Adaptable System Research Articles

Vaping product exposure system (VaPES): a novel in vitro aerosol deposition system

Objective Due to recent increases in the use of vaping devices, there is a high demand for research addressing the respiratory health effects of vaping products. Given the constantly changing nature of the vaping market with new devices, flavors, metals, and other chemicals rapidly emerging, there is a need for inexpensive and highly adaptable vaping device exposure systems. Here, we describe the design and validation of a novel in vitro aerosol exposure system for toxicity testing of vaping devices. Materials and methods We developed an inexpensive, open-source in vitro vaping device exposure system that produces even deposition, can be adapted for different vaping devices, and allows for experiments to be performed under physiological conditions. The system was then validated with deposition testing and a representative exposure with human bronchial epithelial cells (hBECs). Results The Vaping Product Exposure System (VaPES) produced sufficient and uniform deposition for dose-response studies and was precise enough to observe biological responses to vaping exposures. VaPES was adapted to work with both pod and cartridge-based vaping devices. Conclusion We have designed and validated a novel vaping device exposure system that will eliminate the need to use high-cost commercial exposure systems, lowering the barrier to entry of physiologically relevant vaping studies.

A critical role for iron and zinc homeostatic systems in the evolutionary adaptation of Escherichia coli to metal restriction.

Host nutritional immunity utilizes metal deprivation to help prevent microbial infection. To investigate bacterial adaptation to such restrictive conditions, we conducted experimental evolution with two metal sequestering agents. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and diethylenetriamine pentamethylene phosphonic acid (DTPMP) were selected as ligands because they differentially affect cellular levels of iron, manganese and zinc in Escherichia coli. Mutants of E. coli strain BW25113 were isolated after cultivation at sub-minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) chelant levels and genetic changes potentially responsible for tolerance were identified by whole-genome sequencing. In EDTA-selected strains, mutations in the promoter region of yeiR resulted in elevated gene expression. The yeiR product, a zinc-specific metallochaperone, was confirmed to be primarily responsible for EDTA resistance. Similarly, in two of the DTPMP-selected strains, a promoter mutation increased expression of the fepA-entD operon, which encodes components of the ferric-enterobactin uptake pathway. However, in this case improved DTPMP tolerance was only detectable following overexpression of FepA or EntD in trans. Additional mutations in the cadC gene product, an acid-response regulator, preserved the neutrality of the growth medium by constitutively activating expression of the cadAB regulon. This study uncovers specific resistance mechanisms for zinc and iron starvation that could emerge by selection against host nutritional immunity or competition with heterologous metallophores. It also provides insight into the specific metals affected by these two widely used chelators critical for their antibacterial mode of action.

Cultura de la seguridad pública en Europa

Culture can be understood as a system of human adaptation to the environment. When the latter changes, the former also tends to evolve. However, there are cultural inertias that allow us to understand some patterns in the behavior of the population, even in contexts of rapid change such as the current one. Identifying the cultural traits of European countries in the field of public security is the purpose of this article. For this, firstly, a system of indicators is proposed that departs from a theoretical review. They collect aspects of thought and behavior. Secondly, these indicators are applied looking for the best comparative data available according to a series of quality criteria. Broad time series are used to identify trends that are maintained over time and that may result from cultural inertia. The main contribution of this study, compared to previous ones, is to use a wider range of geographical, temporal, and cultural dimensions. With this, a more refined drawing of the different representations and behaviors of the Europe of security is achieved. The text begins by reviewing how the concept of "security culture" has been defined and addressed in the international literature. Next, its key dimensions are identified, a system of indicators is proposed for each of them, and a set of European sources of data on public safety are selected. The work is more descriptive than explanatory of cultural differences. By drawing, in a comparative way, the culture of public safety in Europe, this article also contributes to a better understanding of the current situation in Spain, and to anticipate possible scenarios in a context of strong changes in risks, such as those analyzed in the various contributions to this issue of the magazine.

