bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
One or Two Pups - Different Reproduction Strategies of Noctule Females
Authors: Zukalova Katerina , Seidlova Veronika , Piacek Vladimir , Nemcova Monika , Pribyl Michal , Pikula Jiri , Zukal Jan 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: The success of animal reproduction is impacted by a trade-off between energetic costs and mortality associated with immediate vs. future reproductive attempts. The reproductive strategies of European insectivorous bats differ from common mammalian standards due to the use of delayed fertilisation. Phenology of bat reproduction, including length of pregnancy, which may vary in the same species at different latitudes, between years at the same site or between individuals within a colony, is influenced by ecological conditions. To assess factors influencing the course of pregnancy we evaluated levels of blood progesterone in 20 female noctule bats Nyctalus noctula. The bats were individually tagged and randomly divided into two groups with different hibernation ending points (i.e. a control group vs. a treatment group with one week longer hibernation). Following emergence from hibernation, the bats were kept in a wooden box at a stable temperature of 22°C. Results: One female aborted her pups two days before the first successful births of other females, with the majority of females giving birth to a single neonate (65%). Based on development of progesterone concentration, we were able to define a number of different reproduction strategies, i.e. females with single offspring or twins, and females with supposed resorption of one embryo (embryonic mortality after implantation of the developing fertilised egg). Progesterone levels were much higher in females with two embryos during the first part of gestation and after birth. Progesterone levels were at their highest mid-gestation, with no difference between females carrying one or two foetuses. Length of gestation differed significantly between the two groups, with the longer hibernation (treatment) group having a roughly two-day shorter gestation period. Conclusions: Female N. noctula are able to manipulate their litter size to balance immediate and future reproduction success. The estimated gestation length of approx. 49-days appears to be standard for N. noctula, with females optimising their thermoregulatory behaviour to keep the length of gestation as close to the standard as possible.
Electroacupuncture for Hypertension in Adults: Study Protocol of a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Furong , Zhang Pan , Chen Yalan , Pei Hong , Qu Yuzhu , Chen Jiyao , He Xiaoguo , Liang Fanrong , Jin Rongjiang , Yang Mingxiao 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Hypertension is a common, prevalent cardiovascular disease that requires multidisciplinary treatments. In Asian countries, electroacupuncture (EA) is often used as an adjunct to antihypertensive drugs for lowering blood pressure and relieving related symptoms. However, till now the effects of EA for hypertension are not fully evaluated. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of EA in patients with hypertension through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.Methods and analysis: Seven electronic databases including Medline, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CNKI, CBM, Wanfang, and VIP Database will be searched from inception to May 30, 2021, to identify clinical trials of EA treating hypertension in adults. Eligible comparisons will be limited to 1) EA versus valid comparators including placebo, antihypertensives, waiting list and 2) EA as an adjunct to antihypertensives versus antihypertensives. Clinical outcomes include blood pressure, response rate, somatic symptom relief, quality of life, and safety from baseline to post-treatment. The Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool will be used to evaluate the quality of the included studies and the GRADE system will be employed to summarize the overall quality of evidence. Random-effects model will be performed, where efficacy data will be reported with mean difference (continuous data) or risk ratio (dichotomous data). In addition, heterogeneity and publication bias will be tested with the I2 statistic and the Egger’s test/funnel plot. Ethics and dissemination: As a secondary literature study, this systematic review doesn’t require ethical approval. The study results will be disseminated via peer-review publication or conference presentation. Registration: PROSPERO registration ID CRD42019133937.
MELD-XI Score Predict No-Reflow Phenomenon and Short-Term Mortality in Patient With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Zhang Xin-Tao , Lin Zhao-Rong , Zhang Lin , Zhao Zi-Wen , Chen Liang-Long 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Introduction
: No-reflow phenomenon (NRP) is one of high-incidence complication during percutaneous coronary intervention(PCI). In the current study, we examined the relationship between MELD-XI score and NRP in detail. Moreover, we further discuss whether MELD-XI score could consider as an accurate risk assessment score of patients with STEMI candidate for PCI.
