bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing through a longitudinal study of dietary habits among Romanian school children: effects of COVID-19 pandemic as well as of a school based educational program for promotion of healthy nutrition
Authors: Trandafir Anda-Valentina , Lotrean Lucia Maria 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The outbreak of COVID-19 has forced implementation of safety measures, leading to changes in people’s lives. This study investigated several dietary habits among Romanian children before and during the pandemic. Also, it assessed the effectiveness of an educational program promoting healthy diet and evaluated factors influencing certain eating habits.

Methods
A longitudinal study was conducted in schools. Students were assigned to Control and Intervention groups. Data were collected at baseline (T1) (October -November 2019, 880 children) and post-intervention (T2) (December 2020-February 2021, 484 students). 350 children participated in both assessments.

Results
Baseline measurements revealed inadequate consumptions of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and increased intake of soft drinks and sweets. At follow-up, the Intervention showed significant improvements on average intake of fruits and vegetables and in children eating ≥ 5 servings/day, compared to its baseline. Regarding self-perceptions on dietary habits during confinement, children from both groups reported healthier behaviors, with a significant decrease of comfort food. Compared to the Control group, Intervention increased its average intake of fruits and vegetables, consumed more ≥ 5 portions/day, reduced the number ≥ 2 cups/day of carbonated beverages and ≥ 3 portions/day of sweets. Age, gender, weight management, body mass index were associated with dietary habits at T1. Age, gender, Intervention group, weight management influenced eating patterns at T2. Eating behaviors at T1 influenced dietary habits at T2.

Conclusion
Our program demonstrated positive changes in students’ dietary habits, despite challenges of COVID-19. Results highlight the role of health education and emphasize the importance of integrating such programs consistently in schools.
Assessment of primary patency for femoropopliteal graft entrapment within the sartorius muscle
Authors: Rodgers Jeffrey , Brothers Thomas E. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Blind tunneling of subfascial femoropopliteal bypass grafts may result in inadvertent graft passage through the sartorius. The purpose of this study was to determine whether intramuscular passage of femoropopliteal bypass grafts affects primary patency.

Methods
Patients undergoing femoropopliteal bypass at a Veterans Administration hospital and associated university medical center over a recent 13-year period who also had postoperative cross-sectional imaging adequate to determine graft location were examined. Five-year primary patency of grafts circumferentially enveloped by the muscle was compared with that of both extramuscular subfascial grafts and subcutaneous grafts.

Results
370 femoropopliteal grafts were identified, among which 258 (70%) were subfascial. Vein grafts comprised 51% of the subfascial grafts, and 53% were inserted above the knee. Available postoperative imaging in 110 subfascial grafts demonstrated 74 (67%) to lie completely within the muscle at some point. Among imaged subfascial grafts, primary patency at five years for intramuscular grafts was not significantly worse than extramuscular grafts (P = 0.31). This remained true whether grafts were vein (P = 0.39) or prosthetic (P = 0.31) and whether grafts inserted to the above-knee (P = 0.43) or below-knee (P = 0.21) popliteal artery. Multivariable Cox regression revealed a significant relationship between use of vein grafts (P = 0.013), active smoking (P = 0.01), and hypertension (P = 0.041) and primary patency, but not intramuscular graft location (P = 0.31).

Conclusion
This study failed to demonstrate significantly inferior primary patency among subfascial femoropopliteal grafts tunneled intramuscularly. Larger studies may be required to adequately detect any differences in patency by muscular entrapment, especially among subgroups.
Olfaction and thyroid hormones in patients with subjective cognitive decline, non-amnestic and amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Nasserzare Sania , Lehrner Johann 
Published: September 2024

Summary
Background
Thyroid hormones may affect olfaction in different stages of cognitive impairment: subjective cognitive decline (SCD), non-amnestic (naMCI) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Additionally, biometric parameters, depression, and neuropsychological performance are considered as possible influencing factors.

Design and patients
A retrospective single-center data analysis was conducted during the observation period 2001–2023, with n = 495 (52.3% female) SCD, naMCI and aMCI subjects, aged ≥50 years, at the General Hospital of Vienna.

Measurements
The criterion olfactory function was objectively measured by Sniffin’ Sticks© odor identification and subjectively through the Assessment of Self-Reported Olfactory Functioning test. Serum thyroid hormone levels, mainly thyroid-stimulating hormone, as well as T3, T4, fT3, and fT4, were used to assess thyroid function. Statistical analyses using IBM SPSS® 29.0.0 covered adjusted multiple linear regression models with hierarchical blocks to predict olfactory performance considering β‑weights.

