bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anakinra for the treatment of COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dahms Karolina , Mikolajewska Agata , Ansems Kelly , Metzendorf Maria-Inti , Benstoem Carina , Stegemann Miriam
Published: February 2023

Background

At the end of 2021, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) expanded its approval for the recombinant human interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor antagonist Anakinra for the treatment of COVID-19 patients with elevated soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR). However, the role of Anakinra in COVID-19 remains unanswered, especially in patients receiving different forms of respiratory support. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review is to assess the safety and effects of Anakinra compared to placebo or standard care alone on clinical outcomes in adult hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register (comprising MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, medRxiv, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CCSR)) and the WHO COVID-19 Global literature on coronavirus disease database to identify completed and ongoing studies from inception of each database to December 13, 2021. Since then, we monitored new published studies weekly up to June 30, 2022 using the CCSR. We included RCTs comparing treatment with Anakinra to placebo or standard care alone in adult hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Results

We included five RCTs with 1,627 patients (nAnakinra = 888, ncontrol = 739, mean age 59.63 years, 64% male). Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool data. We found that Anakinra makes little or no difference to all-cause mortality at up to day 28 compared to placebo or standard care alone (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.64–1.45; RD 9 fewer per 1000, 95% CI 84 fewer to 104 more; 4 studies, 1593 participants; I2 = 49%; low certainty of evidence).

Conclusions

Anakinra has no effect on adult hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection regarding mortality, clinical improvement and worsening as well as on safety outcomes compared to placebo or standard care alone.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42021257552.
Research on Chinese traditional opera costume recognition based on improved YOLOv5
Authors: Liu Kaixuan , Lin Kai , Zhu Chun
Published: February 2023

In order to protect the cultural heritage of opera costumes, establish visual labels for opera costumes, accelerate the establishment of a database for opera costumes, and increase the dissemination of opera culture, we propose an improved You Only Look Once (YOLO) v5-based opera costume recognition model for opera costumes with a wide range of styles, rich colors, and complex stage environments. By adding Coordinate Attention (CA) mechanism to the backbone of YOLOv5, the network can focus on more interesting information when extracting features; replacing the original feature pyramid module with a weighted bidirectional feature pyramid module in the Neck part to achieve efficient fusion of features; replacing the original loss function GIOU with DIOU to improve the detection accuracy and convergence speed. The average detection accuracy of the improved YOLOv5 model reaches 86.3% and its inference speed reaches 28 ms per frame through experiments on the homemade Chinese costume dataset, which improves the average detection accuracy by 3.1% compared with the original model, and has good robustness in detecting complex scenes such as covered targets, light-colored costumes, cross targets, dense targets and different angles. The model meets the requirements for accuracy and real-time costume recognition in complex theatrical environments.
Prospective evaluation of Gadoxetate-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography for hepatocellular carcinoma detection and transplant eligibility assessment with explant histopathology correlation
Authors: Jhaveri Kartik S. , Babaei Jandaghi Ali , Bhayana Rajesh , Elbanna Khaled Y. , Espin-Garcia Osvaldo , Fischer Sandra E. , Ghanekar Anand , Sapisochin Gonzalo
Published: February 2023

Background

We aimed to prospectively compare the diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI (EOB-MRI) and contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection and liver transplant (LT) eligibility assessment in cirrhotic patients with explant histopathology correlation.

Methods

In this prospective, single-institution ethics-approved study, 101 cirrhotic patients were enrolled consecutively from the pre-LT clinic with written informed consent. Patients underwent CECT and EOB-MRI alternately every 3 months until LT or study exclusion. Two blinded radiologists independently scored hepatic lesions on CECT and EOB-MRI utilizing the liver imaging reporting and data system (LI-RADS) version 2018. Liver explant histopathology was the reference standard. Pre-LT eligibility accuracies with EOB-MRI and CECT as per Milan criteria (MC) were assessed in reference to post-LT explant histopathology. Lesion-level and patient-level statistical analyses were performed.

