bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of Silica-Immobilized Vaccines for Improving Thermo-Tolerance and Shelf-Life
Authors: Montoya Nicole , Barr Kaylee , Kirchhoff Brian , Reyes Edward , Umana Jorge , Nichol Kalena , Hartman Eric , Picking William , Gao Fei Phillip , Corbin David R. , Shiflett Mark B. 
Published: October 2020

Introduction. It is estimated that 50% of vaccines produced annu- ally are wasted because effectivity is dependent on protein structure and heat exposure disrupts the intermolecular interactions that maintain this structure. Since 90% of vaccines require a temperature- controlled supply chain, it is necessary to create a cold chain system to minimize vaccine waste. We have developed a more sustainable technology via the adsorption of Invasion Plasmid Antigen D (IpaD) onto mesoporous silica gels, improving the thermal stability of pro- tein-based therapeutics.
Methods.xThe solution depletion method using UV-Vis was uti- lized to study the adsorption of IpaD onto silica gels. The silica-IpaD complex is heated above the denaturing temperature of the protein and then the IpaD is removed using N,N-Dimethyldodecylamine N-oxide (LDAO) and their secondary structure is tested using cir- cular dichroism (CD).
Results. Pore diameter, pore volume and surface area were charac- terized for seven different silica gels. Silica gels designated as 6389, 6378, and 6375 had an adsorption percentage above 95% at pore volumes of 2.2, 2.8 and 3.8 cm3 mg-1, respectively. CD analyses con- firmed that the adsorbed IpaD after the heat treatment displayed a similar “W” shape CD signal as the native IpaD, indicating the con- servation of α-helices. In contrast, the unprotected IpaD after being exposed to high temperature shows a flat CD signal, demonstrating the loss of secondary structure.
Conclusion. We have successfully increased the thermo-tolerance for IpaD using mesoporous silica and continue to further optimize mesoporous silica’s physiochemical properties to improve adsorption and desorption yields.
A clinical case of partial androgen resistance syndrome (Reifenstein syndrome)
Authors: Dzeranova L. K. , Pigarova E. A. , Ivannikova E. V. , Kurilo L. F. , Chernykh V. B. , Polyakov A. V. 
Published: October 2020

In the paper we describe a clinical case and provide integrated clinical and laboratory data of a patient with partial androgen resistance syndrome. A 25-year-old male was referred for medical evaluation for an infertile marriage. After a comprehensive assessment, he was diagnosed with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, coronal hypospadia, left-sided varicocele, and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. Cytogenetic analysis showed normal male karyotype (46,XY). Molecular genetic analysis identified the c.731_736delCGGTGT mutation in the exon 1 of the androgen receptor (AR) gene, what allowed for making a diagnosis of Reifenstein syndrome. In addition, we give a brief literature review of the clinical conditions associated with abnormal androgen sensitivity and discuss the problems of testing and counseling of patients with partial androgen resistance syndrome.
Development of a Competency Scale for Nurses of a Japanese Community Hospital: The Unnan Ladder
Authors: Maejima Satoko , Ohta Ryuichi 
Published: October 2020

Background and PurposeThe Japanese Nurse Association (JNA) has established the JNA ladder to assess competency in various clinical nursing settings in Japan. This study developed and tested a specific Japanese community hospital's Nurse Competency Scale (the Unnan ladder).MethodsUsing the Delphi method, the contents of the Unnan ladder were identified and validated in a four-step approach. A 28-nurse panel approved 66 items; 112 community nurses assessed the content, construct concurrent validity, and internal consistency of the Unnan ladder competency scale.ResultsThe Unnan ladder data were normally distributed. Higher scores on it correlated with higher scores on the Nurse Competency Scale. The Unnan ladder categories showed good internal consistency.ConclusionsThis ladder's application may lead to improved nursing skills and better patient care.
