bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Femoral Neck System Versus Dynamic Hip System Blade for the Treatment of Femoral Neck Fracture in Young Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ge Zilu , Xiong Wei , Tang Yunfeng , Wang Dong , Fang Qian , Wang Limin , Zhang Zhen , Wang Guanglin
Published: October 2021

Background: Femoral neck fracture is a common fracture in orthopedic practice. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between the femoral neck system and dynamic hip system blade for the treatment of femoral neck fracture in young patients.Methods: This retrospective study included 43 and 52 patients who underwent treatment for femoral neck fracture with the femoral neck system and dynamic hip system blade, respectively, between August 2019 and February 2020. Operative indexes, including operation duration, blood loss, incision length, postoperative complications (femoral neck shortening, non-union, screw pull-out, femoral head necrosis), and Harris scale scores (preoperative and postoperative) were recorded and analyzed. Results: Compared to that with the dynamic hip system blade, the femoral neck system showed significantly less operation duration (femoral neck system vs dynamic hip system blade: 47.09±9.19 vs 52.90±9.64, P=0.004), less blood loss (48.53±10.69 vs 65.31±17.91, P<0.001), and shorter incision length (4.04±0.43 vs 4.93±0.53, P<0.001), but more expensive hospitalization charge (51224.14±2289.81 vs 41468.73±2431.05, P<0.001). Femoral neck shortening was significantly lower with the femoral neck system than with the dynamic hip system blade (3.93±2.40, n=39 vs 5.22±2.89, n=44, P=0.031). No statistical differences were observed between the two groups in nonunion, screw pull-out, and femoral head necrosis. In addition, the latest follow-up Harris scale score was significantly higher with the femoral neck system than with the dynamic hip system blade (92.3±4.5 vs 89. 9±4.9, P=0.015).Conclusion: The femoral neck system results in less trauma, less femoral neck shortening, and better hip joint function than the dynamic hip system blade for the treatment of femoral neck fracture in young patients.
Design And Implementation of A Web-Based Self-Care Application For Patients With Kidney Stone Treated With Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
Authors: Maserat Elham , Mohammadzadeh Zeinab , Asadi-Shishegaran Rogayeh
Published: October 2021

Background: Kidney stone is the third most common, painful and costly problem among diseases of the urinary system after urinary tract infections and prostate diseases. The prevalence of kidney stones reduces the patient's quality of life and imposes high costs on patients and health care system. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a safe procedure to treat urinary stones. Appropriate strategies like self-care programs can effectively reduce the prevalence and recurrence of this disease, and increase quality of life, save costs, and prevent disease by increasing patient participation. The aim of this study is to design and implement a web-based self-care application for patients with kidney stones undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.Methods: This paper is an applied study and was performed in Sabalan Hospital in Ardabil affiliated to the Social Security Organization of Iran in three stages including needs assessment, design and evaluation. For needs assessment and application design, a questionnaire was designed by searching library resources. The questionnaire was completed by clinical specialists and specialists in health information management and information technology. Then, based on the approved information elements and capabilities, a web-based self-care application was designed. The usability of the designed program was evaluated with the participation of 20 users.Results: The results of the survey showed that the experts confirmed all identified items and components, and considered them necessary. Users rated the usability of the self-care program at a good level with an average score of 7.9 out of 9.Conclusions: The usability of the self-care application was satisfactory to users in various areas of overall application performance, screen, terminology and information, learning and general impressions.
An Investigation To Achieve a Good Surface Integrity in WEDM of Ti-6242 Super Alloy
Authors: Ezeddini Sonia , Rajhi Wajdi , Boujelbene Mohamed , Bayraktar Emin , Salem Sahbi Ben
Published: October 2021

Ti-6242 is a super alloy which exhibits the best creep resistance among available titanium alloys and is widely used in the manufacture by WEDM of aircraft engine turbomachinery components. However, the final quality of wire EDMed surface is a great challenge as it is affected by various factors that need optimization for surface integrity and machine efficiency improvement. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a set of cutting process parameters such as pulse on time (Ton), servo voltage (U), feed rate (S) and flushing pressure (p) on surface roughness (SR) when machining Ti-6242 super alloy by WEDM process using a brass tool electrode and deionized water as a dielectric fluid. WEDM experiments were conducted, and SR (Ra) measurement was carried out using a 3D optical surface roughness-meter (3D–SurfaScan). As a tool to optimize cutting parameters for SR improvement, Taguchi's signal‐to‐noise ratio (S/N) approach was applied using L9 (3^4) orthogonal array and Lower-The-Better (LTB) criteria. Substantially, the findings from current investigation suggest the application of the values 0.9 µs, 100V, 29 mm/min, and 60 bar for Ton, U, S and p cutting parameters, respectively, for producing a good surface finish quality. Percent contributions of the machining parameters on SR (Ra) assessed based on ANOVA analysis are 62.94%, 20.84%, 11.46% and 4.74% for U, S, Ton and p, respectively. Subsequently, accurate predictive model for SR (Ra) is established based on response surface analysis (RSA). The contour plots for SR (Ra) indicate that when flushing pressure p converges to a critical value (80 bar), a poor-quality surface finish is highly expected with the excessive increase in U and S. Electron microscope scanning (SEM) observations have been performed on machined surface for a wide range of cutting parameters to characterize wire EDMed surface of Ti-6242. SEM micrographs indicate that the machined surface acquires a foamy structure and shows white layer and machining-induced damage that the characteristics are highly dependent on cutting parameters. At high servo-voltage, the decrease in pulse on time Ton and feed rate S results in a large decrease in overall machining-induced surface damage. Moreover, for high servo-voltage and feed rate levels, it has been observed that pulse on time could play a role of controlling the surface microcracks density. In fact, the use of a low pulse duration of cut combined with high servo-voltage and feed rate has been shown to inhibit surface microcracks formation giving the material surface a better resistance to cracking than at high pulse duration.
Molecular delineation of de novo Small Supernumerary Marker Chromosomes in prenatal diagnosis, a retrospective study
Authors: Hu Shuang , Kong Xiangdong
Published: October 2021

