bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A longitudinal study of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in dromedary camels
Authors: Abdelazim Mohamed , Abdelkader Rehab , Ali Abdelhakim , Shahein Momtaz A. , Tadesse Zelalem , Saad Ahmed , Mansour Amal , Ali Samah F. , Atea Mohamed , Gardner Emma , VonDobschuetz Sophie , Morzaria Subhash , Makonnen Yilma , Lubroth Juan , Sumption Keith , ElMasry Ihab , Zakaria Tarek , Eid Samah , Hatab Eman Abo , Hagag Naglaa M. , Yousef Hend M. Y. , Emara Mervate , Abdelwahed Dina A. , Abdelmegeed Hala K. , Hamdy Mervat E. , Mansour Othman N.O. , Guitian Javier 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was identified in humans in 2012. Since then, 2605 cases and 937 associated deaths have been reported globally. Camels are the natural host for MERS-CoV and camel to human transmission has been documented. The relationship between MERS-CoV shedding and presence of neutralizing antibodies in camels is critical to inform surveillance and control, including future deployment of camel vaccines. However, it remains poorly understood. The longitudinal study conducted in a closed camel herd in Egypt between December 2019 and March 2020 helped to characterize the kinetics of MERS-CoV neutralizing antibodies and its relation with viral shedding.

Results
During the 100-day longitudinal study, 27 out of 54 camels (50%) consistently tested negative for presence of antibodies against MERS-CoV, 19 (35.2%) tested positive and 8 (14.8%) had both, positive and negative test results. Fourteen events that could be interpreted as serological indication of probable infection (two seroconversions and twelve instances of positive camels more than doubling their optical density ratio (OD ratio) in consecutive samples) were identified. Observed times between the identified events provided strong evidence (p = 0.002) against the null hypothesis that they occurred with constant rate during the study, as opposed to clustering at certain points in time. A generalized additive model showed that optical density ratio (OD ratio) is positively associated with being an adult and varies across individual camels and days, peaking at around days 20 and 90 of the study. Despite serological indication of probable virus circulation and intense repeated sampling, none of the tested nasal swab samples were positive for MERS-CoV RNA, suggesting that, if the identified serological responses are the result of virus circulation, the virus may be present in nasal tissue of infected camels during a very narrow time window.

Conclusions
Longitudinal testing of a closed camel herd with past history of MERS-CoV infection is compatible with the virus continuing to circulate in the herd despite lack of contact with other camels. It is likely that episodes of MERS-CoV infection in camels can take place with minimal presence of the virus in their nasal tissues, which has important implications for future surveillance and control of MERS-CoV in camel herds and prevention of its zoonotic transmission.
Equity trends for the UHC service coverage sub-index for reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health in Pakistan: evidence from demographic health surveys
Authors: Zaka Nabila , Umar Maida , Ahmad Ahsan Maqbool , Ahmad Ikhlaq , Reza Tahira Ezra , Sarfraz Mariyam , Emmanuel Faran 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Pakistan, the world's sixth most populous country and the second largest in South Asia, is facing challenges related to reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH) that are exacerbated by various inequities. RMNCH coverage indicators such as antenatal care (ANC) and deliveries at health facilities have been improving over time, and the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) is gradually declining but not at the desired rates. Analysing and documenting inequities with reference to key characteristics are useful to unmask the disparities and to amicably implement targeted equity-oriented interventions.

Methods
Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS) based UHC service coverage tracer indicators were derived for the RMNCH domain at the national and subnational levels for the two rounds of the PDHS in 2012 and 2017. These derivations were subgrouped into wealth quintiles, place of residence, education and mothers’ age. Dumbbell charts were created to show the trends and quintile-specific coverage. The UHC service coverage sub-index for RMNCH was constructed to measure the absolute and relative parity indices, such as high to low absolute difference and high to low ratios, to quantify health inequities. The population attributable risk was computed to determine the overall population health improvement that is possible if all regions have the same level of health services as the reference point (national level) across the equity domains.

