bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular analysis of vector-borne pathogens in Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) from continental Europe
Authors: Lindhorst Zoë Tess Lara , Brandstetter Sebastian , Unterköfler Maria Sophia , Eigner Barbara , Spergser Joachim , Colyn Marc , Steinbach Peter , Ćirović Duško , Šprem Nikica , Dumić Tomislav , Veneziano Vincenzo , Müller Franz , Harl Josef , Deak Georgiana , Ionică Angela Monica , Heddergott Mike , Fuehrer Hans-Peter 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) are increasing in significance in veterinary medicine and public health settings, with wildlife playing a potentially crucial role in their transmission. Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) are widely distributed across Europe. However, information currently available on the prevalence of VBPs in badgers is limited. The objective of the current study was to investigate the occurrence of Anaplasmataceae, Bartonella spp., Mycoplasma spp., Rickettsia spp., Piroplasmida, Trypanosomatida and Filarioidea in badgers and subsequently, based on the results, assess the potential risk to domestic animals, other wildlife and humans.

Methods
Between 2017 and 2021, blood or spleen samples from 220 badgers were collected in nine continental European countries: Austria (n = 7), Bosnia and Herzegovina (n = 2), Croatia (n = 22), France (n = 44), Germany (n = 16), Hungary (n = 7), Italy (n = 16), Romania (n = 80) and Serbia (n = 26). VBPs were identified by performing PCR analysis on the samples, followed by Sanger sequencing. Additionally, to distinguish between different Babesia lineages we performed restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis on piroplasm-positive samples, using HinfI as restriction enzyme. A phylogenetic analysis was performed on Mycoplasma spp.

Results
The pathogens identified were Babesia sp. badger type A (54%), B (23%), and C (37%); Trypanosoma pestanai (56%); Mycoplasma sp. (34%); Candidatus Mycoplasma haematomelis (8%); Candidatus Mycoplasma haematominutum (0.5%); and Ehrlichia spp. (2%). Rickettsia spp., Bartonella spp. and filarioid nematodes were not detected among the tested samples.

Conclusions
The large sample size and diverse study populations in this study provide valuable insights into the distribution and epidemiology of the analyzed pathogens. Some of the VBPs identified in our study show high similarity to those found in domestic animals, such as dogs. This finding suggests that badgers, as potential reservoirs for these pathogens, may pose a threat not only to other wildlife but also to domestic animals in close vicinity. Continuous surveillance is essential to monitor VBPs in wildlife as a means to enable the assessment of their impact on other wildlife species, domestic animals and human health.

Graphical Abstract
Addiction consult service involvement in PrEP and PEP delivery for patients who inject drugs admitted to an urban essential hospital
Authors: Rozansky Hallie , Christine Paul J. , Younkin Morgan , Fox Jason M. , Weinstein Zoe M. , Suarez Sebastian , Stewart Jessica , Farrell Natalija , Taylor Jessica L. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Addiction medicine providers have a key role in HIV prevention amidst rising HIV incidence in persons who inject drugs (PWID). Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are vastly underutilized in this population. Inpatient hospitalization represents a potential touchpoint for initiation of HIV prophylaxis, though little research explores the role of addiction providers. Here we describe rates of PrEP/PEP delivery to hospitalized PWID seen by an Addiction Consult Service (ACS) at an urban, essential hospital.

Methods
We performed a cross-sectional study of hospitalized patients who were seen by the ACS from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022 and had plausible injection drug use. We calculated the proportion of patients who received a new prescription for PrEP/PEP at discharge. We used descriptive statistics to characterize demographics, substance use, reason for admission, and indications for PrEP/PEP. Secondarily, we calculated the monthly proportion of all patients discharged from the hospital with PrEP/PEP who were seen by the ACS compared to those not seen by the ACS.

