bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Diaphragm Contractility and Postural Control in a Chronic Ankle Instability Population: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Terada Masafumi , Kosik Kyle B. , Gribble Phillip A.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Altered reorganization of the sensorimotor system after an initial lateral ankle sprain may lead to a chronic neuromuscular maladaptation in multiple body locations. Specifically, decreased diaphragm contractility has been observed in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). The diaphragm has an essential role in postural control. Decreased diaphragm contractility could associate with diminished postural control commonly observed in patients with CAI. However, no study has determined if diaphragm contractility contributes to postural control in a CAI population.

Hypothesis:

Decreased diaphragm contractility would be negatively associated with static postural control in patients with CAI.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study design.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

A total of 15 participants with CAI participated voluntarily. An ultrasonography assessment was performed to quantify the right and left hemidiaphragm thickness at the end of resting inspiration and expiration in supine while breathing quietly. The degree of diaphragm contractility was calculated from the diaphragm thickness. Participants performed 3 eyes-open trials of a 20-second single-leg balance task on the involved limb. Static postural control measures included the center of pressure velocity (COPV) and mean of time-to-boundary (TTB) minima in the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral directions.

Results:

Moderate correlations of the right hemidiaphragm contractility were observed with COPV (ρ = -0.54) and TTB mean minima (ρ = 0.56) ( P < 0.05) in the AP direction. The left hemidiaphragm contractility was moderately correlated with COPV (ρ = −0.56) and TTB mean minima (ρ = 0.60) ( P < 0.05) in the AP direction.

Conclusion:

Lower diaphragm contractility may be associated with diminished static postural control in the AP direction in patients with CAI.

Clinical Relevance:

This study highlights diaphragm contractility could be a potential connection with diminished static postural control in patients with CAI. Our data raise new avenues for future exploration including potential beneficial effects of implementation of diaphragm breathing exercises and techniques for restoring static postural control in patients with CAI.
Cancer Prevention Begins in Middle School: The Personal Advantages of HPV Immunization in Males
Authors: Gordon Jenny , Bail Jennifer
Published: January 2023

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States despite most cases being preventable by vaccination. HPV vaccine efficacy varies in relationship to when the vaccine is administered, with greater efficacy obtained if administered prior to sexual debut. Historically, this vaccine was created to protect women from cervical cancer. As scientific knowledge of HPV-related cancers has advanced, it has become evident that HPV vaccination is a priority for both genders. HPV is known to contribute to male cancers of the mouth, throat, anus, and penis, as well as causing genital warts. This article aims to explain the benefits of HPV immunization for the gender the farthest from meeting vaccination goals, boys, and young men. This article expounds on the school nurses’ role in promoting vaccination to prevent HPV infection and the sequela of related cancers.
Ischemia of the parotid gland and adjacent muscles of mastication following middle meningeal artery embolization
Authors: Vilanilam George K , Pokhylevych Halyna , Kamran Mudassar , Patro Satya N , Vattoth Surjith
Published: January 2023

Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization is commonly performed as either a first-line or adjunct treatment for chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH). We present the case of a 59 year-old male patient who presented with right hemibody weakness and cognitive impairment and was diagnosed with left-sided cSDH. A left MMA embolization was performed due to the recurrent nature of the chronic subdural hemorrhage and the history of prior craniotomy. On postoperative day 1, the patient developed sudden onset left facial swelling and tenderness, and a contrast computed tomography (CT) of the neck revealed acute ischemia in the left parotid gland, adjacent superior aspect of the left masseter muscle, the left lateral pterygoid, and left temporalis muscles. The patient was treated conservatively with antibiotics, steroids, and analgesics and reported resolution of symptoms on the three-month follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of the ipsilateral parotid gland, temporalis muscle, adjacent superior aspect of the masseter muscle, and pterygoid muscle ischemia secondary to non-target particle embolization following MMA embolization in cSDH. Knowledge of normal and variant origin of the MMA and various anastomoses of this vessel with branches of the internal carotid artery (ICA), external carotid artery (ECA), and vertebrobasilar system is crucial to avoid complications during embolization.
Knowledge and practice toward hospital-acquired infections prevention and associated factors among nurses working at university referral hospitals in Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region, Ethiopia 2021
Authors: Foga Sebro Sisay , Birhanu Mengistu , Bilal Addis , Sahle Tadesse
Published: January 2023

Objective:

Hospital-acquired infection is higher in low- and middle-income countries because of inadequate knowledge of hospital-acquired infection prevention and poor adherence to standard infection prevention practices.

Methods:

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 randomly selected nurses working at university referral hospitals in Southern, Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region, Ethiopia from 01 to 30 April 2021. Data was collected by self-administer questionnaires. Multivariable binary logistic regressions were used to assess the association between the outcome variables and explanatory variables. The adjusted odds ratio was calculated and variables with a 95% confidence interval were declared as statistically significant.

