bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients Who Do Not Receive Aspirin Because of Allergy Have an Increased Risk of Venous Thromboembolism Following Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Goh Graham S. , Kozaily Elie , Tan Timothy L. , Parvizi Javad
Published: November 2021

Background:

Patient-reported allergies to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may preclude certain patients from receiving aspirin as venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The purpose of the study was to (1) determine whether the use of non-aspirin agents due to a self-reported aspirin or NSAID allergy was associated with a higher incidence of VTE and (2) determine the rate of true allergic reactions in patients who reported an allergy but still received aspirin.

Methods:

Prospectively collected data from 45,171 patients who underwent primary TJA between 2000 and 2019 were reviewed. Patients who reported an allergy to aspirin or NSAIDs were identified (n = 823). Using a validated VTE risk calculator, each patient was assigned a risk score based on 26 comorbidities. Bleeding complications, VTEs that occurred within 90 days postoperatively, and allergic reactions were collected as end points. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the factors associated with VTE.

Results:

The overall incidence of aspirin or NSAID allergy was 1.8%. Only 80 of 267 patients (30%) reported an allergy to only aspirin and still received aspirin. Compared with patients who received aspirin without a history of allergy (n = 17,648), patients who received non-aspirin thromboprophylaxis due to allergy (n = 383) had a higher incidence of VTE (2.87% versus 0.24%, p < 0.001). On multivariable regression, these patients had an 8-fold increase in VTE risk (adjusted odds ratio, 7.94; 95% confidence interval, 2.86 to 22.07; p < 0.001). The incidence of true allergic reactions to aspirin among those with a reported allergy was 1.8% (number needed to harm = 55). No patients developed anaphylaxis or severe hypersensitivity reactions.

Conclusions:

Patients with a self-reported allergy to aspirin or NSAIDs were at a significantly increased risk for VTE if they received non-aspirin thromboprophylaxis agents following TJA. Future research should evaluate the usefulness of preoperative allergy testing when selecting a VTE prophylactic agent in patients with self-reported allergies.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Epidemiology, Treatment, and Treatment Quality of Overriding Distal Metaphyseal Radial Fractures in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Laaksonen Topi , Kosola Jussi , Nietosvaara Nicolas , Puhakka Jani , Nietosvaara Yrjänä , Stenroos Antti
Published: November 2021

Background:

The incidence of completely displaced overriding distal metaphyseal radial fractures in children is unknown, and the optimal treatment is controversial.

Methods:

All completely displaced distal metaphyseal radial fractures in patients <16 years old treated in our tertiary-level institution from 2014 to 2019 were identified with use of the Kids’ Fracture Tool Helsinki. Etiology, fracture characteristics, management, and quality of treatment were assessed. A telephone interview with the guardian of the patient was performed for 100 (89%) of 112 patients at 1.5 to 7.2 years (median, 4.6 years) after the injury. Pain during the last month and forearm function were recorded. Treatment satisfaction was assessed with use of a 7-point Likert scale.

Results:

A total of 113 completely displaced overriding distal metaphyseal radial fractures in 112 patients (81 of whom were residents of Helsinki) were treated during the 6-year-long study period. The mean annual incidence was 1.42 per 10,000 population. Most (73%) of these fractures occurred in children <11 years old, and most fractures were dorsally displaced and located nearly as far proximally from the distal radial physis as the maximum width of the distal metaphysis. Closed manipulation was attempted in two-thirds of cases in the emergency department, with a failure rate of 46%. Strong opioids were administered in 70 of 112 patients. None of the 26 patients whose fractures were immobilized in an overriding position had secondary interventions, pain, or functional disability. The mean satisfaction with treatment on the Likert scale was 6.2.

Conclusions:

The annual incidence of overriding distal metaphyseal radial fractures patients <16 years old was shown to vary between 0.72 and 2.01 per 10,000 population. Opioids, local and general anesthesia, hospital admission, and secondary interventions can be avoided in prepubescent patients by casting these fractures in an overriding position while the patient is in the emergency department.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Analisis faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kinerja keuangan (studi kasus pada bank umum syariah yang terdaftar di otoritas jasa keuangan periode 2015-2019)
Authors: Marlina Indah , Suhono Suhono
Published: November 2021

