bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biofilm-producing ability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinically isolated in China
Authors: JingYi Yu , Weihua Han , Yanlei Xu , Li Shen , Jiao Zhang , Yinjuan Guo , Fangyou Yu , Huilin Zhao , Yanghua Xiao 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Staphylococcus aureus, a commensal bacterium, colonizes the skin and mucous membranes of approximately 30% of the human population. Apart from conventional resistance mechanisms, one of the pathogenic features of S. aureus is its ability to survive in a biofilm state on both biotic and abiotic surfaces. Due to this characteristic, S. aureus is a major cause of human infections, with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) being a significant contributor to both community-acquired and hospital-acquired infections.
Results
Analyzing non-repetitive clinical isolates of MRSA collected from seven provinces and cities in China between 2014 and 2020, it was observed that 53.2% of the MRSA isolates exhibited varying degrees of adhesion ability. The biofilm positivity rate was notably high in MRSA isolates from Guangdong, Jiangxi, and Hubei. The predominant MRSA strains collected in this study were of sequence types ST59, ST5, and ST239, with the biofilm-producing capability mainly distributed among moderate and weak biofilm producers within these ST types. Notably, certain sequence types, such as ST188, ST7, and ST88, exhibited a high prevalence of strong biofilm-producing strains. The study found that SCCmec IV was the predominant type among biofilm-positive MRSA, followed by SCCmec II. Comparing strains with weak and strong biofilm production capabilities, the positive rates of the sdrD and sdrE genes were higher in strong biofilm producers. The genetic determinants ebp, icaA, icaB, icaC, icaD, icaR, and sdrE were associated with strong biofilm production in MRSA. Additionally, biofilm-negative MRSA isolates showed higher sensitivity rates to cephalothin (94.8%), clindamycin (94.5%), mupirocin (86.5%), teicoplanin (94.5%), fusidic acid (90.9%), and linezolid (94.5%) compared to biofilm-positive MRSA isolates. The biofilm positivity rate was consistently above 50% in all collected specimen types.
Conclusions
MRSA strains with biofilm production capability warrant increased vigilance.
Pressure Ulcers and associated factors among adult patients admitted to The Surgical Wards in the Comprehensive Specialized Hospital of the Northwest Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Habtamu , Zemene Workie , Tesfaye Mrs.Eleny 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction:
Pressure ulcers are a serious concern in patients with prolonged bedtime and present with common complications following surgery. It is one of the key performance indicators of the quality of nursing care provided to patients. Several studies have reported the prevalence of pressure ulcers in Ethiopia. There is a lack of evidence regarding its prevalence and associated factors in the current study area. The main objective of this study was to assess pressure ulcers and their associated factors among adult patients admitted to the surgical ward of the Amhara Regional Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Northwest Ethiopia in,2023.
Method
An institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from June 15 to June 19, 2023, in Northwest Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 480 patients. Descriptive data are presented as absolute numbers with percentages, and multivariate analysis was used to assess the statistical associations between associated factors and pressure ulcers. P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.
Results
A total of 49 pressure ulcers were detected among 480 patients. a prevalence rate of 10.2%, 95% CI (7.7, 12.9). Participants who had smoked (95% CI: AOR 7.46 (2.64,21.06), were bedridden (95% CI: AOR 3.92 (1.28, 11.66), had length of hospital stay of 21 days (95% CI: AOR 3.01 (1.13, 8.02), had pain (95% CI: AOR 3.20 (1.06, 7.51), or had friction and shear (95% CI: AOR 5.71 (1.91, 17.08), were found to be significant factors associated with pressure ulcers.
Conclusion
This study showed that a high percentage of PUs among patients had pressure ulcers. Smoking status, pain, bedridden status, friction and shear problems, and length of hospital stay were significantly associated with pressure ulcers. Healthcare providers should educate patients about smoking risks, pain management, mattress installation, and linen care.
