bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Alleviation of neuropathic pain by over‐expressing a soluble colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor to suppress microgliosis and macrophage accumulation
Authors: Gushchina Svetlana , Yip Ping K. , Parry Glesni A. , Sivakumar Haripriya , Li Jie , Liu Min , Bo Xuenong 
Published: September 2021

AbstractMicroglial proliferation and activation and macrophage accumulation are implicated in neuropathic pain development. In this study, we aim to suppress microgliosis and macrophage accumulation by over‐expressing a non‐functional soluble colony stimulating factor‐1 receptor (sCSF1R) using an adeno‐associated virus 9 vector (AAV9). AAV9/sCSF1R and the control vector AAV9/GFP were intrathecally administered into the lumbar spine of adult C57BL/6 mice. Two weeks later, these mice underwent partial sciatic nerve ligation to induce neuropathic pain. GFP and sCSF1R were highly expressed in lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal cord of AAV9‐injected mice. A significant increase in microglia densities in the dorsal and ventral horns of lumbar spinal cords and macrophage densities in DRG and sciatic nerves were observed in the mice with either ligation alone or pre‐treated with AAV9/GFP. In nerve‐ligated mice pre‐treated with AAV9/sCSF1R the microglia densities in the dorsal and ventral horns and macrophage densities in DRG and sciatic nerves were significantly lower compared to nerve‐ligated mice pre‐treated with AAV9/GFP. Behavioral tests showed that nerve‐ligated mice pre‐treated with AAV9/sCSF1R had a significantly higher paw withdrawal threshold, indicating the alleviation of neuropathic pain. The results implicate that viral vector‐mediated expression of sCSF1R may represent a novel strategy in the alleviation of neuropathic pain.
Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Individuals With Nonobese Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Arvind Ashwini , Henson Jacqueline B. , Osganian Stephanie A. , Nath Cheryl , Steinhagen Lara M. , Memel Zoe N. , Donovan Arley , Balogun Oluwafemi , Chung Raymond T. , Simon Tracey G. , Corey Kathleen E. 
Published: September 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is independently associated with obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the primary cause of mortality in the predominantly obese population of adults with NAFLD. NAFLD is increasingly seen in individuals who are lean and overweight (i.e., nonobese), but it is unclear whether their risk of CVD is comparable to those with NAFLD and obesity. Using a prospective cohort of patients with NAFLD, we compared the prevalence and incidence of CVD in individuals with and without obesity. NAFLD was diagnosed by biopsy or imaging after excluding other chronic liver disease etiologies. Logistic regression was used to compare the odds of baseline CVD by obesity status. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate obesity as a predictor of incident CVD and to identify predictors of CVD in subjects with and without obesity. At baseline, adults with obesity had a higher prevalence of CVD compared to those without obesity (12.0% vs. 5.0%, P = 0.02). During follow‐up, however, obesity did not predict incident CVD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69‐2.22) or other metabolic diseases. Findings were consistent when considering body mass index as a continuous variable and after excluding subjects who were overweight. Age (adjusted HR [aHR], 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.08), smoking (aHR, 4.61; 95% CI, 1.89‐11.22), and decreased low‐density lipoprotein levels (aHR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96‐1.00) independently predicted incident CVD in the entire cohort, in subjects with obesity, and in those without obesity, respectively. Conclusion: Individuals with overweight or lean NAFLD are not protected from incident CVD compared to those with NAFLD and obesity, although CVD predictors appear to vary between these groups. Patients without obesity also should undergo rigorous risk stratification and treatment.
Effective Mentoring and the Problem of Assessing Quality in Science
Authors: Reetz Manfred T. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIn this short essay, I re‐emphasize the inter‐relationship between mentoring doctoral students or postdocs and the never ending problem of assessing the quality of scientific outputs. It includes the plea to mentees and mentors not to employ an overblown language in papers, posters and lectures, which constitute a gross exaggeration of the true state of affairs. Doubt is also cast on the present use of Hirsch‐factors and other bibliometric data as well as certain social media claiming to be effective in assessing scientific quality.
