bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Metabolism of hemicelluloses by root-associated Bacteroidota species
Authors: Martin Hannah , Rogers Lucy A , Moushtaq Laila , Brindley Amanda A , Forbes Polly , Quintion Amy R , Murphy Andrew R J , Hipperson Helen , Daniell Tim J , Ndeh Didier , Amsbury Sam , Hitchcock Andrew , Lidbury Ian D E A 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Bacteroidota species are enriched in the plant microbiome and provide several beneficial functions for their host, including disease suppression. Determining the mechanisms that enable bacteroidota to colonise plant roots may therefore provide opportunities for enhancing crop production through microbiome engineering. By focusing on nutrient acquisition mechanisms, we discovered Bacteroidota species lack high affinity ATP-binding cassette transporters common in other plant bacteria for capturing simple carbon exudates. Instead, bacteroidota possess TonB-dependent transporters predicted to import glycans produced by plant polysaccharide breakdown. Metatranscriptomics (oat rhizosphere) identified several TonB-dependent transporters genes that were highly expressed in Flavobacterium (phylum Bacteroidota). Using Flavobacterium johnsoniae as the model, we experimentally validated the function of one highly expressed TonB-dependent transporters, identifying a conserved Xyloglucan Utilisation Loci conferring an ability to import xyloglucan, the major hemicellulose secreted from plant roots. Xyloglucan utilisation loci harbour an endoxyloglucanase related to family 5 subfamily 4 subclade 2D glycoside hydrolases carrying a mutation that we demonstrate is required for full activity towards xyloglucan. Based on analysing 700 soil metagenomes, subclade 2D glycoside hydrolases have radiated in soil and are prevalent among plant-associated bacteroidota and certain taxa affiliated with Gammaproteobacteria. In bacteroidota, particularly Flavobacterium species, xyloglucan utilisation loci organisation was highly conserved, which may increase their competitive ability to utilise xyloglucan. Given bacteroidota lack high-affinity nutrient transporters for simple carbon, instead possessing xyloglucan utilisation loci and similar gene clusters, our data suggests hemicellulose exudates provide them with an important carbon source in the rhizosphere.
Observational study of antibiotic prescribing patterns by age and sex in primary care in England: why we need to take this variation into account to evaluate antibiotic stewardship and predict AMR variation
Authors: Waterlow Naomi R , Ashfield Tom , Knight Gwenan M 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
The drivers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) likely vary substantially by different demographics. However, few complete, open, national detailed data exist on how antibiotic use (ABU) varies by both age and sex. Here, we aimed to describe the variation in ABU and consider how these age- and sex-specific patterns influence targets and methods for AMR control.

Methods
Prescriptions of all antibiotics from general practices in England for 2015–23 disaggregated by 5 year age bands and sex were analysed at the national and Integrated Care Board (ICB) level. A descriptive analysis of the relative rates of ABU by age and sex was conducted, followed by an evaluation of comparison metrics of prescription levels between regions. ABU by age and sex were compared with global AWaRe targets, and ABU by age-group was correlated against influenza vaccination introduction, to evaluate the impact of such vaccines on ABU.

Results
From a total of 249 578 795 prescriptions (across 9 years), 63% were given to women and the most prescribed were amoxicillin, nitrofurantoin and flucloxacillin sodium. Prescriptions per 100 000 population varied substantially across sex, age, geographical region, season, year, COVID-19 pandemic period and drug. Most antibiotics were prescribed more to women across most age bands (84% of antibiotics had more prescriptions to females across 50% of age bands). We show how this variation requires a more nuanced approach to comparing ABU across geographies and highlight that AWaRe targets are not met uniformly [prescribing in men aged 11–20 does not fulfil the Access, Watch and Reserve (AWaRe) 80% Access target]. We also show the impact on ABU of time-sensitive interruptions (38% of antibiotics showed a seasonal pattern in the absence of disruptions), including differential age-targeted influenza vaccination, COVID-19 restrictions and a shortage of amoxicillin due to a group A Streptococcus outbreak. However, we found few open data to link age- and sex-specific ABU to relevant AMR.

