30921 research outputs found
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An examination of the relationship between persistent traumatic brain injuries and chronic pain conditions in active-duty and Veteran soldiers: results from the Canadian Armed Forces Members and Veterans Mental Health Follow-up Survey
No full textTraumatic brain injuries (TBI) are highly prevalent among military personnel. TBIs have been shown to be associated with lasting negative physical health, mental health, and psychosocial consequences. Chronic pain is one common comorbidity for those experiencing persistent effects of a TBI. This study examined the relationship between persistent TBI and chronic pain conditions (i.e., arthritis, back problems, gastrointestinal conditions, and migraine headaches) in a Canadian military sample, including potential preinjury characteristics (i.e., sociodemographic and military demographics), mental health disorders (e.g., depression, PTSD) and other biopsychosocial factors (i.e., social support, sleep difficulty), as well as potential moderators (i.e., sex and serving status) that impact this relationship. This study utilized data from the Canadian Armed Forces Members and Veterans Mental Health Follow-up Survey (CAFMVHS) collected in 2018 (n = 2,941). Logistic regression analyses demonstrated arthritis, back problems, migraine headaches, and gastrointestinal conditions to be significantly associated with persistent TBI. Preinjury characteristics (i.e., sociodemographic, and military demographics) associated with comorbid persistent TBI and any chronic pain condition(s) included military rank and serving status. The comorbidity of any mental health disorders was not significantly more associated with persistent TBI and any chronic pain condition(s). Biopsychosocial factors associated with comorbid persistent TBI, and any chronic pain condition(s) included problem-solving coping and sleep difficulties. Findings identify the prevalence of chronic pain conditions among CAF members with persistent TBI and provide further insight potential risk factors that may influence this relationship including military characteristics, mental health disorders, and other biopsychosocial factors.May 202
Interaction between orange juice and < 1 kDa leaf peptides: effect on the antioxidant and antidiabetic related enzyme inhibitory activities
No full textDesigning a good vehicle for functional ingredients is the major focus of this study. Small molecular weight peptides (< 1 kDa) extracted from amaranth leaf protein (ALP), eggplant leaf protein (ELP) and fluted pumpkin leaf protein (FLP) were incorporated into freshly prepared orange juice at an effective and inhibitory concentrations of the peptides. The rate of degradation of ascorbic acid was more in the control juice (140.06 to 18.43 mg/mL) when compared with juice containing peptides at both storage conditions (140.08 to 32.32 mg/mL). However, the rate of ascorbic acid reduction during storage (refrigerated and ambient) was least in the juice containing peptide, isolated from ELP when compared with the juice samples that contained peptides isolated from ALP and FLP. After the eighth week of storage, juice that contained FLP peptide had greater amounts of residual total phenolic content (370.53 & 432.33 µg GAE/100 mL), juice that contained ALP peptide retained better ability to scavenge DPPH radicals (52.32 & 66.84%) while juice sample that contained ELP retained more metal chelating activities (44.82 and 51.03%). The results of antidiabetic property showed that juice containing peptide isolated from ALP contained greater amounts of α-amylase inhibitory activity (41.50 and 46.89%) while greater amounts of α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were retained in juice that contained peptide isolated from FLP. The results concluded that orange juice may be considered a veritable vehicle for functional ingredients for improved health.
[Graphical abstract included in article
Energy-aware and RIS-assisted communications in UAV-based wireless networks
No full textUnmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) advance 5G and 6G networks with flexible deployment and enhanced coverage. However, their limited onboard energy poses challenges, requiring optimization through advanced energy harvesting, flight planning, and adaptive protocols. On the other hand, Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) are emerging as a transformative technology for future wireless systems, particularly in the context of 6G for dynamically improving signal strength and coverage. Integrating RISs with UAVs addresses propagation issues, enhancing communication with RISs on buildings or UAVs. However, several critical research areas remain unexplored. These include understanding the complex radio wave propagation characteristics in aerial environments, optimizing the deployment of 3D RIS arrays to maximize their benefits in dynamic
scenarios, and ensuring seamless integration of UAVs and RISs into existing and future wireless standards. Overcoming these challenges will be pivotal in harnessing the full potential of UAVs and RISs to meet the demanding requirements of 6G networks, thereby ushering in a new era of pervasive and high-performance wireless connectivity.
