bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wolbachia 16S rRNA haplotypes detected in wild Anopheles stephensi in eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Waymire Elizabeth , Duddu Sowmya , Yared Solomon , Getachew Dejene , Dengela Dereje , Bordenstein Sarah R. , Balkew Meshesha , Zohdy Sarah , Irish Seth R. , Carter Tamar E. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
About two out of three Ethiopians are at risk of malaria, a disease caused by the parasites Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. Anopheles stephensi, an invasive vector typically found in South Asia and the Middle East, was recently found to be distributed across eastern and central Ethiopia and is capable of transmitting both P. falciparum and P. vivax. The detection of this vector in the Horn of Africa (HOA) coupled with widespread insecticide resistance requires that new methods of vector control be investigated in order to control the spread of malaria. Wolbachia, a naturally occurring endosymbiotic bacterium of mosquitoes, has been identified as a potential vector control tool that can be explored for the control of malaria transmission. Wolbachia could be used to control the mosquito population through suppression or potentially decrease malaria transmission through population replacement. However, the presence of Wolbachia in wild An. stephensi in eastern Ethiopia is unknown. This study aimed to identify the presence and diversity of Wolbachia in An. stephensi across eastern Ethiopia.

Methods
DNA was extracted from An. stephensi collected from eastern Ethiopia in 2018 and screened for Wolbachia using a 16S targeted PCR assay, as well as multilocus strain typing (MLST) PCR assays. Haplotype and phylogenetic analysis of the sequenced 16S amplicons were conducted to compare with Wolbachia from countries across Africa and Asia.

Results
Twenty out of the 184 mosquitoes screened were positive for Wolbachia, with multiple haplotypes detected. In addition, phylogenetic analysis revealed two superclades, representing Wolbachia supergroups A and B (bootstrap values of 81 and 72, respectively) with no significant grouping of geographic location or species. A subclade with a bootstrap value of 89 separates the Ethiopian haplotype 2 from other sequences in that superclade.

Conclusions
These findings provide the first evidence of natural Wolbachia populations in wild An. stephensi in the HOA. They also identify the need for further research to confirm the endosymbiotic relationship between Wolbachia and An. stephensi and to investigate its utility for malaria control in the HOA.

Graphical Abstract
Systematic identification of the lysine lactylation in the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Zhao Wei , Yu Helin , Liu Xiaona , Wang Tingting , Yao Yinning , Zhou Qixin , Zheng Xiaozi , Tan Feng 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Lysine lactylation (Kla) is a novelposttranslational modification (PTM) identified in histone and nonhistone proteins of several eukaryotic cells that directly activates gene expression and DNA replication. However, very little is known about the scope and cellular distribution of Kla in apicomplexan parasites despite its significance in public and animal health care.

Methods
Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, is an obligate intracellular apicomplexan parasite that can infect different nucleated cell types of animals and humans. We used this parasite as a model organism and extracted the total protein of tachyzoites to produce the first global lysine lactylome profile of T. gondii through liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. We also investigated the level and localization of the Kla protein in T. gondii using western blotting and the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFA), respectively.

Results
A total of 983 Kla sites occurring on 523 lactylated proteins were identified in the total protein extracted from Toxoplasma tachyzoites, the acute toxoplasmosis-causing stage. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the lactylated proteins were evolutionarily conserved and involved in a wide variety of cellular functions, such as energy metabolism, gene regulation and protein biosynthesis. Subcellular localization analysis and IFA results further revealed that most of the lactylated T. gondii proteins were localized in the nucleus, indicating the potential impact of Kla on gene regulation in the T. gondii model. Notably, an extensive batch of parasite-specific proteins unique to phylum Apicomplexa is lactylated in T. gondii.

Conclusions
This study revealed that Kla is widespread in early dividing eukaryotic cells. Lactylated proteins, including a batch of unique parasite proteins, are involved in a remarkably diverse array of cellular functions. These valuable data will improve our understanding of the evolution of Kla and potentially provide the basis for developing novel therapeutic avenues.

Graphical Abstract
Comment on “The risk of malignancy in patients with IgG4-related disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis” by Yu et al.
Authors: Yueh Hann-Ziong , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Zhang Liyun 
Published: May 2022