This study aims to determine the factors that can affect accounting performance. The population in the study was 14 with the sample in this study were 7 Islamic Commercial Banks. The sampling technique was purposive sampling. The results of the study stated that CAR had no effect on ROA. FDR has a negative effect on ROA and BOPO has a negative effect on ROA. Data processing using SPSS V.21
Pengaruh destination image terhadap revisit intention dan intention to recommend melalui satisfaction sebagai variabel intervening
Authors: Kadi Dian Citaningtyas Ari , Purwanto Hari , Vonseica Brilianne Rose
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of destination image on revisit intention and intention to recommend through satisfaction as an intervening variable. The research used is quantitative research with a sample of 269 respondents. Using a 5-point Likert Scale and Path Analysis was used for analysis and hypothesis testing. The findings of this study indicate that destination image has an effect on revisit intention, intention to recommend, and satisfaction. While other findings, satisfaction acts as a mediation of the relationship between destination image to revisit intention and intention to recommend. For further research, it is possible to enter the tourist attraction variable.
Pengaruh daya tarik dan E-WOM terhadap keputusan berkunjung melalui minat berkunjung sebagai variabel intervening
Authors: Purwanto Hari , Kadi Dian Citaningtyas Ari , Rismawati Galuh
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Attractiveness and E-WOM on Decisions made through Interest as an Intervening Variable. The study used a quantitative approach with a sample of 269 respondents. Questionnaires were used for data collection, and data analysis using Path Analysis. The results of this study are attractiveness and E-WOM have a significant effect on visiting interest. Attractiveness and E-WOM have a significant effect on decisions. Path test (Path Analysis) found that interest can mediate the effect of attractiveness on decisions and interest can mediate the effect of E-WOM on decisions.
Efficacy of Influenza Like Illness (ILI) Screening OPD for COVID-19 at a High-Volume Centre: Unlocking Routine OPD
Authors: Mattoo Bhawna , Sarda Radhika , Kumar Arvind , Fatima Kaleem , Kaur Ravneet , Wig Naveet
Published: November 2021

Background: The Impact of COVID-19 pandemic over non-essential health services has been massive. We initiated Influenza Like Illness (ILI) screening for resumption of out-patient services at a tertiary care centre and this study attempted to gauge its efficacy in effectively pruning out COVID-19. Methods: We included all the patients who had visited for an OPD appointment during the study period. Patient details and ILI symptoms were noted. Patients were then followed up telephonically after 2 weeks. The telephonic follow up was to ensure RT-PCR status and complaints of any newly developed ILI post OPD visit (within the last 14 days). Results: Out of the 957 patients who were enrolled, 929 patients were successfully followed up telephonically after 14 days. Only 13 who were screened out as ‘possible ILI’, were either RT-PCR negative or did not follow up with a confirmatory test. The telephonic follow up to ensure RT-PCR status and complaints of any newly developed ILI post OPD visit (within the last 14 days) was noted in the rest of the patients. Only 1 participant out of 957 screened, tested positive for COVID-19. Conclusion:The period in which the study was held the national positivity rate was low (around 3%). Therefore, in a resource limited country such as India it is astute to restart the OPD services in the pre-existing setup using basic precautions and a verbal questionnaire during the slope of the pandemic.
The Epidemiology Profile of Hysterectomy in Northern Zimbabwean Women
Authors: THAKA ANDILE SICOLIWE
Published: November 2021

Hysterectomy is a procedure commonly performed to treat uterine and cervical disorders. It is a common procedure in developing countries, others listing it as the most common gynecological procedure in developed countries. The aim of the study is to determine the epidemiology profile of hysterectomy in Northern Zimbabwean women. It can either be classified according to the procedure used to perform the hysterectomy; which could be a total abdominal hysterectomy, uterus only, subtotal hysterectomy, total abdominal hysterectomy plus salphingo-oophorectomy, total abdominal hysterectomy plus bisalphingo-oophorectomy and radical hysterectomy. It can be vaginally, abdominally or laparoscopy assisted. Laparoscopy assisted vaginal hysterectomy is less common as the procedure is semi-automated. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of hysterectomy among the women in northern Zimbabwe, identifying patterns of occurrences and distribution of hysterectomy and determining possible indicators of hysterectomy. Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals undertakes Histology laboratory testing of samples from hospitals in Northern Zimbabwe as the referral laboratory. A retrospective study was conducted using the census sampling method to determine the epidemiology profile of hysterectomy. The study collected 350 reports from 2019 that indicated to have been from hysterectomy and therefore the estimated prevalence rate of hysterectomy was 9.81%. The study looked at the reports of specimens brought in due to the performance of hysterectomy. The inclusion criteria of a report was a complete histology report from the Pathologist from specimens processed and microscopy slides prepared by the Scientist. Exclusion criteria was an incomplete report. Leiomyomata, post-partum hemorrhaging and chronic pelvic pain were the leading possible indicators of hysterectomy. The procedure was most commonly performed on women between the ages of 41-50 years. The total abdominal hysterectomy was 59.81% performed most of the time with most reports from Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and then Mutare Provincial Hospital. Delimitations was the low resource costing of the study and the automated collection of the data. The limitations were clerical errors, lack of patient data such as clinical history and lack of history or socio-economic demographics collected by the laboratory form. There is need for better data management and increase in the variation of data to collect such as clinical history, parity, marital status, income setting and other factors. Further studies can be done to give a holistic picture of the epidemiology profile of hysterectomy in Zimbabwe. There is need for an awareness campaign on hysterectomy as it is a growing common procedure among women in developing countries. Case studies would give intrinsic details unavailable in reports. Better Sexual and reproductive health information should be availed on indicators of hysterectomy according to their prevalence in different age groups.
“Tipping The Balance” – An Evaluation of COVID-19 Parenting Resources Developed and Adapted for Child Protection During Global Emergency Responses
Authors: Sherr Lorraine , Mebrahtu Helen , Mwaba Kasonde , Nurova Nisso , Chetty Angelique Nicole , Swartz Alison , Cluver Lucie , Lachman Jamie
Published: November 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Vibration Attenuation Via Mean of Lower Limb Muscles Occurs During Whole Body Vibrations And Differs Across Frequencies And Postures
Authors: Rigoni Isotta , Bonci Tecla , Bifulco Paolo , Fratini Antonio
Published: November 2021