Results
Of the study participants, 4.2% had hypothyroidism and 2.4% had hyperthyroidism. The majority exhibited normal thyroid function. One third (33.5%; 95% confidence interval, CI 29.4–37.0%) were hyposmic. The results indicate no substantial association between thyroid and olfactory functions. Increasing age (β = 0.20), lower performance in the Neuropsychological Test Battery Vienna (NTBV) dimensions verbal memory (β = −0.33) and attention (β = −0.12) appear to be risk factors for lower olfaction. A discrepancy between subjective and objective olfaction was found.

Conclusion
Thyroid and olfactory functions had no substantial relationship. Higher fT4 correlated weakly with lower odor identification. Increasing age and decreased performance in two out of six NTBV dimensions are relevant prognostic factors for olfactory dysfunction.
Imported malaria in a non-endemic country: sixteen years of cases in a hospital in the South of Madrid, Spain
Authors: Antón-Berenguer Víctor , Cabrera-Rodrigo Irene , Valle-Borrego Beatriz , Ligero-López Jorge , Merino-Fernández Francisco J. , Gómez-de-Frutos Sara , Rubio José Miguel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Malaria keeps on being a serious global health threat, especially in many tropical countries, where it is endemic. Also in non-endemic countries, like Spain, malaria is an issue that requires attention due to the presence of imported cases.

Methods
This is a retrospective study, including all patients diagnosed with malaria at Severo Ochoa University Hospital from 2006 to 2022, being classified according to: (I) their type of stay in an endemic area as visiting friends and relatives (VFR), migrants of recent arrival (MRA), or tourism and business (T&B), and (II) the mode of presentation as microscopic (MM) or submicroscopic (SMM) malaria.

Results
In this study, 132 patients (23.7% of all suspected) were diagnosed with malaria. The PCR was the most sensitive technique (99.2%), followed by antigen detection (78.8%) and microscopy (75%), with Plasmodium falciparum being the predominant species (94.7%). VFR was the largest group infected with malaria (69.7%), mostly symptomatic (98.2%) and presenting MM (90.2%). Instead, MRA patients (25%) presented milder (47.4%) or no symptoms (31.6%) and higher cases of SMM (42.4%). Coinfection with another imported pathogen was present in 19 patients (14.4%), being MRA more frequently coinfected (30.3%)

Conclusion
This study shows the need for establishing systems for VFRs to attend pre-travel consultations to reduce malaria imported risk. In the case of MRA, screening for imported diseases should be conducted upon their arrival. Finally, we highlight two cases of co-infection with imported viruses, showing that presence of symptoms resembling malaria from another imported pathogen does not exclude malaria.
Melt processing of biodegradable poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)—a critical review
Authors: Barletta Massimiliano , Genovesi Annalisa , Desole Maria Pia , Gisario Annamaria 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This review paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the melt processing of polybutylene succinate (PBS) blends and composites. PBS, a biodegradable and eco-friendly thermoplastic polyester, has garnered significant interest in sustainable material research. The paper collates and examines a wide range of studies focusing on the processability, optimization of processing parameters, and resultant mechanical properties of PBS when processed through several extrusion techniques and by injection molding. Key parameters such as melt temperature, screw speed, and mold temperature are considered for their impact on the quality and performance of the final product. The review highlights advancements in processing technologies and material modifications that enhance PBS properties, making it a viable alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. Furthermore, challenges and limitations in the current processing techniques are discussed, offering insights into potential areas for future research. The synthesis of findings from various studies provides a holistic understanding of the state-of-the-art in PBS processing, aiming to guide further developments in the field of biodegradable polymers. Overall, this review underscores the importance of optimized melt processing techniques in maximizing the potential of PBS as a sustainable material in diverse applications.

