bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterization of an outbreak-involved Bacillus anthracis strain confirms the spillover of anthrax from West Africa
Authors: Wang Shuchao , Suluku Roland , Jalloh Mohamed B. , Samba Ahmed F. , Jiang Baogui , Xie Yubiao , Harding Doris , Zhang Mengyao , Sahr Foday , Sesay Mahmud E. , Squire James S. , Vandi Mohamed A. , Kallon Moinina N. , Zhang Shoufeng , Hu Rongliang , Zhao Yuee , Mi Zhiqiang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Anthrax, a zoonotic disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, remains a major global public health concern, especially in countries with limited resources. Sierra Leone, a West African country historically plagued by anthrax, has almost been out of report on this disease in recent decades. In this study, we described a large-scale anthrax outbreak affecting both animals and humans and attempted to characterize the pathogen using molecular techniques.

Methods
The causative agent of the animal outbreak in Port Loko District, Sierra Leone, between March and May 2022 was identified using the nanopore sequencing technique. A nationwide active surveillance was implemented from May 2022 to June 2023 to monitor the occurrence of anthrax-specific symptoms in humans. Suspected cases were subsequently verified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Full-genome sequencing was accomplished by combining long-read and short-read sequencing methods. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis was performed based on the full-chromosome single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Results
The outbreak in Port Loko District, Sierra Leone, led to the death of 233 animals between March 26th and May 16th, 2022. We ruled out the initial suspicion of Anaplasma species and successfully identified B. anthracis as the causative agent of the outbreak. As a result of the government's prompt response, out of the 49 suspected human cases identified during the one-year active surveillance, only 6 human cases tested positive, all within the first month after the official declaration of the outbreak. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the BaSL2022 isolate responsible for the outbreak was positioned in the A.Br.153 clade within the TransEuroAsian group of B. anthracis.

Conclusions
We successfully identified a large-scale anthrax outbreak in Sierra Leone. The causative isolate of B. anthracis, BaSL2022, phylogenetically bridged other lineages in A.Br.153 clade and neighboring genetic groups, A.Br.144 and A.Br.148, eventually confirming the spillover of anthrax from West Africa. Given the wide dissemination of B. anthracis spores, it is highly advisable to effectively monitor the potential reoccurrence of anthrax outbreaks and to launch campaigns to improve public awareness regarding anthrax in Sierra Leone.

Graphical Abstract
Lipidomics reveals serum lipid metabolism disorders in CTD-induced liver injury
Authors: Li Shan , Duan Xiaotong , Zhang Yixin , Zhao Cancan , Yu Ming , Li Xiaofei , Li Xiaomei , Zhang Jianyong 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Cantharidin (CTD), the main toxic component of Mylabris, has been extensively used for tumor treatment in recent years. CTD-induced liver toxicity has attracted significant interest in clinic.

Methods
In this study, biochemical parameters and liver pathological changes were analyzed after CTD was administered to mice by gavage. Subsequently, a lipidomic approach was used to investigate serum lipid metabolism disorders, and the mechanism underlying CTD-induced liver injury in mice was explored.

Results
The results showed that the levels of TC and LDL-C were significantly increased after CTD intervention. Besides, pathological results showed inflammatory cell infiltration and hepatocyte necrosis in the liver. Furthermore, lipidomics found that a total of 18 lipid metabolites were increased and 40 were decreased, including LPC(20:4), LPC(20:3), PC(22:6e/2:0), PE(14:0e/21:2), PC(18:2e/22:6), glycerophospholipids, CE(16:0), CE(18:0) Cholesterol esters and TAG(12:0/12:0/22:3), TAG(16:1/16:2/20:4), TAG(18:1/18:1/20:0), TAG(16:2/18:2/18:2), TAG(18:0/18:0/20:0), TAG(13:1/19:0/19:0) glycerolipids. Metabolic pathway analysis found that glycerophospholipid, glycerol ester and glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored biosynthetic metabolic pathways were dysregulated and the increase in PE caused by glycophoric metabololism and GPI may be the source of lipid metabolism disorders caused by CTD. Overall, the present study provided new insights into the mechanism of CTD-induced liver injury and increased drug safety during clinical application.
The effect of enhanced structure in the posterior segment of clear aligners during anterior retraction: a three-dimensional finite element and experimental model analysis
Authors: Jin Xiaohan , Tian Xue , Lee Zhi Hui Victoria , Zheng Yikan , Song Jinlin , Han Xianglong 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Mesial tipping of posterior teeth occurs frequently during space closure with clear aligners (CAs). In this study, we proposed a new modification of CA by localized thickening of the aligner to form the enhanced structure and investigate its biomechanical effect during anterior retraction.

