bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Toxoplasma gondii bradyzoite-specific BAG1 is nonessential for cyst formation due to compensation by other heat-shock proteins
Authors: Wu Weiling , Chen Qiqi , Zou Weihao , Chen Jiating , Zhu Di , Yang Huijing , Ouyang Lishan , Liu Xiaojun , Peng Hongjuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic pathogenic protozoan that infects all warm-blooded animals, including humans, and causes zoonotic toxoplasmosis. The bradyzoite antigen 1 (BAG1), known as heat-shock protein (HSP)30, is a specific antigen expressed during the early stage of T. gondii tachyzoite–bradyzoite conversion.

Methods
A bag1 gene knockout strain based on the T. gondii type II ME49 was constructed and designated as ME49Δbag1. The invasion, proliferation, and cyst formation efficiency in the cell model and survival in the mouse model were compared between the ME49 and ME49Δbag1 strains after infection. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to detect the transcriptional level of important genes, and western-blot was used to detect protein levels.

Results
ME49Δbag1 displayed significantly inhibited cyst formation, although it was not completely blocked. During early differentiation induced by alkaline and starvation conditions in vitro, the proliferation of ME49Δbag1 was significantly accelerated relative to the ME49 strain. Meanwhile, the transcription of the HSP family and bradyzoite formation deficient 1 (bfd1) were significantly enhanced. The observed upregulation suggests a compensatory mechanism to counterbalance the impaired stress responses of T. gondii following bag1 knockout. On the other hand, the elevated transcription levels of several HSP family members, including HSP20, HSP21, HSP40, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90, along with BFD1, implied the involvement of alternative regulatory factors in bradyzoite differentiation aside from BAG1.

Conclusions
The data suggested that when bag1 was absent, the stress response of T. gondii was partially compensated by increased levels of other HSPs, resulting in the formation of fewer cysts. This highlighted a complex regulatory network beyond BAG1 influencing the parasite’s transformation into bradyzoites, emphasizing the vital compensatory function of HSPs in the T. gondii life cycle adaptation.

Graphical Abstract
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and other markers of inflammation in cats tested for Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies
Authors: Donato Giulia , Caspanello Tiziana , Caprì Alessandra , De Majo Massimo , Iannelli Nicola Maria , Rosace Flavia , Bruno Federica , Castelli Germano , Pennisi Maria Grazia , Masucci Marisa 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundIn endemic areas,Leishmania infantumand feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) co-infection occurs in cats, and may favour a progressive course of feline leishmaniosis. Abnormalities in serum protein fractions have been reported, but inflammation markers have scarcely been studied. Erythrocyte sediment rate (ESR) is a marker of inflammation that is poorly used in veterinary medicine, but it has been evaluated in EDTA blood using a recently introduced automatic device. We studied ESR and a pool of feline markers of inflammation (MoI) in catsL. infantum(Li+) and/or FIV antibody-positive (Li+FIV+/FIV+) with the aims (a) to evaluate ESR as MoI in cats with the infectious and clinical conditions considered and (b) to provide data about a pool of MoI never investigated in the feline infections studied and in other cat diseases before.MethodsThis prospective controlled study included 35 study group cats (Li+,n = 20; FIV +,n = 8;Li+FIV+,n = 7) and ten healthy antibody-negative control cats. Clinical findings at physical examination and selected clinical pathological abnormalities related to inflammation were statistically analysed in relation to the infectious status and ESR values.ResultsESR values were higher inLi+, FIV+, andLi+FIV+cats compared with control cats, and 40% of the study group cats had ESR values above the reference interval (RI). ESR positively correlated with some positive MoI and negatively with some negative MoI studied. Additionally, a higher prevalence of ESR values above the RI has been detected in cats with hypoalbuminemia or hypergammaglobulinemia and higher ESR values were measured in cats with serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) fraction abnormalities. Correlations were also found with erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit and some erythrocyte indices. FIV+andLi+FIV+cats had a higher prevalence of increased ESR values, and almost all had SPE abnormalities and more severe clinical presentations compared withLi+cats.ConclusionsAbnormal levels of MoI were found in almost all parameters studied, particularly in FIV+andLi+FIV+cats. Also, ESR can be used as a marker of inflammation in cats withL. infantumand/or FIV infection.Graphical Abstract
Infrapatellar fat pad size and subcutaneous fat in knee osteoarthritis radiographic progression: data from the osteoarthritis initiative
Authors: Lee Kwanghoon , Banuls-Mirete Marina , Lombardi Alecio F. , Posis Alexander I.B. , Chang Eric Y. , Lane Nancy E. , Guma Monica 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Objectives
Adipose tissue has been associated with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) pathogenesis, but the longitudinal changes in adipose tissue with KOA progression have not been carefully evaluated. This study aimed to determine if longitudinal changes of systemic and local adipose tissue is associated with radiographic progression of KOA.

