bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of China’s fertility policy based on PMC modeling
Authors: Chen Jie , Gao Yan , Wang Xi 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundThe fertility level has declined to below replacement level in many countries. Hence, evaluating the fertility policies is crucial for policy intervention to achieve sustainable development. However, research on assessing fertility policies remains limited.Objective/methodologyThis study introduces a Policy Maturity and Consistency (PMC) index model based on text mining techniques to analyze 22 fertility policy documents. The analysis model aims to identify policy deficiencies and provide actionable insights for improving future policy frameworks.ResultsOur study shows that, despite a comprehensive design and high consistency, significant gaps remain in areas such as policy objectives and thematic focus. Specific recommendations are proposed to enhance policy effectiveness, including fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, integrating economic and policy-based support mechanisms, and promoting a shift in reproductive culture.
Health data sharing in Germany: individual preconditions, trust and motives
Authors: Kühnel Elias , Wilke Felix 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveThe use of health data plays an important role in medical research. In Germany, the secondary use of health data is not yet as established as in other countries. In order to exploit the full potential of using health data, a key prerequisite is that a large part of the population is willing to share their health data. The aim of this study is to identify attitudes and factors that influence citizens’ willingness to share personal health data for medical research purposes.MethodsA standardized cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted among the German population aged 18 and above. The representative survey of a total of 1,004 people took place from December 7th to 21th, 2023. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to identify potential factors influencing the willingness to share health data.ResultsAround 43% of respondents are willing to share their health data with public research institutions, while around 17% are still undecided. The population, however, is particularly skeptical about data being shared with commercial companies. Less than a quarter of respondents (23%) would share their data with small and medium-sized enterprises and only 15 percent with technology companies. Regarding the factors influencing the willingness to share data with research institutions, three overarching factors can be named: (1) individual characteristics, in particular the level of education and technical competence, (2) individual motives, such as altruism as well as worries and concerns regarding health data sharing, and (3) trust in institutions, especially trust in science and technology companies.Discussion and conclusionAlthough the study shows a general openness towards sharing health data and underlines the importance of altruistic motives, social inequalities and concerns about health data sharing are also evident. Trust plays a particularly important role here, as it acts as a mediator between individual preconditions and individual motives. In order to exploit the full potential of secondary data use in medical research, comprehensive information of the public about data sharing and use as well as transparent and open communication are required to strengthen trust in the actors involved and the data sharing process.
Deep learning in gonarthrosis classification: a comparative study of model architectures and single vs. multi-model methods
Authors: Yayli Sahika Betul , Kılıç Kutay , Beyaz Salih 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to classify Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) osteoarthritis stages using knee anteroposterior X-ray images by comparing two deep learning (DL) methodologies: a traditional single-model approach and a proposed multi-model approach. We addressed three core research questions in this study: (1) How effective are single-model and multi-model deep learning approaches in classifying KL stages? (2) How do seven convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures perform across four distinct deep learning tasks? (3) What is the impact of CLAHE (Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization) on classification performance?ApproachWe created a dataset of 14,607 annotated knee AP X-rays from three hospitals. The knee joint region was isolated using a YOLOv5 object detection model. The multi-model approach utilized three DL models: one for osteophyte detection, another for joint space narrowing analysis, and a third to combine these outputs with demographic and image data for KL classification. The single-model approach directly classified KL stages as a benchmark. Seven CNN architectures (NfNet-F0/F1, EfficientNet-B0/B3, Inception-ResNet-v2, VGG16) were trained with and without CLAHE augmentation.ResultsThe single-model approach achieved an F1-score of 0.763 and accuracy of 0.767, outperforming the multi-model strategy, which scored 0.736 and 0.740. Different models performed best across tasks, underscoring the need for task-specific architecture selection. CLAHE negatively impacted most models, with only one showing a marginal improvement of 0.3%.ConclusionThe single-model approach was more effective for KL grading, surpassing metrics in existing literature. These findings emphasize the importance of task-specific architectures and preprocessing. Future studies should explore ensemble modeling, advanced augmentations, and clinical validation to enhance applicability.