Methods
Two methods were employed in this study. First, a finite element (FE) model was constructed, which included alveolar bone, the first premolars extracted maxillary dentition, periodontal ligaments (PDL), attachments and aligners. The second method involved an experimental model—a measuring device using multi-axis transducers and vacuum thermoforming aligners. Two groups were formed: (1) The control group used common CAs and (2) the enhanced structure group used partially thickened CAs.

Results
FE model revealed that the enhanced structure improved the biomechanics during anterior retraction. Specifically, the second premolar, which had a smaller PDL area, experienced a smaller protraction force and moment, making it less likely to tip mesially. In the same vein, the molars could resist movement due to their larger PDL area even though they were applied larger forces. The resultant force of the posterior tooth was closer to the center of resistance, reducing the tipping moment. The canine was applied a larger retraction force and moment, resulting in sufficient retraction of anterior teeth. The experimental model demonstrated a similar trend in force variation as the FE model.

Conclusions
Enhanced structure allowed force distribution more in accordance with optimal principles of biomechanics during the extraction space closure while permitting less mesial tipping and anchorage loss of posterior teeth and better retraction of anterior teeth. Thus, enhanced structure alleviated the roller coaster effect associated with extraction cases and offered a new possibility for anchorage reinforcement in clear aligner therapy.
Combined thoracoscopic and laparoscopic surgery for epiphrenic diverticulum with associated gastroesophageal reflux disease: a case report
Authors: Uchi Yusuke , Ozawa Soji , Ando Tomofumi , Hayashi Koki , Aoki Takuma , Shimazu Motohide 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Surgery is indicated for symptomatic epiphrenic esophageal diverticula. Based on the features of a case, thoracoscopic or laparoscopic approaches may be used. Epiphrenic diverticula are often associated with esophageal motility disorders, but cases of reflux esophagitis have rarely been reported. In this report, we describe a case of an epiphrenic esophageal diverticulum with reflux esophagitis, which was successfully treated by thoracoscopic diverticulectomy and laparoscopic fundoplication.

Case presentation
A 69-year-old man visited the hospital with a chief complaint of eructation and hiccup. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a diverticulum in the left wall of the esophagus, which was 37–45 cm distal to the incisors. High-resolution manometry (HRM) showed no esophageal motility disorders. Due to the large size of the diverticulum, a thoracoscopic resection of the esophageal diverticulum was performed. Additionally, the patient had reflux esophagitis due to a hiatal hernia. The anti-reflux mechanism would be more impaired during the diverticulectomy; therefore, we decided that anti-reflux surgery should be performed simultaneously. Thoracoscopic esophageal diverticulectomy and laparoscopic Dor fundoplication were performed. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative course and was discharged on the tenth operative day. He has been symptom-free without acid secretion inhibitors for 21 months after the surgery.

