bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Muscle weakness but also contractures contribute to the progressive gait pathology in children with DMD: a simulation study
Authors: Vandekerckhove Ines , D'Hondt Lars , Gupta Dhruv , Bosch Bram Van Den , Hauwe Marleen Van den , Goemans Nathalie , De Waele Liesbeth , Campenhout Anja Van , Desloovere Kaat , De Groote Friedl 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Muscle weakness and contractures cause gait deficits in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) but their relative contributions are poorly understood and hence it is unclear whether contractures should be treated. Therefore, we aimed to differentiate the effect of muscle weakness in isolation from weakness and contractures combined on the gait patterns.
Methods
We used computer simulations that generate gait patterns based on a musculoskeletal model (without relying on experimental data) to establish the relationship between muscle impairments and gait deviations. We previously collected a longitudinal database of 137 repeated measurements in 30 boys with DMD and found that the data measured through 3D gait analysis could be clustered in three gait patterns. We estimated weakness based on data from fixed dynamometry, and contractures based on goniometry and clinical measures. Foot deformities were modeled by reducing the height of all foot segments and decreasing the strength of the intrinsic foot muscles. We created musculoskeletal models that either represented (1) the mean weakness, (2) the mean weakness and contractures, or (3) the mean weakness, contractures and foot deformities, in each gait pattern.
Results
Simulations based on models with both weakness and contractures captured most (but not all) experimentally observed gait deviations, demonstrating the validity of our approach. While muscle weakness was primarily responsible for gait deviations, muscle contractures and foot deformities further contributed to gait deviations. Interestingly, the simulations predict that the combination of increasing weakness and contractures rather than increasing weakness alone causes loss of ambulation for the most affected gait pattern.
Conclusions
Predictive simulations have the potential to elucidate causal relationships between muscle impairments and gait deviations in boys with DMD. In the future, they could be used to design targeted interventions (e.g. stretching, assistive devices) to prolong ambulation.
Supporting health behaviors in migrant women after childbirth with special emphasis on mHealth: An interview study with health care professionals
Authors: Shirvanifar Maryam , Müssener Ulrika , Lindh Alice , Wångdahl Josefin , Henriksson Pontus 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Migrant health, including reproductive health, is a public health priority. The time after childbirth is considered an important period for health behavior change and mobile health (mHealth) interventions have shown promise in influencing health behaviors. Health care professionals have an important role in providing support for health behaviors and implementing mHealth tools in clinical care. This study therefore examined health care professionals’ experiences of health behavior promotion in migrant women and the potential for an mHealth intervention to improve health behaviors after childbirth. Twenty health care professionals in Sweden participated in individual semi-structured interviews. The informants had different professional backgrounds, ages, working experiences and all were females. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis and three main themes were generated. The first theme “Priorities and routines of health behavior promotion after childbirth” described a lack of priority for health behavior promotion after childbirth. The second theme “Social influences of health behaviors” described several factors that influenced possibilities of healthy behaviors after childbirth. In the third theme “mHealth in supporting health behaviors after childbirth”, informants stressed that a culturally appropriate smartphone app with reliable information had the potential to promote health behaviors after childbirth although further research is needed.
Parasite contamination of soil in distinct Peruvian locations and outside built environments
Authors: Pineda Carlos , Rivera Maritza Dalí Camones , Sabino Eddyson Montalvo , Mejia Lucia Estela , Keegan Katherine Elizabeth , Alvarez Lizbet Pilar Patricio , Mora Javier Jorge , Vega Fernanda Espinoza , Mejia Emilio Rey , Herrera Patrick Olivas , Pando Elisa Palomino , Zeng Zhen , de Oliveira Athos Silva , Mondragon Maria Jose Villar , Slatko Barton , Wetzel Eric J. , Mejia Rojelio 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Soil is a reservoir for parasites that can affect human and animal health, especially in tropical regions where soil-transmitted helminths and protozoa thrive. Understanding how environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and soil type strongly influence parasite distribution is essential, particularly given how climate change may intensify their impacts, altering parasite habitats and increasing transmission risks. The primary goal of this study was to understand how environmental conditions affect soil parasite prevalence and diversity.