A multipurpose Extracorporeal Life Support Circuit: a concept for multiorgan transplant and circulatory support service Healthcare provider

The demand for efficient and adaptable life support systems in the field of Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) is steadily increasing. To meet this growing need, there is a requirement for a versatile extracorporeal life support circuit that can be effectively applied in various medical scenarios, especially in tertiary hospitals where multiple ECLS services are utilized. These services include Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for addressing respiratory or cardiac problems, Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) as a bridge to recovery or heart transplant, and Venovenous Bypass (VVB) for assisting liver transplantation. In light of this, we propose the creation of a multipurpose circuit that integrates multiple extracorporeal life support (ECLS) functions to cater to diverse medical needs. This innovative circuit not only offers cost-effectiveness and enhanced safety but also ensures optimal utilization, thereby revolutionizing the realm of life support technologies.

Характер психічних відхилень та їх гормональний супровід у дівчат-підлітків з розладами менструальної функції

The pubertal period is accompanied by the tension of the adaptation system during the hormonal adjustment. Purpose - to define the hormonal determinants of stress-related menstrual disorders in adolescent girls with comorbid mental disorders and the peculiarities of adaptation reactions. Materials and methods. 150 adolescent girls with menstrual cycle disorders were examined. The levels of luteotropic hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), cortisol (K), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) were determined. They were divided into three groups depending on the examination by a psychiatrist: without mental status disorders, with anxiety-phobic disorders and depressive states. The control group included 35 girls of similar age with a normal menstrual cycle who were examined in the early follicular phase. Results. There were no significant differences in the content of gonadotropic hormones in girls with menstrual function disorders in view of the state of mental health. However, in girls with oligomenorrhea (OM), in relation to patients with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), elevated LH values are significantly more often registered (p<0.03). Levels of peripheral T, as well as its precursor DHEA-S and metabolite (E2), were associated with mental health status. The lowering of E2 significantly elevated in adolescents with comorbid psychopathology. The number of girls with high T values increased in the presence of psychopathology in AUB and remained unchanged in OM. Cortisol in psychopathology, regardless of the type of menstrual function disorders, was reduced in relation to the control group, however, in girls with OM, its content was significantly higher, especially in depressive states (p˂0.05). The specific gravity of girls with a reduced level of DHEA-S in patients with AUB increased with comorbid psychopathology. In case of OM, a reduced and increased content of DHEA-S was registered with the same frequency. An increase in the C/DHEA-S indicator of the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system in patients with OM was noted much less frequently than in patients with AUB (p˂0.006). Conclusions. It is believed that the hormonal relationship between cortisol and DHEA-S indicates the body’s response to stressors and can be used as one of the biomarkers of neurotic and depressive states. An increase in the C/DHEA-S ratio suggests a possible dissociation of their secretion. Adolescents with AUB, unlike girls with OM, have a decrease in the “protective” hormone DHEA-S, which can affect the deterioration of mental health. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

Impact of federated deep learning on vehicle-based speed control in mixed traffic flows

This study investigates the application of Federated Learning (FL) in an environment of mixed traffic flow with Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs). The focus of this study is set on the CAV cruise control speed adjustment which is enforced by the Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) system. It is modelled as an Actor-Critic-based learning architecture with the goal of computing the vehicle speed based on the data of the nearby vehicles. Some CAVs achieve poor travel time performance in comparison to others. Thus, the proposed FL framework selects periodically best-performing CAVs which are local clients in the context of FL. The updated global model is computed based on the weighted averaging of the best-performing models of clients. The use case environment is modelled as a simulation of a synthetic motorway with an induced capacity drop in the form of a work-zone under moderate and high traffic demand. It is shown that the FL framework can stabilise the individual client learning convergence and reduce their travel time compared to the local learning approach. The overall motorway throughput is also increased by the proposed FL framework. This indicates that the global model of FL can utilise the optimal ratio between generalisation and bias towards the most effective control policy of individual speed control. Results show that those effects are more prominent under moderate traffic demand.

A Review of Recent Innovations in Remote Health Monitoring.

The development of remote health monitoring systems has focused on enhancing healthcare services' efficiency and quality, particularly in chronic disease management and elderly care. These systems employ a range of sensors and wearable devices to track patients' health status and offer real-time feedback to healthcare providers. This facilitates prompt interventions and reduces hospitalization rates. The aim of this study is to explore the latest developments in the realm of remote health monitoring systems. In this paper, we explore a wide range of domains, spanning antenna designs, small implantable antennas, on-body wearable solutions, and adaptable detection and imaging systems. Our research also delves into the methodological approaches used in monitoring systems, including the analysis of channel characteristics, advancements in wireless capsule endoscopy, and insightful investigations into sensing and imaging techniques. These advancements hold the potential to improve the accuracy and efficiency of monitoring, ultimately contributing to enhanced health outcomes for patients.

