bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New value chain Pentadesma nuts and butter from West Africa to international markets: Biological activities, health benefits, and physicochemical properties
Authors: Chabi Ifagbémi Bienvenue , Aïssi Midimahu Vahid , Zannou Oscar , Kpoclou Yénoukounmè E. , Ayegnon Bernolde Paul , Badoussi Marius Eric , Ballogou Vénérande Y. , Goksen Gulden , Mousavi Khaneghah Amin , Kayodé Adéchola P. Polycarpe 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe tallow or butter tree (Pentadesma butyracea Sabine) is a ligneous forest species of multipurpose use largely distributed in Sub‐Sahara Africa. Owing to the biological properties of different parts of the tree and physicochemical properties, as well as the numerous benefits of its fruits, research on P. butyracea products, especially kernels and butter, has now gained more interest. Thus, the scientific literature revealed that Pentadesma butter is a more promising product with good physical and technological characteristics. It is traditionally preferred in households for food, medicine, and cosmetic use. Apart from the fruits, all other parts of the butter tree are used by local communities in folk medicine. The existing studies indicated that P. butyracea contains valuable health‐promoting compounds such as phenolic compounds, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. P. butyracea and derived products have antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, antiplasmodial, antitumor, estrogenic, anti‐androgenic, and cholesterol‐regulative effects. Since studies on the biological properties of the tree parts, nutritional composition, and physicochemical properties of food products from the tree have been very limited, this review attempts to summarize some results from recent investigations. Our intention in the present review was to give an overview of the biological activities of plants and an account of the potential properties of Pentadesma products (pulp, kernels, and butter) and outline the way for future relevant research to improve their state of knowledge.
Sex‐ and age‐specific normative values of lower extremity muscle power in Italian community‐dwellers
Authors: Coelho‐Junior Helio Jose , Marzetti Emanuele , Picca Anna , Tosato Matteo , Calvani Riccardo , Landi Francesco 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundMuscle power is associated with health‐related parameters. Simple equations were validated to estimate lower extremity muscle power measures based on the time to complete the five‐repetition sit‐to‐stand test. The present study was conducted to provide lower extremity muscle power estimates and produce centile values in a large and relatively unselected population across a wide age spectrum.MethodsData were from the Longevity Check‐up 7+ (Lookup 7+) project, an ongoing initiative conducted in unconventional settings (e.g., exhibitions, shopping centres and health promotion campaigns) across Italy to foster adoption of healthy lifestyles. Absolute, relative, allometric and specific muscle power measures of the lower extremities were estimated using validated formulas. Cross‐sectional centile and normative values for muscle power measures from 18 to 81+ years were produced for the two sexes. Smoothed normative curves for men and women were constructed using the lambda–mu–sigma method.ResultsFrom 1 June 2015 to 31 October 2021, 13 515 participants were enrolled of whom 12 864 were eligible for the present study. Mean age was 55.9 years (standard deviation: 14.8 years; range: 18–98 years), and 7217 (56.%) were women. Absolute, relative, allometric and specific muscle power declined significantly with age. Specific patterns of decline were observed according to sex and muscle power parameter. Absolute muscle power peaked at 41–50 and 31–40 years in men and women, respectively. Afterwards, a decline rate of approximately 12% per decade was observed, regardless of sex. Relative muscle power showed the largest reduction with age, such that it was 40.6% and 46.4% smaller in men and women older than 80, respectively, compared with those aged 18–30 years. Age‐related changes in allometric and specific muscle power measures were similar between men and women.ConclusionsData from the Lookup 7+ project indicate that lower extremity muscle power estimated using simple equations is significantly associated with age. Sex‐specific patterns of decline in absolute and relative muscle power were observed with age. Allometric and specific muscle power declined at a similar rate in men and women.
