bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Arterial Stiffness and Carotid Intima‐Media Thickness in Children Exposed to Smokeless Tobacco in Fetal Life
Authors: Nordenstam Felicia , Norman Mikael , Caidahl Kenneth , Wickström Ronny 
Published: January 2024

Background
Arterial stiffening and increased intima‐media thickness can be seen as early as childhood and are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events in adult life. The authors hypothesized that exposure to prenatal smokeless tobacco (Swedish snus) without additional nicotine exposure after the breastfeeding period would be associated with increased arterial stiffness and intima‐media thickening in preschool children.

Methods and Results

This was a longitudinal follow‐up cohort study of children aged 5 to 6 years exposed to high doses of nicotine in utero. Women exclusively using snus and unexposed controls were enrolled in early pregnancy (gestational age range, 6–12 weeks). Exposure data were collected during and after pregnancy with questionnaires from both groups. For this study, only children of women using >48 mg nicotine per day during their entire pregnancy were included in the exposure group. Outcomes were determined in 40 healthy children (21 exposed to snus in utero). Ultrasonography of the common carotid artery was used to determine carotid intima‐media thickness and calculate arterial stiffness index from the relationship between pulsatile changes in arterial diameter and arterial pressure. Children exposed to snus in fetal life had higher carotid stiffness (median 4.1 [interquartile range (IQR), 2.4–5] versus 2.9 [IQR, 2.1–3.5];
P
=0.014) than tobacco‐free controls. Carotid strain (relative diameter change) was lower in children exposed to snus (mean 16% [SD, 5.7%] versus 21% [SD, 6.6%]) than in controls (
P
=0.015). Carotid intima‐media thickness did not differ significantly between children exposed to snus and controls.

Conclusions
Exposure to snus during fetal life was associated with a stiffer carotid artery in preschool children.
Understanding “Strong Base Plan” (“Strong Base”) in China: Policy Interpretation Perspective
Authors: Li Jian , He Yunshu 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
On January 13, 2020, the Ministry of Education issued the “Opinions of the Ministry of Education on the Pilot Reform of Basic Subject Enrollment in some colleges and Universities” and selected 36 “double first-class” colleges and universities as the pilot, also known as the “Strong Base Plan” and it is positioned at recruitment selection and talent evaluation to explore the school-based characteristics of the top talent training mode of basic disciplines with new recruitment rules. The Strong Base Plan is the result of the selection and training of top innovative talents in basic disciplines. With the deepening of reform and opening, China has explored and practiced the college enrollment system for many times. To fully understand the particularity and universality of the policy of the Strong Base Plan, make it coordinate with other higher education enrollment policies, and jointly act on the selection and training of outstanding talents, is the key and difficult point of current research, and needs to be further explored.
Is FDI from China Goodfor Labour Productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa? A Panel Cointegration
Authors: Iheonu Chimere O. , Abia Basil , Okwoche Princewill , Ifelunini Innocent A. 
Published: January 2024

China’s political and economic engagement in Africa has increased over the last two decades, resulting in a significant increase in Chinese foreign direct investment (CFDI) into the region. In this study, the link between CFDI and the productivity of labour is investigated in 22 sub-Saharan African countries from 2003 to 2020. The study utilised panel cointegration techniques that are suitable in the absence of cross-sectional dependence and take stationarity and long-run relationships into consideration. The findings from the panel dynamic ordinary least squares (OLS) and the fully modified OLS revealed that CFDI is important for driving labour productivity in the long run. In the short run, however, the study finds no significant influence of CFDI on labour productivity. Further findings reveal that CFDI Granger causes labour productivity. Additionally, the study finds that capital per labour is a necessity for boosting the productivity of labour in the region. The study recommends that African countries strengthen investment promotion agencies that actively facilitate CFDI and also negotiate favourable trade and investment agreements with China that promote technology transfer and skills development. JEL Codes: C23, F21, J24
Validation of a Tamil Version of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire Using Rasch Analysis
Authors: Raman Kalpana , Siegert Richard J. , Bharatharaj Jaishankar , Krägeloh Christian U. 
Published: January 2024

