bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Role of Human Pegivirus Infections in Whole P. falciparum Sporozoite Vaccination and Controlled Human Malaria Infection in African Volunteers
Authors: Tumbo Anneth-Mwasi , Schindler Tobias , Dangy Jean-Pierre , Orlova-Fink Nina , Bieri Jose Raso , Mpina Maximillian , Milando Florence A. , Juma Omar , Hamad Ally , Nyakarungu Elizabeth , Chemba Mwajuma , Mtoro Ali , Ramadhan Kamaka , Olotu Ally , Makweba Damas , Mgaya Stephen , Stuart Kenneth , Perreau Matthieu , Stapleton Jack T. , Jongo Said , Hoffman Stephen L. , Tanner Marcel , Abdulla Salim , Daubenberger Claudia 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Diverse vaccination outcomes and protection levels pose a serious challenge to the development of an effective malaria vaccine. Co-infections are among many factors associated with immune dysfunction and sub-optimal vaccination outcomes. Chronic, asymptomatic viral infections can contribute to the modulation of vaccine efficacy through various mechanisms. Human Pegivirus-1 (HPgV-1) persists in immune cells thereby potentially modulating immune responses. We investigated whether Pegivirus infection influences vaccine-induced responses and protection in African volunteers undergoing whole P. falciparum sporozoites-based malaria vaccination and controlled human malaria infections (CHMI). Methods: HPgV-1 prevalence was quantified by RT-qPCR in plasma samples of 96 individuals before, during and post vaccination with PfSPZ Vaccine in cohorts from Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea. The impact of HPgV-1 infection was evaluated on (1) systemic cytokine and chemokine levels measured by Luminex, (2) PfCSP-specific antibody titers quantified by ELISA (3) asexual blood stage parasitemia and pre-patent periods with HPgV-1 infection status and (4) HPgV-1 RNA levels upon asexual blood stage parasitemia induced by CHMI. Results: The prevalence of HPgV-1 was 29.2% (28/96) and sequence analysis of the 5`UTR and E2 region revealed the predominance of genotypes 1, 2 and 5 in the positive volunteers. HPgV-1 infection was associated with elevated systemic levels of IL-2 and IL-17A. Comparable vaccine-induced anti-PfCSP antibody titers, asexual blood stage multiplication rates and pre-patent periods were observed in HPgV-1 positive and negative individuals. However, higher level of protection was detected in the HPgV-1 positive group (62.5%) than negative one (51.6%) following CHMI. Overall, HPgV-1 viremia levels were not significantly altered after CHMI. Conclusions: Although HPgV-1 infection did not alter vaccine-elicited levels of PfCSP-specific antibody responses and parasite multiplication rates, an ongoing infection appears to improve some degree of protection against CHMI in PfSPZ-vaccinated individuals. This is likely through modulation of immune system activation and systemic cytokines as higher levels of IL-2 and IL17A were observed in HPgV-1 infected individuals. CHMI is safe and well tolerated in HPgV-1 infected individuals. Identification of cell types and mechanisms of both silent and productive infection in individuals will help to unravel the biology of this widely present but largely under-researched virus.
Informal Economy and Gender Inequality,
Authors: Joseph Tonuchi Emmanuel , Nevo Chinedu Miracle , Nwolisa Chinyere Ugonwa 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the global economy has exposed not just the dominant nature of informal sector in Africa economy but also the vulnerability of the women in the continent. Thus, this study investigates the relationship between gender inequality and growth of the informal sector in Africa. Using Generalised Least Square Approach, it was discovered that gender inequality indices such as equality between male and female in getting job in the formal economy under same or similar circumstances have significant impact in the growth of the informal economy in the continent. The study concludes that if adequate effort is not made to address the gender inequality in the continent especially in formal employment that have forced many females to informal sector employment, the objective of achieving inclusive growth and development in the continent might not be realistic. The study therefore recommends that the UN and other international organisations should compensate the African women by giving the women at least 60 percent chance in all their employment as a way of increasing the economic and political power of the women in the continent.
