bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Midwestern Academic HIV Clinic Operation during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implementation Strategy and Preliminary Outcomes
Authors: Fadul Nada , Regan Nichole , Kaddoura Layan , Swindells Susan
Published: September 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, HIV clinics had to transform care delivery for people with HIV (PWH). We developed a multifaceted telehealth implementation strategy and monitored number of out of care patients (OOC), medical visit frequency (MVF), gap in care (GiC) and viral suppression (VS), and compared measures to baseline data. Between April and October 2020, 1559 visits were scheduled; 328 (21%) were missed, and 63 (4%) were new to care. Of the remaining 1168 follow-up visits, 412 (35%) were telehealth visits. As of October 2020, there were 53 patients OOC, MVF was 55% and GiC was 24% compared to 34, 69% and 14% at baseline, respectively. Overall VS rate remained high at 93% (97% for telehealth and 91% for in-person visits, p = 0.0001). Our implementation strategy facilitated quick provision of telehealth to a third of PWH receiving care in our clinic. While MVF decreased and GiC increased, VS rates remained high.
Impact of Patellar Tendinopathy on Player Performance in the National Basketball Association
Authors: Jildeh Toufic R. , Buckley Patrick , Abbas Muhammad J. , Page Brendan , Young Jacob , Mehran Nima , Okoroha Kelechi R.
Published: September 2021

Background:

The extent to which patellar tendinopathy affects National Basketball Association (NBA) athletes has not been thoroughly elucidated.

Purpose:

To assess the impact patellar tendinopathy has on workload, player performance, and career longevity in NBA athletes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

NBA players diagnosed with patellar tendinopathy between the 2000-2001 and 2018-2019 seasons were identified through publicly available data. Characteristics, return to play (RTP), player statistics, and workload data were compiled. The season of diagnosis was set as the index year, and the statistical analysis compared post- versus preindex data acutely and in the long term, both within the injured cohort and with a matched healthy NBA control cohort.

Results:

A total of 46 NBA athletes were included in the tendinopathy group; all 46 players returned to the NBA after their diagnosis. Compared with controls, the tendinopathy cohort had longer careers (10.50 ± 4.32 vs 7.18 ± 5.28 seasons; P < .001) and played more seasons after return from injury (4.26 ± 2.46 vs 2.58 ± 3.07 seasons; P = .001). Risk factors for patellar tendinopathy included increased workload before injury (games started, 45.83 ± 28.67 vs 25.01 ± 29.77; P < .001) and time played during the season (1951.21 ± 702.09 vs 1153.54 ± 851.05 minutes; P < .001) and during games (28.71 ± 6.81 vs 19.88 ± 9.36 minutes per game; P < .001). Players with increased productivity as measured by player efficiency rating (PER) were more likely to develop patellar tendinopathy compared with healthy controls (15.65 ± 4.30 vs 12.76 ± 5.27; P = .003). When comparing metrics from 1 year preinjury, there was a decrease in games started at 1 year postinjury (−12.42 ± 32.38 starts; P = .028) and total time played (−461.53 ± 751.42 minutes; P = .001); however, PER at 1 and 3 years after injury was unaffected compared with corresponding preinjury statistics.

Conclusion:

NBA players with a higher PER and significantly more playing time were more likely to be diagnosed with patellar tendinopathy. Player performance was not affected by the diagnosis of patellar tendinopathy, and athletes were able to RTP without any impact on career longevity.
Culturally Responsive Teaching as a Method for Teaching Students With Emotional/Behavioral Disorders in the Music Classroom
Authors: Sisson Christina J.
Published: September 2021

As students with special needs become increasingly mainstreamed into music classes, there is a demand for strategies to help teachers meet these students’ needs. The purpose of this review of literature was to review and synthesize the literature focused on teaching students with an emotional/behavioral disorder (EBD) in the music classroom and to explore the possibility of culturally responsive teaching (CRT) being a method of engaging students with EBDs. Using targeted database searches, I reviewed the literature on the topic of culturally relevant teaching and synthesized the results into the following categories: (a) CRT and EBD and (b) CRT and music education. Becoming a culturally responsive teacher requires becoming culturally competent, designing culturally relevant curricula, demonstrating cultural caring, building a community of learners, and maintaining high expectations for students. By incorporating this mind-set into daily teaching, music teachers should find success working with students with EBDs.
A review of current knowledge and future trends in polymer/boehmite nanocomposites
Authors: Kausar Ayesha
Published: September 2021

Boehmite [bey-mahyt] is a unique aluminum oxide hydroxide nanostructure. It consists of nanosheets of octahedral aluminum ions with surface hydroxyl groups. Owing to exceptional reinforcing behavior, boehmite nanoparticles have gained immense attention as polymeric nanofillers. Essential matrices used with the boehmite based nanocomposites include poly(methyl methacrylate), polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, epoxy, and other polymers. In this review, all-inclusive considerations on the design, morphology, mechanical, thermal, electrical, ion conducting, flame retardancy, electrochemical, and other physical properties, and advances related to the polymer/boehmite nanocomposites are presented. The polymer/boehmite nanocomposites have been employed for the membranes (water filtration/dye removal), coatings (anti-corrosion/self-healing), Li-ion batteries, and non-flammability purposes.
Cells-Based Drug Delivery for Cancer Applications
Authors: Du Ying , Wang Shujun , Zhang Meilin , Chen Baoan , Shen Yanfei
Published: September 2021