Conclusions
We described a rare case of a large epiphrenic diverticulum with reflux esophagitis. A good surgical outcome was achieved by thoracoscopic resection of the diverticulum and laparoscopic Dor fundoplication.
The road forward to incorporate seawater microbes in predictive reef monitoring
Authors: Terzin Marko , Laffy Patrick W. , Robbins Steven , Yeoh Yun Kit , Frade Pedro R. , Glasl Bettina , Webster Nicole S. , Bourne David G. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMarine bacterioplankton underpin the health and function of coral reefs and respond in a rapid and sensitive manner to environmental changes that affect reef ecosystem stability. Numerous meta-omics surveys over recent years have documented persistent associations of opportunistic seawater microbial taxa, and their associated functions, with metrics of environmental stress and poor reef health (e.g. elevated temperature, nutrient loads and macroalgae cover). Through positive feedback mechanisms, disturbance-triggered heterotrophic activity of seawater microbes is hypothesised to drive keystone benthic organisms towards the limit of their resilience and translate into shifts in biogeochemical cycles which influence marine food webs, ultimately affecting entire reef ecosystems. However, despite nearly two decades of work in this space, a major limitation to using seawater microbes in reef monitoring is a lack of a unified and focused approach that would move beyond the indicator discovery phase and towards the development of rapid microbial indicator assays for (near) real-time reef management and decision-making. By reviewing the current state of knowledge, we provide a comprehensive framework (defined as five phases of research and innovation) to catalyse a shift from fundamental to applied research, allowing us to move from descriptive to predictive reef monitoring, and from reactive to proactive reef management.
The nexus between the volatility of Bitcoin, gold, and American stock markets during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from VAR-DCC-EGARCH and ANN models
Authors: Terraza Virginie , Boru İpek Aslı , Rounaghi Mohammad Mahdi 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe spread of the coronavirus has reduced the value of stock indexes, depressed energy and metals commodities prices including oil, and caused instability in financial markets around the world. Due to this situation, investors should consider investing in more secure assets, such as real estate property, cash, gold, and crypto assets. In recent years, among secure assets, cryptoassets are gaining more attention than traditional investments. This study compares the Bitcoin market, the gold market, and American stock indexes (S&P500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. For this purpose, the dynamic conditional correlation exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity model was used to estimate the DCC coefficient and compare this model with the artificial neural network approach to predict volatility of these markets. Our empirical findings showed a substantial dynamic conditional correlation between Bitcoin, gold, and stock markets. In particular, we observed that Bitcoin offered better diversification opportunities to reduce risks in key stock markets during the COVID-19 period. This paper provides practical impacts on risk management and portfolio diversification.
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and cardiotoxicity in doxorubicin-treated breast cancer patients: a prospective exploratory study
Authors: Chu Jian , Tung Lillian , Attalah Issam , Wei Changli , Cobleigh Melody , Rao Ruta , Feinstein Steven B. , Usha Lydia , Banach Kathrin , Reiser Jochen , Okwuosa Tochukwu M. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor is an inflammatory biomarker that may prognosticate cardiovascular outcomes. We sought to determine the associations between soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and established markers of cardiotoxicity in breast cancer patients receiving doxorubicin.

Methods
We conducted a prospective cohort study of women with newly diagnosed breast cancer receiving standard-dose doxorubicin (240 mg/m2) at Rush University Medical Center and Rush Oak Park Hospital (Chicago, IL) between January 2017 and May 2019. Left ventricular ejection fraction, global longitudinal strain, and cardiac biomarkers (N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide, troponin-I, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) were measured at baseline and at intervals up to 12-month follow-up after end of treatment. The associations between soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and these endpoints were evaluated using multivariable mixed effects linear regression.

