Total Period Research Articles

Incidence and clinical course of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome in patients admitted to university hospitals: 1-year prospective follow-up study.

Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) is characterized by chronic gastrointestinal symptoms that arise following an episode of infectious enteritis. The incidence rates vary, ranging from 5% to 32% and the risk factors are not well known. We aim to investigate the incidence and risk factors of PI-IBS in enteritis patients admitted to university hospitals in Korea. This multi-center prospective study was conducted in patients hospitalized for infectious enteritis. Each patient underwent 1 outpatient visit and 3 telephone surveys during the first year after discharge to determine if PI-IBS occurred within the follow-up period. In the 3-month survey, 7 out of 354 patients (2%) were diagnosed with PI-IBS, and after 1 year, only 1 patient met the criteria for IBS. No statistically significant difference was found between the PI-IBS group and the non-PI-IBS group in terms of age, sex, underlying diseases, medication history, gastrointestinal symptoms, enteritis location, causative strain, hospitalization and treatment periods, and laboratory findings. Female sex (P = 0.003), enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) infection (P = 0.044), and a longer total treatment period (P = 0.018) were independent risk factors for diarrhea lasting ≥ 3 months after enteritis. The incidence of PI-IBS in Korea was relatively low, and most cases improved over time. No risk factors associated with the development of PI-IBS were found. However, persistent diarrhea after enteritis was associated with female sex, EPEC infection, and severe or long-lasting enteritis. IBS symptoms may persist after severe enteritis but usually improve with time.

Optimal structural and functional assemblies in additive manufacturing using the African buffalo-inspired part segregation algorithm

In multilevel or additive production, reduction of the total manufacturing duration is crucial. This may be achieved by harmonizing assembly and production time and by simultaneous collaboration with component manufacturers, thus incurring fewer delays. Here, a novel approach, the African buffalo-inspired part segregation algorithm, is proposed for optimal structural and functional assemblies in additive manufacturing. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming model is developed to assess the near-term optimum criteria area and dispersed materials in a computational manufacturing context. The number of support substances, total production period and total assembly costs are reduced in the time-reduction approach. A specific swarm intelligence-part-based segregation strategy is used to choose the appropriate number of element assemblages, and a part division strategy that complies with the criteria for transverse effect, dimensions and elevations is applied. The proposed approach is evaluated for structures with conventional and free-form borders using two real-size three-dimensional representations. The results indicate that this method may reduce overall production time compared to the time spent constructing one component, under all investigated circumstances.

Comprehensive clinical evaluation of indirect and direct bonding techniques in orthodontic treatment: a single-centre, open-label, quasi-randomized controlled clinical trial.

Few prospective investigations have compared direct and indirect techniques through comprehensive and detailed clinical evaluations, considering the impact of all factors. This study aimed to compare and evaluate direct and indirect bonding methods at a single institution and to clarify the selection criteria for the bonding method. This single-centre, quasi-randomized controlled clinical trial included 153 patients who required fixed orthodontic treatment. They were randomly divided into indirect and direct binding groups by the project lead (K.K.), who was blinded to all clinical data, and performed the allocation using medical record numbers. The chair time for bracket bonding, discomfort during bracket bonding, oral hygiene after bonding, number of bracket failures, number of intentional bracket reattachments, post-treatment occlusal index, and total treatment time were assessed. Outcomes were compared using a two-sample t-test or Mann-Whitney U test (P < .05). Fifty-eight patients were included in the indirect bonding group (20 male, 38 female; mean age: 20.63 ± 5.69 years) and 66 (14 male, 52 female; mean age: 23.17 ± 8.83 years) in the direct bonding group. Compared to the direct bonding group, the indirect bonding group had shorter chair time (P < .001), a shorter total treatment period (P < .01), and a better final occlusal relationship (P < .001). The number of bracket detachments was higher (P < .001) in the indirect bonding group, but the number of intentional reattachments was lower (P < .001). Indirect bonding may improve the efficiency of orthodontic treatment. No harm was observed during the study. This trial was approved by the Ethics Review Committee of Okayama University (approval number: d10001), UMIN registration number 000022182.

