bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Availability of Calcium, Iron, and Zinc from First‐Age Infant Formulae and Human Milk
Authors: Bosscher Douwina , Van Caillie‐Bertrand Micheline , Robberecht Harry , Van Dyck Kristien , Van Cauwenbergh Rudy , Deelstra Hendrik 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundVariation in the bioavailability of calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) occurs because of interactions of food components in the gastrointestinal microenvironment. Bioavailability is preferably determined by in vivo tests, but these are expensive, labor‐intensive, time consuming, and often unethical. As an alternative, in vitro methods can be used to predict bioavailability of nutrients from foodstuffs.MethodsA continuous‐flow dialysis model with preliminary intraluminal digestive phase, adapted to the gastrointestinal conditions of infants younger than 6 months, was used. Human milk was the reference standard. Ca, Fe, and Zn content of samples and dialysates after digestion were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry.ResultsCa availability is similar in human milk (13.1% ± 0.8%), whey (13.3% ± 1.2%), and soy‐based formulae (13.0% ± 1.2%;P > 0.05), and higher in casein‐predominant formula (21.2% ± 0.6%;P < 0.05). Availability of Fe is highest in human milk (8.12% ± 0.27%;P < 0.05). Fe availability in whey (1.28% ± 0.28%) and soy formulae (1.48% ± 0.28%) is similar (P > 0.05), but availability is lower in casein‐predominant formula (0.48% ± 0.22%;P < 0.05). Zn availability is also highest in human milk (13.1% ± 0.7%;P < 0.05). However, Zn availability is similar in whey (6.7% ± 0.6%) and casein formulae (8.5% ± 1.6%;P > 0.05), but lower in soy formula (2.3% ± 0.4%;P < 0.05).ConclusionsOur observations are in agreement with previous data from in vivo studies in term infants. This in vitro procedure is an inexpensive, simple, rapid, and reliable method that predicts the bioavailability of Ca, Fe, and Zn in foods.
A Prospective Study of Endoscopic Esophageal Variceal Ligation Using a Multiband Ligator
Authors: McKiernan Patrick J. , Beath Susan V. , Davison Suzanne M. 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundEndoscopic variceal band ligation (EVL) is the preferred method of treating variceal hemorrhage in adults. The need to reinsert the endoscope after reloading for each varix ligation has been a drawback. The Saeed multiband ligator allows ligation of multiple varices during a single insertion. The multibander has not been used previously in children.MethodsTwenty‐eight consecutive children were referred to a pediatric liver unit because of esophageal variceal bleeding from 1998 to 2000. Endoscopic variceal band ligation was performed at initial endoscopy and repeated monthly until varices were obliterated or were too small to ligate.ResultsResults are expressed as median (range). Age at EVL was 11 years (3 months to 16 years) and weight 30 kg (5.4–63 kg). Portal hypertension was caused by cirrhosis in 15 children. Endoscopic variceal band ligation was performed on 66 occasions with 4 bands applied per session. Ten children had active bleeding at initial endoscopy and all responded to EVL. Interval bleeding developed in 2 children before variceal ablation. Varices were obliterated in 26 of 28 patients after 2 sessions. During the 21‐month follow‐up (2 months to 3 years), six children have undergone elective liver transplantation and three have had mesoportal bypass procedures. Rebleeding developed in 2 of 26; 1 from recurrent esophageal varices that responded to repeat EVL and 1 from gastric varices. Following variceal ablation, 2‐year actuarial variceal recurrence risk was 40%.ConclusionsEndoscopic variceal ligation is highly effective in obliterating esophageal varices in children. The use of a multibander device for endoscopic variceal ligation is technically feasible and safe even in small children, and its use results in more rapid ablation of esophageal varices.