Methods
This retrospective study involving 693 Patients with acute STEMI underwent an emergency PCI were consecutive recruited. All patients divided into normal reflow or no-reflow groups based in result of post interventional thrombolysisin myocardial in farction(TIMI) flow rate. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression and Cox regression analysis were conducted to identify the independent predictors of determine the independent predictive factor in both group. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and Kaplan-Meier (K-M) have been applied to estimate the predictive values of MELD-XI score.
Results
MELD-XI score is a independently indicator of NRP(odds ratio(OR):1.247, 95%CI:1.144-1.360, P<0.001). A multivariate Cox regression analysis also revealed that MELD-XI score is an independent prognostic factor for 30-days all-cause mortality(hazard ratio(HR):1.155, 95%CI:1.077-1.239, P<0.001). Moreover, the cutoff value of MELD-XI score to predict NRP was 9.47 by ROC curve, area under ROC curve(AUC):0.739, P<0.001. Kaplan-Meier curves for 30-days all cause mortality revealed lower survival rate in MELD-XI ༞9.78 group(P༜0.001).
Conclusion
The MELD-XI score predict NRP and 30-days prognosis accurately in STEMI patients whom undergoing PPCI. It could as an inexpensive and readily available tool for risk stratification.
Ethnobotanical Study On Plants Used To Dye Traditional Costumes By The Baiku Yao Nationality of China
Authors: Hu Renchuan , Li Tingting , Qin Yunrui , Liu Yujing , Huang Yunfeng 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: The Baiku Yao are a branch of the Yao nationality in China. The unique dyeing process of traditional clothing employed by these people has distinct national characteristics, a profound impact on the production and life of local people, and important research value. For this reason, it is important to investigate and document the dyeing plants and the traditional knowledge involved in the dyeing of Baiku Yao traditional clothing. This study provides a reference for the inheritance and development of Baiku Yao traditional clothing dyeing culture, will help to find new natural, safe and healthy textile dyes, and provides materials for green dyeing of modern clothing. At the same time, it is also expected that the research results will have positive significance in promoting regional economic development, national cultural inheritance and biodiversity protection. Methodology: Information on dyeing plants was obtained using the free-list method and interviews with 61 Baiku Yao informants in Guangxi and Guizhou from January 2020 to August 2021. Based on the free-list method, we evaluated and screened out important plants by calculating the cognitive salience value of each plant. Results: The results showed that the people of Baiku Yao have accumulated rich traditional knowledge of dyeing plants and the long-term dyeing and other processes. We collected 23 kinds of plants and recorded the related traditional knowledge, such as the Baiku Yao name, life form, habitat, part(s) used, application type, usage, and area used. The results also showed that 15 plants (65.2%) have medicinal value and can be used to treat 18 aliments, and wild plants play a very important role in the life of the Baiku Yao. Conclusion: These plants not only meet the color needs of the Baiku Yao people but also have health care effects, aligning with the trends toward green dyeing and the health contentiousness of modern people. This study will aid the identification of new natural, safe and healthy textile dyes and is of positive significance in promoting regional economic development, national cultural inheritance and biodiversity protection.
