bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The state-of-the-art of eHealth self-management interventions for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: a scoping review
Authors: Braake Eline te , Vaseur Roswita M. E. , Grünloh Christiane , Tabak Monique
Published: January 2024

Introduction:
eHealth self-management interventions may help patients with COPD to engage in their self-management. However, little is known about the actual content of these eHealth interventions. Therefore, this review investigates the state-of-the-art of eHealth self-management interventions for COPD. More specifically, we research the functionality and modality, the positive health dimensions addressed, the target population characteristics, and the self-management processes and behavioural change techniques (BCTs).
Methods
A scoping review was performed to investigate current literature. Parts of the PRISMA-ScR protocol were followed and tailored to this study. The databases: PUBMED, SCOPING, PsychINFO (EBSCO), and Wiley were searched for literature.
Results
This review found that most eHealth technologies enable patients to (self-)monitor their symptoms by using (smart)measuring devices and/or smartphones/tablets. The self-management process ‘taking ownership of health needs’, the BCT ‘feedback and monitoring’, and the positive health dimension ‘bodily functioning’ were most often addressed. The inclusion criteria of studies in combination with the population reached when carrying out the studies show that a subset of COPD patients participate in such eHealth research.
Discussion/Conclusion:
The current body of literature related to eHealth interventions addresses mainly the physical aspect of COPD self-management. The necessity to specify inclusion criteria to control variables combined with the practical challenges to recruit diverse participants leads to people with COPD being included in eHealth studies that only represent a subgroup of the whole population. These findings showcase the gaps in current literature. Therefore, future developments should aim to develop eHealth technologies more inclusively and need to address multiple dimensions of the positive health paradigm.
Prognosis Impact and Clinical Findings in Renal Cancer Patients: Comparative Analysis between Public and Private Health Coverage in a Cross-sectional and Multicenter Context
Authors: Barrera-Juarez Eduardo , Halun-Trevino Antonio Nassim , Ruelas-Martinez Manuel , Madero-Frech Andres , Camacho-Trejo Victor , Estrada-Bujanos Miguel , Bojorquez David , Uribe-Montoya Jhonatan , Rodriguez-Covarrubias Francisco , Villarreal-Garza Cynthia
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Research on disparities in prognosis and clinical characteristics between public and private healthcare sectors in developing countries remains limited. The study aimed to determine whether patients with public health coverage (1) have a greater mean tumor size at diagnosis compared to those with private health coverage; (2) exhibit differences in clinical staging and TNM classification between groups; and (3) show variations in demographic, clinical characteristics, histopathological findings, and surgical approaches among cohorts.
Methods
A cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted on 629 patients from both private and public healthcare sectors, all histologically confirmed and surgically treated for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), between 2011 and 2021 in high-volume hospitals in Monterrey, Mexico. To compare variables between groups, we employed independent samples t-tests, Mann Whitney U nonparametric test, along with Pearson's chi square test complemented by post hoc analyses.
Results
Mean tumor size in the public group was 1.9 cm greater than in the private group (7.39 vs. 5.51 cm, p < 0.001). Patients in the public sector more frequently presented with larger tumors, a higher prevalence of risk factors (excluding BMI and hypertension), advanced disease (OR 2.12, CI95%: 1.43–3.16, p < 0.001), presence of symptoms, elevated TNM, lymphovascular invasion and a lower prevalence of minimally invasive surgery. A male-to-female ratio of 2.6:1 was noted in the private coverage group.
Conclusions
This study highlights a notable association between public health coverage and a higher prevalence of advanced RCC, with tumors in private coverage patients being smaller yet larger than commonly reported. There is a crucial need to develop new health policies for early detection of renal cancer in developing countries.
Untreated pulmonary sequestration with recurrent superinfection supporting COPD developement in a 42 year old male patient
Authors: Leitner Maximilian , Kühnle Jeannine L. , Ecker Petra , Khrystenko Tetiana , Tränkenschuh Wolfgang , Bals Robert , Lepper Philipp M. , Langer Frank
Published: January 2024

Background: Pulmonary sequestration is a congenital malformation in which nonfunctional lung tissue develops without connection to the bronchial system. The main complication is the occurrence of recurrent pneumonia.
Case presentation: We describe the case of a patient who was incidentally diagnosed with PS as part of the diagnostic algorithm for community-acquired pneumonia. Due to the relatively late diagnosis, the recurrent bronchopulmonary was conducive to the development of COPD and pulmonary emphysema. For prognostic reasons, surgical resection was performed by posterolateral thoracotomy.
Conclusions: Although cigarette smoking is the main risk factor for developing COPD, recurring lung infections may have a synergistic effect. Sometimes recurrent infections are caused by a congenital malformation. Especially in adults who have had recurrent pneumonia since childhood.
Hepatitis B vaccination status and associated factors among people living with HIV in Gulu, Uganda: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nakabuye Maria , Segawa Ivan , Ojiambo Kevin Ouma , Ndagga George William , Ocama Ponsiano , Byakika-Kibwika Pauline
Published: January 2024

