bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing immune phenotypes using simple proxy measures: promise and limitations
Authors: Downie Alexander E , Barre Ramya S , Robinson Annie , Yang Jennie , Chen Ying-Han , Lin Jian-Da , Oyesola Oyebola , Yeung Frank , Cadwell Ken , Loke P’ng , Graham Andrea L 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The study of immune phenotypes in wild animals is beset by numerous methodological challenges, with assessment of detailed aspects of phenotype difficult to impossible. This constrains the ability of disease ecologists and ecoimmunologists to describe immune variation and evaluate hypotheses explaining said variation. The development of simple approaches that allow characterization of immune variation across many populations and species would be a significant advance. Here we explore whether serum protein concentrations and coarse-grained white blood cell profiles, immune quantities that can easily be assayed in many species, can predict, and therefore serve as proxies for, lymphocyte composition properties. We do this in rewilded laboratory mice, which combine the benefits of immune phenotyping of lab mice with the natural context and immune variation found in the wild. We find that easily assayed immune quantities are largely ineffective as predictors of lymphocyte composition, either on their own or with other covariates. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio show the most promise as indicators of other immune traits, but their explanatory power is limited. Our results prescribe caution in inferring immune phenotypes beyond what is directly measured, but they do also highlight some potential paths forward for the development of proxy measures employable by ecoimmunologists.
Diagnosing diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in patients with atrial fibrillation: a clinical challenge
Authors: Beladan Carmen C , Gual-Capllonch Francisco , Popescu Andreea C , Popescu Bogdan A 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLeft ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction, atrial fibrillation (AF), and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) share common risk factors and are closely related to one another and to adverse cardiovascular events. Exertional dyspnoea in patients with AF should trigger a comprehensive LV diastolic function evaluation since AF frequently precedes incident HFpEF. An echocardiographic assessment of LV diastolic function in patients with AF is challenging, mainly because of variability in cycle length, the absence of atrial contraction, and the frequent occurrence of left atrial enlargement regardless of LV filling pressures (LVFPs). The algorithm of the 2016 recommendations for the evaluation of LV diastolic function cannot be directly applied in this setting. This review discusses the modalities available for diastolic function assessment and HFpEF diagnosis in patients with AF. Based on currently available data, a reasonable clinical target of diastolic function evaluation in AF would be to reach a binary conclusion: LVFP elevated or not. Recently, a two-step algorithm that combined several echocardiographic parameters plus the inclusion of body mass index has been proposed to differentiate normal from elevated LVFP in patients with AF. The echocardiographic evaluation must be complemented by a thorough clinical evaluation along with natriuretic peptides and cardiac catheterization in selected cases. If a diagnosis of HFpEF cannot be ascertained, a close follow-up for timely identification of diastolic dysfunction markers, along with monitoring and correction of modifiable risk factors, is recommended.
Nematode-resistance loci in upland cotton genomes are associated with structural differences
Authors: Cohen Zachary P , Perkin Lindsey C , Wagner Tanya A , Liu Jinggao , Bell Alois A , Arick Mark A , Grover Corrinne E , Yu John Z , Udall Joshua A , Suh Charles P C 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Reniform and root-knot nematode are two of the most destructive pests of conventional upland cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., and continue to be a major threat to cotton fiber production in semiarid regions of the Southern United States and Central America. Fortunately, naturally occurring tolerance to these nematodes has been identified in the Pima cotton species (Gossypium barbadense) and several upland cotton varieties (G. hirsutum), which has led to a robust breeding program that has successfully introgressed and stacked these independent resistant traits into several upland cotton lineages with superior agronomic traits, e.g. BAR 32-30 and BARBREN-713. This work identifies the genomic variations of these nematode-tolerant accessions by comparing their respective genomes to the susceptible, high-quality fiber-producing parental line of this lineage: Phytogen 355 (PSC355). We discover several large genomic differences within marker regions that harbor putative resistance genes as well as expression mechanisms shared by the two resistant lines, with respect to the susceptible PSC355 parental line. This work emphasizes the utility of whole-genome comparisons as a means of elucidating large and small nuclear differences by lineage and phenotype.
Life-Course Pathways to Exceptional Longevity: Evidence From the Lothian Birth Cohort of 1921
Authors: Corley Janie , Pattie Alison , Batty G David , Cox Simon R , Deary Ian J 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Longevity, a hallmark of successful aging, is a multifactorial trait with influences from birth onwards. However, limited evidence exists on the pathways linking diverse life-course exposures to longevity, especially within a single cohort.