Active site remodeling in tumor-relevant IDH1 mutants drives distinct kinetic features and potential resistance mechanisms
Authors: Sohl Christal , Mealka Matthew , Sierra Nicole , Matteo Diego , Albekioni Elene , Khoury Rachel , Mai Timothy , Conley Brittany , Coleman Nalani , Sabo Kaitlyn , Komives Elizabeth , Bobkov Andrey , Cooksy Andrew , Silletti Steve , Schiffer Jamie , Huxford Tom 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Mutations in human isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) drive tumor formation in a variety of cancers by replacing its conventional activity with a neomorphic activity that generates an oncometabolite. Little is understood of the mechanistic differences among tumor-driving IDH1 mutants. We previously reported that the R132Q mutant uniquely preserves conventional activity while catalyzing robust oncometabolite production, allowing an opportunity to compare these reaction mechanisms within a single active site. Here, we employed static and dynamic structural methods and found that, compared to R132H, the R132Q active site adopted a conformation primed for catalysis with optimized substrate binding and hydride transfer to drive improved conventional and neomorphic activity over R132H. This active site remodeling revealed a possible mechanism of resistance to selective mutant IDH1 therapeutic inhibitors. This work enhances our understanding of fundamental IDH1 mechanisms while pinpointing regions for improving inhibitor selectivity.
Burdens of gastric cancer attributable to high sodium intake from 1990 to 2019 with projections to 2040: Findings from the global burden of disease study
Authors: Tian Tian , Wang Jing , Zhao Yu-Qiang , Meng Shi-Yin , Zhang Shang-Xin , Ni Jing , Li Yuan-Cheng 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis and predict the global and regional disease burden of gastric cancer (GC) caused by high sodium intake.
Methods
We used the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rate (ASDR) from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019 to analyze the GC burden attributable to high sodium intake by sex, age, countries, regions, and Socio-demographic index (SDI). To quantify the secular trends of ASMR and ASDR from 1990 to 2019, we calculated the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC). And the Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model integrated nested Laplace approximations to predict the disease burden over the next 31 years.
Results
Globally, the ASMR and ASDR attributable to high sodium intake have both decreased, with EAPC of -1.83 (95% CI: -2.02, -1.65 ) and − 2.09 (95% CI: -2.29, -1.90 ), respectively. Across all sexes and age groups, this burden of disease is highest among males and the elderly population. Between 1990 and 2019, the highest global burden due to GC was observed in middle and high-middle SDI regions, especially in East Asia. According to predictions from the BAPC model, the age-standardized rate (ASR) of GC caused by high sodium intake has been decreasing from 2020 to 2040.
Conclusions
The burden of GC attributable to high sodium intake is decreasing, but the situation is not optimistic in some countries and regions. Specific health policies and interventions are necessary in the future.
Genome-wide discovery of underlying genetic factors associated with fresh and frozen-thawed semen traits in composite ram breeds exhibiting different cryosensitivity
Authors: BÜLBÜL Bülent , DOĞAN Şükrü , DAYANIKLI Cemal , KIRBAŞ Mesut , SENGÜL Ebru , KAL Yavuz , Yaman Yalçın 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

There are fewer studies investigating the effects of underlying genetic factors related to semen characteristics, which significantly affect sheep farm profitability. This study represents the first Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) comparing the genetic backgrounds of two composite sheep breeds with high (Hasmer) and low (Hasak) cryotolerance. To unravel the genetic background of cryotolerance parameters, semen was collected from rams via an artificial vagina and cryopreserved in 0.25 ml straws during the breeding season. Quality characteristics were determined in fresh, equilibrated, and frozen-thawed semen. Despite identical management and climatic conditions, the freeze-thawing process had a more pronounced negative effect on ram semen traits in Hasak than in Hasmer. The conducted GWAS aimed to unveil the genetic structure that might be attributed to cryotolerance, resulting in the identification of 27 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) positions influencing post-thaw semen parameters. Moreover, network analyses revealed pathways related to sperm ion channels and their activities, providing insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying sperm physiology and emphasizing their role in potentially impacting sperm cryotolerance. The functional significance of the detected SNPs and their associated pathways requires further exploration.