Objective To define the genotype-phenotype correlation of small supernumerary marker chromosomes (sSMC) and conduct precise genetic counseling.Methods We retrospectively searched and reviewed the de novo sSMC cases detected during prenatal diagnosis in The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. Chromosome karyotypes of 20314 cases of amniotic fluid from pregnant women were performed. For 17 samples with de novo sSMC, 11 of them were subjected to single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array or low-coverage massively parallel copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq) analysis. Results Among the 11 sSMC cases, two sSMC were derived from chromosome 9, four sSMC were derived from chromosome 12, 18, 22 and X , separately. For the remaining 5 cases, they were not identified by SNP array or CNV-seq because they lacked euchromatin or had low proportion mosaicism. Four of them with the karyotype of 47,XN,+mar presented normal molecular cytogenetic results (seq[hg19] 46,XN ) , the left one with the karyotype of 46,XN,+mar was Turner syndrome (seq[hg19] 45,XO). Five sSMC samples were mosaics of all these 17 cases. Conclusion Considering the variable origins of sSMC, further genetics testing of sSMC should be performed by SNP array or CNV-seq. The detailed molecular characterization would allow precise genetic counseling for prenatal diagnosis.
Deep Learning-Based Quantitative Analyses of Spontaneous Movements and Their Association With Early Neurological Development in Preterm Infants
Authors: Shin Hyun Iee , Shin Hyung-Ik , Bang Moon Suk , Kim Don-Kyu , Shin Seung Han , Kim Ee-Kyung , Kim Yoo-Jin , Lee Eun Sun , Park Seul Gi , Lee Woo Hyung
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to develop quantitative assessments of spontaneous movements in high-risk preterm infants based on a deep learning algorithm. Video images of spontaneous movements were recorded in very preterm infants at the term-equivalent age. The Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) was performed in infants at 4 months of corrected age. Joint positional data were extracted using a pretrained pose-estimation model. Similarity and complexity indices of joint angle and angular velocity were compared between the infants with HINE <60 and ≥60. Video images of spontaneous movements were recorded in 65 preterm infants at term-equivalent age. Complexity indices of joint angles and angular velocities differed between the infants with HINE<60 and ≥60 and correlated positively with HINE scores in most of the joints at the upper and lower extremities (p<0.05). Similarity indices between each joint angle or joint angular velocity did not differ between the two groups in most of the joints at the upper and lower extremities. Quantitative assessments of spontaneous movements in preterm infants are feasible using a deep learning algorithm. The results indicated that complexity indices of joint movements at both the upper and lower extremities can be potential candidates for detecting cerebral palsy in preterm infants.
Differential expression in humans of the viral entry receptor ACE2 compared with the short deltaACE2 isoform lacking SARS-CoV-2 binding sites
Authors: Williams Thomas L. , Strachan Gregory , Macrae Robyn G.C. , Kuc Rhoda E. , Nyimanu Duuamene , Paterson Anna L. , Sinha Sanjay , Maguire Janet J. , Davenport Anthony P.
Published: October 2021

ACE2 is a membrane protein that regulates the cardiovascular system. Additionally, ACE2 acts as a receptor for host cell infection by human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2 that emerged as the cause of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic and has brought unprecedented burden to economy and health. ACE2 binds the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 with high affinity and shows little variation in amino acid sequence meaning natural resistance is rare. The discovery of a novel short ACE2 isoform (deltaACE2) provides evidence for inter-individual differences in SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and severity, and likelihood of developing subsequent ‘Long COVID’. Critically, deltaACE2 loses SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binding sites in the extracellular domain, and is predicted to confer reduced susceptibility to viral infection. We aimed to assess the differential expression of full-length ACE2 versus deltaACE2 in a panel of human tissues (kidney, heart, lung, and liver) that are implicated in COVID-19, and confirm ACE2 protein in these tissues. Using dual antibody staining, we show that deltaACE2 localises, and is enriched, in lung airway epithelia and bile duct epithelia in the liver. Finally, we also confirm that a fluorescently tagged SARS-CoV-2 spike protein monomer shows low binding at lung and bile duct epithelia where dACE2 is enriched.
S100A8 Enhances IL-1β Production from Nasal Epithelial Cells in Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Nakatani Ayaka , Tsuda Takeshi , Maeda Yohei , Hayama Masaki , Okuzaki Daisuke , Obata Sho , Kishikawa Toshihiro , Takeda Kazuya , Inohara Hidenori
Published: October 2021

