bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of kidney transplantation in patients with lysinuric protein intolerance
Authors: Rautanen Tomi , Ahopelto Kaisa , Niinikoski Harri , Karppinen Sinikka , Lempinen Marko , Ortiz Fernanda , Helanterä Ilkka 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background
Lysinuric protein intolerance (LPI) is a metabolic disorder that leads to dysfunctional intestinal absorption and kidney clearance of cationic amino acids. Chronic kidney disease develops in many LPI patients and leads to end-stage kidney disease in at least 10% of patients. Since data on kidney transplants in LPI patients are limited, we analysed the outcomes of LPI patients after transplantation in Finland.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study includes all Finnish LPI patients who have received a kidney transplant. The data were collected from the Finnish Transplant Registry and electronic medical records from 2005 through May 2023 or patient death. The plasma amino acid profile was analysed before and after transplantation.

Results
Eight LPI patients (75% female, mean age at transplant 41.9 years) received a kidney allograft and two of the patients received a second transplant. Nine transplants were from deceased donors and one was from a living donor. Acute rejection occurred after four transplantations (two T-cell mediated and two antibody mediated). One patient died 6 months after transplantation due to alveolar proteinosis. Apart from lower citrulline and higher lysine concentrations, plasma amino acid levels showed no changes after transplantation. The 1-, 5- and 10-year graft survivals were 80%, 68.6% and 51.4%, and patient survivals were 88%, 86% and 50%, respectively.

Conclusions
Kidney transplantation is feasible in patients with LPI, although the acute rejection rate seems high and severe complications such as pulmonary alveolar proteinosis may occur. Transplantation led to changes in plasma citrulline and lysine concentrations.
Influence of different diet categories on gut bacterial diversity in Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Li Dingyin , Zhi Junrui , Ye Jiaqin , Yue Wenbo , Yang Yanqi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The microbial composition of insect guts is typically influenced by the type of food consumed, and conversely, these microbes influence the food habits of insects. Western flower thrips (WFT; Frankliniella occidentalis) is an invasive pest with a wide range of hosts, including vegetables and horticultural crops. To elucidate variations in gut bacteria among WFT feeding on rose (Rosa rugosa) flowers (FF), kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) pods (PF), and kidney bean leaves (LF), we collected adult guts and extracted DNA for 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing of microbial communities. The results revealed that the FF population had the highest number of annotations. Alpha diversity analysis revealed that the Chao and Ace indexes were the greatest in the PF population, indicating a higher abundance of gut bacteria. Moreover, the Simpson index was the highest in the FF population, indicating that gut bacterial diversity was the highest in the FF population. Comparison of species composition demonstrated that Proteobacteria dominated all 3 populations at the phylum level, with Actinobacteria being the subdominant phylum. At the genus level, Stenotrophomonas was the dominant bacteria in the PF and LF populations, whereas Rosenbergiella was dominant in the FF population. KEGG pathway annotation predicted that the gut bacteria of adult WFT were mainly involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. Our results revealed that the diversity and composition of WFT gut microbiota are influenced by diet, offering evidence for future studies on the ecological adaptability of WFT and the mechanisms underlying the interaction between gut microbiota and host.
A case report of reversible dilated cardiomyopathy due to left main coronary artery ostial stenosis: optimal imaging is key
Authors: Fletcher Alexander J , Bannerman Kieran , Finlay Emma , Noonan Patrick , Gupta Pankaj , Davidson Mark Richard , Danton Mark 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Congenital coronary artery anomalies are a rare but reversible cause of dilated cardiomyopathy in infants and children. Optimal imaging strategies to efficiently identify and confirm the diagnosis in the setting of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are crucial to timely surgery.

Case summary
A 2-month-old boy presented with dilated cardiomyopathy and severe left ventricular dysfunction requiring ECMO support. During an unsuccessful ECMO wean, turbulent flow was noted at the origin of the left coronary artery on echocardiography with subsequent computed tomography (CT) angiogram and cardiac angiogram via catheter confirming the very rare diagnosis of left main coronary artery ostial stenosis. He underwent emergency left coronary artery augmentation with excellent outcome.