The Impact of Sarcopenia on Low Back Pain and Quality of Life in Patients with Osteoporosis
Authors: Iwahashi Shoji , Hashida Ryuki , Matsuse Hiroo , Higashi Eriko , Bekki Masafumi , Iwanaga Sohei , Hara Koji , Higuchi Takahiko , Hirakawa Yohei , Kubota Asami , Imagawa Hiromi , Muta Yoko , Minamitani Kazuhito , Yoshida Tatsuhiro , Yokosuka Kimiaki , Yamada Kei , Sato Kimiaki 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Osteoporosis combined with sarcopenia contributes to a high risk of falling, fracture, and even mortality. However, sarcopenia's impact on low back pain and quality of life (QOL) in patients with osteoporosis is still unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate low back pain and QOL in osteoporosis patients with sarcopenia.Methods: We assessed 100 ambulatory patients who came to our hospital for osteoporosis treatment. Low back pain was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) with 100 being an extreme amount of pain and 0 no pain. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) score was used to assess QOL after adjustment for age, history of vertebral fracture, and adult spinal deformity. Differences in low back pain intensity assessed by VAS between groups were evaluated by the Willcoxon rank-sum test. Covariance analysis was used to assess QOL. All data are expressed as either median, interquartile range, or average, standard error.Results: Patients were classified into the sarcopenia group (n=32) and the non-sarcopenia group (n=68). Low back pain intensity assessed by VAS was significantly higher in the sarcopenia group than in the non-sarcopenia group (33.0 [0-46.6] vs. 8.5 [0-40.0]; p<0.05). The subscales of the JOABPEQ for low back pain were significantly lower in the sarcopenia group than in the non-sarcopenia group (65.0±4.63 vs. 84.0±3.1; p<0.05). Conclusion:In this cross-sectional study, sarcopenia affected low back pain and QOL in ambulatory patients with osteoporosis. Sarcopenia may exacerbate low back pain and QOL. (244/250 words)
Atrial Approach in Mitral Valve Surgery: Are There Differences in the Incidence of Clinically Relevant Adverse Effects? A Propensity Analysis.
Authors: Obando Carlos , Garzón Javier D , Ramirez Lina M , Castillo Andrea C , Guerrero Albert F , Chalela Tomas , Sandoval Diana C , Giraldo-Grueso Manuel , Sandoval Nestor F , Camacho Jaime , Umaña Juan P 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: The lack of evidence with respect to complications with mitral valve approaches leaves the choice of exposure to the surgeon’s preference, basing it on individual experience, speed, ease, and quality of exposure. Methods: Analysis of patients undergoing mitral valve surgery by either a superior transseptal approach or a left-atrial approach between 2006 and 2018. We included first time elective mitral valve procedures, isolated or combined, without a history of rhythm disturbances. We used propensity score matching based on 26 perioperative variables. Primary endpoint was to determine the association between the superior transeptal approach and clinically significant adverse outcomes including arrhythmias, need for permanent pacemaker, cerebrovascular events, and mortalityResults: 652 patients met the inclusion criteria, 391 received the left atrial approach and 261 superior transseptal. After matching, 96 patients were compared with 69, respectively. The distribution of the preoperative and perioperative variables was similar. There was no difference in the incidence of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and the need for treatment. The incidence of nodal rhythm (p = 0.008) and length of stay in intensive care (p = 0.04) were higher in the superior transseptal group, however the need for permanent pacemaker implantation was the same. Likewise, there was no difference in the need for anticoagulation due to arrhythmia, the incidence of cerebrovascular events or mortality in the postoperative period, and in the long-term follow-up.Conclusion: We did not find an association with permanent heart rhythm disorders or any other significant adverse clinical outcome, therefore we consider that the superior transeptal approach is useful and safe for mitral valve exposure.
