bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between socio-demographics, nutrition knowledge, nutrition competencies and attitudes in community-dwelling healthy older adults in Singapore: findings from the SHIELD study
Authors: Ong Rebecca Hui San , Chow Wai Leng , Cheong Magdalin , Lim Gladys Huiyun , Xie Weiyi , Baggs Geraldine , Huynh Dieu Thi Thu , Oh Hong Choon , How Choon How , Tan Ngiap-Chuan , Tey Siew Ling , Chew Samuel Teong Huang
Published: December 2021

Background

Nutrition literacy refers to an individual’s knowledge, motivation and competencies to access, process and understand nutrition information to make nutrition-related decisions. It is known to influence dietary habits of individuals including older adults. This cross-sectional study was designed to: (1) understand the nutrition knowledge, competencies and attitudes of community-dwelling older adults in Singapore, (2) examine the differences between their nutrition knowledge, and socio-demographic factors, competencies and attitudes and (3) identify factors associated with better nutrition knowledge in older healthy adults in Singapore.

Methods

A total of 400 (183 males and 217 females) nourished community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and above took part in this study. Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) was used to determine individuals who were at low risk of undernutrition. Nutrition knowledge, competencies, attitudes and sources of nutrition information were measured using a locally developed scale. Nutrition knowledge scores were summed to form the nutrition knowledge index (NKI). Associations between NKI, competencies, attitudes and socio-demographic variables were examined using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Factors associated with NKI were determined using a stepwise regression model with resampling-based methods for model averaging.

Results

Bivariate analyses found significant differences in NKI scores for gender, monthly household earnings, type of housing, the self-reported ability to seek and understand nutrition information and having access to help from family/friends. Females had higher NKI scores compared to males (p < 0.001). Compared to females, more males left food decisions to others (p < 0.001), and fewer males reported consuming home-cooked food (p = 0.016). Differences in educational level were found for competencies like the self-reported ability to seek (p < 0.001) and verify nutrition information (p < 0.001). Stepwise regression analysis showed that being female, Chinese, self-reported ability to understand nutrition information and having access to help from family/friends were associated with higher NKI scores.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that nutrition knowledge of older males in Singapore was lower than females and more left food decisions to others. Nutrition education programs could be targeted at both the older male, their caregivers and minority ethnic groups.

Trial Registration This study was registered on 7 August 2017 at clinicaltrials.gov (ref. NCT03240952).
Effects of adjunctive brexpiprazole on calmness and life engagement in major depressive disorder: post hoc analysis of patient-reported outcomes from clinical trial exit interviews
Authors: Weiss Catherine , Meehan Stine R. , Brown T. Michelle , Gupta Catherine , Mørup Michael F. , Thase Michael E. , McIntyre Roger S. , Ismail Zahinoor
Published: December 2021

Background

Though often overlooked, calming patients and increasing their life engagement are key factors in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). This study aimed to test the hypothesis that adjunctive brexpiprazole increases calmness and life engagement among patients with MDD, based on clinical trial exit interviews.

Methods

This was a pooled analysis of exit interview data from three exploratory, open-label studies of adjunctive brexpiprazole 1–3 mg/day. The studies enrolled 105 outpatients with MDD (DSM-IV-TR criteria), a current depressive episode, and inadequate response to antidepressant treatment during the current episode. Patients were interviewed if they completed the end-of-treatment visit (Week 6 or Week 12, depending on the study). Exit interviews took the form of semi-structured telephone interviews in which patients were asked mostly qualitative questions about their symptoms prior to the start of the study, and about improvements they had noted during treatment. Interview transcripts were reviewed and codes were assigned to calmness and life engagement vocabulary, allowing aggregation of the frequency of improvement in various domains.

Results

79.8% (83/104) of patients described improvements consistent with at least one calmness term, most commonly feeling less anxious (46.2%) or less irritable (44.2%). A four-domain concept of patient life engagement was developed in which 88.6% (93/105) of patients described improvements consistent with at least one domain, specifically, emotional (77.1%), physical (75.2%), social (41.9%), and/or cognitive (36.2%). Of the patients who described improvement in calmness, 96.4% (80/83) also described improvement in life engagement.

Conclusions

Analysis of exit interview data suggests that patients were calmer and more engaged with life following treatment with adjunctive brexpiprazole. Thus, adjunctive brexpiprazole may provide a benefit on subjective patient outcomes in addition to the improvement in depressive symptoms shown by clinical rating scale data.

Trial Registration: Data used in this post hoc analysis came from ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT02012218, NCT02013531, NCT02013609.
Probing the potentiality of the defoliator Cricula trifenestrata Helfer silk: a revisit
Authors: Hridya Hemachandran , Guha Lopamudra , Mazumdar Mahashankar , Sarkar B. N. , Vijayakumar Soni , Borpuzari P.
Published: December 2021

Background

Transformation of pest to valuable product is considered to be a noteworthy innovation. This article explores the potentiality of wild silkworm Cricula trifenestrata Helfer for sustainable development towards human livelihoods.

