bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterisation of human rabies in Tanzania and Kenya: a case series report and phylogenetic investigation
Authors: Jaswant Gurdeep , Campbell Kathryn , Czupryna Anna , Mwatondo Athman , Ogoti Brian , Embregts Carmen W. E. , GeurtsvanKessel Corine H. , Kayuki Charles , Kuchaka Davis , Wambura Gati , Oigo James , Changalucha Joel , Oyugi Julius O. , Lushasi Kennedy , Sikana Lwitiko , van Zwetselaar Marco , Dekker Marieke C. J. , Muturi Mathew , Maritim Marybeth , Mutunga Mumbua , Durrant Rowan , Abala Tom , Chuchu Veronicah , Brunker Kirstyn , Thumbi S. M. , Hampson Katie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Rabies remains a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries. However, human rabies deaths are rarely laboratory-confirmed or sequenced, especially in Africa. Five human rabies deaths from Tanzania and Kenya were investigated and the causative rabies viruses sequenced, with the aim of identifying implications for rabies control at individual, healthcare and societal levels.

Case presentation
The epidemiological context and care of these cases was contrasting. Four had a clear history of being bitten by dogs, while one had an unclear biting history. Two individuals sought medical attention within a day of being bitten, whereas three sought care only after developing rabies symptoms. Despite seeking medical care, none of the cases received complete post-exposure prophylaxis: one patient received only tetanus vaccination, one did not complete the post-exposure vaccination regimen, one followed an off-label vaccination schedule, and two did not receive any post-exposure vaccinations before the onset of symptoms. These cases highlight serious gaps in health-seeking behaviour, and in health systems providing appropriate care following risky exposures, including in the accessibility and effectiveness of post-exposure prophylaxis as it is administered in the region.

Conclusions
The viral genomic and epidemiological data confirms dog-mediated rabies as the cause of each of these deaths. The phylogenetic investigation highlights the transboundary circulation of rabies within domestic dog populations, revealing distinct rabies virus clades with evidence of regional spread. These findings underscore the importance of coordinated cross-border control efforts between the two countries. Urgent action is needed to improve awareness around the need for emergency post-exposure vaccines that should be accessible in local communities and administered appropriately, as well as investment in coordinated dog vaccination to control dog-mediated rabies, the underlying cause of these deaths.

Graphical Abstract
Polymerization kinetics of 3D-printed orthodontic aligners under different UV post-curing conditions
Authors: Manoukakis Thomas , Nikolaidis Alexandros K. , Koulaouzidou Elisabeth A. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
The purpose of the study was to measure the degree of conversion (DC) of direct-printed aligners (DPA) that were post-cured under ambient and nitrogen atmosphere at specific time intervals and investigate the kinetics of polymerization reaction of this material.

Methods
A total of 48 aligners were produced in 4 printing series by a 3D printer with TC-85DAC resin (Graphy Inc). From each series of printing, 12 aligners were included. The aligners were divided into two groups according to their post-curing conditions. One group was post-cured under ambient air with the presence of oxygen and the other under a nitrogen atmosphere, both using the same UV post-curing unit recommended by the company. The aligners were post-cured at six different time intervals: 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, and 20 min. Each time interval included 8 aligners, with 2 aligners from each series. The DC of the cured aligners was measured by means of attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) through acquisition of the respective spectra for each UV-curing condition. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the results and differences within each atmosphere post-curing protocol, as well as between the different selected atmosphere conditions. Statistical significance level was set at p-value ≤ 0.05.

Results
Pairwise analysis between post-curing protocols showed statistically significant differences only at the first minute of polymerization. Post-curing with nitrogen did not yield statistically significant results across different time intervals. Post-curing in ambient air showed some significant differences on the 1st and 2nd minute of the post-curing process.

Conclusions
Almost complete double bond conversion was observed. Significant differences were observed only during the first minute of polymerization under the nitrogen atmosphere.
Physics-based modeling of debris flows and assessing the performance of effective mitigation measures
Authors: Mubarak Nadia , Kumar Pranay , Kumar Ritesh , Jakka Ravi S. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Climate change-induced geohazards are increasingly posing a critical threat to the sustained functionality and resilience of constructed infrastructures. Among these hazards, debris flows represent significant natural disasters, particularly in mountainous terrains, causing widespread property damage and loss of life globally. These phenomena involve complex interactions between solid and fluid forces, resulting in long run-out distances and high-speed flows. Predicting and monitoring debris flows is challenging due to the intricate interplay of these forces.

Objective
The objective of this study is to evaluate the structural damage caused by debris flows and assess the efficacy of rigid barrier structures with passages/apertures.

