bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Anterior and Posterior Tilt of Garden I-II Femoral Neck Fractures Predict Treatment Failure and Need for Reoperation in Patients Over 60 Years
Authors: Sjöholm Pontus , Sundkvist Jonas , Wolf Olof , Sköldenberg Olof , Gordon Max , Mukka Sebastian
Published: October 2021

Background:

The purpose of the present study was to estimate the effect of preoperative fracture tilt and to scrutinize the effect of anterior tilt on the risk of treatment failure in patients with Garden Type-I and II femoral neck fractures that are treated with internal fixation.

Methods:

A retrospective multicenter study was performed on a consecutive series of patients ≥60 years of age who had undergone primary internal fixation for the treatment of Garden Type-I and II femoral neck fractures. The study included 1,505 patients with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Radiographic assessments encompassed preoperative and postoperative tilt, implant inclination, and treatment failure. Data on reoperation and mortality were collected. The risk of treatment failure was assessed with use of Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

Results:

The study comprised 1,505 patients (71% female) with a median age of 81 years (range, 60 to 108 years). Overall, 234 patients (16%) were classified as having a treatment failure and 251 patients (17%) underwent reoperation. A preoperative anterior tilt of >10° and a posterior tilt of >20° were predictors of treatment failure and reoperation, respectively. Treatment failure occurred in 74 (25%) of 301 patients with a posterior tilt of >20° and in 17 (43%) of 40 patients with an anterior tilt of >10°.

Conclusions:

This multicenter cohort study identified a subgroup of patients with Garden Type-I and II femoral neck fractures with an anterior tilt of >10° as having high treatment failure rates and major reoperation rates comparable with those associated with displaced femoral neck fractures. A preoperative posterior tilt of >20° increases the risk of treatment failure, and the potential benefit of arthroplasty in this subgroup of patients remains to be further investigated.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
THE EFFECT OF SAVING ACCOUNT OWNERSHIP AND ACCESS TO FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS ON HOUSEHOLD LOANS IN INDONESIA
Authors: Maulana Robby , Nuryakin Chaikal
Published: October 2021

This study investigates whether saving account ownership and access to financial institutions influence household credit in Indonesia. Using a multinomial logit regression model and a sample of 294,426 households from the 2018 national socioeconomic survey and the village potential data, we find that account ownership is essential in encouraging formal credit and reducing informal credit. Access to commercial banks, rural banks, and cooperatives can then improve formal credit without significantly reducing informal credit. Hence, the government needs to encourage bank account ownership and facilitate access to financial institutions in order to promote formal credit and reduce informal credit.
COVID-19, POLICY RESPONSES, AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTIVITY AROUND THE GLOBE
Authors: Njindan Iyke Bernard , Sharma Susan Sunila , Gunadi Iman
Published: October 2021

We examine whether the COVID-19-induced policy responses by countries moderated the negative impact of the pandemic on industrial productivity. Using a panel of the 50 most affected countries by the pandemic, we show that the policy responses do not only help reduce the spread of COVID-19, but they also moderate its negative impact on industrial productivity and help steer countries back to their growth paths. We demonstrate that, in the absence of the pandemic, some of the policy responses (i.e., lockdowns, travel restrictions, etc.) would have reduced productivity. We further demonstrate that our estimates are robust when considering alternative specifications of our productivity model. Our study provides strong support for evidence-based policies and emphasizes, consistent with theoretical arguments, that an optimal policymix is fundamental to steering economies back to their steady productivity growth paths when facing negative shocks.
Determinant Factors for Cattle Insurance as a Risk Management Strategy
Authors: Nugrahaini Amelia Dwi , Masyhuri Mashyuri , Suryantini Any
Published: October 2021

Cattle farmers in Gunungkidul Regency face several cattle diseases such as Helminthiasis, Anthrax, Downer Cow Syndrome, and Intoxication in which these diseases mostly attack female cows. To prevent financial loss for the farmers, the government facilitates them with cattle insurance. This study aims to determine the reasons and the cattle farmers’ willingness-to-pay for the cattle insurance by conducting a survey addressed to 100 cattle farmers and identifying the factors related to it. This study used a Contingent Valuation Method in estimating the cattle farmer's WTP. The various factors that influence the farmer's WTP were analyzed by using natural logarithm regression models. Based on the results of the study, it was found that the willingness-to-pay for cattle farmers who did not participate in cattle insurance are 22,600 IDR and farmers who participate in cattle insurance are 36,320 IDR. Education, household income, and farmers’ interest in the insurance were positively effecting toward the farmers' willingness-to-pay. However, age and the number of families showed the negative ones toward the farmers’ willingness-to-pay.
Molecular Characterization of A Novel Victorivirus Infecting Corynespora Cassiicola
Authors: Liu Mingming , Ni Yunxia , Zhao Hui , Liu Xintao , Jia Min , Liu Hongyan , Tian Baoming
Published: October 2021

