bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Significance of training, monitoring and assessment of malaria workers in achieving malaria elimination goal of Malaria Elimination Demonstration Project
Authors: Rajvanshi Harsh , Nisar Sekh , Bharti Praveen K. , Jayswar Himanshu , Mishra Ashok K. , Sharma Ravendra K. , Saha Kalyan B. , Shukla Man Mohan , Das Aparup , Kaur Harpreet , Wattal Suman L. , Lal Altaf A. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe Malaria Elimination Demonstration Project (MEDP) maintained a workforce of 235 Village Malaria Workers (VMWs) and 25 Malaria Field Coordinators (MFCs) to conduct disease surveillance, case management, IEC/BCC activities, capacity building, and monitoring of vector control activities in 1233 villages of Mandla, a high malaria endemic district of Madhya Pradesh in central India.MethodsThe induction training was conducted for 3 days on malaria diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and ethics. All trainings were assessed using a pre and post-training assessment questionnaire, with 70% marks as qualifying threshold. The questionnaire was divided into three thematic areas viz.general knowledge related to malaria (KAP), diagnosis and treatment (DXRX), and vector control (PVC).ResultsIn 2017, the project trained 330 candidates, followed by 243 and 247 candidates in 2018 and 2019, respectively. 94.3% candidates passed after a single training session. Almost all (95%) candidates showed improvement in knowledge after the training with 4% showing no effect and 1% showing deterioration. Progressive improvement in scores of 2017 cohort was seen along with significant improvement in performance of candidates in 2019 after the introduction of systematic monitoring and ‘shadowing’ training exercises.ConclusionThe project has successfully demonstrated the value of recruitment of workers from the study area, outcome of training, and performance evaluation of field staff in malaria elimination programme. This careful strategy of recruitment and training resulted in a work-force that was capable of independently conducting surveillance, case management, vector control, and Information Education Communication/Behaviour Change Communication (IEC/BCC). The learnings of this study, including the training modules and monitoring processes, can be used to train the health delivery staff for achieving national goal for malaria elimination by 2030. Similar training and monitoring programmes could also be used for other public health delivery programmes.
Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte carriage in symptomatic patients shows significant association with genetically diverse infections, anaemia, and asexual stage density
Authors: Sondo Paul , Bihoun Biebo , Tahita Marc Christian , Derra Karim , Rouamba Toussaint , Nakanabo Diallo Seydou , Kazienga Adama , Ilboudo Hamidou , Valea Innocent , Tarnagda Zekiba , Sorgho Hermann , Lefèvre Thierry , Tinto Halidou 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Multi-genotype malaria infections are frequent in endemic area, and people commonly harbour several genetically distinct Plasmodium falciparum variants. The influence of genetic multiplicity and whether some specific genetic variants are more or less likely to invest into gametocyte production is not clearly understood. This study explored host and parasite-related risk factors for gametocyte carriage, and the extent to which some specific P. falciparum genetic variants are associated with gametocyte carriage.

Methods
Gametocytes and asexual forms were detected by light microscopy on thick smears collected between 2010 and 2012 in Nanoro, Burkina Faso. Merozoite surface protein 1 and 2 were genotyped by nested PCR on clinical samples. Associations between gametocyte carriage and factors, including multiplicity of infection, parasite density, patient age, gender, haemoglobin (Hb) level, and body temperature were assessed. The relationship between the presence of a particular msp1 and msp2 genetic variants and gametocyte carriage was also explored.

Results
Of the 724 samples positive to P. falciparum and successfully genotyped, gametocytes were found in 48 samples (6.63%). There was no effect of patient gender, age and body temperature on gametocyte carriage. However, the probability of gametocyte carriage significantly increased with increasing values of multiplicity of infection (MOI). Furthermore, there was a negative association between parasite density and gametocyte carriage. MOI decreased with parasite density in gametocyte-negative patients, but increased in gametocyte carriers. The probability of gametocyte carriage decreased with Hb level. Finally, the genetic composition of the infection influenced gametocyte carriage. In particular, the presence of RO33 increased the odds of developing gametocytes by 2 while the other allelic families K1, MAD20, FC27, and 3D7 had no significant impact on the occurrence of gametocytes in infected patients.

