bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Alchornea cordifolia leaf-extract ameliorates bisphenol A-induced obesity in male Wistar rats
Authors: Agboola Abdulhakeem Rotimi , Itam Ako Hogan , Ekeleme Chinedum Martins , Agwupuye Eyuwa Ignatius , Ahmed Zuwairatu Oyiza , Igiakong Godswill Peter , Agbor Gideon Bassey , Abubakar Asmau Niwoye , Adamu Zainab , David-Oku Esien , Atangwho Item Justin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background
Bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical impregnated into plastic bottles which has been linked to obesity and its associated health problems, was used to induce obesity in this study. The cost and reported limitations and side effects of orthodox medications employed for weight management, have necessitated a shift in attention to medicinal plants, given their comparative advantage and the common belief amongst locals that plants are free from negative side effects. One plant that has found application for weight loss amongst the local population in Nigeria is Alchornea cordifolia which commonly grows in Africa and has been confirmed to possess numerous medicinal properties including anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal, hepaprotective, antiviral, and anti-diabetic effects.

Objective
To evaluate the obesity attenuation effect of Alchornea cordifolia ethanol extract (ACEE) and other associated macrovascular health risks in BPA-induced obesity rat model.

Methods
Thirty (30) young male Wistar rats (80–100 g) divided into five groups of six rats each, were administered BPA (50 mg/kg), once a day, p.o. for four weeks in order to induce obesity. Afterwards, obesity was confirmed using anthropometric indicators, and the animals were treated for another four weeks as follows: Group 1 (Normal control) received drug/extract reconstitution solvent, olive oil, Group 2 (obese control) received 50 mg/kg of BPA, Group 3 received a conventional anti-obesity drug, Orlistat (30 mg/kg), Group 4 received ACEE (500 mg/kg), and Group 5 received ACEE (1000 mg/kg). At the end of study, anthropometric indicators and relevant serum biochemical indicators were determined using standard procedures.

Results
The results obtained showed that oral BPA administration caused obesity i.e. increased body weight, Lee’s Index and waist circumference, compared to the normal control (p < 0.05). Moreover, BPA treatment was found to alter measured serum biochemical indicators, (FBG, lipid profile, liver and kidney function indicators) and the lipid regulating enzymes (pancreatic lipase and HMG-CoA reductase activities), relative to the normal control (p < 0.05). However, upon 4-week ACEE oral treatment at 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w., there was observed significant attenuation of the anthropometric indices, serum biochemical indices and lipid metabolizing enzymes studied (p < 0.05).

Conclusion
Together, the results obtained from this study have scientifically validated the traditional use of Alchornea cordifolia leaves in body weight control, hence suggest that the leaves may possess natural products useful in the management of obesity and its related complications.
Unraveling the mystery of dieback in Dalbergia sissoo: a review
Authors: Latif Muhammad Zunair , Habib Amer , Lu ChongChong , Ding Xinhua 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe shisham tree (Dalbergia sissoo) is a keystone hardwood species of South Asia, highly valued in economic value in forestry, agroforestry, and landscape horticulture due to its durable, fragrant, and decay-resistant wood. However, shisham's health on both public and private lands is seriously compromised by recurrent outbreaks of dieback disease. Shisham has a history of severe dieback over the last century throughout its natural and introduced range. Since 1918, mortality associated with shisham dieback has been studied to determine its spread and underlying causes. Like most pathosystems, shisham dieback involves complex interactions among multiple biotic and abiotic factors, with certain site- and stand-level factors exacerbating disease severity across various regions and times. Recent outbreaks of shisham dieback in Pakistan have been linked to Ceratocystis dalbergicans. Previously, Fusarium was linked to wilt/dieback disease in Shisham. This disease has been differentiated from often-confusing Fusarium wilt/dieback on the same plant and explains dieback, a separate disease of shisham. Currently, published guidelines for managing Ceratocystis infections in shisham are limited. While researchers have explored potential management strategies, including identifying host resistance genes and chemical control methods, achieving sustainable disease control will require long-term, dedicated efforts due to the extended lifespan of shisham trees. This review provides a historical and updated perspective on the investigation and establishment of the pathogenic basis of shisham dieback, focusing on the role of Ceratocystis species. This work aims to clarify existing knowledge gaps, resolve controversies surrounding disease causation, and inform future research to enhance shisham conservation efforts.
Effect of Hypoglycemia on QT Interval in Individuals With and Without Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Haas Andrea V , Koefoed Andrew W , Celli Johanna , Bonyhay Istvan , White Jeffrey , Meyer Kayla M , Easly-Merski Rebecca M , Heydarpour Mahyar , Adler Gail K , Freeman Roy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Our goal was to determine in healthy individuals and individuals with type 2 diabetes the impact of repeated episodes of hypoglycemia on the corrected QT (QTc) interval and the time course for QTc recovery. Further, since hypoglycemia increases aldosterone and patients with primary aldosteronism have prolonged QTc, we also determined whether mineralocorticoid receptor blockade prevents hypoglycemia-induced QTc alterations.