Graphical abstract
Understanding drivers of changing flood dynamics for enhancing coastal community resilience: a participatory approach
Authors: Awah Lum Sonita , Nyam Yong Sebastian , Belle Johanes Amate , Orimoloye Israel Ropo 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIn recent decades, coastal communities globally have experienced increased frequency and intensity of flood hazards, especially in developing nations. An increase in flooding has often been attributed to population growth, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, rapid urbanization, and poor land use, often exacerbated by insufficient urban flood risk management policies. However, flood risk management is complex and necessitates an in-depth look at factors that drive changing flood dynamics in coastal cities. This study used a participatory approach to identify, categorize, and analyze drivers of change in the flood-prone city of Limbe, Cameroon, a major tourism hub and contributor to Cameroon’s GDP. The study engaged key stakeholders, including community members, government authorities, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations. The study led to the identification of 46 major drivers classified into six clusters. The study findings emphasized four key priority areas to enhance policy and community resilience: restoring natural buffer zones like wetlands, increasing local involvement in flood risk planning, implementing risk-informed land use regulations, and investing in flood infrastructures. To ensure effective flood risk management in Limbe, a collaborative bottom-up approach involving all stakeholders, especially marginalized community members, is necessary to tailor solutions that meet their needs.
Aerial dispersal of Venturia inaequalis ascospores with under-canopy sprinkler irrigation for apple scab management
Authors: Prodorutti Daniele , Vendrame Nadia , Coller Emanuela , Zardi Dino , Stensvand Arne , Philion Vincent , Pertot Ilaria 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Sprinkler irrigation systems can release ascospores of Venturia inaequalis, the cause of apple scab, from infected leaves on the ground under conditions unsuitable for infection, and thus reducing the primary inoculum. Under-canopy irrigation was carried out for two hours in the middle of the day over overwintered apple leaves heavily infected with scab, either in a wind-protected enclosure or in a wind-exposed orchard. Ascospores were captured with rotating-arm spore traps at heights ranging from 0.3 m to 3.0 m above the ground. Ascospores dispersed above the irrigated layer and were detected at all heights above the sprinklers. Wind played a critical role in spore transport, evident from the set-up where wind interference was minimised by a wind fence, resulting in higher airborne spore numbers across all measured heights compared with the orchard exposed to unrestricted wind conditions. Furthermore, vertical temperature gradients significantly correlated with spore distributions, particularly where negative gradients at heights between 0.3 m and 0.05 m and positive gradients at heights between 1.0 m and 0.3 m led to spore retention within the irrigated zone. The findings highlight that ascospores, dispersed above the irrigated layers, could settle on susceptible tissues. It thus becomes imperative to ensure a rain-free period of at least 24 h post-irrigation and, if a rainfall shortly occurs after irrigation, the application of curative fungicides becomes essential following unexpected rain. Reliable weather forecasts are therefore crucial in determining the effectiveness of under-canopy irrigation to reduce apple scab incidence.
Cooperation in Return-to-work Interventions for Common Mental Disorders: An Ideal Theory Analysis of Actors, Goals, and Ethical Obstacles
Authors: Hartvigsson Thomas , Sandman Lars , Bergström Gunnar , Brämberg Elisabeth Björk 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe rise in the number of people on sick leave for common mental disorders is a growing concern, both from a societal and individual perspective. One common suggestion to improve the return-to-work process is increased cooperation between the relevant parties, including at least the employer, the social insurance agency and health care. This suggestion is often made on the presumption that all parties share the common goal of reintegrating the patient-employee back into the workplace. In this paper we investigate this presumption by mapping out the ethical frameworks of these three key actors in any return-to-work process. We show that although the goals of these actors often, and to a large extent, overlap there are potential differences and tensions between their respective goals. Further, we emphasise that there may be other limitations to an actor’s participation in the process. In particular the health care system is required to respect patient autonomy and confidentiality. There is also an inherent tension in the dual roles of health care professionals as therapists and expert witnesses in work ability assessment. In conclusion, there are potential tensions between the key actors in the return-to-work process. These tensions need to be addressed in order to enable an increased cooperation between actors and to facilitate the development of a feasible plan of action for all parties, including the employee.
Dispersal, Adoption, Rejection: The Columbian Exchange and the West Pacific
Authors: Findley David Max , Hudson Mark J. , Schottenhammer Angela 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe study of historic ecological exchange is a multidisciplinary pursuit between paleoecology, history, and archaeology. This special collection and introduction explore ecological exchange between approximately 1500 and 1700 CE in the West Pacific, specifically in the Japanese and Philippine Archipelagos as well as littoral China. Rather than focusing exclusively on the introduction of exotic flora and fauna, the introduction and collection emphasize the dispersal, adoption, and—at times—rejection of imported species. In the process, the collection exhibits the array of techniques available to study past exchanges and the need for further research on this topic and region.
Gendered Relationship of Childbearing with Earnings Accumulated by Midlife in Two Nordic Welfare States
