Technology and Health Care - Volume 32, issue 4

Authors: Dedić, Mirza | Omeragić, Elma | Imamović, Belma | Bilajac, Esma | Mahmutović, Lejla | Glamočlija, Una | Bečić, Ervina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Preclinical drug testing requires in vitro and in vivo assessments that are vital for studying drug pharmacokinetics and toxicity. Distinct factors that play an important role in drug screening, such as hydrophobicity, solubility of the substance and serum protein binding can be challenging by inducing result inconsistencies. Hence, establishing accurate methods to quantify drug concentrations in cell cultures becomes pivotal for reliable and reproducible results important for in vivo dosing predictions. OBJECTIVE: This research focuses on developing an optimized analytical approach via high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) to determine thymoquinone (TQ) levels in …monolayer cell cultures. METHODS: The method’s validation adheres to the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) guideline M10, ensuring its acceptance and applicability. Using an HPLC system with a Diode Array Detector (DAD), the study fine-tuned various parameters to achieve an efficient separation of TQ. Validation covered specificity, sensitivity, matrix effects, linearity, precision, and accuracy, alongside assessing TQ stability in RPMI-1640 medium. RESULTS: The HPLC method exhibited remarkable TQ specificity, free from interfering peaks at the analyte retention. Sensitivity analysis at the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) revealed 5.68% %CV and 98.37% % mean accuracy. Matrix effect evaluation showcased accuracy within 85–115%. Linearity spanned in the concentration range of 2–10 μ M with a correlation coefficient (r 2 ) of 0.9993. Precision and accuracy were aligned with acceptance criteria. The proposed method was found to be greener in terms of usage of persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic chemicals and solvents, corrosive samples, and waste production. CONCLUSION: The developed HPLC-DAD method emerges as specific, accurate, sensitive, and reliable for TQ determination in cell cultures. It ensures robust TQ quantification, enhancing precise in vitro assessments and dependable dosing predictions for in vivo studies. Further research is advocated to investigate TQ’s stability across diverse environmental conditions. Show more

Keywords: Method validation, RPMI-1640, thymoquinone concentration determination

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231432

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2585-2598, 2024

Authors: Zhou, Hongtao | Daud, D. Maryama Binti Ag

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sports have been a fundamental component of any culture and legacy for centuries. Athletes are widely regarded as a source of national pride, and their physical well-being is deemed to be of paramount significance. The attainment of optimal performance and injury prevention in athletes is contingent upon physical fitness. Technology integration has implemented Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) to augment the athletic training milieu. OBJECTIVE: The present study introduces an approach for assessing athlete physical fitness in training environments: the Internet of Things (IoT) and CPS-based Physical Fitness Evaluation Method (IoT-CPS-PFEM). METHODS: The IoT-CPS-PFEM …employs a range of IoT-connected sensors and devices to observe and assess the physical fitness of athletes. The proposed methodology gathers information on diverse fitness parameters, including heart rate, body temperature, and oxygen saturation. It employs machine learning algorithms to scrutinize and furnish feedback on the athlete’s physical fitness status. RESULTS: The simulation findings illustrate the efficacy of the proposed IoT-CPS-PFEM in identifying the physical fitness levels of athletes, with an average precision of 93%. The method under consideration aims to tackle the existing obstacles of conventional physical fitness assessment techniques, including imprecisions, time lags, and manual data-gathering requirements. The approach of IoT-CPS-PFEM provides the benefits of real-time monitoring, precision, and automation, thereby enhancing an athlete’s physical fitness and overall performance to a considerable extent. CONCLUSION: The research findings suggest that the implementation of IoT-CPS-PFEM can significantly impact the physical fitness of athletes and enhance the performance of the Indian sports industry in global competitions. Show more

Keywords: Athlete physical fitness, sports training, cyber-physical systems, internet of things, performance optimization

