bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gluten-free bread made with non-defatted ground walnuts: microstructural, technological and nutritional properties
Authors: Burbano Juan José , Gara Antonela David , Ferrero Cristina , Correa María Jimena 
Published: January 2025

Summary
Non-defatted walnuts are interesting for developing gluten-free (GF) bread because they contain bioactive compounds and high concentrations of fibre and polyunsaturated fatty acids. This study aimed to determine the effects of the addition of non-defatted ground walnuts (10%, 20% and 30%) on the nutritional and technological quality of gluten-free breads. Furthermore, control bread (formulation without ground walnuts) and bread with 20% walnuts were selected for microstructure and sensory evaluation.
The addition of walnuts led to a significant increase in specific volume, affected crumb and crust colour and produced harder and crumblier crumbs. Despite these changes, the walnuts improved the nutritional and sensory properties of breads without affecting the starch gelatinization or protein stabilizing role (on air bubbles and lipid droplets). Lipid oxidation did not increase in breads containing walnuts at 10% and 20% level. These findings suggest that, even at high levels, non-defatted ground walnuts are a suitable ingredient for gluten-free bakery products.
Unveiling the effects of psyllium husk, mung bean protein, and transglutaminase on the quality characteristics of heat-moisture treated gluten-free rice pasta
Authors: Roger Raherison Aimé , Laohakunjit Natta , Uthairatanakij Apiradee , Vongsawasdi Punchira , Kaisangsri Nattapon , Selamassaku Orrapun 
Published: January 2025

Summary
Developing gluten-free (GF) pasta remains a technological challenge. Creating GF pasta using heat moisture treatment (HMT) modified rice flour, psyllium husk (PH), mung bean protein (MBP), and transglutaminase (TG) was studied. Increasing the PH concentrations (0.75, 1.5, 2.25, and 3%) increased firmness and hardness, while decreasing the cooking loss of cooked GF pasta, then 2.25% PH was combined with varied MBP concentrations (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%), with or without 1% TG. Pasta with a 10% MBP, both with and without TG, increased firmness, texture profile, protein content, redness, yellowness, and porosity of the pasta. However, TG further modified protein secondary structure and network of MBP-enriched GF pasta. MBP lowered reducing sugar release during in vitro digestion of GF pasta, though it had minimal effect on significantly reducing cooking loss. These results showed that PH and MBP with or without TG offer a viable approach for improving quality characteristics of heat-moisture treated GF rice pasta.
A systematic exploration of the nutritional benefits and therapeutic potential of Mesembryanthemum forsskalii
Authors: Al-Otaibi Waad A , Al-Motwaa Sahar M 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This systematic review highlights the urgent need to explore the nutritional and therapeutic potential of Samh, or Mesembryanthemum forskahlii Hochst. ex Boiss. (M. forskalii) in response to global health challenges and the growing interest in functional foods. Out of 184 records, thirty were chosen for the systematic review, comprising 24 articles and 6 books. The review revealed that 83.33% of the studies concentrated on samh seeds. A comprehensive analysis identified 128 distinctive compounds and categorized them into 10 classes, with amino acids being the most abundant, followed by phenolics, minerals, flavonoids, carboxylic acids, proteins and lipids. The review highlights various biological properties associated with seed extracts, including anti-diabetic properties, regulatory effects on triglycerides and cholesterol levels, and reductions in oxidative stress and gastrointestinal ulcers. The fruit extract was noted to enhance liver function in mice with CCl4-induced toxicity. Although the extract from Samh’s seeds did not show antimicrobial effects, silver nanoparticles derived from the extract were highly effective against bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, while preliminary findings suggest beneficial health effects, the limited toxicological research necessitates further investigation into the safety profile of M. forskahlii. Understanding the potential toxic effects and safe dosage levels is crucial, especially for populations using this plant as a traditional remedy or dietary supplement. This review emphasizes the potential of M. forskalii as a functional food that can enhance dietary diversity and promote well-being. The review advocates further research into all parts of the plant to harness their health-promoting potential fully, integrating traditional knowledge into contemporary nutritional practices.
Judicial review of competition law decisions: an empirical study of the Lithuanian context
Authors: Malinauskaite Jurgita 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Commemorating the 20th anniversary since joining the European Union (EU) (together with an obligation to enforce EU competition law), this study evaluates national judgments reviewing the Lithuanian National Competition Council’s [known as Konkurencijos Taryba (KT)] decisions during the 2004–24 period. Building on comprehensive empirical research on judicial review of the KT’s decisions, which involved employing both quantitative and qualitative methods, this article aims to capture the main trends and patterns of judicial review in the Lithuanian context, with some comparison to other small European countries. The study covers the KT’s decisions in relation to the application of Articles 101 and 102 TFEU (and domestic equivalents), pertaining not only to infringement decisions but also to settlements, commitments, as well as decisions not to launch an investigation or discontinue an investigation. The findings reveal a predominant focus on the national provisions, with only 27 per cent of appealed cases embracing the EU element. As far as the outcomes are concerned, this article notes that the administrative courts mostly confirmed the competition authority’s decisions, with any interventions being calibrated in a manner to avoid any encroachment upon the authority’s discretion, clearly upholding the concept of judicial deference.
Objective study validity diagnostics: a framework requiring pre-specified, empirical verification to increase trust in the reliability of real-world evidence
Authors: Conover Mitchell M , Ryan Patrick B , Chen Yong , Suchard Marc A , Hripcsak George , Schuemie Martijn J 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
Propose a framework to empirically evaluate and report validity of findings from observational studies using pre-specified objective diagnostics, increasing trust in real-world evidence (RWE).