Longitudinal proteomic profiling reveals increased early inflammation and sustained apoptosis proteins in severe COVID-19
Authors: Haljasmägi Liis , Salumets Ahto , Rumm Anna Pauliina , Jürgenson Meeri , Krassohhina Ekaterina , Remm Anu , Sein Hanna , Kareinen Lauri , Vapalahti Olli , Sironen Tarja , Peterson Hedi , Milani Lili , Tamm Anu , Hayday Adrian , Kisand Kai , Peterson Pärt 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection risks developing into life-threatening COVID-19 disease. Whereas age, hypertension, and chronic inflammatory conditions are risk factors, underlying host factors and markers for disease severity, e.g. requiring intensive care unit (ICU) treatment, remain poorly defined. To this end, we longitudinally profiled blood inflammation markers, antibodies, and 101 plasma proteins of hospitalized COVID-19 patients who did or did not require (ICU admission. Whereas essentially all patients displayed SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies and virus-neutralization capacity within 12-15 days, a rapid, mostly transient upregulation of selective inflammatory markers including IL-6, CXCL10, CXCL11, IFNg, IL-10, and monocyte-attracting CCL2, CCL7 and CCL8, was particularly evident in ICU patients. In addition, there was consistent and sustained upregulation of apoptosis-associated proteins CASP8, TNFSF14, HGF, and TGFB1, with HGF discriminating between ICU and non-ICU cohorts. Thus, COVID-19 is associated with a selective inflammatory milieu within which the apoptotic pathway is a cardinal feature with potential to aid risk-based patient stratification.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Sexual and Reproductive Health Among Older Adolescent Girls in Bangladesh: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zakaria Muhammad , Xu Junfang , Karim Farzana , Mazumder Subarna , Cheng Feng 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Improving the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of adolescent girls is one of the primary agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adequate and accurate knowledge, favorable attitude, safe behavior, and regular practice contribute to the adolescent girls’ SRH, maternal, and child health. In the background, this study aims to explore the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of SRH among college-going older adolescent girls in Chittagong district, Bangladesh. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in four colleges among the older adolescent girls age group of 16-17 (N = 792) attending a higher secondary grade in Chittagong district. Data were collected using a structured and self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were used to summarize the SRH-related KAP and identify the associated factors, respectively. Results: 62% of study participants had the awareness that both physical and psychological changes occur in the adolescence period, while only 36% knew that menstruation is not a disease. Besides, only 30% of adolescent girls were informed about taking birth control has no adverse effect on the sexual relationship of a couple. Moreover, only 40% of students were learned that HIV could not be spread through the mosquito and flea, whereas only 25% knew that transmission of HIV is unlikely from an infected person’s coughing and sneezing. Of older adolescent girls, 35% disagreed perfectly whether sexual education can lead to more sexual activity. Besides, more or less 20% of participants opined that adolescent girls should refrain from going outside even to the school, entering into the kitchen, touching anyone, brushing hair, and see in the mirror. Moreover, 52% of adolescent girls wanted to learn more details about SRH, while 48% felt timid and afraid of their puberty changes. Besides, 62.5% of adolescent girls reported their using cloth during the menstrual cycle instead of the sanitary pad. Standardized coefficients beta (β) and p value < .05 in linear regression analyses explored that adolescent girls’ study of science, urban residence, reading or watching SRH contents on the mass media appeared as the more significant predictors for outcome variables. Conclusion: Many problems related to SRH exist among older adolescent girls in Bangladesh, such as behaviors and social constraints associated with menstruation, myths, and assumptions, recognition of the value of awareness and knowledge of reproductive health. Therefore, strengthening SRH-related comprehensive education programs incorporating into the curriculum, effective use of mass media, and supplying behavioral change communication materials are essential.
