bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predicting mathematical abilities from early mathematics and number-specific executive functions in informal and formal schooling
Authors: Wongupparaj Peera , Kadosh Roi Cohen 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background Current evidence on an integrative role of the domain-specific early mathematical skills and domain-general executive functions (EFs) from informal to formal schooling and their effect on mathematical abilities is so far unclear. The main objectives of this study were to (i) compare the domain-specific early mathematics, the number-specific EFs, and the mathematical abilities between preschool and primary school children, and (ii) examine the relationship among the domain-specific early mathematics, the number-specific EFs, and the mathematics abilities among preschool and primary school children.Methods In the present study, we recruited six- and seven-year-old children (Ntotal=505, n6yrs=238, and n7yrs=267). We compared domain-specific early mathematics as measured by symbolic and non-symbolic tasks, number-specific EFs tasks, and mathematics tasks between these preschool and primary school children. In addition, we tested the predictive power of domain-specific numerical and number-specific EFs on mathematics abilities among preschool and primary school children. MANOVA and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were used to test research hypotheses.Results We found that primary school children were superior to preschool children over more complex tests of the domain-specific early mathematics, the number-specific EFs, the mathematics abilities, particularly, for more sophisticated numerical knowledge and the number-specific EFs components. The SEM revealed that both the domain-specific early numerical and the number-specific EFs could predict the mathematics abilities across age groups. Nevertheless, the number comparison test and mental number line of the domain-specific early mathematics were clearly pronounced in predicting the mathematics abilities for formal school children. These results highlight the benefits of both the domain-specific early mathematics and the number-specific EFs in mathematical development, especially at the key stages of formal schooling. Understanding the causal effect of EFs in improving mathematical attainments could allow a more powerful approach in improving mathematical education at this developmental stage.
Favorable Trends of Lung Cancer Mortality-to-Incidence Ratios in Countries With High Computed Tomography Density
Authors: Wang Yao-Tung , Wu Han-Ru , Chang Ya-Chuan , Yu Chia-Ying , Wang Yao-Chen , Sung Wen-Wei 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Prognoses for lung cancer deteriorate dramatically with the progression of cancer stages. Therefore, early screening by techniques such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is critical. However, the epidemiology regarding the association between the popularization of CT and the prognosis for lung cancer is not known.Methods: Data were obtained from GLOBOCAN and the health data and statistics of World Health Organization. MIRs and the changes in MIR over time (𝛿MIR), which were calculated as the difference between MIRs in 2018 and 2012, were used to evaluate the correlation to CT density disparities via Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.Results: Countries with zero CT density presented a relatively low incidence crude rate and a relatively high MIR in 2018 and a negative 𝛿MIR. Conversely, countries with CT density over 30 had a positive 𝛿MIR. The CT density was significantly associated with human development index (HDI) score and MIR in 2018 but demonstrated no association with MIR in 2012. The linear correlation between CT density and 𝛿MIR also shows a significant association.Conclusion: CT density was significantly associated with MIR in 2018 and with 𝛿MIR, indicating favorable clinical outcomes in countries with popularization of CT.
Microstrip Antenna Analysis with Aid of Ultra Wide Band Applications
Authors: N Parthiban , M Mohamed Ismail 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Microstrip antenna is an essential choice for Ultra Wide Band (UWB) applications of its light weight, low profile and easy to form antenna arrays. However, the design of microstrip patch antenna bandwidth is greatly affects by the dielectric substrate material (FR4). In this research, the bandwidth enhancement of MPA was designed by minimizing the dimension of Defected GP (DGP) in GP for Ultra Wide Band wireless applications. But, the antenna design complexity increases with the number of an operating frequency band. In this research, the MPA was designed as small as size of 10×13×1.6 mm and operates on frequency band between 3.1GHz to 10.6GHz for VSWR less than 2. The microstrip patch antenna was designed at 3.1GHz to 10.6GHz using High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) software. The simulation result shows that the proposed microstrip patch antenna obtained <-10dB of return loss from 3.1GHz to 10.6GHz throughout the frequency range. The measured result proves that the proposed microstrip patch antenna has better characteristics to fulfill the requirements of UWB applications.
The effects of Suspension (TRX) versus core stabilization training on postural stability, lumbopelvic control and proprioception in women with DiastasisRecti Abdominis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yalfani Ali , Bigdeli Nahid , Gandomi Farzaneh 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: This study compared the effectiveness of eight weeks of suspension training (TRX) with that of isometric-isotonic (ISOM-ISOT) core stabilization exercises in the treatment of diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) and its secondary complications such as impairment in proprioception, postural stability, and lumbopelvic control as well as low back pain and the disability in doing daily activities.Methods: Thirty-six women with DRA with a mean age of 29.11 (4.85) from whose delivery 2 to 4 months had passed participated in this study. They were divided into the three groups of TRX, ISOM-ISOT training, and control. DRA, proprioception, lumbopelvic control, postural balance, low back pain, and disability were respectively assessed with a digital caliper, a goniometer, a lateral step-down test, a Biodex balance system, VAS, and Oswestry questionnaire. Then, two intervention groups from these subjects underwent training for 8-week and the subjects in the control group resumed their normal lives.Results: After eight-week of intervention, significant differences were observed in the inter-recti distance (IRD) (p=0.001), lumbopelvic proprioception (p=0.001), lumbopelvic control (p=0.001), static balance (overall stability) (p=0.010), dynamic balance (overall stability) (p=0.012), pain (p=0.001), and disability (p=0.001). The results of the LSD test showed that there was no significant difference between the TRX and ISOM-ISOT training groups in the studied parameters (P≥0.05).Conclusion: It seems that the TRX exercises had a positive effect on women with DRA and like the ISOM-ISOT exercises can be used to treat this disorder. Trial registration: The Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (code: IRCT20190219042761N1; 06/07/2019).
Distribution of Hounsfield Unit Values in the Pelvic Bones: A Comparison Between Young and Elderly Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Inagaki Naoya , Tanaka Takaaki , Udaka Jun , Akiyama Shoshi , Matsuoka Tatsuki , Saito Mitsuru 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background

