bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding Undernutrition among Pregnant Women in Rural Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study Using a Human-Centered Design Approach
Authors: Chea Nana , Groen Paul , Mengesha Mathe , Astatkie Ayalew , Spigt Mark 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
Undernutrition among pregnant women is a huge global public health problem affecting the health of the mothers and their (unborn) children. In Ethiopia, the problem persists at an excessively high level despite conventional interventions. This study employed a qualitative human-centered design for a better understanding of undernutrition among pregnant women in rural Ethiopia.
Methods
We conducted a phenomenological study in three districts of rural Ethiopia in 2022. Eighteen in-depth interviews and eight focus group discussions involving mothers and healthcare workers were conducted in two phases. Data were audio recorded, transcribed, translated, and thematic code analysis was supported by data analysis software, ATLAS.ti, version 7.0.92.
Result
Gender inequality, a decline in nutritional education at maternal health services and initiatives, and a resulting lack of nutritional knowledge, were identified as main causes of undernutrition among pregnant women in rural Ethiopia. The participants emphasized that the most effective approach to address undernutrition among pregnant women involves closing the current gap in nutritional knowledge and practices among pregnant women, husbands, and mothers-in-law. They also proposed enhancing nutritional education provided during maternal healthcare services and initiatives like the pregnant women forum. Moreover, they highlighted the importance of reducing gender inequalities to make a significant impact on this issue.
Conclusion
Mothers and healthcare workers identified key factors contributing to the persistently high prevalence of undernutrition among pregnant women. To address this issue, interventions should prioritize improving knowledge and addressing inequalities through collaboration across multiple sectors.
Extracellular Succinate Derived From Ectopic Milieu Drives Adhesion and Implantation Growth of Endometrial stromal cells via the SUCNR1 signal in endometriosis
Authors: Tian Qi , Ruan JingYao , Wang Yuning , Xiao Yinping , Cheng Qi , Chen Yun , Li Mingqing , Chang Kaikai , Yi Xiaofang 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
As a dual-function metabolite, succinate has emerged in cell function and plays a key signaling role in linking mitochondrial function to other cellular functions. Succinate accumulation in the cytoplasm is commonly associated with hypoxia in the microenvironment and immune cell activation. Meanwhile, extracellular succinate released into the microenvironment is considered an inflammatory alarm that can be sensed by its membrane receptor SUCNR1, boosts proinflammatory responses and acts akin to classical hormones and cytokines. Succinate has been reported to play an important role in inflammatory disease. It is worth exploring whether succinate can facilitate the progress of endometriosis (EMs), which is characterized by chronic inflammation and peritoneal adhesion.
Objective
To evaluate the main source and potential role of succinate in endometriosis, we mimics the ectopic milieu in vitro and in vivo. The molecular and functional effects of succinate on macrophages and peritoneal mesothelial cells in peritoneal cavity were assessed. The succinate/SUCNR1 signal acting on ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) was further explored in this study.
Methods
In this study, we used targeted organic acid metabolomics analysis and in vitro assay to assess whether there was an obvious accumulation of succinate in the peritoneal fluid of EMs patients and its correlated with disease severity, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the Endometriosis Fertility Index (EFI). Flow cytometry, Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), western-blot assay, and quantitative real-time PCR, and other molecular biology techniques were used for exploring the potential mechanisms.
Results
By mimicking the ectopic milieu, we constructed an in vitro co-culture system and found that M1 polarized macrophages and the peritoneal mesothelial cell line (HMrSV5) mainly released succinate into their microenvironment and activated the succinate receptor (SUCNR1) signal, which further polarizes macrophages and significantly enhances the invasive survival of ESCs, and the adhesion with peritoneum. We further investigated the pathological effect of extracellular succinate in vivo using xenograft mouse models of endometriosis.
Conclusions
Collectively, the succinate-SUCNR1 signal facilitates in creating the inflammatory nice and plays a vital role in EMs progression and peritoneal adhesion. Our work on the molecular mechanism of succinate accumulation and function will be helpful to elucidate the phenotypic mystery of pain and infertility in EMs.