Introduction:
Hepatitis B vaccination is highly recommended among people with HIV (PWH) because they have a poor prognosis when infected with Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Among PWH, HBV infection s are more likely to progress to chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis. It is therefore important that PWH are vaccinated against HBV. However, in Uganda, hepatitis B vaccination among PWH is not standard practice indicating that its uptake may be minimal. We aimed to determine the hepatitis B vaccination status among PWH and the associated factors.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 385 PWH in Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. Proportions of PWH that are fully vaccinated against hepatitis B were reported with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). A modified Poisson regression model was used to determine factors associated with hepatitis B vaccination, estimating their Prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% CI.
Results
The median age of the participants was 37 years, (interquartile range [IQR] 30-45years) and 30.9% (95% CI; 26.3–35.5) were fully vaccinated against HBV. Urban residence (adjusted PR [aPR] = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.17–2.17), family history of Hepatitis B infection (aPR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.06–2.61), and knowledge about HBV (aPR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.06–1.89) were associated with being fully vaccinated against hepatitis B.
Conclusion
We found low coverage of hepatitis B vaccination among PWH attending Gulu Regional Referral Hospital. Hepatitis B vaccination programs should target PWH living in rural areas, with no family history of hepatitis B to educate them about HBV vaccine to increase coverage.
Review of Soil Loss Estimation in Ethiopia: Evaluating the Use of the RUSLE Model integrated with GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques
Authors: Terefe Baye , Amene  , Tihtinaw  , Abebe  , Fekadu  , Tadele  , Aderaw  , Tatek
Published: January 2024

Soil erosion is one of Ethiopia's most severe ecological problems, affecting agricultural output, water quality, and ecosystem well-being. The RUSLE (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation) model is an extensively used tool for estimating soil erosion, but its applicability in Ethiopia has yet to be effectively evaluated. This article systematically examines the RUSLE model's application in estimating soil loss, emphasizing Ethiopia. A wide-ranging search technique was used to categorize appropriate research articles, books, and other sources related to the practice of the RUSLE model for estimating soil loss in Ethiopia for this review paper. This review observes the model's strengths and limitations, examines the factors contributing to soil erosion, and identifies region-specific strategies for effective soil conservation and mitigation. This review helps the management of soil erosion challenges in Ethiopia by advancing our understanding of the model's utility and providing valuable insights. The findings of this review presented here are critical for estimating soil erosion. They will play a more significant role in improving agricultural methods, protecting soil resources, and ensuring the overall ecological well-being of the country.
Food Insecurity among Syrian Pregnant Women: a cross- sectional study
Authors: Zabad Kareem , Alnesr Anas , Alkadah Hadel , Alchikha Muhammad , Mohammad Karam , Abbassi Haitham
Published: January 2024

Background: Food insecurity, defined as “the lack of regular and secure access to enough safe and nutritious food for normal growth, development, and active, healthy life”,is of significant importance considering its serious and long-term consequences on public health. Additionally, nations grappling with armed conflicts and economic downturns are especially susceptible to food insecurity, exacerbating their healthcare challenges. Moreover, pregnancy is considered a critical phase due to the increased nutrition demand to ensure the well-being of both the pregnant woman and her child.
Methods: The study took place in (AlTawlid University Hospital), one of the most prominent women and childbirth centers in Syria, between 20/6/2023 and 30/7/2023. Five hundred pregnant women were interviewed. An Arabic version of The U.S. Household Food Security Survey: Six-Item Module was used to identify food insecurity in our sample.
Results: The sample consisted of 460 pregnant women who completed the questionnaire and agreed to participate in the study. Seventy-three percent of pregnant women were found to be food insecure. Statisticallysignificant relationshipsbetween women's food security and their highest level of education, self-reported financial status, age, number of children, and meals consumed per day were found. It is also notable that 20% of the women came from Damascus, 67.4% from Rif Dimashq, and 12.6% from other governorates. The average number of meals pregnant women consumed per day was 2.4±0.75.
Conclusion: The prevalence of food insecurity among pregnant women in Syria is higher compared to other countries in the region, highlighting the urgent need for national programs to identify and address food insecurity, particularly among the most vulnerable populations. Our findings indicate low adherence to prenatal care, which has been linked to increased perinatal mortality rates and lower birth weights. Immediate and comprehensive interventions are necessary in Syria and other low-income, conflict-affected countries in the region to mitigate the adverse effects of food insecurity.
The relation of synaptic biomarkers with Aβ, tau, glial activation, and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease.
Authors: Wang Yi-Ting , Ashton Nicholas J. , Servaes Stijn , Nilsson Johanna , Woo Marcel S. , Pascoal Tharick A. , Tissot Cecile , Rahmouni Nesrine , Therriault Joseph , Lussier Firoza , Chamoun Mira , Gauthier Serge , Brinkmalm Ann , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Benedet Andrea L.
Published: January 2024

