bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The 4Rs: A collective reflexive methodology for realising critical self‐transformation in ICT4D research practice
Authors: Abbott Pamela Y. , Dasuki Salihu , Jimenez Andrea 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe “critical turn” in information and communication technologies for development (ICT4D) research emphasises a transformative and ethical research practice which can be addressed by developing the critical intent and agency of ICT4D researchers through reflexive practice. There exist, however, limited methodological insights into existing reflexive approaches and a limited understanding of how self‐transformation and change can take place through more critically reflexive ICT4D research practice. To address these issues, this paper proposes a reflexive methodology for ICT4D research, labelled “the 4Rs”, which comprises four interrelated reflective and potentially self‐transforming processes of Retrospection, Representation, Review and Reinterpretation. We present the explanations and justifications of the methodology in detail with illustrative examples. We also employ a metacognitive process to understand how self‐transformation can be realised through the use of this methodology and demonstrate the applicability of the 4Rs for other ICT4D researchers. Our main contribution lies in illustrating how this collective and critical approach can be used to deepen the self‐reflexivity of traditional individual confessional accounts. We also demonstrate how the approach can lead to new collective knowledge and contribute to achieving more critical agency.
Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in diabetic and non‐diabetic foot infections
Authors: Lavery Lawrence A. , Reyes Mario C. , Suludere Mehmet , Najafi Bijan , Sideman Matthew , Siah Michael C. , Tarricone Arthur N. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractTo identify the incidence of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection, reinfection and clinical outcomes. Four hundred forty‐six patients that were admitted to the hospital with moderate or severe foot infections were retrospectively reviewed. Tissue and bone cultures were obtained from the index hospital admission. Conversion was defined as methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus in the first culture and subsequently MRSA when there was a reinfection. The incidence of MRSA was 7.8% (n = 35), with no significant difference between soft tissue infections (7.7%) and osteomyelitis (8.0%). MRSA incidence was 9.4 times higher in non‐diabetics (23.8% vs. 3.2%, p = <0.01). The incidence of reinfection was 40.8% (n = 182). Conversion to MRSA was seen in 2.2% (n = 4) total, occurring in 5.4%. Non‐diabetics were 20.1 times more likely to have MRSA reinfection than people with diabetes (28.6% vs. 1.9%, p < 0.001). MRSA patients had a higher proportion of healed wounds (82.4% vs. 69.3%, p = 0.02). There were no differences in other clinical outcomes in MRSA vs. other infections in reinfection (28.6% vs. 24.3%, p = 0.11), amputation (48.6% vs. 52.0%, p = 0.69) or hospitalization (28.6% vs. 42.6, p = 0.11). The incidence of MRSA for the first infection (7.8%), reinfection (6.0%) and conversion to MRSA (2.2%) was low. MRSA was 9.4 times more common in people without diabetes.
Murine immune responses to Schistosoma haematobium and the vaccine candidate rSh28GST
Authors: LANE A. , BOULANGER D. , RIVEAU G. , CAPRON A. , WILSON R.A. 
Published: September 2024

SUMMARYLongitudinal studies of Schistosoma haematobium infection in CBA mice revealed a progressive down‐regulation of cellular immune responses, as measured by mitogenic and antigenic stimulation of in vitro lymphocyte cultures. Antigen‐stimulated production of the Th1 cytokine IFN‐γ by splenocytes increased progressively up to 14 weeks post infection, (four weeks after the onset of parasite egg production), before declining swiftly. Levels of the Th2 cytokine IL‐4 in the same cultures remained low until 14 weeks, after which they rose rapidly as IFN‐γ declined. High levels of IL‐10 coincided with the peak in IFN‐γ production, suggesting a non Th2‐restricted role for this cytokine. Both total and antigen‐specific immunoglobulin production confirmed parasite egg deposition as being a major stimulus for host humoral responses. The S. haematobium tobium infection failed to elicit detectable T cell responses to the antifecundity vaccine candidate rSh28GST. However, low levels of antibody were detectable in infected mouse serum and strong IgG and IgA production was induced by vaccination with rSh28GST plus adjuvant.