One victorivirus was detected in the isolate of Corynespora cassiicola strains 20180909-03, which was named Corynespora cassiicola victorivirus 1 (CcVV1). The whole-genome sequence of the virus was sequenced and identified. The CcVV1 genome is 5140 nt and contains 56.87%GC with two large open reading frames (ORFs) overlapping at the tetranucleotide AUGA. The two ORFs were predicted to encode coat protein (CP) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) respectively, which were conservative in dsRNA fungal viruses of the family Totiviridae. Conservative domains comparison and phylogenetic analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence of RdRp and CP showed that CcVV1 was a new virus of the Victorivirus genus. As far as we know, it is the first report of a genomic sequence of the genus Victorivirus infecting Corynespora cassiicola.
One or Two Pups - Different Reproduction Strategies of Noctule Females
Authors: Zukalova Katerina , Seidlova Veronika , Piacek Vladimir , Nemcova Monika , Pribyl Michal , Pikula Jiri , Zukal Jan
Published: October 2021

Background: The success of animal reproduction is impacted by a trade-off between energetic costs and mortality associated with immediate vs. future reproductive attempts. The reproductive strategies of European insectivorous bats differ from common mammalian standards due to the use of delayed fertilisation. Phenology of bat reproduction, including length of pregnancy, which may vary in the same species at different latitudes, between years at the same site or between individuals within a colony, is influenced by ecological conditions. To assess factors influencing the course of pregnancy we evaluated levels of blood progesterone in 20 female noctule bats Nyctalus noctula. The bats were individually tagged and randomly divided into two groups with different hibernation ending points (i.e. a control group vs. a treatment group with one week longer hibernation). Following emergence from hibernation, the bats were kept in a wooden box at a stable temperature of 22°C. Results: One female aborted her pups two days before the first successful births of other females, with the majority of females giving birth to a single neonate (65%). Based on development of progesterone concentration, we were able to define a number of different reproduction strategies, i.e. females with single offspring or twins, and females with supposed resorption of one embryo (embryonic mortality after implantation of the developing fertilised egg). Progesterone levels were much higher in females with two embryos during the first part of gestation and after birth. Progesterone levels were at their highest mid-gestation, with no difference between females carrying one or two foetuses. Length of gestation differed significantly between the two groups, with the longer hibernation (treatment) group having a roughly two-day shorter gestation period. Conclusions: Female N. noctula are able to manipulate their litter size to balance immediate and future reproduction success. The estimated gestation length of approx. 49-days appears to be standard for N. noctula, with females optimising their thermoregulatory behaviour to keep the length of gestation as close to the standard as possible.
Electroacupuncture for Hypertension in Adults: Study Protocol of a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Furong , Zhang Pan , Chen Yalan , Pei Hong , Qu Yuzhu , Chen Jiyao , He Xiaoguo , Liang Fanrong , Jin Rongjiang , Yang Mingxiao
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Hypertension is a common, prevalent cardiovascular disease that requires multidisciplinary treatments. In Asian countries, electroacupuncture (EA) is often used as an adjunct to antihypertensive drugs for lowering blood pressure and relieving related symptoms. However, till now the effects of EA for hypertension are not fully evaluated. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of EA in patients with hypertension through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.Methods and analysis: Seven electronic databases including Medline, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CNKI, CBM, Wanfang, and VIP Database will be searched from inception to May 30, 2021, to identify clinical trials of EA treating hypertension in adults. Eligible comparisons will be limited to 1) EA versus valid comparators including placebo, antihypertensives, waiting list and 2) EA as an adjunct to antihypertensives versus antihypertensives. Clinical outcomes include blood pressure, response rate, somatic symptom relief, quality of life, and safety from baseline to post-treatment. The Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool will be used to evaluate the quality of the included studies and the GRADE system will be employed to summarize the overall quality of evidence. Random-effects model will be performed, where efficacy data will be reported with mean difference (continuous data) or risk ratio (dichotomous data). In addition, heterogeneity and publication bias will be tested with the I2 statistic and the Egger’s test/funnel plot. Ethics and dissemination: As a secondary literature study, this systematic review doesn’t require ethical approval. The study results will be disseminated via peer-review publication or conference presentation. Registration: PROSPERO registration ID CRD42019133937.
MELD-XI Score Predict No-Reflow Phenomenon and Short-Term Mortality in Patient With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Zhang Xin-Tao , Lin Zhao-Rong , Zhang Lin , Zhao Zi-Wen , Chen Liang-Long
Published: October 2021