Lower limb muscles actively contribute to maintain body posture but also act to attenuate soft tissues oscillations that occur during everyday life. This elicited activity can be exploited as a mean of neuromuscular training or rehabilitation. In this study, Whole Body Vibrations (WBV) at different frequencies were delivered to healthy subjects while holding static postures to test the transient muscles mechanical responses. Twenty-five participants underwent WBV at 15, 20, 25 and 30 Hz while holding either a static ‘hack squat’ or ‘fore feet’ posture. Soft tissue accelerations and surface electromyography (sEMG) were recorded from Gastrocnemius Lateralis (GL), Soleus (SOL) and Tibialis Anterior (TA) muscles. Estimated displacement at muscle bellies revealed a resonant pattern, different across frequencies and postures (p<.001). Specifically, a peak in the displacement was measured after the onset of the stimulation, followed by a drop and a further plateau (only after few seconds after the peak) suggesting a delayed neuromuscular activation. Although oscillation dampening was correlated to an increased muscular activity, only specific WBV settings were promoting a significant muscle contraction. For example, SOL and GL induced activation was maximal for subject in forefeet and while exposed to higher frequencies (p<.05). The non-immediate response of leg muscles to a vibratory stimulation confirms the tonic nature of the vibration induced muscle contraction (the tonic vibration reflex) and its strong influence on postural tonic muscles (GL and SOL). This may have significant impact on training or rehabilitation protocols aiming towards postural and balance improvement or recovery.
Assessing the Contribution of Immigrants to Canada’s Nursing and Health Care Support Occupations: A Multi Scalar Analysis.
Authors: Harun Rafael , Margaret Walton-Roberts
Published: November 2021

Background: The World Health Organization adopted the Global Strategy on Human Resources for Health Workforce 2030 in May 2016. It sets specific milestones for improving health workforce planning in member countries, such as developing a health workforce registry by 2020 and ensuring workforce self-sufficiency by halving dependency on foreign-trained health professionals. Canada falls short in achieving these milestones due to the absence of such a registry and a poor understanding of immigrants in the health workforce, particularly nursing and healthcare support occupations. This paper provides a multiscale (Canada, Ontario, and Ontario’s Local Health Integration Networks) overview of immigrant participation in nursing and health care support occupations, discusses associated enumeration challenges, and the implications for health workforce planning focusing on immigrants.Methods: Descriptive data analysis was performed on Canadian Institute for Health Information dataset for 2010 to 2020, and 2016 Canadian Census and other relevant data sources. Results: The distribution of nurses in Canada, Ontario, and Ontario’s Local Health Integration Networks reveal a growth in Nurse Practitioners and Registered/Licensed Practical Nurses, and contraction in the share of Registered Nurses. Immigrant entry into the profession was primarily through the practical nurse cadre. Mid-sized communities registered the highest growth in the share of internationally educated nurses. Data also pointed towards the underutilization of immigrants in regulated nursing and health occupations. Conclusion: Immigrants comprise an important share of Canada’s nursing and health care support workforce. Immigrant pathways for entering nursing occupations are complex and difficult to accurately enumerate. This paper recommends the creation of an integrated health workforce dataset, including information about immigrant health workers, for both effective national workforce planning and for assessing Canada’s role in global health workforce distribution and utilization.
Food Cravings And Personality Traits In Pregnant Women: Is There An Association?
Authors: Prasmusinto Damar , Ikhsan Muhammad , Setiawan Martina Wiwie , Agustina Rina
Published: November 2021

Background: Food craving is a common phenomenon during pregnancy, but explanation on how this behaviour can happen remains unclear. This behaviour may be influenced by personality traits that have been known to linked with obesity and addiction affecting pregnancy outcome. Therefore, we identified the prevalence of food craving and evaluated its relationship with personality traits in pregnant women. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey involving 500 healthy pregnant women in urban area of Jakarta, Indonesia. Food cravings were assessed using a translated and validated Food Craving Inventory of Indonesian version. Personality traits were determined by using a Big Five Personality Trait Short Questionnaire that has been translated and validated for Indonesians. Association of personality traits and food cravings were analysed by binary logistic regression.Results: The mean age of pregnant women was 28.3 + 5.3 years. Food craving prevalence in in this population was 63.8%. The most common personality trait in this study was conscientiousness (65.5%). Neuroticism trait was significantly associated with food cravings with OR 9.146 [95% CI: 2.76-30.4; p-value <0.05]. Conclusion: Large proportion of Indonesian pregnant women had food craving living in urban area of Jakarta. A high neuroticism trait has a strong association with food cravings during pregnancy that indicates potential influence of personality traits to this problem. If personality traits influence the food choice in pregnant women, it may subsequently influence nutritional intake of the pregnant women and it may affect pregnancy outcome.
MHC Class Ia Empowers MHC Class Ib-restricted CD8+ T Cells with Strong Tumoricidal Capacity
Authors: Shi Yufang , Li Qing , Lin Liangyu , Shou Peishun , Keli Liu , Xue Yueqing , Hu Mingyuan , Ling Weifang , Huang Yin , Du Liming , Zheng Chunxing , Wang Xuefeng , Zheng Fanjun , Zhang Tao , Wang Yu , Shao Changshun , Wang Ying
Published: November 2021