Study on the contrast of the MHC–peptide interaction of B2/B21 haplotype and MHC‐related virus resistance in chickens
Authors: Jin Yuan‐chang , Wang Wei , Yu Min‐min , Hao Mei‐lin , Zeng Gang , Chen Jing‐fen , Dai Juan , Wu Yu‐jie 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIntroductionThree‐dimensional (3D) structures of MHC class I exert some influence by the MHC–peptide interaction over host resistance to the virus. The thesis aims at studying the connection between MHC–peptide interaction of B2/B21 haplotype and MHC‐related resistance to the virus.MethodsThe structure of chicken MHC class I BF2*0201 from B2 haplotype was studied and contrasted with that of BF2*2101 from B21 haplotype by using DNAMAN and PyMol software.ResultsThe amino acid difference resulted in the difference in size and changeability of the binding groove of the two, resulting in different choices on the binding polypeptide. 3bew's (the crystal structure of BF2*2101 bound to peptide RV10) small side chain His111 replaces the short side chain Tyr111 of 4cvx (the crystal structure of BF2*0201 bound to peptide YL9), and the very small amino acid of Ser69 and Ser97 make the middle of the 3bew's binding groove become apparently broad and bound restrictive of amino acid smaller. Moreover, due to the specific amino acids—Arg9, Asp24, and Asp73 of 4cvx and Arg9, Asp24, and His111 of 3bew, the effect of the polypeptide and the binding groove differ between the two, and 3bew tends to bind polypeptides with negatively charged amino acids, but the large space in the middle can also accommodate other amino acids. Contrasted with the binding groove characteristic of 4cvx, it can be said that the selectivity of 3bew is higher than that of 4cvx in the amino acid type of the binding polypeptide, so the B21 haplotype has more host resistance to the virus than that of the B2 haplotype in chicken.ConclusionThere are usually various kinds of peptides presented by the BF2*2101 molecules of B21 haplotypes, resulting in resistance to pathogenic microorganisms, such as Rous sarcoma virus and/or Marek's disease virus. These findings may have an important theoretical foundation for screening of virus antigen, vaccine design, and genetic resistance breeding.
Improved phase stability of CsPbI2Br perovskite by released microstrain toward highly efficient and stable solar cells
Authors: Zheng Kanghui , Ge Jinfeng , Liu Chang , Lou Qiang , Chen Xia , Meng Yuanyuan , Yin Xu , Bu Shixiao , Liu Cuirong , Ge Ziyi 
Published: September 2021

AbstractAll‐inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have developed rapidly in the field of photovoltaics due to their excellent thermal and light stability. However, compared with organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites, the phase instability of inorganic perovskite under humidity still remains as a critical issue that hampers the commercialization of inorganic PSCs. We originally propose in this work that microstrains between the perovskite lattices/grains play a key role in affecting the phase stability of inorganic perovskite. To this end, we innovatively design the π‐conjugated p‐type molecule bis(2‐ethylhexyl) 3,3′((4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐3,4‐difluorothiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl)bis(3,3″‐dioctyl[2,2′:5′,2″‐terthiophene]‐5″,5‐diyl))(2E,2′E)‐bis(2‐cyanoacrylate) (BTEC‐2F) to covalent with the Pb dangling bonds in CsPbI2Br perovskite film, which significantly suppress the trap states and release the defect‐induced local stress between perovskite grains. The interplay between the microstrains and phase stability of the inorganic perovskite are scrutinized by a series of characterizations including x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence, x‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and so forth, based on which, we conclude that weaker local stresses in the perovskite film engender superior phase stability by preventing the perovskite lattice distortion under humidity. By this rational design, PSCs based on CsPbI2Br perovskite system deliver an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 16.25%. The unencapsulated device also exhibits an exceptional moisture stability by retaining over 80% of the initial PCE after 500 h aging in ambient with relative humidity of (RH) 25%.image
Community organizing: Studying the development and exercise of grassroots power
Authors: Christens Brian D. , Gupta Jyoti , Speer Paul W. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThere is now wide recognition that grassroots community organizing is a uniquely necessary approach for contending with the persistent and escalating socioeconomic inequities that manifest as disparities across many societal domains, including housing, safety, education, and mental and physical health. The articles in this special issue report findings from studies designed to increase understanding of community organizing processes and produce actionable knowledge that can enhance these and other similar efforts to create more equitable and just cities and regions. These studies examine a variety of community organizing campaigns, initiatives, and networks in North America, as well as one in Bulgaria, and one in South Africa. These groups are building social power and demanding economic, racial, educational, and environmental justice. In this introductory article, we highlight some of the themes that emerge from this set of studies and make recommendations for future roles that research can play in advancing collective understanding and the practical objectives of grassroots organizing initiatives.