Total and Segmental Colonic Transit Time and Anorectal Manometry in Children With Chronic Idiopathic Constipation
Authors: Gutiérrez Carolina , Marco Alfredo , Nogales Angel , Tebar Roque 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundConstipation is a frequent symptom in pediatric clinical practice, although the underlying pathogenesis is not fully understood. Estimating the colonic transit time may help identify subgroups of patients with different physiopathologic mechanisms.MethodsThirty children with normal bowel habits and 38 children with chronic idiopathic constipation, aged 2 to 14 years, were studied. The total and segmental colonic transit times were estimated by administering multiple radiopaque markers for 6 days and performing a single abdominal radiograph on day 7. Anorectal function was evaluated using manometry with an Arhan probe.ResultsThe observed upper reference values were 19.02 hours for the right colon, 19 hours for the left colon, 32 hours for the rectosigmoid colon, and 45.7 hours for the total colon. Fifty percent of the children with chronic idiopathic constipation had colonic transit times within reference values, whereas 37% had left colonic and rectosigmoid delays and 13% had global delay in all colonic segments (colonic inertia). Paradoxic anal contraction was observed in 64% of the constipated children with distal delay but in none of the subjects with colonic inertia.ConclusionsEstimating colonic transit time is a simple and noninvasive technique for classifying patients with constipation. Colonic inertia may be a manifestation of global motility dysfunction. Children with delayed distal colonic transits are more likely to have abnormal defecation dynamics.
Ileal Cytokine Dysregulation in Experimental Necrotizing Enterocolitis Is Reduced by Epidermal Growth Factor
Authors: Halpern Melissa D. , Dominguez Jessica A. , Dvorakova Katerina , Holubec Hana , Williams Catherine S. , Meza Yolanda G. , Ruth Miriam C. , Dvorak Bohuslav 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundNecrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common gastrointestinal disease of premature infants. We have shown in previous studies that proinflammatory interleukin‐18 and interleukin‐12 are up‐regulated in the ileum of rats with experimental NEC and that epidermal growth factor (EGF) reduces the development of disease. Here we investigated whether the protective effects of EGF are a result of changes in ileal interleukin‐18, interleukin‐12 and/or antiinflammatory interleukin‐10.MethodsNewborn rats were artificially fed with either growth‐factor–free rat milk substitute (RMS) or RMS supplemented with 500 ng/mL EGF (RMS + EGF) and NEC was induced via exposure to asphyxia and cold stress. Cytokine expression and localization were assessed using reverse‐transcription real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistology/confocal microscopy.ResultsEnteral administration of EGF (RMS + EGF) decreased overproduction of interleukin‐18 and increased interleukin‐10 production in the ileum. Furthermore, increased interleukin‐10 production was associated with up‐regulation of the transcription factor Sp1 in RMS + EGF rats.ConclusionsThese data suggest that EGF may reduce NEC via increased interleukin‐10 and decreased interleukin‐18 and that EGF‐mediated up‐regulation of Sp1 may account for the increased interleukin‐10.
Probiotic Bacteria in the Management of Atopic Disease: Underscoring the Importance of Viability
Authors: Kirjavainen Pirkka V. , Salminen Seppo J. , Isolauri Erika 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of oral supplementation of viable and heat‐inactivated probiotic bacteria in the management of atopic disease and to observe their effects on the composition of the gut microbiota.MethodsThe study population included 35 infants with atopic eczema and allergy to cow's milk. At a mean age of 5.5 months, they were assigned in a randomized double‐blind manner to receive either extensively hydrolyzed whey formula (placebo group) or the same formula supplemented with viable (viable LGG group) or heat‐inactivated Lactobacillus GG (heat‐inactivated LGG group), respectively. The changes in symptoms were assessed by the SCORAD method and the presence of some predominant bacterial genera in the feces detected with 16S rRNA‐specific probes.ResultsThe treatment with heat‐inactivated LGG was associated with adverse gastrointestinal symptoms and diarrhea. Consequently, the recruitment of patients was stopped after the pilot phase. Within the study population, atopic eczema and subjective symptoms were significantly alleviated in all the groups; the SCORAD scores (interquartile range) decreased from 13 (range, 4–29) to 8 (range, 0–29) units in the placebo group, from 19 (range, 4–47) to 5 (range, 0–18) units in the viable LGG group, and from 15 (range, 0–29) to 7 (range, 0–26) units in the heat‐inactivated LGG group. The decrease in the SCORAD scores within the viable LGG group tended to be greater than within the placebo group. The treatments did not appear to affect the bacterial numbers within the genera enumerated.ConclusionsSupplementation of infant formulas with viable but not heat‐inactivated LGG is a potential approach for the management of atopic eczema and cow's milk allergy.
