bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sero-prevalence of Hepatitis E Virus in Some Domesticated Animals in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Osanyintuyi Shola Gabriel , Oladejo Babayemi Olawale , Oladunmoye Muftau Kolawole , Adebayo Isaach Abayomi , Abodunrin Olusola Stephen , Agbowo Gerald Chimezie , Osanyintuyi Nifemi Busola 
Published: July 2024

Aim: This study is aimed to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) total antibody in some domesticated animals in Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Study Design: The study was a cross-sectional study conducted at Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted at Ekiti State, Nigeria between October 2023 and January 2024. Sample testing and analysis of serological test were performed at Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Methodology: 186 blood samples from four animal species were randomly collected. The serum samples were obtained from the following animals in the study area using the technique of venipuncture: dogs (n=56), pigs (n=29), sheep (n=59) and goat (n=42). Blood samples were collected and separated serum for testing of HEV total antibody using Human (HEV-Ab) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results: The overall seroprevalence of HEV total antibodies was 41.94%, among the four animal species sampled, Pigs had the highest seroprevalence (72.4%). Out of the five Local Government areas, Ido-Osi had the highest HEV seroprevalence (53.57%). The age group ranging from ˃12-≤18 months had higher HEV prevalence (29.41%) among the age group.
All age groups of the domestic animals had statistically significant differences at (P ˂ 0.05). Among all the pregnant domestic animals, goats had a considerably higher seroprevalence of HEV total antibody (73.33%) than other pregnant animals in the study area. The HEV prevalence among the pregnant domestic animals was statistically significant (P˂ 0.05).
Conclusion: Data suggest that HEV remains an under-recognized and significant public health problem, wanting further attention and research.
Gender-based Violence (GBV) on Bangladeshi Women and Girls during COVID-19 in Toronto: Forms, Causes, and Mental Health Impacts
Authors: Islam Qazi Shafayetul , Akter Nasima 
Published: July 2024

Aims: The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown has led to a rise in the number of gender-based violence (GBV) cases within families. This increase is mainly due to patriarchal influence, prolonged stay at home, social isolation, and financial abuse. Women and girls, in particular, have been adversely affected by this phenomenon, experiencing significant mental health impacts. A study conducted in Toronto explored the various types and causes of violence against South Asian Bangladeshi women and girls and how it affects their mental health, too.
Methodology: Bangladeshi-Canadian Community Services (BCS), an ethnic organization conducted a study on gender-based violence (GBV) from Sep to Dec 2021. Two extensive Zoom group discussions involved 55 females and six males, including social workers (n=9), community leaders/workers (n=17), community youth ambassadors (n=9), and community members (n=26, among them n=11 were victims). Audio recordings were transcribed and translated into English, then thematically coded to identify forms of GBV and provide narratives based on participants' experiences.
Results: South Asian Bangladeshi women and girls have been subjected to various forms of violence by their husbands or male family members, such as physical, psychological/emotional, verbal, and financial violence. Physical violence includes shaking their wives' hands and necks and pushing wives and girls. Psychological, verbal, and financial violence includes scolding, threatening, demoralizing, blaming, belittling, coercing, stealing money, and committing financial fraud. The causes of violence against women during the lockdown are related to the loss of husbands' jobs and idleness, the tendency to establish male power over women out of fear of losing patriarchal control during a crisis, husbands' mental turmoil due to the lockdown and financial crisis, women's protest against extramarital relationships, fear of contracting viruses, taking advantage of women's vulnerability, and greediness towards wives' money. As a result of this violence, many victims have reported experiencing anxiety, mental trauma, frustration, distress, depression, and discrimination. Victims of violence have faced many obstacles in accessing appropriate providers, such as language barriers and threats from their husbands.
Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected South Asian Bangladeshi women and girls who are experiencing gender-based violence. To address this issue, policymakers, governments, and ethnic organizations must collaborate to create comprehensive plans that aim to eliminate gender-based violence, as well as associated cultural problems and stigma. Community organizations can provide resources and support for victims, working with families and husbands to create a safer environment for those affected.
Field Efficacy of Certain Chemicals and Neem Products against Shoot and Fruit Borer, Earias vittella (Fabricius.) on Okra in Prayagraj, U.P., India
Authors: Saini Pawan Kumar , Rajnikant Anoorag Tayde 
Published: July 2024