Results

The innate characteristics of this silkworm with robust rearing capacity have bestowed various aspects of biomaterials with special context to diversification of wild silk products. Views on challenges, prospects and the enigma of converting a pest to beneficial product are also unraveled. Exploration on utmost utilization of raw silk, scope for varied byproduct from silk waste may contribute a ray of hope for income generation to the rural population.

Conclusion

With suitable plantation and congenial climatic conditions for rearing Cricula trifenestrata may serve as an alternative wild silk in contributing to the country’s wild raw silk production.
Integrating PrEP delivery in public health family planning clinics: a protocol for a pragmatic stepped wedge cluster randomized trial in Kenya
Authors: Mugwanya Kenneth K. , Matemo Daniel , Scoville Caitlin W. , Beima-Sofie Kristin M. , Meisner Allison , Onyango Dickens , Mugambi Mary , Feutz Erika , Grabow Cole , Barnabas Ruanne , Weiner Bryan , Baeten Jared M. , Kinuthia John ,   for the FP Plus Team
Published: December 2021

Background

Adolescent girls and young women account for a disproportionate fraction of new HIV infections in Africa and are a priority population for HIV prevention, including provision of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Anchoring PrEP delivery to care settings like family planning (FP) services that women already access routinely may offer an efficient platform to reach HIV at-risk women. However, context-specific implementation science evaluation is needed.

Methods

The Family Planning Plus Project is a prospective, pragmatic implementation evaluation, designed as a stepped wedge, cluster randomized trial, at 12 clinics in Kenya. In collaboration with the Kenya Ministry of Health and Kisumu County Department of Health, we will introduce integration of HIV risk screening and PrEP delivery in public health FP clinics. The core multifaceted implementation strategies to integrate PrEP in FP clinics will include: (1) PrEP delivery by existing FP clinic staff, (2) health provider training, (3) PrEP technical assistance to coach and mentor providers, (4) joint supervision with Kisumu County health officials, and (5) stakeholder engagement. All core components of PrEP delivery—including screening for HIV risk, HIV testing, dispensing, adherence and risk reduction counseling, assessment of side effects, and provision of refills, or safety assessment—will be conducted by existing FP clinic staff as part of a standard care service package. The goal is to catalyze sustainable scale-up within existing infrastructures beyond the project. We will rigorously evaluate implementation outcomes and impact, using the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) framework, and we will use Organizational Readiness for Implementing Change (ORIC) and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Science Research (CFIR) to assess readiness to implement and contextual enablers and barriers of implementation, including how clinics innovate efficient delivery systems.

Discussion

Anchoring PrEP delivery to existing FP systems and staffing has tremendous potential to address barriers that women face in accessing HIV prevention and PrEP care, including lack of time, cost, and stigma of visiting a facility solely for HIV prevention. The FP Plus Project will initiate preparation for full-scale and sustainable model of integration of comprehensive HIV prevention services, including PrEP implementation, in public health FP clinics in low-income settings.

Trial registration

Registered withClinicalTrials.govon December 14, 2020:NCT04666792
Antifungal activity of Ocimum gratissimum L., Lantana camara L. & Pteleopsis suberosa Engl. & Dies used in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Benin
Authors: Klotoe Jean Robert , Fanou Brice Armand , Agbodjento Eric , Houehou Arnaud , Fah Lauris , Dougnon Victorien , Assogba Phénix , Loko Frédéric
Published: December 2021

Background

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a widespread mycotic infection that affects a large proportion of women of childbearing age. Its management in traditional medicine is based on the use of medicinal plants. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity ofOcimum gratissimumL.,Lantana camaraL. andPteleopsis suberosaEngl. & Diels used in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Benin.

Results

The data obtained from the in vitro antifungal test show that the strains tested (ATCC 90028 and two clinical strains: 1MA and 3MA) were more sensitive to aqueous extracts with a better effect forPteleopsis suberosa. This potential of the tested extracts correlated with their richness in total polyphenols. The extract of thePteleopsis suberosawas very active on the inhibition of the reference strain ATCC 90028. On the clinical strains (1MA and 3MA) the aqueous extract ofPteleopsis suberosashowed a better MIC on the 1MA strain. In vivo model, inoculation of 100 µL of the concentratedCandida albicanssuspension 1.5 × 105 UFC/mL induced the candidiasis of the female Wistar rat. The treatment with the aqueous extract ofPteleopsis suberosa, like fluconazole (reference drug), significantly reducedCandida albicansinfection at a dose of 100 mg/kg after 1, 7 and 13 days of treatment.

Conclusion

This study revealed the potential antifungal of theOcimum gratissimum,Lantana camaraandPteleopsis suberosa.Pteleopsis suberosahas better antifungal activity in vitro and in vivo. These observations justify the use of their medicinal plant in the traditional treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Benin.
Body Image, Self-perception, and Satisfaction Among Girls With Turner Syndrome: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Vijayakanthi Nandini , Marcus David J , Fritz Sobha P , Xiang Yijin , Fadoju Doris
Published: December 2021

Context

Delayed puberty and short stature in girls with Turner syndrome (TS) can lead to low body image, self-esteem, and satisfaction.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate body image, self-perception, and satisfaction among girls with TS using the Multi-Dimensional Body Image Self Relations Questionnaire-Appearance Scale (MBSRQ-AS).

