bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of anatomical visual features of the eyeball, lens, and retina the diurnal common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus rupicilaeformis) and the nocturnal little owl (Athene noctua glaux)
Authors: Shalaby Walaa , Kandyel Ramadan , Abumandour Mohamed , Al-Ghamdi Fawzyah A. , Gewily Doaa 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOur study aimed to compare the anatomical features of the eyeball, lens, and retina between the two raptor birds of different visual active clock hours: the diurnal common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus rupicilaeformis) and the nocturnal little owl (Athene noctua glaux) using gross, morphometric analysis, histological, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The semi-spherical eyeball of the kestrel had less convexity on the anterior surface than on the posterior surface; meanwhile, it was relatively larger in the owl. There is a relationship between the corneal diameter (CD) and the eye axial length (AL). There were significant differences in the retinal layer thickness between the two raptors, in which the diurnal kestrel had a thinner pigmented epithelium and photoreceptor layers compared to the nocturnal owl. Moreover, the inner nuclear and outer nuclear, inner plexiform, and outer plexiform layers in the diurnal kestrel were larger than those in the nocturnal owl. The differences in the pigmented epithelium layer lead to the higher visual acuity and better color vision of the diurnal kestrel compared to the nocturnal owl. The photoreceptor layer in diurnal kestrel was composed of single large and double cones, which are composed of chief cones and accessory cones; meanwhile, the photoreceptor layer in nocturnal owl had only single elongated rods. We concluded that the lens and retina of the two raptors revealed great variations in reflecting the adaptation of each bird to different modes of life. The statistical analysis found a strong positive correlation between the axial length of the eye and the corneal diameter in both birds, as indicated by the Pearson correlation coefficient.
Influence of garden cress seeds supplementation on immunity, hormonal status, and milk quality during the last third of pregnancy and lactation period of rabbit does
Authors: El-Gindy Yassmine M. , Zahran Soliman M. , Ahmed Mohamed H. , Idres Azza Y. , Morshady Sabrin A. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDuring the last third of pregnancy period, rabbits are exposed to many challenges, such as health complications and oxidative stress. The present study aims to use garden cress seeds (GAC) as a natural antioxidant to mitigate these challenges and evaluate its effects on reproductive performance, immunity, hormones, protein profile and milk quality. A total of 24 pregnant V-Line rabbits (pregnant at 20 days proved by palpation), with an initial body weight of 2395.83 g and about 6–7 months of age, were randomly distributed to 4 groups, the control group was fed the basal diet without GAC, the other treated groups GAC 3, GAC 4.5 and GAC 6 were fed the basal diet supplemented with 3, 4.5, and 6% GAC, respectively. The experiment lasted six weeks. The results revealed that treated female rabbits with different levels of GAC did not have a noticeable effect on milk yield, average daily milk yield, or most of the milk analysis parameters (milk density, total solids, solids not fat, lactose, ash, and protein). On the other hand, GAC showed a significant increase in milk fat, and GAC 3% rabbits displayed a higher percentage of milk fat (p < 0.050) than the other groups. Likewise, treatment with GAC also had a significant impact on serum total protein, globulin, IgG, and IgM. The 3% GAC rabbits showed significantly higher total protein, globulin, and IgM values than the control group. However, all GAC treatments significantly improved serum IgG and the best value was found in the 3% GAC group. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that feeding lactating rabbits a diet supplemented with GAC could be considered a good strategy to enhance immunity, protein profile, MY and milk fat. The best results were obtained with the GAC 3% treatment.
A micro-costing study of mass-spectrometry based quantitative proteomics testing applied to the diagnostic pipeline of mitochondrial and other rare disorders
Authors: Santos Gonzalez Francisco , Hock Daniella H. , Thorburn David R. , Mordaunt Dylan , Williamson Nicholas A. , Ang Ching-Seng , Stroud David A. , Christodoulou John , Goranitis Ilias 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics has a demonstrated utility in increasing the diagnostic yield of mitochondrial disorders (MDs) and other rare diseases. However, for this technology to be widely adopted in routine clinical practice, it is crucial to accurately estimate delivery costs. Resource use and unit costs required to undertake a proteomics test were measured and categorized into consumables, equipment, and labor. Unit costs were aggregated to obtain a total cost per patient, reported in 2023 Australian dollars (AUD). Probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analysis were conducted to evaluate parameter uncertainty and identify key cost drivers.