Background Synaptic degeneration is an early pathogenic event in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Proteins related to the synaptic architecture, detectable in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), are promising tools to monitor synaptic degeneration in vivo. However, the associations between synaptic biomarkers with AD-related pathologies including Aβ, tau, glial activity, neurodegeneration, and cognitive function remained unclear at the early stages of AD. The aim of this study was to investigate, and compare, the relationships between synaptic biomarkers and AD biomarker-informed pathophysiology, as well as clinical disease progression.
Methods In the present study, we assessed neuroimaging and CSF data from the Translational Biomarkers in Aging and Dementia (TRIAD) cohort. The concentrations of presynaptic (SNAP25, SYT1, and GAP43) and postsynaptic (NRGN) markers in the CSF were measured and we evaluated how these biomarkers relate to several biomarkers of AD pathophysiology and cognitive deterioration. Spearman rank correlation tests and linear regression models were applied to evaluate the association between biomarkers. Voxel-based linear regression models were performed to understand the associations between synaptic biomarkers and imaging outcomes. We further conducted path analyses to evaluate the relationships between biomarkers simultaneously and incorporate the potential effect of these biomarkers via multiple pathways.
Results Findings showed that Aβ, tau and glial reactivity are significantly associated with CSF synaptic biomarkers, with SNAP25 showing numerically larger effect sizes. Notably, SNAP25 is also linked to neurodegeneration and cognition. Results from path analyses indicated that Amyloid CSF (represented by Aβ42/40), Tau CSF (represented by pTau181) and Glial activation (proxied by CSF GFAP) independently affect synaptic biomarker levels (Synaptic; proxied by SNAP25).
Conclusion Overall, this study suggests that CSF synaptic biomarkers exhibit a degree of interchangeability in their potential utility. SNAP25 presents associations with a greater number of AD-related biomarkers, supporting its superiority as a promising candidate for incorporation into future AD clinical trials.
Crop Insect Pest Detection based on Dilated Multi-scale Attention U-Net
Authors: Wang Xuqi , Zhang Shanwen , Zhang Ting
Published: January 2024

Early detection and identification of insect pests is the premise and basis of scientific control and accurate utilization of Insect pesticides. Aiming at the problems of low detection accuracy and slow training speed of the existing crop Insect pest detection models, a dilated multi-scale attention U-Net (DMSAU-Net) model is constructed for crop Insect pest detection. In its encoder, dilated Inception is designed to replace the convolution layer in U-Net to extract the multi-scale features of insect pest images and improve the accuracy of the model. An attention module is added to its decoder to focus on the edge of the insect pest image and reduce the upsampling noise and accelerate model convergence. The results on the crop insect pest image dataset verify that the proposed method has high segmentation accuracy and good generalization ability, and can be applied to practical crop insect pest monitoring system.
Distribution and Prevalence of Refractive Error in Iranian Adult Population, A Cross- sectional Population-based Study (Results of the PERSIAN Eye Cohort Study(PECS))
Authors: Alipour Fateme , Mohammadzadeh Maryam , Jafari Fatemeh , Lashay Alireza , Yaseri Mehdi , Motamed-Gorji Nazgol , Alizadeh Yousef , Soleimani Mohammadreza , Mirzaei Mohammad , Shahraki Kourosh , Salimpour Samira , Shoja Mohammad Reza , Khataminia Gholamreza , Tahkor Abolfazl , Tavakoli Roya , Somi Mohammad hossein , Mansour-Ghanaei Fariborz , Joukar Farahnaz , Ansari-Moghaddam Alireza , Saki Nader , Hashemi Hassan
Published: January 2024

The PERSIAN Eye Cohort Study, a population-based cross-sectional study from 2015 to 2020, examined refractive error prevalence among 48618 Iranian adults aged 31 to 70. The study encompassed six centers in Iran, employing random cluster sampling for demographic, medical, and socioeconomic data collection through interviews. Ophthalmic exams included visual acuity, automated and manual objective refraction, subjective refraction, slit lamp, and fundus examinations. Using the spherical equivalent definition, the sample population was categorized into groups. Results indicated a mean age of 49.52 ± 9.31 and a mean refractive error of 0.26 diopters (D) ± 1.6 SD (95% CI: -0.27 to -0.24), ranging from − 26.1 to + 18.5 SD. Prevalence of myopia (<-0.5D) and hyperopia ( > + 0.5) was 22.6% (95% CI: 22.2–23%) and 12.5% (95% CI: 12.1–12.8%), respectively. Myopia significantly associated with female gender, older age, urban residency, higher education, higher income, and Fars ethnicity (p-value < 0.001 for all). Hyperopia significantly associated with female gender (p-value < 0.001), aging (p-value < 0.001), urban residency (p-value = 0.029), and lower income (p-value = 0.005). Astigmatism (> 1 D) was prevalent in 25.5% of participants (95% CI: 25.1–25.9%) and correlated with male gender, aging, urban residency, illiteracy, and higher income (p-value < 0.001, < 0.001, < 0.001, < 0.001, 0.014, respectively). The study's comparison with regional and international surveys highlighted the increase in myopia among those over 65 due to higher nuclear cataract rates in older adults. Myopia positively related to education, income, and urban residency, while hyperopia did not exhibit such associations.
The efficacy and safety of a Histone deacetylase inhibitor: chidamide as a maintenance therapy for peripheral T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Shen Hao-Rui , Wu Jia-Zhu , Liang Jin-Hua , Li Yue , Zhang Xin-Yu , Kong Yi-Lin , Pan Bi-Hui , Gao Rui , Li Jian-Yong , Wang Li , Yin Hua , Xu Wei
Published: January 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of chidamide as a maintenance therapy in peripheral T-cell lymphoma.
Methods
Chidamide was given orally as a maintenance therapy after first-line or salvage treatment. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety were analyzed.
Results
Fifty-eight patients were enrolled between January 2015 and July 2022. Among 39 patients underwent first-line maintenance, 11 (28.2%) patients experienced disease progression. A total of 19 patients received maintenance treatment after salvage therapy, 9(47.4%) had disease progression and median duration of remission was 16 (2‒25) months. For all patients, the median maintenance time was 16 (1–72) months, the median PFS was 33 months, and the median OS had not been reached. The median PFS and OS of the patients received first-line maintenance were not reached, significantly better than patients received salvage maintenance (median PFS and OS were 7 and 67 months, P < 0.001, P = 0.009, respectively). The most common toxicities were hematologic toxicities. Twelve (20.7%) patients underwent a dose reduction and three patients discontinued treatment.
Conclusion
The study showed that patients with chidamide maintenance therapy had a better PFS and OS with a manageable safety profile, especially as the first-line maintenance therapy.
Registration number:
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05967949), retrospectively registered on July 23, 2023.
Determinants of birth registration and certification in Southwest Ethiopia: Implication for a new strategy to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Authors: Ayele Bizuayehu , Getachew Dawit , Oginni Oreoluwa , Bekele Bayu Begashaw
Published: January 2024

