bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the resistome and gut microbiome composition of hospitalized patients in a health unit of southern Brazil coming from a high animal husbandry production region
Authors: Coltro Elisa Pires , Cafferati Beltrame Lucas , da Cunha Caroline Ribeiro , Zamparette Caetana Paes , Feltrin Clarissa , Benetti Filho Vilmar , Vanny Patrícia de Almeida , Beduschi Filho Sérgio , Klein Taíse Costa Ribeiro , Scheffer Mara Cristina , Palmeiro Jussara Kasuko , Wagner Glauber , Sincero Thaís Cristine Marques , Zárate-Bladés Carlos Rodrigo 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to global public health. The One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health, highlights the roles of agricultural and hospital settings in the propagation of AMR. This study aimed to analyze the resistome and gut microbiome composition of individuals from a high-intensity animal husbandry area in the western region of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil, who were subsequently admitted to the University Hospital in the city of Florianopolis, located in the eastern part of the same state.MethodsRectal swab samples were collected upon admission and discharge. Metagenomic sequencing and resistome analysis were employed to identify antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and their associated bacterial taxa. Additionally, the impact of the hospital environment on the resistome and microbiome profiles of these patients was assessed.ResultsA total of 247 genetic elements related to AMR were identified, with 66.4% of these elements present in both admission and discharge samples. Aminoglycoside resistance genes were the most prevalent, followed by resistance genes for tetracyclines and lincosamides. Notably, unique resistance genes, including dfrF and mutations in gyrB, were identified at discharge. ARGs were associated with 55 bacterial species, with Lactobacillus fermentum, harboring the ermB gene. (MLSB), detected in both admission and discharge samples. The most prevalent bacterial families included Mycobacteriaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, and Bacteroidaceae. Among these, Mycobacteriaceae was the most abundant, with ARGs primarily associated with mutations in the 16S rRNA gene, RNA polymerase subunits, and gyrases.DiscussionThe study revealed a high prevalence of genes related to aminoglycoside and tetracycline resistance, with a notable increase in certain resistance determinants at discharge, likely influenced by extended antimicrobial use. The presence of mcr genes, associated with colistin resistance, in both admission and discharge samples from a single patient highlights a concerning trend in AMR, particularly in relation to animal husbandry. These findings underscore the substantial impact of antimicrobial use on resistance development and the complex dynamics of the resistome in hospital settings. They also emphasize the influence of local factors, such as intensive animal production, on resistance patterns and advocate for ongoing surveillance and policy development to manage multidrug-resistant bacteria eVectively.
Soil management in Lepidium meyenii (maca) monoculture: trends and challenges for small farmers around Lake Chinchaycocha in the Andean highlands of Junin (Peru)
Authors: Solórzano-Acosta Richard , Chanco Mirella , Seminario Martín , Cabello-Torres Rita , Camel Vladimir , Lastra Sphyros , Arias Alberto , Verástegui Patricia , Quispe Kenyi , Carbajal-Llosa Carlos , Cuevas Juan Pablo , Cruz Juancarlos , Turín Cecilia 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionMonoculture is a significant concern due to its negative impact on soil quality, resource productivity, and agricultural sustainability, particularly in vulnerable communities. This research aims to evaluate high Andean soil management for maca monoculture.Materials and methodsTo this end, interviews were conducted with maca farmers adjacent to Lake Chinchaycocha. The effect on soil quality was evaluated based on principal component analysis (PCA), weighted soil quality index (SQIw), and physico-chemical characteristics.ResultsThe results indicated differences between farmers in agronomic management, monoculture period (from 5 to 9 years), and fallow time (up to 10 years in the best cases). Regarding soil quality, the PCA highlighted boron and total nitrogen locations in the same quadrant, with the highest contribution to the analysis. Finally, the SQIw showed that soils without maca cultivation presented better quality.ConclusionThis research’s results indicate a need to optimize soil management practices, especially for small farmers, who are the most vulnerable group. In addition, further studies on boron and nitrogen availability in soils cultivated with maca are required, emphasizing areas that exceed 10 years of continuous use.
Rate of cesarean section among breech deliveries in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mussa Ibsa , Debella Adera , Regassa Lemma Demissie , Ahamed Badhasa , Jibro Usmael , Eyeberu Addis 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundBreech deliveries are a significant public health concern in developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the cesarean section rate should not be higher than 10%–15%. As unnecessary C-sections may be associated with an increased risk of maternal and neonatal mortality, this meta-analysis was aimed at determining the rate of caesarean sections among breech deliveries in Ethiopia.MethodsAll published and unpublished articles were obtained from legitimate databases and websites. The PRISMA guidelines were used to conduct this systematic review and meta-analysis. The meta-analysis of the primary and secondary outcomes was performed using STATA version 18. The overall effect size with a 95% CI was estimated using the random effect model with the Der Simonian Liard method. A sensitivity analysis using a leave-one-out meta-analysis was computed.ResultsThis meta-analysis included a total of 57,236 mothers who had breech deliveries. The pooled prevalence of breech deliveries among women in Ethiopia was 5% [95% CI: 4, 6]. The overall pooled cesarean section rate among breech deliveries in Ethiopia was 41% (95% CI: 29–54).ConclusionsIn this review, the pooled prevalence of breech deliveries among women in Ethiopia was 5%, and the overall rate of caesarian section among the breech deliveries was 41%. This finding pointed out that two out of every five pregnant women with breech presentation gave birth by cesarean section in Ethiopia. Therefore, the finding implies that both the government and all the concerned stakeholders shall be given particular emphasis made on strengthening antenatal care services and ensure more women have access to skilled healthcare professionals during childbirth. This can help in providing appropriate interventions, support to women and reducing the need for emergency and unnecessary breech deliveries. The result of this research are a baseline data for future researchers to conduct further studies to better understand the reasons behind the high rates and identify potential interventions and solutions specific to the African context.
Percutaneous unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation in geriatric patients
Authors: Qin Rongqing , Guan Anhong , Zhu Min , Zhou Pin , Zhou Bing , Zhou Ruihua , Guan Zaiyong 
Published: January 2025