Performance, nutrient digestibilities, and metabolic profiles of Holstein calves fed whole milk or milk replacer at two feeding levels.

The macronutrient composition of common milk replacers (MR) largely differs from bovine whole milk (WM). These differences are more nutritionally relevant when calves receive higher milk allowances. Therefore, the present study compared fresh WM with a conventional MR fed at 2 level of feeding allowances evaluating growth performance, apparent total-tract nutrient digestibilities, nitrogen (N) balance, and serum metabolite profiles in calves. Forty-eight newborn Holstein male calves (1.96 ± 0.99 d of age; 45.0 ± 4.37 kg BW) were blocked by arrival date and age. Calves in each block were then randomly assigned to the 4 treatments (n = 12/treatment): MR or WM at a high (9.0 L/d) or low feeding allowance (4.5 L/d) fed 3 times daily. Calves were weaned between wk 6 and 10 following the introduction of the starter feed in wk 6. The study ended 13 wk after the arrival at the facility. Blood and body weights were collected on arrival, and weekly thereafter. Total 24h-collection periods of feces and urine was performed at wk 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13. Remarkably, no interactions were observed between liquid feed and level of supply. Calves fed MR had higher ADG during the pre-weaning phase than to calves fed WM. However, calves fed WM had an increased growth rate post-weaning, resulting in no difference in BW at the end of the study. Calves fed WM had a higher apparent crude fat digestibility during the weaning period. Metabolic N efficiency, expressed as N balance relative to digestible N supply, was higher during the pre-weaning phase, but tended to be lower during the post-weaning phase for calves fed MR as compared with calves fed WM. In the pre-weaning period, serum glucose, BHB, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), total protein (TP), urea, albumin, globulin, triglyceride (TG), and cholesterol were influenced by liquid feed source. Carry-over effects of milk source on TG and TP were observed during the post-weaning period. As expected, calves fed a high-milk allowance showed better ADG at pre-weaning and were consistently heavier throughout the study than calves fed a low-milk allowance. Feeding a high-milk allowance did not negatively affect nutrient digestibility during the post-weaning phase. In the pre-weaning phase, milk allowance affected glucose and cholesterol metabolism, whereas TG, TP, albumin, and NEFA concentrations were affected during the post-weaning period. From a single oral dose of indigestible markers (Cr-EDTA, lactulose, and D-mannitol), calves fed a high-milk allowance showed greater urinary recovery of all markers after 6h of collection, but not after 24h. Calves fed a high-milk allowance had a higher proportion of days with lower fecal scores during the pre-weaning phase. In conclusion, the serum metabolite profiles of calves throughout the study were highly influenced by milk source. Higher milk allowance increased growth performance and had no adverse effects on starter feed intake or nutrient digestibility in the post-weaning phase. The multiple effects described for milk source and level of supply were overall independent, presenting no relevant interactions.

Effect of wheat cultivars, with varying resistance levels to Rhyzopertha dominica, on life history parameters of the ectoparasitoid wasp Anisopteramalus calandrae