Results
The average monthly proportion of ACS consults with plausible injection drug use who received PrEP/PEP was 6.4%. This increased from 4.2% in 2020 to 7.5% in 2022. Those seen by the ACS who received PrEP/PEP had high rates of opioid use disorder (97.5%), stimulant use disorder (77.8%), and homelessness (58.1%); over half were admitted for an injection-related infection. The indications for PrEP/PEP were injection drug use only (70.6%), followed by combined injection and sexual risk (20.2%); 71.9% of prescriptions were for PrEP and 28.1% for PEP. Overall, the ACS was involved in 83.9% of hospital-wide discharges with PrEP/PEP prescriptions (n = 242).

Conclusions
PWID who were seen by the ACS received PrEP/PEP prescriptions at rates exceeding national averages. The ACS was also involved with the care of the majority of admitted patients who received PrEP/PEP at discharge. While PrEP/PEP use for PWID remains low, the inpatient ACS represents a key resource to improve uptake by leveraging the reachable moment of an inpatient hospitalization.
Exploring the correlation between tree structure characteristics and carbon storage in historic gardens using TLS technology: a case study of Jian Xin Pavilions at Jingyi Park, Fragrant Hills Park
Authors: Ouyang Cuiyu , He Xiaoxiao , Lin Ruipeng , Qin Ke 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Historic gardens contain a greater number and variety of ancient trees, which are older, have unique forms, and larger volumes. These trees hold significant value in both natural ecosystems and cultural heritage. However, current research on the carbon sequestration value of ancient and non-ancient trees in historical gardens is relatively lacking. Based on the unique morphology and carbon storage estimation needs of ancient trees in historic gardens, this paper proposes a morphology-based point cloud single-tree segmentation method. This method can precisely extract the morphological structures of various tree species and accurately estimate their carbon storage. From the perspective of carbon sequestration, it evaluates the correlation between the structural characteristics and carbon storage of trees in historic gardens, as well as the potential changes in their carbon storage capacity.Using the Jing Yi Park’s Jian Xin Pavilions in Fragrant Hills Park as a case study, this method was applied to extract structural indicators of 116 ancient and non-ancient trees. The total carbon storage was found to be 19,171.13 kg, with an average carbon storage of 165.27 kg per tree. Among these, ancient trees accounted for 13,178.32 kg, or 68.74% of the total carbon storage. The study revealed that the correlation between tree age and carbon storage varied by species, and there were significant positive correlations between carbon storage and tree height, DBH, and canopy volume. Notably, there was a significant linear growth trend between DBH, canopy volume, and carbon storage. By 2030, the total carbon storage is projected to increase to 21,924.96 kg, with an annual average increase of 393.40 kg, representing a growth rate of 14.4%.The results indicate that studying the correlation between structural characteristics and carbon storage of aged trees in historical gardens can shed light on the important role of trees in sustainable carbon sequestration. The precise extraction of tree information through 3D digital technology and the prediction of carbon storage potential not only offer new perspectives for the conservation of cultural heritage in historical gardens, urban microclimate planning and design, and spatial management of carbon sinks and emissions but also have significant value for promoting the scientific management and protection of urban green spaces.
The role of orthodontists in the multidisciplinary management of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Faber Jorge , Mota Aliciane , Ho Lai-In , Darendeliler M Ali 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a complex disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to a range of adverse outcomes from reduced quality of life to serious health risks, including cardiovascular diseases and increased mortality.

Main Body
This manuscript reviews the orthodontists’ essential role in the multidisciplinary healthcare team tasked with managing OSA. It particularly highlights critical orthodontic interventions, such as surgical-orthodontic maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), mandibular advancement appliances (MAAs), and rapid maxillary expansion (RME). These interventions are pivotal in modifying craniofacial structures to enhance airway patency. The importance of conducting a thorough airway analysis is underscored, assessing the complete anatomical and functional factors contributing to airway obstruction.