Results
The results indicate an overall improvement in coverage across all indicators over time, but with a higher concentration of data points towards higher coverage among the wealthiest groups, although the poorest quintile continues to have low coverage in all regions. The UHC service coverage sub-index on RMNCH shows that Pakistan has improved from 45 to 63 overall, while Punjab improved from 50 to 59 and Sindh from 43 to 55. The highest improvement is evident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, which has increased from 31 in 2012 to 51 in 2017. All regions made slow progress in narrowing the gap between the poorest and wealthiest groups, with particularly noteworthy improvements in KP and Sindh, as indicated by the parity ratio. The RMNCH service coverage sub-index gap was the greatest among women aged 15–19 years, those who belonged to the poorest wealth quintile, had no education, and resided in rural areas.

Conclusions
Analysing existing data sources from an equity lens supports evidence-based policies, programs and practices with a focus on disadvantaged subgroups.
Prevalence and correlates of violence among sexual and injecting partners of people who inject drugs living with HIV in Kenya: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Aung Sai Win Kyaw Htet , Kingston Hanley , Mbogo Loice W. , Sambai Betsy , Monroe-Wise Aliza , Ludwig-Barron Natasha T. , Bukusi David , Sinkele William , Gitau Esther , Masyuko Sarah , Herbeck Joshua T. , Farquhar Carey , Guthrie Brandon L. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
In Kenya, violence is common among people who inject drugs (PWID) living with HIV and their sexual and injecting partners and may lead to decreased uptake of HIV services, increased HIV risk behaviors, and increased HIV transmission. Violence is defined as any physical harm, threatened harm, or forced sexual acts inflicted on a person in the past year. Understanding the nature of violence and its correlates among PWID and their partners will inform population-specific public health interventions and policy recommendations.

Methods
This is a cross-sectional study nested in a prospective cohort study conducted in eight public health centers, methadone clinics, and needle syringe programs in Nairobi, Kilifi, and Mombasa counties in Kenya. 3,302 sexual and/or injecting partners of PWID living with HIV were recruited through assisted partner services and participated in the study. Prevalence and correlates of violence were identified using the Wald test and negative binomial regression.

Results
Out of 3302 study participants, 1439 (44%) had experienced violence within the past year. Physical violence was the most common form of violence experienced (35%), followed by being threatened (23%) or subjected to sexual violence (7%). In an adjusted analysis, female participants reported higher experiences of sexual violence (prevalence ratio [PR] = 2.46; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.62, 3.74; p < 0.001) compared to male participants. In adjusted analysis, coastal residents had a higher experience of overall violence (PR = 1.48; 95% CI 1.27, 1.72; p < 0.001) than those living in Nairobi. This regional effect was relatively stronger among the female respondents (pinteraction = 0.025). Participants’ sex modified the association between region and experiencing violence after adjusting potential confounding factors.

Conclusions
The study reveals the prevalence of violence among PWID and identifies high-risk sub-groups, including women, specifically for sexual violence, and coastal residents. Tailored interventions addressing their unique needs are essential. A holistic approach that combines violence prevention and response, comprehensive harm reduction, healthcare access, and community support is crucial to address the complex issue of drug use and HIV burden among PWID in Kenya for improved health outcomes.
Analysis of respiratory virus detection in hospitalized children with acute respiratory infection during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Wu Ruoya , Zhang Jianwei , Mo Liyan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Objective
It is now understood that the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its associated containment measures have influenced the epidemiology of other respiratory viruses. This study aimed to characterize respiratory virus infections in pediatric patients hospitalized for acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in East China both prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
We collected nasal secretions from 9782 pediatric ARI patients admitted to Shaoxing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital between January 2018 and December 2022. We analyzed and compared changes in viral detection rates, epidemiological features, and clinical characteristics.

