bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cognitive impairments in autoimmune encephalitis: the role of autoimmune antibodies and oligoclonal bands
Authors: Rozenberg Ayal , Shelly Shahar , Vaknin-Dembinsky Adi , Friedman-Korn Tal , Benoliel-Berman Tal , Spector Polina , Yarovinsky Natalya , Guber Diana , Gutter Kapon Lilach , Wexler Yair , Ganelin-Cohen Esther 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe presence of oligoclonal bands (OCBs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a pivotal diagnostic marker for multiple sclerosis (MS). These bands play a crucial role in the diagnosis and understanding of a wide array of immune diseases. In this study, we explore the relationship between the cognitive profile of autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) and the presence of OCBs in CSF, with a particular emphasis on NMDA receptor antibodies.MethodsWe studied a cohort of 21 patients across five tertiary centers, segregated into two distinct categories. One group comprised individuals who tested positive only for autoimmune encephalitis antibodies indicative of encephalitis, while the other group included patients whose CSF was positive for both autoimmune encephalitis antibodies and OCBs. Our investigation focused primarily on cognitive functions and behavioral alterations, supplemented by auxiliary diagnostic assessments such as CSF cell count, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and electroencephalogram (EEG) results, evaluated for the two patient groups. To validate our findings, we employed statistical analyses such as Fisher’s exact test with Benjamini-Hochberg correction.ResultsOur study included 21 patients, comprising 14 who were presented with only autoimmune encephalitis antibodies, and 7 who were dual-positive. Among these patients, we focused on those with NMDA receptor antibodies. Of these, five were dual positive, and nine were positive only for NMDA receptor antibodies. The dual-positive NMDA group, with an average age of 27 ± 16.47 years, exhibited significantly higher CSF cell counts (p=0.0487) and more pronounced language and attention deficits (p= 0.0264). MRI and EEG results did not differ significantly between the groups.ConclusionsOur results point to OCBs as an additional marker of disease severity in AIE, especially in NMDA receptor-antibody positive patients, possibly indicating a broader inflammatory process, as reflected in elevated CSF lymphocytes. Regular testing for OCBs in cases of suspected AIE may aid in disease prognosis and identification of patients more prone to language and attention disorders, improving diagnosis and targeting treatment for these cognitive aspects.
Mendelian randomization suggests causal correlations between inflammatory cytokines and immune cells with mastitis
Authors: Chen Jiaying , Su Ben , Zhang Xinyue , Gao Chao , Ji Yajie , Xue Xiaohong 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivesPrevious studies have reported that immunoinflammatory responses have associations with mastitis. Here, we aimed to further figure out whether circulating inflammatory cytokines and immune cells causally impact mastitis liability.MethodsThe two-sample Mendelian randomization made use of genetic variances of 91 inflammatory cytokines from a large publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) containing 14,824 participants, 731 immunophenotypes data from 3,757 individuals as exposures separately, and mastitis from a GWAS summary (1880 cases and 211699 controls of European ancestry) as outcome. The primary analysis applied the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method to estimate causal influences, with MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode and simple mode as supplementary approaches. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were evaluated by the Cochrane Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, and MR-PRESSO global test.ResultsThe results indicated that CX3CL1 may be suggestively relevant to the risk of mastitis (odds ratio, OR = 1.434, 95% CI = 1.142~1.800, p = 0.002). Moreover, three immunophenotypes were identified as having a potential causal link to mastitis (p &lt; 0.05). Significantly, CD28- CD8dim %CD8dim (OR = 1.058, 95% CI = 1.024 ~ 1.093, p = 0.0006) and CD45 on CD33br HLA DR+ (OR = 1.097, 95% CI = 1.039 ~ 1.157, p = 0.0008) were found to induce mastitis possibly. Conversely, CD39+ secreting Treg AC (OR = 0.929, 95% CI = 0.884~ 0.978, p = 0.005) pertained to protective factors of mastitis. Cochran’s Q test and MR-Egger intercept test indicated no significant heterogeneity (p &gt; 0.05) or pleiotropy (p &gt; 0.05), supporting the robustness and reliability of our findings.ConclusionOur study adds to current knowledge on the causal roles of inflammatory cytokines and immune cells on mastitis by genetic means, thus guiding future clinical research.