On the improvement efficiency and safety of operation of underground tunnel escalators. Adaptation of processes of planning and control

BACKGROUND: The pace of transport system development not corresponding to current demands of a town is a significant obstacle on the way of achieving target values of business activity and quality of life. One of the main indicators of quality of life in a modern large city is satisfaction with city public transport. The backbone mean of public transport in Saint Petersburg is underground which efficiency indicators are share of accomplishment of train schedule and accomplishment of stations’ operation schedule. However, funding based on subsidies and requirement of proper fulfillment of given efficiency indicators make the Petersburg Underground SUE look for new ways of adaptation of planning and control processes for managing available resources ensuring keeping outdating infrastructure operable and cost reduction based on state-of-the-art informational technologies. AIMS: Establishment of enlarged hardware facility and basic structural solution necessary for unrolling software for planning and control of maintenance of the underground’s escalator park. The study object is the underground’s escalator park; the study subject is automation of maintenance system. METHODS: In the first part of the paper, as a result of statistical compilation and comparison of homogeneous data from annual reports of the Petersburg Underground SUE in the tabular form as well as analysis of qualitative and quantitative indicators of the escalator park considering the information on the history of maintenance system formation, the statement was made about existence of interaction between the changes taking place in the city transport system and demands of adaptation of processes of planning and control of operations in the escalator park maintenance system. In the second part of the paper, on the basis of analysis of regulatory framework and requirements to development of data processing centers, the main structural element for implementation of facility of planning and control of performing the underground’s escalator park maintenance was established. RESULTS: The theoretically valuable result of the study is the found interaction between changes taking place at the level of the city transport system and demands in changing the underground’s escalator park maintenance system for achieving the comprehensive evolution of the transport system. Meanwhile, the basic structure of the hardware-software facility, main structural element of which is the corridor isolation system implementing the tool of adaptation of processes of planning and control the operation, is significantly valuable for practical use. CONCLUSIONS: Structure and equipment of the hardware-software facility as well as the installed software for monitoring, planning and control of the operations ensuring/not ensuring fulfillment the efficiency indicators give the opportunity to transfer the infrastructure parts from the running hours-based maintenance system to the state-based maintenance system.

GIS-based analysis of the spatial distribution of CO2 emissions and slow steaming effectiveness in coastal shipping

The sustainability of maritime activities is increasingly gaining interest, with the shipping sector actively focusing on decarbonization efforts. Throughout the years, researchers have considered slow steaming for improving the environmental footprint of maritime networks. In order to assess such strategies’ effectiveness on existing emissions, research also focuses on the accurate estimation of emission inventories. However, there is a significant gap concerning both fields when considering short-sea shipping, especially passenger shipping. Furthermore, while emissions are characterized by spatial aspects in several studies, there is an apparent gap in considering such aspects for detailed analysis purposes rather than only for visualization purposes. In this study, the Greek Coastal Shipping Network (GCSN) is considered, with its emissions estimated using a top-down method, creating a spatial emission inventory used for further spatial analysis for accurate identification of highly polluted areas. Results indicate that ship emissions do not spread homogeneously throughout the GCSN and that targeted interventions are necessary in several areas of the network. The effectiveness of spatially related slow steaming implementations is evaluated and compared with their implementation on the whole network. The study highlights the need for additional future emission mitigation strategies, such as service optimization, network restructuring, continuous emission monitoring, and fleet renewal with more environmentally efficient ships. The study’s aim is to fill the research gap regarding the environmental assessment of passenger shipping and the effects of slow steaming on such networks while presenting an adaptable GIS-based decision support system for enhanced decision-making regarding the environmental efficiency of maritime networks.

Genomics of Yoonia sp. Isolates (Family Roseobacteraceae) from Lake Zhangnai on the Tibetan Plateau.

