bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thalassemia and hemoglobinopathy prevalence in a community-based sample in Sylhet, Bangladesh
Authors: Wendt Amanda S. , Brintrup Joaquin , Waid Jillian L. , Kader Abdul , Lambrecht Nathalie J. , Gabrysch Sabine 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Inherited blood disorders affect 7% of the population worldwide, with higher prevalences in countries in the “thalassemia belt,” which includes Bangladesh. Clinical management options for severely affected individuals are expensive; thus, targeted government policies are needed to support prevention and treatment programs. In Bangladesh, there is a lack of data, in particular community-based estimates, to determine population prevalence. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of a wide range of hemoglobinopathies and their associations with anemia in a community-based sample of women and young children in rural Sylhet, Bangladesh.

Methods
Capillary blood samples from 900 reproductive-aged women and 395 children (aged 6–37 months) participating in the Food and Agricultural Approaches to Reducing Malnutrition (FAARM) trial in two sub-districts of Habiganj, Sylhet Division, Bangladesh were analyzed for alpha thalassemia, beta thalassemia, and other hemoglobinopathies. We examined the association of each inherited blood disorder with hemoglobin concentration and anemia using linear and logistic regression.

Results
We identified at least one inherited blood disorder in 11% of women and 10% of children. Alpha thalassemia was most prevalent, identified in 7% of women and 5% of children, followed by beta thalassemia and hemoglobin E in 2–3%. We also identified cases of hemoglobin S and hemoglobin D in this population. Having any of the identified inherited blood disorders was associated with lower hemoglobin values among non-pregnant women, largely driven by alpha and beta thalassemia. Pregnant women with beta thalassemia were also more likely to have lower hemoglobin concentrations. Among children, we found weak evidence for a relationship between hemoglobinopathy and lower hemoglobin concentrations.

Conclusions
We found a high prevalence of alpha thalassemia among both women and children in rural Sylhet, Bangladesh–higher than all other identified hemoglobinopathies combined. Community-based estimates of alpha thalassemia prevalence in Bangladesh are scarce, yet our findings suggest that alpha thalassemia may comprise the majority of inherited blood disorders in some regions of the country. We recommend that future research on inherited blood disorders in Bangladesh include estimates of alpha thalassemia in their reporting for public health awareness and to facilitate couples counseling.
Green microwave quantum dots as luminescent probes for quantifying prucalopride: consistency of content and application to pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Salman Baher I. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractPrucalopride (PCP) is a medication used for the management of constipation via regulating bowel motions. PCP is widely used all over the world. So, novel, rapid, and highly sensitive carbon dots N-CQDs were obtained fromEruca Sativajuice via microwave approach in 4 min. The luminescence power of N-CQDs was declined by the increasing prucalopride concentration at emission 518 nm with linearity ranged from 3.00 to 200.00 ng mL−1. The luminescent antecedent was utilized for the test of PCP in human plasma with the rate of recovery extending from 95.06 to 98.40%. The new technique is an eco-friendly analytical method that can be easily applied in clinical laboratories. This assay is also simple, sensitive, and applied to therapeutic laboratories and subsequent pharmacokinetic studies in several clinical laboratories. Furthermore, the N-CQDs nano-sensor was able to distinguish the target drug from interferents commonly found in human plasma, indicating its high specificity and selectivity for PCP detection.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum enables blood urate control in mice through degradation of nucleosides in gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Li Mengfan , Wu Xiaoling , Guo Zewang , Gao Ruichen , Ni Zifu , Cui Hualing , Zong Minhua , Van Bockstaele Filip , Lou Wenyong 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Lactobacillus species in gut microbiota shows great promise in alleviation of metabolic diseases. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of how Lactobacillus interacts with metabolites in circulation. Here, using high nucleoside intake to induce hyperuricemia in mice, we investigated the improvement in systemic urate metabolism by oral administration of L. plantarum via different host pathways.