Differential type I and type III interferon expression profiles in rheumatoid and juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Malik Anikó E. , Slauenwhite Drew , McAlpine Sarah M. , Hanly John G. , Marshall Jean S. , Dérfalvi Beáta , Issekutz Thomas B. 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundThe role of type I and type III interferons (IFNs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to examine the hypothesis that IFN expression profiles in the peripheral blood differ between subsets of arthritic subjects. Multiple type I and type III IFNs were examined in patients with RA and JIA, as well as among subtypes of JIA.MethodsTreatment-naïve RA and JIA patients were enrolled. Droplet digital PCR was used to measure the expression of type I, II, and III interferons in blood and synovial fluid leukocytes. Dendritic cell subsets were isolated from synovial fluid to examine IFN expression in each subset. Additionally, synovial mononuclear cells and JIA-derived fibroblast-like synoviocytes were stimulated with TNF, IFNγ, and poly(I:C) to examine inducible IFN expression.ResultsThe predominant type I IFN gene expressed by blood leukocytes was IFNκ and was significantly lower in RA than JIA and controls. Oligoarticular and psoriatic JIA subgroups showed higher IFNκ expression compared to polyarticular JIA and RA. JIA synovial fluid leukocytes expressed abundant IFNγ and type III IFNs (IFNλ1, IFNλ3), with distinct dendritic cell subset contributions. JIA fibroblast-like synoviocytes produced IFNβ, IFNλ1, and IFNλ2 mRNA upon poly(I:C) stimulation.ConclusionThis study revealed differences in IFN expression patterns in RA and JIA, with notable differences between JIA subtypes. The expression levels of IFNκ, IFNγ, IFNλ1 and IFNλ3 in JIA suggest specific roles in disease pathology, influenced by disease subtype and joint microenvironment. This study contributes to understanding IFN-mediated mechanisms in arthritis, potentially guiding targeted therapeutic strategies.
Higher triglyceride glucose-waist height ratio index is associated with higher prevalence of gallstone: a population-based study
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Chen Sirui , Chen Xi , Qin Chuan , Hu Junchao , Zeng Xintao , Luo Hua , Yang Pei , Luo Huiwen , Yuan Chuanpeng , Shi Ruizi , Wang Decai 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to evaluate the association between triglyceride glucose-waist height ratio (TyG-WHtR) index and the prevalence of gallstone disease (GSD), alongside the age at first gallstone surgery among adult populations within the United States.MethodsWe screened participants using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Logistic regression analysis, generalized additive modeling, smoothed curve fitting, and subgroup analysis were employed to assess the association between the TyG-WHtR index, prevalence of GSD, and the age at initial gallstone surgical intervention.ResultsIn this study, 3,728 participants were enrolled, among whom 395 individuals reported a prior history of GSD. The association between the TyG-WHtR index and the prevalence of GSD demonstrated a non-linear, positive association. After adjusting for all potential confounders, for each incremental unit rise in the TyG-WHtR index, there was a 47% escalation in the prevalence of GSD (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.68). Subgroup analyses indicated a more pronounced association between the TyG-WHtR index and the prevalence of GSD among individuals aged 20–80 years, females, non-Hispanic white population, non-Hispanic black population, other racial groups, and non-diabetic cohorts. Additionally, this study identified that the TyG-WHtR index may be negatively correlated with age at first surgical treatment of gallstones.ConclusionAn elevated TyG-WHtR index demonstrates a positive association with the prevalence of GSD. However, more prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.