Preparation of composite biomass briquette from a mixture of domestic solid waste and coconut husk with cow dung as a binder
Authors: Miller Dominic Luckee , Takase Mohammed 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Composite biomass briquette has been synthesized and characterized from a mixture of domestic solid waste and coconut husk using cow dung as a binder. A 170-litre metal drum was used as a kiln for feedstock pyrolysis. The feedstocks were subjected to SEM analysis and proximate analysis. Moreover, an Oxygen Parr Bomb Calorimeter was used to estimate the composite briquette's gross calorific value. Additionally, a LECO 932 CHNS elemental analyzer was utilized to determine the elemental composition of the composite biomass briquette. Subsequently, a Water boiling test was conducted to assess the suitability of the fuel compared to traditional charcoal observing the fuel burning rate, specific fuel consumption, ignition time, and thermal efficiency. The composite biomass briquettes had an optimal high heating value of 19.3 ± 0.1 MJ/kg, ash content of 7.4 ± 0.2%, and 512.03g/ m3 bulk density. The cow dung used as a binder demonstrated excellent lignin composition and adhesive properties. These properties complied with the specifications outlined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM E791-08) Standard. Based on the findings, further research is recommended to focus on gas emission analysis and comprehensive ultimate analysis of composite biomass briquettes.
A bidirectional causality between type 2 diabetes and hypertension in Korean general population: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Jeon Jooeun , Jung Keum Ji , Kimm Heejin , Lee Ji-young , Nam Chung-Mo , Jee Sun Ha 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
We deeply validated if the bidirectional causality between type 2 diabetes and hypertension is concordance with a previous Europian study in Korean large biobank. Five MR methods were applied using the weighted genetic risk score from 91 and 68 variants extracted from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) of the large Korean biobank (p-value <1.0×10-8), including a 2-stage least squares (2SLS) regression method, inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method, 2 median-based methods (simple and weighted) and MR-Egger were used to assess the bidirectional causal association between fasting blood sugar (FBS) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the Korean population. Using the 2SLS regression method, we showed that FBS genetically 0.5 mmol/L elevation caused an increased 1.63 mm/Hg SBP (p=0.0070), and genetically determined 10 mm/Hg elevation of SBP caused an increased 0.63 mmol/L FBS (p<0.0001). That bidirectional causal relationship was particularly strong among men. Under the other four methods, bidirectional causality was found also, and there was no horizontal pleiotropy The bidirectional causality different from previous studies between type 2 diabetes and hypertension was proved in the Asian general population, and. The underlying detailed mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
Spectral properties of bursts in therapeutic burst suppression predict successful treatment of refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Gollwitzer Stephanie , Hopfengärtner Rüdiger , Rampp Stefan , Welte Tamara , Madžar Dominik , Lang Johannes , Reindl Caroline , Stritzelberger Jenny , Koehn Julia , Kuramatsu Joji , Schwab Stefan , Huttner Hagen B. , Hamer Hajo 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Burst suppression (BS) on EEG induced by intravenous anesthesia (IVAT) is standard therapy for refractory status epilepticus (RSE). If BS has any independent therapeutic effect on RSE is disputed. We aimed to define EEG characteristics of BS predicting termination or recurrence of status after weaning. All RSE patients treated with IVAT while undergoing continuous EEG monitoring on the neurological intensive care unit between 2014 and 2019 were screened for inclusion. A one hour-period of visually preselected BS-EEG was analyzed. Bursts were segmented by a special thresholding technique and underwent power spectral analysis. Out of 48 enrolled patients, 25 (52.1%) did not develop seizure recurrence (group Non SE) after weaning from IVAT; in 23 patients (47.9%), SE reestablished (group SE). In group Non SE, bursts contained higher amounts of EEG delta power (91.59% vs 80.53%, p < 0.0001), while faster frequencies were more pronounced in bursts in group SE (theta: 11.38% vs 5.41%, p = 0.0008; alpha: 4.89% vs 1.82%, p < 0.0001; beta: 3.23% vs 1.21%, p = 0.0002). Spectral profiles of individual bursts closely resembled preceding seizure patterns in group SE but not in group Non SE. Accordingly, persistence of spectral composition of initial ictal patterns in bursts, suggests ongoing SE, merely interrupted but not altered by BS. Fast oscillations in bursts indicate a high risk of status recurrence after weaning from IVAT. EEG guided individualized sedation regimes might therefore be superior to standardized anesthesia protocols.