Results

Sixty patients (49 men; age 33–72 years) underwent LT successfully. One hundred four non-treated HCC and 42 viable HCC in previously treated HCC were identified at explant histopathology. For LR-4/5 category lesions, EOB-MRI had a higher pooled sensitivity (86.7% versus 75.3%, p <  0.001) but lower specificity (84.6% versus 100%, p <  0.001) compared to CECT. EOB-MRI had a sensitivity twice that of CECT (65.9% versus 32.2%, p <  0.001) when all HCC identified at explant histopathology were included in the analysis instead of imaging visible lesions only. Disregarding the hepatobiliary phase resulted in a significant drop in EOB-MRI performance (86.7 to 72.8%, p <  0.001). EOB-MRI had significantly lower pooled sensitivity and specificity versus CECT in the LR5 category with lesion size < 2 cm (50% versus 79%, p = 0.002 and 88.9% versus 100%, p = 0.002). EOB-MRI had higher sensitivity (84.8% versus 75%, p <  0.037) compared to CECT for detecting < 2 cm viable HCC in treated lesions. Accuracies of LT eligibility assessment were comparable between EOB-MRI (90–91.7%, p = 0.156) and CECT (90–95%, p = 0.158).

Conclusion

EOB-MRI had superior sensitivity for HCC detection; however, with lower specificity compared to CECT in LR4/5 category lesions while it was inferior to CECT in the LR5 category under 2 cm. The accuracy for LT eligibility assessment based on MC was not significantly different between EOB-MRI and CECT.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03342677, Registered: November 17, 2017.
Agreement between a new optical low coherence reflectometry biometer and an anterior segment optical coherence tomographer
Authors: Wang Yiran , Wan Ting , Liu Luze , Xue Yuyuan , Chen Xinyao , Savini Giacomo , Schiano-Lomoriello Domenico , Zhou Xingtao , Yu Jinjin , Huang Jinhai
Published: February 2023

Background

To assess agreement of measurements between a new optical low coherence reflectometry (OLCR) biometer (SW-9000, Suoer, Tianjin, China) and a spectral-domain optical coherence tomographer (SD-OCT)/Placido topographer (MS-39, CSO, Florence, Italy) in healthy subjects.

Methods

A total of 66 right eyes from 66 healthy subjects were enrolled in this prospective study. Three consecutive measurements were randomly obtained with both devices by the same experienced operator to assess agreement. Bland-Altman plots and 95% limits of agreement (LoA) were used to verify the agreement between the devices. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD).

Results

The SD-OCT/Placido tomographer showed high agreement with the OLCR biometer for all parameters included in this study. The mean differences of central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), aqueous depth (AQD), mean keratometry (Km) and corneal diameter (CD) were 2.21 ± 2.67 μm (P < 0.001), − 0.10 ± 0.03 mm (P < 0.001), − 0.10 ± 0.04 mm (P < 0.001), − 0.01 ± 0.22 D (P = 0.773) and 0.20 ± 0.16 mm (P < 0.001), respectively. This implies that the inter-device difference in Km was not statistically significant, while the differences in CCT, ACD, AQD, CD were statistically but not clinically significant. The 95% LoAs of CCT, ACD, AQD, Km and CD were − 3.01 to 7.44 μm, − 0.16 to − 0.05 mm, − 0.18 to − 0.03 mm, − 0.45 to 0.43 D, and − 0.12 to 0.51 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

For CCT, ACD, AQD, Km, and CD in healthy subjects, the new OLCR biometer has high agreement with the SD-OCT/Placido tomographer and can be used interchangeably due to the narrow range of 95% LoAs.
Innate immune responses in pneumonia
Authors: Korkmaz Filiz T. , Traber Katrina E.
Published: February 2023

