bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating pathways for internationally educated teachers into the teaching profession: Practices, policies and problems in the Australian context
Authors: Cruickshank Ken
Published: October 2021

The diversity of teachers is half that of the student population in Australia. Despite government policies to support internationally trained teachers (ITTs), there remain major structural and institutional barriers working against access to the profession: an information gap, the lack of professional advice, the absence of programmes to help teachers gain accreditation and the lack of mentoring or support programmes. This paper focuses on ITTs undertaking volunteer teaching in community languages schools; these are community-run organisations where over 100,000 children across Australia learn their home language. These sites were selected as they represent a key pathway into further study and employment for ITTs. Findings are drawn from online survey ( n=954) and interviews ( n=62) exploring professional strengths, needs and experiences. The key finding is the exclusion and ‘problematisation’ of ITTs, rather than recognition of the social, educational and economic benefits represented by this group. The article explores recent government-funded provision of pathways to teacher accreditation and the extent to which these address the barriers identified. There is a discussion of how such a model may be embedded in mainstream teacher education pathways.
Experimental investigation of bubble formation and motion mechanism near the moonpool
Authors: Yao Xiongliang , Huang Xianghong , Shi Zeyu , Xiao Wei , Huang Kainan
Published: October 2021

When a research ship sails at a high speed, there is relative motion between the ship and fluid. The ship is slammed by the fluid. To reduce the direct impact of the fluid, sonar is installed in the moonpool, and acoustic detection equipment is installed along the research ship bottom behind the moonpool. However, during high-speed sailing, a large number of bubbles form in the moonpool. Some bubbles escape from the moonpool and flow backward along the bottom of the ship. When a large number of bubbles are around the sonar and acoustic detection equipment, the equipment malfunctions. However, there have been few studies on bubble formation in the moonpool with sonar and distribution along the ship bottom behind the moonpool. Therefore, a related model was developed and prototype tests were carried out in this study. The appropriate similarity criteria were selected and verified to ensure the reliability of the experiment. Considering the influences of speed, sonar, moonpool shape, and draft, the reason and mechanism of bubble formation in a sonar moonpool were studied. An artificial ventilation method was used to simulate a real navigation environment. Because the bubbles are in a bright state under laser irradiation, the bubbles can be used as tracer particles. A high-speed camera captured illuminated bubbles. The distribution mechanism of bubbles along the ship bottom behind the moonpool was investigated using particle image velocimetry under the influence of the moonpool shape and sailing speed. The model experimental results agreed well with those of the prototype test. The air sucked into the water was the dominant factor in bubble formation in the moonpool. The bubbles were distributed in a W shape under the ship bottom.
Pressure and velocity measurements of air flow past a proposed generic Aircraft carrier geometry
Authors: Vignesh Kumar Kishore , Nasiruddin Sheikh , Shukla Shrish , Singh Sidh Nath , Sinha Sawan Suman , Vijayakumar Rajgopalan
Published: October 2021

Research on the air flow disturbances in the aircraft carrier environment has gained prominence in recent times. However, there is presently no representative carrier model analogous to the Simplified Frigate Shape (SFS) which is generic naval frigate for air flow investigation. In the present study, a Generic Aircraft Carrier (GAC) model is proposed, as a simplified, benchmark model for aerodynamic research. With the motivation to provide validation data for future CFD studies, baseline experimental data is generated in the wind tunnel, in terms of pressure distribution over the deck, for two variants, namely, a complete flat deck configuration with no island and secondly, with the island in the baseline position of the GAC. Effect of the island in modifying the flow is discussed by a comparison between the two variants. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) is employed to record velocity and turbulence levels in the GAC environment, highlighting regions of velocity deficits, and unsteady flow which may hinder the landing procedure of an approaching pilot. Comprehensive database of experimental data is presented as baseline data for future work and for validation of numerical models. Traditional tuft and smoke visualization studies are also conducted to provide corroboratory qualitative insights.
Effectiveness of Educational Materials Designed to Improve Knowledge Regarding Crying and Shaken Baby Syndrome in Mothers of Hispanic Population
Authors: Jalloul Randa J , Vigil Aida , Chen Han-Yang , Ward Clara
Published: October 2021

Background: Caregiver frustration with inconsolable crying is a commonly cited antecedent factor of Abusive head trauma (AHT) in infants. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of an educational intervention to improve patients’ knowledge of normal crying patterns in infants and the implications of AHT among women of Hispanic population. Methods: The Period of PURPLE Crying program was piloted as part of Centering Prenatal Care at an outpatient clinic site in the Harris County Health Department system, which cares for a primarily underserved and Spanish speaking population. Educational material and direct counseling were delivered by the clinician. Demographic data was collected and a pre- and post-test survey was administrated to assess participant’s knowledge and behavior. Results: Between April 2017 and April 2018, 63 Hispanic women were included in this study. Prior to implementation of the educational tool, most of the survey questions were answered incorrectly. After the intervention, knowledge regarding normal infant crying patterns was significantly improved in all questions. However, knowledge gaps persisted especially in relation to the adequacy of parents’ ability to soothe a crying infant and normalcy of excessive crying. Conclusions: The educational curriculum was an effective tool for improving knowledge about normal infant crying patterns in Hispanic mothers.
Low-Dose Ionizing Radiation Therapy: A Novel Treatment for Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Authors: Oakley Paul A.
Published: October 2021

