Showing papers by "University of the Philippines Manila published in 2023"

Simulation training needs assessment for disaster preparedness and disaster response among selected agencies in national capital region, Philippines

Abstract: This study aims to identify challenges experienced by government agencies in improving disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). It also intends to identify the simulation training needs of selected government agencies in the Philippines to ensure that field exercises designed using virtual reality simulation tools are tailored to address these gaps. A total of thirty-two participants from ten government agencies involved in DRRM were invited for focus group discussions and dyadic interviews. Participants were asked about their agency's mandate and the current gaps in their disaster response practices. Framework analysis using the thematic areas of DRRM was applied to identify significant information. Different challenges in the design of field exercises, such as the overlapping organizational structure and insufficient capacity-building activities were identified. Recommendations for the improvement of disaster training were also identified to address the aforementioned challenges. These include introducing different topics and scenarios and applying modern technology, to name a few.

Compact, Consumer Off the Shelf Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (COTS-RPAS) in Observing Haliastur indus, the Kali, or Brahminy Kites

Abstract: The paper demonstrates how small, compact consumer off the shelf remotely piloted aircraft systems (COTS-RPAS) with zoom capability is an effective remote sensing platform in observing Brahminy Kites due to its non-intimidating nature, which arguably minimizes disturbance of the kites. The paper through this remote sensing platform was able to document some key play, cooperative fishing, behaviors of the raptors as well as draft a distribution map of sightings within the raptors range utilizing the compact -COTS-RPAS in tandem with Geographic Information Systems. Use of COTS-RPAS opens a new window or point of view (POV) to avian observational and behavioral studies especially because we are now given horizontal near orthogonal and orthogonal views of the avian species while in flight. Most documentation of birds in flight typically show the underwing and underbody parts but now with the aid of COTS-RPAS we see the upper wing and upper body while in flight

Prevalence and predictors of prolonged length of stay among patients admitted under general internal medicine in a tertiary government hospital in Manila, Philippines: a retrospective cross-sectional study

Abstract: Abstract Background Prolonged hospitalization leads to poorer health outcomes and consumes limited hospital resources. This study identified factors associated with prolonged length of stay (PLOS) among internal medicine patients admitted in a tertiary government hospital. Methods We reviewed the medical records of 386 adult patients admitted under the primary service of General Internal Medicine at the Philippine General Hospital from January 1 to December 31, 2019. PLOS was defined as at least 14 days for emergency admissions or 3 days for elective admissions. Sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, admission- and hospital system-related factors, disease-specific factors, outcome on the last day of hospitalization, and hospitalization costs were obtained. We determined the proportion with PLOS and reviewed reasons for discharge delays. We conducted multiple logistic regression analyses to assess associations between various factors and PLOS. Results The prevalence of PLOS is 19.17% (95% CI 15.54, 23.42). Positive predictors include being partially dependent on admission (aOR 2.61, 95% CI 0.99, 6.86), more co-managing services (aOR 1.26, 95% CI 1.06, 1.50), and longer duration of intravenous antibiotics (aOR 1.36, 95% CI 1.22, 1.51). The only negative predictor is the need for intravenous antibiotics (aOR 0.14, 95% CI 0.04, 0.54). The most common reason for discharge delays was prolonged treatment. The median hospitalization cost of patients with PLOS was PHP 77,427.20 (IQR 102,596). Conclusions Almost a fifth of emergency admissions and a quarter of elective admissions had PLOS. Addressing factors related to predictors such as functional status on admission, number of co-managing services, and use of intravenous antibiotics can guide clinical and administrative decisions, including careful attention to vulnerable patients and judicious use of resources.

A Methods Note on Remote Sensing Platforms and Large-Scale Archeological Impact Assessments (AIA) in the Philippines

Abstract: This research note attempts to present to Philippine-based archeological impact assessments (AIA) archeologists “how to” possibly approach spread-out or large-scale project sites through the integration of various aerial remote sensing platforms in the work process. Cascading remote sensing platforms providing multiscalar (macro, meso, and micro) perspectives are presented in conjunction with the complimentary method of stratified random sampling (SRS). The SRS is informed by a predictive model of where to find archeological sites in the Philippine setting, even in areas where there are no positive archeological features. This methods note offers the AIA archeologist efficient and targeted utilization of limited time and resources following a streamlined workflow process using remote sensing and geographic informations systems (RS-GIS) as a force multiplier. After carrying out the AIA, further mitigating arrangements can also be undertaken including possible side-by-side monitoring of earthmoving activities by archeologists, and possible recommendation for further revalidations of the initial AIA results.

