bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CRÉDITO EMERGENCIAL PARA MICRO E PEQUENAS EMPRESAS DURANTE A PANDEMIA DA COVID-19
Authors: Costa de Menezes Emanuel , Oliveira Aragão Servilha Graziele , José de Oliveira Leandro , Silva Rogerio 
Published: September 2024

O objetivo do estudo foi averiguar se as políticas de créditos emergenciais disponibilizas pelos governos as MPE’s, em todo o Brasil, foram decisivas para o enfrentando da crise econômica da Covid-19, e a atuação dos bancos públicos na concessão dos créditos. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, com abordagem quali-quantitativa, utilizou-se como procedimento metodológico o método documental e bibliográfico. Os dados foram coletados na home page do DataSebrae, plataforma Emprestômetro em janeiro de 2022. Os resultados evidenciam que a burocracia no processo de documentação dificultou o acesso dos pequenos negócios aos recursos de crédito disponibilizados pelo governo. Mesmo assim, em 2020 foram direcionados cerca de R$ 143,6 bilhões em crédito e em 2021 com o avanço da liberação da vacinação aliado a estabilidade do cenário econômico, os pequenos negócios contrataram R$ 27,8 bilhões. Nesse contexto, os bancos públicos foram fundamentais na distribuição dos recursos por serem linha direta entre o governo e as empresas, sendo responsáveis por 32% dos contratos firmados em 2020 e 47% em 2021. Portanto, apesar dos programas não terem atingido todo o público-alvo, foram essenciais para os pequenos negócios, melhorando a retomada econômica do país, destacando ainda o papel dos bancos públicos na liquidez dos créditos e melhorando a competitividade entre as instituições financeiras.
Tim-3 Is Required for Regulatory T Cell–Mediated Promotion of T Cell Exhaustion and Viral Persistence during Chronic Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus Infection
Authors: Nieves-Rosado Hector M , Banerjee Hridesh , Gocher-Demske Angela , Manandhar Priyanka , Mehta Isha , Ezenwa Ogechukwu , Xie Bingxian , Murter Ben , Das Jishnu , Vignali Dario A A , Delgoffe Greg M , Kane Lawrence P 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Expression of T cell Ig and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (Tim-3) is upregulated on regulatory T cells (Tregs) during chronic viral infections. In several murine and human chronic infections, the expression of Tim-3 is associated with poor control of viral burden and impaired antiviral immune responses. However, the role of Tim-3+ Tregs during persistent viral infections has not been fully defined. We employed an inducible Treg-specific Tim-3 loss-of-function (Tim-3 Treg knockout) murine model to dissect the role of Tim-3 on Tregs during chronic lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection. Tim-3 Treg knockout mice exhibited a decrease in morbidity, a more potent virus-specific T cell response, and a significant decrease in viral burden. These mice also had a reduction in the frequency of PD-1+Tim-3+ and PD-1+Tox+ gp33-specific exhausted CD8+ T cells. Our findings demonstrate that modulation of a single surface protein on Tregs can lead to a reduction in viral burden, limit T cell exhaustion, and enhance gp33-specific T cell response. These studies may help to identify Tim-3–directed therapies for the management of persistent infections and cancer.
Microbe-binding Antibodies in the Female Genital Tract: Associations with the Vaginal Microbiome and Genital Immunology
Authors: Liu Rachel , Pollock James , Huibner Sanja , Udayakumar Suji , Irungu Erastus , Ngurukiri Pauline , Muthoga Peter , Adhiambo Wendy , Kimani Joshua , Beattie Tara , Coburn Bryan , Kaul Rupert 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Bacteria–Ig interactions maintain homeostasis in the gut through the clearance of pathogenic bacteria and the development of immune tolerance to inflammatory bacteria; whether similar interactions modulate inflammation and bacterial colonization in the female genital tract is uncertain. In this study, we used a flow cytometry–based assay to quantify microbe-binding IgA and IgG in the cervicovaginal secretions of 200 HIV-uninfected women from Nairobi, Kenya that were enriched for bacterial vaginosis. Total IgA and IgG were abundant and frequently demonstrated ex vivo binding to the key vaginal bacteria species Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia, Lactobacillus iners, and Lactobacillus crispatus, which are largely microbe-specific. Microbe-binding Abs were generally not associated with the presence or abundance of their corresponding bacteria. Total and microbe-binding IgA and IgG were inversely correlated with total bacterial abundance and positively correlated with several proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF) and chemotactic chemokines (IP-10, MIG, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, MIP-3α, MCP-1, IL-8), independent of total bacterial abundance. Flow cytometry–based quantification of microbe-binding Abs provides a platform to investigate host–microbiota interactions in the female genital tract of human observational and interventional studies. In contrast to the gut, cervicovaginal microbe-binding IgA and IgG do not appear to be immunoregulatory but may indirectly mitigate bacteria-induced inflammation by reducing total bacterial abundance.
Addressing unique challenges and crafting inclusive policies for Queer living with disabilities
Authors: Ikhile Ikekhwa A. , Mavhandu-Mudzusi Azwihangwisi H. , Sinegugu Ndlovu 
Published: September 2024