Association of the oxidative balance score and chronic kidney disease: insights from the national health and nutrition examination survey 2009–2018
Authors: Chen Xinyun , Wu Zheng , Hou Xingyu , Yu Wenhui , Gao Chang , Gou Shenju , Fu Ping 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionOxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The oxidative balance score (OBS) was devised to quantify the overall oxidative state, integrating pro-oxidant and antioxidant influences from both dietary intake and lifestyle practices. The aim of this study was to delve into the relationship between the OBS and CKD within the adult population of the United States.MethodsUtilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2009–2018, we derived the OBS from 16 dietary and four lifestyle factors. We employed weighted multivariate regression to probe the link between OBS and CKD. Additionally, we undertook subgroup analyses and applied Restricted Cubic Spline Regression (RCS) for further data analyses.ResultsThis study encompassed 19,444 participants. Logistic regression analysis consistently demonstrated a protective effect of higher OBS on CKD. In Model 3, each unit increase in OBS was associated with a 2% reduction in the risk of CKD (95% CI: 0.97–0.99, p &lt; 0.001) and a 4% reduction in the risk of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (95% CI: 0.95–0.98, p &lt; 0.001). The highest OBS quintile (Q4) also showed significant reductions in the risk of CKD (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.53–0.82, p &lt; 0.001) and reduced eGFR (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.37–0.69, p &lt; 0.001) in Model 3. RCS analysis revealed a linear relationship between OBS and CKD. Subgroup analyses indicated significant associations between OBS and CKD in most subgroups, except for those without hypertension or with cardiovascular disease. Additionally, interaction analyses demonstrated that age, hypertension, and diabetes significantly modify the association between OBS and CKD risk.ConclusionAn elevated OBS, reflecting a predominance of antioxidants, correlates with a diminished CKD risk in the American adult demographic. These insights emphasize the potential influence of oxidative equilibrium on the development of CKD.
Predicting pathological grade of stage I pulmonary adenocarcinoma: a CT radiomics approach
Authors: Huang Xiaoni , Xue Yang , Deng Bing , Chen Jun , Zou Jiani , Tan Huibin , Jiang Yuanliang , Huang Wencai 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivesTo investigate the value of CT radiomics combined with radiological features in predicting pathological grade of stage I invasive pulmonary adenocarcinoma (IPA) based on the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) new grading system.MethodsThe preoperative CT images and clinical information of 294 patients with stage I IPA were retrospectively analyzed (159 training set; 69 validation set; 66 test set). Referring to the IASLC new grading system, patients were divided into a low/intermediate-grade group and a high-grade group. Radiomic features were selected by using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), the logistic regression (LR) classifier was used to establish radiomics model (RM), clinical-radiological features model (CRM) and combined rad-score with radiological features model (CRRM), and visualized CRRM by nomogram. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve were used to evaluate the performance and fitness of models.ResultsIn the training set, RM, CRM, and CRRM achieved AUCs of 0.825 [95% CI (0.735-0.916)], 0.849 [95% CI (0.772-0.925)], and 0.888 [95% CI (0.819-0.957)], respectively. For the validation set, the AUCs were 0.879 [95% CI (0.734-1.000)], 0.888 [95% CI (0.794-0.982)], and 0.922 [95% CI (0.835-1.000)], and for the test set, the AUCs were 0.814 [95% CI (0.674-0.954)], 0.849 [95% CI (0.750-0.948)], and 0.860 [95% CI (0.755-0.964)] for RM, CRM, and CRRM, respectively.ConclusionAll three models performed well in predicting pathological grade, especially the combined model, showing CT radiomics combined with radiological features had the potential to distinguish the pathological grade of early-stage IPA.
“I'm a bathroom expert”: a qualitative study exploring how students with physical disabilities manage toileting during college
Authors: Okanlami Oluwaferanmi O. , Kreschmer Jodi M. , Gupta Saumya , Lee Allison , Sarma Aruna V. , Streur Courtney S. 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionHealth care providers caring for youth with physical disabilities encourage them to be as independent as possible, which includes obtaining higher education when feasible. However, little is known about the experiences of higher education students in managing their toileting.MethodsWe performed 1:1 semi-structured interviews with 13 current college students with physical disabilities (4 male, 9 female), of whom six were on a formal bladder and/or bowel management program. Three researchers analyzed all transcripts using constructivist grounded theory procedures.ResultsWe identified six themes, including: (1) adherence to prescribed programs, (2) importance of time management, (3) interfering with class, (4) balancing intake and toileting, (5) campus bathroom experiences, and (6) acclimating to new living situations. Students needed strong personal skills in time management, adaptability, and self-advocacy to both manage their toileting needs and engage in academic and social activities. This often took time to develop while in college. They faced barriers such as a lack of private, well-maintained bathrooms.ConclusionsHealth care providers should encourage their patients to develop these personal skills prior to starting college, while colleges need to better support these students through honoring their accommodation needs and ensuring the availability of private, accessible bathrooms.