A field trial was carried out at the research plot of the Department of Entomology at Central Research Field, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during autumn season of 2023. Seven treatments were replicated thrice in Randomized Block evaluated against Earias vittella viz. and also assessed their influences on the yield of okra (T1) Fipronil 5%SC @ 1 ml/lit, (T2) Spinosad 45%SC @1 ml/lit, (T3) Azadiractin 1%EC @ 3 ml/lit, (T4) Chlorantraniliprole 18.5%SC @ 0.3 ml/lit, (T5) Imidacloprid 17.8%SL @ 0.4 ml/lit, (T6) Emamectin benzoate 5%SG @ 0.3 ml/lit, (T7) NSKE 5% @50 ml/lit and (T0) Control. Each treatment was sprayed twice at 14 days interval. The observations of shoot and fruit infestation per plant were recorded one day before, 3rd, 7th and 14th day after each spray. The results revealed that all tested insecticides significantly reduced the pest infestation compared to untreated plot. The lowest percent infestation of shoot and fruit borer was observed in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (8.96%, 9.29%) and Spinosad45%SC (9.74%, 10.42%) followed by Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (10.58%, 11.04%) Emamectin benzoate 5%SG (11.89%, 12.27%), Fipronil 5% SC (12.46%, 13.09%), Azadiractin 1% EC (12.77%, 14.16%), NSKE 5% (13.42%, 14.63%). The mean crop yield ranged between 30 q/ha to 16 0q/ha, the highest was recorded in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (160 q/ha) followed by Spinosad 45% SC (154 q/ha).When cost benefit ratio worked out, the best and the most economic treatment was Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (1:5.7) followed by Spinosad 45%SC (1:5.2), Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (1:5.1), Emamectin benzoate 5%SG (1:4.3), Fipronil 5%SC(1:3.9), Azadiractin 1% EC (1:3.0),NSKE 5% (1:2.5) and Untreated (1:1.18).
Reliability of Widefield Nailfold Capillaroscopy and Videocapillaroscopy in the Assessment of Patients With Raynaud's Phenomenon
Authors: Sekiyama Juliana Y. , Camargo Cintia Z. , Andrade Luís Eduardo C. , Kayser Cristiane 
Published: June 2013

ObjectiveTo analyze the diagnostic performance and reliability of different parameters evaluated by widefield nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) with those obtained by videocapillaroscopy in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon (RP).MethodsTwo hundred fifty‐two individuals were assessed, including 101 systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) patients, 61 patients with undifferentiated connective tissue disease, 37 patients with primary RP, and 53 controls. Widefield NFC was performed using a stereomicroscope under 10–25× magnification and direct measurement of all parameters. Videocapillaroscopy was performed under 200× magnification, with the acquirement of 32 images per individual (4 fields per finger in 8 fingers). The following parameters were analyzed in 8 fingers of the hands (excluding thumbs) by both methods: number of capillaries/mm, number of enlarged and giant capillaries, microhemorrhages, and avascular score. Intra‐ and interobserver reliability was evaluated by performing both examinations in 20 individuals on 2 different days and by 2 long‐term experienced observers.ResultsThere was a significant correlation (P < 0.000) between widefield NFC and videocapillaroscopy in the comparison of all parameters. Kappa values and intraclass correlation coefficient analysis showed excellent intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility for all parameters evaluated by widefield NFC and videocapillaroscopy. Bland‐Altman analysis showed high agreement of all parameters evaluated in both methods. According to receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, both methods showed a similar performance in discriminating SSc patients from controls.ConclusionWidefield NFC and videocapillaroscopy are reliable and accurate methods and can be used equally for assessing peripheral microangiopathy in RP and SSc patients. Nonetheless, the high reliability obtained may not be similar for less experienced examiners.
Trends in the Use of Biologic Agents Among Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Enrolled in the US Medicare Program
Authors: Zhang Jie , Xie Fenglong , Delzell Elizabeth , Chen Lang , Kilgore Meredith L. , Yun Huifeng , Saag Kenneth G. , Lewis James D. , Curtis Jeffrey R. 
Published: June 2013