Background: This article addresses the intersectional challenges faced by Queer people living with disabilities (QPwD).Objectives: The article aims to highlight the nature and extent of their struggles while proposing inclusive policies for societal integration and equality. Amid global efforts to promote Queer rights, discrimination and violence persist, particularly affecting those with disabilities.Method: Drawing upon a comprehensive review of literature and empirical research, this study investigated the experiences of QPwD, identifying key challenges such as limited access to inclusive services, heightened vulnerability to abuse and systemic unemployment. The methodological approach used in this study involves synthesising existing scholarship and empirical evidence to inform the proposed inclusive policies.Results: The findings reveal pervasive barriers encountered by QPwD, including societal stigma, attitudinal biases and physical obstacles. Discrimination in employment, education and healthcare further exacerbates their marginalisation, necessitating proactive measures to address systemic inequalities and promote social inclusion.Conclusion: In conclusion, this article underscores the urgent need for policy reforms and societal interventions to uphold the rights and dignity of QPwD. By advocating for Queer-inclusive workplace policies, enhancing accessibility in public infrastructure and fostering governmental support for equality initiatives, this study contributes to advancing social justice and inclusivity.Contribution: The article calls for concerted efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or disability status, can thrive and fulfil their potential.
Male circumcision perceptions among HIV vaccine trial participants in Soweto: Qualitative study
Authors: Sibiya Mbalenhle , Laher Fatima , Mulaudzi Mamakiri , Makhale Lerato M. , Salami Taibat , Hornschuh Stefanie , Tieu Hong-Van , Dietrich Janan J. 
Published: September 2024

Background: Male circumcision has health benefits and cultural significance in South Africa and elsewhere. We sought to understand perceptions about male circumcision among participants enrolled in a preventive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine efficacy trial in South Africa.Methods: We conducted a qualitative study with 28 consenting people aged 18–35 years old who self-reported that they were not living with HIV and who were participating in the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) 702 vaccine efficacy trial in Soweto. Using a semi-structured guide, we facilitated four focus group discussions (FGDs) stratified by age, gender and sexual orientation. Focus group discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated into English and thematically analysed.Results: Four main themes emerged: (1) accurate knowledge about what male circumcision is, with some participants stating that it partially reduces acquisition of HIV and sexually transmitted infections; (2) emerging distrust of cultural circumcision because of perceived lack of transparency and adverse events; (3) misperceptions that circumcision boosted masculinity and (4) the influenced of parents, family and female partners in circumcision decision-making.Conclusion: Young South African HIV vaccine trial participants accurately understand the HIV prevention benefits of male circumcision, but uptake decisions are embedded within a context informed by culture, sexuality, masculinity norms and values and the influence of women.Contribution: In this study, we showed that young South Africans participating in HIV vaccine trials instead embed their circumcision uptake decisions within a context informed by culture, sexuality and masculinity norms and values and influence of women.
Cardiac MRI in Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Girija Manu Santhappan , Menon Deepak , Polavarapu Kiran , Preethish-Kumar Veeramani , Vengalil Seena , Nashi Saraswati , Keertipriya Madassu , Bardhan Mainak , Thomas Priya Treesa , Kiran Valasani Ravi , Nishadham Vikas , Sadasivan Arun , Huddar Akshata , Unnikrishnan Gopi Krishnan , Barthur Ashita , Nalini Atchayaram 
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives:
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) is the noninvasive technique of choice for early detection of cardiac involvement in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD and BMD, respectively), but is seldom used in routine clinical practice in the Indian context. We sought to determine the prevalence of CMRI abnormalities in patients with DMD and BMD and to compare the CMRI parameters with the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics.