Bile Salt Export Pump Gene Mutations in Two Japanese Patients With Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis
Authors: Goto Kenji , Sugiyama Kohachiro , Sugiura Tokio , Ando Toshihiro , Mizutani Fumihiko , Terabe Koji , Ban Kyoko , Togari Hajime 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundIn recent years, progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis has been classified into at least three types by genetic analysis: PFIC1, PFIC2, and MDR3. Liver transplantation is effective for treating patients with this intractable syndrome. Confirming the correct diagnosis is of paramount importance because prognosis after transplantation differs with the genetic type of the disease.MethodsSynthesis of cDNA was accomplished using RNA extracted from liver tissue of two Japanese patients with progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis. Polymerase chain reaction was performed using 13 primer sets designed for amplification of the bile salt export pump cDNA. Direct sequencing was undertaken, and identified sequences were compared with the sequence for bile salt export pump gene registered with GenBank. In addition, gene sequences for nonprogressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis patients were analyzed.ResultsGenetic analysis of patient 1 revealed that substitutions in bile salt export pump protein sequences, namely R575X and E636G, might be the cause of the disease. In patient 2, V330X and R487H might fulfill the same role. Results of gene analysis in parents and cholestatic controls supported these conclusions.ConclusionsAbsence or presence of bile salt export protein gene mutations was confirmed as representing a useful prognostic marker for clinical course after liver transplantation.
Queering recovery: A proposed model for LGBTQ+‐affirmative relapse prevention
Authors: Chaney Michael P. , Mason Nathaniel 
Published: January 2024

AbstractProfessional counseling literature pertaining to substance use counseling for LGBTQ+ communities is scant. One such exclusion is relapse prevention for LGBTQ+ clients. To meet this gap, this paper explored LGBTQ+‐specific factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of substance use and the risk of relapse once in recovery. We extend Witkiewitz and Marlatt's Dynamic Model of Relapse by identifying and integrating examples of LGBTQ+‐specific tonic and phasic elements that influence relapse. Based on these postulations, an LGBTQ+‐affirmative model of relapse prevention is introduced. Implications for research and pedagogy are proposed.
Impact of early immunosuppression on pediatric liver transplant outcomes within 1 year
Authors: Raghu Vikram K. , Zhang Xingyu , Squires James E. , Eisenberg Elizabeth , Feldman Amy G. , Halma Jennifer , Peters Anna L. , Gonzalez‐Peralta Regino P. , Ng Vicky L. , Horslen Simon P. , Lobritto Steven J. , Bucuvalas John , Mazariegos George V. , Perito Emily R. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectivesThe Starzl Network for Excellence in Pediatric Transplantation identified optimizing immunosuppression (IS) as a priority practice improvement area for patients, families, and providers. We aimed to evaluate associations between clinical characteristics, early IS, and outcomes.MethodsWe analyzed pediatric liver transplant (LT) data from 2013 to 2018 in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and the Society of Pediatric Liver Transplantation (SPLIT) registries.ResultsWe included 2542 LT recipients in UNOS and 1590 in SPLIT. IS choice varied between centers with steroid induction and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) use each ranging from 0% to 100% across centers. Clinical characteristics associated with early IS choice were inconsistent between the two data sets. T‐cell depleting antibody use was associated with improved 1‐year graft (hazard ratio [HR] 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34−0.76) and patient (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.20−0.79) survival in UNOS but decreased 1‐year patient survival (HR 4.12, 95% CI 1.31−12.93) and increased acute rejection (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.07−2.34) in SPLIT. Non‐T‐cell depleting antibody use was not associated with differential risk of survival nor rejection. MMF use was associated with improved 1‐year graft survival (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.54−0.99) in UNOS only.ConclusionsVariation exists in center choice of early IS regimen. UNOS and SPLIT data provide conflicting associations between IS and outcomes in multivariable analysis. These results highlight the need for future multicenter collaborative work to identify evidence‐based IS best practices.
Three‐dimensional plasmonic substrate as surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) tool for the detection of trace chemicals
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Das Gautam 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA three‐dimensional (3D) plasmonic substrate was developed using gold nanorods (GNRs) onto a tapered fiber surface using optical tweezing. To determine the efficacy of the substrate, Raman spectra of two toxic chemicals Rhodamine 6G (R6G) and Crystal Violet (CV) were studied. The “dip and dry” method was used to adsorb the chemicals along the tapered fiber length. The minimum concentration detected for CV and R6G was 10−12 M. We have reported the characteristics and unique features of the manufactured substrate.
