bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distortions and the Structure of the World Economy
Authors: Caliendo Lorenzo , Parro Fernando , Tsyvinski Aleh
Published: September 2022

We model the world economy as one system of endogenous input-output relationships subject to frictions and study how the world’s input-output structure and world’s GDP change due to changes in frictions. We derive a sufficient statistic to identify frictions from the observed world input-output matrix, which we fully match for the year 2011. We show how changes in internal frictions impact the whole structure of the world’s economy and that they have a much larger effect on world’s GDP than external frictions. We also use our approach to study the role of internal frictions during the Great Recession of 2007–2009. (JEL D57, E16, E23, E32, F41, G01)
Laboratory protocol for the digital multiplexed gene expression analysis of nasopharyngeal swab samples using the NanoString nCounter system
Authors: García Aranda Marilina , López-Rodríguez Inmaculada , García-Gutiérrez Susana , Padilla-Ruiz Maria , de Luque Vanessa , Hortas Maria Luisa , Diaz Tatiana , Álvarez Martina , Barragan-Mallofret Isabel , Redondo Maximino ,   Research Network on Health Services in Chronic Diseases (Red de Investigación en Servicios Sanitarios y Enfermedades Crónicas, REDISSEC)
Published: September 2022

This paper describes a laboratory protocol to perform the NanoString nCounter Gene Expression Assay from nasopharyngeal swab samples. 

It is urgently necessary to identify factors related to severe symptoms of respiratory infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, in order to assess the possibility of establishing preventive or preliminary therapeutic measures and to plan the services to be provided on hospital admission. At present, the samples recommended for microbiological diagnosis are those taken from the upper and/or the lower respiratory tract. 

The NanoString nCounter Gene Expression Assay is a method based on the direct digital detection of mRNA molecules by means of target-specific, colour-coded probe pairs, without the need for mRNA conversion to cDNA by reverse transcription or the amplification of the resulting cDNA by PCR. This platform includes advanced analysis tools that reduce the need for bioinformatics support and also offers reliable sensitivity, reproducibility, technical robustness and utility for clinical application, even in RNA samples of low RNA quality or concentration, such as paraffin-embedded samples. Although the protocols for the analysis of blood or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples are provided by the manufacturer, no corresponding protocol for the analysis of nasopharyngeal swab samples has yet been established. Therefore, the approach we describe could be adopted to determine the expression of target genes in samples obtained from nasopharyngeal swabs using the nCOUNTER technology.
Case Report: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma has metastasis to the orbit, consequences in anaemia: A paediatric unusual case of Bangladesh.
Authors: Amin Mohammad Ashraful , Nahin Sabrina , Bonna Atia Sharmin , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: September 2022

Background: Although nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has a significant risk of spreading to other parts of the body early, orbital and ocular surrounding tissues metastases are uncommon.

Case Report: This paper described a 16-year-old patient diagnosed with a locally advanced NPC and ocular metastasis and was treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment. One of the rare early presentations is orbital metastases with vision problems.

Discussion: Orbital metastases in children are considerably more uncommon. Cachexia and malnutrition are prevalent problems in people with cancer, affecting life and longevity. Anaemia is a severe issue for nasopharyngeal cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Conclusion: Orbital metastases frequently arise in advanced stages of the disease and in the scenario of many metastases the persistence of therapy and the nasopharyngeal cancer patient's standard of living is linked to the occurrence of anaemia.
A general hypothesis of multistable systems in pathophysiology
Authors: Burlando Bruno
Published: September 2022

Despite intensive investigations numerous diseases remain etiologically puzzling and recalcitrant to treatments. A hypothesis is proposed here assuming that these difficulties are due to an unsuitable approach to the mechanisms of life, which is subjugated by an apparent complexity and fails to grasp the uniformity that lays behind. The stability of metabolism, despite the enormous complex of chemical reactions, suggests that reciprocal control is a prerequisite of life. Negative feedback loops have been known for a long time to maintain homeostasis, while more recently, different life processes involved in transitions or changes have been modeled by positive loops giving rise to bistable switches, also including various diseases. The present hypothesis makes a generalization, by assuming that any functional element of a biological system is involved in a positive or a negative feedback loop. Consequently, the hypothesis holds that the starting mechanism of any disease that affects a healthy human can be conceptually reduced to a bistable or multistationary loop system, thus providing a unifying model leading to the discovery of critical therapeutic targets.
Putting youth at the centre: co-design of a community-based intervention to improve HIV outcomes among youth in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mackworth-Young Constance RS. , Dringus Stefanie , Dauya Ethel , Dziva Chikwari Chido , Mavodza Constancia , Tembo Mandikudza , Doyle Aoife , McHugh Grace , Simms Victoria , Wedner-Ross Maurice , Apollo Tsitsi , Mugurungi Owen , Ferrand Rashida A. , Bernays Sarah
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Background

Youth have disproportionately poor HIV outcomes. We aimed to co-design a community-based intervention with youth to improve HIV outcomes among 16-24 year-olds, to be trialled in Zimbabwe.