Autonomous robotic ultrasound scanning system: a key to enhancing image analysis reproducibility and observer consistency in ultrasound imaging
Authors: Lin Xin-Xin , Li Ming-De , Ruan Si-Min , Ke Wei-Ping , Zhang Hao-Ruo , Huang Hui , Wu Shao-Hong , Cheng Mei-Qing , Tong Wen-Juan , Hu Hang-Tong , He Dan-Ni , Lu Rui-Fang , Lin Ya-Dan , Kuang Ming , Lu Ming-De , Chen Li-Da , Huang Qing-Hua , Wang Wei 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to develop an autonomous robotic ultrasound scanning system (auto-RUSS) pipeline, comparing its reproducibility and observer consistency in image analysis with physicians of varying levels of expertise.Design/methodology/approachAn auto-RUSS was engineered using a 7-degree-of-freedom robotic arm, with real-time regulation based on force control and ultrasound visual servoing. Two phantoms were employed for the human-machine comparative experiment, involving three groups: auto-RUSS, non-expert (4 junior physicians), and expert (4 senior physicians). This setup enabled comprehensive assessment of reproducibility in contact force, image acquisition, image measurement and AI-assisted classification. Radiological feature variability was measured using the coefficient of variation (COV), while performance and reproducibility assessments utilized mean and standard deviation (SD).FindingsThe auto-RUSS had the potential to reduce operator-dependent variability in ultrasound examinations, offering enhanced repeatability and consistency across multiple dimensions including probe contact force, images acquisition, image measurement, and diagnostic model performance.Originality/valueIn this paper, an autonomous robotic ultrasound scanning system (auto-RUSS) pipeline was proposed. Through comprehensive human-machine comparison experiments, the auto-RUSS was shown to effectively improve the reproducibility of ultrasound images and minimize human-induced variability.
Tackling somatic DNA contamination in sperm epigenetic studies
Authors: Kumari Anamika , Singh Rajender 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionRecent interest in sperm epigenetics has stemmed from its implication in sperm DNA quality, sperm fertility, environmental toxicity, and transgenerational inheritance. Sperm epigenetic data may be significantly affected by somatic DNA contamination, resulting in misleading conclusions. However, detecting and dealing with somatic DNA contamination in semen samples can be a challenging task.MethodsIn the present study, we worked out a detailed and robust plan to deal with somatic cell DNA contamination in sperm epigenetic studies in order to draw error-free scientific conclusions. Apart from incorporating simple quality checks, such as microscopic examination and somatic cell lysis buffer (SCLB) treatment, we compared the Infinium Human Methylation 450K BeadChip data for sperm and blood samples to identify the CpG sites that were highly methylated in blood samples in comparison to sperm, but were unrelated to infertility.Results and discussionThe comparison of Infinium Human Methylation 450K BeadChip data for sperm and blood samples identified 9564 CpG sites that can be used as markers for analyzing somatic DNA contamination. We have put together a comprehensive plan including evaluation under a microscope, SCLB treatment, inclusion of CpG biomarkers for sample quality evaluation, and applying a 15% cut off at the time of data analysis to completely eliminate the influence of somatic DNA contamination in sperm epigenetic studies. We conclude that if this comprehensive plan is followed, the influence of somatic DNA contamination in sperm epigenetic studies can be completely eliminated.