Materials and Methods
The framework employs objective diagnostic measures to assess the appropriateness of study designs, analytic assumptions, and threats to validity in generating reliable evidence addressing causal questions. Diagnostic evaluations should be interpreted before the unblinding of study results or, alternatively, only unblind results from analyses that pass pre-specified thresholds. We provide a conceptual overview of objective diagnostic measures and demonstrate their impact on the validity of RWE from a large-scale comparative new-user study of various antihypertensive medications. We evaluated expected absolute systematic error (EASE) before and after applying diagnostic thresholds, using a large set of negative control outcomes.

Results
Applying objective diagnostics reduces bias and improves evidence reliability in observational studies. Among 11 716 analyses (EASE = 0.38), 13.9% met pre-specified diagnostic thresholds which reduced EASE to zero. Objective diagnostics provide a comprehensive and empirical set of tests that increase confidence when passed and raise doubts when failed.

Discussion
The increasing use of real-world data presents a scientific opportunity; however, the complexity of the evidence generation process poses challenges for understanding study validity and trusting RWE. Deploying objective diagnostics is crucial to reducing bias and improving reliability in RWE generation. Under ideal conditions, multiple study designs pass diagnostics and generate consistent results, deepening understanding of causal relationships. Open-source, standardized programs can facilitate implementation of diagnostic analyses.

Conclusion
Objective diagnostics are a valuable addition to the RWE generation process.
Male reproductive systems of Macrobrachium pantanalense Dos Santos, Hayd & Anger, 2013 and M. amazonicum (Heller, 1862) (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae): new insights into the morphology of the spermatozoa of decapod crustaceans
Authors: Nogueira Caio S , Zara Fernando J , Costa Rogerio C 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Studies on the male reproductive system (MRS) and the ultrastructure of spermatozoa may provide key information about the reproductive biology and phylogenetic relationships between crustacean species. We describe the functional anatomy of the MRS and the ultrastructure and morphometry of spermatozoa of two closely related freshwater shrimps, Macrobrachium pantanalenseDos Santos, Hayd & Anger, 2013 (MP) and M. amazonicum (Heller, 1862) (MA) to detect possible interspecific differences. We introduce geometric morphometrics as a new tool to analyze the caridean spermatozoa for closely related species. The main differences in the anatomy of the MRS of the two species are related to the positive reaction to acid polysaccharides in the distal region of the vas deferens of M. pantanalense and the shape and size of their spermatozoa. SEM and TEM analyses confirmed variations in the shape of spermatozoa of both species and this variation was found to be significant by the use of geometric morphometrics. These tools can highlight differences among caridean shrimps, mainly in cases of closely related species. It becomes clear that MA and MP, despite being two closely related taxa that evolved separately relatively recently, are distinctly different taxa with differences found mainly in the spermatozoa.
Temporal trends of subsequent central nervous system malignancies among survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Galvin Robert T , Chen Yan , Yuan Yan , Cooney Tabitha , Howell Rebecca , Smith Susan , Arnold Michael A , Conces Miriam , Leisenring Wendy , Armstrong Gregory T , Neglia Joseph P , Turcotte Lucie M 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
It is not known whether temporal changes in childhood cancer therapy have reduced risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms of the central nervous system (CNS), a frequently fatal late effect of cancer therapy.