Methods

We conducted 90 in-depth interviews with youth, family members, community gatekeepers and healthcare providers to understand the barriers to uptake of existing HIV services. The interviews informed an outline intervention, which was refined through two participatory workshops with youth, and subsequent pilot-testing.

Results

Participants considered existing services inaccessible and unappealing:  health facilities were perceived to be for ‘sick people’, centred around HIV and served by judgemental providers. Proposed features of an intervention to overcome these barriers included: i) delivery in a youth-only community space; ii) integration of HIV services with broader health services; iii) non-judgemental skilled healthcare providers; iv) entertainment to encourage attendance; and v) tailored timings and outreach. The intervention framework stands on three core pillars, based on optimising access (community-based youth-friendly settings); uptake and acceptability (service branding, confidentiality, and social activities); and content and quality (integrated HIV care cascade, high quality products, and trained providers).

Conclusions

Ongoing meaningful youth engagement is critical to designing HIV interventions if access, uptake, and coverage is to be achieved.
Effectiveness of seasonal malaria chemoprevention administered in a mass campaign in the Kedougou region of Senegal in 2016: a case-control study
Authors: Manga Isaac Akhenaton , Tairou Fassiatou , Seck Amadou , Kouevidjin Ekoue , Sylla Khadime , Sow Doudou , Gueye Alioune Babara , Ba Mady , Ndiaye Magatte , Tine Roger Clément Kouly , Gaye Omar , Faye Babacar , Ndiaye Jean Louis Abdourahim
Published: September 2022

Background: Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine plus amodiaquine (SPAQ) is a malaria prevention strategy recommended since 2012 by the World Health Organization (WHO) for children under 5 years. In Senegal, the scaling up of SMC started in 2013 in the south-eastern regions of the country with an extension of the target to 10 years old children. The scaling up of SMC requires regular evaluation of the strategy as recommended by the WHO. This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of SMC.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted in some villages of the health districts of Saraya and Kedougou in the Kedougou region from July to December 2016. A case was a sick child, aged 3 months to 10 years, seen in consultation and with a positive malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT). The control was a child of the same age group with a negative RDT and living in the same compound as the case or in a neighbouring compound. Each case was matched with two controls. Exposure to SMC was assessed by interviewing the mothers/caretakers and by checking the SMC administration card.

Results: Overall, 492 children, including 164 cases and 328 controls, were recruited in our study. Their mean ages were 5.32 (+/- 2.15) and 4.44 (+/-2.25) years for cases and controls, respectively. The number of boys was higher in both cases (55.49%; CI 95%=47.54-63.24%) and controls (51,22%; CI 95%=45.83-56.58%). Net ownership was 85.80% among cases and 90.85% among controls (p=0,053). The proportion of controls who received SMC was higher than that of cases (98.17% vs 85.98% and p=1.10-7). The protective effectiveness of SMC was 89% (OR= 0.12 (CI 95%=0.04-0.28)).

Conclusions: SMC is an effective strategy in the control of malaria in children. Case-control studies are a good approach for monitoring the efficacy of drugs administered during SMC.
Connection of total electron content disturbances with AE index of geomagnetic activity during geomagnetic storm in March 2015
Authors: Belyuchenko Kupriyan , Klimenko Maksim , Klimenko Vladimir , Ratovsky Konstantin
Published: September 2022

Ionospheric response to the March 17, 2015 geomagnetic storm has been investigated using simulations of the Global Self-consistent Model of the Thermosphere, Ionosphere, Protonosphere (GSM TIP) [Dmitriev et al., 2017; Klimenko et al., 2018]. GSM TIP demonstrates results that do not contradict experimental data. This paper deals with GSM TIP simulated disturbances in the Total Electron Content (TEC) at different longitudes and zonal averages on March 17–23, 2015. At all longitudes, we can observe the existence of a band of TEC positive disturbances, located over the geomagnetic equator, and the formation of an after-storm ionospheric effect that appeared as positive TEC disturbances at midlatitude 3–5 days after the geomagnetic storm main phase. We have analyzed the dependence of disturbances of the thermosphere-ionosphere system (total electron content, n(N2), n(O), zonal electric field, meridional component of the thermospheric wind at a height of 300 km, and electron temperature at a height of 1000 km), calculated by GSM TIP from variations in the geomagnetic activity index AE. The analysis is based on Pearson’s correlation coefficients, presented as maps of the dependence of the correlation coefficient on UT and latitude for selected longitudes and for zonal averaged values. The results suggest that at high latitudes of the Northern and Southern hemispheres the correlation coefficient of TEC disturbances and AE variations is close to 1 at all longitudes in the period from 12 UT to 23 UT. From 9 UT to 12 UT, the minimum value of the correlation coefficient is observed at all latitudes and longitudes. The time intervals of the correlation values are associated with the features of a particular geomagnetic storm, for which, for example, the interval from 12 UT to 23 UT on March 17, 2015 corresponds to the geomagnetic storm main phase. We discuss possible mechanisms for the formation of such a relationship between simulated TEC disturbances and the AE index.
Słowiańska frazeologia gwarowa
Authors: Rak Maciej , Sikora Kazimierz
Published: September 2022