Chronic rhinosinusitis is classified into eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS) and non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (NECRS). ECRS is a refractory allergic disease involving a variety of immune and epithelial cells. S100A8 is a damage-associated molecular pattern that is closely related to allergic inflammation. However, the pathological implications of S100A8 in ECRS have not been clarified. We evaluated the role of S100A8 in the pathogenesis of ECRS. Gene expression profiles of nasal polyps obtained from patients with ECRS or NECRS were evaluated using RNA sequencing. S100A8 was identified as a significantly upregulated gene in nasal polyps associated with ECRS. Immunohistochemistry consistently revealed intense S100A8 staining in nasal polyps from patients with ECRS. Human nasal epithelial cells expressed the receptor for advanced glycation end products and Toll-like receptor 4. Recombinant S100A8 protein induced interleukin-1β secretion in human nasal epithelial cells. Our data demonstrate that S100A8 results in production of interleukin-1β in the nasal epithelium, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of ECRS.
Taxonomy, Phylogeny, Molecular Dating and Ancestral State Reconstruction of Xylariomycetidae (Sordariomycetes)
Authors: Samarakoon Milan C. , Hyde Kevin D , Maharachchikumbura Sajeewa S. N. , Stadler Marc , Jones E. B. Gareth , Promputtha Itthayakorn , Suwannarach Nakarin , Camporesi Erio , Bulgakov Timur S. , Liu Jian-Kui
Published: October 2021

Xylariomycetidae ( Ascomycota ) is a highly diversified group with variable stromatic characters. Our research focused on inconspicuous stromatic xylarialean taxa from China, Italy, Russia, Thailand and the United Kingdom. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and combined ITS-LSU- rpb 2- tub 2- tef 1 phylogenies revealed 38 taxa from our collections belonging to Amphisphaeriales and Xylariales . A new family ( Appendicosporaceae ), five new genera ( Magnostiolata , Melanostictus , Neoamphisphaeria , Nigropunctata and Paravamsapriya ), 27 new species ( Acrocordiella photiniicola , Allocryptovalsa sichuanensis , Amphisphaeria parvispora , Anthostomella lamiacearum , Apiospora guiyangensis , Ap. sichuanensis , Biscogniauxia magna , Eutypa camelliae , Helicogermslita clypeata , Hypocopra zeae , Magnostiolata mucida , Melanostictus longiostiolatus , Me. thailandicus , Nemania longipedicellata , Ne. delonicis , Ne. paraphysata , Ne. thailandensis , Neoamphisphaeria hyalinospora , Neoanthostomella bambusicola , Nigropunctata bambusicola , Ni. nigrocircularis , Ni. thailandica , Occultitheca rosae , Paravamsapriya ostiolata , Peroneutypa leucaenae , Seiridium italicum and Vamsapriya mucosa ) and seven new host/geographical records are introduced and reported. Divergence time estimates indicate that Delonicicolales diverged from Amphisphaeriales + Xylariales at 161 (123–197) MYA. Amphisphaeriales and Xylariales diverged 154 (117–190) MYA with a crown age of 127 (92–165) MYA and 147 (111–184) MYA, respectively. Appendicosporaceae ( Amphisphaeriales ) has a stem age of 89 (65–117) MYA. Ancestral character state reconstruction indicates that astromatic, clypeate ascomata with aseptate, hyaline ascospores that lack germ slits may probably be ancestral Xylariomycetidae having plant-fungal endophytic associations. The Amphisphaeriales remained mostly astromatic with common septate, hyaline ascospores. Stromatic variations may have developed mostly during the Cretaceous period. Brown ascospores are common in Xylariales , but they first appeared in Amphisphaeriaceae , Melogrammataceae and Sporocadaceae during the early Cretaceous. The ascospore germ slits appeared only in Xylariales during the Cretaceous after the divergence of Lopadostomataceae . Hyaline, filiform and apiospores may have appeared as separate lineages providing the basis to Xylariaceae , which may have diverged independently. The future classification of polyphyletic xylarialean taxa will not be based on stromatic variations, but the type of ring, the colour of the ascospores, and the presence or absence of the type of germ slit.
WITHDRAWN: Laboratory Study On Mechanical Response And Failure Mechanism of Red-Bed Soft Rock Under Water-Rock Interaction
Authors: Liu Chi , Liu Xiaoli , Sun Huan , Wang Mingyang , Wu Chunlu , Wang Enzhi , Wang Sijing
Published: October 2021

Red-bed soft rock is a geomaterial that displays special deformation and failure characteristics. The stability of red-bed slopes can be negatively impacted by water and stepped excavation disturbance; however, there is limited research regarding the mechanical behavior and failure characteristics of red-bed soft rock under the action of water-rock hydro-mechanical coupling. In this study, to explore the mechanical response and failure mechanisms of red-bed soft rock under coupled water-rock hydro-mechanical action, a visual experimental platform based on digital radiography and a multi-level loading device was constructed. Angiography was used to visualize the rock fracture process by replacing fissure water with a contrast medium. Multi-level loading was applied to cubic red-bed mudstone samples, and acoustic emission signals, stress, flow rate, and digital radiography images were collected during the failure process. An original image processing method based on Hough transform and a convolutional neural network was used to segment and extract cracks from the imagery, and fissure water flow characteristics, rock mechanical response, and crack evolution were analyzed in detail (Liu et al., 2015; Lv et al., 2013, 2014). Results showed that when the Felicity ratio FR was lower than 1.2, water could induce secondary "water-damaged cracks" in the red-bed samples. Study findings were used to highlight the importance of improved early-warning methods for rainfall-induced landslides at an engineering scale. The original experimental platform proposed and evaluated in this study provides a new and powerful tool to investigate the mechanical behavior of different rock types under the action of water-rock hydro-mechanical coupling at a laboratory scale. These findings will facilitate improved disaster prevention strategies for red-bed geological bodies.
Modest weight loss improves leptin to adiponectin ratio and induces insulin and leptin resensitivization in individuals with obesity.
Authors: Isaksen Victoria Therese , Larsen Maria Arlen , Goll Rasmus , Paulssen Eyvind J. , Florholmen Jon Ragnar
Published: October 2021

