bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insects as alternative feed for ruminants: comparison of protein evaluation methods
Authors: Toral Pablo G. , Hervás Gonzalo , González-Rosales Mariana Gabriela , Mendoza Alejandro G. , Robles-Jiménez Lizbeth E. , Frutos Pilar 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundThe high dependence of intensive ruminant production on soybean meal and the environmental impact of this crop encourage the search for alternative protein-rich feeds. The use of insects seems promising, but the extent of their ruminal protein degradation is largely unknown. This parameter has major influence not only on N utilization efficiency but also on the environmental burden of ruminant farming. In addition, although assessing ruminal N degradation represents a key first step to examine the potential of new feeds, it is a challenging task due to the lack of a reference method. This study was conducted to investigate the potential of 4 insects (Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas morio, Alphitobius diaperinusandAcheta domesticus) as alternative protein sources for ruminants, using 3 methodologies: 1) a regression technique based on the in vitro relationship between gas production and ammonia-N concentration; 2) a conventional in vitro technique of batch cultures of ruminal microorganisms, based on filtering the incubation residue through sintered glass crucibles; and 3) the in situ nylon bag technique. The in vitro intestinal digestibility of the non-degraded protein in the rumen was also determined. Soybean meal was used as a reference feedstuff.ResultsComparison of evaluation methods (regression, in vitro and in situ) did not allow to reliably select a single value of ruminal N degradation for the studied substrates, but all techniques seem to establish a similar ranking, with good correlations between methods, particularly between regression and in situ results. Regardless of the methodology, nitrogen from the 4 insects (with contents ranging from 81 to 112 g/kg of dry matter) did not show high ruminal degradation (41–76%), this value being always lower than that of soybean meal. Furthermore, the in vitro intestinal digestibility of non-degraded N was relatively high in all feeds (≥ 64%).ConclusionOverall, these results support the potential of the 4 studied insects as alternative feedstuffs for ruminants. Among them,T. molitorshowed the lowest and greatest values of ruminal N degradation and intestinal digestibility, respectively, which would place it as probably the best option to replace dietary soybean meal and increase the sustainability of ruminant feeding.
Relating mathematical abilities to numerical skills and executive functions in informal and formal schooling
Authors: Wongupparaj Peera , Kadosh Roi Cohen 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
The current evidence on an integrative role of the domain-specific early mathematical skills and number-specific 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 mathematical abilities among preschool and primary school children.

Methods
The current study recruited 6- and 7-year-old children (Ntotal = 505, n6yrs = 238, and n7yrs = 267). The domain-specific early mathematics as measured by symbolic and nonsymbolic tasks, number-specific EFs tasks, and mathematics tasks between these preschool and primary school children were compared. The relationship among domain-specific early mathematics, number-specific EFs, and mathematical abilities among preschool and primary school children was examined. MANOVA and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to test research hypotheses.

Results
The current results showed using MANOVA that primary school children were superior to preschool children over more complex tests of the domain-specific early mathematics; number-specific EFs; mathematical abilities, particularly for more sophisticated numerical knowledge; and number-specific EF components. The SEM revealed that both the domain-specific early numerical and the number-specific EFs significantly related to the mathematical abilities across age groups. Nevertheless, the number comparison test and mental number line of the domain-specific early mathematics significantly correlated with the mathematical abilities of formal school children. These results show 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 relationship between EFs and early mathematics in improving mathematical achievements could allow a more powerful approach in improving mathematical education at this developmental stage.
Rapid and simple LC–MS/MS determination of urinary ethyl glucuronide, naltrexone, 6β-naltrexol, chlordiazepoxide, and norchlordiazepoxide for monitoring alcohol abuse
Authors: Sim Yeong Eun , Kim Ji Woo , Ko Beom Jun , Kim Jin Young 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn this study, a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was developed to detect ethyl glucuronide (EtG), which is a biomarker for monitoring alcohol consumption, and naltrexone (NTX), 6β-naltrexol (6βNTX), chlordiazepoxide (CDP), and norchlordiazepoxide (norCDP), which are analyzed to confirm the presence of medications for alcohol dependence treatment. The protein precipitation method was conducted to rapidly prepare samples. LC–MS/MS analysis was performed in the multiple-reaction monitoring mode. The analytes were separated using a Scherzo SM-C18 (2.0 × 100 mm, 3 µm) column. The calibration ranges were 5–1000 ng/mL for EtG, 6βNTX, CDP, and norCDP, and 1–100 ng/mL for NTX, with the correlation coefficients (r) being ≥ 0.994, and the weighting factor being 1/x2. The lower limit of quantification was 1–5 ng/mL. The method was also validated for precision, accuracy, selectivity, dilution integrity, recovery, matrix effect, and stability. The developed method was successfully applied for the determination of EtG, NTX, 6βNTX, CDP, and norCDP in urine samples obtained from 49 probationers who received alcohol dependence treatment orders. The method developed herein can be used to monitor the drug-based treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol consumption during the treatment of individuals under probation.
Pharmacokinetics, bioavailability and tissue distribution of chitobiose and chitotriose in rats
Authors: Chen Mai , Jin Jiayang , Ji Xiaoguo , Chang Kunlin , Li Juan , Zhao Liming 
Published: February 2022

