reward, and movement control. Changes or dysfunction in the dynamics of DA release are thought to play a pivotal role in regulating various physiological and behavioral processes, as well as leading to neuropsychiatric diseases. Therefore, it is of fundamental interest to neuroscientists to understand and accurately model the kinetics that govern dopaminergic neurotransmission. In the past several decades, many mathematical models have been proposed to attempt to capture the biologic parameters that govern dopaminergic kinetics, with each model seeking to improve upon a previous model. In this review, each of these models are derived, and the ability of each model to properly fit two fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) data sets will be demonstrated and discussed. The dopamine oxidation current in both FSCV data sets exhibits hang-up and overshoot behaviors, which have traditionally been difficult for mathematical models to capture. We show that more recent models are better able to model DA release that exhibits these behaviors but that no single model is clearly the best. Rather, models should be selected based on their mathematical properties to best fit the FSCV data one is trying to model. Developing such differential equation models to describe the kinetics of DA release from the synapse confers significant applications both for advancing scientific understanding of DA neurotransmission and for advancing clinical ability to treat neuropsychiatric diseases.

Biomechanical innovations in correcting severe malocclusions

The correction of severe malocclusions presents significant challenges in orthodontics due to the complexity and precision required for effective treatment. Recent biomechanical innovations have transformed the landscape of orthodontic care, offering more precise, efficient, and patient-friendly solutions. Advancements in orthodontic bracket systems, including the development of self-ligating brackets and heat-activated arch wires, have enhanced the control and comfort of tooth movements, reduced treatment times and improving patient outcomes. Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have provided stable anchorage points, enabling complex tooth movements that were previously difficult to achieve. TADs have proven particularly effective in managing open bites and class II malocclusions, offering non-surgical alternatives for severe cases. The integration of digital technology in orthodontics, such as 3D imaging and computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM), has further revolutionized treatment planning and execution. These technologies facilitate accurate diagnostics and the creation of customized orthodontic appliances, ensuring precise and predictable treatment outcomes. Clear aligner therapy, initially limited to simple cases, has advanced through the use of improved thermoplastic materials and digital customization, allowing for the treatment of more complex malocclusions. Innovative force application techniques, including the use of attachments and elastics, have expanded the capabilities of aligners, making them a versatile and effective alternative to traditional braces. Collectively, these biomechanical innovations have significantly improved the management of severe malocclusions, enhancing treatment efficiency, precision, and patient comfort. The ongoing development of these technologies promises to further advance the field of orthodontics, providing more effective and aesthetically pleasing solutions for patients with complex dental alignment issues.

Exploring the Consistent Roles of Motor Areas Across Voluntary Movement and Locomotion.

Multiple cortical motor areas are critically involved in the voluntary control of discrete movement (e.g., reaching) and gait. Here, we outline experimental findings in nonhuman primates with clinical reports and research in humans that explain characteristic movement control mechanisms in the primary, supplementary, and presupplementary motor areas, as well as in the dorsal premotor area. We then focus on single-neuron activity recorded while monkeys performed motor sequences consisting of multiple discrete movements, and we consider how area-specific control mechanisms may contribute to the performance of complex movements. Following this, we explore the motor areas in cats that we have considered as analogs of those in primates based on similarities in their cortical surface topology, anatomic connections, microstimulation effects, and activity patterns. Emphasizing that discrete movement and gait modification entail similar control mechanisms, we argue that single-neuron activity in each area of the cat during gait modification is compatible with the function ascribed to the activity in the corresponding area in primates, recorded during the performance of discrete movements. The findings that demonstrate the premotor areas' contribution to locomotion, currently unique to the cat model, should offer highly valuable insights into the control mechanisms of locomotion in primates, including humans.

Striosomes Target Nigral Dopamine-Containing Neurons via Direct-D1 and Indirect-D2 Pathways Paralleling Classic Direct-Indirect Basal Ganglia Systems.

Direct S-D1 and Indirect S-D2 striosomal pathways target SNpc dopamine cellsThe S-D2 indirect pathway targets a distinct central external pallidal zone (cGPe)Stimulation of S-D2 increases, of S-D1 decreases, striatal dopamine and movementS-D1 SPNs activity brackets task, inverse to a mid-task peak of dopamine release.

