bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Automated extraction of the arterial input function from brain images for parametric PET studies
Authors: Moradi Hamed , Vashistha Rajat , Ghosh Soumen , O’Brien Kieran , Hammond Amanda , Rominger Axel , Sari Hasan , Shi Kuangyu , Vegh Viktor , Reutens David 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Accurate measurement of the arterial input function (AIF) is crucial for parametric PET studies, but the AIF is commonly derived from invasive arterial blood sampling. It is possible to use an image-derived input function (IDIF) obtained by imaging a large blood pool, but IDIF measurement in PET brain studies performed on standard field of view scanners is challenging due to lack of a large blood pool in the field-of-view. Here we describe a novel automated approach to estimate the AIF from brain images.

Results
Total body 18F-FDG PET data from 12 subjects were split into a model adjustment group (n = 6) and a validation group (n = 6). We developed an AIF estimation framework using wavelet-based methods and unsupervised machine learning to distinguish arterial and venous activity curves, compared to the IDIF from the descending aorta. All of the automatically extracted AIFs in the validation group had similar shape to the IDIF derived from the descending aorta IDIF. The average area under the curve error and normalised root mean square error across validation data were − 1.59 ± 2.93% and 0.17 ± 0.07.

Conclusions
Our automated AIF framework accurately estimates the AIF from brain images. It reduces operator-dependence, and could facilitate the clinical adoption of parametric PET.
UHC in Morocco: a bottom-up estimation of public hospitals' financing size based on a costing database
Authors: Akhnif El Houcine , Belmadani Abdelouahab , Mataria Awad , Bigdeli Maryam 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Morocco is engaged in a health system reform aimed at generalizing health insurance across the whole population by 2025. This study aims to build a national database of costs at all levels of public hospitals in Morocco and craft this database as a resource for further use in a strategic purchasing system. It also aims at estimating the funding gap and the budget that should be secured for public hospitals in Morocco to fully play their roles in the current ambitious reform.

Method
A costing study was implemented in 39 hospitals in 12 regions of Morocco (10 provincial hospitals, 11 regional hospitals, and 18 teaching hospitals). Using the hospital costing approach, we adapted and validated nationally our methodology to generate a database of unit costs based on data from 2019. All perspectives on cost were considered. Data collection was performed by cadres from MoH and facilitated by the WHO country office in Morocco. The production of the cost database allowed the development of a bottom-up estimation of the financing size for public health hospitals.

Results
The study showed the feasibility of large-scale costing in the context of Morocco. The ownership of MoH and adherence to the process ensured the high quality of the collected data. There are many differences in unit costs for the same services moving from one hospital to another, which indicates existing inefficiencies. The database will contribute to shaping the strategic purchasing mechanism within the generalized health insurance schemes. The studied hospitals could be used as references to systematically update the billing system for health insurance.
Effects of chronic physical exercise on executive functions and episodic memory in clinical and healthy older adult populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Ballesteros Soledad , Audifren Michel , Badache Andreea , Belkin Vera , Giannaki Christoforos D. , Kaltsatou Antonia , Marusic Uros , Ziaaldini Mohammad Mosaferi , Peskar Manca , Reales José M. , Rieker Jennifer A. , Stavrinou Pinelopi S. , Tortosa-Martinez Juan , Voelcker-Rehage Claudia , Netz Yael 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Executive functions (EFs) and episodic memory are fundamental components of cognition that deteriorate with age and are crucial for independent living. While numerous reviews have explored the effect of exercise on these components in old age, these reviews screened and analyzed selected older adult populations, or specific exercise modes, thus providing only limited answers to the fundamental question on the effect of exercise on cognition in old age. This article describes the protocol for a systematic review and multilevel meta-analytic study aiming at evaluating the effectiveness of different types of chronic exercise in improving and/or maintaining EFs and long-term episodic memory in older adults.

Methods and analysis
The study protocol was written in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Several databases will be searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted in older adults aged ≥ 60 years providing any kind of planned, structured, and repetitive exercise interventions, and EFs and/or episodic memory measures as outcomes, published in English in peer-reviewed journals and doctoral dissertations will be included. Two independent reviewers will screen the selected articles, while a third reviewer will resolve possible conflicts. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool will be used to assess the quality of the studies. Finally, data will be extracted from the selected articles, and the formal method of combining individual data from the selected studies will be applied using a random effect multilevel meta-analysis. The data analysis will be conducted with the metafor package in R.