Methods
Five-year survivors of primary childhood cancers diagnosed between 1970 and 1999 in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study with CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms were identified. Cumulative incidence rates and standardized incidence ratios were compared among survivors diagnosed between 1970-1979 (n = 6223), 1980-1989 (n = 9680), and 1990-1999 (n = 8999). Multivariable models assessed risk factors for CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms.

Results
A total of 157 CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms (1970s, 52; 1980s, 63; 1990s, 42) were identified, excluding meningiomas, which were most often malignant gliomas. The proportion of survivors receiving any cranial radiotherapy exposure was reduced over time (1970s, 77.0%; 1980s, 54.3%; 1990s, 33.9%), while the proportion receiving more than 35 Gy cranial radiotherapy showed a smaller reduction (11.4%, 10.8%, and 8.5%, respectively). Twenty-year cumulative incidence and standardized incidence ratios for CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms by treatment decade were 0.32% (95% confidence interval = 0.18% to 0.46%) and 6.6 (95% CI = 5.0 to 8.7); 0.55% (95% CI = 0.41% to 0.70%) and 8.3 (95% CI = 6.6 to 10.4); and 0.43% (95% CI = 0.31% to 0.55%) and 9.2 (95% CI = 7.0 to 12.0), respectively, with no statistically significant decreases between eras. Multivariable analyses showed increased risk for cranial radiotherapy dose levels more than 10 Gy and for primary diagnoses of medulloblastoma and/or primitive neuro-ectodermal tumor (hazard ratio [HR] = 18.7, 95% CI = 9.2 to 37.9) and astrocytoma (HR = 10.1, 95% CI = 5.3 to 19.5). Three-year cumulative incidence of death after CNS subsequent malignant neoplasms, by treatment decade, were 76%, 74%, and 73%, respectively.

Conclusion
CNS subsequent malignant neoplasm incidence has not decreased despite fewer survivors exposed to CNS-directed radiotherapy. CNS subsequent malignant neoplasm remains a substantial source of mortality for affected patients.
Gender and Race Differences in Rates of PTSD Service Connection: Results From a Nationally Representative Panel of OEF/OIF/OND Veterans
Authors: Murdoch Maureen , Clothier Barbara Ann , Noorbaloochi Siamak , Webermann Aliya Rachel 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background
Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), also known as “service connection,” have been shown to reduce homelessness and poverty, increase mental health engagement, and improve clinical outcomes. However, gender and race disparities in PTSD service connection have been described in Vietnam and post-Vietnam era Veterans.

Methods
Post-traumatic stress disorder service connection outcomes were assessed in a nationally representative, randomly selected, gender-stratified, prospective panel of 960 Veterans who served during Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn. Using weighted logistic regression, we assessed the effects of male versus female gender and Black versus non-Black race on odds of PTSD service connection after controlling for other known predictors using Veterans Affairs administrative data. A secondary analysis supplemented administrative data with self-reported data in a subset of 410 Veterans.