Methods

Patients with karyotype-proven diagnosis of TS between 15 and 21 years were included after they achieved final adult height. We used the MBSRQ-AS instrument with 5 subscales: Appearance Evaluation (AE), Appearance Orientation (AO), Body Areas Satisfaction Scale (BASS), Overweight Preoccupation (OWP), and Self Classified Weight (SCW) subscales. Mean scores were compared with the available sex-matched population norms and compared between different subcohorts.

Results

Of 59 eligible girls, 37 girls agreed to participate with mean age 17.35 ± 1.6 years. Girls with TS had significantly lower scores than the sex-matched population norms in AO (mean [SD]: 3.32 [0.42] vs 3.91 [0.6]); P < .001) and SCW (mean [SD]: 3.26 [0.71] vs 3.57 [0.73]; P = .01) subscales. In contrast, they had slightly higher scores in BASS (mean [SD]: 3.38 [0.74] vs 3.23 [0.74]; P = .23) and OWP (mean [SD]: 3.12 [0.39] vs 3.03 [0.96]; P = .21) subscales though not statistically significant. Girls with classic 45X karyotype and those who were overweight/obese had lower scores in AE and AO subscales than the normal population (P < .05).

Conclusion

Compared with sex-matched population norms, girls with TS are not reporting negative effects due to their appearance and report general satisfaction with most areas of their body; however, girls with TS with classic karyotype or who were obese/overweight were generally unhappy with their physical appearance. They also seem to not focus their attention on their appearance.
Prognostic and Therapeutic Role of Vitamin D in COVID-19: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dissanayake Harsha Anuruddhika , de Silva Nipun Lakshitha , Sumanatilleke Manilka , de Silva Sawanawadu Dilantha Neomal , Gamage Kavinga Kalhari Kobawaka , Dematapitiya Chinthana , Kuruppu Daya Chandrani , Ranasinghe Priyanga , Pathmanathan Sivatharshya , Katulanda Prasad
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency may increase the susceptibility to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to determine the association between vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency and susceptibility to COVID-19, its severity, mortality, and role of vitamin D in its treatment.

Methods

We searched CINAHL, Cochrane library, EMBASE, PubMED, Scopus, and Web of Science up to May 30, 2021, for observational studies on association between vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency and susceptibility to COVID-19, severe disease, and death among adults, and, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing vitamin D treatment against standard care or placebo, in improving severity or mortality among adults with COVID-19. Risk of bias was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa scale for observational studies and AUB-KQ1 Cochrane tool for RCTs. Study-level data were analyzed using RevMan 5.3 and R (v4.1.0). Heterogeneity was determined by I2 and sources were explored through prespecified sensitivity analyses, subgroup analyses, and meta-regressions.

Results

Of 1877 search results, 76 studies satisfying eligibility criteria were included. Seventy-two observational studies were included in the meta-analysis (n = 1 976 099). Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency increased the odds of developing COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR] 1.46; 95% CI, 1.28-1.65; P < 0.0001; I2 = 92%), severe disease (OR 1.90; 95% CI, 1.52-2.38; P < 0.0001; I2 = 81%), and death (OR 2.07; 95% CI, 1.28-3.35; P = 0.003; I2 = 73%). The 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations were lower in individuals with COVID-19 compared with controls (mean difference [MD] -3.85 ng/mL; 95% CI, -5.44 to -2.26; P ≤ 0.0001), in patients with severe COVID-19 compared with controls with nonsevere COVID-19 (MD -4.84 ng/mL; 95% CI, -7.32 to -2.35; P = 0.0001) and in nonsurvivors compared with survivors (MD -4.80 ng/mL; 95% CI, -7.89 to -1.71; P = 0.002). The association between vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency and death was insignificant when studies with high risk of bias or studies reporting unadjusted effect estimates were excluded. Risk of bias and heterogeneity were high across all analyses. Discrepancies in timing of vitamin D testing, definitions of severe COVID-19, and vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency partly explained the heterogeneity. Four RCTs were widely heterogeneous precluding meta-analysis.

Conclusion

Multiple observational studies involving nearly 2 million adults suggest vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency increases susceptibility to COVID-19 and severe COVID-19, although with a high risk of bias and heterogeneity. Association with mortality was less robust. Heterogeneity in RCTs precluded their meta-analysis.
Identification of Novel Regulatory Regions Induced by Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Rat Islets
Authors: Lien Yu-Chin , Pinney Sara E , Lu Xueqing Maggie , Simmons Rebecca A
Published: December 2021