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231435

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2599-2618, 2024

Authors: Li, Yang | Chen, Qianxi | Zhu, Tao | Lu, Shaohuan | Liang, Canhua | Wang, Guangzhao | Wu, Xuefeng | Meng, Guangyi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: How to comprehensively evaluate the rationality of drug use is a challenging issue. OBJECTIVE: To establish the evaluation index of the effective use of tislelizumab, so as to ensure its higher rationality and normalization in clinical application. METHODS: Based on the indications, drug instructions, and relevant guidelines of the National Basic Medical Insurance Restriction Catalogue, a retrospective analysis and evaluation of 286 cases of using tislelizumab injection in our hospital from January to December 2022 were conducted using the weighted technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method. …RESULTS: Among the 286 medical records evaluated, the main irrational manifestations were inappropriate indications (90 cases, 31.47%), auxiliary examination and laboratory examination did not meet the minimum requirements of combination chemotherapy drugs (40 cases, 13.99%), the drug course was not standard (39 cases, 13.64%). Among the included cases, 57.34% were reasonable cases (C i ⩾ 0.8), 10.84% were basic reasonable cases (0.6 ⩽ C i < 0.8), and 31.82% were unreasonable cases (C i < 0.6). CONCLUSION: The TOPSIS method, with its attribute hierarchical model (AHM)-weighted approach, can be employed as the rational assessment technique for the injection of tislelizumab. The clinical application of tislelizumab in our hospital is still insufficient, which needs to be further improved management. Show more

Keywords: Drug use evaluation, weighted TOPSIS, Tislelizumab, attribute hierarchical model

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231574

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2619-2628, 2024

Authors: Alotaibi, Hanan | Al-Otibi, Fatimah | Alharbi, Raedah | ALshwuaiman, Ghada | Altwaijri, Shahad | Alfouzan, Afnan | Altaweel, Sara | Alshehri, Huda | Binrayes, Abdulaziz | Labban, Nawaf

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Denture stomatitis, frequently encountered, is generally addressed symptomatically, with limited exploration of preventive approaches involving antifungal medicinal plants. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the impact of Artemisia sieberi extracts on the candida growth of conventional and digitally processed acrylic materials. METHOD: Thirty acrylic resin discs (3 mm thickness × 10 mm diameter) were prepared by conventional or CAD/CAM technology (milling and 3D printing). The resin discs were exposed to simulated brushing, thermocycling, and immersion in Artemisia sieberi extract for 8 hours. The surface roughness of the discs was assessed at …baseline and after immersion in Artemisia sieberi extract. Candida growth was quantified through colony-forming units (CFU/mL). Data was analyzed using SPSS v.22 (α ⩽ 0.05). RESULTS: Irrespective of the material type, the post-immersion surface roughness was significantly higher compared to pre-immersion values (p < 0.05). Candida growth was significantly higher in conventional acrylic materials than digitally fabricated acrylics (p < 0.05). At × 3, Ra and CFU were found to be moderately positive and non-significantly correlated (R = 0.664, p = 0.149). At × 4, Ra and CFU were found to be weak positive and non-significantly correlated (R = 0.344, p = 0.503). CONCLUSION: Artemisia sieberi extracts had a notable impact on digitally fabricated denture acrylics, reducing candida albicans growth compared to conventional heat-cured acrylic. This suggests a potential role for these extracts in improving denture hygiene and preventing denture stomatitis, particularly in the context of digitally fabricated dentures. Show more