Highly complex liver resections: Exploring the boundaries of feasibility and safety
Authors: Pencovich Niv , Pery Ron , Eshkenazy Rony , Nachmany Ido 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIntroductionIn select clinical scenarios, advanced techniques for volume manipulation and vascular reconstruction are needed for complete hepatic tumor removal. These highly complex liver resections (HCLRs) entail a heightened risk of severe complications. Here, we describe the results of HCLR performed in a 3‐year time period.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis encompassing patients who underwent hepatic resections between June 15, 2020, and June 15, 2023. HCLR was defined according to previously established criteria, and included associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy. The outcomes of HCLR were compared to all non‐HCLR performed within the same time frame.ResultsAmong 167 hepatic resections, 26 were considered HCLR, and all were major resections. Five utilized total vascular exclusion, with venovenous bypass in three, and hypothermic liver perfusion in three. Five resections included vascular reconstructions, and one included hypothermic circulatory arrest for extraction of a tumor extending to the right atrium. Of the non‐HCLR, 38 (26.9%) were major, and 49 (34.7%) were performed laparoscopically. The rates of overall major postoperative complications were comparable between those who underwent HCLR versus non‐HCLR. HCLR was associated with increased rates of biliary complications, readmissions, and reoperation. However, no postoperative 90‐day mortality was documented within patients that underwent HCLR compared to two in the non‐HCLR group.ConclusionsIn expert hands, HCLR can be performed with acceptable complication profile, akin to that of major non‐HCLR. Those with questionable resectability should be referred to tertiary hepato–pancreato–biliary centers.
Comparison of 19G FNA Versus 22G FNB Needles for Endoscopic Ultrasound‐Guided Fine‐Needle Sampling of Subepithelial Tumors
Authors: Li Juan , Feng Jing , Gao Shan , Wang Wei , Huang Lihua , Yi Shanshan , Xu Haiyan , Ding Xiang Wu 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesTo compare the diagnostic efficiency of 19G fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and 22G fine‐needle biopsy (FNB) in endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided sampling for subepithelial tumors (SETs).MethodsThe data of patients with SETs who underwent 19G FNA or 22G FNB were reviewed retrospectively in two tertiary hospitals. Tissue cores were assessed by macroscopic on‐site evaluation (MOSE). Cytological or histological diagnosis were classified as definite, suspect, or no diagnosis.ResultsSeventy five patients (mean age: 55 years, 44 males) underwent 19G EUS‐FNA (31) or 22G EUS‐FNB (44). The overall diagnostic yield was 82.7%. The rate of definite cytological diagnoses was 9.7% (3/31) in 19G and 13.6% (6/44) in 22G group (x2 = 1.520, P = .468). In terms of MOSE, 19G needle, requiring only two punctures, achieved a higher good tissue core rate than 22G group (100.0% [31/31] versus 84.1% [37/44], x2 = 5.440, P = .020]). For histological diagnosis, the 19G group achieved higher definite rate than the 22G group, 93.6% (29/31) versus 65.9% (29/44) (x2 = 7.957, P = .019) on the first puncture, 90.3% (28/31) versus 63.6% (28/44) (x2 = 7.139, P = .028) on the second puncture, 96.8% (30/31) versus 70.5% (31/44) (x2 = 7.319, P = .026) on both the first and second punctures, and 96.8% (30/31) versus 72.7% (32/44) (x2 = 7.538, P = .023) on all three punctures.ConclusionsThe 19G EUS‐FNA requires only two punctures to achieve better tissue core quality by MOSE and yields a higher rate of histological diagnosis than 22G ProCore needle for SETs. The bigger 19G FNA needle seems to play an important role in the evaluation of SETs.
Depth‐dependent responses of the soil bacterial community under vegetation restoration in soil erosion areas of southern China
Authors: Wang Xiaopeng , Zhou Man , Wang He , Yue Hui , Zhang Yue , Jiang Fangshi , Ge Hongli , Huang Yanhe , Lin Jinshi 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSoil bacterial communities play a crucial role in the evaluation of soil ecosystem stability. Vegetation restoration is a key determinant of soil bacterial communities in areas affected by soil erosion. However, it remains unclear how the structure and diversity of soil bacterial communities vary with soil depth. In this study, we collected soil samples from 0 to 10 cm, 10 to 20 cm, 20 to 30 cm, and 30 to 40 cm depths in vegetation restoration sites located in typical soil erosion areas in China. We compared and analyzed the differences in bacterial community characteristics among different soil depths, using untreated areas as controls. Compared to the untreated areas, the abundance of soil bacteria in the 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm depths of the vegetation restoration sites increased by 1.63, 1.04, and 1.29 times, respectively. Furthermore, vegetation restoration enhanced soil bacterial diversity at the 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm depths. Soil organic carbon (OC) was the main explanatory factor (53.50%, p = 0.000) for the decrease in soil bacterial diversity with soil depth. Additionally, after vegetation restoration in soil erosion areas, the dominant bacterial community composition shifted from Chloroflexi to Actinobacteria at the 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm depths and to Proteobacteria at the 30–40 cm depth. The differences in soil bacterial communities among different soil depths were primarily driven by soil total nitrogen (TN) content, which explained up to 34.5% of the variation. In conclusion, in the subsequent management of vegetation restoration sites, increasing OC and TN content can enhance soil bacterial diversity, improve bacterial community composition, and ultimately enhance the stability of soil ecosystems.