Conclusion
This study provides insight into potential factors influencing gametocyte production in symptomatic patients. The findings contribute to enhance understanding of risk factors associated with gametocyte carriage in humans.
Trial registration NCT01232530.
Severe orthostatic hypotension in otherwise uncomplicated Plasmodium vivax infection
Authors: Sivakorn Chaisith , Wilairatana Polrat , Krudsood Srivicha , Schultz Marcus J. , Techarang Tachpon , Kheawsawaung Khanittha , Dondorp Arjen M. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractImpaired autonomic control of postural homeostasis resulting in orthostatic hypotension has been described in falciparum malaria. However, severe orthostatic intolerance inPlasmodium vivaxhas been rarely reported. A case of non-immune previously healthy Thai woman presenting withP. vivaxinfection with well-documented orthostatic hypotension is described. In addition to oral chloroquine and intravenous artesunate, the patient was treated with fluid resuscitation and norepinephrine. During hospitalization, her haemodynamic profile revealed orthostatic hypotension persisting for another three days after microscopic and polymerase chain reaction confirmed parasite clearance. Potential causes are discussed.
Correlation of textile ‘resistance to damage’ scores with actual physical survival of long-lasting insecticidal nets in the field
Authors: Kilian Albert , Obi Emmanuel , Mansiangi Paul , Abílio Ana Paula , Haji Khamis Ameir , Guillemois Estelle , Chetty Vera , Wheldrake Amy , Blaufuss Sean , Olapeju Bolanje , Babalola Stella , Russell Stephen J. , Koenker Hannah 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Attempts have been made to link procurement of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) not only to the price but also the expected performance of the product. However, to date it has not been possible to identify a specific textile characteristic that predicts physical durability in the field. The recently developed resistance to damage (RD) score could provide such a metric. This study uses pooled data from durability monitoring to explore the usefulness of the RD methodology.

Methods
Data from standardized, 3-year, prospective LLIN durability monitoring for six LLIN brands in 10 locations and four countries involving 4672 campaign LLIN were linked to the RD scores of the respective LLIN brands. The RD score is a single quantitative metric based on a suite of standardized textile tests which in turn build on the mechanisms of damage to a mosquito net. Potential RD values range from 0 to 100 where 100 represents optimal resistance to expected day-to-day stress during reasonable net use. Survival analysis was set so that risk of failure only started when nets were first hung. Cox regression was applied to explore RD effects on physical survival adjusting for known net use environment variables.

Results
In a bivariate analysis RD scores showed a linear relationship with physical integrity suggesting that the proportion of LLIN with moderate damage decreased by 3%-points for each 10-point increase of the RD score (p = 0.02, R2 = 0.65). Full adjustment for net care and handling behaviours as well as other relevant determinants and the country of study showed that increasing RD score by 10 points resulted in a 36% reduction of risk of failure to survive in serviceable condition (p < 0.0001). LLINs with RD scores above 50 had an additional useful life of 7 months.

Conclusions
This study provides proof of principle that the RD metric can predict physical durability of LLIN products in the field and could be used to assess new products and guide manufacturers in creating improved products. However, additional validation from other field data, particularly for next generation LLIN, will be required before the RD score can be included in procurement decisions for LLINs.
Validation of the patient-reported experience measure for care in Chinese hospitals (PREM-CCH)
Authors: Wang Xuanxuan , Chen Jiaying , Yang Yaling , Burström Bo , Burström Kristina 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
A psychometrically validated instrument to measure patient experience in Chinese public hospitals would be useful and is currently lacking. Our research team developed the Patient-Reported Experience Measure for Care in Chinese Hospitals (PREM-CCH). We aimed to validate this PREM-CCH in the present study.

