bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Horseshoe appendix: A case report and literature review
Authors: Pflieger Hannah , Tchikladzé-mérand Christine 
Published: February 2025

Rationale:
Horseshoe appendix is 1 of the rarest types of duplex appendix characterized by 1 appendix having 2 openings at the cecum. Clinically, it is extremely rare and is detected incidentally at surgery. Therefore, accurate and timely diagnosis is important for enhanced prognosis, treatment planning, and optimizing patient outcomes. This case report presents the first case of horseshoe appendix in France.

Patient concerns:
A French 15-year-old boy, presented to the emergency department with pain in the right iliac fossa that had been worsening for 4 days. Considering his symptoms, abdominal ultrasound, radiological examination, and computed tomography (CT) scan results, an acute appendix was suspected.

Diagnoses:
Acute appendicitis (AA) with “horseshoe” type appendix.

Interventions:
Surgical intervention with exploratory laparoscopy was performed immediately.

Outcomes:
We found a heterogeneous image, partially fluid in the right iliac fossa, measuring approximately 16 × 9 mm, with inflammatory remodeling of the fat upon contact. The radiological examination concluded that complicated AA was suspected. Finally, the pathological report revealed acute suppurative appendicitis with peritoneal reaction.

Lessons:
Horseshoe appendix is rare. Considering his symptoms, radiological examination, ultrasound, and CT scan results, an acute appendix was suspected. The patient was successfully treated using emergency surgery and antibiotics treatment thanks to further diagnosis via exploratory laparoscopy and pus microbial analysis.
Higher dose of rivaroxaban for the treatment of venous thromboembolism in a 15-year-old Asian child with antithrombin deficiency: A case report and literature review
Authors: Liang Chun-Su , Chen Yue-Xin , Liu Fang , Yue Yue-Dong , Du Li-Ping 
Published: February 2025

Rationale:
Deficiency in antithrombin (AT) can significantly increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, there is insufficient data on the efficacy and safety of anticoagulants in patients with AT deficiency, especially in children. In addition, Asian populations typically require a lower dose of rivaroxaban, and this may be even more pronounced in Asian children. This case aims to explore the potential efficacy and safety of a higher dose of rivaroxaban in an Asian child with AT deficiency and VTE.

Patient concerns:
A 15-year-old boy was referred to our center with severe deep vein thrombosis progression. The primary concern was the effective management of the thromboembolic events while minimizing the risk of bleeding, given the patient’s young age and AT deficiency.

Diagnoses:
The patient was diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis with AT deficiency.

Interventions:
The patient was treated with a higher dose of rivaroxaban, which was 15 mg twice a day for 3 weeks, followed by 20 mg per day for 6 months, which was a relatively high dose for an Asian child.

Outcomes:
During the follow-up period, the patient did not experience any VTE events or bleeding events.

Lessons:
This case provides additional data on the efficacy and safety of direct oral factor Xa inhibitors in patients with VTE and AT deficiency. It suggests that for Asian children with AT deficiency, considering a higher dose of rivaroxaban could be beneficial, especially when the children’s height, weight, and age are close to adults.
Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Resectable Pancreatic Cancer Might be Limited to Biologically Borderline Resectable Cases
Authors: Kato Yoshiyasu , Ashida Ryo , Ohgi Katsuhisa , Otsuka Shimpei , Dei Hideyuki , Uesaka Katsuhiko , Yamazaki Kentaro , Sugiura Teiichi 
Published: February 2025

Background:
Neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) followed by surgery is becoming standard treatment even for resectable pancreatic cancer (RPC). However, it is unclear whether NAT is necessary for all RPC cases.

Methods:
296 patients diagnosed with RPC and under 80 years old were retrospectively analyzed, focusing on tumor markers (TM). The cutoff value of TM was decided based on the classification by the International Association of Pancreatology.