Methods
This case-control study used data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) and included 315 cases (all the right knees with a minimum of Kellgren-Lawrence score (KL) of 0 and an increase of ≥ 1 KL from baseline to 48 months) and 315 controls matched by age, sex, race, and baseline KL. Cross sectional area of IPFP (IPFP CSA) and subcutaneous adipose tissue around the distal thigh (SCATthigh) were measured using MRI images at baseline and 24 months. Conditional logistic regression models were fitted to estimate associations of obesity markers, IPFP CSA, and SCATthigh with radiographic KOA progression. Mediation analysis was used to assess whether IPFP CSA or SCATthigh mediates the relationships between baseline BMI and radiographic KOA progression.

Results
24-month changes of IPFP CSA (ΔIPFP CSA) and SCATthigh (ΔSCATthigh) were significantly greater in cases compared to controls, whereas Δ BMI and Δ abdominal circumference were similar in both groups during follow-up. Adjusted ORs for radiographic KOA progression were 9.299, 95% CI (5.357–16.141) per 1 SD increase of Δ IPFP CSA and 1.646, 95% CI (1.288–2.103) per 1 SD increase of Δ SCATthigh. ΔIPFP CSA mediated the association between baseline BMI and radiographic KOA progression (87%).

Conclusions
Subjects with radiographic progression of KOA, had significant increases in IPFP CSA and subcutaneous adipose tissue while BMI and abdominal circumference remained stable. Additional studies are needed to confirm these associations.
Sex differences in the association between metabolic score for insulin resistance and the reversion to normoglycemia in adults with prediabetes: a cohort study
Authors: Liang Xiaomin , Xing Zemao , Lai Kai , Li Xiaohong , Gui Shuiqing , Li Ying 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
The metabolic score for insulin resistance (MetS-IR) has become a valid indicator to evaluate insulin resistance. Our investigation sought gender differences in the correlation between MetS-IR and the reversion from prediabetes to normoglycemic status.

Methods
This retrospective research, carried out in 32 areas across 11 cities with several centers in China, encompassed 15,423 participants with prediabetes. We employed a Cox proportional hazards regression model to examine the link between MetS-IR and the reversion to normoglycemic status. We also applied cubic spline functions and smooth curve fitting to detect non-linear relationships. Additionally, we embarked on a range of sensitivity analyses.