The Influence of Electronic Acupuncture At A Specific Frequency In Facilitating The Passage of NGF Through The Blood-Brain Barrier And Its Effect On Learning And Memory In MCAO/R Rats
Authors: Zhao Yibin , Mao Xuqing , Wang Hao , Gan Lin , Zhang Shanshan , Gong Peng , Lin Xianming 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintains the balance of the internal environment of the brain and strictly controls substance exchange between the brain and blood dynamically but stably. Transient increases in the permeability of the BBB plays an important role in helping macromolecular drugs enter the brain to exert their pharmacological effects. Previous research has revealed that electronic acupuncture (EA) stimulation at a specific frequency can enhance the permeability of the BBB and induce the entry of 20 kDa fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-dextran) into the cerebral cortex, but whether it can also allow drugs to pass the BBB remains unknown. We hypothesized that EA at a specific frequency could open the BBB and induce the entry of nerve growth factor (NGF) into the brain to exert its therapeutic effect. To simulate the clinical apoplexy sequelae observed in patients and determine the basic timing of BBB repair under pathological conditions, we employed the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model and assessed changes in the permeability and structure of the BBB by measuring both the intensity of Evans blue (EB) staining and the cerebral infarction volume and evaluating the ultrastructure of the BBB. Then, we used a laser spectrometer and immunofluorescence to observe entry of NGF into the brain. Finally, we assessed the learning and memory ability of rats and used the DeadEnd TM Fluorometric TUNEL System to assess apoptosis in the hippocampus. Our results showed that the BBB was essentially repaired three weeks after MCAO, indicating that EA stimulation at a specific frequency can enhance BBB permeability and induce NGF uptake by prefrontal neurons. In the presence of EA stimulation, entry of NGF into the brain promoted learning and memory in rats and inhibited the apoptosis of neurons in the hippocampus. In this study, the MCAO model was used to determine the timing of BBB repair under pathological conditions and assess the EA stimulation-induced entry of NGF into the brain to exert its therapeutic effect. EA could serve as a new strategy for delivering therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS), given that EA stimulation at a specific frequency was shown to increase the permeability of the BBB. Further study of the mechanism underlying the opening of the BBB and its timing is needed.
Comparative Transcriptomics Analyses of a Vero Cell Line in Suspension Versus Adherent Culture Conditions
Authors: Sène Marie-Angélique , Xia Yu , Kamen Amine A. 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
The Vero cell line is the most used continuous cell line for viral vaccine manufacturing. Its anchorage-dependent use renders scaling-up challenging and operations very labor intensive which affects cost effectiveness. Thus, efforts to adapt Vero cells to suspension cultures have been invested but hurdles such as the long doubling time and low cell viability remain to be addressed. In this study, building on the recently published Vero cell line annotated genome, a functional genomics analysis of the Vero cells adapted to suspension is performed to better understand the genetic and phenotypic switches at play during the adaptation of Vero cells from anchorage-dependent to suspension cultures. Results show a downregulation of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway, highlighting the dissociation between the adaptation to suspension process and EMT. Surprisingly, an upregulation of cell adhesion components is observed, notably the CDH18 gene, the cytoskeleton pathway, and the extracellular pathway. Moreover, a downregulation of the glycolytic pathway are balanced by an upregulation of the asparagine metabolism pathway, promoting cell adaptation to nutrient deprivation. A downregulation of the adherens junctions and the folate pathways alongside with the FYN gene are possible explanations behind the currently observed low cell viability and long doubling time.
Neurofunctional and neuroimaging readouts for designing a preclinical stem-cell therapy trial in experimental stroke
Authors: Dumot Chloé , Po Chrystelle , Capin Lucille , Hubert Violaine , Ong Elodie , Chourrout Matthieu , Bolbos Radu , Amaz Camille , Auxenfans Céline , Canet-Soulas Emmanuelle , Rome Claire , Chauveau Fabien , Wiart Marlène 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
With the aim of designing a preclinical study evaluating an intracerebral cell-based therapy for stroke, an observational study was performed in the rat suture model of ischemic stroke. Objectives were threefold: (i) to characterize neurofunctional and imaging readouts in the first weeks following transient ischemic stroke, according to lesion subtype (hypothalamic, striatal, corticostriatal); (ii) to confirm that intracerebral administration does not negatively impact these readouts; and (iii) to calculate sample sizes for a future therapeutic trial using these readouts as endpoints. Our results suggested that the most relevant endpoints were side bias (staircase test) and axial diffusivity (AD) (diffusion tensor imaging). Hypothalamic-only lesions did not affect those parameters, which were close to normal. Side bias in striatal lesions reached near-normal levels within 2 weeks, while rats with corticostriatal lesions remained impaired until week 14. AD values were decreased at 4 days and increased at 5 weeks post-surgery, with a subtype gradient: hypothalamic < striatal < corticostriatal. Intracerebral administration did not impact these readouts. After sample size calculation (18-147 rats per group according to the endpoint considered), we conclude that a therapeutic trial based on both readouts would be feasible only in the framework of a multicenter trial.