Mediating role of systemic inflammation in the association between heavy metals exposure and periodontitis risk
Authors: Du Mi , Deng Ke , Cai Qingqing , Hu Shixian , Chen Yuntao , Xu Shulan , Tjakkes Geerten‐Has E. , Ge Shaohua , Ge Minghua , Li An 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundThis study evaluated the mediating role of systemic inflammation in the association between exposure to heavy metals and periodontitis in a nationwide sample of adults.MethodsPooled cross‐sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2009‐2014) were used (n = 8993). Periodontitis was defined by a full‐mouth examination and classified as no/mild and moderate/severe (mod/sev) groups. Blood and urinary heavy metal levels were investigated, including cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg). In addition, systemic inflammation was assessed using circulatory leukocyte counts and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels.ResultsMultivariable logistic regression analysis revealed the positive associations of blood and urinary levels of Cd and Pb with mod/sev periodontitis. In contrast,blood Hg levels did not show a significant association. The odds of having periodontitis were 1.233 and 1.311 times higher for each one‐unit increment in Ln‐transformed blood Cd (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.109–1.371) and Pb (95% CI: 1.170‐1.470), respectively. Mediation analysis suggested a 6.3% to 11.5% contribution of leucocyte counts in the association of blood Cd and Pb levels with periodontitis. Sensitivity analyses for urinary Cd levels yielded consistent mediating effects. However, no significant mediating effect of CRP was detected.ConclusionHigher exposures to Cd and Pb were positively associated with periodontitis risk. These associations might be partially mediated by the elevated levels of leukocytes rather than CRP. Further longitudinal studies are needed to elucidate the discordant results of the systemic inflammatory biomarkers.
Saponins from Chenopodium quinoa Willd. husks alleviated high‐fat‐diet‐induced hyperlipidemia via modulating the gut microbiota and multiple metabolic pathways
Authors: Yu Yuan , Ji Xueying , Song Linmeng , Cao Yuqing , Feng Jing , Zhang Ruoyu , Tao Feiyan , Zhang Fengxiang , Xue Peng 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundHyperlipidemia is characterized by abnormally elevated blood lipids. Quinoa saponins (QS) have multiple pharmacological activities, including antitumor, bactericidal and immune‐enhancing effects. However, the lipid‐lowering effect and mechanisms of QS in vivo have been scarcely reported.MethodsThe effect of QS against hyperlipidemia induced by high‐fat diet in rats was explored based on gut microbiota and serum non‐targeted metabolomics.ResultsThe study demonstrated that the supplementation of QS could reduce serum lipids, body weight, liver injury and inflammation. 16S rRNA sequencing demonstrated that QS mildly increased alpha‐diversity, altered the overall structure of intestinal flora, decreased the relative richness of Firmicutes, the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (P < 0.05) and increased the relative richness of Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Bifidobacterium, Roseburia and Coprococcus (P < 0.05). Simultaneously, metabolomics analysis showed that QS altered serum functional metabolites with respect to bile acid biosynthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, which were closely related to bile acid metabolism and fatty acid β‐oxidation. Furthermore, QS increased protein levels of farnesoid X receptor, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1, which were related to the screened metabolic pathways. Spearman correlation analysis showed that there was a correlation between gut microbiota and differential metabolites.ConclusionQS could prevent lipid metabolism disorders in hyperlipidemic rats, which may be closely associated with the regulation of the gut microbiota and multiple metabolic pathways. This study may provide new evidence for QS as natural active substances for the prevention of hyperlipidemia. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Lidocaine Spray for Acute Postsurgical Pain Control After Posterior Pharyngeal Flap Surgery
Authors: Zhou Dan , Wang Li‐Kuan , Wu Hai‐Yin , Xiong Guo‐Li , Yang Xu‐Dong 
Published: November 2023