Clinical Visual Outcomes Over a Range of Vision Following Cataract Surgery with Bilateral Implantation of a Hybrid Multifocal and Extended Depth of Focus Intraocular Lens
Authors: Pandit Rahul T 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background:
To evaluate binocular visual outcomes, with emphasis on near intermediate vision at 50 cm, in patients undergoing bilateral cataract surgery with implantation of the Synergy hybrid intraocular lens with multifocal and extended depth of focus diffractive optics.
Methods:
A chart review was conducted of all patients undergoing phacoemulsification by a single surgeon with bilateral implantation of a Synergy IOL from August 2021 through March 2023. Primary endpoints were Uncorrected Distance Visual Acuity (UDVA), Uncorrected and Distance-Corrected Near Visual Acuity (UNVA and DCNVA, respectively) at 33 cm, Corrected Distance Visual Acuity (CDVA), and Distance-Corrected Intermediate Visual Acuity at 50 and 66 cm (DCIVA-50 and DCIVA-66, respectively).
Results:
Eighty-six eyes of 43 patients (26 or 60% female, mean age 70 years) were included with a mean followup of 42 days. Mean values for binocular visual acuity were as follows: UDVA 0.01 ± 0.05 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), UNVA 0.01 ± 0.03 logMAR, CDVA 0.00 ± 0.00 logMAR with a mean spherical equivalent of 0.04 diopters ± 0.22, DCNVA 0.00 ± 0.00 logMAR, DCIVA-50 0.04 ± 0.17 logMAR, and DCIVA-66 0.12 ± 0.07 logMAR.
Conclusions:
The Synergy hybrid IOL achieved excellent visual acuity at a distance of 50 cm, corresponding to many intermediate tasks, as well as distance, intermediate, and near visual acuity at traditionally measured ranges.
Effect of Evening Primrose Oil on Hyperandrogenism Markers in Women With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Ali Amjed , Javed Marrium , Jabeen Shaista , Farooq Sana , Usman Muhammad , Alarfaji Saleh S , Tanveer Fahad , Zhang Xiao 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the effect of evening primrose oil on lipid profile, hormonal level and BMI among women suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome. To evaluate the safety assessment of evening primrose oil among women suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Methodology:
The study was conducted among 48 participants with a body mass index (BMI) of 25.0–29.9 who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. First, all the participants were divided into two groups: the control group (n = 24) and the treatment group (n = 24). The participants were selected from Shoukat Surgical Hospital Gynecology OPD Wards 1 and 2, Depalpur, District Okara. All the participants in the control and treatment groups were given conventional medicines (as per physician recommendation) and a modified diet plan for 10 weeks, but treatment group participants were also given 1000 mg of Evening primrose oil daily. It was requested that the participants not change their usual exercise routine and refrain from using any additional dietary supplements. The samples for biochemical tests of Luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, estrogen, total cholesterol, and low density lipoprotein (LDL) were collected on week 1 and after week 10 of the study.
Results
Both married and unmarried participants were included in the study. The average mean ages of both groups in control and treatment were 30.16 ± 7.174 and 31.36 ± 5.61 respectively. The mean significant difference in BMI pre and post-treatment in the control group was 26.77 ± 1.48 to 23.22 ± 0.87 and in the treatment group 26.95 ± 1.29 to 22.35 ± 1.30. The mean significant difference in LDL from pretreatment 134.6 ± 20.0 to post treatment 90.4 ± 15.1 and total cholesterol level from pretreatment 234.4 ± 27.1 to post treatment 179.9 ± 24.53 in treatment group was observed. A reduction in levels of the hormones FSH, LH and testosterone was observed, while the estrogen level increased after 10 weeks of study. The mean significant difference of hormones LH pre and post treatment (5.96 ± 1.11 to 4.80 ± 1.08), FSH pre and post treatment (3.74 ± 0.67 to 3.45 ± 0.60), testosterone pre and post treatment (3.64 ± 0.79 to 3.59 ± 0.50), and estrogen pre and post treatment (62.41 ± 8.4 to 76.53 ± 8.79).
