bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Adherence to COVID-19 Protective Behaviors among Iranian Adults: Survey of the Role of Health Literacy and Health Belief Model
Authors: Babazadeh Towhid , Chollou Khalil Maleki , Shirzadi Shayesteh , Ranjbaran Soheila 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
The coronavirus is one of the largest pandemics in the world that has occurred in recent years. The virus has so far killed millions of people around the world. To prevent the coronavirus, health behaviors are essential. Therefore, identifying the effective factors of coronavirus preventive behaviors can be effective in designing and implementing health interventions.
Methods
This study was a cross-sectional design that was implemented in Iran in 2021. Participants were recruited randomly from healthcare centers by medical records (n = 380, 64.7% female, mean age 32.14 years). The data collection included a demographic form, health literacy questionnaire, and Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) protective questionnaire. Analyses were adjusted for confounders using hierarchical regression analysis.
Results
According to the analysis, among participants COVID-19 preventive behaviors (CPBs) distributions, wearing masks was the highest and avoiding touching my face and do not leaving home were the lowest. Educational level, gender, perceive benefits, perceived barriers and self-efficacy trust were all significant predictors of COVID-19 protective behaviors. Also, among dimensions of the health literacy, all of them except decision-making were significant predictors of adherence to COVID-19 preventive behaviors. The most COVID-19 preventive behaviors distributions, among Iranian adults were wearing mask (66.3%) and covering mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing (44.2%) questions as “Always”.
Conclusions
this research shows health literacy and cognitive factors have a potential and determinative role in the health of patients with COVID-19. Wearing mask has been the highest preventive behavior in patients with COVID-19, which indicates the effect of educational level as demographic factors in these groups of patients. Therefore, these factors can be considered in prevention and treatment programs in health system.
High lymphocyte count as a significant risk factor for incisional hernia after laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Tamai Koki , Okamura Shu , Kamakura Yu , Koh Masahiro , Hayashi Koji , Katsura Yoshiteru , Hirose Hajime , Ebisui Chikara , Yano Masahiko 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
In the era of laparoscopic surgery, incisional hernia (IH) is still one of the common problems after colorectal surgery. Various risk factors for IH have been evaluated to reduce the incidence, but the impact of nutrition for IH has not been well discussed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relation between the nutrition status and the development of IH after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.
Methods
We retrospectively evaluated 342 colorectal cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectomy between January 2012 and December 2018. Postoperative computed tomography was used to diagnose the IH. Patient characteristics including preoperative albumin and lymphocyte counts were evaluated for the risk of development of IH. Further investigations were added about the impact of nutrition status on development of IH in each of BMI under and over 25.0 kg/m2.
Results
IH was observed in 37 patients (10.8%) with median follow-up period of 48.5 months. Female (OR = 3.43, p < 0.01), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR = 2.92, p < 0.01), lymphocyte count ≥ 1798/µl (OR = 3.37, p < 0.01), and operative time ≥ 254 min (OR = 3.90, p < 0.01) had statistically significant relation to IH in multivariate analysis. Low albumin was related to IH in BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (p = 0.02), but was not in BMI < 25 kg/m2 (p = 0.21). On the other hand, high lymphocyte count was related to IH regardless of BMI (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2: p = 0.01, BMI < 25 kg/m2: p = 0.04).
Conclusions
The high preoperative lymphocyte count is independent risk factor for IH, whereas low albumin has limitation to predict IH.
Transcorporeal decompression using a fully-endoscopic anterior cervical approach to treat cervical spondylotic myelopathy: surgical design and clinical application
Authors: Ma Yanyan , Xin Zhijun , Kong Weijun , Zhang Longsheng , Du Qian , Liao Wenbo 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
BACKGROUND
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the common procedure for treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), but ACDF may cause pseudoarthrosis, accelerated degeneration of adjacent segments, loss of activity of fused segments and other complications. The full-endoscopic technique can treat CSM, without the complications mentioned above. Therefore, it is of great clinical value to investigate the surgical scheme of anterior percutaneous full-endoscopic transcorporeal decompression of the spinal cord (APFETDSC).