Results
A total of 1633 strains from 7 common respiratory viruses were identified, with an overall positive rate of 16.35% (n = 821/5021) in 2018–2019 and 17.06% (n = 812/4761) in 2020–2022. Compared to 2018–2019, the positive rate for RSV significantly increased in 2020–2022, while detection rates for ADV, PIV-2, PIV-3, and flu-B showed reductions (P < 0.05). The RSV-positive rate experienced a more significant increase in winter compared to other seasons both before and during COVID-19 (P < 0.05), whereas PIV-3 predominantly circulated in spring and summer before COVID-19.

Conclusion
During the COVID-19 pandemic, marked variations in age distribution and seasonality of respiratory virus infections were observed among hospitalized children with ARIs in East China. Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) implemented during the pandemic yielded a limited impact on common respiratory viruses.
Herbal medicine formula Huazhuo Tiaozhi granule ameliorates dyslipidaemia via regulating histone lactylation and miR-155-5p biogenesis
Authors: Yin Xiangjun , Li Min , Wang Yongzhi , Zhao Guifang , Yang Tao , Zhang Yuqing , Guo Jianbo , Meng Tiantian , Du Ruolin , Li Honglin , Wang Zhe , Zhang Jian , He Qingyong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Huazhuo Tiaozhi granule (HTG) is a herbal medicine formula widely used in clinical practice for hypolipidaemic effects. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying dyslipidaemia treatment have not been well elucidated.

Results
A significant reduction in the levels of total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was observed in the serum of patients with dyslipidaemia after HTG treatment, without disruption in the levels of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (Cr). The dyslipidaemia rat model was induced by a high-fat diet and treated with Xuezhikang (0.14 g/kg/d) or HTG (9.33 g crude herb/kg/day) by gavage for 8 weeks. Body weight and liver index were markedly decreased in dyslipidaemic rats after treatment with Xuezhikang or HTG. HTG administration markedly ameliorated hyperlipidaemia by decreasing the levels of TC and LDL-C in serum and hepatic lipid accumulation. In vitro, lipid accumulation in LO2 and HepG2 cells was alleviated by serum treatment with HTG. High lactylation was observed in 198 proteins, including lactylation of histone H2B (K6), H4 (K80). Deep sequencing of microRNAs showed that miR-155-5p was significantly downregulated.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates that HTG is an effective and safe formula for treating dyslipidaemia, which promotes lactylation in hepatocytes, and the retardation of miR-155-5p biogenesis.

Graphical abstract
Asimina triloba (pawpaw) fruit extract suppresses adipocyte differentiation and lipogenesis-related protein expression in 3T3-L1 cells
Authors: Lee Chang Jun , Kim Young-Soo , Hur Jinyoung , Yoo Guijae , Choi Sang Yoon 
Published: November 2023

AbstractObesity is a health condition accompanied by life-threatening comorbidities; hence, there is an increasing need for anti-obesity agents. The anti-cancer effects of the leaves of Asimina triloba (pawpaw) has been reported. However, limited research has been conducted on the potential anti-obesity effects of A. triloba fruit. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effects of A. triloba fruit extract on murine preadipocytes (3T3-L1). We specifically examined lipid droplet formation in these cells using Oil Red O solution and intracellular pro-adipogenic protein levels were examined using western blot analysis. The results revealed that treatment with A. triloba 70% ethanolic fruit extract effectively suppressed lipid droplet formation. Moreover, the expression of crucial proteins involved in adipogenesis, namely sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, and fatty acid synthase, were significantly inhibited. These findings suggest that A. triloba fruit has the potential to prevent obesity by inhibiting fat synthesis and may serve as a natural source for anti-obesity functional agents..
NLRP3 inflammasome in cognitive impairment and pharmacological properties of its inhibitors
Authors: Xu Yi , Yang Yanling , Chen Xi , Jiang Danling , Zhang Fei , Guo Yao , Hu Bin , Xu Guohai , Peng Shengliang , Wu Lidong , Hu Jialing 
Published: November 2023