A subset of victims who experience concussion suffer from persistent symptoms spanning months to years post-injury, termed post-concussion syndrome (PCS). Problematically, there is lack of consensus for the treatment of PCS. Concussion injury involves a neurometabolic cascade leading to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation which parallels the oxidative stress loading occuring from age-related neurodegenerative conditions. Historical and recent evidence has emerged showing the efficacy of low-dose radiation therapy for many human diseases including neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzhiemer’s disease (AD). Due to the pathognomonic similarities of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation involved in PCS and neurodegenerative disease, treatments that prove successful for neurodegenerative disease may prove successful for PCS. Recently, low-dose ionizing radiation therapy (LDIR) has been documented to show a reversal of many symptoms in AD, including improved cognition. LDIR is thought to induce a switching from proinflammatory M1 phenotype to an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. In other words, a continual upregulation of the adaptive protection systems via LDIR induces health enhancement. It is hypothesized LDIR treatment for PCS would mimic that seen from early evidence of LDIR treatment of AD patients who suffer from similar oxidative stress loading. We propose the application of LDIR is a promising, untapped treatment for PCS.
Spinal pain in employees exposed to abusive supervision: Evidence of a sex and CRHR1 CTC haplotype interaction
Authors: Sannes Ann-Christin , Risøy Andrine , Christensen Jan Olav , Nielsen Morten Birkeland , Gjerstad Johannes
Published: October 2021

Previous findings suggest that exposure to social stress in the form of abusive supervision may increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. In the present study, we examined the link between abusive supervision, the CRHR1 genotype and spinal pain. The data were collected through a national survey drawn from the National Central Employee Register by Statistics Norway. A total of 1226 individuals returned both the questionnaire and the saliva kit. Abusive supervision was measured by a 5-item version of the Tepper’s 2000 scale. Spinal pain was measured by 3 items (neck-, upper and low back pain). Genotyping with regard to CRHR1 rs242941, rs242939 and rs1876828 was carried out using Taqman assay, and Phase v.2.1.1 was used to define the CRHR1 allele combinations. The analyses revealed that abusive supervision was associated with spinal pain. In particular, we observed a strong effect of abusive supervision on spinal pain in female +CTC/+CTC carriers (p = 0.002). Moreover, using +CTC/+CTC as a reference, +CTC/−CTC and −CTC/−CTC both showed protective effects (p = 0.024, p = 0.002, respectively). Also, our data demonstrated a clear sex and CRHR1 CTC haplotype interaction (p = 0.013). No such gene-environment interaction was seen in men. Our data demonstrated that the CRHR1 CTC haplotype may exacerbate the effect of abusive supervision on spinal pain in female employees. Hence, the present study supports the theory that both gender and the CRHR1 genotype, may moderate the pain responses to social stressors.
The new EU rulebook for online platforms: How to get it right, who will it impact and what else is needed?
Authors: Chivot Eline
Published: October 2021

Online platforms are drivers of innovation, growth, employment, creativity and information exchange. But new advantages can also bring new risks, or further entrench existing issues. Europe’s current rules have enabled the birth and growth of these companies, and of the free and open Internet as we know it. But they have not been designed to anticipate the challenges brought about by the growth of the digital economy, such as the spread of disinformation, and they are not fully adapted to the nature of competition in the digital markets. As the heart of its ambitious digital agenda, the EU is proposing new regulatory frameworks to maintain and improve its competitiveness, innovation and growth. This approach aims to protect its market from the side effects of digital markets dominated by large non-EU tech companies which, in some respects, are shielded from the rules of the game that the EU wants to set. It also aims to protect citizens and democracy. This is clearly a time to act, and a time to reform. It is also a time to strengthen its position: the EU has other battles and priorities that it must face along the way.
Evaluation and comparison of concrete constitutive models in numerical simulation of reinforced concrete slabs under blast load
Authors: Mahdavi Talaromi Hani , Sakhaee Farhad
Published: October 2021