Authors: Nisén Jessica , Erlandsson Anni , Jalovaara Marika 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe Nordic welfare states are considered advanced in terms of gender equality, but even in these countries women still take longer family leave and have lower earnings than men. This study provides new insights by assessing the differences in accumulated midlife earnings associated with childbearing between women and men in Finland and Sweden. We pay particular attention to the size of the gender gap in accumulated earnings across groups. We hypothesize that the gender gap will be larger among those with a larger number of children, among those with a lower level of education, and overall in Finland. The study is based on complete population register data, with highly accurate measures of earnings over decades. Our results show that by the age of 44, women born in 1974–1975 in Finland and Sweden had earned on average 32% and 29% less than men, respectively. Childbearing strongly modifies the gender gap, especially in Finland, and the highly educated have moderately smaller gaps in both countries. Our results show that, even the Nordic welfare states, despite their strong policy emphasis on gender equality and their success in achieving high levels of female labor force participation, are far from closing the gender gap in earnings accumulated over the first half of the life course. Our results also suggest that governments seeking to achieve gender equality should be cautious about providing long family-related leave with flat-rate compensation.
Intraguild Predation or Spatial Separation? The efficacy and Interactions of Two Natural Enemy Species for the Biological Control of Pear Psyllid (Cacopsylla pyri)
Authors: Reeves Laura A. , Fountain Michelle T. , Garratt Michael P. D. , Senapathi Deepa 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPear psyllid (Cacopsylla pyri) is a persistent pest to the pear industry; with an estimated cost of £5 million per annum in the UK alone. This phloem feeding insect is resistant to a large proportion of approved pesticides, necessitating the use of alternative control strategies. Many pear growers practice integrated pest management (IPM) of pear psyllid, focusing on maximizing natural enemy populations, whilst minimizing the use of agrochemical sprays. The anthocorid Anthocoris nemoralis and the European earwig Forficula auricularia are particularly effective at controlling pear psyllid populations during the summer months. Despite the effectiveness of both natural enemies, there is a lack of understanding on whether both species should be promoted together or separately, due to the risk of intraguild predation (IGP) or interference competition. Furthermore, abiotic factors including temperature may influence both behaviors, altering activity level and niche overlap. Although IGP and interference competition have been documented between multiple species of natural enemies neither have been studied between these two specific predators. Using microcosm experiments, olfactometer assays and survival analyses this study demonstrated whether A. nemoralis and F. auricularia can be used in synchrony to control pear psyllid. Results indicated that IGP is present; F. auricularia will consume A. nemoralis when predators are not spatially separate and in absence of psyllid prey. There was no evidence for interference competition, although both predators consumed more prey at higher temperatures. This confirms that pear growers can encourage both predators for the control of pear psyllid without losing predation efficacy.
Identifying Facilitators and Barriers to Implementation of AI-Assisted Clinical Decision Support in an Electronic Health Record System
Authors: Finkelstein Joseph , Gabriel Aileen , Schmer Susanna , Truong Tuyet-Trinh , Dunn Andrew 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Recent advancements in computing have led to the development of artificial intelligence (AI) enabled healthcare technologies. AI-assisted clinical decision support (CDS) integrated into electronic health records (EHR) was demonstrated to have a significant potential to improve clinical care. With the rapid proliferation of AI-assisted CDS, came the realization that a lack of careful consideration of socio-technical issues surrounding the implementation and maintenance of these tools can result in unanticipated consequences, missed opportunities, and suboptimal uptake of these potentially useful technologies. The 48-h Discharge Prediction Tool (48DPT) is a new AI-assisted EHR CDS to facilitate discharge planning. This study aimed to methodologically assess the implementation of 48DPT and identify the barriers and facilitators of adoption and maintenance using the validated implementation science frameworks. The major dimensions of RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) and the constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) frameworks have been used to analyze interviews of 24 key stakeholders using 48DPT. The systematic assessment of the 48DPT implementation allowed us to describe facilitators and barriers to implementation such as lack of awareness, lack of accuracy and trust, limited accessibility, and transparency. Based on our evaluation, the factors that are crucial for the successful implementation of AI-assisted EHR CDS were identified. Future implementation efforts of AI-assisted EHR CDS should engage the key clinical stakeholders in the AI tool development from the very inception of the project, support transparency and explainability of the AI models, provide ongoing education and onboarding of the clinical users, and obtain continuous input from clinical staff on the CDS performance.
Navigating heme pathways: the breach of heme oxygenase and hemin in breast cancer
Authors: Consoli Valeria , Sorrenti Valeria , Gulisano Maria , Spampinato Mariarita , Vanella Luca 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Breast cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with diverse subtypes and complex molecular mechanisms underlying its development and progression. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in breast cancer research, with a focus on classification, molecular pathways, and the role of heme oxygenases (HO), heme metabolism implications, and therapeutic innovations. The classification of breast cancer subtypes based on molecular profiling has significantly improved diagnosis and treatment strategies, allowing for tailored approaches to patient care. Molecular studies have elucidated key signaling pathways and biomarkers implicated in breast cancer pathogenesis, shedding light on potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Notably, emerging evidence suggests a critical role for heme oxygenases, particularly HO-1, in breast cancer progression and therapeutic resistance, highlighting the importance of understanding heme metabolism in cancer biology. Furthermore, this review highlights recent advances in breast cancer therapy, including targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and novel drug delivery systems. Understanding the complex interplay between breast cancer subtypes, molecular pathways, and innovative therapeutic approaches is essential for improving patient outcomes and developing more effective treatment strategies in the fight against breast cancer.