Conclusions
These detailed differences in ABU across England suggest that there should be large variation in AMR burden by age and sex. Linkage of this ABU data with similarly detailed open-access AMR data is now needed for better intervention design.
Using routinely available electronic health record data elements to develop and validate a digital divide risk score
Authors: Faro Jamie M , Obermiller Emily , Obermiller Corey , Trinkley Katy E , Wright Garth , Sadasivam Rajani S , Foley Kristie L , Cutrona Sarah L , Houston Thomas K 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Digital health (patient portals, remote monitoring devices, video visits) is a routine part of health care, though the digital divide may affect access.

Objectives
To test and validate an electronic health record (EHR) screening tool to identify patients at risk of the digital divide.

Materials and Methods
We conducted a retrospective EHR data extraction and cross-sectional survey of participants within 1 health care system. We identified 4 potential digital divide markers from the EHR: (1) mobile phone number, (2) email address, (3) active patient portal, and (4) &gt;2 patient portal logins in the last year. We mailed surveys to patients at higher risk (missing all 4 markers), intermediate risk (missing 1-3 markers), or lower risk (missing no markers). Combining EHR and survey data, we summarized the markers into risk scores and evaluated its association with patients’ report of lack of Internet access. Then, we assessed the association of EHR markers and eHealth Literacy Scale survey outcomes.

Results
A total of 249 patients (39.4%) completed the survey (53%&gt;65 years, 51% female, 50% minority race, 55% rural/small town residents, 46% private insurance, 45% Medicare). Individually, the 4 EHR markers had high sensitivity (range 81%-95%) and specificity (range 65%-79%) compared with survey responses. The EHR marker-based score (high risk, intermediate risk, low risk) predicted absence of Internet access (receiver operator characteristics c-statistic=0.77). Mean digital health literacy scores significantly decreased as her marker digital divide risk increased (P  &lt;.001).

Discussion
Each of the four EHR markers (Cell phone, email address, patient portal active, and patient portal actively used) compared with self-report yielded high levels of sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy.