ObjectiveSelf‐injectable biologic agents have been covered by Medicare Part D since 2006. We hypothesized that this coverage benefit and related financial considerations would lead to increased use of self‐injectable biologic agents over time and would be influential in determining which rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients received infusion versus self‐injected biologic agents.MethodsWe used 100% of US Medicare data (2006–2009) to calculate the prevalence of use of different RA biologic agents and evaluated factors associated with receipt of infliximab versus etanercept or adalimumab among patients starting their first anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) agent.ResultsThrough 2009, the prevalence of biologic agent use overall (∼27%) and via infusion (16–17%) or self‐injection (10–11%) remained unchanged among Medicare beneficiaries with RA. After adjusting for patient characteristics, stronger physician preference for infused biologic agents was related to physician reimbursement and associated with an increased likelihood of using infliximab as the first anti‐TNF agent (odds ratio [OR] comparing the highest to lowest quartile of physician preference 7.3, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 6.4–8.3). Lower‐income patients who received state assistance for Medicare coverage had lower out‐of‐pocket payments for injectable biologic agents ($4.10/prescription) and were less likely to use infliximab (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.37–0.45) compared with etanercept or adalimumab.ConclusionThe prevalence of injection and infusion biologic agents in RA remained stable in the Medicare program through 2009. The choice between an intravenous infusion versus an injectable anti‐TNF agent as first‐line treatment appeared to be strongly influenced by financial considerations affecting both patients and physicians.
Defect Engineering in Oxide Heterostructures by Enhanced Oxygen Surface Exchange
Authors: Huijben Mark , Koster Gertjan , Kruize Michelle K. , Wenderich Sander , Verbeeck Jo , Bals Sara , Slooten Erik , Shi Bo , Molegraaf Hajo J. A. , Kleibeuker Josee E. , van Aert Sandra , Goedkoop Jeroen B. , Brinkman Alexander , Blank Dave H. A. , Golden Mark S. , van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Hilgenkamp Hans , Rijnders Guus 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThe synthesis of materials with well‐controlled composition and structure improves our understanding of their intrinsic electrical transport properties. Recent developments in atomically controlled growth have been shown to be crucial in enabling the study of new physical phenomena in epitaxial oxide heterostructures. Nevertheless, these phenomena can be influenced by the presence of defects that act as extrinsic sources of both doping and impurity scattering. Control over the nature and density of such defects is therefore necessary to fully understand the intrinsic materials properties and exploit them in future device technologies. Here, it is shown that incorporation of a strontium copper oxide nano‐layer strongly reduces the impurity scattering at conducting interfaces in oxide LaAlO3–SrTiO3(001) heterostructures, opening the door to high carrier mobility materials. It is proposed that this remote cuprate layer facilitates enhanced suppression of oxygen defects by reducing the kinetic barrier for oxygen exchange in the hetero‐interfacial film system. This design concept of controlled defect engineering can be of significant importance in applications in which enhanced oxygen surface exchange plays a crucial role.
Fabrication, Characterization, and Printing of Conductive Ink Based on Multi Core–Shell Nanoparticles Synthesized by RAPET
Authors: Butovsky Evgeny , Perelshtein Ilana , Nissan Ifat , Gedanken Aharon 
Published: June 2013