Results:

The study found that 45.5% (95% confidence interval: 40.6%–50.4%) and 64.8% (95% confidence interval: 60.1%–69.5%) of nurses had good knowledge and practices toward hospital-acquired infection prevention, respectively. Being male (adjusted odd ratio: 2.2, 1.41–3.40), having a degree and above in nursing (adjusted odd ratio: 3.6, 1.73–7.38), having more than 5 years of work experience (adjusted odd ratio: 2.0, 1.24–3.26), having training on infection prevention (adjusted odd ratio: 2.6, 1.58–4.37) and adequate materials supplies (adjusted odd ratio: 2.2, 1.08–4.45) had associated with nurses’ knowledge about hospital-acquired infection prevention. On the other hand, having a degree and above in nursing (adjusted odd ratio: 1.98, 1.07–3.66), consistent water supply (adjusted odd ratio: 3.4, 1.58–7.30), and being aware of the existence of infection prevention guidelines in their institution (adjusted odd ratio: 1.80, 1.14–2.87) had associated with good practices of nurses toward hospital-acquired infections prevention.

Conclusion:

Less than half of the nurses had adequate knowledge and approximately two-thirds of nurses had good practice for hospital-acquired infection prevention.
Needlestick and sharp injuries and its associated factors among healthcare workers in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tsegaye Amlak Baye , Tesfa Shegaw , Tesfamichael Betelhem , Abebe Haimanot , Zewudie Bitew Tefera , Mewahegn Agerie Aynalem , Chekole Temere Bogale , Terefe Tamene Fetene , GebreEyesus Fisha Alebel , Tsehay Tadesse , Solomon Mamo
Published: January 2023

Background:

Needlesticks and sharp injuries are occupational hazards for healthcare workers that result from the accidental piercing of the skin. Needlestick injuries expose healthcare workers to blood and body fluids that may be infected and can be transmitted to them. Healthcare workers have been exposed to blood-borne pathogens through contaminated needles and other sharp materials every day. Around 20 blood-borne diseases can be transmitted through casual needlesticks and sharp injuries.

Objective:

To assess needlestick and sharp injuries and its associated factors among healthcare workers in Southern Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods:

The hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 341 healthcare workers in Worabe Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from June 10 to July 6, 2021. A stratified sampling technique was used and data were collected using standardized structural questionnaires by BSc nursing professionals. The collected data were checked for completeness and consistency by the investigator. The completed questionnaire was given an identification number and entered into EpiData version 3.5.1. The data were coded and analyzed using SPSS version 26 using a binary logistic regression model and presented with texts, tables, and graphs.

Results:

The finding revealed that 30.6% of healthcare workers had experienced needlestick and sharp injuries within their working area. Healthcare workers not trained on safety measures of needlestick and sharp injury (adjusted odds ratio: 7.179 (3.494–14.749)), working in the delivery unit (adjusted odds ratio: 6.528 (3.171–11.834)), being older age (adjusted odds ratio: 3.394 (1.775–7.126)), working in inpatient unit (3.278 (1.804–5.231)), working in an emergency unit (adjusted odds ratio: 5.718 (4.326–6.398)), working in an operation room theater (adjusted odds ratio: 2.359 (1.781–4.430)), working as a medical laboratory technician (adjusted odds ratio: 1.070 (1.432–3.304)), working in pediatrics unit (adjusted odds ratio: 1.063 (1.431–2.843)), working as cleaners (adjusted odds ratio: 0.018 (0.002–0.195)), working <40 h per week (adjusted odds ratio: 0.036 (0.004–0.345)), and seldom needle recapping (adjusted odds ratio: 0.043 (0.015–0.125)) were statistically associated with needlestick and sharp injury.

Conclusions:

In this study, there is a high magnitude of needlestick or sharp injuries among healthcare workers. Lack of training on work-related safety measures; working in delivery; being older age; working in the inpatient unit, emergency, operation room, and pediatrics units; being laboratory technicians, and cleaners; working hours per week; and seldom needle recapping were significant predictors of needlestick and sharp injury.
Factors associated with the level of Knowledge and self-reported Practice toward safety precautions among Factory Workers in East Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Mengesha Yeshiemebet , Dagnew Zewdu , Aderaw Zewdie , Telayneh Animut Takele , Temesgen Tegegne , Tegegne Eniyew , Yirdaw Getasew
Published: January 2023

Background:

According to the International Labor Organization, occupational accidents and diseases kill millions of workers every year.

Objective:

To assess factors associated with the level of knowledge and self-reported practice toward safety precautions among factory workers in the East Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods:

An institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted on 420 randomly selected factory workers. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires and an observation checklist. The data were analyzed using the descriptive statistical method and using bivariate binary and multivariable logistic regression models. Variables with a p-value <0.05 with a 95% confidence interval were considered to have statistical significance.

