bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Lower Respiratory Tract Sample Cultures on Outcomes in Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Propensity Score–Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Fally Markus , Bastrup Israelsen Simone , Benfield Thomas , Tarp Britta , Kolte Lilian , Ravn Pernille ,   the Optimising Treatment of Community-Acquired Pneumonia (optiCAP) Study Group, Clausen Lise Notander , Anhøj Jacob , Hellesøe Anne-Marie Blok , Diernæs Emma , Molzen Line , Seerup Regitze , Nielsen Susanne , Rasmussen Susanne , Hansen Gunhild Agnete , Nielsen Lea Normand , Lindhardt Magnus Søltoft , Schmücker Malte 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aimed to determine whether collecting a lower respiratory tract sample (LRTS) for bacterial microscopy, culture, and resistance (MCR) testing affects outcomes in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Methods
This was a cohort study including adults admitted to hospital with CAP. The primary outcome was the duration of narrow-spectrum antibiotic treatment. Secondary outcomes included intravenous and total antibiotic durations, time to discharge, and 90-day mortality. Propensity score matching (PSM) balanced covariates between those who did and did not have an LRTS taken. Subgroup analyses focused on CAP due to Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae.

Results
After PSM, the cohort consisted of 1434 patients. LRTS collection did not impact narrow-spectrum antibiotic use but was associated with longer intravenous (0.6 days longer, P = .001) and total antibiotic treatments (10.4 vs 9.9 days, P = .036). Time-to-event analysis showed lower probability of early discharge for those with an LRTS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.88 [95% confidence interval {CI}:, .79–.98]) and higher probability for those with CAP due to S. pneumoniae or H. influenzae (HR, 1.44 [95% CI: 1.22–1.71]). Survival analysis showed lower 90-day mortality for patients with an LRTS (HR, 0.78 [95% CI: .61–.99]) and for those with CAP due to S. pneumoniae or H. influenzae (HR, 0.38 [95% CI: .24–.62]).

Conclusions
LRTS collection did not directly affect the use of narrow-spectrum antibiotics but was associated with extended antibiotic treatments overall. Additionally, LRTS collection was linked to longer hospital stays and reduced mortality. Until more sensitive methods for determining CAP etiology become available, LRTS MCR testing should remain a standard investigation for patients admitted with CAP.
Current practices in prevention, screening, and treatment of diabetes in kidney transplant recipients: European survey highlights from the ERA DESCARTES Working Group
Authors: Laghrib Yassine , Hilbrands Luuk , Oniscu Gabriel C , Crespo Marta , Gandolfini Ilaria , Mariat Christophe , Mjøen Geir , Sever Mehmet Sukru , Watschinger Bruno , Velioglu Arzu , Demir Erol , Martinez Eva Gavela , De Weerd Annelies , Dedinska Ivana , Pippias Maria , Massart Annick , Abramowicz Daniel , de Fijter Johan Willem , De Block Christophe , Hellemans Rachel 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background
Although post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a common complication after kidney transplantation, there are few data on prevention, optimal screening, and treatment strategies.

Methods
The European Renal Association's DESCARTES working group distributed a web-based survey to European transplant centres to gather information on risk assessment, screening procedures, and management practices for preventing and treating PTDM in kidney transplant recipients.

Results
Answers were obtained from 121/241 transplant centres (50%) across 15 European countries. Screening practices for diabetes mellitus during the transplant work-up varied, with only 13% of centres using the recommended oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and 14% not screening at all. At transplantation, 19% of centres tailored the immunosuppressive regimen based on perceived PTDM risk, using strategies such as cyclosporin use or early steroid withdrawal. Fifty-two percent adopted strict glycaemic control with basal insulin in the first days post-transplant. Sixty-eight percent had defined screening protocols for early PTDM (45 days–6 months), primarily based on fasting glycaemia and/or HbA1c, while only a minority (7%) incorporated an OGTT. Changes in immunosuppression were considered by 41% in cases of early hyperglycaemia (&lt;45 days) and by 58% in established PTDM (&gt;45 days). Besides insulin therapy, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors and metformin were most frequently used to manage early hyperglycaemia (&lt;45 days) and PTDM (&gt;45 days). The use of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-analogues increased &gt;45 days post-transplantation.