The application of cells as carriers to encapsulate chemotherapy drugs is of great significance in antitumor therapy. The advantages of reducing systemic toxicity, enhancing targeting and enhancing the penetrability of drugs to tumor cells make it have great potential for clinical application in the future. Many studies and advances have been made in the encapsulation of drugs by using erythrocytes, white blood cells, platelets, immune cells and even tumor cells. The results showed that the antitumor effect of cell encapsulation chemotherapy drugs was better than that of single chemotherapy drugs. In recent years, the application of cell-based vectors in cancer has become diversified. Both chemotherapeutic drugs and photosensitizers can be encapsulated, so as to achieve multiple antitumor effects of chemotherapy, photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy. A variety of ways of coordinated treatment can produce ideal results even in the face of multidrug-resistant and metastatic tumors. However, it is regrettable that this technology is only used in vitro for the time being. Standard answers have not yet been obtained for the preservation of drug-loaded cells and the safe way of infusion into human body. Therefore, the successful application of drug delivery technology in clinical still faces many challenges in the future. In this paper, we discuss the latest development of different cell-derived drug delivery systems and the challenges it will face in the future.
Takeover performance evaluation using driving simulation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Soares Sónia , Lobo António , Ferreira Sara , Cunha Liliana , Couto António
Published: September 2021

Introduction

In a context of increasing automation of road transport, many researchers have been dedicated to analyse the risks and safety implications of resuming the manual control of a vehicle after a period of automated driving. This paper performs a systematic review about drivers’ performance during takeover manoeuvres in driving simulator, a tool that is widely used in the evaluation of automated systems to reproduce risky situations that would not be possible to test in real roads.

Objectives

The main objectives are to provide a framework for the main strategies, experimental conditions and results obtained by takeover research using driving simulation, as well as to find whether different approaches may lead to different outcomes.

Methodology

First, a literature search following the PRISMA statement guidelines and checklist resulted in 36 relevant papers, which were described in detail according to the type of scenarios and takeover events, drivers’ engagement in secondary tasks and the assessed takeover performance measures. Then, those papers were included in a meta-analysis combining PAM clustering and ANOVA techniques to find patterns among the experimental conditions and to determine if those patterns have influence on the observed takeover performance.

Conclusions

Less complex experiments without secondary task engagement and conducted in low-fidelity simulators are associated with lower takeover times and crash rates. The takeover time increases with the time budget of the first alert, which reduces the pressure for a driver’s quick intervention.
The care manager meeting the patients’ unique needs using the care manager model—A qualitative study of experienced care managers
Authors: Svenningsson Irene , Hange Dominique , Udo Camilla , Törnbom Karin , Björkelund Cecilia , Petersson Eva-Lisa
Published: September 2021

Background

Implementation of a care manager in a collaborative care team in Swedish primary care via a randomized controlled trial showed successful outcome. As four years have elapsed since the implementation of care managers, it is important to gain knowledge about the care managers’ long-term skills and experiences. The purpose was to examine how long-term experienced care managers perceived and experienced their role and how they related to and applied the care manager model.

Method

Qualitative study with a focus group and interviews with nine nurses who had worked for more than two years as care managers for common mental disorders. The analysis used Systematic Text Condensation.

Results

Four codes arose from the analysis: Person-centred; Acting outside the comfort zone; Successful, albeit some difficulties; Pride and satisfaction. The care manager model served as a handrail for the care manager, providing a trustful and safe environment. Difficulties sometimes arose in the collaboration with other professionals.

Conclusion

This study shows that long-term experience of working as a care manager contributed to an in-depth insight and understanding of the care manager model and enabled care managers to be flexible and act outside the comfort zone when providing care and support to the patient. A new concept emerged during the analytical process, i.e. the Anchored Care Manager, which described the special competencies gained through experience.

Trial registration

NCT02378272 Care Manager—Coordinating Care for Person Centered Management of Depression in Primary Care (PRIM—CARE).
COVID-19 epidemiological, sociological and anthropological investigation: study protocol for a multidisciplinary mixed methods research in Burkina Faso
Authors: Traoré Isidore Tiandiogo , Ouedraogo Samiratou , Kania Dramane , Kaboré Firmin Nongodo , Konaté Blahima , Médah Rachel , Badolo Hermann , de Rekeneire Nathalie , Kamga Ariane Mamguem , Poda Armel , Diendere Arnaud Eric , Ouédraogo Boukary , Ouédraogo Esperance , Billa Oumar , Tinto Halidou , Dabakuyo-Yonli Tienhan Sandrine
Published: September 2021

Background

The world has high hopes of vaccination against COVID-19 to protect the population, boost economies and return to normal life. Vaccination programmes are being rolled out in high income countries, but the pandemic continues to progress in many low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) despite implementation of strict hygiene measures. We aim to present a comprehensive research protocol that will generate epidemiological, sociological and anthropological data about the COVID-19 epidemic in Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa with scarce resources.