Antiviral effect of cannabidiol on K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice infected with SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Polat Hivda Ulbegi , Yalcin Hicret Asli , Köm Deniz , Aksoy Özge , Abaci Irem , Ekiz Arzu Tas , Serhatli Müge , Onarici Selma 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe aim of this study was to determine the antiviral activity of cannabidiol (CBD) against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. CBD is the second most studied cannabinoid obtained from Cannabis plants. We investigated the potential use of CBD, which has so far proven to have a positive effect on different diseases, in the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. To test this, in vivo studies were carried out using K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice. To reveal the potential therapeutic effect of the CBD at the histopathological and molecular level challenge experiments were performed. The study was designed with two groups (n = 10) and in the treatment group animals were infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 virus strain B.1.1.7 alpha before the administration of CBD. While the disease progressed and resulted in death in the control group that was infected by the virus alone, it was observed that the infection slowed down and the survival rate increased in the mice treated with CBD along with the virus. In this study, K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice infected with the wild SARS‐CoV‐2 virus were used to investigate and prove the antiviral activity of CBD.
Acne and the cutaneous microbiome: A systematic review of mechanisms and implications for treatments
Authors: Podwojniak Alicia , Tan Isabella J. , Sauer John , Neubauer Zachary , Rothenberg Hanna , Ghani Hira , Parikh Aarushi K. , Cohen Bernard 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAcne vulgaris is a pervasive skin disease characterized by inflammation of sebaceous units surrounding hair follicles. It results from the complex interplay between skin physiology and the intricate cutaneous microbiome. Current acne treatments, while effective, have major limitations, prompting a shift towards microbiome‐based therapeutic approaches. This study aims to determine the relationship between acne and the cutaneous microbiome, assess the effects of current treatments on the cutaneous microbiome and explore the implications for developing new therapies. A systematic review was performed using PubMed and SCOPUS databases within the last 10 years. Methodological quality was assessed independently by two authors. The search retrieved 1830 records, of which 26 articles met the inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis of alpha diversity change was assessed using fixed and randomized effect models per therapeutic group. Eight studies pertain to the role of the cutaneous microbiome in acne, identifying C. acnes, S. aureus and S. epidermidis as key contributors through overproliferation, commensalism or dysbiosis. Eleven studies discuss current acne treatments, including doxycycline (1), topical benzoyl peroxide (BPO) (4), isotretinoin (2), sulfacetamide‐sulfur (SSA) (2) and aminolevulinic acid‐photodynamic therapy (ALA‐PDT) (2), identified as modulating the cutaneous microbiome as a mechanism of efficacy in acne treatment. Seven studies discuss new treatments with topical probiotics, plant derivatives and protein derivatives, which contribute to acne clearance via modulation of dysbiosis, inflammatory markers and diversity indexes. A meta‐analysis of the effects of existing therapeutics on the cutaneous microbiome identified benzoyl peroxide as the only treatment to facilitate significant change in diversity. Despite the heterogeneity of study types and microbiome classifications limiting the analysis, this review underscores the complexity of microbial involvement in acne pathogenesis. It delineates the effects of acne therapeutics on microbial diversity, abundance and composition, emphasizing the necessity for personalized approaches in acne management based on microbiome modulation.