Results
The study included 15,423 participants, with 10,009 males (64.90%) and 5,414 females (35.10%). The average follow-up time was 2.96 ± 0.93 years, and 6,623 individuals (42.94%) reversed normoglycemia. A non-linear correlation was discovered among MetS-IR and reversion to normoglycemic status in men, with a turning point at 55.48. For a one-unit rise in MetS-IR below this point, the chance of reversal to normoglycemic levels declined by 3% (HR = 0.97, 95% CI:0.96–0.97, P < 0.0001). In women, the association was linear, with every unit rise in MetS-IR leading to a 3% reduction in transitioning to normal glycemic levels. (HR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.97–0.98, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion
A negative correlation was discovered between MetS-IR and reversion to normoglycemic status in adults with prediabetes. Specifically, a non-linear association was observed for males, while females exhibited a linear correlation.
Investigation of the effect of relative humidity on micro lime consolidation of degraded earthen structures
Authors: Zeng Renjian , Schwantes Gesa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Micro lime, hydrated lime (Ca (OH)2) with particle sizes of 1-3μ dispersed in isopropanol, can be used to reinforce deteriorated earthen structures. The consolidation effect depends on the amount of moisture present in the structure or in the ambient air. This study investigates the influence of different levels of relative humidity (RH) on the consolidation effect of micro lime on earthen structures, the chemical processes responsible for the consolidation and the physical changes to the structure. The aim is to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying chemical reactions and to identify a potential limit to the applicability of this consolidation method in low RH environments. The fact that many of these sites are located in arid climates greatly influences the practical application of micro lime in the conservation of historical earthen structures. To characterize the consolidation effect of micro lime, unconfined compressive strength and exposure to wet and dry cycles were used. The properties of the reaction products and the bonding between soil particles and micro lime were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). At RH levels of 25%, 45%, 65% and 90%, the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and the modulus of deformation at 50% strength (E50) of the micro lime-reinforced specimens demonstrated an increase with humidity. This led to a significant improvement in their ability to resist the effects of dry–wet cycles. Results from thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicate that micro lime interacts with the soil matrix via carbonation, with the reaction rate increasing with humidity. At 25% RH, vaterite was produced and residual free lime was observed, whereas at humidity levels of 45% and above, the reaction yielded vaterite and aragonite. The lime treatment did not significantly alter the pore structure of the soil specimens. The total porosity of the specimens was only slightly reduced, with the main effect of the lime treatment being a reduction in the number of large pores.
An interactive 3D atlas of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer developed using SPECT/CT
Authors: Situ Josephine , Buissink Poppy , Mu Annie , Chung David K V , Finnegan Rob , Gamage Thiranja P Babarenda , Jayathungage Don Tharanga D , Walker Cameron , Reynolds Hayley M 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
The identification and assessment of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in breast cancer is important for optimised patient management. The aim of this study was to develop an interactive 3D breast SLN atlas and to perform statistical analyses of lymphatic drainage patterns and tumour prevalence.

Methods
A total of 861 early-stage breast cancer patients who underwent preoperative lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT/CT were included. Lymphatic drainage and tumour prevalence statistics were computed using Bayesian inference, non-parametric bootstrapping, and regression techniques. Image registration of SPECT/CT to a reference patient CT was carried out on 350 patients, and SLN positions transformed relative to the reference CT. The reference CT was segmented to visualise bones and muscles, and SLN distributions compared with the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ESTRO) clinical target volumes (CTVs). The SLN atlas and statistical analyses were integrated into a graphical user interface (GUI).

Results
Direct lymphatic drainage to the axilla level I (anterior) node field was most common (77.2%), followed by the internal mammary node field (30.4%). Tumour prevalence was highest in the upper outer breast quadrant (22.9%) followed by the retroareolar region (12.8%). The 3D atlas had 765 SLNs from 335 patients, with 33.3–66.7% of axillary SLNs and 25.4% of internal mammary SLNs covered by ESTRO CTVs.