Methods

We will perform a multidisciplinary research using mixed methods in the two main cities in Burkina Faso (Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso). Data will be collected in the general population and in COVID-19 patients, caregivers and health care professionals in reference care centers: (i) to determine cumulative incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Burkinabe population using blood samples collected from randomly selected households according to the WHO-recommended protocol; (ii) develop a score to predict severe complications of COVID-19 in persons infected with SARS-CoV-2 using retrospective and prospective data; (iii) perform semi-structured interviews and direct observation on site, to describe and analyze the healthcare pathways and experiences of patients with COVID-19 attending reference care centers, and to identify the perceptions, acceptability and application of preventive strategies among the population.

Discussion

This study will generate comprehensive data that will contribute to improving COVID-19 response strategies in Burkina Faso. The lessons learned from the management of this epidemic may serve as examples to the country authorities to better design preventive strategies in the case of future epidemics or pandemics.

The protocol was approved by the Ministry for Health (N° 2020-00952/MS/CAB/INSP/CM) and the Health Research Ethics Committee in Burkina Faso (N° 2020-8-140).
A review of clinical profile, complications and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Salmonella Typhi isolates in children in Karachi
Authors: Shahid Saba , Mahesar Marvi , Ghouri Nida , Noreen Saba
Published: September 2021

Background

Enteric fever is a systemic infection caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi and Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A, B, and C. There is an emergence of Typhoid fever caused by extensively drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi strain called XDR S.Typhi. This strain is resistant to recommended first-line antibiotics and cephalosporins. WHO estimated 5274 cases of XDR S.Typhi in Karachi from November 2016 to December 2019. This study aims to determine clinical course, complications and response to treatment of XDR S.Typhi among the pediatric population coming to Indus Hospital.

Method

We reviewed the records of children who had culture-proven XDR S.Typhi infection at Indus Hospital from July 2017 to December 2018. A pre-designed data abstraction form was used to record information about seasonality, demographic details, clinical features and course, treatment, complications and outcomes of the cases of XDR S.Typhi.

Results

The records of 680 children were reviewed. The median (IQR) age of the patients was 5 (2–8) years. More than half (n = 391, 57.5%) of the patients were males. The outcomes were recorded in 270 (40%) patients. Out of these, 234 (86.7%) children got cured within 14 days, while a delayed response to antibiotics was noted in 32 (11.9%) children. Seventy-six (29%) children recovered on a combination of meropenem and azithromycin, 72 (27%) got cured on azithromycin alone, while 15 (6%) responded to meropenem alone.

Conclusion

Our review indicated that children under 5 years of age were affected more with XDR S.Typhi. Azithromycin alone or in combination with meropenem were effective antibiotics for treating XDR S.Typhi in children.
Symptomatic SARS-COV-2 reinfection: healthcare workers and immunosuppressed individuals at high risk
Authors: Murillo-Zamora Efrén , Trujillo Xóchitl , Huerta Miguel , Ríos-Silva Mónica , Aguilar-Sollano Felipe , Mendoza-Cano Oliver
Published: September 2021

Background

Knowledge regarding factors predicting the SARS-COV-2 reinfection risk is scarce and it has major implications in public health policies. We aimed to identify factors associated with the risk of symptomatic SARS-COV-2 reinfection.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study and 99,993 confirmed cases of COVID-19 were analyzed.

Results

The overall risk of reinfection (28 or more elapsed days between both episodes onset) was 0.21% (incidence density, 2.5 reinfections per 100,000 person-days) and older subjects and those with the mild primary disease were at reduced risk of the event. Healthcare workers and immunosuppressed or renal patients had at greater risk of SARS-COV-2 reinfection.

Conclusions

If replicated in other populations, these results may be useful to prioritize efforts focusing on the reduction of SARS-COV-2 spread and the related burden.
Primary ectopic parasellar craniopharyngioma: a case report
Authors: Cai Xintao , Sun Zhixiang , Li Yu , Shao Dongqi , Zheng Xialin , Wang Yu , Jiang Zhiquan
Published: September 2021

Background

Craniopharyngioma (CP) is a slow-growing, benign tumor of the central nervous system located within the sellar and suprasellar regions. The tumor may extend from the suprasellar region to other areas. CPs are generally believed to originate from squamous remnants of an incompletely involuted craniopharyngeal duct that also develops from Rathke’s pouch. Primary parasellar craniopharyngioma is a relatively rare tumor, and nasal endoscopy, computed tomography, and enhanced magnetic resonance imaging can be applied to better evaluate the invasiveness and characteristics of these tumors.

