bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Corneal Tomographic, Densitometric, and Aberrometric Features Following Accelerated Corneal Cross-Linking in progressive keratoconus
Authors: Mohebbi Masoumeh , Samavat Bijan , Mohammadi Abbas
Published: September 2022

Purpose
To evaluate the 12 months' changes in tomographic, densitometric, and aberrometric parameters in keratoconic eyes after accelerated corneal cross-linking (CCL) and classify a densitometric course in different stages of the keratoconus separately (Mild, moderate, and severe).
Methods
In a prospective observational study, 67 keratoconic eyes of 67 patients that underwent accelerated epithelium-off corneal cross-linking (9 mW/cm2 and 10 minutes) for treatment of progressive keratoconus were included. Corneal tomographic, densitometric, and aberrometric values obtained using the Pentacam HR were recorded at the baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively.
Result
One year after treatment, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was improved, and maximum keratometry, thinnest pachymetry, higher order, and total Root Mean Square (RMS) were significantly decreased. (p < 0.001) Corneal densitometry values showed a significant elevation 3 months post-surgery compared to baseline and then decreases to baseline values at 1 year. Only the Anterior 0–2 mm zone densitometry at the third month was different between the three groups. RMS at 1 year correlated with Anterior 0–2 mm, Anterior 2–6 mm, total corneal 0–2 mm, and total corneal 2–6 mm densitometry values in the third month. Final CDVA at 12th-month follow-up correlated with the Anterior 0–2 mm corneal densitometry in the third month.
Conclusion
Anterior 0–2 mm zone densitometry at the third-month post accelerated CCL can be used to detect different staging of keratoconus. Due to the correlation between final aberrometric and peak densitometric values in keratoconic eyes, peak densitometric values can be used as a prognostic factor for the final visual outcomes after accelerated CCL.
Heart Rate related to Accuracy of left ventricular strain parameters derived from the single-shot compressed sensing cine CMR images of patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Chen Yang , Xu Panpan , Wang Jun , Qian Wen , Liu Wangyan , Zhu Yinsu , Zhou Xiao , Xu Yi , Zhu Xiaomei
Published: September 2022

Objectives
Left ventricular (LV) global strain values from single-shot compressed sensing (ss-CS) cine imaging of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) are significantly underestimated compared with those from conventional segmented cine imaging (regarded as gold standard). This study aimed at exploring the patient-related factors of this underestimation and finding a relatively easy way of adjustment in clinical cardiovascular patients.
Methods
Patients with ss-CS cine and standard segmented cine CMR were retrospectively enrolled. Different groups in terms of LV wall thickness (thinned < 6mm, normal 9-12mm and thickened ≥ 15mm) and ejection fraction (EF) were established. Absolute and relative differences of LV global peak strains (GPSs) were calculated. Stepwise multivariable linear regression models were used to find the independent patient-related factors influencing the difference.
Results
Among 62 patients (mean age, 50 ± 16 years; heart rate, 71 ± 13 beats/min), patients with normal, thinned and thickened wall thickness were 19, 22 and 21 respectively and with LV systolic dysfunction (EF < 50%) were 31. LV GPSs by ss-CS cine were significantly underestimated. Absolute underestimations of GPSs were significantly different among different wall thickness groups and EF groups respectively (all P < 0.05), while relative underestimations of GPSs were not related to LV wall thickness or EF. In stepwise multivariable analysis, EF and heart rate were both associated with absolute decline (β values: from 0.244 to 0.485, P < 0.05). However, only heart rate was independently assassinated with relative underestimation in global circumferential and longitudinal strains (circumferential: β value = 0.320, P = 0.011; longitudinal: β value = 0.388, P = 0.002).
Conclusions
Compared to the traditional segment cine, ss-CS cine indeed underestimates LV strain parameters in cardiovascular patients and relative underestimations in GPSs could be adjusted by heart rate. Improving and standardized imaging techniques for high-speed CMR imaging are still needed.
Production Performance, Defensive, Hygienic, Swarming, and Foraging Behavior of Apis mellifera scutellata bee race
Authors: Tarekegn Alayu , Faji Mulisa , Abebe Alemayehu
Published: September 2022

Honey bee colonies exhibit a wide range of behavioral variations depending on genetic origin and environmental factors. Therefore, the performance evaluation of honey bee races is critical to laying a foundation for future selection and improvement in Ethiopia. Thirty colonies of Apis mellifera scutellata (A.m.scutellata) similar in resources contained in the hive were kept in improved box hives and evaluated through reproductive swarming tendency, foraging activity, defensive behavior, hygienic behavior, brood population, honey production, and absconding behavior during the active season and dearth season. In the study area, the A.m.scutellata race has a higher swarming tendency in the active season, with up to 3.24 queen caps per hive prepared per year. Defensive behavior during the active season takes an average of 25.41second after disturbances and follows up to a 212.20-meter distance. But during the dearth season, the colony slightly took a long time to reach aggressiveness after disturbance (31.28 seconds) and followed the observer for a short distance (45.58 meters). The closed brood production is higher (149 units per hive) during the active season and nectar production units per hive are reduced by 50% as compared to the dearth season. The yielding performance of the race per frame ranged from 1.3 kg to 1.5 kg, and an average of 14 kg of honey per harvest. The A.m.scutellata exhibited an absconding tendency of 34.5% if there was any disruption. A.m. scutellata showed good performance in hygienic behaviors (>95%), but undesirable behaviors in defensive behavior and swarming tendency make it difficult to manage honey bees. However, the race has good performance in foraging and hygienic behaviors. Further, studies of the honey bee race through selection and breeding could be conducted to reduce the higher aggressiveness and swarming tendency of A. m. scutellata to improve production performance.
Knee function, quality of life, pain, and living conditions after distal femoral resection knee arthroplasty for non-tumor indications
Authors: Corap Yasemin , Brix Michael , Brandt Julie R. , Emmeluth Claus , Lindberg-Larsen Martin
Published: September 2022