Keywords: 3D printing, candida growth, roughness, colony forming units

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231767

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2629-2641, 2024

Authors: Meenakshi, Srinivasa Iyer | Maheshkumar, Hima | Dureja, Shyla | Rao, Raghunath Nagasundara | Shivakumar, Ganiga Channaiah | Marrapodi, Maria Maddalena | Cervino, Gabriele | Minervini, Giuseppe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a commonly used denture base material, but susceptibility to fracture under functional loading remains a challenge. OBJECTIVE: This preliminary screening study aims to investigate the potential of sericin and fibroin as reinforcing agents in the PMMA denture base material. METHODS: The flexural and impact strengths of PMMA incorporated with 0.01% sericin, and 0.01% each of sericin and fibroin, were evaluated. The control group consisted of PMMA without any additives. The maximum load and energy required to break the samples were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA …test and Scheffe Post Hoc tests to compare mean values between subgroups. RESULTS: The results indicated significant improvement in the flexural and impact strengths of PMMA with the addition of sericin and fibroin. The subgroups with 0.01% sericin, and 0.01% each of sericin and fibroin, demonstrated higher mean values in load and energy measurements compared to the control group. The statistical analysis confirmed the significance of these findings. CONCLUSION: The addition of 0.01% sericin and 0.01% each of sericin and fibroin to PMMA denture-based resin material significantly increases its flexural and impact strengths. These preliminary findings suggest the potential of sericin and fibroin as effective reinforcing agents in PMMA denture base materials, thereby enhancing their biomechanical properties. Show more

Keywords: PMMA, denture base material, sericin, fibroin, flexural strength, impact strength, reinforcing agents

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231772

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2643-2656, 2024

Authors: Li, Jiahao

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The main goal of sports science is to monitor sports injuries. Nevertheless, the existing sports injury monitoring projects have many expensive instruments and excessively extended monitoring periods, which makes it difficult to expand sports injury monitoring on a large scale. OBJECTIVE: The advancement of machine learning algorithms opens up new avenues for the tracking of sports injuries. METHODS: A training set of sports injuries was created using the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and Random Forest algorithms. Next, a basic analytic framework was created based on the lower-body movement of runners, and an …athlete’s injury likelihood monitoring system was established. First off, the wearable gyroscope device can efficiently plot the motion displacement curve and monitor the three-dimensional mechanics of the athlete’s hips, thighs, and calves. Secondly, the system has a higher computational efficiency and an advantage over other classifier-based systems in terms of testing and training times RESULTS: The suggested system framework identifies athletes’ injury propensity, providing preventive recommendations based on displacement curves, and offering a low total cost and high testing accuracy, making it easy to implement and cost-effective. CONCLUSION: All things considered, the sports injury monitoring device is very accurate and reasonably priced, making it appropriate for widespread use. Show more

Keywords: Discrete wavelet transform, random forest algorithm, three-dimensional mechanics, gyroscope, computational efficiency

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231789

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2657-2671, 2024

Authors: Bečić, Ervina | Salihović, Mirsada | Tüzün, Burak | Omeragić, Elma | Imamović, Belma | Dedić, Mirza | Roca, Sunčica | Špirtović-Halilović, Selma

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Computational research plays an important role in predicting the chemical and physical properties of biologically active compounds important in future structural modifications to improve or modify biological activity. OBJECTIVE: This research focuses on quantum chemical and spectroscopic investigations properties of synthesized 4-hydroxycoumarin derivatives. METHODS: Quantum chemical calculations were obtained using B3LYP, HF, and M06-2x level methods with the 6-31++G (d,p) basis set. Afterward, IR, 1 H, 13 C, UV-Visible experimentally parameters were compared with the results obtained using the B3LYP/6-31+G*(d) basis set of the molecules to be able to characterize the structures. …RESULTS: Based on the quantum chemical calculations compound with acetamido group on the phenyl ring is the most reactive, and compound with nitro substituent is the least reactive and the the strongest electrophile among tested compounds. With the exception of compounds with dimethylamino group, all other compounds have a pronounced tautomer between OH and C = O group. The calculated and experimental values are in agreement with each other. CONCLUSION: The molecular structure in the ground state of six 3-cinnamoyl 4-hydroxycoumarin derivatives was optimized using density functional theory. The observed and computed values were compared and it can be concluded that the theoretical results were in good linear agreement with the experimental data. Show more

Keywords: Density functional theory (DFT), coumarin derivatives, quantum chemical calculations