Conclusion
The paper calls for increased collaborative research efforts to develop standardized, evidence-based orthodontic procedures for effectively managing OSA, aiming to improve patient outcomes through specialized, tailored interventions.
Lethal versus surviving sepsis phenotypes displayed a partly differential regional expression of neurotransmitters and inflammation and did not modify the blood–brain barrier permeability in female CLP mice
Authors: Azizian-Farsani Fatemeh , Weixelbaumer Katrin , Mascher Daniel , Klang Andrea , Högler Sandra , Dinhopl Nora , Bauder Barbara , Weissenböck Herbert , Tichy Alexander , Schmidt Peter , Mascher Hermann , Osuchowski Marcin F. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Septic encephalopathy is frequent but its pathophysiology is enigmatic. We studied expression of neurotransmitters, inflammation and integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in several brain regions during abdominal sepsis. We compared mice with either lethal or surviving phenotype in the first 4 sepsis days. Mature CD-1 females underwent cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Body temperature (BT) was measured daily and predicted-to-die (within 24 h) mice (for P-DIE; BT < 28 °C) were sacrificed together (1:1 ratio) with mice predicted-to-survive (P-SUR; BT > 35 °C), and healthy controls (CON). Brains were dissected into neocortex, cerebellum, midbrain, medulla, striatum, hypothalamus and hippocampus.

Results
CLP mice showed an up to threefold rise of serotonin in the hippocampus, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic and homovanillic acid (HVA) in nearly all regions vs. CON. Compared to P-SUR, P-DIE mice showed a 1.7 to twofold rise of HVA (386 ng/g of tissue), dopamine (265 ng/g) and 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC; 140 ng/g) in the hippocampus, hypothalamus and medulla (174, 156, 82 ng/g of tissue, respectively). CLP increased expression of TNFα, IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA by several folds in the midbrain, cerebellum and hippocampus versus CON. The same cytokines were further elevated in P-DIE vs P-SUR in the midbrain and cerebellum. Activation of astrocytes and microglia was robust across regions but remained typically phenotype independent. There was a similar influx of sodium fluorescein across the BBB in both P-DIE and P-SUR mice.

Conclusions
Compared to survivors, the lethal phenotype induced a stronger deregulation of amine metabolism and cytokine expression in selected brain regions, but the BBB permeability remained similar regardless of the predicted outcome.
Geochemical and mineralogical analysis of low-grade metamorphic rocks and their response to shallow landslide occurrence in Central Nepal
Authors: Silwal Bishow Raj , Gyawali Babu Ram , Yoshida Kohki 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
The weathering intensity and geochemical properties of a rock contribute to shallow landslide occurrences. This study aims to establish the role of rock weathering in shallow slope instability in low-grade metamorphic rocks of the Lesser Himalaya region of central Nepal. The rocks of the Kuncha Formation, which consist of phyllites, metasandstones, and gritty phyllites are characterized by the formation of shallow landslides. Field characterization of the rock mass within the landslide body, along with petrographic observations, clay mineral analysis, and major bulk geochemistry were adopted to establish a relationship between rock weathering and landslide occurrence.

Results
The landslides distributed within the Kuncha Formation in the study area are debris-related slides and falls, rock falls, and complex slides. Microscopic petrographic observation of rock from the landslide area revealed well-developed microcracks and intergranular microfractures within the weathered samples, which suggests extensive disintegration and physical alteration. Kinematic analysis of the landslide slope revealed that discontinuities and bedding planes also affected the failure of the slope. The occurrence of neo-formed clay minerals and the conversion of biotite-muscovite to vermiculite, kaolinite, and mixed-layer clays indicate chemical weathering. The CIA ranges between 71 and 80 for the rock samples and between 72 and 84 for the soil samples, signifying moderate to extreme weathering effects. The higher values of PIA and CIW reveal K-feldspar and plagioclase alteration to clay minerals by weathering and alteration. CIA-LOI plots reveal significant relationships corresponding to weathering effects.

