bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Formative research to understand food beliefs and practices relating to pregnancy on Kei Besar Island, Eastern Indonesia
Authors: Mogi Jessica Gloria , Premikha M , Gittelsohn Joel , Sanjaya Adhi , Nabila Ona , Prihartono Indira 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:Food-related beliefs and practices during pregnancy may contribute to the high prevalence of chronic energy deficiencies (CED) in Eastern Indonesia, particularly in Southeast Maluku regency, where 21.33% of pregnant women experience CED. Currently, little information on these issues is available. This study investigates food beliefs and practices related to pregnancy on Kei Besar Island in the Maluku province of Eastern Indonesia.
Methods:A qualitative study was conducted utilizing in-depth interviews, free lists, and pile sort exercises. Data collection was conducted in January 2023 and involved married pregnant women aged 18 and above (n=12), community health volunteers (n=2), and traditional healers (n=3) from 9 villages in Kei Besar District. All participants must be natives of Kei Besar Island, with community health volunteers and traditional healers being respective figures recommended by the local villagers.
Results:The need to avoid or minimize consumption of certain foods during pregnancy, such as some kinds of fish, chili and spicy food, soda, pineapples, octopus, squid, and ice was reported by more than one-third of all participants. Consumption of prescribed foods, such as cassava leaves, papaya, coconut water, rice during early pregnancies, moringa leaves, bananas, and katok leaves was reported by five or more participants. These food proscriptions and prescriptions were due to concerns about the risks of miscarriage, adverse effects on the fetus and mother, and complications during labor. Participants also reported other practices, such as eating for two during early pregnancy and reducing food intake in late pregnancy. We found that food beliefs have shaped the dietary patterns of most participants. However, they still consumed food recommended by community health volunteers and midwives.
Conclusions:Food beliefs are present and practiced in the Kei Besar community and may impact the nutritional status of women and their infants. Interventions should target training healthcare providers and community health volunteers to provide culturally appropriate health education that incorporates prescribed local ingredients and provides nutritionally adequate substitutes for the proscribed food items.
Trial Registration: Not applicable
Closing the gender gap: the flawed backwards approach
Authors: Chattopadhyay Soomrit , A VIVEKANAND , J Anjali 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This paper examines inadequate access to sanitation and healthcare for women in India from legal, policy and gender justice lenses. Despite India’s progress in closing gender gaps in bank account ownership and toilet access, deficits persist in provision of enclosed toilets and affordable healthcare for women. This violates constitutional rights and worsens public health outcomes. The paper introduces relevant social concerns and reviews academic literature on impacts of limited access on women’s health, safety, privacy and status. The methodology relies on secondary data analysis. Key findings highlight continued lags in healthcare and sanitation access for women compared to financial inclusion, indicating policy gaps. Recommendations encompass legal, regulatory and budgetary measures to fulfill the constitutional right to public health and sanitation for women in India. Bridging these gender gaps will have multiplier effects across education, livelihoods, maternal mortality reduction and gender equality as envisaged under the Sustainable Development Goals.
Interplay Between Strain and Charge in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Flexible Photovoltaics
Authors: Jo William , Park Ha Kyung , Yim Kanghoon , Lee Jiyoon , Cho Yunae , Jeong Inyoung , Shin Donghyeop , Gwak Jihye , Walsh Aron , Kim Kihwan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Flexible and lightweight Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin-film solar cells are promising for versatile applications, but there is limited understanding of stress-induced changes. In this study, the charge carrier generation and trapping behavior under mechanical stress was investigated using flexible CIGS thin-film solar cells with various alkali treatments. Surface current at the CIGS surface decreased by convex bending, which occurs less with the incorporation of alkali metals. The formation energy of the carrier generating defects increased in convex bending environments clarifying the degradation of the surface current. Moreover, alkali-related defects had lower formation energy than the intrinsic acceptors, mitigating current degradation in mechanical stress condition. The altered defect energy levels were attributed to the deformation of the crystal structure under bending states. This study provides insights into the mitigating of strain-induced charge degradation for enhancing the performance and robustness of flexible CIGS photovoltaic devices. Furthermore, direct atomic force microscopy-based probing techniques on bent material surfaces can contribute to the understanding of interplay between the strain and charge in other flexible optoelectronic devices.
