bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Unripe Plantain Peel on Tenderization of Beef and Okra as a Potential Substitute for Saltpeter
Authors: Diaba Mawumefa Akusika , Baidoo Isaac , Odai Bernad T. , Achoribo Elom , Donkor Shadrack , Agbenyegah Sandra , Brown‐Appiah Christian , Akomea Yaa Pokuaa , Offei Benjamin , Mensah Eric Owusu 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThis research seeks to examine the effect of unripe plantain peel ash and its filtrate on the tenderness of beef and okra as a potential substitute for saltpeter. Using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, important elemental particles were estimated while the texture profile of treated okra and beef was assessed using the TA‐XT Plus Micro System Texture Analyzer. The results indicated that unripe plantain peel ash contains Na, K, Ca, Fe, and Mg in concentrations ranging from 1.97 ± 0.34 to 726.03 mg/L. The unripe plantain peel ash tenderized okra and beef better than its filtrate. Hardness analysis of boiled beef showed no significant difference between the control and the samples boiled with unripe plantain peel ash and its filtrate. For texture, the control okra sample was significantly different (p < 0.05) from the samples boiled with unripe plantain peel ash and its filtrate. It can be concluded that the unripe plantain peel ash and its filtrate, containing elements such as Na, K, Ca, Fe, and Mg within FAO/WHO permissible limits (Na: 1500 mg/L, K: 2500 mg/L, Ca: 1000 mg/L, Fe: 0.3 mg/L, and Mg: 400 mg/L), are suitable substitutes for saltpeter as tenderizing agents.
Evaluation of Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Multi‐Nutrient Fortified Flours
Authors: Chaudhary Gaurav , Kumar Monu , Swami Nisha , Sehrawat Deepti Rani , Sehrawat Anita Rani 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTMalnutrition is a prevalent issue in underdeveloped countries, and the development of high‐nutrient foods is a proposed intervention to address this issue. Thus, this study evaluates the nutritional value and sensory acceptability of wheat–millet composite flour blend, suggesting that incorporating affordable grains such as millet can aid weight loss and improve the nutritional value of food. This investigation involved eleven wheat–millet flour samples, including six composite flour samples, four control samples, and one optimized sample from our earlier investigation. The nutritional value of optimized flour was significantly higher than that of the composite and control flour samples. The optimized flour had a protein value of 25.39 mg g−1, whereas sample A had a value of 20.65 mg g−1. The crude fat content of sample CF2 (3.75%) and optimized flour (5.37%) was significantly (P < 0.05) greater than that of the other samples. When different proportion of millet flour were added to wheat flour, the nutritional value was further boosted in terms of crude fiber (2.21%–11.83%), ash (2.49%–3.75%), carbohydrate (58.52%–70.23%), and antioxidant activity (Phenol‐ 1.24–7.87 mg g−1 and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1picrylhydrazyl‐ 48.77%–71.53%) also increase and tannin content (9.64–6.22 mg g−1), was reduced with good sensory score. The current study demonstrated how adding millets to flour mixes improved the population's nutritional status and managed micronutrient deficiencies.