Melatonin Prevents Thioacetamide–Induced Gut Leakiness and Liver Fibrosis Through the Gut–Liver Axis via Modulating Sirt1‐Related Deacetylation of Gut Junctional Complex and Hepatic Proteins
Authors: Rungratanawanich Wiramon , LeFort Karli Rae , Cho Young‐Eun , Li Xiaoling , Song Byoung‐Joon 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTIntestinal barrier dysfunction with high serum endotoxin is common in patients with liver fibrosis, but the mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis remain unclear. Melatonin is a well‐recognized antioxidant and an anti‐inflammatory agent that benefits multiple organs. However, the beneficial effects of melatonin on gut leakiness–associated liver fibrosis have not been systemically studied. Here, we investigated the protective mechanisms of melatonin against thioacetamide (TAA)–induced gut barrier dysfunction and hepatic fibrosis by focusing on posttranslational protein modifications through the gut–liver axis. Our results showed that gut leakiness markers, including decreased gut tight/adherens junction proteins (TJ/AJs) with increased intestinal deformation, apoptosis, and serum endotoxin, were observed early at 1 week after TAA exposure. Liver injury, apoptosis, and fibrosis were prominent at 2 and 4 weeks. Mechanistically, we found that gut TJ/AJs were hyper‐acetylated, followed by ubiquitin‐dependent proteolysis, leading to their degradation and gut leakiness. Gut dysbiosis, hepatic protein hyper‐acetylation, and SIRT1 downregulation were also observed. Consistently, intestinal Sirt1 deficiency greatly enhanced protein hyper‐acetylation, gut leakiness, endotoxemia, and liver fibrosis. Pretreatment with melatonin prevented or improved all these changes in both the gut and liver. Furthermore, melatonin blunted protein acetylation and injury in TAA–exposed T84 human intestinal and AML12 mouse liver cells. Overall, this study demonstrated novel mechanisms by which melatonin prevents gut leakiness and liver fibrosis through the gut–liver axis by attenuating the acetylation of intestinal and hepatic proteins. Thus, melatonin consumption can become a potentially safe supplement for liver fibrosis patients by preventing protein hyper‐acetylation and gut leakiness.
Meta‐analysis of probiotics efficacy in the treatment of minimum hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Zhou Yu‐Lian , Pu Shu‐Tao , Xiao Jian‐Bo , Luo Jun , Xue Li 
Published: September 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in treating minimum hepatic encephalopathy (MHE).MethodsA systematic search was conducted across three major databases: PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang. The search period spanned from the inception of each database to 9 March 2023. The objective was to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of probiotic preparations in treating MHE. The search terms included ‘probiotics’ along with other clinically relevant terms to comprehensively capture all pertinent studies.ResultsA total of 18 RCTs were included. The meta‐analysis showed that probiotic treatment outperformed control groups in reducing blood ammonia levels (standard mean difference [MD] = −2.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.90 to −1.46, p < .0001), improving the remission rate of MHE (risk ratio [RR] = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.23–6.35, p = .01) and lowering alanine aminotransferase levels (MD = −11.10, 95% CI: −16.17 to −6.03, p < .0001). It also significantly reduced the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease scores (MD = −2.55, 95% CI: −3.56 to −1.54, p < .00001) and the incidence of MHE (RR = .18, 95% CI: .09–.34, p < .00001).ConclusionOur study demonstrates that probiotics effectively improve blood ammonia levels, liver function and cognitive function in patients with MHE. They significantly enhance the remission rate of MHE and effectively reduce its incidence, providing solid new evidence for treating MHE with probiotics.