The roles of urban agriculture to household food security: a case study in Kirkos sub-city, Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia
Authors: Alene Firew Dereje , Aga Merga Abdissa 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe main objective of the study was to explore the contribution of urban agriculture (UA) to the household food security of urban farmers in Addis Ababa, using Kirkos Subcity as a case study.MethodsBoth quantitative and qualitative research approaches were employed to ascertain and describe the characteristics of variables of interest. The data collection involved surveys and interviews with urban farmers.ResultsThe study revealed that 48.2% of respondents were food secure, while 23.1% and 28.7% were mildly or moderately food insecure, respectively. Additionally, 33.8% of respondents believed that urban agriculture helped them meet their daily food needs, while the remaining respondents felt it was insufficient. Approximately 47.2% of respondents reported that UA helped them meet their food requirements year-round, whereas 22.6% said it was unable to cover their year-round needs. Most respondents indicated that their income increased due to engaging in urban agriculture. Furthermore, 72.3% of respondents had access to land resources for urban agriculture, while 27.7% did not have access to land. The ordinal logistic regression model indicated that age, family size, formal education, household head, monthly income, marital status, educational level, main income source, farming experience, land access, and market access were statistically significant predictors of household food security.DiscussionThe prevalence of food insecurity among urban households engaged in agriculture highlights the need for additional support and increased intensity of various types of urban agriculture. Policymakers should consider integrating urban agriculture into urban planning strategies to enhance food security and resilience in urban areas.
Innovation systems for emerging food technologies: evidence from the development of cultured proteins in Thailand
Authors: Eichhorst Waverly , Blaustein-Rejto Daniel , Shah Saloni , Smith Alex , Newton Peter 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionUnderstanding how actors and institutions can support the adoption of novel technologies may help identify opportunities for stakeholders to accelerate transitions towards more sustainable production and consumption practices. Little is currently known about how emerging food technologies may be effectively supported in pre-market stages of development, especially in middle- and low-income countries with industrializing economies.MethodsIn this paper, we apply the theoretical framework of technological innovation systems to assess how actors, networks, and institutions are influencing the pre-market development of cultured protein (CP) technologies in Thailand. We used a mixed-methods approach that consisted of 1) a qualitative document review and 2) semi-structured interviews with 17 expert informants.ResultsWe found that various actors have demonstrated preliminary engagement in the development of an innovation system for CP technologies in Thailand. However, technological diffusion will additionally require addressing a need for regulatory approval, manufacturing capacity, scientific and technical expertise, and consumer acceptance.DiscussionStronger evidence of the potential domestic benefits that CP production could bring to Thailand is a prerequisite for stakeholder engagement and mission alignment across sectors. In the near term, transnational coordination may be necessary to help overcome limitations in domestically available expertise. Our findings demonstrate the importance of a convergence in priorities for technological development and reveal a need for further research into how transnational linkages of innovation systems may help address national weaknesses by complementing resources and capabilities at the national level.
From colostomy creation to full enteral feeding in neonates with an anorectal malformation: evaluating the role of central venous access
Authors: Huijgen D. , Schokker-van Linschoten I. K. , Versteegh H. P. , Sloots C. E. J. 
Published: February 2025

PurposeAfter creating a colostomy in newborns with anorectal malformations (ARMs), reaching full enteral feeding may take longer than expected, resulting in an unanticipated period of starvation. This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the postoperative course regarding enteral feeding tolerance and the necessity for a central venous access device (CVAD) after colostomy formation in newborns with ARMs.MethodsThe files of neonates with ARMs who underwent colostomy formation between January 2014 and August 2023 were reviewed. The primary outcome was the postoperative tolerance of enteral feeding. Secondary outcomes were the need for a CVAD and CVAD-related complications.ResultsThirty-four neonates with an ARM underwent colostomy formation. Enteral feeding was initiated on median postoperative day two (IQR 1–2). Full enteral feeding was reached on median postoperative day six (IQR 4–8). In nine neonates (26.5%), it took more than seven postoperative days to reach full enteral feeding, of whom seven (77.8%) had one or more comorbidities that could affect neonatal feeding tolerance. A CVAD was placed in 17 neonates (50%), of whom four (23.5%) needed additional general anesthesia for its placement. There were one or more CVAD-related complications in seven of 17 (41.2%) neonates, mainly involving suspicion of mild catheter-related infections.ConclusionsThe majority of neonates undergoing colostomy formation for an ARM require more than five days to achieve full enteral feeding. It is recommended to bridge this period of inadequate feeding with either fluids or parenteral nutrition by inserting a CVAD during colostomy formation, particularly for those with comorbidities affecting neonatal feeding tolerance.