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) leads to the development of type 2 diabetes in adulthood, and the permanent alterations in gene expression implicate an epigenetic mechanism. Using a rat model of IUGR, we performed TrueSeq-HELP Tagging to assess the association of DNA methylation changes and gene dysregulation in islets. We identified 511 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 4377 significantly altered single CpG sites. Integrating the methylome and our published transcriptome data sets resulted in the identification of pathways critical for islet function. The identified DMRs were enriched with transcription factor binding motifs, such as Elk1, Etv1, Foxa1, Foxa2, Pax7, Stat3, Hnf1, and AR. In silico analysis of 3-dimensional chromosomal interactions using human pancreas and islet Hi-C data sets identified interactions between 14 highly conserved DMRs and 35 genes with significant expression changes at an early age, many of which persisted in adult islets. In adult islets, there were far more interactions between DMRs and genes with significant expression changes identified with Hi-C, and most of them were critical to islet metabolism and insulin secretion. The methylome was integrated with our published genome-wide histone modification data sets from IUGR islets, resulting in further characterization of important regulatory regions of the genome altered by IUGR containing both significant changes in DNA methylation and specific histone marks. We identified novel regulatory regions in islets after exposure to IUGR, suggesting that epigenetic changes at key transcription factor binding motifs and other gene regulatory regions may contribute to gene dysregulation and an abnormal islet phenotype in IUGR rats.
Topiks im Deutschen und Italienischen
Authors: Cognola Federica , Moroni Manuela Caterina
Published: December 2021

The aim of this paper is i) to investigate the distribution of different topic types in the highest portion (found above valutative adverbs such as glücklicherweise and leider, Cinque 1999) of the German Mittelfeld, i. e. the clause portion found between the finite and non-finite verb forms (Satzklammer), and ii) to compare it with the distribution of topics within the Italian left periphery, i. e. the area found above the finite verb where operators, focalised and topicalised constructions are hosted (Rizzi 1997; Benincà 1988, 2001). Based on a corpus of written and oral German data collected through the DeReKO and the FOLK Databases, we show that in German i) in both written and oral examples a single topic belonging to all topic classes can appear in the highest portion of the Mittelfeld (as proposed by Frascarelli/Hinterhölzl 2007), ii) and that multiple topics are restricted to written texts and appear with the fixed order “Aboutness Topic > Familiar Topic; Aboutness Topic > Contrast Topic”. We compare the distribution of topics above valutative adverbs in German with the distribution of topics in the Italian left periphery. We show that the two languages share the fact that multiple topics are possible, with the difference that i) three topics can appear in the Italian left periphery in the order Aboutness Topic > Contrast Topic > Familiar Topic whereas only sequences of two topics are attested in German; ii) the sentence-initial position functions as an “extra” position for topics in German but not in Italian due to the V2 nature of the former language; iii) the presence of multiple topics in the left periphery is restricted to oral or informal texts in Italian and it is a typical trait of colloquial/informal language, whereas the availability of multiple topics in the German Mittefeld is restricted to written/formal texts and can thus be seen as a written/formal trait.
Die Größe ‚Gewicht‘ im deutsch-italienischen Sprachvergleich
Authors: Bukies Gudrun
Published: December 2021

The topic of this article is ‘weight’ in the German-Italian language comparison. Which linguistic means are used to refer to weight in German (Gewicht) and what are the Italian equivalents? The material which has been collected is based on monolingual German and Italian dictionaries, reference works and text corpora as well as on bilingual German-Italian dictionaries and text excerpts.

The classification of the so-called weight designations including derivatives, composites and word combinations is carried out from an etymological and lexical perspective. In addition to the dictionary entries, German-Italian translation examples show further equivalents of terms and expressions with regards to ‘weight’ in this language pair.
The Routledge Companion to Local Media and Journalism, Agnes Gulyas and David Baines (eds) (2020)
Authors: Nelmes Andy
Published: December 2021

Review of: The Routledge Companion to Local Media and Journalism, Agnes Gulyas and David Baines (eds) (2020)

Abingdon and New York: Routledge, 522 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-81537-536-4, h/bk, £152.00
Ideals of ‘Britishness’ reproduced in the musical adaptation of David Walliams’s The Boy in the Dress at the Royal Shakespeare Company
Authors: Barnes Grace
Published: December 2021

This article examines the use and purpose of the nostalgic interventions in the latest Royal Shakespeare musical, The Boy in the Dress, and considers the implications of utilizing a mythologized, rose-tinted past on the creative production of national identity. It questions the meanings which are produced when a government subsidized, national theatre company with an international reputation eliminates the female voice from the stage and represents the United Kingdom as English, predominantly white and middle class. In addition, this article deconstructs the performances of gender fluidity depicted in the show and widens the acknowledged interpretation of cultural appropriation, when applied to race, to include gender.
Assessment of the contamination of Lactuca sativa L. (lettuce) and Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato) by pesticides: Case of market gardeners in Ouagadougou
Authors: Rouamba Sibiri Sylvain , Tapsoba François , Bazié Bazoin Sylvain Raoul , Youl Ollo , Savadogo Saybou , Kabré Elie , Sangaré Lassana , Savadogo Aly
Published: December 2021

Background and Aim: The use of pesticides in vegetable production can cause public health problems because these agrochemicals can leave residues in foodstuffs and disrupt the appropriate functioning of the organism. The aim of this study was to assess the level of contamination of lettuce and tomato by pesticide residues.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted from February 12 to May 3, 2021, in concerned five market gardening sites in the city of Ouagadougou. A survey was conducted among 58 market gardeners selected at random from the sites of Boulmiougou, Tanghin No. 1 and 2, Bissigin, and the National School of Public Health. Simultaneously, 25 lettuce samples and 25 tomato samples were collected in a randomized manner for the examination and determination of pesticide residues using the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method.