An enhanced technique for friction stir welding of ceramic particle reinforced aluminium based metal matrix composites
Authors: Natarajan Paneerselvam , Tamilperuvalathan Sekar , Murugesan Vijayakumar , Govindasamy Kumaresan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis manuscript proposes an enhanced technique for the friction stir welding (FSW) of ceramic particle‐reinforced aluminium‐related metal matrix composites. The proposed technique is the joint implementation of both the Aquila Optimizer and Pelican Optimization Algorithm. This proposed method aims is to enhance the welding efficiency, quality, and overall performance of the weld joints. The test is conducted in an all‐purpose machine at cutting speeds that permit temperatures that are comparable to the FSW of stainless‐steel, aluminium alloys and copper. Reaction–diffusion studies are conducted to better understand the diffusion‐control process under tool wear, and the tool wear rate is determined by the length of the cutting tool's nose tip. Rotational speed at 10 mm/min is examined. SiC exhibits the highest performance of aluminium and stainless steel. As the fraction of SiC increases to 18%, the axial force and rotational speed of FSW also increase.
Cognitive Reserve in Parkinson's Disease without Dementia: β‐Amyloid and Metabolic Assessment
Authors: Fernández‐Rodríguez Beatriz , Rodríguez‐Rojas Rafael , Guida Pasqualina , Angulo‐Díaz‐Parreño Santiago , Trompeta Clara , Mata‐Marín David , Obeso Ignacio , Vela Lydia , Plaza de las Heras Isabel , Obeso José A. , Gasca‐Salas Carmen 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundCognitive reserve (CR) is the mismatch between preserved cognition and neuropathological damage. Amyloidopathy in Parkinson's disease (PD) could be associated with faster progression to dementia, but the putative protective effect of CR is unknown.ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of CR on β‐amyloid burden and brain metabolism in non‐demented PD subjects.MethodsParticipants with PD (n = 53) underwent a clinical evaluation, [18F]‐fluorodeoxyglucose and [18F]‐flutemetamol positron emission tomography magnetic resonances, and were classified according to CR. The metabolic pattern of 16 controls was compared to PD subjects.ResultsThe PD subjects showed hypometabolism mainly in the bilateral posterior cortex. Superior‐CR subjects (n = 22) exhibited better cognitive performance, increased amyloid burden, and higher metabolism in several right hemisphere areas compared to low‐medium‐CR subjects (n = 31).ConclusionsHigher CR in non‐demented PD is associated with better cognitive performance, which might reduce vulnerability to the effect of β‐amyloid. Whether superior CR leads to protection against metabolic deterioration, and predominantly right hemisphere involvement, deserves further exploration.
Mitigating vulnerabilities with social media: A cross‐national study of European disaster managers' practices
Authors: Torpan Sten , Hansson Sten , Orru Kati , Jukarainen Pirjo , Gabel Friedrich , Savadori Lucia , Meyer Sunniva F. , Schieffelers Abriel , Lovasz Gabriella , Rhinard Mark 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn this article, we provide an overview of the ways in which disaster managers in eight European countries use social media to mitigate people's vulnerability to hazards. Our document analysis and 95 expert interviews in Germany, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, Hungary, Finland, Norway, and Estonia revealed six distinct institutional social media practices that may reduce disaster vulnerability: sharing educational guidelines, informing and warning the public, identifying citizens' concerns, identifying missing persons, sharing guidelines during disaster, and organizing volunteers. We discuss how these practices could affect people's ability to access, understand, and react adequately to information about risks and hazards. Our findings can be used to improve guidelines for official crisis communication on social media and demonstrate the value of using social media in disaster risk reduction.