Methods
A total of 28 cases with single-segment Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) from April 2017 to July 2019 were involved in our study. The size of the disc-osteophyte complex were measured using imaging data prior to the operation. The diameter and direction of the bony passage was determined according to the size and central position of the complex, respectively. 28 patients underwent the above scheme for CSM. Clinical outcome evaluations included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores .Imaging assessment including MRI, CT and X-rays.
Results
The diameter of the designed bony passage was about 6.9 mm, and directed toward the lower edge of the diseased lower vertebral body oblique to the center of the disc-osteophyte complex. All patients successfully completed the operation. The postoperative neck pain VAS and JOA were significantly improved compared to preoperative values (p < 0.01). Postoperative MRI indicated complete decompression of the spinal cord. CT scanning one year after the operation revealed that an almost healed bony passage and X-ray imaging showed satisfactory physiological curvature of the cervical spine, without cervical instability.
Conclusion
Based on the diameter and direction of the bony passage, as determined by the size and position of the disc-osteophyte complex, as indicated by MRI and CT scanning, PEATCD offers good decompression of the spinal cord and ensures excellent therapeutic outcome.
Studies on natural fiber reinforced woven Ramie-Silk hybrid epoxy composites with OMMT in enhancing Interlaminar Shear Strength properties.
Authors: K Sadashiva , Bhanupratap R , Purushothama K M 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

This study looked into the importance of using Ramie, silk fibre, and nano clay in epoxy resin composites. The study's main purpose is to show the importance of naturally existing fibres and fillers when directed for use in laminated composites. The nano clay is of organo-montmorillonite (OMMT) grade and is used as a filler material. The ramie and silk fibres are used as reinforcement materials and epoxy as a matrix. The composites were created with 3 per cent nano clay reinforcement for the hand layup method for different designations of laminates like SSSS, RRRR, RSRS RSSR, and SRRS. To assess the composite's strength, the specimens are tested for mechanical parameters such as interlaminar shear strength and hardness by ASTM standards. ILLS tests revealed that a composite combining RSSR and RSRS laminates with 3% OMMT nano clay produced high interlaminar shear strength. In SEM images, proper adherence of the nano clay to the matrix as well as to the reinforcements can also be seen.
Meningioma in patients exposed to progestin drugs: results from a real-life screening program
Authors: Samoyeau Thomas , Provost Corentin , Roux Alexandre , Legrand Laurence , Dezamis Edouard , Plu-Bureau Geneviève , Pallud Johan , Oppenheim Catherine , Benzakoun Joseph 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Purpose: To report the results of systematic meningioma screening program implemented by French authorities in patients exposed to progestin therapies (cyproterone (CPA), nomegestrol (NA), and chlormadinone (CMA) acetate).Methods: We conducted a prospective monocentric study on patients who, between September 2018 and April 2021, underwent standardized MRI (injection of gadolinium, then a T2 axial FLAIR and a 3D-T1 gradient-echo sequence) for meningioma screening.Results: Of the 210 included patients, 15 (7.1%) had at least one meningioma; seven (7/15, 47%) had multiple meningiomas. Meningiomas were more frequent in older patients and after exposure to CPA (13/103, 13%) compared to NA (1/22, 4%) or CMA (1/85, 1%; P=0.005). After CPA exposure, meningiomas were associated with longer treatment duration (median=20 vs 7 years, P=0.001) and higher cumulative dose (median=91 g vs. 62 g, P=0.014). Similarly, their multiplicity was associated with higher dose of CPA (median=244 g vs 61 g, P=0.027). Most meningiomas were ≤1 cm3 (44/58, 76%) and were convexity meningiomas (36/58, 62%). At diagnosis, patients were non-symptomatic, and all were managed conservatively. Among 14 patients with meningioma who stopped progestin exposure, meningioma burden decreased in 11 (79%) cases with no case of progression during MR follow-up.Conclusion: Systematic MR screening in progestin-exposed patients uncovers small and multiple meningiomas, which can be managed conservatively, decreasing in size after progestin discontinuation. The high rate of meningiomas after CPA exposure reinforces the need for systematic screening. For NA and CMA, further studies are needed to identify patients most likely to benefit from screening.