Case presentation

We report a case of right parasellar craniopharyngioma in a 49-year-old female patient with a 10-day history of dizziness and blurred vision. Preoperative imaging examination revealed right parasellar space-occupying lesions, and the patient underwent transnasal neuroendoscopic resection of the right parasellar space-occupying lesion. The postoperative pathological result confirmed craniopharyngioma.

Conclusions

Primary ectopic parasellar craniopharyngioma is a relatively rare tumor, and preoperative imaging examination can assist in the evaluation of tumor characteristics. However, the final diagnosis continues to depend on the histopathological results.
Pregnancy and parenting experiences of women with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome: a qualitative study
Authors: Ren Lijie , Song Cancan , Xia Chunling , Wang Nan , Yang Yan , Yin Shaowei
Published: September 2021

Background

Qualitative research can reflect the actual thoughts and experience of research subjects and can be used to explore the experiences of women presenting with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) to facilitate the provision of targeted psychological support.

Methods

A semi-structured interview method was used to assess the pregnancy and parenting experiences of women with TTTS. Colaizzi method was used for data analysis.

Results

Eighteen women participated in the study. We found that women with TTTS during pregnancy experienced persistent worry about their children’s health from the disease diagnosis to the subsequent parenting processes, even in case of minor changes in their children’s health. The lack of an efficient referral process and health information increased their uncertainty about their children’s health.

Conclusion

In addition to the children’s health, other difficulties encountered during pregnancy and parenting may aggravate the pressure. Clinicians in the first-visit hospital and foetal medicine centre should improve the referral process and establish a follow-up system to provide women with health information and psychological support.
In vivo assessment of prostate cancer response using quantitative ultrasound characterization of ultrasonic scattering properties
Authors: Sharma Deepa , Osapoetra Laurentius Oscar , Faltyn Mateusz , Giles Anoja , Stanisz Martin , Czarnota Gregory J.
Published: September 2021

Background

The study here investigated quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters to assess tumour response to ultrasound-stimulated microbubbles (USMB) and hyperthermia (HT) treatment in vivo. Mice bearing prostate cancer xenografts were exposed to various treatment conditions including 1% (v/v) Definity microbubbles stimulated at ultrasound pressures 246 kPa and 570 kPa and HT duration of 0, 10, 40, and 50 min. Ultrasound radiofrequency (RF) data were collected using an ultrasound transducer with a central frequency of 25 MHz. QUS parameters based on form factor models were used as potential biomarkers of cell death in prostate cancer xenografts.

Results

The average acoustic concentration (AAC) parameter from spherical gaussian and the fluid-filled spherical models were the most efficient imaging biomarker of cell death. Statistical significant increases of AAC were found in the combined treatment groups: 246 kPa + 40 min, 246 kPa + 50 min, and 570 kPa + 50 min, in comparison with control tumours (0 kPa + 0 min). Changes in AAC correlates strongly (r2 = 0.62) with cell death fraction quantified from the histopathological analysis.

Conclusion

Scattering property estimates from spherical gaussian and fluid-filled spherical models are useful imaging biomarkers for assessing tumour response to treatment. Our observation of changes in AAC from high ultrasound frequencies was consistent with previous findings where parameters related to the backscatter intensity (AAC) increased with cell death.
Circulating MiR-1290 as a potential diagnostic and disease monitoring biomarker of human gastrointestinal tumors
Authors: Xu Liyi , Cai Yangke , Chen Xiao , Zhu Yongliang , Cai Jianting
Published: September 2021

Background

Gastrointestinal tumors are a leading cause of mortality worldwide. As shown in our previous study, miR-1290 is overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and promotes tumor progression. We therefore aimed to explore the potential of circulating miR-1290 as a biomarker for gastrointestinal cancer.

Methods

A serum miRNA sequencing analysis was performed. Then, circulating miRNA detection technologies were established. The expression of miR-1290 was analyzed in gastrointestinal tumor cell lines and culture supernatants. Expression levels of circulating miR-1290 in clinical samples were examined. Associations between miR-1290 expression and clinicopathologic characteristics were analyzed. Xenograft models were generated to assess the fluctuation in serum miR-1290 levels during disease progression.

Results

Through miRNA sequencing, we identified that miR-1290 was overexpressed in serum samples from patients with CRC. We confirmed that human gastrointestinal tumor cells express and secrete miR-1290. The circulating miR-1290 levels was up-regulated in patients with pancreatic cancer (PC) (p < 0.01), CRC (p < 0.05), and gastric cancer (GC) (p < 0.01). High miR-1290 expression levels were associated with tumor size, lymphatic invasion, vascular invasion, distant metastasis, tumor differentiation and AJCC stage in patients with PC and CRC. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.8857 in patients with PC, with 60.9% sensitivity and 90.0% specificity. The AUC was 0.7852 in patients with CRC, with 42.0% sensitivity and 90.0% specificity. In patients with GC, the AUC was 0.6576, with 26.0% sensitivity and 90.0% specificity. The in vivo model verified that the circulating miR-1290 level was significantly increased after tumor formation and decreased after drug treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that circulating miR-1290 is a potential biomarker for gastrointestinal cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
Novel CLCN4 variant associated with syndromic X-linked intellectual disability in a Chinese girl: a case report
Authors: Xu Xin , Lu Fen , Zhang Li , Li Hongying , Du Senjie , Tang Jian
Published: September 2021