Development of the Nurses' Intention to Use Deep Vein Thrombosis Preventive Measures Questionnaire
Authors: Hebeshy Mona Ibrahim , Hansen Dana M. , Broome Barbara , Abou Abdou Somaya , Murrock Carolyn , Bernert Donna 
Published: October 2020

Background and PurposeDeep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition resulting in poor patient outcomes. Therefore, methods to improve nurses' use of preventive measures for DVT are paramount. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an instrument that captured nurses' intentions to use DVT preventive measures.MethodsInstrument development occurred in several stages stemming from the recommended formatted structure associated with theory of planned behavior (TPB). Content validity was established with a panel of experts, then the instrument was pilot tested with a sample of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses.ResultsThe final instrument consisted of four subscales, each subscale was tested with four items by content validity index (CVI) ranging between 0.8 and 1.0, and an overall S-CVI/Ave of 0.93.ConclusionsThe instrument demonstrated high content validity. Future research will test the instrument for psychometric properties.
Psychometric Testing of a Structured Assessment Instrument for Non-technical Skills (NANTS-no) for Use in Clinical Supervision of Student Nurse Anesthetists
Authors: Flynn Fiona M. , Valeberg Berit T. , Tønnessen Siri , Bing-Jonsson Pia Cecilie 
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThis study evaluated psychometric properties of a structured behavioral assessment instrument, Nurse Anaesthetists' Non-Technical Skills—Norway (NANTS-no). It estimated whether reliable assessments of nontechnical skills (NTS) could be made after taking part in a workshop. An additional objective was to evaluate the instrument's acceptability and usability.MethodsAn explorative design was used. Nurse anesthetists (n = 46) involved in clinical supervision attended a 6-hour workshop on NTS, then rated NTS in video-recorded simulated scenarios and completed a questionnaire.ResultsHigh reliability and dependability were estimated in this setting. Participants regarded the instrument as useful for clinical supervision of student nurse anesthetists (SNAs).ConclusionsFindings suggest that NANTS-no may be reliable for performing clinical assessments of SNAs and encouraging critical reflection. However, further research is needed to explore its use in clinical settings.
Pour une production contrôlée d’agarwood d’Aquilaria crassna Pierre ex Lecomte en Guyane : approches métagénomique, biochimique et histologique
Authors: ZAREMSKI Clara 
Published: October 2020

Aquilaria Lam. est un genre d’arbre tropical de la famille des Thymelaeaceae dont le bois sain est de couleur blanche. Lorsque l’arbre est blessé, en interactions avec des micro-organismes environnementaux, l’arbre produit un bois transformé par sa forte teneur en composés secondaires : l’agarwood. L’agarwood, de couleur brun-noir, est particulièrement apprécié pour son odeur boisée intense. L’huile essentielle obtenue par hydrodistillation d’agarwood est très prisée en parfumerie. Ainsi, le marché mondial des produits dérivés d’Aquilaria est estimé, en 2018, à 11 milliards de dollars US. Face à la demande croissante sur le marché mondial, des agriculteurs guyanais ont réalisé des plantations expérimentales d’Aquilaria en Guyane. Ainsi, l’objectif du projet Aquil@Guyane est d’aider ces planteurs à produire une huile essentielle de composition chimique contrôlée, respectueuse de la biologie de l’arbre et de l’environnement. Dans ce contexte, le sujet de thèse a été orienté en vue de promouvoir la production de connaissances académiques de nature à contribuer au développement de la production d’agarwood d’Aquilaria crassna en Guyane. Après caractérisation des communautés fongiques présentes dans les arbres d’Aquilaria crassna en Guyane, permettant de révéler l’importance des Basidiomycètes dans la production d’agarwood, deux méthodes d’induction d’agarwood ont été comparées : une méthode d’induction par blessure, avec ou sans ajout de terre ; une méthode d’induction par inoculation de souches guyanaises sélectionnées de Basidiomycètes. Cette dernière méthode, notamment par inoculation de champignons de pourriture fibreuse, comme Pycnoporus sanguineus, est la plus performante pour obtenir un agarwood de qualité proche d’un agarwood de référence provenant du Laos. La spectrométrie proche infrarouge (SPIR) a été utilisée pour différencier le bois blanc et l’agarwood et pour distinguer différentes compositions chimiques d’agarwood. Les résultats obtenus sont cohérents avec ceux de l’analyse biochimique après hydrodistillation : l’utilisation de la SPIR pour trier et contrôler la qualité de l’agarwood avant son hydrodistillation est envisageable. Enfin, une méthode de culture de cals d’Aquilaria a été mise au point afin de comprendre, en laboratoire, les mécanismes moléculaires qui aboutissent à la production d’agarwood. Les résultats indiquent une production de terpènes par les cals d’Aquilaria contaminés par des souches de champignons de pourriture fibreuse.