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231798

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2673-2684, 2024

Authors: Zeeshan, Tayyaba | Qamar, Zeeshan | Abdul, Nishath Sayed | Soman, Cristalle | Bamousa, Badr | Marrapodi, Maria Maddalena | Cicciù, Marco | Minervini, Giuseppe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Commercially available oral rinses contain active ingredients with concentration that is claimed by manufacturers to be effective as antiplaque agent. To date there has been no mention of the effect of oral rinse on the adherence of early plaque colonizers in plaque formation and the concentration to be used before/after meals. OBJECTIVE: The chief aim of the study was to evaluate microbial retention on the salivary pellicle on treatment with oral rinses (CHX & EO)/PS (mimicking after meals use of mouth wash/PS). METHODS: Noordini’s Artifical Mouth model was used for developing the …single species biofilm with early microbial colonizers of oral biofilm (A. viscosus , Strep. mitis and Strep. sanguinis respectively). The microbial retention on use of oral rinses comprising of CHX and EO as an active ingredients respectively was compared with Curcumin PS. For evaluating the microbial retention, the pellicle with microbial inoculation was developed on the glass beads in the mouth model. Subsequently the respective single specie biofilm was exposed to the mouth wash and PS after inoculation. It mimicked as use of mouth wash/PS after meals. The bacterial count in the dental biofilm was evaluated on serial dilution (CFU/ml). Sterile deionized water was used as a negative control. For qualitative analysis, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to evaluate the microbial count. RESULTS: From the data it was observed that for the treatment of single species experimental biofilm with commercially available mouth rinses (CHX & EO) and PS (curcumin), there was significant retention for S.mitis , S.sanguinis and A.viscosus . There was no significant difference observed between PS and CHX treated single species biofilm. Whereas a significant difference was observed between EO treated biofilms and CHX/PS treated biofilms (p ⩽ 0.05). CONCLUSION: It can be concluded from the results that curcumin PS and CHX should not be used after meals whereas EO containing mouth rinse can be used to maintain the oral mocroflora. Show more

Keywords: Bacterial retention, essential oils, chlorhexidine gluconate, curcumin photosensitizer

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231814

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2685-2696, 2024

Authors: Han, Shi-Lei | Li, Na

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prosthodontics are often performed to treat patients with malocclusion and dentition defects. However, single prosthodontics cannot properly correct the disharmony of teeth, dental arch and other parts affected by malocclusion, and some patients may have difficulty in recovering the occlusal function due to poor prosthodontics. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the effect of orthodontics combined with fibre-reinforced composite resin-bonded fixed partial denture (FRC-RBFPD) on anterior dentition defects with minimal vertical intermaxillary space. METHODS: Sixty-two patients with anterior dentition defects with minimal vertical mandibular space admitted to our hospital between March 2021 …and May 2023 were enrolled in this study. The participants were divided into the observation group (31 cases) and the control group (31 cases), according to the treatment plan. The control group was treated with traditional therapy, and the observation group was treated with orthodontic combined FRC-RBFPD therapy. Periodontal conditions (periodontal pocket depth [PD], the plaque index [PLI], the sulcus bleeding index [SBI]), levels of inflammatory factors in gingival crevicular fluid (high mobility group box 1 [HMGB1]), myeloid cell triggering receptor-1 (TREM-1), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), pain (visual analogue scale [VAS]), the clinical response rate and the incidence of adverse reactions were collected and compared. RESULTS: After 1, 3, 5 and 9 months following treatment, the scores of the PD, PLI, SBI, HMGB1, VAS, TREM-1 and MCP-1 in the observation group were found to be lower than those in the control group (F PD treatment = 352.532, F PLI score treatment = 112.341, F SBI score treatment = 79.479, F VAS score treatment = 96.132, F HMGB1 treatment = 52.532, F TREM-1 score treatment = 64.593, F MCP-1 score treatment = 53.582, and they were all statistically significant P < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in the response rate between the two groups (97.77% vs. 80.65%, χ 2 = 4.026, P = 0.045). No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (6.45% vs. 16.13%, χ 2 = 1.449, P = 0.229). CONCLUSION: Orthodontics combined with FRC-RBFPD shows an ideal restorative effect on patients with anterior dentition defects and minimal vertical intermaxillary space. Show more