Influence of single and tandem-submerged Arc Welding on ASTM A572 Gr.50 steels
Authors: Kumar Adapa Mahanth , Kumar Polamuri Sudheer , Kumar Perka Ashok , Kiran Degala Venkata , Arora Kanwer Singh , Venkaiah Nasina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Square butt joints were prepared using two different materials, Niobium (Type 1) and Vanadium (Type 2) micro-alloyed ASTM A 572 Gr.50 steels, employing both single wire submerged arc welding (SAW) and two-wire tandem submerged arc welding (SAW-T) processes, with a constant heat input per unit length of 2.5 kJ/mm maintained throughout the study. The weld profile, microstructure, and mechanical properties were analyzed for SAW and SAW-T processes. It was observed that the weld width, hardness, yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and impact toughness of the welds increased with SAW-T compared to SAW. Furthermore, a comparison was made between the two types of steel weld joints. Type 1 steel weld exhibited higher acicular ferrite, yield strength, and ultimate tensile strength due to the intra-granular nucleation of Niobium carbonitrides in austenite. In contrast, Type 2 steels displayed a higher percentage of elongation, hardness, and impact toughness at 25°C. At -20°C temperature, SAW-T welds show higher HAZ toughness than SAW welds. Also, Type 2 welds showed enhanced toughness in comparison to Type 1 welds by mitigating the pinning effect of precipitates.
δ 13 C, δ15 N, and δ 34 S for elucidating the terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems in Greece
Authors: Dotsika Elissavet , Poutouki Anastasia Electra , Kyropoulou Dafni , Karalis Petros 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In this study, we provide an extensive database of sulfur isotope values of samples from Greece, including those from plants and terrestrial and aquatic animals. This is the first study to examine sulfur isotopes in modern plants, animals, and fish bones (fresh and marine reservoirs) from Greece. The results show a clear offset in δ34S values between terrestrial and aquatic animals derived from dietary resources from marine or freshwater reservoirs. This δ34S offset and the clear difference between S-C-N isotopes permit the reconstruction of the dietary habits of domesticated herbivores and demonstrate differences in husbandry practices and animal movement. Additionally, the combination of sulfur and nitrogen values permits the reconstruction of the diet of omnivores, revealing the type of protein consumed. These isotopic data will provide an essential baseline for archaeological, ecological, and forensic studies.
Impact of Simulated Gastric Acid on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Vacuum-Formed Retainers: An In Vitro Study
Authors:   1.	Huda Alkawari,   2.	Laila Baidas,   3.	Areen Alyahya,   4.	Renad Alotaibi,   5. Eman Alshayea
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
A decrease in the oral pH levels may have detrimental effects on vacuum-formed retainers since an acidic oral environment could impact the mechanical and physical properties of these retainers. The present in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of simulated gastric acid at pH 4 and 1.2 on the surface microhardness, flexural strength, and color change of three different types of orthodontic retainer materials.
Methods
A total of 144 vacuum-formed commercially available retainer materials: copolyesters, polypropylene, and PET-G (n = 48/group) were evaluated. Each specimen was immersed in distilled water, and then the specimens were divided into two subgroups: those with a pH of 4 and those with a pH of 1.2. The microhardness test was performed using Innovatest, the flexural strength was evaluated by a universal testing machine, and the color change was analyzed using a spectrophotometer. The data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and paired t-tests at a significance value of P ≤ 0.05.
