bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Flexible assessment of biosecurity in small- and medium scale poultry farms in low and middle income countries
Authors: Nielsen Søren Saxmose , Kemunto Naomi P. , Muloi Dishon M. , Bojesen Anders Miki , Knight-Jones Theodore , Ayebare Dreck , Dione Michel , Ibayi Eugine L. , Poulsen Louise Ladefoged , Moodley Arshnee 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Biosecurity measures are essential for mitigating the risk of pathogen introduction and spread in farms. While standardised tools for monitoring biosecurity implementation exist, they are often not tailored to the specific needs of low and middle income countries (LMICs), where pathogen occurrence and farming practices can be highly variable compared to intensive high income country settings. The aim of our study was to develop a flexible risk assessment tool for evaluating biosecurity practices on small and medium-scale poultry farms in LMICs. The methodology described here allows local experts to adapt the tool to current conditions.

Results
The development process began by combining two existing questionnaires. These were evaluated by nine experts with expertise in diverse farming systems in LMICs. The experts conducted a knowledge aggregation process to assign weights to the different areas and individual questions within the questionnaires. The median scores from the final expert elicitation informed the weighting of questions in the newly developed questionnaire. These weights are adaptable and can be adjusted to reflect population-specific conditions, which may vary in pathogen load and farming practices.

Conclusions
We have developed a flexible biosecurity assessment tool tailored to small-and medium-scaled poultry farms in LMICs. This tool can be used as presented or adapted to local conditions through the input of local experts, allowing for effective and context-specific biosecurity monitoring.
Mesenchymal stem cells from perinatal tissues promote diabetic wound healing via PI3K/AKT activation
Authors: Huang Jiawei , Deng Qingwen , Tsang Lai Ling , Chang Guozhu , Guo Jinghui , Ruan Ye Chun , Wang Chi Chiu , Li Gang , Chan Hon Fai , Zhang Xiaohu , Jiang Xiaohua 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) represent a major complication of diabetes, often leading to poor healing outcomes with conventional treatments. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies have emerged as a promising alternative, given their potential to modulate various pathways involved in wound healing. This study evaluates and compares the therapeutic potential of MSCs derived from perinatal tissues—human umbilical cord MSCs (hUCMSCs), human chorionic villi MSCs (hCVMSCs), and human decidua basalis MSCs (hDCMSCs)—in a diabetic wound healing model.

Methods
We performed in vitro and in vivo studies to compare the efficacy of hUCMSCs, hCVMSCs, and hDCMSCs. Mass spectrometry was used to analyze the secreted proteins of the MSCs. We incorporated the MSCs into a polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel matrix with collagen I (Col-I) to evaluate their effects on wound healing.

Results
All three types of MSCs promoted wound healing, with hUCMSCs and hCVMSCs showing stronger effects compared to hDCMSCs. Both hUCMSCs and hCVMSCs demonstrated robust wound healing kinetics, with enhanced keratinocyte proliferation (KRT14+/Ki67+ cells), maturation (KRT10/KRT14 ratio), and angiogenesis. In vitro studies demonstrated that the MSC-derived secretome enhanced keratinocyte proliferation and migration, endothelial cell function and stem cell recruitment, indicating robust paracrine effects. Mass spectrometry revealed a conserved set of proteins including THBS1 (thrombospondin 1), SERPINE1 (serpin family E member 1), ANXA1 (annexin A1), LOX (lysyl oxidase), and ITGB1 (integrin beta-1) which are involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and wound healing, with the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway playing a central role. The PEGDA/SA/Col-I hydrogel demonstrated a unique balance of mechanical and biological properties and an optimal environment for MSC viability and function. Application of either hUCMSC- or hCVMSC-laden hydrogels resulted in accelerated wound closure, improved re-epithelialization, increased collagen deposition, and enhanced vascularization in vivo.