Extended - spectrum beta - lactamase E. coli and K. pneumoniae urinary tract infections
Authors: Vachvanichsanong Prayong , McNeil Edward B , Dissaneewate Pornsak 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: The prevalences of extended - spectrum beta - lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli ( E . coli ) and Klebsiella pneumoniae ( K . pneumoniae ) urinary tract infections (UTI) in children are increasing worldwide. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, clinical findings, impact and risk factors of ESBL E . coli / K . pneumoniae UTI.Methods: The medical records of children with UTI aged <15 years admitted to Prince of Songkla University Hospital were reviewed. Results: Theirty-seven boys and 46 girls had ESBL in 102 UTI episodes; 85 boys and 103 girls had non-ESBL in all of their 222 UTI episodes. The median age at presentation was 1.5 (0.7 - 4.8) years for the ESBL group and 1.3 (0.6 - 3.9) for the non-ESBL group (p=0.2). Age and gender were not significantly different between the two groups. The prevalence of ESBL rose between 2004 and 2008 before plateauing at around 30-40% per year. The prevalences in first and recurrent UTI were 27.3% and 46.5%, respectively (p=0.003). Fever prior to UTI diagnosis was found in 78.4% of episodes in the non-ESBL group and 61.8% of episodes in the ESBL group (p=0.003). Multivariate analysis, children without fever (OR=2.14, 95% CI: 1.23-3.74) and those with recurrent UTI (OR=2.67, 95% CI: 1.37 – 5.19) were more likely to have ESBL UTI. The presence of CAKUT had no effect on ESBL UTI. Conclusions: ESBL was found in one-third of E . coli / K . pneumoniae UTI episodes. No clinical condition nor imaging study could predict ESBL. Recurrent UTI was the only independent risk factor.
Pandemic-related PTSD symptoms and substance use among community-based adults
Authors: Currie Cheryl L. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Objectives: To examine: (1) the role of gender and socioeconomic status in pandemic-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and substance use; (2) associations between probable PTSD and substance use, and (3) the supports needed to address these problems. Methods: Data were collected in June 2020 from 933 community-based adults in Alberta without a previous diagnosis of PTSD. The Primary Care PTSD Screen was adapted to assess pandemic-related PTSD symptoms. Participants were asked if alcohol or cannabis use had increased in the past month. Adjusted logistic regression models examined associations between probable PTSD and substance use. Results: Significantly more women (19%) than men (13%) met criteria for probable pandemic–related PTSD, while a similar percentage (13.5% of women, 13.0% of men) reported increased substance use during the pandemic. Adults with lower income, education, or pandemic-related job loss were more vulnerable to PTSD and substance use increases. Probable pandemic-related PTSD was associated with increased substance use for both women (OR = 2.2) and men (OR = 2.3) in adjusted models. Many adults (50% of women, 40% of men) indicated they needed support to address mental health or substance use during the pandemic, particularly from friends, a physician, and/or a counsellor. Conclusions: This study examined adults who had just experienced two months of increasing COVID-19 cases and containment measures. Findings suggest women and socioeconomically vulnerable adults may be in greater need of mental health supports, and that pandemic-related PTSD is an important consideration for interventions to reduce substance use among both women and men.