Methods
Twenty-seven healthy participants completed a double-blinded crossover trial contrasting 3 experimental conditions: (1) euglycemia, (2) hypoglycemia, and (3) hypoglycemia with mineralocorticoid receptor blockade pretreatment. Sixteen participants with type 2 diabetes completed 1 condition, hypoglycemia. Hyperinsulinemic clamps were performed to induce the hypoglycemic and euglycemic conditions. Electrocardiograms were performed before, during, and after the clamps.

Results
Healthy participants had a significant (P &lt; .0001) prolongation of QTc during both the morning and afternoon hypoglycemic clamps as compared with euglycemic clamps (morning hypoglycemia vs euglycemia: 439.06 ± 41.18 ms vs 406.96 ± 26.16 ms; afternoon hypoglycemia vs euglycemia: 441.50 ± 34.36 ms vs 407.78 ± 19.18 ms). Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) blockade did not alter the response to hypoglycemia. Participants with diabetes achieved a significant prolongation of QTc during the afternoon hypoglycemia only (afternoon hypoglycemia vs morning baseline: 461.96 ± 49.14 vs 428.90 ± 28.54, P &lt; .05). In both participant populations, QTc intervals were similar to baseline 90 minutes after return to euglycemia and the following day.

Conclusion
Hypoglycemia prolonged QTc in healthy participants, and this was not altered by MR blockade. In individuals with type 2 diabetes, 2 hypoglycemic episodes were required to achieve prolongation. Reassuringly, in both study populations, hypoglycemia-induced QTc prolongation resolved quickly with no apparent residual effects the next day.
Loss-of-Function GHSR Variants Are Associated With Short Stature and Low IGF-I
Authors: Punt Lauren D , Kooijman Sander , Mutsters Noa J M , Yue Kaiming , van der Kaay Daniëlle C M , van Tellingen Vera , Bakker-van Waarde Willie M , Boot Annemiek M , van den Akker Erica L T , van Boekholt Anneke A , de Groote Kirsten , Kruijsen Anne R , van Nieuwaal-van Maren Nancy H G , Woltering M Claire , Heijligers Malou , van der Heyden Josine C , Bannink Ellen M N , Rinne Tuula , Hannema Sabine E , de Waal Wouter J , Delemarre Lucia C , Rensen Patrick C N , de Bruin Christiaan , van Duyvenvoorde Hermine A , Visser Jenny A , Delhanty Patric J D , Losekoot Monique , Wit Jan M , Joustra Sjoerd D 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Context
The growth hormone (GH) secretagogue receptor, encoded by GHSR, is expressed on somatotrophs of the pituitary gland. Stimulation with its ligand ghrelin, as well as its constitutive activity, enhances GH secretion. Studies in knockout mice suggest that heterozygous loss-of-function of GHSR is associated with decreased GH response to fasting, but patient observations in small case reports have been equivocal.