Conclusions
MSCs From perinatal tissues particularly hUCMSCs and hCVMSCs significantly enhance diabetic wound healing through PI3K/AKT pathway activation while hDCMSCs exhibited weaker efficacy. The PEGDA/SA/Col-I hydrogel supports MSC viability and function offering a promising scaffold for DFU treatment. These findings underscore the potential of specific perinatal MSCs and optimized hydrogel formulations in advancing diabetic wound care.
Canine circovirus: an emerging virus of dogs and wild canids
Authors: Beikpour Farzad , Letafati Arash , Fakhr Zahra Ahmadi , Decaro Nicoal , Mozhgani Sayed-Hamidreza 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Canine Circovirus (CanineCV) is an emerging viral pathogen affecting dogs and wild canids worldwide. Belonging to the Circoviridae family, CanineCV exhibits genetic variability and has been associated with various clinical manifestations, including gastroenteritis, respiratory symptoms, and neurological disorders. While its prevalence is notable, gaps persist in understanding its pathogenicity and evolutionary origins. CanineCV often co-infects with other canine viruses, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Prevention strategies are hindered by the lack of targeted vaccines and the virus's resilience in the environment. This review paper summarizes the current knowledge on CanineCV and discusses the virus's genetic features and taxonomy, epidemiology in both domestic and wild populations, clinical manifestations, diagnosis methods, and prevention strategies. Additionally, the article highlights gaps in knowledge regarding CanineCV's pathogenicity, evolutionary aspects, and potential zoonotic transmission risks. Overall, it underscores the importance of further research to better understand and mitigate the impact of CanineCV on canine health and public health.
Comparison of anesthetic effects of xylazine combined with alfaxalone or ketamine and maintained with isoflurane in captive Formosan Reeve’s Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi micrurus)
Authors: Chang Li-Jen , Wang Zixuan , Lien Chen-Yeh , Wen Amanda H.C. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Formosan Reeve’s muntjac is a Cervidae species endemic to Southeast China and Taiwan. However, research on different anesthetic protocols, their effects, and their safety in Formosan Reeve’s muntjac is limited. This study evaluated the effects of ketamine-xylazine (KX) and alfaxalone-xylazine (AX) administered via blow darts to nine muntjacs. Induction and recovery times as well as the quality were assessed by a blinded observer. Peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature were recorded for at least 30 min. Tolazoline (4 mg/kg) was used post-procedure to reverse xylazine’s effects. The mean doses were 4.68 ± 2.18 mg/kg for ketamine and 3.22 ± 1.33 mg/kg for xylazine in the KX group. In the AX group, the mean doses were 4.38 ± 0.31 mg/kg for alfaxalone and 1.19 ± 0.26 mg/kg for xylazine. The median induction times were 339.5 s (range 180.0-375.0) for KX and 125.0 s (range 71.0–334.0) for AX, with both groups scoring 3.0 for induction quality. The recovery times were 507.5 s (range 266.0–1081.0) for KX and 243.0 s (range 92.0–480.0) for AX, with recovery scores of 2.3 and 3.0, respectively, showing no significant difference. Hypoxemia (SpO2 < 90%) was more severe in the KX group when compared to the AX group (SpO2 > 92%), and rectal temperatures were higher in the former during the first 15 min. Heart and respiratory rates showed no significant differences between groups. Our findings demonstrate that both anesthetic combinations achieve reliable induction and satisfactory recovery in Formosan Reeve’s muntjac, with the ketamine-xylazine combination causing a more profound hypoxemia post-induction compared to the alfaxalone-xylazine combination.
A broad assessment of forty-one skin phenotypes reveals complex dimensions of skin ageing
Authors: Ng Jun Yan , Wong Qi Yi Ambrose , Lim Jun Jie , Cen Dingyu , Wong Jia Yi Karen , Lim Yi Ying Eliza , Sio Yang Yie , Reginald Kavita , Say Yee-How , Chew Fook Tim 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Skin ageing takes on many different forms. Despite this diversity in skin ageing phenotypes, literature published to date is limited in scope, as many research studies either focus on one single phenotype or just a few specific phenotypes. Presently, phenotypes such as wrinkles, pigment spots, and photo-ageing are receiving most of the research attention. We therefore wonder whether the current discourse on skin ageing places a disproportionate amount of focus on a few selected phenotypes, leaving other skin ageing phenotypes underexplored.