Synbiotic kefir lowered peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) gene expression in rat fed high-fat and high-fructose diet
Authors: Nurliyani  , Harmayani Eni , Sunarti  
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Kefir is fermented milk product containing bacteria and yeast, whereas glucomannan from porang (Amorphophallus oncophyllus) tuber has known as prebiotic in vivo. Diets with a high fat and high sugar will stimulate metabolic syndrome. The objective of this study were to determine the effect of synbiotic kefir (goat milk kefir enriched with porang glucomannan) on blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), free fatty acid (FFA), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), gene expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), and insulin producing cells in rat fed high- fat and high- fructose (HFHF) diet. Rats were divided into 5 groups: normal; high fat high fructose (HFHF); HFHF + probiotic kefir; HFHF + synbiotic kefir; and HFHF + simvastatin. There was no significantly differences in plasma blood glucose in HFHF rat after treated with synbiotic kefir. However, synbiotic kefir could decrease HbA1c and plasma TNFα, and inhibit the increasing FFA in HFHF rats. Probiotic and synbiotic kefir could decrease gene expression of PPARγ2 in both of adipose and liver tissue in HFHF rats, but had no effect on total number of Langerhans islet and insulin producing cell. In conclusion, synbiotic kefir could ameliorate the health of rats in condition of high-fat and high-fructose diet, through decreasing in HbA1c, TNFα, and gene expression of PPARγ2 and also prevent the increasing of FFA. Therefore, synbiotic kefir containing porang glucomannan is expected to be a suggestion for the food industry to develop synbiotic-based functional foods which has the potential to improve metabolic syndrome
A new forecast model for fluctuating Pattern of Covid-19 spread in South Asia
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Arif , Zaheer Kashif Bin , Haroon Syed Muhammad , Kashif Amber Nehan 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Exponential growths are observed in several natural phenomena, including cosmological expansion of the universe, nuclear fission, population growth, global viral spread, and financial markets fluctuations. Several deterministic and stochastic methods have been used for the modeling of dynamics of these phenomena. Global reliable data are essential to parameterise a defined model so as to enhance confidence in model outputs. Four-parameter logistic model comes out to be best forecast model for the total Covid-19 infected people in Pakistan and India. Five-parameter logistic model is best forecast model for Bangladesh. Simulation results revel that maximum total number of cases will be about 1.0, 0.6 and 0.25 million in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh respectively. Covid-19 infected rate will be closed to 11000, 8000 and 2000 cases per day during peak period in these countries.
A Comparative Study of Spinel ZnFe2O4 Ferrites Obtained via a Hydrothermal and a Ceramic Route: Structural and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Zhu Xuesong , Cao Chunxiang , Su Shubing , Xia A.L. , Zhang Huiyan , Li Hailing , Liu Zhiyuan , Jin Chuangui 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
The spinel ZnFe2O4 specimens were obtained via a hydrothermal and a ceramic method, respectively, and their structural and magnetic properties were comparatively studied. It was found that all the specimens exhibited a single-phase and mixed spinel structure. The magnetism of specimens synthesized via the hydrothermal method is obviously greater than that of specimen prepared via the ceramic method. This can be ascribed to the occupancy of Fe ions resulted from the loss of Zn during the hydrothermal process.
The Effects of Pneumococcal and Haemophilus Vaccines in Children Under 5 Years of Age on Severity of Illness and Deaths From Infections Other Than Those Conditions That the Vaccine is Designed to Prevent, and on All-cause Mortality and All-cause Hospitalisation: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Rooney Darragh , Ledwidge Mark , Watson Chris , Gallagher Joe , Glynn Liam 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundVaccination in children has reduced morbidity and mortality worldwide from infectious diseases. It has been suggested that vaccines have beneficial effects beyond the diseases they are designed to prevent. These are known as “non-specific effects” and include reductions in severity of illness and hospitalisation for illnesses other than those the vaccine is designed to prevent. This protocol will focus specifically on the non-specific effects of pneumococcal and haemophilus influenza vaccines in children under 5 years of age.MethodsWe will systematically search Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the European Union Clinical Trials Register and the clinicaltrials.gov databases using a broad range of search terms pertaining to pneumonia, morbidity, mortality and children to identify potentially relevant studies. These will be limited to randomised controlled trials, quasi randomised controlled trials and cohort studies in English. Two independent reviewers will conduct all levels of screening, data abstraction, and quality appraisal (using the Cochrane risk of bias tool). DiscussionOur results can be used by researchers and policy-makers to identify if there are non-specific effects of pneumococcal and haemophilus vaccines which should be explored further. The review will be also be of interest to patients and clinicians to determine if vaccines have beneficial effects beyond the illnesses they are designed to prevent.Systematic review registrationThe systematic review protocol is registered with the PROSPERO database, Registration number: CRD42020146640.