Understanding the genomic differentiation between marine and non-marine aquatic microbes remains a compelling question in ecology. While previous research has identified several lacustrine lineages within the predominantly marine Roseobacteraceae family, limited genomic data have constrained our understanding of their ecological adaptation mechanisms. In this study, we isolated four novel Yoonia strains from a brackish lake on the Tibetan Plateau. These strains have diverged from their marine counterparts within the same genus, indicating a recent habitat transition event from marine to non-marine environments. Metabolic comparisons and ancestral genomic reconstructions in a phylogenetic framework reveal metabolic shifts in salinity adaptation, compound transport, aromatics degradation, DNA repair, and restriction systems. These findings not only corroborate the metabolic changes commonly observed in other non-marine Roseobacters but also unveil unique adaptations, likely reflecting the localized metabolic changes in responses to Tibetan Plateau environments. Collectively, our study expands the known genomic diversity of non-marine Roseobacteraceae lineages and enhances our understanding of microbial adaptations to lacustrine ecosystems.

Strategic and Planning Documents as Response to Adaptation to Climate Change

Although the impact of climate change cannot be certainty predicted, research shows that extreme weather events, such as droughts or heavy rainfall and floods, have become significantly more frequent in recent decades. Therefore, climate change is increasingly a risk and can significantly affect human health, ecosystems, the local and global economy, as well as social, political and cultural patterns. In response to the mentioned challenges that climate change brings, activities related to adaptation appear in the world. One of the first steps is the adoption of national strategic and planning documents that will establish guidelines and a roadmap to a climate-resilient society. In the first part of the paper, we dealt with determining the current strategic and legislative direction of the development of the system of adaptation to climate change of the Republic of Serbia and the surrounding countries ‒ Republic of Srpska, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Croatia. Mutual similarities and differences in the strategic and legislative frameworks of the mentioned countries were determined, while in the second part of the paper, the AAA model was used to examine the prevalence of climate change in the adopted national planning documents. The results of the paper indicate a relatively good (in the Spatial Plan of the Republic of Serbia and the Spatial Development Strategy of the Republic of Croatia) to insufficiently (in the Spatial Plan of the Republic of Srpska, Montenegro and North Macedonia) represented problems of climate change in the analyzed planning documents. The least represented category is Analysis, which is, among other things, the result of an underdeveloped system of monitoring and projection of future greenhouse gas emissions, as well as assessing the sensitivity of certain systems (traffic, sanitary, water) to climate change. The Action component is the most represented in all analyzed plans. The reason is that the planning documents defined development guidelines that are indirectly related to climate change (revitalization and reuse of brownfield sites, renewable sources and solar energy, energy efficiency, management, control and treatment of wastewater, development of multimodal transport systems) but as such, an integral part of climate change adaptation policies, and therefore significant.

Delving into the lifestyle of Sundarban Wetland resident, biofilm producing, halotolerant Salinicoccus roseus: a comparative genomics-based intervention

BackgroundMicrobial community played an essential role in ecosystem processes, be it mangrove wetland or other intertidal ecologies. Several enzymatic activities like hydrolases are effective ecological indicators of soil microbial function. So far, little is known on halophilic bacterial contribution and function on a genomic viewpoint of Indian Sundarban Wetland. Considering the above mentioned issues, the aims of this study was to understand the life style, metabolic functionalities and genomic features of the isolated bacterium, Salinicoccus roseus strain RF1H. A comparative genome-based study of S. roseus has not been reported yet. Henceforth, we have considered the inclusion of the intra-species genome comparison of S. roseus to gain insight into the high degree of variation in the genome of strain RF1H among others.ResultsSalinicoccus roseus strain RF1H is a pink-red pigmented, Gram-positive and non-motile cocci. The bacterium exhibited high salt tolerance (up to 15% NaCl), antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation and secretion of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes. The circular genome was approximately 2.62978 Mb in size, encoding 574 predicted genes with GC content 49.5%. Presence of genomic elements (prophages, transposable elements, CRISPR-Cas system) represented bacterial virulence and multidrug-resistance. Furthermore, genes associated with salt tolerance, temperature adaptation and DNA repair system were distributed in 17 genomic islands. Genes related to hydrocarbon degradation manifested metabolic capability of the bacterium for potential biotechnological applications. A comparative pangenome analysis revealed two-component response regulator, modified C4-dicarboxylate transport system and osmotic stress regulated ATP-binding proteins. Presence of genes encoding arginine decarboxylase (ADC) enzyme being involved in biofilm formation was reported from the genome. In silico study revealed the protein is thermostable and made up with ~ 415 amino acids, and hydrophilic in nature. Three motifs appeared to be evolutionary conserved in all Salinicoccus sequences.ConclusionThe first report of whole genome analysis of Salinicoccus roseus strain RF1H provided information of metabolic functionalities, biofilm formation, resistance mechanism and adaptation strategies to thrive in climate-change induced vulnerable spot like Sundarban. Comparative genome analysis highlighted the unique genome content that contributed the strain’s adaptability. The biomolecules produced during metabolism are important sources of compounds with potential beneficial applications in pharmaceuticals.

