bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Surgical and Functional Outcome of Laparoscopic Vaginal Suspension Combined with Suture Rectopexy for Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Abuelnasr Mohamed I. , Salama Ahmed M. F. , Nawar Ahmed M. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose Laparoscopic techniques to treat pelvic organ prolapse are gaining popularity around the globe due to their low recurrence rates and better functional results compared to perineal techniques. However, the optimum surgical procedures are not yet determined. In the current research, we suggest a novel surgical approach, laparoscopic vaginal suspension with suture rectopexy, to treat multiorgan pelvic prolapse.
Methods This prospective cohort trial was conducted from March 2018 to March 2022 and comprised 35 females with multiorgan pelvic organ prolapse with obstructed defecation symptoms. A residual rectal prolapse was still present despite the manual reduction of uterine prolapse. Patients' conditions before and after the operation were monitored regarding the obstructed defecation score, sexual function, need for laxatives, anorectal manometry pressures, anorectal sensations, and recurrence. The mean follow-up duration was one year.
Results Modified Longo score for obstructed defecation significantly decreased at six and twelve months after surgery. Additionally, a significant reduction was reported in the number of patients who needed laxatives at six and twelve months after surgery. Anorectal manometry pre- and post-surgery showed a significant elevation in the mean squeeze pressure and a decline in all rectal sensations. All parameters of the female sexual function scoring system increased postoperatively. No recurrence was reported during follow-up.
Conclusion For multiorgan pelvic prolapse, laparoscopic vaginal suspension combined with suture rectopexy has excellent functional outcomes, minimal morbidity, and low cost.
Efficacy of Three Remineralizing Agents on Erosion of Root Dentin by Cola Drink: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ratanachina Sirada , Pianmee Chawalid , Nantanapiboon Dusit , Poolthong Suchit 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of silver diamine fluoride (38% SDF), sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish, and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride (CPP-ACPF) on cola-eroded root dentin microhardness and mineral alteration in vitro.
Materials and Methods Forty human root dentin slabs were exposed to alternating 10 cycles of cola drink and artificial saliva, repeated 3 times at 6-hour intervals. Specimens were randomly assigned to four groups: control (deionized water), 38% SDF, NaF varnish, and CPP-ACPF. All specimens underwent the second erosion process. Microhardness was measured at baseline (KHN0), pretreatment (KHN1), and posttreatment (KHN2). The mean difference of microhardness (ΔKHN2-1) was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc tests (α = 0.05). The chemical composition and surface morphology were assessed using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Results All experimental groups exhibited dentinal tubule occlusion. Both 38% SDF and NaF varnish demonstrated a statistically significant increase in microhardness compared to CPP-ACPF. However, CPP-ACPF was comparable to the control group. EDS analysis showed an increase in weight percentage of fluorine in all groups. Furthermore, silver and chlorine were detected in the 38% SDF group.
Conclusion All treatments enhanced eroded root dentin microhardness, with 38% SDF and NaF varnish demonstrating superior acid resistance and preventing morphological changes induced by cola re-immersion.
A New Radiological Scoring System as a Method of Assessing Sclerotherapy Treatment Response for Aneurysmal Bone Cysts: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hussein Mohsin , Davies Mark , Hegde Ganesh , Azzopardi Christine , Patel Anish , James Steve , Botchu Rajesh 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background A widely accepted set of imaging criteria or classification has not yet been adopted to evaluate response to treatment by percutaneous sclerotherapy for aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC). In this article, we described and illustrated the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) scoring system which is a new, reproducible, and objective tool to evaluate the radiological response. We also reported our institutional experience in the efficacy of computed tomography (CT)-guided sclerotherapy for treating such lesions.
Patients and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted for 19 patients who underwent CT-guided sclerotherapy with doxycycline and albumin to treat ABC. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging, at a minimum of 12 months, was assessed according to the four ROH scoring system parameters: cystic component, fluid–fluid level, presence of consolidation, and cortical integrity. The cumulative score was used to grade response as either: excellent, good, equivocal, or poor.
Results Out of 19 patients with a mean age of 17.8 years, 11 cases occurred in the long bones, 5 cases in the pelvis, and 1 in each of the C3 vertebral body, scapula, and talus. The mean parameter of response score for cystic component was 2, fluid–fluid level was 1.3, consolidation was 2, and cortical integrity was 2.1. Four cases showed excellent response, 12 cases showed good response, 2 cases showed equivocal response, and 1 case showed poor response. Interrater reliability was excellent (κ = 0.9).
Conclusion The ROH scoring system provides the radiologist and surgeon with an objective method to score imaging parameters of response independently and achieve a grade based on the cumulative score.