Background: Various assessment tools that explore and assess mindfulness are available. Keeping in view both the origin of and the literature surrounding mindfulness assessment tools, this study aimed to evaluate the workability of one widely researched tool, the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), for establishing cross-cultural generalizability and utility in the Indian context. Methods: We recruited 303 adults over 18 with proficiency in the Tamil language and no history of significant neurological trauma and/or psychiatric history. They completed a version of the 39-item FFMQ, which we had translated into Tamil (FFMQ-T). The psychometric properties of this scale were tested using the Partial-Credit model of Rasch analysis. Results: Iterative Rasch analysis could not resolve consistent misfit of the Observe facet items. Using a subtest approach, a higher-order fit of the FFMQ-T could be achieved after the deletion of additional items from each of the remaining four facets. The resulting final model for the FFMQ-T questionnaire was a four-factor solution with 22 items. Conclusions: This study concluded the usability of the new 22-item FFMQ-T. These results are not dissimilar to the other versions in similar populations, such as the Hindi version of the FFMQ. The ordinal-to-interval conversion tables provided here ensure that the FFMQ-T can be used with enhanced precision and parametric statistics.
Quantitative Measurement of Buccal Cortical Bone Thickness in Infrazygomatic Crest Area at Different Alveolar Bone Heights and Insertion Angles of Infrazygomatic Crest Screws: A CBCT Study
Authors: Nazir Sheikh Zahid 
Published: January 2024

Introduction Skeletal anchorage devices for the efficient orthodontic treatment mechanics can be placed at various interradicular and extraradicular sites intra orally. However, their placement in the infrazygomatic crest area can broaden the horizon of orthodontic treatment. The bone thickness in the infrazygomatic crest (IZC) area can vary at different heights and insertion angles during the placement of IZC screws between maxillary second premolar and second molar region. Aims and objectives The purpose of our study was to evaluate the variation in bone thickness in the IZC area at different insertion angles along the mesiobuccal root of maxillary first molar and at different heights from the crest of the alveolar bone in the apical direction between maxillary second premolar and second molar region using cone beam computed tomography, so as to determine the best possible site where the bone thickness will be maximum that will suit to a particular size of IZC screw. Materials and Methods CBCT images of 50 subjects were analyzed by a single observer, the bone thickness in the IZC area was measured and interpreted at different heights from the alveolar crest in the apical direction, that is, 5 mm, 7 mm, 9 mm, 11 mm at six regions between maxillary second premolar and second molar. Bone thickness was also measured at different insertion angles ranging from 55º to 75º to occlusal plane of permanent maxillary first molar along its mesiobuccal root. Results The bone thickness in the IZC area was 4.5 mm–3.5 mm, when it was measured at different angles ranging from 55º to 75º to the occlusal plane of maxillary first molar along its mesiobuccal root with maximum bone thickness at 75° with a mean ± SD of 4.56 ± 1.4. Statistically significant differences in bone thickness were found between maxillary first and second molar on both right and left sides at different heights with maximum bone thickness at 11 mm apical from the alveolar crest with a mean ± SD of 2.03 ± 0.76 and 1.91 ± 0.88, respectively, and along the mesial root of maxillary second molar on right and left sides at 11 mm apical from the alveolar crest with a mean ± SD of 2.12 ± 0.80 and 1.95 ± 0.75, respectively. Conclusions The best site and safe zone for miniscrew insertion in IZC area is at 7 mm to 9 mm distance from the alveolar crest apically along the mesial root of maxillary second molar and at an angle of 55°–75º to the occlusal plane of maxillary first molar, so as to ensure the adequate stability of the miniscrew and without causing any damage to the adjacent anatomical structures.
Capital Dairy and Livestock: Buffalo Versus Cow Decision
Authors: Chaudhry Hassan Rauf , Abidin Syed Zain ul 
Published: January 2024