The ectoparasitoid wasp Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), as a widely distributed ectoparasitoid wasp, can parasitize several Coleopteran insect pests such as the lesser grain borer Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera, Bostrichidae). In the current study, the plant-herbivore-parasitoid interactions with A. calandrae and R. dominica on six cultivars of wheat Triticum aestivum L. (Poals: Poaceae), including Aftab, Araz, Ghabos, Kalateh, Meraj, and Tirgan, were assessed. The largest egg and larval-pupal periods of R. dominica were observed on cultivars Tirgan and Aftab. Rhyzopertha dominica reared on cultivar Araz had the largest total developmental period. The highest oviposition period and fecundity of R. dominica were observed on cultivar Meraj. The pest had the brief life and the low fecundity duration on cultivar Tirgan. The longest developmental time of A. calandrae was observed on the cultivar Tirgan. The parasitic wasp lived longer on cultivar Ghabos. The developmental time of A. calandrae was positively affected by phenolic content of wheat cultivars. The fecundity and intrinsic rate of increase (r) of the parasitic wasp were significantly decreased by increasing the phenolic content of the cultivars. In general, the cultivar Meraj was sensitive, the cultivars Aftab and Kalateh were semi-resistant, and the cultivars Araz, Ghabos, and Tirgan were resistant to R. dominica. The cultivar Tirgan was found as an unsuitable host compared to others for performance of A. calandrae, while Aftab, Kalateh, Araz, and Meraj were suitable ones. Consequently, the use of cultivar Araz as a resistant host to R. dominica and the suitable cultivar to A. calandrae can be considered as an effective integrated management choice against the pest.

Stochastic behavior of green bond premiums

This paper aims to examine the stochastic behavior of green bond premiums that can characterize the benefits of green bonds. We propose a novel affine model of green bond pricing with mean-reverting interest rates and green bond premiums and a new model parameter estimation method using conventional and green bond prices to capture the stochastic behavior. Then, the model parameter estimation results demonstrate mean-reverting stochastic behavior for conventional bond yield and green bond premium using the US and EU green bond indexes for Corporate and three corporate bond indexes for intermediate, total, and long-term periods of the Bloomberg Fixed Income Indices from November 3, 2014 to December 11, 2020. Comparative statics using simulated green bond premiums show that green bond premiums orient toward negative values in nature. Moreover, the stochastic behavior of green bond premiums demonstrates that the greenness of green bonds has a downward effect on interest rates in COVID-19 and has a mitigating impact on liquidity risk in corporate bond markets. These results confirm the benefits of green bonds. Finally, the discussions secure the validity of the green bond pricing model by conducting econometric analyses of regime switching, principal component ones, and the GARCH (1,1) model.

Sclerotic lines around the radial tuberosity of the proximal radius in patients with atypical femoral fractures associated with long-term bisphosphonate use: a preliminary report

Purpose: Sclerotic lines have been detected at specific locations on the forearm and metaphysis of the lower extremities (femur and tibia) in some patients with atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) associated with long-term bisphosphonate (BP) use. Herein, we present our preliminary data relating to the factors associated with the occurrence of sclerotic lines in patients diagnosed with AFFs. Methods: We inspected the clinical charts of patients who were prescribed BPs at our institution between 2010 and 2020. Fifty-six patients were finally investigated, including patients with sclerotic line lesions at the radial tuberosity (21 patients), and those without any pathognomonic lesions on either radius on a simple radiograph (35 patients). Results: No significant between-group differences in basic demographic characteristics, bone mineral density, or the total period of BP administration were observed (p&gt;0.05). Multivariate analyses of the variables that exhibited significant between-group differences in the univariate analyses demonstrated that the time since the last BP administration at the time of AFF diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 0.441) and the concurrent presence of similar lines on the femur (OR, 36.00) were significantly associated with the presence of sclerotic lines on the proximal radius. The cutoff time after the last BP administration at the time of AFF diagnosis was 16.5 months, which may serve as a predictor for the development of a sclerotic line around the radial tuberosity.Conclusion: Sclerotic lines on the proximal radius were detected more frequently in patients who had been recently treated with a BP or had similar lines on the lower extremities.

