bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Voices from the Amazon: Exploring Implementor and User Perceptions of Non-Invasive Malaria Diagnostics in Peru
Authors: Nussbaum Lauren , Ortega Emma , López E. Jennifer Ríos , S. Alfonso Simoné Vizcarra , López Jhonny J. Córdova , Calarco Serafina , Marbán-Castro Elena , Tetteh Kevin , Shilton Sonjelle , Morrison Amy C. , Fargnoli Vanessa , Paz-Soldán Valerie A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Malaria burden continues to be high in some regions of Peru, especially in the northern Amazon rainforest state of Loreto and the tropical coastal state of Tumbes. Novel malaria non-invasive diagnostic tools are being developed, and formative research in malaria endemic areas with community members and health professionals who would potentially use these devices is important for this process. The objective of this study was to examine acceptability and feasibility of four new malaria non-invasive diagnostic tools in development in two regions of Peru with significant malaria burden.
Methods
A series of focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted in Spanish to assess acceptability and ascertain questions and concerns regarding the non-invasive diagnostic tools. Focus group discussions were conducted with a range of community members (pregnant women, parents), professionals (health, education), and community leaders in Loreto. Key informant interviews were conducted with vector control authorities and health professionals from Loreto, Tumbes, and Lima.
Results
There was much initial enthusiasm about all non-invasive diagnostic tools. However, as discussions proceeded, high enthusiasm remained for two devices that were easy to use, acceptable for the communities they were intended for, feasible to carry in remote areas, and did not require new supplies nor generate trash: the skin scan and the skin odor test. The breath and saliva tests were considered less hygienic and were less acceptable to community members and health professionals due to concerns of disease transmission, as well as other environmental and cultural concerns. Health professionals felt the finger scan test and the skin odor test would be of high value to help triage community members in endemic sites, as well as for use in remote regions with difficult access to health facilities or labs.
Conclusions
Novel non-invasive malaria diagnostic tools can be valuable in malaria-endemic settings, particularly those with difficult terrain and limited access to health facilities and specialized laboratories. As manufacturers work towards evaluating the efficacy and effectiveness of these non-invasive diagnostic tools, international recommendations should be created to ensure their agile integration into national malaria programs.
Randomized Trial of Cold Plasma and Vitamin C Synergy: Effects on Skin Hydration and Wrinkle Reduction
Authors: Eskandari Najmeh , Ostovarpour Farzane , Zadeh Mohammad Ali Nilfrosh , Lotfi Mohammad Reza , Khani Mohammadreza , Amirkhani Mohammad Amir , Shokri Babak 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

As the skin ages, it naturally becomes drier and loses elasticity, resulting in wrinkles. Over time, the production of collagen and elastin in the skin decreases. Several methods exist for reducing skin wrinkles, including cold plasma technology. Plasma is an advanced treatment employed for skin rejuvenation and aesthetic enhancement. This technique can enhance skin appearance by boosting collagen and elastin production, thereby diminishing wrinkles. This study utilizes a FEDBD device for hand skin rejuvenation. The plasma treatment was administered over 8 sessions spanning 8 weeks. Skin analyses and laboratory tests such as elasticity, oxygenation, perfusion, tissue water index, and hemoglobin were performed before the plasma treatment, immediately after the treatment, at the fourth and eighth weeks of treatment, and six weeks post-final session. The findings of this study suggest that plasma can assist in cleansing the skin surface through the production of CO and OH. Additionally, an increase in the maintenance of skin hydration and enhanced oxygenation and perfusion was reported. The data reveal that, while vitamin C alone does not significantly improve skin elasticity, combining it with plasma treatments, particularly at 7.4 W, leads to a notable enhancement in skin elasticity over time that proves the synergy effect of cold plasma. The combination therapy is the most effective in improving skin elasticity compared to other treatments.