Keywords: Orthodontics, fibre-reinforced composite resin-bonded fixed partial denture, dentition defects, tooth restoration

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231889

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2697-2709, 2024

Authors: Kuppusamy, Ramesh | Murugesan, Anbarasan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In recent times, there has been widespread deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) applications, particularly in the healthcare sector, where computations involving user-specific data are carried out on cloud servers. However, the network nodes in IoT healthcare are vulnerable to an increased level of security threats. OBJECTIVE: This paper introduces a secure Electronic Health Record (EHR) framework with a focus on IoT. METHODS: Initially, the IoT sensor nodes are designated as registered patients and undergo initialization. Subsequently, a trust evaluation is conducted, and the clustering of trusted nodes is achieved through the …application of Tasmanian Devil Optimization (STD-TDO) utilizing the Student’s T-Distribution. Utilizing the Transposition Cipher-Squared random number generator-based-Elliptic Curve Cryptography (TCS-ECC), the clustered nodes encrypt four types of sensed patient data. The resulting encrypted data undergoes hashing and is subsequently added to the blockchain. This configuration functions as a network, actively monitored to detect any external attacks. To accomplish this, a feature reputation score is calculated for the network’s features. This score is then input into the Swish Beta activated-Recurrent Neural Network (SB-RNN) model to classify potential attacks. The latest transactions on the blockchain are scrutinized using the Neutrosophic Vague Set Fuzzy (NVS-Fu) algorithm to identify any double-spending attacks on non-compromised nodes. Finally, genuine nodes are granted permission to decrypt medical records. RESULTS: In the experimental analysis, the performance of the proposed methods was compared to existing models. The results demonstrated that the suggested approach significantly increased the security level to 98%, reduced attack detection time to 1300 ms, and maximized accuracy to 98%. Furthermore, a comprehensive comparative analysis affirmed the reliability of the proposed model across all metrics. CONCLUSION: The proposed healthcare framework’s efficiency is proved by the experimental evaluation. Show more

Keywords: Cluster Head (CH), Electronic Health Records (EHR), Student’s T-Distribution employed Tasmanian Devil Optimization (STD-TDO), Swish Beta activated-Recurrent Neural Network (SB-RNN), Neutrosophic Vague Set Fuzzy (NVS-Fu)

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231895

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2711-2731, 2024

Authors: Kasiviswanathan, Sivachandar | Vijayan, Thulasi Bai

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis of health conditions ranging from general well-being to critical health issues. In the realm of health diagnostics, an often overlooked but critical aspect is the consideration of cost-sensitive learning, a facet that this study prioritizes over the non-invasive nature of the diagnostic process whereas the other standard metrics such as accuracy and sensitivity reflect weakness in error profile. OBJECTIVE: This research aims to investigate the total cost of misclassification (Total Cost) by decision rule Machine Learning (ML) algorithms implemented in Java platforms such as DecisionTable, …JRip, OneR, and PART. An augmented dataset with conjunctiva images along candidates’ demographic and anthropometric features under supervised learning is considered with a specific emphasis on cost-sensitive classification. METHODS: The opted decision rule classifiers use the text features, additionally the image feature ‘a* value of CIELAB color space’ extracted from the conjunctiva digital images as input attributes. The pre-processing consists of amalgamating text and image features on a uniform scale, normalizing. Then the 10-fold cross-validation enables the classification of samples into two categories: the presence or absence of the anemia. This study utilizes the Cost Ratio (ρ ) extracted from the cost matrix to meticulously monitor the Total Cost in four different cost ratio methodologies namely Uniform (U), Uniform Inverted (UI), Non-Uniform (NU), and Non-Uniform Inverted (NUI). RESULTS: It has been established that the PART classifier stands out as the top performer in this binary classification task, yielding the lowest mean total cost of 629.9 compared to other selected classifiers. Moreover, it demonstrates a comparatively lower standard deviation 335.9, and lower total cost across all four different cost ratio methodologies. The ranking of algorithm performance goes as follows: PART, JRIP, DecisionTable, and OneR. CONCLUSION: The significance of adopting a cost-sensitive learning approach is emphasized showing the PART classifier’s consistent performance within the proposed framework for learning the anemia dataset. This emphasis on cost-sensitive learning not only enhances the recommendations in diagnosis but also holds the potential for substantial cost savings and makes it a noteworthy focal point in the advancement of AI-driven health care. Show more