Birth registration is a child's basic legal and social right which grants their presence and security in their lifetime. However, it was initiated very recently, and its magnitude has not been well examined in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assessed the magnitude of birth registration of children under two years old in Southwestern Ethiopia. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on randomly selected 689 mothers or caregivers who had children less than 24 months from 15 April 2023 to 05 June 2023. The study was carried out in Bench Sheko Zone, located in the Southwestern Region of Ethiopia. A face-to-face interview was used to collect data. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the factors associated with birth registration. In this study, 26.4%, 95% CI (23.2%-29.6%) children were registered during birth. Potential factors for birth registration and certification were having notifications about the importance and availability of birth registration (AOR = 21.8, 95% CI; 11.7–40.9), information about birth registration (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI; 1.4–11.3), and lower household income (AOR = 0.29, 95%CI = 0.13–0.62). The current rate of birth registration in the region is very low, with only one-fourth of total births being registered. Birth notification, information about birth registration, and knowledge about birth registration were significant determinants of birth registration. Strategies like improving information dissemination, promoting institutional deliveries, and enhancing community engagement in the region can increase the rate of timely birth registration and ensure that every child's birth is officially recognized. This will put a building block for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Regulation of quality of naked oats under different irrigation regumes
Authors: Cheng Bo , Dai Hai-yan , Liu Hu , Tian Xiu-ming , Zhang Hui-min , Wang Jian
Published: January 2024

Naked oat (Avena nuda L.) is rich in protein, fat, soluble dietary fiber and other nutrients that the human body needs; it is an important grain, feed and forage crop. Here, we investigated the effects of different irrigation and fertilization conditions on naked oat yield and quality in semi-arid regions in agriculture-pastoral zone in semi-arid areas. The experiment was carried out in a non-weighing lysimeter with four irrigation quotas (750m3·ha− 1, 1500m3·ha− 1, 2250m3·ha− 1 and 3000 m3·ha− 1) and fertilizer versus non-fertilizer to analyze the effect of different water and fertilizer conditions on the yield and quality of naked oats. The seed yield of naked oats increased as irrigation quota increased, and the highest yield of 3253 kg·ha− 1 was achieved at 3000 m3·ha− 1. An increased irrigation quota promoted the synthesis of protein, group fiber, starch and amino acid and the breakdown of fat in naked oats. Fertilizer application improved naked oat seed yield by 42.5% and facilitated an increase in the levels of protein, fat, crude fiber, starch and amino acids. This experiment provides a theoretical basis for the cultivation of naked oats in agriculture-pastoral zone in semi-arid areas.
Influence of the COVID-19 Outbreak on Health-Related Quality of Life in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients in China: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study
Authors: Wang Runnan , Liu Peizhao , Fan Chaogang , Liu Juanhan , Jiang Haiyang , Zheng Tao , Ren Jianan , Zhao Yun
Published: January 2024

Background
Following the Chinese government's announcement that the zero-COVID policy had ended, there was a rapid and widespread outbreak of COVID-19. In this context, the condition and psychological impact on IBD patients were unknown, and prior literature lacked reports on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of IBD patients during large COVID-19 outbreaks in China. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the HRQoL of IBD patients during the COVID-19 outbreak in China.
Methods
We employed a cross-sectional survey via web-based questionnaires. The participants were IBD patients who had previously received treatment at Nanjing BenQ Medical Center. They completed the questionnaire between January 9, 2023, and January 23, 2023. We primarily assessed the HRQoL of IBD patients using the Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (SIBDQ) scores, and statistical analyses included the Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests.
Results
According to our survey, significant differences were observed in the following groups based on SIBDQ scores: types of IBD (p = 0.037), usage of medication after COVID-19 infection (p = 0.028), whether IBD patients felt more susceptible to COVID-19 than the general population (p < 0.05), whether their study or work had been negatively affected by COVID-19 in the past month (p < 0.05), and whether IBD patients had taken medication regularly according to medical advice within the past month (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the overall HRQoL of IBD patients was affected. Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) exhibited higher HRQoL than those with Crohn's disease (CD). Furthermore, IBD patients who maintained a positive attitude during the epidemic experienced higher HRQoL.
Development of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR) for simultaneous detection of White spot syndrome virus (WSSV), Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) and Vibrio parahaemolyticus AHPND from cultured shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: kalaria kishan kishorchandra , K. Girisha S. , M.S. Nithin , T.G. Puneeth , T Suresh , K.B Kushala
Published: January 2024