AbstractChitooligosaccharides (COSs) have various physiological activities and broad application prospects; however, their pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution remain unclear. In this study, a sensitive and selective ultra-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS) method for determining chitobiose (COS 2) and chitotriose (COS 3) in rat serum and tissues was developed. This method was successfully validated based on FDA guidelines in terms of selectivity, calibration curves (lower limit of quantification was 0.002 µg/mL for COS 2 and 0.02 µg/mL for COS 3), precision (intra-day relative standard deviation of 0.04%–3.55% and inter-day relative standard deviation of 1.94%–11.63%), accuracy (intra-day relative error of − 1.81%–11.06% and inter-day relative error of − 9.41%–8.63%), matrix effects, recovery (97.10%–101.29%), stability, dilution integrity, and carry-over effects. Then, the method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution study of COS 2 and COS 3 after intragastric and intravenous administration. After intragastric administration, COS 2 and COS 3 were rapidly absorbed, reached peak concentrations in the serum after approximately 0.45 h, and showed rapid elimination with clearances greater than 18.82 L/h/kg and half-lives lower than 6 h. The absolute oral bioavailability of COS 2 and COS 3 was 0.32%–0.52%. COS 2 and COS 3 were widely distributed in Wistar rat tissues and could penetrated the blood–brain barrier without tissue accumulation.
Graphic Abstract
Enzymatic synthesis of a novel solid–liquid phase change energy storage material based on levulinic acid and 1,4-butanediol
Authors: Zhai Siyu , Zhang Lihe , Zhao Xi , Wang Qian , Yan Yin , Li Cui , Zhang Xu 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe current energy crisis has prompted the development and utilization of renewable energy and energy storage material. In this study, levulinic acid (LA) and 1,4-butanediol (BDO) were used to synthesize a novel levulinic acid 1,4-butanediol ester (LBE) by both enzymatic and chemical methods. The enzymatic method exhibited excellent performance during the synthesis process, and resulted in 87.33% of LBE yield, while the chemical method caused more by-products and higher energy consumption. What’s more, the thermal properties of the obtained LBE as a phase change material (PCM) were evaluated. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the melting temperature, latent heat of melting, and pyrolysis temperature were 50.51 °C, 156.1 J/g, and 150–160 °C, respectively. Compared with the traditional paraffin, the prepared PCM has a superior phase transition temperature, a higher latent heat of melting, and better thermal stability. The thermal conductivity could be increased to 0.34 W/m/k after adding expanded graphite (EG). In summary, LBE has great potential in the application of energy storage as a low-temperature phase change energy storage material.
Graphical Abstract
Biomechanical finite element analysis of short-implant-supported, 3-unit, fixed CAD/CAM prostheses in the posterior mandible
Authors: Zupancic Cepic Lana , Frank Martin , Reisinger Andreas , Pahr Dieter , Zechner Werner , Schedle Andreas 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Objective
To assess the biomechanical effects of different prosthetic/implant configurations and load directions on 3-unit fixed prostheses supported by short dental implants in the posterior mandible using validated 3-D finite element (FE) models.

Methods
Models represented an atrophic mandible, missing the 2nd premolar, 1st and 2nd molars, and rehabilitated with either two short implants (implant length-IL = 8 mm and 4 mm) supporting a 3-unit dental bridge or three short implants (IL = 8 mm, 6 mm and 4 mm) supporting zirconia prosthesis in splinted or single crowns design. Load simulations were performed in ABAQUS (Dassault Systèmes, France) under axial and oblique (30°) force of 100 N to assess the global stiffness and forces within the implant prosthesis. Local stresses within implant/prosthesis system and strain energy density (SED) within surrounding bone were determined and compared between configurations.

