bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
What is the awareness of rare diseases among medical students? A survey in Bulgaria
Authors: Hristova-Atanasova Eleonora , Iskrov Georgi , Atanasov Ivan , Genc Atilla , Stefanov Rumen 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Rare diseases (RDs) are life-threatening or chronically debilitating and offer a high level of complexity. The aim of this study is to assess medical students’ knowledge and awareness of RDs as well as their perceptions of potential measures to boost training in RDs. The cross-sectional survey was conducted at the Medical University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, in 2019. The questionnaire contained 12 questions, divided into three main categories: (1) sociodemographic profile; (2) knowledge and awareness of RDs; and (3) attitudes about potential measures to improve training in RDs.

Results
A total of 1189 medical students completed the survey with an overall response rate of 56.4%. Only 13% of participants knew the correct definition of RDs, and a low overall level of awareness was found with regard to orphan drugs (20.3%) and genetic counselling and testing (0.5%). Respondents believed that society as a whole was largely unaware of RDs as a major public health issue. Students suggested elective courses, and invited lectures by RDs experts, and participation in research projects as the most preferred measures to improve undergraduate training.

Conclusions
It is crucial to address the gaps in medical students’ knowledge and awareness of RDs. University curricula should consider incorporating different RDs training modalities. It is essential to encourage various stakeholders to play a more proactive role and to collaborate in these activities. Involvement of patient organisations and advocacy groups might enhance students’ knowledge of the challenges faced by people with RDs. Not least, the media should be partners in this important endeavour as well.
Cryptic species Hydatigera kamiyai and other taeniid metacestodes in the populations of small mammals in Serbia
Authors: Miljević Milan , Rajičić Marija , Umhang Gérald , Bajić Branka , Bjelić Čabrilo Olivera , Budinski Ivana , Blagojević Jelena 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Hydatigera (Cestoda: Taeniidae) is a recently resurrected genus with the description of a new species, Hydatigera kamiyai, a cryptic entity within the Hydatigera taeniaeformis species complex. Rodents are intermediate hosts and correct taxonomic identification of H. taeniaeformis sensu lato (s.l.) species is difficult without the use of molecular methods. The aim of this study was to identify and explore the genetic diversity of Hydatigera and other taeniid species.

Methods
Ten different small mammals species (856 individuals) (Rattus rattus, three Apodemus, three Arvicolinae and three Soricidae species) were examined from 2013 to 2023. Captured animals were visually examined for cysts and visible lesions. Two markers were used for amplification and sequencing: cox1 and 12S rDNA.

Results
Molecular analysis of cysts and visible lesions revealed four taeniid species: Hydatigera kamiyai, H. taeniaeformis sensu stricto (s.s.), Taenia martis and T. crassiceps. Hydatigera kamiyai was found in Apodemus flavicollis, A. agrarius, Microtus arvalis and Crocidrua leucodon, while H. taeniaeformis s.s. is registered in R. rattus. Hydatigera kamiyai cox1 sequences clustered with European populations and showed at least 25 nucleotid differences compared to Asian, African, Australian and one of our isolates of H. taeniaeformis s.s acquired from a rat, followed by large sequence distances (9.4% to 12.9%), indicating clear molecular distinction of two species.

Conclusions
This is one of the few mitochondrial gene-based studies performed after the description of cryptic entities within the Hydatigera taeniaeformis s.l. complex and represents a valuable contribution to understanding of genetic diversity, host suitability and geographic distribution of these tapeworm species. Also, our study provides an important basis of molecular data from this part of Europe for further studies. We emphasize the importance of additional studies of intermediate hosts, especially rats from Europe and Apodemus spp. and voles from Asia and Africa.

Graphical abstract
Treatment with selective transcatheter arterial embolization of a ruptured profunda artery perforator after internal thigh liposuction: a case report
Authors: Tawa Pierre , Boeken Tom , Cetrulo Curtis L. , Lellouch Alexandre G. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Hemorrhage is an uncommon complication of liposuction that may be trauma-induced by the cannula on the subcutaneous perforators. It usually resolves spontaneously with external compression and results in mild to moderate ecchymosis on the liposuction site. However, in sporadic cases, active bleeding may persist and require urgent intervention for hemostasis.