Assessing corporate transition plans using a production asset-based planning approach
Authors: Kampmann David , Rekker Saphira , Ruan Min , Shrimali Gireesh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Corporate transition plans (TPs) are increasingly seen as crucial components of assessing the compatibility and credibility of corporate commitments to meet climate targets. However, robust and transparent methods to assess the credibility of disclosed TPs are lacking. Here we propose a novel open-source methodology for assessing the credibility of corporate TPs based on asset-level data to estimate CO2 emission trajectories: the production asset-based planning approach (APA). We test this approach on a sample of ten electric utilities and ten steel companies and find that only three of the companies’ stated TPs are compatible with Paris-aligned benchmarks. We also find that 12% and 42% of existing carbon-intensive assets operated by electric utility and steel companies, respectively, will require reinvestment before 2030, posing significant carbon lock-in risk. Applying this method will ensure that TPs can be assessed in a robust manner and help drive CO2 emission reductions towards achieving the Paris climate target.
Enhancing biodiversity with circular food systems
Authors: Melges Felipe Cozim , Ripoll-Bosch Raimon , Veen G.F. (Ciska) , Hofmeijer Merel , Simon Wolfram , Apeldoorn Dirk van , Zanten Hannah Van 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Food systems are largely responsible for today’s anthropogenic environmental impacts. Transitioning towards a circular food system is seen as a promising solution to reduce land use (LU) and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). But what about biodiversity? The aim of this paper was to assess the potential of enhancing biodiversity in circular European food systems. Two scenarios were assessed with a food systems optimization model: land sharing or sparing while producing healthy food. Our results show that both scenarios can enhance biodiversity while reducing GHGe. The land sparing scenario reduced LU by 81%, depicting great potential for rewilding. However, reduction of LU was achieved via intensification, decreasing agroecosystem’s biodiversity (0 biodiversity score). Conversely, land sharing increased biodiversity in agroecosystems (86% biodiversity score), and LU was maintaned. Both scenarios require to radically redesign today’s food system. Our results demonstrate circular food systems can help enhance biodiversity via land sparing or sharing.
Synthesis and in vitro oral anti-inflammatory activity of pH-sensitive baicalin liposomes
Authors: Wang Xueqing , Ma Yiyi , Liu Ying , Wu Boyue , Zhu Yu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In recent years, clinicians have faced significant challenges in applying baicalin. This issue primarily arises from its low solubility and brief half-life. Thus, developing new baicalin drug delivery system has become an urgent task to address this obstacle. Liposomes system has been regarded as promising drug carriers due to their low adverse effects, non-immunogenicity and biodegradability. This study explored the possibility of utilizing Dioleoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and Cholesteryl hemisuccinate (CHEMS) liposomes as nanocarriers loaded baicalin to exhibit anti-inflammatory in patients with periodontitis. In our research, the pH-sensitive baicalin liposomes (pH-Bai-Lips) were successfully prepared and characterized for the particle size, zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release study and acid responsiveness. The in vitro results indicated that pH-Bai-Lips could be promising carriers for periodontitis treatment due to efficient drug delivery and effective conditional response release performance.
Pain in Parkinson’s disease: Fluctuation and impact on quality of life
Authors: Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelhamid , Elkhayat Naglaa Mohamed , Khater Shaimaa Sayed , El-Sudany Ayman Hassan , Mansour Alia H. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder known for its motor and non-motor symptoms. Among the non-motor symptoms, pain is highly prevalent, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. Pain in PD can manifest in various forms, including musculoskeletal, dystonic, and neuropathic pain. Despite its high prevalence, pain in PD is often under-recognized and undertreated, necessitating further exploration of its characteristics and impact on quality of life. This study aims to assess the prevalence, types, and fluctuation of pain in PD patients and their relationship with motor and non-motor symptoms.