Background: Distal femoral resection knee arthroplasty is a limb salvage procedure. The impact of distal femoral resection arthroplasty on patient function and health status is unknown. The aim of this study was to report knee function, quality of life, knee pain, and living conditions after distal femoral resection knee arthroplasty for non-tumor indications.
Methods: Of 52 patients (52 knees) undergoing distal femoral resection knee arthroplasty in a single institution between 2012 and 2021, 22 were excluded as 3 patients had ≤ 90 days follow-up, 6 had died, and 13 declined or were unable to participate for unrelated reasons. Thus, 30 patients were included and interviewed by telephone in March 2021 (mean follow-up 3.5 years after surgery). Patient completed the Oxford Knee Score (0-48, 48 best), EQ-5D-5L, and the Copenhagen Knee ROM, and information on pain and living conditions was obtained.
Results: The mean age was 67.9 years (SD 13.6), and 21 (70%) were female.
Mean total Oxford Knee Score was 29.9 (SD 10.5), mean Copenhagen Knee ROM flexion was 116° (SD 21.6), and mean extension was –2° (SD10.1). Mobility aids were used by 18 (60%) patients, i.e. a cane (30%), walker (26.7%) or wheelchair (3.3%).
Mean EQ-5Dindex score was 0.70 (SD 0.22) and mean EQ-5D VAS score was 55.4 (SD 23.9). Nine (30%) patients used paracetamol or NSAID and 2 (6.7%) used opioids for knee pain. Mean VAS knee pain score was 1.30 (SD 2.2) at rest and 2.8 (SD 3.1) when walking.
Most (90%) patients lived in their own home, with only 3 patients in nursing homes. Two-thirds (66.7%) required no home care, 5 (16.6%) received home care 1-2 times over 2 weeks, and 5 (16.6%) every day.
Conclusion: Distal femoral resection knee arthroplasty appears to be a viable treatment option for non-tumor indications. Acceptable patient outcomes were achieved in terms of functional status and quality of life, especially considering treatment alternatives such as femoral amputation.
Terpene produced by co-expression of TPS and P450 genes from Lavandula angustifolia protect plant from herbivores attacks during budding stages
Authors: Ling Zhengyi , Li Jingrui , Dong Yanmei , Zhang Wenying , Bai Hongtong , Li Shu , Wang Su , Li Hui , shi lei
Published: September 2022

To defend themselves against herbivore attacks, plants produce a variety of volatiles, especially during the early stages of development. During the budding phases of Lavandula angustifolia , three genes ( La TPS7, La TPS8, and La CYP71D582) were discovered to be highly expressed. The La TPS7 catalyzes total eight different compounds in vitro , including camphene, myrcene, and limonene, among others. The La TPS8 converted ten volatiles using geranyl diphosphate and nerolidyl diphosphate as substrates. The plastid-located La TPS7 gene produced limonene when it was overexpressed in tobacco. The endoplasmic reticulum enzyme La CYP71D582 may further convert limonene to carveol. The La TPS8 present in plastids creates α-pinene and sylvestrene, according to in vitro tests. The limonene and carveol were discovered to repel Myzus persicae while attracting Harmonia axyridis confirmed by standards test. In Arabidopsis thaliana , a GUS staining test was used to evaluate the promoter activity of La TPS7 and La CYP71D582, and it was discovered that wounding may boost La TPS7 expression levels. The volatile compounds generated by La TPS7, La TPS8, and La CYP71D582 were found to be important in plant protection. In practice, biological control can be applied to promote human and environmental health via plant approaches.
Decrease of cancer diagnosis during COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Angelini Marco , Teglia Federica , Astolfi Laura , Casolari Giulia , Boffetta Paolo
Published: September 2022

Background: Many health services, including cancer care, have been affected by the COVID-19 epidemic. This study aimed at providing a systematic review of the impact of the epidemic on cancer diagnostic tests and diagnosis worldwide.
Methods: In our systematic review and meta-analysis, databases such as Pubmed, Proquest and Scopus were searched comprehensively for articles published between January 1st, 2020 and December 12th, 2021. Observational studies and articles that reported data from single clinics and population registries comparing the number of cancer diagnostic tests and/or diagnosis performed before and during the pandemic, were included. Two pairs of independent reviewers extracted data from the selected studies. The weighted average of the percentage variation was calculated and compared between pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. Stratified analysis was performed by geographic area, time interval and study setting. The review was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022314314).
Findings: The review comprised 61 articles, whose results referred to the period January – October 2020. We found an overall decrease of -37.3% for diagnostic tests and -27.0% for cancer diagnosis during the pandemic. For both outcomes we identified a U-shaped temporal trend, with an almost complete recovery for the number of cancer diagnosis after May 2020. We also analyzed differences by geographic area and screening setting.
Interpretation: We provided a summary estimate of the decrease in cancer diagnosis and diagnostic tests, during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The delay in cancer diagnosis could lead to an increase in the number of avoidable cancer deaths. Further research is needed to assess the impact of the pandemic measures on cancer treatment and mortality.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of continuous positive airways pressure versus high flow oxygen cannula in acute bronchiolitis
Authors: Buendía Jefferson Antonio , Feliciano-Alfonso John Edwin , Laverde Mauricio Fernandez
Published: September 2022