This thesis addresses UAV-assisted communication challenges, focusing on energy harvesting and deployment optimization. It models solar, wind, and hybrid energy scenarios, deriving expressions for harvested power to evaluate outage probabilities using moment generating functions (MGF) and Gil-Pelaez inversion. It also explores distributed STAR-RIS networks versus multi-antenna UAV systems, optimizing multi-user scheduling, STAR-RIS shifts, and UAV beamforming using semi-definite programming, integer relaxation, and convex approximation, showing significant performance gains and enhancing UAV efficiency.February 202
Improving end organ dysfunction and survival with antiplatelet agents in community acquired pneumonia
Get PDFBackground: Community acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a life-threatening lung infection and the most common reason for hospital admission. Both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 CAP trigger inflammatory and thrombotic host responses driving morbidity and mortality. In non-critically ill patients hospitalized for COVID-19, therapeutic-dose heparin improves survival and reduces intensive care unit (ICU)-level organ support. Antiplatelet agents may also favorably modulate host responses; however, their role in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 CAP remains uncertain. Objectives: The overall objective was to evaluate the treatment effects and safety of antiplatelet agents and their interactions with therapeutic-dose heparin in CAP. Specifically, we aimed to meta- analyze the effect of antiplatelet agents in non-COVID-19 CAP, and to evaluate the effect of combination antiplatelet agents with therapeutic-dose heparin in COVID-19 CAP.
Methods: We conducted a systematic review/meta-analysis of observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of hospitalized patients with non-COVID-19 CAP evaluating the effect of antiplatelet agents (ASA or P2Y12 inhibitors) on mortality. We conducted a secondary analysis of the multiplatform trial (mpRCT) to evaluate the effect of combination antiplatelet agents with therapeutic-dose heparin compared to therapeutic-dose heparin alone in COVID-19.
Results: We meta-analyzed 13 observational studies and 2 RCTs in our systematic review. In observational studies reporting hazard ratio (HR), antiplatelet agents were associated with lower mortality (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46-0.91; I2 85%; 4 studies, 91,430 patients). In studies reporting adjusted odds ratio (aOR), antiplatelet agents were associated with reduced odds of mortality (aOR 0.67, 95% CI 0.45 – 1.00, I2 0%; 2 studies, 24,899 patients). Among RCTs there was a non- significant association with mortality (risk ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.20 – 2.25; I2 54%, 2 studies, 225 patients). In our secondary analysis of the mpRCT, 1,021 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 received therapeutic-dose heparin, of which 19% concurrently received an antiplatelet agent. Combination treatment was not associated with an improvement in survival without the need for organ support (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.71 – 1.64).
Conclusions: Antiplatelet agents may be associated with reduced mortality in hospitalized patients with non-COVID-19 CAP, but the certainty of the evidence was low. Exposure to combination antiplatelet and therapeutic-dose heparin in COVID-19 did not improve outcomes. This thesis has provided foundational work to inform the design of a future RCT of antiplatelet agents in CAP.October 202
The role of scleraxis in inducing vascular stiffness
No full textArterial stiffness occurs when structural changes in the arterial wall, such as increased extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins or vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), or cellular dysfunction disrupt the arteries' ability to adapt to changes in blood pressure or flow. This condition is linked to cardiovascular diseases and increased risks of adverse outcomes. Angiotensin II (AngII) contributes to arterial stiffness by constricting blood vessels, promoting VSMC proliferation, and enhancing ECM protein production. Scleraxis transcription factor contributes to cardiac fibrosis by upregulating ECM genes and activating fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. Scleraxis expression is upregulated in the high-pressure side of the aorta wall in the transverse aortic constriction (TAC) mouse model.
In this project, we hypothesized that overexpression of scleraxis in fibroblasts or VSMCs using TCF21iCre or Myh11Cre approaches, respectively, would increase vascular stiffness in mesenteric arteries and aortas. We assessed mesenteric artery stiffness and function using pressure myography and performed immunohistology staining and gene expression analysis on harvested aortas. In vitro, we increased scleraxis expression in human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAOSMCs) and assessed proliferation capacity.
Our findings showed that scleraxis upregulation in VSMCs decreased compliance in mesenteric arteries without altering the structure or function in these arteries. Scleraxis upregulation in HAOSMCs induced cell proliferation and a switch from a synthetic phenotype toward the proliferative phenotype.