The lungs are an immunologically unique environment; they are exposed to innumerable pathogens and particulate matter daily. Appropriate clearance of pathogens and response to pollutants is required to prevent overwhelming infection, while preventing tissue damage and maintaining efficient gas exchange. Broadly, the innate immune system is the collection of immediate, intrinsic immune responses to pathogen or tissue injury. In this review, we will examine the innate immune responses of the lung, with a particular focus on their role in pneumonia. We will discuss the anatomic barriers and antimicrobial proteins of the lung, pathogen and injury recognition, and the role of leukocytes (macrophages, neutrophils, and innate lymphocytes) and lung stromal cells in innate immunity. Throughout the review, we will focus on new findings in innate immunity as well as features that are unique to the lung.
Comparative evaluation of ZMYND-8 and RARβ2 genes promoters’ methylation changes in tumor and tumor margin tissues of patients with lung cancer
Authors: Pourasghariazar Mahdieh , Zarredar Habib , Asadi Milad , Caner Ayse , Akhgari Aisan , Valizadeh Hamed , Bornehdeli Soghra , Hashemzadeh Shahryar , Raeisi Mortaza
Published: February 2023

Background

Lung cancer remains one of the most lethal carcinomas worldwide because of its late diagnosis. One of the DNA modifications is methylation, one of the primary alterations of tumor development, consisting of fascinating indicators for cancer diagnosis. This study investigated ZMYND-8 and RARβ2 gene methylation in NSCLC as a new epigenetic tool.

Methods

First, to find out the potential diagnostic capability of ZMYND-8 and RARβ2 genes methylation, we entirely surfed DNA methylation microarrays from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data of NSCLC samples. Additionally, we took advantage of using q-MSP in several pieces comprising NSCLC tumors and neighboring normal tissues; ZMYND-8 and RARβ2 genes methylation grades were acquired.

Results

Our finding displayed significant hypomethylation of ZMYND-8 and hypermethylation of RARβ2 in NSCLC samples compared to neighboring standard specimens, which significantly correlated with the clinical stage of malignancy. In addition, the incredible precision of ZMYND-8 and RARβ2 methylations as reliable cancer diagnosis indicators in NSCLC was confirmed, drawing the ROC curve analysis with an AUC value of 0.751 and 0.8676, respectively, for ZMYND-8 and RARβ2. Additional studies of other dominant cancer entities in TCGA displayed that RARβ2’s higher methylation degree and ZMYND-8 lower methylation degree are prevalent changes in tumor evolution which could be possibly considered as a potential diagnostic biomarkers for lung cancer.

Conclusion

Based on this study, ZMYND-8 and RARβ2 methylation are reliable biomarkers for lung cancer.
Laparoscopic assisted removal of large ovarian mass causing precocious puberty in an infant—a case report
Authors: Shah Amar , Lahmar Abdelilah , Momin Elina , Momin Shabbir , Shah Anirudh
Published: February 2023

Background

Sex cord and stromal tumors are a heterogeneous group of tumors that arise from gonadal sex cord cells, gonadal stromal cells, or both. They are divided into pure stromal tumors, pure sex cord tumors, and mixed tumors. Some of these tumors are hormonally active, producing androgens and estrogens, and may therefore exhibit virilization or excess estrogen. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors are rare tumors belonging to mixed tumors representing less than 0.5% of ovarian tumors. Few cases have been reported in the medical literature.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 1-year-old girl who was admitted for breast lumps and pubic hair with intermittent painless vaginal bleeding in the past 2 weeks. The abdominal examination objectified the presence of an intraperitoneal mass to which an abdominal ultrasound and computerized tomography (CT) scan had confirmed the presence of a right ovarian mass. A laparoscopy was performed which showed an encapsulated mass arriving from the right ovary replacing the normal ovarian tissue. Laparoscopic-assisted removal of the entire mass was done. The postoperative course was uneventful. The histopathological study demonstrated an intermediately differentiated Sertoli cell tumor with an intact capsule, no lymphovascular invasion, or heterologous elements (TNM stage 1).