Conclusion
Evening primrose oil (EPO) showed a significant mean difference in the reduction of BMI in overweight participants (p = 0.000). There is a significant mean difference in LDL, total cholesterol, LH, FSH, testosterone, and estrogen.
Safety and Tissue Remodeling Assay of small intestinal submucosa Meshes Using a Modified Porcine Surgical Hernia Model
Authors: Liu Chenghu , Lin Zhenhua , Ruan Wenting , Gai Xiaoxiao , Qu Qiujin , Wang Changbin , Zhu Fuyu , Sun Xiaoxia , Zhang Jian 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In studies to date, extracellular matrix (ECM) based meshes have been extensively utilized in clinical applications. Unfortunately, little is known about the function of the immunogenic residual, absorbable profile during the tissue repair process. Moreover, there needs to be a recognized preclinical animal model to investigate the safety and efficacy of extracellular matrix meshes.Herein, we designed and fabricated a kind of SIS mesh followed by a scanning electron micrograph characterization, including α-Gal antigen clearance rate and DNA residual determination. In order to prove the biocompatibility of the SIS mesh, cell viability, chemotaxis assay and local tissue reaction were assessed by MTT and RTCA cytotoxicity test in vitro as well as implantation and degradation experiments in vivo. Furthermore, in the porcine ventral hernia repair investigation, we developed a stable preclinical animal model using laparoscopic plus open hybridization method to evaluate tissue adhesion, explant mechanical performance, and histologic analysis after mesh implantation. More importantly, we for the first time established a semi-quantitative scoring system to examine the ECM degradation, tissue remodeling and regeneration in the modified porcine surgical hernia model.Our results highlight the promising application of the modified porcine ventral hernia model for the safety and efficacy investigation of hernia repair meshes.
The Effect of Medium-term Protection on the Abundance and Diversity of Natural Flora in District Kohat, Pakistan
Authors: Zamin Muhammad , Adnan Muhammad , Begum Shaheen , Murad Waheed , Khan Sardar 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of human disturbances on plant abundance and diversity and to suggest conservation measures in District Kohat, Pakistan. A total of 25 plots were randomly selected for each type of land-use to assess the ecological status, plant abundance, and plant diversity. Overall, 67 plant species were reported, including 39, 18, and 10 herbs, shrubs, and trees, respectively. In trees, Sideroxylon mascatense (A. DC.) T.D. Penn., Olea europaea L., Dalbergia sissoo DC., and Acacia modestaWall., had significantly higher basal area, diameter at breast height and diversity indices. As for shrub species, Withania coagulans (Stocks) Dunal, Gymnosporia royleana Wall. ex M.A. Lawson, and Rhazya stricta Decne., had the highest species density. Data regarding herb species showed that Euphorbia serrata L., Sonchus arvensis L., Peganum harmala L., and Amaranthus viridis L., have attained maximum diversity and coverage. As per the IUCN red list, W. coagulans(critically endangered) and G. royleana (nearly threatened) along with other species of international, national, and local importance were disappearing from the unprotected area. In conclusion, the protected area exhibits a higher abundance and diversity of plants compared to unprotected area, highlighting the positive impact of conservation efforts on ecological richness.
The Influence of Floss Band Application on Squat Jump Performance Metrics of Professional Skateboarding Riders
Authors: Kabelis-Szostakowski Łukasz , Gabryś Tomasz , Palacz Roman , Yagin Fatma Hilal 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: Skateboarding is gaining popularity worldwide. Surprisingly, there is still a lack of research into the various forms of enhancing training and starting capabilities among athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of floss band applications on changes in parameters measured during the squat jump test.