The tumoricidal effects of CD8+T cells are well acknowledged, but how MHC Ib-restricted CD8+T (Ib-CD8+T) cells contribute to anti-tumor immunity remains obscure. Here, we show that infusion of MHC Ia+ cells to Kb-/-Db-/- mice induced the expansion of Ib-CD8+T cells in tumors and potently inhibited tumor progression. Such priming of Ib-CD8+T cells by MHC-Ia is not MHC haplotype restricted and MHC Ia tetramers alone can prime Ib-CD8+T cells for activation. The MHC Ia priming promoted Tbet expression in Ib-CD8+T cells and in absence of Tbet, such priming effect diminished. Importantly, these tumoricidal Ib-CD8+T cells are positive for CX3CR1, and exhibit rapid proliferation, high expression of cytotoxic factors, and prolonged persistence at tumor sites. Adoptive transfer of CX3CR1+Ib-CD8+T cells to wild type mice resulted in potent anti-tumor effects. Our findings unravel an uncharacterized function of MHC Ia molecules in immunoregulation and raise the possibility of using Ib-CD8+T cells in tumor immunotherapy.
Stability and transformation of metabolic syndrome in adolescents A prospective assessment in relation to the change of metabolic risk factors
Authors: Wu Pei-Wen , Lai Yi-Wen , Chin Yu-Ting , Tsai Sharon , Yang Tun-Min , Lin Wei-Ting , Lee Chun-Ying , Tsai Wei-Chung , Huang Hsiao-Ling , Seal David W. , Lee Chien-Hung
Published: November 2021

Background

Underlying pathophysiological mechanisms drive excessive clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors, causing metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, MetS status may transform as adolescents transition to young adulthood. This study evaluated the latent clustering structure and its stability for MetS during adolescence and investigated the determinants for MetS transformation over 2 years of follow-up.
Methods

A community-based representative adolescent cohort (n=1516) was evaluated for MetS using four diagnostic criteria and followed for 2.2 years to identify new-onset MetS. Factor analysis and polytomous logistic regression were separately applied to investigate the latent clustering structure for MetS and the relationship between changes in metabolic risk factors and transformations in MetS status.
Results

The clustering pattern of cardiometabolic parameters was comparable at baseline and follow-up surveys; both comprised a fat‒blood pressure‒glucose three-factor structure (total variance explained: 68.8% and 69.7%, respectively). Among adolescents who were MetS-negative at baseline, 3.2%‒4.4% had incident MetS after 2 years. Among adolescents who were MetS-positive at baseline, 52.0%‒61.9% experienced MetS remission, and 38.1%‒48.0% experienced MetS persistence. Increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) was associated with a higher risk of MetS incidence, and decreased SBP, triglycerides, and glucose levels were associated with MetS remission. Compared with adolescents with a normal metabolic status at baseline, those having an initial abnormal status in the five MetS components all had greater risks for persistent metabolic abnormality 2 years later, with abdominal obesity and increased triglycerides rendering a 15.0- and 5.7-fold risk, respectively.
Conclusions

The structure of cardiometabolic parameter clustering for MetS is stable during adolescence. Changes in metabolic risk factors affect typological transformation of adolescent MetS. Abnormal MetS components have a high probability of persisting. Early identification of each abnormal component and attendant intervention are vital in adolescents to minimize the future risk of cardiometabolic disorders.
Use of The WISN Method to Assess the Health Workforce Requirements for the High-volume Clinical Biochemical Laboratories
Authors: Stankovic Sanja , Milicevic Milena Santric
Published: November 2021