Introduction
: No-reflow phenomenon (NRP) is one of high-incidence complication during percutaneous coronary intervention(PCI). In the current study, we examined the relationship between MELD-XI score and NRP in detail. Moreover, we further discuss whether MELD-XI score could consider as an accurate risk assessment score of patients with STEMI candidate for PCI.
Methods
This retrospective study involving 693 Patients with acute STEMI underwent an emergency PCI were consecutive recruited. All patients divided into normal reflow or no-reflow groups based in result of post interventional thrombolysisin myocardial in farction(TIMI) flow rate. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression and Cox regression analysis were conducted to identify the independent predictors of determine the independent predictive factor in both group. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and Kaplan-Meier (K-M) have been applied to estimate the predictive values of MELD-XI score.
Results
MELD-XI score is a independently indicator of NRP(odds ratio(OR):1.247, 95%CI:1.144-1.360, P<0.001). A multivariate Cox regression analysis also revealed that MELD-XI score is an independent prognostic factor for 30-days all-cause mortality(hazard ratio(HR):1.155, 95%CI:1.077-1.239, P<0.001). Moreover, the cutoff value of MELD-XI score to predict NRP was 9.47 by ROC curve, area under ROC curve(AUC):0.739, P<0.001. Kaplan-Meier curves for 30-days all cause mortality revealed lower survival rate in MELD-XI ༞9.78 group(P༜0.001).
Conclusion
The MELD-XI score predict NRP and 30-days prognosis accurately in STEMI patients whom undergoing PPCI. It could as an inexpensive and readily available tool for risk stratification.
Ethnobotanical Study On Plants Used To Dye Traditional Costumes By The Baiku Yao Nationality of China
Authors: Hu Renchuan , Li Tingting , Qin Yunrui , Liu Yujing , Huang Yunfeng
Published: October 2021

Background: The Baiku Yao are a branch of the Yao nationality in China. The unique dyeing process of traditional clothing employed by these people has distinct national characteristics, a profound impact on the production and life of local people, and important research value. For this reason, it is important to investigate and document the dyeing plants and the traditional knowledge involved in the dyeing of Baiku Yao traditional clothing. This study provides a reference for the inheritance and development of Baiku Yao traditional clothing dyeing culture, will help to find new natural, safe and healthy textile dyes, and provides materials for green dyeing of modern clothing. At the same time, it is also expected that the research results will have positive significance in promoting regional economic development, national cultural inheritance and biodiversity protection. Methodology: Information on dyeing plants was obtained using the free-list method and interviews with 61 Baiku Yao informants in Guangxi and Guizhou from January 2020 to August 2021. Based on the free-list method, we evaluated and screened out important plants by calculating the cognitive salience value of each plant. Results: The results showed that the people of Baiku Yao have accumulated rich traditional knowledge of dyeing plants and the long-term dyeing and other processes. We collected 23 kinds of plants and recorded the related traditional knowledge, such as the Baiku Yao name, life form, habitat, part(s) used, application type, usage, and area used. The results also showed that 15 plants (65.2%) have medicinal value and can be used to treat 18 aliments, and wild plants play a very important role in the life of the Baiku Yao. Conclusion: These plants not only meet the color needs of the Baiku Yao people but also have health care effects, aligning with the trends toward green dyeing and the health contentiousness of modern people. This study will aid the identification of new natural, safe and healthy textile dyes and is of positive significance in promoting regional economic development, national cultural inheritance and biodiversity protection.
The Impact of Sarcopenia on Low Back Pain and Quality of Life in Patients with Osteoporosis
Authors: Iwahashi Shoji , Hashida Ryuki , Matsuse Hiroo , Higashi Eriko , Bekki Masafumi , Iwanaga Sohei , Hara Koji , Higuchi Takahiko , Hirakawa Yohei , Kubota Asami , Imagawa Hiromi , Muta Yoko , Minamitani Kazuhito , Yoshida Tatsuhiro , Yokosuka Kimiaki , Yamada Kei , Sato Kimiaki
Published: October 2021

Purpose: Osteoporosis combined with sarcopenia contributes to a high risk of falling, fracture, and even mortality. However, sarcopenia's impact on low back pain and quality of life (QOL) in patients with osteoporosis is still unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate low back pain and QOL in osteoporosis patients with sarcopenia.Methods: We assessed 100 ambulatory patients who came to our hospital for osteoporosis treatment. Low back pain was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) with 100 being an extreme amount of pain and 0 no pain. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) score was used to assess QOL after adjustment for age, history of vertebral fracture, and adult spinal deformity. Differences in low back pain intensity assessed by VAS between groups were evaluated by the Willcoxon rank-sum test. Covariance analysis was used to assess QOL. All data are expressed as either median, interquartile range, or average, standard error.Results: Patients were classified into the sarcopenia group (n=32) and the non-sarcopenia group (n=68). Low back pain intensity assessed by VAS was significantly higher in the sarcopenia group than in the non-sarcopenia group (33.0 [0-46.6] vs. 8.5 [0-40.0]; p<0.05). The subscales of the JOABPEQ for low back pain were significantly lower in the sarcopenia group than in the non-sarcopenia group (65.0±4.63 vs. 84.0±3.1; p<0.05). Conclusion:In this cross-sectional study, sarcopenia affected low back pain and QOL in ambulatory patients with osteoporosis. Sarcopenia may exacerbate low back pain and QOL. (244/250 words)
Atrial Approach in Mitral Valve Surgery: Are There Differences in the Incidence of Clinically Relevant Adverse Effects? A Propensity Analysis.
Authors: Obando Carlos , Garzón Javier D , Ramirez Lina M , Castillo Andrea C , Guerrero Albert F , Chalela Tomas , Sandoval Diana C , Giraldo-Grueso Manuel , Sandoval Nestor F , Camacho Jaime , Umaña Juan P
Published: October 2021