Discussion
A high index of suspicion for coronary artery anomalies is required for infants presenting with suspected dilated cardiomyopathy. While CT is a potential diagnostic tool for investigating coronary abnormalities in children, image optimization on ECMO is challenging, with further imaging often required. The superior spatial and temporal resolution of cardiac angiography via catheterization allows definitive diagnosis of coronary artery abnormalities in this situation and facilitates timely surgical intervention.
Impact of dispersive patch electrode positioning on safety and efficacy of radiofrequency catheter ablation
Authors: Futyma Piotr , Zarębski Łukasz , Sauer William H 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Safe and efficient radiofrequency catheter ablation depends significantly on the proper placement of dispersive patch electrodes (DPEs), on the skin. This viewpoint describes the role of DPE positioning in optimizing lesion creation and reducing the risk of complications. Incorrect DPE placement can lead to suboptimal energy delivery, prolonging the procedure and/or increasing the risk of adverse events, such as steam pops and potentially fatal atrio-oesophageal fistula. Despite its importance, there is no consensus on the optimal positioning of DPE, and current studies require further improvement in predictive modelling.
Multielectrode catheter-based pulsed electric field vs. cryoballoon for atrial fibrillation ablation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vetta Giampaolo , Della Rocca Domenico Giovanni , Parlavecchio Antonio , Magnocavallo Michele , Sorgente Antonio , Pannone Luigi , Del Monte Alvise , Almorad Alexandre , Sieira Juan , Marcon Lorenzo , Doundoulakis Ioannis , Mohanty Sanghamitra , Audiat Charles , Nakasone Kazutaka , Bala Gezim , Ströker Erwin , Combes Stéphane , Overeinder Ingrid , Bianchi Stefano , Palmisano Pietro , Rossi Pietro , Boveda Serge , La Meir Marc , Natale Andrea , Sarkozy Andrea , de Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian-Battista 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Aims
Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is an innovative technology recently adopted for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Preclinical and clinical studies have reported a remarkable safety profile, as a result of its tissue-specific effect targeting cardiomyocytes and sparing adjacent tissues. Single-shot pentaspline system was the first PFA device to receive regulatory approval. We performed a meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of PFA with the single-shot pentaspline system vs. currently available second-/third-/fourth-generation cryoballoon ablation (CRYO) technologies.

Methods and results
We systematically searched electronic databases for studies focusing on AF ablation employing the PFA single-shot pentaspline system or second-/third-/fourth-generation CRYO technologies. The primary endpoints were acute procedural success assessed on a vein and patient basis. Safety endpoints included overall periprocedural complications and major periprocedural complications. We also compared procedural, fluoroscopy times, and freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATs) at follow-up (secondary endpoints). Twenty and 70 studies were included for PFA and CRYO, respectively. Pulsed field ablation demonstrated greater acute procedural success on a vein basis (99.9% vs. 99.1%; P &lt; 0.001), as well as per patient (99.5% vs. 98.4%; P &lt; 0.001). Pulsed field ablation yielded lower overall periprocedural complications (3.1% vs. 5.6%; P &lt; 0.001), shorter procedural time (75.9 min vs. 105.6 min; P &lt; 0.001), and fluoroscopy time (14.2 min vs. 18.9 min; P &lt; 0.001) compared with CRYO. No differences were found for major periprocedural complications (1.2% vs. 1.0%; P = 0.46) and freedom from ATs at 1 year (82.3% vs. 80.3%; log-rank P = 0.61).