Conclusion
The interactive 3D atlas effectively displays breast SLN distribution and statistics for a large patient cohort. The atlas is freely available to download and is a valuable educational resource that could be used in future to guide treatment.
Antibiotic therapy for bacterial pneumonia
Authors: Kato Hideo 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPneumonia is a common infection in patients of all ages. Determining its etiology and selecting antibiotic therapy are challenging for physicians in both private practice and hospitals. Moreover, the coronavirus disease pandemic revealed the importance of prevention and treatment of secondary bacterial pneumonia in patients hospitalized with viral respiratory infections. This review focuses on the types of bacteria that cause pneumonia and provides new insights into antibiotic therapy for bacterial pneumonia. Moreover, it also reviews the current state of knowledge regarding secondary bacterial pneumonia.
Early contraceptive implant removal and associated factors among women attending public family planning clinics, Mbarara City, Southwestern Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rwebazibwa Joseph , Migisha Richard , Munaru Gideon , Byamukama Onesmus , Abesiga Lenard , Mugyenyi Godfrey R. , Kalyebara Paul Kato , Tibaijuka Leevan , Ngonzi Joseph , Kajabwangu Rogers , Turanzomwe Stuart , Mohammed Fadumo , Muhumuza Joy , Collins Agaba David , Fajardo Yarine Tornes , Ssalongo Wasswa G. M. , Kayondo Musa , Kanyesigye Hamson 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Early implant removal not only results in method wastage and strains healthcare resources but also exposes women to the risk of unplanned pregnancies and associated complications if an alternative contraceptive is not promptly adopted. Studies have demonstrated that prevalence and factors associated with contraceptive use vary across different cultures and regions even within Uganda. We determined the prevalence and associated factors of early implant removal, among women attending public family planning clinics in Mbarara City, southwestern Uganda.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study from April to July 2023 at four public family planning clinics in Mbarara City. We consecutively enrolled women and administered a questionnaire to obtain data on demographic, and medical characteristics. We defined early removal as implant discontinuation within a period < 2 years. We excluded women who did not have a written record of the date of insertion of the contraceptive implants. We used modified Poisson regression analysis to determine factors associated with early implant removal.

Results
We enrolled 406 women, with a mean age of 29 ± 6 years. The prevalence of early contraceptive implant removal was 53% (n = 210; 95%, CI: 48-58%). Factors associated with early implant removal were experiencing side effects (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.20–2.21), inserting an implant to achieve career goals (aPR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.26–2.81) and intending to use the implant for < 24 months (aPR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.11–1.66).

Conclusion
Approximately half of the surveyed women removed their contraceptive implant early. Women who experienced side effects, chose an implant due to career obligations and those whose intended implant use was < 2 years were more likely to have an early contraceptive implant removal compared to their counterparts. We recommend strengthening of pre- and post- insertion counselling to address concerns among those who may experience side-effects. Women who intend to use implants for < 2 years and those who have career obligations should be encouraged to use short-acting methods as an option.
The punitive gap: NRC, due process and denationalisation politics in India’s Assam
Authors: Siddique Nazimuddin , Ramachandran Sujata 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe creation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam is indicative of the sharpening tensions surrounding citizenship, belonging and integration in India. Officially aimed at demarcating the “legitimate citizens”, its implementation is believed to have resulted in the partial exclusion of the so-called “Doubtful Voters” and denationalisation of the “illegitimate residents”. These frictions associated with citizenship identity and rights are nowhere as acute as in the northeastern Indian state of Assam, where measures of retroactive revocation, administrative erasure and withdrawal of citizenship rights have been systematically deployed against religious and linguistic minorities. Using new research with some NRC rejected applicants in western Assam and other materials, this article identifies the central aspects of the implementation gap in the crucial, albeit problematic task of locating the rightful “Assamese-Indian” citizens. Linking our work to the idea of the ‘process is the punishment’, we conceptualise these conspicuous inconsistencies in the NRC citizenship determination processes and their results as the “punitive gap”. We have identified the distinctive contours of this gap in terms of the massive economic costs, intensification of social (including gender and religion-based) inequalities, increased control through social suspicion and unpredictable outcomes for the marginal Miya Muslim community. The article highlights how this punitive gap has constantly eroded key components of due process, of procedural and substantive protections of the rights of individuals, during the NRC determination exercise and after the release of the final draft list.
SOLAMEN syndrome with cardiovascular damage
Authors: Zhao Xiong , Yue Xiaojie , Yuan Shifan , Dai Yefeng , Gu Hao 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSOLAMEN syndrome is a rare, recently recognized congenital syndrome that is characterized by progressive and hypertrophic diseases involving multiple systems, including segmental overgrowth, lipomatosis, arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and epidermal nevus. According to literatures, SOLAMEN syndrome is caused by heterozygous PTEN mutation. Phenotypic overlap complicates the clinical identification of diseases associated with PTEN heterozygous mutations, making the diagnosis of SOLAMEN more challenging. In addition, SOLAMEN often presents with segmental tissue overgrowth and vascular malformations, increasing the possibility of misdiagnosis as klipple-trenaunay syndrome or Parks-Weber syndrome. Here, we present a case of a child presenting with macrocephaly, patchy lymphatic malformation on the right chest, marked subcutaneous varicosities and capillaries involving the whole body, overgrowth of the left lower limb, a liner epidermal nevus on the middle of the right lower limb, and a large AVM on the right cranial thoracic entrance. Based on the typical phenotypes, the child was diagnosed as SOLAMEN syndrome. detailed clinical, imaging and genetic diagnoses of SOLAMEN syndrome was rendered. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) data revealed that except for a germline PTEN mutation, a PDGFRB variant was also identified. A subsequent echocardiographic examination detected potential cardiac defects. We suggested that given the progressive nature of AVM and the potential severity of cardiac damage, regular echocardiographic evaluation, imaging follow-up and appropriate interventional therapy for AVM are recommended.
Exploring the bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and atrial fibrillation: implications for risk stratification and management
Authors: Ogieuhi Ikponmwosa Jude , Ugiomoh Oshomoh Mark-Anthony , Awe Mishael , Khan Maham , Kwape Julia Mimi , Akpo Deborah , Thiyagarajan Barkavi , Nnekachi Nnokam Prayer 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by the absence of p-waves on ECG and irregular rhythm. It often presents with palpitations either palpitations may occur acutely over a short period or intermittently over several years. Other cardinal symptoms of atrial fibrillation include fatigue, dyspnea, and lightheadedness; it is important however to note that most affected individuals are asymptomatic. Concurrently, sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), insomnia, narcolepsy, and circadian rhythm disorders which are a group of conditions associated with the body’s internal clock that affect the timing of sleep and alertness, are raising concerns due to their potential associations to arrhythmias. This review explores the bidirectional relationship between AF and sleep disorders, highlighting their implications for risk stratification and management strategies.