Background

The Raynaud-Claes type of X-linked syndromic mental retardation (MRXSRC) is a very rare condition, by intellectual disability ranged from borderline to profound, impaired language development, brain abnormalities, facial dysmorphisms and seizures. MRXSRC is caused by variants in CLCN4 which encodes the 2Cl−/H+ exchanger ClC-4 prominently expressed in brain.

Case presentation

We present a 3-year-old Chinese girl with intellectual disability, dysmorphic features, brain abnormalities, significant language impairment and autistic features. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a thin corpus callosum, a mega cisterna magna and ventriculomegaly. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed to detect the molecular basis of the disease. It was confirmed that this girl carried a novel heterozygous missense variant (c.1343C > T, p.Ala448Val) of CLCN4 gene, inherited from her mother. This variant has not been registered in public databases and was predicted to be pathogenic by multiple in silico prediction tools.

Conclusion

Our investigation expands the phenotype spectrum for CLCN4 variants with syndromic X-linked intellectual disability, which help to improve the understanding of CLCN4-related intellectual disability and will help in genetic counselling for this family.
Alcohol consumption among tertiary students in the Hohoe municipality, Ghana: analysis of prevalence, effects, and associated factors from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Aboagye Richard Gyan , Kugbey Nuworza , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Cadri Abdul , Akonor Paa Yeboah
Published: September 2021

Background

Alcohol consumption constitutes a major public health problem as it has negative consequences on the health, social, psychological, and economic outcomes of individuals. Tertiary education presents students with unique challenges and some students resort to the use of alcohol in dealing with their problems. This study, therefore, sought to determine alcohol use, its effects, and associated factors among tertiary students in the Hohoe Municipaility of Ghana.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 418 tertiary students in the Hohoe Municipality of Ghana using a two-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. A binary logistic regression modelling was used to determine the strength of the association between alcohol consumption and the explanatory variables. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Stata version 16.0 was used to perform the analysis.

Results

The lifetime prevalence of alcohol consumption was 39.5%. Out of them, 49.1% were still using alcohol, translating to an overall prevalence of 19.4% among the tertiary students. Self-reported perceived effects attributed to alcohol consumption were loss of valuable items (60.6%), excessive vomiting (53.9%), stomach pains/upset (46.1%), accident (40.0%), unprotected sex (35.1%), risk of liver infection (16.4%), depressive feelings (27.3%), diarrhoea (24.2%), debt (15.2%), and petty theft (22.4%). In terms of factors associated with alcohol consumption, students aged 26 years and above were more likely to have consumed alcohol [AOR = 4.4, 95%CI = 1.74, 11.14] than those in 16–20 years group. Muslim students had lower odds of alcohol consumption compared to Christians [AOR = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.31]. It was also found that students who had peer influence [AOR = 3.7, 95%CI = 2.31, 5.82] and those who had academic adjustment problems [AOR = 3.6, 95% CI = 2.01, 6.46] were more likely to consume alcohol.

Conclusion

Lifetime prevalence of alcohol consumption is high among tertiary students in the Hohoe Municipality of Ghana, with several physical, psychosocial and economic consequences. Alcohol-related education should be intensified in tertiary institutions and counseling units should be equipped with relevant assessment tools to assess and help students who are at risk and those who are already consuming alcohol.
Design, implementation, and evaluation of a PRECEDE-PROCEED model-based intervention for oral and dental health among primary school students of Rafsanjan city: a mixed method study
Authors: Ghaffari Mohtasham , Rakhshanderou Sakineh , Asadpour Mohammad , Nasirzadeh Mostafa , Mazar Leili
Published: September 2021

Background

Oral and dental health has a significant impact on public health as well as the quality of life among individuals and families. This study aims to design, implement, and evaluate an intervention based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model for oral and dental health among primary school students in Rafsanjan city, Southern Iran.

Methods

According to the nature of the model and with the focus group discussion and interview methods, in phases 1 to 4 (PRECEDE), predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors related to oral health were identified. The training program was designed and consisted of six sessions for students (250 students) with a brushing session, three sessions for parents, and two sessions for teachers. Process evaluation and the effect of the program on behavioral and factors affecting oral health were evaluated (PROCEED).