Results
The global stiffness was around 1.5 times higher in splinted configurations vs. single crowns, whereby off-axis loading lead to a decrease of 39%. Splinted prostheses exhibited a better stress distribution than single crowns. Local stresses were larger and distributed over a larger area under oblique loads compared to axial load direction. The forces on each implant in the 2-implant-splinted configurations increased by 25% compared to splinted crowns on 3 implants. Loading of un-splinted configurations resulted in increased local SED magnitude.

Conclusion
Splinting of adjacent short implants in posterior mandible by the prosthetic restoration has a profound effect on the magnitude and distribution of the local stress peaks in peri-implant regions. Replacing each missing tooth with an implant is recommended, whenever bone supply and costs permit.
Feasibility trial of an integrated treatment “Activate for Life” for physical and mental well-being in older adults
Authors: Hernandez-Tejada Melba A. , Nagel Alexis , Madisetti Mohan , Balasubramanian Sundar , Kelechi Teresa 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
Pain and fatigue are common chronic conditions faced by older adults. Integrated interventions to address pain and fatigue may therefore be particularly useful for older adults, especially those interventions that target mobility and psychosocial well-being. The present study describes feasibility and participant satisfaction for an integrated eHealth treatment to address pain and fatigue in a sample of older adults living in a low-income independent residence facility and their own homes in the community.

Methods
Three treatment combinations were compared in a randomized repeated measures design to determine if adding components of breathing retraining and behavioral activation to the existing Otago program (for strength and balance) affected feasibility and patient satisfaction. Specifically, 30 older adults were randomly allocated to: Arm1: the Otago alone (n = 10); Arm 2: Otago + Gentle Yoga and Yogic Breathing (n = 10); or Arm 3: Otago + Gentle Yoga and Yogic Breathing + Behavioral Activation (combination was named ‘Activate for Life’ n = 10). Feasibility measures included recruitment rate, session completion characteristics, and satisfaction with the program.

Conclusion
Data from this study provide support for the feasibility of an integrated program to address physical and mental well-being of older adults. Future fully powered studies should now focus on assessment of clinical outcomes and refinement of individual components.

Trial registration
Registered in clinicaltrials.gov with the identifier: NCT03853148.
Healthcare experiences of uninsured and under-insured American Indian women in the United States
Authors: Liddell Jessica L. , Lilly Jenn M. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
Extensive health disparities exist for American Indian groups throughout the United States. Although insurance status is linked to important healthcare outcomes, this topic has infrequently been explored for American Indian tribes. For state-recognized tribes, who do not receive healthcare services through the Indian Health Service, this topic has yet to be explored. The purpose of this study is to explore how having limited access to health insurance (being uninsured or under-insured) impact American Indian women's healthcare experiences?.

Methods
In partnership with a community advisory board, this study used a qualitative description approach to conduct thirty-one semi-structured life-course interviews with American Indian women who are members of a state-recognized tribe in the Gulf Coast (United States) to explore their Western healthcare experiences. Interview were conducted at community centers, participant homes, and other locations identified by participants. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and findings were analyzed in NVivo using conventional content analysis. Findings were presented at tribal council meetings and to participants for member checking.

Results
Themes identified by participants included: (a) lack of insurance as a barrier to healthcare; (b) pre-paying for childbirth when uninsured; and (c) access to public health insurance coverage. Twenty-four women mentioned the role or importance of insurance in discussing their healthcare experiences, which was referenced a total of 59 times.

Conclusion
These findings begin to fill an important gap in the literature about the health insurance experiences of American Indian tribal members. Not having insurance was an important concern for participants, particularly for elderly and pregnant tribal members. Not having insurance also kept tribal members from seeking healthcare services, and from getting needed prescriptions. In addition to promoting knowledge about, and expanding insurance options and enrollment, increased sovereignty and resources for state-recognized tribes is needed to address the health disparities experienced by American Indian groups.
Assessment and validation of the Community Maternal Danger Score algorithm
Authors: Bola Rajan , Ujoh Fanan , Ukah Ugochinyere Vivian , Lett Ronald 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
High rates of maternal mortality in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) are associated with the lack of skilled birth attendants (SBAs) at delivery. Risk analysis tools may be useful to identify pregnant women who are at risk of mortality in LMICs. We sought to develop and validate a low-cost maternal risk tool, the Community Maternal Danger Score (CMDS), which is designed to identify pregnant women who need an SBA at delivery.