Numerical models have been used recently to analyze concrete structures subjected to high-impulsive loads. A material model that can well capture the mechanical behaviors is crucial to obtain reliable results. Present study, focused on reinforced concrete slab as a major load carrying element of the RC structures under blast loading. By performing several simulations in popular and powerful concrete constitutive models, including concrete damage R3, HJC, CSCM, and Winfrith the accuracy of these models was investigated. Maximum deflections have been compared with each other and expanded further to compare with experiments. Result showed all models have an acceptable accuracy in estimating maximum slab deflection. Concrete Damage R3 presented the highest accuracy. HJC has the second rank and CSCM and Winfrith have the third and the fourth places, respectively. HJC needed the minimum computation time. CSCM had minimum input parameters but includes maximum calculation time. Winfrith had the lowest accuracy, however this model presented very conservative results. Uniaxial compressive and tensile stress-strain curves showed that the models which presented higher values of strength, evaluated lower maximum values of deflection.
Clinically Significant Outcome Improvement After Hip Arthroscopy in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome and Severe Femoral Torsion
Authors: DeFroda Steven F. , Alter Thomas D. , Bodendorfer Blake M. , Newhouse Alexander C. , Bessa Felipe S. , Williams Joel C. , Nho Shane J.
Published: October 2021

Background:

The influence of femoral torsion on clinically significant outcome improvement after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) has not been well-studied.

Purpose:

To quantify femoral torsion in FAIS patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and explore the relationship between femoral torsion and clinically significant outcome improvement after hip arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Included were patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for FAIS between January 2012 and August 2018 and had 2-year follow-up and preoperative MRI scans containing transcondylar slices of the knee. Participants were categorized as having severe retrotorsion (SR; <0°), normal torsion (NT; 0°-25°), and severe antetorsion (SA; >25°) as measured on MRI. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) included the Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score–Sports Subscale, modified Harris Hip Score, 12-item International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-12), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and satisfaction. Achievement of Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) were analyzed among cohorts.

Results:

Included were 183 patients (SR, n = 13; NT, n = 154; SA, n = 16) with a mean age, body mass index, and femoral torsion of 30.6 ± 12.1 years, 24.0 ± 4.4 kg/m2, and 12.55° ± 9.58°, respectively. The mean torsion was –4.5° ± 2.6° for the SR, 12.1° ± 6.8° for the NT, and 31.0° ± 3.6° for the SA group. There were between-group differences in the proportion of patients who achieved PASS and SCB on the iHOT-12, pain VAS, and any PRO ( P < .05). Post hoc analysis indicated that the SA group achieved lower rates of PASS and SCB on the iHOT-12 and pain VAS, and lower rates of PASS on any PRO versus the SR group ( P < .05); the SR group achieved higher rates of PASS and SCB on pain VAS scores versus the NT group ( P = .003).

Conclusion:

The orientation and severity of femoral torsion during hip arthroscopy influenced the propensity for clinically significant outcome improvement. Specifically, patients with femoral retrotorsion and femoral antetorsion had higher and lower rates of clinically significant outcome improvement, respectively.
Supraspinatus-to-Glenoid Contact Occurs During Standardized Overhead Reaching Motion
Authors: Saini Gaura , Lawrence Rebekah L. , Staker Justin L. , Braman Jonathan P. , Ludewig Paula M.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Rotator cuff tears may result from repeated mechanical deformation of the cuff tendons, and internal impingement of the supraspinatus tendon against the glenoid is one such proposed mechanism of deformation.

Purpose:

To (1) describe the changing proximity of the supraspinatus tendon to the glenoid during a simulated overhead reaching task and (2) determine the relationship between scapular morphology and this proximity. Additionally, the patterns of supraspinatus-to-glenoid proximity were compared with previously described patterns of supraspinatus-to-coracoacromial arch proximity.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Shoulder models were created from magnetic resonance images of 20 participants. Standardized kinematics were imposed on the models to simulate functional reaching, and the minimum distances between the supraspinatus tendon and the glenoid and the supraspinatus footprint and the glenoid were calculated every 5° between 0° and 150° of humerothoracic elevation. The angle at which contact between the supraspinatus and the glenoid occurred was documented. Additionally, the relationship between glenoid morphology (version and inclination) and the contact angle was evaluated. Descriptive statistics were calculated for the minimum distances, and glenoid morphology was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficients and simple linear regressions.

Results:

The minimum distances between the tendon and the glenoid and between the footprint and the glenoid decreased as elevation increased. Contact between the tendon and the glenoid occurred in all participant models at a mean elevation of 123° ± 10°. Contact between the footprint and the glenoid occurred in 13 of 20 models at a mean of 139° ± 10°. Less glenoid retroversion was associated with lower tendon-to-glenoid contact angles ( r = –0.76; R 2 = 0.58; P < .01).

Conclusion:

This study found that the supraspinatus tendon progressively approximated the glenoid during simulated overhead reaching. Additionally, all participant models eventually made contact with the glenoid by 150° of humerothoracic elevation, although anatomic factors influenced the precise angle at which contact occurred.