Characterizing Returning Polymers in Hydraulic-Fracturing Flowback and Produced Water: Implications for Colloid Formation (includes associated erratum)
Authors: von Gunten Konstantin , Snihur Katherine N. , McKay Ryan T. , Serpe Michael , Kenney Janice P. L. , Alessi Daniel S. 
Published: October 2020

SummaryPartially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (PHPA) friction reducer was investigated in produced water from hydraulically fractured wells in the Duvernay and Montney Formations of western Canada. Produced water from systems that used nonencapsulated breaker had little residual solids (&lt;0.3 g/L) and high degrees of hydrolysis, as shown by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Where an encapsulated breaker was used, more colloidal solids (1.1–2.2 g/L) were found with lower degrees of hydrolysis. In this system, the molecular weight (MW) of polymers was investigated, which decreased to &lt;2% of the original weight within 1 hour of flowback. This was accompanied by slow hydrolysis and an increase in methine over methylene groups. Increased polymer-fragment concentrations were found to be correlated with a higher abundance of metal-carrying colloidal phases. This can lead to problems such as higher heavy-metal mobility in the case of produced-water spills and can cause membrane fouling during produced-water recycling and reuse.NOTE: An erratum has been issued for this paper and added to the PDF. A copy is also available under the Supplementary Data section.
Isolation and Characterization of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) from Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens)
Authors: Liu Songrui , Li Yunli , Yue Chanjuan , Zhang Dongsheng , Su Xiaoyan , Yan Xia , Yang Kuixing , Chen Xin , Zhuo Guifu , Cai Tong , Liu Jiangfeng , Peng Xi , Hou Rong 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background Disease prevention and control is a significant part in the ex-situ conservation of the endangered red panda (Ailurus fulgens), being bacterial infection is one of the most important health threats to the captive population. To date, studies about the infection caused by Escherichia coli in the red panda are scarce. This study was conducted to determine the cause of death of a captive red panda through clinical symptoms, complete blood count, biochemical analysis, pathological diagnosis and bacterial whole genome sequencing. Case presentation The following report describes a case of a 1.5 year old captive red panda (Ailurus fulgens) that was found lethargic and anorectic. She was moved to the quarantine area for daily treatment with 50mg of Cefpodoxime Proxetil. During the three-day treatment, she did not eat or defecate, and then died. Clinical hematology revealed the values of neutrophils, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were significantly higher. Histological analysis demonstrated major pathological damage in the kidneys, liver and lungs, characterized by hyperemia, parenchymal cell degeneration and necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration which were predominantly neutrophilic. A bacterial strain confirmed as Escherichia coli was isolated post mortem. Whole genome sequencing of the E. coli showed the complete genome size was 4.99 Mbp. PapA, PapC, OmpA, OmpU and other virulence factors which specific to Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) were found in the isolate. Among the virulence factors, P pili, type I pili and related factors of the iron uptake system were associated with nephrotoxicity. Conclusion The red panda died of bacterial infection caused by an uropathogenic strain of Escherichia coli. The pathogenic mechanisms of the strain are closely related to the expression of specific virulence genes.