Results:
Among 80 cases who underwent NAT, 72 cases were accomplished surgical resection. Upfront surgery (UpS) was planned in 216 cases, and surgical resection was accomplished in 199 cases. Resection rate showed no difference between the two groups (P=0.638). Although NAT group showed a favorable trend in overall survival (OS) compared to the UpS group, the difference was not significant (P=0.143). CA19-9 >500 U/mL and/or DUPAN2 >700 U/mL was defined as high TM. When comparing in TM-high group (n=83), patients with NAT showed significantly better OS than those without NAT (P=0.024). In TM-low group (n=213), the OS curves completely overlapped with no difference (P=0.902). A multivariate analysis demonstrated that undergoing NAT was the sole independent prognostic factor in the TM-high group (Hazard ratio: 0.48, P=0.044), while undergoing NAT was not a prognostic factor in the TM-low group.

Conclusion:
The efficacy of NAT for RPC might be limited to the subset of patients with high TM.
Antrihabitans spumae sp. nov., a novel bacterium isolated from stable foams formed in wastewater treatment plants and emended description of the genus Antrihabitans
Authors: Suescún-Sepúlveda Jhon A. , Riesco Raúl , Petrovski Steve , Soddell Jacques , Sangal Vartul , Jones Amanda L. , Sánchez-Juanes Fernando , Seviour Robert J. , Goodfellow Michael , Trujillo Martha E. 
Published: February 2025

Three strains, designated as J27, J71T and J72, belonging to the genus Antrihabitans, were isolated from stable foams formed in activated sludge wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in New South Wales, Australia. Phenotypic and genomic analyses revealed that these strains belong to the Nocardiaceae family and are closely related to Antrihabitans stalagmiti. However, distinct genomic and physiological characteristics, including overall genomic relatedness indices, phylogenomic analysis, genomic metabolic profiles and MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry), confirmed their status as a new species.
Ecologically, these strains showed a wide metabolic versatility, like enhanced membrane transport systems for amino acids, metals and phosphate, as well as the ability to synthesize mycolic acids, contributing to their hydrophobic nature and involvement in foam stabilization. Their adaptations likely provide a competitive advantage in WWTPs, where they persist in nutrient-rich, metal-laden and foam-stabilizing environments. The species did not present the typical rod-coccus cycle, described previously as a defining characteristic of the Antrihabitans genus. Based on their unique genomic, phenotypic and ecological features, we propose the name Antrihabitans spumae sp. nov., with strain J71T (JCM 34493T, NCIMB 15450T) designated as the type strain. Additional strains include J27 (JCM 33914, NCIMB 15449) and J72 (NCIMB 15448).
Seasonal Phenology ofEmpoasca fabae(Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in Québec, Canada
Authors: Santos Abraão Almeida , Araújo Fausto Henrique Vieira , Plante Nicolas , da Silva Ricardo Siqueira , Pérez-Lopéz Edel 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTClimate change is reshaping insect population dynamics in North America, notably impacting the migratory pestEmpoasca fabae(Harris) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae). While its phenology is well studied in the United States, knowledge gaps exist regarding its dynamics in Eastern Canada, one of its northernmost migration areas. Our study integrates degree-day models, CLIMEX ecological niche modeling, and field-collected data from Québec to assessE. fabaeseasonal phenology and monthly climatic suitability. Our results indicate thatE. fabaecompletes one to two generations in Québec, with earlier emergence and higher generational potential in warmer southeastern regions compared to cooler northeastern regions. CLIMEX modeling showed that suitable climatic conditions forE. fabaegrowth begin in April, peak from May to September, and decline by November. First adult captures occurred from late May to early June, with population peaks in June-July and a decrease by September. Observed adult peaks occurred earlier than predicted by degree-day models, suggesting that additional environmental factors, such as wind patterns and host plant availability, influence early-season population dynamics. This study provides a comprehensive understanding ofE. fabaephenology in Québec and highlights the importance of incorporating climatic and ecological modeling to predict future population trends. Further research on diapause onset, late-season persistence, and migration patterns is needed to refine predictive models and inform pest management strategies in Québec. Understanding these factors will be essential in mitigating potential economic impacts amid ongoing climate change.
AS04 in a bivalent HPV vaccine drives superior cross-protective antibody response by increased NOTCH signaling of cDC1 leading to increased proliferation of adaptive immune cells
Authors: D’Onofrio Valentino , Santana Ana-Carolina , Pauwels Marthe , Waerlop Gwenn , Willems Anthony , Boever Fien De , Sehr Peter , Waterboer Tim , Leroux-Roels Isabel , Sharma Ashish , Sékaly Rafick Pierre , Leroux-Roels Geert 
Published: February 2025