Discussion and conclusion
This review will synthesize the existing evidence and pinpoint gaps existing in the literature on the effects of exercise on EFs and episodic memory in healthy and unhealthy older adults. Findings from this meta-analysis will help to design effective exercise interventions for older adults to improve and/or maintain EFs and episodic memory. Its results will be useful for many researchers and professionals working with older adults and their families.

Systematic review registration
PROSPERO CRD42022367111.
Long-term monitoring reveals the effect of precipitation and silviculture on Nothofagus regeneration in Northern Patagonia mixed forests
Authors: Sola Georgina , Mateo Camila , Dezzotti Alejandro , Marchelli Paula , Attis Beltrán Hernán , Sbrancia Renato , Chauchard Luis , González Peñalba Marcelo , Lara Martín , El Mujtar Verónica 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Tree regeneration is a key component of resilience because it promotes post-disturbance recovery of forests. Northwestern Patagonia from Argentina is occupied by Nothofagus alpina (Na), N. obliqua (No), and N. dombeyi (Nd) forests that grow along an intense precipitation gradient, managed throughout shelterwood silvicultural system by technicians of the Lanin Natural Reserve. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of seeding cuttings over the dynamics of Nothofagus mixed forests across landscape (precipitation gradient) based mainly on the composition and abundance of tree regeneration, permanent sampling plots and generalized linear mixed models. In particular, we analysed: (i) the structure of sexual and asexual regeneration during < 10, 10–20 and > 20 years after harvest (the dynamics of managed forests), and (ii) the structure of sexual regeneration in primary and managed forests after > 20 years of harvest (the effect of silviculture).

Results
Nd was the most abundant species in the regeneration of managed forests during all periods in both sites despite its lower contribution to the adult cohort. During the 10–20 years period after harvest, the humid site exhibited higher regeneration density than the mesic site (120,000 and 6000 ind ha−1, respectively), and it decreased afterwards. The number of established regeneration (> 2 m height) was lower for Na in the mesic site and for No in the humid site (0 and 57 ind ha−1, respectively). However, in comparison to No, Na showed a higher number of sprouted stumps and sprouts per stump, and a higher sprout height in the mesic site. No exhibited higher sprout mortality in the humid site. Finally, the regeneration of primary forests showed lower density and height, and a more balanced composition than that of managed forests.

Conclusions
The silvicultural effects on the mixed forest regeneration dynamics was strongly influenced by the condition of sites. Therefore, management prescriptions should be adjusted in order to consider the environmental variation occurring through the entire landscape. An adaptive management that considers the pattern and process of sexual and asexual regeneration and disturbance will contribute to promote a greater resilience of mixed forest ecosystems.
Enhanced recovery after liver surgery in cirrhotic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Delabays Constant , Demartines Nicolas , Joliat Gaëtan-Romain , Melloul Emmanuel 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Few studies have assessed enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in liver surgery for cirrhotic patients. The present meta-analysis assessed the impact of ERAS pathways on outcomes after liver surgery in cirrhotic patients compared to standard care.

Methods
A literature search was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Studies comparing ERAS protocols versus standard care in cirrhotic patients undergoing liver surgery were included. The primary outcome was post-operative complications, while secondary outcomes were mortality rates, length of stay (LoS), readmissions, reoperations, and liver failure rates.

Results
After evaluating 41 full-text manuscripts, 5 articles totaling 646 patients were included (327 patients in the ERAS group and 319 in the non-ERAS group). Compared to non-ERAS care, ERAS patients had less risk of developing overall complications (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.31–0.61, p < 0.001). Hospitalization was on average 2 days shorter for the ERAS group (mean difference − 2.04, 95% CI − 3.19 to − 0.89, p < 0.001). Finally, no difference was found between both groups concerning 90-day post-operative mortality and rates of reoperations, readmissions, and liver failure.