Predicting and Explaining Customer Response to Upselling in Telecommunications: A Malaysian Case Study

This research explores the predictive capabilities of XGBoost (XGB) and Random Forest (RF) models for customer upsell responses, emphasizing the use of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques to gain insights. Initially trained without hyperparameter tuning, both models were later optimized using 5-fold cross-validation. While RF consistently achieved high accuracy (0.99), XGB exhibited lower accuracy (0.85) yet demonstrated superior precision and recall. Post-tuning, XGB maintained its competitive edge despite a slight decrease in ROC-AUC scores (0.76 and 0.75 versus RF's 0.67 and 0.72), indicating proficiency in classifying positive cases. XAI techniques complemented XGB’s prediction, revealing significant predictors such as inactive duration in days, race (Chinese), total communication count, age, and active period in days. Lesser predictive value was attributed to factors such as race (Indian), gender (female), and region (northern). While the feature importance plot provided a broad overview, it did not detail specific attribute relationships to predictions. To address this, a summary violin plot was employed to illustrate how feature importance varies with actual values, enhancing the understanding of each feature's impact. Results indicated that longer inactivity periods negatively influenced predictions, while non-Chinese ethnicity, higher communication frequency, and younger age were associated with positive outcomes. Dependence plots further elucidated these relationships, highlighting how older non-Chinese customers and those with shorter inactive periods and frequent communication were more likely to accept offers. Local explanations using Shapley's force plot and LIME offered deeper insights into specific instances. Overall, the study underscores the complementary use of XAI techniques to understand a model’s predictions.

Age–Stage, Two-Sex Life Table Analysis of Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae) Across Different Soybean Varieties

Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae) is an economically important pest of soybeans, significantly affecting their quality and market value. This study aims to evaluate the adaptability of R. pedestris to different soybean varieties and provide a foundation for selecting resistant varieties and developing effective integrated pest management strategies. Seven widely planted varieties (Beidou No. 3, Jiyu 47, Jiyu No. 80, Jiyu No. 90, Jiyu 203, Kangxianchong No. 6, and Kangxianchong 12) were selected for testing, and the developmental and population parameters of R. pedestris were measured using an age–stage, two-sex life table method. Notable differences were found in the developmental period, female longevity, and total preoviposition period (TPOP) of R. pedestris across diverse varieties. For those feeding on Kangxianchong 12, the nymph stage (14.73 ± 0.11 days), total longevity (37.35 ± 1.12 days), total female longevity (38.83 ± 1.80 days), and fecundity (38.86 ± 3.27 eggs per female) were all remarkably longer than on the other varieties. Additionally, the intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), net reproductive rate (R0), and average generation time (T) of R. pedestris varied significantly between soybean varieties. The lowest r (0.0789 ± 0.0075 per day) and λ (1.0821 ± 0.0081 per day) values were recorded for Kangxianchong No. 6, while the highest were for Jiyu 47 (r = 0.0933 ± 0.0070 per day, λ = 1.0978 ± 0.0076 per day). The R0 and T values for R. pedestris on Kangxianchong 12 (R0 = 16.33 ± 3.24 offspring per female, T = 31.18 ± 0.79 days) were remarkably higher than those of the other six varieties, suggesting that Kangxianchong 12 and Jiyu 47 are preferred hosts, whereas Kangxianchong No. 6 is less preferred. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing soybean cultivation and managing R. pedestris.

Investigations on Biology and Life Cycle of Pear Psylla, Cacopsylla pyricola Foerster

Pear psylla (Cacopsylla pyricola Foerster) is a significant pest of pear trees (Pyrus communis), causing extensive damage to pear orchards through feeding and the secretion of honeydew. A laboratory study was conducted at SKUAST - Kashmir to examine the biology and life cycle of Pear psylla, Cacopsylla pyricola Foerster under controlled conditions (32±2°C, 12:12 photoperiod, and 65±5 % RH). The results revealed that the incubation period lasted for 0.36 days. The insect undergone five nymphal instars, with a total nymphal period of 0.72 days. Adult psyllids exhibited a pre-oviposition period of 0.31 days, followed by an oviposition period of 1.34 days, with fecundity ranging from 400 to 650 eggs/female. Male psyllids lived slightly longer (62.55 days) than females (61.35 days). The study contributes valuable data for better understanding the biology of pear psylla, facilitating more effective pest management strategies in pear-growing regions.