Background: The clinical laboratory services, as an essential part of health care, require appropriate staff capacity to assure satisfaction and improve outcomes for both patients and clinical staff. This study aimed to apply the Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) method for estimating required laboratory staff requirements for the high-volume clinical biochemical laboratories. Methods: In 2019, we applied the WISN method in all 13 laboratories within the Center for Medical Biochemistry of the University Clinical Centre of Serbia (CMB UCCS). A review of annual routinely collected statistics, laboratory processes observations, and structured interviews with lab staff helped identify their health service and additional activities and duration of these activities. The study outcomes were WISN based staff requirements, WISN ratio and difference, and a recommendation on the new staffing standards for two priority laboratory workers (medical biochemists and medical laboratory technicians).Results: Medical biochemists' and laboratory technicians' annual available working time in 2019 was 1508 and 1347 working hours, respectively, for the workload of 1,848,889 samples. In general, the staff has four health service, eight support, and 15 additional individual activities. Health service activities per sample can take from 1.2 to 12.6 min. Medical biochemists and medical laboratory technicians spend almost 70% and more than 80% of their available working time, undertaking health service activities. The WISN method revealed laboratory workforce shortages in the CMB (i.e., current 40 medical biochemists and 180 medical laboratory technicians as opposed to required 48 medical biochemists and 206 medical laboratory technicians). Workforce maldistribution regarding the laboratory workload contributes to a moderate-high workload pressure of medical biochemists in five and medical laboratory technicians in nine organizational units.Conclusions: The WISN method showed mainly a laboratory workforce shortages and workload pressure in the CMB UCCS. WISN is a simple, easy-to-use method that can help decision-makers and policymakers prioritize the recruitment and equitable allocation of laboratory workers, optimize their utilization, and develop normative guidelines in the field of clinical laboratory diagnostics. WISN estimates require periodic reviews.
KRT17 Facilitates Proliferation, Migration and Invasion in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Regulating mTOR/S6K1 pathway
Authors: Liu Lei , Shao Mengqi , Wang Youyu , Li Gang , Xie Shenglong , Jia Kegang , Feng Gang
Published: November 2021

BackgroundEsophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies worldwide which originates from the malignant transformation of esophageal epithelial cells. Dysregulated expression of Keratin17 (KRT17) has been claimed in a variety of malignancies, while its role in ESCC remains unclear. Therefore, our study aimed to explore the potential function and underlying molecular mechanism of KRT17 in ESCC.MethodsData-independent acquisition-mass spectrometry (DIA-MS) workflow was used to analysis KRT17 expression between ESCC and adjacent non-cancerous esophageal tissues. The online database gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) was used to further determine the differential expression of KRT17 in tissues. The function of KRT17 in ESCC was tested on two human esophageal cancer cell lines (EC9706 and ECA109). Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to inhibit KRT17 expression. Cell proliferation was examined by cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) reagent, colony formation assay, cell cycle distribution analysis and apoptosis. Cell migration was examined by transwell and wound healing assay. Cell invasion was also examined by transwell assay. Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to evaluate protein and mRNA levels, respectively.ResultsKRT17 expression was higher in cancer tissues compared with normal tissues. Transfected with siKRT17 attenuated protein and mRNA levels of KRT17, inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion, and decreased mTOR/S6K1 phosphorylation levels in EC9706 and ECA109.ConclusionKRT17 facilitates proliferation, migration and invasion in ESCC cells, and these cell viability functions were mediated by mTOR/S6K1 pathway.
Technoeconomic Evaluation of Recent Process Improvements in Production of Sugar and High-Value Lignin Co-Products via Two-Stage Cu-Catalyzed Alkaline-Oxidative Pretreatment
Authors: Yuan Zhaoyang , Bals Bryan D. , Hegg Eric L. , Hodge David B.
Published: November 2021

Background

A lignocellulose-to-biofuel biorefinery process that enables multiple product streams is recognized as a promising strategy to improve the economics of this biorefinery and to accelerate technology commercialization. We recently identified an innovative pretreatment technology that enables of the production of sugars at high yields while simultaneously generating a high-quality lignin stream that has been demonstrated as both a promising renewable polyol replacement for polyurethane applications and is highly susceptible to depolymerization into monomers. This technology comprises a two-stage pretreatment approach that includes an alkaline pre-extraction followed by a metal-catalyzed alkaline-oxidative pretreatment. Our recent work demonstrated that H2O2 and O2 act synergistically as co-oxidants during the alkaline-oxidative pretreatment and could significantly reduce the pretreatment chemical input while maintaining high sugar yields, high lignin yields, and improvements in lignin usage.
Results

This study considers the economic impact of these advances and provides strategies that could lead to additional economic improvements for future commercialization. The results of the technoeconomic analysis (TEA) demonstrated that adding O2 as a co-oxidant at 50 psig for the alkaline-oxidative pretreatment and reducing the raw material input reduced the minimum fuel selling price from $1.08/L to $0.85/L, assuming recoverable lignin is used as a polyol replacement. If additional lignin can be recovered and sold as more valuable monomers, the minimum fuel selling price (MFSP) can be further reduced to $0.73/L.
Conclusions

The present work demonstrated that high sugar and lignin yields combined with low raw material inputs and increasing the value of lignin could greatly increase the economic viability of a poplar-based biorefinery. Continued research on integrating sugar production with lignin valorization is thus warranted to confirm this economic potential as the technology matures.
Diel Activity Patterns of Two Distinct Populations of Aedes Aegypti in Miami, FL and Brownsville, TX
Authors: Mutebi John-Paul , Wilke André Barretto Bruno , Ostrum Erik , Vasquez Chalmers , Cardenas Gabriel , Carvajal Augusto , Moreno Maday , Petrie William D. , Rodriguez Arturo , Presas Henry , Rodriguez Jesus , Barnes Fred , Hamer Gabriel L. , Juarez Jose , Vitek Christopher J. , Beier John C.
Published: November 2021

