bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tsetse distribution, trypanosome infection rates, and small-holder livestock producers’ capacity enhancement for sustainable tsetse and trypanosomiasis control in Busia, Kenya
Authors: Adungo Ferdinard , Mokaya Tom , Makwaga Olipher , Mwau Matilu 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundTsetse flies are the cyclical vectors of both human and animal diseases. Kenya’s commitment to eradicate tsetse and trypanosomiasis dates to the 1980s through various control approaches which were spearheaded by the African Union. The aggressive control programmes together with climatic, land-use, and socio-economic changes immensely contributed to the reduction of African trypanosomiasis. Since 2012, Kenya has not recorded a case of human trypanosomiasis. However, African animal trypanosomiasis remains a major challenge to livestock production in 38 out of 47 counties. We aimed to determine the prevalence of tsetse flies and trypanosome infection rate and to build the capacity of small-holder livestock producers in vector control activities in Busia county.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2018 and December 2018 in Busia county, a beneficiary of the previous African Union-led trypanosomiasis and tsetse control initiatives. Odour-baited biconical traps were deployed for 48 h in five sampling areas. Captured tsetse flies were analysed by microscopy for trypanosome infections. Additionally, training and field demonstrations were conducted as part of capacity building to enhance participation of small-holder livestock producers in tsetse control activities.ResultsA total of 94 tsetse flies mainlyGlossina fuscipes fuscipeswere captured from the five sampling areas. The apparent fly densities range from 0.08 to 1.55 tsetse per trap per day. Additionally, 75 biting flies mainlyStomoxysspp. were also trapped. An overall tsetse infection rate of 1.39% and 4.17% was observed forTrypanosoma congolenseandTrypanosoma vivax, respectively. Regarding capacity building, a total of 26 small-holder livestock producers were trained on tsetse and trypanosomiasis control activities. Out of which, five were selected as focal persons and were further trained on integrated vector management techniques and tsetse survey methods.ConclusionsOur findings revealed the existence of trypanosome-infected tsetse flies which could potentially spread to other parts of the county. Training of small-holder livestock producers in tsetse and trypanosomiasis control activities should be supported and integrated in the county animal health and veterinary services. Given the observed low tsetse densities and trypanosome infection rates, the elimination of trypanosomiasis in Busia county is feasible.
In vitro study of Praecitrulus fistulosus (Stocks) Pangalo (Cucurbitaceae) fruit – A potential candidate of Anthelmintic activity
Authors: Ishnava Kalpesh B. , Patel Karishma S. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Helminthiasis infestation is one of the most widespread and severe public health problems in the world. These parasites cause several diseases like anemia, malnutrition, pneumonia, eosinophilia, and malaria. This disease is also preventable and treatable, but still, it is the major cause of death worldwide.

Results
The present study was undertaken to evaluate petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol extract of Praecitrullus fistulosus for anthelmintic activity against Pheretima posthuma. Three concentrations (1%, 2%, 5%) of each extract were taken, and these concentrations involved the determination of time of paralysis and time of death of the worms. Normal saline and albendazole were used as control and standard, respectively. The result revealed that 5% of methanol extracts of the P. fistulosus exhibited significant anthelmintic activity. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of crude methanol extract showed the presence of terpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, flavonoids, and glycosides. The methanolic extract was fractionated by column chromatography and the anthelmintic activity was evaluated for the different fractions and active fraction was characterization using TLC.

Conclusion
These results show the isolation of active phytochemical constituent phenol, 3,5-bis (1,1-dimethyl)- responsible for anthelmintic activity. Using the Pheretima posthuma as the animal models, we have shown that isolated compound from methanolic extract of fruit of P. fistulosus has potential to act against helminthiasis.

Graphical abstract
Anti-annexin V autoantibodies and vascular abnormalities in systemic sclerosis: a longitudinal study
Authors: Horimoto Alex Magno Coelho , de Jesus Laize Guerreiro , de Souza Albert Schiaveto , Rodrigues Silvia Helena , Kayser Cristiane 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Annexins are a group of conserved proteins which exert several regulatory functions on various cellular activities. Increased frequency and levels of antibodies against annexin V have already been observed in several autoimmune diseases including systemic sclerosis (SSc), but their role as a vascular biomarker is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the serum levels and the dynamical behavior of anti-annexin V antibodies over a 24 months follow-up in patients with SSc.

Methods
In this bicentric cross-sectional study, 70 patients with SSc were consecutively selected from March 2016 to April 2017. Demographic and clinical features, including the presence of active DUs, were collected. Serum anti-annexin V IgG and IgM antibodies were measured at baseline and after 6, 12 and 24 months of follow-up. Videocapillaroscopy was performed in all patients.