Clinical Predictors of Mortality in People With Severe Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia

ObjectivesDementia significantly impacts quality of life, health care costs, and caregiver burden, being a leading cause of death among older adults. We investigated predictors of mortality in people with severe behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). DesignA multicentric longitudinal observational study was conducted, comprising clinical assessments at baseline and every 6 months for 3 years. Setting and ParticipantsPeople with severe BPSD (Neuropsychiatric Inventory, NPI ≥32) living at home. MethodsData on demographics and clinical characteristics were collected at baseline and during 6-monthly follow-ups over 3 years. The main outcome was mortality, documented over a total period of 4 years and analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. ResultsOf the 508 patients with dementia with severe BPSD, 165 (32.5%) died during the 4-year follow-up. Non-survivors were older (79.8 ± 7.7 vs 77.3 ± 8.0; P < .001), more likely to be male (58.8% vs 38.5%; P < .001), and had higher BPSD severity (NPI: 57.2 ± 20.2 vs 50.3 ± 17.9; P < .001), lower cognitive function according to the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) (13.5 ± 6.6 vs 16.4 ± 5.9; P < .001), and worse functional status according to the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study – Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADCS) (28.8 ± 16.4 vs 36.3 ± 17.2; P < .001) at baseline. Significant predictors of mortality included male sex (hazard ratio [HR], 2.03; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.46–2.82; P < .001), older age at diagnosis (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03–1.07; P < .001), higher NPI scores (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.01–1.02; P = .002), lower MMSE (HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.93–0.98; P = .001), lower ADCS (HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98–0.99; P = .015), and lower quality of life rated by proxy (HR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.95–0.99; P = .021). The use of antidepressants (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.48–0.98; P = .038) was associated with increased survival. Delusions (HR, 1.0; 95% CI, 1.03–1.12; P < .001), hallucinations (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02–1.11; P = .002), and agitation/aggression (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01–1.09; P = .021) were significantly linked to increased mortality. Conclusions and ImplicationsOlder age, male sex, severe BPSD, and lower cognitive and quality of life scores significantly predict increased mortality in patients with severe BPSD.

Quantitative Impact of Traditional Open Surgery and Minimally Invasive Surgery on Patients' First-Night Sleep Status in the Intensive Care Unit: Prospective Cohort Study.

The sleep status of patients in the surgical intensive care unit (ICU) significantly impacts their recoveries. However, the effects of surgical procedures on sleep are rarely studied. This study aimed to investigate quantitatively the impact of traditional open surgery (TOS) versus minimally invasive surgery (MIS) on patients' first-night sleep status in a surgical ICU. Patients transferred to the ICU after surgery were prospectively screened. The sleep status on the night of surgery was assessed by the patient- and nurse-completed Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ) and Huawei wearable sleep monitoring wristband. Surgical types and sleep parameters were analyzed. A total of 61 patients were enrolled. Compared to patients in the TOS group, patients in the MIS group had a higher nurse-RCSQ score (mean 60.9, SD 16.9 vs mean 51.2, SD 17.3; P=.03), self-RCSQ score (mean 58.6, SD 16.2 vs mean 49.5, SD 14.8; P=.03), and Huawei sleep score (mean 77.9, SD 4.5 vs mean 68.6, SD 11.1; P<.001). Quantitative sleep analysis of Huawei wearable data showed a longer total sleep period (mean 503.0, SD 91.4 vs mean 437.9, SD 144.0 min; P=.04), longer rapid eye movement sleep period (mean 81.0, 52.1 vs mean 55.8, SD 44.5 min; P=.047), and higher deep sleep continuity score (mean 56.4, SD 7.0 vs mean 47.5, SD 12.1; P=.001) in the MIS group. MIS, compared to TOS, contributed to higher sleep quality for patients in the ICU after surgery.