Methods
In this cross-sectional study, we performed a broad assessment of forty-one signs of skin ageing and characterised the phenotypes that constituted key components of skin ageing. We also explored the interrelationship among forty-one skin ageing phenotypes using Spearman’s Correlation and Principal Component Analysis.

Results
We analysed our study population, which is composed of 3281 ethnic Chinese participants from the Singapore/Malaysia Cross-sectional Genetics Epidemiology Study (SMCGES). The first ten principal components cumulatively explain 46.88% of the variance of skin ageing phenotypes in our study population. We discovered that the commonly discussed forms of skin ageing (i.e., wrinkles, pigmentation, and photo-ageing) only accounted for a small portion (24.39%) of the variance of all skin ageing phenotypes in our study population. Telangiectasia, a poor lip fullness, a lighter skin colour, xerosis, ephelides (freckles), ptosis of eyelids (droopy eyelids), eyebags, and a low eyebrow positioning were other key components of skin ageing, accounting for a further 22.49% of the variance of skin ageing phenotypes in our study population. We found that each of these ten skin ageing phenotypes characterises a key and important aspect of skin ageing. In this broad assessment of skin ageing, we first described the prevalence of forty-one signs of skin ageing and then characterised in detail both the prevalence and severity distribution of ten key skin ageing phenotypes.

Conclusions
We presented clear evidence that skin ageing is much more than just wrinkles, pigmentation and photo-ageing. The addition of telangiectasia, poor lip fullness, a lighter skin colour, xerosis, ephelides, ptosis of eyelids, eyebags, and a low eyebrow positioning added more dimensions to skin ageing phenotype presentations.
Association between Loa loa microfilaremia and anatomical hyposplenia in a rural area of the Republic of Congo: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Boullé Charlotte , Lebredonchel Elodie , Campillo Jérémy T. , Dupasquier Valentin , Hemilembolo Marlhand C. , Pion Sébastien D. S. , Djontu Jean Claude , Rancé Ludovic , Souteyrand Philippe , Missamou François , Boussinesq Michel , Ntoumi Francine , Chesnais Cédric B. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Data suggest excess mortality is associated with loiasis, which is endemic to Central Africa, although the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. We hypothesized that there could be an association between Loa loa microfilarial densities (MFD) and lower spleen volume (SV) due to micro-obstruction linked to circulating microfilariae (mf). This could result in functional hyposplenia and a higher burden of infections. Our objective was to investigate the impact of L. loa MFD and malaria on spleen’s bi-dimensional dimensions, volume, and parenchymal lesions.

Methods
We included 981 participants aged 18–88 years in a cross-sectional study conducted in May–June 2022 in the Republic of the Congo. Centralized ultrasonographic examination was performed. The primary outcomes included SV, splenomegaly (cranio-caudal-distance ≥ 13 cm), and anatomical hyposplenia (AH) (SV ≤ 80, ≤ 110 or ≤ 150 cm3). Blood samples were analyzed for L. loa MFD, Plasmodium-PCR, Anti-Plasmodium falciparum-IgG, total IgM, sickle-cell disease status, and hematological abnormalities. Linear and logistic regressions were used to assess these associations.

