Journals
2025 EN
Domiciano do Nascimento Manuella · Meneguelli Natália Alves de Souza · Pereira Thainara Queiroz
+8 more
ABSTRACT Green coffee is rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. This study evaluated the effect of green coffee extract ( Coffea canephora ), as treatment or prevention, on metabolic alterations and morphology of liver and adipose tissue pad in rats fed a high‐fat diet (HF). Forty‐eight male Wistar rats ( Rattus norvegicus ) were divided into four groups: normocaloric diet (CT), HF, high‐fat diet with green coffee extract as prevention (HFP), or as treatment (HFT). Two‐milliliter of green coffee extract per day per animal was added to the diet. Intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test, inflammatory and oxidative markers analyses, and histological analyses of liver and adipose tissue were performed. The green coffee extract, as treatment or prevention, did not affect food intake, weight gain or oxidative and inflammatory profile of liver and adipose tissue, or adipose tissue pad morphology ( p > 0.05). However, the HFT group decreased the concentration of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), increased high‐density lipoprotein (HDL‐c), and reduced severity of hepatic steatosis verified by lower lipid accumulation in the liver ( p < 0.05). The green coffee extract as a treatment may benefit liver health in conditions of obesity, modulating hepatic markers and attenuating hepatic steatosis, suggesting its potential as an adjuvant in treating metabolic alterations.
Journals
2025 EN
Mahaman Mourtala Issa Zakari · Baina DanJimo · Ifeanyi Maxwell Nwankwo Innocent
+4 more
ABSTRACT Sweetpotato is gaining momentum in Niger and Nigeria due to its contribution to food and nutritional security. The aim of this study was to assess the variability among the sweetpotato clones collected from Niger and Nigeria. Hundred sweetpotato clones were evaluated during the rainy season 2020–2021 using alpha lattice design. Data were collected on quantitative and qualitative traits and analysed using R software. The Analysis of variance exhibited a highly significant difference ( p < 0.001) among clones for all traits, indicating high variability among clones. The study revealed high values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation in all the traits except for mature leaf size and storage root length, which indicated the presence of wide gene variability. High heritability along with a high percentage of genetic advances suggests possible and rapid improvement of these traits. The results of factorial analysis of mixed data grouped the hundred clones into three main clusters, C1, C2 and C3 with 49, 14 and 37 clones, respectively. Clones EBO/SP8, JOHN and TIS‐81‐64 × 1 had the highest storage root yield, whereas clones Nwa Oyorima, PYT/25/19 and PYT/4/19 × 1 had the best in upper biomass yield; therefore, these clones could be further used as potential sources to improve these traits.
Journals
2025 EN
Elnady Fatma Ebrahim Mohamed · Tarrad Ibrahim S. · Hussein Khalid F. A.
+1 more
ABSTRACT Understanding the distribution and gradient of longitudinal strain is essential for accurately assessing the structural integrity and mechanical behavior of materials and components under deformation. In this study, we investigate the impact of thermal noise on the performance of a strain gradient sensor based on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) technology. The proposed sensor architecture employs a series ofM$M$ cascaded uniform FBGs (UniFBGs), evenly spaced along a fiber‐under‐test (FUT), enabling spatially resolved strain measurement along the entire length of the structure. An analytical model is rigorously developed to characterize the sensor′s response to strain, incorporating the physical and optical behavior of the cascaded FBG array. The model accounts for wavelength shifts induced by strain and the corresponding changes in reflected spectra. Building on this foundation, we conduct a detailed numerical analysis of the sensor's signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), focusing specifically on the influence of thermal noise at the photodetection stage. The results provide valuable insights into the trade‐offs between sensor resolution, reflectivity, interrogation configuration, and noise‐induced limitations, contributing to the practical design and optimization of high‐resolution distributed strain gradient sensing systems.
Journals
2025 EN
Abdelhalim Ibrahim · Almalki Yassir · Abdallah Abdelrahman
+9 more
Abstract Background Dense breast tissue significantly increases breast cancer (BC) risk. However, current mammographic methods for classifying BC are often subjective and unreliable, which complicates the task of accurate evaluation. Purpose This study introduces a deep learning method with a local context attention module (LCAM), using dual mammogram views aligned with BI‐RADS to enhance grading consistency and accuracy in BC classification across four groups by leveraging local context around masses. Methods Specific regions of interest (ROIs) containing dense tissue around breast masses are identified from dual mammogram views, providing additional insights for predicting BC BI‐RADS categories. These ROIs are then input into a convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based model, which is crucial for selecting and differentiating radiomic features associated with BI‐RADS. To enhance our model's ability to distinguish salient radiomic features associated with mass malignancy, the LCAM sequentially infers attention maps along two separate dimensions: channel and spatial. These attention maps are subsequently multiplied with the input feature map for adaptive feature refinement. Results Examining 3020 patients across four BI‐RADS categories while leveraging dual mammogram views demonstrates the robust performance of the proposed framework, achieving a sensitivity of 82.46% and a specificity of 91.42% in identifying BI‐RADS grading relevant to breast masses. Conclusions We introduced a novel CNN‐based framework that utilizes dual mammogram views for the BC classification. It utilizes LCAM, which further understands the local characteristics surrounding breast masses, aiming to enhance the accuracy and consistency of classification outcomes.