An epidemiological investigation into the reasons for high bovine tuberculosis incidence in cattle herds of the Burren, Ireland, prior to 2020

Herd-level bovine tuberculosis (bTB) incidence was examined in the Burren, an area in the west of Ireland where herd owners practice distinctive transhumance practices, with upland winter grazing. Prior to the initiation of our study in 2020, bTB incidence had for many years been unusually high in the Burren in comparison with the rest of the country, although the most recent figures have come down to being closer to the national average. Using data from the period prior to 2020, we mapped bTB infection in Burren herds alongside a range of indicators thought to have an association with it - herd size, herd density, herd type, cattle movement, and badger (Meles meles) population and control data, as well as rainfall and altitude. We also looked at how summary statistics for these variables differed when Burren herds with a history of bTB were compared to other Burren herds, as well as bTB positive and negative herds from outside the Burren. We found that for many indicators Burren herds would be expected to be low risk when compared to other herds in Ireland. An exception to this was for rainfall: hot spot areas for bTB in the Burren were found in areas of higher rainfall, on average herds in the Burren experienced more rainfall than those outside it, and bTB herds in the Burren experienced higher rainfall than non-bTB herds. Separately, for Burren herds only, a logistic regression model was developed to explain bTB breakdown occurrence using a matched case-control approach. Cases were herds which had experienced a new bTB breakdown between 2015 and 2019 (n = 260) and these were matched on herd type and herd size with the same number of herds not experiencing a breakdown during this period. This showed that, of a range of exogenous variables, rainfall was the most strongly associated with herd-level bTB incidence. These results suggest that high levels of exposure to inclement weather, and/or better environmental survival of Mycobacterium bovis in the environment, may contribute to high bTB rates in the Burren. However, as rainfall showed a highly aggregated distribution, this relationship may be due to an unmeasured factor correlated with it. Mapping and graphical output suggested that, although herd sizes in the Burren were on average lower than nationally, within the Burren they were higher in areas of higher prevalence, suggesting that mechanisms associated with herd size, such as increased contacts between and within herd, and with wildlife, may also play a role.

Decoding lower-limb kinematic parameters during pedaling tasks using deep learning approaches and EEG.

Stroke is a neurological condition that usually results in the loss of voluntary control of body movements, making it difficult for individuals to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) integrated into robotic systems, such as motorized mini exercise bikes (MMEBs), have been demonstrated to be suitable for restoring gait-related functions. However, kinematic estimation of continuous motion in BCI systems based on electroencephalography (EEG) remains a challenge for the scientific community. This study proposes a comparative analysis to evaluate two artificial neural network (ANN)-based decoders to estimate three lower-limb kinematic parameters: x- and y-axis position of the ankle and knee joint angle during pedaling tasks. Long short-term memory (LSTM) was used as a recurrent neural network (RNN), which reached Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) scores close to 0.58 by reconstructing kinematic parameters from the EEG features on the delta band using a time window of 250ms. These estimates were evaluated through kinematic variance analysis, where our proposed algorithm showed promising results for identifying pedaling and rest periods, which could increase the usability of classification tasks. Additionally, negative linear correlations were found between pedaling speed and decoder performance, thereby indicating that kinematic parameters between slower speeds may be easier to estimate. The results allow concluding that the use of deep learning (DL)-based methods is feasible for the estimation of lower-limb kinematic parameters during pedaling tasks using EEG signals. This study opens new possibilities for implementing controllers most robust for MMEBs and BCIs based on continuous decoding, which may allow for maximizing the degrees of freedom and personalized rehabilitation.