Results
Among 981 participants, 139 (14.1%) had splenomegaly, and 26 (2.7%) and 175 (17.8%) had SV ≤ 80 and ≤ 150 cm3, respectively. L. loa microfilariae were detected in 353 (35.6%) participants. A gradient effect was observed in each model, with the highest MFD (> 30,000 mf/ml) having the highest adjusted odds ratio of 17.94 (95% CI: 2.91–110.76, P = 0.002), 5.94 (95% CI: 1.40–25.17, P = 0.016), and 5.77 (95% CI: 1.95–17.12, P = 0.002) for SV ≤ 80, 110, and 150 cm3, respectively. Anti-P. falciparum-IgG levels were gradually associated with splenomegaly. Fourteen participants met the criterion for hyper-reactive malarial splenomegaly (HMS). Conversely, higher L. loa MFD was correlated with AH, with an attributable fraction of 25%, and the presence of splenic parenchymal lesions.

Conclusions
This study provides a detailed description of spleen morphology and the factors influencing its size in a rural central African population. It demonstrates a strong association between L. loa MFD and reduced SV, suggesting that loiasis may lead to AH, and potentially to functional hyposplenia, with consequences such as increased susceptibility to bacterial infections. Malaria was associated with splenomegaly, with a figure of HMS consistent with estimates from other African countries.

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing foster care relationships through attachment-based intervention: the safe families study protocol, a randomized controlled trial of the circle of security parenting program®
Authors: Pereira Mathieu , Sedes Lauriane , Gadéa Emilie , Shankland Rebecca 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Children in out-of-home care constitute a vulnerable population often experiencing mental health challenges related to early adversity and placement disruptions. The Circle of Security Parenting program® (COS-P) is an attachment-based intervention designed to enhance carer sensitivity and reflective competence, ultimately improving the quality of carer-child relationships.

Methods
This study protocol follows a mixed-methods randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of the COS-P program for foster carers in France. A total of 70 foster carers will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group (receiving COS-P in addition to Treatment as Usual) or the waitlist control group (receiving Treatment as Usual only). Quantitative measures, including the Caregiving Composite Questionnaire, Parenting Stress Index, and the Marschak Interaction Method, will be administered at baseline and at follow-up). Qualitative data will be collected through focus groups with foster carers and COS-P facilitators, and through self-confrontation interviews with a subset of foster carers.

Discussion
This study is the first to evaluate the COS-P program for foster carers in France. Findings will provide valuable insights into the program’s effectiveness in improving carer-child relationships and foster carer well-being, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for children in out-of-home care. The study will also explore potential moderators of treatment outcome, and shed light on the subjective experiences of participants.

Trial registration
This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT06701877.
Assessment of bacteria-based self-healing concrete through experimental investigations — a sustainable approach
Authors: Vishal Akula , Chepuri Akhilesh , Chandana N. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the destructive and non-destructive strength parameters of bacterial concrete with different grades (M20, M25, M30) and cell counts (10^5 and 10^6 cells/ml) using Bacillus subtilis. Additionally, cost analysis and cost–benefit comparisons were conducted for each mix. The effectiveness of B. subtilis in resisting high temperatures was also examined. Findings indicate a 25–40% increase in strength parameters in bacterial concrete compared to conventional concrete. Bacterial mixes consistently showed velocities above 4.45 km/s, indicating excellent quality, surpassing conventional concrete. Notably, bacteria with a cell count of 10^5 cells/ml exhibited greater strength than 10^6 cells/ml across all grades. Cantabro loss tests revealed a 15–25% reduction in wear and tear for bacterial concrete. The bacterial specimens also showed significantly lower strength loss at higher temperatures. This study underscores the potential of bacterial-based self-healing concrete for specific construction applications, offering high temperature resistance, increased strength, and reduced wear and tear.
Effects of melatonin supplementation on oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers in diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sadeghi Sara , Nassiri Amirahmad , Hakemi Monir Sadat , Hosseini Fatemeh , Pourrezagholie Fatemeh , Naeini Fatemeh , Niri Aylar Nadiri , Imani Hossein , Mohammadi Hamed 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background and objectives
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive illness linked to higher rates of morbidity and death. One of the main causes of CKD is diabetes mellitus (DM), and oxidative stress is essential to the disease's development. It has been demonstrated that the natural antioxidant melatonin reduces inflammation and oxidative damage in renal tissues. Given the lack of robust evidence, this double-blind clinical trial sought to investigate the effects of melatonin supplementation on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in diabetic CKD patients.