Objective
This work aims to establish the phenotype of GHSR haploinsufficiency and its growth response to GH treatment.

Methods
This case series includes 26 patients with short stature and heterozygous GHSR variants. Pathogenicity was studied in vitro using total protein levels, cell surface expression, and receptor activity in basal, stimulated, and inhibited states.

Results
Ten different variants were identified, of which 6 were novel. Variants showed either partial or complete loss of function, primarily through loss of constitutive activity. Patients (aged 4.0-15.1 years) had proportionate short stature (height −2.8 ± 0.5 SDS), failure to thrive with low appetite (n = 4), a mean serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) of −1.6 ± 0.7 SDS, and a normal stimulated GH response. Nine patients received GH treatment, showing a height gain of 0.9 ± 0.4 SDS after 1 year and 1.5 ± 0.4 SDS after 2 years (n = 5).

Conclusion
This study combines phenotypical and functional data in a uniquely large group of children with short stature carrying GHSR variants, and shows their good response to GH treatment. The results strengthen the hypothesis of GHSR's role in GH secretion.
Diagnostic Value of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) in Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Authors: Ji Dandan , Sheng Mingyan , Zhang Liuyan , Han Yonggui , Jiang Qi , Ruan Qiongxiao 
Published: January 2025

Aims/Background Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, yet the correlation between ICP and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the diagnostic value of NLR in ICP. Methods In this retrospective case-control study, 113 patients with ICP treated in Beilun District People’s Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 were recruited and categorized as the ICP group, and 209 healthy pregnant women treated during the same period were selected as the control group. The levels of NLR and mean platelet volume (MPV) were compared between the two groups. The NLR of patients with different ICP severity were compared. Logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between relevant indicators and ICP. The capability of NLR in predicting ICP was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results There were significant differences in age, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, platelet count, MPV, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), NLR, and serum total bile acid (sTBA) among all groups (p < 0.05). The NLR in the severe ICP group was significantly higher than that in the mild ICP group (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that MPV (odds ratio [OR] = 1.247) and NLR (OR = 1.885) were independent factors influencing the occurrence of ICP (p < 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) for both mild ICP and severe ICP was 0.679 and 0.869, respectively, substantiating the diagnostic value of NLR. Conclusion NLR can be used as an auxiliary indicator in the diagnosis of ICP and has important clinical value in predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes in ICP patients.
Risk factors for one-year mortality in 440 femoral peri-implant fractures: insights from the PIPPAS prospective, multicentre, observational study
Authors: Aguado Héctor J. 
Published: January 2025

AimsThe Peri-Implant and PeriProsthetic Survival AnalysiS (PIPPAS) study aimed to investigate the risk factors for one-year mortality of femoral peri-implant fractures (FPIFs).MethodsThis prospective, multicentre, observational study involved 440 FPIF patients with a minimum one-year follow-up. Data on demographics, clinical features, fracture characteristics, management, and mortality rates were collected and analyzed using both univariate and multivariate analyses. FPIF patients were elderly (median age 87 years (IQR 81 to 92)), mostly female (82.5%, n = 363), and frail: median clinical frailty scale 6 (IQR 4 to 7), median Pfeiffer 4 (1 to 7), median age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) 6 (IQR 5 to 7), and 58.9% (n = 250) were American Society of Anesthesiologists grade III.ResultsOverall, 90.5% (n = 398) of the patients were treated surgically, 57.0% (n = 227) retained the implant, and 88.7% (n = 353) managed with fixation. Mortality rates were 8.2% (n = 3.6) in-hospital, 11.4% (n = 50) at 30 days, 21.1% (n = 93) at six months, and 21.6% (n = 95) at 12 months. Medical complications, mainly delirium, were common in the acute setting (52.7%, n = 215). The nonunion rate was 4.1% (n = 18). Mortality risk factors in the univariate analysis were age, living at a nursing home, no walking outdoors, frailty variables, fractures in the distal epiphysis, fractures around a proximal nail, discharge to a healthcare facility, and no osteoporotic treatment at discharge. Protective factors against mortality in the univariate analysis were surgical treatment by an experienced surgeon, management without an arthroplasty, allowing full weightbearing, mobilization in the first 48 hours postoperatively, and geriatric involvement. Risk factors for mortality in the multivariate analysis were cognitive impairment (Pfeiffer’s questionnaire) (hazard ratio (HR) 1.14 (95% CI 1.05 to 1.23), p = 0.002), age-adjusted CCI (HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.30), p = 0.001), and antiaggregant or anticoagulant medication at admission (HR 2.00 (95% CI 1.19 to 3.38), p = 0.009). Haemoglobin level at admission was protective against mortality (HR 0.85 (95% CI 0.74 to 0.97), p = 0.018).ConclusionMortality in FPIFs occurs mainly within the first six months of follow-up. Early co-management and clinical optimization, particularly targeting frail older patients, is crucial in reducing mortality following these fractures.Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;6(1):43–52.
Using ESPEN data for evidence-based control of neglected tropical diseases in sub-Saharan Africa: A comprehensive model-based geostatistical analysis of soil-transmitted helminths
Authors: Khaki Jessie Jane , Minnery Mark , Giorgi Emanuele 
Published: January 2025