Results
Our findings indicated a significant decrease in flexural strength in all the experimental groups after immersion in pH 1.2 and 4 solutions (p-value = 0.000), with PET-G being the most affected material, followed by copolyester and polypropylene. Only two materials, copolyester, and PET-G, demonstrated a significant decrease in surface microhardness following immersion in a pH 4 solution (P = 0.001 and P = 0.025, respectively). The copolyester material exhibited the greatest degree of color alteration.
Conclusion
The study concluded that copolyester adversely affects flexural strength, surface microhardness, and color when subjected to immersion in simulated gastric acid. Therefore, care is recommended for patients diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Total laparoscopic radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma: preliminary experience of a single center
Authors: Du Yusheng , Wang Ji , Liu Li , Ma Hongqin , Zhao Wenxing , Li Ying 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background To describe our preliminary experience in the procedure of laparoscopic radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma and evaluate its feasibility, safety, and clinical effect.Methods Retrospectively summarized the 44 patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma who underwent laparoscopic surgery in our hospital from August 2019 to September 2023. Collected the clinical data of those patients, including 13 cases of Bismuth typeⅠ,17 cases of Bismuth type Ⅱ, 5 cases of Bismuth type Ⅲa, and 9 cases of Bismuth type Ⅲb.Results Laparoscopic radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma was ultimately performed in 38 (86.3%) patients, of the remaining patients, 3 patients required vascular reconstruction in order to complete radical surgery and thus convert to laparotomy, and other 3 patients underwent T-tube drainage only due to unresectable metastases. The median operation time was 285 min (range, 190–450). The median estimated blood loss was 360 mL (range, 260–1200). The length of postoperative stay was 14.3 ± 3.6 days. There was no death case during the perioperative period. The postoperative pathological examination showed negative microscopic margin (R0) in 39 cases, and positive microscopic margin (R1) in 2 cases. Postoperative complications occurred in 8 patients (18.1%), 4 cases (9.0%) of Grade I, 3 cases (6.8%) of Grade II, 1 case (2.2%) of Grade III, and no Grade Ⅳ complications. The median overall survival for patients who underwent radical R0 resection was 30.4 months (range, 5.3–43.6). The overall survival rate was 73.6% at 1 year, 61.2% at 2 years, and 40.1% at 3 years.Conclusion Total laparoscopic radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma is safe, feasible, and effective if performed by an experienced surgeon after accurate preoperative evaluation.
Impact of fermented wheat flour on the quality of dried white salted noodles: cooking, physicochemical, structural breakdown, microstructure and sensory evaluations
Authors: Lubowa Muhammad , Yeoh Shin-Yong , Fricher Viklawan , Moses Ojukwu , Easa Azhar Mat 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the physicochemical properties, cooking characteristics, structural breakdown, microstructure, and sensory qualities of dried white salted noodles with varying proportions of fermented wheat flour (FWF). The noodle formulations included 100% commercial wheat flour (100WF), 75% wheat flour with 25% FWF (75WF:25FWF), 50% of each (50WF:50FWF), and 25% wheat flour with 75% FWF (25WF:75FWF). Incorporating FWF reduced the optimum cooking time, cooking yield, pH and lightness values but increased the redness and yellowness values. Noodles with over 50% FWF exhibited greater cooking losses, increased breakability and lower textural and structural breakdown values. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed that noodles with over 50% FWF had a weakened gluten structure with larger, more irregular pores. In contrast, 75WF:25FWF maintained similar cooking performance and structural integrity as 100WF, both featuring a compact and dense gluten network with smaller pores, which not only required significant effort to break down but also contributed to superior cooking performance and excellent texture. Proximate composition analysis revealed that 75WF:25FWF had lower moisture and higher fibre content. Despite lower sensory scores, the textural differences were not significantly noticeable. Incorporating FWF could potentially enhance the nutritional value of noodles by increasing fibre content while maintaining acceptable cooking and textural qualities.