Results:

The study had a response rate of 99.0%, with a total of 416 respondents. 53.4% of respondents were aware of safety precautions, and 56.0% of them rated the use of personal protective equipment as an indicator of the practice of safety precautions. Factory workers’ educational status (adjusted odds ratio: 4.3, 95% confidence interval: 2.4, 7.8), job satisfaction (adjusted odds ratio: 4.7, 95% confidence interval: 2.1, 10.4), and having training on safety issues (adjusted odds ratio: 12.8, 95% confidence interval: 6.3, 26.1) were determinant factors of knowledge regarding safety precautions, while the type of factory (adjusted odds ratio: 16.0, 95% confidence interval: 5.8, 44.1), the presence of regular supervision (adjusted odds ratio: 3.8, 95% confidence interval: 2.1, 6.8), and overall knowledge about safety precautions (adjusted odds ratio: 7.2, 95% confidence interval: 3.9, 13.2) were the independent determinants of the practice of safety precautions.

Conclusions:

Workers’ knowledge and practice regarding safety precautions were low as compared to studies in developing countries. Interventions targeted at the provision of training, promotion, and enforcement of issues regarding safety precautions should be in place. Employers, the government, and employees should work together to address these workplace safety issues.
Ageing in place – exploring the safety of the environment of Slovenian older adults
Authors: Galof Katarina
Published: January 2023

Objective:

The importance of subjective and objective living environment was investigated.

Methods:

A new questionnaire was developed, validated and distributed to community-dwelling adults in various Slovenian counties. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and t-tests in SPSS Statistics 24. Older adults ( N = 358), 33% men and 67% women, mean age 74.3 years, participated in the cross-sectional study.

Results:

Statistically significant differences (at 5% significance level) in subjective opinions of older adults regarding views on appropriate design of the living environment between the group with and without risk factors exist only for the statement that a thermostat to regulate room temperature should be placed in a visible and accessible location ( p = 0.014).

Conclusion:

The living environment has some risk factors, but they are not statistically significant between groups. The results may prompt occupational therapists to develop innovative strategies to facilitate occupational participation of users, increase participation in preventive services and obtain policy support.
A rare presentation of a mucocele in a separate compartment of maxillary sinus
Authors: Elashry Mohamed M , Alharbi Hamad , Elgbry Asmaa , Elsharkawy Lamiaa , Saleh Wafaa
Published: January 2023

Maxillary sinus is frequently presented as a single space within each maxilla. It drains directly into the nose through the middle meatus. We are reporting the second rare case of a mucocele in a separate compartment of maxillary sinus in a 26-year-old patient without a history of facial trauma. The non-contrast computed tomography of paranasal sinuses showed an expansile right infraorbital cystic lesion developed in an upper lateral position of the maxillary sinus. An excision biopsy was performed, which showed histopathological findings of a maxillary sinus mucocele.
Development and Validation of Patient Education Tools for Deprescribing in Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Cho Thomas Hyunwoo , Ng Patrick C. K. , Lefebvre Melissa J. , Desjarlais Arlene , McCann Dennis , Waldvogel Blair , Tonelli Marcello , Garg Amit X. , Wilson JoAnne , Beaulieu Monica , Marin Judith , Orsulak Cali , Talson Melanie , Sharma Monica , Feldberg Jordanne , Bohm Clara , Battistella Marisa
Published: January 2023

Background:

Deprescribing is a patient-centered solution to reducing polypharmacy in patients on hemodialysis (HD). In a deprescribing pilot study, patients were hesitant to participate due to limited understanding of their own medications and their unfamiliarity with the concept of deprescribing. Therefore, patient education materials designed to address these knowledge gaps can overcome barriers to shared decision-making and reduce hesitancy regarding deprescribing.

Objective:

To develop and validate a medication-specific, patient education toolkit (bulletin and video) that will supplement an upcoming nationwide deprescribing program for patients on HD.

Methods:

Patient education tools were developed based on the content of previously validated deprescribing algorithms and literature searches for patients’ preferences in education. A preliminary round of validation was completed by 5 clinicians to provide feedback on the accuracy and clarity of the education tools. Then, 3 validation rounds were completed by patients on HD across 3 sites in Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Toronto. Content and face validity were evaluated on a 4-point and 5-point Likert scale, respectively. The content validity index (CVI) score was calculated after each round, and revisions were made based on patient feedback.

Results:

A total of 105 patients participated in the validation. All 10 education tools achieved content and face validity after 3 rounds. The CVI score was 1.0 for most of the tools, with 0.95 being the lowest value. Face validity ranged from 72% to 100%, with majority scoring above 90%.

Conclusion:

Ten patient education tools on deprescribing were developed and validated by patients on HD. These validated, medication-specific education tools are the first of its kind for patients on HD and will be used in a nationwide implementation study alongside the validated deprescribing algorithms developed by our research group.
Implementation and impacts of virtual team-based care planning for older persons in formal care settings: A scoping review
Authors: Gao Harrison , Yous Marie-Lee , Connelly Denise , Hung Lillian , Garnett Anna , Hay Melissa , Snobelen Nancy
Published: January 2023

Objective

This scoping review aimed to summarize current knowledge about the implementation, impacts, facilitators and barriers of virtual team-based care planning for older persons in formal care settings (e.g. home and community, primary, long-term and acute care).