Development and Characterization of Calcium Ion‐Enhanced Nanophytosomes Encapsulating Pomegranate Fruit Extract
Authors: Sedighi Ramesh , Rafe Ali , Rajabzadeh Ghadir , Pardakhty Abbas 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTNanophytosomes (NPS) loaded with whole pomegranate fruit extract with peel and arils (PFE) at different levels of phosphatidylcholine (PC) were produced using a thin‐film hydration method and reinforced with calcium ions. PFE was obtained by pressing whole pomegranates, followed by mixing with PC at ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3, which then strengthens the phytosome wall by CaCl2 solutions (1.35 and 2.70 mM) and lyophilized to create a stable powder form. The characteristics of the NP powders, including encapsulation efficiency (EE), particle size, ζ‐potential, polydispersity index (PDI), structure, microstructure, and thermal properties, were evaluated. Additionally, the storage stability of phenolic compounds over two months was investigated. The PFE powder demonstrated appropriate characteristics for incorporation into the phytosome system, with a total phenol content of 371.19 mg GAE/g dry weight, anthocyanins at 300.68 mg/g, flavonoids at 194 mg/100 g, and an antioxidant activity of 90.98%. The highest EE was determined to be 98.53%, indicating its unique ability as a nano‐carrier. PFE‐loaded NPs showed favorable characteristics, such as low PDI values (< 0.5), smaller particle size (170 nm), and a spherical morphology. The PFE‐NP had a particle size of 128.6 nm, zeta potential of −40.15 mV, mobility of −3.15 μm cm/Vs, PDI of 0.168, and EE of 98.53%. The optimized nanoparticles remained stable for two months at 4°C, with negligible changes in particle size (~10 nm), total phenol content (TPC), and PDI of the PFE‐Nanophytosomes. All NP samples showed better stability at storage temperatures over 60 days. PEF‐NPs improved the stability of phenolic compounds while improving solubility, masking taste, and delivery to target tissues, which can be considered in future applications.
Production of Stevia‐Based Persimmon Fruit Leather by Microwave Oven and Its Optimization With Response Surface Methodolog
Authors: Alam Muhammad Hamza , Ahmad Muhammad Haseeb , Imran Muhammad , Rehman Misbah Ur , Khan Muhammad Imran , Khan Muhammad Kamran , Khalid Waseem , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Aljawdah Hossam M. , Madilo Felix Kwashie 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThe consumer preference for low‐calorie and nutritious foods has urged the attention of researchers and food designers to develop food products with alternative organic ingredients. For the first time, persimmon is successfully developed into fruit leather (pestil) using a non‐caloric stevia sweetener. The study started with the production of persimmon (Diospyros kaki) leather, initially evaluating the compatibility of non‐caloric stevia (ST) sweetener with hydrocolloids (corn starch, pectin, and guar gum) by the hot air oven method, in which guar gum exhibited superior flexibility. After setting the leather recipe, the trials were performed in a microwave oven by employing a Box–Behnken experimental design to optimize the drying process. Independent variables including microwave power (MP), microwave time (MT), and leather thickness (LT) have shown their optimum values at 210 W, 30 min, and 3.5 mm, respectively, based on physicochemical analyses focusing on moisture content, texture, color, total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant capacity (AC). MP had the most substantial impact on the variables, followed by MT, while LT showed the least influence. Optimized development of microwave products emphasized better physicochemical attributes, highlighting the energy‐efficient nature of the resulting product in comparison to hot air‐dried product. Sensory evaluation favored the optimized microwave‐dried product over the hot air oven leather products. Therefore, utilizing novel processing technologies like microwave drying is recommended for producing functional (ST) based persimmon leather to uphold superior product quality.
How the Interplay Between Algorithmic HRM Systems Promotes Gig Workers' Self‐Efficacy: The Role of Technostressors
Authors: Wang Changyu , Cong Tinghui , Chen Jianyu 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThe increasingly crucial algorithmic Human Resource Management (HRM) field is spawning two research streams: Algorithmic monitoring and algorithmic control. Yet, the conceptual differences and interplay between them have been largely confused and ignored in research and practice. This study clarifies their conceptual differences by exploring their interplay effect on gig workers' technostressors. Based on the stress and coping theory, a partial least squares structural equation modeling analysis by running data from 407 gig workers participating in a three‐wave time‐lagged survey was conducted. Results show that observational or interactional algorithmic monitoring hinders or promotes gig workers' self‐efficacy via both challenge and threat technostressors, respectively. While enhancing the positive effect of interactional algorithmic monitoring on self‐efficacy via threat technostressors, guiding algorithmic control attenuates the negative effect of observational algorithmic monitoring on self‐efficacy via challenge and threat technostressors, which contrasts with prior algorithmic HRM literature considering algorithmic control as a universally “bad thing” by workers. These findings deepen the understanding of the algorithmic HRM realm by revealing the differences and interplay between algorithmic monitoring and algorithmic control. Operators should differentiate and synergize control and monitoring functions by emphasizing outcomes that the interplay between algorithmic HRM systems has on the workforce.