Method
Employing Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics, a Lagrange-based mesh-free computational technique, the researchers simulated the impact of debris on a stiff structure. The focus was on the Rishiganga river valley in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, a region recently devastated by a debris flow that severely compromised essential infrastructure, including a hydroelectric power station. The research entailed modeling the debris flow in this specific locale and analyzing its effects on an assumed downstream rigid structure. Additionally, the study explored the outcomes of introducing a rigid barrier upstream.

Results and Conclusion
Results indicated a substantial reduction in the impact on the downstream structure with the presence of an upstream rigid structure. Moreover, as the number of apertures in the upstream barrier was increased, the impact of flow on the downstream structure further diminished, because of a more streamlined flow pattern.
Development of glass sealants for proton conducting ceramic cells: materials, concepts and challenges
Authors: Georgolamprou Xanthi , Ritucci Ilaria , Pirou Stéven , Kiebach Ragnar 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIn this study, we have successfully developed and tested sealing concepts for symmetrical, planar proton-conducting ceramic cells (PCCCs). Three glass sealants from the field of solid oxide cells were investigated as potential compatible sealing materials for PCCCs. The most promising results were obtained with a SiO2-MgO-CaO-Na2O-Al2O3-ZrO2-B2O3 glass, which provided a dense, crack-free sealant between the proton-conducting ceramic cells and the Al2O3-coated ferritic steels. During the sealing process, a reaction layer between the interface of the BaCe0.2Zr0.7Y0.1O3-δ contained in the PCCCs and the glass–ceramic, occurred. Here, we propose a reaction mechanism for this interaction and discuss its impact on potential applications. Moreover, next to evaluating potential glass sealants, we have successfully designed and demonstrated a new sealing geometry that prevents a potential gas crossover in the symmetrical proton-conducting ceramic cell.
Case of colon perforation due to segmental absence of intestinal musculature accompanied by cancer treated with colonic resection and anastomosis
Authors: Sato Eiki , Seo Yuki , Matsukawa Yuta , Shun-Kai Chang , Kimura Masanori , Takesue Tomoko , Kishida Norihiro , Hamano Ikumi , Hoshino Go , Tokura Hideyuki , Takahashi Takayuki , Shimizu Kazuhiko 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Segmental absence of intestinal musculature (SAIM) is a partial defect of intestinal muscularis propria without diverticulum. Many reports indicate that the increase in intestinal pressure caused by enemas or endoscopic examinations leads to bowel perforation, but there are few reports involving malignant tumors. Moreover, few reports have had good outcomes after performing one-stage intestinal anastomosis.

Case presentation
A 60-year-old male came to the office with right-side abdominal pain, and was diagnosed with acute generalized peritonitis caused by ascending colon perforation. Emergency laparotomy was performed, and oval and smooth perforation at the ascending colon was observed, which caused ascites with feces. In addition, there was a tumor on the distal side. The terminal ileum was not dilated, so the cause of the perforation was more likely the SAIM-related thin intestinal wall rather than increased internal intestinal pressure due to obstruction of the tumor. Therefore, a right hemicolectomy with functional end-to-end anastomosis (FEEA) between the ascending colon and ileum was performed, rather than creating a stoma. On pathological examination, the resected bowel segments had a partial defect of intestinal muscularis propria around the perforation, leading to the diagnosis of SAIM. The patient had a favorable postoperative course without anastomotic issues and was discharged safely.

Conclusions
This case implies that initial intestinal anastomosis can be performed without creating a stoma when SAIM is suspected from the shape of the perforation and proximal intestine. This case report suggests surgeons should keep SAIM in mind during operations for colon perforations.
DNA barcode identification of a tropical liver fluke (Fasciola gigantica) in cattle from Oyo, southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Alaba Ademola E. , Ogunlade Ayobola G. , Olayiwola John O. , Aderemi Rahmat D. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Fascioliasis is a major parasite illness that affects ruminants, both domesticated and free, and has an impact on public health and animals’ productivity. The genetic diversity of Fasciola species in cattle from Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria is yet not well understood. In this study, the genetic diversity of Fasciola gigantica in slaughtered cattle in Oyo was examined using a molecular-based approach targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) gene region.

Results
One hundred flukes were gathered from slaughtered cattle, and their COI gene sequences were analyzed using maximum likelihood methods. The results of phylogenetic analysis showed genetic similarities between Nigerian F. gigantica and isolates from Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Sudan, China, Japan and Nigeria. The predominant DNA substitution was the A to T transversion, while the least common substitution was the G to A transition.