Case presentation
We report the case of a 60-year-old White female who developed a massive hematoma in the hour following liposuction of the right internal thigh, with active bleeding in the subcutaneous plane reported on contrast-enhanced computed tomography. The initial angiogram was conducted in the right common femoral artery and showed active bleeding from a profunda artery perforator. After careful selective catheterization of the feeding artery using a 2.0-French microcatheter, 0.3 mL of Onyx 34 was injected. Control angiography showed no immediate complication and confirmed the exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm. No postoperative event occurred. Blood pressure and hemoglobin levels remained stable throughout the episode.

Conclusions
Although liposuction is a very common procedure in plastic surgery, hemorrhagic complications may occur and require urgent hemostasis. This case suggests a vital place for interventional radiology in the management of hemorrhagic complications after liposuction.
Spatial attention and quantization-based contrastive learning framework for mmWave massive MIMO beam training
Authors: Jia Haohui , Chen Na , Urakami Taisei , Gao Hui , Okada Minoru 
Published: July 2023

AbstractDeep learning (DL)-based beam training schemes have been exploited to improve spectral efficiency with fast optimal beam selection for millimeter-wave (mmWave) massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. To achieve high prediction accuracy, these DL models rely on training with a tremendous amount of labeled environmental measurements, such as mmWave channel state information (CSI). However, demanding a large volume of ground truth labels for beam training is inefficient and infeasible due to the high labeling cost and the requirement for expertise in practical mmWave massive MIMO systems. Meanwhile, a complex environment incurs critical performance degradation in the continuous output of beam training. In this paper, we propose a novel contrastive learning framework, named self-enhanced quantized phase-based transformer network (SE-QPTNet), for reliable beam training with only a small fraction of the labeled CSI dataset. We first develop a quantized phase-based transformer network (QPTNet) with a hierarchical structure to explore the essential features from frequency and spatial views and quantize the environmental components with a latent beam codebook to achieve robust representation. Next, we design the SE-QPTNet including self-enhanced pre-training and supervised beam training. SE-QPTNet pre-trains by the contrastive information of the target user and others with the unlabeled CSI, and then, it is utilized as the initialization to fine-tune with a reduced volume of labeled CSI. Finally, the experimental results show that the proposed framework improves beam prediction accuracy and data rates with 5% labeled data compared to existing solutions. Our proposed framework further enhances flexibility and breaks the limitation of the quantity of label information for practical beam training.
Field evaluations of four SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen tests during SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant wave in South Africa
Authors: Samsunder Natasha , Lustig Gila , Ngubane Slindile , Maseko Thando Glory , Rambaran Santhuri , Ngcapu Sinaye , Magini Stanley Nzuzo , Lewis Lara , Cawood Cherie , Kharsany Ayesha B. M. , Karim Quarraisha Abdool , Karim Salim Abdool , Naidoo Kogieleum , Sivro Aida 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Rapid antigen tests detecting SARS-CoV-2 were shown to be a useful tool in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we report on the results of a prospective diagnostic accuracy study of four SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen tests in a South African setting.

Methods
Rapid antigen test evaluations were performed through drive-through testing centres in Durban, South Africa, from July to December 2021. Two evaluation studies were performed: nasal Panbio COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test Device (Abbott) was evaluated in parallel with the nasopharyngeal Espline SARS-CoV-2 Ag test (Fujirebio), followed by the evaluation of nasal RightSign COVID-19 Antigen Rapid test Cassette (Hangzhou Biotest Biotech) in parallel with the nasopharyngeal STANDARD Q COVID-19 Ag test (SD Biosensor). The Abbott RealTime SARS-CoV-2 assay was used as a reference test.

Results
Evaluation of Panbio and Espline Ag tests was performed on 494 samples (31% positivity), while the evaluation of Standard Q and RightTest Ag tests was performed on 539 samples (13.17% positivity). The overall sensitivity for all four tests ranged between 60 and 72% with excellent specificity values (> 98%). Sensitivity increased to > 80% in all tests in samples with cycle number value < 20. All four tests performed best in samples from patients presenting within the first week of symptom onset.