Results
Gene expression analysis demonstrated that L. plantarum inhibited the activity of xanthine oxidase and purine nucleoside phosphorylase in liver to suppress urate synthesis. The gut microbiota composition did not dramatically change by oral administration of L. plantarum over 14 days, indicated by no significant difference in α and β diversities. However, multi-omic network analysis revealed that increase of L. plantarum and decrease of L. johnsonii contributed to a decrease in serum urate levels. Besides, genomic analysis and recombinant protein expression showed that three ribonucleoside hydrolases, RihA–C, in L. plantarum rapidly and cooperatively catalyzed the hydrolysis of nucleosides into nucleobases. Furthermore, the absorption of nucleobase by intestinal epithelial cells was less than that of nucleoside, which resulted in a reduction of urate generation, evidenced by the phenomenon that mice fed with nucleobase diet generated less serum urate than those fed with nucleoside diet over a period of 9-day gavage.

Conclusion
Collectively, our work provides substantial evidence identifying the specific role of L. plantarum in improvement of urate circulation. We highlight the importance of the enzymes RihA–C existing in L. plantarum for the urate metabolism in hyperuricemia mice induced by a high-nucleoside diet. Although the direct connection between nucleobase transport and host urate levels has not been identified, the lack of nucleobase transporter in intestinal epithelial cells might be important to decrease its absorption and metabolization for urate production, leading to the decrease of serum urate in host. These findings provide important insights into urate metabolism regulation.
Using homemade stainless steel dendrometer band for long term tree growth measurements
Authors: Cheng Chih-Hsin , Lee Pei-Chen , Lee Hong-Rue , Chen Chiou-Pin , Menyailo Oleg V. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractDendrometer bands have been proposed as an accurate method for measuring tree growth. However, the constrained observation window and the material used in them hamper long-term tree growth monitoring. This study devised a dendrometer band made from stainless steel and primarily extended the extension length of the band spring to yield ample space to monitor diameter increments long-term. A total of more than 500 individual trees, including both coniferous and broadleaf trees, were examined. We compared the dendrometer band’s long-term performance with diameter tape for 5- and 10-year measurements. The results showed that the measurements of the two methods were highly correlated (R > 0.89) in both measuring periods. Differences between the two measurements for individual trees were typically less than 5 mm, and the mean differences at a stand level were less than 2 mm. These consistent observations suggested that the dendrometer band measurements were reliable for long-term measurement. Using the dendrometer bands, we further demonstrated the annual tree growths of diameter at breast height (DBH) and basal area (BA) for ten years of measurements. The size-dependent relationships between DBH/BA growth and initial DBH were also presented. Owing to their simple installation, low cost, and reliable measurement, these dendrometer bands would be helpful in forestry and forest ecology research.
The contribution of epiphytic microbiota in oat and Italian ryegrass to silage fermentation products and bacterial community structure of whole-crop maize
Authors: Wang Siran , Hu Shiwei , Dong Zhihao , Li Junfeng , Zhao Jie , Nazar Mudasir , Kaka Niaz Ali , Shao Tao 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
The purpose of this research is to study the contribution of epiphytic microbiota in fresh oat (OT), Italian ryegrass (IR) and whole-crop maize (MZ) to silage fermentation products and bacterial community structure of MZ. After γ-ray irradiation, the sterile MZ was treated via microbiota transplantation method: (1) sterile deionized water (STMZ); (2) microbiota epiphytic on MZ (MZMZ); (3) microbiota epiphytic on OT (MZOT); (4) microbiota epiphytic on IR (MZIR). Triplicate silos of each treatment were tested after 1, 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60 days of ensiling.

Results
MZMZ had higher (P < 0.05) lactic acid contents, and lower (P < 0.05) ammonia nitrogen and ethanol contents than MZIR and MZOT on day 60. The relative abundance of Lactobacillus in MZMZ decreased from 84.0% on day 3 to 44.7% on day 60. MZMZ had higher (P < 0.05) abundances of ‘Nucleotide metabolism’, ‘Replication and repair’ and ‘Membrane transport’, and lower (P < 0.05) abundance of ‘Amino acid metabolism’ than MZOT and MZIR on day 3.