Conclusion
Our results show how useful the COI gene region is for examining intraspecific differences between F. gigantica isolates. The genetic similarity observed among the sampled F. gigantica populations suggests the value of mitochondrial DNA sequences as a marker for the accurate identification and characterization of Fasciola species across different ruminants.
Achieving view-distance and -angle invariance in motion prediction using a simple network
Authors: Zhao Haichuan , Ru Xudong , Du Peng , Liu Shaolong , Liu Na , Wang Xingce , Wu Zhongke 
Published: October 2024

AbstractRecently, human motion prediction has gained significant attention and achieved notable success. However, current methods primarily rely on training and testing with ideal datasets, overlooking the impact of variations in the viewing distance and viewing angle, which are commonly encountered in practical scenarios. In this study, we address the issue of model invariance by ensuring robust performance despite variations in view distances and angles. To achieve this, we employed Riemannian geometry methods to constrain the learning process of neural networks, enabling the prediction of invariances using a simple network. Furthermore, this enhances the application of motion prediction in various scenarios. Our framework uses Riemannian geometry to encode motion into a novel motion space to achieve prediction with an invariant viewing distance and angle using a simple network. Specifically, the specified path transport square-root velocity function is proposed to aid in removing the view-angle equivalence class and encode motion sequences into a flattened space. Motion coding by the geometry method linearizes the optimization problem in a non-flattened space and effectively extracts motion information, allowing the proposed method to achieve competitive performance using a simple network. Experimental results on Human 3.6M and CMU MoCap demonstrate that the proposed framework has competitive performance and invariance to the viewing distance and viewing angle.
Cognitive profile and behavioral problems in cohort of Egyptian children with cystic fibrosis: a single-center study
Authors: Mohsen Hanan , Zyada Fadia , Hamdy Hala , Basha Noussa El , Refaey Mohamed , Shaheen Somaya H. , Atia Fatma M. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a debilitating and time-consuming disease that can interfere with or impair typical daily life activities and social interactions. This study aims to identify and evaluate behavioral problems and cognitive dysfunction in children with CF.

Methods and procedures
This study was carried out on a cohort of 40 children diagnosed with CF. Patients were assessed using a child behavior checklist (CBCL) and intelligence quotient (IQ) photograph test. The obtained results were compared with 40 matched controls.

Results
The male population accounted for 62.5% of the patients included in the study. Patients with CF exhibited elevated somatic, anxious and aggressive behaviors relative to the control group with p values < 0.012, < 0.025, < 0.027 respectively. In addition; there was a statistically significant positive correlation between somatic problems with both age of the patients and disease duration (r value for age = 0.368; r value for duration = 0.468). Furthermore; there was positive correlation between anxious behavior with age of patients and disease duration ( r value for age = 0.358; r value for duration = 0.351). Otherwise, patients had comparable IQs (median of 107.5) with those of the control group (median of 105) with p value = 0.544.

Conclusion
Our findings indicate that CF has a substantial negative impact on the behavior of affected patients. However, it did not have an impact on the individual’s level of intelligence. There is evidence indicating a connection between patients’ age and disease duration with behavioral problems.
Otolith assessment in elderly using combined vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials and subjective visual vertical test
Authors: Fouda Amany Mohammed , El-Mahallawi Trandil Hassan , Emara Afaf Ahmed , Kotait Mona Ahmed 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
Dizziness in elderly patients is classified as a multifactorial geriatric syndrome leading to pathological conditions or changes endemic to the aging process, it is characterized by increased susceptibility to accidents and instability. This is considered a major public health problem. In our study, we assessed age related changes in vestibular function via measurement of combined Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic potentials (VEMPs) as well as Static Subjective Visual Vertical Test (SVVT) for otolith function.

Methods
Seventy-five subjects (150 ears) were enrolled in this research. They were categorized into a control group composed of twenty-five adults from 18–40 years and a study group which divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic groups, each group consisted of twenty-five subjects, fifteen subjects aged 55- < 65 years & ten subjects aged 65 to 85 years. All subjects were submitted to combined VEMPs and static SVVT.

Results
Detectability of combined VEMPs decreased with age with significant difference among the older age group (> 65- < 85 years) and the subjects aged (55- < 65 years). Percentage of abnormal cVEMPs & oVEMPs latencies and amplitudes was more detected in the older age group than subjects aged (55- < 65 years). The symptomatic group aged > 65 years showed higher percentage of affection of both cVEMPs & oVEMPs, while the younger group aged 55- < 65 showed higher absence of bilateral oVEMPs. There were no statistically significant differences in the asymmetrical ratio of cVEMPs & oVEMPs between elderly and adults. Static SVV perception does not change with age.

Conclusions
The elderly showed variable degrees of otolith dysfunction with a high percentage of affection in cVEMPs and oVEMPs. Also, they showed symptoms of imbalance and light-headedness. Static SVVT perception doesn’t change with age.
Lymph nodal volume in head and neck malignancy: can adding a third dimension improve the detection of nodal metastasis?
Authors: Varshney Pallavi , Shenoy Vijendra S , M Kamath Panduranga , Zuturu Neehal , Dhawan Saksham , Kudlu Kshithi , K V Apoorva , Rai Santhosh 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background
To compare the diagnostic utility of computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (USG) for preoperative determination of metastatic lymph nodes.