Clinical Relevance:

Contact between the supraspinatus and the glenoid may occur frequently within the range of elevation required for overhead activities. Therefore, internal impingement may be a prevalent mechanism for rotator cuff deformation that could contribute to cuff pathology.
Rate of Tibial Tunnel Malposition Is Not Changed by Drilling Entirely Within the Stump of Preserved Remnants During ACL Reconstruction: A Prospective Comparative 3D-CT Study
Authors: Padua Vitor Barion C. de , Saithna Adnan , Chagas Eduardo Federighi B. , Zutin Tereza Lais M. , Piazzalunga Lucas Fernandes , Patriarcha Luis Fernando , Gelas Paulo Jose de Lorenzetti , Helito Camilo P.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Remnant preservation during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) is controversial, and it is unclear whether the stump aids or obscures tibial tunnel positioning.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The aim of this study was to determine whether the rate of tibial tunnel malposition is influenced by remnant preservation. The hypothesis was that using a remnant-preserving technique to drill entirely within the tibial stump would result in a significant reduction in tibial tunnel malposition as determined by postoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Patients undergoing ACLR between October 2018 and December 2019 underwent surgery with a remnant-preserving technique (RP group) if they had a large stump present (>50% of the native ACL length) or if there was no remnant or if it was <50% of the native length of the ACL, they underwent remnant ablation (RA group) and use of standard landmarks for tunnel positioning. The postoperative tunnel location was reported as a percentage of the overall anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) dimensions of the tibia on axial 3D-CT. The tunnel was classified as anatomically placed if the center lay between 30% and 55% of the AP length and between 40% and 51% of the ML length.

Results:

Overall, 52 patients were included in the study (26 in each group). The mean tunnel positions were 36.8% ± 5.5% AP and 46.7% ± 2.9% ML in the RP group and 35.6% ± 4.8% AP and 47.3% ± 2.3% ML in the RA group. There were no significant differences in the mean AP ( P = .134) and ML ( P = .098) tunnel positions between the groups. Inter- and intraobserver reliability varied between fair to excellent and good to excellent, respectively. There was no significant difference in the rate of malposition between groups (RP group, 7.7%; RA group, 11.5%; P ≥ .999).

Conclusion:

Drilling entirely within the ACL tibial stump using a remnant-preserving reconstruction technique did not significantly change the rate of tunnel malposition when compared with stump ablation and utilization of standard landmarks.
The Journey of Developing, Mandating and Applying the National Quality Standards for Care Homes in Egypt
Authors: Hassanin Noha Emam , Kotb Yosr Wagih
Published: October 2021

Institutional care is one of the most prevalent alternative care forms in Egypt. There were more than 500 registered care homes when Wataneya Society started its journey in 2008. Care homes in Egypt are managed by civil society and supervised by the government. However, their management system and quality of care vary from one place to another depending on the managers’ background and beliefs. Care homes need intensive and constant technical support to be able to provide a healthy environment that promotes the physical and psychological well-being for children and youth without parental care, an environment that secures their good education, employment and social integration. Therefore, standardising and unifying the care system was crucial to ensure that children received quality of care inside these care homes. As a result, since 2008, Wataneya Society has pioneered the development of the national quality standards for care homes in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity, international and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs and INGOs) working in the alternative care sector. The national quality standards were mandated nationwide by the Ministry of Social Solidarity in 2014. Prior to that, in Egypt there were no standards, there was only a set of outdated guidelines and regulations dating back to 1977. The national quality standards were driven from, (a) UN Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children (2009); (b) best practices in the field of alternative care; and (c) Wataneya Society’s field experience in piloting the standards with seven care homes for four years starting in the year 2009. Wataneya Society continues to assist care homes to apply the national quality standards to be able to provide a safe environment for children and youth. This article will discuss the journey of developing, mandating and applying the national quality standards for care homes in Egypt.
New public health approaches to palliative care, a brave new horizon or an impractical ideal? An Integrative literature review with thematic synthesis
Authors: Sawyer Joseph M. , Higgs Paul , Porter John D.H. , Sampson Elizabeth L.
Published: October 2021

Access to palliative care for marginalized communities is frequently problematized as a major challenge facing palliative care services. The traditional response of asking what services can do for the disadvantaged has been invigorated by a new wave of public health measures that embrace death and dying as social processes and ask, what can be done together with such communities as partners working in palliative care. Such work has generated a significant amount of academic, social and political interests over the last 20 years; however, we are yet to see a consistent and sustained change in approach from providers. We argue that this is due to inherent tensions that arise when modelling death, dying and loss as a unified and shared social process. Unresolved tensions destabilize the theoretical foundations and risk misrepresentation of core philosophies. In this integrative review of 75 articles, we present previously undiscussed areas of contention drawing from a pan-disciplinary field of theoretical and empirical evidence. We conclude that new public health approaches lack a consistent and unified theoretical approach. From philosophical, ontological and existential ideas relating to how different stakeholders conceptualize death, to the processes by which communities are motivated and their constituent members empowered through responsibilized notions of duty and reciprocity, there is little acknowledgement of the complex tensions at hand. Increasing academic and political initiative alone is not enough to progress this movement in a manner that achieves its full potential. Instead, we must pay greater attention to the tensions described. This article aims to work with such tensions to better define the landscape of collective moral responsibility in end-of-life care. We believe that this is crucial if palliative care is to avoid becoming a technical speciality with community and communitization reduced to a mere technical solution to more profound questions.
Posterior Slope Reducing Osteotomy With Concomitant Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Danilkowicz Richard , Blevins Kier Maddox , Lau Brian , Amendola Annunziato
Published: October 2021