Antiulcerogenic and Healing Activity of Hecogenin Acetate in Rodents
Authors: Sousa Aline Jeane Costa , Neto Benedito Pereira de Sousa , Costa Douglas Soares da , de Sousa Maisa Campelo , de Carvalho Camila Ernanda Sousa , Quintans-Junior Lucindo José , Quintans Jullyana Souza Siqueira , Neves Josyanne Araújo , Silva Francilene Vieira da , Viana Ana Flávia Seraine Custódio , Nunes Paulo Humberto Moreira , Oliveira Rita de Cássia Meneses 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Purpose
Peptic ulcers are lesions in the gastric and duodenal mucosa generated by an imbalance between protective factors (gastroduodenal mucus secretion, bicarbonate production, adequate blood flow) and harmful factors (excess pepsin or hydrochloric acid). Some drugs used in peptic ulcer therapy are associated with adverse effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiulcerogenic and healing activity of hecogenin acetate (HA) in acute and chronic models of gastric lesions in rodents.
Methods
The antiulcerogenic activity of HA was evaluated in models of gastric lesions induced by absolute ethanol and in acidified ethanol with HA (5; 10 and 20 mg/kg). For the model of gastric lesions induced by ischemia and reperfusion, rats were pre-treated with HA (5; 10, 20 mg/kg). After were submitted to 30 min of ischemia, followed by 1 h of reperfusion. To evaluate the healing activity was induced gastric ulcer using acetic acid (80%) in rats. After 24h they were treated for 7 consecutive days with HA (10 and 20 mg/kg).
Results
Were evaluated the possible signs of toxicity, measurement of the lesions, collagen deposition and histological analysis. HA significantly reduced the area of the lesion in models of gastric lesions induced by absolute and acidified ethanol, ischemia-induced gastric lesions and reperfusion, and regarding healing. In the collagen deposition, the presence and increase of collagen demonstrates healing effect.
Conclusion
The AH has antiulcerogenic and healing potential demonstrated by the decrease in gastric injury and presence of collagen fibers, respectively.
The experienced positive and negative influence of HIV on quality of life of people with HIV and vulnerable to HIV
Authors: Romijnders Kim , de Groot Laura , Vervoort Sigrid , Basten Maartje , Welzen Berend van , Kretzschmar Mirjam , Reiss Peter , Davidovich Udi , Loeff Maarten Schim van der , Rozhnova Ganna 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to explore the experienced influence of HIV on the quality of life (QoL) of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and key populations who live without but are vulnerable to HIV in the Netherlands. We conducted and thematically analyzed interviews with 29 PLHIV and 13 participants from key populations without HIV (i.e., men who have sex with men). PLHIV and key populations shared positive meaningful experiences regarding HIV, i.e., feeling grateful for ART, life, and the availability of PrEP, being loved and supported in the light of HIV, and providing support to the community. Negative predominant experiences regarding HIV were described by both PLHIV and key populations as the negative effects of ART, challenges with regards to disclosing HIV, social stigmatization, and self-stigma. It remains important to support HIV community organizations in their efforts to reduce social stigmatization and to continue improving biomedical interventions for HIV.