Assessment of Carotid Plaque Enhancement on Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound as a Predictor for Severe Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Agarwal Vanshika , Sherwani Poonam , Chauhan Udit , Kumar Barun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background and Aim Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can reliably identify vulnerable plaques. As atherosclerosis is a systemic disease, we evaluated whether contrast enhancement of carotid plaque (CECP) can predict severe coronary artery disease (CAD) by comparing CECP in patients who have had acute coronary syndromes (ACS) recently with asymptomatic individuals.
Settings and Design This case–control study was done at a tertiary care center during 2022.
Materials and Methods Fourteen participants were recruited in each group, after screening in-patients for carotid plaques and inclusion and exclusion criteria. Those who had history of ACS were enrolled as cases, while those who did not were enrolled as controls. All these patients underwent grayscale, Doppler, and CEUS examination for characterization of the carotid plaque. For cases, findings on CEUS were also compared with the severity of CAD on catheter coronary angiography.
Statistical Analysis Diagnostic parameters including sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy were calculated and proportions were compared by using Fisher's exact test.
Results Eight out of 28 patients showed CECP. CECP and CAD were positively associated with p-Value of 0.033. Eighty-three percent patients with triple vessel disease and 50% patients with double vessel disease on coronary angiography showed CECP. Sensitivity and specificity of CECP for prediction of CAD were 50 and 92.9%, respectively.
Conclusion CECP on CEUS can predict CAD and is a more reliable indicator of severe CAD than plaque characteristics on grayscale and Doppler imaging; making it useful for screening of patients at risk of having CAD.
Women's Performance in Conferences and Their Publications: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Samartine Junior Hugo , Gracitelli Giovanna Bertazzola , Mazzini Lucas Rosasco , Silva Lauro Igor , Levy Nicole Goldenberg , Aquino José Luis Braga de , Mendes Elisa Teixeira 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction Gender inequality occurs in all spheres of society, which is no different in the medical field. Abstract presentations in congress are the vanguard of scientific knowledge, an integral part of topic discussion, and, ideally, culminate in the publication of these works as complete manuscripts.
Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the role played by women in the presentation of scientific works at the Brazilian Society of Coloproctology congress and in the works published from these presentations.
Methods The bibliometric evaluation of the presented abstracts in the editions from 2015 to 2018 of the Brazilian Congress of Coloproctology was used, along with the works later published from these presentations. Gender identification data was extracted from the authors of the abstracts through their names and research for conference on the Lattes and Google Scholar platforms. The collected data was on the number of female participants and their order of authorship of abstracts and publications, evaluating possible changes when publication occurs.
Results A total of 1,336 abstracts were analyzed, with 91.6% of female authors. When publication occurs, women's presence dropped to 75.2% and suffered a change of order in the position of authorship to one of lesser relevance in 38.1%.
Conclusion Women's participation occurs in most abstracts. However, this proportion undergoes unfavorable changes when these works are published, either by changing the order of authorship, when women leave main positions and become coauthors, or are removed from the complete manuscript's publication.
Pretherapeutic PSMA PET-Derived Semiquantitative Parameters as Predictors of PSA Response in Patients with mCRPC Receiving [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 Radioligand Therapy
Authors: Siripongsatian Dheeratama , Jantarato Attapon , Promteangtrong Chetsadaporn , Kunawudhi Anchisa , Kiatkittikul Peerapon , Boonkawin Natphimol , Yaset Sukanya , Somboon Sirinsuda , Chotipanich Chanisa 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective [177Lu]Lu-prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-617 radioligand therapy (RLT) shows promise for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients with positive PSMA positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Identifying high-risk patients is crucial. We evaluated pretherapeutic PSMA PET-derived parameters to predict prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response in patients undergoing [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 RLT.
Materials and Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis among 27 patients (mean age: 71.0 ± 9.5 years; range: 52–85 years) who underwent PSMA PET/computed tomography (CT) and subsequent [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 RLT between March 2019 and January 2023. After excluding patients with liver metastases, the number of patients left for analysis was 21 (14 responders and 7 nonresponders). Tumors were semiautomatically delineated with calculation of total tumor volume (PSMA-TV), lesion uptake (PSMA-TLU = PSMA-TV * standardized uptake value [SUV]mean), and lesion quotient (PSMA-TLQ = PSMA-TV/SUVmean) for each patient. Semiquantitative parameters were analyzed only in patients with mCRPC and no liver metastasis.
