bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Drug resistance profile and clonality of Plasmodium falciparum parasites in Cape Verde: The 2017 malaria outbreak
Authors: Leal Silvânia da Veiga , Ward Daniel , Campino Susana , Benavente Ernest Diez , Ibrahim Amy , Andrade Tânia , Varela Isaías , Monteiro Davidson , Clark Taane G. , Gonçalves Luzia , Valdez Tomas , Lima Maria da Luz Mendonça , Silveira Henrique , Nogueira Fatima 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background Cape Verde is an archipelago located off the West African coast, and is in a pre-elimination phase of malaria control. Since 2010, less than 20 Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases have been reported annually, except in 2017, when an outbreak in Praia before the rainy season led to 423 autochthonous cases. It is important to understand the genetic diversity of circulating P. falciparum to inform on drug resistance, potential transmission networks, and sources of infection, including parasite importation.Methods Enrolled subjects involved malaria patients admitted to Dr. Agostinho Neto Hospital at Praia city, Santiago island, Cape Verde, between July and October 2017. Neighbours and family members of enrolled cases were assessed for the presence of anti-P. falciparum antibodies. Sanger sequencing and real time PCR was used to identify SNPs in genes associated with drug resistance (e.g. pfdhfr, pfdhps, pfmdr1, pfk13, pfcrt), and whole genome sequencing data was generated to investigate the population structure of P. falciparum parasites.Results We analysed 190 parasite samples, 187 indigenous and three from imported infections. Malaria cases were distributed throughout Praia city. There were no cases of severe malaria, and all patients had an adequate clinical and parasitological response after treatment. Anti-P. falciparum antibodies were not detected in the 137 neighbours and family members tested. No mutations were detected in pfdhps. The triple mutation S108N/N51I/C59R in pfdhfr and the chloroquine resistant CVIET haplotype in the pfcrt gene were detected in almost all samples. Variations in pfk13 were identified in only one sample (R645T, E668K). The haplotype NFD for pfmdr1 was detected in the majority of samples (89.7%).Conclusions Polymorphisms in pfk13 associated with ACTs tolerance in Southeast Asia were not detected, but the majority of the tested samples carried the pfmdr1 haplotype NFD and antimalarial associated mutations in the the pfcrt and pfdhfr genes. We performed the first WGS for Cape Verdean parasites that showed that the samples cluster together, have a very high level of similarity and are close to other parasites populations from West Africa.
Analysis of perovskite oxides etching using argon inductively coupled plasmas for photonics applications
Authors: Chen Guanyu , Cheung Eric Jun Hao , Cao Yu , Pan Jisheng , Danner Aaron J. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
We analyzed the dry etching of perovskite oxides using argon-based inductively coupled plasmas (ICP) for photonics applications. Various chamber conditions and their effects on etching rates have been demonstrated based on Z-cut lithium niobate (LN). The measured results are predictable and repeatable and can be applied to other perovskite oxides, such as X-cut LN and barium titanium oxide (BTO). The surface roughness is better for both etched LN and BTO compared with their as-deposited counterparts as confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Both the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods have been used for surface chemical component comparisons, qualitative and quantitative, and no obvious surface state changes are observed according to the measured results. An optical waveguide fabricated with the optimized argon-based ICP etching was measured to have − 3.7 dB/cm loss near 1550 nm wavelength for Z-cut LN, which validates this kind of method for perovskite oxides etching in photonics applications.
Effect of wearing a helmet on the occurrence of head injuries in motorcycle riders in Benin: a case-control study nested in a cohort
Authors: Santos Bella Adodo Hounkpe Dos , Ahanhanzo Yolaine Glele , Kpozehouen Alphonse , Daddah Donatien , Lagarde Emmanuel , Coppieters Yves 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background In Benin, motorcycles are the main means of transport for road users and are involved in more than half of crashes. This study aims to determine the effect of wearing a helmet on reducing head injuries in road crashes in Benin. Methods This case-control study nested in a cohort took place in 2020 and focused on road trauma victims. The sample, consisting of 242 cases (trauma victims with head injuries) for 484 controls (without head injuries), was drawn from a cohort of traffic crash victims recruited from five hospitals across the country from July 2019 to January 2020. Four groups of independent variables were studied: socio-demographic and economic variables, history, ²oural variables including helmet use and road-related and environmental variables. To assess the shape of the association between the independent variables and the dependent variable, a descending step-by-step binary logistic regression model was performed using an explanatory approach.. Results Fewer of the subjects with a head injury were wearing a helmet at the time of the crash 69.8% (95% CI = 63.6 - 75.6) compared to those without a head injury 90.3% (95% CI = 87.3 - 92.8). Adjusting for the other variables, subjects not wearing helmets were at greater risk of head injuries (OR = 3.8, 95% CI (2.5 - 5.7)); the head injury rating was 1.9 (95% CI = 1.2 - 3.3) times higher in subjects who were fatigued during the crash than among those who were not and 2.0 (95% CI = 1.2 - 3.3) times higher than in subjects with no medical history. Conclusion Failure to wear a helmet exposes motorcyclists to the risk of head injuries during crashes. It is important to increase awareness and better target such initiatives at the subjects most at risk.