Influence of Nociception Level Monitor (NOL)-Guided Analgesic Delivery on Perioperative Course in Breast Surgeries: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer surgeries offer challenges in perioperative pain management, especially in the presence of inherent risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and postmastectomy pain syndrome (PMPS). Inappropriate opioid consumption was speculated as one of the reasons. Through this study, the influence of objective pain monitoring through a nociception level monitor (NOL) on perioperative course in breast surgeries was investigated. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective randomized study conducted at a regional hospital. Sixty female patients posted for breast cancer surgery were randomized equally into study and control groups. Both groups were monitored using BIS and NOL, but in the control group, the NOL monitor was blinded by a cover. Both groups received propofol and remifentanil through target-controlled infusions (TCIs) along with interpectoral, pectoserratus (PECS II), and superficial pectointercostal block. The primary outcome was intraoperative opioid consumption. Secondary outcomes were PONV, eligibility for discharge from the recovery room, and symptoms of PMPS after three months. Results: Two patients were excluded. The study group received significantly less remifentanil (0.9 mg in the study group vs. 1.35 mg in the control group, p = 0.033) and morphine (2.5 mg in study group vs. 5 mg in control group, p = 0.013). There was no difference in PMPS symptoms between the groups. The study group showed longer duration of inadequate analgesia (i.e., 7% vs. 10% of the total intraoperative period in control and study group, respectively, p = 0.008). There was no difference in time to eligibility for discharge from the recovery room between the groups. Conclusions: NOL monitor-guided analgesic delivery reduces intraoperative opioid consumption. No difference was demonstrated on PONV, eligibility for discharge from the recovery room, or PMPS symptoms.

Extreme rainfall in Dakar (Senegal): a case study for September 5, 2020

West African countries frequently experience extreme rainfall events during the monsoon season. On September 5, 2020, a significant event occurred in the Dakar region of Senegal with daily rainfall totals exceeding 90 mm, causing widespread flooding and displacing 1,000's of people. Despite the severity of this event, the physical mechanisms driving such extreme rainfall remain unexplored. This study aims to investigate the physical mechanisms associated with this event using multiple data sources, including satellite rainfall estimate products (GPM-IMERG, CHIRPS) and reanalysis data (ERA-5). By analyzing wind fields and mid-tropospheric moisture content from reanalysis data, we examined the synoptic-dynamic evolution of the atmosphere and the movement of the cyclonic vortex that transported moisture to the affected region, resulting in substantial rainfall measurements exceeding 100 mm. The analysis also revealed that a vortex over the ocean slowed down the vortex near Senegal, prolonging the rainfall over a total period of 10 h. Additionally, this study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of state-of-the-art satellite rainfall estimates, assessing their accuracy and reliability in capturing extreme rainfall events both spatially and at specific rainfall gauges situated in Dakar. This evaluation revealed that while satellite rainfall estimates are valuable, they tended to underestimate (up to 40%) the actual rainfall observed at the Dakar-Yoff station. Furthermore, extreme value analysis showed that there is a tendency to underestimate return levels for high-intensity events, with some cases showing underestimations by up to twice the actual values. Thus, this research advances our understanding of extreme rainfall events in West Africa and improves our knowledge of satellite-based rainfall estimates, contributing to future monitoring and preparedness. Furthermore, these findings highlight the importance of monitoring cyclonic systems associated with African Easterly Waves, contributing to a better understanding of extreme rainfall events in West Africa.

Dry-Cured Ham, 'Kraški Pršut', from Heavy Pig Production-A Pilot Study Focusing on the Effect of Ham Weight and Salting.