AbstractIn the current research, conductive patterns are deposited on different substrates by direct inkjet printing of conductive inks based on metal@carbon and bimetal@carbon core–shell nanoparticles synthesized by the RAPET (reaction under autogenic pressure at elevated temperatures) technique. Various co‐solvents and additives are examined for production of stable conductive ink. The morphology of the deposited layers is characterized by optical and scanning electron microscopy measurements. The stability of the prepared inks is examined by dynamic light scattering measurements. The electrical resistivity is measured by a four‐point probe system and calculated using the geometric dimensions. The results obtained are very promising and indicate that the conductivity of the deposited layers is close to that of bulk metals and higher than most results published so far. Moreover, the importance and advantages of the protective carbon layer that prevents metal oxidation is demonstrated.
N,N′‐Dioxide‐Magnesium Ditriflate Complex‐Catalyzed Asymmetric α‐Hydroxylation of β‐Keto Esters and β‐Keto Amides
Authors: Yin Chengkai , Cao Weidi , Lin Lili , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThe highly catalytic asymmetric α‐hydroxylation of 1‐tetralone‐derived β‐keto esters and β‐keto amides using tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant was realized by a chiral N,N′‐dioxide‐magnesium ditriflate [Mg(OTf)2] complex. A series of corresponding chiral α‐hydroxy dicarbonyl compounds was obtained in excellent yields (up to 99%) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee). The products were easily transformed into useful building blocks and the precursor of daunomycin was achieved in an asymmetric catalytic way for the first time.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Migratory Insertion of Isocyanides: An Emerging Platform in Cross‐Coupling Chemistry
Authors: Vlaar Tjøstil , Ruijter Eelco , Maes Bert U. W. , Orru Romano V. A. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractIsocyanides have been important building blocks in organic synthesis since the discovery of the Ugi reaction and related isocyanide‐based multicomponent reactions. In the past decade isocyanides have found a new application as versatile C1 building blocks in palladium catalysis. Palladium‐catalyzed reactions involving isocyanide insertion offer a vast potential for the synthesis of nitrogen‐containing fine chemicals. This Minireview discusses all the achievements in this emerging field.
Stress Doppler Echocardiography in Systemic Sclerosis: Evidence for a Role in the Prediction of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Codullo Veronica , Caporali Roberto , Cuomo Giovanna , Ghio Stefano , D'Alto Michele , Fusetti Chiara , Borgogno Elena , Montecucco Carlomaurizio , Valentini Gabriele 
Published: June 2013

ObjectivePatients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) in whom pulmonary hypertension (PH) is not suspected have been reported to develop an inappropriate increase of pulmonary artery systolic pressure as estimated by Doppler echocardiography under conditions of exercise (pulmonary artery systolic pressure under exercise). We undertook this study to investigate whether this increase or any other parameter detectable by stress Doppler echocardiography has utility in predicting the development of PH in SSc.MethodsWe enrolled a total of 170 patients with SSc previously investigated using standard and stress Doppler echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging. Each patient was evaluated at baseline and yearly for skin and internal organ involvement. Right‐sided heart catheterization was carried out when PH was suspected. The baseline Cochin Risk Prediction Score was calculated retrospectively.ResultsDuring followup, 6 patients (3.5%) developed PH. Compared with patients without any feature suggesting PH, the Cochin Risk Prediction Score was higher in this group (mean ± SD 4.2 ± 0.9 versus 3.4 ± 0.9; P < 0.05), as was the difference between pulmonary artery systolic pressure under exercise and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (Δpulmonary artery systolic pressure) (18.2 ± 7 mm Hg versus 9.4 ± 6.5 mm Hg; P < 0.001), even when adjusted for cardiac index changes. In multivariate analysis, Δpulmonary artery systolic pressure (hazard ratio [HR] 3.4 [95% confidence interval 1.4–8], P < 0.01) and Cochin Risk Prediction Score within the fifth quintile of the values registered in our series (HR 9.3 [95% confidence interval 1.4–63.7], P < 0.05) were the only factors independently predictive of PH during followup. A Δpulmonary artery systolic pressure cutoff of >18 mm Hg, identified by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, had a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 90% for the development of PH during followup.ConclusionAn inappropriate response to exercise among patients with SSC is detectable by stress Doppler echocardiography. Independently of other clinical associations, increased Δpulmonary artery systolic pressure heralds PH. Stress Doppler echocardiography may represent an additional screening tool for this severe complication.
Cost-effectiveness of the implementation of an enhanced recovery protocol for colorectal surgery
Authors: Roulin D , Donadini A , Gander S , Griesser A-C , Blanc C , Hübner M , Schäfer M , Demartines N 
Published: June 2013

Abstract

Background
Enhanced recovery protocols may reduce postoperative complications and length of hospital stay. However, the implementation of these protocols requires time and financial investment. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery implementation.

Methods
The first 50 consecutive patients treated during implementation of an enhanced recovery programme were compared with 50 consecutive patients treated in the year before its introduction. The enhanced recovery protocol principally implemented preoperative counselling, reduced preoperative fasting, preoperative carbohydrate loading, avoidance of premedication, optimized fluid balance, standardized postoperative analgesia, use of a no-drain policy, as well as early nutrition and mobilization. Length of stay, readmissions and complications within 30 days were compared. A cost-minimization analysis was performed.