Publikacja niniejszego tomu, prócz możliwości oceny rzeczywistego, wcale już niemałego dorobku frazeologii gwarowej i konfrontacji różnych stanowisk badawczych w tej dziedzinie, otwiera także pole do refleksji ogólniejszej natury. Niewątpliwie najważniejszą kwestią jest pilna potrzeba gromadzenia, należytego udokumentowania i opisania zasobu gwarowych frazeologizmów i paremii. Z dzisiejszego punktu widzenia stanowią one najcenniejszy składnik językowego obrazu świata wsi, zachowujący w sobie duchowe jądro tradycyjnej kultury agrarnej i jej aksjosfery. Jest to jednocześnie obraz coraz mniej wyrazisty i coraz trudniejszy do interpretacji, głównie za sprawą ogólnie znanych poważnych zmian kulturowo-cywilizacyjnych na wsi. Prace zamieszczone w tomie przekonują, że mimo trudności można osiągnąć interesujące wyniki naukowe.
A Polyhedral Study on Fuel-Constrained Unit Commitment
Authors: Pan Kai , Zhao Ming , Li Chung-Lun , Qiu Feng
Published: September 2022

The electricity production of a thermal generator is often constrained by the available fuel supply. These fuel constraints impose a maximum bound on the energy output over multiple time periods. Fuel constraints are increasingly important in electricity markets because of two main reasons. First, as more natural gas-fired generators join the deregulated market, there is often competition for natural gas supply from other sectors (e.g., residential and manufacturing heating). Second, as more environmental and emission regulations are being placed on fossil fuel-fired generators, fuel supply is becoming more limited. However, there are few studies that consider the fuel constraints in the unit commitment problem from the perspective of computational analysis. To address the challenge faced by an independent power producer with a limited fuel supply, we study a fuel-constrained self-scheduling unit commitment (FSUC) problem where the production decisions are coupled across multiple time periods. We provide a complexity analysis of the FSUC problem and conduct a comprehensive polyhedral study by deriving strong valid inequalities. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed inequalities as cutting planes in solving various multistage stochastic FSUC problems.

History: Accepted by Pascal Van Hentenryck, Area Editor for Computational Modeling: Methods & Analysis.

Funding: K. Pan was supported in part by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong [Grant 15501920]. F. Qiu was supported in part by the U.S. Department of Energy Advanced Grid Modeling Program [Grant DE-OE0000875].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplementary Information [ https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2022.1235 ] or is available from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC ) at [ http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6896199 ].
Stability Representations of Many-to-One Matching Problems: An Integer Optimization Approach
Authors: Wiratchotisatian Pitchaya , Atef Yekta Hoda , Trapp Andrew C.
Published: September 2022

We consider integer optimization models for finding stable solutions to many-to-one, utility-weighted matching problems with incomplete preference lists and ties. Whereas traditional algorithmic approaches for the stable many-to-one matching problem, such as the deferred acceptance algorithm, offer efficient performance for the strict problem setting, adaptation to alternative settings often requires careful customization. Optimization-based approaches are free of the need to create customized algorithms for each unique context and can readily accommodate such extensions as (incomplete) preference lists with ties, alternative and nontraditional objective functions, and side constraints including those that ensure stable matching outcomes free of waste. We explore the flexibility of optimization-based approaches in several ways. First, we introduce four new constraint sets that prevent justified envy and a new system of constraints that prevents waste; taken together, they jointly ensure stable matching outcomes. Second, we create two algorithms to accelerate the generation of our proposed constraints. Third, we construct aggregate objective functions to reflect multiple hierarchical emphases by imposing a strict lexicographical order on the individual components. Fourth, we conduct comprehensive experiments to study the computational performance of our proposed optimization models and compare them with models from the extant literature under a variety of problem attributes. Our experiments reveal the circumstances under which each stability representation excels in terms of optimality criteria and computational efficiency on a variety of real and synthetic data sets. One such setting in which our proposed stability representations excel includes the important context of when sufficient seats exist for applicants, such as school choice problems and hospital residency matching.

History: Accepted by Pascal Van Hentenryck, Area Editor for Computational Modeling: Methods & Analysis.