Conclusion
In cirrhotic patients, ERAS protocol for liver surgery is safe and decreases post-operative complications and LoS. More randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the results of the present analysis.
Assessing the impact of a personalised application-based nutrition intervention on carbohydrate intake in rural Benin
Authors: Behrendt Lena , Kolossa Silvia , Vrachioli Maria , Abate Kassa Getachew , Ayenew Habtamu , Gedrich Kurt , Crinot Geraud Fabrice , Houssou Paul , Sauer Johannes 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
This study aims to assess the effect of a personalised nutrition intervention on nutrient intake in rural Benin as a tool to tackle the double burden of malnutrition. The personalised recommender system uses information from the eating behaviour of all household members combined to provide tailored advice on adjusting the consumption of up to three food items to tackle malnutrition and obesity in the household. Many developing countries nowadays experience the double burden of malnutrition, the coexistence of undernutrition alongside overweight and obesity, as well as other related non-communicable diseases. Personalised nutrition was very effective in European studies in improving nutrition and tackling obesity, which is why this study aims to translate personalised nutrition to a developing country context.

Results
A study was conducted in rural areas of Benin where 720 households were randomly selected. Due to high attrition, we used propensity score matching and looked into average treatment effects. We found that the recommendation to eat less carbohydrates resulted in a reduction in carbohydrate consumption with a significant effect for both the average treatment effect (ATE) of the whole population as well as the average treatment effect of the treated (ATET). We found that households that received the treatment to consume less food items with a high carbohydrate intake have followed this advice and have consumed on average lower levels of carbohydrates than their control counterparts.

Conclusions
Rising obesity is a worldwide problem that poses a severe challenge for policymakers. Especially in developing countries the change from too little, to too much is seamless. For the increasing obese population, the recommender system could be a useful tool. The idea of personalised nutrition has the potential to be one of the necessary steps in the ongoing battle against obesity and unhealthy diets. The personalised application-based recommender system used in this study has the ability to be a strong and effective tool for policymakers in the ongoing battle of food security vs. obesity in Benin and other countries. We propose that future research focuses more on personalised nutrition in the context of a developing country.
Significant genomic introgression from grey junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii) to domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Zhao Xiurong , Wen Junhui , Zhang Xinye , Zhang Jinxin , Zhu Tao , Wang Huie , Yang Weifang , Cao Guomin , Xiong Wenjie , Liu Yong , Qu Changqing , Ning Zhonghua , Qu Lujiang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Chicken is one of the most numerous and widely distributed species around the world, and many studies support the multiple ancestral origins of domestic chickens. The research regarding the yellow skin phenotype in domestic chickens (regulated by BCO2) likely originating from the grey junglefowl serves as crucial evidence for demonstrating the multiple origins of chickens. However, beyond the BCO2 gene region, much remains unknown about the introgression from the grey junglefowl into domestic chickens. Therefore, in this study, based on whole-genome data of 149 samples including 4 species of wild junglefowls and 13 local domestic chicken breeds, we explored the introgression events from the grey junglefowl to domestic chickens.

Results
We successfully detected introgression regions besides BCO2, including two associated with growth trait (IGFBP2 and TKT), one associated with angiogenesis (TIMP3) and two members of the heat shock protein family (HSPB2 and CRYAB). Our findings suggest that the introgression from the grey junglefowl may impact the growth performance of chickens. Furthermore, we revealed introgression events from grey junglefowl at the BCO2 region in multiple domestic chicken breeds, indicating a phenomenon where the yellow skin phenotype likely underwent strong selection and was retained. Additionally, our haplotype analysis shed light on BCO2 introgression event from different sources of grey junglefowl into domestic chickens, possibly suggesting multiple genetic flows between the grey junglefowl and domestic chickens.

Conclusions
In summary, our findings provide evidences of the grey junglefowl contributing to the genetic diversity of domestic chickens, laying the foundation for a deeper understanding of the genetic composition within domestic chickens, and offering new perspectives on the impact of introgression on domestic chickens.
A brief version of the Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire for older Chinese adults: development and psychometric evaluation
Authors: Gao Lin , Laidlaw Ken , Wang Dahua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Positive attitudes toward aging are considered essential for achieving psychological well-being in later life. However, there is currently a lack of a concise and comprehensive measurement tool specifically designed to assess attitudes toward aging among the elderly population in China. To address this gap, the present study aimed to develop a brief version of the Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire tailored to older Chinese individuals and evaluate its psychometric properties.

Methods
Initially, a sample of community-dwelling older adults (Sample 1: n = 442, aged 60–88) was utilized to establish a new scale format. Subsequently, two convenience samples (Sample 2: n = 311, aged 60–90; Sample 3: n = 164, aged 60–89) were employed to evaluate the psychometric properties of this scale, including factor structure, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity.