Serum Protein α-Klotho Mediates the Association between Lead, Mercury, and Kidney Function
Authors: Jiang Lin , Guo Tingting , Zhong Xin , Cai Yini , Yang Wanyu , Zhang Jun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Exposure to heavy metals, particularly lead and mercury, has been identified as a significant risk factor for renal dysfunction, often through mechanisms involving oxidative stress. Despite extensive research, the specific role of serum α-klotho in modulating the effects of these metals on kidney function remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between serum levels of lead, mercury, and renal function, investigate oxidative stress's potential modulatory effects, and explore the mediating role of serum α-klotho in this context among US adults, as derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data spanning 2007 to 2016.
Methods
In a cross-sectional analysis of 11,032 adults aged 40 to 79 years from NHANES, we measured serum lead and mercury levels via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and serum α-klotho levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Kidney function was evaluated through the creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Multivariable linear regression models were applied to investigate the correlations between serum heavy metal concentrations, serum α-klotho, and eGFR. Additionally, a mediation analysis model was employed to determine the role of serum α-klotho in mediating the relationship between heavy metal exposure and renal function.
Results
Our findings indicate a significant association between serum lead and mercury levels and reduced eGFR, suggesting impaired renal function with increased heavy metal exposure. Mediation analysis revealed that serum α-klotho mediated 6.10–9.75% of the effect of serum lead and mercury on eGFR, highlighting its role in the pathway between heavy metal exposure and kidney function. Subgroup analysis further specified that serum α-klotho significantly mediates the relationship for lead in women and individuals aged 40–69, whereas its mediating role for mercury did not show distinct patterns across gender and age groups.
Conclusions
The study demonstrates that serum lead and mercury are negatively correlated with renal function, with serum α-klotho playing a mediating role in this association. These findings underscore the importance of considering serum α-klotho in the context of heavy metal exposure and kidney health, offering new insights into potential preventive and therapeutic mechanisms for renal function impairment. Further research is warranted to explore the clinical applications of targeting serum α-klotho in mitigating the adverse effects of heavy metals on the kidneys.
Profiling insecticide resistance phenotypes and genotypes in Aedes aegypti populations across four regions in Puerto Rico
Authors: Collins Emma , Quintana Joanelis Medina , Morales Reynaldo , Moss Sophie , Acford-Palmer Holly , Higgins Matthew , Phelan Jody , Clark Taane G. , Brown Grayson , Campino Susana 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Vector-borne diseases (VBD) exert a considerable toll on global health. Vector control strategies efficacy is being threatened by the emergence and spread of insecticide resistance worldwide. In this study, we investigated the insecticide resistance phenotypes and genotypes of Ae. aegypti populations in four regions of Puerto Rico. Insecticide resistance intensity CDC bioassays were employed to determine the response to deltamethrin and malathion. In parallel, next generation targeted amplicon sequencing was used to investigate the presence of insecticide resistance-conferring mutations in nine targets across four genes: the voltage gated sodium channel (vgsc); GABA (rdl); acetylcholinesterase (ace-1); and Glutathione-S-transferase epsilon 2 (GSTe2). We observed high resistance levels to deltamethrin and malathion in Ae. aegypti, supported by molecular evidence revealing five mutations (V410L (vgsc), L978F (vgsc), V1012I/R (vgsc), F1534C (vgsc), A301S (rdl)), previously linked to insecticide resistance. A new mutation (L921I, vgsc) was also detected, which has not yet been documented in Aedes spp. vectors but has been linked to pyrethroid resistance in other medically significant vectors and agricultural pests. Our research highlights the presence of insecticide resistance and associated mutations in Puerto Rico, which is valuable for vector control programs, providing information to guide decisions regarding the implementation of effective control interventions. Word Count: 282
Perceptions, attitudes, and challenges regarding continuing professional development among Ethiopian medical laboratory professionals: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Negussie Adugna , Sisay Abay , Shibabaw Agumas , Kebede Edosa , Tesfaye Firehiwot , Kedida Gizachew , Deneke Nadew , Teklu Takele , Cheneke Waqtola 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Medical laboratory professionals play vital roles in healthcare. The growing demand for quality laboratory services and emerging technologies underscore the crucial need for continuing professional development (CPD). However, there is limited information on CPD programs in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess medical laboratory professionals’ perceptions, attitudes, and challenges toward CPD and improve engagement to enhance diagnostic service quality.
Methods
This cross-sectional study enrolled 228 medical laboratory professionals in Ethiopia from July to October 2023. A mixed-methods approach that combined quantitative data from an online survey and qualitative data from interviews was used. SPSS version 28 was used for the data analysis.
Results
The average age of the study participants was 32.6 ± 6.4 (SD) years, the majority were men (88.6%), and 44.3% had worked for more than ten years. Of the participants, 51% never had CPD training. Approximately three-fourths of the participants perceived CPD as essential to their professional careers. Approximately 45.2% of the study participants perceived that the purpose of the CPD course is to renew their license and gain knowledge and skills that are not covered in basic training. While most participants had good attitudes toward CPD, approximately 10% of them stated that CPD is not important for their career growth. The majority of the study participants were not in support of the decentralized CPD system. A notable problem with finance, insufficient manpower, unsupportive employers, a lack of awareness by regulatory bodies, and inadequate access to training close to their working area were identified as significant challenges of the CPD program.
Conclusion
This study highlights the perception that CPD is crucial for enhanced laboratory practices and career advancement. This study highlights the need for targeted strategies to address the identified problems and increase the engagement of medical laboratory professionals in the CPD program.
Computational design of novel chimeric multiepitope vaccine against bacterial and viral disease in tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)
Authors: Pumchan Ansaya , Proespraiwong Porranee , Sawatdichaikul Orathai , Phurahong Thararat , Hirono Ikuo , Unajak Sasimanas 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Regarding several piscine infectious diseases, several vaccinated is not favorable. The chimeric multiepitope vaccine (CMEV) harboring several antigens for multi-disease prevention would enhance vaccine efficiency in terms of multiple disease prevention. Herein, the immunogens of tilapia’s seven pathogens including E. tarda, F. columnare, F. noatunensis, S. iniae, S. agalactiae, A. hydrophila, and TiLV were used for CMEV design. After shuffling and annotating the B-cell epitopes, 5,040 CMEV primary protein structures were obtained. Secondary and tertiary protein structures were predicted by AlphaFold2 creating 25,200 CMEV. Proper amino acid alignment in the secondary structures was achieved by the Ramachandran plot. In silico determination of physiochemical and other properties including allergenicity, antigenicity, glycosylation, and conformational B-cell epitopes were determined. The selected CMEV (OSLM0467, OSLM2629, and OSLM4294) showed predicted molecular weight (MW) of 70 kDa, with feasible sites of N- and O-glycosylation, and a number of potentially conformational B-cell epitope residues. Molecular docking, codon optimization, and in-silico cloning were tested to evaluate the possibility of protein expression. Those CMEVs will further elucidate in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the efficacy and specific immune response. This research will highlight the new era of vaccines designed based on in silico structural vaccine design.
Endometrial echo patterns of embryo transfer day affect pregnancy outcomes in frozen embryo transfer cycles: a retrospective clinical study
Authors: Cheng Xi , Yang Bin , Wang Li , Ma Jinzhao , Huang Xuan , Jueraitetibaike Kadiliya , Zhou Cheng , Tang Xu , Fu Haiyan , Li Biying , Cai Xiting , Yao Bing , Chen Li 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: Echo pattern is the ultrasonic index reflecting endometrial proliferation and/or stromal decidualization. However, consensus of endometrial echo pattern and IVF pregnant outcomes is lacking in clinical application.