Methods: Fifteen professional skateboarders between the ages of 15 and 20 were included in the study. After obtaining parental consent, the participants completed a questionnaire and were instructed to apply the floss bands and perform test on the EZE JUMP platform, which recorded flight time, power and jump height. Each athlete performed three attempts at the squat jump test separated by 1 minute breaks. Then according to their own protocol the athletes had the floss tapes tied on their thighs they performed 15 squats and jogged a distance of 20m, the whole activity was repeated in three series. At the end of the protocol the tapes were removed and the athletes repeated the squat jump test on the platform :immediately after the tapes were removed, 3 minutes after, 6 minutes, 9 minutes, 12, and 15 minutes after. The participants were aged 17.5 ± 2.5 and declared a training experience of riding the board between 7 and 12 years.
Results:The results of the test showed a significant improvement in both jump height, and power with straps, while the flight time remained the same. These results may be of relevance to coaches working to improve performance in skateboarding.
Conclusion: How best to use and implement the use of floss tape in skateboarding?
The Impact of Self-Care and Distress on Diabetic Patients in Lebanon During the Multiple Crisis
Authors: Nasr Ramona , Swaidan Eman , Haddad Chadia , Jre Wissam , Karam Joanne 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Diabetes is a major health and economic concern on a global scale. This study focuses on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and its association with self-care practices and emotional distress. T2DM is recognized as a priority noncommunicable disease, associated with increased premature death rates.
Methodology:
The study used a quantitative research methodology, collecting data through an online survey disseminated via social media with a total of 426 participants diagnosed with T2D to investigate the impact of self-care and distress on diabetic patients in Lebanon during a period of multiple crises. The study analyzed the participants' sociodemographic characteristics, diabetes distress, self-care activities, and physical activity levels.
Results
The results show insufficient self-care practices in different areas, with emotional distress and lack of physician support negatively impacting self-care. There was a positive association between physical activity and self-care practices. Education and family history of diabetes also influenced self-care.
Conclusion
Given the economic and healthcare challenges in Lebanon, the study highlights the need for tailored interventions to address diabetes distress and encourage self-care activities. Telemedicine, behavioral strategies, and psychosocial interventions are recommended to enhance diabetes management. In summary, this research offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by diabetic patients in times of multiple crises, highlighting the importance of comprehensive support mechanisms and interventions.
NPT100-18A reduces mitochondrial oxidative stress and rescues neuronal cell death in a human iPSC-based model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Alecu Julian E. , Sigutova Veronika , Brazdis Razvan-Marius , Loerentz Sandra , Bogionko Marios , Nursaitova Anara , Regensburger Martin , Roybon Laurent , Galler Kerstin M. , Wrasidlo Wolfgang , Winner Beate , Prots Iryna 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by protein aggregates mostly consisting of misfolded alpha-synuclein (αSyn). Progressive degeneration of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDANs) and nigrostriatal projections result in severe motor symptoms. While the preferential loss of mDANs has not been fully understood yet, the cell type-specific vulnerability has been linked to a unique intracellular milieu, influenced by dopamine metabolism, high demand for mitochondrial activity, and increased level of oxidative stress (OS). These factors have been shown to adversely impact αSyn aggregation. Reciprocally, αSyn aggregates, in particular oligomers, can impair mitochondrial functions and exacerbate OS. Recent drug-discovery studies have identified a series of small molecules including NPT100-18A, which reduce αSyn oligomerization by preventing misfolding and dimerization. NPT100-18A and structurally similar compounds (such as NPT200-11/UCB0599, currently being assessed in clinical studies) point towards a promising new approach for disease-modification.Methods Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived mDANs from PD patients with a monoallelic SNCA locus duplication and unaffected controls were treated with NPT100-18A. αSyn aggregation was evaluated biochemically and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were assessed in living mDANs using fluorescent dyes. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentrations were measured using a luminescence-based assay and neuronal cell death was evaluated by immunocytochemistry.Results Compared to controls, patient-derived mDANs exhibited increased αSyn aggregation, higher overall ROS levels, reduced ATP concentrations, and increased neuronal cell death. NPT100-18A-treatment rescued αSyn aggregation and neuronal cell death to control levels and importantly attenuated mitochondrial oxidative stress in a compartment-specific manner.Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that NPT100-18A limits αSyn aggregation and associated neurodegeneration in a human in vitro model of PD. In addition, we provide a first mechanistic insight into how a compartment-specific antioxidant effect in mitochondria might contribute to the neuroprotective effects of NPT100-18A.