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the surgical efficacy and safety of percutaneous unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy (UBED) for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) in geriatric patients.MethodsSeventy-two geriatric patients, aged 65–86 years (mean age: 73.2 years), with single or two-level LDH who underwent UBED from January 2020 to September 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated based on operation time, total blood loss, hospital stay, visual analog scale (VAS) scores for leg pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores, modified MacNab criteria, and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging findings.ResultsSurgery was successfully performed on all geriatric patients, with a mean operation time of 46 min (range: 32–68 min). All patients were followed up for an average duration of 14.2 ± 1.9 months (range: 12–16 months). The leg pain VAS score decreased from 8.37 ± 1.21 preoperatively to 2.03 ± 0.61 immediately after surgery, 1.56 ± 0.32 at 1 month postoperatively, 1.16 ± 0.45 at 6 months postoperatively, and 0.91 ± 0.26 at 12 months postoperatively. Similarly, the ODI score also decreased from 61.21 ± 11.06 preoperatively to 27.52 ± 10.41 immediately after surgery, 19.12 ± 7.05 at 1 month postoperatively, 12.17 ± 5.21 at 6 months postoperatively, and 8.56 ± 4.32 at 12 months postoperatively. Statistically significant differences were observed in both VAS and ODI scores at each follow-up time point when compared with preoperative parameters (P &lt; 0.01). Also, there were 53 excellent cases, 12 good cases, and 7 fair cases based on the modified MacNab criteria at 12 months postoperatively, resulting in an excellent and good rate of 90.2%. Only three cases were found to be complicated by low extremity numbness, all of which were recovered via conservative treatment in 3 weeks. No infections or iatrogenic neurological deficits occurred in all patients.ConclusionsWe concluded that UBED achieved satisfactory results and provided a minimally invasive, effective, and safe alternative for the treatment of symptomatic LDH in geriatric patients.
How gender shapes practice choices among family medicine residents and early career family physicians: a Canadian qualitative study
Authors: Sheppard Anneka , Gormley Amanda , Mills Lauren , McKay Madeleine , Bergin Fiona , Gradstein Roetka , Moravac Catherine , Scott Ian , Lavergne Ruth 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThe practice choices of family medicine residents and early career family physicians shape access to primary care. A growing proportion of family physicians are women.AimThis study examined how gender operates in shaping family physician practice choices and subsequent practice patterns.Design & settingQualitative interview data were analyzed.SettingFamily medicine residents and early-career family physicians from three Canadian provinces (Nova Scotia, Ontario, and British Columbia) participated in interviews.MethodQualitative interview data was collected as part of a larger mixed methods study. Eighty-eight interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded into several node reports including one on gender. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes related to how gender impacts physician practice choices.ResultsMany participants described multiple intersecting pathways through which it was apparent that gender shaped their career and practice choices. Others did not identify the impact of gender in this regard. Parenthood and caregiving were commonly discussed, as were clinical interests specific to women’s health, however, gendered expectations of patients and colleagues were also seen to shape choices. In this way, gender shaped choices directly, but also indirectly in response to gendered experiences and expectations.ConclusionFindings support the need for structural reforms including: increased availability of collaborative team based models, flexible work schedules, closure of gendered wage gaps, and integration of gender awareness training through academic and healthcare institutions. Consideration of how primary care policies differentially impact across clinician gender is key to future planning to support a changing workforce that meets patient needs.
Relationship of biofilm strength levels in Candida albicans isolates with the type of clinical specimens
Authors: Al-sabti Kawther Hafez Jabbar , Ali Hussain Shabaa Raed 
Published: January 2025