Materials and methods
This trial included 41 diabetic patients with CKD (stages 3–4) from Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran. For ten weeks, participants were randomized to receive either a placebo or 5 mg of melatonin twice a day. Baseline characteristics, dietary intake, physical activity, and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Oxidative stress (TAC, TOS, MDA) and inflammatory markers (IL-6, hs-CRP) were measured before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results
The 10-week trial was completed by 41 participants in total, and no adverse effects were noted. Dietary intake, physical activity, and anthropometric parameters did not significantly differ between the melatonin and control groups in baseline characteristics. Melatonin supplementation decreased oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers, including hs-CRP, MDA, TOS, and IL-6. However, these changes were not statistically significant.

Conclusion
Our study showed that melatonin supplementation did not significantly affect oxidative stress or inflammatory markers, including TAC, TOS, MDA, IL-6, and hs-CRP, in diabetic patients with CKD. Despite a decrement in TOS, MDA, IL-6, and hs-CRP levels after 10 weeks, this was not statistically significant. Further studies with larger sample sizes, greater dosages, and longer follow-up periods are recommended.
Comparing the Effects of Integrative Neuromuscular Training and Traditional Physical Fitness Training on Physical Performance Outcomes in Young Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wan Ke-wen , Dai Zi-han , Wong Po-san , Ho Robin Sze-tak , Tam Bjorn T. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Enhancing youth's physical fitness levels during childhood and adolescence through prior training programs can significantly optimize their athletic performance. The integrative neuromuscular training (INT) model is designed to improve neuromuscular function and prevent athletic injuries, and is superior to the traditional physical training method. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the effects of INT versus traditional physical fitness training (PT) on physical performance-related outcomes in young athletes.

Methods
Six online databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, PsycINFO) searched from inception through 15 January 2024. Meta-analysis was performed when data were available from two or more trials. Physical performance-related outcomes were analyzed using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The certainty of evidence and quality of the included studies were rated using the GRADE scale and the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool respectively.

Results
Seventeen randomized controlled trials with 649 young athletes were included in the systematic review. Of those, 1 study showed a low risk of bias, 1 showed a high risk, and 15 showed some concerns. Compared to the PT group, INT significantly improved dynamic balance (MD = 7.29%, 95%CI 3.31 to 11.28, p < 0.001, I2 = 64.7%), static balance (SMD = −0.54, 95%CI −0.84 to −0.24, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%), jumping performance (SMD = 0.53, 95%CI 0.32 to 0.73, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%), sprinting capacity (SMD = −0.76, 95%CI −1.13 to −0.39, p < 0.001, I2 = 57.6%) and maximal strength (SMD = 1.01, 95%CI 0.35 to 1.67, p = 0.002, I2 = 81.9%%). No significant between-group differences were identified for agility and flexibility.

Conclusion
Our findings suggest that INT has the potential to be an effective training method to improve physical performance in young athletes. Moreover, further research is needed to determine the effects and associated doses for young athletes of different age groups.
Exploring small-scale optimization coupling learning approaches for enterprises’ financial health forecasts
Authors: Zhu Lin , Zhang Zhihua , Crabbe M. James C. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The financial health of leading enterprises has a significant impact on the sustainable development of the global economy. Most data-driven financial health forecasts are based on the direct use of small-scale machine learning. In this study, we proposed the idea of optimization coupling learning to improve these machine learning models in financial health forecasting. It not only revealed lagging, immediate, continuous impacts of various indicators in different fiscal year, but also had the same low computational cost and complexity as known small-scale machine learning models. We used our optimization coupling learning to investigate 3424 leading enterprises in China and revealed inner triggering mechanisms and differences of enterprises' financial health status from individual behavior to macro level.