Methodology:
A total of 198 soil samples from 43 locations across three Peruvian regions—Tingo María (TM) (Amazon rainforest), Andabamba/Marabamba (A/M) (Andean highlands), and Huánuco city parks—were analyzed using multi-parallel quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to detect soil-transmitted helminths (STH) and protozoan DNA from entry, patio, and latrine sites.
Results
Parasites were detected in 93% of locations, with 84% showing polyparasitism. TM houses had a higher odds ratio (OR) of contamination with Ascaris lumbricoides (16.5) and Trichuris trichiura (8.4) compared to those in A/M (p < 0.05). TM also showed significantly higher odds of parasite presence in patios compared to entries, particularly for helminths; patios had an OR of 5.8 relative to entries (p = 0.006). A/M had higher protozoan prevalence with Blastocystis species, with a greater odd of 8.4 (p = 0.042) to TM. A/M had an OR of Acanthamoeba species 8.6 in patios versus entries (p = 0.0327), indicating a niche favoring protozoans in these arid conditions. TM had significantly more parasite species (p = 0.0154), with helminth species significantly higher in the patio vs. entry (p = 0.0029).
Conclusions
The observed variability in soil parasite prevalence between tropical rainforest and highland regions highlights the influence of environmental niches on parasite distribution, which may shift further due to climate change. This study demonstrates a sensitive approach to monitoring environmental contamination with parasites by leveraging qPCR. The findings underscore the importance of ecological surveillance for assessing parasitic transmission risks, which is crucial for guiding public health interventions, especially as environmental changes accelerate.
Aeroacoustic Analysis of Dipole Noise Patterns in Low Reynolds Number Square Cylinder Flows
Authors: Nakka Mahesh , Rana Basanta Kumar , Harichandan Atal Bihari 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

This research provides a detailed investigation into the mechanisms of aeroacoustic noise generation linked to square cylinder aerodynamics under low Reynolds number conditions. Utilizing ANSYS Workbench, fluid dynamic and acoustic interactions are analyzed at very low Reynolds numbers (Re = 100 and 200). The study focuses on key parameters driving noise production, such as turbulence, unsteady pressure fluctuations, and the interaction between the square cylinder's surface and the surrounding airflow. Findings reveal a characteristic dipole noise pattern at Re = 100 and Re = 200, with maximum noise levels located at the top and bottom surfaces due to predominant lift fluctuations. Conversely, noise levels are at their minimum within the vortex streets, driven primarily by drag fluctuations. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of the aeroacoustic properties of square cylinders, offering insight into mitigating noise in aerospace, civil engineering, and other noise-critical engineering applications.
A long-term study reveals the impact of weather conditions on avian fitness
Authors: Arct Aneta , Martyka Rafał , Miler Krzysztof , Skorb Karolina , Gustafsson Lars , Drobniak Szymon 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Here, we present an analysis based on a 40-year dataset from a nest-box population of the collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis). Our objective is to examine the impact of weather conditions during the incubation and nestling period on key indicators of individual fitness, including offspring production and local annual recruitment rate. Our findings provide compelling evidence that climatic conditions experienced during both incubation and nestling periods significantly impact the number of fledglings and recruits. Specifically, we observed that higher precipitation during the nestling period negatively affects the number of fledglings and increases brood failure. Interestingly, higher precipitation during the incubation period is linked to increased recruitment numbers. Moreover, we found that warmer weather during both the incubation and nestling periods decreases brood failure, and more importantly, higher temperatures during the nestling period are positively associated with the number of recruits. These results underscore the complex interplay between weather patterns and avian reproductive strategies, highlighting the importance of long-term ecological studies in understanding the impacts of climate change on bird populations. By addressing the variability of climatic influences across different life stages, future research can help develop more comprehensive models for predicting the resilience of avian species in the face of ongoing climate challenges.