The characteristics of echocardiography in ICU patients and its relationship with the outcomes
Authors: Peng Qian-Yi , Liu Li-Xia , Zhang Qian , Zhu Ying , Zhang Hong-Min , Yin Wan-Hong , He Wei , Shang Xiu-Ling , Chao Yan-Gong , Lv Li-Wen , Wang Xiao-Ting , Zhang Li-Na 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background Echocardiography is widely used for bedside monitoring in ICU. We aimed to describe the characteristics of echocardiography manifestations in different groups of ICU patients, and the association with the outcomes.Methods This is a prospective multiple-center cohort study took place in 17 ICUs in China. A total of 1682 continuous adult patients admitted between August 31, 2017 to February 16, 2019 who had echocardiography performed within 24 hours in ICU were included. The echocardiography was performed and the echocardiography scores were calculated. Data was analyzed and compared between different outcome and primary indication groups.Results The overall 28-day mortality was 15.76%. Left ventricle enlargement and other echocardiogram abnormalities were more common in the non-survivors than the survivors. The EF value was lower, and the decrease in EF value was more frequent in the non-survivors than the survivors. The echocardiography score was significantly higher in the non-survivors than the survivors. The incidence of right ventricle enlargement and EF decrease was high in ICU patients (26.52% and 26.93% respectively). The independent risk factors for 28-day mortality was APACHE II, the length of MV, the length of ICU stay, oxygenation index, right ventricle wall thickening, IVC diameter, IVC variability, and the echocardiography score.Conclusions The incidence of cardiac dysfunction is high in ICU patients. The echocardiography score was significantly higher in the non-survivors than the survivors, and was an independent risk factor for 28-day mortality. Echocardiography is a convenient bedside monitoring method which deserves widely use in ICUs.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-DDD-17012391). Registered 2017.08.17. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=21127.
Patterns of Antidepressant Prescriptions for the Treatment of Depression: A Scoping Review
Authors: Marasine Nirmal Raj , Sankhi Sabina , Lamichhane Rajendra , Dangi Nim Bahadur 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Introduction: Depression is an important global public health problem due to its relatively high lifetime prevalence and significant disability caused by it. It is associated with functional impairment and high morbidity and mortality. Antidepressant medication is considered to be the best treatment option for depressionMethod: Literature searches (2000-2019) were performed using PubMed, HINARI and Google Scholar that analyze the pattern of prescription of antidepressants among the patients of depression. .Results: Females suffered from depression more than their male counterparts. Married people, housewives, lower income people, employees and highly educated people suffered more from depression. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) like Sertraline, was found out to be the most preferred antidepressant among the depressive patients. Conclusion: Our Study suggested that out of five major antidepressant drugs being available for the treatment of depression, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are preferred over others because of their better side effect and tolerability profile.
Synthesis of nearly spherical AlN particles by an in-situ nitriding combustion route
Authors: Wei Zhilei , Li Kang , Ge Bangzhi , Guo Chaowei , Xia Hongyan , Guo Yajie , Shi Zhongqi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Spherical AlN powders with micrometer size have attracted great attention owing to their good fluidity and dispersity. However, the industrial preparation methods usually require high temperature and long soaking time, which lead to the high cost and limit the wide application of the products. Herein, nearly spherical AlN particles with the average size of 2.5 µm were successfully synthesized via an in-situ combustion synthesis method. The effect of N2 pressure, NH4Cl content and Al particle size on the combustion reaction procedure, phase composition and microstructure of the products was systematically investigated. The results showed that the decreased N2 pressure, increased NH4Cl content and Al particle size led to the decreasing of combustion temperature and speed, which further affected the morphology of the products. As a result, low N2 pressure (0.2 MPa), a small amount of NH4Cl (0.5 wt%) and fine Al particles (~ 2.5 µm) contributed to a moderate combustion temperature and facilitated the formation of nearly spherical AlN particles. In addition, based on the gas-releasing assisted quenching experiments and thermo-kinetic analysis, a two-step growth mechanism for the nearly spherical AlN particles was rationally proposed. The present method shows the advantages of low cost and high efficiency for preparing nearly spherical AlN particles, which can be used as raw materials for electronic substrates and fillers for packaging materials.