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV), Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP), and Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) are the major threats to the whiteleg shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. This study was conducted to develop multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR) for the detection of shrimp pathogens. This study was conducted between January 2020 to July 2022. Total of 328 samples were collected from shrimp farms of Karnataka and they were screened for WSSV, EHP, and AHPND by M-PCR. Several parameters were optimized for the standardization of M-PCR. The specificity and sensitivity of the reaction were evaluated. The results showed that this technique can detect WSSV, AHPND, and EHP in a single reaction with high specificity. Sensitivity result showed it can detect WSSV (0.3 pg/µl), AHPND (0.1 pg/µl), and EHP (0.2 pg/µl). Out of 328 samples, 72 (21.9%) samples were found to be positive for EHP, 16 (4.8%) samples were found to have been infected by WSSV and 5 (1.5%) samples were found to have multiple infections with WSSV, and EHP. In consideration of the specificity and sensitivity of this technique, we conclude that M-PCR could be used instead of a conventional PCR assay targeting individual genes for the rapid detection of WSSV, AHPND, and EHP simultaneously.
An ERP Study on The Effects of Video Games on Stress Reactions of College Students
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Yang , lv zhao
Published: January 2024

Background: Stress refers to a series of physiological and psychological reactions that occur in an organism when it is exposed to specific environmental influences in order to maintain internal homeostasis. Prolonged stress can have negative effects on psychological and physiological resilience, thus impacting health. Stress is a common manifestation in daily life, and contemporary electronic games have gained popularity as a form of entertainment, particularly action-based games which have emerged as a new type of sports activity. Although previous research has confirmed the role of the brain as the central regulator of stress responses and the ability of electronic games to modulate brain structure, further investigation is needed to understand the relationship between electronic games and the regulation of stress responses.
Methodology: This study utilized a modified version of the multiplication mental arithmetic task paradigm and BP electroencephalography equipment. The accuracy and reaction time of participants were examined in three stages under stress conditions. Additionally, EEG data signals were collected to analyze and compare the amplitude and latency of ERP components.
Results: The reaction time of the participants in the multiplication mental arithmetic task was significantly shorter under stress conditions compared to the control condition, while the accuracy was significantly lower. Following intervention with electronic games, the participants' reaction time in the mental arithmetic task was reduced. Even during the resting recovery period, the participants' reaction time remained significantly shorter than in the previous stages, accompanied by a significant increase in accuracy. The analysis of the ERP component data revealed that, under stress conditions, the amplitude of the P2 component was significantly lower compared to the control condition. Moreover, there were significant differences in the amplitude of the P1, P2, and LPP components during the recovery stage compared to the baseline testing and game intervention.
Conclusion: The multiplication mental arithmetic task successfully induced stress responses in the participants as a laboratory stressor. Male university students exhibited improved accuracy and faster reaction times after playing electronic games. Under stress conditions, male university students demonstrated a positive effect and enhanced inhibitory ability due to the delayed impact of electronic games.
Detection of −α 3.7 and _ _SEA deletions in α-globin gene in the Bangladeshi population
Authors: Tasnim Marzia , Ferdous Jannatul , Mannoor Kaiissar , Qadri Firdausi , Hosen Md. Ismail , Shekhar Hossain Uddin
Published: January 2024