Background: The lack of evidence with respect to complications with mitral valve approaches leaves the choice of exposure to the surgeon’s preference, basing it on individual experience, speed, ease, and quality of exposure. Methods: Analysis of patients undergoing mitral valve surgery by either a superior transseptal approach or a left-atrial approach between 2006 and 2018. We included first time elective mitral valve procedures, isolated or combined, without a history of rhythm disturbances. We used propensity score matching based on 26 perioperative variables. Primary endpoint was to determine the association between the superior transeptal approach and clinically significant adverse outcomes including arrhythmias, need for permanent pacemaker, cerebrovascular events, and mortalityResults: 652 patients met the inclusion criteria, 391 received the left atrial approach and 261 superior transseptal. After matching, 96 patients were compared with 69, respectively. The distribution of the preoperative and perioperative variables was similar. There was no difference in the incidence of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and the need for treatment. The incidence of nodal rhythm (p = 0.008) and length of stay in intensive care (p = 0.04) were higher in the superior transseptal group, however the need for permanent pacemaker implantation was the same. Likewise, there was no difference in the need for anticoagulation due to arrhythmia, the incidence of cerebrovascular events or mortality in the postoperative period, and in the long-term follow-up.Conclusion: We did not find an association with permanent heart rhythm disorders or any other significant adverse clinical outcome, therefore we consider that the superior transeptal approach is useful and safe for mitral valve exposure.
The Influence of Electronic Acupuncture At A Specific Frequency In Facilitating The Passage of NGF Through The Blood-Brain Barrier And Its Effect On Learning And Memory In MCAO/R Rats
Authors: Zhao Yibin , Mao Xuqing , Wang Hao , Gan Lin , Zhang Shanshan , Gong Peng , Lin Xianming
Published: October 2021

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintains the balance of the internal environment of the brain and strictly controls substance exchange between the brain and blood dynamically but stably. Transient increases in the permeability of the BBB plays an important role in helping macromolecular drugs enter the brain to exert their pharmacological effects. Previous research has revealed that electronic acupuncture (EA) stimulation at a specific frequency can enhance the permeability of the BBB and induce the entry of 20 kDa fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-dextran) into the cerebral cortex, but whether it can also allow drugs to pass the BBB remains unknown. We hypothesized that EA at a specific frequency could open the BBB and induce the entry of nerve growth factor (NGF) into the brain to exert its therapeutic effect. To simulate the clinical apoplexy sequelae observed in patients and determine the basic timing of BBB repair under pathological conditions, we employed the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model and assessed changes in the permeability and structure of the BBB by measuring both the intensity of Evans blue (EB) staining and the cerebral infarction volume and evaluating the ultrastructure of the BBB. Then, we used a laser spectrometer and immunofluorescence to observe entry of NGF into the brain. Finally, we assessed the learning and memory ability of rats and used the DeadEnd TM Fluorometric TUNEL System to assess apoptosis in the hippocampus. Our results showed that the BBB was essentially repaired three weeks after MCAO, indicating that EA stimulation at a specific frequency can enhance BBB permeability and induce NGF uptake by prefrontal neurons. In the presence of EA stimulation, entry of NGF into the brain promoted learning and memory in rats and inhibited the apoptosis of neurons in the hippocampus. In this study, the MCAO model was used to determine the timing of BBB repair under pathological conditions and assess the EA stimulation-induced entry of NGF into the brain to exert its therapeutic effect. EA could serve as a new strategy for delivering therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS), given that EA stimulation at a specific frequency was shown to increase the permeability of the BBB. Further study of the mechanism underlying the opening of the BBB and its timing is needed.
Comparative Transcriptomics Analyses of a Vero Cell Line in Suspension Versus Adherent Culture Conditions
Authors: Sène Marie-Angélique , Xia Yu , Kamen Amine A.
Published: October 2021

The Vero cell line is the most used continuous cell line for viral vaccine manufacturing. Its anchorage-dependent use renders scaling-up challenging and operations very labor intensive which affects cost effectiveness. Thus, efforts to adapt Vero cells to suspension cultures have been invested but hurdles such as the long doubling time and low cell viability remain to be addressed. In this study, building on the recently published Vero cell line annotated genome, a functional genomics analysis of the Vero cells adapted to suspension is performed to better understand the genetic and phenotypic switches at play during the adaptation of Vero cells from anchorage-dependent to suspension cultures. Results show a downregulation of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway, highlighting the dissociation between the adaptation to suspension process and EMT. Surprisingly, an upregulation of cell adhesion components is observed, notably the CDH18 gene, the cytoskeleton pathway, and the extracellular pathway. Moreover, a downregulation of the glycolytic pathway are balanced by an upregulation of the asparagine metabolism pathway, promoting cell adaptation to nutrient deprivation. A downregulation of the adherens junctions and the folate pathways alongside with the FYN gene are possible explanations behind the currently observed low cell viability and long doubling time.
Neurofunctional and neuroimaging readouts for designing a preclinical stem-cell therapy trial in experimental stroke
Authors: Dumot Chloé , Po Chrystelle , Capin Lucille , Hubert Violaine , Ong Elodie , Chourrout Matthieu , Bolbos Radu , Amaz Camille , Auxenfans Céline , Canet-Soulas Emmanuelle , Rome Claire , Chauveau Fabien , Wiart Marlène
Published: October 2021