Background

Weight loss is important to reduce the risk of metabolic complications in obese individuals, in whom dysregulated adipokines play a central role. This study aims to investigate whether dysregulated adipokines and postprandial triglycerides (TG) improve with a modest weight loss.

Methods

Individuals with obesity were recruited among patients at the University Hospital of North Norway and the Stamina Health weight loss rehabilitation program. We measured resting energy expenditure (REE), and calculated the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), leptin to adiponectin (L:A) ratio, indirect leptin sensitivity (REE:leptin ratio), postprandial TG clearance at 6 h, and TG response before and after weight loss. The goal of the weight loss intervention was a loss of ≥5% of initial total body weight.

Results

Of the 28 participants who attended two scheduled assessments, 13 lost ≥5% body weight. HOMA-IR (-23.1%), REE:leptin ratio (+80.1%) and L:A ratio (-45.7%) significantly improved with weight loss, whereas there was no improvement of postprandial TG response or clearance. No significant changes were observed in the non-weight loss group.

Conclusion

Metabolic dysregulation, as insulin and leptin resistance, but not postprandial TG improve with a modest weight loss in individuals with obesity.
Initial assessment of a cancer genomic profile test for patients with metastatic breast cancer: a retrospective study
Authors: Fukada Ippei , Mori Seiichi , Hayashi Naomi , Hosonaga Mari , Yamazaki Masumi , Wang Xiaofei , Kawai Saori , Inagaki Lina , Ozaki Yukinori , Kobayashi Kokoro , Hara Fumikata , Kobayashi Takayuki , Ueki Arisa , Osako Tomo , Tonooka Akiko , Takeuchi Kengo , Ueno Takayuki , Takano Toshimi , Ohno Shinji , Takahashi Shunji
Published: October 2021

Comprehensive cancer genomic profile (CGP) tests are being implemented under Japanese universal health insurance system. However, the clinical usefulness of CGP test for breast cancer patients has not been evaluated. Of the 310 patients who underwent CGP testing at our institution between November 2019 and April 2021, 35 patients with metastatic breast cancer whose treatment strategy was discussed by our molecular tumor board within the study period were investigated after exclusion of 2 cases that could not be analyzed. The turn-around time, drug accessibility, and germline identification detection were evaluated. The subtype was luminal in 20 patients (57.1%), triple-negative in 12 patients (34.3%), and luminal-HER2 in 3 patients (8.6%). Actionable gene mutations were detected in 30 patients (85.7%), and 7 patients (20.0%) were recommended for clinical trial participation, with the drug administered to 2 patients (5.7%). Three patients (8.6%) died due to disease progression before the test results were disclosed. We report the results of an initial assessment of the utility of CGP testing for patients with metastatic breast cancer under Japanese universal health insurance system. Conducting CGP tests at a more appropriate time could provide patients with greater benefit from treatments based on their specific gene mutations.
CO2 supplementation eliminates sugar-rich media requirement for plant propagation using a simple inexpensive temporary immersion photobioreactor
Authors: Trauger Marena , Hile April , Sreeni Krishnan , Shouse Eva Mei , Bhatt Jishnu , Lai Tina , Mohandass Ramya , Tripathi Leena , Ogden Aaron J. , Curtis Wayne R.
Published: October 2021

In-vitro plant propagation systems such as Temporary Immersion Bioreactors (TIBs) are valuable tools that enable production of disease-free plants with improved traits. However, TIB systems can be expensive, difficult to implement, and prone to contamination due to sugar rich propagation media. Using rapidly growing chicory root cultures to expedite design-build-test cycles, we report here an improved, low-cost version of a previously reported Hydrostatically-driven TIB (Hy-TIB) that facilitates economical use of gas mixtures. Bioreactor improvements include decreased material costs, expanded modes of operation, and a horizontal orientation of a plastic film plant growth chambers that increase propagule light exposure. To take advantage of these improvements, we describe here experiments that evaluate the impacts of elevated CO2 on propagation of cacao (Theobroma cacao) secondary embryos and nodal cultures of yam (Dioscorea spp.) during both phototrophic and photomixotrophic growth. Our experiments show that elevated CO2 during plant propagation significantly improved both cacao and yam propagule development and eliminated the need for supplemental sugars in tissue culture growth media. Thus, our improved Hy-TIB shows potential as a simple, low-cost, and scalable propagation platform with cost-effective gas composition control and reduced risk of contamination overgrowth. We provide detailed instructions for assembly of this Hy-TIB design and discuss the implications of its adoption in food-insecure regions of the world.
Dietary strategies of Pleistocene Pongo sp. and Homo erectus on Java (Indonesia)
Authors: Kubat Jülide , Nava Alessia , Bondioli Luca , Dean Christopher , Zanolli Clément , Bourgon Nicolas , Bacon Anne-Marie , Demeter Fabrice , Peripoli Beatrice , Mahoney Patrick , Albert Richard , Kullmer Ottmar , Schrenk Friedemann , Müller Wolfgang
Published: October 2021

