bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Distribution and antifungal susceptibility profile of oropharyngeal Candida species isolated from people living with HIV in the era of universal test and treat policy in Uganda
Authors: Benson Musinguzi , Turyamuhika Laban , Mwesigwa Alex , Nalumaga Pauline Petra , Kabajulizi Immaculate , Njovu Israel Kiiza , Mwebesa Edson , Luggya Tonny , Ocheng Francis , Kateete David Patrick , Itabangi Herbert , Mboowa Gerald , Sande Obondo James , Achan Beatrice 
Published: May 2024

Background: Despite the increased frequency of oropharyngeal candidiasis among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), its management is no longer effective due to empirical treatment and emergence of antifungal resistance (AFR). This study sought to investigate the prevalence of oropharyngeal candidiasis and assess the antifungal susceptibility profile of oropharyngeal Candida species isolated from people living with human immunodeficiency virus. Additionally, we evaluated the correlation between oropharyngeal candidiasis and CD4 T cell as well as viral load counts. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from April to October 2023 in which 384 people living with HIV underwent clinical examination for oral lesions. Oropharyngeal swabs were collected and cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose agar to isolate Candida species which were identified using the matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. Additionally, the antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida isolates to six antifungal drugs was determined using VITEK® (Marcy-l’Étoile, France) compact system. Data on viral load were retrieved from records, and CD4 T cell count test was performed using Becton Dickinson Biosciences fluorescent antibody cell sorter presto. Results: The prevalence of oropharyngeal candidiasis was 7.6%. Oropharyngeal candidiasis was significantly associated with low CD4 T cell count and high viral load. A total of 35 isolates were obtained out of which Candida albicans comprised of 20 (57.1%) while C. tropicalis and C. glabrata comprised 4 (11.4%) each. C. parapsilosis, C. dubliniensis and C. krusei accounted for 2 (5.7%) each. Additionally, 7 (20%) isolates were resistant to fluconazole, 1 (2.9%) to flucytocine and 0.2 (5.7%) isolates were intermediate to caspofungin. However, specific specie isolates like C. albicans showed 20% (4/20), C. glabrata 50% (2/4) and C. krusei 50% (1/2) resistance to fluconazole. Additionally, C. krusei showed 50% resistance to flucytosine. Conclusion: The prevalence of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) among people living with HIV was low, and there was a significant association between OPC and CD4 T cell count as well as viral load. C. albicans was the most frequently isolated oropharyngeal Candida species. C. glabrata and C. krusei exhibited the highest AFR among the non- albicans Candida species. The highest resistance was demonstrated to fluconazole.
Cross-cultural adaptation of the Amharic version of the Compassionate Care Assessment Tool for application in obstetric services of the Ethiopian context
Authors: Gebrekidan Amanuel Yosef , Kebede Adane , Worku Nigusu , Lombebo Afework Alemu , Efa Amelework Gonfa , Azeze Gedion Asnake , Kassie Gizachew Ambaw , Haile Kirubel Eshetu , Asgedom Yordanos Sisay , Woldegeorgis Beshada Zerfu , Abrha Damtew Solomon , Gebeyehu Selamawit 
Published: May 2024