Addressing Data and Methodological Limitations in Estimating Catastrophic Health Spending and Impoverishment in India, 2004-18
Authors: Mohanty Sanjay , Dwivedi Laxmikant 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background Estimates of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) are counterintuitive to researchers, policy makers, and developmental partners due to data and methodological limitation. While inferences drawn from use of capacity-to-pay (CTP) and budget share (BS) approaches are inconsistent, the non-availability of data on food expenditure in the health survey in India is an added limitation. Methods Using data from the health and consumption surveys of National Sample Surveys over 14 years, we have overcome these limitations and estimated the incidence and intensity of CHE and impoverishment using the CTP approach. Results The incidence of CHE for health services in India was 12.5% in 2004, 13.4% in 2014 and 9.1% by 2018. Among those households incurring CHE, they spent 1.25 times of their capacity to pay in 2004 (intensity of CHE), 1.71 times in 2014 and 1.31 times by 2018. The impoverishment due to health spending was 4.8% in 2004, 5.1% in 2014 and 3.3% in 2018. The state variations in incidence and intensity of CHE and incidence of impoverishment is large. The concentration index (CI) of CHE was -0.16 in 2004, -0.18 in 2014 and -0.22 in 2018 suggesting increasing inequality over time. The concentration curves based on CTP approach suggests that the CHE was concentrated among poor. The odds of incurring CHE were lowest among the richest households [OR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.21, 0.24], households with elderly members [OR 1.20; 95% CI:1.12, 1.18] and households using both inpatient and outpatient services [OR 2.80, 95% CI 2.66, 2.95]. Access to health insurance reduced the chance of CHE and impoverishment among the richest households. The pattern of impoverishment was similar to that of CHE. Conclusion In the last 14 years, the CHE and impoverishment in India has declined while inequality in CHE has increased. We recommend the CTP approach when estimating CHE and impoverishment in low and middle-income countries.
Diabetic Emergencies presenting during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Case Analysis
Authors: Joseph Tobin , Crawley Eleanor , Qamar Sulmaaz , Zosmer Maya , Rayanagoudar Girish , Nethaji Chidambaram , Menon Ravi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
IntroductionCOVID-19 has triggered a global pandemic and is an emerging situation. Diabetes has been associated with significant mortality in SARS and MERS- COV infections. Patients with diabetes are at risk of COVID-19 triggering diabetic emergencies due to known and unknown mechanisms. There is little evidence overviewing the clinical course of COVID19 patients who either present or have diabetic emergencies during their disease course. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective case analysis of all patients admitted to our hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. The inclusion criteria were all patients receiving treatment for COVID-19 and either presenting with a diabetic emergency on admission or developing an emergency during their admission. Data collected for the study were all routinely collected data as part of the admission. We compared this data to 9 patients with no COVID-19. Results30 patients received treatment for a diabetic emergency, of which 21 also received treatment for COVID-19. Significant differences were found between pH and bicarbonate on admission between RT-PCR positive and both RT-PCR negative and non-COVID-19 patients. Other results approaching significance include ALP and eGFR. DiscussionLittle is known about the metabolic disturbances COVID-19 has on diabetic patients. Further, prospective detailed investigation into biochemical processes is needed to elucidate underlying mechanisms that affect these patients’ outcomes.
Whole Transcriptome Analysis Resulted in the Identification of Chinese Sprangletop (Leptochloa Chinensis) Genes Involved in Cyhalofop-Butyl Resistance
Authors: Chen Ke , Peng Yajun , Zhang Liang , Wang Long , Mao Donghai , Zhao Zhenghong , Bai Lianyang , Wang Lifeng 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Chinese sprangletop [Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees] is an annual invasive weed, which can often be found in paddy fields. Cyhalofop-butyl is a specialized herbicide which is utilized to control L. chinensis. However, in many areas, L. chinensis has become resistant to this key herbicide due to its continuous long-term use.
Results
In this study, we utilized a resistant (LC18002) and a sensitive (LC17041) L. chinensis populations previously identified in our laboratory, which were divided into nine different treatment groups. We then employed whole transcriptome analysis to identify candidate genes which may be involved in cyhalofop-butyl tolerance. This analysis resulted in the identification of eight possible candidate genes, including six cytochrome P450 monooxygenase genes and two ATP-binding cassette transporter genes. We then carried out a phylogenetic analysis to identify homologs of the differentially expressed P450 genes. This phylogenetic analysis indicated that every genes have close homologs in pattern species, some of which have been implicated in non-target site resistance (NTSR).