Methods
Data were drawn from a cross-sectional patient survey in 2016. Complete responses from 2293 outpatients and 1510 inpatients were included. Separate psychometric evaluation was carried out on outpatient and inpatient PREM-CCHs in terms of exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency, construct validity and criterion validity.

Results
The validated outpatient PREM-CCH contained 22 items and five Factors, i.e. Communication and information, Professional competence, Medical costs, Efficiency, and Hospital recommendation. The validated inpatient PREM-CCH contained 19 items and six Factors, i.e. Communication and information, Professional competence, Medical costs, Efficiency, Health outcomes, and Hospital recommendation. The PREM-CCH showed satisfactory internal consistency, construct validity and criterion validity.

Conclusions
The PREM-CCH is one of the first validated instruments capturing patient experience of care in the context of Chinese public hospitals. It performed well in the psychometric evaluation. It consists of a basic set of items important to patients that could be applicable to public hospitals in China and actionable to inform quality improvement initiatives.
Short-term exposure to air pollution and hospital admission for pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yee Jeong , Cho Young Ah , Yoo Hee Jeong , Yun Hyunseo , Gwak Hye Sun 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Air pollution is a major issue that poses a health threat worldwide. Although several studies investigated the adverse effects of air pollution on various diseases, few have directly demonstrated the effects on pneumonia. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on the associations between short-term exposure of air pollutants and hospital admission or emergency room (ER) visit for pneumonia.

Methods
A literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to April 10, 2020. Pooled estimates were calculated as % increase with 95% confidence intervals using a random-effects model. A sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out method and subgroup analysis by region were performed.

Results
A total of 21 studies were included in the analysis. Every 10 μg/m3 increment in PM2.5 and PM10 resulted in a 1.0% (95% CI: 0.5–1.5) and 0.4% (95% CI: 0.2–0.6) increase in hospital admission or ER visit for pneumonia, respectively. Every 1 ppm increase of CO and 10 ppb increase of NO2, SO2, and O3 was associated with 4.2% (95% CI: 0.6–7.9), 3.2% (95% CI: 1.3–5.1), 2.4% (95% CI: − 2.0-7.1), and 0.4% (95% CI: 0–0.8) increase in pneumonia-specific hospital admission or ER visit, respectively. Except for CO, the sensitivity analyses yielded similar results, demonstrating the robustness of the results. In a subgroup analysis by region, PM2.5 increased hospital admission or ER visit for pneumonia in East Asia but not in North America.

Conclusion
By combining the inconsistent findings of several studies, this study revealed the associations between short-term exposure of air pollutants and pneumonia-specific hospital admission or ER visit, especially for PM and NO2. Based on the results, stricter intervention policies regarding air pollution and programs for protecting human respiratory health should be implemented.
ITGBL1 is a new immunomodulator that favors development of melanoma tumors by inhibiting natural killer cells cytotoxicity
Authors: Cheli Yann , Tulic Meri K. , El Hachem Najla , Nottet Nicolas , Jacquel Arnaud , Gesson Maeva , Strub Thomas , Bille Karine , Picard-Gauci Alexandra , Montaudié Henri , Beranger Guillaume E. , Passeron Thierry , Close Pierre , Bertolotto Corine , Ballotti Robert 
Published: January 2021