Conclusion
This European survey underscores the significant variation in PTDM prevention, screening, and treatment practices, emphasizing the imperative for more explicit guidance in approaching this complication.
Improving the diagnostic of absorptive hypercalciuria: a comparative analysis of calcium load tests at 2-hour and 4-hour intervals
Authors: Cabezas Lara , Letourneau Pierre , De Mul Aurélie , Bacchetta Justine , Chardon Laurence , Derain Dubourg Laurence , Lemoine Sandrine 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The calcium load test (CLT) was developed by Pak et al. in 1974 to better discriminate hypercalciuria. Absorptive hypercalciuria (AH) is defined by an increase of the difference between urinary calcium/creatinine ratio (ΔUCa/Cr) of more than 0.5 mmol/mmol with a 4-hour CLT. In clinical practice and more recent studies, CLT is a 2-hour test. We hypothesized that the 4 h timepoint is more efficient in AH diagnosis.

Methods
We report a single-centre retrospective study including all patients who underwent CLT because of hypercalciuria or hyperparathyroidism. After a 3-day low-calcium diet and a 12-hour fast, 24-hour urines were collected. Blood and urinary samples were done at arrival and after 2 h and 4 h of oral ingestion of 1 g of calcium. AH was diagnosed by ΔUCa/Cr between baseline and 2 h or 4 h of more than 0.05 mmol/mmol.

Results
We included 328 patients. Baseline UCa/Cr ratio was 0.3 ± 0.2 mmol/mmol and increased significantly after 2 h and 4 h (0.6 ± 0.3 and 0.8 ± 0.4 mmol/mmol, P &lt; 0.001). ΔUCa/Cr was significantly different between baseline and 2 h or 4 h (0.2 ± 0.2 versus 0.5 ± 0.4, P &lt; 0.001). AH was diagnosed in 35 (10.7%) patients after 2 h, 84 (25.6%) more were diagnosed at 4 h (P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
The 4 h CLT improves the diagnosis of AH with more than 50% of AH diagnosed within 4 h of calcium ingestion. It seems that there are cases of AH of later diagnosis with a similar clinical and biological profile depending on enteral absorption.
Common correlated effects estimation of nonlinear panel data models
Authors: Chen Liang , Zhang Minyuan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper focuses on estimating the coefficients and average partial effects of observed regressors in nonlinear panel data models with interactive fixed effects, using the common correlated effects (CCE, hereafter) framework. The proposed two-step estimation method involves applying principal component analysis to estimate the latent factors based on cross-sectional averages of the regressors in the first step, and jointly estimating the coefficients of the regressors and the factor loadings in the second step. The asymptotic distributions of the proposed estimators are derived under general conditions, assuming that the number of time-series observations is comparable to the number of cross-sectional observations. To correct for asymptotic biases of the estimators, we introduce both analytical and split-panel jackknife methods, and confirm their good performance in finite samples using Monte Carlo simulations. Finally, the proposed method is used to study the arbitrage behavior of nonfinancial firms across different security markets.
Hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor-induced thrombosis leading to transcatheter aortic valve dysfunction: a case report
Authors: Ikuta Akihiro , Matsushita Syunsuke , Kadota Kazushige , Komiya Tatsuhiko , Fuku Yasushi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a well-established treatment option for patients with severe aortic valve stenosis; however, clinical valve thrombosis is a major challenge.