CO2 capture with post-modified consumer acrylonitrile plastics
Authors: Skrydstrup Troels , Pedersen Simon , Kaussler Clemens , Ebenbauer Ruth , Bech Thomas , Giovanelli Riccardo , Lahn Martin , Juhl Dennis , Nielsen Niels Christian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is considered an indispensable tool for abating climate change caused by human activity. With annual CO2-emissions exceeding 37 gigatons, there is an urgent need for accessing sorbents on a million-ton production scale. Solid amine-based CO2-adsorbents are advantageous compared to conventional aqueous absorbents due to an energetically more facile regeneration and greater stability. However, synthesis of solid adsorbents is still comparatively costly and of lower production capacity. Here we report the transition metal catalysed hydrogenation or combined hydrocyanation/hydrogenation of abundant but difficult-to-recycle consumer nitrile plastics, rubbers, and textiles, to generate solid amine adsorbents that capture and release CO2 by thermal swing adsorption. The protocol is showcased with nitrile gloves, LEGO® bricks, kitchenware plastic, and acrylic textiles, taking advantage of the nitrogen already present in these polymers. These amine materials display CO2-capacities up to an average of 2.98 mmol/g, while some can match or even surpass the working capacity of a commercial benchmark adsorbent, Lewatit VP OC 1065, when subjected to simulated flue gas at 90 °C. Furthermore, excellent adsorbent stabilities towards harmful NO2 and SO2 flue gas components are observed. We anticipate our work will provide a potential pathway forward to rapidly accessing new solid adsorbents from consumer plastics for managing CO2-emissions.
Assessment of Mucoadhesive Dissolving Film Containing Cinnamaldehyde, Chitosan, and Papain Enzyme to Inhibit Candida Albicans-A Causative Agent of Candidiasis in Diabetic Patients: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Akhriani Andi Asti , Mutmainnah St. Fadila , Musyrifah Nurul , Karim Arfansyah , Fajriani Sarah , Djamaluddin Nursyamsi , Marlina Erni , Ariani Maretaningtias Dwi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Fungal infections, especially those caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans), are frequently observed in individuals with diabetes mellitus, leading to oral candidiasis. Current treatments for this condition often rely on synthetic materials, which can result in adverse effects, including potential liver damage. To address these drawbacks, a herbal-based mucoadhesive dissolving film has been developed, incorporating papain enzyme from papaya latex, chitosan derived from shrimp shells, and cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon. The goal of this study is to develop a mucoadhesive dissolving film incorporating cinnamaldehyde, chitosan, and papain enzyme, and to assess its efficacy in preventing oral candidiasis in diabetic patients.
Methods
This laboratory experiment was conducted using three replicates and a completely randomized design. The research process included extraction, formulation, antifungal testing, toxicity evaluation, characterization, FTIR analysis, and SEM imaging. The collected data, presented in tables and graphs, were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and probit regression.
Result
The research findings, supported by the functional group test, revealed that the papain enzyme incorporated into shrimp shell chitosan and cinnamon aldehyde extract exhibited greater enzyme activity (0.0313 U/mL) compared to the manufactured papain enzyme (0.0279 U/mL). The optimal formulation, identified as non-toxic, displayed the following characteristics: a thickness of 0.24 mm, dissolution time of 5 minutes, pH of 7.39, transparent yellow appearance, distinctive odor, smooth texture, excellent flexibility, tensile strength of 7.482 MPa, folding endurance of 310 cycles, maximum adsorption of 2.2203 mg/g, uniform surface, and absence of pores, as determined by in vitro testing.
Discussion
In vitro testing confirmed the effectiveness of the developed formula as an antifungal treatment for oral candidiasis, as it resulted in a CFU value of zero and no histopathological evidence of C. albicans hyphae. In comparison, nystatin, the currently used antifungal, still showed the presence of colonies and C. albicans hyphae.