Disconjugacies of saccade duration and trajectories in strabismus

ABSTRACT Introduction: For decades, the saccadic system has been a favorite target of neurophysiologists seeking to elucidate the neural control of eye movements, partly because saccades are characterized by a set of highly stereotyped relationships between amplitude, duration, and peak velocity. There is a large literature describing the dynamics and trajectories of these movements in normal primates, but there are no similarly detailed analyses for subjects with infantile strabismus syndrome. Previous studies have shown the amplitudes and directions of saccades often differ for the two eyes in this disorder, but it is unknown whether a similar disconjugacy exists for duration. The present study was designed to determine whether or not saccade duration differs for the two eyes in strabismus, and whether there are abnormalities involving the trajectories of these movements. Methods: Dynamic analyses of saccade trajectories and durations were performed for two normal monkeys, two with esotropia and two with exotropia. The amount of curvature was compared for the two eyes. For each monkey with strabismus, the amount of curvature was compared to normal controls. Saccades were placed into 12 bins, based on direction; for each bin, the mean saccade duration was compared for the two eyes (duration disconjugacy). The duration disconjugacy for each bin was then compared for monkeys with strabismus, versus normal control animals. Results: Surprisingly, the amount of curvature was not consistently greater in subjects with pattern strabismus. However, saccade curvature differed for the two eyes by a significantly greater amount for all monkeys with strabismus, compared to normal controls. In addition, for a subset of saccades in subjects with strabismus, saccade duration differed for the two eyes by more than 10 ms, even when the animal was fully alert. Discussion: To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to show that, in strabismus, saccade durations can differ for the two eyes by an abnormally large amount. These data also suggest that, in monkeys with pattern strabismus, abnormal horizontal-vertical crosstalk in brainstem can lead to directional disconjugacy without significantly impairing component stretching. These results place important constraints on future attempts to model the neural mechanisms that contribute to directional disconjugacy in pattern strabismus.

Peran Apron Movement Control (AMC) Dalam Menerapkan Kedisiplinan Kerja Karyawan Di Bandar Udara Internasional Sultan Hasanuddin Makassar

Air transportation is the primary choice due to its speed, safety, and comfort. Airports are places where aircraft land and take off and conduct various activities related to passengers and cargo, categorized into domestic and international. The Apron Movement Control (AMC) unit at PT Angkasa Pura I oversees movements in the apron area and provides services to airport users. Strict supervision is required to maintain safety and discipline on the apron. However, observations at the AMC at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar show a lack of discipline among staff, such as oil spills on the apron, which pose a safety hazard. This research aims to understand the role of AMC in enforcing employee discipline and the challenges faced at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar. This research employs a qualitative approach to understand the phenomena in the Apron Movement Control unit at PT Angkasa Pura I, Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar, from June 1 to July 31, 2024. Primary data were collected through interviews and direct observations, while secondary data were obtained from company documents and literature studies. Data analysis involves reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing, with data validity tested through source, technique, and time triangulation. Research steps include interviews, observations, data analysis, and conclusion drawing.The results show that the Apron Movement Control (AMC) unit at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar plays a crucial role in maintaining security, order, and discipline on the apron. They control the movements of aircraft, vehicles, and personnel and ensure operations follow safety procedures. AMC also acts as disciplinarian and educator through regular training. However, they face challenges such as a lack of employee understanding of procedures, limited communication equipment, communication challenges due to noise, and high operational pressure. To overcome these challenges, AMC needs to strengthen training, improve communication and coordination, enhance facilities, and increase employee welfare. These measures are expected to improve AMC's performance and instill a strong work discipline culture, making them the front line in maintaining airport security and operational efficiency.

COVID-19 AND GOVERNMENT RESPONSES: HAS THE PANDEMIC AFFECTED THE KUALA LUMPUR COMPOSITE INDEX?

This study aims to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and government responses on the Malaysian stock market. Usingthe Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (KLCI) from 1st March 2020 to 31st December 2020, the study discovered several findings. First, thenumber of daily new COVID-19 cases affected the index. Nevertheless, the new cases turned out to be positive at a later stage. This finding inferred that investors grew apathetic towards COVID-19 over the long run. Second, daily new COVID-19 deaths negatively impacted the stock index. Third, the Movement Control Order (MCO) harmfully influenced the index. Fourth, the Recovery Movement Control Order RMCO and most government stimulus packages positively impacted the index. In conclusion, the government’s responses to COVID-19 have managed to mitigate several negative impacts of the pandemic on the stock market. The stimulus packages provided the much-needed impetus for market recovery during the pandemic.