Methods
We investigated associations between life-course factors and longevity among community-dwelling adults aged 79 (N = 547) from the Lothian Birth Cohort 1921 with a mortality follow-up of 24 years. Cox proportional hazards and structural equation (path) models were used to explore how factors from early life (social class, childhood intelligence quotient [IQ], education), midlife (social class), and later life (health, lifestyle, psychosocial well-being), as well as sex, personality, and apolipoprotein E e4 status, influence survival time in days.

Results
During follow-up (1999–2023), 538 participants (98%) died (mean age of death = 89.3 years) and 9 survived (mean age = 101.6 years). Factors associated with lower mortality risk in the multivariable Cox model were higher cognitive function (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59–0.88), better physical function (HR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.44–0.85), and greater physical activity (HR = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.71–0.92), while history of cancer was associated with higher mortality risk (HR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.22–2.77). The life-course path model identified the same direct predictors, with additional contributions from female sex and nonsmoking status, to greater longevity. Early- and midlife factors (IQ, education, social class), and emotional stability, conscientiousness, and female sex, were indirectly and positively associated with survival trajectories via multiple dimensions of adult health.

Conclusions
In understanding why people live to very old ages it is necessary to consider factors from throughout the life course, and to include demographic, psychosocial, and health variables.
Bacteriocinogenic anti-listerial properties and safety assessment of Enterococcus faecium and Lactococcus garvieae strains isolated from Brazilian artisanal cheesemaking environment
Authors: Lima João Marcos Scafuro , Carneiro Kayque Ordonho , Pinto Uelinton Manoel , Todorov Svetoslav Dimitrov 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Aims
This study aimed to prospect and isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from an artisanal cheese production environment, to assess their safety, and to explore their bacteriocinogenic potential against Listeria monocytogenes.

Methods and results
Samples were collected from surfaces of an artisanal-cheese production facility and after rep-PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing analysis, selected strains were identified as to be belonging to Lactococcus garvieae (1 strain) and Enterococcus faecium (14 isolates, grouped into three clusters) associated with different environments (worktables, cheese mold, ripening wooden shelves). All of them presented bacteriocinogenic potential against L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644 and were confirmed as safe (γ-hemolytic, not presenting antibiotic resistance, no mucus degradation properties, and no proteolytic or gelatinase enzyme activity). Additionally, cell growth, acidification and bacteriocins production kinetics, bacteriocin stability in relation to different temperatures, pH, and chemicals were evaluated. According to performed PCR analysis all studied strains generated positive evidence for the presence of entA and entP genes (for production of enterocins A and enterocins P, respectively). However, pediocin PA-1 associated gene was recorded only in DNA obtained from E. faecium ST02JL and Lc. garvieae ST04JL.

Conclusions
It is worth considering the application of these safe LAB or their bacteriocins in situ as an alternative means of controlling L. monocytogenes in cheese production environments, either alone or in combination with other antimicrobials.
Wasm-iCARE: a portable and privacy-preserving web module to build, validate, and apply absolute risk models
Authors: Balasubramanian Jeya Balaji , Choudhury Parichoy Pal , Mukhopadhyay Srijon , Ahearn Thomas , Chatterjee Nilanjan , García-Closas Montserrat , Almeida Jonas S 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Absolute risk models estimate an individual’s future disease risk over a specified time interval. Applications utilizing server-side risk tooling, the R-based iCARE (R-iCARE), to build, validate, and apply absolute risk models, face limitations in portability and privacy due to their need for circulating user data in remote servers for operation. We overcome this by porting iCARE to the web platform.

Materials and Methods
We refactored R-iCARE into a Python package (Py-iCARE) and then compiled it to WebAssembly (Wasm-iCARE)—a portable web module, which operates within the privacy of the user’s device.

Results
We showcase the portability and privacy of Wasm-iCARE through 2 applications: for researchers to statistically validate risk models and to deliver them to end-users. Both applications run entirely on the client side, requiring no downloads or installations, and keep user data on-device during risk calculation.