Case summary
A 92-year-old woman underwent TAVR for severe aortic stenosis. One month later, the patient developed acute heart failure. As the progression of anaemia due to renal anaemia seemed to cause acute heart failure exacerbation, we started an oral hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase (HIF-PH) inhibitor. After 2 weeks, the patient redeveloped shortness of breath. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed that the mean aortic valve pressure gradient (ΔP) increased from 9 to 54 mmHg, and the aortic valve area decreased from 1.93 to 0.86 cm2. Blood work revealed a markedly elevated haemoglobin level from 8.0 to 13.2 g/dL, and transoesophageal echocardiography revealed markedly decreased left coronary and non-coronary cusp mobility. We diagnosed that the rapid increase in the haemoglobin level caused by the HIF-PH inhibitor was related to valve thrombosis and bioprosthetic dysfunction of the transcatheter aortic valve. The HIF-PH inhibitor was discontinued, and anticoagulation therapy was started. Transthoracic echocardiography at 16 days later revealed that the mean aortic valve ΔP improved by 15 mmHg, and the subjective symptoms resolved.

Discussion
This is the first report on a successful treatment of TAVR thrombosis formation associated with HIF-PH inhibitor use. When treating renal anaemia in patients undergoing TAVR, care should be taken to avoid rapid anaemia resolution and valve thrombosis development.
Left atrial myxoma associated with multivessel coronary embolism confirmed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging: a case of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries
Authors: Pasquini Annalisa , Caffè Andrea , Filice Monica , Lillo Rosa , Montone Rocco Antonio , Chiariello Giovanni Alfonso , Pavone Natalia , Nesta Marialisa , Grandinetti Maria , Bruno Piergiorgio , Burzotta Francesco , Massetti Massimo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aims
Explore the diagnostic value of multimodal imaging in identifying considerably rare causes of myocardial infarction.

Methods and results
We report a case of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) probably due to coronary embolism associated with a left atrial myxoma. A 56-year-old male presented with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction, with coronary angiography showing mild coronary atherosclerosis without significant epicardial stenosis. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) revealed a large left atrial mass, suspected to be an atrial myxoma. CMR also showed an ischaemic pattern involving multiple coronary territories, suggesting coronary embolism as the cause of the MINOCA. The patient underwent successful surgical excision of the left atrial mass, and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma.

Conclusions
This case highlights the relevance of CMR in detecting ischaemic patterns in patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA and underlines the diagnostic value of multimodal imaging in identifying considerably rare causes of myocardial infarction, such as myxoma-associated coronary embolism.
Inflammation alters the expression and activity of the mechanosensitive ion channels in periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Ren Jianhan , Zhan Chaoning , Lin Yifan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) possess mechanotransduction capability, vital in orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) and maintaining periodontal homeostasis. The study aims to elucidate the expression profiles of mechanosensitive ion channel (MIC) families in PDLCs and how the inflammatory mediator alters their expression and function, advancing the understanding of the biological process of OTM.

Methods and methods
Human PDLCs were cultured and exposed to TNF-α. RNA sequencing was conducted to explore the mRNA transcriptome of both normal and TNF-α-treated PDLCs. Differentially expressed MICs were identified and analyzed. The functional expressions of TRPA1 and TRPM8 were further validated by RT-qPCR, Western blot, and calcium influx assays.

Results
All 10 identified MIC families or subfamilies were expressed in PDLCs, with the TRP family being the most abundant. KCNK2, PIEZO1, TMEM87A, and PKD2 were the most expressed ion channels in PDLCs. TNF-α altered the expression of the MIC families, resulting in increased expression of PIEZO, K2P, TRP, TMEM63, and TMEM87 families and decreased expression of ENaC/ASIC, TMC/TMHS/TMIE, TMEM150, TMEM120, and L/T/N-Type calcium channel families. Furthermore, 17 DEMICs were identified (false discovery rate &lt; 0.05), with the top five (fold change ≥ 2), including upregulated TRPA1 and TRPM8. The functional expressions of TRPA1 and TRPM8 were verified, suggesting that TNF-α significantly increased their expression and sensitized their activities.