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the use of lidocaine spray for acute postsurgical pain control after posterior pharyngeal flap surgery.MethodsFifty patients aged 4 to 14 years who were scheduled to undergo elective posterior pharyngeal flap surgery were randomized to receive 2.4% lidocaine spray (Group L) or an identical volume of placebo spray (Group C) on the surgical field at the end of the surgery. The primary outcome was the maximum postoperative pain score in the postanesthesia care unit.ResultsThe maximum pain score in Group L was significantly lower than that in Group C (p = 0.001). The incidence of moderate‐to‐severe pain in the postanesthesia care unit was significantly lower in Group L than that in Group C (p < 0.001). In the postanesthesia care unit, more patients in Group C were prescribed rescue analgesics (p < 0.001). The time to the first rescue analgesic was also significantly shorter in Group L (p < 0.001). The incidence and maximum score of emergence agitation were lower in Group L than in Group C. Compared with Group C, Group L showed earlier postoperative fluid intake (p = 0.001). Moreover, the score for parental satisfaction with pain control was higher in Group L than in Group C (p < 0.001).ConclusionsOur findings indicated that the use of 2.4% lidocaine aerosol spray on the surgical site at the end of the surgery could produce good analgesia for acute postoperative pain, reduce the incidence and severity of EA, and shorten the time to restore fluid intake.Level of Evidence2 Laryngoscope, 134:2438–2443, 2024
Association between Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss and the Risk of Cardio Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Park Minah , Jang Sung‐In , Hurh Kyungduk , Park Eun‐Cheol , Kim Seung Hoon 
Published: November 2023

ObjectivesThis study investigated the association between sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) and the risk of cardio‐cerebrovascular disease (CCVD) among older adults in South Korea.MethodsData from 38,426 patients in the Korean National Health Insurance Service‐Senior Cohort from 2002 to 2019 were collected. The risk of CCVD includes both stroke and acute myocardial infarction. Propensity score matching (1:1) was used to identify pairs of individuals with and without SSNHL (n = 19,213 for cases and controls). Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to analyze the associations between variables.ResultsPatients with SSNHL had a higher risk of CCVD (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11–1.24) compared to those without. The risk of CCVD was higher among those who experienced a stroke than those who did not (HR = 1.17 95% CI = 1.10–1.25). Compared to their matched controls, patients with SSNHL were 1.69 times (HR = 1.69 CI = 1.46–1.94) more likely to have CCVD during the first 12 months of the follow‐up period.ConclusionOlder patients with SSNHL are at an increased risk of CCVD. Hence, a more attentive approach featuring aggressive monitoring of patients with SSNHL is required to lessen their risk of CCVD.Level of Evidence3 Laryngoscope, 134:2372–2376, 2024
Effects of Economic Status on Changes in Social Networks and Mental Health after Using Hearing Aids
Authors: Han Sang‐Yoon , Kim Young Ho 
Published: November 2023

ObjectivesHearing impairment affects social networks and mental health. Hearing aids (HA) can improve these deficits. However, their effects might be affected by various factors such as economic status (ES). This study aimed to identify how ES could moderate the effects of HA on social networks, depressive mood, and cognition.MethodsA prospective cohort for new HA users was established and classified into two groups based on their ES: a low ES group (LES group) and a medium to high ES group (MHES group). Audiological examination, Lubben social network scale‐18 (LSNS‐18), Short form of Geriatric Depression Score, Mini‐Mental State Examination in the Korean version of the CERAD Assessment Packet, and surveys for satisfaction with HA were conducted before and at six months after wearing HA.ResultsPost‐HA application LSNS‐18 scores were not improved in the LES group whereas they revealed significant improvement in the MHES group (p = 0.003). The LES group showed lower LSNS‐18 score (p = 0.020) and its change (p = 0.042) than the MHES group. Additionally, patients with depressive moods in the MHES group showed better improvements than those in the LES group (p = 0.048). The effects of wearing HA on cognition and satisfaction with HA were not significantly different between the two groups.ConclusionsHA did not improve social relationships and depressive moods in the LES group. Comprehensive and multidirectional support as well as hearing rehabilitation may be important for patients with LES.Level of Evidence3 (Nonrandomized controlled cohort/follow‐up study) Laryngoscope, 134:2387–2394, 2024
Rural–urban otolaryngologic observational workforce analysis: The state of Nebraska