Methods
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cases planned for neck dissection were included. All underwent preoperative neck USG and CT followed by histopathological evaluation after surgery. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value along with accuracy was calculated for each outcome variable. Efficacy was calculated by comparing these to postoperative histopathology. Both imaging modalities were compared with lymph nodal volume.

Results
Eighty-seven lymph nodes were selected from 30 patients. Median volume on CT was 5412.15 mm3 for metastatic and 237.7 mm3 for benign nodes and on ultrasound, 4168.92 mm3 for metastatic and 233.1 mm3 for benign nodes (p < 0.001). Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for volume on USG were 81.8%, 98.7%, 96.6%, 90%, and 97.4% and on CT were 81.8%, 100%, 97.7%, 100%, and 97.4% respectively.

Conclusions
Lymph nodal volume had higher sensitivity and specificity for detection of metastatic cervical lymphadenopathy and individually or in combination should be included as one of the criteria in preoperative assessment of HNSCC.
More-than-land: conserving the social fabrics of the Kat O coastal settlements in Hong Kong
Authors: Su Chang , Guo Boya 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis article examines the unique self-organised spatial and social structure of the Kat O coastal settlements in Hong Kong. By problematising the identity politics between built forms and landscapes, this paper analyses the village’s deep-rooted history within the land‒water dichotomies, which have been shaped by government survey methods and conservation-development policies. Specifically, it presents the peri-urban condition of Kat O’s coastal settlements as a departure from the traditional urban‒rural continuum perspectives. Empirically, the field documentation of the self-built additions presents critical perspectives into the static understanding of land ownership, addition and adaptation strategies and the building materialities embedded within the government survey methods and conservation-development policies. Theoretically, this study provides an understanding of these coastal settlements as cultural landscapes that are dynamically related to the environment, as well as the changing sociocultural relationships among different communities on the basis of their unique conceptions of habitation and living. By examining past and current conservation policies, this article advocates for a water-centric vision for countryside conservation in Hong Kong that transcends the commonly adopted terrecentric perspective.
Rapid and sensitive detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin E using a time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatography assay
Authors: Nan Li , Xie Jiaqi , Li Qing , Mari Ghulam Mujtaba , Yu Xuezhi , Wen Kai 
Published: October 2024

AbstractStaphylococcal food poisoning is a significant foodborne illness caused by staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs). Immunoassays have become the primary method for rapidly detecting harmful bacteria and toxins because of their excellent sensitivity and specificity. However, these assays have limitations in that they cannot differentiate between types of SEs and do not provide rapid, on-site, quantitative testing. In this study, a time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatography assay (TRFICA) was developed specifically for detecting staphylococcal enterotoxin E (SEE), which is commonly found in dairy products. Compared with a double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, which had a detection limit of 0.028 ng/mL, TRFICA demonstrated comparable sensitivity, enabling SEE quantification with a detection limit as low as 0.081 ng/mL in infant formula. Validation by spiking infant formula samples confirmed no cross-reactivity with analogs (recoveries ranged from 93.17% to 128.77%). Furthermore, with an 8-min reaction time and interpretation delivered by a portable TRFICA strip reader, our method demonstrates potential for use in mobile and on-site detection. This study describes a rapid, easy, and reliable method for detecting trace levels of SEE in infant formula, which could serve as an early screening tool toward preventing food poisoning in infants and children.
Predictors of mental well-being among family caregivers of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities during COVID-19
Authors: Mendoza Olivia , St. John Laura , Tarzi Gabriel , Thakur Anupam , Lake Johanna K. , Lunsky Yona 
Published: October 2024

Background
Internationally, stresses related to the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the mental health of family caregivers of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

Aims
This cross-sectional study investigated demographic, situational and psychological variables associated with mental wellbeing among family caregivers of adults with IDDs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method
Baseline data from 202 family caregivers participating in virtual courses to support caregiver mental well-being were collected from October 2020 to June 2022 via online survey. Mental well-being was assessed using total scores from the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Demographic, situational and psychological contributors to mental well-being were identified using hierarchical regression analysis.

Results
Variables associated with lower levels of mental well-being were gender (women); age (<60 years old); lack of vaccine availability; loss of programming for their family member; social isolation; and low confidence in their ability to prepare for healthcare, support their family member's mental health, manage burnout and navigate healthcare and social systems. Connection with other families, confidence in managing burnout and building resilience and confidence in working effectively across health and social systems were significant predictors of mental well-being in the final regression model, which predicted 55.6% of variance in mental well-being (P < 0.001).

Conclusions
Family caregivers need ways to foster social connections with other families, and support to properly utilise healthcare and social services during public health emergencies. Helping them attend to their needs as caregivers can promote their mental health and ultimately improve outcomes for their family members with disabilities.