Persistent Lymphopenia as a Poor Prognostic Factor in Patients With Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome in the Renal Intensive Care Unit: A Retrospective Single‐Center Study
Authors: Xue Xiang , Zhu Shuhua , Xu Shutian , Zhou Yuchao , Wang Yang , Lou Lixuan , Li Shijun 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTPurposeMultiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), defined as two or more organ dysfunction during infection or following shock or trauma, correlates with poor outcomes. Clinical data, including MODS in the renal intensive care unit (ICU), are scarce. Therefore, we investigate the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with MODS in the renal ICU.MethodsA single‐center, retrospective cohort study of 99 adult patients with MODS admitted to the renal ICU of the National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China, from October 1, 2011 to October 1, 2021.Results99 patients had a mean age of 49.7 ± 16.5 years old, and 51 (51.5%) patients died within 28 days after being admitted to the renal ICU. Infection (80 patients, 80.8%) was the most common reason for admission, with 47 cases being pulmonary infections. Of all of the 99 patients, 73 (73.7%) presented with persistent lymphocytopenia (lymphocyte count < 1.1 × 109/L from the day of ICU admission through to day 7), with 33 and 40 presenting moderate (lymphocyte count 0.6–1.1 × 109/L) and severe persistent lymphopenia (lymphocyte count ≤ 0.6 × 109/L), respectively. These patients had higher illness severity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence. Patients with severe persistent lymphopenia were associated with higher 28‐day ICU mortality (87.5% vs. 42.4% vs. 7.7%, p < 0.001) versus those with moderate and without persistent lymphopenia. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the number of organs involved, APACHE‐II score, and persistent lymphopenia were independent risk factors for 28‐day mortality in patients with MODS. The value of lymphocyte count on day 7 of admission in predicting poor prognosis of patients was higher than on other days (Area Under Curve, AUC = 0.831).ConclusionsPatients with MODS are critically ill with high mortality. Persistent lymphopenia is frequent in patients with MODS and is independently associated with 28‐day mortality. Lymphocyte counts on day 7 of admission were shown to be highly predictive of prognosis.
Development and Challenges of Pathogen Molecular Point‐Of‐Care Testing Systems Based on Microfluidic Technology
Authors: Ren Shanshan , Liu Donglai , Xu Sihong 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTMolecular point‐of‐care testing (POCT) is characterized by high sensitivity, low reagent demand, fast mixing speed, rapid turnaround time, and ease of use, making it appealing for diagnosing infectious diseases. Currently, most commercial molecular POCT systems are based on microfluidic platforms integrating complex fluid manipulation systems, such as sample processing, separation, reaction, and detection, with functional modules on a chip of just a few square centimeters to achieve rapid target detection. This review summarizes the latest advances in molecular POCT systems based on microfluidic platforms for diagnosing infectious diseases from academic and industrial perspectives. First, we cover microfluidic chips, the core component of molecular POCT systems, including materials, preparation processes, fluid drivers, and control units. Then, we describe key techniques implemented in molecular POCT systems for diagnosing infectious diseases, namely nucleic acid detection and reagent storage. Finally, we discuss clinical applications and development directions and highlight challenges in the quality control of molecular POCT systems.
Dermatology 2.0: Deploying YOLOv11 for Accurate and Accessible Skin Disease Detection: A Web‐Based Approach
Authors: Hameed Adnan , Shah Said Khalid , Khan Sajid Ullah , Alanazi Sultan , Algamdi Shabbab Ali 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTSkin disorders are common and require diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner. In traditional diagnostics, great demands are made on the time and interpretation of the results. To cope with this, we introduce YOLOv11, an enhanced deep learning model designed for skin disease detection and classification. The model integrates EfficientNetB0 as the backbone for feature extraction and ResNet50 in the head for robust classification and localization. Our model was trained on a dataset of 10 common skin diseases to ensure robustness and accuracy; we were able to classify the diseases with a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 89.8%, a precision of 90%, and a recall of 88% on the test dataset. This model was developed in the form of a web application based on Streamlit, which was used for easy uploading of pictures by both clinicians and patients for threshold diagnostics. This upsurge in technology allows for treatment without visitation, making skin disease diagnosis more dynamic.