Intervention for impending pathological fractures at proximal femur is associated with lower mortality rates in patients with intermediate-to-high risk according to the Katagiri-New score
Authors: Nishimoto Toshiyuki , Shimizu Hirokazu , Matsuoka Masatake , Takahashi Daisuke , Shimizu Tomohiro , Iwasaki Norimasa , Soma Tamotsu , Hiraga Hiroaki , Iwata Akira 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Prophylactic intervention for impending pathological fractures (IF) is associated with improved survival in patients with long-bone metastasis. However, information regarding whether the tumor burden and/or physical status are associated with survival benefits of intervention for IF is lacking.
Methods
This multicenter retrospective study investigated 121 patients who underwent surgery for 63 impending and 58 complete metastatic fractures of the proximal femur between 2008 and 2023. After matching for age, sex, body mass index, and Katagiri-New score, 42 patients with IF were compared with 42 patients with complete pathological fractures. The 1-year mortality rate was considered the primary outcome, and was compared and stratified by risk based on the Katagiri-New score. The 1-year mortality rate was evaluated according to the surgical method in the subgroup analysis of patients with IF.
Results
The 1-year mortality rate was significantly lower in patients with IF with intermediate-to-high risk(p = 0.04), whereas no difference was observed in patients with low-to-high risk. IF was associated with a significantly higher rate of home discharge (p < 0.01) and improved post-operative ambulatory function (p = 0.07). The subgroup analysis of patients with IF revealed no difference in the survival rate between nailing and hemiarthroplasty.
Conclusion
Patients with intermediate-to-high risk IF based on the Katagiri-New score had a lower mortality rate than those who underwent surgery for pathological fractures. A higher rate of home discharge was observed in patients with IF. Based on the Katagiri-New score, survival benefits can be obtained from prophylactic intervention for IF of the proximal femur in patients with intermediate-to high-risk.
Transcrotal Incision Surgery: A Promising Approach for Stage I Testicular Malignant Germ Cell Tumors in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Lv Danni , He Min , Tang Yinbing , Fu Cangcang , Wang Jinhu , Ling Yun , Zhu Jihua 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of surgical intervention utilizing scrotal incision for the treatment of stage I testicular malignant germ cell tumors in pediatric patients.
Methods
A total of 47 pediatric patients diagnosed with stage I testicular malignant germ cell tumors, admitted to the children's hospital between January 2017 and December 2022, were included in this investigation. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical approach employed: scrotal incision group (15 cases) and inguinal incision group (32 cases). Various parameters including demographic information, operative duration, postoperative hospitalization, and occurrence of postoperative complications were collected and compared between the two groups.
Results
All 47 cases underwent successful surgical procedures. No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding age, weight, and tumor diameter (P > 0.05). Additionally, there were no significant disparities in operative duration and postoperative hospitalization between the scrotal incision and inguinal incision groups (P > 0.05). Postoperative AFP levels significantly decreased in both groups compared to preoperative levels (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in AFP levels between the two groups at each time point (P > 0.05). In terms of complications, one case in the scrotal incision group experienced incision dehiscence, while no perioperative complications occurred in the inguinal incision group. The disease-free survival rates were 13/15 and 29/32 for the scrotal incision group and inguinal incision group, respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
Scrotal incision surgery exhibits comparable clinical efficacy and prognosis to traditional inguinal incision surgery in the treatment of stage I malignant testicular germ cell tumors in pediatric patients. The procedure is simpler and associated with manageable complications, making it a valuable approach for clinical application.
Resistive index of central retinal artery, aortic arterial stiffness and OCTA correlated parameters in the early stage of Fabry disease
Authors: Rinaldi Michele , Chiosi Flavia , Passaro Maria Laura , Natale Francesco , Riccardo Alessia , D’Andrea Luca , Caiazza Martina , Rubino Marta , Monda Emanuele , Cennamo Gilda , Calabrò Francesco , Limongelli Giuseppe , Costagliola Ciro 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Fabry disease (FD) on retinal microvasculature using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), arterial stiffness, and the resistive index (RI) of the central retinal artery (CRA) in early disease stages.