Methods
To design the CMDS algorithm, an initial scoping review was conducted to identify predictors of the need for an SBA. Medical records of women who delivered at the Federal Medical Centre in Makurdi, Nigeria (2019–2020) were examined for predictors identified from the literature review. Outcomes associated with the need for an SBA were recorded: caesarean section, postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia, and sepsis. A maternal mortality ratio (MMR) was determined. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess the predictive ability of the CMDS algorithm.

Results
Seven factors from the literature predicted the need for an SBA: age (under 20 years of age or 35 and older), parity (nulliparity or grand-multiparity), BMI (underweight or overweight), fundal height (less than 35 cm or 40 cm and over), adverse obstetrical history, signs of pre-eclampsia, and co-existing medical conditions. These factors were recorded in 589 women of whom 67% required an SBA (n = 396) and 1% died (n = 7). The MMR was 1189 per 100,000 (95% CI 478–2449). Signs of pre-eclampsia, obstetrical history, and co-existing conditions were associated with the need for an SBA. Age was found to interact with parity, suggesting that the CMDS requires adjustment to indicate higher risk among younger multigravida and older primigravida women. The CMDS algorithm had an AUC of 0.73 (95% CI 0.69–0.77) for predicting whether women required an SBA, and an AUC of 0.85 (95% CI 0.67–1.00) for in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions
The CMDS is a low-cost evidence-based tool that uses 7 risk factors assessed on 589 women from Makurdi. Non-specialist health workers can use the CMDS to standardize assessment and encourage pregnant women to seek an SBA in preparation for delivery, thus improving care in countries with high rates of maternal mortality.
Vascular dysfunction and dyslipidemia in multiple sclerosis: are they correlated with disease duration and disability status?
Authors: Boshra Hesham , Awad Marina , Hussein Mona , Elyamani Ehab 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Background
There is strong evidence that vascular dysfunction is considered one of the possible causes of morbidity and mortality in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). This work aimed at assessing the arterial function and serum lipids in MS patients and correlating them with clinical and radiological findings.

Results
This case–control study included 50 patients with MS and 50 age- and sex-matched controls. The arterial function was significantly reduced in MS patients, confirmed by significantly higher pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIX), while the carotid IMT did not show significant difference between the two groups with no plaques in any of our patients. A significant positive correlation was found between PWV and both disease duration and disability. MS patients had significantly higher serum levels of T-cholesterol and triglycerides, and significantly lower serum levels of HDL-cholesterol, compared to controls. No significant correlation was found between serum lipids and either disease duration or disability.

Conclusions
There was a significant impairment in arterial function (assessed by the brachial cuff-based method via Mobil-O-Graph device) in MS patients compared to controls. Such impairment was significantly correlated with both disease duration and disability. MS patients had also significantly higher levels of T-cholesterol and triglycerides, compared to controls with no significant correlation between serum lipids and either disease duration or disability.
Cross-cultural comparison of depressive symptoms on the Beck Depression Inventory-II, across six population samples
Authors: Seppänen Marjo , Lankila Tiina , Auvinen Juha , Miettunen Jouko , Korpelainen Raija , Timonen Markku 
Published: February 2022

BackgroundThe Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and BDI-II (revised version) are some of the most widely used and comparable self-report scales for assessing the presence and severity of depressive symptoms in many countries. However, although the relative mean score of each symptom in different countries may vary, the cultural differences of BDI-II symptoms for each item have not been previously studied.AimsTo examine the overall picture of the magnitude of the symptoms in the Finnish population, and compare the relative mean score of each symptom between all published population-based samples from different countries fulfilling the search criteria.MethodWe conducted a search for population-based studies reporting BDI-II item, using Scopus, PsycINFO and PubMed, and five population-based samples were identified. Relative average scores for each item of the scale were calculated for the Finnish population and five populations from other countries. Meta-regression methods were used to test the differences in the relative score of each symptom between each country separately, and results were then visually compared with spider charts.ResultsWe found significant differences in several BDI-II item scores between countries: lower indecisiveness, higher changes in sleep pattern and higher irritability in Finland; higher loss of pleasure in Norway; higher loss of interest in the Dominic Republic; higher self-criticalness and feelings of punishment in Mexico; and higher sadness in Japan.ConclusionsBased on the study fundings and including all currently published population-based samples with BDI-II scores, cultural differences in depressive symptoms should be considered when interpreting BDI-II item scores.