Conclusion
Pulsed field ablation contributed to higher acute procedural success and safety compared with CRYO. No statistically significant differences in AT recurrence at 1-year follow-up were observed.
Fumigation with dimethyl trisulfide to inhibit Aspergillus flavus growth, aflatoxin B1 production and virulence
Authors: Yang Mingguan , Lu Honggui , Xiao Nan , Qin Yongjian , Sun Lei , Sun Rui 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Aspergillus flavus is a common saprophytic aerobic fungus in oil crops that poses a serious threat worldwide with the carcinogenic aflatoxin. Prevention of aflatoxin B1 contamination has great significance to ensure food safety and reduce the economic loss. The present work focuses on the antagonistic activity against A. flavus growth in peanuts by fumigation with dimethyl trisulfide. The results indicated that dimethyl trisulfide exhibits great antifungal activity against A. flavus. The conidial germination and mycelial growth of A. flavus were completely suppressed after exposure to 15 and 20 µl/l of dimethyl trisulfide, respectively. Numerous deformed conidia were found after exposure to dimethyl trisulfide at high concentration (≥20 µl/l). Scanning electron microscope observation demonstrated that dimethyl trisulfide induced severely shrinking mycelia of A. flavus. The results of OD-260 nm absorption and rhodamine-123 fluorescent staining indicated that cell membrane and mitochondria may be legitimate antifungal targets of dimethyl trisulfide. Dimethyl triethyl has a significant inhibitory effect on A. flavus infection in peanuts. In addition, dimethyl trisulfide could reduce the production of aflatoxin B1 via down-regulation of toxin synthesis and regulatory gene expression. Dimethyl trisulfide can be a tremendous potential agent for the biological control of A. flavus and deepened our understanding of the anti-fungal mechanisms of volatile organic compounds.
Convergent Evolution Associated with the Loss of Developmental Diapause May Promote Extended Lifespan in Bees
Authors: Santos Priscila K F , Kapheim Karen M 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Diapause has long been proposed to play a significant role in the evolution of eusociality in Hymenoptera. Recent studies have shown that shifts in the diapause stage precede social evolution in wasps and bees; however, the genomic basis remains unknown. Given the overlap in molecular pathways that regulate diapause and lifespan, we hypothesized that the evolutionary loss of developmental diapause may lead to extended lifespan among adults, which is a prerequisite for the evolution of eusociality. To test whether the loss of prepupal diapause is followed by genomic changes associated with lifespan extension, we compared 27 bee genomes with or without prepupal diapause. Our results point to several potential mechanisms for lifespan extension in species lacking prepupal diapause, including the loss of the growth hormone PTTH and its receptor TORSO, along with convergent selection in genes known to regulate lifespan in animals. Specifically, we observed purifying selection of prolongevity genes and relaxed selection of antilongevity genes within the IIS/TOR pathway in species that have lost prepupal diapause. Changes in selection pressures on this pathway may lead to the evolution of new phenotypes, such as lifespan extension and altered responses to nutritional signals that are crucial for social evolution.
The role of complement factor I rare genetic variants in age related macular degeneration in Finland
Authors: Andreadi Anneliza , Hallam Thomas M , Brocklebank Vicky , Sharp Scott J , Walsh Patrick R , Southerington Tom , Hautalahti Marco , Steel David H , Lotery Andrew J , Harris Claire L , Marchbank Kevin J , Kavanagh David , Jones Amy V 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the developed world. The alternative pathway (AP) of complement has been linked to the pathogenesis of AMD. In particular, rare variants (RVs) in the complement factor I (CFI) gene encoding the Factor I (FI) protein confer increased AMD risk. The prevalence of CFI RVs are well characterised in European AMD, however little is known about other populations. The Finnish population underwent genetic restriction events which have skewed allele frequencies in unexpected ways. A series of novel or enriched CFI RVs were identified in individuals with dry AMD from the Finnish Biobank Cooperative (FINBB), but the relationship between these genotypes and contribution to disease was unclear. Understanding how RVs impact the ability of FI to regulate the complement system is important to inform mechanistic understanding for how different genotypes contribute to disease development. To explore this a series of in vitro assays were used to functionally characterise the protein products of 3 CFI RVs enriched in FINBB dry AMD, where no prior data were available. The G547R variant resulted in almost complete loss of both classical pathway and AP regulatory potential. The c.982 g&gt;a variant encoding G328R FI perturbed an exon splice enhancer site which resulted in exon skipping and a premature stop codon in vitro and low levels of FI in vivo. Despite detailed analysis no defect in levels or function was demonstrated in T107A. Functional characterization of all Finnish CFI RVs in the cohort allowed us to demonstrate that in Finnish dry AMD, collectively the type 1 CFI RVs (associated with FI haploinsufficiency) were significantly enriched with odds ratio (ORs) of 72.6 (95% confidence interval; CI 16.92 to 382.1). Meanwhile, type 2 CFI RVs (associated with FI dysfunction) collectively conferred a significant OR of 4.97 (95% CI 1.522 to 15.74), and non-impaired or normal CFI RV collectively conferred an of OR 3.19 (95% CI 2.410 to 4.191) although this was driven primarily by G261D. Overall, this study for the first time determined the ORs and functional effect for all CFI RVs within a Geographic Atrophy (GA) cohort, enabling calculations of combined risk scores that underline the risk conferred by type 1 and 2 CFI RVs in GA/AMD.
Interactive prototype development and evaluation of low-carbon products through virtual reality technology