During the early Pleistocene, Java was inhabited by a high variety of hominid and hominin taxa with hitherto unclear seasonal dietary demands. We undertook the first geochemical analyses of Pongo sp., Homo erectus and mammalian Pleistocene teeth from Sangiran. We reconstructed past dietary strategies at daily resolution and inferred sub-seasonal ecological patterns. Histologically-controlled spatially-resolved elemental analyses by LA-ICPMS, confirmed the preservation of authentic biogenic signals despite very weak diagenetic overprint. The Sr/Ca record of mammals is in line with expected trophic positions, contextualizing fossil hominid diet. Herbivorous Pongo sp. displays marked seasonal cycles with ~3-month-long strongly elevated Sr/Ca peaks, reflecting highly nutritional plant food during monsoon seasons. Lower Sr/Ca signals suggest different food availability during the dry season. In contrast, omnivorous Homo erectus shows low and less accentuated intra-annual Sr/Ca variability. We infer that Homo erectus maintained its nutritional demands independent of seasonal fluctuations by exploiting the regional diversity of high-quality food resources.
Transmembrane Protein 108 Inhibits the Proliferation and Myelination of Oligodendrocyte Lineage Cells in the Corpus Callosum
Authors: Wu Yongqiang , Zhong Yanzi , Liao Xufeng , Miao Xiangguang , Yu Jianbo , Lai Xinsheng , Zhang Yu , Ma Chaolin , Wang Shunqi
Published: October 2021

Background: Abnormal white matter is a common neurobiological change in bipolar disorder, and dysregulation of myelination in oligodendrocytes is the cause. Transmembrane protein 108 (Tmem108), as a susceptible gene of bipolar disorder, is expressed higher in oligodendrocyte lineage cells than any other lineage cells in the central nervous system. Moreover, Tmem108 mutant mice exhibit mania-like behaviors, belonging to one of the signs of bipolar disorder. However, it is unknown whether Tmem108 regulates myelination of the oligodendrocytes.Results: Tmem108 expression in the corpus callosum decreased with the development, and hypermyelination of the corpus callosum was found in Tmem108 mutant mice, accompanying high expression of myelin basic protein. Strikingly, both oligodendrocyte progenitor cell proliferation and oligodendrocyte myelination were enhanced in the mutant mice. Furthermore, the mutant mice exhibited mania-like behavior after acute restraint stress and were susceptible to drug-induced epilepsy. Conclusions: Tmem108 inhibited oligodendrocyte progenitor cell proliferation and mitigated oligodendrocyte maturation in the corpus callosum, which may also provide a new role of Tmem108 involving bipolar disorder pathogenesis.
Continued Adherence to Community-Based Health Insurance Scheme in Two Districts of Northeast Ethiopia: Application of Accelerated Failure Time Shared Frailty Models
Authors: Hussien Mohammed , Azage Muluken , Bayou Negalign Berhanu
Published: October 2021

Background: The sustainability of a voluntary community-based health insurance scheme depends to a greater extent on its ability to retain members. In low- and middle-income countries, high rate of member dropout has been a great concern for such schemes. Although few studies had investigated the factors influencing dropout decisions, none of these looked into how long and why members adhere to the scheme. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors affecting time to drop out while accounting for the influence of cluster-level variables. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1232 rural households who have ever been enrolled in two community-based health insurance schemes. A household survey was conducted using a mobile data collection platform. The Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to compare the time to drop out among subgroups. To identify predictors of time to drop out, a multivariable analysis was done using the accelerated failure time shared frailty models. The degree of association was assessed using the acceleration factor (δ) and statistical significance was determined at 95% confidence interval. Results: Results of the multivariable analysis revealed that marital status of the respondents (δ=1.614; 95% CI: 1.221–2.134), household size (δ=1.167; 95% CI: 1.012–1.344), presence of chronic illness (δ=1.421; 95% CI: 1.163–1.736), hospitalization history (δ=1.308; 95% CI: 1.120–1.529), higher perceived quality of care (δ=1.323; 95% CI: 1.101–1.589), perceived risk protection (δ=1.220; 95% CI: 1.029–1.446), and higher trust in the scheme (δ=1.729; 95% CI: 1.428–2.095) were significant predictors of time to drop out at p-value < 0.05. Conclusions: The study identified evidence suggestive of adverse selection in the schemes. The fact that larger households remain in the scheme indicates the need to reconsider the premium level in line with household size to attract small size households. Issues that are under the control of the scheme and the healthcare system can be adjusted to increase membership adherence. Resolving problems related to the quality of health care can be a cross-cutting area of ​​intervention to retain members by building trust in the scheme and enhancing the risk protection ability of the schemes.
Inhibiting Effects of Down-regulating of Fascin 1 on Proliferation and Migration in Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Gu Wanglu , Wang Guilan , Zhang Xinyang , Chen Li , Zhou Jiaming
Published: October 2021