The diel biting activity of Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (L) populations was extensively investigated in the early 1900s to gain more information on the biology of Ae. aegypti, and this information was used to devise effective approaches to controlling populations of this species and protect the human population from widespread arbovirus outbreaks. However, few contemporary studies are available regarding the diel activity patterns of Ae. aegypti. To assess the diel activity patterns of Ae. aegypti in southern Florida and Texas, we conducted 96-hour uninterrupted mosquito collections once each month from May through November 2019 in Miami, Florida, and Brownsville, Texas, using BG-Sentinel 2 Traps. The overall diel activity pattern in both cities was bimodal with morning and evening peak activity between 7:00 and 8:00 and between 19:00 and 20:00. There were significant daily, monthly, seasonal, and site-specific differences in activity patterns, but these differences did not affect the overall peak activity times. These differences suggest daily, monthly, seasonal, and site-specific variations in human exposure to Ae. aegypti. Our observations can be used in planning and executing Ae. aegypti vector control activities in southern Florida and Texas, especially those targeting the adult mosquito populations.
Medical Factors Associated With Fracture Nonunion: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Rongrong , Wang Dawei , Chen Zheng , Ma Jingyu , Wang Lili , Wang Yong , Bai Xiaohui
Published: November 2021

Background: Nonunion is one of the medical conditions challenging the trauma specialists. Timely identification of people at high risk of nonunion is important to improve the prognosis of patients.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the demographic and laboratory hematological characteristics of 338 patients with either clavicle or femoral fractures treated with ORIF in Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University from January 2010 to May 2019. Descriptive statistics, univariate regression analysis, and multivariate regression analysis were conducted to confirm the independent factors associated with nonunion after ORIF.Results: The overall nonunion rate among the patients investigated in this study was ~6.8%, while the nonunion rates were 5.6% and 10.3% in clavicle and the femur fractures, respectively. Results of the univariate logistic regression analysis showed that the serum fibrinogen concentration (FIB), the hemoglobin count (HGB), the lymphocyte absolute value (LYMPH), the coefficient of variation of red blood cell distribution width (RDW-CV), the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, and the mechanism of injury were related to the occurrence of nonunion (p < 0.05). Results of the multivariate regression analysis showed that FIB (OR = 1.64, 95% CI of 1.14 to 2.36, p < 0.01), LYMPH (OR = 0.34, 95% CI of 0.15 to 0.77, p < 0.01), ASA classification (OR = 3.52, 95% CI of 1.20 to 10.31, p = 0.02), and injury mechanism (OR=3.13, 95% CI of 1.20 to 8.21, p = 0.02) were independently associated with the occurrence of nonunion.Conclusions: Our study has revealed that FIB, LYMPH, ASA classification, and injury mechanism are independently related to the occurrence of nonunion after ORIF, providing important guidance for clinicians to identify patients with high risk of nonunion in time, ultimately improving the prognosis and quality of life of patients.
Development and Feasibility of a Group, Household Level Intervention To Improve Preconception Health in Rural Nepal.
Authors: Diamond-Smith Nadia G , Mitchell Ashley , Cornell Alia , Dahal Minakshi , Gopalakrishnan Lakshmi , Johnson Mallory , Weiser Sheri , Puri Mahesh
Published: November 2021

Background: In a setting such as Nepal with malnutrition and persistent poor maternal and infant health outcomes, developing interventions to improve the nutrition of preconception and pregnant women is essential. Aside from factors related to access and knowledge about diverse and adequate diets, inequitable gender norms and women’s low status and autonomy also feed into a lack of emphasis on women’s nutrition.Methods: In this paper we describe the three phases of the design of an intervention for newly married women, their husbands, and mothers-in-law in rural Nepal. We first discuss findings from a mixed methods formative phase, and how that fed into the design of the intervention itself, in close partnership with community members. We the describe the intervention, and findings from a mixed methods feasibility and acceptability pilot among 90 participants.Results: Our formative work highlighted not just lack of awareness about nutrition, but also how factors such as women eating last, and limited mobility, played into poor diets. Low lack of communication and household and community inequitable gender norms were also important factors. Thus we designed Sumadhur, an intervention that brought groups of households (newly married wife, husband, and mother-in-law) together weekly for 4 months to strengthen relationships and gain knowledge through interactive content. We found Sumadhur to be highly feasible and acceptable by all respondents, with most (83%) attending 80% of sessions or more, the majority (73%) of participants reported “no difficulties” in attending sessions, and 99% reporting that they would like it to continue. Pre/post surveys showed a decrease in the proportion of women of women eating last and increase in knowledge about nutrition in preconception and pregnant. Qualitative interviews suggested that respondents felt it made large impacts on their lives, in terms of strengthening relationships and trust, understanding each other, and changing behaviors.Conclusions: We show how a designing an intervention in close partnership with the target recipients and local stakeholders can lead to an intervention that is able to target complicated and culturally held practices and beliefs, positively benefit health and wellbeing, and that is very well received.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04383847, registered 05/12/2020https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/results/NCT04383847?view=results
Activation of the GTPase ARF6 regulates Invasion of Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by Stimulating MMP14 Activity
Authors: Fiola-Masson Emilie , Artigalas Julie , Campbell Shirley , Claing Audrey
Published: November 2021