Background: There are few studies that have evaluated the provision of compassionate care in Ethiopian contexts. One probable factor could be a lack of validated tools for assessing compassionate care in Ethiopia. Objective: To adapt the Compassionate Care Assessment Tool into the Amharic version and to assess its reliability and validity for application in obstetric services of the Ethiopian context. Method: Four hundred ten mothers who gave birth at the four referral hospitals in North West Amhara participated in this study. Using SPSS version 23.0 and SPSS Amos 26 and by applying principal axial factoring, the Compassionate Care Assessment Tool was assessed for structural reliability and validity. Cronbach’s alpha was used to evaluate internal consistency and reliability. Factor loadings, composite reliability, average variance extracted and square root of the average variance extracted were used to test convergent and discriminant validity. Results: Three factors with thirteen items were identified that explained 69.87% of the variation in the Compassionate Care Assessment Tool. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.917. In the confirmatory factor analysis, all items had factor loadings more than 0.6, and the average variance extracted was greater than 0.5. Composite reliability values were above 0.7, and the square root of the average variance extracted for each element was greater than the correlation of each factor with other factors in the model. Conclusion: The three factors and the thirteen items of the tool have shown internal consistency in the exploratory factor analysis. The factor loadings and the average variance extracted confirmed the convergent validity of the tool, while composite reliability and the square root of the average variance extracted values confirmed discriminant validity. Thus, the Amharic version of the Compassionate Care Assessment Tool was found to have excellent internal consistency as well as adequate structural, convergent, and discriminant validity among obstetric service users in Ethiopia.
Reducing the Frequency of Surveillance Blood Work in Patients Treated With Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Local Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Shome-Vasanthan Epsita , Chou Sophia , Hemmett Juliya , MacRae Jennifer , Ward David , Gallagher Nathen , Al-Wahsh Huda , Qirjazi Elena 
Published: May 2024