A pilot study was conducted with the aim of adapting the processing of "Kraški pršut", dry-cured ham, for thighs from heavy pigs. The focus was on the effect of ham weight and salting duration on the quality of dry-cured ham. From a pool of thighs harvested from heavy pigs, a total of 32 green hams were selected (from 16 carcasses) based on weight (two classes; L-lighter, H-heavier) and we used left and right ham for either the standard or a shortened salting phase. Salting duration consisted of phase 1 (7 days for all hams) and phase 2 (7 or 14 days for L, 10 or 17 days for H, in the case of shortened and standard salting, respectively). Equivalent conditions for all hams were maintained during the remaining phases, with a total maturation period of 18 months. The analysis focused on chemical, physical and rheological properties, sensory attributes, and consumer perceptions. The H hams had lower processing losses, resulting in higher moisture and water activity, lower salt content in internal biceps femoris muscle, and a softer texture (instrumental and sensory) than L hams. The salting duration mainly affected weight losses in the salting phase and, consequently, salt content, which was lower in the shortened salting phase, while no effects were observed on texture. The sensory panel perceived weight's effect on hardness, with L hams being perceived as harder, and salting's effect on sourness, with hams submitted to longer salting perceived as sourer than H hams. Consumer testing indicated a general preference for softer and less salty hams. Overall, the results show that the applied reduction in salting duration was not substantial, and future trials should explore further optimization in terms of salting and resting phases.

Effectiveness of the Music Therapy in Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Studies have not comprehensively examined key variables in music therapy (MT) interventions such as exposure time, session length, and frequency, particularly in relation to patients with dementia. This study investigated the effects of MT on cognitive function, depression, anxiety, behavior, and quality of life in individuals with dementia. Relevant articles published before April 23, 2023, were sourced from five databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of MT and standard care on the cognitive function, depression levels, anxiety levels, behaviors, and quality of life of individuals with dementia were included. The Reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the studies' methodological quality. Heterogeneity was quantifed using Q statistics from 2 tests and I2 statistics. Outcome analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, and the standardized mean difference (SMD), mean difference, and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. A total of 23 RCTs were included. Compared with the control group, patients who received MT had higher cognitive function, lower levels of depression, and lower levels of anxiety. Meta-regression analysis revealed that the total MT period, total number of MT sessions, weekly MT frequency, MT exposure time, and length of each MT session were associated with an improvement in cognitive function. However, no significant difference was observed in behaviors or quality of life. MT yielded improved cognitive function in individuals with dementia if the intervention spans at least 12 weeks, has at least 16 sessions, and has at least 8 hours of therapy.

Bionomics of Earhead Bug Leptocorisa acuta Thunberg (Coreidae: Hemiptera) Infesting Rice

Biology of rice earhead bug, Leptocorisa acuta (Thunberg) carried out at Laboratory of Department of Entomology, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat on rice (Gujarat Rice-11) during kharif-2023. Eggs were dark brown with an average length and breadth of 1.28±0.05 mm and 0.85±0.06 mm, respectively. The incubation period varied from 5 to 7 days with an average of 6.07±0.78 days and the average hatching percentage was 81.22±14.93 per cent. There were five nymphal instars in the life cycle of L. acuta. The average developmental periods of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth nymphal instars were 2.80±0.41, 1.67±0.55, 1.87±0.57, 2.83±0.53 and 4.23±0.63 days, respectively. The total nymphal period was an average of 13.77±0.86 days. The total developmental period (egg + nymph) was found to be an average of 19.83±1.39 days. The average adult period was 23.50±7.69 days. The average pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition periods lasted for 4.87±1.50, 9.03±3.36 and 15.63±3.20 days, respectively. The average longevity for male and female adults lasted for 17.47±2.83 and 29.53±3.91 days, respectively. The female laid an average of 53.96±31.90 eggs. The total life cycle from egg to adult was an average of 42.67±7.38 days.