AbstractWith great interest, we have read the recent article “The risk of malignancy in patients with IgG4-related disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis” by Yu et al. While we have a great appreciation for the work conducted by the authors there are some methodological issues need to be considered. First, the period of articles included in the study, almost before 2013, implied that most follow-up days in these articles were earlier than the established date of a unified definition of IgG4-RD, 2011. Thus, it may lead to misclassification bias in the study. Second, IgG4-RD is a fibrous-inflammatory process that often involves multiple organs; however, malignant tumors related to IgG4-RD proposed in the study were only confined to four diseases. Therefore, we suggest adding subgroup analysis for more malignancies depending on the prevalence of IgG4-RD involved organs to ensure better clinical practice. Third, the causation between IgG4-RD and malignancy remains obscure currently. The time course for development in different malignancies varies significantly so that we cannot infer that malignancies discovered after IgG4-RD are directly relevant. With problems mentioned above, we recommend solutions to make this article more convincing.
Medical student lifestyle counselling for non-communicable disease: impact on students’ competence and patients’ health behaviors
Authors: Malatskey Lilach , Essa-Hadad Jumanah , Eldar Reut , Filipov Inna , Eilat-Tsanani Sophia , Rudolf Mary C. J. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Promoting healthy lifestyle is key to tackling lifestyle-induced diseases, yet many doctors feel unskilled and medical schools lack its inclusion in their curricula. The impact of a novel elective lifestyle course is described, where students provided 3 months’ coaching to at-risk patients.

Methods
Students’ attitudes, competence and lifestyle were assessed pre- and post the 18-month course. Patients’ health measures and behaviors were measured. Student and patient views were ascertained.

Results
Nineteen students, 13 controls, and 29 patients participated. Perception of physicians’ importance as lifestyle consultants increased in coaching students (mean ± SD 3.7 ± 0.4 vs. 3.2 ± 0.5; p = 0.05). Self-perceived competence remained high in coaching students (6.7 ± 1.8 vs. 6.7 ± 1.2; p = 0.66). Controls’ competence increased but did not attain coaching students’ levels (3.6 ± 2.1 vs. 5.5 ± 1.9; p = 0.009). Focus groups of students confirmed self-perceived acquisition of skills. More patients exercised (38% vs. 82.7%; p = 0.001); spent more time in physical activity (median mins/week + IQR) 25 + [0.180] vs. 120 + [45,300]; p = 0.039), and avoided less desirable foods, such as unhealthy snacks, sweets and drinks. LDL cholesterol showed declining trend. Patients highlighted students’ empathy and attentiveness; satisfaction was extremely high.

Conclusions
The course successfully enhanced students’ counselling skills, with beneficial effects for patients. This model for teaching experience-based lifestyle medicine has potential policy implications in terms of promoting effective lifestyle counselling by future physicians.
Health-related quality of life and psychological distress among adults in Tanzania: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ivanova Olena , Sineke Tembeka , Wenzel Rebekka , Siyame Elimina , Lalashowi Julieth , Bakuli Abhishek , Zekoll Fidelina Cumbe , Hoelscher Michael , Rachow Andrea , Evans Denise , Sabi Issa , Ntinginya Nyanda Elias 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Little data is available on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental health of the general population in Tanzania. We aimed to describe HRQoL and level of psychological distress among adults in Mbeya and Songwe Regions of Tanzania.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study between April and October 2019 in Mbeya and Songwe Regions. Data were collected using the Medical Outcomes Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire and the Page Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). We described demographic characteristics of participants and used log-binomial regression to identify participant characteristics associated with psychological distress (K10 score ≥ 20).

Results
A total of 393 adults were enrolled. The participants had a median age of 29 years (IQR 23–40) and 54.2% were male. Participants reported a physical component summary score (PCS) with a mean of 54.7 (SD7.1) and a mental component summary score (MCS) with a mean of 55.5 (SD5.1). Older participants (≥ 40 year) and those that were divorced/widowed reported lower physical functioning, energy/vitality and emotional well-being compared to their counterparts (p < 0.05). In terms of psychological distress, majority of participants (78.4%; 305/389) reported that they were likely to be well (K10 score < 20), while 13.4% (52/389) reported to have mild (K10 score 20–24), 5.7% (22/389) moderate (K10 score 25–29), and 2.6% (10/389) severe (K10 score ≥ 30) psychological distress.

Conclusions
Physical function and mental well-being in this adult population from Tanzania were lower than that reported in other similar research in Tanzania and other African countries. This study provides valuable references for other research initiatives and clinical services in this region.
How much is that doodle in the window? Exploring motivations and behaviours of UK owners acquiring designer crossbreed dogs (2019-2020)
Authors: Burnett E. , Brand C. L. , O’Neill D. G. , Pegram C. L. , Belshaw Z. , Stevens K. B. , Packer R. M. A. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Demand for intentional crosses of purebred dog breeds, often labelled ‘designer crossbreeds’ (e.g., Labrador Retriever X Poodle, the ‘Labradoodle’), has recently increased in the UK. This study aimed to explore this phenomenon by comparing pre-purchase motivations, pre-purchase and purchase behaviours of UK owners of designer crossbred puppies purchased during 2019-2020 with those of owners of purebred puppies purchased during the same period.