Introduction.
There are a trend towards increasing use of High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC), outside of paediatric intensive care unit . Give this trend is necessary to update the actual evidence and to assess available published literature to determinate the efficacy of HFNC over Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) as treatment for children with severe bronchiolitis.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and COCHRANE Central, and gray literature in clinical trials databases (www.clinicaltrials.gov), from inception to June 2022. The inclusion criteria for the literature were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that included children < 2 years old, with acute moderate or severe bronchiolitis. All study selection and data extractions are performed independently by two reviewers
Results
The initial searches including 106 records.Only five randomized controlled trial that met the inclusion criteria were included in meta-analysis. The risk of invasive mechanical ventilation was not significantly different in CPAP group and HFNC group [OR: 1.18 , 95% CI (0.74, 1.89), I² = 0%] (very low quality). The risk of treatment failure was less significantly in CPAP group than HFNC group [OR: 0.51 , 95% CI (0.36, 0.75), I² = 0%] (very low quality)
Conclusion
We do not found , with low certainty, that CPAP were superior to HFNC in decreasing the risk of mechanical ventilation or mortality. CPAP reduces de risk of therapeutic failure with a highest risk of non severe adverse events. More trials are needed to confirm theses results.
A Survival Analysis of Socio-Demographic and Clinical Predictors Among Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients in Southern Iran
Authors: Esfandiari Atefeh , Kiani Jamileh , Amiri Batool , mahmoodi Marzieh , Abbasi Fatemeh , Javanmardi Erfan , Yazdanpanah Ahmad , Akhlaghi Allahkaram , Salari Hedayat
Published: September 2022

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the socio-demographic, clinical, and laboratory risk factors in hospitalized COVID-19 patients during the first six months of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic.
Method: This retrospective hospital-based cross-sectional study included all laboratory-confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus that were admitted to the Shohadaye-Khalije-Fars Hospital in Bushehr, Iran, from February 22, 2020 to September 21, 2020. The patients' records were reviewed during the hospitalization period. The global COVID-19 clinical platform, i.e., the World Health Organization Rapid Case Report Form was used as the data collection tool. We conducted the survival analysis using the Kaplan–Meier and the stepwise Cox regression analyses.
Results: The analysis included 2108 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with a mean age of 47.81 years (SD 17.78); 56.8% men, 43.2% women and 6.3% (n = 133) deaths. After adjustment, it was found that factors associated with an increased risk of death consisted of chronic kidney disease, intensive care unit admission, cancer, and hemoptysis. The 7-day survival rate was 95.8%, which decreased to 95.1%, 94.0%, and 93.8% on days 14, 21, and 28 of hospitalization, respectively.
Discussion and Conclusion: Older COVID-19 patients with manifestation of hemoptysis and a past medical history of chronic kidney disease and cancer, should be closely monitored to prevent disease deterioration and death, and also should be admitted to the intensive care unit.
Dimensional Structure of one-year Post-COVID-19 Neuropsychiatric and Somatic Sequelae and Association with Role Impairment
Authors: Leung Owen N.W. , Chiu Nicholas K.H. , Wong Samuel Y.S. , Cuijpers Pim , Alonso Jordi , Chan Paul K.S. , Lui Grace , Wong Eliza , Bruffaerts Ronny , Yip Benjamin H.K. , Mortier Philippe , Vilagut Gemma , Kwok Dora , Lam Linda C.W. , Kessler Ronald C. , Mak Arthur D.P.
Published: September 2022

This study examined the latent structure of the broad range of complex neuropsychiatric morbidities occurring one year after COVID-19 infection. As part of the CU-COVID19 study, 248 (response rate = 39·3%) of 631 adults hospitalized for COVID-19 infection in Hong Kong completed an online survey between 3-2021 and 1-2022. Disorder prevalence was compared against a random non-infected household sample (n = 1837). 248 surveys were received on average 321 days post-infection (Mean age: 48·9, 54% female, moderate/severe/critical infection: 58·2%). 32·4% were screened to have > = one mental disorder, 78·7% of whom had concurrent fatigue/subjective cognitive impairment (SCI). Only PTSD (19·1%) was significantly more common than control (14%, p = 0·047). Latent profile analysis classified individuals into P1(12·4%)-no current neuropsychiatric morbidities, P2 (23·1%)-SCI/fatigue, P3 (45·2%)-anxiety/PTSD, P4 (19·3%)-depression. SCI and fatigue pervaded in all profiles (P2-4) with neuropsychiatric morbidities one-year post-infection. SHAP: PTSD, anxiety and depressive symptoms were most important in differentiating P2-4. Past mental health and P4 independently predicted functional impairment. Neuropsychiatric morbidity was associated with past mental health, reduced resilience, financial problems, but not COVID-19 severity. Their confluence with depressive and anxiety symptoms predicted impairment and are associated with psychological and environmental factors.
Short- and long-term outcomes of Laparoscopic low anterior resection with “dog ear” invagination anastomosis for mid and distal rectal cancer a propensity score matched analysis
Authors: zhang liang , xie zhi-yuan , Lin H. , Liu R. , Gong L. , lv xiao-peng
Published: September 2022

