bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of Pyronaridine-Artesunate Versus Artemether-Lumefantrine in the Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Malaria in Children in South-West Nigeria: An open- labelled randomized controlled trial
Authors: Falade Catherine Olufunke , Orimadegun Adebola Emanuel , Olusola Fiyinfoluwa Ibukun , Michael Obaro S. , Anjorin Oluwafunmibi Enitan , Funwei Roland Ibenipere , Adedapo Aduragbenro Deborah , Olusanya Abiola Lukman , Orimadegun Bose E. , Moluolu Olugbenga Ayodeji 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: Declining responsiveness to artemether-lumefantrine (AL), the ACT of choice since 2005, has been reported in Nigeria. Pyronaridine-artesunate (PA) is a newer fixed-dose ACT recently included in the WHO list of prequalified medicines for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria. However, data from the Nigerian paediatric population is scarce. Therefore, we compared the efficacy and safety of pyronaridine-artesunate with artemether-lumefantrine using the WHO 28-day antimalarial efficacy protocol in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria.Method: In an open-labelled randomized controlled clinical trial children aged 3 to 144 months with a history of fever and microscopically confirmed Plasmodium falciparum malaria were enrolled. Enrolees were randomly assigned to receive pyronaridine–artesunate or artemether–lumefantrine at standard dosages according to bodyweight, for 3 days. Venous blood was obtained for haematology, blood chemistry and liver function tests on days 0, 3, 7, and 28 as part of safety evaluation.Results: One hundred and sixty-five (95.9%; 165/172) enrolees completed the study. About half [52.3%; 90/172] of enrolees were male. Eighty-seven (50.6%) received artemether-lumefantrine while 85 (49.4%) received pyronaridine-artesunate. Day 28 adequate clinical and parasitological response for pyronaridine-artesunate was 92.7% [(76/82) 95% CI: 83.1, 95.9] and 71.1% [(59/83) 95% CI: 60.4, 79.9] for artemether-lumefantrine (ρ<0.001). PCR-corrected cure rates were similar for PA and AL as all parasite recurrences [PA = 6 (7.3%); AL = 24 (28.9%)] were re-infections. Haematological recovery at day-28 was significantly better among pyronaridine-artesunate treated patients (34.9% ± 2.8) compared to those treated with artemether-lumefantrine (33.1% ±3.0) [ρ = 0.002]. Adverse events in both treatment arms were fever, chills and rigors, anorexia, cough and headache, similar to symptoms observed during malaria infection. Blood chemistry and liver function tests were mostly within normal limits, with an occasional marginal rise. There was no serious adverse event in both arms of the study. Conclusion: The two ACTs were well-tolerated. Pyronaridine-artesunate has a higher ACPR than artemether-lumefantrine in the per-protocol-population and a non-inferiority response after PCR correction in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Nigerian children. The results of this study support the inclusion of pyronaridine-artesunate in the antimalaria treatment guidelines in Nigeria.Retrospective Trial Registration in Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05192265
Microbiological findings in prepubertal and pubertal girls with vulvovaginitis
Authors: Baka Stavroula , Demeridou Stiliani , Kaparos George , Tsoutsouras Konstantinos , Touloumakos Sotirios , Dagre Maria , Meretaki Sofia , Chasiakou Anthia , Koumaki Vasiliki , Tsakris Athanasios 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Purpose: Vulvovaginitis is a common and challenging gynaecological problem in prepubertal and pubertal girls. Such an infection, owing to a wide range of aetiologies, if not responding to hygienic measures, needs further investigation through vaginal cultures, since treatment should be tailored accordingly. This study aimed to investigate the pathogens isolated in prepubertal and pubertal girls with signs and symptoms of vulvovaginitis.Methods: A total of 2314 symptomatic girls, 1094 prepubertal and 1220 pubertal, aged 2 to 16 years were included. Vaginal samples were inoculated on specific culture plates followed by incubation in aerobic, anaerobic or CO2 atmosphere at 37°C for 24 or 48 hours, as appropriate. The identification of the isolated pathogens was carried out using Gram stain, conventional methods and the automated system VITEK 2 (BioMerieux, Marcy l’Etoile, France).Results: Positive cultures were obtained from 587 (53.7%) of prepubertal girls and 926 (75.9%) of pubertal girls. A total of 613 and 984 pathogens were detected in prepubertal and pubertal subjects, respectively. Isolated bacteria included 40.1% and 22.8% Gram-positive cocci, 35.6% and 24.8% Gram-negative rods in the prepubertal and pubertal groups, respectively, with fecal pathogens being the most prevalent. Bacterial vaginosis was diagnosed in 22.8% of prepubertal and 37.9% of pubertal girls. Candida species were isolated mostly in the pubertal girls (14.5%).Conclusions: Culture results should be evaluated with caution in children with vulvovaginitis. In the prepubertal girls the most common isolated pathogens were opportunistic bacteria of faecal origin while girls in late puberty were more susceptible to bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis.