Keywords: Cost matrix, cost ratio, cost sensitive classifier, decision rule classifier, DecisionTable, JRip, OneR, PART

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231946

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2733-2753, 2024

Authors: Alhamoudi, Fahad Hussain

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The accuracy of dental crowns is crucial for their longevity and effectiveness. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate how the precision of crowns is affected by two different fabrication methods, either subtractive (milling) or additive (3D printing), within computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) technology. METHODS: A standardised digital scan of a maxillary first molar with a shoulder margin (.stl file) was used to design and fabricate crowns through both subtractive (milling) and additive (3D printing) processes. The crowns’ marginal and internal fits were assessed comprehensively. Statistical analysis, including two-way ANOVA and independent t-tests, …revealed significant differences in fitting accuracy between the two methods. RESULTS: Crowns produced via 3D printing demonstrated superior fitting with minimal marginal (14 ± 5 μ m) and internal discrepancies (22 ± 5 μ m) compared to milling (marginal: 22 ± 4 μ m, internal: 23 ± 3 μ m), indicating a statistically significant advantage in precision (p ⁢ s ⩽ 0.022 for marginal fit). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that 3D printing may offer a more accurate alternative to milling in the fabrication of digital dental prostheses, potentially revolutionising the field with its enhanced precision capabilities. Show more

Keywords: Digital crowns, CAD/CAM, milling, 3D Printing, fit accuracy, dental material, 3D scanner

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231961

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2755-2768, 2024

Authors: Zuo, Wanzhao | Li, Jing | Zuo, Mingyan | Li, Miao | Zhou, Shuang | Cai, Xing

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It is difficult to differentiate between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-peripheral bronchogenic carcinoma (COPD-PBC) and inflammatory masses. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to predict COPD-PBC based on clinical data and preoperative Habitat-based enhanced CT radiomics (HECT radiomics) modeling. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical imaging data of 232 cases of postoperative pathological confirmed PBC or inflammatory masses. The PBC group consisted of 82 cases, while the non-PBC group consisted of 150 cases. A training set and a testing set were established using a 7:3 ratio and a time cutoff point. In …the training set, multiple models were established using clinical data and radiomics texture changes within different enhanced areas of the CT mass (HECT radiomics). The AUC values of each model were compared using Delong’s test, and the clinical net benefit of the models was tested using decision curve analysis (DCA). The models were then externally validated in the testing set, and a nomogram of predicting COPD-PBC was created. RESULTS: Univariate analysis confirmed that female gender, tumor morphology, CEA, Cyfra21-1, CT enhancement pattern, and Habitat-Radscore B/C were predictive factors for COPD-PBC (P < 0.05). The combination model based on these factors had significantly higher predictive performance [AUC: 0.894, 95% CI (0.836–0.936)] than the clinical data model [AUC: 0.758, 95% CI (0.685–0.822)] and radiomics model [AUC: 0.828, 95% CI (0.761–0.882)]. DCA also confirmed the higher clinical net benefit of the combination model, which was validated in the testing set. The nomogram developed based on the combination model helped predict COPD-PBC. CONCLUSION: The combination model based on clinical data and Habitat-based enhanced CT radiomics can help differentiate COPD-PBC, providing a new non-invasive and efficient method for its diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decision-making. Show more

Keywords: Nomograms, retrospective studies, antigen CYFRA21.1, area under curve, radiomics, tomography, X-ray computed, clinical decision-making, pulmonary disease, chronic obstructive