The fixation strength of bone screws depends on bone mineral density (BMD), so it is important to evaluate bone strength at fracture sites. Few studies have investigated BMD in the pelvis. The aims of this study were to measure the regional Hounsfield unit (HU) values in the cancellous bone of the acetabulum and pelvic ring and to compare these values between young and elderly patients.
Methods

This study enrolled young patients with high-energy trauma (aged 20–44 years; young group) and elderly patients with low-energy trauma (aged 65–89 years; elderly group). Patients without pelvic computed tomography (CT) scans, those with pelvic bone implants, and those who died were excluded. The HU values on the contralateral (non-fractured) side of the pelvis were measured on CT scans. The CT data were divided into 7 areas: the pubic bone, the anterior and posterior walls and roof of the acetabulum, the ischial tuberosity, the body of the ilium, and the third lumbar vertebra. The HU values in each area were compared between the young and elderly groups.
Results

Sixty-one young patients and 154 elderly patients were included in the study. The highest HU value was in the roof of the acetabulum regardless of age and sex. HU values were significantly higher in the ischial tuberosity and body of the ilium and lower in the pubic bone and anterior wall. The HU values in all pelvic areas were significantly lower in the elderly group than in the young group, especially in the anterior area.
Conclusions

HU values in the 6 pelvic areas were not uniform and were strongly related to load distribution. The HU distribution and age-related differences could explain the characteristic causes and patterns of acetabular fractures in the elderly and may help in surgical treatment.
Epidemiological Study and Analysis of Risk Factors for Elizabethkingia Meningoseptica Infection in a Large General Hospital in China
Authors: Gong yali , Luo xiaoqiang , Peng yuan , Zhang cheng , Li ming , Li ning , Li qimeng , Shi yunlong , Ma siyuan 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background

As a kind of nosocomial infection pathogen which can cause high mortality, its susceptibility and death risk factors are still unclear.
Aim

To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of and risk factors for Elizabethkingia meningoseptica infection.
Methods

Relevant literature from 2011 to 2019 with the key words “E. meningoseptica” or “Elizabethkingia meningoseptica” in the title and abstract was retrieved from the PubMed database. The risk factors of infection and death for infected patients treated at Southwest Hospital during the above period were analyzed by logistic regression.
Results

From 2011 to 2019, 366 patients infected with E. meningoseptica were reported in 132 articles in the PubMed database. The mortality rate was 63.20%. During the same period, 92 infected patients were treated at our hospital. The overall mortality rate was approximately 28.3% (26/92) to 39.1% (36/92). The resistance rate for carbapenems was 100%; for cephalosporins, it was more than 90%; and for minocycline, it was 0. Central venous catheterization (p < 0.001), mechanical ventilation (p = 0.015), bacteria type (p < 0.001), operation type (p = 0.001), fungal infection (p < 0.001), carbapenem use (p = 0.000), and triazole use (p = 0.016) were independent risk factors for E. meningoseptica infection. According to logistic regression, bacteria type (p = 0.037), platelet level (p = 0.014), and mechanical ventilation (p = 0.043) were risk factors for death.
Conclusion

The incidence of E. meningoseptica infection worldwide shows a trend toward increasing yearly. Invasive operations, multiple bacterial or fungal infections and the use of carbapenems may be predisposing factors, and platelet level, bacteria type, and mechanical ventilation were risk factors for death.
Systematic Team-Approach Rehabilitation After Knee Fracture Surgery Is Associated With Better Functional Outcomes
Authors: LIU Jingyu , Zhou Mouwang , Yang Yanyan , Li Tao 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Purpose