Results

In the qualitative section, seven predisposing factors, five enabling factors, and two reinforcing factors were identified. A training program based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model was found to be effective in increasing the mean scores of the above constructs and the students’ brushing behavior (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Based on the model planning phases, the factors affecting the brushing behavior of children aged 6–12 years were identified. The educational program has had a significant effect on improving the scores of predisposing, enabling and reinforcing factors and children’s brushing behavior.
Periodontal status and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations: a systematic review
Authors: Kelly Niamh , Winning Lewis , Irwin Christopher , Lundy Fionnuala T. , Linden Dermot , McGarvey Lorcan , Linden Gerard J. , El Karim Ikhlas A.
Published: September 2021

Background

A growing body of evidence suggests a role for oral bacteria in lung infections. This systematic review aimed to analyse the association between poor periodontal status and the frequency of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL and Medline were searched for studies published until May 2020, with no language restriction. Studies reporting periodontal condition, or periodontal treatment outcomes, with data on the frequency of exacerbations of COPD, were identified. The primary outcome was the frequency of exacerbations and secondary outcomes included quality of life (QoL) and hospitalisation. Quality and risk of bias assessment were carried out using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale for observational studies, Robins-1 tool for non-randomised intervention studies and Cochrane risk of bias assessment (RoB-2) tool for randomised clinical trials. Studies were assessed for eligibility and quality by two assessors independently.

Results

Searches identified 532 records and 8 met the inclusion criteria. Included studies were three clinical trials, one prospective cohort study, one case–control, and three cross-sectional studies. A narrative synthesis was performed. The data from intervention studies showed reduction in the frequency of exacerbations following periodontal treatment. Data from observational studies suggest association of worse plaque scores and fewer teeth with exacerbation, but not pocket depth or clinical attachment loss. Better periodontal health was also associated with reduced frequency of COPD exacerbations, hospitalisations and improved quality of life in COPD patients. Due to the high heterogeneity no meta-analysis was performed. The quality of some of the included studies was low and there was evidence of a high risk of bias.

Conclusion

The data supports possible association between poor periodontal health, the frequency of exacerbations, hospitalisation and quality of life in COPD patients. The evidence is of moderate to low certainty and is limited by high risk of bias suggesting the need for well-designed and adequately powered randomised controlled trials, to inform future research and clinical practice.

The PROSPERO registration number CRD42020180328.
Pharmacological effects of Pugionium cornutum (L.) Gaertn. extracts on gastrointestinal motility are partially mediated by quercetin
Authors: Su Chencan , Li Haoyu , Chen Bang , Li Cong , Zhang Chunxiao , Xu Long , Lan Mei , Shen Yehua
Published: September 2021

Background

The majority of global population suffer from various functional gastrointestinal disorders.Pugionium cornutum(L.) Gaertn. (PCG) is used to relieve indigestive symptoms in traditional Chinese medicine. However, little is known about the effects of bioactive components from PCG extracts on gastrointestinal motility.

Methods

Crude ethanol extract of PCG (EEP) was prepared fromPugionium cornutum (L.)Gaertn. Different solvents were used to prepare fine extracts from EEP, including water extract of PCG (WEP), petroleum ether extract of PCG (PEEP), dichloromethane extract of PCG (DEP) and ethyl acetate extract of PCG (EAEP). Smooth muscle cell model and colonic smooth muscle stripe model were used to test the bioactive effects and mechanisms of different PCG extracts on contraction and relaxation. Diverse chromatographic methods were used to identify bioactive substances from PCG extracts.

Results

EEP was found to promote the relaxation of gastric smooth muscle cell and inhibit the contraction of colonic smooth muscle strip. Among the fractions of EEP, EAEP mainly mediated the relaxation effect by stimulating intracellular calcium influx. Further evidences revealed that EAEP was antagonistic to acetylcholine. In addition, COX and NO-GC-PKC pathways may be also involved in EAEP-mediated relaxation effect. Quercetin was identified as a bioactive compound from PCG extract for the relaxation effect.

Conclusion

Our research supports the notion that PCG extracts promote relaxation and inhibits contraction of gastrointestinal smooth muscle at least partially through the effect from quercetin.
How to effectively promote interprofessional collaboration? – a qualitative study on physicians’ and pharmacists’ perspectives driven by the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Zielińska-Tomczak Łucja , Cerbin-Koczorowska Magdalena , Przymuszała Piotr , Marciniak Ryszard
Published: September 2021

Background

Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior (TPB) postulates that individuals’ behavioral intention is influenced by their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Therefore, it can be used to broaden the understanding of particular behaviors, including healthcare workers’ professional activities.

Methods

In this study, we used TPB as a theoretical framework to evaluate semi-structured interviews with pharmacists and physicians to build an understanding of the interprofessional collaboration between them. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with pharmacists and eleven with physicians. The sample of participants comprised a diverse group with varying work experience and workplaces. Data were analyzed independently by two researchers following the thematic analysis method using ATLAS.ti software. Data saturation was set in the absence of new issues arising during the interviews.

Results

The content analysis allowed for the determination of six main themes: the relationship between previous experiences and attitudes towards collaboration, pharmacist’s role in collaboration, mutual reluctance toward collaboration, the role of decision- and policy-makers, knowledge and qualifications gaps regarding collaboration, and lack of organizational paths.