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231980

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2769-2781, 2024

Authors: Maheshwaran, Bipin | Chokkatt, Jerry Joe | Shenoy, Amrutha | Ganapathy, Dhanraj | Yadalam, Pradeep Kumar | Marrapodi, Maria Maddalena | Cicciù, Marco | Minervini, Giuseppe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Titanium nanoparticles (NPs) offer promising applications in the treatment and prevention of inflammatory disorders due to their unique physicochemical characteristics. However, additional research is necessary to attain a thorough comprehension and validate the efficacy of this approach in dental practice. OBJECTIVE: This study scrutinizes the anti-inflammatory properties of a dental varnish infused with ginger and rosemary extracts mediated by titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. METHODS: A herbal dental varnish was formulated by integrating ginger and rosemary extracts with titanium dioxide nanoparticles at concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 μ L. …Anti-inflammatory properties were assessed through Bovine Serum Albumin denaturation and membrane stabilization assays, comparing results with a control group. RESULTS: The results reveal concentration-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in the test group when compared to the control group. The BSA assay corroborates increased percent inhibition with rising titanium dioxide nanoparticle concentrations. In line with existing literature, titanium dioxide nanoparticles enhance dental material properties. CONCLUSION: The bioactive compounds in ginger and rosemary, such as phenolic compounds and terpenes, contribute to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of the varnish. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in addressing inflammatory diseases underscores their significance in this formulation. Show more

Keywords: Preventive dentistry, nanoparticles, titanium dioxide, green synthesis, antioxidant

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231994

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2783-2792, 2024

Authors: Hu, Qinghua | Li, Min | Jiang, Linwen | Liu, Mei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Photoplethysmography (PPG) signals are sensitive to motion-induced interference, leading to the emergence of motion artifacts (MA) and baseline drift, which significantly affect the accuracy of PPG measurements. OBJECTIVE: The objective of our study is to effectively eliminate baseline drift and high-frequency noise from PPG signals, ensuring that the signal’s critical frequency components remain within the range of 1 ∼ 10 Hz. METHODS: This paper introduces a novel hybrid denoising method for PPG signals, integrating Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) with an improved wavelet threshold function. The method initially employs VMD to …decompose PPG signals into a set of narrowband intrinsic mode function (IMF) components, effectively removing low-frequency baseline drift. Subsequently, an improved wavelet thresholding algorithm is applied to eliminate high-frequency noise, resulting in denoised PPG signals. The effectiveness of the denoising method was rigorously assessed through a comprehensive validation process. It was tested on real-world PPG measurements, PPG signals generated by the Fluke ProSim™ 8 Vital Signs Simulator with synthesized noise, and extended to the MIMIC-III waveform database. RESULTS: The application of the improved threshold function let to a substantial 11.47% increase in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and an impressive 26.75% reduction in root mean square error (RMSE) compared to the soft threshold function. Furthermore, the hybrid denoising method improved SNR by 15.54% and reduced RMSE by 37.43% compared to the improved threshold function. CONCLUSION: This study proposes an effective PPG denoising algorithm based on VMD and an improved wavelet threshold function, capable of simultaneously eliminating low-frequency baseline drift and high-frequency noise in PPG signals while faithfully preserving their morphological characteristics. This advancement establishes the foundation for time-domain feature extraction and model development in the domain of PPG signal analysis. Show more

Keywords: Variational mode decomposition, denoising, improved wavelet thresholding, photoplethysmography