Objective: To investigate the inhibiting effects of fascin 1 gene knock-down on the proliferation and migration of hepatoma cells by means of small interfering RNA (siRNA).Methods: SiRNA targeting fascin 1 gene (si-fascin) and non-specific sequence siRNA (si-NC）were constructed and transfected into human hepatoma cell lines (HepG2 and Huh7) to down-regulate the expression of fascin 1. RT-qPCR, Western blotting, and Immunofluorescence technique were used to evaluate the efficiency of si-fascin. The proliferation and migration of cells were detected by MTT method and Transwell experiments, and the protein expression of genes related to proliferation and migration in cells were detected by Western blotting. The apoptosis and pseudopodia formation of cells were observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM).Results: Compared with human normal liver cells (LO2), the expressions of fascin 1 mRNA and protein were significantly higher in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. The expression of fascin 1 was overall inhibited in HepG2 and Huh7 cells transfected by the constructed four si-fascins, among which, fascin_siR3 had the highest inhibitory efficiency, therefore was selected in this study. In HepG2 and Huh7 cells transfected by si-fascin significant knock-down target gene expression, while reducing cell proliferation, migration and the formation of pseudopods, and causes reduced protein expression associated with proliferation and migration. Conclusion: This study further confirmed that fascin 1 gene has the function of promoting hepatoma cells proliferation and migration, suggesting that downregulating the expression of fascin 1 in hepatoma cells may be one of the strategies to intervene in liver cancer.
Nanostructured Ge and GeSn Films by High-pressure He Plasma Sputtering for High-capacity Li ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Uchida Giichiro , Nagai Kenta , Habu Yuma , Hayashi Junki , Ikebe Yumiko , Hiramatsu Mineo , Narishige Ryota , Itagaki Naho , Shiratani Masaharu , Setsuhara Yuichi
Published: October 2021

We fabricated nanostructured Ge and GeSn films in He radio-frequency magnetron plasma sputtering deposition. Monodisperse amorphous Ge and GeSn nanoparticles of 30-40 nm in size were orderly arranged without aggregation by off-axis sputtering deposition in high He-gas-pressure range of 0.1 Torr. The Ge film porosity was over 30%. We tested the charge/discharge cycle performance of Li-ion batteries with nanostructured Ge and GeSn anodes. The Ge anode with an ordered arrangement of nanoparticles showed Li-storage capacity of 565 mAh/g after the 60th. The capacity retention was markedly improved by the addition of 3at% Sn in Ge anode. GeSn anode (3at% Sn) achieved a higher capacity of 1,128 mAh/g after 60th cycles with 92% capacity retention. Precise control of the nano-morphology and electrical characteristics by a single step procedure using low temperature plasma is effective for stable cycling of high-capacity Ge anodes.
Meta-QTLs, ortho-MQTLs and candidate genes for thermotolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Kumar Sourabh , Singh Vivudh Pratap , Saini Dinesh Kumar , Sharma Hemant , Saripalli Gautam , Kumar Sachin , Balyan Harindra Singh , Gupta Pushpendra Kumar
Published: October 2021

Meta-QTL analysis for thermotolerance in wheat was conducted to identify robust meta-QTLs (MQTLs). In this study, 441 QTLs related to 31 heat-responsive traits were projected on the consensus map saturated with 50,310 markers. This exercise resulted in the identification of 85 MQTLs with confidence interval (CI) ranging from 0.11 to 34.9 cM with an average of 5.6 cM. This amounted to a 2.96 fold reduction relative to the mean CI (16.5 cM) of the QTLs used. Seventy-seven (77) of these MQTLs were also verified with the results of recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS). These MQTLs included seven MQTLs that are particularly useful for breeding purposes (we called them Breeders’ MQTLs). Seven ortho-MQTLs between wheat and rice genomes were also identified using synteny and collinearity. The MQTLs were used for the identification of 1,704 candidate genes (CGs). In silico expression analysis of these CGs permitted identification of 182 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which included 36 high-confidence candidate genes (CGs) with known functions previously reported to be important for thermotolerance. These high confidence CGs encoded proteins belonging to the following families: protein kinase, WD40 repeat, glycosyltransferase, ribosomal protein, SNARE associated Golgi protein, GDSL lipase/esterase, SANT/Myb domain, K homology domain, etc. Thus, the present study resulted in the identification of MQTLs (including breeders’ MQTLs), ortho-MQTLs, and underlying CGs, which could prove useful not only for molecular breeding for the development of thermotolerant wheat cultivars but also for future studies focused on understanding the molecular basis of thermotolerance.
Awareness and Health Risk Protection Behaviours of Scavengers in the Gbalahi Landfill Site in the Era of Sustainable Development, Ghana
Authors: Nuripuoh Joseph Gyea , Duwiejuah Abudu Ballu , Bakobie Noel
Published: October 2021