Conclusions
The study provides comprehensive expression profiles of the MICs in PDLCs and reveals how inflammation alters the expression and activities of the MICs. Treatments targeting these MICs may offer promising strategies for improving OTM and preventing complications in inflammatory environments, ultimately leading to more effective and safer orthodontic practices.
Evidence for a Novel X Chromosome in Termites
Authors: Fraser Roxanne , Moraa Ruth , Djolai Annika , Meisenheimer Nils , Laube Sophie , Vicoso Beatriz , Huylmans Ann Kathrin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Termites, together with cockroaches, belong to the Blattodea. They possess an XX/XY sex determination system which has evolved from an XX/X0 system present in other Blattodean species, such as cockroaches and wood roaches. Little is currently known about the sex chromosomes of termites, their gene content, or their evolution. We here investigate the X chromosome of multiple termite species and compare them with the X chromosome of cockroaches using genomic and transcriptomic data. We find that the X chromosome of the termite Macrotermes natalensis is large and differentiated showing hall marks of sex chromosome evolution such as dosage compensation, while this does not seem to be the case in the other two termite species investigated here where sex chromosomes may be evolutionary younger. Furthermore, the X chromosome in M. natalensis is different from the X chromosome found in the cockroach Blattella germanica indicating that sex chromosome turn-over events may have happened during termite evolution.
Chromosome-level Genome Assembly and Annotation of the Arctic Moss Ptychostomum knowltonii
Authors: Ma Changling , Zhou Xuping , Huang Dan , Zhang Li , Yao Yifeng , Liu Yang , Dong Shanshan , Peng Tao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The polar regions host a diverse array of moss species that have evolved to thrive in extreme environments. These mosses exhibit remarkable adaptations, including tolerance to freezing temperatures, desiccation, and ultraviolet radiation. Despite their ecological significance, genomic data on these organisms are still limited, impeding our understanding of their evolutionary history and adaptive mechanisms in the context of climate change. In this study, we present the first chromosome-scale genome assembly and annotation of the Arctic moss Ptychostomum knowltonii. The assembled genome is 408.8 Mb in size, anchored to 12 pseudochromosomes, with a scaffold N50 of 32.61 Mb. Repetitive elements account for 56.24% of the genome. The genome contains 28,014 protein-coding genes, with a BUSCO completeness of 96.20%. This genomic resource will enable future comparative genomic studies, enhancing our understanding of how polar mosses may respond to a warming climate and shedding light on their evolutionary trajectories in persistently extreme environments.
Medicare Resource Use Differs by English Reading Proficiency
Authors: Estenson Lilly , Roberts Eric T , Jacobson Mireille 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives
Medicare coverage decisions are complex. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a hotline, handbook, and website to help Medicare beneficiaries understand their benefits and coverage options, yet it is unclear what factors affect beneficiary use of these resources. We examined limited English speaking and English reading proficiency status as predictors of CMS Medicare informational resource use in a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries.

Research Design and Methods
We used 2016–2018 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey data and linear probability models to assess whether the likelihood of using CMS Medicare informational resources differed among beneficiaries with limited English proficiency. We adjusted models for demographic, socioeconomic, health, and local market factors and, in sensitivity analyses, health insurance characteristics. Our primary outcome was an indicator of having previously used at least 1 of the 3 CMS resources.

Results
Among noninstitutionalized beneficiaries (n = 20 715), 4.8% had limited English speaking proficiency, 7.0% had limited English reading proficiency, and 67.7% had used at least 1 CMS resource. After regression adjustment, beneficiaries with limited English reading proficiency were 16.3 percentage points less likely to have used a CMS resource compared to beneficiaries who reported English reading proficiency (p &lt; .001). Limited English speaking proficiency was not associated with CMS resource use.