Main body
The narrative approach of this review synthesizes evidence from numerous studies obtained through meticulous literature searches. Specific sleep disorders with a bidirectional relationship with AF are the focus, with scrutiny on the prevalence of this connection. The examination delves into the pathophysiology of sleep-related autonomic dysregulation and inflammation, emphasizing potential management modalities. Various meta-analysis cohorts have highlighted a strong connection between sleep disorders and atrial fibrillation (AF). Patients with sleep disorders, especially OSA, have a higher likelihood of developing AF, and conversely, those with AF are more prone to sleep disorders. This impact is not limited to development, as sleep disorders also contribute to the progression of AF, with AF, in turn, negatively impacting sleep duration and quality. Sleep disorders may play an important role in atrial remodeling as well as electrophysiological abnormalities, rendering the atrial tissue more susceptible to arrhythmogenesis. The narrative review suggests that treating sleep disorders could not only improve sleep quality but also reduce risk factors associated with atrial fibrillation. The effective management of sleep disorders emerges as a potential challenge in preventing and treating atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion
In conclusion, this narrative study highlights the bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and atrial fibrillation. There is a positive correlation, affecting the development, progression, and management of atrial fibrillation. The detrimental impact of sleep disorders on atrial remodeling and electrophysiological abnormalities underscores the significance of their diagnosis and treatment. Education about the importance of sleep and the benefits of sleep disorder treatment becomes imperative for patients with AF and sleep disorders.
Investigating mental healthcare inequalities associated with forced migration: promise and potential pitfalls of electronic health records
Authors: Crowley Grace , Roberts Angus , Stewart Robert , Das-Munshi Jayati 
Published: July 2024

SummaryThere is a lack of data on mental health service utilisation and outcomes for people with experience of forced migration living in the UK. Details about migration experiences documented in free-text fields in electronic health records might be harnessed using novel data science methods; however, there are potential limitations and ethical concerns.