Evaluation of twin-arginine translocation substrate proteins as potential antigen candidates for serodiagnosis of brucellosis
Authors: Wu Yao , Yan Xin , Sun Mingjun , Guo Xiaohan , Li Jiaqi , Sun Xiangxiang , Liu Mengda , Zhang Haobo , Nan Wenlong , Shao Weixing , Wang Fangkun , Fan Xiaoxu , Sun Shufang 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionBrucellosis, an infectious zoonotic disease caused by members of the genus Brucella, results in chronic multi-organ injury. Improving the specificity and sensitivity of serological methods for diagnosing brucellosis necessitates the development of novel diagnostic antigens. The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway is responsible for transporting folded proteins across the cytoplasmic membrane and has been implicated in the virulence of Brucella. Three Tat substrate proteins—L,D-transpeptidase ErfK (A0577), linear amide C-N hydrolase YxeI (A1479), and thioesterase domain-containing protein EntF (B0249)—contribute significantly to Brucella virulence. However, the roles of these Tat substrate proteins in diagnosing brucellosis remain unclear.MethodsIn this study, ErfK, YxeI, and EntF were expressed in prokaryotic cells and utilized as diagnostic antigens. The clinical sera from bovines and sheep diagnosed with brucellosis were analyzed using indirect ELISA with these proteins.ResultsFor bovine serum, the combined protein group (ErfK + YxeI + EntF) and YxeI demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy of 94.23% and 93.58%, respectively. Meanwhile, the combined protein group showed the strongest ability to detect Brucella in sheep serum, achieving an accuracy of 88.10%. Both the combined protein group and YxeI displayed no cross-reactivity with rabbit serum immunized against Yersinia enterocolitica O9, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Vibrio cholerae, Legionella, and Salmonella, indicating relatively good specificity.ConclusionThe findings of this study suggest that Tat substrate proteins serve as promising candidate antigens with significant potential value for the clinical diagnosis of brucellosis.
Existence of Pentatrichomonas hominis in Tibetan Antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii)
Authors: Liu Shuo , Li Jing-Hao , Qin Si-Yuan , Jiang Jing , Wang Zhen-Jun , Ma Tao , Zhu Jun-Hui , Geng Hong-Li , Yan Wei-Lan , Xue Nian-Yu , Tang Yan , Sun He-Ting 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionPentatrichomonas hominis is a conditional pathogen that parasitizes the intestines of vertebrates and has been detected in various wild animals. However, its infection rate in Tibetan antelopes has not been previously studied.MethodsIn this study, 503 fecal samples from Tibetan antelopes were analyzed to determine the prevalence and molecular characteristics of P. hominis.ResultsResults showed that 1.19% (6/503) of the samples tested positive, and although the prevalence was low, this finding underscores the importance of monitoring wild animals population as hosts of zoonotic pathogens. Additionally, the highest prevalence in Nima County (6.25%, 4/64), followed by Shenza County (2.44%, 2/82). No P. hominis was detected in samples from Shuanghu, Ruoqiang, Qiemo, and Qumarlêb Counties. Seasonally, the highest prevalence was recorded in autumn (1.42%, 6/423). Interestingly, P. hominis was only detected in 2020 (2%, 6/300), with no infections found in 2023 (0/50) or 2024 (0/153). Additionally, the phylogenetic analysis indicated that most islolates belonged to the CC1 genotype, with one representing a potential novel genotype.DiscussionThis is the first s to report the presence of P. hominis in Tibetan antelopes, revealing that Tibetan antelopes may be a potential transmitter of zoontic P. hominis. These findings offer new insights into its epidemiology and contribute valuable data for Tibetan antelope conservation efforts.