Violence –related injuries in a rapidly developing Middle Eastern country: A Retrospective Study from a Level 1Trauma Center
Authors: Mollazehi Monira , El-Menyar Ayman , Mekkodathil Ahammed , Consunji Rafael , Al-Thani Hassan 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Violence is a global public health problem leading to injuries, long-term physical, sexual or mental health problems and even mortality. The burden of violence-related injuries on hospital systems remains understudied in the Arabian Gulf region. The present study aimed to describe the epidemiology of hospitalized violence-related injuries in Qatar. Methods: A retrospective analysis of trauma registry data from a level 1 trauma center was conducted to retrieve data related to all patients admitted to the hospital for violence-related injuries between June 2010 and June 2017. Analyzed data was used to compare the hospitalized interpersonal and self-inflicted violence groups.Results: The hospitalization rate of violence-related injuries was 4.6 per 100,000 population per year; it was significantly higher in males (5.5/100,000 males/year vs. 1.8/100,000 females/year) and in younger populations, specifically in the 25-34 years age-group (41%). South Asians constituted 55% of the affected study population. Interpersonal violence (76.7%) was the most common mechanism of injury. Significant differences between interpersonal and self-inflicted violence were evident, especially for the type of trauma (i.e. blunt or penetrating), injured body regions, alcohol use, injury severity, need for intubation and psychiatric referral (p<0.05). Overall, in-hospital mortality was 6.4%; with a significantly higher rate in females (16% vs.5%, p=0.001). Outcomes, including length of hospital stay and mortality, were comparable in the two study groups. Multivariate analysis showed that male gender and alcohol use were predictors for interpersonal violence whereas a high Injury Severity Score and a low Glasgow Coma Scale were predictors of hospital mortality.Conclusions: The rate of hospitalization for violence-related injuries in Qatar is low; however, its burden on the trauma system is of concern. Although it comprised only 9.6% of the study population, females are more likely to get hospitalized following self-inflicted injuries when compared to interpersonal violence. The disproportionate burden of violence among South Asian and young populations warrants an evidence-based public health approach to best address the risk factors and set appropriate prevention programs.
Quantifying individual variability in exposure risk to mosquito bites in the Cascades region, Burkina Faso
Authors: Guglielmo Federica , Sanou Antoine , Churcher Thomas S , Ferguson Heather M , Ranson Hilary , Sherrard-Smith Ellie 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background. The Cascades Region, Burkina Faso, has a high malaria burden despite reported high insecticide-treated mosquito net (ITN) use. Human and vector activities outside the hours when indoor interventions offer direct protection from infectious bites potentially increase exposure risk to bites from malaria-transmitting Anopheles mosquitoes. We investigated the degree of variation in human behaviour both between individuals and through time (season) to quantify how it impacts exposure to malaria vectors. Methods. Patterns in human overnight activity (18:00-06:00) to quantify time spent using an ITN across 7 successive nights in two rural communities, Niakore (N = 24 participants) and Toma (71 participants), were observed in the dry and rainy seasons, between 2017-2018. Hourly human landing Anopheles mosquito catches were conducted in Niakore specifically, and Cascades Region generally, between 2016-2017. Data were statistically combined to estimate seasonal variation in time spent outdoors and Anopheles bites received per person per night (bpppn). Results. Substantial variability in exposure to outdoor Anopheles bites was detected within and between communities across seasons. In October, when Anopheles densities are highest, an individual’s risk of Anopheles bites ranged from 2.2 to 52.2 bpppn within the same week with variable risk dependent on hours spent indoors. Comparably higher outdoor human activity was observed in April and July but, due to lower Anopheles densities estimated, bpppn were 0.2 – 4.7 and 0.5 – 32.0 respectively. Males and people aged over 21 years were predicted to receive more bites in both sentinel villages. Conclusion. This work presents one of the first clear descriptions of the degree of heterogeneity in time spent outdoors between people and across the year. Appreciation of sociodemographic, cultural and entomological activities will help refine approaches to vector control.
Anti-inflammatory Mechanism of Rhein in Treating Asthma Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Feng Junfang , Chen Ou , Wang Yibiao 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Network pharmacological methods were used to predict the anti-inflammatory targets and related pathways of rhein in the treatment of asthma, and to elucidate its mechanism of action. In addition, we validated the anti-inflammatory effects of rhein in human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells.Methods: The corresponding targets of rhein were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform 2.3 (TCMSP), and molecular docking was also performed. A network of predicted rhein targets was established and analysed with Cytoscape 3.7.1. The anti-inflammatory targets in the Therapeutic Target Database 2020 (TTD) were searched to build a protein-protein interaction network (PPI), which was merged with the ingredient-target network to screen anti-inflammatory targets associated with rhein. A network of anti-inflammatory rhein targets during the in vivo treatment of asthma was constructed to screen the anti-inflammatory targets related to asthma. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis was performed with the Enrichr database and Cytoscape 3.7.1. The expression levels of proteins in the mitogen-activated protein kinase / nuclear factor kappa-B (MAPK/NF-κB) signalling pathway were assessed by western blot analysis.Results: Altogether, Eighty-three targets were obtained. Epidermal active growth factor receptor (EGFR), E-selecting (E-SELE), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), and mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14) might be important anti-inflammatory targets of rhein during asthma treatment. We selected the MAPK signalling pathway to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of rhein.Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory mechanism of the treatment of asthma with rhein may be related to MAPK14, EGFR, E-SELE and MIF as well as their signalling pathways. To prevent the exacerbation of asthma, instead of targeting a single pathway or a single target, all these targets and their signalling pathways should be controlled holistically. Rhein may reduce inflammation by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB pathway.