Investigation of time profile of FEV1 across the onset of COPD: A retrospective cohort study using medical checkup data in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Masaru , Matsumoto Isao , Ishida Masato , Horie Yoshiharu , Ban Hideyuki , Takeuchi Wataru , Nakagawa Shunki , Nakagawa Tohru , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Muro Shigeo 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background: Identification of the factors associated with a rapid decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) at an early stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is of particular clinical importance because it may allow timely medical intervention to slow down progression of lung function decline in patients. This study aimed to compare the time profile of FEV1 after COPD diagnosis among rapid decliners, slow decliners, and sustainers and the patient characteristics in the year of COPD diagnosis.Methods: COPD patients were identified from data collected from the annual medical checkup records of Hitachi, Ltd. employees in Japan from April 1998 to March 2019. Patients were categorized by FEV1 for 5 years (years 1-5) in 3 groups (rapid decliner, slow decliner, and sustainer). Patients with a decrease of FEV1 ≥63 mL/year were considered rapid decliners; those with <63 and ≥31 mL/year, slow decliners; and those with <31 mL/year, sustainers. Patient characteristics in the year of COPD detection and the time profiles of FEV1 across the onset of COPD (from year ‑3 to 5) were investigated in those groups.Results: Of 1294 eligible participants, 241 (18.6%) were classified as rapid decliners. The annual rates of FEV1 decline were similar 3 years before and until COPD diagnosis (year -3 to 0) and were 0.05 mL in rapid decliners, 0.05 mL in slow decliners, and 0.07 mL in sustainers. After COPD diagnosis, these 3 categories started diverging in their lung function trajectory. The mean FEV1 in rapid decliners was 2.82 L in year 0 and 2.41 L in year 5. Rapid decliners had decreased body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat percentage at the time of COPD diagnosis compared with sustainers.Conclusions: FEV1 declined yearly before diagnosis in rapid decliners, slow decliners, and sustainers. The time profiles of FEV1 were different in the 3 groups after COPD diagnosis. Therefore, regular lung function tests are necessary to follow FEV1 decline after COPD onset in a timely manner.
Selenium Mitigates Prenatal Lead-Induced Toxicity on Cerebral Cortex of Wistar Rats Pups
Authors: Echefu Boniface Ezenwata , Musa Sunday Abraham , Umana Uduak E. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Lead is a dangerous substance to the body that particularly targets the central nervous system (CNS), especially during the early stages of development. Unfortunately, classical therapies remain inefficient in mitigating neurotoxicity associated with developmental Pb exposure on brain regions. However, co-occurring selenium, and heavy metals are known to reduce each other's effects. In this study, the counteractive impact of selenium (Se) to the toxic effects of Pb on the developing rat brain was investigated to explore early protection against developmental disruption of the cerebral cortex by Pb using Wistar rat model. Pregnant rats were grouped into 3 group of 3 animals each. Group 1 served as control and received 2ml distilled water, group 2 received 60 mg/kg bwt of Pb and group 3 received 60 mg/kg bwt of Pb and 0.3 mg/kg bwt of Se. Administration was orally from gestation day 9 till parturition. On PND 1, and 21, brain tissues were harvested for biochemical and histopathological (histochemical and histological) studies. Observations show that lead accumulated in the brain of pups in an inverse relationship with calcium. Pups in the group administered only Pb, showed evidence of serious necrosis, and neuronal degeneration when compared with the control group and the group co-administered Se and Pb. Hence, the gestational neurotoxic effect of Lead on the cerebral cortex can be mitigated by Se. Our findings show that Selenium, an essential trace mineral of fundamental importance for animals and humans, might be beneficial in lead toxicity therapy.
Prediction of osteoporosis and osteopenia by routine computed tomography of the lumbar spine in different regions of interest
Authors: Yang Guangyue , Wang Hansong , Wu Zhufeng , Shi Yinyu , Zhao Yongfang 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
We aimed to investigate the utility of Hounsfield units (HU) obtained from different regions of interest in opportunistic lumbar computed tomography (CT) to predict osteoporosis coupling with data of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
Methods
100 patients who attended a university hospital in Shanghai, China, and had undergone CT and DXA tests of the lumbar spine within 3 months were included in this retrospective review. Images were reviewed on axial sections, and regions of interest (ROI) markers were placed on the round, oval, anterior, left, and right of the L1-L4 vertebra to measure the HU. The mean values of CT HU were then compared to the bone mineral density (BMD) measured by DXA. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to determine the threshold for diagnosis and its sensitivity and specificity values.
Results
The differences in CT HU of different ROI based on DXA definitions of osteoporosis, osteopenia, and normal individuals were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The HU values of the different ROI correlated well with the BMD values (Spearman coefficient all > 0.75, p < 0.01). The threshold for diagnosing osteoporosis varies from 87 to 111 HU in different ROIs, and the threshold for excluding osteoporosis or osteopenia is 99–125 HU.