Results
Among the 70 SSc patients included anti-annexin V IgG was found in 11 patients (15.7%) (range of 15.88–39.48 U/mL) and anti-annexin V IgM in 10 patients (14.3%) (range of 14.16–22.69 U/mL) at baseline. During follow-up, the number of patients who were positive for anti-annexin V IgG and IgM remained stable over 24 months. Among the patients with positive anti-annexin V IgG at baseline the frequency of patients with necrosis or amputation of extremities, forced vital capacity less than 70% and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was significantly higher than in patients with negative anti-annexin V IgG antibodies. Patients with anti-annexin V IgG had also a higher Raynaud’s Condition Score and a higher Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) than patients without these antibodies at baseline. Patients with positive anti-annexin V IgM at baseline presented a higher frequency of PAH, compared to those with negative anti-annexin V IgM at baseline.

Conclusions
Anti-annexin V antibodies are stable and do not change their positivity during a 24 month follow-up in SSc patients. Anti-annexin V IgG was associated with more severe interstitial lung involvement and digital microangiopathy, and patients with anti-annexin V IgG or IgM had a higher occurrence of PAH indicating an association of these biomarker with more severe disease.
Pain catastrophizing is associated with the Val66Met polymorphism of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor in fibromyalgia
Authors: da Silveira Alves Camila Fernanda , Caumo Wolnei , Silvestri Joana Morez , Zortea Maxciel , dos Santos Vinicius Souza , Cardoso Dayane Favarin , Regner Andrea , de Souza Alessandra Hübner , Simon Daniel 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a musculoskeletal chronic pain syndrome that impacts negatively patient’s daily lives. Its pathogenesis is characterized by a complex relationship between biological and psychosocial factors not fully understood yet. Pain catastrophizing is associated with FM and is an important predictor of outcomes. This study aimed to answer two questions: (i) whether the allele and genotype frequencies of BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism differs between FM patients and healthy controls (HC); and (ii) if the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism is a factor that predicts pain catastrophizing in FM.

Methods
In a cross-sectional design, 108 FM patients and 108 HC were included. FM patients responded to the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (BP-PCS) to assess pain catastrophizing, as well as other validated tools for anxiety (The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory - STAI), depression (Beck Depression Inventory II – BDI-II) and functional aspects (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire - FIQ; Central Sensitization Inventory validated and adapted for Brazilian population - CSI-BP; Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index - PSQI; and Resilience Scale). All subjects were genotyped for the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism.

Results
Val allele was significantly more frequent in FM patients compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Also, FM patients with Val/Val genotype showed more pain catastrophizing thoughts, and this genotype was significantly associated with magnification and rumination dimensions of BP-PCS (p < 0.05). Furthermore, there were significant differences in levels of anxiety and symptoms of depression, years of education, and the functional situation between the FM and control groups.