Results
Data were collected in an online cross-sectional survey between November-December 2020. Responses from n = 6293 puppies (designer crossbred puppies: n = 1575; purebred puppies: n = 4718) were analysed. Perceived hypoallergenicity was cited as a motivator for breed/crossbreed choice by almost half of designer crossbreed owners (47.1%), six times more than purebred dog owners (7.86%; odds ratio [OR]: 9.12, 95% CI: 7.70-10.8). Designer crossbred puppies were more likely to have been acquired via a general selling website (e.g., Gumtree; 13.8%) compared to purebred puppies (7.67%; OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.77-2.71), or an animal-specific selling websites (e.g., Pets4Homes; 55.7%) compared to purebred puppies (37.4%; OR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.65-2.17). Designer crossbreed owners were less likely to see their puppy in person prior to purchase than purebred owners (60.4% vs. 67.0%, respectively; OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.64-0.85), and at purchase, designer crossbred puppies were less likely to be seen with their mother (73.1% vs. 79.8%, respectively; OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70-0.95), and littermates (67.7% vs. 78.1%, respectively; OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.55-0.73). Designer crossbreeds had a significantly higher purchase price, with 25.7% of designer crossbreed puppies costing £2000-£2999 compared to 15.1% of purebred puppies (X2 = 207.31, p <  0.001).

Conclusions
The recent boom in designer crossbreeds in the UK has been fuelled by a desire for perceived hypoallergenic and generally healthy dogs that fit the lifestyles of households with children and limited experience with dogs. Some sought-after traits in designer crossbreeds are misconceptions that risk canine welfare, including relinquishment risk, if owner expectations are not met. Purchasing practices fuelling this boom support irresponsible breeding and selling practices, which combined with reduced pressure for health testing from buyers, may result in a higher disease burden and poorer future welfare for this growing designer dog population.
Breed distributions for diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism in Norwegian dogs
Authors: Ringstad N. K. , Lingaas F. , Thoresen S. I. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) and hypothyroidism are common canine endocrinopathies. Both canine DM and primary hypothyroidism are assumed to originate from autoimmune destruction of the respective endocrine glands and have been associated with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene region. This study aims to investigate breed distributions for DM and hypothyroidism in the Norwegian canine population by calculating odds ratios (OR) from two different comparator groups.MethodsResults from canine serum samples submitted from 2001 to 2018 to the Veterinary Clinical Pathology Laboratory (VCPL) at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences for analysis of fructosamine and thyroid hormones in serum were used as cases in a retrospective bivariate analysis of canine breeds. The ORs were calculated as a measure of risk for the included breeds, where all the submitted blood samples to the VCPL and dogs registered in the Norwegian Kennel Club (NKK), the national organization for dog owners, were used as two comparator groups.ResultsSignificant differences in disease prevalence between breeds were discovered using both comparator groups. Australian terrier, Swedish lapphund, Samoyed, and Schipperke were at highest risk for DM. German Shepherd, Golden retriever, German pointing dog, and Collie presented as the breeds with lowest risk for DM. For hypothyroidism, Schnauzer, Eurasier, Dunker, and English setter were at highest risk for developing the disease. The breeds at lowest risk of developing hypothyroidism were Rottweiler, Dachshund, German shepherd, and Border collie. The results from the different comparator groups gave different ORs and ranks, but the breeds with highest and lowest odds showed the same susceptibility using both comparators.ConclusionsThese findings support that there are breeds more and less prone to develop DM and hypothyroidism. A strong genetic predisposition involved in the aetiology of these two diseases is therefore likely. Interestingly, there also appeared to be an inverse relationship of odds for the two diseases for some of the breeds since some breeds that had a high OR for DM or hypothyroidism had a lower OR for the other disease. This indicates that there may be different risk alleles/haplotypes for the two diseases. The possible aetiological relationship between canine DM and hypothyroidism should be further investigated.
Applicability of a national strategy for patient-oriented research to people who use(d) substances: a Canadian experience
Authors: Pauly Bernadette , Sullivan Ginger , Inglis Dakota , Cameron Fred , Phillips Jack , Rosen Conor , Bullock Bill , Cartwright Jennifer , Hainstock Taylor , Trytten Cindy , Urbanoski Karen 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundEurope and North America are in the grips of a devastating overdose crisis. People who use substances often feel unsafe to access healthcare due to fears of stigma, blame, judgement, poor treatment, or other repercussions. As a result, they often avoid, delay, or leave care, resulting in premature death and missed opportunities for care. Internationally, there have been concerted efforts to move towards patient-engaged research to enhance the quality of health care systems and services. In Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR) initiative promotes engagement of patients as active partners in health care research. As part of a community based patient oriented research project, we critically analyze the SPOR framework to provide insights into what constitutes safer research with people who use(d) substances.MethodsWe undertook a two-stage process that began with a review of community based research principles and the SPOR framework. At the second stage, we undertook a qualitative descriptive study employing focus groups to generate description of the adequacy and appropriateness of the SPOR framework for guiding research with people who use(d) substances on four key dimensions (patient engagement, guiding principles, core areas of engagement and benefits). The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify key issues and insights.ResultsWhile the SPOR framework includes a range of patient roles, principles and areas for engagement, there are issues and gaps related to essential elements of safe patient-oriented research for people who use substances. These include an individualized focus on patients as partners, lack of recognition of community benefits, power imbalances and distrust due to systemic stigma, engagement as one way capacity building and learning, and lack of accountability for taking action on research findings.ConclusionsGiven the extent of stigma in health care and the ongoing illicit drug policy crisis, strategies for enhancing equitable Patient-Oriented Research (POR) include shifting language from patient partners to community researchers, recognizing power inequities and adding trust and equity as core POR principles including pay equity. Employing community based participatory research as a POR methodology allows the lead researchers to fully engage community throughout the research process, enhances community benefits and accountability for action.
Screening for mental disorders in police custody settings
Authors: McKinnon Iain , Moore John , Lyall Alicia , Forrester Andrew 
Published: May 2022