Methods:
This cross sectional study was conducted on 40 PD patients at Movement Disorders clinic in Ain Shams University . Data collection included demographic characteristics, medical history, and evaluation using standardized scales such as the King’s Parkinson’s Disease Pain Scale (KPPS), Movement Disorder Society–Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), and the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39). The correlation between these scales and the severity of pain was analyzed.
Results:
The study revealed a statistically significant correlation between KPPS and the wearing-off phenomenon (R=0.349, p=0.027), highlighting the association between motor fluctuations and pain severity. However, no significant correlations were found between KPPS and other scales like NMSS, PSQI, MDS-UPDRS, or PDQ summary index. Pain was highly prevalent among PD patients, with musculoskeletal and fluctuation-related pain being the most common types.
Conclusion:
Pain is a frequent and impactful non-motor symptom in Parkinson's disease that substantially affects patients' quality of life. The correlation between pain and motor fluctuations such as wearing off suggests that optimizing dopaminergic therapy could help manage pain in PD. Further studies are recommended to explore the management strategies for pain in PD and its complex interaction with other non-motor symptoms.
Rethinking musical preferences: Introducing the Test of Attribute Preferences (TAP)
Authors: Grüning David Joachim , Fricke Kai , Rentfrow Peter Jason , Greenberg Yeshaya David M. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

With the emergence of streaming services, the music industry and listening public have shifted away from the concept of genres, embracing the use of attributes instead. Why, then, do researchers still rely on genre-based measures to study musical preferences (e.g., the Short Test of Musical Preferences: STOMP)? One reason is the lack of tools to measure these attributes. To address this gap, we build on prior research on the Arousal-Valence-Depth (AVD) model of perception and preferences, leveraging a large sample (N = 11,633) to introduce the "Test of Attribute Preferences" (TAP). The 18-item TAP captures the three AVD domains and nine facets: A1: Energetic, A2: Calming, A3: Aggressive; V1: Happy, V2: Sad, V3: Danceable; and D1: Emotional Depth, D2: Cerebral, D3: Mystical. Additionally, we developed an extended 27-item measure (TAP-x) that includes three items for each facet and nine items for each domain. We demonstrate the reliability, factor structure convergence, and validity of the domains and facets using prior genre favorability and audio-based measures, along with their external correlates with personality characteristics and demographics. In summary, the TAP is a robust, genre-free, and user-friendly tool for measuring musical preferences, advancing the field beyond its reliance on genres.
Tofacitinib and budesonide treatment affect stemness and chemokine release in IBD patient-derived colonoids
Authors: Srid Arun , Bakke Ingunn , Gopalakrishnan Shreya , Osoble Nimo Mukhtar Mohamnud , Hammarqvist Emilie Prytz , Pettersen Henrik Peter Sahlin , Sandvik Arne Kristian , Østvik Ann Elisabet , Hansen Marianne Doré , Bruland Torunn 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Restoration of the intestinal epithelial barrier is crucial for achieving mucosal healing, the therapeutic goal for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). During homeostasis, epithelial renewal is maintained by crypt stem cells and progenitors that cease to divide as they differentiate into mature colonocytes. Inflammation is a major effector of mucosal damage in IBD and has been found to affect epithelial stemness, regeneration and cellular functions. However, the impact of immune cell-modulating IBD drugs on epithelial homeostasis and repair is poorly understood. It is likely that these drugs will have distinct mechanisms of action (MOA) in intestinal epithelium relevant for homeostasis that will vary among patients. We investigated cellular effects of pan-Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor tofacitinib and the corticosteroid budesonide on uninflamed and TNF + Poly(I:C) stimulated human colon organoids (colonoids) from healthy donors and IBD-patients. Our findings reveal that although both tofacitinib and budesonide exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, tofacitinib increased colonoid size and proliferation during differentiation, and promoted epithelial stemness. In contrast, budesonide decreased colonoid size and showed no consistent effect on proliferation or stemness. Our study demonstrates the value of employing human colonoids to investigate how IBD drugs affect intestinal epithelial cells and inter-individual variations relevant to mucosal healing and personalized IBD treatment.