Scavenging is a pivotal in achieving sustainable waste management, environment health and economic development. The purpose of the study was to assess the practices, knowledge, perception and health risk protection behaviours of waste scavengers in the Gbalahi landfill site. A total of 60 scavengers were conveniently sampled and interviewed. The study showed 83% of the respondents had an average monthly income between GH¢ 1.00 to GH¢ 100.00 whereas 17% had between GH¢ 101.00 to GH¢ 300.00. The study also revealed 93% of the respondents sort waste using hooks and their bare hands. The respondents that have ever been physically abused by other scavengers were 62%. A significant number of scavengers believed they have been fortified against “dirt diseases” during their childhood and have developed natural immunity against diseases. The knowledge of scavengers was skewed towards economic benefits as they viewed scavenging as a survival strategy. Safety and protection practices are limited to the use of pieces of clothes to cover the nose, wearing of multiple clothes and worn-out boots recovered from the landfill. Discrimination and physical abuse posed a seemingly significant psychological health risk to majority of them. Covid-19 health risks behaviours, majority of the respondents risk being exposed to the virus and pathogens. Scavengers should be provided with personal protective equipment and / or strictly made to obey safety and protection protocols.
Construction and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model for Clinical Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in T1–2 Breast Cancer
Authors: Luo Na , Wen Ying , Ouyang Dengjie , Chen Qitong , Zeng Liyun , He Hongye , Anwar Munawar , Qu Limeng , Zou Qiongyan , Yi Wenjun
Published: October 2021

The current diagnostic technologies for assessing the axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM) status accurately in breast cancer (BC) remain unsatisfactory. Here, we developed a diagnostic model for evaluating the ALNM status using a combination of mRNAs and the T stage of the primary tumor as a novel biomarker. We collected relevant information on T1-2 BC from public databases. An ALNM prediction model was developed by logistic regression based on the screened signatures and then internally and externally validated. Calibration curves and the area under the curve (AUC) were employed as performance metrics. The prognostic value and tumor immune infiltration of the model were also determined. An optimal diagnostic model was created using a combination of 11 mRNAs and T stage of the primary tumor and showed high discrimination, with AUCs of 0.828 and 0.746 in the training sets. AUCs of 0.671 and 0.783 were achieved in the internal validation cohorts. The mean external AUC value was 0.686 and ranged between 0.644 and 0.742. Moreover, the new model has good specificity in T1 and hormone receptor-negative/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2- negative (HR-/HER2-) BC and good sensitivity in T2 BC. In addition, the risk of ALNM and 11 mRNAs were correlated with the infiltration of M2 macrophages, as well as the prognosis of BC. This novel prediction model is a useful tool to identify the risk of ALNM in T1-2 BC patients, particularly given that it can be used to adjust surgical options in the future.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Ivermectin Monotherapy Versus Hydroxychloroquine, Ivermectin, and Azithromycin Combination Therapy in Covid-19 Patients in Nigeria
Authors: Babalola Olufemi Emmanuel , Yahaya Ndanusa , Ajayi A. Adesuyi , Ogedengbe John Onimisi , Thairu Yunusa , Omede Ogu
Published: October 2021

The efficacy of ivermectin (IVM) against SARS-CoV-2 has been demonstrated in vitro, while several clinical studies suggest that it is efficacious and safe in reducing morbidity and mortality. Hydroxychloroquine HCQ, IVM and azithromycin AZM (HIA therapy) are being used in several low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where more expensive medications such as remdesivir are out of reach. In this study, we set out to compare the efficacy of IVM monotherapy with HIA combination therapy. Methods: This was a single-blind, randomized control trial of 2 parallel groups of COVID-19-positive Nigerians. Thirty patients received ivermectin 200 mcg/kg daily for five days, while 31 patients received HIA triple therapy. The viral cycle threshold (Ct) at pretreatment baseline and days 2, 5 14 and 21 were measured for the E- and N-genes. SPO2 was assessed on a daily basis, while inflammatory markers erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein, and D-dimer and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios (NLRs) were assessed at baseline and day 7. Clinical status was self-assessed daily on a Likert scale. Results: Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (RAMOVA) did not show any difference between the two groups. However, there was a significant time effect (improvement over time) for SPO2, Ct N-gene, Ct E-gene and clinical status in both groups and significant reductions in inflammatory markers by day 7. (P<0.0001). Conclusions: AZT + HCQ may be a redundant adjuvant in COVID-19 therapy. Improvements noted are likely due in large part to ivermectin virucidal and anti-inflammatory actions.
Online, face-to-face, or blended learning? Faculty and medical students’ perception during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-method study
Authors: Atwa Hani , Shehata Mohamed Hany , Al-Ansari Ahmed , Kumar Archana , Jaradat Ahmed , Ahmed Jamil , Deifalla Abdelhalim
Published: October 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic forced educational institutions to adopt online methods which were inevitable to keep the continuity of education across all academia after the suspension of traditional educational systems. The aim of this study was to explore the experience of faculty and students of online learning and their preference of the mode of learning after the pandemic.Methods: This is a mixed-method study that encompassed a quantitative component (researcher-made survey consisting of 22 items under three domains) and a qualitative component (focus group discussions). Quantitative data analysis was done, and quantitative variables were presented as means and standard deviations. Paired samples t-test and Chi-square test were used. A p-value ˂ 0.05 was considered as a cut-off point of statistical significance. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was used to code, interpret, and make sense of the data. Results: The mean scores of responses of faculty members and students were in favor of face-to-face and blended learning compared to online learning in all survey items with a statistically significant difference. More than half of the students preferred the face-to-face mode of learning, while most of the faculty preferred the blended mode of learning.Qualitative analysis identified five themes and revealed suggestions that at least 30% of the curriculum could be taught online post-COVID-19. Some aspects of clinically oriented teaching including history taking and case discussions can also be delivered online in the future. Faculty members and students reported that dealing with online education was not difficult, although the transition was not smooth. Conclusion: The study revealed that although online learning is the possible educational adaptation during the pandemic, medical students and faculty still prefer face-to-face and blended modes of learning for their higher benefits.
Assessment of linkage between Productive Safety Net Program and Health Services in Somali Region, Ethiopia: Lessons, Challenges and Missed Opportunities
Authors: Oladeji Olusola , Farah Abdifatah Elmi , Robins Ann
Published: October 2021