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology was used. The Arksey and O’Malley and Levac, Colquhoun, and O’Brien methodologies provided additional frameworks. Databases accessed included PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, AgeLine, PsycInfo and Scopus. Reference lists of selected articles and grey literature retrieved through Google and Google Scholar were also reviewed. Three researchers screened titles, abstracts and conducted full-text reviews. Extracted data were mapped in a table and analysed for summative themes. Older persons and family partners assisted in interpreting findings based on their lived experiences.

Results

A total of 27 studies were included. Virtual team-based care planning led to many positive outcomes for older persons (e.g. decreased depression, reduced falls and improved medication management) and their families (e.g. reduced caregiver stress and improved caregiving skills). Only four studies reported the involvement of older persons and/or families in virtual team-based care planning. Multiple barriers to adopting virtual team-based care planning were found including lack of education/training for older persons and families in using technology.

Conclusion

Despite the multiple advantages that virtual team-based care planning offers for older persons and families, it is important to ensure that this care can be offered to all. There is a need to ensure that health equity is addressed to promote access to care and respond to social determinants of health.
Coopetition, Where Do You Come From? Identification, Categorization, and Configuration of Theoretical Roots of Coopetition
Authors: Klimas Patrycja , Ahmadian Ali Ashraf , Soltani Morteza , Shahbazi Meisam , Hamidizadeh Ali
Published: January 2023

Though being 30 years old, coopetition, is still earning popularity and represents a fresh, beneficial, but paradoxical approach to inter-organizational relations. The increasing interest is gradually filling the pool of coopetition knowledge with new and interesting qualitative findings and quantitative results. Nonetheless, if we search in this pool of empirical evidence, we will not find many theoretical works, especially those devoted to definitions, conceptualization, typology, or recognition of the foundations of coopetition phenomenon. Our reviewing paper taps into these cognitive gaps using the interpretative and descriptive revision of the theoretical underpinnings of coopetition concept. Our literature review reveals 10 main reference theories with the dominant relevance of three ones, namely game theory, resource-based view, and network approach. Identification of the theoretical lenses allowed us to develop two categorizations of theoretical rooting of coopetition. One is based on the approach to reasoning the adoption of coopetition strategy (i.e., economic, organizational, and inter-organizational) and the second considering the function of coopetition theory development (i.e., preparing, encouraging, and managing). Finally, by integrating these categorizations, reinforced by the process view to coopetition phenomenon, this paper offers a comprehensive configuration of theoretical lenses pointing at three sets of theories—construction, development, and maintenance theories—useful when improving coopetition across its life cycle.
Drinking Motives Mediate the Relation between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms and Alcohol-Related Problems among College Students
Authors: Falco Caitlin A. , Zimmerman Lauren , Vasko John M. , Meinzer Michael C. , Hartung Cynthia M. , Flory Kate , Looby Alison
Published: January 2023

Evidence demonstrates an association between symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and alcohol outcomes, though mechanisms underlying relations are unclear. Given that drinking motives (coping-anxiety, coping-depression, enhancement, social, and conformity) appear to serve as a mediator through which other factors influence drinking behavior, the current multi-site study examined the relation between ADHD symptoms and alcohol outcomes through motives. Past-month drinkers completed online measures assessing ADHD symptoms, alcohol use and problems, and drinking motives. A multiple-mediator model found inattention symptoms were: 1) positively associated with coping-depression, which positively related to alcohol use, which positively related to alcohol problems; 2) positively associated with enhancement motives, which positively related to use, which positively related to problems; and 3) positively associated with coping-anxiety, which negatively related to use, which positively related to problems. No indirect relations via motives were found for hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Findings highlight unique associations depending on ADHD symptoms and specific drinking motives.
Exploring Crisis Leadership During COVID-19: A Case Study on OYO
Authors: Kukul Yasmin , Thakur Kedarnath , Jena Lalatendu Kesari
Published: January 2023

The case explores the steps taken by the leadership team at OYO to mitigate the challenges faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a young start-up on the growth trajectory, OYO was hit harder than some of its established competitors. With the onset of the pandemic, the hospitality industry had come to a grinding halt and occupancy rates were at an all-time low. It was necessary for the management to revamp organizational structures and processes, and exhibit strong leadership skills to drive the workforce through one of the most challenging periods that OYO would have to go through. A recurring theme observed throughout the case is the resilient leadership response to the crisis by the protagonist, that is, Ritesh Agarwal, the Founder and Group CEO of the company, and his unwavering involvement in ensuring to keep the company afloat. Several people-centric initiatives that were undertaken for different stakeholder groups are outlined throughout the case and a major focus is given to the importance of decentralized and distributed leadership in the face of a crisis. The case is a narrative on organizational crisis management on the face of a setback and the role of leaders and empowered employees to navigate it.
An Effect of Gaze Direction in Cocktail Party Listening
Authors: Best Virginia , Boyd Alex D. , Sen Kamal
Published: January 2023