Conclusions
The silage fermentation products of MZ were highly affected by the activity and compositions of epiphytic microbiota. The Enterobacteriaceae, Hafnia-Obesumbacterium, hetero-fermentative and acid-resistant Lactobacillus took primary responsibility for the high dry matter loss and ethanol contents and low lactic acid contents in MZ silage.

Graphical Abstract
Oral health of adolescents in West Africa: prioritizing its social determinants
Authors: Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun , Bridge Gemma 
Published: July 2023

AbstractOral health is a major public health issue in West Africa, yet it has gotten little attention. Individual and group disparities in health status are influenced by social determinants of health (SDH), which also affect oral health. Adolescence is a significant transition into adulthood, a time when the SDH can contribute to lifelong health status. This article explored the SDH associated with oral health behaviour, perception, and oral health development amongst adolescents in West Africa. This article engaged articles published in peer-reviewed journals relating to adolescents' oral health and West Africa. The authors undertook this desk review to determine the social determinants of adolescents' oral health in West Africa. The literacy levels and oral health awareness of adolescents, family and social circle influences, socioeconomic status, nutritional levels, and cultural and environmental factors have been identified as important social determinants. Adequate policy implementation with the integration of oral health in schools' curriculum, health systems reorientation with the adoption of oral health delivery in primary health care and expansion in oral health research with the assessment of cultural influences on oral health development have been recommended as interventions to reduce oral health inequalities in West Africa.
Bone biopsies guided by augmented reality: a pilot study
Authors: Albano Domenico , Messina Carmelo , Gitto Salvatore , Chianca Vito , Sconfienza Luca Maria 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Purpose
To test the technical feasibility of an augmented reality (AR) navigation system to guide bone biopsies.

Methods
We enrolled patients subjected to percutaneous computed tomography (CT)-guided bone biopsy using a novel AR navigation system. Data from prospectively enrolled patients (AR group) were compared with data obtained retrospectively from previous standard CT-guided bone biopsies (control group). We evaluated the following: procedure duration, number of CT passes, patient’s radiation dose (dose-length product), complications, and specimen adequacy. Technical success was defined as the ability to complete the procedure as planned, reaching the target center. Technical efficacy was assessed evaluating specimen adequacy.

Results
Eight patients (4 males) aged 58 ± 24 years (mean ± standard deviation) were enrolled in the AR group and compared with 8 controls (4 males) aged 60 ± 15 years. No complications were observed. Procedure duration, number of CT passes, and radiation dose were 22 ± 5 min, 4 (median) [4, 6 interquartile range] and 1,034 ± 672 mGy*cm for the AR group and 23 ± 5 min, 9 [7.75, 11.25], and 1,954 ± 993 mGy*cm for controls, respectively. No significant differences were observed for procedure duration (p = 0.878). Conversely, number of CT passes and radiation doses were significantly lower for the AR group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.021, respectively). Technical success and technical efficacy were 100% for both groups.

Conclusions
This AR navigation system is safe, feasible, and effective; it can decrease radiation exposure and number of CT passes during bone biopsies without increasing duration time.

Relevance statement
This augmented reality (AR) navigation system is a safe and feasible guidance for bone biopsies; it may ensure a decrease in the number of CT passes and patient’s radiation dose.

Key points
• This AR navigation system is a safe guidance for bone biopsies.
• It ensures decrease of number of CT passes and patient’s radiation exposure.
• Procedure duration was similar to that of standard CT-guided biopsy.
• Technical success was 100% as in all patients the target was reached.
• Technical efficacy was 100% as the specimen was adequate in all patients.