Conclusions

Although Sertoli-Leydig tumors are commonly seen after the second decade of life in young women, their discovery before puberty is not uncommon. Mass syndrome and signs of virilization are two frequently reported signs that should prompt the clinician to mention this entity among the differential diagnoses. The first-line radiological examination is pelvic ultrasound. The treatment is mainly based on surgery. The prognosis is excellent especially if the tumor is well differentiated.
Efficacy of botulinum toxin in treatment of bruxism and temporomandibular disorders. Systematic review
Authors: Swacha Weronika , Pikulicka Agata , Szulc Izabela , Pacek Katarzyna , Piekarska Małgorzata , Kasperski Radosław , Jedlina Klaudia , Rusin Klaudia , Budziłło Julia , Dobrzańska Justyna
Published: February 2023

The medical use of botulinum toxin nowadays is widespread. Recent years show that use of botulinum toxin is not only used to control the muscular overactivity in bruxism, tension in temporomandibular disorders but also it can be applied for cosmetic reasons. The objective of this study was to view recent discoveries in this subject by conducting a systemic review of clinical trials published in the research works.

Recent studies present efficacy in releasing pain in both: bruxism and temporomandibular disorders by minimizing symptoms and reducing the intensity of muscle contractions.The scientific works cited confirm a noticeable improvement in most symptoms occurring in the states mentioned above.
Clinical nurses' understanding of the role of the clinical research nurse in the renal unit
Authors: Adan Carlito
Published: February 2023

Clinical research nurses (CRNs) have been recognised as drivers of success in the conduct of clinical research and clinical trials. However, despite its popularity as a career option, the CRN role is unclear and misunderstood by most clinical nurses. A survey questionnaire was developed and distributed to clinical nurses in the renal unit of a large London hospital to ascertain their understanding of the role of the CRN. Although about 90% of clinical colleagues believed that research was beneficial to patients, a significant proportion (40%) misunderstood the role and 60% were found to have limited or basic understanding. Lack of communication between the CRN and clinical nurses, and research information dissemination emerged as the major contributing factors for this. Developing an approach to address this issue to bridge the gap between these two key nursing specialties is pivotal not only to increase research output but also to augment research awareness and improve working relationships.
A review of chronic pain education for UK undergraduate nurses
Authors: Grey Clare
Published: February 2023

Chronic pain is a common complaint within health care and staff can face difficulties in caring for affected patients. It has been recommended that training in chronic pain should be within health professionals' educational curriculum. However, despite this recommendation and a free pain curriculum being available, undergraduate nursing courses still have a low number of hours dedicated to pain education. Factors that affect undergraduate nurses are: disparity about whether pain should be taught by theoretical content in the university or by health professionals in clinical placements, the movement towards interprofessional learning in an already crowded curriculum, and the lack of clarity about how to assess students on their knowledge. This review recommends that chronic pain needs to be specifically defined as a learning outcome with a recognised assessment on a generic undergraduate nursing module to ensure all students are exposed to it.
Telepractice program in voice therapy for primary school teachers: A Pilot study
Authors:   Communication Disorders, Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand., Jareontonyakorn Piyawan , Chinchai Supaporn ,   Communication Disorders, Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand., Bunrayong Wannipa ,   Communication Disorders, Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Published: February 2023

Background: Teaching is an occupation where teachers consistently use their voices. However, excessive voice use causes voice disorders, especially in primary school teachers. Therefore, to prevent voice disorder problems in teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic, voice therapy using telepractice was adopted so that teachers would gain knowledge and know how to prevent voice disorders. Objectives: The main aim of this study was to develop and implement a pilot study on a telepractice program in voice therapy for primary school teachers. Materials and methods: Telepractice program for primary school teachers was designed from the literature review under the theory of voice therapy for those people with voice disorders. Five experts with more than five years’ experience in voice therapy tested the content validity, and five teachers undertook the entire program. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The results of index of item-objective congruence (IOC) for content validity in Part 1 (program outline), Part 2 (program manual), Part 3 (telepractice videos), and Part 4 (telepractice program quizzes) were 0.8, 0.89, 0.88, and 0.87, respectively. The IOC of the entire telepractice program was found to be 0.86, which passed the criteria. The try-out phase resulted in teachers suggesting adjusting their participation time to after 6 pm. for more convenience. Other suggestions for using voice for online and onsite teaching during COVID-19 pandemic were also provided, e.g., voice level control while using a microphone, a headset, and a computer setting during online teaching. Conclusion: The pilot study of the telepractice program in voice therapy for primary school teachers passed the content validity test and try-out criteria for primary school teachers. Thus, the program could be used in voice therapy for teachers with voice disorders to eliminate program's efficiency in the next phase.
Impact of android app educational interventions on depression, anxiety and stress of recently detected type II diabetes patients
Authors:   Department of Community Medicine, IMS and SUM Hospital, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Patnaik Lipilekha , Panigrahi Sandeep Kumar ,   Department of Community Medicine, IMS and SUM Hospital, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Sahoo Abhay Kumar ,   Department of Endocrinology, IMS and SUM Hospital, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Mishra Debahuti ,   Department of Computer Science, Institute of Technical Education and Research, Siksha ‘O’Anusandhan deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Beura Saswatika ,   Department of Community Medicine, IMS and SUM Hospital, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Muduli Anil Kumar ,   Department of Community Medicine, IMS and SUM Hospital, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Published: February 2023