Results In total, 17/27 patients (62.96%) had a decline in PSA levels; 15/27 patients (55.56%) experienced a decline of > 50%. Pretherapeutic PSMA PET/CT results revealed significant differences in PSMA-TV (p = 0.003), PSMA-TLU (p = 0.013), and PSMA-TLQ (p = 0.011) between responders and nonresponders. SUVmax was significantly correlated to the best percentage change in PSA response after 177Lu-PSMA-617 treatment (r = −0.79, p = 0.006). No association was observed between PSMA-TV (p = 0.367), PSMA-TLU (p = 0.128), and PSMA-TLQ (p = 0.556), with the best percentage change in PSA response after 177Lu-PSMA-617 therapy.
Conclusion Pretherapeutic PSMA PET-derived PSMA-TV, PSMA-TLU, and PSMA-TLQ were significant negative predictors of PSA response in patients with mCRPC and no liver metastasis receiving [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 RLT.
Evaluation of Gynecologists‧ Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Oral Health Condition During Pregnancy in the City of Benghazi, Libya
Authors: Garoushi Ibrahim H. , Bayou Kheiria M. , Eldfeir Randah , Bengdara Asala , Abushiha Malak , Ali Nada Ben 
Published: February 2024

Background A pregnant woman with dental issues may not see a dentist unless her gynecologist advices her to do so. Thus, gynecologists need to be aware of the impact of dental health on pregnancy and what pregnant women need to do to improve their dental health.
Aim The aim of this study is to evaluate gynecologists' awareness, understanding, and practice regarding the impacts of dental therapy during pregnancy and the influence of dental disease on pregnancy outcomes.
Methods All the data in this cross-sectional study were acquired from gynecologists in public and private hospitals in Benghazi, Libya, over a period of 6 months during 2022. A modified structured questionnaire developed by Paneer et al consisting of 20 closed-ended questions related to oral care of pregnant patients was given to the participating gynecologists. Data obtained were presented as frequencies and percentages using the SPSS statistical package.
Results Sixty gynecologists, with ages ranging from 35 to 65 years, completed the questionnaire. The majority (81%) recognized that pregnancy increases the risk of gingival inflammation, but only 60% attributed this to hormonal changes. While 45% were aware of the impact of periodontal inflammation on pregnancy outcomes, only 38.3% knew about its association with preterm birth and low birth weight. Most participants (83%) considered dental referral important, and 81.7% believed oral cavity examination should be a part of maternal health, yet only 36% actually performed it. Ninety percent of the participants reported that they advise pregnant women on oral hygiene and routine checkups. Regarding safety, only 46.7% believed radiographs to be safe during pregnancy, and 51.7% considered local anesthesia with vasoconstriction safe. However, 95% agreed that the second and third trimesters are the safest period for dental treatment.
Conclusion The results of the current study show that gynecologists are fairly knowledgeable about the link between dental health and pregnancy. There is, however, unquestionably some miscomprehension about offering dental care to expectant mothers. Pregnant women and the medical community need access to more information, and misconceptions about suitable dental procedures during pregnancy must be addressed to improve oral health care.
MPIG6B Gene-Related Myelofibrosis: A Rare Inherited Disease That Is Frequently Described in Arab Population
Authors: Attar Leen Jihad , Alelaimat Almothana , Alshorman Alaa , Aladily Tariq N. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe megakaryocyte and platelet inhibitory receptor gene G6P (MPIG6B) is located on chromosome 6p21.33. It encodes G6b-B; an inhibitory receptor expressed on the surface of platelets. It regulates platelets production, aggregation, and activation. We describe a case of a 31-year-old man who presented with a long history of thrombocytopenia, anemia, and hepatosplenomegaly. The patient received multiple blood transfusions and his clinical course was stable. A bone marrow biopsy showed morphologic features similar to primary myelofibrosis. Whole exome sequencing study was performed and revealed homozygous pathogenic mutation in exon 2 of MPIG6B gene (c.324C > A, p.Cys108Ter) that is the second reported case in literature. In this report, we describe the main clinical and pathologic features of this disease and review the literature of previously documented cases.
Effect of Medial Opening Wedge and External Rotational Humeral Osteotomies on Medial Elbow Compartment Pressure: An Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Crystal Ed , Brettle Alice , Maddox Thomas W. , Jones Dan , Walton Myles Benjamin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to assess if the level of osteotomy (50 or 75% the length of the humerus), osteotomy angle (5, 10, or 20 degrees), direction of bone alteration (external rotational or medial opening wedge osteotomies), or orientation of osteotomy (perpendicular to the humeral long axis or perpendicular to the weight-bearing axis of the limb) affect pressure through the medial compartment of the elbow.
Study Design Humeral osteotomies were performed at 50 and 75% the length of the humerus on 12 canine cadaver thoracic limbs and patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) printed plates applied to induce the desired alteration. Sensors were placed into the medial and lateral aspects of the elbow joint and the limb compressed to 90 N in a universal testing system.