AbstractResistances to immunotherapies remains a major hurdle towards a cure for melanoma in numerous patients. An increase in the mesenchymal phenotype and a loss of differentiation have been clearly associated with resistance to targeted therapies. Similar phenotypes have been more recently also linked to resistance to immune checkpoint therapies. We demonstrated here that the loss of MIcrophthalmia associated Transcription Factor (MITF), a pivotal player in melanocyte differentiation, favors the escape of melanoma cells from the immune system. We identified Integrin beta-like protein 1 (ITGBL1), a secreted protein, upregulated in anti-PD1 resistant patients and in MITFlow melanoma cells, as the key immunomodulator. ITGBL1 inhibited immune cell cytotoxicity against melanoma cells by inhibiting NK cells cytotoxicity and counteracting beneficial effects of anti-PD1 treatment, both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MITF inhibited RUNX2, an activator of ITGBL1 transcription. Interestingly, VitaminD3, an inhibitor of RUNX2, improved melanoma cells to death by immune cells. In conclusion, our data suggest that inhibition of ITGBL1 might improve melanoma response to immunotherapies.
Distribution of polymeric nanoparticles in the eye: implications in ocular disease therapy
Authors: Swetledge Sean , Jung Jangwook P. , Carter Renee , Sabliov Cristina 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Advantages of polymeric nanoparticles as drug delivery systems include controlled release, enhanced drug stability and bioavailability, and specific tissue targeting. Nanoparticle properties such as hydrophobicity, size, and charge, mucoadhesion, and surface ligands, as well as administration route and suspension media affect their ability to overcome ocular barriers and distribute in the eye, and must be carefully designed for specific target tissues and ocular diseases. This review seeks to discuss the available literature on the biodistribution of polymeric nanoparticles and discuss the effects of nanoparticle composition and administration method on their ocular penetration, distribution, elimination, toxicity, and efficacy, with potential impact on clinical applications.
Graphene-modified CePO4 nanorods effectively treat breast cancer-induced bone metastases and regulate macrophage polarization to improve osteo-inductive ability
Authors: Ge Yu-Wei , Liu Xiao-Liang , Yu De-gang , Zhu Zhen-An , Ke Qin-Fei , Mao Yuan-Qing , Guo Ya-Ping , Zhang Jing-Wei 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Breast cancer bone metastasis has become one of the most common complications; however, it may cause cancer recurrence and bone nonunion, as well as local bone defects.

Methods
Herein, In vitro, we verified the effect of bioscaffold materials on cell proliferation and apoptosis through a CCK8 trial, staining of live/dead cells, and flow cytometry. We used immunofluorescence technology and flow cytometry to verify whether bioscaffold materials regulate macrophage polarization, and we used ALP staining, alizarin red staining and PCR to verify whether bioscaffold material promotes bone regeneration. In vivo, we once again studied the effect of bioscaffold materials on tumors by measuring tumor volume in mice, Tunel staining, and caspase-3 immunofluorescence. We also constructed a mouse skull ultimate defect model to verify the effect on bone regeneration.

Results
Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles, hydrated CePO4 nanorods and bioactive chitosan (CS) are combined to form a bioactive multifunctional CePO4/CS/GO scaffold, with characteristics such as photothermal therapy to kill tumors, macrophage polarization to promote blood vessel formation, and induction of bone formation. CePO4/CS/GO scaffold activates the caspase-3 proteasein local tumor cells, thereby lysing the DNA between nucleosomes and causing apoptosis. On the one hand, the as-released Ce3+ ions promote M2 polarization of macrophages, which secretes vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Arginase-1 (Arg-1), which promotes angiogenesis. On the other hand, the as-released Ce3+ ions also activated the BMP-2/Smad signaling pathway which facilitated bone tissue regeneration.

Conclusion
The multifunctional CePO4/CS/GO scaffolds may become a promising platform for therapy of breast cancer bone metastases.
Redox-sensitive polymeric micelles with aggregation-induced emission for bioimaging and delivery of anticancer drugs
Authors: Sun Changzhen , Lu Ji , Wang Jun , Hao Ping , Li Chunhong , Qi Lu , Yang Lin , He Bin , Zhong Zhirong , Hao Na 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Nano-drug delivery systems show considerable promise for effective cancer therapy. Polymeric micelles have attracted extensive attention as practical nanocarriers for target drug delivery and controlled drug delivery system, however, the distribution of micelles and the release of the drug are difficult to trace in cancer cells. Therefore, the construction of a redox-sensitive multifunctional drug delivery system for intelligent release of anticancer drugs and simultaneous diagnostic imaging and therapy remains an attractive research subject.