Protective potential of selected microbial and non-microbial biostimulants against Zymoseptoria tritici leaf blotch in winter wheat as affected by the form of N supply
Authors: Göbel Markus , Dulal Samiksha , Sommer Lea , Weinmann Markus , Mamun Abdullah Al , Ahmed Aneesh , Sujeeth Neerakkal , Mai Karin , Neumann Günter , Müller Torsten , Bradáčová Klára 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe production of high-quality food for the growing world population on the one hand and the reduction of chemical-synthetic pesticides on the other hand represents a major challenge for agriculture worldwide. The effectiveness of a combination of microbial and non-microbial biostimulants (BSs) with various nitrogen (N) forms in pathogen defense is discussed as a promising, but still poorly understood bio-based alternative for crop protection. MethodsFor this reason, nitrate and stabilized ammonium fertilizer both combined with a consortium of Pseudomonas brassicacearum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and Trichoderma harzianum as soil treatment or with a mixture of seaweed extract (Ascophyllum nodosum) together with chitosan-amended micronutrient fertilizer as foliar spray application were compared under controlled greenhouse conditions. Furthermore, a combination of microbial and different non-microbial BSs (seaweed extracts + chitosan) and micronutrients with nitrate or with stabilized ammonium fertilizer was tested under field conditions to improve nutrient availability, promote plant growth, and suppress Zymoseptoria tritici (Zt) in winter wheat. Results and discussionWhile plant-protective effects against Zt by the microbial consortium application could be observed particularly under ammonium fertilization, the application of seaweed extract–chitosan mixture expressed plant defense against Zt more strongly under nitrate fertilization. In the field trial, the combination of microbial consortium with the seaweed extract–chitosan mixture together with micronutrients zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) showed positive effects against Zt under ammonium fertilization, associated with increased levels of defense metabolites. Furthermore, the additional input of Zn and copper (Cu) from the chitosan application improved the micronutrient status by minimizing the risk of Zn and Cu deficiency under controlled and field conditions. The use of BSs and the inoculation of Zt did not show any effects on plant growth and yield neither under controlled greenhouse conditions nor in the field. Summarized, microbial and non-microbial BSs separately applied or even combined together as one treatment did not influence plant growth or yield but made a positive contribution to an N form-dependent promotion of pathogen defense.
Variability in pediatric and neonatal organ offering, acceptance and utilization: a survey of Canadian pediatric transplant programs and organ donation organizations
Authors: Lee Laurie A. , Okpere Augustina , Martin Dori-Ann , Mahoney Meagan , James Lee , Avitzur Yaron , Piggott Bailey , Tomlinson Christopher , Urschel Simon , Hamiwka Lorraine 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionSolid organ transplantation in children is a lifesaving therapy, however, pediatric organ donation rates remain suboptimal.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey of Canadian organ donation organizations (ODOs) and pediatric transplant programs (TPs), aiming to describe policies and practices for pediatric organ allocation, acceptance, and utilization in Canada.ResultsResponse rates were 82% and 83% respectively for ODOs and transplant programs comprising 7 kidney, 3 heart, 2 lung, 2 liver and 1 intestine programs. All 9 ODOs reported offering pediatric organs following death by neurological criteria (DNC), while 8 reported offering organs following death by circulatory criteria (DCC) for some organs. Variability was found across ODOs and TPs. There was little agreement on both absolute and organ-specific donor exclusion criteria between ODOs. There was further disagreement in organ specific acceptance criteria between ODOs and TPs and between TPs themselves. Notably, despite the development of pediatric donation after DCC guidelines, organs from DCC donors are excluded by many ODOs and TPs.DiscussionFurther variability in pediatric specific training, policies, and allocation guidelines are also documented. Significant areas for improvement in standardization in organ acceptance, offering, and allocation in pediatric donation and transplantation across Canada were identified.