The Dental Public Health Workforce: Employer Expectations and Future Directions
Authors: Gritzer Lauren , Zavras Athanasios , Obadan‐Udoh Enihomo , Yeeda Evangelin , Alqaderi Hend 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTObjectiveThis study examines employer expectations within the dental public health (DPH) profession and evaluates the alignment of DPH training programs with workforce demands, identifying critical gaps and opportunities for improvement.MethodsA qualitative analysis of DPH job postings requiring five or fewer years of experience was conducted across multiple platforms, including LinkedIn, Google Job Postings, Indeed, ADEA, ASTDD, NNOHA, and USA Jobs. Position domains, descriptions, preferred, and required qualifications were systematically categorized to identify trends and workforce expectations.ResultsOf 102 DPH positions analyzed, the most common job domains were community‐based (C‐B) clinical (39.2%) and academia (19.6%). Leadership (90%), healthcare administration (86%), and clinical experience (64%) were the most commonly preferred skills across all positions. Analysis of DPH positions excluding C‐B clinical positions revealed that 53% of position descriptions referenced clinical responsibilities, while 57% required clinical experience. These responsibilities included supervising students in C‐B clinical education or providing clinical guidance within administrative roles.ConclusionsThe findings underscore the increasing demand for clinical experience in traditionally non‐clinical DPH positions, signaling a shift toward integrated roles that combine public health expertise with clinical practice. This highlights a disconnect between current DPH training programs and market demands, emphasizing the need to incorporate clinical training and leadership development into curricula. Transitioning to an integrated residency model incorporating a clinical competency inspired by preventive medicine frameworks could align graduate preparedness with workforce needs, enhance employability, and strengthen the impact of DPH professionals in advancing oral and overall health equity.
An observational study to determine the optimal physical evaluation site for detecting anemia
Authors: Horibata Ken , Kondo Seigo , Hashimoto Shuji , Takemura Yousuke 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBackgroundClinical pallor has traditionally served as a screening tool for anemia; however, its assessment lacks objectivity. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the correlation between skin and mucosal color, as measured by a spectrophotometer, and venous hemoglobin (Hb) values, to identify the optimal anatomical assessment site for detecting anemia.MethodsA cross‐sectional design. Ninety‐two adult Japanese outpatients participated in the study. Using a spectrophotometer, the color of the lip and conjunctiva was measured indirectly, while the color of the nail, palm, and inside of the upper arm was measured directly. Colors were quantified using the L*a*b* color scale. This is an international color scale, where the L* value is an index of brightness, a* value is red/green, and b* value is yellow/blue. The color difference (ΔE*) was employed to evaluate the discriminability of anemia identification across different assessment sites. Additionally, Hb values were recorded, with anemia defined as Hb <12.0 g/dL.ResultsThe a* values of the lip, conjunctiva, palm, and arm exhibited a positive correlation with Hb values and were significantly lower in the anemic group. While the ΔE* levels for the conjunctiva and lip were readily discernible by the human eye when comparing the normal and anemic groups, recognition at this level proved challenging for other sites.ConclusionThe conjunctiva and lip demonstrate potential suitability for visual diagnosis of anemia. In the nail, palm, and arm, anemia detection may require highly trained observation. Consequently, reliance on these sites for anemia diagnosis may lead to potential oversight.