Results
Our study included 37 women (mean age 47.0 ± 9.3 years, 60% white) with a median baseline soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor level of 2.83 ng/dL. No participant developed cardiomyopathy based on serial echocardiography by one-year follow-up. The median percent change in left ventricular strain was -4.3% at 6-month follow-up and absolute changes in cardiac biomarkers were clinically insignificant. There were no significant associations between soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and these markers of cardiotoxicity (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions
In this breast cancer cohort, doxorubicin treatment was associated with a very low risk for cardiotoxicity. Across this narrow range of clinical endpoints, soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor was not associated with markers of subclinical cardiotoxicity. Further studies are needed to clarify the prognostic utility of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor in doxorubicin-associated cardiomyopathy and should include a larger cohort of leukemia and lymphoma patients who receive higher doses of doxorubicin.
Innovation in humanitarian assistance—a systematic literature review
Authors: Bruder Maximilian , Baar Thomas 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe promise of innovation in humanitarian contexts has generated an expanding literature, from academics as well as practitioners. However, the field has become characterised by conceptual ambiguity and insular approaches, inhibiting the integration of findings and best practices. Therefore, this paper aims to identify the key concepts, definitions, and themes in humanitarian innovation (HI) research by applying a systematic literature review and content analysis. Based on data from 301 publications, we analyse scholarly and practitioner articles addressing the topic of humanitarian innovation. Our analysis suggests that efforts to reform the humanitarian system by leveraging innovation have been primarily ad hoc, fragmented, and serving miscellaneous separate objectives. This results in the implementation of incremental improvements, rather than transformative change throughout the sector. To bridge the gap between the various conceptualisations of HI, we propose a conceptual framework that provides a system perspective on HI, which includes the institutions, actors, contextual factors, and outputs of the system. The implications of our finding for further research and policy are discussed as well.Points for practitioners• Ensure active participation and inclusion of affected populations in innovation agendas and processes.• Strengthen collaborative efforts among actors (donors, practitioners, private sector, intermediaries, NGOs) in humanitarian sector to increase coordination, knowledge exchange, and bundling of resources for innovation.• Facilitate evidence-based approaches and data-driven decision-making, for the operationalisation of appropriate innovations.• Increase the quality and quantity of funding going to innovation actors, and steer funding towards innovations explicitly catering to the needs of affected populations.
Graphical Abstract
Versatile extracellular vesicle-mediated information transfer: intercellular synchronization of differentiation and of cellular phenotypes, and future perspectives
Authors: Minakawa Tomohiro , Yamashita Jun K. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn recent years, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have attracted significant attention as carriers in intercellular communication. The vast array of information contained within EVs is critical for various cellular activities, such as proliferation and differentiation of multiple cell types. Moreover, EVs are being employed in disease diagnostics, implicated in disease etiology, and have shown promise in tissue repair. Recently, a phenomenon has been discovered in which cellular phenotypes, including the progression of differentiation, are synchronized among cells via EVs. This synchronization could be prevalent in widespread different situations in embryogenesis and tissue organization and maintenance. Given the increasing research on multi-cellular tissues and organoids, the role of EV-mediated intercellular communication has become increasingly crucial. This review begins with fundamental knowledge of EVs and then discusses recent findings, various modes of information transfer via EVs, and synchronization of cellular phenotypes.
Biochemical and microbial meta-profiling reveal the anti-cancer efficacy of Eu—an endemic traditional brew of the Toto tribe from India
Authors: Bhattacharjee Soumita , Sarkar Indrani , Sarkar Mahima Misti , Roy Swarnendu , Ghosh Chandra , Sen Arnab 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundEu is a lesser-known and traditional millet-based fermented brew of the Toto tribe from West Bengal, India. The starter culture used in this brew consists of diverse microflora. Identifying those microbes will not only help us gain a deeper understanding of the brew, but also quantify the impacts of this brew on the human system after consumption. Due to the progress in Illumina sequencing technology, the meta-profiling of 16S rRNA has emerged as a valuable resource for exploring the microbiome of any sample. We have utilised this tool (V3–V4 region) to study the microbiome population of Eu.ResultsThe microbial diversity present in the brew was mainly constituted of probiotic and fermenting bacteria. The nutrient profiling of Eu estimated the amount of protein, carbohydrate, free amino acid, and free fatty acid. The nutritional substance present in the brew probably supports the growth of the probiotic microflora. Reverse ecology-based network analysis revealed considerable complementary interaction between humans and the microflora present in the Eu. GC–MS outlining enlisted thirteen potent compounds from Eu, and a comprehensive network pharmacological study on those compounds revealed the anti-cancerous properties of Eu, especially against gastrointestinal malignancy, by reducing the proliferation of malignant cells and forming pro-inflammatory cytokines.ConclusionsThe current study focuses on the meta-profiling and nutritional characteristics of Eu, which highlight the beverage’s potential as a probiotic health drink. Reverse ecology analysis demonstrated that the probiotic microflora competes strongly against pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, in silico network pharmacological research identified the drink as a potentially health-promoting and anti-cancer beverage.
Sex-related differences of fatty acid-binding protein 4 and leptin levels in atrial fibrillation: an updated review
Authors: Saidullah Shahab , Ahmad Binish Ayub , Waqas Muhammad Saad , Fatima Anam , Khan Malik Hasnat ul Hassan , Khiyam Umer , Malik Jahanzeb 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAtrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia affecting millions of individuals worldwide and posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. The growing body of research has uncovered sex-related differences in AF pathophysiology, including the role of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) and leptin as potential biomarkers. FABP4 and leptin, key adipokines involved in cardiovascular health, have been linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which may contribute to AF development. These adipokines exhibit sex-specific differences in their concentrations, with females generally showing higher FABP4 levels and males displaying distinct leptin profiles. Furthermore, hormonal influences, particularly estrogen, and testosterone, play significant roles in shaping AF risk and atrial remodeling. Estrogen is associated with cardioprotective effects, while testosterone may exert proarrhythmic effects. Understanding these sex-specific mechanisms could lead to more tailored and effective clinical management of AF. The future of AF research holds promise for precision medicine, novel therapeutic targets, artificial intelligence integration, and personalized care approaches. Emphasizing patient-centered care, telemedicine, and multidisciplinary collaboration can further enhance AF management and improve patient outcomes. In conclusion, recognizing and addressing sex-related factors in AF pathophysiology offer opportunities for gender-responsive interventions and advancements in AF management. Implementing these insights may pave the way for targeted therapies and improved quality of life for individuals affected by AF.