Background:
The lateral intersecting margin (dog-ear) was a weak spot of the double stapled technique (DST), We designed "dog-ear" invagination anastomosis (DAIA), which could eliminate the "dog-ear" in laparoscopic anterior resection.
Methods:
A total of 202 patients underwent elective curative LLAR + DST (n = 143) or LLAR + DAIA (n = 59) were enrolled in the study. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to minimize the adverse effects. The clinical data between LLAR + DST and LLAR + DAIA was compared.
Results:
After PSM, 53 pairs of the LLRA + DST and LLRA + DAIA patients were enrolled in the study. The LLRA + DAIA group has a higher level (3.50 ± 1.03 vs. 2.87 ± 1.10, p = 0.01) of the anastomosis than that of the LLRA + DST group. Patients in LLAR + DAIA group have a lower incidence of protecting loop ileostomy compared to LLAR + DST group(20.75% vs. 5.66%, P < 0.05). The LLRA + DAIA patients presented better rates of LARS compare to LLRA + DST patients at 6 months (major LARS 37.74%(n = 20) vs. 67.93% (n = 36); p = 0.007) and 12months (major LARS 13.21% (n = 7) vs. 20.37% (n = 11); p = 0.03) after surgery. The OS and DFS rates were similar (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Laparoscopic low anterior resection with "dog-ear" invagination anastomosis technique are well-established procedures for patients with low rectal cancer. "Dog-ear" invagination anastomosis technique may reduce the incidence of protecting loop ileostomy and significantly affect LARS score, and demonstrate a positive impact on the quality of life after surgery.
The visual detection of inner abnormal structures and potential geological hazards assessment method for buried rock and soil mass
Authors: Zou Xianjian , Song Huan , Ma Zhimin
Published: September 2022

Aiming at the weak interlayer, potential structural plane or abnormal area that may have some risks in geotechnical engineering, a method of monitoring abnormal structure and evaluating potential geological hazards in geotechnical engineering based on phased array ultrasonic scanning imaging technique was proposed. The real-time ultrasonic video images of the internal structure of rock and soil mass at various positions and different angles in the target area, and the ultrasonic imaging profile of the processed internal abnormal structure can be obtained. The binarization features of abnormal structures in the images were statistically analyzed. The total number of non-zero pixels, non-zero discontinuous light spots and stripe bands is obtained. The ratio of the boundary length of all light spots and stripe bands to the number of pixels occupied by all light spots and stripe bands was obtained. Based on this, the criterion of the degree of potential geological hazards is established, and the visual monitoring of the internal abnormal structure of rock and soil mass and the accurate evaluation of potential geological hazards are realized. Based on the refined diagnosis and analysis of local abnormal areas, this method solves the problems that the existing techniques cannot realize the visual monitoring of the internal fine structure of rock and soil mass and carry out the refined analysis and evaluation of the potential geological hazards. This paper provides a new approach for the stability and safety analysis of geotechnical engineering or slope engineering.
The effect of the 7R allele on the DRD4 risk tolerance locus is independent of background risk in Senegalese fishermen
Authors: Clochard Gwen-Jiro , Mbengue Aby , Mettling Clément , Diouf Birane , Faurie Charlotte , Sene Omar , Chancerel Emilie , Guichoux Erwan , Hollard Guillaume , Raymond Michel , Willinger Marc
Published: September 2022

It has been shown that living in risky environments, as well as having a risky occupation, can moderate risk-tolerance. Despite the involvement of dopamine in the expectation of reward described by neurobiologists, a GWAS study was not able to demonstrate a genetic contribution of genes involved in the dopaminergic pathway in risk attitudes and gene candidate studies gave contrasting results. We test the possibility that a genetic effect of the DRD4-7R allele in risk-taking behavior could be modulated by environmental factors. We show that the increase in risk-tolerance due to the 7R allele is independent of the environmental risk in two populations in Northern Senegal, one of which is exposed to a very high risk due to dangerous fishing.
Total Knee Arthroplasty and Bariatric Surgery: Change in BMI and Risk of Revision Depending on Sequence of Surgery
Authors: Arani Perna Ighani , Wretenberg Per , Stenberg Erik , Ottosson Johan , W-Dahl Annette
Published: September 2022