Background: α-thalassemia, resulting largely from deletions in the α-globin chain of hemoglobin, is one of the most common inherited blood disorders among the Asian population. The α-globin gene locus (HBA1 and HBA2), located on chromosome 16p13.3, includes two highly homologous genes that produce identical α-globin protein products after translation. The most common single α-gene deletions are −α3.7 , −α4.2, – –SEA, – –FIL, – –THAI, – –MED and – –(α)20.5). Patients with α-thalassemic mutations often suffer from severe anemic conditions. In Bangladesh, the prevalence of α-thalassemia, mutation spectrum, and carrier frequency are unknown. This study aimed to detect the carrier frequency of the two most frequent α-gene mutations namely -α3.7 deletion and _ _SEA deletion in the α-globin gene in the Bangladeshi population.
Methods: Blood samples from 1824 participants were randomly collected from different educational institutions in Bangladesh. Complete Blood Counts (CBC) and Hemoglobin electrophoresis were performed for MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin), MCV (Mean Corpuscular volume), and HbA2 analysis to initially screen individuals with abnormal α-globin chains. For molecular analysis, genomic DNA extraction followed by conventional gap-PCR to detect -α3.7 deletion and real-time PCR-based melting-curve analysis to identify _ _SEA deletion were conducted. Sanger sequencing was performed for the detection of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP) within the α-globin gene.
Results: 63 participants with decreased levels of MCH, MCV, and HbA2% were identified as suspected to have α-globin mutation. Among the suspected group, silent carrier status of -α3.7 deletion (αα/-α3.7) was found in 17.5% (11/63) samples, while 1 participant had trait genotype (-α3.7/-α3.7 or --/αα) and one individual had the triplicated genotype (αα/αααanti 3.7). A total of 37 healthy participants without any abnormal hematological parameters were also included in the deletion analysis.
In 37 healthy samples, the deletion frequency was 8.1% (3/37) for (αα/-α3.7) deletion, 2.7% (1/37) for the trait, and 2.7% (1/37) for the triplicated genotype. The _ _SEA deletion was not found in any sample, but SNP rs2541677(G>A) was detected within the region. For (rs2541677 (G>A) of α-globin, 91% (N = 91) wild type GG alleles, 6% (N = 6) AG alleles. 3%(N=3) AA alleles had been reported in this study among the enrolled population
Conclusion: These data provide a comprehensive picture of the common α deletion in the Bangladeshi population.
The FTO inhibitor Rhein is a promising option for the treatment of multidrug resistance AML
Authors: Zhang Shuling , Zhou Lanxia , Lu Jianle , Yang Jincai , Tao Lili , Feng Youfan , Cheng Juan , Zhao Li
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Chemotherapy failure and resistance contribute to poor prognosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)patients. The fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) is dysregulated and plays crucial roles in AML. we aim in exploring what role the FTO inhibitor Rhein played in multidrug resistance AML.
Methods
Bone marrow fluid was collected to clarify FTO expression in AML. Cell Counting Kit 8 reagent(CCK8) was used to detect the inhibition of proliferation. Migration assays were conducted using 24-well transwell chambers with 8-µm apertures. And flow cytometry and WB assays were used to clarify apoptotic effects of rhein and proteins changes. The online SynergyFinder software was utilized to calculate drug synergy scores.
Results
We observed that FTO is overexpressed in AML, particularly in AML occurred multidrug resistance. Rhein significantly suppresses proliferation and migration in parent and multidrug-resistant AML cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In particular, multidrug-resistant AML cells did not show resistance to Rhein. Furthermore, Rhein promotes apoptosis and decreased the expression of Bcl-2 while increasing the expression of Bax. Additionally, Rhein suppressed FTO expression and inhibited the AKT/mTOR signaling pathways. We also identified that low-dose Rhein in combination with AZA could sensitize HL60 and HL60-ADR cells to AZA.
Conclusion
Rhein significantly suppresses proliferation and migration, promotes apoptosis, sensitive to multidrug-resistant AML cells, is a promising candidate for treating multidrug-resistant AML.
Hybrid sequence-based analysis reveals the distribution of bacterial species and genes in the oral microbiome at a high resolution
Authors: Yamaguchi Masaya , Uchihashi Toshihiro , Kawabata Shigetada
Published: January 2024

Bacteria in the oral microflora are poorly identified owing to the lack of established culture methods for them. Thus, this study aimed to use culture-free analysis techniques, including bacterial single-cell genome sequencing, to identify bacterial species and investigate gene distribution in saliva. Saliva samples from the same individual were classified as inactivated or culturable and then analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomic shotgun sequencing, and bacterial single-cell sequencing. The results of 16S rRNA sequencing revealed similar microbiota structures in both samples, with Streptococcus being the predominant genus. Metagenomic shotgun sequencing showed that approximately 80% of the DNA in the samples was of non-bacterial origin, whereas single-cell sequencing showed an average contamination rate of 10.4% per genome. Single-cell sequencing also yielded genome sequences for 43 out of 48 wells for the inactivated samples and 45 out of 48 wells for the culturable samples. With respect to resistance genes, four out of 88 isolates carried cfxA, which encodes a β-lactamase, and four isolates carried erythromycin resistance genes. Tetracycline resistance genes were found in nine bacteria. Metagenomic shotgun sequencing provided complete sequences of cfxA, ermF, and ermX, whereas other resistance genes, such as tetQ and tetM, were detected as fragments. In addition, virulence factors from Streptococcus pneumoniae were the most common, with 13 genes detected. This study demonstrates that single-cell sequencing can be used to investigate the distribution of resistance genes and virulence factors among individual bacteria in human saliva.
Barriers to contraceptive utilization among Reproductive Age Women of Eritrean Refugee in North West Tigray, Ethiopia: a mixed study
Authors: Gebrehiwot Solomon Weldemariam , Abera Gedamu , Berhe Almaz , Zenebe Kahsay
Published: January 2024

