bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Equol Alleviates the In Vitro Aging‐Induced Disruption of Porcine Oocytes
Authors: Chen Rui , Wan Runtian , Peng Ke , Liu Xinxin , Zhou Benliang , He Rijing , Yan Yujun , Zhao Yanan , Yin Ye‐Shi , Xu Huiyan , Yang Xiaogan , Liang Xingwei 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTOocyte quality is crucial for determining the subsequent embryo developmental capacity and reproductive outcomes. However, aging is detrimental to oocyte quality. Previous studies have demonstrated that soy isoflavones have positive effects on the reproductive performance of female pigs. Equol, the primary metabolite of soy isoflavones, is renowned for its antioxidant properties and its ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the potential role of equol in reversing aging‐mediated oocyte decline has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we treated the porcine oocytes with different concentrations of equol (2.5, 5 and 10 μM) during prolonged in vitro culture. Our findings showed that aging led to decreased embryonic developmental capacity, indicating the decline of oocyte quality. We further found that aging disrupted spindle assembly and chromosome arrangement, impaired actin polymerisation and reduced mitochondrial activity and function. Moreover, aging increased ROS levels; thereafter, DNA damage and apoptosis was induced in the porcine oocytes. Interestingly, treatment with 2.5 μM equol during the aging process significantly mitigated the above‐mentioned defective parameters in porcine oocytes and finally improved embryo development rates. Collectively, these results imply that equol has potential benefits in attenuating the aging‐mediated defects on porcine oocytes.
Does the Background of the Regulator Matter? The Role of Expertise and Diversity on the Perceived Competence of Regulatory Bodies
Authors: Perez‐Duran Ixchel , Papadopoulos Yannis , Redert Bastiaan , Triviño‐Salazar Juan Carlos 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis paper examines expertise and professional diversity within new (agencies and central banks) and traditional (ministries) regulatory bodies (RBs) and assesses their effect on the perceived competence of RBs. In particular, we address the following research questions: To what extent do members of RBs have expertise and display diversity in terms of their professional trajectories? How do expertise and professional diversity affect the perceived competence of RBs? By using two empirical sources of data, this article provides core information on the educational and professional profiles of RBs staff. In addition, the paper provides evidence that both professional diversity and expertise among RBs do not have a significant effect on their perceived competence by regime actors. However, the study also suggests that regime actors that are more closely aligned to the professional trajectory of RB members (i.e., other regulators and members of the executive branch) tend to have a more positive perception of the competence of RBs. Conversely, societal actors tend to be more critical toward RBs, suggesting that a lack of a shared language creates a greater distance from the regulators.
Anthropometric and Sociodemographic Correlates of Dental Caries and Gingival Health in Children With Special Healthcare Needs at a Saudi Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Al‐Haj Ali Sanaa N. , Alkhudhayr Lama S. , Alwattban Rawan R. , Farah Ra'fat I. 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTAimsTo evaluate the impact of anthropometric and sociodemographic factors on dental caries and gingival health among children with special healthcare needs (SHCN).Methods and ResultsThis cross‐sectional study involved 108 children, aged 4–14 years, with congenital heart disease, childhood cancer, bleeding disorders, various syndromes, and multiple conditions. Caregivers completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, and children underwent dental examinations to assess caries, gingival health, and oral hygiene. Anthropometric measures—weight, height, and body mass index (BMI)—were obtained and categorized into percentiles (<10, 10–90, >90) using age‐ and gender‐specific growth charts. Dental caries was highly prevalent (93.5%), with a mean dmft/DMFT value of 7.70 (SD ± 5.22). The mean gingival index was 0.43 (SD ± 0.52). Total dmft/DMFT values were significantly higher in children ≤6 years and those with fathers of lower educational levels. Poor oral hygiene was a strong predictor of adverse outcomes for both caries and gingival health. Higher gingival indices correlated with children in the >90th weight percentile.ConclusionThe findings highlight the need for comprehensive oral health interventions that integrate meticulous oral hygiene, paternal education, and holistic growth monitoring beyond BMI. The results support implementing a 3‐month recall program for professional dental care, combined with individualized oral hygiene instruction for caregivers. This approach is particularly crucial for the younger age group (≤6 years) where targeted early intervention could significantly reduce caries risk.