Authors: LaCrete Frantzlee , Ratnapradipa Kendra L. , Carlson Kristy , Lyden Elizabeth , Dowdall Jayme R. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo analyze the rural–urban access to otolaryngology (OHNS) care within the state of Nebraska.DesignCross‐sectional study.MethodsCounties in Nebraska were categorized into rural versus urban status based upon the 2013 National Center for Health Statistics urban–rural classification scheme with I indicating most urban and VI indicating most rural. The information on otolaryngologists was gathered utilizing the Health Professions Tracking System. Otolaryngologists were categorized based on the county of their primary and outreach clinic location(s). Travel burden was estimated using census tract centroid distance to the nearest clinic location, aggregated to county using weighted population means to determine the average county distance to the nearest otolaryngologist.ResultsNebraska is a state with a population of 1.8 million people unequally distributed across 76,824 square miles, with rural counties covering 2/3 of the land area. Nebraska has 78 primary OHNS clinics and 70 outreach OHNS clinics distributed across 93 counties. More than half (54.8%) of the counties in Nebraska lacked any OHNS clinic. Overall, a statistically significant difference was found when comparing mean primary OHNS per 100,000 population and mean miles to a primary OHNS clinic with Level III counties being 5.17 linear miles from primary OHNS compared to Level V counties being 29.94 linear miles.ConclusionOverall, a clear discrepancy between rural and urban primary OHNS clinics in Nebraska can be seen visually and statistically with rural Nebraskans having to travel at least 5.5 times farther to primary OHNS clinics when compared to urban Nebraskans.
Risk‐adjusted analysis of perioperative outcomes after the Sistrunk procedure
Authors: Wynings Erin M. , Wang Cynthia S. , Parsa Shyon , Johnson Romaine F. , Liu Christopher C. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractObjectivesThyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) is the most common pediatric congenital neck mass. The Sistrunk procedure is the standard method of excision and is associated with low rates of recurrence. This study aimed to review our institution's outcomes following the Sistrunk procedure, specifically the rates of wound complications and cyst recurrence.MethodsThis was a retrospective case series of pediatric patients undergoing the Sistrunk procedure from June 2009 to April 2021.ResultsA total of 273 patients were included. Of these, 139 (53%) patients were male and 181 (66%) were white. The average age at the time of surgery was 7.1 years. The overall cyst recurrence rate was 11%. The most common wound complications were seroma (14%) and surgical site infections (SSIs) (12%). Wound complications were associated with prior history of cyst infection (odds ratio [OR] 1.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–3.60, z‐test 2.2, p = .03). Pediatric surgery was associated with fewer wound complications (OR 0.18; 95% CI 0.05–0.6, z‐test −2.78, p = .005). However, pediatric surgery operated on fewer patients with a history of cyst infection (36% vs. 55%, p = .012). Drain placement and postoperative antibiotics did not affect rates of wound complications.ConclusionsPrior cyst infection is associated with increased rates of postoperative wound complications. Postoperative antibiotics and drain placement did not significantly affect complication rates.Level of Evidence4.
Size and transparency influence diel vertical migration patterns in copepods
Authors: Barth Alex , Johnson Rod , Stone Joshua 
Published: November 2023

AbstractDiel vertical migration (DVM) is a widespread phenomenon in aquatic environments. The primary hypothesis explaining DVM is the predation‐avoidance hypothesis, which suggests that zooplankton migrate to deeper waters to avoid detection during daylight. Copepods are the predominant mesozooplankton undergoing these migrations; however, they display massive morphological variation. Visual risk also depends on a copepod's morphology. In this study, we investigate hypotheses related to morphology and DVM: (H1) as size increases visual risk, increases in body size will increase DVM magnitude and (H2) if copepod transparency can reduce visual risk, increases in transparency will reduce DVM magnitude. In situ copepod images were collected across several cruises in the Sargasso Sea using an Underwater Vision Profiler 5. Copepod morphology was characterized from these images and a dimension reduction approach. Although in situ imaging offers challenges for quantifying mesozooplankton behavior, we introduce a robust method for quantifying DVM. The results show a clear relationship in which larger copepods have a larger DVM signal. Darker copepods also have a larger DVM signal, however, only among the largest group of copepods and not smaller ones. These findings highlight the complexity of copepod morphology and DVM behavior.