Efficacy and Safety of Lasmiditan for Acute Treatment of Migraine in Adults: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Maiti Rituparna , Mishra Archana , Puliappadamb Haridas Mundot , Jena Monalisa , Srinivasan Anand 
Published: September 2021

AbstractMonotherapy with triptans in acute migraine is ineffective in many patients and contraindicated in certain cardiovascular diseases where alternative therapeutic options are necessary to explore. This meta‐analysis has evaluated the efficacy and safety of lasmiditan for the treatment of acute migraine in adults. After performing a literature search on MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane databases, and International Clinical Trial Registry Platform, reviewers assessed eligibility and extracted data from 4 relevant articles. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines were followed in the selection, analysis, and reporting of findings. A random‐effects model was used to estimate effect size. Quality assessment was done using the risk of bias assessment tool and meta‐regression for probable variables affecting effect size. Subgroup analysis was done depending on the dose of lasmiditan. Lasmiditan use was associated with a significantly higher percentage of patients with pain freedom (odds ratio [OR], 2.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.72‐2.39; P < .00001), sustained pain freedom (OR, 1.93; 95%CI, 1.55‐2.39; P <.00001), headache response (OR, 2.05; 95%CI, 1.77‐2.36; P < .00001), clinical disability level (OR, 1.36; 95%CI, 1.20‐1.55; P < .00001), patients’ global impression (OR, 1.88; 95%CI, 1.69‐2.10; P < .00001), and significantly lower use of rescue medication (OR, 0.49; 95%CI, 0.38‐0.63; P < .00001) compared to placebo. Lasmiditan use was also associated with a higher likelihood of adverse effects like dizziness (OR, 6.54; 95%CI, 4.24‐10.07; P < .00001), paresthesia (OR, 4.28; 95%CI, 2.97‐6.17; P < .00001), and fatigue (OR, 5.67; 95%CI, 3.78‐8.52; P < .00001) compared to placebo. Subgroup analysis showed a dose‐dependent effect of lasmiditan on pain freedom, sustained pain freedom, patient's global impression, and occurrence of adverse drug reactions. Prediction probability for effect estimate favoring placebo was calculated to be 0.0017%. Lasmiditan has shown a favorable effect in terms of efficacy and safety in the treatment of an acute attack of migraine in comparison to placebo. Further studies are needed to evaluate long‐term safety, efficacy, and use in specific subgroups of patients.PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42020177838
Effect of self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐graduate residents on local anesthesia administration performances: Pilot study
Authors: Kuscu Ozgur Onder , Ozcelik Selcuk Mert , Kucuktepe Coskun , Akyuz Serap 
Published: September 2021

AbstractPurposeThe “Profile and Competences for the European Dentist” document addresses some competencies as a must for graduating dentists, some of which are stated as providing humane and compassionate care to all patients and administering local anesthesia for pain management. Within this perspective, this study aims to investigate the effect of self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐graduate residents (post‐grads) on the perceived pain and anxiety scores of children during local anesthesia administrations.Materials and methodsTen pediatric dentistry post‐grads and 91 children aged between 5 and13 years participated in the study. Post‐grads performed 120 injections as part of their routine dental treatment in children. Demographic data, self‐efficacy, and empathy scale scores of post‐grads, anxiety, and pain scores of children were recorded during injections.ResultsSelf‐efficacy scale scores of residents ranged between 66 and 74 with a mean score of 69.80 ± 2.69. Empathy scale scores were between 77 and 97 and the mean was 89.20 ± 6.24. Significant and negative correlations were observed between self‐efficacy scores of post‐grads and pain scores of children (r = –0.205 and p = 0.025). Empathy scores of post‐grads established a significant and positive correlation with children's anxiety scores (r = 0.244 and p < 0.007).ConclusionsSelf‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐grads were found to have an impact on the perceived pain and anxiety scores of children during local anesthesia administrations. Empathetic post‐grads with higher self‐efficacy provided an enhanced local anesthesia experience for child patients. Therefore, educational programs should also be organized aiming to develop self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐grads for a more humane and compassionate dental experience in child patients.