Factors affecting the efficacy of human leukocyte antigen‐selected platelet provision: A large retrospective study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Howell W. M. , Quaye L. , Mumford L. , Phillips S. , Mepani K. , Mohamed S. , Brown C. J. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundA large, retrospective study was designed to interrogate current NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) HLA matching strategies for the provision of HLA selected platelets (HLA SP) and to determine whether additional factors such as ABO blood group matching, patient diagnosis, patient and/or donor age, sex, ethnicity, age of platelet unit at transfusion and possibly seasonal variation also play a role in transfusion efficacy.Materials and MethodsData for 56 640 HLA SP transfusions over a 3‐year period were collected. Transfusions with missing data for any factor under consideration were excluded, resulting in a cohort of 13 044 transfusions for analysis. Univariable and multivariable regression models were used to determine if any factors influenced an increase in platelet count of ≥10 × 109/L. A stepwise logistic regression was applied, such that each influential factor was adjusted for effects on other factors included in the study.ResultsHLA match grade was confirmed as a significant factor in transfusion efficacy, with ABO mismatched units 20% less likely to give an adequate platelet increment (≥10 × 109/L). Platelet donor age, gender and ethnicity were not significant. Conversely, patient diagnosis, ethnicity, gender and age showed significant associations with platelet increments. Some seasonal variation in efficacy of platelet transfusion was also demonstrated.ConclusionThis study has demonstrated the efficacy of HLA SP transfusions in refractory patients with a wide range of diagnoses, the importance of HLA match grade, plus the marginal effect of ABO matching. A wide range of donor‐related factors was excluded, while a number of patient‐related factors were identified, requiring more extensive investigation in ongoing and independent studies, with implications for donor registry, clinical and laboratory practices.
Buccal Fat Pad Flap and Buccal Advancement Flap for Closure of Oroantral Fistula: A Systematic Review and a Case Report
Authors: Pizzolante Tommaso , Rasicci Paolo , Saggiomo Anna Pia , Principi Martina , Capogreco Mario , Mummolo Stefano 
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the success rates of two surgical techniques used for the closure of the oroantral fistula.
Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant studies were identified from electronic databases (PubMed, LILACS, Semantic Scholar, Cochrane Library, Rutgers University Library, and Europe PMC) from 1959 to 2021. The inclusion criteria were recent studies in English, studies involving human subjects, and studies comparing the buccal fat pad (BFP) and buccal advancement flap (BAF) techniques.
A total of 1455 records were initially identified. After screening, only 4 studies were included in the final analysis: 1 retrospective study and 3 comparative studies.
Results: The pooled relative risk (RR) indicated a significant difference, with the Buccal Advancement Flap showing a slightly lower probability of success compared to the Buccal Fat Pad Flap for oroantral fistula closure (RR 0.914, 95% CI: 0.836 - 0.998). No heterogeneity was detected among the included studies (I² = 0.0%, P = 0.452).
Conclusion: Both techniques are safe and simple and demonstrate high success rates. The BFP technique is particularly advantageous for closing oroantral fistulas larger than 5 mm when preserving the depth of the vestibular sulcus is required or in cases where the BAF technique has failed.
Improving the Use of Lifting Velocity to Predict Repetitions to Failure: A Systematic Review
Authors: Miras-Moreno Sergio , Pérez-Castilla Alejandro , Weakley Jonathon , Rojas-Ruiz Francisco J. , García-Ramos Amador 
Published: January 2025

Background: A recent advancement in velocity-based training involves estimating the maximum number of repetitions to failure (RTF) by analyzing the fastest velocity recorded within a set. A systematic review examining the fundamental characteristics of the RTF–velocity relationship is still lacking. Purpose: This study aimed to (1) determine the basic properties of the RTF–velocity relationships (goodness of fit, reliability, and accuracy) and (2) offer guidance on implementing various methodological factors that can impact the RTF accuracy prediction. Methods: Data were sourced from 3 databases: PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus. Studies were qualified for inclusion if they involved at least 2 sets performed to failure with different loads, utilized multijoint weight-lifting exercises, and monitored the RTF and fastest velocity for each set. Results: Six studies demonstrated (1) robust goodness of fit, (2) acceptable to high between-sessions reliability for the velocities associated to each RTF (1–15 RTF), and (3) acceptable RTF prediction accuracy during fatigue-free sessions (long interset rest), but, when fatigued (ie, short interset rest) the accuracy was compromised except for athletes with high training experience (eg, >2 y training-to-failure experience). Conclusions: The relationship properties remain unaffected regardless of the exercise (upper- vs lower-body), equipment (Smith- vs free-weight), velocity variable (mean and peak velocity), and resting time (from 5 to 10 min). However, the modeling procedure used (multiple- vs 2-point) did alter the accuracy. The individualized RTF–velocity relationships can be constructed through a linear regression model, but the failure experience seems to be a critical factor to increase its accuracy.