Results
The mean cost of a proteomics test was $897 (US$ 607) per patient (95% CI: $734-$1,111). Labor comprised 53% of the total costs. At $342 (US$ 228) per patient, liquid chromatography coupled tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was the most expensive non-salary component. An integrated analysis pipeline where all the standard analysis are performed automatically, as well as discounts or subsidized LC-MS/MS equipment or consumables can lower the cost per test.

Conclusions
Proteomics testing provide a lower-cost option and wider application compared to respiratory chain enzymology for mitochondrial disorders and potentially other functional assays in Australia. Our analysis suggests that streamlining and automating workflows can reduce labor costs. Using PBMC samples may be a cheaper and more efficient alternative to generating fibroblasts, although their use has not been extensively tested yet. Use of fibroblasts could potentially lower costs when fibroblasts are already available by avoiding the expense of isolating PBMCs. A joint evaluation of the health and economic implications of proteomics is now needed to support its introduction to routine clinical care.
Off-label use of medicines in South Africa: a review
Authors: Ngcobo N. N. , Mathibe L. J. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Off-label use of medicinal products has become an important part of mainstream and legitimate medical practice worldwide. This practice is common in oncology, obstetrics, paediatrics, and in the management of infectious diseases (notably HIV), and inflammatory conditions as well as in rare and/or orphan diseases. However, the off-label use of medicines recently-raised many clinical and legal difficulties, not only among medical practitioners but also among pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.

Aim
This paper, therefore, highlights the advantages (such as cost saving for both the patient and the country/insurance that is paying for the medication) and disadvantages (insufficient evidence available) of the use of medicines to treat specific conditions or indications for which they are currently not registered.

Conclusion
Off-label drug use can be likened to a double-edged sword, offering valuable opportunities for medical practitioners while carrying potential risks. When the scientific basis for off-label use is unclear, it may place patients at risk of unapproved experimentation, unforeseen health hazards, and ineffective treatments. Hence, there is a pressing need in South Africa for clear regulatory guidelines on off-label drug use. Additionally, the timely review and approval of new indications for medicines, backed by robust scientific evidence, are essential. This would reduce the significant burden and inherent risks faced by medical practitioners when using medicines off-label to provide compassionate care.
Taurine potentiates artemisinin efficacy against malaria by modulating the immune response in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice
Authors: Li Xin , Jiang Ning , Li Qilong , Zheng Kexin , Zhang Yiwei , Sang Xiaoyu , Feng Ying , Chen Ran , Chen Qijun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Artemisinin (ART) is a frontline drug for the treatment of malaria; however, the emergence of ART-resistant Plasmodium strains necessitates increasing ART sensitivity. Given that taurine (TAU) has been shown to have immunomodulatory activity, we investigated the effects of TAU as an adjunct therapy to ART in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei.

Methods
Mice infected with P. berghei ANKA strain (P. berghei ANKA) were treated with TAU alone, ART alone or a combination of TAU and ART (TAU + ART), and their survival time and parasitaemia were recorded. The cytotoxic effects of TAU and ART were subsequently assessed. The expression levels of inflammasome-related genes and inflammatory factors in mice infected with P. berghei ANKA were analysed in relation to those in mice treated with TAU alone, ART alone or the TAU + ART combination. The therapeutic effects were further evaluated by histological analysis and measurement of the spleen index.

Results
Compared with the control mice, P. berghei ANKA-infected mice treated with ART in combination with TAU presented significantly lower parasitaemia and prolonged survival. The combined treatment resulted in significant reductions in the expression levels of inflammasome-related genes in the spleen, including absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2), caspase-1, NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (Nlrp3), Nlrp1b, Nlrp1b, NLR family CARD domain containing 4 (Nlrc4), Nlrp6, nucleotide binding oligomerization domain containing 1 (NOD1) and NOD2, and decreases in the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the serum, including interleukin (IL)-12p70, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, IL-10 and IL-6. Histopathological analysis confirmed that TAU + ART combination treatment reduced spleen pathology caused by P. berghei ANKA infection.

Conclusions
The findings indicate that TAU potentiates ART efficacy by modulating the immune response in P. berghei-infected mice.

Graphical Abstract
Correlation between right atrial pressure measured via right heart catheterization and venous excess ultrasound, inferior vena cava diameter, and ultrasound-measured jugular venous pressure: a prospective observational study
Authors: Klangthamneam Suppawee , Meemook Krissada , Petnak Tananchai , Sonkaew Anchana , Assavapokee Taweevat 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Venous congestion is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes, necessitating accurate venous pressure assessment. Current methods, such as right heart catheterization (RHC), have limitations. Non-invasive techniques, including venous excess ultrasound (VExUS), inferior vena cava (IVC) assessment, and ultrasound-measured jugular venous pressure (uJVP), show promise but require validation in diverse populations.