Prevalence, trends, and distribution of hepatitis C virus among the general population in sub‐Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kassa Getahun Molla , Walker Josephine G. , Alamneh Tesfa Sewunet , Tamiru Melaku Tileku , Bivegete Sandra , Adane Aynishet , Amogne Wondwossen , Dillon John F. , Vickerman Peter , Dagne Emebet , Yesuf Elias Ali , Hickman Matthew , French Clare E. , Lim Aaron G. ,   the DESTINE NIHR Global Health Research Group
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsAlthough the evidence is uncertain, existing estimates for hepatitis C virus (HCV) in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) indicate a high burden. We estimated HCV seroprevalence and viraemic prevalence among the general population in SSA.MethodsWe searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, APA PsycINFO, and World Health Organization Africa Index Medicus for community‐based studies. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool, and heterogeneity using the index of heterogeneity (I2). Two approaches were deployed. First, we used random‐effects meta‐analysis to pool prevalence. Second, to derive representative estimates, we weighted each country's HCV seroprevalence using 2021 United Nations country population sizes.ResultsWe synthesized 130 studies. Overall, SSA HCV seroprevalence from the random‐effects model was 4.17% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.71–4.66, I2 = 99.30%). There were no differences between males (4.31%) and females (4.03%). Seroprevalence was 2.25%, 3.31%, and 16.23% for ages ≤20, 21–64, and ≥65 years, respectively, and was higher in rural (6.63%) versus urban (2.93%). There was indication of decrement overtime from 5.74% to 4.35% to 3.03% in the years 1984–2000, 2001–2014, and 2015–2023, respectively. The weighted overall SSA HCV seroprevalence was estimated to be 2.30% (95% CI: 1.59–3.00) with regional variation: Africa‐Southern (.79%), Africa‐Central (1.47%), Africa‐Eastern (2.71%), and Africa‐Western (2.88%). HCV viremia among HCV seropositives was 54.77% (95% CI: 47.80–61.66).ConclusionsHCV seroprevalence in SSA remains high. Populations aged ≥65 years, rural communities, Africa‐Western, and some countries in Africa‐Central and Africa‐Eastern appear disproportionately affected. These results underline the need for governmental commitment to achieve the 2030 global HCV elimination targets.
Androgenic Alopecia Is Associated With More Severe Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Pazir Yasar , Kadihasanoglu Mustafa 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo evaluate the possible association between androgenic alopecia (AGA) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).MethodsA total of 148 patients aged over 45 with LUTS secondary to BPH were prospectively enrolled in this study. According to the Norwood–Hamilton classification, the patients were divided into two groups: AGA (n = 69) and non‐AGA (n = 79). In addition, the cases of AGA were categorized as vertex (n = 39) and frontal baldness (n = 30). The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), uroflowmetry parameters, prostate volume, serum total testosterone (TT), and free and total prostate‐specific antigen concentrations of all patients were assessed and compared between the groups. Correlations between the AGA grade and other variables were also investigated.ResultsThe serum TT level (354 ± 97.1 vs. 308.6 ± 73.1 ng/dL, p = 0.01), total IPSS (16.1 ± 8.1 vs. 13.4 ± 7.7, p = 0.04), IPSS storage subscore (IPSS‐S) (7.1 ± 3.5 vs. 5.8 ± 3.6, p = 0.03), and number of nocturia episodes (2.5 ± 1.4 vs. 1.8 ± 1.4, p < 0.01) were significantly higher in the AGA group than in the non‐AGA group. There were no significant differences in any of the parameters between the patients with vertex and frontal baldness. The AGA grade showed a significant positive correlation with the TT level (r = 0.407, p = 0.003), IPSS‐S (r = 0.164, p = 0.04), and number of nocturia episodes (r = 0.203, p = 0.015).ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that among patients with LUTS, those with AGA had worse symptoms and higher TT levels compared with those without AGA of similar age. Furthermore, the AGA grade was positively correlated with the TT level and storage symptoms.
Definition Change and Update of Clinical Guidelines for Interstitial Cystitis and Bladder Pain Syndrome
Authors: Homma Yukio , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Kim Jang Hwan , Chuang Yao‐Chi , Jeong Seong Jin , Meng En , Kitta Takeya , Jhang Jia‐Fong , Furuta Akira , Lee Kyu‐Sung , Maeda Daichi 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTThe clinical guidelines for interstitial cystitis (IC) and bladder pain syndrome (BPS) have been revised by updating our previous guidelines. The symptoms of IC and BPS, collectively called as hypersensitive bladder (HSB) symptoms, are virtually indistinguishable between IC and BPS; however, IC and BPS should be considered as a separate entity of disorders. We define IC as a bladder disease with Hunner lesions, usually associated with HSB symptoms and bladder inflammation, and BPS as a condition with HSB symptoms in the absence of Hunner lesions and any confusable diseases. Pathophysiology totally differs between IC and BPS. IC involves immunological inflammation probably resulting from autoimmunity, while BPS is associated with the interaction of multiple factors such as neurogenic inflammation, exogenous substances, urothelial defects, psychological stress, and neural hyperactivity. Histopathology also differs between IC and BPS. IC is associated with severe inflammation of the whole bladder accompanied by plasma cell infiltration and urothelial denudation, while BPS shows little pathological changes. Management should begin with a differential diagnosis of IC or BPS, which would require cystoscopy to determine the presence or absence of Hunner lesions. The patients should be treated differently based on the diagnosis following the algorithm, although pain management would be common to IC and BPS. Clinical studies are also to be designed and analyzed separately for IC and BPS.