Background
Patients with obesity have higher risk of complications after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We investigated the weight change at one and two years after Bariatric Surgery (BS) in patients that had both TKA and BS and the risk of revision after TKA depending on if BS was performed before or after the TKA.
Methods
Patients having BS within two years before or after TKA were identified from the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Register (SOReg) and the Swedish Knee Arthroplasty Register (SKAR) between 2007 and 2019 and 2009 and 2020 respectively. The cohort was divided into two groups; patients with TKA before BS (TKA-BS) and patients with BS before TKA (BS-TKA). Multilinear regression analysis and Cox proportional hazards model were used to analyze weight change after BS and the risk of revision after TKA respectively.
Results
Of the 584 patients included in the study, 119 patients had TKA before BS and 465 had BS before TKA. We found no association between the sequence of surgery and total weight loss at one and two years after BS (risk ratio − 0.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) -1.7 to 1.5) and − 1.2 (CI -5.2 to 2.9 respectively), and the risk of revision after TKA (hazard ratio 1.54 (CI 0.5–4.5).
Conclusion
The sequence of surgery in patients undergoing both BS and TKA seems not to have any association with the weight loss after BS or the risk of revision after TKA.
Effect on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits and Myostatin Gene Expression in Aseel Chicken Fed Varied Levels of Dietary Protein in Isocaloric Energy Diets
Authors: Varadharajan Kumaravel , Mohan B. , Natarajan A. , Murali N. , Selvaraj P. , Vasanthakumar P.
Published: September 2022

A study was conducted to assess the effect of feeding different crude protein (CP) levels with isocaloric metabolizable energy (ME) diets on growth performance, carcass traits and myostatin (MSTN) gene expression of Aseel chicken during 0 to 16 weeks of age. A total of two hundred and ten numbers of day-old Aseel chickens were randomly allotted to seven dietary treatment groups. Each group had thirty chicks distributed into three replicates of ten chicks in each. Experimental diets were formulated to have varying levels of CP viz. 18.5, 19.0, 19.5, 20.0, 20.5, 21.0 and 21.5% with isocaloric energy of 2800 kcal ME / kg diets of mash feed were fed to birds in a completely randomised design. Different CP levels had a significant effect (P < 0.05) on body weight gain (BWG) of Aseel chicken. At the end of 16 weeks of age, the group fed 21% CP gained 223.53 g more than the lowest CP 18.5% fed group. The different CP levels did not significantly (P > 0.05) influence the feed intake of all treatment groups, but numerically highest feed intake was observed in the lowest CP (18.5%) fed group. However, significant differences in feed efficiency (FE) appeared from 13th week only with 21.0% CP fed group showing the best FE till 16th week (3.86 to 4.06). The maximum dressing % (70.61) was observed by 21% CP fed group. The CP 21% diet down-regulated the MSTN gene expression in breast muscle tissue to 0.07 folds when compared to the diet of CP 20%. The best economical coordinates for maximum performance for Aseel chicken appeared to be CP of 21% and ME of 2800 kcal/kg to achieve the best FE of 3.86 at the earliest age of 13 weeks. In conclusion, 21% CP in an isocaloric diet of 2800 kcal ME/kg, in Aseel chickens, would be optimum to improve the growth performance at maximum in terms of BWG and FE up to 16 weeks of age.
Well posedness for the Poisson problem on closed Lipschitz manifolds
Authors: Ndjinga Michael , Nguemfouo Marcial
Published: September 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Sensory Analysis of Formulations Containing Whey Protein to Individuals Undergoing Bariatric Surgery
Authors: ALVAREZ TATIANA , VON ATZINGEN Maria Carolina Batista Campos , Sarni Roseli Saccardo
Published: September 2022

Background: Individuals undergoing bariatric surgery often have inadequate protein intake, which can cause loss of lean body mass and sarcopenia. The whey protein supplement is the most suitable in this situation, however there is a low adherence to long-term use due to the palatability and monotony of the recipes. The aim this study was to analyze the acceptability of recipes containing whey-based protein supplements in individuals undergoing bariatric and metabolic surgery.
Methods: An on-demand sampling was performed, through a prospective, experimental study, with individuals undergoing bariatric surgery, treated by a multidisciplinary team, in a clinic located in São Paulo, Brazil. The study excluded: individuals with possible changes in taste during the sensory testing period. The study was divided into selection of recipes containing whey proteins, recruitment of tasters, sensory and chemical analysis of the recipes.
Results: The sample consisted of 40 tasters, adults, and elderly, who underwent bariatric and metabolic surgery, with a median of eight years of surgery, who had previously consumed a supplement. These individuals were subjected to sensory analysis of six recipes with fresh and minimally processed foods, plus protein supplement. All recipes had food acceptance above 78% and the chemical analysis of the recipes showed an average of 13 grams of protein per serving.
Conclusion: There was favorable acceptance of recipes with whey proteins, which places them as good dietary alternatives for the prevention of sarcopenia and weight relapse in individuals undergoing bariatric and metabolic surgery.
Risk Factors of Childhood Cancer in Armenia: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Avagyan Manushak , Demirchyan Anahit , Abrahamyan Lusine
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Childhood cancer (CC) is a leading cause of death among children aged 0–19 years worldwide. Each year, 400,000 new cases of CC are diagnosed globally. Given the between-country differences in CC incidence rates, types and trends, this study aimed to identify possible risk factors for CC in Armenia. Methods: We used a case-control study design and enrolled participants from the only specialized pediatric hematology and oncology center in Armenia. Cases included patients ≤ 14 years old diagnosed and treated with a malignant disease between 2017–2020 in the centre. Controls included patients diagnosed and treated in the center during the same period for a non-malignant disease. We conducted telephone interviews with mothers of cases and controls. Independent risk factors of cancer were identified using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: Overall, 234 participants (117 cases, 117 controls) were included in the study. Based on the fitted model, maternal usage of folic acid during pregnancy was protective against CC, almost twice decreasing its odds (OR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.31–0.94). On the contrary, experiencing horrifying/terrifying event(s) during pregnancy (OR = 2.19; 95% CI: 1.18–4.07) and having induced abortions before getting pregnant with the given child (OR = 2.94; 95% CI: 1.45–5.96) were associated with higher odds for a child to develop cancer. Conclusion: Despite the limited sample size of the study, significant modifiable risk factors for CC in Armenia were identified, all of which were linked to the period of pregnancy. The data from this study adds to the limited information available in etiological CC research throughout the world, and it will increase understanding of CC risk factors in settings with small populations and low resources.
Caregivers Perception and Management of Common Neonatal Illnesses in Enugu State, Nigeria: A Qualitative study among rural dwellers
Authors: Chime Onyinye H , Eneh Chizoma . I. , Asinobi Isaac N , Ekwochi Uchenna , Ndu Ikenna Kingsley , Nduagubam Obinna C , Amadi Ogechukwu F , Osuorah Donatus Chidiebere
Published: September 2022