Emergency Management of Intoxication‐Type Inherited Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Tarr J. Dexter , Morris Andrew A. M. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTIn many intoxication‐type inherited metabolic disorders, the accumulation of the toxic chemical can cause acute life‐threatening emergencies. Sometimes this is the inevitable consequence of a severe metabolic defect, but it is often triggered by catabolism. In this article, we consider the acute management when these conditions cause encephalopathy, seizures, stroke‐like episodes, thromboses, liver failure, cardiac failure, arrhythmias and rhabdomyolysis. Treatment is available for most intoxication‐type disorders, though it is seldom entirely satisfactory. The emergency management involves general measures for the immediate problem (such as liver failure, thrombosis or an arrhythmia) and specific treatment for the metabolic disorder. The latter usually aims to reduce the accumulation of the toxic small molecule. Often this involves preventing or reversing catabolism. Sometimes the formation of the toxic chemical can be reduced by removing dietary precursors, by diverting precursors to alternative pathways, or by inhibiting an earlier step in the affected pathway. Another strategy is to remove the toxic chemical by binding it to a drug or by extracorporeal blood purification. Occasionally, the block in the pathway can be ameliorated and some disorders, specific treatment may prevent the consequences of the accumulating chemical. Despite all these treatment strategies, outcomes are often disappointing, particularly if an intoxication disorder first presents as an emergency. Newborn screening has greatly improved the prognosis for some disorders. For others, outcomes can only be improved by earlier recognition and treatment.
Gramicidin and chlorhexidine encapsulated in bicontinuous microemulsions: Antimicrobial activity performance and their impact on self‐assembly
Authors: Hayes Douglas G. , Arp Riley , D'Souza Doris H. , Senanayake Manjula , Leite Wellington C. , Pingali Sai Venkatesh , Urban Volker S. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThe utility of bicontinuous microemulsions (BMEs) as carriers of the antimicrobial peptide (AMP) gramicidin D and antiseptic chlorhexidine was investigated for possible topical delivery to chronic wounds. The two water‐insoluble solutes dissolved in pre‐formed one‐phase BMEs of Water/Polysorbate 80/Limonene/Ethanol/Glycerol and Water/Aerosol‐OT (AOT)/Polysorbate 85/Isopropyl Myristate and an AOT/Polysorbate 85 Winsor‐III system, achieving gramicidin and chlorhexidine concentrations of 1.0 wt% and 0.5% individually and 0.5% and 0.3% in mixtures at 22°C, respectively. Small‐angle neutron scattering measurements demonstrated that both solutes decreased surfactant interfacial activity and increased interfacial fluidity for the Polysorbate 80 system. For the AOT/Polysorbate 85 systems, ellipsoidal aggregates consisting of gramicidin and likely adsorbed surfactant and oil formed, while chlorhexidine enhanced the surface activity of surfactants. According to bioassays performed on artificial skin, the incorporation of melittin, gramicidin, and chlorhexidine in general enhanced the bioactivity of Polysorbate 80 BMEs for 24 h treatment against relevant antibiotic‐resistant bacteria found on skin relative to controls. Yet, BME treatments were less effective than aqueous melittin control, in contrast to well diffusion bioassays performed previously. The results reflect the strong impact of AMPs and antiseptics on BME structure and dynamics and the complexity of formulating BMEs for optimal antimicrobial activity.
Advancing Integrated Transboundary Watershed Management Through Recreational Services Assessment: A Supply and Demand Framework Analysis
Authors: Jin Cai , Chen Chuanjuan , Hu Jing , Chen Tianyu , Yang He 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTNeglecting integrated management may exacerbate the imbalance between the supply and demand of ecosystem services (ESs) in transboundary watersheds. Although management strategies such as payments for watershed services (PWS) have been implemented to mitigate the externalities and imbalance of ESs, the complexity of transboundary watersheds is often underestimated, diminishing their effectiveness. This study proposed a comprehensive transboundary framework to assess the dynamics of recreational service supply and demand in China's Xin'an River, identifying the driving factors. Results showed that: (1) the supply growth rate of recreational services in upstream (50.5%) was higher than that in downstream (8.4%) during the study period; (2) demand in the upstream was lower than that in the downstream. This observation was corroborated through choice experiments; (3) recreational services exhibited a significant supply–demand imbalance with 74.5% oversupplied. These results suggest that environmental externalities are not fully internalized, especially in upstream areas; (4) the study identified road accessibility, land degradation, and demand preferences as key driving factors. These insights offer a new perspective on the internalization of PWS and can inform the development of policies for transboundary region‐integrated management.