HIV self‐testing and oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis are empowering for sex workers and their intimate partners: a qualitative study in Uganda
Authors: Mujugira Andrew , Nakyanzi Agnes , Kasiita Vicent , Kamusiime Brenda , Nalukwago Grace K. , Nalumansi Alisaati , Twesigye Chris C. , Muwonge Timothy R. , Baeten Jared M. , Wyatt Monique A. , Haberer Jessica E. , Ware Norma C. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIntroductionHIV self‐testing (HIVST) and oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are complementary, evidence‐based, self‐controlled HIV prevention tools that may be particularly appealing to sex workers. Understanding how HIVST and PrEP are perceived and used by sex workers and their intimate partners could inform prevention delivery for this population. We conducted qualitative interviews to examine ways in which HIVST and PrEP use influence prevention choices among sex workers in Uganda.MethodsWithin a randomized trial of HIVST and PrEP among 110 HIV‐negative cisgender women, cisgender men and transgender women sex workers (NCT03426670), we conducted 40 qualitative interviews with 30 sex workers and 10 intimate partners (June 2018 to January 2020). Sex worker interviews explored (a) experiences of using HIVST kits; (b) how HIVST was performed with sexual partners; (c) impact of HIVST on PrEP pill taking; and (d) sexual risk behaviours after HIVST. Partner interviews covered (i) introduction of HIVST; (ii) experiences of using HIVST; (iii) HIV status disclosure; and (iv) HIVST's effect on sexual behaviours. Data were analysed using an inductive content analytic approach centering on descriptive category development. Together, these categories detail the meaning of HIVST and PrEP for these qualitative participants.ResultsUsing HIVST and PrEP was empowering for this group of sex workers and their partners. Three types of empowerment were observed: (a) economic; (b) relational; and (c) sexual health. (i) Using HIVST and PrEP made sex without condoms safer. Sex workers could charge more for condomless sex, which was empowering economically. (ii) Self‐testing restored trust in partners’ fidelity upon being reunited after a separation. This trust, in combination with condomless sex made possible by PrEP use, restored intimacy, empowering partnered relationships. (iii) HIVST and PrEP enabled sex workers to take control of their HIV prevention efforts and avoid the stigma of public clinic visits. In this way they were empowered to protect their sexual health.ConclusionsIn this sample, sex workers’ use of HIVST and PrEP benefitted not only prevention efforts, but also economic and relational empowerment. Understanding these larger benefits and communicating them to stakeholders could strengthen uptake and use of combination prevention interventions in this marginalized population.