Background: Neonatal mortality continues to be a challenge in Nigeria where low-quality care, care-givers ignorance of signs of neonatal illnesses and prevalent use of unorthodox alternatives to health care predominate. Misconceptions originating and propagated as traditional practices and concepts can be linked to adverse neonatal outcomes and an increase in neonatal mortality. Some of these beliefs if not properly identified can be a dogma to any scientific medical intervention.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional qualitative study among female care-givers of children residing in rural communities in Enugu state. A total of six focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted; three in each of the communities using an FGD guide. The guide was developed by the researchers. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Three themes emerged; common signs and symptoms of neonatal illnesses, perception of neonatal illnesses and management of neonatal illnesses.
Results: The mean age of respondents was 36.7±12.7 years. Neonatal illnesses were reportedly presented in two forms; mild and severe forms. Most common features of the mild illnesses reported were fever and crying excessively, refusal of feeds, jaundice, weakness, vomiting and frequent passage of loose stools as well as. The severe ones were breathlessness/difficult or fast breathing, convulsion and draining of pus from the umbilicus. The caregivers’ perception of management varied. It ranged from the use of local remedies to the use of orthodox medications. While some were of the opinion that these illnesses could be managed with unorthodox treatments, others perceived the need to visit the health centres for medical care.
Conclusions: Misconceptions originating and propagated as traditional practices and concepts is associated with adverse neonatal outcomes and an increase in neonatal mortality. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of neonatal illnesses and early treatment is important to help reduce the severity of illness and prevent deaths. Appropriate interventions involving the use of evidence-based newborn care practices should be designed to dispel the myths and improve the knowledge of these caregivers on neonatal illnesses for early and prompt treatment.
Lighting programs at growing phase and their effects on performance and egg quality of meat quails at laying reared in equatorial region
Authors: Watanabe Germana Costa Aguiar , Melo Marcelle Craveiro Abreu , Santos Edibergue Oliveira , Cordeiro Carla Nagila , Nepomuceno Rafael Carlos , Watanabe Pedro Henrique , Freitas Ednardo Rodrigues
Published: September 2022

When applied at growing phase, lighting program aims to obtain quails with body weight and physiological maturity suitable for the beginning of laying. This study evaluates lighting programs at growing phase on performance, sexual maturity and egg quality of meat quails (Coturnix coturnix) at laying phase. During the period from 7 to 49 days of age, 300 female meat quails were subjected to three lighting programs (natural, intermittent and continuous), with 5 replicates of 20 birds each. At 49 days of age, 240 quails were transferred to a shed, maintaining the same experimental distribution and submitted to the same conditions. Continuous and intermittent lighting programs at growing resulted in more precocious quails when compared to natural lighting program. Quails submitted to natural lighting program at growing phase presented lower egg production during all periods, not differing for birds submitted to continuous and intermittent programs from the second period (71 to 92 days of age). It is concluded that in equatorial region, the natural lighting program at growing phase increases the age of sexual maturity and impairs the performance of meat quails at laying; in turn, the intermittent lighting program maintains the sexual maturity, performance and quality of eggs at laying phase.
Intracranial cysts: Incidental or neurodevelopmental?
Authors: Dirik Mehmet Alp , Sanlidag Burcin
Published: September 2022

Objectives:
Intracranial cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the brain. There is a diversity of intracranial cysts with different incidences in addition to the growing awareness about comorbidities and the consequences. The present study aimed to evaluate cystic findings in children who were admitted to the department of pediatric neurology.
Methods:
Children who were admitted to the Clinic of Pediatric Neurology and who had an MRI between 2016- 2021 evaluated. The MRI examination performed with pediatric epilepsy protocol. Primary intracranial cysts had been enrolled in the study. Demographic and clinical findings had been evaluated from the hospital's database and patients' files
Results:
Among 78 patients 36(46,2%) were male and 42(53,8%) were female. The mean age was 7±5,4 years. The most frequent complaint of attendance was a seizure (47,4%). Approximately one over four () had mental and/or motor retardation. Nine (11,5%) of them had a neuropsychiatric diagnosis.
Most of the cysts were located at the midline (41%). Mostly located extra-axial (71,8%) and supratentorial (78,2%). Most frequently arachnoid cysts had been observed with a percent of 64.1. The second leading type was pineal cysts(15.4%).
The history of seizure, epilepsy, presence of mental retardation, and neuropsychiatric problems was evaluated according to the population ratios based on z approximation in which signififantly higher rates had been observed among cases with intracranial cysts.
Conclusion:
Intracranial cysts should be taken into consideration for comorbid pathologies especially in childhood period. Early evaluation in patents with intracranial cysts for developmental delay and neuropsychiatric problems is important.
Differential Algebra Methods Applied to Continuous Abacus Generation and Bifurcation Detection: Application to Periodic Families of the Earth-Moon system.
Authors: Caleb Thomas , Losacco Matteo , Fossà Alberto , Armellin Roberto , Lizy-Destrez Stéphanie
Published: September 2022