With the aim of designing a preclinical study evaluating an intracerebral cell-based therapy for stroke, an observational study was performed in the rat suture model of ischemic stroke. Objectives were threefold: (i) to characterize neurofunctional and imaging readouts in the first weeks following transient ischemic stroke, according to lesion subtype (hypothalamic, striatal, corticostriatal); (ii) to confirm that intracerebral administration does not negatively impact these readouts; and (iii) to calculate sample sizes for a future therapeutic trial using these readouts as endpoints. Our results suggested that the most relevant endpoints were side bias (staircase test) and axial diffusivity (AD) (diffusion tensor imaging). Hypothalamic-only lesions did not affect those parameters, which were close to normal. Side bias in striatal lesions reached near-normal levels within 2 weeks, while rats with corticostriatal lesions remained impaired until week 14. AD values were decreased at 4 days and increased at 5 weeks post-surgery, with a subtype gradient: hypothalamic < striatal < corticostriatal. Intracerebral administration did not impact these readouts. After sample size calculation (18-147 rats per group according to the endpoint considered), we conclude that a therapeutic trial based on both readouts would be feasible only in the framework of a multicenter trial.
Is Staff Consistency Important to Parents’ Satisfaction in a Longitudinal Study of Children at Risk for Type 1 Diabetes: The TEDDY Study
Authors: Melin Jessica , Lynch Kristian F. , Lundgren Markus , Aronsson Carin Andrén , Larsson Helena Elding , Johnson Suzanne Bennett
Published: October 2021

Background: Participants’ study satisfaction is important for both study compliance and retention, but research on parental study satisfaction is rare. The aim of the study was to identify factors associated with parent study satisfaction in a longitudinal, multinational study of children at risk for type 1 diabetes, with a particular focus on the role of staff consistency.Methods: Mother and father study satisfaction was measured at child-age 15 months (5579 mothers and 4942 fathers) and child-age four years (4010 mothers and 3411 fathers). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with study satisfaction at both time points.Results: Parent study satisfaction was highest in Sweden and the US compared to Finland. Parents with low education who had an accurate perception of their child’s type 1 diabetes risk and who believed they can do something to prevent type 1 diabetes were more satisfied with their study participation. Parents with higher depression scores had lower study satisfactions scores. After adjusting for these factors, study staff consistency was associated with greater study satisfaction in Europe but not the US. However, the number of staff changes from visit to visit was markedly higher in the US compared to Europe. Although study satisfaction scores were higher for mothers than fathers, associations with other factors were similar for both.Conclusions: Factors associated with parent study satisfaction were similar for mothers and fathers and across time. Potentially modifiable factors are of particular interest. These include accuracy about the child’s risk for type 1 diabetes; beliefs that something can be done to reduce the child’s risk; and study staff consistency. However, the importance of staff consistency was different between the US and European parents. Trial registration: NCT00279318
Health Workforce Strategies in Response to Major Health Events: A Rapid Scoping Review with Lessons Learned for the Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Coates Alison , Fuad Asli Oubah , Hodgson Amanda , Bourgeault Ivy Lynn
Published: October 2021

Background: The early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic brought multiple concurrent threats – high patient volume and acuity and, simultaneously, increased risk to health workers. Healthcare managers and decision-makers needed to identify strategies to mitigate these adverse conditions. This paper reports on the health workforce strategies implemented in relation to past large-scale emergencies (including natural disasters, extreme weather events, and infectious disease outbreaks).Methods: We conducted a rapid scoping review of health workforce responses to natural disasters, extreme weather events, and infectious disease outbreaks reported in the literature between January 2000 and April 2020. The 3582 individual results were screened to include articles which described surge responses to past emergencies for which an evaluative component was included in the report. A total of 37 articles were included in our analysis.Results: The reviewed literature describes challenges related to increased demand for health services and a simultaneous decrease in the availability of the workforce. Many articles also described impacts on infrastructure that hindered emergency response. These challenges aligned well with those faced during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the published literature, the workforce strategies that were described aimed either to increase the numbers of health workers in a given area, to increase the flexibility of the health workforce to meet needs in new ways, or to support and sustain health workers in practice. Workforce responses addressed all types and cadres of health workers and were executed in a wide range of settings. We additionally report on the barriers and facilitators of workforce strategies reported in the literature reviewed. The strategies that were reported in the literature aligned closely with our COVID-specific conceptual framework of workforce capacity levers, suggesting that our framework may have heuristic value across many types of health disasters.Conclusions: This research highlights a key deficiency with the existing literature on workforce responses to emergencies: most papers lack substantive evaluation of the strategies implemented. Future research on health workforce capacity interventions should include robust evaluation of impact and effectiveness.
Construction of a plasmid addiction system using grpE as selection marker in Escherichia coli and its application in phloroglucinol biosynthesis
Authors: Wang Ji-ming , Men Xiao , Cao Yu-jin , Zhang Hai-bo
Published: October 2021