Relationship between rumen microbiota and pregnancy toxemia in ewes
Authors: Chen Jiaxin , Wang Siwei , Yin Xuejiao , Duan Chunhui , Li Jinhui , Liu Yue-qin , Zhang Yingjie 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionPregnancy toxemia (PT) is a nutritional metabolic disease of ewes in late pregnancy. This study aimed to reveal the relationship between rumen microbiota and PT.MethodsWe selected 10 healthy ewes (CON) and 10 pregnancy toxemia ewes (PT) at 135 days of gestation according to the blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose (Glu) concentrations and clinical symptoms. Blood and rumen fluid were collected before morning feeding to determine serum biochemical indices and rumen fermentation parameters. Total DNA of rumen fluid was extracted and the V3-V4 regions of 16S rRNA were amplified by PCR for high-throughput sequencing.ResultsThe results showed that the serum concentrations of Glu, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), uric acid (UA), creatinine (Cr), acetate, propionate, butyrate, and microbial crude protein (MCP) were decreased (p &lt; 0.05) and the concentrations of BHBA, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), acetate to propionate ratio (A/P), and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N)were higher (p &lt; 0.05) in PT ewes than those in CON ewes. 16S rRNA analysis showed the differences of β-diversity were observed in rumen microbiota between CON and PT ewes. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidota and Proteobacteria were higher (p &lt; 0.01), while Firmicutes was lower (p &lt; 0.01) in PT ewes. At the genus level, the relative Prevotella, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, Lachnospiraceae_AC2044_group, Lachnospiraceae_XPB1014_group, Lachnospiraceae_ND3007_group, and Oribacterium were lower (p &lt; 0.01) in PT ewes. Meanwhile, the relative abundance of Oribacterium, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, and Lachnospiraceae_AC2044_group were positively correlated (p &lt; 0.01) with Glu, INS, acetate, propionate, and butyrate, and negatively correlated (p &lt; 0.01) with BHBA, P, GC, AST, and A/P.DiscussionIn conclusion, the decrease of Oribacterium, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, and Lachnospiraceae_AC2044_group in the rumen of PT ewes reduced the concentrations of volatile fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) and serum Glu, and increased BHBA concentration, indicating that the differences in rumen bacteria genera were related to pregnancy toxemia of ewes.
The Challenges of Treating a Helicobacter pylori Infection following the COVID-19 Pandemic in Croatia: A Review
Authors: Jukic Ivana , Vukovic Jonatan 
Published: September 2024

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a prevalent bacterial pathogen implicated in different stomach and duodenal diseases, including chronic gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcer, and stomach cancer. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced antibiotic prescription practices, potentially exacerbating antibiotic resistance in H. pylori. Objective: This study aims to investigate antibiotic prescription during the COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia and its possible impact on H. pylori antibiotic resistance, with a focus on Croatia. Methods: An extensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies from March 2020 to June 2024. The search strategy included terms related to COVID-19, antibiotic prescription, and Croatia. Studies were selected based on predefined eligibility criteria, focusing on observational research addressing antibiotic use during the pandemic. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant fluctuations in community antibiotic consumption within the European Union/European Economic Area. In Croatia, antibiotic use in 2022 surpassed 2019 levels, driven by increased consumption of macrolides and other antibiotics. This surge, influenced by early pandemic treatment claims and penicillin shortages, contributed to rising antibiotic resistance in H. pylori. Resistance rates to clarithromycin and levofloxacin were notably high, driven by mutations in the 23S rRNA, gyrA, and gyrB genes. Discussion: The increased antibiotic use during the COVID-19 pandemic has highly likely complicated H. pylori eradication efforts, highlighting the necessity of judicious antibiotic use and robust antimicrobial stewardship. The pandemic underscored the need for new therapeutic strategies, optimized eradication regimens, and advanced diagnostic methods to manage bacterial infections effectively. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected antibiotic use and resistance patterns, posing new challenges for H. pylori eradication. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including the development of new drugs and advanced diagnostics, coupled with sustained efforts in antimicrobial stewardship to combat emerging resistance threats.