The return of human space missions to the Moon puts the Earth-Moon system (EMS) at the center of attention. Hence, studying the periodic solutions to the circular restricted three-body problem (CR3BP) is crucial to ease transfer computations, find new solutions, or to better understand these orbits. This work proposes a novel continuation method of periodic families using differential algebra (DA) mapping. We exploit DA with automatic control of the truncation error to represent each family of periodic orbits as a set 2D Taylor polynomial maps. These maps guarantee the access to any point of the family without any numerical propagation, providing a continuous abacus. When applied to the halo family at L1 and L2, the planar Lyapunov at L1 and L2, the distant retrograde orbit (DRO) family, and the butterfly family, we show that the DA-based 2D mapping is asymptotically more efficient than point-wise methods by at least two orders of magnitude, with controlled accuracy.
To assist the computation of family of periodic orbits, we propose a novel DA-based automatic bifurcation detection algorithm that enables the continuous mapping of the family’s bifurcation criteria. A bifurcation study on the halo L2 shows identical results as point-wise methods while highlighting two undocumented families.
Demographic Dividend-Favorable Policy Environment in Two Pre-Dividend African Nations: Review of National Policies and Prospects for Policy Amendments in Nigeria and Tanzania
Authors: Chen Xiaomeng , Menezes Neia Prata , Rusatira Jean Christophe , Cardona Carolina , Odeku Mojisola , Kioko Deanna , Castro Jessica , Ibeawuchi Charity , Lincoln Joel Silas , Ng'wanansabi Deo , Macha Jacob , Msemo Abubakar , Yusuph Nazir , Rimon Jose G.
Published: September 2022

Background: In collaboration with local partners, we reviewed 18 national policy documents across two sub-Saharan African countries identified as pre-dividend nations by the World Bank in 2017: Nigeria and Tanzania. Our aim was to assess national policies in pre-dividend countries and to determine whether national strategies were primed to capitalize on changing demographic structures, maximally attain the demographic dividend, and augment socio-economic growth.
Methods: We conducted policy reviews by focusing on five key sectors of the Gates Institute Demographic Dividend Framework: Family Planning, Maternal and Child Health, Education, Women’s Empowerment, and Labor Market. This framework was developed as a tool for countries to apply targeted policies for accelerating the demographic dividend based on their demographic structure. For each component we used a comprehensive list of indicators, defined via a systematic literature review, through which we assessed national policies aimed at maximizing the demographic dividend.
Results: Between the two countries, we observed persistent gaps in policies targeting family planning. Although more comprehensive, policies addressing maternal and child health, education, women’s empowerment, and labor market still lagged in their specificity and measurability. We identified specific policy amendments and alternatives that Nigeria and Tanzania could consider to mitigate these gaps. We also stress the importance of designing measurable policy initiatives across sectors.
Conclusions: Based on these recommendations, as Nigeria, Tanzania, and other pre-dividend nations start experiencing rapid demographic changes, they may consider implementing routine policy reviews to strengthen policies across the five key sectors and harness the benefits of a demographic dividend.
Upregulated host genes during the disease progression of bovine leukemia virus independent on overexpression of viral transcriptional regulators in vitro
Authors: Nishimori Asami , Andoh Kiyohiko , Matsuura Yuichi , Kohara Junko , Hatama Shinichi
Published: September 2022

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a member of the genus Deltaretrovirus within the Retroviridae family that infects bovine B cells, causing persistent lymphocytosis and enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) in a small fraction of infected cattle. As changes in the profiles of the infected-cell transcriptome are important for BLV disease progression, comprehensive analyses to clarify gene expression in different disease states are required. In this study, we performed an RNA-seq analysis using samples from non-EBL cattle infected or uninfected with BLV. Subsequently, a transcriptome analysis was conducted in combination with previously obtained RNA-seq data from EBL cattle. We found several differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the three groups; subsequently, after screening and validation of target DEGs using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, we found that 12 target genes were significantly upregulated in EBL cattle compared to BLV-infected cattle without lymphoma. In addition, the expression levels of B4GALT6, ZBTB32, EPB4L1, RUNX1T1, HLTF, MKI67, and TOP2A were significantly and positively correlated with the proviral load in BLV-infected cattle. Overexpression experiments revealed that these changes were independent of BLV-tax or BLV-AS1-S expression in vitro. Our study provides additional information on host gene expression during BLV infection and EBL development, which may be helpful for understanding the complexity of transcriptome profiles during disease progression.
Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in outcome selection in breast cancer and nephrology trials
Authors: Buckley Ciara , Treweek Shaun , Laidlaw Lynn , Shiely Frances
Published: September 2022