This case delves into the entrepreneurial journey of a dairy business owner, shedding light on the intricacies of the dairy industry within the Pakistani market. It provides a comprehensive overview of the dairy business’s value chain and delves into the life cycle of cattle used for milking. The case also offers insights into the operational aspects of managing a cattle farm and the requisite business systems. Emphasizing the vital components of cattle farm management and the evolving business landscape, it elucidates the crucial roles played by farm workers and the necessary systems for efficient management. Furthermore, the case furnishes valuable information regarding the economics of running a cattle farm, highlighting key cost factors such as food and overhead expenses. The revenue side of the business is intricately linked with the farm management practices, specifically focusing on the yield. The case concludes with the entrepreneur’s desire to reevaluate their business model, shifting from buffalo milk to the exploration of the dynamics involved in the cow milk business.
Granulomas in Pediatric Liver Biopsies: Single Center Experience
Authors: Shaheen Muhammad , Lei Guang-Sheng , Relich Ryan F. , Jarasvaraparn Chaowapong , Tolliver Kyla M. , Molleston Jean P. , González Iván A. 
Published: January 2024

Background: Granulomas in pediatric liver biopsies (GPLB) are rare with the largest pediatric cohort reported over 25 years ago. Methods: Single-center retrospective study of GPLB. Results: Seventeen liver biopsies from 16 patients with granulomas were identified (9 boys, 56%) with a median age of 13 years (range: 1–18) for which the most common indication was the presence of a nodule/mass (47%). Significant comorbidities were seen in 13 patients (81%) and included: liver transplant (25%), history of a neoplasm (25%), autoimmune hepatitis (6%), Crohn disease (6%), bipolar disorder (6%), severe combined immunodeficiency (6%), and sickle cell disease (6%). Eleven patients were taking multiple medications at the time of biopsy. Granulomas were more commonly pan-acinar (11 cases) followed by subcapsular (4 cases), portal (1 case), and periportal (1 case). Necrosis was seen in 10 cases (59%). GMS stain was positive in 2 cases for Histoplasma-like yeast; microbiological cultures were negative in all cases (no: 4). A 18S and 16S rRNA gene sequencing performed in 15 cases revealed only 1 with a pathogenic microorganism, Mycobacterium angelicum. Conclusion: In our experience, GPLB are heterogenous with only 3 cases having an identifiable infectious etiology and many of the remaining cases being associated to multiple medications, suggesting drug-induced liver injury as possible etiology.
The Battle Within: Unveiling the Psychological Struggles of Erectile Dysfunction—A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Kumar Pardeep , Malik Yogender Kumar , Ray Adwitiya , Sethi Sujata , Gupta Rajiv 
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) has a profound impact not only on sexual functioning but also on the well-being and self-esteem of an individual. Men with ED frequently encounter psychological distress in their relationships, including challenges in discussing ED, feelings of guilt, denial, depression, anger, decreased self-confidence, and self-esteem issues. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 60 participants with ED. Basic sociodemographic and clinical profile data were collected using a self-designed performa. The PGI General Well-Being Measure Scale (Hindi version) was used to assess the general well-being of the participants. The Stress Coping Behavior Scale (Hindi adaptation) was applied to measure stress-coping behavior in patients diagnosed with ED. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (Hindi version) was used to evaluate individual self-esteem. Results: Majority of the participants fell within the age range of 21 to 40 years. They were predominantly married, employed, with a graduate level of education, and belonged to the middle socioeconomic class. Majority of the individuals experiencing ED exhibited a moderate level of general well-being, a moderate level of self-esteem, and utilized both adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies. Conclusion: A proper and detailed understanding of the psychosocial impact of ED will facilitate holistic treatment and improve mental well-being and overall life satisfaction.
Reconceptualizing the Application of Infrahyoid Flap in the Era of Free Flaps in a Developing Country
Authors: Sami Abdus , Arora Sowrabh Kumar , Tyagi Amit , Mathew Nancy , Roshan Zohaib , Ahmad Rizwan 
Published: January 2024