Aims
We aimed to assess the correlation between right atrial pressure (RAP) via RHC and non-invasive methods, including VExUS, IVC diameter with collapsibility index (CI) by American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) classification, and uJVP.

Methods
In a prospective study involving 73 patients undergoing RHC, we evaluated the correlation between RAP and VExUS, IVC CI by ASE classification, and uJVP. We introduced and compared a modified VExUS grading system.

Results
VExUS significantly correlated with RAP (p < 0.001), especially between VExUS grade 0 and grade 3. RAP significantly differed across IVC classifications by ASE (P < 0.001). VExUS grade 0 correlated with IVC class 1, and VExUS grade 3 correlated with IVC class 3. The modified VExUS grading system improved low and high RAP differentiation. uJVP exhibited a robust, highly significant positive correlation with invasively measured RAP (ρ = 0.67, P < 0.001).

Conclusion
This study establishes a strong correlation between non-invasive ultrasound measurements (VExUS, IVC diameter with CI, and uJVP) and invasively measured RAP. These findings underscore the clinical potential of these non-invasive techniques in venous congestion assessment and patient risk stratification.
Onset of Type 2 diabetes in adults aged 50 and older in Europe: an intersectional multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy
Authors: O’Sullivan Julie Lorraine , Alonso-Perez Enrique , Färber Francesca , Fuellen Georg , Rudolf Henrik , Heisig Jan Paul , Kreyenfeld Michaela , Gellert Paul 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Disparities in the development of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) are associated with various social determinants, including sex/gender, migration background, living arrangement, education, and household income. This study applied an intersectional perspective to map social disparities and investigate intersectional effects regarding the onset of T2D among older adults across Europe.

Methods
We used data from the Survey of Health and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) to conduct an Intersectional Multilevel Analysis of Individual Heterogeneity and Discriminatory Accuracy (I-MAIHDA) of T2D onset. Individuals aged 50 years or older without known T2D at Wave 4 (2011, baseline) were included and followed through Waves 5 (2013), 6 (2015), 7 (2016), and 8 (2019–2020). Intersectional models were used to estimate additive main effects of sex/gender, migration background, living arrangement, education level, and household income and intersectional interactions.

Results
A total of 39,108 individuals were included (age at baseline M = 65.18 years (SD = 9.62), 57.4% women). T2D onset was reported for 9.2% of the sample over the 9-year observation period. In the fully adjusted model, all social determinants showed significant additive associations with T2D onset, while the discriminatory accuracy of the social strata was found to be low (Variance Partition Coefficient = 0.3%).

Conclusions
This study provides a comprehensive mapping of intersectional disparities in onset of T2D among older adults in Europe. The results highlight the risk heterogeneity within the population and show social disadvantages faced by certain groups. However, while the T2D risks were higher in some strata than in others, the intersectional effects were small overall and mostly attributable to the additive main effects. The results suggest that public health strategies to prevent T2D should be universal but tailored to meet the specific situation of the different intersectional strata.
Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology position statement: panel testing for food allergies
Authors: Al Ghamdi Abdulrahman , Abrams Elissa M. , Carr Stuart , Hanna Mariam A. , Herman Sari M. , Lavine Elana , Kim Harold , Vander Leek Timothy K. , Mack Douglas P. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis position statement addresses the critical concerns and recommended practices surrounding the use of panel food testing for diagnosing food allergies. Food allergies are a significant public health concern, and the misdiagnosis of food allergies remains a prevalent concern, made worse by the ongoing use of panel food testing. The practice of screening patients for multiple food allergens, regardless of clinical relevance, is commonly referred to as “panel food testing.” Fundamentally, a panel food test is not simply a single test; a panel food test is a series of several distinct tests for multiple foods, each with its own variable predictive value. These tests have not been adequately validated as screening tests and carry a considerable false positive rate. The resulting false diagnoses lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions, increased healthcare costs, and significant psychosocial distress for patients and their families.
Late relapse of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis: a case report
Authors: Amiri Hamidreza , Karimi Mehdi , Shariatmadari Fakhreddin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis is a sporadic autoimmune disorder of the brain that presents in a variety of neuropsychiatric manifestations, including seizures, psychosis, and alterations in behavior. N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor is primarily seen in young females. Although this disease can be treated, it can relapse in rare cases. Relapsing typically occurs within the early years following the initial episode and is exceedingly rare after 5 years.