Bacillus‐based probiotic cleansers reduce the formation of dry biofilms on common hospital surfaces
Authors: Wormald Richard , Humphreys Paul N. , Charles Christopher J. , Rout Simon P. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIn the absence of liquid suspension, dry biofilms can form upon hard surfaces within a hospital environment, representing a healthcare‐associated infection risk. Probiotic cleansers using generally recognized as safe organisms, such as those of the Bacillus genus, represent a potential strategy for the reduction of dry biofilm bioburden. The mechanisms of action and efficacy of these cleaners are, however, poorly understood. To address this, a preventative dry biofilm assay was developed using steel, melamine, and ceramic surfaces to assess the ability of a commercially available Bacillus spp. based probiotic cleanser to reduce the surface bioburden of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Via this assay, phosphate‐buffered saline controls were able to generate dry biofilms within 7 days of incubation, with the application of the probiotic cleanser able to prevent >97.7% of dry biofilm formation across both pathogen analogs and surface types. Further to this, surfaces treated with the probiotic mixture alone also showed a reduction in dry biofilm across both pathogen and surface types. Confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging indicated that the probiotic bacteria were able to germinate and colonize surfaces, likely forming a protective layer upon these hard surfaces.
Cranial Nerve Thinning Distinguishes RFC1‐Related Disorder from Other Late‐Onset Ataxias
Authors: Lobo Camila C. , Wertheimer Guilherme S.O. , Schmitt Gabriel S. , Matos Paula C.A.A.P. , Rezende Thiago J.R. , Silva Joyce M. , Borba Fabrício C. , Lima Fabrício D. , Martinez Alberto R.M. , Barsottini Orlando G.P. , Pedroso José Luiz , Marques Wilson , França Marcondes C. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundRFC1‐related disorder (RFC1/CANVAS) shares clinical features with other late‐onset ataxias, such as spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) and multiple system atrophy cerebellar type (MSA‐C). Thinning of cranial nerves V (CNV) and VIII (CNVIII) has been reported in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of RFC1/CANVAS, but its specificity remains unclear.ObjectivesTo assess the usefulness of CNV and CNVIII thinning to differentiate RFC1/CANVAS from SCA and MSA‐C.MethodsSeventeen individuals with RFC1/CANVAS, 57 with SCA (types 2, 3 and 6), 11 with MSA‐C and 15 healthy controls were enrolled. The Balanced Fast Field Echo sequence was used for assessment of cranial nerves. Images were reviewed by a neuroradiologist, who classified these nerves as atrophic or normal, and subsequently the CNV was segmented manually by an experienced neurologist. Both assessments were blinded to patient and clinical data. Non‐parametric tests were used to assess between‐group comparisons.ResultsAtrophy of CNV and CNVIII, both alone and in combination, was significantly more frequent in the RFC1/CANVAS group than in healthy controls and all other ataxia groups. Atrophy of CNV had the highest sensitivity (82%) and combined CNV and CNVIII atrophy had the best specificity (92%) for diagnosing RFC1/CANVAS. In the quantitative analyses, CNV was significantly thinner in the RFC1/CANVAS group relative to all other groups. The cutoff CNV diameter that best identified RFC1/CANVAS was ≤2.2 mm (AUC = 0.91; sensitivity 88.2%, specificity 95.6%).ConclusionMRI evaluation of CNV and CNVIII using a dedicated sequence is an easy‐to‐use tool that helps to distinguish RFC1/CANVAS from SCA and MSA‐C.