Background:

Modern techniques for graft choice, preparation, and fixation for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction demonstrate excellent longevity and return-to-play rates; however, up to 10% to 18% of cases continue to suffer reruptures, with even higher rates in specific subsets of patients.

Indications:

Normally, the posterior tibial slope is measured between 7° and 10°, with biomechanical and observational studies showing that posterior slope greater than 12° increases the risk of graft failure by 5× by allowing for increased anterior tibial translation, putting increased stress on the graft. The primary indication for a slope correction osteotomy with a revision ACL reconstruction is a patient with tibial slope greater than 12° who has failed prior ACL reconstruction.

Technique Description:

In our preferred technique, we illustrate a slope reducing anterior closing wedge proximal tibial osteotomy with concurrent revision ACL reconstruction rather than a staged ACL reconstruction.

Results:

The primary benefit of this technique is the ability to correct the tibial slope and reconstruct the ACL in one setting, which decreases recovery time, costs, and risks to the patients by eliminating an additional procedure.

Discussion/Conclusion:

In cases of ACL reconstruction failure, particularly in patients with multiple failures, an increased posterior tibial slope may be a contributing factor. Anterior closing wedge osteotomy has been shown to be an effective treatment, in patients with a native slope greater than 12°. A slope reducing anterior closing wedge proximal tibial osteotomy with concurrent revision ACL reconstruction rather than a staged ACL reconstruction has a wide array of benefits.
The Design of the Emission Layer for Electron Multipliers
Authors: Wang Yuman , Yan Baojun , Wen Kaile , Liu Shulin , Qi Ming , Zhang Binting , Gu Jianyu , Yao Wenjing
Published: October 2021

The electron multipliers gain is closely related to the secondary electron emission coefficient (SEE) of the emission layer materials. The SEE is closely related to the thickness of the emission layer. If the emission layer is thin, the low SEE causes the low gain of electron multipliers. If the emission layer is thick, the conductive layer can't timely supplement charge to the emission layer, the electronic amplifier gain is low too. The electron multipliers usually choose Al2O3 and MgO film as the emission layer because of the high SEE level. MgO easy deliquescence into Mg(OH)2 Mg2(OH)2CO3 and MgCO3 resulting in the lower SEE level. The SEE level of Al2O3 is lower than MgO, but Al2O3 is stable. We designed a spherical system for testing the SEE level of materials, and proposed to use low-energy secondary electrons instead of low-energy electron beam for neutralization to measuring the SEE level of Al2O3, MgO, MgO/Al2O3, Al2O3/MgO, and precisely control the film thickness by using atomic layer deposition. We propose to compare the SEE under the adjacent incident electrons energy to partition the SEE value of the material, and obtain four empirical formulas for the relationship between SEE and thickness. Since the main materials that cause the decrease in SEE are Mg2(OH)2CO3 and MgCO3, we use the C element atomic concentration measured by XPS to study the deliquescent depth of the material. We propose to use the concept of transition layer for SEE interpretation of multilayer materials. Through experiments and calculations, we put forward a new emission layer for electron multipliers, including 2–3 nm Al2O3 buffer layer, 5–9 nm MgO main-body layer, 1 nm Al2O3 protective layer or 0.3 nm Al2O3 enhancement layer. We prepared this emission layer to microchannel plate (MCP), which significantly improved the gain of MCP. We can also apply this new emission layer to channel electron multiplier and separate electron multiplier.
Genomic diversity of Areca Palm Velarivirus 1 (APV1) in Areca palm (Areca catechu) plantations in Hainan, China
Authors: Cao Xianmei , Zhao Ruibai , Wang Hongxing , Zhang Huaiwen , Zhao Xue , Khan Latif Ullah , Huang Xi
Published: October 2021

Background

Areca palm (Areca catechu L.) is an important commercial crop in southeast Asia, but its cultivation is threatened by yellowing leaf disease (YLD). Areca palm velarivirus 1 (APV1) was recently associated with YLD, but little is known regarding its population and genetic diversity. To assess the diversity of YLD, the APV1 genome was sequenced in YLD samples collected from different sites in Hainan.