Investigation on Rational Utilization of Medicinal Plant Semiliquidambar cathayensis Chang Leaf and Bark at Different Developmental Stages
Authors: Li Juanling , Geng Zhaopeng , Yuan Yuanyuan , Wang Minjuan , Zhang Yanan , Wang Junli 
Published: February 2025

Background: Semiliquidambar cathayensis Chang is an extremely valuable and endangered medicinal plant. To investigate the exploitation and rational utilization of S. cathayensis, this study conducted metabolomics analysis of the leaves and bark of artificially cultivated S. cathayensis at different developmental stages. Methods: These metabolites were detected and identified by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography–tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technology, and then univariate statistical analyses, multivariate pattern analyses, and pathway analyses were carried out. Results: As a result, a total of 801 metabolites were detected in S. cathayensis; differential metabolites in leaves at different developmental stages were mainly enriched in pathways related to flavonoids, whereas differential metabolites in bark at different developmental stages were mainly aromatic compounds, amino acids, and flavonoids, among others. This study revealed that young leaves are ideal for use in treating rheumatism, regulating blood pressure, and lowering blood glucose, while old leaves are better suited for skincare products and extracting materials to prevent neurodegenerative diseases and support women’s ovarian health. As for bark, four-year-old S. cathayensis bark is optimal for extracting myricetin. If the pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and industrial fields require extensive extraction of L-phenylalanine, trans-3-hydroxycinnamate, and 4-hydroxyphenylacetate, and if the medical field needs to extract anti-allergy, liver protection, and anti-coagulant ingredients, the two-year-old S. cathayensis bark is the best choice. Conclusions: Thus, this study established a solid theoretical framework for the rational, effective, and sustainable utilization of S. cathayensis leaves and bark.
The Plant Growth-Promoting Ability of Alfalfa Rhizobial Strains Under Nickel Stress
Authors: Pešić Mila , Tošić Jojević Sonja , Sikirić Biljana , Mrvić Vesna , Jovković Marina , Milinković Mira , Andjelković Snežana , Stajković-Srbinović Olivera 
Published: February 2025

The growth and nutrient balance of legumes can be disrupted in soils with increased nickel (Ni) concentrations. The inoculation of legumes with rhizobia, symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria, can be used for the alleviation of trace metal stress in plants. This study evaluated the Ni tolerance of alfalfa rhizobia isolates and some plant growth-promoting traits in the presence of Ni: indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, Ni biosorption potential, and the effect of rhizobia on alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) growth. The strains were characterized as Shinorhizobium meliloti, Sinorhizobium medicae, and Rhizobium tibeticum. In total, 70% of the tested strains tolerate up to 0.8 mM Ni, while 15% of the strains tolerate 1.2 mM Ni. The production of IAA was maintained in the presence of Ni until bacterial growth was stopped by raising the Ni concentration. Alfalfa seed germination is significantly reduced in the presence of 0.5 mM Ni, while a significant reduction in 10-day-old seedling length already occurs at a Ni concentration of 0.03 mM. In the plant experiment, when alfalfa was inoculated with rhizobial strains, nodulation was maintained up to 0.05 mM Ni, but a significant reduction in nodule number was detected at 0.01 mM Ni. At the concentration of 0.005 mM Ni, inoculation with 12 particular rhizobial strains significantly improved the number of nodules per plant, plant height, and root length, as well as plant shoot dry weight, compared to non-inoculated plants with Ni addition. However, higher concentrations caused a reduction in all of these plant growth parameters compared to the plants without Ni. The selected rhizobia strains showed a Ni biosorption capacity of 20% in the in vitro assay. The inoculation of alfalfa with effective rhizobial strains improves growth parameters compared to non-inoculated plants in the presence of certain concentrations of Ni.