The Impact Of Glubran 2 Use As A Biliostatic and Hemostatic Agent During Liver Resection In Pediatric Patients
Authors: Khedr El Sayed Mohamed Elsayed , Abdelazim Osama , Mohamed Rawan , Tarek Mahmoud 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Pediatric liver resection presents unique challenges, particularly in achieving effective hemostasis and biliostasis. Glubran 2, a synthetic surgical adhesive material composed primarily of modified n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate, has shown a promise in various surgical applications. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Glubran 2 application on alleviation of postoperative complications in pediatric liver resections.
Methods
This retrospective study was conducted on 22 pediatric patients underwent liver resection, those receiving intraoperative Glubran 2 on the transected liver surface. the current research was planned to investigate the mitigating action of glubran 2 on the hepatic resection related biliary leakage and bleeding .
Results
The mean age was 3.1 years (± 3.15). Hepatoblastoma was the most common pathology (50%). Right hepatectomy was performed in 59.09% of cases. Following the application of Glubran, postoperative biliary leakage showed no effect when compared with the results in literature, occurring in 18.18% of patients, with varying degrees of severity. however, the incidence of postoperative bleeding was markedly improved, observed in just 5.26% of patients. The mean hospital stay was 11.6 days (± 4.94), ranging from 3 to 22 days.
Conclusions
This study highlights the use of a hemostatic and a biliostatic agent like Glubran 2 that may potentially impact the outcome after liver resection in pediatric patients regarding bleeding.
Predictive value of β2 microglobulin for Cardiac Valve Calcification in Non-Dialysis Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Stages 3-5
Authors: Lu Liangxiang , Feng Jialun , Wang Yiru , Zheng Jinhua , Wei Zefeng , Wang Ziqiang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to observe the incidence and risk factors of cardiac valve calcification (CVC) in non-dialysis patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stage 3–5. Correlation of β2 microglobulin (β2-MG) level with cardiac valve calcification and its predictive value were further investigated.Methods Patients hospitalised in the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University between January 2019 and November 2023 were selected and diagnosed as CKD stage 3–5 according to the assessment of glomerular filtration rate. Their general data, laboratory tests and cardiac ultrasound results were collected. The incidence and risk factors of CVC were observed..The correlation and predictive value of β2-MG with cardiac valve calcification were analysed using the ROC method.Results A total of 269 patients were selected. There were 59 cases (21.9%) in the CVC group and 210 cases (78.1%) in the non-CVC group. Single aortic valve calcification is the most common. The incidence of CVC in stage 3–5 CKD patients were 15.9% (28/176), 26.3% (20/76) and 64.7% (11/17). Age, renal function stage and the level of β2-MG are risk factors for CVC. ROC analysis shows that the optimal cut-off value of β2-MG is 7.605ug/L. The sensitivity is 0.559, the specificity is 0.724, and the AUC is 0.700( 95%CI = 0.627ཞ0.772, P<0.001 ).Conclusion Age, renal function stage and β2-MG are risk factors for CVC. The levels of β2-MG can be used to predict the occurrence of CVC in non-dialysis patients with CKD stage 3–5.
Neural-Network-Assisted Detection of Superconducting Topological Semimetals
Authors: Wang Jun-Ang , Kotetes Panagiotis 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Diagnosing nontrivial topology is one of the core pursuits of modern condensed matter physics. Up to date, a wide range of theoretical techniques have been developed for this purpose. However, the majority of these are tailored for analyzing theoretical models, rather than actual experiments. Here, we propose a machine-learning-based protocol for the identification of two-dimensional superconducting topological semimetals using superfluid stiffness data as an input. In their normal phase, these superconductors contain band touching points (BTPs) which carry nonzero topological charges, i.e., vorticities. Our method relies on detecting certain vorticity-associated patterns encoded in heat maps of the superfluid stiffness obtained by varying the chemical potential and an applied Zeeman field. We show that our neural network attains a notably high accuracy in predicting the energy-resolved total absolute vorticity of BTPs. We reach to this conclusion by testing our approach against superfluid stiffness data theoretically-obtained from suitable extended-Dirac and graphene models.