Effect of adaptation gain and reference model in MIT and Lyapunov rule–based model reference adaptive control for first- and second-order systems

An adaptive control law encompasses a regulating control rule compensating for system dynamics variations by adjusting the controller characteristics to maintain the overall system performance. Recently, some techniques have been developed based on fundamental aspects of the adaptability of living organisms. The adaptive control method is a technique that measures the dynamic characteristics of the plant automatically and continuously to make a comparison with its required output. It utilizes the difference between these two to commute adaptable system parameters to maintain optimal performance regardless of the system variations. The behavior of the adaptation rule is significantly affected by the adaptation gain value. Here, it has also been investigated that the adaptation gain range is wide for the systems with the lower order. The appropriate range of adaptation gain decreases as the order of the system increases. In the present work, the model reference adaptive control (MRAC) for first- and second-order systems has been designed and investigated using a wide range of values for the adaptation gain and variations in the reference model parameters. The MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Lyapunov rules are applied for the analyses of systems. On the MATLAB/Simulink platform, all the adaptation process comparisons, variations, and investigations have been carried out by altering the adaptation gain and the reference model parameters. The obtained results present encouraging outcomes.

A nanoparticle vaccine displaying the ookinete PSOP25 antigen elicits transmission-blocking antibody response against Plasmodium berghei

BackgroundSafe and effective vaccines are crucial for the control and eventual elimination of malaria. Novel approaches to optimize and improve vaccine efficacy are urgently required. Nanoparticle-based delivery platforms are considered potent and powerful tools for vaccine development.MethodsIn this study, we developed a transmission-blocking vaccine against malaria by conjugating the ookinete surface antigen PSOP25 to the Acinetobacter phage coat protein AP205, forming virus-like particles (VLPs) using the SpyTag/SpyCatcher adaptor system. The combination of AP205-2*SpyTag with PSOP25-SpyCatcher resulted in the formation of AP205-PSOP25 complexes (VLP-PSOP25). The antibody titers and avidity of serum from each immunization group were assessed by ELISA. Western blot and IFA were performed to confirm the specific reactivity of the elicit antisera to the native PSOP25 in Plasmodium berghei ookinetes. Both in vitro and in vivo assays were conducted to evaluate the transmission-blocking activity of VLP-PSOP25 vaccine.ResultsImmunization of mice with VLP-PSOP25 could induced higher levels of high-affinity antibodies than the recombinant PSOP25 (rPSOP25) alone or mixtures of untagged AP205 and rPSOP25 but was comparable to rPSOP25 formulated with alum. Additionally, the VLP-PSOP25 vaccine enhanced Th1-type immune response with remarkably increased levels of IgG2a subclass. The antiserum generated by VLP-PSOP25 specifically recognizes the native PSOP25 antigen in P. berghei ookinetes. Importantly, antisera generated by inoculation with the VLP-PSOP25 could inhibit ookinete development in vitro and reduce the prevalence of infected mosquitoes or oocyst intensity in direct mosquito feeding assays.ConclusionsAntisera elicited by immunization with the VLP-PSOP25 vaccine confer moderate transmission-reducing activity and transmission-blocking activity. Our results support the utilization of the AP205-SpyTag/SpyCatcher platform for next-generation TBVs development.Graphical abstract