Conclusion
The transition of rock from a fresh to a moderately weathered state and the development of clay minerals and major discontinuities played a crucial role in shallow landslide occurrence. The weakened physical properties of the rock mass due to weathering coupled with unfavorable joints and fracture conditions have led to instability of the hillslopes in the study area. It was observed that one of the driving factors that drives slopes to erosion and landslides is weathering. The dominant occurrence of landslides in the weathered rock domain within the study area validates the occurrence of landslides and weathering interconnections.
Gastro-tracheal fistula following esophageal cancer surgery through the retrosternal route: a case report
Authors: Nishimura Seitaro , Noma Kazuhiro , Kawasaki Kento , Hashimoto Masashi , Kato Takuya , Maeda Naoaki , Tanabe Shunsuke , Shirakawa Yasuhiro , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Gastro-tracheal fistula is a rare but serious complication after esophageal surgery, often requiring long-term treatment and invasive procedures. Gastro-tracheal fistula usually occurs through the posterior mediastinal route and rarely through the retrosternal route. No previous reports have described gastro-tracheal fistula after retrosternal route reconstruction was cured by conservative treatment.

Case presentation
A 70-year-old man with lower thoracic esophageal cancer underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the prone position and gastric tube reconstruction through the retrosternal route with neck anastomosis after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Despite anastomotic leakage on postoperative day 10, his general condition was stable, and he was managed conservatively with antibiotics and gastric tube decompression. On day 29, he presented with high fever and a gastro-tracheal fistula was observed by esophagography. Conservative management was continued because the patient remained stable. On day 48, esophagography showed that the fistula was undetectable. The patient was able to take fluids orally. He progressed well on an oral diet and was transferred to a different hospital.

Conclusions
A gastro-tracheal fistula, although rare, can occur after retrosternal route reconstruction. When a patient is stable, gastro-tracheal fistula after retrosternal route reconstruction may be cured by conservative treatment.
Focusing on exosomes to overcome the existing bottlenecks of CAR-T cell therapy
Authors: Zhang Si-Heng , Peng Ling-Long , Chen Yi-Fei , Xu Yan , Moradi Vahid 
Published: November 2024

AbstractSince chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells were introduced three decades ago, the treatment using these cells has led to outstanding outcomes, and at the moment, CAR-T cell therapy is a well-established mainstay for treating CD19 + malignancies and multiple myeloma. Despite the astonishing results of CAR-T cell therapy in B-cell-derived malignancies, several bottlenecks must be overcome to promote its safety and efficacy and broaden its applicability. These bottlenecks include cumbersome production process, safety concerns of viral vectors, poor efficacy in treating solid tumors, life-threatening side effects, and dysfunctionality of infused CAR-T cells over time. Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles that are secreted by all living cells and play an essential role in cellular crosstalk by bridging between cells. In this review, we discuss how the existing bottlenecks of CAR-T cell therapy can be overcome by focusing on exosomes. First, we delve into the effect of tumor-derived exosomes on the CAR-T cell function and discuss how inhibiting their secretion can enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy. Afterward, the application of exosomes to the manufacturing of CAR-T cells in a non-viral approach is discussed. We also review the latest advancements in ex vivo activation and cultivation of CAR-T cells using exosomes, as well as the potential of engineered exosomes to in vivo induction or boost the in vivo proliferation of CAR-T cells. Finally, we discuss how CAR-engineered exosomes can be used as a versatile tool for the direct killing of tumor cells or delivering intended therapeutic payloads in a targeted manner.
A case of a 6-year-old girl with a rare compound heterozygous mutation of KCTD7 presenting with progressive myoclonic epilepsy
Authors: Badv Reza Shervin , Shariatmadari Fakhreddin , Bayat Shiva , Memarian Sara , Esteghamat Hanzae Samaneh , Yousefimanesh Hossein 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Progressive myoclonic epilepsy is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by myoclonic seizures, drug-resistant epilepsy and neurodevelopmental regression. The disease is attributed to mutations in KCTD7 (a member of the potassium channel tetramerization domain).

Case presentation
We report the case of a 6-year-old girl with compound heterozygous mutation in KCTD7. Whole-exome sequencing was carried out to detect the mutations followed by Sanger sequencing of the patient in addition to the unaffected parents which confirmed the diagnosis. The first mutation [c. 202A > G (p.Thr68Ala)] was inherited from mother and the second one [c. 458G > A (p.Arg153His)] was inherited from father.