Global scoping review of HIV prevention research with transgender people: Transcending from trans‐subsumed to trans‐centred research
Authors: del Río‐González Ana María , Lameiras‐Fernández María , Modrakovic Djordje , Aguayo‐Romero Rodrigo , Glickman Courtney , Bowleg Lisa , Zea Maria Cecilia 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIntroductionGlobally, transgender populations are disproportionally impacted by HIV and effective HIV prevention interventions targeting these populations are critically needed. Such interventions require research focused on the specific needs and experiences of transgender people. This methodological review aims to determine the extent to which HIV prevention research has included transgender participants by subsuming them into non‐transgender populations, or by centring them either in comparison with other groups or as the sole focus of research.MethodsWe searched five electronic databases (e.g. SCOPUS) for empirical studies that focused on HIV prevention and included transgender participants, published through 31 December 2020. For each study, we extracted information on: (a) types of inclusion of transgender participants; (b) total sample size and number/percentage of transgender participants; (c) country(ies) where study was conducted; (d) HIV research topics; (e) methods (i.e. quantitative, qualitative or mixed‐methods research) and (f) gender identity of transgender participants.Results and discussionOf 667 HIV prevention studies included in the review, 38.5% subsumed transgender participants into cisgender populations (most frequently combining transgender women with cisgender men who have sex with men), 20.4% compared transgender and cisgender participants and 41.1% focused exclusively on transgender populations. Our global scoping review also revealed that these three types of transgender inclusion in HIV prevention research vary greatly over time, place and thematic areas. Transgender women are the focus of the majority of reviewed studies, whereas transgender men and gender expansive people are rarely included as participants.ConclusionsInclusion of transgender persons as participants in HIV prevention research has significantly increased, particularly in the last decade. Further research centred on transgender participants and their experiences are needed to develop effective HIV prevention interventions for transgender populations. We advocate for HIV prevention research to move from subsuming transgender people, to trans‐centred research that asks questions that focus on their specific needs and experiences. We provide recommendations to move from trans‐subsumed to trans‐centred HIV prevention research.
HIV‐sensitive social protection for vulnerable young women in East and Southern Africa: a systematic review
Authors: van der Wal Ran , Loutfi David , Hong Quan Nha , Vedel Isabelle , Cockcroft Anne , Johri Mira , Andersson Neil 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIntroductionSocial protection programmes are considered HIV‐sensitive when addressing risk, vulnerability or impact of HIV infection. Socio‐economic interventions, like livelihood and employability programmes, address HIV vulnerabilities like poverty and gender inequality. We explored the HIV‐sensitivity of socio‐economic interventions for unemployed and out‐of‐school young women aged 15 to 30 years, in East and Southern Africa, a key population for HIV infection.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review using a narrative synthesis method and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool for quality appraisal. Interventions of interest were work skills training, microfinance, and employment support. Outcomes of interest were socio‐economic outcomes (income, assets, savings, skills, (self‐) employment) and HIV‐related outcomes (behavioural and biological). We searched published and grey literature (January 2005 to November 2019; English/French) in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and websites of relevant international organizations.ResultsWe screened 3870 titles and abstracts and 188 full‐text papers to retain 18 papers, representing 12 projects. Projects offered different combinations of HIV‐sensitive social protection programmes, complemented with mentors, safe space and training (HIV, reproductive health and gender training). All 12 projects offered work skills training to improve life and business skills. Six offered formal (n= 2) or informal (n= 5) livelihood training. Eleven projects offered microfinance, including microgrants (n= 7), microcredit (n= 6) and savings (n= 4). One project offered employment support in the form of apprenticeships. In general, microgrants, savings, business and life skills contributed improved socio‐economic and HIV‐related outcomes. Most livelihood training contributed positive socio‐economic outcomes, but only two projects showed improved HIV‐related outcomes. Microcredit contributed little to either outcome. Programmes were effective when (i) sensitive to beneficiaries' age, needs, interests and economic vulnerability; (ii) adapted to local implementation contexts; and (iii) included life skills. Programme delivery through mentorship and safe space increased social capital and may be critical to improve the HIV‐sensitivity of socio‐economic programmes.ConclusionsA wide variety of livelihood and employability programmes were leveraged to achieve improved socio‐economic and HIV‐related outcomes among unemployed and out‐of‐school young women. To be HIV‐sensitive, programmes should be designed around their interests, needs and vulnerability, adapted to local implementation contexts, and include life skills. Employment support received little attention in this literature.