Results

Twenty new and complete APV1 genomes were identified. The APV1 isolates had highly conserved sequences in seven open reading frames (ORFs; > 95% nucleotide [nt] identity) at the 3′ terminal, but there was diversity (81–87% nt identity) in three ORFs at the 5′ terminal. Phylogenetic analysis divided the APV1 isolates into three phylogroups, with 16 isolates (> 70%) in phylogroup A. Mixed infections with different genotypes in the same tree were identified; this was closely correlated with higher levels of genetic recombination.

Conclusions

Phylogroup A is the most prevalent APV1 genotype in areca palm plantations in Hainan, China. Mixed infection with different genotypes can lead to genomic recombination of APV1. Our data provide a foundation for accurate diagnostics, characterization of etiology, and elucidation of the evolutionary relationships of APV1 populations.
Identification of ABC transporter G subfamily in white lupin and functional characterization of L.albABGC29 in phosphorus use
Authors: Aslam Mehtab Muhammad , Waseem Muhammad , Zhang Qian , Ke Wang , Zhang Jianhua , Xu Weifeng
Published: October 2021

Background

White lupin (Lupinus albus) is a leguminous crop with elite adaptive ability in phosphorus-deficient soil and used as a model plant for studying phosphorus (P) use. However, the genetic basis of its adaptation to low P (LP) remains unclear. ATPase binding cassette (ABC) transports G subfamily play a crucial role in the transportation of biological molecules across the membrane. To date, identification of this subfamily has been analyzed in some plants, but no systematic analysis of these transporters in phosphorus acquisition is available for white lupin.

Results

This study identified 66 ABCG gene family members in the white lupin genome using comprehensive approaches. Phylogenetic analysis of white lupin ABCG transporters revealed six subclades based on their counterparts in Arabidopsis, displaying distinct gene structure and motif distribution in each cluster. Influences of the whole genome duplication on the evolution of L.albABCGs were investigated in detail. Segmental duplications appear to be the major driving force for the expansion of ABCGs in white lupin. Analysis of the Ka/Ks ratios indicated that the paralogs of the L.albABCG subfamily members principally underwent purifying selection. However, it was found that L.albABCG29 was a result of both tandem and segmental duplications. Overexpression of L.albABCG29 in white lupin hairy root enhanced P accumulation in cluster root under LP and improved plant growth. Histochemical GUS staining indicated that L.albABCG29 expression increased under LP in white lupin roots. Further, overexpression of L.albABCG29 in rice significantly improved P use under combined soil drying and LP by improving root growth associated with increased rhizosheath formation.

Conclusion

Through systematic and comprehensive genome-wide bioinformatics analysis, including conserved domain, gene structures, chromosomal distribution, phylogenetic relationships, and gene duplication analysis, the L.albABCG subfamily was identified in white lupin, and L.albABCG29 characterized in detail. In summary, our results provide deep insight into the characterization of the L.albABCG subfamily and the role of L.albABCG29 in improving P use.
Construction of a ceRNA network in glioma and analysis of its clinical significance
Authors: Liu Guangdong , Li Haihong , Ji Wenyang , Gong Haidong , Jiang Yan , Ji Guomin , Liu Guangyao
Published: October 2021

Background

Glioma is the most common central nervous system tumor with a poor survival rate and prognosis. Previous studies have found that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) play important roles in regulating various tumor mechanisms. We obtained RNA-Seq data of glioma and normal brain tissue samples from TCGA and GTEx databases and extracted the lncRNA and mRNA expression data. Further, we analyzed these data using weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differential expression analysis, respectively. Differential expression analysis was also carried out on the mRNA data from the GEO database. Further, we predicted the interactions between lncRNA, miRNA, and targeted mRNA. Using the CGGA data to perform univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis on mRNA.

Results

We constructed a Cox proportional hazard regression model containing four mRNAs and performed immune infiltration analysis. Moreover, we also constructed a ceRNA network including 21 lncRNAs, two miRNAs, and four mRNAs, and identified seven lncRNAs related to survival that have not been previously studied in gliomas. Through the gene set enrichment analysis, we found four lncRNAs that may have a significant role in tumors and should be explored further in the context of gliomas.