A TTN-mutation-associated gene signature for prognostic prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Bi Yanqing , Huang rong , Zhang ziying , Tian Zixuan , Liu min , Bao Han , Yan tao , Zhang nan , Xia yuan , Zhang xingguang 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: Mutation in titin (TTN), associated with a worsened prognosis, is among the most common genetic variants in human hepatocellular carcinoma. mRNA expression data and TTN mutation information from TCGA cohort were utilized to characterize a specific TTN-mutation-associated signature according to gene-expression differences between wild type (TTN-WT) and TTN-mutated (TTN-MUT) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. In total, 189 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) potentially correlated with TTN mutation status were identified. Five genes (VAX1, MMP3, CXCL5, TKTL1 and KCNA3), identified by univariate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses, constituted an independent OS prognostic gene signature in HCC patients. Depending on this gene signature, patients were grouped into high- and low-risk subgroups and a significant enrichment associated with immunity is detected between the risk groups. In addition, the high-risk group was associated with an abundance of macrophages and neutrophils, while the infiltration indices of T follicular helper cells, natural killer cells, and type 2 helper T cells (Th2) were lower compared to low-risk group. In the multivariate Cox regression model, the five-gene signature remained a significant predictor independent of other conventional clinical risk factors used for survival prediction in HCC patients. MMP3 and CXCL5 expression were further validated in HCC cell lines.Results: We established a novel and unique TTN-mutation-related gene signature for survival outcome prediction for HCC patients. Conclusion: Our research foundings display a specific mechanism of TTN mutation and hold promise for the identification of HCC patients with poor prognosis.
Pediatric emergency care admissions for somatic symptom disorders during the COVID 19 pandemic
Authors: Turco Rossella , Russo M. , Lenta S. , Apicella A. , Gagliardo T. , Savoia F. , Corona A.M. , De Fazio F. , Bernardo P. , Tipo V. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Aims: During the COVID-19 pandemic, children and adolescents with a psychiatric disorder experienced exacerbation of their symptoms with more accesses in Emergency Department (ED). However, little is known about the experience of somatic symptom disorders (SSDs) during the COVID 19 pandemic in children. Therefore, we aimed to compare the rates of pediatric ED admissions for SSDs before and during COVID-19 pandemic and to understand whether the relative risk of ED admissions for SSDs changed between the two periods. Methods: We enrolled all children admitted for SSDs in pediatric ED of Santobono-Pausilipon Hospital, Naples, Italy, from March 11th, 2020 to March 11 th, 2021 (pandemic period) and in the same time period of the previous year (pre-pandemic period). Results: We identified 205/95743 (0,21%) children with SSDs presenting in ED in pre-pandemic year and 160/40165 (0,39%) in pandemic year (p<0.05). Considering the accesses for age we observed a decrease of the accesses for SSDs over 12 years old (IRR 0,59;CI 0,39-0,88) while we found no differences under 12 years old (IRR 0,87; CI 0.68-1,10). Conclusions: In this retrospective study we found that despite the massive decrease of the pediatric admissions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, somatic symptom disorders admissions to the pediatric ED increased ,suggesting an impact of the pandemic also on the pediatric psychiatric disorders.