Discussion and Implications
These findings suggest that English reading proficiency may be an underappreciated factor in Medicare beneficiaries’ use of the Medicare handbook, hotline, and website. Alternative approaches to providing and publicizing informational resources may reduce barriers to Medicare resource use among beneficiaries with limited English reading proficiency.
Changes in coverage stability and churning for private, individual insurance under the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Hill Steven C , Jacobs Paul D 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) transformed the market for individual insurance. Using the 2-year panels of the Household Component of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey covering the 2002-2022 period and controlling for the business cycle and other factors, we find the share of nonelderly adults enrolled in individual insurance doubled under the ACA. The percentage of adults covered by individual insurance 1-23 months more than doubled, and the percentage with at least 24 months rose 80% in states that did not expand Medicaid. Nearly all the gain came from adults who were uninsured immediately prior to enrolling. The prevalence of short individual market spells (&lt;5 months) remained low after ACA implementation, and the ACA primarily helped cover individuals for longer spells. Individual insurance has always played a meaningful role in providing coverage for individuals ineligible for public programs and by bridging gaps between other forms of insurance. Because individual insurance is often temporary, more people may rely on individual insurance in their lifetimes than rely on it at a point in time. We document increases in individual coverage that suggest a strengthened role for this market after ACA implementation.
Americans’ support for future pandemic policies: insights from a national survey
Authors: SteelFisher Gillian K , Findling Mary G , Caporello Hannah L , Sutton Jazmyne , Dewhurst Emma , Evans Katherine , Castrucci Brian C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The arrival of bird flu (H5N1) is a poignant reminder of the need for public health leaders to understand Americans’ evolving perspectives on pandemic mitigation policies. To guide response efforts, we conducted a nationally representative opinion survey among 1017 U.S. adults in 2024. Majorities said they would be likely to support each of 4 policies in a future pandemic scenario (related to masking requirements, school closures, restaurant closures, and healthcare worker vaccination requirements). About half (49%) were likely to support all 4 policies, while 32% expressed mixed support. Support varied by gender, age, race, ethnicity, income, metropolitan and parental status, political party, and COVID-specific comorbidities. Roughly 80% expressed concern that future pandemic policies would hurt the economy, be based on political or pharmaceutical company/business interests, pander to critics, or further polarize society. Results suggest public support for future pandemic policies may be wider than media reports suggest, though important divisions exist and concerns about design and implementation are widespread. The most appealing policies will explicitly consider economic impacts and target populations at risk during clear time frames, with scope for personal choice. Ensuring that policies are made without undue political or commercial influence will remain a central challenge for public health leaders.
Plasmodium knowlesi Infection Is Associated With Elevated Circulating Biomarkers of Brain Injury and Endothelial Activation
Authors: Bertran-Cobo Cesc , Dumont Elin , Noordin Naqib Rafieqin , Lai Meng-Yee , Stone William , Tetteh Kevin K A , Drakeley Chris , Krishna Sanjeev , Lau Yee-Ling , Wassmer Samuel C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Malaria remains a major public health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Malaysia, the emergence of Plasmodium knowlesi has led to a surge in zoonotic malaria cases and deaths in recent years. Signs of cerebral involvement have been observed in a noncomatose, fatal case of knowlesi infection, but the potential impact of this malaria species on the brain remains unexplored. To address this gap, we investigated circulating levels of brain injury, inflammation, and vascular biomarkers in a cohort of knowlesi-infected patients and controls.

Methods
Archived plasma samples from 19 Malaysian patients with symptomatic knowlesi infection and 19 healthy, age-matched controls were analyzed. Fifty-two biomarkers of brain injury, inflammation, and vascular activation were measured. Wilcoxon tests were used to examine group differences, and biomarker profiles were explored through hierarchical clustering heatmap analysis.

Results
Bonferroni-corrected analyses revealed significantly elevated brain injury biomarker levels in knowlesi-infected patients, including S100B (P &lt; .0001), Tau (P = .0007), UCH-L1 (P &lt; .0001), αSyn (P &lt; .0001), Park7 (P = .0006), NRGN (P = .0022), and TDP-43 (P = .005). Compared to controls, levels were lower in the infected group for BDNF (P &lt; .0001), CaBD (P &lt; .0001), CNTN1 (P &lt; .0001), NCAM-1 (P &lt; .0001), GFAP (P = .0013), and KLK6 (P = .0126). Hierarchical clustering revealed distinct group profiles for brain injury and vascular activation biomarkers.

Conclusions
Our findings highlight for the first time a potential impact of P knowlesi infection on the brain, with specific changes in cerebral injury and endothelial activation biomarker profiles. Further studies are warranted to investigate the pathophysiology and clinical significance of these altered markers, through neuroimaging and long-term neurocognitive assessments.