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231996

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2793-2814, 2024

Authors: Hao, Xianjie | Yi, Yanli | Lin, Xian | Li, Jie | Chen, Cheng | Shen, Yanfeng | Sun, Yuhang | He, Jinglan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychological factors are a risk factor for the incidence of breast cancer and have a significant impact on patient prognosis. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to investigate the effects of personalised graded psychological intervention on negative emotion and quality of life in patients with breast cancer. METHODS: A total of 200 patients with breast cancer were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (n = 100) and control group (n = 100). Both groups received routine nursing care. The experimental group …received personalised graded psychological intervention care, and the control group received routine nursing measures. After 2 months of standard treatment, the patients’ quality of life and negative emotions were evaluated using the self-rating depression scale (SDS), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), social support rating scale (SSRS) and quality of life measurement scale (FACT-B) scoring criteria. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the general data between the two groups (p > 0.05). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the SDS, SAS, SSRS and FACT-B scores between the two groups before personalised graded psychological intervention (p > 0.05). After the intervention, the experimental group exhibited an improved nursing effect compared with the control group. The SDS and SAS scores were lower in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.05); after the intervention, the SDS and SAS scores were significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The SSRS and FACT-B scores were higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.05), and the experimental group’s post-intervention SSRS and FACT-B scores were significantly higher than before the intervention (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of personalised graded psychological intervention for the nursing of patients with breast cancer in clinical practice can significantly reduce patients’ negative emotions as well as improve positive emotions and quality of life; thus, this method can be popularised in the nursing process. Show more

Keywords: Personalised grading, breast cancer, psychological intervention, negative emotions, quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/THC-232021

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2815-2823, 2024

Authors: Batool, Syeda Aqsa | Chaudhry, Sana | Munir, Nadia | Inayat, Naveed | Suleman, Ghazala | Ahmed, Abdul Razzaq | Al-Qarni, Mohammed A. | Chaturvedi, Mudita | Cicciù, Marco | Minervini, Giuseppe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The radiation released at the time of dental panoramic radiographs causes genotoxic and cytotoxic effects on epithelial cells. OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to evaluate the changes in the frequencies of micronucleated cells in patients’ buccal epithelial cells following dental panoramic radiography. METHODS: 74 patients were recruited for the study who were advised for panoramic radiographs. Using a wooden spatula, the buccal epithelial cells were scraped from both cheeks before to panoramic radiation exposure and ten days after the panoramic radiation exposure. Giemsa stain was used to stain the cells, and 500 cells …were scored on a slide to determine the frequency of micronuclei. To determine the difference between the frequency of micronuclei before and after radiation exposure, a paired t -test was used in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: The proportion of micronuclei cells was 0.11% before radiation exposure and 0.57% following radiation exposure after 10 days. A statistically significant increase in the frequencies of micronuclei was noted after radiation exposure values. CONCLUSION: This study revealed the genotoxicity of epithelial cells with dental panoramic radiation exposure. It is advised to reduce the use of such radiographs and to use only when there is no other diagnostic tool that is helpful or when absolutely essential. Show more

Keywords: Panoramic radiography, cytotoxic, micronuclei

DOI: 10.3233/THC-240072

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2825-2836, 2024

Authors: Celebioglu, Cansu | Topalli, Ayca Kumluca

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Incubators, especially the ones for babies, require continuous monitoring for anomaly detection and taking action when necessary. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to introduce a system in which important information such as temperature, humidity and gas values being tracked from incubator environment continuously in real-time. METHOD: Multiple sensors, a microcontroller, a transmission module, a cloud server, a mobile application, and a Web application were integrated Data were made accessible to the duty personnel both remotely via Wi-Fi and in the range of the sensors via Bluetooth Low Energy technologies. In addition, potential emergencies …were detected and alarm notifications were created utilising a machine learning algorithm. The mobile application receiving the data from the sensors via Bluetooth was designed such a way that it stores the data internally in case of Internet disruption, and transfers the data when the connection is restored. RESULTS: The obtained results reveal that a neural network structure with sensor measurements from the last hour gives the best prediction for the next hour measurement. CONCLUSION: The affordable hardware and software used in this system make it beneficial, especially in the health sector, in which the close monitoring of baby incubators is vitally important. Show more

Keywords: Biomedical, cloud service, healthcare, incubators, machine learning, mobile applications, web application, child wellbeing

DOI: 10.3233/THC-240167

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2837-2846, 2024

Authors: Luschi, Alessio

Article Type: Letter

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231784

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2847-2849, 2024

Article Type: Retraction

DOI: 10.3233/THC-231589

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 2851-2851, 2024