Hormones and growth factors stimulate vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) invasive capacities during the progression of atherosclerosis. The GTPase ARF6 is an important regulator of migration and proliferation of various cell types, but whether this small G protein can be activated by a variety of stimuli to promote invasion of VSMC remains unknown. Here, we aimed to define whether Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), a mitogenic stimulant of vascular tissues, and Angiotensin II (Ang II), a potent vasoactive peptide, can result in the activation of ARF6 in a human model of aortic SMC (HASMC). We report that these two stimuli can promote loading of GTP on this ARF isoform. Knockdown of ARF6 reduced the ability of both PDGF and Ang II to promote invasion suggesting that this GTPase regulates key molecular mechanisms mediating degradation of the extracellular matrix and migration. We report that PDGF-BB-mediated stimulation of ARF6 results in the activation of the MAPK/ERK1/2, PI3K/AKT and PAK pathways essential for invasion of HASMC. However, Ang II-mediated stimulation of ARF6 only promotes activation of the MAPK/ERK1/2 and PAK pathways. These ARF6-mediated signaling cascades leads to activation of MMP14, which in turns controls the activity of MMP2 to degrade the extracellular matrix. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that the GTPase ARF6 acts as a molecular switch to regulate specific signaling pathways that coordinate the process of invasion.
Sustainable Microwave Assisted Synthesis And Anti-Proliferative Response of Starch-Based CNT-IO and CNT-ZO Nanocomposites: A Comparative Study
Authors: Reddy G. Deepthi , Haseena M. , Noorjahan M. , Ratnamala A. , Naidu Chandra Babu
Published: November 2021

Starch based Carbon nanotubes-iron oxide (CNT-IO) and Carbon Nanotubes-Zirconium oxide (CNT-ZO) Nanocomposites (NCs) were fabricated by using facile microwave irradiation technique from different plant-based starch sources namely Tapioca sago (TS), Hordeum vulgare (HV) and Eleusina coracona (EC) and metal oxide precursor solutions. These NCs were studied using different characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, Raman spectroscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. The Structural morphology of Starch based CNT-IO and CNT-ZO NCs observed like a rolled tubular structures and exhibiting strong blue luminescence with the charge transfer between CNT and Metal oxide. We have evaluated the anti-proliferative and anti-oxidant activity of starch-based CNT-IO and CNT-ZO NCs using MCF-7 cell line compared with the standard drug camptothecin and DPPH assay. Among the various NCs studied antiproliferative activity, CNT-IO and CNT-ZO obtained from starch source Eleusina coracona was effective with IC 50 values of 12.3 and 18.2 µg/mL respectively. Moreover, the enhanced radical scavenging activity has also been observed for these NCs.
The potential diagnostic use of clinical characteristics and mitochondrial DNA copy numbers of peripheral blood and ovarian tissue in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patient
Authors: Song Yi , Deng Yan , Chung Pui Wah Jacqueline , Li Tin Chiu , Wang Chi Chiu , Li Hu , Yang Tao , Sui Yi , TANG Tao
Published: November 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, heterogeneous syndrome of uncertain etiology characterized by hyperandrogenemia, hyperinsulinemia, chronic anovulation, and polycystic ovaries. Recent studies showed that the abnormalities of mitochondrial metabolism are related to PCOS. We hypothesized that mtDNA copy number is an important marker that can reflect mitochondrial function. In this study, 135 PCOS patients and 57 age-matched healthy participants were studied. Mitochondrial DNA copy number in peripheral blood and PCOS ovarian tissues, and some clinical parameters were assessed. From the single factor analysis, we can find some clinical parameters are different between PCOS and healthy women and the mitochondrial DNA copy numbers in peripheral blood in PCOS women were significantly lower than in healthy women. We also found that there was no correlation between mtDNA copy numbers in peripheral blood and in ovarian tissue. After multiple logistic regressions, we identified the occurrence of PCOS was significantly positively correlated with BMI and pulse, and negatively correlated with mitochondrial DNA copy numbers in peripheral blood. We also found the decreased mtDNA copy numbers in PCOS patients are independent of these clinical parameters. We constructed the ROC curve based on these risk factors and found if they have potential to predict the patient’s outcome. In conclusion, the changes in mtDNA copy number and some clinical parameters may provide new ideas for PCOS diagnosis. More studies are necessary for further validation of their use in PCOS diagnosis.
WITHDRAWN: Conceptual Research and Verification of a Single-stage High-precision Pointing Technology
Authors: Du Yong-Gang , Wang Yu-Lin , Wang Xue-song , Yan Chun-Jie
Published: November 2021