Introduction: There is little evidence on the ideal frequency of routine blood work in maintenance dialysis patients to manage complications, including anemia, mineral bone disease (MBD), and hyperkalemia. Recent quality improvement studies from Ontario showed no negative impacts when decreasing the frequency from monthly to every 6 weeks in conventional in-center hemodialysis (ICHD) patients. In December 2020, Alberta Kidney Care–South (AKC-S) reduced the frequency of routine blood work from every 6 weeks to every 8 weeks for ICHD patients. Objective: We aimed to assess the impact of reducing blood work frequency on patient outcomes. Methods: We compared prevalent AKC-S ICHD patients in 2 cohorts: (1) retrospective control (October 31, 2019-October 31, 2020) and (2) prospective intervention (December 1, 2020-December 1, 2021). Primary outcomes were true frequency of routine blood work, odds of patients being within target for anemia and MBD, and proportion of lab values of hyperkalemia. Furthermore, we compared hospitalizations and mortality. Results: A total of 972 patients in Calgary’s ICHD program were included, 787 in each period (with 602 patients overlapping both cohorts). The frequency of routine blood work decreased from every 39.5 days in the control period to every 54.2 days in the intervention period ( P < .01). There was a reduction in the odds of phosphate values in targets ( P = .02), and an increase in the odds of labs with hyperkalemia (>6.0 mmol/L) during the intervention period ( P = .01). There was no significant change in the odds of being within the accepted targets during the intervention period compared with the control period for hemoglobin, Tsat, calcium, or parathyroid hormone (PTH). Fewer patients were hospitalized during the intervention period and the risk of death decreased as well, although additional factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic may have affected this. A cost-savings of $32 962 occurred from the reduced anemia and MBD blood work during the intervention period. Conclusions: When ICHD units in Calgary reduced routine blood work frequency from every 6 weeks to 8 weeks, there were no negative impacts on hospitalizations or deaths. A slightly lower proportion of phosphate values were within target, and a 0.7% increase in potassium values greater than 6 mmol/L was demonstrated. Our study suggests that blood work frequency in ICHD dialysis patients may be further reduced to every 8 weeks safely. Ultimately, additional pragmatic trials are needed to identify the optimal frequency of routine blood work.
Atypical morphoea, a herald of two malignancies: Lung adenocarcinoma and a neuroendocrine tumour
Authors: Bhullar Harmeet , Wada Miki , Nikpour Mandana , Saracino Amanda M 
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Morphoea is a disorder characterised by fibrosis and inflammation of the skin and on rare occasions can be precipitated by malignancy. Here, we describe a case of morphoea unmasking two malignancies. Case description: A 73-year-old woman presented with circumferential lower limb skin thickening, associated with violaceous, doughy oedema and significantly impaired mobility. Histology confirmed dermal sclerosis with no increased mucin and broader investigations excluded systemic sclerosis, scleromyxoedema and scleroedema. An atypical morphoea was diagnosed. In the context of atypical and subsequently treatment-resistant disease, further imaging uncovered a lung adenocarcinoma which was promptly treated. Despite this, the patient’s atypical oedematous skin sclerosis continued to progress proximally, and she developed flatulence, bloating and atypical flushing. This prompted further investigation, which revealed a metastatic neuroendocrine tumour. The patient was commenced on octreotide, with rapid improvement in all her cutaneous and systemic symptoms. Conclusion: Atypical morphoea can be a herald for an underlying malignancy, representing a paraneoplastic presentation. Progressive treatment-resistant morphoea may be an indicator of metastatic disease, or in our case a second malignancy.
Clinical networking results in continuous improvement of the outcome of patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Koury Luísa Corrêa de Araújo , Kim Haesook T. , Undurraga Maria Soledad , Navarro-Cabrera Juan Ramon , Salinas Victor , Muxi Pablo , Melo Raul A. M. , Glória Ana Beatriz , Pagnano Katia , Nunes Elenaide C. , Bittencourt Rosane I. , Rojas Ninoska , Quintana Shirley , Ayala-Lugo Ana , Oliver Ana Carolina , Figueiredo-Pontes Lorena , Traina Fabiola , Moreira Frederico , Fagundes Evandro M. , Duarte Bruno K. L. , Mora-Alferez Analí Pamela , Ortiz Percy , Untama Jose , Tallman Martin , Ribeiro Raul , Ganser Arnold , Dillon Richard , Valk Peter J. M. , Sanz Miguel , Löwenberg Bob , Berliner Nancy , Rego Eduardo M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe introduction of all-trans retinoic acid combined with anthracyclines has significantly improved the outcomes for patients diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), and this strategy remains the standard of care in countries in which arsenic trioxide is not affordable. However, data from national registries and real-world databases indicate that low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) still face disappointing results, mainly because of high induction mortality and suboptimal management of complications. The American Society of Hematology established the International Consortium on Acute Leukemias (ICAL) to address this challenge through international clinical networking. Here, we present the findings from the International Consortium on Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia study involving 806 patients with APL recruited from 2005 to 2020 in Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. The induction mortality rate has notably decreased to 14.6% compared with the pre-ICAL rate of 32%. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed as factors associated with induction death: age of ≥40 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status score of 3, high-risk status based on the Programa Español de Tratamiento en Hematologia/Gruppo Italiano Malattie EMatologiche dell'Adulto classification, albumin level of ≤3.5 g/dL, bcr3 PML/RARA isoform, the interval between presenting symptoms to diagnosis exceeding 48 hours, and the occurrence of central nervous system and pulmonary bleeding. With a median follow-up of 53 months, the estimated 4-year overall survival rate is 81%, the 4-year disease-free survival rate is 80%, and the 4-year cumulative incidence of relapse rate is 15%. These results parallel those observed in studies conducted in high-income countries, highlighting the long-term effectiveness of developing clinical networks to improve clinical care and infrastructure in LMIC.
Smart integration of cold plasma stream and surface discharge with ns laser ablation for composite nanomaterial
Authors: Muhammad Akhtar Hafiz , Latif Muhammad , khan Mahtab Ahmad , Abdullah M. , Khan Taj Muhammad 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, smart integration of cold dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma in various geometrical arrangements with laser ablation at atmospheric pressure for nanomaterial was described. A composite Co:ZnO target was ablated in an airflow by a nanosecond (ns) laser (wavelength: 1064 nm, pulse duration: 30 ns) using fluence of 5 J-cm−2 at a repetition rate of 10 Hz. The nanomaterial produced under vertical and oblique plasma streams, surface discharge and gas flow, were compared. Utilization surface discharge markedly improved the material adhesion by altering surface intrinsic behavior, inducing anticipated surface energy activation, chemical changes, and the formation of a densely packed solid structure. Under all conditions, the material consistently retained its crystalline nature, elemental composition, and ultraviolet emission characteristics. These preliminary findings hold promise for additional research, suggesting avenues for making complex materials in a flexible environment. Such new advancements could facilitate applications in the biomedical, catalysis, pharmaceutical, and surgical device domains.
Exploring teacher self-efficacy in human evolution instruction following a dynamic hands-on professional development workshop
Authors: Selba Molly C. , Ziegler Michael J. , Townley Amanda L. , Antonenko Pavlo D. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Human evolution is a topic that is largely excluded from K-12 classrooms for a variety of reasons, including the inability, unwillingness, or lack of preparedness of educators to teach a topic that has been seen as controversial. This study explored how engagement in professional development infused with 3D printing and ways of knowing discussion influenced science teachers' self-efficacy for teaching human evolution. The professional development opportunity was designed to empower teachers and provide them with the tools necessary to incorporate human evolution into their curriculum. During this workshop, participants learned about paleontology and human origins, spoke with professional paleoanthropologists, discussed implementation strategies with evolution educators, and developed lesson plans centered around human evolution. To explore the role of this professional development on teachers’ self-efficacy and perceptions of the teaching of evolution, we used a previously validated survey that was employed in the pre-test and post-test format and semi-structured focus group interviews.