AbstractCognitive impairment is a multifactorial and multi-step pathological process that places a heavy burden on patients and the society. Neuroinflammation is one of the main factors leading to cognitive impairment. The inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes that respond to various microorganisms and endogenous danger signals, helping to initiate innate protective responses in inflammatory diseases. NLRP3 inflammasomes produce proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin IL-1β and IL-18) by activating caspase-1. In this review, we comprehensively describe the structure and functions of the NLRP3 inflammasome. We also explore the intrinsic relationship between the NLRP3 inflammasome and cognitive impairment, which involves immune cell activation, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, mitochondrial autophagy, and neuroinflammation. Finally, we describe NLRP3 inflammasome antagonists as targeted therapies to improve cognitive impairment.
MYC overexpression and SMARCA4 loss cooperate to drive medulloblastoma formation in mice
Authors: Göbel Carolin , Godbole Shweta , Schoof Melanie , Holdhof Dörthe , Kresbach Catena , Loose Carolin , Neumann Julia , Schüller Ulrich 
Published: November 2023

AbstractGroup 3 medulloblastoma is one of the most aggressive types of childhood brain tumors. Roughly 30% of cases carry genetic alterations in MYC, SMARCA4, or both genes combined. While overexpression of MYC has previously been shown to drive medulloblastoma formation in mice, the functional significance of SMARCA4 mutations and their suitability as a therapeutic target remain largely unclear. To address this issue, we combined overexpression of MYC with a loss of SMARCA4 in granule cell precursors. Both alterations did not increase proliferation of granule cell precursors in vitro. However, combined MYC overexpression and SMARCA4 loss successfully induced tumor formation in vivo after orthotopic transplantation in recipient mice. Resulting tumors displayed anaplastic histology and exclusively consisted of SMARCA4-negative cells although a mixture of recombined and non-recombined cells was injected. These observations provide first evidence for a tumor-promoting role of a SMARCA4 deficiency in the development of medulloblastoma. In comparing the transcriptome of tumors to the cells of origin and an established Sonic Hedgehog medulloblastoma model, we gathered first hints on deregulated gene expression that could be specifically involved in SMARCA4/MYC driven tumorigenesis. Finally, an integration of RNA sequencing and DNA methylation data of murine tumors with human samples revealed a high resemblance to human Group 3 medulloblastoma on the molecular level. Altogether, the development of SMARCA4-deficient medulloblastomas in mice paves the way to deciphering the role of frequently occurring SMARCA4 alterations in Group 3 medulloblastoma with the perspective to explore targeted therapeutic options.
Accuracy of a novel modified single computed tomography scanning method for assisting dental implant placement: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Shimizu Hiroaki , Mino Takuya , Kurosaki Yoko , Arakawa Hikaru , Tokumoto Kana , Kimura-Ono Aya , Maekawa Kenji , Kuboki Takuo 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to compare dental implant placement accuracy of three surgical guide fabrication methods: single (SCT) and double computed tomography (DCT), and a newly developed modified SCT (MSCT) scan method.

Methods
A total of 183 cases (183 surgical guides, and 485 implants) of static-guide-assisted implant placement surgery using the SCT, DCT, or MSCT methods in a dental clinic were included in the study. Three-dimensional (3D) deviations (mm) at the entry and tip of the implant body between preoperative simulation and actual placement were measured as surrogate endpoints of implant placement accuracy. The following survey details were collected from medical records and CT data: sex, age at implant placement surgery, surgical guide fabrication method, number of remaining teeth, implant length, implant location, alveolar bone quality, and bone surface inclination at implant placement site in preoperative simulation, etc. Risk factors for reducing implant placement accuracy were investigated using generalized estimating equations.

Results
The SCT and DCT methods (odds ratios [ORs] vs. MSCT method: 1.438, 1.178, respectively), posterior location (OR: 1.114), bone surface buccolingual inclination (OR: 0.997), and age at implant placement surgery (OR: 0.995) were significant risk factors for larger 3D deviation at the entry; the SCT (OR: 1.361) and DCT methods (OR: 1.418), posterior location (OR: 1.190), implant length (OR: 1.051), and age at implant placement surgery (OR: 0.995) were significant risk factors for larger 3D deviation at the tip of the implant body.