Results: The market gardening population was predominantly represented by women who had a low level of education. The cultivated species were a mixture of exotic cultures and traditional cultures. These crops were treated with various pesticides, the most common of which belonged to the organochlorine family. The tomato was the crop most contaminated by pesticide residues. However, no active ingredient from the synthetic pyrethroid family was found on lettuce or tomato.

Conclusion: Raising the awareness of market gardeners on good practices in the use of pesticides and on alternative methods to synthetic phytosanitary products is of paramount importance for the health of consumers.
Hydrodynamics and Warmth Trade in Cycles of Cooling of an Attractive Plate in an Attractive Fluid in the Attractive Field
Authors: Alsaati S.A.A. , Kadhim Qasim Shakir , Rashid Maher Hassan , UlKadhim Tuqa Mohammed Jawad Abd
Published: December 2021

The effect of the magnetic field on heat transfer processes of a magnetized steel plate cooled in a magnetic fluid is experimentally studied. Thermocouples were installed at six points on the surface of the plate along its length. The plots of temperature versus time are obtained in the absence of a magnetic field and in magnetic fields of different intensity. It is found that the intensity of heat exchange depends to a large extent on the magnitude of the magnetic field and on the location of points on the surface of the plate. In a magnetic field, cooling of the central part of the plate occurs with the same intensity as in the absence of a magnetic field and with a lower intensity in comparison with other points on the surface of the plate. Near the plate ends, the cooling rate of the surface is much greater in the magnetic field than in the absence of it. With increasing magnetic field strength, the cooling rate of points in the central part of the plate decreases and is less than in the absence of a magnetic field. The dependence of heat transfer on the magnitude of the magnetic field is explained by the distribution of the magnetic forces acting on the liquid surrounding the plate and the nature of the vapor-air cavities formed near its surface. Experiments on simulation of formation and the shape of vapor-air cavities in a liquid surrounding a magnetizing plate are described.
Investigate and Calculation Electron Transfer Rate Constant in the N749 Sensitized Dye Contact to ZnSe Semiconductor
Authors: Kamilharmoosh Mohammed , Hassooni Mohsin A. , Al-Agealy Hadi J.M.
Published: December 2021

The dye–semiconductor interface between N749 sensitized and zinc semiconductor (ZnSe) has been investigated and studied according to quantum transition theory with focusing on the electron transfer processes from the N749 sensitized (donor) to the ZnSe semiconductor (acceptor). The electron transfer rate constant and the orientation energy were studied and evaluated depended on the polarity of solvents according to refractive index and dielectric constant coefficient of solvents and ZnSe semiconductor. Attention focusing on the influence of orientation energies on the behavior of electron transfer rate constant. Differentdata of rate constant was discussion with orientation energy and effective driving energy for N749-ZnSe system. Furthermore, the electron transfer rate constant is increased with less orientation energy at less effective driving energy while the electron transfer rate constant increased with large orientation energy with large effective driving energy, as seen as the electron transfer rate reach to 1.3109 × 1011 with less orientation energy has 0.188708eV at effective driving energy E=0.22eV comparing the rate reach to 9.7207× 10−96 with driving energy E=1.89eV and same orientation energy. In general, the electron transfer rate constant increases with increases the coupling coefficient of system, its indicate that alignment of energy levels are very good between N749 sensitized metal and ZnSe semiconductor.
Automatic Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Using Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Aaraji Zahraa S. , Abbas Hawraa H.
Published: December 2021

Neuroimaging data analysis has attracted a great deal of attention with respect to the accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners have thus been commonly used to study AD-related brain structural variations, providing images that demonstrate both morphometric and anatomical changes in the human brain. Deep learning algorithms have already been effectively exploited in other medical image processing applications to identify features and recognise patterns for many diseases that affect the brain and other organs; this paper extends on this to describe a novel computer aided software pipeline for the classification and early diagnosis of AD. The proposed method uses two types of three-dimensional Convolutional Neural Networks (3D CNN) to facilitate brain MRI data analysis and automatic feature extraction and classification, so that pre-processing and post-processing are utilised to normalise the MRI data and facilitate pattern recognition. The experimental results show that the proposed approach achieves 97.5%, 82.5%, and 83.75% accuracy in terms of binary classification AD vs. cognitively normal (CN), CN vs. mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and MCI vs. AD, respectively, as well as 85% accuracy for multi class-classification, based on publicly available data sets from the Alzheimer’s disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI).
Comparison between different Dosimetric Tools based on Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT): A Phantom Study
Authors: Waheeb Ahmed H. , Eltaher Zeinab , Yassin Mohamed N. , Khalil Magdy M.
Published: December 2021