Conclusions
The findings show an association of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism with pain catastrophizing in FM, which opens new avenues to comprehend the interplay between molecular genetic characteristics and neuroplasticity mechanisms underpinning FM.
Addressing the worldwide shortages of face masks
Authors: Ji Dongxiao , Fan Li , Li Xiaoxia , Ramakrishna Seeram 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThe year 2020 will be punctuated by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the history of human civilization. Within four months, COVID-19 has become a public healthcare crisis in all nations around the world. Until a suitable vaccine is found and made widely available, the immediate solutions to protect individuals and to control the spread of the pandemic include wearing a face mask, maintaining personal hygiene, and social distancing. Certified face masks have become national essentials, and countries have imposed restrictions on exports, which has increased the worldwide shortages of masks and raw materials. This situation has also led to confusion and misinformation about face masks. This paper aims to provide quality information on face masks to alleviate the shortages. Disinfecting used masks and making homemade masks are discussed as emergency solutions. The development and manufacture of innovative masks (such as reusable masks, antivirus masks, and degradable masks) have become essential needs of society and involve both opportunities and challenges during this unprecedented time. In this prospective study, we provide the definitions, basic requirements, materials, possible preparation methods, and challenges of these innovative masks and highlight their important role in preventing epidemics similar to COVID-19.
Electrospun Solid Formulation of Anaerobic Gut Microbiome Bacteria
Authors: Vass Panna , Pantea Eszter , Domokos András , Hirsch Edit , Domján Júlia , Németh Áron , Molnár Mónika , Fehér Csaba , Andersen Sune K. , Vigh Tamás , Verreck Geert , Csontos István , Marosi György , Nagy Zsombor K. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractA model anaerobic bacterium strain from the gut microbiome (Clostridium butyricum) producing anti-inflammatory molecules was incorporated into polymer-free fibers of a water-soluble cyclodextrin matrix (HP-β-CD) using a promising scaled-up nanotechnology, high-speed electrospinning. A long-term stability study was also carried out on the bacteria in the fibers. Effect of storage conditions (temperature, presence of oxygen) and growth conditions on the bacterial viability in the fibers was investigated. The viability of the sporulated anaerobic bacteria in the fibers was maintained during 12 months of room temperature storage in the presence of oxygen. Direct compression was used to prepare tablets from the produced bacteria-containing fibers after milling (using an oscillating mill) and mixing with tableting excipients, making easy oral administration of the bacteria possible. No significant decrease was observed in bacterial viability following the processing of the fibers (milling and tableting).
Seeing and Feeling in a Life In-Between
Authors: Burton Antoinette 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
This article introduces a roundtable that consists of short reflections on Stuart Hall’s posthumously published memoir, Familiar Stranger: A Life between Two Islands. Written in collaboration with Bill Schwarz and completed after his death, the genre-defying text recounts aspects of a diasporic life lived “between two islands.” The essays take in-betweenness in Familiar Stranger seriously, treating it as symptomatic of Hall’s locative position and as an indispensable feature of his thought. Approaching the book from the perspective of varying fields and concerns, the authors draw attention to how it opens a space between past and present; metropole and colony; high and low cultural forms; Jamaica and Britain; history and memory; seeing and knowing.
Stereochemical Effects on the Self-Assembly of Pyrenylalanine-Phenylalanine Dipeptide
Authors: Mijiddorj Batsaikhan , Shirakata Hiroki , Nakagawa Tetsuya , Ueda Kazuyoshi , Yokoyama Yasushi , Kawamura Izuru 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The design and control of self-assembling biomaterials have significantly attracted attention over the last decades because of their broad ranges of applications. Here, we introduce the self-assembled fibers of the pyrene connected dipeptides, l-pyrenylalanine-l-phenylalanine (l-Pyr-l-Phe) and d-pyrenylalanine-l-phenylalanine (d-Pyr-l-Phe), and their structural analysis using experimental and computational techniques. While l-Pyr-l-Phe self-assembled into solid fibers, d-Pyr-l-Phe self-assembled into hydrogels with different morphologies. Fluorescence spectroscopy revealed monomer and red-shifted excimer emissions of the self-assembled l-Pyr-l-Phe and d-Pyr-l-Phe dipeptide nanostructures, respectively. This result was related to different 13C and 15N solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data on the backbone and side-chains of the self-assembled dipeptides. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated detailed information about the chirality effects of the dipeptides on their self-assembled structures.
Making health economic models Shiny: A tutorial
Authors: Smith Robert , Schneider Paul 
Published: July 2020

Health economic evaluation models have traditionally been built in Microsoft Excel, but more sophisticated tools are increasingly being used as model complexity and computational requirements increase. Of all the programming languages, R is most popular amongst health economists because it has a plethora of user created packages and is highly flexible. However, even with an integrated development environment such as R Studio, R lacks a simple point and click user interface and therefore requires some programming ability. This might make the switch from Microsoft Excel to R seem daunting, and it might make it difficult to directly communicate results with decisions makers and other stakeholders. The R package Shiny has the potential to resolve this limitation. It allows programmers to embed health economic models developed in R into interactive web browser based user interfaces. Users can specify their own assumptions about model parameters and run different scenario analyses, which, in the case of regular a Markov model, can be computed within seconds. This paper provides a tutorial on how to wrap a health economic model built in R into a Shiny application. We use a four-state Markov model developed by the Decision Analysis in R for Technologies in Health (DARTH) group as a case-study to demonstrate main principles and basic functionality. A more extensive tutorial, all code, and data are provided in a GitHub repository.
Disclosure Dynamics and Investor Learning
Authors: Zhou Frank S. 
Published: July 2020

This paper examines whether investor learning about profitability (i.e., the mean of earnings distribution) leads to persistence in disclosure decisions. A repeated single-period model shows that persistent investor beliefs about profitability lead to persistent disclosure decisions. Using earnings forecast data, I structurally estimate the model and perform several counterfactual analyses. I find that, when investors are assumed to know profitability, the persistence of management forecast decisions significantly declines by 17%–27%. About 24% of firms would have disclosed differently, resulting in 3.9% net change in the amount of information (i.e., posterior variance) provided to the capital market. Collectively, the results indicate the importance of learning profitability in understanding disclosure decisions and the capital market consequences of disclosures. This paper was accepted by Shiva Rajgopal, accounting.
The Role of Decision Support Systems in Attenuating Racial Biases in Healthcare Delivery
Authors: Ganju Kartik K. , Atasoy Hilal , McCullough Jeffery , Greenwood Brad 
Published: July 2020