AbstractIntroductionCervarix® and Gardasil® are two HPV vaccines with differing antigen and adjuvant compositions. Gardasil-4 contains HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18 type-specific L1 viral like particles (VLPs) formulated with amorphous AlHO9PS-3 adjuvant, while Cervarix targets HPV types 16 and 18 using AS04 (Al(OH)3 + TLR4 agonist MPL) to enhance immune response and cross-protection against other high-risk HPV types, not included in the vaccine.MethodsTo investigate mechanisms of cross-neutralizing potential of Cervarix, six monozygotic twins (12 females aged 9-13 years) were vaccinated with either Cervarix or Gardasil-4 (2 doses, 6 months apart). Serum neutralizing antibody titers against HPV 6,16,18,31,33,45,52, and 58, were assessed pre-vaccination and 7 days post-second dose. Multi-omic single cell RNA and ATAC sequencing of PBMCs were performed at the latter timepoint.ResultsCervarix generated higher cross-neutralizing antibody titers than Gardasil-4. Higher frequencies of plasmacytoid (pDC) and conventional dendritic cells (cDC1, cDC2), CD4+ T effector memory (Tem) and B memory cells were also observed after Cervarix. Cervarix-vaccinated subjects showed increased DC-to-CD4+ Tem and B memory cell signaling, through increased antigen presentation and upregulation of NOTCH pathway. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis indicated enhanced pathways related to cell migration and NOTCH2 signaling in DCs and cell cycling/RNA translation in CD4+ T and B cells, correlating positively with cross-neutralizing antibody titers. Increased chromatin accessability in genes related to NOTCH signaling in cDC1 was also observed. Engagement of MHC and NOTCH induced FOS in CD4+ Tem cells and BCL2 in B memory cells, supporting proliferative and anti-apoptotic states. This also resulted in an increase in Th2 cells in Cervarix-vaccinated subjects, and increased IgG4 expression in B memory cells.ConclusionIncreased DC signaling, including NOTCH, through AS04 in Cervarix supports cell survival and sustained RNA translation in adaptive immune cells, 7 days post-vaccination, especially memory T and B cells. This increased cell metabolism and activation may enhance cell maturation of adaptive immune cells, providing a mechanism triggered by Cervarix that can lead to improved cross-reactivity.
Neurophysiological dysconnectivity across multiple resting state brain networks and cognitive impairment in children with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Dunkley Benjamin T , Solar Kevin G , Zamyadi Rouzbeh , Reichelt Amy C , Morrison Ellie , Scratch Shannon E , Hamilton Jill 
Published: February 2025