Intention to use immediate-postpartum long-acting reversible contraceptives and associated factors among pregnant women in third-trimester at Arba Minch town, South-Ethiopia, 2024; Using Theory of Planned Behaviour
Authors: Hailegiorgis Eden , Shewangizaw Misgun , Tunje Abayneh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Ethiopia has made significant strides in reducing unintended pregnancies and empowering individuals to manage their family size through the national reproductive health strategy. This strategy has decentralized services to provide a comprehensive range of family planning options, ensuring quality. However, the intention to use and actual utilisation of immediate postpartum long-acting reversible contraceptives is still low, contributing the least to the contraceptive mix. Hence this study aims to assess the prevalence and factors associated with the intention to use immediate-postpartum long-acting reversible contraceptives among third-trimester pregnant women in Arba Minch town, South Ethiopia.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 6 July to 2 August 2024. A total of 373 third-trimester pregnant women were includedin the study using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire developed based on a qualitative elicitation study. And analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27. Multiple linear regression was employed, variables with a p-value of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. The strength of the associations was estimated using beta coefficient and their 95% confidence interval.
Result: The prevalence of the intention was found to be 35.6%. Direct attitude (β=0.286, p=0.012), direct subjective norm (β=0.182, p<0.001), direct perceived behavioural control (β=0.504, p<0.001), history of long-acting reversible contraceptive use (β=-1.765, p=0.029) and age of women (β=0.098, p=0.019) were significantly associated factors.
Conclusion: Local health authorities should prioritise addressing beliefs behind the constructs through targeted social and behavioural change communication campaigns and capacity building of healthcare professionals to improve intention to use of these contraceptives. Non governmental organisations working in maternal and child health are encouraged todevelop culturally applicable educational materials targeting the beliefs identified and advocate benefits of using these methods.
Evaluating the Impact of Peer Based Services and Multi-Sector Collaboration on Opioid Use, Overdose, and Treatment Utilization Among Criminal Justice-Involved Individuals with Opioid Use or Misuse
Authors: Sutter-Barrett Rebecca , Spencer Nancy R.B. , Elnahas Nora , Austin Steven , West Allen , West Allison , Mundie Caitlyn 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: The Empowered Communities Opioid Project (ECOP) is a peer-based initiative designed to support individuals with opioid use or misuse who have intersected with the criminal justice system. This study evaluated the relationship between ECOP retention and opioid use, overdose, and utilization of Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) among participants. A longitudinal study was conducted with 265 participants who voluntarily enrolled in ECOP post-incarceration. Program retention, self-reported overdose rates, opioid use patterns, and MOUD utilization were evaluated using surveys delivered at four intervals: baseline, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months between 2018 and June 2024.
Results: Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and descriptive statistics were used to assess relationships between program retention and recovery outcomes. The analysis revealed a significant association between ECOP retention and improved recovery outcomes. Participants retained in the program demonstrated lower rates of opioid use (p < 0.05), overdose (p < 0.001), and increased MOUD utilization (p < 0.05). Most strikingly, the self-reported overdose rates showed a dramatic reduction. Overdose decreased by 23% in 2022, 42% in 2023, and 51% in 2024 for those retained in ECOP.
Conclusions: Participation in ECOP is significantly associated with reduced opioid use, overdose, and increased MOUD utilization. These findings highlight the critical role of peer-based interventions and multi-sector collaboration in supporting recovery. While the program shows substantial success, challenges remain in improving long-term retention. Future research should prioritize strategies to enhance retention, assess additional factors influencing recovery, and adapt the program for diverse populations.