Background: Ethiopia’s Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP) which has been implemented since 2005 is a large-scale, social protection intervention aimed at improving food security. The fourth phase of the PSNP included a system of integrated health and nutrition service delivery for its categories of beneficiaries especially the creation of a temporary direct support(TDS) category for clients that are pregnant and lactating women (PLW) or caretakers of malnourished children, who are exempted from public work but expected to comply with co-responsibilities which counts towards their public works requirement aimed at improving utilization of health services.Methods: The study was a cross-sectional descriptive survey and used qualitative methods, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs), conducted in two woredas( districts) (Gursum and Kebribayah) in Farfan zone of Somali region. The study population were key individuals involved in the linkages of PSNP with health services and the beneficiaries. The study assessed the implementation of the linkage between PSNP4 and health servicesResults: The study observed that the stakeholders have adequate knowledge and understood their roles in the linkages between PSNP and the health services, in addition the beneficiaries also are aware of their rights and the process for exemption from public work. However, the major issues identified included poor coordination among the implementing actors, poor knowledge , monitoring and compliance with the co-responsibilities by the stakeholders and the beneficiaries.Conclusion: Considering the size of the program in the region which is targeted to the poor, the Productive Safety net program being the main tool to help forward Ethiopia’s Social Protection Policy and Strategy, has the potential to improve access and utilization of health and nutrition services if more efforts are put to strengthen integration and linkages with the health sector and monitoring of compliance of co-responsibilities by the beneficiaries of the program.
Does Post-Activation Potentiation Protocols affect Anaerobic Performance in women Taolu Wushu Athletes?
Authors: Afonso José , Moradian Hengameh , Eslami Rasoul , Martins Alexandre , Parnow Abdolhossein
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Post-activation potentiation has an influence on short duration and high intensity function. This study aimed to answer this question whether post-activation potentiation protocol in different models has effect on anaerobic performance in women Wushu athletes. Methods: Women elite Taolu Wushu athletes participated in current crossover design study. (i) specific Wushu WU (Wushu WU); (ii) Strength-based WU (StreWU); and (iii) Speed-based WU (SpeWU) were performed by Wushu athletes in three inconsecutive days separated by 48 h. Five minutes after each WU protocols, Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) was performed. Heart rate, immediately, and blood lactate were measured for 4 times: before WU protocols, immediately after WU protocols, before RAST, immediately after RAST.Results: Data analysis revealed significant differences in 4 time points of lactate levels (p=0.001; d=1.71), although no significant difference among protocols was observed. Values of variables obtained from RAST showed that StreWU had a significant impact on minimum power (p<0.05; d=-0.795) comparing to WushuWU and on fatigue index comparing to SpeWU (p<0.05; d=-0.799). No significant differences were found among the WU protocols for peak power and mean power.Conclusion: All WU protocols had mostly the same effect, and PAP was not very effective. Possibly, the WU protocols generated too much fatigue, due to the short-term rest time. However, longer intervals would likely enter the realm of post-activation performance enhancement, which is distinct from PAP.
Contagion in the Markets? Covid-19 and Housing in the Greater Toronto Area
Authors: Üçoğlu Murat , Keil Roger , Tomar Seyfi
Published: October 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic has had crucial impacts on housing markets as working from home has become a new normal for certain economic groups. In this paper, we analyse the specific role the pandemic played in worsening the ongoing housing affordability crisis in the Greater Toronto Area
(GTA). The GTA has, in fact, been experiencing a housing crisis since the early 2000s. In this paper, we argue that this continuing affordability crisis stems from the economic growth model that was embraced in the late 1990s, and we discuss why the existing market-oriented housing model has
failed. The economic growth model of the Toronto region depends on the convergence of the financialization of housing and massive suburbanization. Because of this, the new wave of suburbanization that has accelerated with the outbreak of Covid-19 is not a new phenomenon for the GTA. In the
final analysis, we also illustrate that the ongoing Covid-related-suburbanization in the GTA has deepened the housing crisis as the region continues to be less and less affordable.
Effect of Debt Default, Disclosure, and Financial Distress on the Receiving of Going Concern Audit Opinions
Authors: Tihar Ari , Sari Indriani Puspita , Handoko Bambang Leo
Published: October 2021

The research aimed to investigate the impact of debt default, disclosure, and financial distress on the acknowledgment of going concern audit opinion in manufacturing companies. The research uses a quantitative type of data complimented with secondary data retrieved from the official website of Indonesia Stock Exchange. The data used in this research from the purposive sampling method with 108 samples, consisting of 36 manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2016-2018. The research uses the logistic regression as the data analysis method with several statistical tests which include descriptive statistics, multicolinearity, fit test goodness, etc. The results show that only financial distress influences the acknowledgment of going concern audit opinion, while other independent variables such as debt default and disclosure do not affect the acceptance of going concern audit opinion. The research is limited since it only refers to the manufacturing industry sector. Therefore, it is suggested that future research expand the scope by obtaining more firms’ sample from industrial sectors and using other independent variables to achieve a more accurate results.