The virulence factors in C. albicans such as biofilm formation, germ tube, adhesion, hydrolytic enzymes, such as lipases, proteases, phospholipases, and hemolysin and catalase enzyme that allow successful colonization and infection of the host under suitable predisposing conditions. A total of 151 clinical specimens were collected from immunocompromised patients suffering from underlying diseases included cancer, diabetes, and thalassemia. All the collected specimens were cultured on yeast selective media. From the total clinical specimens 111 (73.50%) specimens were positive for yeast growth, among them the most predominant species was C. albicans at 64 (57.65%). There was a difference in the prevalence of yeast species isolates according to the patient’s gender, which it was higher in females 76 (68.46%) than in males 35 (31.53%), The virulence factors results showed that all isolates belonging to the species C.albicans form the germ tube when incubated at a temperature of 37°C for 3 hours in 0.5 ml of human serum while all the isolates of C. albicans showed a positive result to adhesion test after incubation for 1h at 37Cº The test results showed that from 64 C. albicans isolates, there were 16 (25%) strong biofilm producers, 6 (14.28%) were considered as weak biofilm producers. The studies described here form the basis for investigations into the mechanisms of Candida bioﬁlm formation and provide the means to design novel therapies for bioﬁlm-based infections.
Skin histological development in rat embryos exposed to chitosan nanoparticles
Authors: M Khalfa Hydar , L al-msaid Haider 
Published: January 2025

Chitosan is a natural nontoxic biopolymer derived by the deacetylation of chitin. Chitosan and its derivatives have attracted considerable interest due to their antimicrobial and antifungal activity.1–3 Chitosan exhibits its antibacterial activity only in an acidic medium because of its poor solubility above pH6.5.4 The antibacterial activity of chitosan is influenced by a number of factors that include the type of chitosan, the degree of chitosan polymerization and some of its other physicochemical properties. The present study was conducted to investigate the damage induced by chitosan nanoparticles at various concentrations on embryonic skin histogenesis . Material and methods: chitosan nanoparticles were synthesized via the ionotropic gelation of chitosan with TPP (sodium tripolyphosphate) anions. . Laboratory pregnant wistar albino rats were injected with different bolus doses of chitposan nanoparticles intraperitoneally and rat pups were dissected after delivery . skin tissues from rats pups were examined histologically and compared to control animals. Results: histological examination of all tissues in both groups shows gradual cytotoxic effect of chitosan nanoparticles reaching extreme histological damage with increased bolus dose. Skin damage included hemorrhaging and distruption of epidermal layers. a decrease in epidermal thickness between the control group and the groups treated with different cyclophosphoamide concentrations Conclusion: This study concludes that chitosan nanoparticles have a strong cytotoxic effect on rat embryonic skin histogensis . Morphological appearance shows variable cell changes to include apoptotic changes as well as nuclear damage. Cytotoxic effect and histological damage is confirmed by the gradual decrease in epidermal thickness of rat pups as well the profound histological changes that is seen in various organs of rat pups.
Expression of Genetically Engineered BL21(DE3) with the Staphylokinase Gene from Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Farhad Salah Hêro , Kamal Khider Adel , Muniandy Sekaran 
Published: January 2025