Conclusions
Wasm-iCARE fosters accessible and privacy-preserving risk tools, accelerating their validation and delivery.
Gel Fuel Burns and the Napalm Effect
Authors: Süer Muhammed Salih , Cennet Ömer 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Gel fuels, composed of flammable substances like ethanol and methanol, are commonly used for heating in various settings. Despite their convenience, improper handling can lead to severe burn injuries. This study examines the characteristics of gel fuels, particularly focusing on the “napalm effect” where the fuel continues to burn on surfaces it adheres to. A review of gel fuel burn literature was conducted, along with an analysis of 2 recent cases admitted to a burn unit. Gel fuel burns, though rare, can result in deep and extensive injuries, especially affecting the hands, face, and upper body. The cases presented highlight the severity of such burns and the challenges in their management, including respiratory complications and the need for early excision and grafting. Gel fuel burns, while infrequent in medical literature, pose significant risks and require specialized care. Further research and possibly regulatory measures may be warranted to mitigate these risks and prevent severe injuries.
Field evaluation of female- and male-targeted traps for Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Howse Elliot T , van Klinken Rieks D , Beeton Nicholas J , Spafford Helen , James Kim P , Hill Matthew P 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is a globally significant economic pest for which lure based trapping can be used to monitor established populations and for surveillance. Either female- or male-targeted traps can be used; however, recommendations on which to apply are inconsistent and many programs rely on male-targeted traps. Here, we compare the performance of male-targeted traps (Lynfield Trap with Trimedlure) and female-targeted traps (Biotrap Globe trap with the 3-component lure—TMA Plus) in apple orchards in south-west Western Australia over 2 years (September 2019 to September 2021). Male-targeted traps caught more Medflies overall than female-targeted traps, although the difference was minor. However, female-targeted traps were better at attracting Medfly early in the season when populations were small; and were more likely to capture at least one fly when their paired male-targeted trap caught none. Conversely, male-targeted traps were more likely to capture Medflies late in the season and were more likely to catch high numbers of Medflies. Consequently, female-targeted traps may be better at detecting Medfly early in the season, and male-targeted traps may be better at detecting Medfly abundance late in the season, at least in apple orchards. Our results suggest that either or both trap-types could be used for monitoring Medfly populations, with the optimal solution being dependent on the intended application.
Antifungal effects of volatile organic compounds produced by Trichoderma hamatum against Neocosmospora solani
Authors: Hu Xian , Shi Hongan , Zhang Zhilin , Bai Cuihua 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Neocosmospora solani causes Fusarium wilt disease and root rot, which are serious problems worldwide. To determine the growth inhibition of Neocosmospora solani by Trichoderma hamatum volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the major chemical components of Trichoderma hamatum VOCs and the differences in their contents at different times were analysed, and the activity of these components was evaluated. The antifungal activity of Trichoderma hamatum was measured by a screening test, as Trichoderma hamatum exhibited strong antagonism against Neocosmospora solani in vitro. The double plate technique was used to verify the activity of Trichoderma hamatum VOCs, and the inhibition rate was 63.77%. Neocosmospora solani mycelia were uneven and expanded, the contents of the cells leaked, and the mycelia shrank and presented a diaphragm in the hyphae upon Trichoderma hamatum VOCs treatment. Trichoderma hamatum VOCs and their contents at different times were analysed by using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. 6-Pentyl-2H-pyran-2-one clearly presented in greater amounts than the other components on day 3, 4, 5, and 6. VOCs from Trichoderma hamatum exhibited evident effects on the percentage of healthy fruit after day 3. Moreover, Trichoderma hamatum can improve the biological control of diseases caused by soilborne pathogens, and can be applied in biocontrol fields.
Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy versus Sham Surgery for a Degenerative Meniscal Tear
Authors: Majed Khan Akib , Edmund Bourke Henry 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
A trial was performed to determine the efficacy of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy compared to sham arthroscopy in thirty-five- to sixty-five-year-old patients with degenerate medial meniscal tears and no osteoarthritis (OA). Primary outcomes were the Lysholm score, Western Ontario Meniscal Evaluation Tool (WOMET) score, and knee pain after exercise at twelve-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes included the same three primary outcome measures at two and six months, a quality of life measurement tool, and knee pain at rest at twelve months. No statistically significant differences existed in primary or secondary outcomes between both groups. The findings, limitations, and other relevant work are discussed in this chapter.
Timing for Surgery for Hip Fractures
Authors: Coffey Duncan , Ahluwalia Raju 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This study was published in 2009 and systematically reviewed published research to find the optimum time for surgical intervention in patients with hip fractures. Fifty-two studies, with 291 413 patients, were identified for inclusion. The measured outcomes were mortality, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and percentage of patients discharged home. No randomized control studies were identified. The optimum study methodology was prospective, excluded patients medically optimized for surgery, and adjusted for confounding factors. Of three studies identified with the optimum methodology, early surgery reduced the length of stay in two studies and mortality and medical complications in one study each.
Fracture Fixation in the Operative Management of Hip Fracture (FAITH)
Authors: Dalrymple James , Sinha Sanjay 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Neck of femur fractures are the most common serious injury in older people. They are associated with a high level of cost to health systems. This cost to the health service can be increased by high reoperation rates for neck of femur fracture patients. The FAITH trial attempts to identify the impact of utilizing sliding hip screws or cancellous screws on reoperation rates in this population. This chapter will describe, analyze, and critique this trial and its application to everyday practice.