Conclusions
Implant placement accuracy was better using the MSCT method compared to the SCT and DCT methods.
Evaluation of crestal sinus floor elevation in cases exhibiting an oblique sinus floor with a residual bone height of 4.0–7.0 mm using Densah burs with simultaneous implant placement: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Shalash Mahmoud , Mounir Mohamed , Elbanna Tala 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the effectiveness of using Densah burs for lifting the maxillary sinus membrane in cases with an oblique sinus floor with a residual bone height of 4–7 mm.

Methods
The study was conducted on 16 patients, comprising 9 males and 7 females, aged 25–60 years, split into two groups of 8 each: group I with a residual bone height of 4–5.5 mm below the sinus floor and group II with a residual bone height of 5.5–7 mm. Exclusion criteria included smokers, presence of systemic or metabolic conditions that contraindicate implant placement and a local sinus pathology. The study involved the use of Densah burs, using the osseodensification concept to elevate the sinus floor, along with simultaneous dental implant placement. The integrity of the sinus membrane was verified via clinical examination and a confirmatory cone beam computed tomography scan.

Results
The study revealed that out of the 16 cases, one case had a sinus membrane perforation, confirmed clinically at the time of the operation. The study achieved a mean lift of 4.42 mm and a mean final seating torque of 35.5 N/cm. At the 1-year follow-up, all cases showed clinical success, with no signs of sinus pathology or complications.

Conclusions
In cases with oblique sinus floors and a residual bone height of 4–7 mm in moderately atrophic posterior maxilla, the osseodensification concept proved to be a safe and effective method for performing sinus lift procedures with simultaneous implantation.

Graphical Abstract
Faculty development for translational simulation: a qualitative study of current practice
Authors: Brazil Victoria , Purdy Eve , El Kheir Alexander , Szabo Rebecca A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Translational simulation is focused directly on healthcare quality, safety, and systems. Effective translational simulation design and delivery may require knowledge and skills in areas like quality improvement and safety science. How translational simulation programs support their faculty to learn these skills is unknown. We aimed to explore current faculty development practices within translational simulation programs, and the rationale for the approaches taken.

Methods
We used a qualitative approach to explore faculty development in translational simulation programs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with representatives who have leadership and/or faculty development responsibilities in these programs and performed a thematic analysis of the data.

Results
Sixteen interviews were conducted with translational simulation program leaders from nine countries. We identified three themes in our exploration of translational simulation faculty development practices: (1) diverse content, (2) ‘home-grown’, informal processes, and (3) the influence of organisational context. Collaboration beyond the historical boundaries of the healthcare simulation community was an enabler across themes.

Conclusion
Leaders in translational simulation programs suggest a diverse array of knowledge and skills are important for translational simulation faculty and report a range of informal and formal approaches to the development of these skills. Many programs are early in the development of their approach to faculty development, and all are powerfully influenced by their context; the program aims, structure, and strategy.
Medical students’ perception toward neurosurgery as a career: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kaleem Misbah , Kaleem Musaddiq , Anwar Alishba , Anis Sarah , Zafar Yumna , Alam Muhammad Tanveer 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
This study aims to access the perspective of medical students toward practicing neurosurgery after MBBS and also to identify factors responsible for low affinity among medical students in pursuing neurosurgery as a career. In this cross-sectional study, medical students were surveyed via pre-tested questionnaire, with a four-point Likert scale to determine their influence on student’s consideration of neurosurgery as a career. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software.

Results
The survey was completed by 185 students out of which 56.2% students considered neurosurgery as a career. Although more than 90% students acknowledged that neurosurgery training is too prolonged and it can also impede family life but huge prestige and income is attached to neurosurgery, 35.7% students shared that neurosurgery exposure and teaching is not adequate enough for them in order to have a positive influence toward neurosurgery as a career.

Conclusion
Additional studies are required to further explore how participation in a formal neurosurgery experience can alter medical students’ perceptions and influences their consideration of neurosurgery as career choice.