Background: Persons with chronic disorders also suffer from undiagnosed mental health issues. Diabetes and stress are related to each other, people with diabetes mellitus have stress and stress in diabetes in turn affects their health. This study was conducted to assess the impact of android app educational interventions on depression, anxiety and stress among recently detected Type II diabetes patients. Materials and methods: The study was a randomized controlled trial. Total, 66 subjects were recruited, 33 in both control and intervention group. The study group got interventions by using mobile application based software and control group got web-based intervention. All were counselled with lifestyle education by using printed educational materials. Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was used in the study. Results: Among the participants, 40.91% reported that they had at least one co-morbid condition. Only two participants had mental health issues. At baseline, 15.2% had depression, 43.9% had anxiety and 15.2% had stress, which were not different between control and intervention group. During follow up, the proportion of depression, anxiety and stress was decreased both in intervention and control group. In control group depression was decreased from 18.2% to 0%, anxiety was decreased from 45.5% to 4.5% and stress was also decreased from 18.2% to 4.5%. In intervention group, depression was decreased from 12.1% to 0%, anxiety was decreased from 42.4% to 0% and stress was also decreased from 12.1% to 0%. Conclusion: Technology mediated educational interventions and involvement of clinicians may have a greater impact to improve the mental health in diabetes patients.
Role of computed tomographic enterography for evaluation of small bowel diseases: A cross-sectional study
Authors:   Department of Radiodiagnosis, Institute of Medical Sciences and Sum Hospital, Siksha O Anusandhan deemed to be University, Odisha, India, Sahu Niranjan , Siddheshwar Kapse Pratik ,   Department of Radiodiagnosis, Institute of Medical Sciences and Sum Hospital, Siksha O Anusandhan deemed to be University, Odisha, India, Chaudhury Maheswar ,   Department of Radiodiagnosis, Institute of Medical Sciences and Sum Hospital, Siksha O Anusandhan deemed to be University, Odisha, India
Published: February 2023

Background: Computed tomographic enterography (CTE) is a newer non-invasive modality having distinct advantages over conventional CT and capsule endoscopy. Objectives: This technique allows faster evaluation of small bowel diseases in the endoscopically inaccessible segments. Being an operator-independent procedure, CTE is widely available and allows a better depiction of extra enteric complications. The aim is to evaluate CTE features of various small bowel diseases and the role of 2% mannitol for adequate small bowel distension. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study comprising 105 patients had presented with small bowel diseases. Patients in the age group of 10 to 85 years with complaints of fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, altered bowel habits, loss of appetite and loss of weight were included in this study. CTE images were analyzed to compare the diagnosis with the available histopathological and ultrasonography results. Results: Among the study population, the majority had presented CTE features such as symmetrical wall thickening (53.3%), peri-bowel inflammatory changes (61%), mucosal hyperenhancement (39%), and mural stratification, i.e., target sign (33.3%). The majority of diagnoses of CTE were ileocecal tuberculosis (11.5%), small bowel inflammation (7.6%), and Crohn’s disease (6.7%). Other conditions such as small bowel neoplastic masses, diverticula, ischemic bowel disease, bowel strictures, intussusception, and ulcerative colitis. Conclusion: CTE has the vital role of first-line modality in the work-up of suspected small intestinal diseases and helps evaluate disease activity before endoscopy, particularly in inaccessible segments. It allows a better depiction of extra enteric complications of the bowel.
Stroke health literacy: a narrative review of assessment tools and improvement strategies
Authors:   Department of Community and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani Province, Thailand, Posawang Pornsawan , Vatcharavongvan Pasitpon ,   Department of Community and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani Province, Thailand
Published: February 2023