Authors: Zhang Xianfa , Cheng Haitao 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The rapid advancement of virtual reality (VR) technology has offered innovative avenues for the design of low-carbon products. This research introduces an integrated 3D VR product design platform and proposes a product interaction effect evaluation system based on membership functions. The results indicate that the platform surpasses traditional systems in terms of visualization effect, image quality, design duration, and production efficiency. Additionally, through the application of fuzzy matrices in gesture recognition, the experimental results demonstrate superior performance in task time, error frequency, and recognition efficiency, thereby reducing computational resource consumption and carbon emissions.
Economic Inequality and Public Support for Redistribution in Europe: A Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Velev Valentin , Schmidt-Catran Alexander W 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The relationship between economic inequality and public demand for redistribution has been studied for some decades now. Most empirical studies in this field refer to the median-voter hypothesis, which claims that higher inequality will increase demand for redistribution. Yet, the empirical results remain largely inconclusive. In replicating and expanding Schmidt-Catran (2016; https://doi.org/10.1093/ser/mwu030), we provide a statistical analysis of the association between inequality and demand for redistribution, using linear mixed-effects models, which allow for the simultaneous estimation of cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships. We test our hypotheses using comparative longitudinal individual-level data from 2002 to 2018 and an extensive set of country-level control variables. We also apply a variety of robustness checks. Our results suggest that higher inequality does increase public demand for redistribution, but it does not have the expected positive interaction effects with individuals’ relative income position. Implications of these results and directions for future research are also discussed.
One Health Networks for Infectious Diseases Surveillance and Pandemic Preparedness in Central and South America
Authors: Guezala Maria Claudia , Schilling Megan A 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 2019 pandemic prompted the emergence of collaborative initiatives within South America and the Caribbean, to tackle common challenges. Many initiatives included local government, international entities, military, academia, and research institutions, united to face the challenges brought by the pandemic. Some collaborations were new, but most were built on top of existing networks developed to prevent and control challenges like zoonotic diseases. In the last 40 years, the U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit (NAMRU) SOUTH has helped ensure the readiness and health of U.S. service members, Peruvian partners, and civilian population through research, surveillance, and global health, covering One Health interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health to address zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and vector-borne diseases. This article puts together the different communications, data sharing, and initiatives developed throughout South America towards One Health surveillance, focusing on zoonotic pathogens, and to describe the best practices for these networks.
Experimental evolution at ecological scales allows linking of viral genotypes to specific host strains
Authors: Ramos-Barbero María Dolores , Aldeguer-Riquelme Borja , Viver Tomeu , Villamor Judith , Carrillo-Bautista Miryam , López-Pascual Cristina , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T , Martínez-García Manuel , Santos Fernando , Rossello-Mora Ramon , Antón Josefa 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Viruses shape microbial community structure and activity through the control of population diversity and cell abundances. Identifying and monitoring the dynamics of specific virus-host pairs in nature is hampered by the limitations of culture-independent approaches such as metagenomics, which do not always provide strain-level resolution, and culture-based analyses, which eliminate the ecological background and in-situ interactions. Here, we have explored the interaction of a specific “autochthonous” host strain and its viruses within a natural community. Bacterium Salinibacter ruber strain M8 was spiked into its environment of isolation, a crystallizer pond from a coastal saltern, and the viral and cellular communities were monitored for one month using culture, metagenomics, and microscopy. Metagenome sequencing indicated that the M8 abundance decreased sharply after being added to the pond, likely due to forces other than viral predation. However, the presence of M8 selected for two species of a new viral genus, Phoenicisalinivirus, for which 120 strains were isolated. During this experiment, an assemblage of closely related viral genomic variants was replaced by a single population with the ability to infect M8, a scenario which was compatible with the selection of a genomic variant from the rare biosphere. Further analysis implicated a viral genomic region putatively coding for a tail fiber protein to be responsible for M8 specificity. Our results indicate that low abundance viral genotypes provide a viral seed bank that allows for a highly specialized virus-host response within a complex ecological background.
Investigation of cefiderocol resistance prevalence and resistance mechanisms in carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Germany 2019–21
Authors: Kocer Kaan , Boutin Sébastien , Moll Maximilian , Nurjadi Dennis 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Cefiderocol, a novel siderophore cephalosporin, is a promising therapeutic option for infections caused by multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We evaluated the activity of cefiderocol against carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (Cr-Pa) isolates and investigated the potential mechanisms involved in resistance.