A Methods Note on Remote Sensing Platforms and Large-Scale Archeological Impact Assessments (AIA) in the Philippines

Abstract: This short methods note attempts to illustrate how various aerial remote sensing platforms can be utilized in carrying out archeological impact assessments (AIA) on spread-out or large-scale project sites. Cascading remote sensing platforms providing multiscalar (macro, meso, and micro) perspectives are presented in conjunction with the complimentary method of stratified random sampling (SRS). The SRS is informed by a predictive model of where to find archeological sites in the Philippines, even in areas where there are no positive features. This methods note offers the AIA archeologist an efficient and targeted use of limited time and resources following a streamlined workflow process. After carrying out the AIA, further mitigating arrangements can also be undertaken including possible side-by-side monitoring of earthmoving activities by archeologists, and possible recommendation for further revalidations of the initial AIA results.

Analysis of Batch Size in the Assessment of Bone Metastasis from Bone Scans in Various Convolutional Neural Networks

Abstract: A diagnosis of bone metastasis indicates an advanced cancer stage with a median survival of a few months and presenting with limited therapeutic options. Hence, it is crucial to make an early assessment of bone metastasis to determine the appropriate therapeutic measure to diminish the risks of skeletal adverse events impacting on the survival rates and quality of life of patients. The objectives of this study are to develop a base convolutional neural network classifier and to determine the batch size that generate the best prediction performance for bone metastasis using bone scans. Several experiments to determine optimum batch size were made for both the base and pre-trained models. Results showed that all models favored the use of smaller batch size as larger batch sizes did not yield better performance. The findings showed the best base and pre-trained models obtained very good accuracy, precision, and superior specificity. ResNet50 bested all other models as to performance using Matthew’s correlation coefficient. However, all models had similar metric values suggesting that any of them can be used as a decision support tool for doctors in their clinical practice. Coupled with the known excellent sensitivity of bone scan as an imaging modality for bone metastasis, use of these models with superior specificity, very good precision and accuracy indicates their clinical utility leading to an enhanced diagnostic accuracy of bone scans.

Compact, Consumer Off the Shelf Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (COTS-RPAS) in Observing Haliastur indus, the Kali, or Brahminy Kites

Abstract: The paper demonstrates how compact consumer off the shelf remotely piloted aircraft systems (COTS-RPAS) with digital zoom capability is an effective remote sensing platform in observing Brahminy Kites due to its non-intimidating nature, which arguably minimizes disturbance of the kites. The paper through this remote sensing platform was able to conduct preliminary documentation of some key courtship, play, cooperative fishing, and other behaviors of the raptors as well as draft a distribution map of sightings within the raptors range utilizing the compact COTS-RPAS in tandem with Geographic Information Systems. Use of COTS-RPAS opens a new window or point of view (POV) to avian observational and behavioral studies especially because we are now given horizontal near orthogonal and orthogonal views of the avian species while in flight. Most documentation of birds in flight typically show the underwing and underbody parts but now with the aid of COTS-RPAS we see the upper wing and upper body while in flight. This new tool and method also democratize environmental research for both scientists and citizen scientists due to its availability (consumer off-the-shelf), as well as its relative affordability.