Global COVID-19 Case Fatality Rates Influenced by Inequalities in Human Development and Vaccination Rates
Authors: Nuhu Kaamel , Humagain Kamal , Alorbi Genevieve , Thomas Sabena , Blavos Alexis , Placide Vierne 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Aim: COVID-19 has exerted distress on virtually every aspect of human life with disproportionate mortality burdens on older individuals and those with underlying medical conditions. Variations in COVID-19 incidence and case fatality rates (CFRs) across countries have incited a growing research interest regarding the effect of social factors on COVID-19 case-loads and fatality rates. Our aim in this study was to investigate the effect of population median age, inequalities in human development, healthcare capacity, and pandemic mitigation indicators on country-specific COVID-19 CFRs across countries and regions. Subject and Methods: Using population secondary data from multiple sources, we conducted a cross-sectional study and used geospatial analysis to compare regional differences in COVID-19 CFRs as influenced by the selected indicators. Results: The analysis revealed wide variations in COVID-19 CFRs and the selected indicators across countries and regions. Mean CFR was highest for South America at 1.973% and lowest for Oceania at 0.264%, while the Africa sub-region recorded the lowest scores for pandemic preparedness, vaccination rate, and other indicators. Population Median Age, Vaccination Rate and Inequality-Adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) emerged as statistically significant predictors of COVID-19 CFR, with directions indicating increasing Population Median Age, higher inequalities in human development and low vaccination rate are predictive of higher fatalities from COVID-19. Conclusion: Regional differences in COVID-19 CFR may be influenced by underlying differences in sociodemographic and pandemic mitigation indicators. Populations with wide social inequalities, increased population Median Age and low vaccination rates are more likely to suffer higher fatalities from COVID-19.
Acceptability of the short message service (SMS) as a tool for malaria treatment adherence in the Brazilian Amazon: a qualitative study
Authors: Rodovalho Sheila Rodrigues , Dias Ádila Liliane Barros , Ade Maria Paz , Saint-Gerons Diego Macias , Castro Jose Luis , Beratarrechea Andrea , Murta Felipe Leão Gomes , Santos Alicia Patrine Cacau dos , Marques Leonardo Lincoln Gomes , Sampaio Vanderson Souza , Baia-da-Silva Djane Clarys , Monteiro Wuelton Marcelo 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: Malaria is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with billions of people living in malaria transmission areas. Patient adherence to prescribed antimalarial medication is the main and essential element of the ideal treatment. Methods: In the present study, we evaluated, through a qualitative analysis, the acceptability of sending short message system (SMS) in the adherence to the treatment of Malaria vivax in the Amazon region. Patient aged less then 16 years old starting treatment for uncomplicated vivax malaria; with a mobile phone for personal use and consenting to receive free SMS and follow-up calls were recruited. SMS text messages was developed according to treatment regimens. Telephone depth interviews was reached with proposal sample of 14 participants. A semi-structured interview guide was used with 17 open questions. Results: During the analysis of the interviews, five thematic categories emerged, they were: decreased forgetfulness; new in the tool; easy-to-understand language; impact of SMS during treatment; improvement suggestions and complaints. Conclusions: The present study explores the experience of receiving SMS medication reminders in people diagnosed with malaria in the Brazilian Amazon. The study results illustrate that the experience with the SMS adherence intervention is characterized by reminders that assist in adherence helping participants to reduce forgetfulness, the novelty of the tool, the positive impact of SMS during treatment, the use of easy language and appropriate and potential suggestions for improvement and complaints.