Conclusions
This study is the first to use whole transcriptome analysis to identify herbicide non-target resistance genes in L. chinensis. The differentially expressed genes represent promising targets for better understanding herbicide tolerance in L. chinensis. The eight genes belonging to classes already associated in herbicide tolerance may play important roles in the metabolic resistance of L. chinensis to cyhalofop-butyl, although the exact mechanisms require further study.
Robust Metabolomics Approach For The Evaluation Of Human Embryos From In-Vitro Fertilization.
Authors: Figoli Cecilia , Garcea Marcelo , Bisioli Claudio , Tafintseva Valeria , Shapaval Volha , Peña Mariana Gómez , Gibbons Luz , Althabe Fernando , Yantorno Osvaldo , Horton Marcos , Schmitt Jürgen , Lasch Peter , Kohler Achim , Bosch Alejandra 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The identification of the most competent embryos for transfer to the uterus constitutes the main challenge of in-vitro fertilization (IVF). We established a metabolomic-based approach applying Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) on 130 samples of 3-days embryo culture supernatants from 26 embryos that implanted and 104 that failed. Examining the internal structure of the data by unsupervised multivariate analysis, it was observed that the supernatants of nonimplanted embryos contained highly heterogeneous spectral features. These features were overlapping with metabolic-implantation fingerprints, thus demonstrating that in establishing embryo-assessment models a one-class modelling involving only the samples with positive-implantation outcomes should be applied. Analysis of variance confirmed that the women´s age (>40 years) undermined the implantation of the embryos exhibiting implantation metabolomics, and also that constituted a condition triggering embryos to express nonimplantation metabolomics. We conclude that IVF-success rates can be significantly improved if FTIR spectroscopy is used as an embryo-selection criterion.
Modeling of SARS-CoV-2 treatment effects for informed drug repurposing
Authors: Kern Charlotte , Schöning Verena , Chaccour Carlos , Hammann Felix 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Several repurposed drugs are currently under investigation in the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Candidates are often selected solely by their effective concentrations in vitro, an approach that has largely not lived up to expectations in COVID-19. Cell lines used in in vitro experiments are not necessarily representative of lung tissue. Yet, even if the proposed mode of action is indeed true, viral dynamics in vivo, host response, and concentration-time profiles must also be considered. Here we address the latter issue and describe a model of human SARS-CoV-2 viral kinetics with acquired immune response to investigate the dynamic impact of timing and dosing regimens of hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir, ivermectin, artemisinin, and nitazoxanide.We observed greatest benefits when treatments were given immediately at the time of diagnosis. Even interventions with minor antiviral effect may reduce host exposure if timed correctly. Ivermectin seems to be at least partially effective: given on positivity, peak viral load dropped by 0.3-0.6 log units and exposure by 8.8-22.3%. The other drugs had little to no appreciable effect. Given how well previous clinical trial results for hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir are explained by the models presented here, similar strategies should be considered in future drug candidate prioritization efforts.
Beyond Household Socioeconomic Status: Multilevel Modeling of Supply-Side Determinants of LPG Consumption among 5,500 Households in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Shupler Matthew , Mangeni Judith , Tawiah Theresa , Sang Edna , Baame Miranda , de Cuevas Rachel Anderson , Nix Emily , Betang Emmanuel , Saah Jason , Quansah Reginald , Puzzolo Elisa , Mbatchou Bertrand , Asante Kwaku Poku , Menya Diana , Pope Daniel 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Household transition to cleaner cooking fuels (e.g. liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)) has historically been understood as an “energy ladder” with clean energy access resulting from improvements in household socioeconomic status (SES). Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of supply-side determinants in increasing clean cooking, yet few large-scale studies have assessed their significance quantitatively. As part of the CLEAN-Air(Africa) study, a population-based survey was conducted (N = 5,638) assessing cooking practices in peri-urban communities within Cameroon, Kenya and Ghana. Multilevel logistic and log-linear regression were used to assess socioeconomic and supply-side determinants of LPG usage (primary versus secondary fuel) and consumption (kilograms/capita/year), respectively. Supply-side factors (e.g. cylinder refill and transportation costs) and using single versus multi-burner stoves were better predictors of both the probability of primarily cooking with LPG and annual LPG consumption than household SES. These results suggest the need for policies promoting LPG access and stove equipment that meet household needs.