Conclusion
Using these markers, health care systems could target interventions and implementation strategies to support equitable patient access to digital health.
The effect of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on skin fatty acid profile and immune and inflammatory responses in healthy adult horses
Authors: Hartwig Samantha , Burron Scarlett , Richards Taylor , Rankovic Alexandra , Ma David WL , Pearson Wendy , Ellis Jennifer , Trevizan Luciano , Seymour Dave J , Shoveller Anna K 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Camelina sativa is an oilseed crop rich in α-linolenic acid (ALA), an n-3 fatty acid (FA), and is resistant to harsh climates and pests. Previously, supplementation with camelina oil (CAM) in horses had no adverse effects on basic health parameters and had comparable skin and coat parameters as both flaxseed oil (FLX) and canola oil (OLA). Further, the plasma FA profile of horses was reflective of their respective treatment oil. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of dietary CAM supplementation on skin FA profile, immune, and inflammatory responses as compared to two commonly used oils in the equine industry, OLA and FLX, in healthy adult horses. Twenty-four adult horses, from two separate herds, were enrolled in this experiment. The horses underwent a gradual 4-week fat acclimation period to sunflower oil (~0.28% ALA), then were supplemented with either CAM (~34.9% ALA), OLA (~12.0% ALA), or FLX (56.0% ALA) at an inclusion rate of 0.37 g/kg body weight (BW) per day for an additional 16 weeks. Immune and inflammatory responses were assessed by measuring antibody concentrations across time after sensitization to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) at weeks 10 and 12, and a subsequent delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) challenge. Skin biopsy samples were collected at weeks 0, 8 and 16, and FA composition was determined using gas chromatography. All data were analyzed as a repeated measures ANOVA using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS. Antibody and DTH responses to KLH did not differ among groups (P = 0.262 and 0.813, respectively), and no treatment by time effects were observed (P = 0.764 and P = 0.817, respectively). Most FA in the skin changed in composition across time, with the sum of n-3 FA increasing (P &lt; 0.001) and the sum of n-6 FA and skin n-6:n-3 ratio decreasing over time (P &lt; 0.001 and P &lt; 0.001, respectively). Only dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (P = 0.025) and the sum of n-3 FA (P = 0.031) had treatment by week effects. At week 16, the composition of eicosapentaenoic acid in skin was greater in FLX than OLA, but neither differed from CAM (P = 0.049). These results suggest that ALA supplementation may beneficially impact skin FA profile. However, due to the small differences in n-3 FA and n-6:n-3 ratio among CAM, FLX, and OLA, a comparable skin FA profile, immune, and inflammatory response was observed among treatments at a dose of 0.37 g oil/kg BW. Therefore, CAM may be a suitable alternative to FLX in equine diets for the delivery of ALA.
QGRIME: A RIME optimizer with quantum rotation gate and Gaussian mutation for feature selection
Authors: Bai Tian , Bu Kaile , Gao Chentao , Chen Huiling 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
As a data preprocessing technique, feature selection focuses on eliminating redundant features and reducing data dimensions, thereby reducing time requirements and improving algorithm performance. Meta-heuristic algorithms have demonstrated their effectiveness in addressing feature selection problems. As a new meta-heuristic algorithm, the rime optimizer (RIME) has been utilized to address feature selection problems. Even so, RIME still has the problem of insufficient exploration ability and insufficient reduction of the number of features. To improve its performance on feature selection, an enhanced RIME algorithm, called QGRIME, is introduced in this study. QGRIME combines the quantum rotation gate (QRG) and the Gaussian mutation operator. QRG can direct the population to converge toward the current optimal individual. This allows QGRIME to converge quickly. Gaussian mutation can enhance population diversity and help QGRIME jump out local optima. Experiments at IEEE CEC 2017 show that QGRIME can converge faster and has better fitness value on more than 2/3 of the benchmark functions. And, it also ranks first in both Wilcoxon signed rank test and Friedman ranking test. Comparative experiments have shown that QRG and Gaussian mutation can enhance RIME separately, and the performance is better when the two mechanisms are combined. Furthermore, to demonstrate its superiority on feature selection problems, feature selection experiments using KNN classifier were conducted on 12 public datasets. QGRIME selected the smallest subset of features on all these datasets and achieved the lowest classification error rate on most of them. The experimental results demonstrate that QGRIME can effectively reduce the selected features while ensuring classification precision in comparison with other algorithms.
Efficacy of teriparatide and factors for the collapse of femoral head following femoral curved varus osteotomy
Authors: Yokota Shunichi , Shimizu Tomohiro , Ishizu Hotaka , Sugawara Yutaro , Ohashi Yusuke , Asano Tsuyoshi , Takahashi Daisuke , Iwasaki Norimasa 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) often leads to femoral head collapse, which makes joint preservation challenging. Although curved varus osteotomy (CVO) is an effective surgical method for joint preservation in young ONFH patients, there are some cases where it cannot prevent femoral head collapse. This research aims to evaluate the usefulness of teriparatide (TPD) in bone healing and preventing femoral head collapse in CVO-treated ONFH patients. This retrospective study included 48 patients (56 hips) diagnosed with ONFH, categorized into three groups: glucocorticoid-associated ONFH with TPD treatment (GCs + TPD), glucocorticoid-associated ONFH (GCs), and alcohol- associated ONFH (Alc). No significant differences were found in terms of surgical details, stage, conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), and clinical scores. The GCs + TPD group showed a shorter bone union duration, reduced femoral head collapse, and a lower incidence of advanced collapse than the other groups. Lower BMI and TPD use were associated with a shorter duration of bone union. TPD and union duration were identified as factors contributing to the advanced collapse. In conclusion, TPD administration accelerates bone union at the osteotomy site and mitigates femoral head collapse after joint-preserving osteotomy. In addition, combining TPD with CVO may be a promising strategy for younger patients.
Derivation method of the dielectric function of amorphous materials using angle-resolved electron energy loss spectroscopy for exciton size evaluation
Authors: Saito Tomoya , Sato Yohei K , Terauchi Masami 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Accurately deriving the momentum transfer dependence of the dielectric function ε(q, ω) using angle-resolved electron energy loss spectroscopy (AR-EELS) is necessary for evaluating the average electron–hole distance, i.e. the exciton size, in materials. Achieving accurate exciton size evaluations will promote the comprehension of optical functionality in materials such as photocatalysts. However, for amorphous materials, it is difficult to accurately derive ε(q, ω) because the elastic scattering intensity originating from the amorphous structure and the inelastic scattering intensity associated with elastic scattering overlap in the EELS spectrum. In this study, a method to remove these overlapping intensities from the EELS spectrum is proposed to accurately derive ε(q, ω) of an amorphous material. Amorphous SiO2 (am-SiO2) was subjected to AR-EELS measurements, and ε(q, ω) of am-SiO2 was derived after removing the intensity due to the amorphous structure using the proposed method. Thereafter, the exciton absorption intensity and the exciton size were evaluated. Applying the proposed method, the exciton absorption intensity was considerably suppressed in the q-region after 1.0 Å−1, where the elastic and inelastic scattering intensities originating from the amorphous structure are dominant. The exciton size evaluated was 2 nm ($ \pm $ 1 nm), consistent with the theoretically predicted size of ∼1 nm. Therefore, the proposed method is effective for deriving accurate ε(q, ω), facilitating exciton size evaluation for amorphous materials using AR-EELS.
Prostate cancer screening in the Middle East and North Africa: a cross-sectional study on current practices
Authors: Aynaci Ozlem , Tuac Yetkin , Mula-Hussain Layth , Hammoudeh Lubna , Obeidat Salameh , Abu Abeelh Enas , Ibrahim Ahmed H , Mohammadipour Sepideh , Alali Bader , Jdaini Ahmed , Barki Ali , Mejri Nesrine , Alhaddad Zeinab , Pervez Nadeem , Al Hussain Hussain , Kadri Mohamad , Elfagieh Mohamed A , Bounedjar Adda , Junaid Moamin , Badheeb Ahmed M , Abu Ghida Ibrahim , Moningi Shalini , Leeman Jonathan E , Orio Peter F , Nguyen Paul L , D’Amico Anthony V , Sayan Mutlay 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Prostate cancer is a significant health concern in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), with many cases diagnosed at advanced stages, a high mortality-to-incidence ratio, and low prostate cancer awareness. This study aims to evaluate prostate cancer screening practices in the region to inform effective early detection and management strategies.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from July 1, 2023, to November 8, 2024, among physicians from 19 countries in the MENA region. The study utilized a validated questionnaire to assess prostate cancer screening practices, barriers, and educational needs.

Results
The survey had a response rate of 96.8%, with 1,163 participants. Of these, 34.7% routinely performed prostate cancer screenings, with 61.1% using PSA tests. The primary barrier was lack of patient awareness (51.2%). Additionally, 65.3% of participants had no formal training. To improve screening rates, participants suggested better patient education (63.5%), increased training for healthcare providers (41.9%), and improved access to screening equipment (38.9%).

Conclusion
This study reveals that prostate cancer screening was low, with barriers including a lack of patient awareness and formal training among physicians. Addressing these issues through culturally tailored education programs may improve early detection rates and ultimately reduce the burden of prostate cancer in the MENA region.
Functional outcomes after primary vs delayed robot-assisted radical prostatectomy following active surveillance
Authors: Corsini Christian , Scilipoti Pietro , Orrason Andri Wilberg , Gedeborg Rolf , Westerberg Marcus , Stattin Pär 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
It is unknown if a period of active surveillance before prostatectomy for prostate cancer (PCa) worsens functional outcomes. The aim of this study was to compare functional outcomes after primary vs delayed robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

Methods
We included men registered in the National Prostate Cancer Register of Sweden with low and favorable intermediate-risk PCa who underwent robot-assisted prostatectomy in 2018-2020 and had filled a questionnaire on patient-reported outcome measures. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to compare the functional outcomes of primary and delayed prostatectomy.