Background: Stroke is a serious life-threatening health condition. Prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation for stroke rely heavily on stroke health literacy, which refers to health literacy regarding stroke and stroke literacy. Objectives: The objectives of this review were to investigate stroke health literacy and summarize into 3 main topics: 1) assessment tools for stroke health literacy; 2) stroke health literacy levels in various populations; and 3) strategies to improve stroke health literacy. Materials and methods: A comprehensive search of the English literatures published between 2011-2021 was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases. All studies relevant to stroke health literacy regardless the study types were included. Results: Total of fourteen studies complied with the criteria were included in a review. As a results, nine assessment tools for stroke health literacy were found (four for health literacy and five for stroke literacy). Stroke health literacy was insufficient in the general population, the population at high risk for stroke, and patients with stroke. Some strategies to improve stroke health literacy were revealed, consisted of two stroke educational programs for patients with stroke and one educational program for the general population. Conclusion: To conclude, there is very limited knowledge about stroke health literacy in terms of assessment tool, and improvement strategy. Further research is needed in order to expand knowledge and increase comprehension regarding stroke health literacy, and thus improve preventive, curative, and rehabilitative outcomes.
Application of botanical products as nutraceutical feed additives for improving poultry health and production
Authors: El-Sabrout Karim , Khalifah Ayman , Mishra Birendra
Published: February 2023

Poultry is one of the most consumed sources of animal protein around the world. To meet the global demands for poultry meat and eggs, it is necessary to improve their nutrition to sustain the poultry industry. However, the poultry industry faces several challenges, including feedstuff availability, the banning of antibiotics as growth promoters, and several environmental stressors. Therefore, there is a critical need to include available nutraceuticals in the diet to sustain the poultry industry. Nutraceuticals are natural chemical substances that positively influence animal physiological and productive traits. Botanical products (such as fenugreek seeds, ginger roots, and olive leaves) are among the most commonly used nutraceuticals and are gradually gaining popularity in the poultry industry due to their immense benefits in nutrition and therapeutic properties. They can be added to the diet separately or in combination (as a natural antioxidant and immunostimulant) to improve poultry health and production. Botanical products are rich in essential oils and essential fatty acids, which have multiple benefits on the animal's digestive system, such as activating the digestive enzymes and restoring microbiota balance, enhancing poultry health, and production. These nutraceuticals have been shown to stimulate the expression of several genes related to growth, metabolism, and immunity. In addition, the essential oil supplementation in poultry diets up-regulated the expression of some crucial genes associated with nutrient transportation (such as glucose transporter-2 and sodium-glucose cotransporter-1). Previous studies have suggested that supplementation of botanical compounds increased broiler body weight and hen egg production by approximately 7% and 15%, respectively. Furthermore, the supplementation of botanical compounds enhanced the reproductive efficiency of hens and the semen quality of roosters by 13%. This review article discusses the significant effects of some botanical products in the poultry industry and how they can benefit poultry, especially in light of the ban on antibiotics as growth promoters.
Fresh and Mechanical Properties of Concrete Containing Oil-Well Cutting Material
Authors: Hussein Nabaz S. , Ibrahim Rahel Kh.
Published: February 2023