Conclusions
To our knowledge, this is the first report of compound heterozygousKCTD7-related progressive myoclonic epilepsy in Iran with c.202A > G in particular as a novel mutation. Our findings widen the scope of our knowledge of the underlying genetic etiology of the aforementioned disease which can further help us in the genetic diagnosis of these patients.
Clinical, laboratory, and procedural predictors of slow flow/no reflow phenomenon after emergency percutaneous coronary interventions in ST-elevated myocardial infarction
Authors: Bamarinejad Fatemeh , Kermani-alghoraishi Mohammad , Soleimani Azam , Roohafza Hamidreza , Yazdekhasti Safoura , Azarm Maedeh , Bamarinejad Atefeh , Sadeghi Masoumeh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a common treatment for ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. However, the coronary slow flow/no reflow phenomenon (CSF/NRP) can occur as a complication during or after the procedure. Identifying predictors of CSF/NRP after emergency PCI in STEMI patients can help clinicians anticipate and prevent this complication. In this study, we aimed to investigate clinical, laboratory, and procedural factors that may contribute to the development of CSF/NRP in STEMI patients undergoing PCI.

Results
A total of 460 patients were included in this study, with a mean (± SD) age of 60 ± 12.5 years. The incidence of CSF/NRP was 30.2% (n = 139) among the study population. The univariate analysis showed that older age, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), initial thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI)flow grade 0–2, increased creatinine level, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), diffuse target lesion length, and longer length of stent were significantly associated with the occurrence of CSF/NRP (p < 0.05). However, in the multivariate logistic regression model, only eGFR (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–0.99, p = 0.005), diffuse target lesion length (OR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.20–3.83, p = 0.009) and LVEF (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94–0.98, p = 0.004) remained significant predictors of CSF/NRP.

Conclusions
The present study demonstrated that diffuse lesion length, lower LVEF, and lower eGFR can be considered as independent predictors of CSF/NRP in STEMI patients.
Exploring the left behind: unheard complication of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA)
Authors: Pahuja Sourabh , Bajad Pradeep , Agarwal Satyam , Khanna Arjun 
Published: November 2024

AbstractEndobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) is a widely used procedure in interventional pulmonology, known for its diagnostic accuracy and low complication rates. We report a rare complication of EBUS-TBNA involving the damage of the TBNA needle during sampling of a mediastinal lymph node, resulting in an impacted needle spring in the airway. Despite its rarity, awareness of such potential issues is crucial for all practitioners performing EBUS-TBNA to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.
The Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) Calculator Overestimates MODY Probability in Hispanic Youth
Authors: Alarcon Guido , Nguyen Anh , Jones Angus , Shields Beverley , Redondo Maria J , Tosur Mustafa 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Context
The applicability of the maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) risk calculator to non-White European populations remains unknown.

Objective
We aimed to test its real-world application in Hispanic youth.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective chart review of Hispanic youth (&lt;23 years) with diabetes (n = 2033) in a large pediatric tertiary care center in the United States. We calculated MODY probability for all subjects, splitting them into 2 cohorts based on the original model: individuals who were started on insulin within 6 months of diabetes diagnosis (Cohort 1) and those who were not (Cohort 2).

Results
Cohort 1 consisted of 1566 individuals (median age [25p, 75p]: 16 [13, 19] years, 49% female), while Cohort 2 comprised 467 youth (median age [25p, 75p]: 17 [15, 20] years, 62% female). The mean MODY probability was 5.9% and 61.9% in Cohort 1 and Cohort 2, respectively. The mean probability for both cohorts combined was 18.8%, suggesting an expected 382 individuals with MODY, which is much higher than previous estimations (1-5%; ie, 20-102 individuals in this cohort). A total of 18 individuals tested positive for MODY among the limited number of individuals tested based on clinical suspicion and genetic testing availability (n = 44 out of 2033 tested, 2.2% of overall cohort).

Conclusion
The MODY risk calculator likely overestimates the probability of MODY in Hispanic youth, largely driven by an overestimation in those not early-insulin treated (predominantly young-onset type 2 diabetes). The calculator needs updating to improve its applicability in this population. In addition, further research is needed to help better identify MODY in Hispanic youth.