Results
A total of 56.3% of men and 45.2% of women (P = .001) received PTSD service connection. In all, 51.1% of Black men versus 57.5% of non-Black men received PTSD service connection (P = .26), while 35.4% of Black women and 50.8% of non-Black women received PTSD service connection (P = .001). The mean total service connection rating, which determines base monthly compensation, was 69.4% ± 28.1 for men receiving PTSD service connection and 49.1% ±31.5 for men denied PTSD service connection (P &lt;.001). The mean total service connection rating for women receiving PTSD service connection was 70.8% ±20.7 compared to 49.7% ± 27.4 for women denied PTSD service connection (P &lt;.001). Disproportionate combat exposures explained the gender difference in PTSD service connection (effect size modification = 15.4%), but we could not identify a mediating confounder for the inverse association between Black race and PTSD service connection in women.

Conclusion
Women were less likely to receive PTSD service connection compared to men; this difference was nearly completely mediated by gender differences in combat exposure. Black women were less likely than non-Black women to receive PTSD service connection, but we could not identify a plausible mechanism to explain this finding. On net, the base compensation package was lower for Veterans denied PTSD service connection than for those receiving PTSD service connection.
The value of AI for assessing longitudinal brain metastases treatment response
Authors: Andrearczyk Vincent , Schiappacasse Luis , Raccaud Matthieu , Bourhis Jean , Prior John O , Cuendet Michel A , Hottinger Andreas F , Dunet Vincent , Depeursinge Adrien 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Effective follow-up of brain metastasis (BM) patients post-treatment is crucial for adapting therapies and detecting new lesions. Current guidelines (Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology-BM) have limitations, such as patient-level assessments and arbitrary lesion selection, which may not reflect outcomes in high tumor burden cases. Accurate, reproducible, and automated response assessments can improve follow-up decisions, including (1) optimizing re-treatment timing to avoid treating responding lesions or delaying treatment of progressive ones, and (2) enhancing precision in evaluating responses during clinical trials.

Methods
We compared manual and automatic (deep learning-based) lesion contouring using unidimensional and volumetric criteria. Analysis focused on (1) agreement in size and RANO-BM categories, (2) stability of measurements under scanner rotations and over time, and (3) predictability of 1-year outcomes. The study included 49 BM patients, with 184 MRI studies and 448 lesions, retrospectively assessed by radiologists.

Results
Automatic contouring and volumetric criteria demonstrated superior stability (P &lt; .001 for rotation; P &lt; .05 over time) and better outcome predictability compared to manual methods. These approaches reduced observer variability, offering reliable and efficient response assessments. The best outcome predictability, defined as 1-year response, was achieved using automatic contours and volumetric measurements. These findings highlight the potential of automated tools to streamline clinical workflows and provide consistency across evaluators, regardless of expertise.

Conclusion
Automatic BM contouring and volumetric measurements provide promising tools to improve follow-up and treatment decisions in BM management. By enhancing precision and reproducibility, these methods can streamline clinical workflows and improve the evaluation of response in trials and practice.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Antibody Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in a Large Cohort of US Children
Authors: Katic Bozena J , Katragkou Aspasia , Alvitres Jessica L , Gurumurthy Manisha , Li Charles , Schwab Joseph V , Hasan Uzma N , Gaur Sunanda , Weller Alan S , Kennedy Mary C , DiPentima Cecilia , Rohan Claudia , Richlin Benjamin , Chu Dorothy , Otero Isaura , Patel Akhil , Thomas Pauline , Friedman Stephen M 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Household transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may play a key role in times of increased infection, particularly among children. We aimed to determine the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and identify risk factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity in children.

Methods
Unvaccinated children aged 18 months to 11 years between August 2022 and June 2023 underwent oral fluid testing for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Caregivers completed electronic surveys at 4 major healthcare practices in Northern and Central New Jersey. Information was collected on demographics, household size, vaccination status, and prior SARS-CoV-2–related illness. Multivariable logistic regression determined individual and household-level factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity.