Methods
Twenty-nine genetically confirmed FD patients and twenty-six healthy controls were enrolled. Vessel density (VD) values of the superficial, deep, and choriocapillaris plexuses (SCP, DCP, and CC) were measured via OCTA. CRA RI was studied using color Doppler and grayscale sonography, and aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed with the Complior method.
Results
CRA RI was significantly lower in the control group compared to the Fabry group (p < 0.001). Central VD was found to be significantly higher in the control group compared to the Fabry group in all the retinal layers (SCP (p < 0.001), DCP (p < 0.005), CC (p < 0.001)). PWV was significantly higher in the Fabry group than in the control group (p = 0.03).
Conclusions
Fabry disease patients demonstrate elevated arterial stiffness, increased CRA RI, and diminished retinal microvascular density compared to healthy controls, indicating early ocular damage. Continuous monitoring and targeted screening for organ impairment are crucial in FD management. Identifying biomarkers for assessing ocular vascular involvement and treatment response is imperative. Further research is needed.
A Non-Invasive Stem Cell Therapy Boosts Lymphopoiesis and Averts Age-Related Blood Diseases in Mice
Authors: Bryder David , Konturek-Ciesla Anna , Zhang Qinyu , Kharazi Shabnam 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation offers a cure for a variety of blood disorders, predominantly affecting the elderly; however, its application, especially in this demographic, is limited by treatment toxicity. In response, we developed a murine transplantation model based on low-intensity conditioning protocols using antibody-mediated HSC depletion. Initially, we identified significant age-related impediments to effective HSC engraftment. By optimizing HSC doses and non-toxic targeting methods, we could significantly enhance the long-term multilineage activity of the transplanted cells. We demonstrate that young HSCs, once transplanted, not only survive but thrive in aged hosts, dramatically improving hematopoietic output and ameliorating age-compromised lymphopoiesis. This culminated in a strategy that robustly mitigated disease progression in a genetic model of myelodysplastic syndrome. These results suggest that non-invasive HSC transplantation could fundamentally change the clinical management of age-associated hematological disorders, offering a novel, prophylactic tool to delay or even prevent their onset in elderly patients.
Esophagectomy versus Total Gastrectomy for Siewert Type II Esophagogastric Junction Adenocarcinoma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Süer Muhammed Salih , Akkapulu Nezih 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
The incidence of gastric adenocarcinoma is declining, while cases located in the proximal stomach are increasing. Surgery remains the primary curative treatment option for gastric cancer. Debate persists regarding the optimal surgical approach for Siewert type II esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma. This study aims to assess the outcomes of these surgical options based on real-world data, evaluating overall survival, mortality, anastomosis failure and complication rates.
Methods:
Between 2001 and 2021, 1015 patients underwent esophagectomy and total gastrectomy. After exclusions, 139 patients with Siewert type II adenocarcinoma were included.
Results:
Among 139 patients, the median age was 61.58 years, with a predominance of males. Total gastrectomy had a shorter hospital stay (p<0.01) and lower rates of anastomosis failure (p<0.001) and severe morbidity (p<0.05) compared to esophagectomy. Mortality rates at 30 and 90 days did not differ between the two groups. Tumor size was larger in the gastrectomy group (p<0.05). Locally advanced disease was predominant (89.2%). Overall five-year survival was 38.7%, with no significant difference between surgical approaches (p=0.891).
Conclusion:
This study demonstrates that total gastrectomy and esophagectomy offer similar overall survival rates for Siewert type II adenocarcinoma patients. Factors such as tumor size, severe morbidity, and stage 4a significantly impact survival. Locally advanced disease is associated with worse survival. Total gastrectomy and esophagectomy yield comparable overall survival rates in Siewert type II esophagogastric adenocarcinoma. Severe morbidity is a critical factor affecting survival and should be carefully considered when selecting the surgical approach.