Results
2571 men underwent primary, and 921 men underwent delayed prostatectomy. Delayed prostatectomy was not associated with reduced overall quality of life [adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) 1.04; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71-1.55] or erectile dysfunction (adjusted OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.69-1.22). Urinary incontinence was slightly more common after delayed prostatectomy (15% vs 11%; adjusted OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.91-2.01). There were weak associations between time to prostatectomy and urinary symptoms and bother, with a 3% annual increase in the risk for urinary incontinence (adjusted OR 1.03; 95% CI 0.94 − 1.13).

Conclusion
These results suggest that a period on active surveillance before robot-assisted radical prostatectomy has little detrimental effect on functional outcomes. Since only around half of men on active surveillance will transit to prostatectomy, these outcomes represent a worst-case scenario for men who start active surveillance. These results support the use of active surveillance for men with low-risk and favourable intermediate-risk PCa.
Cholecystitis as a result of cecal herniation through the foramen of Winslow
Authors: Schimmel McKenna L , Mirande Maxwell D , Khan Fazal W , Heller Stephanie F , Stephens Daniel 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Internal herniation through the foramen of Winslow is one of the rarest types of hernia. As signs and symptoms can be quite generalized, prompt identification can prove difficult, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The majority of reported cases of foramen of Winslow herniation result in obstruction of either the small or large bowel requiring operative intervention. As they are so rare, there is no established treatment algorithm for foramen of Winslow hernias. We present here a unique case of cecal herniation through the foramen of Winslow resulting in biliary compression and acute cholecystitis without bowel obstruction that was managed with laparoscopic cholecystectomy and right hemicolectomy.
Sexuality in people assigned female at birth with spinal cord injury: the challenges encountered
Authors: Goel Meenakshi , Mazzia Claire , Kosa Sarah Daisy , Harris Anne , Berndl Anne 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) can impact sexual function negatively, and although most people continue to be sexually active post-injury, they often report decreased satisfaction in various aspects of sexual life.

Aim
To gain insight into the sexual experience and functioning of people assigned female at birth (AFAB) with a SCI.

Methods
This study is part of an international observational questionnaire examining the reproductive health outcomes of individuals AFAB with SCI. The questionnaire was distributed to SCI organizations and support groups in 33 countries in four languages between 2019 and 2021. A total of 557 individuals AFAB with SCI, between the ages of 18 and 50, who completed the sexual health questions were included in this analysis.

Outcome
Scores of Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6) in relation to the severity of the SCI based on the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale, level, and duration of SCI.

Results
Nearly 65% (170/263) of the study population within 10 years of injury had sexual dysfunction (SD) (FSFI-6 score less than or equal to 19), and participants with ASIA A had the most dysfunction (Mean score 15.95 + 7.52). Interestingly, although half of the study population scores as experiencing SD, only one-third describe SD as a concern associated with SCI. Though most of the changes were of a physical nature (inability to orgasm, pain during penetration, spasticity, barriers related to bowel/bladder problems and episodes of autonomic dysreflexia), psychosocial factors like the presence of concomitant anxiety/depression and sexual violence from a partner affected their sexual lives adversely. We attempt to elucidate the strategies adopted to improve sexual satisfaction that can help professionals involved in the SCI rehabilitative process.

Clinical Implications
Our results provide insight into the degree of SD, factors impacting sexual satisfaction and areas which need to be emphasized during the rehabilitation process of people AFAB with SCI.

Strength and Limitations
This study is one of the largest of its kind, attempting to understand sexual functioning and factors impacting the sexual life of people AFAB post-SCI using a standardized tool, the FSFI score. As a voluntary survey, those who responded may not be fully representative of the population.

Conclusion
Sexual health is an essential component of rehabilitation for individuals AFAB with SCI. Enhancing their sexual satisfaction requires a comprehensive approach that considers their physical, psychological and interpersonal circumstances.