Results
We selected 12 items from the original questionnaire to create the brief scale. The brief scale maintained the three-factor structure of the full-format version, encompassing psychosocial loss, physical change, and psychological growth, and demonstrated adequate psychometric properties.

Conclusions
This development process shortens the administration time of the questionnaire while avoiding excessive loss of information. The newly developed scale serves as a reliable and valid assessment tool for measuring attitudes toward aging among older Chinese individuals and is well-suited for implementation in large-scale surveys that utilize an extensive array of questionnaires. This tool can be applied to assessing the effectiveness of interventions aimed at eliminating ageism.
Factors associated with electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy among patients with hypertension in Thailand
Authors: Sakboonyarat Boonsub , Poovieng Jaturon , Rangsin Ram 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) strongly predicts cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and death. One-fourth of Thai adults suffer from hypertension. Nevertheless, the information on LVH among Thai patients with hypertension is not well characterized. We aimed to identify the prevalence and factors associated with electrocardiographic LVH (ECG-LVH) among patients with hypertension in Thailand.

Methods
The present study obtained the dataset from the Thailand Diabetes Mellitus/Hypertension study, which included hypertension patients aged 20 years and older receiving continuous care at outpatient clinics in hospitals nationwide in 2011–2015 and 2018. Meanwhile, those without a record of 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) were excluded from the analysis. ECG-LVH was defined as the LVH noted regarding ECG interpretation in the medical records. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was utilized for determining factors associated with ECG-LVH and presented as the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results
From 226,420 hypertensive patients in the Thailand Diabetes Mellitus/Hypertension study, 38,807 individuals (17.1%) with ECG data recorded were included in the analysis. The mean age was 64.8 ± 11.5 years, and 62.2% were women. Overall, 1,557 study participants had ECG-LVH, with an estimated prevalence of 4.0% (95% CI, 3.8–4.2%). Age-adjusted ECG-LVH prevalence among women and men was 3.4 and 5.1%, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis determined factors associated with ECG-LVH, including being men (AOR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.31–1.69), individuals aged 70 to 79 years (AOR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.20–2.02) and ≥ 80 years (AOR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.58–2.78) compared to individuals aged less than 50 years, current smokers (AOR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.09–1.46) compared to those who never smoked, systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg (AOR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.30–1.92) compared to systolic blood pressure < 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg.

Conclusions
The current study illustrated the prevalence of ECG-LVH among Thai patients with hypertension who had ECG recorded and identified high-risk groups who tended to have ECG-LVH. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, particularly among high-risk groups such as older individuals, men, and current smokers, to address modifiable factors associated with ECG-LVH.
Immune response to hepatitis B vaccine among children under 5 years in Africa: a meta-analysis
Authors: Olakunde Babayemi O. , Ifeorah Ijeoma M. , Adeyinka Daniel A. , Olakunde Olubunmi A. , Ogundipe Temitayo , Olawepo John O. , Ezeanolue Echezona E. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Africa is mostly acquired before the age of 5 years through vertical or horizontal routes. While all the countries in the World Health Organization African region have introduced HBV vaccination into their national immunization programs, the rate of protective immune response to HBV vaccine among children in Africa has not been systematically synthesized. In this study, we estimated the HBV vaccine seroprotection rate (defined as anti-HBs titer ≥ 10 IU/L) and the associated factors among under-five children who completed a primary series of HBV vaccination in Africa.

Methods
We systematically searched PubMed, Web Science, and Scopus databases from inception to May 2022 for potentially eligible studies. The pooled seroprotection rate was estimated using a random-effects model with Freeman–Tukey double arcsine transformation and the associated factors were examined using odds ratio estimated by the DerSimonian and Laird method.

Results
From the 1063 records identified, 29 studies with a total sample size of 9167 under-five children were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled seroprotection rate was 89.23% (95% CI   85.68–92.33%, I2 = 95.96%, p < 0.001). In the subgroup analyses, there was a significant difference in the rate by the assay method, vaccine dose, and vaccine combination. HIV-positive children had lower odds of achieving seroprotection when compared with HIV-negative children (OR = 0.22, 95%CI   0.12–0.40).

Conclusions
The majority of under-five children in Africa achieved seroprotection after completing three or four doses of HBV vaccine. However, the rate was lower among children living with HIV. This calls for interventions to timely identify and address nonresponse to HBV vaccine, particularly among immunosuppressed children.