Results
Hospital stay was significantly shorter in the enhanced recovery group: median 7 (interquartile range 5–12) versus 10 (7–18) days (P = 0·003); two patients were readmitted in each group. The rate of severe complications was lower in the enhanced recovery group (12 versus 20 per cent), but there was no difference in overall morbidity. The mean saving per patient in the enhanced recovery group was €1651.

Conclusion
Enhanced recovery is cost-effective, with savings evident even in the initial implementation period.
Therapeutic enhancement of S‐1 with CPT‐11 through down‐regulation of thymidylate synthase in bladder cancer
Authors: Ide Hiroki , Kikuchi Eiji , Hasegawa Masanori , Hattori Seiya , Yasumizu Yota , Miyajima Akira , Oya Mototsugu 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThymidylate synthase (TS), a target enzyme of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), is significantly associated with prognosis in various cancers. Recently, it has been reported that S‐1, a novel 5‐FU‐based agent has an effect on bladder cancer. However, in cells with high TS level, S‐1 did not have significant effects. Therefore, we examined whether down‐regulation of TS enhanced effects of S‐1 in them. First, we measured TS level in an aggressive bladder cancer cell line, KU‐19‐19 by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and evaluated its sensitivity to 5‐FU using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) for TS. Next, we measured TS mRNA after exposure to various agents. Finally, we evaluated enhancement of cytotoxicity of S‐1 by CPT‐11 (7‐ethyl‐10‐[4‐(1‐piperidino)‐1‐piperidino]carbonyloxycamptothecin) which down‐regulated TS in in vivo study. The median TS and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) level was 53.3 ng/mg and 80.3 ng/mg in KU‐19‐19 cells, respectively. The 5‐FU treatment in KU‐19‐19 cells transfected with siRNA for TS gene (TYMS) inhibited cell growth more significantly than that for nontargeting control. Down‐regulation of TS was observed after exposure to SN‐38 (7‐ethyl‐10‐hydroxycamptothecin) in a dose‐dependent manner. The combination treatment of 5‐FU and SN‐38 significantly inhibited cell growth, as compared to the single treatment. Meanwhile, in cells transfected with siRNA for TYMS, neither an additive nor a synergistic effect was observed. Also, combined S‐1 and CPT‐11 dramatically inhibited tumor growth, compared to S‐1 or CPT‐11 alone in in vivo study. In conclusion, CPT‐11 down‐regulated TS level and enhanced the effect of S‐1. Thus, the combination therapy with S‐1 and CPT‐11 might be a novel modality for bladder cancer, even with high TS level.
Growing Up Under a Shadow: Key Issues in Research on and Treatment of Children Born of Rape
Authors: van Ee Elisa , Kleber Rolf J. 
Published: June 2013

Children born of wartime rape are particularly vulnerable and their case is complex as their needs intertwine with the needs of their mothers or their cultural community. To analyse the status of children born of rape and identify both risk factors and key issues, a systematic search among medical and psychological research articles was performed. In addition, historical, sociological and human rights literature was explored. Risk factors for the wellbeing of children born of rape are: pregnancy and delivery; poor parent‐child relationships; discrimination and stigmatisation; and identity issues. Three key issues which should direct research and clinical practice are formulated: perceiving children born of rape as secondary rape victims; the existence of multiple perpetrators; and competing rights and interests. To assist children born of rape, clinicians, as well as researchers, are confronted with the challenge to develop a comprehensive perspective that considers the needs and rights of both children and mothers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.‘Three key issues which should direct research and clinical practice are formulated’
Key Practitioner Messages

Children born of rape face serious mental health risks.
Perceiving children born of rape as secondary rape victims is of importance as this highlights the risk of confrontation with the direct trauma of the mother via the mother‐child relationship.
Acknowledging the existence of multiple perpetrators creates the opportunity to hold those involved accountable for their behaviour.
Clinicians have to develop a comprehensive perspective that considers the needs and rights of both children and mothers.‘A comprehensive perspective that considers the needs and rights of both children and mothers’