Effects of soil characteristics and farm types on earthworm populations in Hungarian organic, permaculture and conventional farms
Authors: Szilágyi Alfréd , Plachi Evelin , Kun Róbert , Nagy Péter , Centeri Csaba , Simon Barbara 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Farming systems with differing intensities have various impacts on soil biota. The objective of our study was to assess the effects of different farm types (conventional, organic and permaculture) and soil characteristics on earthworm populations. The main consideration was that scientific knowledge on permaculture farms in regards to soil fauna is missing. According to our hypothesis permaculture farms provide the most ideal conditions for earthworms. Fifteen micro-farms (0.3–2 ha) with similar agro-ecological features were selected for comparison in the North-Central part of Hungary. These were all horticultural farms with diverse crop rotations. The basic difference was the intensity of the farming activities. Earthworms were sampled in May and September (2020) with six replicates on each farm (90 samples in total). Earthworms found in the 25×25×25 cm soil blocks were hand-sorted. Five soil samples from each site were analysed for texture, pH, soil organic matter, macro- and micronutrient content in September (2020). Seven endogeic and three epigeic earthworm species were detected. In September species numbers were higher, in the average of the earthworm species number and Shannon diversity there were lower differences, a stronger positive relationship was found between CaCO 3 content and earthworm abundance, adult earthworm average was strongly and positively affected by magnesium content. Earthworm species number was significantly higher in permaculture farms while earthworm abundance was also significantly higher but only in May. This partly validates our zero hypotheses that permaculture farms have the best performance in providing good conditions for earthworm populations.
Lexical Phylogenetics of the Tupí-Guaraní Family: Language, Archaeology, and the Problem of Chronology
Authors: Gerardi Fabrício Ferraz , Tresoldi Tiago , Aragon Carolina Coelho , Reichert Stanislav , de Souza Jonas Gregorio , Noelli Francisco Silva 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Tupí-Guaraní is one of the largest branches of the Tupían language family, but despite its relevance there is no consensus about its origins in terms of age, homeland, and expansion. Linguistic classifications vary significantly, with archaeological studies suggesting incompatible date ranges while ethnographic literature confirms the close similarities as a result of continuous inter-family contact. To investigate this issue, we use a linguistic database of cognate data, employing Bayesian phylogenetic methods to infer a dated tree and to build a phylogeographic expansion model. Results suggest that the branch originated around 2500 BP in the area of the upper course of the Tapajós-Xingu basins, with a split between Southern and Northern varieties starting around 1750 BP. We analyse the difficulties in reconciling archaeological and linguistic data for this group, stressing the importance of developing an interdisciplinary unified model that incorporates evidence from both disciplines.
Continuity in transition: spatial transformation in peri-urbanisation in Kumasi
Authors: Anane George Kwadwo 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Rapid urbanisation, characterised by population increase and spatial development, is pushing the frontiers of major African cities from old urban cores outward into peri-urban areas. A key outcome is the transitioning of land uses and variations to customary land rights. Yet, understandings of the transformational processes and driving forces in peri-urbanisation remains underexplored. This article, using a case study of a peri-urban area of Kumasi, Ghana’s second largest city, contributes to the body of literature on peri-urbanisation by: (i) analysing the spatio-temporal evolution of a peri urban area; and (ii) examining key underpinning processes and patterns of peri-urban spatial change. Qualitative research methods involving interviews with traditional and local statutory authorities, and peri-urban developers, as well as map analysis, Landsat images, and photographs were used. Findings show rapid but unregulated spatial changes in peri-urban Kumasi, driven by increasing demand for land, land speculation, commodification, and infrastructure projects. Peri-urbanisation processes and patterns were shaped by multiple factors such as modernisation, urban restructuring, and individual home ownership aspirations. The process of spatial change assumed a linear and drastic permanent transition, producing less credence to intermediate and temporary land uses.
Effects of Collagen Membrane on Bone Level and Periodontal Status of Adjacent Tooth After Third Molar Surgery: a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Kilinc Adnan , Ataol Mert 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background; After the surgical extraction of an impacted lower third molar, periodontal status and distal bone level of the adjacent second molar could be affected negatively. Healing type has been effected periodontal status and distal bone level of the adjacent second molar after third molar surgery. Absorbable materials have some benefits including promoting wound healing through isolation, clot and wound stabilisation, and haemostasis; enhancing primary wound coverage. The aim of this study was to compare primary and secondary healing and collagen-membrane-based primary healing after surgical removal of partially erupted impacted third molars (3Ms), evaluating the distal alveolar bone level (ABL) and periodontal status of the adjacent second molars (2Ms).Methods; Patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomised into three groups: secondary healing (n=28), primary healing (n=27) and membrane-based primary healing (n=29). Digital panoramic radiographs were obtained preoperatively (T1) and three months postoperatively (T2). The distances between the cemento-enamel junctions and the alveolar bone crests on the distal aspects of the adjacent 2Ms were measured using calibrated radiograph measurement software. The pocket depth and plaque index measurements were performed preoperatively and three months postoperatively. The periodontal plaque index (PPI) scores were registered on the distal aspects of the 2Ms, and the mean values were used.Results; Three of the applied healing types positively affected periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and periodontal index values (p<0.05). In terms of the ABL of the adjacent 2Ms, primary healing (p<0.05) and membrane-based primary healing (p<0.05) had superior results to secondary healing.Conclusion; Membrane usage is promising for the distal bone gain and periodontal status of the adjacent 2M.Trial registration: This clinical study was registered started at 17/09/2018 by Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry with the trial number of ACTRN12618001551280.