Surgical versus Nonsurgical Treatment of Adults with Displaced Fractures of the Proximal Humerus
Authors: Sabharwal Sanjeeve , Reilly Peter 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The Proximal Fracture of the Humerus Evaluation by Randomization (PROFHER) trial was a pragmatic, multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial that compared nonoperative and operative management for adult patients with a displaced proximal humerus fracture. With two years of follow-up on patients in each arm of the trial, the outcome measures included the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), Short Form-12 (SF-12), complication rates, subsequent therapies, and death. The authors found that at two years following a shoulder fracture, there was no difference in outcomes between patients managed nonoperatively and those managed surgically.
Treating Acute Achilles Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Magill Henry , Sinnett Tim 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This meta-analysis identifies and summarizes twelve randomized controlled trials. The effectiveness of various management options for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture was evaluated across 800 subjects. Operative (open or minimally invasive) and nonoperative (casting or functional bracing) interventions were compared. Open surgical repair was associated with a lower risk of rerupture when compared to all nonoperative options. Open repair was also associated with a higher risk of surgical complications. However, when performed percutaneously, this was associated with a lower complication rate. Additionally, early postoperative mobilization was associated with lower complications than subjects managed in a cast.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty versus Hemiarthroplasty for Acute Proximal Humeral Fractures
Authors: Page Piers , Sugand Kapil , Dhir Rishi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Complex fractures of the proximal humerus are challenging to treat, and even more so in older patients due to restrictions in mobility, dependence on walking aids, and longer recovery times. In a group where fixation may be more prone to failure, joint replacement may be a reasonable option. While hemiarthroplasty has often been the standard of care, there is an increasing acceptance of reverse shoulder arthroplasty as an option. This chapter appraises a trial comparing these two interventions in older patients. This study randomized 62 patients aged over the age of 70 years with complex proximal humeral fractures to either hemiarthroplasty or reverse shoulder replacement. Patients in the arthroplasty group had better outcome scores, forward elevation, and abduction but relatively short follow-up.
Surgery versus Physical Therapy for a Meniscal Tear and Osteoarthritis
Authors: Al-Dadah Khalid , El-Tawil Sherif 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Meniscal tears in the knee are a common pathology and often occur concurrently with osteoarthritic changes. A diagnostic challenge is whether or not to address the meniscal tear surgically in a patient with degenerative changes within the knee. A multicenter and randomized controlled trial is presented with 351 patients aged older than forty-years years presenting with symptomatic meniscal tears and evidence of mild to moderate osteoarthritis (OA) on imaging. Group one received arthroscopic meniscectomy and physiotherapy. Group two received physiotherapy alone. The primary outcome was the change in WOMAC physical function score between baseline and six months. Secondary outcomes included WOMAC scores at three and twelve months, KOOS scores, and SF-36 scores. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups.
Does Delaying Surgery Increase Mortality for Patients with Hip Fracture?
Authors: Wharton Rupert , Ibrahim Edward 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The National Institute of Clinical Excellence advises surgery on the day of or day after admission for patients aged greater than 65 years with hip fracture, but the data supporting this, and the maximum acceptable delay to surgery, is disputed. The largest study informing this recommendation was published by Bottle and Aylin after analyzing just under 130,000 hip fractures from the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data. In a retrospective study referencing UK-wide data collected at the start of the new millennium, they linked an increased rate of in-hospital mortality to a surgical delay of more than a day during the same admission or within 30 days in patients aged over 65 years admitted from home with hip fractures. This study highlights the argument that hip fracture surgery should be expedited.
Comorbidities Predisposing to Failure of Intracapsular Hip Fracture Fixation
Authors: Burns Sophia , Mellor Simon 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This prospective study assessed the association between medical comorbidities and surgical outcomes in patients under sixty years of age undergoing displaced intracapsular neck of femur fracture fixation. Of 122 patients, 32% required revision surgery, comparable with existing data. Loss of fixation was the most common cause for failure (13.1%), followed by avascular necrosis (11.5%) and nonunion (7.4%). Renal disease, respiratory disease, liver disease, and alcohol excess were the factors most predictive of failure of fixation, yet alcohol abuse was the most statistically significant factor (p &lt; 0.001). These findings indicate that arthroplasty should be considered in cases where one or more of these comorbidities are present.
Surgery versus Orthosis versus Watchful Waiting for Hallux Valgus
Authors: Anne Lyle Shirley , Patel Shelain 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This randomized controlled trial compared the effectiveness of surgical and orthotic treatment with no treatment in patients with a hallux valgus deformity. It randomly assigned patients with mild to moderate hallux valgus to either surgery, orthotic treatment, or watchful waiting. It was conducted across four hospitals in Finland between 1997 and 1998. At one year of follow-up, 83%, 46%, and 24% patients in the surgery, orthotic treatment, and watchful waiting groups respectively thought they had improved compared with baseline. Patients treated with surgery reported less pain intensity, fewer days in pain, fewer problems with footwear, and better function and satisfaction.