Universal access to family planning could prevent nearly one-third of the estimated 300,000 maternal deaths. Contraceptive utilization is low in humanitarian settings. Currently, there is a dearth of information on the use of contraceptives among refugee women in many low-income countries including the study area. A community based cross sectional study with qualitative data was employed from January 1 to February 1, 2017. Systematic and purposive sampling techniques were applied. Data was entered to Epi Info version 3.3.2 and transported to SPSS version 20.0 software for analysis. Significance was declared at p-value of < 0.05. Odds ratio along with 95% confidence interval was computed to ascertain the strength of the association. Among the 532 respondents who experienced sex, 192(36.1%) were using contraceptive method. Exposure to media (AOR = 2.207, 95% CI = 1.244, 3.917), residence (AOR = 2.593, 95% CI = 1.513, 4.444), discussion on reproductive goals (AOR = 2.817, 95% CI = 1.681, 4.721) and longer duration stay in camp (AOR = .4.065, 95% CI = 1.845, 8.956, AOR = 2.200, 95% CI = 1.084, 4.466) were significant factors. Prevalence of contraceptive utilization in refugees was low. A lot of obstructing factors to access the service were identified in this study. This gap will intensify the existing maternal and child mortality dire in refugee settings.
Giant retroperitoneal hemolymphangioma: case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Yi-kai , Liu Ying-hao , Shuang Wei-bing
Published: January 2024

Hemolymphangioma is a very rare benign tumor in clinical practice caused by abnormalities of the vasculature. Here, we report a patient with a giant retroperitoneal hemolymphangioma. A 37-year-old man was admitted to the hospital because of unprovoked upper abdominal distension and low back pain. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested the possibility of a giant retroperitoneal lymphatic cyst. The patient underwent surgical treatment after adequate drainage. The postoperative pathological diagnosis was retroperitoneal hemolymphangioma. Its clinical features are often atypical, and it is easy to miss and misdiagnose. When the time of nuclear magnetic T1 is significantly reduced, the diagnosis of hemangiangiangioma should be considered. Therefore, we report this case in the hope of raising clinicians' awareness of the disease.
Quantum privacy query protocol based on counterfactual quantum key distribution with noiseless attack
Authors: Liu Dongmei , Li Jian , Chen Xiubo , Ye Chongqiang , Wang Zhou
Published: January 2024

To save quantum resources and improve efficiency, this article proposes an efficient counterfactual quantum privacy query protocol. Counterfactual quantum privacy query refers to the identification of secure detection and key screening based on the detector's response results without the actual transmission of quantum information between user Bob and database Alice. Alice completes key transmission through a counterfactual device, while Bob measures the photon's polarization with a probability of 1/2 to obtain the encoded classical information, followed by traditional post-processing and privacy query operations. Additionally, to withstand the noise impact during the communication process, a modified counterfactual QKD protocol proposed by Rao (2021) is utilized, where communication parties randomly select a quantum bit flip with a specified probability \textit{f}, and then complete the quantum privacy query.
Assessment of natural mycorrhizal potential in Genista aspalathoïdes Lamk.: A case study in Djelfa, Algeria
Authors: Bouabdelli Zahra Robã , Guit Ibrahim , Malika Brahimi , Berkane Imane
Published: January 2024

Preliminary survey on the Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species composition in the rhizosphere of Genista aspalatoide Lamk subsp. erinaceoides (Lois.) Maire growing in the arid area present in South Algeria were studied. Roots and rhizosphiric soil from this species were analyzed. In this work, we proposed to evaluate the rate of mycorrhizal infection expressed by four parameters. The physical and chemical characteristics of soil were assessed through measurement of pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, Active calcareous, total calcareous and texture. Spores of fungi harvested in the rhizospheric area were morphologically identified. The results showed that host plants harbored arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), The average colonization by these AMFs showed that the frequency of mycorrhizal in the root system (F%) was reached 100%, intensity of colonization M (62.8%), arbuscular content of infection A (39.7%) and arbuscular abundance in mycorrhizal parts of root fragments a (28.4%). Study area characterized by alkaline soils, very low organic matter, and relatively low levels of calcium carbonates with a silt texture. 02 families of endomycorrhizae have been isolated (Glomeraceae and Acaulosporaceae) with a 4 genera Septoglomus, Glomus, rhizophagus and acaulospora.
Comparison of Bond Strength of Different Indirect Composite Systems and CAD/CAM Composite Blocks between Dentin and Composite Surfaces: An in vitro study
Authors: Batgerel Oyun Erdene , Yazıcıoğlu Oktay , Kıtın Emine , Gençel Burç İhsan , Yamak Fatih , Bozdağ Süreyya Ergün
Published: January 2024