Case presentation
In this case study, we report on a 16-year-old Iranian female experiencing a relapse of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis 8 years after her initial diagnosis. She was admitted to the hospital with dysphasia (a speech disorder) and dyslexia (reading and writing impairment). A thorough clinical evaluation revealed the presence of anti-glutamate receptor type N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antibodies in her serum and cerebrospinal fluid, confirming the diagnosis. Following treatment with immunotherapy and plasmapheresis, she made a complete recovery.

Conclusion
This case of relapsing anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis, occurring more than 5 years after the initial episode, is exceptionally rare. This late relapse underscores the importance of long-term follow-up for patients with this condition.
Golodirsen restores DMD transcript imbalance in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy patient muscle cells
Authors: Rossi Rachele , Torelli Silvia , Moore Marc , Ala Pierpaolo , Morgan Jennifer , Malhotra Jyoti , Muntoni Francesco 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Antisense oligonucleotides (AON) represent a promising treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) carrying out-of-frame deletions, but also show limitations. In a completed clinical trial golodirsen, approved by FDA to induce skipping of DMD gene exon 53 in eligible patients, we demonstrated increase in DMD expression and protein production, albeit with inter-patient variability.

Methods
Here, we investigate further the golodirsen mechanism of action using myotubes derived from MyoD transfected fibroblasts isolated from DMD patients at the baseline of the clinical trial SRP-4053.

Results
We confirm golodirsen’s selectivity and efficiency in removing only exon 53. For the first time in human cells, we revealed a significant reduction in the so called DMD “transcript imbalance”, in golodirsen-treated DMD muscle cultures. The transcript imbalance is a unique DMD phenomenon characterized by non-homogeneous transcript expression along its entire length and responsible for the reduced stability of the transcript. Our in-vivo study also showed that the efficiency of exon skipping did not always correspond to a proportional restoration of the dystrophin protein. Predominant nuclear localization of the DMD transcript, observed in patients and animal models, persists even after exon skipping.

Conclusion
All these findings suggest challenges other than AON delivery for high level of protein restoration in DMD, highlighting the importance of investigating the biological mechanisms upstream of protein production to further enhance the efficiency of any AON treatment in this condition.
Identification and validation of respiratory subphenotypes in patients with COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome undergoing prone position
Authors: da Cruz Mônica R. , Azambuja Pedro , Torres Kátia S. C. , Lima-Setta Fernanda , Japiassú André M. , Medeiros Denise M. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The heterogeneity of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients is a challenge for the development of effective treatments. This study aimed to identify and characterize novel respiratory subphenotypes of COVID-19 ARDS, with potential implications for targeted patient management.

Methods
Consecutive ventilated patients with PCR-confirmed COVID-19 infection, in which prone positioning was clinically indicated for moderate or severe ARDS, were included in a prospective cohort. The patients were assigned to development or validation cohorts based on a temporal split. The PaO2/FiO2 ratio, respiratory compliance, and ventilatory ratio were assessed longitudinally throughout the first prone session. The subphenotypes were derived and validated using machine learning techniques. A K-means clustering implementation designed for joint trajectory analysis was utilized for the unsupervised classification of the development cohort. A random forest model was trained on the labeled development cohort and used to validate the subphenotypes in the validation cohort.

Results
718 patients were included in a prospective cohort analysis. Of those, 504 were assigned to the development cohort and 214 to the validation cohort. Two distinct subphenotypes, labeled A and B, were identified. Subphenotype B had a lower PaO2/FiO2 response during the prone session, higher ventilatory ratio, and lower compliance than subphenotype A. Subphenotype B had a higher proportion of females (p < 0.001) and lung disease (p = 0.005), higher baseline SAPS III (p = 0.002) and SOFA (p < 0.001) scores, and lower body mass index (p = 0.05). Subphenotype B had also higher levels of the pro-inflammatory biomarker IL-6 (p = 0.017). Subphenotype B was independently associated with an increased risk of 60-day mortality (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.51–2.36). Additionally, Subphenotype B was associated with a lower number of ventilator-free days on day 28 (p < 0.001) and a lower hospital length of stay (p < 0.001). The subphenotypes were reproducible in the validation cohort.

Conclusion
Our study successfully identified and validated two distinct subphenotypes of COVID-19 ARDS based on key respiratory parameters. The findings suggest potential implications for better patient stratification, risk assessment, and treatment personalization. Future research is warranted to explore the utility of these novel subphenotypes for guiding targeted therapeutic strategies in COVID-19 ARDS.