In Western developed countries, patients commonly receive rehabilitation after orthopedic surgery to improve functional dysfunction. In China, however, rehabilitation is widely neglected. An appropriate perioperative rehabilitation model for early orthopedic rehabilitation is urgently needed in China. We evaluated the outcomes of perioperative rehabilitation patterns and promoted the functional recovery of orthopedic patients in China.
Methods

668 patients from 9 centers who underwent internal fixation surgery because of knee joint fracture were assigned to 2 groups: 1) control group: received the standard postoperative treatments, or 2) trial group: received perioperative rehabilitation in team-based approach. The visual analog scale (VAS), Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) scores were assessed 12 and 24 weeks postoperatively.
Results

The VAS scores at 12 and 24 weeks postoperative showed that the trial group had significantly less pain than control group (P < 0.001). Compared to the control group, the trial group had significantly better HSS knee scores at 12 weeks (P < 0.05) and significantly better BBS scores at both 12 and 24 weeks postoperative (P < 0.05).
Conclusions

Compared to common postoperative treatments, patients with systematic team-approach rehabilitation had better functional outcomes and pain relief after knee fracture surgery.
Safety and Efficacy of Ayurvedic Interventions and Yoga on Long Term Effects of COVID-19: a Structured Summary of a Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yadav Babita , Rai Amit , Mundada Pallavi Suresh , Singhal Richa , Rao BCS , Rana Rakesh , Srika Narayanam 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Objectives: Primary Objective• To assess the efficacy of Ayurveda interventions and Yoga in rehabilitation of COVID-19 cases suffering with long term effects of COVID 19 as compared to WHO Rehabilitation Self-Management after COVID-19- Related Illness.Secondary Objective• To assess the safety of Ayurvedic interventions in cases suffering with long term effects of COVID 19Trial design: Multi-centric, randomized, controlled, parallel group, open-label, exploratory study. The study duration is 9 months and the intervention period is 90 days from the day of enrolment of the participant.
Routine Unenhanced 2D MRI for Maximal Segmental Diameters of Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Valeviciene Nomeda , Palionis Darius , Glaveckaite Sigita , Gumbiene Lina , Petrulioniene Zaneta 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Increasing demand for aortic dilatation imaging and complicated use of multiplanar image reconstructions (MPR) from 3D images for less experienced users inspired research of unenhanced 2D-MRI in order to reduce need for aortic MPR.Purpose: To research robustness of unenhanced 2D-MRI with no need for MPR from 3D images by comparing maximal axial measurements of thoracic aorta in unenhanced “dark blood” (DB) and “bright blood” (BB) 2D-MRI images vs. contrast enhanced 3D-T1 MR angiography (ce3D-MRA) both in patients with tricuspid (TAV) and bicuspid (BAV) aortic valves. Material and Methods: Prospective study. 68 subjects underwent MRI and US examinations of aorta and were divided into 2 groups: 1) TAV patients: 26 patients, age: 53.3±8.1 years, 14 males and 12 females; 2) BAV patients: 42 patients, age: 30.8±9.8, 31 males and 11 females.Results: Strongest correlation between repeated MRI studies for TAV thoracic aorta segmental measurements was in BB (AS R=0.94, AA R=0.94) as well between BB and US (AS R=0.9, AA R=0.86). Unenhanced techniques in BAV patients revealed statistically significant correlation in all segments (p˂0.05) with strongest correlation in AA (R=0.96) and weakest correlation in AS (R=0.86, influenced by asymmetry of sinuses in BAV). Conclusion: BB correlated better with ce3D-MRA than measurements performed in DB both in TAV and BAV cohorts, especially in the AA. Comparing aortic measurements between US and MRI unenhanced sequences - BB had the strongest correlation in TAV. Our results suggest that there is no strict need for intravenous contrast administration and MPR for routine MRI evaluation of thoracic aorta’s maximal diameters, except for AS in BAV.
Association between serum zonulin level and severity of house dust mite allergic asthma
Authors: Baioumy Shereen A. , Ibrahim Shereen Mahmoud , Elgendy Aya , Fouad Shaimaa Hani 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Increased intestinal permeability, either due to the exposure to antigens in asthmatic patients or due to a barrier defect, play a critical role in susceptibility to environmental allergens. House dust mites allergy occurs more commonly than any other allergens among Egyptian asthmatic patients.Aim:To assess the relation between serum zonulin level as a marker of increased intestinal permeability and the severity of house dust mites allergic asthma.Methods:A case control study which included 48 house dust mites allergic asthma and 48 healthy control subjects attending the allergy and immunology unit, microbiology and immunology department, Faculty of medicine, Zagazig University. Results:On comparing the 2 studied groups, there was a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups concerning serum IgE and serum zonulin levels ( p=0.000, 0.000 respectively)The mean serum zonulin was equal to 258.3±153.01 ng/ml in the asthmatic group and 80±13 ng/ml in the control group. Serum zonulin level significantly increased with the increase of asthma severity (p˂0.001). The cut off value of serum zonulin was ≥ 198 ng/ml, and the area under the curve was 0.76. It displayed sensitivity equal to 80% and specificity equal to 71.4%. Its negative predictive value was equal to 83.3%. Conclusion: Intestinal barrier dysfunction contributes in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. Serum zonulin level reflects an increase in intestinal permeability and acts as prognostic factor of severity in Asthma. Correction of the gut barrier defect may be an additional novel approach for Asthma.