Conclusions

Despite both physicians and pharmacists displaying positive attitudes towards collaboration may foster their intention to establish a professional partnership, subjective norms (e.g., the lack of appropriate legal regulations) and perceived behavioral control (physicians’ lack of awareness about pharmacists’ qualifications and the low level of interpersonal skills) might impede the process.
Stop codon readthrough alters the activity of a POU/Oct transcription factor during Drosophila development
Authors: Zhao Yunpo , Lindberg Bo Gustav , Esfahani Shiva Seyedoleslami , Tang Xiongzhuo , Piazza Stefano , Engström Ylva
Published: September 2021

Background

A number of cellular processes have evolved in metazoans that increase the proteome repertoire in relation to the genome, such as alternative splicing and translation recoding. Another such process, translational stop codon readthrough (SCR), generates C-terminally extended protein isoforms in many eukaryotes, including yeast, plants, insects, and humans. While comparative genome analyses have predicted the existence of programmed SCR in many species including humans, experimental proof of its functional consequences are scarce.

Results

We show that SCR of the Drosophila POU/Oct transcription factor Ventral veins lacking/Drifter (Vvl/Dfr) mRNA is prevalent in certain tissues in vivo, reaching a rate of 50% in the larval prothoracic gland. Phylogenetically, the C-terminal extension is conserved and harbors intrinsically disordered regions and amino acid stretches implied in transcriptional activation. Elimination of Vvl/Dfr translational readthrough by CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis changed the expression of a large number of downstream genes involved in processes such as chromatin regulation, neurogenesis, development, and immune response. As a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate that the C-terminal extension of Vvl/Dfr is necessary for correct timing of pupariation, by increasing the capacity to regulate its target genes. The extended Vvl/Dfr isoform acts in synergy with the transcription factor Molting defective (Mld) to increase the expression and biosynthesis of the steroid hormone ecdysone, thereby advancing pupariation. Consequently, late-stage larval development was prolonged and metamorphosis delayed in vvl/dfr readthrough mutants.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that translational recoding of a POU/Oct transcription factor takes place in a highly tissue-specific and temporally controlled manner. This dynamic and regulated recoding is necessary for normal expression of a large number of genes involved in many cellular and developmental processes. Loss of Vvl/Dfr translational readthrough negatively affects steroid hormone biosynthesis and delays larval development and progression into metamorphosis. Thus, this study demonstrates how SCR of a transcription factor can act as a developmental switch in a spatiotemporal manner, feeding into the timing of developmental transitions between different life-cycle stages.

Graphical abstract
Helcococcus ovis associated with septic arthritis and bursitis in calves – a case report
Authors: Jost Alexandra , Sickinger Marlene
Published: September 2021

Background

Septic arthritis often occurs in young calves when the passive transfer of maternal immunoglobulins has failed, which results in hypogammaglobulinaemia in the calf. Another important cause is suboptimal herd health management which often leads to general health impairment and, subsequently, to septic arthritis.

Case presentation

A dairy farmer consulted the Herd Health Service of the University Clinic reporting general herd health impairment, a high incidence of respiratory diseases, unsatisfactory weight gain and arthritis in calves, as well as mastitis and high milk cell counts. Clinical examinations were performed, and diagnostic measures were taken. A transtracheal lavage (TTL) was performed, and synovial swab samples were taken from the carpal joint and the subcutaneous tarsal bursae of two calves. Microbiological examinations of synovial swabs revealed co-infections of Trueperella pyogenes and Helcococcus ovis in one calf and Helcococcus ovis in pure culture in the other. The TTLs confirmed the presence of Mycoplasma spp. associated with respiratory diseases.

Conclusions

Helcococcus ovis is currently regarded as a co-infective bacterial agent. However, it seems to play a significant role as the primary pathogen in this case.
Incidence, predictors and patterns of care of patients with very severe hypertriglyceridemia in Ontario, Canada: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Berberich Amanda J. , Ouédraogo Alexandra M. , Shariff Salimah Z. , Hegele Robert A. , Clemens Kristin K.
Published: September 2021

Background

The incidence of severe (S-HTG) and very severe hypertriglyceridemia (VS-HTG) among Canadians is unknown. This study aimed to determine the incidence, characteristics, predictors and care patterns for individuals with VS-HTG.

Methods

Using linked administrative healthcare databases, a population-based cohort study of Ontario adults was conducted to determine incidence of new onset S-HTG (serum triglycerides (TG) > 10–20 mmol/L) and VS-HTG (TG > 20 mmol/L) between 2010 and 2015. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of those with VS-HTG were compared to those who had no measured TG value > 3 mmol/L. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine predictors for VS-HTG. Healthcare patterns were evaluated for 2 years following first incidence of TG > 20 mmol/L.