Conclusions

In short, we identified four lncRNAs with research value for gliomas, constructed a ceRNA network in gliomas, and developed a prognostic prediction model. Our research enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying gliomas, providing new insights for developing targeted therapies and efficiently evaluating the prognosis of gliomas.
Enhanced reduction of polymicrobial biofilms on the orthodontic brackets and enamel surface remineralization using zeolite-zinc oxide nanoparticles-based antimicrobial photodynamic therapy
Authors: Pourhajibagher Maryam , Bahador Abbas
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-biofilm and anti-metabolic activities of zeolite-zinc oxide nanoparticles (Zeo/ZnONPs)-based antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) against pre-formed polymicrobial biofilms on the orthodontic brackets, as well as, assess the remineralization efficacy on polymicrobial biofilms induced enamel lesions. Following synthesis and characterization of Zeo/ZnONPs, cell cytotoxicity, hemolytic effect, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were determined. The anti-biofilm and anti-metabolic activities of aPDT using different concentrations of Zeo/ZnONPs were investigated. Microhardness tester and DIAGNOdent Pen were used to evaluate the changes of remineralization degree on the treated enamel slabs duration 1 and 3 months. No significant cytotoxicity and erythrocyte hemolysis were observed in treated cells with Zeo/ZnONPs. When irradiated, suggesting that the Zeo/ZnONPs were photoactivated, generating ROS and leading to reduce dose-dependently the cell viability and metabolic activity of polymicrobial biofilms. Also, the enamel surface microhardness value of exposed enamel showed a steady increase with the concentration of Zeo/ZnONPs. No statistically significant differences were shown between aPDT and sodium fluoride varnish as the control group. Overall, Zeo/ZnONPs-based aPDT with the greatest remineralization efficacy of enamel surface can be used as an anti-biofilm therapeutic method, which is involved with their potent ability to produce ROS.
Genome and transcriptome analysis to understand the role diversification of cytochrome P450 gene under excess nitrogen treatment
Authors: Xiong Rui , He Ting , Wang Yamei , Liu Shifan , Gao Yameng , Yan Hanwei , Xiang Yan
Published: October 2021

Background

Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen (P. notoginseng) is a medicinal plant. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) monooxygenase superfamily is involved in the synthesis of a variety of plant hormones. Studies have shown that CYP450 is involved in the synthesis of saponins, which are the main medicinal component of P. notoginseng. To date, the P. notoginseng CYP450 family has not been systematically studied, and its gene functions remain unclear.

Results

In this study, a total of 188 PnCYP genes were identified, these genes were divided into 41 subfamilies and clustered into 9 clans. Moreover, we identified 40 paralogous pairs, of which only two had Ka/Ks ratio greater than 1, demonstrating that most PnCYPs underwent purification selection during evolution. In chromosome mapping and gene replication analysis, 8 tandem duplication and 11 segmental duplication events demonstrated that PnCYP genes were continuously replicating during their evolution. Gene ontology (GO) analysis annotated the functions of 188 PnCYPs into 21 functional subclasses, suggesting the functional diversity of these gene families. Functional divergence analyzed the members of the three primitive branches of CYP51, CYP74 and CYP97 at the amino acid level, and found some critical amino acid sites. The expression pattern of PnCYP450 related to nitrogen treatment was studied using transcriptome sequencing data, 10 genes were significantly up-regulated and 37 genes were significantly down-regulated. Combined with transcriptome sequencing analysis, five potential functional genes were screened. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) indicated that these five genes were responded to methyl jasmonate (MEJA) and abscisic acid (ABA) treatment.

Conclusions

These results provide a valuable basis for comprehending the classification and biological functions of PnCYPs, and offer clues to study their biological functions in response to nitrogen treatment.
Effects of desflurane and sevoflurane on somatosensory-evoked and motor-evoked potential monitoring during neurosurgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xiang Bingbing , Jiao Shulan , Zhang Yulong , Wang Lu , Yao Yuting , Yuan Feng , Chen Rui , Zhou Qijun
Published: October 2021

Background

Better protection can be provided during neurosurgery due to the establishment of somatosensory-evoked potential (SEP) and motor-evoked potential (MEP) monitoring technologies. However, some studies have showed that inhaled halogenated anesthetics have a significant impact on neurophysiological monitoring.

Methods

A total of 40 consecutive patients undergoing neurosurgery were randomly assigned to two groups receiving inhaled anesthetics, either desflurane or sevoflurane. Multiples levels (concentrations of 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9) of anesthetics were administered at minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), and then the latencies and amplitudes of SEPs and MEPs were recorded.

Results

SEP and MEP signals were well preserved in patients who underwent neurosurgery under general anesthesia supplemented with desflurane or sevoflurane at concentrations of 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 MAC. In each desflurane or sevoflurane group, the amplitudes of SEPs and MEPs decreased and the latencies of SEPs were prolonged significantly as the MAC increased (P < 0.05). The SEP latencies of both the upper and lower limbs in the desflurane group were significantly longer, and the SEP amplitudes were significantly lower than those in the sevoflurane group (P < 0.05). The MEP amplitudes in the desflurane group were significantly lower than those in the sevoflurane group (P < 0.05), only the amplitudes of the upper limbs at 0.3 MAC did not vary significantly.

Conclusions

SEPs and MEPs were inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by both desflurane and sevoflurane. At the same MAC concentration, desflurane appeared to have a stronger inhibitory effect than sevoflurane. All patients studied had normal neurological examination findings, hence, these results may not be applicable to patients with preexisting deficits.