Mice with both scleraxis upregulation and AngII infusion exhibited stiffer mesenteric arteries. This was accompanied by a decrease in vascular lumen diameter, an increase in smooth muscle cell (SMC) contractility and impaired relaxation. Unexpectedly, the combination of scleraxis with AngII reduced ECM expression, suggesting arterial remodelling was occurring. HAOSMCs treated with AngII and scleraxis demonstrated a decrease in proliferation, and an increased expression of contractile genes, indicating a contractile VSMC phenotype.
In summary, our findings suggest that upregulation of scleraxis expression in VSMCs alone induces vascular stiffness by promoting SMC proliferation. However, when combined with AngII, vascular stiffness is exacerbated by inducing a ' contractile' phenotype in SMCs. These findings highlight the complex and context-dependent role of scleraxis in vascular stiffness, emphasizing the importance of considering specific pathological conditions and factors when studying its effects on vascular function.May 202
Beyond the job description: an autoethnography of the emotional dimension of disability support work
Get PDFABSTRACT
This autoethnographic study explores the emotional dimensions of disability support work through
the personal experiences of the researcher. The research investigates the long-term effects of
emotional labour on support workers, focusing on both positive and negative impacts. Through
detailed reflective narratives, the study highlights how emotional labour has enhanced emotional
intelligence, professional growth, and commitment to advocacy. Conversely, it also examines the
challenges of emotional exhaustion, mental health impacts, and strained personal relationships.
By employing an autoethnographic approach, the research provides an authentic portrayal of the
daily emotional complexities faced by disability support workers. It emphasizes the importance of
understanding and addressing these emotional demands to improve the well-being of both support
workers and clients. The study also incorporates insights from an MSc in Disability Studies, which
has influenced the researcher’s approach to caregiving and emotional labour management.
The findings underscore the necessity for sustainable practices and organizational support systems
to manage emotional labour effectively. Recommendations include regular emotional health
check-ins, training programs in emotional regulation, supportive organizational policies,
structured support systems, cultural competence training, systemic policy reforms, adequate
resources and staffing, and involving support workers in management decisions. This research
contributes to a deeper understanding of the emotional labour involved in disability support work
and highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to support those in this vital field.October 202
Developing rank-based classifiers for hip fracture prediction
Get PDFThis thesis presents a comprehensive study of the Maxima Nomination Sampling (MaxNS) method to construct rank-based classifiers for binary classification and their application. Utilizing the bone mineral density (BMD) dataset provided by the Manitoba BMD program, this research contrasts the efficacy of MaxNS methods with that of Simple Random Sampling (SRS) in handling data imbalance, a common challenge in medical data analysis.
The study explores the process of data sampling using expert knowledge that can be represented in terms of rank based on the likelihood of a sampling unit coming from the underlying class of interest, as well as data pre-processing including feature scaling, to optimize the dataset for machine learning models. A significant emphasis is placed on the use of Deep Neural Networks (DNNs), specifically in processing hip Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) images, to extract ranking information for MaxNS sampling. The findings demonstrate that MaxNS methods significantly outperform SRS, especially in terms of recall metrics, showcasing their robustness and reliability in predicting the minority class.