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of anti-spike IgG, anti-spike IgA levels and neutralizing antibody activity induced by CoronaVac and BNT162b2 vaccines in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases receiving immunosuppressive therapy
Authors: Cosan Fulya , Demirel Ozlem Unay , Yalcin Demet , Sonkaya Muhammed Mert , Uluisik Isilsu Ezgi , Cecen Olida , Furuncuoglu Yavuz , Celikmen Deniz Maktav , Kara Osman , Ceylan Erkan , Avsar Timucin 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
The importance of COVID-19 vaccination for patients on immunosuppressive (IS) medication has increased due to the high risk of severe disease or mortality. Different vaccines have varying efficacy rates against symptomatic COVID-19, ranging from 46.8% to 95%. The objective of this study was to examine the differences in anti-Spike IgG, anti-Spike IgA, and neutralizing antibody (NAb) activity between the inactive CoronaVac vaccine and the mRNA-based BNT162b2 vaccine in IS patients.

Method
A total of 441 volunteers, including 104 IS patients, 263 healthy controls (HC), who received two doses of CoronaVac or BNT162b2, and 74 unvaccinated patients with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, were included in the study. Anti-spike IgG, IgA, and NAb activity were investigated.

Results
Immunogenicity with BNT162b2 was higher than with CoronaVac, but in IS groups, it was lower than HC (CoronaVac-IS: 79.3%, CoronaVac-HC: 96.5%, p < 0.001; BNT162b2-IS: 91.3%, BNT162b2-HC: 100%, p = 0.005). With CoronaVac, anti-Spike IgG levels were significantly lower than BNT162b2 (CoronaVac-IS: 234.5AU/mL, CoronaVac-HC: 457.85AU/mL; BNT162b2-IS: 5311.2AU/mL, BNT162b2-HC: 8842.8AU/mL). NAb activity in the BNT162b2 group was significantly higher. NAb and anti-Spike IgG levels were found to be correlated. Among the IS group, a significantly lower response to the vaccines was observed when using rituximab. IgA levels were found to be lower with CoronaVac.

Conclusions
Although immunogenicity was lower in IS patients, an acceptable response was obtained with both vaccines, and significantly higher anti-Spike IgG, anti-Spike IgA, and NAb activity levels were obtained with BNT162b2.
COVID-19-associated MRSA infective endocarditis and mitral valve perforation: a case report
Authors: Khedr Anwar , Hassan Esraa Mamdouh , Hennawi Hussam Al , Jama Abbas Bashir , Khan Muhammad Khuzzaim , Mir Mikael , Eissa Aalaa , Rauf Ibtisam , Mushtaq Hisham , Jain Nitesh Kumar , Subla Mir Rauf , Surani Salim , Khan Syed Anjum 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a global pandemic, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The interplay between COVID-19 and other medical conditions can complicate diagnosis and management, necessitating further exploration.

Case presentation
This case report presents a patient with COVID-19 who developed infective endocarditis (IE) and mitral valve perforation caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on a native mitral valve. Notably, the patient did not exhibit typical IE risk factors, such as intravenous drug use. However, he did possess risk factors for bacteremia, including a history of diabetes mellitus and recent steroid use due to the COVID-19 infection. The diagnosis of IE was crucially facilitated by transesophageal echocardiography.

Conclusions
This case highlights the potential association between COVID-19 and the development of infective endocarditis. Prompt evaluation using transesophageal echocardiography is vital when there is a high suspicion of IE in COVID-19 patients. Further research is required to elucidate the precise relationship between COVID-19 and IE.
How to cross the line: design principles for interdisciplinary education
Authors: Oudenampsen Jessica , Das Enny , Blijlevens Nicole , van de Pol Marjolein 
Published: July 2023