It is well established that gaze direction can influence auditory spatial perception, but the implications of this interaction for performance in complex listening tasks is unclear. In the current study, we investigated whether there is a measurable effect of gaze direction on speech intelligibility in a “cocktail party” listening situation. We presented sequences of digits from five loudspeakers positioned at 0°,  ±  15°, and ± 30° azimuth, and asked participants to repeat back the digits presented from a designated target loudspeaker. In different blocks of trials, the participant visually fixated on a cue presented at the target location or at a nontarget location. Eye position was tracked continuously to monitor compliance. Performance was best when fixation was on-target (vs. off-target) and the size of this effect depended on the specific configuration. This result demonstrates an influence of gaze direction in multitalker mixtures, even in the absence of visual speech information.
Fear of Falls Following an Online Exercise Program for Aging Adults
Authors: MacDonald Monica , Sénéchal Martin , Leadbetter Brianna , Bouchard Danielle R.
Published: January 2023

Individuals who participate in regular exercise tend to report a lower fear of falling; however, it is unknown if this fear can be reduced following an online fall prevention exercise program. The main purpose of this study was to test if offering a peer-led fall prevention exercise program online reduced the fear of falling and if this potential improvement was greater than when the program was offered in person. The secondary objectives were to describe participants’ characteristics when participating online, the rate of falls and the context in which falls occur. A total of 85 adults aged 69.0 ± 7.8 years participated in the program offered online ( n = 44) and in-person ( n = 41). No significant differences in fear of falling before and after participation in the program were reported for either group: online (20.7 ± 5.1–21.8 ± 5.5) and in-person (20.6 ± 5.1–21.2 ± 5.3). Online participants reported a greater proportion of falls ( n = 9; 20.5% vs. n = 4; 9.8%; p = .14), mostly occurring outdoors ( n = 7) (77.8). A properly designed study is needed to test if the rate of falls is greater when an exercise program is offered online.
Seeking Care for Long COVID: A Narrative Analysis of Canadian Experiences
Authors: Kaufmann Julia , Gould Odette , Lloyd Vett
Published: January 2023

The goal of this study was to explore the experiences of individuals seeking care for long COVID-19 in the Canadian healthcare system. Recorded virtual interviews were carried out with 8 participants and narrative analysis was used to examine the stories produced and identify the central narratives that defined participants’ experiences. Care-seeking experiences were characterized by (1) often debilitating multi-system symptoms for which little information about prognosis was available and no effective treatments were provided, (2) compounded by the frustration of trying to convince family, friends, and health care practitioners of the legitimacy of their illness, (3) access to medical care was severely limited by the global pandemic and associated higher thresholds for care, (4) like others suffering from complex, multi-system conditions, people with long COVID are often struggling with a health-care system ill-suited for dealing with long-term and possibly chronic conditions. To make system-level improvements to better serve those with chronic conditions, it is critical that we understand the care-seeking experiences of chronic illness patients, including the unique experiences of those with long COVID.
Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy With Concomitant Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Hevesi Mario , Sivasundaram Lakshmanan , Meeker Zachary D. , Kaiser Joshua T. , Yanke Adam B. , Cole Brian J.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Patellofemoral anatomy allows for substantial freedom of motion. Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) tears occur in up to 96% of lateral patellar dislocations. Risk factors for subsequent instability include maltracking and increased tibial tubercle to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance.

Indication:

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) with concurrent tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is indicated in patients with recurrent dislocation or unresolved apprehension. Concurrent TTO should be considered for TT-TGs 15-20 mm depending on overall clinical picture and risk factors. We strongly consider TTO for TT-TGs ≥20 mm and for revision procedures.

Technique Description:

Following diagnostic arthroscopy, a midline incision is made from the inferior patellar pole to 3 cm beyond the tibial tubercle. The anterior compartment is incised and retracted laterally. An osteotomy guide is affixed to the tibia and an osteotomy cut is made with a saw, leaving a small bridge of periosteum distally. The osteotomy is competed proximally with osteotomes, then medialized and held in place with two 4.5-mm screws. An incision is made on the superomedial patella and two 0.045 inch guidewires are placed at the MPFL insertion and overdrilled with a 3.5-mm drill. A 22-cm semitendinosus allograft is prepared and fixed to the patella using two 3.5-mm anchors. An incision is made over the medial epicondyle and a 2.4-mm beath pin is placed at Schöttle point. Isometry is confirmed and the pin is overdrilled with a 6-mm reamer. The allograft is passed just superficial to capsule from the peripatellar incision to the medial incision, docked into the femur, and secured with a 6-mm interference screw at 30° of flexion after confirmation of appropriate graft length.