Objective: To review our clinical experience with infrahyoid myocutaneous flap which is often overlooked in the reconstruction of small to medium-sized tongue, floor of mouth, lower alveolus and gingivobuccal sulcus primary defects. Method: A retrospective study of 12 patients of squamous cell carcinoma involving the tongue, floor of mouth, mandibular gingivobuccal sulcus and alveolus was done in patients who underwent infrahyoid flap as an alternative to free radial forearm flap. This study was conducted in the Tertiary Care Institute. The study included patients treated between March 2020 to May 2021. Patients with T4 and N3 disease, recurrence cases, post-radiation, and chemo-radiation cases who refused to participate in the study were excluded. Results: Out of 12 patients, two patients developed partial flap necrosis. One patient developed a hematoma under the flap and one patient had a neck suture gaping. Postoperative results were found to be phenomenal after one month in all patients. Conclusion: The infrahyoid flap is a dependable, less arduous, and economical option for small to medium-sized defects of the oral cavity. It can be advised as a possible substitute for free flap reconstruction, especially in a developing country where resources are limited.
Diabetes-induced male infertility: potential mechanisms and treatment options
Authors: Huang Runchun , Chen Jiawang , Guo Buyu , Jiang Chenjun , Sun Weiming 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMale infertility is a physiological phenomenon in which a man is unable to impregnate a fertile woman during a 12-month period of continuous, unprotected sexual intercourse. A growing body of clinical and epidemiological evidence indicates that the increasing incidence of male reproductive problems, especially infertility, shows a very similar trend to the incidence of diabetes within the same age range. In addition, a large number of previous in vivo and in vitro experiments have also suggested that the complex pathophysiological changes caused by diabetes may induce male infertility in multiple aspects, including hypothalamic-pituitary–gonadal axis dysfunction, spermatogenesis and maturation disorders, testicular interstitial cell damage erectile dysfunction. Based on the above related mechanisms, a large number of studies have focused on the potential therapeutic association between diabetes progression and infertility in patients with diabetes and infertility, providing important clues for the treatment of this population. In this paper, we summarized the research results of the effects of diabetes on male reproductive function in recent 5 years, elaborated the potential pathophysiological mechanisms of male infertility induced by diabetes, and reviewed and prospected the therapeutic measures.
rDNA and mtDNA analysis for the identification of genetic characters in the hybrid grouper derived from hybridization of Cromileptes altivelis (female) × Epinephelus lanceolatus (male)
Authors: Cao Liu , Chen Pan , Hou Xingrong , Ma Jun , Yang Ning , Lu Yan , Huang Hai 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Hybridization is a useful strategy to produce offspring with more desirable phenotypic characteristics than those of parents. The hybrid grouper derived from the cross of Cromileptes altivelis (♀, 2n = 48) with Epinephelus lanceolatus (♂, 2n = 48) exhibits improved growth compared with its female parent, which makes it valuable to aquaculture. However, the genetic traits of the hybrid grouper are poorly understood.

Results
The observations showed that the hybrid grouper was diploid (2n = 48) and displayed intermediate morphology with the parent's measurable characteristics. The ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) were characterized at molecular and phylogenetic level. High similarity and low genetic distance of 5S rDNA and mtDNA sequences between the hybrid grouper and C. altivelis showed that the hybrid grouper had a closer genetic relationship with female parents. The reconstructed phylogenetic tree based on COI gene and D-loop region of mtDNA recovered that mtDNA was maternally inherited in the hybrid grouper. Additionally, the DNA methylation level of 5S rDNA intergenic spacers (IGS) sequence was tested in here. The results showed that the DNA methylation status of the hybrid grouper was significantly lower than that of C. altivelis.