Results Increasing the angle of the induced change had a significant effect on the decreased load through the medial compartment. Performing the osteotomy at 75% of humeral length from proximal was significantly more effective at reducing the medial elbow load than performing it at 50%. Opening wedge osteotomies were more effective than external rotational osteotomies, but both were effective. Changing the direction of the osteotomy (comparing transverse to oblique) did not significantly affect the load reduction through the medial compartment.
Conclusion Performing an osteotomy at a more distal location along the humerus and increasing the angle of the induced change increased the effectiveness of load-shifting humeral osteotomies.
Performance dispersion among target date funds
Authors: Pavlova Ivelina , Hibbert Ann Marie 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThere are significant differences in the performance of Target Date Funds (TDFs) with the same target year. Using a unique dataset from Morningstar, we show that within the same target year, funds with lower than the average expense ratio, or higher than average allocation to equities, outperform similar funds. This outperformance exists across all target year groups and is economically meaningful. Furthermore, deviations in the equity allocation have a greater impact on performance than does expense ratio. Using bootstrap simulations to investigate the impact over a longer horizon, we show that deviations from the average allocations or expense ratios have a meaningful impact on the retirement savings of an average investor.
The regional powers research program: a new way forward
Authors: Prys-Hansen Miriam , Frazier Derrick 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis introduction to our special issue on Revisiting Regional Powers examines ways in which the study of regional powers can enhance our ability to understand the dynamic nature of the international system today. The article, first, summarizes and highlights how the study of regional powers remains relevant to the broader discipline of international relations but also indicates that there remains much to improve and investigate, for instance by more systematically including less traditional issue areas for regional power engagement, including the environment or public diplomacy, by integrating disciplines beyond IR, including sociological and linguistic approaches. In today’s shifting global order, researching regional powerhood is needed for a better understanding of the emergence of order(s); by highlighting, for example, less-than-global forms of cooperation and conflict, and their often-complex simultaneities. We highlight the need to investigate forms of power beyond increases in military and economic power, but also to expand the types of actors beyond the state that we consider taking on functions of regional powerhood.
The golden section in the art of ancient Greece: an anthropometric study of the young warrior of Riace
Authors: Putrino Alessandra , Raso Mario , Marinelli Enrico , Caputo Martina , Zaami Simona 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMore than half a century after their discovery in the Ionian Sea near Riace Marina (Italy, 1972 CE), the Riace Bronzes continue to fascinate and interest. They are a pair of statues most likely sculpted in Greece in the mid-5th century and are considered masterpieces of Classical Greek sculpture. Many studies have been conducted, yet there are no morphometric studies that delve into their facial features. The aim of this study is to determine dentofacial characteristics and the presence of golden ratios in the so-called “young-man” warrior statue, equipped with a silver foil to represent the upper teeth. The interpupillar, interalar, intercanthal distances and mesio-distal diameter of the upper central incisors were subjected to virtual photogrammetry (GIMP-GNU Image Manipulation Programme). The presence of vertical and horizontal golden ratios between different landmarks (intercanthal distance: centre of the nose; centre of pupils: base of nose: base of upper incisors; centre of pupil-base of nose: base of upper incisors-base of chin; centre of pupils- base of upper incisors: base of the chin) were analysed using a dedicated software (PhiMatrix). The face and teeth satisfy most of golden canons, as also corroborated by the one-way ANOVA-statistic test (p < 0.05) for repeated measurements by independent expert operators. The virtual golden facial grid should confirm an ovoid face, which should match the same dental shape. The statue design stems from the search for beauty as divine proportion, and a relatively small detail such as teeth seems to have been carefully programmed.
Using design thinking for interdisciplinary curriculum design and teaching: a case study in higher education
Authors: Wang Chia-Chi 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the utilization of design thinking by a university instructor in the development and delivery of an interdisciplinary curriculum. It examines the challenges encountered and the coping strategies employed during the process. The research, conducted as a case study of an interdisciplinary program course at a university in southern Taiwan from September to December 2022, involved data collection through field observations, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. All data were transcribed verbatim, coded, and triangulated to enhance research validity. The findings suggest that design thinking serves as an effective methodology for interdisciplinary curriculum design and teaching. It emphasizes the integration of practice and application to facilitate students’ interdisciplinary collaboration and co-creation. Additionally, the study evaluates teaching strategies, with a focus on the role of visual tools, communication, and on-site observation. The insights gained from this research provide valuable perspectives on challenges in interdisciplinary teaching, particularly in a post-pandemic context. They guided the development of effective practices in Taiwan and beyond, addressing crucial aspects such as the roles of instructors, resource allocation, and the cultivation of interdisciplinary talent. The study emphasizes the continuous need for adaptation and the prioritization of depth in learning outcomes.