Microbial synthesis of commodity chemicals often be conducted in recombinant plasmid-based expression systems, in which plasmids play pivotal roles on productivity. The recombinant plasmids always encounter instability, leading to losses in product recovery of entire process. To maintain the stability of plasmids, several mechanisms have been evolved. Plasmid addition system, selectively killing plasmid-free cells, is regard as a useful strategy to improve the proportion of plasmid-containing cells. In this study, a novel plasmid addition system using an essential gene grpE that encodes a molecular cochaperone as selection marker, avoiding use of antibiotics, was constructed in Escherichia coli . The solo copy of grpE gene on the chromosome was knocked out and relocated on multicopy plasmids. The generated strains can maintain high ratio of plasmid-harboring cells without antibiotics supplementation in mineral salts media and exhibit improved cell growth and increased tolerance to phloroglucinol. Using this system in phloroglucinol synthesis, it could significantly increase the phloroglucinol titer from 0.75 g/L to 1.26 g/L, which was further increased to 1.78 g/L when biotin-[acetyl-CoA-carboxylase] ligase BirA was overexpressed. It can be expected that this system will be a powerful tool for microbial manufacture of important chemicals in E . coli .
Evaluation of Visual and Cytology Screening in Preventing Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Cervical Cancer in Namibia
Authors: Pick Riana , Kouame Koffi , Moyo Sylvester Rodgers , Aboua Yapo Guillaume
Published: October 2021

An estimated 851 340 women in Namibia are at risk of human papilloma viral (HPV) infection that may cause cervical cancer. Visual screening with acetic acid (VIA) and cryotherapy have been proven highly effective. However, data associating with the impact of cervical cancer screening programmes lack. This study evaluated visual and cytology screening in preventing cervical intraepithelial lesions (CIN) and cervical cancer in Namibia. Findings showed that women with HPV, cervicitis, koilocytosis and atypia are at an increased risk of testing positive for VIA. Older women, particularly with HIV are more likely to be diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). VIA procedure seems to be viable in screening, although colposcopy in patient follow-up in the Namibian context should be revised and used with positive HR-HPV results. Screening modalities incorporating HPV testing for different ages and risk populations (e.g. HIV positive, autoimmune disease) is recommended. Screening uptake can further be improved by interventions that adopt a model which uses previous diagnostic outcomes, women’s health objectives, up-to-date knowledge and practice relevant to national context.
Universe: the dynamics of the minimum and maximum expansion states
Authors: Petrakis Sócrates
Published: October 2021

Two hypotheses stand out in describing the evolution of the Universe. The predominant one predicts that the current expansion began at a certain instant and will not preserve any variation of energy that performs work; apparent flat Universe (Ω = 1) is advocated by relativistic calculations and observational data, with an end or thermal death at its maximum expansion (3D Space). The other hypothesis considers that the Universe is cyclical (always alternating phases of expansion and contraction). This proposal aims to demonstrate that both hypotheses can be correct by not being distinct, but complementary. Supported by the immutability of physical laws, analyses of concepts such as space, mass, energy, gravity, spin, and entropy define an exclusive presence of 1D Space in the minimum and maximum expansion states of the Universe. With our 3D Space Universe created and existing between these extreme states, every dynamic is outlined and completes the usual relativity. The concept of complete rest energy (1D Space) was able to be applied, demonstrating that the complete evolution of the Universe is spatially dynamic in a perpetual time dimension, always recreating our Universe.
A pragmatic evaluation of a Public Health Knowledge Broker mentoring education program: A convergent mixed methods study
Authors: Clark Emily C , Dhaliwal Bandna , Ciliska Donna , Neil-Sztramko Sarah , Steinberg Marla , Dobbins Maureen
Published: October 2021

Background: Public health professionals are expected to use the best available research and contextual evidence to inform decision making. The National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools developed, implemented, and evaluated a Knowledge Broker mentoring program aimed at facilitating organization-wide evidence-informed decision making in ten public health units in Ontario, Canada. The purpose of this study was to pragmatically assess the impact of the program.Methods: A convergent mixed methods design was used to interpret quantitative results in the context of the qualitative findings. Quantitatively, participants’ knowledge and skills for finding, interpreting, and using evidence were measured before and after program completion via multiple-choice tests. Changes in scores were assessed using paired t-tests. Qualitatively, program participants and management at enrolled public health units were interviewed to explore the effect of program participation. A secondary analysis of these interviews was conducted to determine whether organizations met their evidence use goals set at baseline, and to identify key factors related to implementation of EIDM within the organization.Results: Post-program scores for knowledge and skills for EIDM were higher compared to pre-program scores (mean difference = 14.0%, 95% CI 8.2%, 19.8%). Organizations met their goals for evidence use to varying degrees. Key themes identified that support an organizational shift to EIDM include definitive plans for participants to share knowledge during and after program completion, embedding evidence into decision making processes, and supportive leadership with organizational investment of time and resources. The location, setting or size of health units was not associated with attainment of EIDM goals; small, rural health units were not at a disadvantage compared to larger, urban health units.Conclusions: The Knowledge Broker mentoring program effectively increased participants’ knowledge and skill, allowing them to share their learning and support change at their health units. When paired with organizational supports such as supportive leadership and resource investment, this program holds promise as an innovative knowledge translation strategy for organization wide EIDM among public health organizations.
Identification of Novel PHD-Finger Genes in Pepper by Genomic Re-Annotation and Comparative Analyses
Authors: Guk Ji Yoon , Jang Min Jeong , Kim Seungill
Published: October 2021