SUMMARYMental disorders are overrepresented in the criminal justice system, and this applies equally to police custody. These environments are complex and often pressured, and the acuity of the situation, combined with underlying mental disorders, comorbid medical problems and substance misuse, can lead to behavioural disturbance and increased psychiatric risk. Police custody may also present an opportunity to identify and signpost people with mental disorders and vulnerabilities who are ordinarily hard to reach by standard health services. This article considers the purposes of mental health screening of detainees in police custody. It gives an overview of research into screening for a range of psychiatric disorders and vulnerabilities (including substance misuse and traumatic brain injury) and summarises data on deaths in and immediately following release from custody. Given the inadequacy of statutory screening procedures in some jurisdictions, the authors offer a pragmatic evidence-based protocol to guide screening for mental disorders in custody detainees.
Techno-Economic Feasibility Analysis of a Fully Mobile Radiation Oncology System Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Price Alex T. , Canfield Casey , Hugo Geoffrey D. , Kavanaugh James A. , Henke Lauren E. , Laugeman Eric , Samson Pamela , Reynolds-Kueny Clair , Cudney Elizabeth A. 
Published: May 2022

PURPOSE Disparities in radiation oncology (RO) can be attributed to geographic location, socioeconomic status, race, sex, and other societal factors. One potential solution is to implement a fully mobile (FM) RO system to bring radiotherapy to rural areas and reduce barriers to access. We use Monte Carlo simulation to quantify techno-economic feasibility with uncertainty, using two rural Missouri scenarios. METHODS Recently, a semimobile RO system has been developed by building an o-ring linear accelerator (linac) into a mobile coach that is used for temporary care, months at a time. Transitioning to a more FM-RO system, which changes location within a given day, presents technical challenges including logistics and quality assurance. This simulation includes cancer census in both northern and southeastern Missouri, multiple treatment locations within a given day, and associated expenditures and revenues. A subset of patients with lung, breast, and rectal diseases, treated with five fractions, was simulated in the FM-RO system. RESULTS The FM-RO can perform all necessary quality assurance tests as suggested in national medical physics guidelines within 1.5 hours, thus demonstrating technological feasibility. In northern and southeastern Missouri, five-fraction simulations' net incomes were, in US dollars (USD), $1.55 ± 0.17 million (approximately 74 patients/year) and $3.65 USD ± 0.25 million (approximately 98 patients/year), respectively. The number of patients seen had the highest correlation with net income as well as the ability to break-even within the simulation. The model does not account for disruptions in care or other commonly used treatment paradigms, which may lead to differences in estimated economic return. Overall, the mobile system achieved a net benefit, even for the most negative simulation scenarios. CONCLUSION Our simulations suggest technologic success and economic viability for a FM-RO system within rural Missouri and present an interesting solution to address other geographic disparities in access to radiotherapy.
Configuration entropy for N-Dirac fermions with dissipation and external field: An effective-mass phase transition
Authors: Flores J. C. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Dirac fermions in solid state are defined through a homogeneous dispersion relation of degree one. Consequently, the group velocity, having a superior bound, becomes invariant under spatial scaling. This fact allows considering the dynamics of a family or set of Dirac fermions at different spatial dimensions and subjected to an external field and dissipation. From the degeneration of the stationary states, the non-Hermitian dynamics allows defining the configuration entropy. With the applied external field being the control parameter, an inflection point becomes associated with entropy. Consequently, an effective-mass phase transition is conjectured including the usual Dirac fermions in a graphene sheet. The critical field and the critical angle are analytically calculated.