Methods:
A prospective, observational study was conducted on patients genetically diagnosed with DMD and BMD who could complete CMRI between March 2020 and March 2022. Abnormal CMRI was the presence of any late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) that signifies myocardial fibrosis (LGE positivity), regional wall motion abnormality, or reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF <55%).

Results:
A total of 46 patients were included: 38 patients with DMD and eight with BMD. Cardiac abnormality was seen in 23 (50%) patients. LGE was more common than impaired LVEF in DMD (16, 42.1%), while impaired LVEF was more common in BMD (5, 62.5%). LGE was most frequently found in lateral wall (18/19) followed by inferior (6/19), septal (5/19), anterior (2/19), and apex (1/19). Among the various clinicodemographic parameters, only age (r = 0.495, P = 0.002) and disease duration (r = 0.407, P = 0.011) were found to significantly correlate with LGE in patients with DMD. No association was found between the various CMRI parameters and the genotype.

Conclusions:
The current study highlights the differences in myocardial fibrosis and LV dysfunction between DMD and BMD, along with other CMRI parameters. Notably, a genotype–CMRI correlation was not found in the current cohort, which needs to be further explored.
Prevalence of 14 high-risk human papillomavirus subtypes among volunteers of cervical cancer screening by Papanicolaou smear cytology from a tertiary care institute of Assam, India
Authors: Phukan Pranay Kumar , Dutta Aparna , Deuri Ajanta , Choudhury Gargi , Borpujari Porikhit , Bhattacharyya Neelakshi , Gogoi Gayatri 
Published: September 2024

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:
In India, cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cancer among women, constituting 18.3% of all cases. Persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a well-established risk factor for cervical cancer.

OBJECTIVES:
This study aimed to assess the prevalence of 14 high-risk HPV subtypes and their association with abnormal cytology among women in Upper Assam.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2022 to April 2023 at a tertiary care center in Assam. A total of 100 women aged 23-72 years underwent cervical sample collection for HPV DNA analysis via real-time polymerase chain reaction and cytological examination of Papanicolaou (PAP) smears.

RESULTS:
The overall HPV prevalence was 13%, with 10% testing positive for HPV 16/18 and 6% for other high-risk subtypes. Coinfection with HPV 16/18 and other subtypes was found in 3% of cases. The mean age of HPV-positive participants was 46 years. Cytology results showed 87% normal, 11% inflammatory changes, and 2% epithelial cell abnormalities. The Chi-square analysis (α = 0.05) showed no significant association between age (P = 0.24), religion (P = 0.49), or education (P = 0.57) and HPV positivity, but the study showed a significant association of HPV infection with menstrual cycle (P = 0.04). The study also showed a significant association between cervical cytology and HPV positivity (P = 0.0087).

DISCUSSION:
The present study’s findings on the prevalence of all 14 high-risk HPV subtypes contribute new insights to the existing literature, although the slightly lower prevalence may be attributed to the sample size and demographic factors. The findings emphasize the need for regular screening by PAP smear as well as by HPV DNA detection, as cytological abnormalities were detected even in those without HPV infection.