High-precision pointing plays a critical role in optical equipment and laser communication systems. In order to reach the level of sub mrad for pointing accuracy, a two-stage pointing technology is currently widely used. However, this results in significant technical complexity. Therefore, the realization of a high-precision pointing technology under single-stage control is highly challenging. In this study, we find that erase the floating errors of the middle link of the mechanism can effectively improve the pointing accuracy. Based on this assumption, we propose the concept of a single-stage high-precision pointing technology and also establish its mathematical model of drive and an error elimination algorithm. Using modern computer technology, we study the working principle of this single-stage high-precision pointing technology in detail. We also build a prototype and test its performance. The test results show that the uniaxial error of the prototype is no greater than 0.004°, while its spatial synthetic error is no greater than 0.006° and the stability time is less than 100 ms. The test results show that this concept is completely feasible. It is also found that the accuracy of the pointing system can further be improved when the vibration is suppressed, which also represents an important concept for further research. We anticipate that an ultra-high-precision pointing system with single-stage control will be established in the near future.
Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of Primary Malignant Melanoma of Esophagus: A Single Center Experience Running head: Outcomes of primary esophageal melanoma
Authors: Kim Tae-Se , Min Byung-Hoon , Min Yang Won , Lee Hyuk , Rhee Poong-Lyul , Kim Jae J. , Lee Jun Haeng
Published: November 2021

BackgroundPrimary malignant melanoma of esophagus (PMME) is an extremely rare disease with poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients with PMME. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 17 patients diagnosed with PMME in Samsung Medical Center between 2000 and 2020. Clinical characteristics and survival outcomes were analyzed. Results15 patients (88.2%) were male and the most common presenting symptom was dysphagia (9/17, 52.9%). On endoscopy, tumors were mass-forming in 15 patients (88.2%) and diffusely infiltrative in two patients (11.8%). Lesions were melanotic in 13 patients (76.5%) and amelanotic in four patients (23.5%). The most common anatomic location of tumor was lower esophagus (11/17, 64.7%). The disease was metastatic at the time of diagnosis in four patients (23.5%). As for treatment, 10 patients (58.8%) underwent surgery. In all 17 patients, the median overall survival was 10 months. In surgically treated patients, all patients experienced recurrence and the median disease-free survival was 4 months. There was no statistical difference in overall survival between patients with or without surgery. Patients with diffusely infiltrative tumor morphology had better overall survival compared to those with mass-forming tumor morphology (P = 0.048). Two patients who received immunotherapy as the first-line treatment without surgery showed overall survival of 34 and 18 months, respectively. ConclusionsAs radical resection for patients with PMME does not guarantee favorable treatment outcomes, novel treatment strategy is required. Further large-scale studies are warranted to determine the efficacy of immunotherapy for patients with PMME.
Optimization of CNC CO2 Laser Cutting Process Parameters on Acrylic Cutting Using Taguchi Grey Relational Analysis and Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Oktatian Eldinar , Rosyidi Cucuk Nur , Pujiyanto Eko
Published: November 2021

Polymethylmethacrylate (acrylic) has some important characteristics such as light weight, impact-resistant, and high durability. In a manufacturing industry, acrylic has been widely used as the basic material for billboard products, decorative lights, canopies, and room decorations. This research aims at determining the optimal process parameters of the laser cutting process. The experiment was conducted using multi-response Taguchi method involving four responses, namely processing time, dimensional accuracy, surface roughness, and carbon emissions. The Taguchi method is used to determine the Signal to Noise (SNR) for each response. The Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) method is performed by calculating the normalized weight of SNR for each response to determine the optimal setting level of each factor applied in the experiment. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied to determine the mathematical model based on the results of the experiment to allow the multi-objective optimization and determine the exact value of optimal process parameters which simultaneously compromise all the responses. Based on the results of the experiment, the optimal process parameters are 65% of the laser power, 4 mm/s of the cutting speed, and 4 mm of nozzle distance. Whereas from the results multi-objective optimization, the optimal process parameters are 75% of laser power, 5.9 mm/s of cutting speed, and 3mm of nozzle distance.
Host--Parasitoid Dynamics and Climate-Driven Range Shifts
Authors: Marcinko Kelsey
Published: November 2021

Climate change has created new and evolving environmental conditions, impacting all species, including hosts and parasitoids. I therefore present integrodifference equation (IDE) models of host--parasitoid systems to model population dynamics in the context of climate-driven shifts in habitats. I describe and analyze two IDE models of host--parasitoid systems to determine criteria for coexistence of the host and parasitoid. Specifically, I determine the critical habitat speed, beyond which the parasitoid cannot survive. By comparing the results from two IDE models, I investigate the impacts of assumptions that reduce the system to a single-species model. I also compare critical speeds predicted by a spatially-implicit difference-equation model with critical speeds determined from numerical simulations of the IDE system. The spatially-implicit model uses approximations for the dominant eigenvalue of an integral operator. The classic methods to approximate the dominant eigenvalue for IDE systems do not perform well for asymmetric kernels, including those that are present in shifting-habitat IDE models. Therefore, I compare several methods for approximating dominant eigenvalues and ultimately conclude that geometric symmetrization and iterated geometric symmetrization give the best estimates of the parasitoid critical speed.