Task shifting of intravitreal injections from physicians to nurses: a qualitative study
Authors: Bolme Stine , Austeng Dordi , Gjeilo Kari Hanne 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor are a high-volume procedure and represent a considerable workload on ophthalmology departments. Several departments have tried to meet this increase by shifting the task to nurses. To maintain high quality patient care, we developed a training program for nurses certifying them to administer injections. This qualitative study aimed to evaluate if the nurses were confident and in control after participating in the training program, and if they were satisfied with the training and the new task. Methods: During 2014-2018, twelve registered nurses were trained in a tertiary hospital in Central Norway. All nurses were interviewed individually (n=7) or in a group (n=5). We analyzed the interviews using Graneheim and Lundmans qualitative content analysis. Results: Twelve sub-themes clustered in four main themes 1) responsibility and safety, 2) motivation and respect, 3) collaboration and 4) reflection and evaluation. The nurses felt confident and in control when administering injections, but experienced moments of insecurity. The new task gave the nurses a sense of achievement and they highlighted improvement of patient’s lives as positive. A greater level of responsibility gave the nurses pride in their profession. They had suggestions that could improve training efficiency but were overall satisfied with the training program.Conclusion: Our study showed that the nurses were satisfied with the training and that learning a new task led to higher self-esteem and gained respect. Suggestions to improve the training were identified, which should be considered before implemented at other departments.
Family Relationships, Personality Disorder Functioning Styles and Emotional States in Generalized Anxiety and Major Depressive Disorders
Authors: YU Zhenghe , Xu You , ZHU Qisha , MAO Hongjing , ZHANG Bingren , SHAO Xu , WANG Wei 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Objective: Family relationship affects personality development and emotional regulation, which might be more pronounced in generalized anxiety (GAD) and major depressive (MD) disorders. Method: Thirty patients with GAD, 31 MD, and 32 healthy volunteers answered the Family Relationship Questionnaire (FRQ), the Parker Personality Measure (PERM), and the Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales. Results: Compared to healthy controls, both patient groups scored higher on FRQ Paternal Abuse and Paternal Dominance, and lower on Maternal Freedom Release; GAD in addition scored lower on Maternal Abuse and Maternal Dominance. All PERM scale scores except Narcissistic were higher in MD than those in GAD, and all scale scores except Schizotypal and Narcissistic were higher in MD than in controls. Maternal Encouragement was associated with the Paranoid and Schizotypal styles, and Maternal Freedom Release the Avoidant and Borderline in GAD; and Maternal Encouragement the Paranoid, Paternal Dominance the Avoidant, Paternal Freedom Release (-) and Maternal Freedom Release the anxiety, and the Dependent the depression in MD. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates different associations between family relationships and personality traits/ emotional states in MD and GAD, suggesting different forms of family therapy for the two disorders.
Effect of Different Types of Oil Intake on the Blood Index and the Intestinal Flora of Rats
Authors: Xu Yan , Zhu Wenzheng , Ge Qingfeng , Zhou Xiaoyan 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The effect of different oil-based diets on the blood index and the gut microbiota of rats was investigated. Rats in sample treatment groups were fed with stewed lard, refined lard, fish oil and soybean oil at a normal dose of 16.9% for 6 weeks. Compared with refined lard group, stewed lard treatment group showed reduced fasting blood sugar and blood lipid levels and improved nutrient absorption capacity of the intestine. The blood indexes of glucose (Glu), total cholesterol (TC) and total triglyceride (TG) in fish oil treatment group were relatively low. The abundance of Bacteroidetes in the fat-free group decreased, and the abundance of Firmicutes increased. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio of the fish oil group was relatively low, and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio of the stewed lard group and the soybean oil group was lower than that of the refined lard group. The abundance of Bacteroidaceae in the stewed pork fat group was increased. Research results show that fat-free diets will increase the risk of obesity to a certain extent; compared with refined lard, stewed lard, soybean oil and fish oil can reduce the risk of obesity to a certain extent; the addition and types of dietary fat will affect the abundance and diversity of rat intestinal flora.