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplementary Information [ https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2022.1237 ] or is available from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC ) at [ http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6892615 ].
A Sensitivity Analysis of the Price of Anarchy in Nonatomic Congestion Games
Authors: Wu Zijun , Möhring Rolf H.
Published: September 2022

The price of anarchy (PoA) is a standard measure to quantify the inefficiency of equilibria in nonatomic congestion games. Most publications have focused on worst-case bounds for the PoA. Only a few have analyzed the sensitivity of the PoA against changes of the demands or cost functions, although that is crucial for empirical computations of the PoA. We analyze the sensitivity of the PoA with respect to (w.r.t.) simultaneous changes of demands and cost functions. The key to this analysis is a metric for the distance between two games that defines a topological metric space consisting of all games with the same combinatorial structure. The PoA is then a locally pointwise Hölder continuous function of the demands and cost functions, and we analyze the Hölder exponent for different classes of cost functions. We also apply our approach to the convergence analysis of the PoA when the total demand tends to zero or infinity. Our results further develop the recent seminal work on the sensitivity of the PoA w.r.t. changes of only the demands under special conditions.

Funding: This work was supported by the Science Foundation of Anhui Science and Technology Department [Grant 1908085QF262]; Science Foundation of the Anhui Education Department [Grant KJ2019A0834]; National Science Foundation of China [Grants 61906062, 72271085]; Talent Foundation of Hefei University [Grant 1819RC29].
The Impacts of Algorithmic Work Assignment on Fairness Perceptions and Productivity: Evidence from Field Experiments
Authors: Bai Bing , Dai Hengchen , Zhang Dennis J. , Zhang Fuqiang , Hu Haoyuan
Published: September 2022

Problem definition: We study how algorithmic (versus human-based) task assignment processes change task recipients’ fairness perceptions and productivity. Academic/practical relevance: Since algorithms are widely adopted by businesses and often require human involvement, understanding how humans perceive algorithms is instrumental to the success of algorithm design in operations. Particularly, the growing concern that algorithms may reproduce inequality historically exhibited by humans calls for research about how people perceive the fairness of algorithmic decision making (relative to traditional human-based decision making) and, consequently, adjust their work behaviors. Methodology: In a 15-day-long field experiment with Alibaba Group in a warehouse where workers pick products following orders (or “pick lists”), we randomly assigned half of the workers to receive pick lists from a machine that ostensibly relied on an algorithm to distribute pick lists, and the other half to receive pick lists from a human distributor. Results: Despite that we used the same underlying rule to assign pick lists in both groups, workers perceive the algorithmic (versus human-based) assignment process as fairer by 0.94–1.02 standard deviations. This yields productivity benefits: receiving tasks from an algorithm (versus a human) increases workers’ picking efficiency by 15.56%–17.86%. These findings persist beyond the first day when workers were involved in the experiment, suggesting that our results are not limited to the initial phrase when workers might find algorithmic assignment novel. We replicate the main results in another field experiment involving a nonoverlapping sample of warehouse workers. We also show via online experiments that people in the United States also view algorithmic task assignment as fairer than human-based task assignment. Managerial implications: We demonstrate that algorithms can have broader impacts beyond offering greater efficiency and accuracy than humans: introducing algorithmic assignment processes may enhance fairness perceptions and productivity. This insight can be utilized by managers and algorithm designers to better design and implement algorithm-based decision making in operations.

Supplemental Material: The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2022.1120 .
The Effects of a Suicide Prevention Program Applied on Psychodrama among Female High School Students
Authors: Park Gyeong Ran , Kim Hee Sook
Published: September 2022