This research contributes to the growing field of medical data analytics by providing insights into advanced sampling methods and their potential to improve the accuracy of predictive models in healthcare. The implications of this study extend to the development of more effective tools for medical diagnostics, ultimately aiming to enhance patient care through better predictive analytics.October 202
Meta-analysis of 4R nitrogen management on direct nitrous oxide emissions from cropland in the Canadian Prairies and Northern Great Plain USA
Get PDFAgricultural soils are a major source of direct and indirect emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O). The 4R nutrient stewardship framework, involving using the right source at the right time, rate, and place, can significantly reduce N2O emissions. Here a meta-analysis of reported studies conducted in Western Canada and Northern Great Plains of USA with similar climatic conditions (Köppen Dfb, warm summer humid continental climate) compared total emissions of N2O (ΣN2O, kg N2O-N- ha-1) for fertilizer sources (conventional fertilizers versus Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizers- EEFs), placement (broadcast versus band), timing of application (spring versus fall), and application rate. The results show that compared to conventional granular urea, the use of nitrification inhibitors, dual inhibitors (Super-U), and polymer-coated urea (PCU) significantly reduced ΣN2O by 35%, 48%, and 16%, respectively. Urease inhibitors had no effect on ΣN2O. Products containing nitrification inhibitors with UAN significantly reduced ΣN2O by 17%. Overall, the use of nitrification inhibitors reduced the fertilizer-induced N2O emissions by 67% from urea alone and by 30% from UAN alone. Compared to broadcast-incorporation, banding generally tended to decrease ΣN2O by 4%. Among banding depths, deep banding (> 6 cm) tended to decrease ΣN2O by 16% whereas shallow banding (< 6 cm) tended to increase ΣN2O by 5%. In case of banding positions, side banding and midrow banding tended to decrease ΣN2O by 2% and 4% respectively. Whereas compared to surface application, banding resulted in an increase of ΣN2O by 14%. Across banding depths, deep and shallow banding tended to increase ΣN2O by 3% and 20%, respectively. Among banding positions, side banding tended to decrease ΣN2O by 11% whereas midrow banding showed a considerate increase in ΣN2O by 40%. The fall application of fertilizer significantly reduced ΣN2O compared with spring application under specific soil conditions (i.e., pH < 7, and silt soil) but the overall impact was not statistically significant. Total and fertilizer-induced N2O emissions exhibited increasing trend with the increase in nitrogen (N) input. Based on the analysis we conclude that adopting the 4Rs can greatly reduce N2O emissions among the reviewed and sorted datasets.February 202
Scoping review on the association between early childhood caries and responsible resource consumption and production: exploring Sustainable Development Goal 12
Get PDFBackground
The Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG12) promotes patterns that minimize waste and maximize resource utilization. It is therefore plausible that preventing Early Childhood Caries (ECC) and promoting oral health can contribute to sustainable consumption. In addition, sustainable consumption and production can contribute to the control of ECC. This scoping review aimed to explore the possible evidence on the link between ECC and the SDG12 targets.
Methods
This scoping review identified articles on the link between resource consumption and production and caries according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) were systematically searched in August 2023, using specific search terms. Studies written in English, with full text available, addressing dental caries and linked with waste minimization and resource utilization maximisation, with results that could be extrapolated to ECC in children less than 6 years of age) were included. Descriptive statistics were planned to summarize the categories of retrieved papers.
Results
The initial search yielded 904 articles, with 863 screened for eligibility after the removal of duplicates. No studies were identified that reported data on an association between responsible consumption and production of resources factors and ECC.
Conclusion
This scoping review did not identify any articles published in English on evidence of the direct associations between ECC and SDG12 targets. However, there is a plausibility of such a link using minimum intervention dentistry for ECC management as a waste prevention and resource utilisation maximization strategy
Agronomic and economic evaluation of fall cover crops and the natural fall plant community in on-farm experiments in Manitoba
Get PDFFall cover crops are grown to protect soil from erosion from the time of cash crop harvest to the following cash crop and to benefit soil health. The adoption of fall cover crops in Manitoba has increased in recent years due to increasing interest in soil health building practices. Major barriers to cover crop adoption in Manitoba include the limited amount of previous research and the short growing season which limits the fall window for cover crop growth, and thus may limit the potential benefits of cover crops. This study assessed fall cover crops in the initial years of adoption in six multiyear on-farm experiments across Manitoba with four replicates in each environment. Fall cover crops were included in the annual cash crop rotation and were compared to the natural fall plant community (NFPC) from 2019 until 2021. This research assessed the fall dry matter production of fall cover crops, the effect on subsequent cash crop yield, along with effects on soil nitrate, moisture, and health. Additionally, the short-term economic cost benefit analysis of fall cover crops was explored. Cover crops were included after 13 of the 17 cash crops with seeding dates ranging from August 10th to September 14th. The mean fall cover crop dry matter ranged from 99 to 2146 kg ha-1. The cover crop and NFPC produced equivalent amounts of fall dry matter in 7 of 11 environments. Fall cover crops significantly decreased the overall subsequent mean cash crop yield by 2% compared to the NFPC. Spring soil nitrate was significantly lower in the cover crop treatment in 3 of 5 environments relative to the NFPC treatment. After 2 or 3 cover crops were grown in each environment, the mean Saskatchewan Soil Health Assessment score was significantly greater in the cover crop treatment. Fall cover crops resulted in a mean economic loss of $163 ha-1. The high mean economic loss observed in this study suggests incentive payments will be necessary for fall cover crops to be economically feasible in Manitoba.Canadian Agricultural Partnership
General MillsOctober 202