Methods: The retrospective cohort study analyzed the data from the electronic records of women who underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET) with hormone replacement treatment (not only one cycle per patient) between July 2020 to August 2021 at Reproduction Medicine Center of Jinling Hospital of Medical College of Nanjing University. A total of 159 cleavage stage embryo transfer cycles and 540 blastocyst transfer cycles were analyzed in this study. Transvaginal ultrasound scans were performed on the embryo transfer day. The endometrial echo pattern was classified into four types: A, B, B-C and C. Pattern A was defined as trilinear type, Pattern B, B-C and C were defined as not trilinear type. All scans were conducted by experienced clinicians, and the images were reviewed by the same two physicians. The outcomes measured included embryo implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, first trimester abortion rate, and live birth rate.
Results: The embryo implantation rate (p=0.066), clinical pregnancy rate (p=0.140), early abortion rate (p=0.515) and live birth rate (p=0.578) were similar between the 4 type of endometrial pattern groups in cleavage-stage embryo FET cycles. In blastocyst cycles, the implantation rate (p=0.201) and clinical pregnancy rate (p=0.555) did not differ between the four endometrial patterns. Patients with a Pattern A endometrium on blastocyst transfer day experienced a decreased live birth rate (19.05%) compared with Pattern B, Pattern B-C and Pattern C (p=0.006. p=0.008, p=0.031 for Pattern A vs. Pattern B, Pattern A vs. Pattern B-C, Pattern A vs. Pattern C). The first trimester abortion rate of Pattern A is up to 40.00%, although there was no statistical difference (p=0.118). In the cycles of not trilinear type group, the early miscarriage rate (0.248 [95% CI, 0.067–0.914]; p=0.036) was lower and the live birth rate (0.269 [95% CI, 0.089–0.810]; p=0.020) was higher than trilinear type group.
Conclusions: Our retrospective study suggests that a trilinear pattern endometrium on blastocyst transfer was associated with a higher first trimester abortion rate and lower live birth rate.
Effect of Adding Telerehabilitation Home Program to Pharmaceutical Treatment on the symptoms and the quality of life in Children with Functional Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mohammed Amira H. , Soliman Amir , Karim Amel. E. Abdel , Elsamahy Sara. A. , Hasan Judy , Hassan Badr Al-Amir , Abo-Ali Safy. E. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Painful defecation, the passage of hard stools, unpleasant or irregular bowel deviation/movements from regular rate, and/or the feeling of not enough elimination of stool are common symptoms of functional constipation. The goals in treating constipation are to produce soft, painless stools and to prevent the re-accumulation of feces. This study looked at how the telerehabilitation home program (TRP) affected the symptoms of FC and the children who were constipated in terms of their quality of life. A randomized controlled trial included 400 children aging 4–18 years with functional constipation distributed in two groups: control group consisted of 200 children receiving pharmaceutical treatment and the intervention group consisted of 200 children receiving telerehabilitation home program in addition to pharmaceutical treatment. Both groups received the interventions for 6 months. The outcomes in terms of functional constipation symptoms and quality of life are measured and compared pre and post interventions. Adding telerehabilitation home program to pharmaceutical treatment of functional constipation in children results in prominent improvement in the condition, there is a significant difference between intervention and control group in all Rome criteria which assess symptoms of functional constipation except rush to the bath- room to poop which showed non- significant difference, there is also a significant difference between intervention and control group in all domains of SF36 questionnaire which assess quality of life except mental health domain which showed non- significant difference.
Conclusion: Adding telerehabilitation home program to pharmaceutical treatment of functional constipation in children results in prominent improvement in symptoms of functional constipation and quality of life.
Trial registration: Our study was registered retrospectively with Clinicaltrials.gov under the identifier NCT06207721 on 5 January 2024.