Journals
2025 EN
Sajewski Andrea N. · Santini Tales · DeFranco Anthony
+6 more
Abstract Purpose To develop an radiofrequency (RF) shimming approach for operating the 2nd Generation Tic Tac Toe RF coil system (60 transmit channels integrated with 32‐channel receive insert) for routine use in 7T neuro MRI on the single transmit mode. Methods RF simulations were performed and used to develop non‐subject‐specific RF shim cases over three anatomically detailed head models: adult male, adult female, and child female. Multi‐ROI shimming strategies were developed and implemented.B 1 + }_1^{+} $$ maps and in vivo images were acquired on the single transmit mode of a 7T scanner using the RF shim cases derived from the computer simulations. Results The availability of 60 transmit channels enables more control overB 1 + }_1^{+} $$ efficiency, specific absorption rate (SAR) efficiency, andB 1 + }_1^{+} $$ homogeneity using RF shimming. On the single transmit mode, the 2nd generation Tic Tac Toe RF coil system consistently provides homogeneousB 1 + }_1^{+} $$ field distribution with extended coverage into the temporal lobes, cerebellum, reaching all the way to C5–C6. Safe levels of SAR are also achieved. Conclusion By using a non‐subject specific RF shimming approach derived from computer simulations, the 2nd generation Tic Tac Toe RF coil system allows for robust, routine neuroimaging (>1750 in vivo scanning sessions over the past 28 months) at 7T in single transmit mode.
Journals
2025 EN
Özdemir Ayla Özge · Özel Ş. Kerem · Acar Gönül
+1 more
ABSTRACT Introduction Children with spina bifida (SB) experience a reduced quality of life due to neurogenic bladder dysfunction and the risk of renal failure later in life. Pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) have gained prominence in recent years due to their positive effects in treating different types of bladder issues in both adults and children. Our study aims to investigate the effects of using these two methods together in children with SB and to delineate their potential value for clinical practice. Materials and Methods Children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to SB who admitted to our spina bifida center were enrolled. Those patients, between 5 and 15 years of age, with only neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) were randomly divided into two groups using an online computer application. While only the PFR was applied to Group PFR ( n = 14), TENS was used in addition to this therapy in Group PFR + T ( n = 14). The PFR sessions included abdominal massage, strength exercises, diaphragmatic breathing exercises, and contracting pelvic floor muscles. TENS was used in a standard fashion as previously described in patients with SB. Before and after treatment, patients' clinical data, dysfunctional voiding symptom score (DVSS), lower urinary tract symptoms, and quality of life scores due to urinary incontinence were evaluated. Urodynamic outcomes such as detrusor pressure, bladder capacity, contractility, and residual urine amount were also evaluated. Results Twenty eight children out of 750 SB patients were enrolled in our center. Children with only NDO due to SB were included in the study (Group PFR, mean age 8.3 ± + 2.7 years, 10 boys, four girls; Group PFR + T, 7.86 ± 2.03 years, eight boys, six girls). Treatment duration was 6 weeks (18 sessions). There was a decrease in voiding and lower urinary tract symptoms in both groups regardless of the use of TENS ( p < 0.05). Maximum detrusor pressure significantly decreased only in the TENS group after treatment (from 82.143 ± 58.069 cmH2O to 58.077 ± 39.872 cmH2O) ( p < 0.05). The difference in clinical parameters, quality of life scores and other urodynamic parameters were not found to be significant between groups. Discussion PFR and TENS may be effective in SB with NDO to reduce voiding symptoms, and protect bladder from increased pressures. PFR seems to be a useful conservative approach in patients with NDO, adjunt to standard treatment. Further studies are needed in delineation of a personalized holistic treatment approach in these patients. Conclusion Addition of TENS to standard PFR in NDO may be effective in reducing maximum detrusor pressures, however, it does not seem to specifically contribute for improving incontinence and incontinence‐related quality of life.
Journals
2025 EN
Atef Abdelsattar Ibrahim Hoda · Bendary Mohammed · Sabt Ahmed
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Abstract Aims The present study evaluated the effect of oral zinc supplementation on shortening hospital length of stay. Methods A systematic review was conducted for randomized control trials in patients who were hospitalized regardless of age and cause of admission. Studies were collected from PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library until July 2023. Results were compared between the zinc group and those who received a placebo and/or the standard therapy. Results Eight studies were qualified for our meta‐analysis. Of the 1267 patients, 633 and 634 were in the zinc supplementation and control groups, respectively. The meta‐analysis found that oral zinc supplementation group experienced a lower length of hospital stay than the control group (mean difference, −0.43 days; 95% confidence interval, −0.65 to −0.22; P < 0.0001; heterogeneity, I 2 = 20%). Conclusion The administration of oral zinc supplements was associated with a slightly reduced duration of hospital stay.