Results
A total of 870 children provided tests and corresponding surveys. Children were predominantly Hispanic (37%) or non-Hispanic Black (30%), and on average 5.7 years old. Overall SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity was 68%. Risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 positivity include Hispanic or non-Hispanic Black race/ethnicity (adjusted odds ratios [aOR], 2.29 and 1.95 vs. White race/ethnicity; P &lt; .01) and later enrollment in the study period. Children from households with ≥1 vaccinated adult were 52% less likely to be antibody positive than those from households with no vaccinated adults (aOR: 0.38, [95% confidence interval 0.2 to 0.69]).

Conclusions
There is high burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection among children over time. Adult vaccination appears to be a protective factor in helping to mitigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection among children. Increased vaccination of adults in the community can help inform COVID-19 prevention strategies for minors in the household.
Deep brain stimulation and motor cortex stimulation for central post-stroke pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kannan Siddarth , Gillespie Conor S , Hanemaaijer Jeremy , Eraifej John , Alalade Andrew F , Green Alex 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) and motor cortex stimulation (MCS) are invasive interventions in order to treat various neuropathic pain syndromes such as central post-stroke pain (CPSP). While each treatment has varying degree of success, comparative analysis has not yet been performed, and the success rates of these techniques using validated, objective pain scores have not been synthesized.

Methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Three databases were searched, and articles published from January 2000 to October 2024 were included (last search date October 25, 2024). Meta-Analysis was performed using random effects models. We evaluated the performance of DBS or MCS by assessing studies that reported pain relief using visual analogue scale (VAS) or numerical rating scale (NRS) scores.

Results
Of the 478 articles identified, 32 were included in the analysis (330 patients—139 DBS and 191 MCS). The improvement in mean VAS score for patients that underwent DBS post-surgery was 48.6% compared to a score of 53.1% for patients that had MCS. The pooled number of patients who improved after DBS was 0.62 (95% CI, 0.51–0.71, I2 = 16%). The pooled number of patients who improved after MCS was 0.64 (95% CI, 0.53–0.74, I2 = 40%).

Conclusion
The use of neurosurgical interventions such as DBS and MCS are last-resort treatments for CPSP, with limited studies exploring and comparing these two techniques. While our study shows that MCS might be a slightly better treatment option, further research would need to be done to determine the appropriate surgical intervention in the treatment of CPSP.
ALG8-CDG: advances in molecular and prenatal phenotyping facilitate prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling
Authors: Huang Yanlin , Yu Lihua , Zhu Juan , Wang Yunan , Zhang Rui , Chen Jianhong , Huang Cuiqing , Li Ling , Ding Hongke , Lu Jian , Zhang Yan , Du Li 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
ALG8-congenital disorder of glycosylation (ALG8-CDG) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder leading to severe multisystem manifestations, with no reported prenatal patients to date.

Methods
We describe two fetuses from a single family with ALG8-CDG presenting with prenatal hydrops, undergoing comprehensive prenatal ultrasound, umbilical cord blood biochemistry, autopsy, placental pathology, and genetic testing.

Results
Prenatal ultrasound revealed fetal hydrops, skeletal anomalies, cardiac developmental abnormalities, cataracts, echogenic kidneys and bowel, oligohydramnios, choroid plexus cysts, and intrauterine growth restriction. Umbilical cord blood biochemistry demonstrated fetal anemia, coagulation disorders, and abnormal liver and kidney function. Autopsy confirmed fetal hydrops and associated anomalies. A novel compound heterozygous mutation comprising the missense variant c.754T&gt;C (p.Ser252Pro) and a partial exonic deletion (deletion of exons 1–2) in the ALG8 gene was identified in fetus P2.

Conclusions
This study represents the first prenatal diagnosis of ALG8-CDG, comprehensively delineating the prenatal phenotypic spectrum. Prenatal ultrasound, umbilical cord blood biochemistry, and placental pathology findings aid in the assessment of prenatal manifestations, invaluable for prenatal diagnosis, genetic counseling, and potential interventions in future patients.