Purpose: The effects of a prevention program applied on psychodrama for female high school students were examined.Methods: Thirty-seven students at a female high school in D and G city participated. The study was conducted from September 8 to November 21, 2014. To test the effects of the program, participants were divided into two groups of 17 students experimental group and 20 students control group. A nonequivalent control group, non- synchronized pre-posttest quasi-experimental research design was used. The tools included a self-efficacy scale, an anger scale, and a suicide ideation scale. x 2 test, t-test, and ANCOVA were used to analyze the data with the SPSS/WIN 23.0 program.Results: Significant differences between the two groups were found in the anger scale (F=12.43, p=001), self-efficacy (F=4.23, p=.048), and a suicide ideation (F=29.98, p<.001).Conclusion: Results suggest that the suicide prevention program applied on psychodrama is an effective nursing intervention, for improving self-efficacy as well as decreasing anger and suicide ideation among female high school students.
Family Members’ Caring Experiences of Schizophrenia Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Deepened Disconnection Due to Distancing
Authors: Shin Soyoung , Joung Jaewon
Published: September 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore family members’ caring experiences of schizophrenia patients during COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: Seventeen family caregivers participated in this study. Focus group and individual interviews were conducted from February to March 2022. Content analysis was applied for the data analysis.Results: Three categories were derived. First, healthcare aspects with three subcategories: increased difficulties in hospitalization process, complete separation of mental health inpatient, and difficulties in implementing quarantine guidelines. Second, rehabilitation aspects with three subcategories: broken daily lives, pity for lost recovery chance, a ruled out life, and nothing different from the pre-pandemic period. Finally, familial aspects with three subcategories: necessity of reorganizing medical system, necessity of national-led care system, and necessity of face-to-face programs.Conclusion: Family members’ of schizophrenia patients had various challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides evidence for mental health professionals to expand their perspectives of families of schizophrenia during possible infectious disease disasters in the future.
Strategies for Research Activation Related to Nursing Staffs in Psychiatric Hospitals: Focus Group Interviews
Authors: Kim Sunah , Kang Chaehyeon , Lee Wongyeong
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study applied in-depth research methods on the level of securing mental health nurses in mental medical institutions targeting a group of experts in mental health nursing personnel, and sought paths toward revising enforcement regulations of the Mental Health Welfare Act in the future.Methods: Focus group interviews were conducted with experts experienced in conducting research on mental nursing staffing or policy development for nursing staffing.Results: Many experts in the field of psychiatric nursing must obtain additional accurate and valid support data to focus attention on the level of securing psychiatric nurses and discussing active efforts and short-and long-term strategies.Conclusion: It is important to prepare evidence for the quality level of psychiatric nursing, as well as to secure adequate manpower for psychiatric nurses. In the future, it is necessary to actively use these data for policies and research relative to psychiatric nurse workforce planning.
The Mediating Effects of Flexibility on the Relationship between Job Stress, Sleep Quality and Mental Well-being of Psychiatric Hospital Workers
Authors: Lee Subin , Woo Chung Hee
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study investigated mediating effects of flexibility in the relationship between job stress, sleep quality, and mental well-being of psychiatric hospital workers.Methods: Data were collected from 210 subjects recruited online February 25-March 24, 2022, and hierarchical regression analysis was conducted using the SPSS program 25.0 version.Results: Regarding mental well-being of psychiatric hospital workers, findings showed statistically significant positive correlations with flexibility (r=.62, p<.001) and sleep quality (r=.34, p<.001), and significant negative correlation with job stress (r=-.40, p<.001). Also, flexibility of psychiatric hospital workers showed partial mediating effect (Boot LLCI=-.64, Boot ULCI=-.13) on the relationship between job stress and mental well-being, and the complete mediating effect (Boot LLCI=-.11, Boot ULCI=.20) on the relationship between sleep quality and mental well-being.Conclusion: Since flexibility is a key factor in improving the mental well-being of psychiatric hospital workers, programs to promote flexibility are strongly recommended.
The Mediating Effects of Information and Communication Technology Use and Social Activity on the Relationship between Depression and Cognitive Function in Older Koreans
Authors: Lee Jee Young
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study determined the mediating effects of information and communication technology (ICT) use, as well as social activity, on the relationship between depression and cognitive function.Methods: Of the original data of the 2020 National survey of older Koreans, conducted on a national sample, the data of 8,980 adults 65 or older were analyzed by complex sample analysis using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, hierarchical multiple regression analysis, and Sobel’s test.Results: Results showed that depression negatively correlated with cognitive function, ICT use, and social activity, whereas cognitive function positively correlated with ICT use and social activity. Results also showed partial mediating effects of ICT use and social activity, on the relationship between depression and cognitive function.Conclusion: Results confirm that ICT use and social activity can act as protective factors, that contribute to reducing cognitive decline that may be caused by late-life depression. This suggests that strategies for enhancing ICT use and social activity should be considered that impact cognitive function in depressed older adults.
The Impact of Auricular Acupressure on Depression among Nurses
Authors: Kim Eun Kyeoung , You Ja Kyoung , Ji Su Ja , Choi Sung Hee , Jin Bo Mi , Lee Cheong Ah , Lee Eun Jin
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study evaluated the impact of auricular acupressure on depression among nurses.Methods: This study used a randomized control group pretest-posttest design. Shift-work nurses with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score over 5 points were randomized to the experimental group(n=20) or the control group(n=20). For the experimental group, auricular acupressure was conducted at the corresponding points of depression (TGI, AH1) weekly for seven days as well as for two weeks. The PHQ-9 was completed before intervention, as well as two weeks after intervention.Results: The mean difference in the PHQ-9 score before and after auricular acupressure in the experimental group (-4.11±2.27), was more significant than in the control group (-1.72±3.82) (t=2.28, p=.03).Conclusion: Result showed that nurses who received auricular acupressure had a decrease in depression, compared to those who did not receive auricular acupressure. Further research is required, to apply the other auricular acupressure points, to evaluate the impact on depressive symptoms.
Multilevel Analysis of Factors Affecting Health-Related Quality of Life of the Elderly
Authors: Moon Hyunjung , Cha Sunkyung
Published: September 2022