Conclusion
This suggests that the optimal formulation could potentially prevent oral candidiasis in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Co-occurring Luzula species (Juncaceae) of different ploidies in alpine grasslands of the Eastern Alps exhibit negligible ecological differentiation at small geographic scale
Authors: Geurden Jonas , Heimer Valentin , Frajman Božo 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Luzula sect. Luzula is a taxonomically challenging group of angiosperms, whose evolutionary history has been shaped by polyploidy and agmatoploidy (fragmentation of holocentric chromosomes). Several species with different chromosome sizes and numbers, ranging from diploids to hexaploids, occur above timberline in the Eastern Alps. Species of different ploidies frequently co-occur in the same habitats, but the extent of ecological divergence and niche partitioning among them remains elusive, partly due to their high morphological similarity impeding reliable identification. Here, we focused on three mixed-ploidy sites in the Eastern Alps, where morphologically similar alpine species L. exspectata (diploid), L. alpina (tetraploid) and L. multiflora (its hexaploid populations) co-occur. We inferred there ploidy via flow cytometry and characterised their small-scale ecological differentiation using Landolt indicator values of accompanying species that revealed limited ecological divergence between co-occurring ploidies. While diploid L. exspectata is associated with slightly more basophilic microsite conditions, as it mostly occurs over limestone, no such differentiation was observed between tetraploid L. alpina and hexaploid L. multiflora. Our results indicate that small-scale co-occurrence of different cytotypes within Luzula sect. Luzula in alpine habitats is accompanied by only a slight niche partitioning, whereas there were significant differences in ecological parameters among the sites. These findings emphasise the influence of geography and geology on ecological microsite conditions and suggest that local niche divergence between ploidies is negligible compared to site-specific effects. Different ploidies thus likely have more divergent ecology at a distribution-wide scale than at a local scale
Leveraging the bioactive potential of forest foods to improve dietary diversity and prevent cancer risk in Northeast India
Authors: Patrick Devaprasanna , Ramaswamy Jancirani , Palanisamy T. , Raman Raghu , Nedungadi Prema 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Natural solutions are increasingly sought for their potential to harness locally available food resources (LAFRs) and nontimber forest products (NTFPs) to reduce cancer risk among the Mizo tribal communities in Aizawl, Mizoram, India. Given that the prevalence of cancer is greater than that in neighboring states, understanding the dietary practices of these communities and leveraging local resources for their anticancer properties are critical. This study highlights the need to mitigate cancer incidence through improved dietary diversity and the incorporation of natural resource-based bioactive-rich foods, which aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (good health and well-being).
Methods
A mixed-method approach was employed, combining structured questionnaires and focus group discussions to assess diet diversity among 170 Mizo tribes (78 females and 92 males) aged 27–54 years. Data collection included 24-hour dietary recall over seven consecutive days. Statistical analysis compared the actual intake of ten food groups with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommendations.
Results
This study revealed significant inadequacies in diet diversity among the Mizo tribes. Additionally, a comprehensive review of 121 scientific papers examined the anticancer properties of LAFRs and NTFPs. The review identified 60 LAFRs and 25 NTFPs demonstrating promising anticancer properties that require further clinical studies.
Conclusions
In conclusion, aligning nutritional interventions and community health initiatives with scientific evidence is essential. Leveraging the region's biodiversity and incorporating bioactive-rich nutraceuticals into the diet may improve overall health and reduce the incidence of cancer among these communities.
The Prangos Ferulacea (Jashir) on the Candida Vulvovaginitis: A Study Protocol of clinical trial
Authors: ghiasi Leila , Goudarzi Fatemeh , Sadeghi Hosein , Gharaghani Maral , Hekmatzadeh Seyedeh Fatemeh 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background: Candida vulvovaginitis is one of the most common infections among women of reproductive age, ranking as the second leading cause of visits to gynecology clinics. purpose of the study is to document the effect of Prangos Ferulacea (Jashir) on the Treatment of Candida Vulvovaginitis.