Characterizing Groups of Patients with Depression using Clustering Techniques

Abstract: Depression is a disorder characterized by a variety of symptoms that includes changes in psychomotor function, weight changes, sleep disturbance, difficulty concentrating, suicidal thoughts, fatigue, and extreme feelings of guilt or worthlessness persisting for at least two weeks affecting more than 300 million people worldwide. However, this is believed to be an underestimate as many people are not seeking professional help due to many reasons such as lack of resources, lack of access to mental health professional, and due to social stigma associated with the condition particularly in low-income countries. The aim of the study is to identify patient subgroups with distinct characteristics from a patient group with depression using clustering techniques. The characterization of patients in the subgroup would assist the mental health professional in instituting a more personalized treatment plan for the patient in each subgroup as there is a no “one size fits all” type of treatment for depression. Furthermore, the resulting clusters may be used as a screening tool to identify patients with a more severe type of depression and thus, be given an urgent attention when seeking professional help with a mental health provider. In this study Partitioning Around Medoids and K-modes clustering were used to identify clusters among patients labelled as having depression. Two groups were identified, and cluster characterizations were formed to describe and differentiate the clusters as well as formulate specific treatment regimens appropriate to each cluster. The identified clusters and their characterizations have a potential to be used as a screening tool to prioritize patients who may have a more severe type of depression. The collaboration of machine learning enthusiasts with mental health professionals is a step forward to the deployment and acceptability of machine learning tools in clinical practice.

The Updated World Association of Medical Editors (WAME) Recommendations on Chatbots and Generative AI in Relation to Scholarly Publications and International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) Recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing, and Publication of Scholarly Work in Medical Journals (May 2023)

Abstract: On January 20, 2023, the World Association of Medical Editors published a policy statement on Chatbots, ChatGPT, and Scholarly Manuscripts: WAME Recommendations on ChatGPT and Chatbots in Relation to Scholarly Publications.1 There were four recommendations, namely: 1. Chatbots cannot be authors; 2. Authors should be transparent when chatbots are used and provide information about how they were used; 3. Authors are responsible for the work performed by a chatbot in their paper (including the accuracy of what is presented, and the absence of plagiarism) and for appropriate attribution of all sources (including for material produced by the chatbot); and 4. Editors need appropriate tools to help them detect content generated or altered by AI and these tools must be available regardless of their ability to pay.1 This statement was spurred in part by some journals beginning to publish papers in which chatbots such as ChatGPT were listed as co-authors.2 First, only humans can be authors. Chatbots cannot be authors because they cannot meet authorship requirements “as they cannot understand the role of authors or take responsibility for the paper.”1 In particular, they cannot meet the third and fourth ICMJE criteria for authorship, namely “Final approval of the version to be published” and “Agreement to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved.”1,3 Moreover, “a chatbot cannot understand a conflict of interest statement, or have the legal standing to sign (such a) statement,” nor can they “hold copyright.”1 Because authors submitting a manuscript must ensure that all those named as authors meet ICMJE authorship criteria, chatbots clearly should not be included as authors.1 Second, authors should acknowledge the sources of their materials. When chatbots are used, authors “should declare this fact and provide full technical specifications of the chatbot used (name, version, model, source) and method of application in the paper they are submitting (query structure, syntax),” “consistent with the ICMJE recommendation of acknowledging writing assistance.”1,4 Third, authors must take public responsibility for their work; “Human authors of articles written with the help of a chatbot are responsible for the contributions made by chatbots, including their accuracy,” and “must be able to assert that there is no plagiarism in their paper, including in text produced by the chatbot.”1Consequently, authors must “ensure … appropriate attribution of all quoted material, including full citations,” “seek and cite the sources that support,” as well as oppose (since chatbots can be designed to omit counterviews), the chatbot’s statements.1 Fourth, to facilitate all this, medical journal editors (who “use manuscript evaluation approaches from the 20th century”) “need appropriate (digital) tools … that will help them evaluate … 21st century … content (generated or altered by AI) efficiently and accurately.”1

Compact, Consumer Off the Shelf Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (COTS-RPAS) in Observing Haliastur indus, the Kali, or Brahminy Kites

Abstract: The paper demonstrates how compact consumer off the shelf remotely piloted aircraft systems (COTS-RPAS) with digital zoom capability is an effective remote sensing platform in observing Brahminy Kites due to its non-intimidating nature, which arguably minimizes disturbance of the kites. The paper through this remote sensing platform was able to conduct preliminary documentation of some key courtship, play, cooperative fishing, and other behaviors of the raptors as well as draft a distribution map of sightings within the raptors range utilizing the compact COTS-RPAS in tandem with Geographic Information Systems. Use of COTS-RPAS opens a new window or point of view (POV) to avian observational and behavioral studies especially because we are now given horizontal near orthogonal and orthogonal views of the avian species while in flight. Most documentation of birds in flight typically show the underwing and underbody parts but now with the aid of COTS-RPAS we see the upper wing and upper body while in flight. This new tool and method also democratize environmental research for both scientists and citizen scientists due to its availability (consumer off-the-shelf), as well as its relative affordability.