AbstractPrader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic condition with multifaceted physical, behavioural and cognitive difficulties that is characterized by hyperphagia and low executive functioning. Food-seeking behaviours may be moderated by hormonal, cognitive, and psychological factors, and are thought to be mediated in part by functional brain abnormalities. Here, we used an experimental protocol integrating eyes opens resting state magnetoencephalography (MEG) - a high-resolution neurophysiological imaging technique - and neuropsychological profiling to understand the relationship between executive functioning, and intrinsic brain activity & functional connectivity in a prospective, cross-sectional cohort with PWS, and a sex-, age- and BMI-matched control group. We observed lower executive functioning in PWS as well as functional dysconnectivity across multiple channels of brain synchrony - in other words, across multiple frequency bands that mediate communication within and between brain networks - in the visual, attentional, and the default mode networks. Moreover, we found ‘brain-wide’ changes in the topological structure of brain networks in those with PWS, with increased ‘hubness’ of functional networks, but decreased centrality. However, none of these measures survived multiple comparison correction after correlating with neuropsychological outcomes, although there were moderate effect sizes (degree of association). This is the first study to combine neuropsychology and neurophysiological imaging to show that functional synchrony in multiple brain networks is dysregulated in PWS.
Detection and genotyping of enteric foodborne viruses with high (NoV, HAV, HEV) and low (RV, AdV) health impact in ready-to-eat leafy vegetables and berries from Córdoba, Argentina
Authors: Di Cola Guadalupe , Prez Verónica E. , Fantilli Anabella C. , Frydman Camila , Mozgovoj Marina , Luque Liliana , Ferreyra Leonardo , Nates Silvia V. , Pisano María Belén , Ré Viviana E. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThe global consumption of ready-to-eat (RTE) leafy green vegetables and berries has risen as consumers perceive them as safe and nutritious options. However, these foods have also been identified as sources of enteric viruses that infect the human gastrointestinal system, which are then excreted and can spread through the fecal-oral route. In Argentina, there is limited evidence on the detection of enteric viruses in food, and no legislation currently requires their detection in frozen or fresh produce intended for domestic consumption. This study aimed to identify and characterize five foodborne viruses with high and low health impact (norovirus, hepatitis A virus, hepatitis E virus, rotavirus, and adenovirus) in berries and RTE leafy vegetables marketed in central Argentina. A total of 242 samples (145 berries and 97 leafy greens) were collected from retail sources in Córdoba and processed according to ISO 15216-2:2019 standard. Viral detection was performed by qPCR or RT-qPCR, followed by viral characterization through specific RT-PCR assays or Sanger sequencing. Results indicate that 4.1% of berry samples, primarily frozen strawberries, tested positive for norovirus or rotavirus, while 10.3% of leafy green samples were positive for norovirus, rotavirus and adenovirus. Genotyping indicated the same strains to those involved in local gastroenteritis outbreaks. The absence of hepatitis A and E viruses suggests limited transmission of these pathogens through these foods. This study highlights the need to strengthen hygiene and monitoring protocols for RTE products, as viral contamination poses potential health risks to consumers, underscoring a critical area for improving food safety.
Synthesis and characterization of quinoxalinone-based heterocycles for corrosion inhibition: electrochemical, spectroscopic, and microscopic studies with theoretical analysis
Authors: Kharbouch Otmane , Dahmani Khadija , Issam Saber , El-Alouani Marouane , Errahamany N. , Rbaa Mohamed , Galai Mouhsine , Ebntouhami Mohamed , Almeer Rafa , Almaswari Basheer M. , Nassali Hakima 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This study aims to synthesize two organic heterocyclic compounds, (2E,3E)-6-chloro-2,3-dihydrazinylidene-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoxaline (MR1) and (2E,3E)-2,3-dihydrazinylidene-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoxaline (MR2), characterize them using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR and 13C-NMR) and evaluate their effectiveness as corrosion inhibitors in an acidic environment (15% HCl).

Design/methodology/approach
The synthesized compounds, MR1 and MR2, were tested for their corrosion inhibition properties using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Post-corrosion, the steel surface was analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to confirm the adsorption of the compounds. The experimental findings were further supported by density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations.

Findings
The results indicated that both MR1 and MR2 exhibit significant anticorrosive activity in a 15% HCl environment. The analyses performed with SEM, EDX and AFM confirmed the effective adsorption of the inhibitors on the steel surface, forming a protective layer. Theoretical studies provided additional insights into the adsorption mechanisms and stability of the inhibitors.

Originality/value
This work introduces novel organic heterocyclic compounds based on quinoxalinone as effective corrosion inhibitors in acidic environments. The combined experimental and theoretical approach provides a comprehensive understanding of their anticorrosive behavior.
Intellectual capital and financial performance of Islamic banks: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Bilal , Yasin Talha 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This study aims to meta-synthesize the relationship between intellectual capital (IC) and the financial performance of Islamic banks. Specifically, it examines how different components of IC – human capital, structural capital, relational capital and capital employed – impact key financial performance metrics, including return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE) and Tobin’s Q (TQ).

Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted, following the PRISMA guidelines, to synthesize findings from 29 peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in Scopus and Web of Science having accumulative sample size of 8,871. Effect sizes were calculated using Fisher’s r-to-z transformation, and a random-effects model was applied to estimate the overall effect sizes. Subgroup meta-analyses were performed to evaluate the relationships between specific components of IC and various financial performance measures.

Findings
The meta-analysis confirms a positive and statistically significant effect size (r = 0.227, p < 0.001) between IC and financial performance in Islamic banks. Human capital shows the strongest positive impact on ROA and ROE, highlighting the role of skilled employees in driving success. Structural and relational capital exhibit weaker and variable effects, whereas capital employed significantly enhances profitability. These findings underscore the complex nature of the IC–financial performance link, emphasizing the need for strategic management to optimize IC benefits.

Originality/value
This study fills a gap in the existing literature by providing a comprehensive meta-analysis focused on Islamic banks, which operate under unique principles compared to conventional banks. By highlighting the significant role of IC, particularly human capital, this research offers valuable insights for academics, practitioners and policymakers aiming to enhance the financial performance and sustainability of Islamic banks through strategic management of intellectual assets.
Artificial intelligence: where does Brazil stand in global scientific production and what are the main technical determinants of adoption by Brazilian companies
Authors: Benedeti Rosa Maurício , Kubota Luis Claudio 
Published: February 2025

Purpose Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to significantly increase long-term economic productivity. Although available evidence indicates that the use of AI in major business processes is still quite limited, countries such as China and the USA are at the forefront of technology development. For developing economies not to lag behind, it is essential to be prepared through innovation-friendly public policies, which can be more efficiently formulated with an understanding of the factors influencing the adoption of AI by firms. This research paper aims to contribute to this objective by providing a brief characterization of the scientific literature on AI in Brazil and worldwide, and by evaluating the determinants of AI adoption by Brazilian companies.Design/methodology/approach We use a bibliometric tool developed by the OECD to characterize AI research, and parametric modeling – logit, in RStudio, to evaluate the determinants of AI adoption in Brazilian firms.Findings The results that emerge from the analysis point out that Brazil's scientific production on AI is much lower than that of the leading experts, but the rates of AI adoption by companies are in line with those of European countries. As the main technical determinants of AI adoption in Brazilian companies, the use of the internet of things (IoT), cloud computing, big data analysis and the existence of a digital security policy stand out, which reinforces the need to harmonize the different government strategies related to digital transformation in Brazil.Originality/value As far as we are concerned, this is the first attempt to conduct this kind of analysis in Brazil, with Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Enterprises Survey 2021 data.
Effect of pre­roll ad choice on brand attitude and attitude toward the viewing experience
Authors: Newton Joshua , Newton Fiona Joy , Wong Jimmy , Tsarenko Yelena 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This study aims to investigate whether giving consumers choice over which ads they watch before accessing online content can enhance their attitude toward the advertised brand and the overall viewing experience.

Design/methodology/approach
All participants were shown a pre-roll ad before watching a focal piece of content, but some participants were randomized to receive an illusory (Study 1) or actual choice (Study 2–3) over which ad they would watch.

Findings
Pre-roll ad choice enhanced brand attitude and attitude toward the overall viewing experience (Study 1–3), but only when consumers could choose between ads from competing brands (Study 2). These advantageous effects arose through the mediating influence of empowerment (Study 1–2), but only among those with a negative attitude toward online advertising (brand attitude and attitude towards the viewing experience; Study 3) or who had limited interest in purchasing from the product category being advertised (brand attitude; Study 3).

Research limitations/implications
Potential rebound effects, where consumers become more critical of any disliked ads that they selected for viewing, were not examined.

Practical implications
Pre-roll ad choice allows consumers to tailor their online viewing experience, benefitting not only the brands that leverage it (through enhanced brand attitude) but also the online platforms that implement it (through enhanced attitude toward the viewing experience).

Originality/value
Pre-roll ad choice acts as a salve to the disruption of goal pursuit that such ads normally engender by generating feelings of empowerment. By extension, consumers for whom pre-roll ads do not disrupt goal pursuit do not respond to ad choice.