This study aims to compare the shear bond strength of different indirect restorative materials bonded to the microhybrid composite and dentin surfaces. A total of 192 cylindrical specimens (3mm height, 3mm diameter) were prepared from GradiaPlus, GC(GRA); CeramageBody, Shofu(CER); TesceraATL, Bisco(TES); and Lava Ultimate, 3M Espe(LAV) materials. In addition, 48 newly extracted molars were embedded in acrylic resin 2 mm below the cementoenamel junction and sliced horizontally using a cutting device (IsoMet 1000; Buehler, USA) to form flat dentin surfaces. Using a specially customized 4x2mm disc-shaped mold, 48 disc-shaped composite surfaces were obtained with the Z250 Microhybrid composite (3M Espe, USA) material by layering technique. A total of 2 cylindrical indirect composite specimens were cemented to each disc-shaped composite and flat dentin surfaces. Samples obtained from indirect composite were divided into 16 groups in total, with two different subgroups luted with RelyX U200(RX-U200) self-adhesive cement (3M Espe, USA) and RelyX Ultimate(RX-ULT) clicker dual-cure cement (3M Espe, USA) to the dentin and microhybrid composite surfaces (n = 12). Groups are respectively: 1)GRA + Dentin + RX-U200 2)TES + Dentin + RX-U200 3)CER + Dentin + RX-U200 4)LAVA + Dentin + RX-U200 5)GRA + Composite + RX-U200 6)TES + Composite + RX-U200 7)CER + Composite + RX-U200 8)LAVA + Composite + RX-U200 9)GRA + Dentin + RX-ULT 10)TES + Dentin + RX-ULT 11)CER + Dentin + RX-ULT 12)LAVA + Dentin + RX-ULT 13)GRA + Composite + RX-ULT 14)TES + Composite + RX-ULT 15)CER + Composite + RX-ULT 16)LAVA + Composite + RX-ULT (n = 12). The Shear Test was carried out by applying 0-400 N loading and 1 mm/min force to each sample at Instron Universal Testing Machine. Light microscopy and SEM were used to examine the failure type. The results obtained in the study were evaluated by using ShapiroWilk's test, Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-Square test.(p < 0.05) Significantly higher bonding values were obtained in the specimens bonded to the surface of Z250 microhybrid composite (3M ESPE, USA) compared to the specimens bonded to the dentin surface (p < 0.001). When the shear strength of indirect restoration materials is compared; the highest value was measured in the CER + Composite + RX-ULT(Av:91.41Mpa) group, and the lowest value was measured in the LAVA + Dentin + RX-U200(Mean:35.96Mpa) group(p < 0.001). When the bond strengths of the cement systems were compared, RX-ULT dual-cure cement showed higher bond strength values than RX-U200 self-adhesive cement on both dentin and Z250 Microhybrid composite surface (p < 0.05).
Higher levels of impulsivity and depression are present in patients with temporal and extra- temporal focal epilepsy
Authors: Stivala Ernesto Gonzalez , Wolfzun Camila , Sarudiansky Mercedes , Kochen Silvia , Giagante Brenda , Oddo Silvia , Korman Guido , D´Alessio Luciana
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To analyze patients with clearly and defined focal epilepsy from temporal (ELT) and extra-temporal lobe origin (ETE), and a control group, and to compare the prevalence of psychiatric comorbid disorders and the levels of impulsivity between them.
Methods: Consecutive patients who met criteria of drug-resistant focal epilepsy of temporal and/or extra-temporal origin, clearly defined and confirmed by VEEG (Video-EEG), were included. Psychiatric assessment was conducted using the Structured Clinical Interview for Axis I and II diagnose of DSM-IV (SCID I-II), the Barrat-11 scale for measure impulsivity, and Beck inventory for depression.
Results: 73 patients with drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), 21 with extra-temporal focal epilepsy (ETE) and 58 healthy control subjects were included. A total of 45 patients (61.6%) in TLE group and 13 patients (61.9%) in ETE group met criteria for at least one present or past psychiatry disorder coded on Axis I of DSM-IV. Both ELT and ETE groups presented higher Barrat-11 scores compared to the control group (p<0.01). ETE showed a tendency to a higher impulsivity level, particularly in the motor factor compared to ELT (p=0.05). A left laterality of the epileptogenic zone, and the presence of psychiatric disorders (depression) were associated with higher impulsivity among patients with ELT (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Impulsivity and psychiatric comorbidity are important issues to consider in clinical evaluation of patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsies. The evaluation by an adequately mental health team should be considered routine among these patients.
Enhancing the lab skills of Dental Students: A Blended Learning approach
Authors: Ahsan Areesha , Shafi Riffat , Sunny Adnan , Babar Sardar Waleed
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND: Blended learning is a teaching methodology that is an amalgamation of face-to-face teaching and online teaching methods. Using blended learning of traditional live demonstrations and educational videos helps the students boost their skills further and gain confidence in the laboratory work. Shifa College of Dentistry follows an integrated curriculum. The removable partial denture sessions for the first and second-year students are mainly pre-clinical skill sessions in the Prosthodontic laboratory.AIMS: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of blended teaching and learning strategies for the skill sessions of Prosthodontics by providing the students with pre-reading materials along with instructional videos before the skill sessions. Scores of pre-test and post-test were analyzed. Student’s views were also collected regarding blended teaching methodology.METHODOLOGY: The study was conducted with second-year students at Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer E Millat University. It is a mixed-method study. The 50 students were divided into groups A and B. Only group B was exposed to educational videos, learning materials, and conventional teaching. The assessment results of group B were compared with the results of the controlled group A. Two Focus groups were conducted with the students of Group B to gather their views.RESULTS: The results showed a significant difference in the pre-test and post-test of both groups with a P-value of 0.007. These findings suggest that the students exposed to the videos had improved grades after the intervention. In focus group interview the students believed that the blended learning approach in pre-clinical skills session has improved their knowledge, attitude, and psychomotor skills for the fabrication of acrylic partial dentures. Both methods of instruction live demonstrations and educational videos are essential as one is interactive and the other provides them an opportunity to watch the videos according to the availability of time and educational needs with a better vision of the skills being performed by the instructors.CONCLUSION: The results support that blended learning with video presentation along with traditional hands-on demonstrations in the Prosthodontic pre-clinical sessions helped students improve their knowledge, achievement of competencies, and psychomotor skills development.