Smoking behavior and the risks of tumor recurrence and progression in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Studies on the relationship of cigarette smoking with the risks of recurrence and progression of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) are inconsistent and prospective data are scarce. Therefore, we aimed to assess the association of smoking behavior with risks of NMIBC recurrence and progression. We used data of the prospective multi-center cohort study UroLife, including 1495 patients with NMIBC who reported information on smoking at 6 weeks post-diagnosis (baseline; reflecting present and pre-diagnosis). This included smoking status (also based on reporting 3 months post-diagnosis), intensity, duration, pack years, and time since smoking cessation, if applicable. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risks of first recurrence, multiple recurrences, and progression were computed using multivariable proportional hazards regression models. During a total median follow-up period of 4.6 years, 517 patients developed ≥1 recurrence and 163 had progression. Higher versus lowest categories of smoking intensities and pack years up to baseline were significantly associated with a higher risk of first recurrence. No significant linear associations were found, except for smoking intensity among BCG-treated patients (per 10 cigarettes/day increase: HR 1.23, 95%CI 1.02, 1.48). No associations for smoking status, duration, and time since cessation were observed. Analyses of multiple recurrence risk showed comparable results. Regarding progression risk, no consistent associations were found. In conclusion, heavier smoking was associated with higher recurrence risk, particularly among BCG-treated patients. This may be attributable to persistent damage through its carcinogenic compounds. Given the mixed results across different exposures, the effect of smoking behavior on NMIBC prognosis remains unclear.

Assessment of Biology and Fertility Life Table of Coccinella septempunctata Linnaeus Predating on Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi Kaltenbach

Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.), commonly known as the mustard aphid (Homoptera: Aphididae), is the most notorious, globally distributed, and obligatory ectoparasite of many field crop including rapeseed and mustard. An investigation was carried out to assess the biology and fertility life table of Coccinella septempunctata in Bio-control lab, Department of Entomology at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar following the standard protocol at the laboratory condition of temperature (T) 25±2°C, relative humidity (RH) 65±5% RH, and 16:8 light:dark (L:D). Biological studies revealed that Coccinella septempunctata (L.), predatoryfemale laying eggs either singly or in masses (546.90 eggs/female) were vibrant yellowand spindle shape with an incubation period of 3.50 days. Hatchability was 86.00±5.62 per cent. There were four grub instars followed by pre-pupal stage, mean grub duration of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th instar was 1.68±0.47, 3.18±0.60, 3.08±0.65 and 5.02±0.73 days. Total grub duration extended for 12.97±0.61 days. Larval survival was 74.44 per cent, followed by a pre-pupal period of 1.05±0.18 days and pupal duration of 5.93±0.86 days. Total grubs and pupal period were computed to be 18.90 ± 1.16 days with adult emergence 77.22 per cent. Total developmental period, from egg to adult was 23.45±1.20 days. Adult became darker in colour and have seven spots, three on each wing and one in the middle, near the head and act as predator to control mustard aphid. Females of beetle survived longer than the males with ovipositional period of 23.10 days and preponderance of female has been noticed with female: male ratio of 1.62: 1 in the study.

Appropriate Terminology for the Time Elapsed From Avulsion of a Permanent Tooth to Replantation: A Scoping Review and Delphi Consensus.

The prognosis of an avulsed permanent tooth depends on the time elapsed from injury to replantation in the injured socket. Wide variability exists in the terminologies used to describe this period. Hence, the aim of this study was to identify and categorize the terminologies related to this aspect of tooth avulsion, grade the explanations provided by the authors, and develop a consensus about the most appropriate terminology through a Delphi approach. This study involved a scoping review to identify and analyze the terminologies. It was performed according to PRISMA-ScR with a systematic search performed in PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, LILACS, and Web of Science. The terminologies were extracted, categorized, and evaluated for correctness. On the basis of the results of the review and expert group discussion, an ideal terminology was proposed. A Delphi study with 20 global experts in dental traumatology was conducted to develop a consensus for the proposed terminology and its description. A total of 92 studies were included. They were distributed into five categories according to the terminology used: (a) dry period alone, (b) total period with dry and/or wet times, (c) extra-alveolar period, (d) extraoral period, and (e) miscellaneous. The explanations provided were correct in 37.5% of the studies that used an extraoral period. In the Delphi study, the lowest scores were given to the term dry period. There was an agreement of 95% for the proposed terminology. A wide variation in terminologies was observed that could be distributed into five categories. The correctness of explanations was highest in the studies that described total periods with dry and wet times. The Delphi study revealed excellent agreement for the proposed term "total extra-alveolar period," with precise and clear recordings of both nonphysiologic (dry) periods and physiologic (wet) periods.