Purpose: This study identifies the individual and community level factors affecting the health-related quality of life (QOL) of the elderly based on an ecological model using multilevel analysis.Methods: As a secondary research, this study used the raw data, community health survey results, and database 1.0 data on community health outcomes and determinants from the same year. Survey participants were 62,710 respondents age ≥65 of 228,558, and database 1.0 data on community health outcomes and determinants were established targeting 254 regions nationally.Results: The health-related QOL showed differences according to the individual and community level factors. Additionally, estimating the effects of the community level factors through multilevel analysis was needed. In a model in which the individual and community level factors were simultaneously inserted, the significant community characteristic factor controlling the individual level factors was the number of hospital beds per thousand population (p=.028).Conclusion: In the multilevel analysis considering the individual and community level factors, the number of hospital beds per thousand population, which is a factor concerning medical access, was identified as a factor significantly affecting health-related QOL. The results should be considered in allocating and developing community- based healthcare resources and establishing strategies to improve the health-related QOL.
Antioxidant and Cardioprotective Activity of Indigofera barberi on Doxorubicin Induced Toxicity on Rats
Authors: Aminabee Sk. Aminabee , K. Indraja K. Indraja , Manogna K. Matha , Devika K. Naga , Sri K. Ramya , Rao A. Lakshmana
Published: September 2022

Background: Worldwide, the major death causing diseases are cardiovascular diseases and today the need for herb based therapeutics is needed. Present study was undertaken the whole plant of Indigofera Barberi (IB) to evaluate its cardioprotective activity against cardiotoxicity on rats induced by Doxorubicin (DXR). Methods: Soxlet extraction was used to prepare extracts. Preliminary phytochemical tests and in-vitro antioxidant activity are the methods used for standardization of all the extracts. Chloroform extract of Indigofera barberi (CEIB) and aqueous extract of Indigofera barberi (AQIB) are two extracts obtained from above activity were selected against induced cardiotoxicity of DXR to determine in-vivo cardioprotective activity. Total flavonoid and phenol content was determined. Endogenous antioxidants (MDA, GSH), ECG and histophological studies are the parameters of serum (CK, CK-MB, LDH) and non serum to evaluate the cardioprotective activity. Results: Serum elevated levels of biomarker, decreased antioxidant activity, changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) and histopathological studies are shown by DXR alone treated rats. The toxicity produced by DXR has reversed on the rats pre-treated with CEIB and AQIB. CEIB has shown more activity when compared to AQIB. Compared to standard vitamin E the activity of CEIB was found to be significant. Conclusion: The protective effect of IB plant on DXR induced cardiotoxicity was revealed. To understand the mechanism of action and to reveal phytochemical responsible for the said activity the further research to be undertaken.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Health-care Personnel from the State of Guanajuato, Mexico: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Raygoza Nicolás Padilla- , Olivos Efraín Navarro- , Gallardo-Luna María de Jesús , Vargas Gilberto Flores- , Navarro María del Rosario Sanchez- , Lona Elia Lara – , Ramirez Eunice Sandoval- , Vazquez Francisco J. Magos- , Martínez Daniel Alberto Díaz-
Published: September 2022

Background. Guanajuato state in Mexico has high frequency of confirmed cases of COVID-19. Health-care workers are the most exposed to contagion due to contact with patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. The objective was to know the seroprevalence of antibodies (IgG) anti-SARS-CoV-2 in health-care workers from Secretary of Health from Guanajuato State. Material and methods. It was a cross-sectional, retrolective study, using database from the ENSERO-COVID program. It was recollected data about exposure in work and in community by contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19. The anti-SARS-CoV IgG antibody titer was determined, considering 1.4 or higher as positive. It used Chi squared test to show relationship between variables, Z for two proportions to test hypotheses and logistic regression for show the effect of exposure and test positive for antibodies. Results. 4,047 registries were reviewed, 376 (9.29%) were positive for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. There is an association between the type of work unit (type determined by hospitalizing COVID-19 patients or not) with seropositivity (P <0.05). There was no effect of performance areas to be seropositive. Community exposure had an effect on being seropositive OR = 1.44 (1.17 - 1.79). Training in the proper use of personal protective equipment had a protective effect on being seropositive with OR = 0.79 (0.64 -0.99). Conclusion. Exposure in the community to a confirmed case to SARS-CoV-2 is found to have a significant association with the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Training in the proper use of personal protection equipment is a protector against SARS-CoV-2 infection. There is a significant association between the type of unit and the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Given the increase in the number of confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2, it is vitally important that health workers adequately protect themselves both at the community and workplace level.
Drugs Abuse Behavior Prevention Model through Family Approach in Adolescents in Kendari City
Authors: Rachman Wa Ode Nova Noviyanti , Syafar Muhammad , Nasir Sudirman , Amiruddin Ridwan , Ahmad Abdul Kadir , Abdullah Muhamad Tahir , Jafar Nurhaedar , Indriani Cece , Rahmadhania Wa Ode , Nurdin Nurdin , Yani Ahmad
Published: September 2022