Newly identified SpoVAF/FigP complex: the role in
Bacillus subtilis
spore germination at moderate high pressure and influencing factors
Authors: Lyu Fengzhi , Gong Ziqi , Zhang Tianyu , Yang Dong , Rao Lei , Liao Xiaojun 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

The SpoVAF/FigP complex, a newly identified dormant spore ion channel, has been shown to amplify the response of germinant receptors (GRs) to nutrient germinants. However, its contribution to high-pressure-induced germination remains unexplored. In this study, we discovered that the 5AF/FigP complex played an important role in the GR-dependent germination of
Bacillus subtilis
spores under moderate high pressure (MHP) by facilitating the release of ions, such as potassium (K
+
), a mechanism in parallel with its role in nutrient-induced germination. Despite its predicted function as an ion channel, the 5AF/FigP complex failed to be activated by MHP in the absence of GerA-type GRs. We quantitatively examined the factors that influence the 5AF/FigP complex’s function in MHP-induced germination using modeling and fitting techniques. Our results indicated that the complex’s amplification effect was both enhanced and accelerated as pressure levels increase from 50 to 200 MPa. However, raising the MHP treatment temperature from 22°C to 30°C only speeded up the complex’s function without enhancing its effectiveness. Moreover, extreme conditions of higher pressure (300 MPa) and temperature (34°C–37°C) could diminish the complex’s functionality. Additionally, the amplification effect was weakened in spores produced at both elevated and reduced sporulation temperatures. Taken together, our findings highlight the essential role of the 5AF/FigP complex in boosting the efficiency of MHP-induced germination. This revelation has enriched our understanding of the intricate mechanisms underlying GR-dependent germination in
Bacillus
spores, offering valuable insights that can be utilized to refine the germination–inactivation strategies within the food industry.

IMPORTANCE
High-pressure-induced spore germination has been discovered for more than half a century, but the signal transduction pathway of the process still needs to be refined. In this study, for the first time, we revealed the role of the newly identified SpoVAF/FigP complex in high-pressure-induced spore germination, as well as the factors influencing its function in this process. The new findings in this work not only enhance the theoretical understanding of spore germination mechanisms under high pressure but also pave the way for developing novel strategies to inactivate spores during high-pressure food processing, a technology that is gaining popularity in the food industry as a promising non-thermal preservation method.
Practice and factors affecting informed consent among healthcare workers for major surgical procedures at Gurage zone hospitals, South Ethiopia, 2022: a facility-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Zewudie Bitew Tefera , Tenaw Shegaw Geze , Mesfin Yibeltal , Abebe Haimanot , Mekonnen Zebene , Mengist Shegaw Tesfa , Chekole Bogale , Aynalem Agere , Lankrew Tadele , Sewale Yihenew , Argaw Muche , Sahle Tadesse , Tsega Daniel 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the informed consent practice process and associated factors among healthcare workers for major surgical procedures at Gurage zone hospitals, in 2022.Methods and materialsInstitution-based cross-sectional study was employed.SettingsThis study was conducted in Gurage zone hospitals.ParticipantsAll healthcare workers who have been working in Gurage zone hospitals of surgical, operation rooms and obstetrics/gynaecology wards had exposure to patients who had undergone surgery during the study periodOutcomeThe primary outcome of the study was the practice of informed consent practice among healthcare workers in Gurage zone hospitals.ResultA total of 448 study participants were involved in this study giving a response rate of 98%. The mean (±SD) age of the study participants was 29.16 (±4.06) years. The mean score of study participants towards the surgical informed consent was 19.5, and 260 (58%, 95% CI: 53.7, 62.5) of them had good practice in the surgical informed consent. In multivariable logistic analysis model, factors like favourable attitude towards informed consent 2.4 (1.556, 3.596), work experience participants 4.9 (2.8, 8.7), adequate knowledge of informed consent 2.5 (1.6, 3.9) and communication challenge 1.6 (1.07, 2.50) were independently associated with the practice of informed consent at a p value of <0.05.ConclusionMore than half of healthcare providers had good practice towards the surgical informed consent process. The practice of informed consent is low, and it is better to work on healthcare providers’ in-service training, knowledge and attitude towards informed consent.