Make an impact: going full circle together

ABSTRACT Sport diversification provides opportunities for individuals to develop physical literacy, establish a growth mindset, become more agile in varied environments, and develop robust strategies to improve performance. One could say the same for biomechanists, who study the control and dynamics of human movements in the context of sport. Through the lens of sport, we have focused on the ongoing interaction between the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and the environment by using integrated experimental and modelling approaches to study well-practiced, goal-directed tasks in controlled laboratory and realistic field settings. By integrating multiple sources of information in real time to provide timely, relevant, usable, and easy to understand (TRUE) feedback during skill acquisition, we have found these resources also support learning and opportunities for self-discovery of proficiencies by coaches and athletes. Managing multimodal data acquired with emerging technological advances has also benefited from the use of FAIR data management principles, where data are findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable. By listening, clarifying goals, and exploring together with coaches and athletes, we can bridge the gaps between what we know and what we do.

Exploring Injury Prevention Strategies for Futsal Players: A Systematic Review.

Futsal carries a high risk of injury for players. This systematic review aimed to assess the existing literature on injury prevention strategies for futsal players. The literature was searched using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases from inception to 20 March 2024. Relevant articles were searched using the terms "futsal" AND "injury" AND "prevention". Fourteen studies were included in the review. The review identified several injury prevention strategies with potential benefits for futsal players. Structured warm-up routines were shown to improve balance and eccentric strength and to reduce total, acute, and lower limb injuries. Proprioceptive training methods were suggested to improve joint stability and landing mechanics, which may reduce the risk of injury. Furthermore, multicomponent methods that include components such as core stability and flexibility have shown potential for reducing injury rates in futsal players. Finally, by reducing fatigue and improving movement control, strength training procedures designed to correct muscular imbalances may improve performance, which may ultimately minimize the risk of injury. This systematic review demonstrates the potential benefits of different injury prevention strategies for futsal players. The combination of several strategies, such as proprioceptive training, multicomponent programs, warm-up routines, and strength training specifically designed to address muscular imbalances, appears promising.

Force reserve predicts compensation in reaching movement with induced shoulder strength deficit.

Following events such as fatigue or stroke, individuals often move their trunks forward during reaching, leveraging a broader muscle group even when only arm movement would suffice. In previous work, we showed the existence of a "force reserve": a phenomenon where individuals, when challenged with a heavy weight, adjusted their motor coordination to preserve approximately 40% of their shoulder's force. Here, we investigated if such reserve can predict hip, shoulder, and elbow movements and torques resulting from an induced shoulder strength deficit. We engaged 20 healthy participants in a reaching task with incrementally heavier dumbbells, analyzing arm and trunk movements via motion capture and joint torques through inverse dynamics. We simulated these movements using an optimal control model of a 3-degree-of-freedom upper body, contrasting three cost functions: traditional sum of squared torques, a force reserve function incorporating a nonlinear penalty, and a normalized torque function. Our results demonstrate a clear increase in trunk movement correlated with heavier dumbbell weights, with participants employing compensatory movements to maintain a shoulder force reserve of approximately 40% of maximum torque. Simulations showed that while traditional and reserve functions accurately predicted trunk compensation, only the reserve function effectively predicted joint torques under heavier weights. These findings suggest that compensatory movements are strategically employed to minimize shoulder effort and distribute load across multiple joints in response to weakness. We discuss the implications of the force reserve cost function in the context of optimal control of human movements and its relevance for understanding compensatory movements poststroke.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study reveals key findings on compensatory movements during upper limb reaching tasks under shoulder strength deficits, as observed poststroke. Using heavy dumbbells with healthy volunteers, we demonstrate how forward trunk displacement conserves around 40% of shoulder strength reserve during reaching. We show that an optimal controller employing a cost function combining squared motor torque and a nonlinear penalty for excessive muscle activation outperforms traditional controllers in predicting torques and compensatory movements in these scenarios.