Background
The Expanded Special Project for the Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN) was launched in 2019 by the World Health Organization and African nations to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), including Soil-transmitted helminths (STH), which still affect over 1.5 billion people globally. In this study, we present a comprehensive geostatistical analysis of publicly available STH survey data from ESPEN to delineate inter-country disparities in STH prevalence and its environmental drivers while highlighting the strengths and limitations that arise from the use of the ESPEN data. To achieve this, we also propose the use of calibration validation methods to assess the suitability of geostatistical models for disease mapping at the national scale.

Methods
We analysed the most recent survey data with at least 50 geo-referenced observations, and modelled each STH species data (hookworm, roundworm, whipworm) separately. Binomial geostatistical models were developed for each country, exploring associations between STH and environmental covariates, and were validated using the non-randomized probability integral transform. We produced pixel-, subnational-, and country-level prevalence maps for successfully calibrated countries. All the results were made publicly available through an R Shiny application.

Results
Among 35 countries with STH data that met our inclusion criteria, the reported data years ranged from 2004 to 2018. Models from 25 countries were found to be well-calibrated. Spatial patterns exhibited significant variation in STH species distribution and heterogeneity in spatial correlation scale (1.14 km to 3,027.44 km) and residual spatial variation variance across countries.

Conclusion
This study highlights the utility of ESPEN data in assessing spatial variations in STH prevalence across countries using model-based geostatistics. Despite the challenges posed by data sparsity which limit the application of geostatistical models, the insights gained remain crucial for directing focused interventions and shaping future STH assessment strategies within national control programs.
“If my husband was in the labor ward with me, my baby wouldn’t have died”; experiences on birth companionship from a tertiary health facility, Tanzania
Authors: Mwakyusa Michael Obed , Said Ali , Selemani Shekha , Kakiziba Musa , Christopher Judica , Sirili Nathanael Shauri , Al-beity Fadhlun M. Alwy 
Published: January 2025

Background
Despite existing policies promoting companionship, it remains uncommon in Tanzania. Pregnant women select a trusted individual to accompany them during childbirth, providing emotional, physical, and spiritual support. The World Health Organization recommends birth companionship as integral to intrapartum care for positive maternal and fetal outcomes.

Objective
This study aimed to explore the experiences of pregnant women and healthcare providers regarding childbirth companionship at a tertiary health facility in Tanzania.

Methods
Participants were purposefully selected for qualitative exploratory interviews. Focused group discussions were conducted with pregnant women attending antenatal clinics, and in-depth interviews were held with healthcare providers at Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital in Tanzania. Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the data.