Awake craniotomy: nuts and bolts

Abstract: Jose, Geraldine Raphaela B. MDa; Legaspi, Gerardo D. MDb; Ibale, Mark Gibson D. MDa; Duñgo, Alec Brandon C. MDa Author Information

Heritage Negotiations in Manila and Pampanga: The Use of Toponyms in the Study of Two Biocultural Landscapes in the Philippines

Abstract: Toponyms or place names depict biocultural landscapes, where human activities and interactions are frequent. These may point to certain species native to a geographical area, or to a result of an exchange of goods, trade, or migration. Regardless of the basis, people tend to protect a species for its cultural or medical value, albeit at times, they over-harvest certain species for economic reasons and could be agents to landscape degradation. Changes in biocultural landscape may be observed then through time, while the toponym of the area is retained. Far from an arbitrary pairing of form and meaning, toponyms indeed reveal that names reflect the historical, cultural, or socio-economic experience of the people who use them (Radding and Western, Geogr Rev 100:394–412, 2010). The scenarios of the old cities of Manila and Pampanga—two of the first royal cities established during Spanish occupation in the sixteenth century (Blair and Robertson, The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898, vol. 3. Ohio: Arthur H. Clark Company, 1911)—will be presented using archival and historical sources which point to the floral landscape associated with big water bodies and their corresponding geocultural value. Regional toponyms and their relations with local flora will be investigated, to study whether toponyms can be used as source of information for relationships between heritage studies and local flora. Archival data will be triangulated with data coming from local and international studies and with current reports of policies and/or projects from the private sector as well as local and national government. The destruction of homelands, fragmentation of habitats, and post-capitalist conditions of modernity is countered by thoughtful remembrance of tradition. The appropriateness of conservation measures carried out on varying aspects of the bicultural landscape, some of which are directed toward particular sustainable development goals, is also analyzed. The study concludes showing how toponyms can be of use in current studies of biocultural landscape, as these may indicate how change can be brought about by (1) non-spatial narratives of vulnerability and historical injustice, (2) the agency of the vulnerable (Brauch, Paul J. Crutzen and the anthropocene: a new epoch in earth’s history. The Anthropocene: politik—economics— society—science, vol. 1. Springer, Cham, 2021), and (3) the amplification of conservation issues in the Anthropocene that address particular sustainable development goals. It is in amplifying these narratives that heritage studies can broaden and diversify the discourse on the Anthropocene and, therefore, affirm its relevance in this new geological age.

Compact, Consumer Off the Shelf Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (COTS-RPAS) in Observing Haliastur indus, the Kali, or Brahminy Kites

Abstract: The paper demonstrates how compact consumer off the shelf remotely piloted aircraft systems (COTS-RPAS) with digital zoom capability is an effective remote sensing platform in observing Brahminy Kites due to its non-intimidating nature, which arguably minimizes disturbance of the kites. The paper through this remote sensing platform was able to conduct preliminary documentation of some key courtship, play, cooperative fishing, and other behaviors of the raptors as well as draft a distribution map of sightings within the raptors range utilizing the compact COTS-RPAS in tandem with Geographic Information Systems. Use of COTS-RPAS opens a new window or point of view (POV) to avian observational and behavioral studies especially because we are now given horizontal near orthogonal and orthogonal views of the avian species while in flight. Most documentation of birds in flight typically show the underwing and underbody parts but now with the aid of COTS-RPAS we see the upper wing and upper body while in flight. This new tool and method also democratize environmental research for both scientists and citizen scientists due to its availability (consumer off-the-shelf), as well as its relative affordability.