The current study aimed to obtain staphylokinase (Sak) protein as a fibrinolytic agent from Escherichia coli as a nonpathogenic bacterium after transforming it with a cloned vector. From 630 clinical samples, 98 isolates of S. aureus were obtained and 81 (82.65%) were Sak producers. PCR amplification of the sak gene identified a single DNA band with the expected length of 408 bp in three S. aureus isolates. E. coli DH5a was successfully transformed with the sak gene. PCR amplification showed that the recombinant gene comprised 408 bp, which was the same size as the native gene amplified from S. aureus. Bacterial proteins of genetically engineered BL21(DE3) with cloned pET-28a-sak were separated according to their molecular weight and recombinant Sak appeared as a band with an estimated molecular weight ca 15.5 KDa. A non-induced sample with cloned vector was included as control. The fibrinolytic activity of recombinant Sak was higher than that of the native Sak. We found that the gene expression level and Sak production rate in the genetically engineered BL21(DE3) were similar to those of the native S. aureus.Key words: Cloning, fibrinolytic property, isopropyl b-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside, protein expression, staphylokinase
Assessment of the burden of salmonellosis in the Republic of North Macedonia
Authors: Kostova Aneta , Ristovska Gordana , Kotev Darko 
Published: January 2025

Food-related diseases still cause a significant public health, economic and social burden worldwide. Each year, 1 in 10 people become ill from food contaminated with microbes or chemical agents, resulting in 600 million illnesses, 420,000 deaths and loss of 33 million healthy life years globally. The aim of this study was to determine the burden of infections caused by Salmonella spp. at national level, and to determine the public health and economic impact. Material and methods: Data from the National database of infectious diseases for 2019 were used; incidence, years of life lost (YLL), years lost due to disability (YLD), disability-adjusted life years (DALY) and economic losses were determined. Results: The analysis included 197 salmonellosis patients, of which 101 or 51.3% were male patients and 96 or 48.7% were female patients. The largest number of cases occurred in month XI (November) with 46 cases. The most represented age group were children aged 0-5 years (79 patients). The largest number of cases were registered in Skopje - 80 cases (40.6%). Data analysis showed a significant association between clinically established diagnosis and hospitalization in patients with salmonellosis. DALY was 19.9 or 0.96 DALY per 100,000 population. The value of productivity losses was 6,637,665 denars or €107,930. Conclusion: This is the first national study of salmonellosis burden and should serve as an important resource for focusing activities that will reduce this burden. The findings of the study could be the basis for the development of strategies at the regional and national level.
The presence of Pentecostalism in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa
Authors: Mashabela James K. 
Published: January 2025