Although significant research has examined how technology can intensify racial and other outgroup biases, limited work has investigated the role information systems can play in abating them. Racial biases are particularly worrisome in healthcare, where underrepresented minorities suffer disparities in access to care, quality of care, and clinical outcomes. In this paper, we examine the role clinical decision support systems (CDSS) play in attenuating systematic biases among black patients, relative to white patients, in rates of amputation and revascularization stemming from diabetes mellitus. Using a panel of inpatient data and a difference-in-difference approach, results suggest that CDSS adoption significantly shrinks disparities in amputation rates across white and black patients—with no evidence that this change is simply delaying eventual amputations. Results suggest that this effect is driven by changes in treatment care protocols that match patients to appropriate specialists, rather than altering within physician decision making. These findings highlight the role information systems and digitized patient care can play in promoting unbiased decision making by structuring and standardizing care procedures. This paper was accepted by Stefan Scholtes, healthcare management.
Improving the regenerative microenvironment during tendon healing by using nanostructured fibrin/agarose-based hydrogels in a rat Achilles tendon injury model
Authors: González-Quevedo David , Díaz-Ramos Miriam , Chato-Astrain Jesús , Sánchez-Porras David , Tamimi Iskandar , Campos Antonio , Campos Fernando , Carriel Víctor 
Published: July 2020

AimsAchilles tendon injuries are a frequent problem in orthopaedic surgery due to their limited healing capacity and the controversy surrounding surgical treatment. In recent years, tissue engineering research has focused on the development of biomaterials to improve this healing process. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of tendon augmentation with a nanostructured fibrin-agarose hydrogel (NFAH) or genipin cross-linked nanostructured fibrin-agarose hydrogel (GP-NFAH), on the healing process of the Achilles tendon in rats.MethodsNFAH, GP-NFAH, and MatriDerm (control) scaffolds were generated (five in each group). A biomechanical and cell-biomaterial-interaction characterization of these biomaterials was then performed: Live/Dead Cell Viability Assay, water-soluble tetrazolium salt-1 (WST-1) assay, and DNA-released after 48 hours. Additionally, a complete section of the left Achilles tendon was made in 24 Wistar rats. Animals were separated into four treatment groups (six in each group): direct repair (Control), tendon repair with MatriDerm, or NFAH, or GP-NFAH. Animals were euthanized for further histological analyses after four or eight weeks post-surgery. The Achilles tendons were harvested and a histopathological analysis was performed.ResultsTensile test revealed that NFAH and GP-NFAH had significantly higher overall biomechanical properties compared with MatriDerm. Moreover, biological studies confirmed a high cell viability in all biomaterials, especially in NFAH. In addition, in vivo evaluation of repaired tendons using biomaterials (NFAH, GP-NFAH, and MatriDerm) resulted in better organization of the collagen fibres and cell alignment without clinical complications than direct repair, with a better histological score in GP-NFAH.ConclusionIn this animal model we demonstrated that NFAH and GP-NFAH had the potential to improve tendon healing following a surgical repair. However, future studies are needed to determine the clinical usefulness of these engineered strategies. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(8):1095–1106.
Cost-utility analysis of standard dressing compared with incisional negative-pressure wound therapy among patients with closed surgical wounds following major trauma to the lower limb
Authors: Png May Ee , Madan Jason J. , Dritsaki Melina , Achten Juul , Parsons Nick , Fernandez Miguel , Grant Richard , Nanchahal Jagdeep , Costa Matthew L. ,   WHiST trial collaborators
Published: July 2020

Aims To compare the cost-utility of standard dressing with incisional negative-pressure wound therapy (iNPWT) in adults with closed surgical wounds associated with major trauma to the lower limbs. Methods A within-trial economic evaluation was conducted from the UK NHS and personal social services (PSS) perspective based on data collected from the Wound Healing in Surgery for Trauma (WHiST) multicentre randomized clinical trial. Health resource utilization was collected over a six-month post-randomization period using trial case report forms and participant-completed questionnaires. Cost-utility was reported in terms of incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to test the robustness of cost-effectiveness estimates while uncertainty was handled using confidence ellipses and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves. Results The incremental cost of standard dressing versus iNPWT over six months was £2,037 (95% confidence interval (CI) £349 to £3,724). There was an insignificant increment in QALYs gained in the iNPWT group (0.005, 95% CI -0.018 to 0.028). The probability of iNPWT being cost-effective at £20,000 per QALY was 1.9%. The results remained robust in the sensitivity analysis. Conclusion The within-trial economic evaluation suggests that iNPWT is unlikely to be a cost-effective alternative to standard dressing in adults with closed surgical wounds to their lower limbs. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(8):1072–1081.