Is Staff Consistency Important to Parents’ Satisfaction in a Longitudinal Study of Children at Risk for Type 1 Diabetes: The TEDDY Study
Authors: Melin Jessica , Lynch Kristian F. , Lundgren Markus , Aronsson Carin Andrén , Larsson Helena Elding , Johnson Suzanne Bennett 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Participants’ study satisfaction is important for both study compliance and retention, but research on parental study satisfaction is rare. The aim of the study was to identify factors associated with parent study satisfaction in a longitudinal, multinational study of children at risk for type 1 diabetes, with a particular focus on the role of staff consistency.Methods: Mother and father study satisfaction was measured at child-age 15 months (5579 mothers and 4942 fathers) and child-age four years (4010 mothers and 3411 fathers). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with study satisfaction at both time points.Results: Parent study satisfaction was highest in Sweden and the US compared to Finland. Parents with low education who had an accurate perception of their child’s type 1 diabetes risk and who believed they can do something to prevent type 1 diabetes were more satisfied with their study participation. Parents with higher depression scores had lower study satisfactions scores. After adjusting for these factors, study staff consistency was associated with greater study satisfaction in Europe but not the US. However, the number of staff changes from visit to visit was markedly higher in the US compared to Europe. Although study satisfaction scores were higher for mothers than fathers, associations with other factors were similar for both.Conclusions: Factors associated with parent study satisfaction were similar for mothers and fathers and across time. Potentially modifiable factors are of particular interest. These include accuracy about the child’s risk for type 1 diabetes; beliefs that something can be done to reduce the child’s risk; and study staff consistency. However, the importance of staff consistency was different between the US and European parents. Trial registration: NCT00279318
Health Workforce Strategies in Response to Major Health Events: A Rapid Scoping Review with Lessons Learned for the Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Coates Alison , Fuad Asli Oubah , Hodgson Amanda , Bourgeault Ivy Lynn 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: The early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic brought multiple concurrent threats – high patient volume and acuity and, simultaneously, increased risk to health workers. Healthcare managers and decision-makers needed to identify strategies to mitigate these adverse conditions. This paper reports on the health workforce strategies implemented in relation to past large-scale emergencies (including natural disasters, extreme weather events, and infectious disease outbreaks).Methods: We conducted a rapid scoping review of health workforce responses to natural disasters, extreme weather events, and infectious disease outbreaks reported in the literature between January 2000 and April 2020. The 3582 individual results were screened to include articles which described surge responses to past emergencies for which an evaluative component was included in the report. A total of 37 articles were included in our analysis.Results: The reviewed literature describes challenges related to increased demand for health services and a simultaneous decrease in the availability of the workforce. Many articles also described impacts on infrastructure that hindered emergency response. These challenges aligned well with those faced during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the published literature, the workforce strategies that were described aimed either to increase the numbers of health workers in a given area, to increase the flexibility of the health workforce to meet needs in new ways, or to support and sustain health workers in practice. Workforce responses addressed all types and cadres of health workers and were executed in a wide range of settings. We additionally report on the barriers and facilitators of workforce strategies reported in the literature reviewed. The strategies that were reported in the literature aligned closely with our COVID-specific conceptual framework of workforce capacity levers, suggesting that our framework may have heuristic value across many types of health disasters.Conclusions: This research highlights a key deficiency with the existing literature on workforce responses to emergencies: most papers lack substantive evaluation of the strategies implemented. Future research on health workforce capacity interventions should include robust evaluation of impact and effectiveness.