This study examined the gamma passing rate (GPR) consistency during applying different kinds of gamma analyses and dosimeters to IMRT. Methods: Import treatment protocols for QA phantom irradiation have been recalculated. A gamma analysis was used for comparing the measured and calculated dose distribution of IMRT for different gamma criteria (2%/2mm, 3%/3mm, 4%/4mm, 3%/5mm, 3%/5mm). These criteria are evaluated when 5%, 10%, or 15% of the dose distribution is suppressed. Measured and calculated dose distribution was evaluated with gamma analysis to dose difference (DD) with DTA criteria (distance to agreement). IMRT QA plans to 25 patients from various sites were formed with the Varian Eclipse treatment planning system. Results: Results indicate different diverse hardware and software combinations show varied levels of agreement with expected analysis for the same pass-rate criterion. For a dosimetry audit of the IMRT technique, an EPID detector is superior to conventional methods comparable to Gafchromic EPT3 film and 2D array due to cost, time-consuming, and set up error to get result analysis. The gamma passing rate (GPR) average is increased by increasing the low-dose threshold for different dosimetric tools. For EPID, regardless of the gamma criterion employed, the %GP does not appear to be dependent on the low-dose threshold values (5%-15%) because it indicates that fulfilment the low-dose threshold to global normalization has little effect on patient-specific QA outcomes. Conclusions: It is concluded that GPRs differ depending on gamma, dosimetric tools, and the suppressing dose ratio. To get the best results of quality assurance, each institution should thus carefully develop its procedure for gamma analysis by defining the gamma index analysis and gamma criterion using its dosimetric tools.
Fabrication of Lightweight and Low Cost Shields for Gamma Ray Attenuation
Authors: Abdullah Eman Hammod , Hashim Ahmed , Hussien Huda Abdul Jalil , Habeeb Majeed Ali
Published: December 2021

Films of biopolymer (PVA) doped with titanium nanoparticles (Ti NPs) have been prepared with several ratios of PVA and Ti NPs to apply for gamma ray shielding with low unit cost, flexible, lightweight, and high corrosion resistance. The prepared nanocomposites tested for gamma ray shielding. The experimental results showed the PVA/ Ti nanocomposites films have high coefficients of attenuation for gamma ray.
A Systematic Review on the Renewable Energy Development, Policies and Challenges in Nigeria with an International Perspective and Public Opinions
Authors: Ugwu Justin , Odo Kenneth Chinonso , Oluka Leonard Onyedikachi , Salami Kehinde Oseni
Published: December 2021

Due to the threat posed by fossil fuels to human existence; many countries around the world have turned attention to renewable sources for power generation to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and stop ozone layer depletion. This has increased the exploitation of various renewable energy sources which include: hydro, biomass, solar, geothermal and wind in many developed countries. However, most African countries seem not to have awakened to this new reality. This work presents a comprehensive review of available renewable energy capacity in Nigeria, the level of utilization of renewables in Nigeria in comparison to other countries, comparison of renewable energy scenarios among African countries, factors hindering the development of renewables in Nigeria, the country’s renewable energy policy and ways of improving its status in the country. A lot of peer-reviewed journal articles, and grey literatures were gathered from which the most suitable ones were selected for reviews. In addition, opinions of people across the country and beyond, regarding renewable energy status in Nigeria were sought through a questionnaire. It is found that Nigeria is greatly endowed with different renewable energy sources but the level of utilization has been very low due to a myriad of factors such as non-implementation of renewable energy policies, financial issues, unfavorable government policies and lack of adequate research. It is expected that the findings in this work will awaken policies makers in Nigeria to reshape her renewable energy policies and speed up its implementation as well as guide individuals wishing to invest in the nation’s vast renewable resources.
Agricultural utilization of lignosulfonates
Authors: Wurzer Gerhild K. , Hettegger Hubert , Bischof Robert H. , Fackler Karin , Potthast Antje , Rosenau Thomas
Published: December 2021

Lignosulfonates (LSs) are by-products of the pulp and paper industry from pulping of lignocellulosic biomass according to the sulfite process. This renewable material already plays a role in low-value applications, such as binding agents for fuel, pellets, as a feed additive, or as a dispersant. Another possible field of application of this technical lignin type is agriculture. It is known that this eco-friendly and cheap material can improve soil quality, fertilizer efficacy and replace or decrease the use of potentially (eco)toxic organic or inorganic substances. The use of LS in agriculture and five main strategies for the implementation of LS in soil are discussed in this review: LS as a complexing agent with micronutrients, co-pelleting of LS with (macro)nutrients, capsule formation with LS for coating of fertilizers or pesticides, LS as a biostimulant, and ammonoxidation of LS. All five ways can be beneficial in fertilizer-related applications, either to slow down the release of nutrients or pesticides, to substitute harmful chemicals, or to inhibit nitrification and modify fertilizer behaviour. Nevertheless, application and long-time studies are often missing, and more research is required for generating products that are economically competitive to commercial bulk products.
Research on online calibration of lidar and camera for intelligent connected vehicles based on depth-edge matching
Authors: Guo Zhan , Xiao Zuming
Published: December 2021