Pembelajaran Menanam Padi untuk Melatih Motorik Halus pada Anak Usia Dini

The research aims to develop fine motor skills in only childhood trought rice planting activities at the TA Sanggar Anak Alam (SALAM) located in Nitiprayan village, kasihan,bentul, a village located on the border of the Yogyakarta district and Bantul district. With a total of 29 students. Fine motor skills, namely this movements, will coordinate the eyes and hands in a fairly good movement control which allows them to carry out precision and precision in small muscle movements. Learning activities to plant rice for kindergarten aged children’s fine motor skills aim to hone children’s motor coordination skills.

Modeling kinematic variability reveals displacement and velocity based dual control of saccadic eye movements.

Noise is a ubiquitous component of motor systems that leads to behavioral variability of all types of movements. Nonetheless, systems-based models investigating human movements are generally deterministic and explain only the central tendencies like mean trajectories. In this paper, a novel approach to modeling kinematic variability of movements is presented and tested on the oculomotor system. This approach reconciles the two prominent philosophies of saccade control: displacement-based control versus velocity-based control. This was achieved by quantifying the variability in saccadic eye movements and developing a stochastic model of its control. The proposed stochastic dual model generated significantly better fits of inter-trial variances of the saccade trajectories compared to existing models. These results suggest that the saccadic system can flexibly use the information of both desired displacement and velocity for its control. This study presents a potential framework for investigating computational principles of motor control in the presence of noise utilizing stochastic modeling of kinematic variability.

Improving patient compliance for intravitreal injections during the COVID-19 pandemic

Purpose: Intravitreal injections (IVT) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor are standard treatment procedures in ophthalmology for many retinal diseases. We conducted a full-cycle clinical audit to evaluate patient compliance with IVT in Penang Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Study design: Full cycle audit. Methods: A 3-month audit was carried out on patients scheduled to receive IVT in the operation theatre between August and October 2019 (COVID-19 pre-pandemic period). Patient compliance rates were calculated. We set a target of 95% patient compliance rate. Interventional steps taken to improve compliance were carried out from April 2020 to September 2021 (during the Movement Control Order period). A 3-month re-audit was conducted between October and December 2021. Results: A total of 481 patients were scheduled for IVT, and 50 patients (10.4%) did not present to the appointment. The compliance rate was 89.6%. The reasons for defaulting treatment included multiple hospital visits, transportation issues, cost of transportation, loss of daily wages, and fear of COVID-19 infection. Post-intervention, a total of 895 patients were scheduled for IVT in 3 months. Among these patients, 844 patients completed their IVT appointment, while 51 patients missed the scheduled IVT. The patients’ compliance rate also rose from 89.6% to 94.3%. There was also an increase of 87.1% in the total number of scheduled IVT as compared to the pre-intervention phase. Conclusion: These interventions not only increased the number of patients receiving treatment but also improved patients’ compliance with IVT despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients benefited from reduced hospital visits, the cost of follow-up, and the risk of hospital infection.

The Trend of Unemployment and Crime Index during COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the number of unemployed to increase in Malaysia and the issue of unemployment has become a social problem that has always been positively linked to criminal activity. However, the crime index in Malaysia showed a decrease over the period of the Movement Control Order (MCO). This study aims to explore the issue using secondary data taken from various sources such as journals, books, proceedings, and press reports. The results of the study found that the crime index decreased even though the number of unemployed increased because it was in line with the theory of crime opportunity. As the community needs to stay at home during the MCO period, the chances of committing index crime are low because the home as well as property are monitored as well as individuals are not exposed to violent crime. However, the domino effect is non -index crime is reported to increase due to the stress of life that makes the individual is motivated to commit non-index crime. The results of the analysis of this study are expected to help the government, especially the Department of Social Welfare to be more efficient by helping and supporting the victims of non-index crime. The results of this study are also expected to provide an explanation to the community on the question of why the unemployment rate is negatively related to index crime as well as remove the negative impression of the report given by the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP). However, the results of this study are only a preliminary analysis and it is suggested that empirical studies can be conducted to support the results of this analysis.