Results:

Studies have demonstrated improved outcomes for patients undergoing MPFLR + TTO compared with isolated MPFL in the setting of maltracking and increased TT-TG distance. In addition, a recent meta-analysis demonstrated no negative effect of concurrent TTO on return to sport timeline.

Discussion/Conclusion:

MPFLR with concurrent TTO is effective, with surgical correction of underlying maltracking and satisfactory return to sport. Consideration to MPFL + TTO should be given to patients with recurrent instability and pathologically increased TT-TG. The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Implementation of a Structured Process for Clinically Indicated Testing for Clostridioides difficile Infections in Pediatric Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Kusma Molly , Little Jeanne , Kociolek Larry
Published: January 2023

Background: Clostridioides difficile ( C. difficile) is the primary cause of healthcare-associated infectious diarrhea. Pediatric patients with oncology and stem cell transplant (SCT) diagnoses are at greater risk of C. difficile infections (CDI) and C. difficile colonization than those without. Misdiagnosis of C. difficile colonization as infection and subsequent unnecessary treatment can lead to antibiotic resistance, increased healthcare costs, and an overestimation of CDI rates. Methods: A best practice advisory (BPA) was built into the electronic medical record to guide decision making regarding clinically indicated C. difficile testing. Tests for CDI were to be sent only if the patient met all the predefined clinical criteria for testing. The number of CDI tests ordered per 1,000 patient days, the number of tests positive per 1,000 patient days, and the proportion of positive tests were compared before and after implementation. Results: The number of tests ordered per 1,000 patient days declined from 8.2 to 5.7 after the intervention. Positive tests per 1,000 patient days increased from 2.2 to 3.5 after the intervention. This demonstrates an increase in the proportion of positive tests from 27% to 61%. Discussion: This intervention led to fewer CDI tests ordered, but CDI incidence and test positivity proportion increased. This is likely reflective of better-targeted testing for CDI and the identification of true-positive cases of infection, but we cannot rule out a coincident increase in CDI activity during the study period. Through education and electronic reminders of the clinical indicators for testing for CDI, the frequency of testing for C. difficile was reduced.
Outside the limit: questioning the distance restrictions for cooperative miRNA binding sites
Authors: Diener Caroline , Hart Martin , Fecher-Trost Claudia , Knittel Jessica , Rheinheimer Stefanie , Meyer Markus R. , Mayer Jens , Flockerzi Veit , Keller Andreas , Meese Eckart
Published: January 2023

Among the concepts in biology that are widely taken granted is a potentiated cooperative effect of multiple miRNAs on the same target. This strong hypothesis contrasts insufficient experimental evidence. The quantity as well as the quality of required side constraints of cooperative binding remain largely hidden. For miR-21-5p and miR-155-5p, two commonly investigated regulators across diseases, we selected 15 joint target genes. These were chosen to represent various neighboring 3′UTR binding site constellations, partially exceeding the distance rules that have been established for over a decade. We identified different cooperative scenarios with the binding of one miRNA enhancing the binding effects of the other miRNA and vice versa. Using both, reporter assays and whole proteome analyses, we observed these cooperative miRNA effects for genes that bear 3′UTR binding sites at distances greater than the previously defined limits. Astonishingly, the experiments provide even stronger evidence for cooperative miRNA effects than originally postulated. In the light of these findings the definition of targetomes specified for single miRNAs need to be refined by a concept that acknowledges the cooperative effects of miRNAs.
Are the results from a multiplex proteomic assay and a conventional immunoassay for NT-proBNP and GDF-15 comparable?
Authors: Skau Emma , Wagner Philippe , Leppert Jerzy , Ärnlöv Johan , Hedberg Pär
Published: January 2023

Background

We aimed to compare absolute plasma concentrations of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) obtained by a conventional immunoassay with the corresponding relative concentrations from a proximity extension assay (PEA) and compare the prognostic impact of the protein levels obtained from these assays.

Methods

We evaluated 437 patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and a population-based cohort of 643 individuals without PAD. Correlations were calculated using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients (rho). The discriminatory accuracy of the protein levels to predict future cardiovascular events was analyzed with Cox regression and presented as time-dependent areas under the receiver-operator-characteristic curves (tdAUCs).

Results

For NT-proBNP, the two assays correlated with rho 0.93 and 0.93 in the respective cohort. The PEA values leveled off at higher values in both cohorts. The corresponding correlations for GDF-15 were 0.91 and 0.89. At 5 years follow-up, the tdAUCs in the patient cohort were similar for NT-proBNP and GDF-15 regardless of assay used (0.65–0.66). The corresponding tdAUCs in the population-based cohort were between 0.72 and 0.77.