CONCLUSION:
Along with 16/18 HPV subtypes, a longitudinal study may offer important insights into the development of coinfections and the other 12 subtypes of HPV infection, as well as the spectrum of dysplasia and in situ cervical cancer.
Comparative study of stem bark and small branches of Streblus asper and anti-carcinogenic and anti-diabetic activity
Authors: Meena A. K. , Ilavarasan R. , Perumal Ayyam , Ojha Vikas , Singh Ravindra , Srikanth Narayanam , Dhiman Kartar Singh 
Published: September 2024

Background:
This study focuses on analyzing stigmasterol, a key compound found in Streblus asper lour., in both stem bark and small branches, and investigates its potential as an alternative source.

Objective:
To analyze the stigmasterol content in both stem bark and small branches of S. asper through High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) techniques. In addition, molecular docking studies are conducted to assess the interaction of stigmasterol with selected anticancer and anti-diabetic target proteins.

Materials and Methods:
The study involved the comparative analysis of stigmasterol content in stem bark and small branches using HPLC techniques. Molecular docking simulations were performed to evaluate the binding affinity of stigmasterol with target proteins associated with anticancer and anti-diabetic activities.

Results:
HPLC analysis revealed stigmasterol content of 0.13298% in stem bark and 0.0373% in small branches. Molecular docking simulations demonstrated favorable binding energies (−9.0, −12.2, −9.8, −10.5, and −9.5 kcal/mol) of stigmasterol with selected target proteins.

Conclusion:
Both stem bark and small branches of S. asper contain stigmasterol, indicating their potential as a source of this compound with promising in silico anticancer and anti-diabetic activity. Utilizing small branches could offer a sustainable alternative while conserving the plant species and its ecological balance. Further validation through in vitro and in vivo studies is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of stigmasterol fully.
Occupational Hazards, Associated Ocular Morbidities and Impact of Refractive Safety Eyewear among Agriculture Workers in India – A Two State Study
Authors: Janani Suresh , Krithica Srinivasan , Saranya Sachi B. , Lakshmi Shinde , Nivethikka Ram M. R. , Shefali Jathanna J. , Saravanan Subramaniyam , Eshwari K. , Ve Ramesh S. , Rashima Asokan 
Published: September 2024

Context:
Agriculture is one of the occupations with the highest risk of injuries and fatalities but the farmers are ignorant about eye care and eye safety.

Aim:
The current study aims at understanding the occupational hazard and ocular morbidities associated with agriculture and the effect of safety eyewear.

Settings and Design:
Multicenteric, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in two states of India: Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Subjects were agriculture workers recruited by convenience sampling.

Methods and Material:
The study was done in three phases: Phase 1: Visual task analysis (VTA), Phase 2: Comprehensive eye examination, and Phase 3: Spectacle compliance assessment. The Standard of Living Index scale was administered to assess the socioeconomic status of the participants.

Statistical Analysis Used:
Descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

Results:
A study involving 276 workers (39.4% male, 65.2% female) found that VTA agricultural tasks were visually less demanding but hazardous, carrying the risk of ocular and nonocular injuries. Ocular injuries accounted for 9.4% (26 cases), while nonocular injuries accounted for 9.8% (27 cases). Spectacle compliance assessment revealed that 91.8% (157 out of 171 workers) reported improved visual comfort, reduced dust exposure, and enhanced safety with safety eyewear.

Conclusions:
This study illustrates numerous types of hazards associated with the occupation of farming. The study population had a 9.4% prevalence of ocular injuries. Refractive safety eyewear was reported to improve worker visual comfort.
Effect of Video Assisted Teaching (VAT) on Awareness, Knowledge and Attitude towards Organ Donation and Transplantation in a North Indian State
Authors: Varshney Shyamli , Sanyal Parikshit , Garg Anurag , Kansra Pooja 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Video-assisted teaching (VAT) is an effective means of intervention in motivating toward a particular medico-social goal. We evaluated the efficacy of a VAT intervention in caregivers of patients at a polyclinic in Haryana, India.

Objectives:
To asses efficacy of VAT in changing attitude towards organ donation.

Method:
One hundred and fifty participants each from rural and urban backgrounds were chosen randomly. A standard set of questions consisting of 9 positively framed and 11 negatively framed questions was prepared. The participants were subjected to an initial evaluation with the questionnaire, followed by VAT, after which the same questionnaire was repeated.