Results

Incidence of S-HTG and VS-HTG in Ontario was 0.16 and 0.027% among 10,766,770 adults ≥18 years and 0.25 and 0.041% among 7,040,865 adults with at least one measured TG, respectively. Predictors of VS-HTG included younger age [odds ratios (OR) 0.64/decade, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.62–0.66], male sex (OR 3.83; 95% CI 3.5–4.1), diabetes (OR 5.38; 95% CI 4.93–5.88), hypertension (OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.54–1.86), chronic liver disease (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.48–1.97), alcohol abuse (OR 2.47; 95% CI 1.90–3.19), obesity (OR 1.49; 95% CI 1.13–1.98), and chronic kidney disease (OR 1.39; 95% CI 1.19–1.63).

Conclusion

The 5-year incidence of S-HTG and VS-HTG in Canadian adults was 1 in 400 and 1 in 2500, respectively. Males, those with diabetes, obese individuals and those with alcohol abuse are at highest risk for VS-HTG and may benefit from increased surveillance.
Reaching higher: External scapula assistance can improve upper limb function in humans with irreversible scapula alata
Authors: Georgarakis Anna-Maria , Xiloyannis Michele , Dettmers Christian , Joebges Michael , Wolf Peter , Riener Robert
Published: September 2021

Background

Scapular dyskinesis, i.e., the deviant mobility or function of the scapula, hampers upper limb function in daily life. A typical sign of scapular dyskinesis is a scapula alata—a protrusion of the shoulder blade during arm elevation. While some reversible causes of scapula alata can be treated with therapy, other, irreversible causes require invasive surgical interventions. When surgery is not an option, however, severe limitations arise as standard approaches for assisting the scapula in daily life do not exist. The aim of this study was to quantify functional improvements when external, i.e., non-invasive, scapula assistance is provided.

Methods

The study was designed as a randomized controlled crossover trial. Eight participants with a scapula alata due to muscular dystrophy performed arm elevations in shoulder flexion and abduction while unassisted (baseline), externally assisted by a trained therapist, and externally assisted by a novel, textile-based scapula orthosis.

Results

With therapist assistance, average arm elevation increased by 17.3° in flexion (p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval of the mean $$C{I}_{95\%}=\hspace{0.17em}\left[9.8^\circ , 24.9^\circ \right]$$

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), and by 11.2° in abduction (p < 0.01, $$C{I}_{95\%}=\left[4.7^\circ , 17.7^\circ \right]$$

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), constituting the potential of external scapula assistance. With orthosis assistance, average arm elevation increased by 6.2° in flexion ($$C{I}_{95\%}=\left[0.4^\circ ,11.9^\circ \right]$$

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) and by 5.8° in abduction ($$C{I}_{95\%}=\left[3.0^\circ ,8.5^\circ \right]$$

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). Remarkably, in three participants, the orthosis was at least as effective as the therapist. Moreover, orthosis assistance reduced average perceived exertion by 1.25 points (Borg Scale) when elevating a filled bottle during a simulated daily living task.

Conclusion

These findings indicate a large potential for future advancements in orthotics. Already now, the textile-based scapula orthosis presented here is a feasible tool for leveraging the benefits of external scapula assistance when a therapist is unavailable, as encountered in daily life scenarios.

Trial Registration ClincalTrials.gov (ID NCT04154098). Registered: November 6th 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04154098?term=scapula+orthosis&draw=2&rank=1

Graphic abstract
Local plant knowledge and its variation among farmer’s families in the Napf region, Switzerland
Authors: Poncet Anna , Schunko Christoph , Vogl Christian R. , Weckerle Caroline S.
Published: September 2021

Background

Local plant knowledge typically is unevenly distributed within a community. This knowledge variation is important in understanding people’s relationship with their environment. Here we ask about knowledge variation among farmers’ families in the Napf region of Switzerland.

Methods

In 2008 and 2009, 60 adults and children living on 14 farms were interviewed about known and used plant species, and the data analyzed for knowledge variation. The farms were chosen by random stratified sampling, and freelisting and semi-structured interviews were conducted individually in the local idiom. The data were organized in an access database and analyzed with descriptive statistics, correlations, Mann–Whitney U tests and cultural domain analysis.

Results

Totally, 456 folk taxa were listed, whereas frequently listed species are common meadow and forest species. Uses were indicated for 391 taxa, most of them culinary, followed by fodder, wood, medicinal and ornamental uses. Local plant knowledge correlates with age and gender. Due to professional specialization, adults above 20 years have broader plant knowledge than children and adolescents. This is true for almost all examined habitat and plant use categories except for toy uses. Women and men share a common body of plant knowledge especially about herbaceous grassland species and woody species. Specialized knowledge of men is linked to cattle fodder and the processing of wood, specialized knowledge of women concerns edible, medicinal and ornamental plants, often garden species, but also herbaceous forest species.

Conclusion

In a rural region like the Napf, people retain a solid basis of plant knowledge. The variation of plant knowledge within farmers’ families of this region reflects sociocultural patterns. As these patterns are changing and as (agro)biodiversity is declining, local plant knowledge in the Napf region is suspected to undergo a mainstreaming process.