DEVELOPMENT OF A KNOWLEDGE BASE ON THE INTEGRATION OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT METHODOLOGIES

In the context of global disruptions caused by pandemics, massive armed conflicts, and other destructive factors, the economic sector requires a reevaluation of paradigms and the application of new approaches and tools for project management. Risk management, as a component of the management system, is undergoing transformation in a state of perpetual uncertainty and turbulence. Project management methodology, as a means of achieving defined goals, cannot be solely based on predictable attributes and must provide flexibility in response to dynamic changes in the external and internal environment. The rapid pace of digital transformation is shaping a new understanding of the digital space, its content, automation tools, and information support. The rapid development of information technologies based on artificial intelligence and the intensive migration of production and management processes to remote forms necessitate business adaptation to new conditions and effective application by project managers. The information field is overloaded with various project management methodologies, a large amount of derivative and secondary information characterized by a lack of clear structure and low practical value. The continuous transformation of the modern environment requires scientific research to explore the development and adaptation of flexible and hybrid approaches to project management by use of modern information systems. The purpose of this article is to develop a concept of integrating project management methodologies with the resources of a corporate knowledge base. The article explores current knowledge in project management methodology through the genesis and analysis of document interrelationships, which allows for the identification of dependencies and potential synergistic effects of such methodologies. Integration methods and components of these methodologies are analyzed, revealed, and complemented to ensure effective project management. A concept is developed to facilitate a creative approach to project management with an interactive system for accumulation, structuring, implementation, retrospective, and adaptation of accumulated knowledge regarding project management approaches within an enterprise. Principles for constructing a corporate knowledge base on project management methodologies are formulated, and approaches to applying accumulated knowledge are discussed. The proposed tool is implemented with the support of modern information systems, enabling the application of adaptive, valid, and effective project management methods tailored to individual project requirements. The conclusion is drawn that the proposed concept of a corporate knowledge base, combined with existing methods of integrating project management methodologies, is a promising foundational tool for implementing a creative and proactive approach to project management.

Flexoelectrically augmented triboelectrification enabled self-power wireless smart home control system

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, smart home has emerged to fulfill the security, convenience, and energy-saving issues of modern life. Self-power, multifunctional, and sensitive sensors are one of the key components for the popularization of smart home systems. Herein, a flexoelectric mica crystal is shown to augment the finger touch-driven triboelectric output enough to operate a wireless and multichannel smart home controller. The smart home controller consists of concave mica films, a hand-grip-type vertical mouse, and an Arduino controller. Strain-gradient-dependent contact potential difference measurement and density functional theory calculation show that flexoelectric charge shifts the workfunction and concave bending reduces the effective electron mass in a mica. A portable hand-grip-type flexoelectrically augmented triboelectric nanogenerator (Flexo-TENG) demonstrates the wireless communication of message in real time and the selective operation of home appliances with various functions via a simple finger touch. This work provides important ingredients for the enhanced triboelectric output via flexoelectricity, and for the realization of a convenient, multifunctional, cost-effective, and adaptable smart home control system without batteries.

Информационная инфраструктура, обеспечивающая своевременное обнаружение мезомасштабных конвективных комплексов

The results of the development of an information infrastructure that provides timely detection of mesoscale convective complexes (MCC) are described, automatic procedures that implement the basic functionality of this infrastructure are described. Along with the detection of MCC, the described procedures allow us to identify zones of deep convection, i.e. such MCC that develop according to the scenario of "daytime storms", i.e. intense thunderstorms, squalls and tornadoes. Information infrastructure, provides integration of satellite microwave radiometric sensing data of geostationary observations in the visible and IR range. This integration is designed to ensure the restoration of atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles in the conditions of emergency atmospheric situations caused by the MCC. The methodological feature of the developed approach is to minimize the probability of stopping the data analysis system when access to individual sources of a priori information is terminated. This technique is based on the use of an automatic system of adaptation to changes in access conditions and the application of the results of model forecasts of the development of atmospheric processes.