BackgroundThe plant homeodomain (PHD)-finger gene family that belongs to zinc-finger genes, plays important roles in epigenetics by regulating gene expression in eukaryotes. However, inaccurate annotation of PHD-finger genes hinders further downstream comparative, evolutionary, and functional studies.ResultsWe performed genome-wide re-annotation in Arabidopsis, rice, pepper, potato, and tomato to better understand the role of PHD-finger genes in these species. Our investigation identified 875 PHD-finger genes, of which 225 (26% of total) were newly identified, including 57 (54%) novel PHD-finger genes in pepper. The PHD-finger genes of the five plant species have various integrated domains that may be responsible for the diversification of structures and functions of these genes. Evolutionary analyses suggest that PHD-finger genes were expanded recently by lineage-specific duplication, especially in pepper and potato, resulting in diverse repertoires of PHD-finger genes among the species. We validated the expression of six newly identified PHD-finger genes in pepper with qRT-PCR. Transcriptome analyses suggest potential functions of PHD-finger genes in response to various abiotic stresses in pepper.ConclusionsOur data, including the updated annotation of PHD-finger genes, provide useful information for further evolutionary and functional analyses to better understand the roles of the PHD-finger gene family in pepper.
The correlation between fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation-based resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and facial emotion recognition ability in patients with first-episode schizophrenia
Authors: Kuang Qijie , Liu Yi , Zhou Sumiao , Bi Taiyong , Mi Lin , She Shenglin , Zheng Yingjun
Published: October 2021

Our aim was to analyse the correlation between the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and facial emotion recognition (FER) ability in patients with first-episode schizophrenia (FSZ). A total of 28 patients with FSZ and 33 healthy controls (HCs) completed visual search tasks for FER ability. Regions of interest (ROIs) related to facial emotion were obtained from a previous meta-analysis. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to understand the correlation between fALFF and FER ability. Our results indicated that the patients performed worse than the HCs in the accuracy performances of happy FER and fearful FER. The previous meta-analysis results showed that the brain regions related to FER included the bilateral amygdala (AMY)/hippocampus (HIP), right fusiform gyrus (FFG), and right supplementary motor area (SMA). Pearson correlation showed that the fALFF of the right FFG was associated with high-load fearful FER accuracy (r = -0.43, p = 0.022). Multiple regression analysis showed that the fALFF of the right FFG was an independent contributor to fearful FER accuracy. Our study indicates that FER ability is correlated with resting-state intrinsic activity in brain regions related to facial emotion, which may provide a reference for the study of FER in schizophrenia.
From ideal to real: a qualitative study of the implementation of in situ Interprofessional Simulation-Based Education
Authors: Ju Mindy , Bochatay Naike , Robertson Kathryn , Frank James , O’Brien Bridget , Schaik Sandrijn van
Published: October 2021

Background: Despite the widespread adoption of interprofessional simulation-based education (IPSE) in healthcare as a means to optimize interprofessional teamwork, data suggest that IPSE may not achieve these intended goals due to a gap between the ideals and the realities of implementation. Methods: We conducted a qualitative case study that used the framework method to understand what and how core principles from guidelines for interprofessional education (IPE) and simulation-based education (SBE) were implemented in existing in situ IPSE programs. We observed simulation sessions and interviewed facilitators and directors at seven programs. Results: We found considerable variability in how IPSE programs apply and implement core principles derived from IPE and SBE guidelines with some principles applied by most programs (e.g., “active learning”, “psychological safety”, “feedback during debriefing”) and others rarely applied (e.g., “interprofessional competency-based assessment”, “repeated and distributed practice”). Through interviews we identified that buy-in, resources, lack of outcome measures, and power discrepancies influenced the extent to which principles were applied. Conclusion: To achieve IPSE’s intended goals of optimizing interprofessional teamwork, programs should transition from designing for the ideal of IPSE to realities of IPSE implementation.
TanshinoneIIA exerts protective effects via attenuate FTH1, a biomarker and therapeutic target in head and neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mao# Wei , Ding# Jian , Li Yu , Huang Ruofei , Wang Baoxin
Published: October 2021