Conclusion
This is the first study on osteoporosis diagnosis of different ROI with routine CT lumbar scans. There is a strong correlation between CT HU of different ROI in the lumbar spine and BMD, and HU measurements can be used to predict osteoporosis.
Comparison of Demography, Resource Utilization and Outcomes Between the First and Second Covid-19 Wave in a Teaching Hospital in India.
Authors: Raj R Bimal , Mookambika RV , Panicker Priya , Ravishankar V , Jacob Anu , Mohan AD Arun 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Introduction: The novel Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) affected India, predominantly in two time periods – the first wave from March to December 2020, and the second wave began from April 2021 to July 2021. Although the time duration of second wave was shorter than the first, the onslaught of the disease was much more severe during the second wave.
Methodology: Demographic, duration of hospitalization, ICU admission, and mortality data of 482 RT-PCR positive COVID-19 individuals were retrospectively analyzed in a teaching hospital in South India. The case file data were compared between the first and second wave.
Results: The median age of hospitalisation was 46.2 years and 48.39 years during first and second wave respectively, with male preponderance in second wave. During the second wave, statistically significant difference was found in mean duration of stay (9.04 vs 7.53), mean Spo2 at admission (98.4 vs 96.65), NIV requirement (1.5% vs 8.7%), oxygen requirement(7.4 % vs 13.9%), ICU care, Remedesevir, steroids and enoxaparin.
Conclusion: During the second covid wave, significantly higher hospitalisation, intensive care requirements and inpatient mortality was observed. Diabetes and other comorbid conditions had elevated CRP, lymphocytopenia were associated with higher severity and poor outcomes in both waves.
Aquaponic production of strawberries and their mineral and sugar composition when supplemented with or without boron and cultured with or without media
Authors: Romano Nicholas , Fischer Hayden 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Strawberries were aquaponically cultured with or without boron supplementations and with or without media (2 × 2 factorial design) for over two months. There was a total of six identical aquaponic units with each containing 30 catfish juveniles (initial weight = 2.1 g) as well as two plant culture units consisting of a floating raft (without media) or expanded lava rock (with media). Boron (B), in the form of Borax, was weekly added at 0.01 mg/L. Water quality and fish growth were unaffected by B additions. Strawberry number and total weight were unaffected by B or media, but individual strawberries were significantly heavier when grown in media. Sodium, iron and moisture content were significantly higher in strawberries grown in media but both glucose and fructose were significantly higher in strawberries grown without media. Supplementations of B significantly increased and decreased the B and zinc content of strawberries, respectively, as well as caused significantly shorter roots. B supplementations appeared to provide no benefit and may have actually caused some B toxicity to the strawberries. Growing strawberries with or without media in an aquaponic system provided different advantages but research should be performed to investigate other nutrients to potentially enhance production and quality.
Geometry Tactile Diagram (GTD): A Geometry Problem Solving Approach for Mathematics Education for Visually Impaired College Students
Authors: Adelakun Sariat , Abdulsalaam Aminat , Michael Kehinde , Evangeline Chukuka , Musibau Shittu 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
BackgroundMathematics is generally dominated by diagrams and spatial representation of concepts. This makes it seem impossible for the blind and visually impaired (BVI) who have limitations or total loss of sight. This study investigated the place of geometry tactile diagrams in meeting the needs of the BVI students in geometry, which is an aspect of mathematics. Experimental research design was used for the study. All the blind and visually impaired students of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo served as the population for the study. A sample of twenty (20) students from the school of general studies (Mathematics unit) was purposely selected and randomised into two groups. Geometry tactile diagram (GTD) and Geometry Achievement test were used as the study instruments. T-test statistic was used to analyse the data collected at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings The findings revealed that: there is a significant difference between mean achievement scores in the control group (students taught without GTD) and the experimental group (students taught with GTD. There is a significant difference between the performance of students taught geometry before the introduction of GTD and after the treatment with GTD. ConclusionThe study, therefore, recommends that geometry tactile diagrams, an effective teaching tool, should be used to make geometry accessible to the Blind and visually impaired (BVI). This will eliminate the existing gap between sighted and visually impaired students in mathematics.