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with or without letrozole for fertility preservation in breast cancer patients: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Xie Yanqiu , Li Ping , Deng Weifen , Fan Qi , Sun Peng , Kang Jiajing , Wang Kun , Shi Yuhua 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionMultimodal anticancer therapies greatly damage the fertility of breast cancer patients, which raises urgent demand for fertility preservation. The standard options for fertility preservation are oocyte and embryo cryopreservation; both require controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). However, there are safety concerns regarding breast cancer relapse due to the elevated serum estradiol levels during COH. Serum estradiol levels can be effectively decreased with the highly specific aromatase inhibitor letrozole. Letrozole is still uncommonly used during COH for fertility preservation, which has only been reported in a few studies, and the evidence of oocyte retrieval during ovarian stimulation and short-term safety from the perspective study is insufficient. As a result, this study will compare the efficacy of ovarian stimulation and the short-term safety of letrozole COH and non-letrozole COH protocols for preserving fertility in patients with breast cancer.Methods and analysisThis is an open-label, multicentre RCT being conducted in five Chinese reproductive medical centres. 64 eligible patients diagnosed with breast cancer will be randomly assigned (1:1) to the letrozole or non-letrozole group during their COH cycles. The primary outcome is the number of mature oocytes. The secondary outcomes are the number of high-quality embryos, incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS) and recurrence rate of breast cancer.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee of Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (KY-Q-2023-840-02). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant. Findings will be disseminated to patients, clinicians and commissioning groups through peer-reviewed publications.Trial registration numberChiCTR2300078625
Systematic review of reviews on interventions to engage men and boys as clients, partners and agents of change for improved sexual and reproductive health and rights
Authors: Gottert Ann , Pulerwitz Julie , Weiner Renay , Okondo Chantalle , Werner Jesse , Magni Sarah , Mathur Sanyukta 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesEvidence regarding interventions to engage men and boys to improve sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) has grown rapidly across subtopics such as HIV, family planning and gender-based violence (GBV). We conducted a review of the effectiveness of interventions to engage men and boys across SRHR domains, lessons learnt about successful programming, and about harms/unintended consequences, in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).DesignSystematic review of reviews following Cochrane guidelines.Data sourcesPubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science and Cochrane were searched (18 October–9 November 2022; 9 September 2024).Eligibility criteriaEligible reviews were published since 2015, covered WHO-defined SRHR domain(s) and focused mostly on LMIC.Data extraction and synthesisData extraction by multiple reviewers focused on intervention effectiveness, implementation best practices, unintended consequences, and quality/risk of bias.ResultsThirty-five systematic reviews were included, comprising ~960 primary studies. Reviews focused on HIV prevention/care, reproductive health, maternal and newborn health, and GBV. Reviews consistently concluded that men were successfully engaged, yielding benefits to both women and men’s SRHR outcomes; no adverse intervention impacts on prevalence of SRHR outcomes were reported. We summarised the interventions most consistently found to be effective across reviews, in a programmer-friendly visual mapped onto a framework of men as clients, partners and agents of change. Person-centred, gender-transformative, multilevel approaches were most effective. Remaining evidence gaps include engaging men as contraceptiveusers, sexually transmitted infections other than HIV, preventing unsafe abortion and SGBV as experienced by men and boys.ConclusionsThere is substantial evidence supporting a range of successful interventions to engage men and boys to improve SRHR, with markedly similar principles and approaches emerging across SRHR domains. It is time to scale up and integrate these strategies, monitoring for any potential harms and tailoring as needed to socio-cultural contexts and for specific vulnerable subpopulations.
Specialty choice among final-year medical students and house officers in Nigeria: implications for anaesthesia practice – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Okonkwo Thankgod Chukwunnonso , Olatunji Gbolahan Deji , Adeleye Victor Mayowa , Akinwale Mukaila Oyegbade 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesNigeria’s doctor shortage is worsening with mass exodus and imbalanced specialty distribution. Anaesthesia faces particularly critical shortages. Medical graduate specialty choices have a vital impact on the workforce and are essential for healthcare planning. This study aimed to identify the current specialty preferences of final-year medical students and house officers in Nigeria, factors that affect such choices, and their implications for anaesthesia practice.DesignWe conducted a cross-sectional study among final-year medical students and house officers in Nigeria using a self-administered, semistructured electronic questionnaire. The survey question was divided into four sections: sociodemographic data, specialty preferences, factors considered in choosing a specialty, perception of anaesthesia posting and anaesthesia as a specialty.SettingThe survey was delivered via a Google Form that had been active for 4.5 months.ParticipantsA total of 760 valid responses were received from final-year medical students and house officers in Nigeria. The majority (63.82%) of the participants were final-year medical students.ResultsSurgery (26.58%), internal medicine (14.47%) and obstetrics and gynaecology (14.34%) were the top-ranking specialty choices. Only 3.55% (eighth in ranking) intended to specialise in anaesthesia. There was a positive correlation between respondents’ specialty choice and the specialty of their doctor role model. Passion/interest, flexibility, potential future income and job prospects were essential in choosing a specialty. Most decisions were made during clinical rotations (63.95%), and only 35.26% had career guidance. Many enjoyed their anaesthesia posting, but over half felt the exposure was inadequate.ConclusionsToo few medical graduates in Nigeria prefer anaesthesia as a specialty, and there is an urgent need to increase interest. A lack of career counselling, anaesthetist mentors and satisfactory clinical rotations are factors that can be improved for better recruitment into anaesthesia.