Results
The results of this study indicate that the workshop positively impacted teacher perceptions of the teaching of evolution with significant improvements on two of the three tested factors and the third factor almost reaching significance.

Conclusions
Our data demonstrate that a three-day workshop can successfully impact teachers' perception dof the teaching of evolution and, in turn, increase the implementation of human evolution in K-12 classrooms. By specifically structuring the workshop content in a way that addressed many of the previously indicated obstacles in teaching evolution, we were able to positively impact educators and provide them with the information and tools necessary to add human evolution into their curricula.
Association of PM2.5 chemical constituents with general, abdominal and visceral obesity and mediation roles of physical activity
Authors: Ye Tingting , Shao Ying , Cai Changwei , Li Yuchen , Yu Bin , Qiao Xu , Feng Chuanteng , Jia Peng , Yang Shujuan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The association between exposure to PM2.5 chemical constituents and obesity remains to be elucidated, as most studies have used a single measure of obesity. This study aimed to investigate the associations of exposure to PM2.5 chemical constituents with general, abdominal, and visceral obesity, and the mediation effect of physical activity (PA) in the associations.

Methods
Based on a total of 49,819 adults from the baseline of the Yunnan Behavior and Disease Surveillance cohort (YBDS) in southern China in 2021, we used multiple linear regression, weighted quantile sum regression, and quantile regression to estimate independent and joint effects of PM2.5 chemical constituents on elevated BMI, waist circumference (WC) and visceral adiposity index (VAI) and whether these effects changed in quantiles. Mediation analysis was used to examine whether physical activity acts as a mediator in these pathways.

Results
Per IQR μg/m3 increase in all PM2.5 chemical constituents was significantly associated with the elevated BMI (β [95% CI]: 0.170 [0.127, 0.214]), WC (0.316 [0.217, 0.415]) and VAI (0.102 [0.075, 0.129]), with the largest weights from OM (53.89, 81.67, and 89.82%, respectively). The effects of PM2.5 chemical constituents on obesity showed an overall upward trend from quantiles 1–4 of BMI, WC, and VAI, especially with a rapid upward trend from the sixth decile of VAI. Reduced PA mediated 3.16, 7.08, and 3.78% of the associations between PM2.5 chemical constituents and elevated BMI, WC, and VAI, respectively.