The practicality of online calibration algorithms in actual autonomous driving scenarios is enhanced by proposing an online calibration method for intelligent networked automotive lidar and camera based on depth-edge matching. The initial values of external parameters are estimated and calculated through hand-eye calibration. The solution of hand-eye calibration is optimized and accurate external parameters are obtained through data conversion. The CMA-ES algorithm is utilized to optimize the optimized parameters which are further compared with the conventional method based on edge matching. It is found that the provided frames of data, the external parameters can be appropriately improved by the method in this paper, and the algorithm congregates in about 1000 seconds. However, the conventional method cannot optimize the parameters correctly when there are only 2 frames of data. The rotation error of most results of this method is between 0.1° and 0.8°, and the translation error is between 0.02m and 0.06m. Compared with other representative algorithms of various methods, the errors in all aspects are more balanced and there is no outstanding error value.
Characteristics of early pleural effusions after orthotopic heart transplantation: comparison with coronary artery bypass graft surgery
Authors: Jain Anant , Devarajan Anusha , Assallum Hussein , Malekan Ramin , Lanier Gregg M. , Epelbaum Oleg
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Pleural effusions appearing within the first 30 postoperative days following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are classified as early and believed to be directly related to the surgery. The characteristics of such effusions are well-described. Orthotopic heart transplantation is also known to be complicated by pleural effusions; however, their characteristics have not been systematically reported. We assessed the features of early postoperative pleural effusions after heart transplantation and compared them to those of early effusions following CABG.

Methods

We retrospectively collected demographic, clinical, and laboratory data for patients who underwent either orthotopic heart transplantation (study group) or CABG (comparison group) at our institution and whose postoperative course within 30 days was complicated by new or worsening pleural effusion that prompted drainage. Patients subjected to analysis consisted only of those with sufficiently complete laboratory profiles to permit adequate characterization of the nature of their pleural fluid.

Results

Out of 251 orthotopic heart transplant recipients, seven (2.8%) were found to have sufficiently complete pleural fluid results to be included in the study group. Out of 1,506 patients who underwent CABG, 32 (2.1%) had sufficiently complete pleural fluid results and formed the comparison group. The radiological appearance of pleural effusions in both groups was similar: bilateral in at least half and exclusively moderate to large. Effusions complicating both surgeries were exudative in close to 90% of cases. For those with available leukocyte differential counts, the pleural fluid of the post-orthotopic heart transplantation group was more often neutrophilic (3/5, 60%), whereas the fluid of the post-coronary artery bypass grafting group was more often lymphocytic (22/32, 69%) and tended to be hemorrhagic (median RBC count 33,000 cells/µL vs. 10,000 cells/µL). None of the comparisons of pleural fluid characteristics between the two groups reached statistical significance.

Conclusions

This small, descriptive study is the first to systematically report the fluid characteristics of pleural effusions complicating orthotopic heart transplantation within the first 30 postoperative days and to compare this group to those who developed effusions after CABG. Our findings revealed both similarities and differences in the pleural fluid characteristics between these two types of patients.
Behavioral Contract Law
Authors: Ulen Thomas S.
Published: December 2021

This article explores some behavioral findings that are relevant to three areas of contract: formation, performance, and remedies. I compare the rational choice theory analysis of various aspects of contract law with how behavioral findings lead to a change in our understanding of that area of law. A penultimate section considers several criticisms of behavioral economics. A concluding section calls for altering some settled understandings of contract law to accommodate behavioral results and for further research about some still uncertain aspects of contracting.
Motion Analysis of Long-Distance Drive in Woodball Athletes
Authors: Irawan Fajar Awang , Toma Hanif Putra , Permana Dhias Fajar Widya , Suciati Nur , Gulsirirat Preeyaporn
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyze the motion of long-distance drive in woodball athletes. The method in this study using quantitative descriptive using observation by Video Recording. The total sample used in this study 8 woodball athletes Semarang State University and all of them were willing to participate in the study by signing the informed consent form. This study uses data analysis techniques using the Kinovea application software Version 0.8.15. The results found that the preparation phase obtaining appropriate criteria, with an average score of 4. The prefix phase in this movement was of 3.8 with appropriate criteria and the implementation phase of 3.7 with appropriate criteria. The follow-through phase obtained an average score of 3.4 with almost appropriate criteria. Overall, the average in the motion analysis is 3.7 with the appropriate category. The conclusion of this study found that motion analysis of long-distance drive in woodball athletes are in the appropriate category. This study also showed quite effective and quite efficient based on the video analysis used. The limitation in this study still focuses on the kinetic data. Future research is expected to improve the quality of the drive and also minimize the occurrence of injuries.
Psychosocial beliefs, physical activity and quality of life among shanghai teachers
Authors: Xiao Yi , Zhang Tao , (Alan) Chu Tsz Lun , Gu Xiangli , Wang Hongying
Published: December 2021

Understanding psychosocial factors that influence physical activity and quality of life in working teachers may have important implications for future interventions aimed at improving their health. Participants were 238 working teachers (Mage=51.6±5.6) living in Shanghai, China. They completed previously validated questionnaires assessing their perceptions of stress, social support, self-efficacy, physical activity, and quality of life. The results suggest lower stress, higher social support, and more physical activity may directly increase quality of life. The mediating roles of self-efficacy and PA should be taken into account in managing stress and social support in order to promote quality of life among Shanghai teachers.
Buccal manifestations in diabetic patients with complete dentures
Authors: Burriél de Araújo Vanessa , Carmo Machado Cássio do , Gonçalves Duque Tatiane , Lacerda Tânia PS
Published: December 2021