Background: Interdisciplinary learning is gaining popularity in higher education worldwide. Currently, knowledge about how to appropriately design interdisciplinary education is still lacking. The current study presents the iterative development, pilot, and implementation of an interdisciplinary course in healthcare communication. Methods: We used a design-based educational research approach in four phases to construct the program. In phase 1, we conducted a narrative review of the literature and distilled several prerequisites for interdisciplinary learning. In phase 2, we implemented two pilot courses with a focus on the content and the interdisciplinary context of the course. In research phase 3, we implemented the course during three consecutive years, with yearly evaluations of the course. In phase 4, we distilled design principles based on evaluation and reflection of the previous research phases. Results: We elaborate on the various components of the design itself. Furthermore, using data from surveys, panel discussions and interviews, we reflect on the content and outcomes of the interdisciplinary course. We propose seven evidence-informed ‘crossing the line’ design principles for future interdisciplinary education. Conclusions: The developed design principles pertain to interdisciplinary education in general and transcend subject-specific boundaries. The design principles are applicable in a wide range of higher education disciplines.
Achieving Efficiency in Black-Box Simulation of Distribution Tails with Self-Structuring Importance Samplers
Authors: Deo Anand , Murthy Karthyek 
Published: July 2023

Scalable and efficient importance sampling for managing tail risks As the models employed in the realm of risk analytics and optimization become increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial that risk management tools, such as variance reduction techniques, that are typically designed for stylized models on a case by case basis evolve to scale well and gain broader applicability. In the paper titled “Achieving efficiency in black-box simulation of distribution tails with self-structuring importance samplers,” the authors take a step toward this goal by introducing a novel importance sampling scheme for estimating tail risks of objectives modeled with a diverse range of tools, including linear programs, integer linear programs, feature maps specified with neural networks, etc. Instead of explicitly tailoring the change of distribution for each specific model, as conventionally done, the paper identifies an elementary transformation of the samples. This transformation, when applied alike across a wide variety of models, yields a near-optimal reduction in variance for estimating/optimizing over tail expectations.
The association of SARS-CoV-2 infection and tuberculosis disease with unfavorable treatment outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Vadlamudi Nirma Khatri , Basham C. Andrew , Johnston James C. , Ahmad Khan Faiz , Battista Migliori Giovanni , Centis Rosella , D’Ambrosio Lia , Jassat Waasila , Davies Mary-Ann , Schwartzman Kevin , Campbell Jonathon R. 
Published: July 2023

Background
Whether SARS-CoV-2 infection and its management influence tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes is uncertain. We synthesized evidence on the association of SARS-CoV-2 coinfection (Coinfection Review) and its management (Clinical Management Review) on treatment outcomes among people with tuberculosis (TB) disease.

Methods
We systematically searched the literature from 1 January 2020 to 6 February 2022. Primary outcomes included: unfavorable (death, treatment failure, loss-to-follow-up) TB treatment outcomes (Coinfection and Clinical Management Review) and/or severe or critical COVID-19 or death (Clinical Management Review). Study quality was assessed with an adapted Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Data were heterogeneous and a narrative review was performed. An updated search was performed on April 3, 2023.

Findings
From 9,529 records, we included 11 studies and 7305 unique participants. No study reported data relevant to our review in their primary publication and data had to be contributed by study authors after contact. Evidence from all studies was low quality. Eight studies of 5749 persons treated for TB (286 [5%] with SARS-CoV-2) were included in the Coinfection Review. Across five studies reporting our primary outcome, there was no significant association between SARS-CoV-2 coinfection and unfavorable TB treatment outcomes. Four studies of 1572 TB patients—of whom 291 (19%) received corticosteroids or other immunomodulating treatment—were included in the Clinical Management Review, and two addressed a primary outcome. Studies were likely confounded by indication and discordant findings existed among studies. When updating our search, we still did not identify any study reporting data relevant to this review in their primary publication.

Interpretation
No study was designed to answer our research questions of interest. It remains unclear whether TB/SARS-CoV-2 and its therapeutic management are associated with unfavorable outcomes. Research is needed to improve our understanding of risk and optimal management of persons with TB and SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Trial registration
Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022309818).