Conclusion
Results of this study provide important data on the genetic characteristics of the hybrid derived from the cross of C. altivelis and E. lanceolatus, and contribute the knowledge of both evolution and marine fish breeding.
Spatial and temporal characterization of the rich fraction of plastid DNA present in the nuclear genome of Moringa oleifera reveals unanticipated complexity in NUPTs´ formation
Authors: Marczuk-Rojas Juan Pablo , Álamo-Sierra Angélica María , Salmerón Antonio , Alcayde Alfredo , Isanbaev Viktor , Carretero-Paulet Lorenzo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Beyond the massive amounts of DNA and genes transferred from the protoorganelle genome to the nucleus during the endosymbiotic event that gave rise to the plastids, stretches of plastid DNA of varying size are still being copied and relocated to the nuclear genome in a process that is ongoing and does not result in the concomitant shrinking of the plastid genome. As a result, plant nuclear genomes feature small, but variable, fraction of their genomes of plastid origin, the so-called nuclear plastid DNA sequences (NUPTs). However, the mechanisms underlying the origin and fixation of NUPTs are not yet fully elucidated and research on the topic has been mostly focused on a limited number of species and of plastid DNA.

Results
Here, we leveraged a chromosome-scale version of the genome of the orphan crop Moringa oleifera, which features the largest fraction of plastid DNA in any plant nuclear genome known so far, to gain insights into the mechanisms of origin of NUPTs. For this purpose, we examined the chromosomal distribution and arrangement of NUPTs, we explicitly modeled and tested the correlation between their age and size distribution, we characterized their sites of origin at the chloroplast genome and their sites of insertion at the nuclear one, as well as we investigated their arrangement in clusters. We found a bimodal distribution of NUPT relative ages, which implies NUPTs in moringa were formed through two separate events. Furthermore, NUPTs from every event showed markedly distinctive features, suggesting they originated through distinct mechanisms.

Conclusions
Our results reveal an unanticipated complexity of the mechanisms at the origin of NUPTs and of the evolutionary forces behind their fixation and highlight moringa species as an exceptional model to assess the impact of plastid DNA in the evolution of the architecture and function of plant nuclear genomes.
Association of systemic immunity-inflammation index with metabolic syndrome in U.S. adult: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zeng Peng , Jiang Cheng , Liu Anbang , Yang Xinyuan , Lin Feng , Cheng Lingli 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a pathological condition characterized by the abnormal clustering of several metabolic components and has become a major public health concern. We aim to investigate the potential link of Systemic immunity-inflammation index (SII) on MetS and its components.

Methods and result
Weighted multivariable logistic regression was conducted to assess the relationship between SII and MetS and its components. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) model and threshold effect analysis were also performed. A total of 6,999 U.S. adults were enrolled. Multivariate model found that SII were positively associated with MetS (OR = 1.18;95CI%:1.07–1.30) and hypertension (OR = 1.22; 95CI%:1.12–1.34) in a dose-dependent manner. When SII was converted into a categorical variable, the risk of MetS increased by 36% and the risk of hypertension increased by 53% in the highest quantile of SIIs. The RCS model confirmed linear associations between SII and MetS, as well as a non-linear association between SII and certain components of MetS, including hypertension, hyperglycemia, low HDL, and hyperlipidemia. Meanwhile, the relationship between SII and hypertension presents a J-shaped curve with a threshold of 8.27, above which the risk of hypertension increases. Furthermore, in MetS and hypertension, age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and race were not significantly associated with this positive association based on subgroup analyses and interaction tests(p for interaction > 0.05).

Conclusions
The present study indicated that there was a higher SII association with an increased risk of MetS and hypertension in adults. However, further prospective cohort studies are required to establish a causal relationship between SII and MetS, as well as its components.