Conclusions
All four evaluated tests detected a majority of the cases within the first week of symptom onset with high viral load.
The 16α-hydroxylated Bile Acid, Pythocholic Acid Decreases Food Intake and Increases Oleoylethanolamide in Male Mice
Authors: Higuchi Sei , Wood Courtney , Nasiri Raidah H , Giddla Leela J , Molina Valentina , Diarra Rokia , DiPatrizio Nicholas V , Kawamura Akira , Haeusler Rebecca A 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Modulation of bile acid (BA) structure is a potential strategy for obesity and metabolic disease treatment. BAs act not only as signaling molecules involved in energy expenditure and glucose homeostasis, but also as regulators of food intake. The structure of BAs, particularly the position of the hydroxyl groups of BAs, impacts food intake partly by intestinal effects: (1) modulating the activity of N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D, which produces the anorexigenic bioactive lipid oleoylethanolamide (OEA) or (2) regulating lipid absorption and the gastric emptying-satiation pathway. We hypothesized that 16α-hydroxylated BAs uniquely regulate food intake because of the long intermeal intervals in snake species in which these BAs are abundant. However, the effects of 16α-hydroxylated BAs in mammals are completely unknown because they are not naturally found in mammals. To test the effect of 16α-hydroxylated BAs on food intake, we isolated the 16α-hydroxylated BA pythocholic acid from ball pythons (Python regius). Pythocholic acid or deoxycholic acid (DCA) was given by oral gavage in mice. DCA is known to increase N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D activity better than other mammalian BAs. We evaluated food intake, OEA levels, and gastric emptying in mice. We successfully isolated pythocholic acid from ball pythons for experimental use. Pythocholic acid treatment significantly decreased food intake in comparison to DCA treatment, and this was associated with increased jejunal OEA, but resulted in no change in gastric emptying or lipid absorption. The exogenous BA pythocholic acid is a novel regulator of food intake and the satiety signal for OEA in the mouse intestine.
Abaloparatide Maintains Normal Rat Blood Calcium Level in Part Via 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D/osteocalcin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Yanmei , Tseng Wei-Ju , Wang Bin 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The PTH-related peptide(1-34) analog, abaloparatide (ABL), is the second anabolic drug available for the treatment of osteoporosis. Previous research demonstrated that ABL had a potent anabolic effect but caused hypercalcemia at a significantly lower rate. However, the mechanism by which ABL maintains the stability of blood calcium levels remains poorly understood. Our in vivo data showed that ABL treatment (40 µg/kg/day for 7 days) significantly increased rat blood level of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25-(OH)2D] without raising the blood calcium value. ABL also significantly augmented the carboxylated osteocalcin (Gla-Ocn) in the blood and bone that is synthesized by osteoblasts, and increased noncarboxylated Ocn, which is released from the bone matrix to the circulation because of osteoclast activation. The in vitro data showed that ABL (10 nM for 24 hours) had little direct effects on 1,25-(OH)2D synthesis and Gla-Ocn formation in nonrenal cells (rat osteoblast-like cells). However, ABL significantly promoted both 1,25-(OH)2D and Gla-Ocn formation when 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the substrate of 1α-hydroxylase, was added to the cells. Thus, the increased 1,25-(OH)2D levels in rats treated by ABL result in high levels of Gla-Ocn and transient calcium increase in the circulation. Gla-Ocn then mediates calcium ions in the extracellular fluid at bone sites to bind to hydroxyapatite at bone surfaces. This regulation by Gla-Ocn at least, in part, maintains the stability of blood calcium levels during ABL treatment. We conclude that the signaling pathway of ABL/1,25-(OH)2D/Gla-Ocn contributes to calcium homeostasis and may help understand the mechanism of ABL for osteoporosis therapy.
Silent Corticotroph Staining Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors: Prognostic Significance in Radiosurgery
Authors: Maragkos Georgios A. , Mantziaris Georgios , Pikis Stylianos , Chytka Tomas , Liscak Roman , Peker Selcuk , Samanci Yavuz , Bindal Shray K. , Niranjan Ajay , Lunsford L. Dade , Kaur Rupinder , Madan Renu , Tripathi Manjul , Pangal Dhiraj J. , Strickland Ben A. , Zada Gabriel , Langlois Anne-Marie , Mathieu David , Warnick Ronald E. , Patel Samir , Minier Zayda , Speckter Herwin , Kondziolka Douglas , Lee Cheng-chia , Vance Mary Lee , Sheehan Jason P. 
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
There is conflicting evidence on the significance of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) staining in the prognosis of nonfunctioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (NFpitNETs). The objective of this study was to define the effect of ACTH immunostaining on clinical and radiographic outcomes of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for NFpitNETs.