Methods
108 CR-Pa isolates collected from patients without prior exposure to the substance were studied. MICs of cefiderocol were determined by broth microdilution using iron-depleted cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth. Whole genome sequencing was performed to investigate the potential resistance mechanisms by comparing resistant and susceptible P. aeruginosa isolates and identifying unique mutations in the resistant group.

Results
Of the 108 isolates, nine were resistant to cefiderocol with MIC values ranging from 4 to 32 mg/L. The genetic analysis revealed a broad spectrum of mutations in the resistant isolates associated with iron uptake systems, efflux pumps, AmpC β-lactamase and penicillin-binding proteins. The most frequently observed mutations among the resistant isolates were located in fptA, fpvB and chtA. Notably, the presence of carbapenemases did not correlate with cefiderocol resistance.

Conclusions
Our findings show the low prevalence of cefiderocol resistance among CR-Pa isolates, showing its potential as an effective treatment option. However, the complex genetic landscape of resistance mechanisms, particularly mutations affecting iron transport and other TonB-dependent receptors, requires continuous monitoring and functional analyses to identify and manage potential resistance mechanisms. This study provides a foundation for future research to improve antimicrobial resistance prediction and develop targeted therapies against CR-Pa.
Medical school ranking and provider outpatient Medicare Part D claims for antibiotics among older patients in the USA
Authors: Al Mohajer Mayar , Slusky David , Nix David , Nicodemo Catia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Our study aimed to assess whether there was a relationship between graduating from higher-ranked medical schools and the rate of prescribing antibiotics among Medicare Part D providers in the USA.

Methods
The study obtained data from the Medicare Part D Prescribers (FY2013-2021) and the Doctor and Clinicians National repositories. A regression model was fitted to assess the relationship between provider medical school ranking and the rate of antibiotic days supplied per 100 beneficiaries at the provider level.

Results
A total of 197 540 providers were included. No association was found between the medical school ranking and the rate of antibiotics days supplied per 100 beneficiaries. Instead, the type of provider is associated with the prescription rates. Hospitalists and Emergency Medicine providers had fewer days supplied per 100 beneficiaries than Family Medicine providers. In contrast, students, more experienced providers (&gt;20 years since medical school graduation) and females had more days supplied per 100 beneficiaries.

Conclusion
Our study highlights the need for robust outpatient stewardship interventions and incorporating an outcome-based approach to antibiotic stewardship curricula in medical and mid-level provider schools.