Results
Three major themes emerged: "Bonding and Learning with Spouse/Partner," "Assurance of Maternal Safety," and "Fear of Blame and Breach of Confidentiality." These themes highlight a strong desire among both pregnant women and healthcare providers for companionship during labor, particularly from male partners. Emotional support and safety were cited as key reasons. Fear, however, was identified as a major obstacle, with providers concerned about potential exposure of mistakes and pregnant women fearing a violation of their privacy rights regarding health matters.

Conclusion
Pregnant women expressed a strong desire for companionship throughout labor. However, companionship faced challenges due to staff shortages and inadequate privacy in labor wards. There is a pressing need to enhance childbirth companionship practices and policies in low-resource settings.
Getting back on track after treatment of cancer: A qualitative interview study of cancer survivors’ experiences
Authors: Smissen Doris van der , Lugtenberg Marjolein , Enting Manon , Beerepoot Laurens , Mols Floortje , Brouwers Evelien , Wasowicz Dareczka , Joosen Margot 
Published: January 2025

Objective
An increasing number of people resumes life after cancer treatment. Although the (long-term) side-effects of cancer and its treatment can be significant, less is known about the impact on cancer survivors’ participation in daily life. The aim of this study was to explore the common experiences of cancer survivors in resuming life after treatment.

Methods
A semi-structured interview study was conducted among 22 cancer survivors having a favorable prognosis after treatment. Purposive sampling was used to select a variable sample in terms of diagnoses (e.g. breast cancer, colorectal cancer, melanoma), age (18–77 years), and time after diagnosis (0–7 years). Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim and analyzed in a thorough thematic analysis.

Results
Four main themes were identified. First, cancer survivors reported an emotional fallout episode to often follow treatment, which was characterized by a loss of direction and control due to discontinuation of medical care, decreased support from healthcare professionals and their social network, and an emotional set back. Second, survivors experienced challenges with getting back on track such as the impact of impaired physical and cognitive functions, and challenges and uncertainty related to work and finances. Third, in coping with changes and regaining trust they tried to find a balance between dealing with patient stigma and fear of recurrence on the one hand, and maintaining a positive mindset on the other hand. Fourth, the disease often led to re-evaluating values in life, health and work, which included realizing and accepting change and having a more conscious outlook on life.

Conclusion
In resuming life after treatment, cancer survivors experience several challenges and changes in values in different life domains that extend beyond the specific diagnosis. To improve supportive care, healthcare professionals should focus on the (changed) individual needs and values of survivors in the domains considered relevant to them.
Effects of aerobic and resistance training on walking and balance abilities in older adults with Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Song Huishan , Ge Sheng , Li Ji , Jiao Chendao , Ran Linghua 
Published: January 2025

Objective
To explore the impact of aerobic and resistance training on walking and balance abilities (UPDRS-III, Gait Velocity, Mini-BESTest, and TUG) in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Method
All articles published between the year of inception and July 2024 were obtained from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Meta-analysis was conducted with RevMan 5.4.

Result
Research from 15 randomized controlled trials, comprising 792 older patients with a diagnosis of PD, was included in the analysis. Aerobic training (AT) and Resistance training (RT) significantly improved UPDRS-III (AT, SMD = -5.69, 95% CI: -8.67 to -2.71, p = 0.0002, I2 = 82%; RT, SMD = -3.01, 95% CI: -4.89 to -1.12, p = 0.002, I2 = 0%) and Gait Velocity(AT, SMD = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.58 to 1.18, p < 0.00001, I2 = 42%; RT, SMD = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.94, p = 0.01, I2 = 55%). AT showed no difference in Mini-BESTest (AT, SMD = 2.12, 95% CI: -0.70 to 4.94, p = 0.14, I2 = 90%). RT showed no change in TUG (RT, SMD = -0.03, 95% CI: -1.60 to 1.54, p = 0.97, I2 = 63%).

Conclusions
Resistance training stood out as the most effective approach to boost performance on the mini-BESTest. Conversely, aerobic exercise proved to be superior for improving the UPDRS-III, gait velocity and TUG scores.