We recently reported that according to patients and health care professionals in breast cancer and nephrology trials, teams conducting the trials got their choice of primary outcome wrong (72% of the time) more often than they got it right (28% of the time). A PPI (patient and public involvement) representative, co-author of this letter, asked (on twitter) whether PPI contributors had been involved in the design of the original trials and by extension the outcome selection. The purpose of this study was to answer this question.
Do maternal albumin levels affect post-operative complications after cesarean delivery?
Authors: Yagur Yael , Ribak Rachel , Ben-Ezry Emili , Cohen Ido , Or-Madar Libby , Kovo Michal , Biron-Shental Tal
Published: September 2022

Background: This study explored the correlation between maternal serum albumin levels prior to elective CD and postoperative complications.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included women admitted for elective CD at term to our tertiary referral center during the years 2016-2018. Blood samples were collected during the preoperative admission. Information collected included maternal demographics, pregnancy and postoperative complications. Data between patients with preoperative serum albumin levels ≤ 3.4 g/dL or > 3.4 g/dL were compared.
Results: Among 796 women admitted for an elective CD, 537 met the inclusion criteria. There were 356 (66.3%) women in the low albumin level group (≤ 3.4 g/dL) and 181 (33.7%) with serum albumin level > 3.4 g/dL. Patients with serum albumin >3.4 g/dL had increased rates of SSI (6.1% vs. 2.5% respectively; p=0.04), need for antibiotics during the post-partum period (13.3% vs 4.2%, respectively; p<0.001), surgical intervention (5% vs. 1%, respectively; p=0.02) and rehospitalization rate (7.2% vs. 0.8%, respectively; p<0.001). Multivariant analysis showed albumin level >3.4 g/dL was independently associated with composite postoperative, maternal adverse outcome.
Conclusions: High serum albumin levels among women undergoing CD, might be associated with abnormal postoperative outcomes. Larger prospective studies, with a heterogenous population are needed to validate these observations.
Impacts of microplastics and heavy metals on the earthworm Eisenia foetida and on soil organic carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus
Authors: Mai Huong , Thien Nguyen Danh , Dung Nguyen Thuy , Valentin Christian
Published: September 2022

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly being studied because they have become ubiquitous in aquatic and terrestrial environments. For example, little is known about the negative effects of co-contamination by polypropylene microplastic (PP MPs) and heavy metal mixtures on terrestrial environment and biota. This study assesses the adverse effects of co-exposure to PP MPs and heavy metal mixture (Cu2+, Cr6+ and Zn2+) on soil quality and the earthworm Eisenia foetida. Soil samples were collected in the Dong Cao catchment, near Hanoi, Vietnam, and analyzed for changes in extracellular enzyme activity and carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus availability in the soil. We determined the survival rate of earthworms Eisenia foetida that had ingested MPs and two doses of heavy metals (the environmental level – 1X – and its double – 2X). Earthworm ingestion rates were not significantly impacted by the exposure conditions but the mortality rate for the 2X exposure conditions was 100%. Metals-associated PP MPs stimulated the activities of β-glucosidase, β-N-acetyl glucosaminidase and phosphatase enzymes in soil. Principle component analysis showed that these enzymes were positively correlated with Cu2+ and Cr6+ concentrations, but negatively correlated with microbial activity. Zn2+ showed no correlation with soil extracellular enzyme activity or soil microbial activity. Our results showed that co-exposure of earthworms to MPs and heavy metals had no impact on soil nitrogen and phosphorus but caused a decrease in total soil carbon content, with a possible associated risk of increased CO2 emissions.
Real-time in vivo dose measurement using ruby-based fibre optic dosimetry during internal radiation therapy
Authors: Birajdar Shalee , Zhang Wen Qi , Santos Alexandre , Hickson Kevin , Afshar-Vahid Shahraam
Published: September 2022

In vivo dosimetry (IVD) in a commonly used liver cancer treatment of selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) has been done based on the post-treatment image-based dosimetry approach. Real-time IVD is necessary to verify the dose delivery and detect errors during the treatment for better patient outcomes. This study aims to develop a fibre optic dosimeter (FOD) for in vivo real-time dose rate measurement during internal beta radiation therapy, e.g., SIRT. A ruby fibre optic probe was prepared and studied the radioluminescence (RL) characteristics, including its major challenge of stem effect arising from Cherenkov radiation and luminescence from the irradiated fibre. The stem signal was suppressed adequately using the stem removal technique of optical filtering, and only 2.3 ± 1. % stem signal was contributed to the measured RL signal. A linear dose rate response was observed during the exposure of the ruby probe to varying dose rates using a 6 MeV electron beam and a positron-emitting radionuclide fluorine-18. The ruby exhibited a temporally non-constant RL signal, which increased the RL signal by 0.84 ± 0.29 counts / sec2 during the irradiation of the maximum dose rate used in this study of 9 Gy / min for 2 minutes. The ability of ruby FOD to measure the absolute dose rate with sufficient stem effect suppression and the linear RL dose rate response indicates its suitability for real-time IVD during internal beta radiation therapy. Future work will investigate the time-dependent RL characteristic of ruby and validate post-treatment image-based dosimetry using ruby-based FOD.