Conclusion

Except for the highest levels of NT-proBNP, we suggest that PEA data for NT-proBNP and GDF-15 reliably reflects absolute plasma levels and contains similar prognostic information.
Effective matrix designs for COVID-19 group testing
Authors: Brust David , Brust Johannes J.
Published: January 2023

Background

Grouping samples with low prevalence of positives into pools and testing these pools can achieve considerable savings in testing resources compared with individual testing in the context of COVID-19. We review published pooling matrices, which encode the assignment of samples into pools and describe decoding algorithms, which decode individual samples from pools. Based on the findings we propose new one-round pooling designs with high compression that can efficiently be decoded by combinatorial algorithms. This expands the admissible parameter space for the construction of pooling matrices compared to current methods.

Results

By arranging samples in a grid and using polynomials to construct pools, we develop direct formulas for an Algorithm (Polynomial Pools (PP)) to generate assignments of samples into pools. Designs from PP guarantee to correctly decode all samples with up to a specified number of positive samples. PP includes recent combinatorial methods for COVID-19, and enables new constructions that can result in more effective designs.

Conclusion

For low prevalences of COVID-19, group tests can save resources when compared to individual testing. Constructions from the recent literature on combinatorial methods have gaps with respect to the designs that are available. We develop a method (PP), which generalizes previous constructions and enables new designs that can be advantageous in various situations.
Ancestral chromosomal signatures of Paenungulata (Afroteria) reveal the karyotype of Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis, Sirenia: Trichechidae) as the oldest among American manatees
Authors: Tavares Flávia dos Santos , Oliveira da Silva Willam , Ferguson-Smith Malcolm Andrew , Klautau Alex Garcia Cavalleiro de Macedo , Oliveira Jairo Moura , Rodrigues Angélica Lúcia Figueiredo , Melo-Santos Gabriel , Pieczarka Julio Cesar , Nagamachi Cleusa Yoshiko , Noronha Renata Coelho Rodrigues
Published: January 2023

Background

Chromosomal painting in manatees has clarified questions about the rapid evolution of sirenians within the Paenungulata clade. Further cytogenetic studies in Afrotherian species may provide information about their evolutionary dynamics, revealing important insights into the ancestral karyotype in the clade representatives. The karyotype of Trichechus inunguis (TIN, Amazonian manatee) was investigated by chromosome painting, using probes from Trichechus manatus latirostris (TML, Florida manatee) to analyze the homeologies between these sirenians.

Results

A high similarity was found between these species, with 31 homologous segments in TIN, nineteen of which are whole autosomes, besides the X and Y sex chromosomes. Four chromosomes from TML (4, 6, 8, and 9) resulted in two hybridization signals, totaling eight acrocentrics in the TIN karyotype. This study confirmed in TIN the chromosomal associations of Homo sapiens (HSA) shared in Afrotheria, such as the 5/21 synteny, and in the Paenungulata clade with the syntenies HSA 2/3, 8/22, and 18/19, in addition to the absence of HSA 4/8 common in eutherian ancestral karyotype (EAK).

Conclusions

TIN shares more conserved chromosomal signals with the Paenungulata Ancestral Karyotype (APK, 2n = 58) than Procavia capensis (Hyracoidea), Loxodonta africana (Proboscidea) and TML (Sirenia), where TML presents less conserved signals with APK, demonstrating that its karyotype is the most derived among the representatives of Paenungulata. The chromosomal changes that evolved from APK to the T. manatus and T. inunguis karyotypes (7 and 4 changes, respectively) are more substantial within the Trichechus genus compared to other paenungulates. Among these species, T. inunguis presents conserved traits of APK in the American manatee genus. Consequently, the karyotype of T. manatus is more derived than that of T. inunguis.
Effects of sustained hyperprolactinemia in late gestation on the mammary parenchymal tissue transcriptome of gilts
Authors: Palin Marie-France , Caron Anouk , Farmer Chantal
Published: January 2023

Background

Gilts experiencing sustained hyperprolactinemia from d 90 to 109 of gestation showed an early onset of lactogenesis coupled with premature mammary involution. To better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the premature mammary involution observed in these gilts, a transcriptomic analysis was undertaken. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effect of hyperprolactinemia on the global transcriptome in the mammary tissue of late gestating gilts and identify the molecular pathways involved in triggering premature mammary involution.

Methods

On d 90 of gestation, gilts received daily injections of (1) canola oil until d 109 ± 1 of gestation (CTL,n = 18); (2) domperidone (to induce hyperprolactinemia) until d 96 ± 1 of gestation (T7,n = 17) or; (3) domperidone (until d 109 ± 1 of gestation (T20,n = 17). Mammary tissue was collected on d 110 of gestation and total RNA was isolated from six CTL and six T20 gilts for microarray analysis. The GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST Array was used for hybridization. Functional enrichment analyses were performed to explore the biological significance of differentially expressed genes, using the DAVID bioinformatics resource.