METHODS:
This retrospective, multicenter study included patients managed with SRS for NFpitNET residuals. The patients were divided into 2 cohorts: (1) silent corticotroph (SC) for NFpitNETs with positive ACTH immunostaining and (2) non-SC NFpitNETs. Rates of local tumor control and the incidence of post-treatment pituitary and neurological dysfunction were documented. Factors associated with radiological and clinical outcomes were also analyzed.

RESULTS:
The cohort included 535 patients from 14 centers with 84 (15.7%) patients harboring silent corticotroph NFpitNETs (SCs). At last follow-up, local tumor progression occurred in 11.9% of patients in the SC compared with 8.1% of patients in the non-SC cohort (P = .27). No statistically significant difference was noted in new-onset hypopituitarism rates (10.7% vs 15.4%, P = .25) or visual deficits (3.6% vs 1.1%, P = .088) between the 2 cohorts at last follow-up. When controlling for residual tumor volume, maximum dose, and patient age and sex, positive ACTH immunostaining did not have a significant correlation with local tumor progression (hazard ratio = 1.69, 95% CI = 0.8-3.61, P = .17).

CONCLUSION:
In contemporary radiosurgical practice with a single fraction dose of 8–25 Gy (median 15 Gy), ACTH immunostaining in NFpitNETs did not appear to confer a significantly reduced rate of local tumor control after SRS.
Fluoride prophylaxis - poison or simple way to get rid of early childhood caries (ECC) – review
Authors: Molczyk-Sieńczak Justyna , Gorzyński Rafał , Kurek Justyna , Gadomska Anna , Garstka Michał , Dominik Hanna , Czudy Zuzanna , Pawęska Wojciech , Radwański Jan , Polatowska Marika 
Published: July 2023