Background: Pentecostalism in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa (ELCSA) is profoundly believed, strong and alive. In ELCSA, the Holy Spirit is affirmed and gives power to believers as the gracious gift that sustains and enables the very church to perform its duties of worshipping God, healing, preaching and meeting other spiritual needs. The Holy Spirit is actively acknowledged and worshipped as a gracious Spirit.Aim: The objective of this current study is to reflect on the scope of the work of the Holy Spirit in the ELCSA.Setting: The article discusses the role of the Holy Spirit within a context of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa.Methods: A collection of secondary sources such as books and journals, and primary data such as unpublished papers, minutes and other documents are analysed within a qualitative method.Results: Findings of the study include the fact that the ELCSA traces its practices of Pentecostalism from scripture and sacraments. Circuit Easter conferences and revivals attracted people for ELCSA membership growth.Conclusion: The Holy Spirit has entrusted the Evangelical Lutheran Church to contribute to the Pentecostalism phenomenon.Contribution: The study contributes to how the ELCSA had an impact in Christianity by embracing the Holy Spirit and Pentecostalism. Some basic topics of the doctrine of Pneumatology are discussed in relation to the ecumenical creeds and Book of Concord.
Pattern of Serum Protein Electrophoresis: Advances in Laboratory Medicine
Authors: Solanki Akshita Singh , Sharma Nitin , Thadani Deepa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) is an inexpensive laboratory technique employed to evaluate various serum proteins. SPE is used to identify the patients with clinical disorders of proteins such as multiple myeloma (MM), monoclonal and polyclonal gammopathy, liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, inflammation (acute and chronic), malignant tumours, iron deficiencies (anaemia) and α-1 anti-trypsin deficiency. Monoclonal gammopathy is termed as the homogeneous increased production of immunoglobulins(Igs) of one cell line. These Igs are termed as paraproteins. The change in the concentration of individual protein is termed dysproteinaemia. In monoclonal gammopathy, a homogeneous spike-like peak is observed in the gamma-globulin zone, named as ‘M-Band’. An increased concentration of para-proteins in plasma is found in around 10% cases of Waldenström’s macroglobulinaemia, lymphoma and leukaemia and in around 60% cases of multiple myeloma and plasmacytoma. In contrast to monoclonal gammopathy, polyclonal gammopathy (hypergammaglobulinaemia) is referred as the heterogeneous increase in the synthesis of Ig of more than one cell line. It is associated with chronic liver disease, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders (rheumatoid arthritis and lupus) and light chain myelomas. Unfortunately, SPE is an underused technique due to lack of knowledge in interpreting the results. The review discusses the common problems associated with the interpretation of SPE.
Laparoscopic Nephrectomy for Benign Non-functioning Kidneys: A Comprehensive Study on Efficacy, Outcomes and Clinical Implications at Indira Gandhi Medical College Shimla
Authors: Negi Kapil Dev , Nagesh Bhartendu , Verma Devender 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background:
Laparoscopic nephrectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique for kidney removal, has transformed urological surgery since the 1990s. This approach offers numerous benefits over traditional open surgery, including reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of laparoscopic nephrectomy for benign non-functioning kidneys at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla.

Materials and Methods:
This observational study was conducted from July 2018 to June 2019, involving 20 patients with benign non-functioning kidneys due to stone disease, pelviureteric junction narrowing, renal tuberculosis and chronic pyelonephritis. Comprehensive pre-operative evaluations were performed, and patients underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy using the transperitoneal route. Data on surgical duration, blood loss, CO2 usage, complications and post-operative recovery were meticulously recorded and analysed.

Results:
The study included 20 patients, predominantly female (65%) and aged between 25 and 50 years (70%). Laparoscopic nephrectomy was successfully performed in 60% of cases, while 35% required conversion to open surgery. The mean operative time for successful laparoscopic nephrectomies was 103.7 min, with significantly lower blood loss (145 mL) compared to open surgery (350 mL, P = 0.003). Post-operative recovery was faster in the laparoscopic group, with 90% resuming oral intake within 1–2 days and 55% returning to normal activities within 30 days (P = 0.0072). The overall complication rate was 30%, including 10% major complications. Late presentations were attributed to a lack of awareness, financial constraints and reliance on quack treatments.

Conclusion:
Laparoscopic nephrectomy at IGMC Shimla demonstrated significant advantages over open surgery, including reduced operative time, blood loss, post-operative pain and faster recovery. The findings support the adoption of laparoscopic techniques as the preferred method for managing benign non-functioning kidneys in a tertiary care setting. However, the cost of disposable equipment and challenges in managing pyonephrotic and xanthogranulomatous kidneys necessitate careful patient selection and pre-operative planning.