Conclusions
Exposure to PM2.5 chemical constituents, especially OM, was significantly associated with increased risks for obesity in adults. The effects of associations increased with obesity severity, with PA playing a mediation role.
Whole-genome selection signature differences between Chaohu and Ji’an red ducks
Authors: Lin Ruiyi , Li Huihuang , Lin Weilong , Yang Fan , Bao Xinguo , Pan Chengfu , Lai Lianjie , Lin Weimin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAssessing the genetic structure of local varieties and understanding their genetic data are crucial for effective management and preservation. However, the genetic differences among local breeds require further explanation. To enhance our understanding of their population structure and genetic diversity, we conducted a genome-wide comparative study of Chaohu and Ji’an Red ducks using genome sequence and restriction site-associated DNA sequencing technology. Our analysis revealed a distinct genetic distinction between the two breeds, leading to divided groups. The phylogenetic tree for Chaohu duck displayed two branches, potentially indicating minimal impact from artificial selection. Additionally, our ROH (runs of homozygosity) analysis revealed that Chaohu ducks had a lower average inbreeding coefficient than Ji’an Red ducks. We identified several genomic regions with high genetic similarity in these indigenous duck breeds. By conducting a selective sweep analysis, we identified 574 candidate genes associated with muscle growth (BMP2, ITGA8, MYLK, and PTCH1), fat deposits (ELOVL1 and HACD2), and pigmentation (ASIP and LOC101797494). These results offer valuable insights for the further enhancement and conservation of Chinese indigenous duck breeds.
Genomic dissection and mutation-specific target discovery for breast cancer PIK3CA hotspot mutations
Authors: Miranda Adam X. , Kemp Justin , Davidson Brad A. , Bellomo Sara Erika , Miranda Verda E. , Manoni Alexandra , Marchiò Caterina , Croessmann Sarah , Park Ben H. , Hodges Emily 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Recent advancements in high-throughput genomics and targeted therapies have provided tremendous potential to identify and therapeutically target distinct mutations associated with cancers. However, to date the majority of targeted therapies are used to treat all functional mutations within the same gene, regardless of affected codon or phenotype.

Results
In this study, we developed a functional genomic analysis workflow with a unique isogenic cell line panel bearing two distinct hotspot PIK3CA mutations, E545K and H1047R, to accurately identify targetable differences between mutations within the same gene. We performed RNA-seq and ATAC-seq and identified distinct transcriptomic and epigenomic differences associated with each PIK3CA hotspot mutation. We used this data to curate a select CRISPR knock out screen to identify mutation-specific gene pathway vulnerabilities. These data revealed AREG as a E545K-preferential target that was further validated through in vitro analysis and publicly available patient databases.

Conclusions
Using our multi-modal genomics framework, we discover distinct differences in genomic regulation between PIK3CA hotspot mutations, suggesting the PIK3CA mutations have different regulatory effects on the function and downstream signaling of the PI3K complex. Our results demonstrate the potential to rapidly uncover mutation specific molecular targets, specifically AREG and a proximal gene regulatory region, that may provide clinically relevant therapeutic targets. The methods outlined provide investigators with an integrative strategy to identify mutation-specific targets for the treatment of other oncogenic mutations in an isogenic system.
Comprehensive genome-wide analysis of wheat xylanase inhibitor protein (XIP) genes: unveiling their role in Fusarium head blight resistance and plant immune mechanisms
Authors: Lin Juan , Ruan Shuang , Guo Qi , Zhang Yonglin , Fang Mengyuan , Li Tiantian , Luo Gan , Tian Zhuangbo , Zhang Yi , Tandayu Erwin , Chen Can , Lu Jie , Ma Chuanxi , Si Hongqi 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this comprehensive genome-wide study, we identified and classified 83 Xylanase Inhibitor Protein (XIP) genes in wheat, grouped into five distinct categories, to enhance understanding of wheat's resistance to Fusarium head blight (FHB), a significant fungal threat to global wheat production. Our analysis reveals the unique distribution of XIP genes across wheat chromosomes, particularly at terminal regions, suggesting their role in the evolutionary expansion of the gene family. Several XIP genes lack signal peptides, indicating potential alternative secretion pathways that could be pivotal in plant defense against FHB. The study also uncovers the sequence homology between XIPs and chitinases, hinting at a functional diversification within the XIP gene family. Additionally, the research explores the association of XIP genes with plant immune mechanisms, particularly their linkage with plant hormone signaling pathways like abscisic acid and jasmonic acid. XIP-7A3, in particular, demonstrates a significant increase in expression upon FHB infection, highlighting its potential as a key candidate gene for enhancing wheat's resistance to this disease. This research not only enriches our understanding of the XIP gene family in wheat but also provides a foundation for future investigations into their role in developing FHB-resistant wheat cultivars. The findings offer significant implications for wheat genomics and breeding, contributing to the development of more resilient crops against fungal diseases.