Introduction: As a prevention, fluoride is used systemically as well as topically in the oral cavity. Thanks to fluoride prophylaxis, one of the most common bacterial disease in the world can be significantly reduced. This disease is dental caries. As such, it constitutes a huge problem in current stomatology, especially the type that affects small children - early childhood caries (ECC). Fluoride has beneficial effects not only in caries prevention but also in arresting and inhibiting the active decay process. Nevertheless, in recent years the use of fluoride is claimed to be controversial due to its toxic properties.
Aim: The aim of this study is to summarize the current knowledge on the effect that fluoride has on caries diseases affecting children and the safety of its use based on the available research.
Materials and methods: Review of the current literature based on data available in: Pubmed, Ncbi, NIH, AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) and EAPD (European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) websites using the following phrases: fluoride, fluoride in caries prevention, fluoride in caries, fluoride mechanism, fluoride toxicity, fluoride safety, caries, early childhood caries (ECC).
Conclusions: The use of fluoride is debatable, due to its toxic properties when used in excessive doses. The analysis of the studies proved that fluoride concentrations used in dentistry for the prevention and treatment of early childhood caries (ECC) are safe for the children's organism. The benefits resulting from its use in modern dentistry, which should be based on prophylaxis, are indisputable.
Exploring the Impact of Intermittent Fasting on Metabolic Syndrome, Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: a systematic review
Authors: Kosieradzka Karolina , Kosecka Katarzyna , Rudziński Patryk , Cieślik Aleksandra , Adamowicz Dominik , Stańczyk Justyna , Łopuszyńska Inga , Meliksetian Astrik , Wosińska Alicja , Jargieło Anna 
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome, prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus represent a growing and interconnected health challenge, gaining significant attention due to their high prevalence and impact they have on individuals' well-being. Intermittent Fasting (IF), involving cycling between periods of fasting and eating, has emerged as a promising dietary approach garnering substantial attention for its potential therapeutic effects on metabolic health.
Purpose: This review aims to explore the impact of intermittent fasting on metabolic disease by examining recent studies.
Methods: A review of the recent literature was conducted to explore potential positive effects of IF on relevant metabolic parameters.
Results: The findings from the reviewed studies demonstrated favorable effects of IF associated with improvements in glycemic control as improved insulin sensitivity and decreased HbA1c levels. Additionally, it led to significant reductions in body weight and waist circumference. Beneficial effects on lipid profiles, such as reduced triglyceride levels, were also observed in some studies.
Conclusions: The reviewed studies provide strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of IF regimens in improving metabolic factors, including weight, insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles in individuals with abnormal glucose metabolism. IF offers a promising dietary strategy potentially providing additional benefits beyond conventional dietary interventions. However, further research is needed to elucidate the long-term effects, optimal fasting protocols and potential mechanisms underlying the benefits of intermittent fasting in these conditions.
Contemporary treatment options for male hypogonadism
Authors: Sojka Paweł , Popiołek Joanna , Szczerba Jakub , Pokora Szymon , Stefanowicz Agata , Pokładnik Dominika , Jeleń Katarzyna , Pokora Karolina , Podsiedlik Adam , Poloczek Alicja 
Published: July 2023

Introduction
Male hypogonadism is a disease in which testicular function is impaired. Its symptoms are due to testosterone deficiency and most of them show low specificity. These include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction and mood disorders, among others. The biochemical indicator of hypogonadism is a testosterone concentration below 350 ng/ml (12nmol/L), according to the European Association of Urology (EAU). The increased incidence of hypogonadism is associated with aging and the presence of comorbidities such as type II diabetes and obesity. Men with testosterone deficiency have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death.
Goals
Summary of current reports on the diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism. An overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of formulations used in testosterone replacement therapy.
MethodsReview of literature available in PubMed and Google Scholar databases.
Conclusions
The medical interview, physical examination and ancillary tests help to classify hypogonadism appropriately. Measuring the concentration of gonadotropins, helps diversify primary from secondary hypogonadism. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) uses formulations that have varying release profiles, route of administration and drug formulation. The choice of testosterone product should involve age, lifestyle, and individual preferences of the patient.
Side effects of mesotherapy - review
Authors: Szwed Weronika , Nowak Alicja , Bogusz Klaudia , Baran Natalia , Maksymowicz Marcela , Bielak Adriana , Nowak Aleksandra , Cywka Łucja , Machowiec Piotr , Ciecierski-Koźlarek Hubert 
Published: July 2023

Introduction and purpose: Microneedle mesotherapy is a non-surgical method consisting in controlled micropuncture of the skin with very thin needles, associated with the insertion of active substances into it. It is used in many fields of medicine, diseases, as well as cosmetic defects associated with the symptoms of skin aging. The aim of this review is to summarize the side effects described in the literature that may associated microneedle mesotherapy. The review was based on the available data collected in the PubMed database searched using the keywords "mesotherapy", "adverse effects", "side effects".
Description of the state of knowledge: Complications of mesotherapy can be divided into infectious and non-infectious as well as local and systemic. The most common and best known are bruises and swelling caused by local inflammation caused by certain substances. More serious complications include anaphylaxis, skin necrosis, granulomas, cellulitis, and infectious complications.
Summary: Mesotherapy is a commonly performed procedure not only by doctors, but also by non-medical people. Both patients and operators tend to underestimate the potential side effects of this method. We hope that raising awareness and paying attention to the errors made will contribute to reducing the complications associated with this procedure, as well as to its standardization.