Journals
2025 EN
El Raichani Nadine · Thibaut Maxime · Lavoie JeanClaude
+1 more
Abstract Background When exposed to ambient light, parenteral nutrition (PN) contamination with peroxides almost doubles, which increases oxidative stress in preterm infants, contributing to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) recommends complete PN photoprotection to reduce peroxide contamination and optimize its integrity but acknowledges the challenges of its implementation. In this study, a novel photoprotection procedure was tested for its effectiveness in reducing peroxide load and limiting ascorbic acid degradation, and for its feasibility and effectiveness in reducing urinary peroxide levels in preterm infants. Methods In vitro evaluation included neonatal lipid injectable emulsion–free PN admixtures prepared and infused according to current practice or the suggested photoprotection procedure through separation and complete shielding of intravenous multivitamin preparation from compounding to administration through photoprotected infusion sets. In vivo evaluation included a single‐center randomized controlled pilot study of extremely preterm infants receiving PN according to current practice or the suggested photoprotection procedure. Results In vitro, photoprotection allowed a 44% decrease in peroxide generation ( P < 0.001) and reduced by half ascorbic acid degradation in PN admixtures ( P < 0.001). In vivo, 28 infants completed the study. Baseline urinary peroxide levels were similar in both groups before PN initiation, and the suggested photoprotection procedure resulted in a significant decrease in urinary peroxide levels over the first week of life ( P < 0.05). Conclusion The suggested procedure appears feasible and effective in reducing peroxide contamination and optimizing PN integrity, representing a step toward integrating complete photoprotection of PN as the standard of care in preterm infants.
Journals
2025 EN
Yan Zhoumei · Traynor Victoria · Alananzeh Ibrahim
+1 more
ABSTRACT Background Difficulties in eating can profoundly influence the well‐being of those living with dementia. Previous research has shown that Spaced Retrieval and Montessori‐based interventions can enhance eating independence during meals and optimise nutritional health in people living with dementia in nursing homes. However, few studies examine the effects of these interventions on those living with dementia who follow western‐style eating etiquette. Aim This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the SPREMON (Spaced Retrieval and Montessori‐based activities) mealtime intervention on mealtime independence, mealtime engagement and affect (mood), and nutritional status among people living with dementia in a nursing home. Method This quasi‐experimental study will involve people with dementia living in nursing homes. The intervention consists of Spaced Retrieval and Montessori‐based activities designed to enhance eating procedural memory and eating motor skills over 7 weeks. Data will be collected pre‐intervention and post‐intervention and at 3‐month follow‐up. Depending on the distribution of the data, an ANOVA or Friedman test will be used to examine the differences in the means for mealtime independence, engagement and affect, and nutritional status over time. Discussion There is limited evidence of the impact of Spaced Retrieval and Montessori‐based activities in people living with dementia using western dining etiquette. This study bridges this knowledge gap and provides new knowledge about the effectiveness of such interventions to enhance mealtime independence and engagement and affect for people with dementia living in nursing homes. Trial Registration ANZCTR identifier: ACTRN12623001031651p
Journals
2025 EN
Ibrahim Sahardid Hussein · Nor Hilal Mohamed · Omar Ismael Ahmed
ABSTRACT Aim To evaluate the satisfaction of mothers in the puerperium with the quality of their inpatient stay and determine the associated factors. Design A cross‐sectional descriptive hospital‐based study. Methods The study was conducted from May to December 2022. We stratified major hospitals in the city based on location, bed capacity and service delivery and surveyed 611 inpatient mothers using a convenience sampling method. Pretested structured questionnaires adapted from similar literature were used. Respondents' characteristics were summarised descriptively. We used a t ‐test to examine the level of maternal satisfaction and multivariate logistic regression at a 5% ( p < 0.05) significant level to determine the associated factors. We employed the STROBE checklist for manuscript reporting. Results Three‐quarters (74.3%) of the mothers were satisfied with the quality of the inpatient stay. The item with the highest mean rating was ‘hospital choice’ ( M = 4.21, p = 0.002), while ‘attitudes of care providers’ ( M = 3.92, p < 0.001) remained the lowest, 5.00 being the maximum score. In multivariate analysis, marital status, educational level, monthly income, residence, frequency of visits and hospital ward were associated with decreased odds of satisfaction. On the contrary, fewer days in hospital (AOR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.03–2.43) were associated with increased odds of maternal satisfaction. Conclusion Mothers were satisfied with their inpatient stay. Mothers with no formal education and living in rural areas experience the lowest satisfaction with the quality of their inpatient stay. Other predictors include monthly income, frequency of visits and hospital ward. Nurses need to place more emphasis on providing a holistic care to mothers who are not formally educated and come from long distances for care, thereby enhancing overall satisfaction with the care they receive. Patient or Public Contribution The patients give viewpoints about the quality of their inpatient stay in the hospitals. Impact Little is known about maternal satisfaction in Somalia. Mothers were satisfied with the quality of their inpatient stay. The findings will provide valuable insights for hospital authorities and medical staff on maintaining a woman‐friendly care environment.