Coverage and effectiveness of hypertension screening in different altitudes of Tibet autonomous region
Authors: Song Ci , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Wangdui Suolang , Mima Danzeng , Zhuoma Cuoji , Ji De , Luobu Ouzhu , Sripl Hutcha 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Tibet is an autonomous region in China located around an average altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level. Since 2012 the local government of Tibet has been providing free physical examinations, including screening for hypertension. However, the coverage and effectiveness of this free program have not been uncovered. This study aims to assess the coverage and effectiveness of hypertension screening and management program in 3 altitude levels of Tibet, and also the determinants of the success of the screening program.Methods: A stratified cluster survey was conducted among 1,636 residents aged 18 years or over in three different altitude areas in Tibet. We adjusted for age and sex based on national census data and used weighted logistic regression models to find factors associated with hypertension screening. Results: The coverage of the hypertension screening program evaluated by participation rate in the previous screening was 94.9%, while 24.7% (95% CI: 22.1%-27.3%) of them were diagnosed with hypertension. Females and alcohol drinkers were more likely to be screened. Among those diagnosed with hypertension, 28.7% had it under control. High altitude areas had a high proportion of controlled hypertension. The overall rate of controlled hypertension in high, moderate and low altitude areas was 35.1% (95% CI: 24.8%-45.3%), 32.7% (95% CI: 22.2%-43.2%) and 23.7% (95% CI: 14.7%-32.6%), respectively. Younger aged persons were more likely to have better control of their hypertension.Conclusions: The coverage of hypertension screening in Tibet was high, especially in the low altitude areas. However, the effectiveness of hypertension control was low, indicating a need to implement the treatment adherence routines into the current screening interventions.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Incentives to Improve HIV Prevention Outcomes for Young Females in Eswatini: Sitakhela Likusasa Impact Evaluation Protocol and Baseline Results
Authors: Gorgens Marelize , Longosz Andrew , Ketende Sosthenes , Nkambule Muziwethu , Dlamini Tengetile , Mabuza Mbuso , Sikwibele Kelvin , Tsododo Vimbai , Dlamini Mthokozisi , Dennis-Langa Futhie , Heard Wendy , Low Andrea , Harimurti Pandu , Wilson David , Mabuza Khanya , de Walque Damien 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Eswatini continues to have the highest prevalence of HIV in the world, and one of the highest HIV incidences among adult populations (aged 15-49). This analysis reports on both key elements of study design/protocol and baseline results from an impact evaluation of an intervention incentivizing (i) initiation, enrolment, attendance or completion of some form of education, and (ii) lower risk sexual behaviour. Methods: The impact evaluation employs a two by two factorial design in which participants are enrolled in either the incentive for education arm (‘education treatment arm’ providing a conditional cash incentive) or the control arm (‘education control arm’). In each of these arms, 50% of participants were randomized to also be eligible for selection – three times a year – to participate in a conditional raffle conditional on testing negative for curable STIs (syphilis and Trichomonas vaginalis). Results: Baseline recruitment and screening occurred in 2016 when a total of 6,055 individuals were screened of which 4,863 participated in the baseline survey, and 4,819 individuals were randomized into one of the study arms. The baseline prevalence of HIV, Trichomonas vaginalis, and syphilis among adolescent girls and young women 8.20% (397/4,840), 3.31% (150/4,533) and 0.17% (8/4,830) respectively. Conclusions: An educational cash incentive and raffle incentive impact evaluation that addresses adolescent girls and young women who are in-education and out-of-education has the potential to reduce HIV risk in adolescent girls and young women in Eswatini.Name of the registry: Pan African Clinical Trials RegistryTrial registration number: PACTR201811609257043Date of registration: May 11, 2018 ‘Retrospectively registered’URL of trial registry record: https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=4685