Results

The expression of 335 genes was up-regulated and that of 505 genes down-regulated in the mammary tissue of T20 vs CTL gilts. Biological process GO terms and KEGG pathways enriched in T20 vs CTL gilts reflected the concurrent premature lactogenesis and mammary involution. When looking at individual genes, it appears that mammary cells from T20 gilts can simultaneously upregulate the transcription of milk proteins such asWAP,CSN1S2andLALBA,and genes triggering mammary involution such asSTAT3,OSMRandIL6R. The down-regulation ofPRLRexpression and up-regulation of genes known to inactivate the JAK-STAT5 pathway (CISH,PTPN6) suggest the presence of a negative feedback loop trying to counteract the effects of hyperprolactinemia.

Conclusions

Genes and pathways identified in this study suggest that sustained hyperprolactinemia during late-pregnancy, in the absence of suckling piglets, sends conflicting pro-survival and cell death signals to mammary epithelial cells. Reception of these signals results in a mammary gland that can simultaneously synthesize milk proteins and initiate mammary involution.
Molecular characterization reveals that OsSAPK3 improves drought tolerance and grain yield in rice
Authors: Lou Dengji , Lu Suping , Chen Zhen , Lin Yi , Yu Diqiu , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: January 2023

Background

Many data suggest that the sucrose non-fermenting 1-related kinases 2 (SnRK2s) are very important to abiotic stress for plants. In rice, these kinases are known as osmotic stress/ABA–activated protein kinases (SAPKs). Osmotic stress/ABA–activated protein kinase 3 (OsSAPK3) is a member of SnRK2II in rice, but its function is still unclear.

Results

The expression of OsSAPK3 was up regulated by drought, NaCl, PEG and ABA. OsSAPK3 mutated seedings (sapk3-1 and sapk3-2) showed reduced hypersensitivity to exogenous ABA. In addition, under drought conditions, sapk3-1 and sapk3-2 showed more intolerance to drought, including decreased survival rate, increased water loss rate, increased stomatal conductance and significantly decreased expression levels of SLAC1 and SLAC7. Physiological and metabolic analyses showed that OsSAPK3 might play an important role in drought stress signaling pathway by affecting osmotic adjustment and osmolytes, ROS detoxification and expression of ABA dependent and independent dehydration-responsive genes. All gronomic traits analyses demonstrated that OsSAPK3 could improve rice yield by affecting the regulation of tiller numbers and grain size.

Conclusion

OsSAPK3 plays an important role in both ABA-dependent and ABA-independent drought stress responses. More interestingly, OsSAPK3 could improve rice yield by indirectly regulating tiller number and grain size. These findings provide new insight for the development of drought-resistant rice.
New approaches to the effects of Si on sugarcane ratoon under irrigation in Quartzipsamments, Eutrophic Red Oxisol, and Dystrophic Red Oxisol
Authors: Costa Milton G. , de M. Prado Renato , Sarah Marcilene M. Santos , Palaretti Luiz F. , de C. Piccolo Marisa , Souza Júnior Jonas P.
Published: January 2023

Background

C:N:P homeostasis in plants guarantees optimal levels of these nutrients in plant metabolism. H However, one of the causes to the effects of deficit irrigation is the loss of C:N:P homeostasis in leaves and stems that causes reduction in the growth of sugarcane. Being able to measure the impact of water deficit on C:N:P homeostasis in plants from the stoichiometric ratios of the concentrations of these nutrients in leaves and stems. This loss causes a decrease in nutritional efficiency, but can be mitigated with the use of silicon. Silicon favors the homeostasis of these nutrients and crop productivity. The magnitude of this benefit depends on the absorption of Si by the plant and Si availability in the soil, which varies with the type of soil used. Thus, this study aims to evaluate whether the application of Si via fertigation is efficient in increasing the absorption of Si and whether it is capable of modifying the homeostatic balance of C:N:P of the plant, causing an increase in nutritional efficiency and consequently in the production of biomass in leaves and stems of sugarcane ratoon cultivated with deficient and adequate irrigations in different tropical soils.

Results

Water deficit caused biological losses in concentrations and accumulation of C, N, and P, and reduced the nutrient use efficiency and biomass production of sugarcane plants cultivated in three tropical soils due to disturbances in the stoichiometric homeostasis of C:N:P. The application of Si increased the concentration and accumulation of Si, C, N, and P and their use efficiency and reduced the biological damage caused by water deficit due to the modification of homeostatic balance of C:N:P by ensuring sustainability of the production of sugarcane biomass in tropical soils. However, the intensity of attenuation of such deleterious effects stood out in plants cultivated in Eutrophic Red Oxisols. Si contributed biologically by improving the performance of sugarcane ratoon with an adequate irrigation due to the optimization of stoichiometric ratios of C:N:P; increased the accumulation and the use efficiency of C, N, and P, and promoted production gains in biomass of sugarcane in three tropical soils.

Conclusion

Our study shows that fertigation with Si can mitigate the deleterious effects of deficient irrigation or potentiate the beneficial effects using an adequate irrigation system due to the induction of a new stoichiometric homeostasis of C:N:P, which in turn improves the nutritional efficiency of sugarcane cultivated in tropical soils.