The Effectiveness of the Use of Augmented Reality in Anatomy Education: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bölek Kerem , Walsum Anne-Marie Van Cappellen van , De Jong Guido , Henssen Dylan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The use of Augmented Reality (AR) in anatomical education has been promoted by numerous authors. Next to financial and ethical advantages, AR has been described to decrease cognitive load while increasing student motivation and engagement. Despite these advantages, the effects of AR on learning outcome varies in different studies and an overview and aggregated outcome on learning anatomy is lacking. Therefore, a meta-analysis on the effect of AR vs. traditional anatomical teaching methods on learning outcome was performed. Systematic database searches were conducted by two independent investigators using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This yielded five papers for meta-analysis totaling 508 participants; 240 participants in the AR-groups and 268 participants in the control groups. (306 females/ 202 males). Meta-analysis showed no significant difference in anatomic test scores between the AR group and the control group (-0.765%; P=0.732). Sub analysis on the use of AR vs. the use of traditional 2D teaching methods showed a significant disadvantage when using AR (-5.685%; P=0.024). Meta-regression analysis showed no significant co-relation between mean difference in test results and spatial abilities (as assessed by the mental rotations test scores). Student motivation and/or engagement could not be included since studies used different assessment tools. This meta-analysis showed that insufficient evidence is present to conclude AR significantly impacts learning outcome and that outcomes are significantly impacted by students’ spatial abilities. However, only few papers were suitable for meta-analysis, indicating that there is a need for more well-designed, randomized-controlled trials on AR in anatomy education research.
Facility and Resident Characteristics Associated With Variation in Nursing Home Transfers: Evidence From the OPTIMISTIC Demonstration Project
Authors: Blackburn Justin , Balio Casey P. , Carnahan Jennifer L. , Fowler Nicole R. , Hickman Susan E. , Sachs Greg A. , Tu Wanzhu , Unroe Kathleen T. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundCenters for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) funded demonstration project to evaluate financial incentives for nursing facilities providing care for 6 clinical conditions to reduce potentially avoidable hospitalizations (PAHs). The Optimizing Patient Transfers, Impacting Medical Quality, and Improving Symptoms: Transforming Institutional Care (OPTIMISTIC) site tested payment incentives alone and in combination with the successful nurse-led OPTIMISTIC clinical model. Our objective was to identify facility and resident characteristics associated with transfers, including financial incentives with or without the clinical model.MethodsThis was a longitudinal analysis from April 2017 to June 2018 of transfers among nursing home residents in 40 nursing facilities, 17 had the full clinical + payment model (1,726 residents) and 23 had payment only model (2,142 residents). Multilevel logit models estimated the likelihood of all-cause transfers and PAHs (based on CMS claims data and ICD-codes) associated wtih facility and resident characteristics using CMS claims data, the Minimum Data Set, and Nursing Home Compare. ResultsThe clinical + payment model was associated with 4.1 percentage point (pp) lower risk of all-cause transfers (95% confidence interval [CI] -6.2 to 2.1). Characteristics associated with lower PAH risk included residents aged 95+ years (-2.4 pps; 95% CI -3.8 to -1.1), dual eligible (-2.5 pps; 95% CI -3.3 to -1.7), advanced and moderate cognitive impairment (-3.3 pps; 95% CI -4.4 to -2.1; -1.2 pps; 95% CI -2.2 to -0.2). CHESS score above most stable (CHESS score 4) increased the risk of PAH by 7.3 pps (95% CI 1.5 to 13.1).ConclusionMultiple resident and facility characteristics are associated with transfers. Facilities with the clinical + payment model demonstrated lower risk of all-cause transfers compared to those with payment only, but not for PAHs.
Genomic fitness profiling of Acinetobacter baumannii reveals modes of action for common biocides and mechanisms of biocide-antibiotic antagonism
Authors: Li Liping , Short Francesca , Hassan Karl , Naidu Varsha , Pokhrel Alaska , Nagy Stephanie , Baker Stephen , Parkhill Julian , Cain Amy , Paulsen Ian 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Biocides, such as antiseptics and disinfectants, are used ubiquitously for hygiene in households and for life-saving infection control in hospitals. An increasing concern is that the widespread use of biocides may contribute to the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria. We performed transposon directed insertion site sequencing (TraDIS) to identify genes and key cellular pathways of the multidrug resistant nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii, that affect host fitness during exposure to a panel of ten structurally-diverse and clinically-relevant biocides: silver nitrate, benzalkonium, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), chlorhexidine, triclosan, chloroxylenol, polyvidone iodine, bleach, glutaraldehyde and ethanol. Multiple genes encoding proteins localised either in the cell envelope or in the cytoplasm were shown to affect biocide susceptibility. These proteins are involved in multiple processes including fatty acid biogenesis, multidrug efflux, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, cell respiration and cell division, suggesting that these biocides may have intracellular targets in addition to their known effects on the cell envelope. Based on the importance of cell respiration genes for A. baumannii fitness on biocides, we proposed and confirmed that apart from triclosan, the other 9 biocides at sub-inhibitory concentration can dissipate the membrane potential and lead to A. baumannii tolerance to antibiotics that have intracellular targets. Our results support the concern that residual biocides in clinical or community environments can promote the development of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria.