bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Individual variability in the size and organization of the human arcuate nucleus of the medulla
Authors: Baizer Joan Susan , Witelson Sandra F. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The arcuate nucleus (Arc) of the medulla is found in almost all human brains and in a small percentage of chimpanzee brains. It is absent in the brains of other mammalian species including mice, rats, cats and macaque monkeys. The Arc is classically considered a precerebellar nucleus, presumably motor in function. However, several studies have found aplasia of the Arc in babies who died of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) suggesting a very different role for the Arc in the control of respiration. Aplasia of the Arc, however, has also been reported in adults suggesting that it is not critical for survival. We have examined the Arc in closely-spaced Nissl-stained sections in human cases to acquire a better understanding of the degree of variability of its size and location in adults. We have also examined immunostained sections to develop a neurochemical profile of this nucleus. Our data suggest that the Arc consists of rostral and caudal subdivisions. There is some degree of left-right asymmetry in Arc position, size and shape at all rostro-caudal levels. Neurons in the Arc express calretinin (CR), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and nonphosphorylated neurofilament protein (NPNFP) but not calbindin (CB) or parvalbumin (PV). There is also immunostaining for GAD and GABA receptors suggesting inhibitory input to Arc neurons. We support the classical idea of the Arc as a precerebellar nucleus; its absence in SIDS cases may not be the cause of death but rather a correlate of other brainstem abnormalities.
Evaluating The Implementation of A National COVID-19 Hospital Guideline In Wales
Authors: Jefferies Rhys , Ponsford Mark J , Barry Simon 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic created a unique situation where a national clinical guideline would address uncertainty, and provide a trusted source for up-to-date information and advice. We developed a dynamic online infrastructure together with a dedicated implementation team to deliver this at scale and pace. The guideline was implemented through a digital implementation framework (SIMPSI framework) deploying facilitators to maximise guideline adoption, particularly targeting senior clinical decision makers (consultants) involved with the care of COVID-infected patients across six Health Boards (HB) in Wales. Methods We evaluated guideline implementation using the Taxonomy of Implementation Outcomes Model. The primary outcome was consultant engagement, with a target of 193 registrations. We assessed wider impact through analysis of guideline platform activity and a user survey, with additional sensitivity analysis to derive penetration ratios, catchment population, clinical staff, acute beds, and COVID-19 admissions. ResultsThe guideline platform had 4521 total registrants, with over 170,000 page views during the first wave. We exceeded the target nearly six-fold (1159 consultant registrants). This represented 45% of all medical consultants in Wales, and made up the highest proportion of guideline registrants of all professional groups (23%, 1159/4521). We observed significant variation in guideline penetration across the six HBs, ranging from 31% to 74% of consultants registered. The HB with highest penetration had the most active guideline facilitator. The HB with the lowest penetration was the region first impacted and most affected by COVID-19 at the time of guideline publication (37% inpatients of peak, versus 10% or less for the other HBs). ConclusionWe utilised a digital implementation framework to construct a system that could be rapidly applied throughout all hospitals in Wales. Whilst we exceeded the intended target demonstrating full implementation, we identified two key factors to account for differences in the penetration rates across the different HBs. First, an experienced and active facilitator with the capacity to undertake the role was associated with significantly better penetration. Second, timeliness of implementation was crucial as evidenced by lower penetrance is the one HB that was impacted earliest by COVID-19 at the time of guideline dissemination. Nevertheless, the rapid implementation of the guideline has coincided with Wales demonstrating more favourable intensive care survival rates and maintaining one of the lowest mortality rates when compared to the UK as a whole for the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
QTL Mapping Integrated with BSA-Seq Analysis Identifies a Novel Gene Conferring Resistance to Brown Planthopper from Common Wild Rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.)
Authors: Wang Xuan , Han Yue , Zhang Yuexiong , Deng Biao , Wu Biqiu , Guo Xinying , Qin Yufen , Fang Yaoyu , Liu Fang , Qin Baoxiang , Luo Jijing , Li Rongbai 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål, BPH) is one of the most destructive rice pests worldwide. GXU202 is a germplasm of common wild rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff. ) with high resistance to the BPH. In this study, the genetic analysis indicated that the BPH resistant phenotype of GXU202 is controlled by a major gene. Through the combination and comparison of QTL linkage and BSA-seq analyses, a novel gene locus BPH41 conferring BPH resistance was identified, which has been finely mapped to a 114-kb region delimited by D01031 and W1 on chromosome 4. The markers D01031 and D01045 showed high accuracy in predicting resistant phenotypes to BPH, suggesting their reliability for marker-assisted selection of BPH41 in breeding for BPH resistant rice varieties. The present identification of BPH41 will establish a foundation for further map-based cloning and functional characterization of the gene.
Characterization of Root-Endophytic Actinobacteria From Cactus (Opuntia Ficus-Indica) for Plant Growth Promoting Traits
Authors: Govindasamy V , George Priya , Ramesh S V , Sureshkumar P , Rane Jagadish , Minhas PS 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The present study is the first report of isolation and characterization of endophytic actinobacteria from cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica). A total of 179 morphologically distinct endophytic actinobacterial isolates were purified from the roots of two different genetic accessions of cactus. All these isolates were screened for their plant growth promotion traits namely growth on N-free medium, P-solubilization, siderophore production, ACC deaminase activity and IAA production. A majority of the endophytic actinobacterial isolates (85%) exhibited the potential for plant growth promotion under in vitro conditions. Ten among the isolates were selected based on their multi-PGP traits and were identified as Streptomyces sp. based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Plant growth promoting potential of these selected endophytic Streptomyces was studied in wheat seedlings. All these selected isolates significantly enhanced the growth parameters like seedling length and rootlets number compared to the uninoculated control. The wheat seeds inoculated with Streptomyces tuirus VL-70-IX exhibited maximum number of rootlets (6.33) compared to uninoculated control (3.67). The inoculation of endophytic actinobacteria Streptomyces pseudogriseolus VL-70-XII caused maximum seedling length (20.53 cm) and root length (8.26 cm) while the inoculation of S. radiopugnans HV-VIII resulted in highest shoot length (12.33 cm). These endophytic actinobacteria isolated from the roots of cactus accessions showed potential PGP traits. This work lays foundation for characterization and selection of endophytic actinobacteria from the under-exploited, drought tolerant species such as cactus with potential cross-compatibility for the improvement of plant growth of field crops especially under abiotic stress conditions..
Preoperative Incentive Spirometry for Preventing Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sweity Essa M , Alkaissi Aidah A , Othman Wafiq , Salahat Ahmad 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) often occur after cardiac operations, and are a leading cause of morbidity, inhibit oxygenation, and increase hospital length of stay, and mortality. Although clinical evidence for PPCs prevention is often unclear and crucial, measures take place to reduce PPCs. One device usually used for this reason is the incentive spirometry (IS). The Aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of preoperative incentive spirometry to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications, improve postoperative oxygenation, and decrease hospital stay following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery patients. Methods: This was a clinical randomized prospective study. A total of 80 patients were selected as candidates for CABG at An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus-Palestine. Patients had been randomly assigned into two groups: incentive spirometry group (IS), SI performed before surgery (study group) and control group, preoperative spirometry was not performed. The 40 patients in each group received the same protocol of anesthesia and ventilation in the operating room. Result: The study findings showed that there was a significant difference between the IS group and control group in the incidence of postoperative atelectasis, there were 8 patients (20.0%) in IS group and 17 patients (42.5 %) in the control group (p= 0.03). Mechanical ventilation duration was significantly less in group IS group, the median was four hours versus six hours in the control group (p < 0.001). Hospital length of stay was significantly less in group IS group, the median was six days versus seven days in the control group (p < 0.001). Median of the amount of arterial blood oxygen and oxygen saturation was significantly effective improvement in IS group with (p < 0.005). Conclusion: Preoperative incentive spirometry for 2 days along with exercises of deep breathing, encouraged coughing and early ambulation following CABG are in connection with prevention and decrease incidence of atelectasis, hospital stay, mechanical ventilation duration and improved postoperative oxygenation with better pain control. A difference that can be considered both significant and clinically relevant.Trial registration Thai Clinical Trials Registry: TCTR20201020005. Registered 17 October 2020 - Retrospectively registered.
A Potential Mitigation Measure of the Seismic Distress of the Circuit Wall at the Acropolis of Athens
Authors: Katsirakis Manolis , Tsompanakis Yiannis , Psarropoulos Prodromos N. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The seismic design of new retaining structures is usually performed following modern seismic norms. Nonetheless, there are various monumental retaining structures (e.g., fortifications) with high seismic vulnerability, which must be protected against earthquakes, while there are several limitations on the type of mitigation measures that can be applied to such cultural heritage structures. The present study investigates numerically the seismic response and distress of the Circuit Wall of the Athenian Acropolis. The Wall is a monumental masonry retaining structure surrounding the world-class monuments of the archeological hill of the Acropolis. Given the fact that the wider region of Athens is characterized by moderate to high seismicity, it is necessary to protect the Wall from strong ground motions. For this purpose, the geological, seismological, and topographic conditions of the Acropolis hill, as well as the geometry and the mechanical properties of the Wall, are realistically taken into account. A representative finite-element model has been developed for a critical section of the Wall, which has been validated with available records from accelerometers being installed at the Wall. Subsequently, an efficient and suitable -according to international monument restoration guidelines- seismic mitigation measure is proposed. The results of dynamic earth-pressure distribution on the Wall are presented before and after the application of expanded polystyrene (EPS) blocks behind the Wall. Α detailed parametric study illustrates a substantial reduction of dynamic pressures on the Wall when the EPS blocks are applied, either along the entire height or only at the lower part of the Wall.
Association of energy adjusts Nutrient-rich foods (ENRF) on mental health among obese and overweight women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Salehi Zahra , Shiraseb Farideh , Rasaei Niloufar , Mirzaei Khadijeh 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Mental health and obesity have a bilateral relationship with each other. No study has been done on the relation between mental health and the ENRF9.3 index so far. Therefore, for the first time, we examined the relationship between the ENRF9.3 index and mental health in women with overweight and obesity.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, 124 overweight and obese women were selected. Food intakes in the last 1 year were collected with 147 items of semi-quantitative food frequency. Then, the ENRF9.3 index score was calculated for all individuals. Mental health was assessed with a 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) questionnaire.
Results
In the present study, before adjusting for potential confounders the total DASS score was marginal significance(P = 0.05), that after the adjustment, it became insignificant(P > 0.05), after adjusting for confounders stress also became significant(P = 0.04). But no significant relationship was observed between depression and anxiety, even after adjustment(P > 0.05).
Conclusions
The present study showed that a nutritious diet is not associated with overall mental health score, among subgroups of the DASS total score, the relationship was seen only for the stress subgroup.
The Peculiar Hydrology of West-Central Florida’s Sandhill Wetlands, Ponds, and Lakes – Part 1: Physical &amp; Chemical Evidence of Connectivity to a Regional Water-Supply Aquifer
Authors: Nowicki ReNae S , Rains Mark C , LaRoche Jason J , Pasek Matthew A 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The sandhill wetlands, ponds, and lakes of west-central Florida, USA, are an understudied, poorly understood variant of geographically isolated features. Their karst origin and xeric setting impart a characteristic ecohydrology, which is a function of their connectivity to a regional water-supply aquifer. This study describes their general hydrologic character and provides physical and chemical evidence of this connectivity. These findings advance fundamental understanding of sandhill wetland/water ecohydrology and endeavor to ensure their proper management and protection amidst increasing groundwater demands, ever-expanding development, and a changing climate.Water level elevations and/or geochemistry were compared for 12 wetlands, five ponds, two lakes, and 12 monitor wells (10 constructed in limestone, two in surficial sand) in west-central Florida. Hydrograph and regression analyses indicate widely ranging water levels for most features and wells that are similar in elevation and very highly correlated with each other (0.84<R2<0.99). Water geochemistry varies from rainwater to water in contact with limestone as a function of feature depth relative to the depth of the rainwater-limestone water mixing zone. Results suggest sandhill wetland/water features are surface water expressions of the underlying regional aquifer hydrology, distinguishing them from isolated features elsewhere and establishing them as a groundwater endmember along the hydrologic continuum.
A Multicenter Study On Quality Of Life of The “Greater Patient” In Congenital Ichthyoses
Authors: Abeni Damiano , Rotunno Roberta , Diociaiuti Andrea , Giancristoforo Simona , Bonamonte Domenico , Schepis Carmelo , Neri Iria , Castiglia Daniele , Zambruno Giovanna , Hachem May El 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyoses (ARCI) are a genetically heterogeneous group of rare and chronic disorders characterized by generalized skin scaling and hyperkeratosis, erythroderma, and palmoplantar keratoderma. Additional features include ectropion, eclabium, ear deformities, foul-smell, joints contractures and walking problems, recurrent infections, as well as pruritus and pain. No curative therapy is available and disease care mainly relies on daily application of topical emollients and keratolytics to the whole-body surface. Altogether, disease signs and symptoms and treatment modalities have a major impact on quality of life of patients and their caregivers. However, very few studies have evaluated the family disease burden in ARCI. Methods: We have performed an Italian multicenter cross-sectional study to assess the secondary disease impact on family members of pediatric and adult patients with ARCI, using a validated dermatology-specific questionnaire, the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI). Disease severity was assessed by the dermatologist in each center.Results: Seventy-eight out of 82 patients who were accompanied by at least one family member filled the FDLQI. Forty-eight (61.5%) patients were aged less than 18 years. The mean FDLQI score was 10.3 (median 10), and the most affected dimensions were (i) time needed for care, (ii) extra-housework, and (iii) household expenditure. Higher total FDLQI score significantly correlated with more severe disease score (P= 0.003). Features associated with greater family burden included recurrent infections (P= 0.004), foul-smell (P=0.009), palmplantar keratoderma (P= 0.041), but also presence of scales on the face (P= 0.039) and ear deformities (P= 0.016). Conclusions: Our findings highlight the major socio-economic and psychological burden imposed by ARCI on the QoL of caregivers. In addition, they show that global evaluation of disease impact also on family members is an essential part of patient-reported outcomes. Finally, our data underline the need to develop specific measures for family support.
A Retrospective Study of the Impact of Health Worker Strikes on Maternal and Child Health Care Utilization in Western Kenya
Authors: Scanlon Michael L , Maldonado Lauren Y. , Ikemeri Justus E. , Jumah Anjellah , Anusu Getrude , Bone Jeffrey N. , Chelagat Sheilah , Keter Joann Chebet , Ruhl Laura J , Songok Julia , Christoffersen-Deb Astrid 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThere have been dozens of strikes by health workers in Kenya in the past decade, but there are few studies on their impact on maternal child health services and outcomes. We conducted a retrospective survey study to assess the impact of nationwide strikes by health workers in 2017 on utilization of maternal child health services in western Kenya. MethodsWe utilized a parent study to enroll women who were pregnant in 2017 when there were prolonged strikes by health workers (“strike group”) and women who were pregnant in 2018 when there were no major strikes (“control group”). Trained research assistants administered a close-ended survey to retrospectively collect demographic and pregnancy-related health utilization and outcomes data. Data were collected between March and July 2019. The primary outcomes of interest were antenatal care (ANC) visits, delivery location, and early child immunizations. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate risk ratios between the strike and control groups, adjusting for socioeconomic status, health insurance status, and clustering. Adjusted risk ratios (ARR) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). ResultsOf 1,341 women recruited in the parent study in 2017 (strike group), we re-consented 843 women (63%) to participate in close-ended interviews. Of 924 women recruited in the control arm of the parent study in 2018 (control group), we re-consented 728 women (79%). Women in the strike group were 17% less likely to attend at least four ANC visits during their pregnancy (ARR 0.83, 95%CI 0.74, 0.94) and 16% less likely to deliver in a health facility (ARR 0.84, 95%CI 0.76, 0.92) compared to women in the control group. Whether a child received their first oral polio vaccine did not differ significantly between groups, but children of women in the strike group received their vaccine significantly longer after birth (13 days versus 7 days, p=0.002).Conclusion We found that women who were pregnant during nationwide strikes by health workers in 2017 were less likely to receive WHO-recommended maternal child health services. Strategies to maintain these services during strikes are urgently needed.
Content and Analysis of a Knowledge Translation Activity for an Elder Abuse Detection Tool: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Yaffe⃰ Mark J. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Knowledge translation (KT) is challenging to carry out and assess. The content of a program developed to foster KT activities pertaining to the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI) ©, a tool to help identify elder abuse, is described, along with reporting and analysis of some of its outcomes. Methods: Enquiries about the use of the EASI were encouraged through completion of a structured questionnaire available on an EASI website. These were submitted by email and guided individualized responses. Descriptive data collated anonymously from the questionnaires described in aggregate corresponders’ occupations, countries of work, information needs about the tool, and intent of use. The processes that generated this data were evaluated as to whether they conformed to established elements of KT.Results: 138 queries were received over 6 years coming from enquirers with 12 different professional backgrounds, working in 25 countries. The information sought aimed to facilitate EASI use in clinical, quality improvement, public health, research, teaching, KT, and commercial ventures..Conclusions: This activity, incorporating recognized elements of a KT undertaking, documents specific global interests in elder abuse detection. It suggests a model for researchers to guage interest in their findings and to promote exchange around them.
Biomechanical Comparison of Vertbroplasty, Kyphoplasty, Vertebrae Stent for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures -A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Liao Jen-Chung , Chen Michael Jian-Wen , Lin Tung-Yi , Chen Weng-Pin 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Vertebroplasty (VP), balloon kyphoplasty (BKP), and vertebral stent (VS) are usually used for osteoporotic compression fracture. However, these procedures may pose risks of secondary adjacent level fractures. This study simulates finite element models of osteoporotic compression fractures treated with VP, BKP, and VS. Vertebral resection method was used to simulate vertebra fracture with Young’s modulus set at 70 MPa to replicate osteoporosis. A compressive force of 1000N was applied on the T11 vertebra while the L1 vertebra were fully constrained as boundary condition. Moment loadings of 4.2 N-m in flexion, 1.0 N-m in extension, 2.6 N-m in lateral bending, and 3.4 N-m in axial rotation were applied. The VS model had the highest von Mises stresses on the bone cement under all different loading conditions (flexion/5.91 Mpa; extension/3.74 Mpa; lateral bending/3.12 Mpa; axial rotation/3.54 Mpa). The stress distribution and maximum von Mises stresses of the adjacent segments, T11 inferior endplate and L1 superior endplate, showed no significant difference among three surgical models. The postoperative T12 stiffness for VP, BKP, and VS are 2898.48 N/mm, 4123.18 N/mm, and 4690.34 N/mm, respectively. VS is the most effective surgical method to maintain vertebral body height without significantly increasing the risks of adjacent fracture.