The objective of this work is to perform a literature review on the association between Diabetes Mellitus and oral manifestations in users of total prosthesis. The included databases were BBO, LILACS, PubMed, Scielo and the oral manifestations that were mostly present were: Xerostomia, Prosthetic Stomatitis, and Candidiasis. It was found that in the reviewed articles, there was a greater susceptibility among diabetic patients to have such manifestations. However, a well manufactured and adapted prosthesis together with good oral hygiene, as well as an adequate control of the chronic disease are determinant so as not to aggravate these conditions. Nevertheless, further randomized and controlled trials are needed to provide more conclusive answers on oral manifestations in diabetic users of total prosthesis.
STOMATITIS IN INFANTS CAUSED BY B. MUCOSUS CAPSULATUS
Authors: FAUCETT ROBERT L. , MILLER HERBERT C.
Published: December 2021

Six infants have been reported with an extensive membraneous infection of their mouths caused by an organism belonging to the B. mucosus capsulatus group. The infection failed to respond to local measures, but cleared when sulfadiazine was given in proper dosage.
MULTIPLE CONGENITAL MALFORMATIONS: A CONSIDERATION OF ETIOLOGIC FACTORS
Authors: WARKANY JOSEF , ROTH CAROLYN B. , WILSON JAMES G.
Published: December 2021

THE medical literature of the past five decades is replete with statements that multiple congenital malformations are always and necessarily due to changes in the germ plasm. In one sense such statements imply that multiple congenital anomalies are always hereditary and, when so interpreted, they may lead to untoward consequences. It is of considerable practical importance for the bearer of congenital defects, as well as for other members of his family, to know whether or not his defects are heritable. The question is also of concern to those who are sincerely interested in eugenics from the standpoint of public health. The importance of this point is illustrated by a certain sterilization law which was enforced for some time upon 80 million people and which stated: "Persons who show simultaneous appearance of different severe, or even mild physical endogenous malformations . . . . should be sterilized, if in the blood relationship any severe or mild endogenous malformations have been shown to occur in at least one person singly, bilaterally or in aggregation."

The opinion that multiple congenital malformations are necessarily hereditary dates back to the time when amniotic bands were considered the only extrinsic cause of malformations. Since it was difficult to explain familial, symmetrical, systemic or internal malformations in terms of amniotic bands; and, since no other environmental mechanisms capable of producing such malformations had been recognized, these anomalies were attributed to changes in the germ plasm. This is expressed in a textbook on "Human Heredity" in the following words:
TOXOPLASMIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS
Authors: SCHWARZ GABRIEL A. , ROSE ELIZABETH KIRK , FRY WILFRED E.
Published: December 2021

Six cases of toxoplasmic encephalomyelitis in infants and children are presented. In all of these cases, the diagnosis was made on clinical grounds alone. All of these patients are still living. A description of the pathologic findings in the retina of one case is given.

In an analysis of these six cases it was noted that the ocular findings were the most constantly occurring of all the features. Mental retardation was also noted in all six cases. Cerebral calcifications were found in all but one of the cases.

The cases already reported in the literature are enumerated and a review of the clinical features of toxoplasmic encephalomyelitis is given. The chief features noted in the infantile form are: (1) onset at birth or soon after, (2) convulsions, (3) bilateral communicating hydrocephalus, (4) bilateral focal chorioretinitis usually involving both macula and (5) multiple calcifications in the brain.

It is our feeling that this constellation of signs and symptoms should suggest the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis without recourse to the isolation of the protozoan or the securing of positive neutralization reactions.
THE ABSORPTION OF VITAMIN A IN PREMATURELY BORN INFANTS
Authors: CLIFFORD STEWART H. , WELLER KATHLEEN FAHEY
Published: December 2021

Forty-two premature infants were tested for vitamin A absorption after the oral ingestion of 0.5 cc. (35,000 U.S.P. units) of percomorph liver oil. Only three (7%) showed good absorption levels. The mean absorption level found from three to five hours after the test dose was 16 units of vitamin A.

Forty-one were tested for vitamin A absorption after the oral ingestion of either 2 cc. or 3 cc. (16,000-24,000 U.S.P. units) of vitamin A in a vehicle of either alcohol or propylene glycol. Of these 37 (90%) showed good absorption levels. The mean absorption level found from three to five hours after the test dose was 85 units of vitamin A.

Retrolental fibroplasia could not be prevented from developing in a certain number of premature infants' eyes by the daily oral administration of 5000 U.S.P. of vitamin A in an absorbable water soluble form. Even the addition of 20,000 U.S.P. units of vitamin A in oil by intramuscular injection failed to prevent the development of bilateral retrolental fibroplasia in one infant.

If vitamin D follows the same laws of absorption as does vitamin A, the provision of both A and D in a readily absorbable form should be of great practical advantage to the prematurely born infant.