Background
TanshinoneIIA (TanIIA) refers to one of the major lipophilic bioactive components of S. miltiorrhiza that exerts multiple pleiotropic effects (e.g., anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant, and anti-tumor effects). Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is recognized as the sixth most common cancer worldwide. As indicated from existing studies, ferroptosis may be responsible for its progression. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been overall clarified. This study aimed to screen a functional therapeutic target in HNSCC to specifically analyze its correlation with HNSCC and whether TanIIA can act on it to exert a therapeutic effect.
Methods
Data originating from GEO series GSE6631 and GSE13398 datasets were analyzed with the limma R package on GEO2R to find differentially expressed genes between healthy people from HNSCC patients. The DEG-related PPI network was built with the STRING database, and then the visualization was conducted by Cytoscape. FTH1 expression and mapping were examined with Human Protein Atlas, and FTH1 protein analysis and Kaplan-Meier analysis were conducted to carry out survival analyses. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) were used to localize FTH1 in HNSCCs. The protein expressions were analyzed with Western-blot method. The cell survival and invasion ability were identified by employing CCK-8 and Transwell methods.
Results
A high FTH1 expression in the HNSCCs sample could indicate poor patient outcome. TanIIA at certain concentrations could significantly attenuate FTH1 expression and reduce HNSCCs survival and invasion.
Conclusions
As revealed from this study, FTH1 could act as a promising therapy target in HNSCC and can be inhibited by TanIIA, which was demonstrated to carry out anticancer activities with less side effect.
Utilizing Bioinformatics Technology to Explore the Potential Mechanism of Danggui Buxue Decoction Against NSCLC
Authors: Yu Bin , Lv Guangyao , Li Zhiyong , Li Yanli , Xu Hui
Published: October 2021

Background: While lung cancer poses a serious threat to human health, non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. Danggui Buxue Decoction (DBD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) commonly prescribed for anti-tumor use in China. However, the potential mechanism of DBD against NSCLC has not yet been expounded. Hence, this study clarified its potential mechanism through bioinformatics technology.Methods: First, the active ingredients of DBD and the relevant targets were searched and screened by using the TCMSP database. Then the targets of NSCLC were obtained through searching GeneCards and OMIM database. Venny diagram was drawn to find the core targets, and an ingredient-disease-target network diagram was made by Cytoscape software, followed by GO functional enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis via R software, and molecular docking via the Autodock Vina software , respectively. Finally, a survival analysis was performed to evaluate the prognosis of NSCLC patients through key genes.Results: A total of 22 active ingredients of DBD were obtained. The targets found were 182 relevant to DBD and 5,773 to NSCLC, respectively, among which 140 common targets were obtained from Venny diagram. According to the enrichment degree value, five main active ingredients and ten core targets were identified. The enrichment analysis further revealed that DBD could achieve the purpose of treating NSCLC through the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications. The findings from molecular docking demonstrated that quercetin and hederagenin have the best working mechanisms with PDE3A and PTGS1, and those from the survival analysis indicated that high PDE3A gene expression has a relatively poor prognosis for NSCLC patients (p < 0.05), PDE3A may be mainly distributed in the LU65 cell line originated from Asian population. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that DBD could treat NSCLC through the synergistic correlation between multiple ingredients, multiple targets, and multiple pathways; thus, effectively improving NSCLC prognosis.
Impact of Parylene Coating On Heating Performance of Intravenous Fluid Warmer: A Bench Study
Authors: Bayoro Danielle K. , Groepenhoff Herman , Hoolihan Daniel , Rose Edward A. , Pedro Michael J. , Waldmann Andreas
Published: October 2021

Background
Perioperative hypothermia is a common occurrence, particularly with the elderly and pediatric age groups. Hypothermia is associated with an increased risk of perioperative complications. One method of preventing hypothermia is warming the infused fluids given during surgery. The enFlow™ intravenous fluid warmer has recently been reintroduced with a parylene coating on its heating blocks. In this paper, we evaluated the impact of the parylene coating on the new enFlow’s fluid warming capacity.
Methods
Six coated and six uncoated enFlow cartridges were used. A solution of 10% propylene glycol and 90% distilled H2O was infused into each heating cartridge at flow rates of 2, 10, 50, 150, and 200 ml/min. The infused fluid temperature was set at 4°C, 20°C, and 37°C. Output temperature was recorded at each level. Data for analysis was derived from 18 runs at each flow rate (six cartridges at three temperatures).
Results
The parylene coated fluid warming cartridge delivered very stable output of 40°C temperatures at flow rates of 2, 10, and 50 ml/min regardless of the temperature of the infusate. At higher flow rates, the cartridges were not able to achieve the target temperature with the colder fluid. Both cartridges performed with similar efficacy across all flow rates at all temperatures.
Conclusions
At low flow rates, the parylene coated enFlow cartridges was comparable to the original uncoated cartridges. At higher flow rates, the coated and uncoated cartridges were not able to achieve the target temperature. The parylene coating on the aluminum heating blocks of the new enFlow intravenous fluid warmer does not negatively affect its performance compared to the uncoated model.
Mai
Authors: Huber Eugen
Published: October 2021

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Authors: Huber Eugen
Published: October 2021

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Authors: Huber Eugen
Published: October 2021

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Authors: Huber Eugen
Published: October 2021

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