Allostasis and Resilience from a Neuroendocrine Perspective

Resilience is a term that describes the capacity of coping with and recovering from stress and adversity. In terms of the concept of allostasis, resilience is the ability to appropriately regulate allostasis, efficiently terminate the allostatic response, prevent the occurrence of allostatic load/overload or restore homeostasis. Recently, it has been shown that oxytocin may be involved in this series of stress adaptation systems. We aim to discuss the changes in oxytocin neuron activation, oxytocin release and its actions of stress adaptation in response to internal and external environmental changes, and the regulation of resilience by oxytocin.

Smart city healthcare delivery innovations: a systematic review of essential technologies and indicators for developing nations

BackgroundIn recent times, the concept of smart cities has gained remarkable traction globally, driven by the increasing interest in employing technology to address various urban challenges, particularly in the healthcare domain. Smart cities are proving to be transformative, utilizing an extensive array of technological tools and processes to improve healthcare accessibility, optimize patient outcomes, reduce costs, and enhance overall efficiency.MethodsThis article delves into the profound impact of smart cities on the healthcare landscape and discusses its potential implications for the future of healthcare delivery. Moreover, the study explores the necessary infrastructure required for developing countries to establish smart cities capable of providing intelligent health and care services. To ensure a comprehensive analysis, we employed a well-structured search strategy across esteemed databases, including PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus. The search scope encompassed articles published up to November 2022, resulting in a meticulous review of 22 relevant articles.ResultsOur findings provide compelling evidence of the pivotal role that smart city technology plays in elevating healthcare delivery, forging a path towards improved accessibility, efficiency, and quality of care for communities worldwide. By harnessing the power of data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and mobile applications, smart cities are driving real-time health monitoring, early disease detection, and personalized treatment approaches.ConclusionSmart cities possess the transformative potential to reshape healthcare practices, providing developing nations with invaluable opportunities to establish intelligent and adaptable healthcare systems customized to their distinct requirements and limitations. Moreover, the implementation of smart healthcare systems in developing nations can lead to enhanced healthcare accessibility and affordability, as the integration of technology can optimize resource allocation and improve the overall efficiency of healthcare services. It also may help alleviate the burden on overburdened healthcare facilities by streamlining patient care processes and reducing wait times, ensuring that medical attention reaches those in need more swiftly.

Poor usability of computer-assisted navigation for hip fracture surgery

IntroductionThe STRYKER ADAPT computer-assisted navigation system provides intraoperative feedback to the surgeon regarding implant placement of the Gamma3 nail. The usability of the ADAPT system has not been evaluated. The aim of the study was to investigate the perceived usability of the ADAPT system.Materials and methodsThis was a descriptive study with prospectively collected data. ADAPT was introduced at Aarhus University Hospital in February 2021. Prior to introduction, surgeons at the department attended a general introduction to the system. ADAPT was introduced to the surgical nurses and was on display at the surgical ward at more than one occasion, where personal introduction to the system was possible. After introduction, it was mandatory to use ADAPT when using the Gamma3 nail to treat intertrochanteric femur fractures. After each procedure, primary and an eventual supervisor answered a questionnaire, which encompassed the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire. The SUS is a ten-item questionnaire regarding the perceived usability of a system. SUS scores were translated to adjectives, describing user experience on a 7-point adjective scale (worst imaginable, awful, poor, ok, good, excellent, best imaginable). User acceptability, defined as “not acceptable”, “marginal” or “acceptable”, was also used to interpret the SUS scores.ResultsADAPT was used in 50 procedures by 29 different surgeons, with varying skill-level. Median SUS-score after first-time use of ADAPT for all 29 surgeons was 43 (range: 5–60), which translated to “poor” or “not acceptable”. For surgeons who performed ≥ 3 ADAPT-assisted procedures, there were no statistically significant difference in their first to latest SUS-score (median difference: 4.3, p = 0.5). In free text comments ADAPT was positively described as helpful in placement of K-wire and providing educational opportunities for inexperienced surgeons and negatively as inconsistent, slow, time consuming, and causing excessive fluoroscopy.ConclusionsUsability and acceptability of ADAPT was rated as “poor” or “not acceptable” by the majority of operating surgeons. ADAPT has not been used at our institution based on these findings. The System Usability Scale may be used in further research exploring usability and acceptability of novel computer-assisted navigation systems for orthopaedic surgery.