Filter feeders living on suspension feeders: New insights into the lifestyle and distribution of Arcturidae Dana, 1849 (Crustacea: Isopoda) around Iceland
Authors: Hartmann Vivien Lukas , Pereira Emanuel , Mercado‐Salas Nancy F. , Lörz Anne‐Nina , Svavarsson Jörundur , Brix Saskia 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe focus of the present study was on arcturid isopods occurring in the subarctic region around Iceland. Data from two decades of sampling with an epibenthic sledge (EBS) during numerous expeditions of the BIOICE (Benthic Invertebrates of Icelandic Waters; 1992–2004) and IceAGE (Icelandic marine Animals: Genetics and Ecology; 2011—ongoing) projects were incorporated into an integrative taxonomy approach. This approach linked distribution records, morphological and molecular examinations, with video and image data observed during recent expeditions in 2018 (MSM75) and 2020 (SO276) using the Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) PHOCA and Kiel 6000 from GEOMAR. The resulting dataset from 120 sampling locations included 6852 specimens, a large percentage of which were fixed in formalin during BIOICE. Ethanol‐fixed specimens collected during IceAGE were used to link morphotypes with haplotypes and occurrence locations, focusing on the coral association of the genus Astacilla Cordiner, 1793. The IceAGE sampling was complemented by ROV image and video data and noninvasive sampling, making it possible to obtain pictures of living specimens of A. longicornis. The species A. longicornis Sowerby, 1806 showed a distribution linked to cold‐water occurrence and was sampled from Paramuricea placomus. Astacilla boreaphilis Stranky & Svavarsson, 2006, occurring only south of Iceland, showed high morphological variation in the spine pattern of adult females, while the molecular results indicated no clear pattern of potentially ongoing species radiation or cryptic species. Astacilla granulata was exclusively found north of Iceland. Thus, the species' distribution is potentially influenced by the Greenland‐Faroe Ridge, which separates the North Atlantic from the Arctic Ocean.
Adolescent pregnancy, maternal and child anaemia: Empirical analysis from India, Bangladesh, and Nigeria
Authors: Rammohan Anu , Chu Hoi , Awofeso Niyi , Goli Srinivas 
Published: September 2024

AbstractEarly childbearing poses several potential risks to maternal and child health. This paper empirically analyses the association between teenage pregnancy and child nutritional status, maternal and child anaemia in three countries (Nigeria, India and Bangladesh) that account for the highest proportion of teenage births and/or total number of malnourished teenage mothers and children. Data were sourced from nine waves of Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in Bangladesh, India, and Nigeria from 2005–2018, covering a sample of 27,705 children from Bangladesh, 266,308 children from India and 54,719 children from Nigeria. Our outcome measures of maternal and child nutrition include (i) a composite measure of anthropometric failure for children (CIAF), (ii) maternal anaemia, (iii) childhood anaemia, and (iv) anaemia in maternal–child pairs. Using multivariate regression analysis, we examine the associations between early childbirth, child nutrition, and maternal and child anaemia, controlling for an array of household‐level socioeconomic and demographic characteristics. Across all three countries, the prevalence of CIAF (childhood anthropometric failure) is significantly higher among children born to women aged below 17 at first birth. We further find that early pregnancy and childbearing are associated with significantly higher rates of severe/moderate anaemia among both mothers and children in Bangladesh and Nigeria. In the three countries studied, the proportions of teenage mothers with vulnerable socioeconomic status and suboptimal pre‐conception care are relatively high, which raises the risk of maternal and child morbidity as well as mortality.