Narcotics, Psychotropics, and Other Addictive Substances (also called drugs) are the substances that affect the structure or function of several body parts of people who consume them, including adolescents. The increase in drug use in adolescents continues to increase by 24-28%. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the drug abuse behavior prevention model by using a module with a juvenile family approach in Kendari City. This study was a sequential exploratory mixed method. There were 5 people for in-depth interviews, and 10 people for FGD. The sample size was 132 people, consisting of 66 respondents for the intervention group, and 66 respondents for the control group. In analyzing the qualitative data, the researcher used content analysis, while quantitative data used a pretest-posttest group control design with a non-parametric test. The results of this study showed that 1) the informants were lack of knowledge about drugs, 2) drugs could ruin a teenager's future, 3) National Narcotics Agency has carried out drugs socialization, 4) the informants were worried and afraid of drugs trafficking, 5) the informants did not dare to report drugs abuse, 6) the informants prohibited teenagers to not hanging out with strangers, 7) the role of the village head was very much needed by the community, 8) staying away from drugs, and 9) the role of parents at home was very much needed by adolescents. Giving the module to the intervention group before and after the intervention showed that the level of knowledge and attitudes of parents increased with a p-value of 0.000. Therefore, this study concluded that there was an effect of the intervention model for preventing drug abuse behavior by using a family approach module, there was an effect of drugs abuse behavior prevention model using a module on family knowledge, and there was an effect of drugs abuse behavior prevention model using a module on family attitudes.
L-carnitine Prevents Hepatic Steatosis in Deep-Frying Oil-Treated Rat
Authors: Pradhany Risha Catra , Siswanto Ferbian Milas , Sukoco Hendro , Suarsana I Nyoman , Suartini I Gusti Ayu Agung
Published: September 2022

Deep-frying oil is a source of free radicals that causes oxidative stress in the body and lead to chronic and degenerative diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD). Steatosis, or fatty liver, is one of NAFLD and is a common result of moderate to severe hepatocellular insult. L-Carnitine involves in the metabolism of fat and has a potential role as an antioxidant. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the role of L-Carnitine in deep-frying oil-treated rats. We equally divided thirty-six male Wistar albino rats into three groups: the group of rats without any treatment (control group), the group of rats treated with deep-frying oil of 0.42 ml/rat/day (negative control group), and the group of rats co-treated with deep-frying oil of 0.42 ml/rat/day and L-Carnitine of 30 mg/kg/day (treatment group). After three weeks of experimental treatment, we found that the deep-frying oil treatment in negative control group caused a significant elevation in the number of hepatic steatosis, hepatic TG content and serum ALT and AST accompanied by increased MDA levels, suggesting the oxidative stress-induced fatty liver. The treatment of L-Carnitine reduced the number of hepatic steatosis and TG content, as well as serum ALT and AST levels. To test the involvement of antioxidant activity of L-Carnitine to its beneficial effects on the development of fatty liver, we observed the expression of endogenous antioxidant. We found that the expression of hepatic SOD, CAT, and GPx were up-regulated by L-Carnitine, followed by a concomitant depletion of MDA levels. In general, this study suggests that L-Carnitine prevents the development of hepatic steatosis and oxidative damage, as well as improves the hepatic antioxidant defenses.
Varus placement of the tibial component of Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty decreases the risk of postoperative tibial fracture
Authors: Suda Yoshihito , Hiranaka Takafumi , Kamenaga Tomoyuki , Koide Motoki , Fujishiro Takaaki , Okamoto Koji , Matsumoto Tomoyuki
Published: September 2022

Aims

A fracture of the medial tibial plateau is a serious complication of Oxford mobile-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (OUKA). The risk of these fractures is reportedly lower when using components with a longer keel-cortex distance (KCDs). The aim of this study was to examine how slight varus placement of the tibial component might affect the KCDs, and the rate of tibial plateau fracture, in a clinical setting.

Methods

This retrospective study included 255 patients who underwent 305 OUKAs with cementless tibial components. There were 52 males and 203 females. Their mean age was 73.1 years (47 to 91), and the mean follow-up was 1.9 years (1.0 to 2.0). In 217 knees in 187 patients in the conventional group, tibial cuts were made orthogonally to the tibial axis. The varus group included 88 knees in 68 patients, and tibial cuts were made slightly varus using a new osteotomy guide. Anterior and posterior KCDs and the origins of fracture lines were assessed using 3D CT scans one week postoperatively. The KCDs and rate of fracture were compared between the two groups.

Results

Medial tibial fractures occurred after surgery in 15 patients (15 OUKAs) in the conventional group, but only one patient (one OUKA) had a tibial fracture after surgery in the varus group. This difference was significant (6.9% vs 1.1%; p = 0.029). The mean posterior KCD was significantly shorter in the conventional group (5.0 mm (SD 1.7)) than in the varus group (6.1 mm (SD 2.1); p = 0.002).