Results
To construct a smart drug delivery system for simultaneous imaging and cancer chemotherapy, mPEG-ss-Tripp was prepared and self-assembled into redox-sensitive polymeric micelles with a diameter of 105 nm that were easily detected within cells using confocal laser scanning microscopy based on aggregation-induced emission. Doxorubicin-loaded micelles rapidly released the drug intracellularly when GSH reduced the disulfide bond. The drug-loaded micelles inhibited tumor xenografts in mice, while this efficacy was lower without the GSH-responsive disulfide bridge. These results establish an innovative multi-functional polymeric micelle for intracellular imaging and redox-triggered drug deliver to cancer cells.

Conclusions
A novel redox-sensitive drug delivery system with AIE property was constructed for simultaneous cellular imaging and intelligent drug delivery and release. This smart drug delivery system opens up new possibilities for multifunctional drug delivery systems.
Job satisfaction and its associated factors among optometrists in Ghana: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Akuffo Kwadwo Owusu , Agyei-Manu Eldad , Kumah David Ben , Danso-Appiah Anthony , Mohammed Abubakar Sadik , Asare Akosua Kesewah , Addo Emmanuel Kofi 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Job satisfaction describes an employee’s motivation and/or feeling of satisfaction towards his/her work. Globally, healthcare professionals’ turnover and retention play a critical role in the delivery of essential health services. In Ghana, however, little has been done to ascertain job satisfaction levels among human resources for eye-health. The objective of this study therefore was to assess job satisfaction and its associated factors among optometrists in Ghana.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 304 registered and licensed optometrists of the Ghana Optometric Association between September 2018 and June 2019. A validated, well-structured questionnaire was used to elicit information on socio-demographic characteristics of participants and measures on job satisfaction. Scores from a five-point Likert scale was employed to examine job satisfaction and its associated factors. Linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between overall job satisfaction and its associated factors using Rasch logit scores.

Results
A total of 214 optometrists gave valid responses to the questionnaires used for the final analysis. The mean (± SD) score of the overall perception of job satisfaction among optometrists was 3.36 (± 1.00), with 74.3% of them being satisfied with their jobs. After statistical adjustment, Good work-life balance (Unstandardized co-efficient (β) = 0.288, p = 0.001), Salary (β = 0.222, p < 0.0005), Supervision (β = 0.117, p = 0.044), and Continuing Education Opportunities (β = 0.138, p = 0.017) were all significantly associated with higher levels of overall job satisfaction.

Conclusions
Most optometrists were satisfied with their jobs. Effective strategic planning and management of human resources for eye-health in Ghana are essential in the development of quality eye-health systems and the provision of high-quality eyecare services.
Interprofessional education and collaborative practice policies and law: an international review and reflective questions
Authors: Girard Marie-Andrée 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Healthcare is a complex sociolegal setting due to the number of policymakers, levels of governance and importance of policy interdependence. As a desirable care approach, collaborative practice (referred to as interprofessional education and collaborative practice (IPECP)) is influenced by this complex policy environment from the beginning of professionals’ education to their initiation of practice in healthcare settings.

Main body
Although data are available on the influence of policy and law on IPECP, published articles have tended to focus on a single aspect of policy or law, leading to the development of an interesting but incomplete picture. Through the use of two conceptual models and real-world examples, this review article allows IPECP promoters to identify policy issues that must be addressed to foster IPECP. Using a global approach, this article aims to foster reflection among promoters and stakeholders of IPECP on the global policy and law environment that influences IPECP implementation.

Conclusion
IPECP champions and stakeholders should be aware of the global policy and legal environment influencing the behaviors of healthcare workers to ensure the success of IPECP implementation.