Trial registration

The study registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (www.chictr.org.cn), Clinical Trials identifier ChiCTR2100045504 (18/04/2021).
Starting ambulance care professionals and critical incidents: a qualitative study on experiences, consequences and coping strategies
Authors: Loef Jorik , Vloet Lilian C. M. , Vierhoven Peter-Hans , van der Schans Leonie , Neyman-Lubbers Yvonne , de Vries-de Winter Christine , Ebben Remco H. A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Ambulance care professionals are regularly confronted with critical incidents that increase risks for mental health disorders. To minimize these risks, it is important that ambulance care professionals adequately cope with critical incidents. Especially from the perspective of starting ambulance care professionals it is unknown which coping styles they use when experiencing a critical incident and how they are trained to cope with critical incidents. The aim of this study was to gain insight in (a) what starting ambulance care professionals describe as critical incidents, (b) how they experience these critical incidents and their consequences, (c) how they cope with these incidents, and (d) how they are trained and guided to cope with these incidents.

Methods

A qualitative design with individual, semi-structured interviews was used. The data was analyzed by using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Twenty-two starting ambulance care professionals were interviewed of which, 11 were male. The age ranged from 23 to 31 years, with 11 participants being 27 years or younger. Three key-themes emerged that make an incident critical: (1) emotional connection versus emotional detachment, (2) feeling loss of control, and (3) incomprehension. All participants experienced several short to middle term physical, psychological and social consequences after encountering a critical incident. Starting ambulance care professionals applied different coping strategies during different phases of the ambulance care process: a mix of depersonification, focus on the medical task, support from colleagues and their own network, seeking confirmation, and distraction. Most starting ambulance care professionals don’t actively remember they received education about coping with critical incidents during their initial educational program. During and after traineeships, the workplace preceptor has a crucial role for starting ambulance care professionals to learn them how to cope with critical incidents.

Conclusions

Three key-themes interact to make an incident more critical for starting ambulance care professionals. To cope with these critical incidents, starting ambulance care professionals use a variety of coping strategies. These results can be used to develop training and coaching for starting ambulance care professionals so they can adequately cope with critical incidents.
Elevated level of the soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products involved in sarcopenia: an observational study
Authors: Wu Shou-En , Chiu Yi-Lin , Kao Tung-Wei , Chen Wei-Liang
Published: October 2021

Background

The soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) has been proposed to serve as a marker for disease severity, but its role in sarcopenia, an age-related progressive loss of muscle mass and function, remains elusive. This study examines the association between sRAGE and sarcopenia.

Methods

A total of 314 community-dwelling elderly adults who had their health examination at Tri-Service General Hospital from 2017 to 2019 underwent protein analysis with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relationship with sarcopenia and its detailed information, including components and diagnosis status, were examined using linear and logistic regressions.

Results

As for sarcopenia components, low muscle mass (β = 162.8, p = 0.012) and strength (β = 181.31, p = 0.011) were significantly correlated with sRAGE, but not low gait speed (p = 0.066). With regard to disease status, confirmed sarcopenia (β = 436.93, p < 0.001), but not probable (p = 0.448) or severe sarcopenia (p = 0.488), was significantly correlated with sRAGE. In addition, females revealed a stronger association with sRAGE level by showing significant correlations with low muscle mass (β = 221.72, p = 0.014) and low muscle strength (β = 208.68, p = 0.043).

Conclusions

sRAGE level showed a positive association with sarcopenia, illustrating its involvement in the evolution of sarcopenia. This association is more evident in female groups, which may be attributed to the loss of protection from estrogen in postmenopausal women. Utilizing sRAGE level as a prospective marker for sarcopenia deserves further investigation in future studies.
Enablers and barriers to implementing care quality improvement program in nursing homes in China
Authors: Zhao Yinan , Liao Lulu , Feng Hui , Chen Huijing , Ning Hongting
Published: October 2021

Objective

To explore the perspectives of key stakeholders on necessary factors to implement care quality improvement program.

Methods

We conducted qualitative descriptive research in eight nursing homes in four major prefecture-level cities of Changsha, Xiangtan, Zhuzhou, and Yueyang. Data of 50 clinical nurses and 64 nurse assistants were included and analyzed. Ethical approval was given by the medical ethics committee of Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR-IOC-17013109, https://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx). One-to-one interviews were used with the nursing managers, and separate focus group discussions were used with the clinical nurses and nurse assistants. All of the interviews were audio recorded and later transcribed verbatim. In addition, the first author documented the responses of every participant in the field notes during the interviews and focus groups.

Results

The participants’ perspectives were characterized by two main themes: (1) enablers, with four subthemes of “organizational support”, “the evidence-based practice ability”, “proactivity”, “nursing supervision and feedback;” and (2) barriers, with five sub-themes of “low educational background”, “the limitations of self-role orientation”, “resistance to change”, “lack of job motivation”, and “organizational constraints”.

Conclusion

These findings recognize factors at the organizational level, staff level and societal level that are necessary to implement effective mentoring. The results of this study can provide reference for nursing home in improving nursing management quality, formulating, implementing and revising training policies.