Methods: This study is designed as a randomized, double-blind clinical trial that will include 112 participants divided into two groups: an intervention group and a control group. The trial will be conducted at Yasuj University of Medical Sciences. Eligible participants will be married women aged 15–45 years who present with at least two clinical symptoms (cheesy vaginal discharge and itching), a Sobel score of ≥4, and a confirmed positive Candida culture. The control group will receive clotrimazole vaginal cream, instructed to apply 5 grams intravaginally using an applicator each night for one week. The intervention group will follow the same application protocol but will use a vaginal cream formulated with Prangos Ferulacea (Jashir).
Discussion: This, along with the coagulation of cellular components, results in the degradation and death of fungal cells.
Conclusion:. The findings are expected to offer new insights into the potential of this herbal remedy as an alternative to azole-based antifungal treatments, paving the way for more accessible and safer therapeutic options.
AI-Derived Electronic Tumor Marker (e19-9) Can Measure Treatment Response and Outcomes in CA19-9 Non-Producers with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kothari Anai , Thalji Sam , Aldakkak Mohammed , SenthilKumar Gopika , Belbahri Mouloud , Shaik Tahseen , Jaraczewski Taylor , Merrill Jennifer , Ramamurthi Adhitya , Banerjee Anjishnu , Taylor Bradley , Kamgar Mandana , George Ben , Erickson Beth , Hall William , Lytle Nikki , Seo Yongwoo , Christians Kathleen , Clarke Callisia , Evans Douglas , Tsai Susan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Clinicians use Cancer Antigen 19 − 9 (CA19-9) to assess treatment response and inform clinical decisions for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, nearly 30% of patients with PDAC do not have an elevated CA19-9.
Methods
Using electronic health data, an artificial intelligence-based electronic tumor marker (e19-9) was created using common serum laboratory values to predict the expected CA19-9 level. The association between e19-9 and clinical outcomes was then measured in patients with PDAC who did not have an elevated CA19-9.
Results
The value of e19-9 was informative for predicting both completion of treatment and metastatic progression. Post-treatment e19-9 was independently associated with overall survival. A decline in e19-9 of at least 50% over treatment (AUC 0.79), and a post-treatment e19-9 of < 100 (AUC 0.84), mirror the clinical utility of CA19-9 for predicting the same outcomes.
Conclusions
The e19-9 correlates with important clinical outcomes among patients that do not have an elevated CA19-9 biomarker and has potential to guide clinical decisions.
Efficacy, safety, and biomarker changes of B-cell activating factor- and A proliferation-inducing ligand-targeted therapies in IgA nephropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Borges Rafael dos Santos , Santos Rodrigo Lara , de Paula Luiza Haikal , Martins Jefferson Manoel Borges , de Sousa Pedro Antônio Machado Gomes , Berton Giovanni Gosch , Silva Ana Cristina Simões e 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide. BAFF (B-cell activating factor) and APRIL (A proliferation-inducing ligand) are cytokines involved in B-cell activation and survival, contributing to the pathogenesis of IgAN. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and biomarkers of BAFF and APRIL-targeted therapies in patients with IgAN.
Methods: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024598157). We searched PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing BAFF or APRIL-targeted drugs with placebo in adults with biopsy-confirmed IgAN. The efficacy outcomes were the mean percent change in the urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) at 24 hours and the mean change in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline. Safety included the incidence of adverse events. The biomarkers were changes in serum Gd-IgA1, IgG, IgA, and IgM from baseline. We used the R software version 4.2.1 for statistics.
Results: Four phase II RCTs including 331 patients were included. Compared to placebo, treatment significantly reduced 24-hour UPCR (mean difference [MD] –38.94%; 95% confidence interval [CI] –58.98 to –18.90; p = 0.0001; I² = 0%) and significantly improved eGFR (MD 7.05 mL/min/1.73 m²; 95% CI 3.83 to 10.27; p<0.0001; I²=0%). The incidence of adverse events did not differ significantly in the treatment and placebo groups. The drug significantly decreased serum Gd-IgA1, IgG, IgA, and IgM compared to placebo.
Conclusions BAFF and APRIL-targeted therapies effectively and safely reduce proteinuria in patients with IgAN.