Alginate-based Composite Microspheres: Preparations and Applications for Bone
Tissue Engineering
Authors: Jayachandran Venkatesan , Murugan Sesha Subramanian , Dalavi Pandurang Appana , Gurushanthappa Vishalakshi Yashaswini Devi , Seong Gi Hun 
Published: May 2022

Abstract:
Alginate-based biomaterials have been extensively studied for bone tissue engineering. Scaffolds,
microspheres, and hydrogels can be developed using alginate, which is biocompatible, biodegradable, and able
to deliver growth factors and drugs. Alginate microspheres can be produced using crosslinking, microfluidic,
three-dimensional printing, extrusion, and emulsion methods. The sizes of the alginate microspheres range from
10 μm to 4 mm. This review describes the chemical characterization and mechanical assessment of alginatebased
microspheres. Combinations of alginate with hydroxyapatite, chitosan, collagen, polylactic acid, polycaprolactone,
and bioglass were discussed for bone tissue repair and regeneration. In addition, alginate combinations
with bone morphogenetic proteins, vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor beta-
3, other growth factors, cells, proteins, drugs, and osteoinductive drugs were analyzed for tissue engineering
applications. Furthermore, the biocompatibility of developed alginate microspheres was discussed for different
cell lines. Finally, alginate microsphere-based composites with stem cell interaction for bone tissue regeneration
were presented. In the present review, we have assessed the preclinical research on in vivo models of alginatebased
microspheres for bone tissue repair and regeneration. Overall, alginate-based microspheres are potential
candidates for graft substitutes and the treatment of various bone-related diseases.
Distribution of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide after Intravenous Injection
in Normal and Ischemic Stroke Mice
Authors: Miao Chao-Yu , Zheng Si-Li , Wang Dong-Sheng , Dong Xin , Guan Yun-Feng , Qi Qi , Hu Wen-Jun , Hong Chen , Zhang Chuan 
Published: May 2022

Objective:
This study determined for the first time the distribution of intravenous nicotinamide
mononucleotide (NMN) and its metabolite nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) in normal
and ischemic stroke mice, examined the therapeutic effect of NMN on ischemic brain infarction,
and evaluated acute toxicity of NMN after intravenous injection of NMN.

Methods:
NMN and NAD levels were determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography
tandem mass spectrometry in biological samples from mice with or without middle cerebral
artery occlusion (MCAO) at different time points post intravenous NMN injection (300 mg/kg).
Brain infarction was evaluated 24 h post-MCAO. 2 g/kg NMN was used in the acute toxicity test.

Results:
Under either normal or MCAO conditions, serum NMN levels sharply increased after intravenous
NMN administration and then decreased rapidly within 15 min, while serum NAD levels
remained unchanged during 30 min observation. Both substances displayed tissue accumulation over
time and stored faster under MCAO conditions, with kidney having the highest concentrations. Particularly,
NMN accumulated earlier than NAD in the brain. Moreover, NMN reduced cerebral infarction
at 24 h post-MCAO. No acute toxicity was observed for 14 days. NRK1 and SLC12A8 involved
in two pathways of NMN uptake exhibited the highest expressions in kidney and colon, respectively,
among 11 different tissues.

Conclusion:
NMN distributes to various tissues after intravenous injection and has the ability to
enter the brain to boost NAD levels, and exhibits safety and therapeutic effect on acute ischemic
stroke injury. High renal distribution of NMN indicates its importance in the kidney.