Conclusion

In OUKA, the distance between the keel and posterior tibial cortex was longer in our patients with slight varus alignment of the tibial component, which seems to decrease the risk of postoperative tibial fracture. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1118–1125.
Tourniquet use in patients undergoing tumour resection and endoprosthetic reconstruction of the knee
Authors: Gazendam Aaron M. , Schneider Patricia , Vélez Roberto , Ghert Michelle ,   on behalf of the PARITY Investigators
Published: September 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and impact of tourniquet use in patients undergoing limb salvage surgery with endoprosthetic reconstruction for a tumour around the knee.

Methods

We retrieved data from the Prophylactic Antibiotic Regimens in Tumor Surgery (PARITY) trial; specifically, differences in baseline characteristics, surgical details, and postoperative functional outcomes between patients who had undergone surgery under tourniquet and those who had not. A linear regression model was created to evaluate the impact of tourniquet use on postoperative Toronto Extremity Salvage Scores (TESSs) while controlling for confounding variables. A negative-binomial regression model was constructed to explore predictors of postoperative length of stay (LOS).

Results

Of the 604 patients enrolled in the PARITY trial, 421 had tumours around the knee joint, of whom 225 (53%) underwent surgery under tourniquet. The tourniquet group was younger (p = 0.014), more likely to undergo surgery for a tumour of the tibia, and had shorter operating times by a mean of 50 minutes (95% confidence interval 30 to 72; p < 0.001). The adjusted linear regression model found that the use of a tourniquet, a shorter operating time, and a higher baseline TESS independently predicted better function at both three- and six-month follow-up. The negative-binomial regression model showed that tourniquet use, shorter operating time, younger age, and intraoperative tranexamic acid administration independently predicted a shorter LOS in hospital.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that in patients undergoing resection of a tumour around the knee and endoprosthetic reconstruction, the use of an intraoperative tourniquet is associated with a shorter operating time, a reduced length of stay in hospital, and a better early functional outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1168–1173.
Reconstruction of Paprosky III defects with custom-made implants: do we get them in the correct position?
Authors: Wessling Martin , Gebert Carsten , Hakenes Tilman , Dudda Marcel , Hardes Jendrik , Frieler Sven , Jeys Lee M. , Hanusrichter Yannik
Published: September 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine the implant accuracy of custom-made partial pelvis replacements (PPRs) in revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA). Custom-made implants offer an option to achieve a reconstruction in cases with severe acetabular bone loss. By analyzing implant deviation in CT and radiograph imaging and correlating early clinical complications, we aimed to optimize the usage of custom-made implants.

Methods

A consecutive series of 45 (2014 to 2019) PPRs for Paprosky III defects at rTHA were analyzed comparing the preoperative planning CT scans used to manufacture the implants with postoperative CT scans and radiographs. The anteversion (AV), inclination (IC), deviation from the preoperatively planned implant position, and deviation of the centre of rotation (COR) were explored. Early postoperative complications were recorded, and factors for malpositioning were sought. The mean follow-up was 30 months (SD 19; 6 to 74), with four patients lost to follow-up.

Results

Mean CT defined discrepancy (Δ) between planned and achieved AV and IC was 4.5° (SD 3°; 0° to 12°) and 4° (SD 3.5°; 1° to 12°), respectively. Malpositioning (Δ > 10°) occurred in five hips (10.6%). Native COR reconstruction was planned in 42 cases (93%), and the mean 3D deviation vector was 15.5 mm (SD 8.5; 4 to 35). There was no significant influence in malpositioning found for femoral stem retention, surgical approach, or fixation method.

Conclusion

At short-term follow-up, we found that PPR offers a viable solution for rTHA in cases with massive acetabular bone loss, as highly accurate positioning can be accomplished with meticulous planning, achieving anatomical reconstruction. Accuracy of achieved placement contributed to reduced complications with no injury to vital structures by screw fixation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1110–1117.
ANALYZING PRIORITY VECTORS: GOING BEYOND INCONSISTENCY INDEXES
Authors: Botelho Marcelo
Published: September 2022

A great concern when utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is how the final priority vector, resulting from the inconsistent analysis, behaves when compared with the original priority ranking, resulting from the consistent analysis. The AHP utilizes an inconsistency index to predict rank reversal. In addition to the original inconsistency index of the AHP, several authors have worked on developing alternative inconsistency indexes, with the goal of improving the predictability of rank reversal. However, inconsistency indexes do not help clarify whether a rank reversal is a rejectable outcome or, to some extent, the correct answer. A rank reversal may express the correct priority, particularly when some positions in the original priority rank have small weight differences among them. Therefore, it is very important to develop a method to allow a clear and definitive analysis on how disturbed the weights and ranking of the final priority vectors are when compared to their original consistent rankings. Such a method is developed here and its utilization is demonstrated by analyzing a corporate governance scenario.