Results:
An increase in favorable responses was noted post-VAT, both in urban and rural populations. In particular, the favorable response to negatively framed questions improved significantly after the VAT, as seen after a Z-test for paired proportions before and after VAT.

Conclusion:
The findings of the present study suggest that VAT might be a useful adjunct in motivational sessions for organ donation, especially in removing negative prejudice toward organ donation.
Recurrent Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: A Masquerade of Antibody-Mediated Rejection?
Authors: Swain Meenakshi , Manocha Anisha , Sekhar Mudigonda Soma 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) resulting from uncontrolled activation of the alternate complement pathway. It is necessary to distinguish a recurrent aHUS posttransplant from de novo aHUS, as the former is usually associated with complement abnormalities and has a poorer prognosis. Furthermore, COVID-19 is believed to unmask underlying complement defects triggering a relapse of aHUS. In this report, we present one such unique histologic presentation of recurrent TMA following a COVID-19 infection, which was not just a diagnostic challenge but could easily have been misdiagnosed as an antibody-mediated rejection.
Descriptive analysis of medical negligence claims in septicemia patients: a review of Indian National Consumer Court judgments
Authors: Sethi Aakash A. , Shringarpure Kalpita K. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background, Aims, and Objectives:
Patients admitted to intensive care units are at a higher risk of experiencing medical errors and have an increased likelihood of developing septicemia. Due to the high mortality associated with sepsis, doctors are more frequently sued for negligence. Patients alleging medical negligence in India can seek compensation through the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (NCDRC). This study aims to analyze NCDRC cases where patients suffering from septicemia filed for negligence. In medical negligence cases filed by patients suffering from Septicemia, the objective is to find out the court’s outcome/verdict, the pattern of monetary compensation involved in the case, the legal standard of accepted care in the management of septicemia, and ways in which doctors can protect themselves from negligence claims, etc.

Materials and Methods:
This is a record review study in which judgments were obtained from www.scconline.com. The final analysis included cases where patients were diagnosed with sepsis based on medical records or postmortem reports. Qualitative data is presented as percentages, while quantitative data is expressed as a median with an interquartile range. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare qualitative variables.

Results:
A total of 34 judgments met the inclusion criteria, with the court ruling in favor of doctors in only eight cases. Surgical intervention (11 cases, 32.3%) was the most common cause of sepsis, followed by abdominal infection (14.7%). The outcome of the cases was not influenced by whether the doctor or patient initiated the lawsuit (Fisher exact probability = 0.49).

Conclusion:
The NCDRC found doctors negligent in most cases where patients with septicemia sued. Eventful surgery was identified as the most common cause of sepsis. The study suggests that doctors can protect themselves by promptly diagnosing post-surgical injuries to intra-abdominal organs and preventing the spread of local infections.
Prospects of emerging 3D bioprinting technologies: major startup companies and regulatory issues for human use—part II
Authors: Ghosh Prasanta K. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In its highly developed form, the evolving three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology aims to create 3D structures with living cells to mimic real tissue and organ functions. It would offer significant benefits across research, personalized medicine, and multiple other applications when adequately developed for human medicine. Presently, more technological activities are witnessed in North America, followed by Europe, Asia Pacific countries, Israel among the Middle East countries, and some South American countries. Around 75 commercial companies are active in 3D bioprinting, with only about a dozen making significant commercial progress. This number is expected to rise phenomenally as breakthroughs in manufacturing and the safe use of 3D bioprinted tissues and organs emerge. Legal frameworks for 3D bioprinting will likely be established, incorporating additions to existing drug laws once countries like the United States of America authorize using 3D bioprinted products in personalized medicine. The demand for 3D bioprinting products is rising based on expectations of future benefits. Therefore, intense research and development activities are ongoing, resulting in demands for the supply of research materials. The legal framework still needs to be put in place for the commercial use of 3D bioprinted tissues and organs in personalized medicine; therefore, laws are to be created for their safe use. This review provides a flavor of the evolution of 3D bioprinting startup companies globally using these technologies.