Oil-well cutting material (OWCM) is a waste generated during the process of oil-well drilling. Its disposal is costly and harmful to the environment. The chemical makeup for the material implies that it might be used as a partial cement replacement in concrete. It is high in calcium oxide, silica, and aluminum oxide, which are the main oxides found in raw materials used to produce cement. Replacing a part of cement by OWCM in concrete mixtures can directly reduce the quantity of the cement used which leads to decreasing the emission of carbon dioxide and solving the disposal problems for the OWCM as well. This process can be considered as a significant step in producing environmentally friendly concrete. This study focuses on investigating the fresh and mechanical properties of different concrete mixes that have different strength grades, containing different percentages of OWCM as a cement replacement. For this purpose, different concrete mixes containing 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%,30%, 35%, and 40% of OWCM as a cement replacement, besides the control Portland cement for the three different concrete strength grades, were prepared. After performing the slump and flow tests, cube specimens were cast and moist-cured for 3, 28, and 90 days and subjected to compression test, whereas 28-day moist-cured cylinder specimens were subjected to splitting tensile test. The test results have revealed that in spite of small reduction in strength with replacing cement by up to 20% of OWCM, the strength of the concrete remains within the designed strength grade ranges.
Domain-general grit and domain-specific grit: conceptual structures, measurement, and associations with the achievement of German as a foreign language
Authors: Li Chengchen , Yang Yuan
Published: February 2023

The study examined the underlying structures, psychometric properties, and predictive validity of the following domain-general and domain-specific grit scales: The (L2) Grit Scales and the Long-term (L2) Grit Scales. Seven hundred German-as-a-FL learners from six secondary schools in China filled in the four grit scales and a scale measuring self-perceived German proficiency. Two hundred and eighty-nine out of them participated in a subsequent German exam and their German teachers rated their German proficiency. The main results are as follows: (1) both domain-general grit and L2 grit represented a unitary first-order construct with two correlated but distinct factors, namely, consistency of interest and perseverance of efforts; (2) only the Grit Scale and the L2 Grit Scale showed sound psychometric properties; (3) both domain-general grit and L2 grit were positively correlated with L2 achievement; (4) domain-general grit completely lost its predictive power on L2 achievement when combined with L2 grit in the same regression models. Our findings resonate with prior calls for prioritizing L2-specific grit research over domain-general grit research in L2 contexts.
A practical upper-bound efficiency model for solar power plants
Authors: González-Mora Eduardo , Poudel Ram , Durán-García María Dolores
Published: February 2023

A generalized model for the maximum work rate extractable from the Sun is developed considering a reversible and an endoreversible system to define a more practical upper-bound efficiency for the conversion of solar radiation into work and power. This model is based on a photo-thermal work extractor in communication with a high-temperature radiation reservoir and a low-temperature heat sink. Following the model, a parametric analysis of the concentration acceptance product (ξ) and thermal conductance is performed to identify the interdependence of variables for the solar exergy. The results are compared with existing models to provide a practical baseline of work and power extractable from concentrated solar power plants (CSP) technologies. Therefore, it is possible to quantify the irreversibilities of an idealized thermodynamic system operating between the Sun and the absorber (via radiative transfer) and the environment (via convective transfer).
Evaluating the underreporting of patient-reported outcomes in carpal tunnel syndrome randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ladd Chase , Jacobsen Samuel M. , Snider Kelsey , Bacani Rigel , Hillman Cody , Shepard Samuel , Heigle Benjamin , Ottwell Ryan , Hartwell Micah , Vassar Matt
Published: February 2023

Context

In recent years, patient-centered healthcare has become a primary concern for researchers and healthcare professionals. When included in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures serve a critical role in supplementing efficacy outcomes with a patient perspective.

Objectives

The goals of this study are to evaluate the reporting completeness of PROs within literature concerning carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) utilizing the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials Patient-Reported Outcomes (CONSORT-PRO) extension.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) for published RCTs relating to CTS with at least one PRO measure from 2006 to 2020. Two investigators screened all RCTs for inclusion utilizing Rayyan (https://rayyan.qcri.org/), a systematic review screening platform. In an independent, masked fashion, investigators then evaluated all RCTs utilizing the CONSORT-PRO adaptation and Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias (RoB) 2.0 tool. Bivariate regression analyses were utilized to assess relationships between trial characteristics and completeness of reporting.

Results

Our search returned 374 publications, yet only 31 unique RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The mean overall percent of adherence for CONSORT-PRO was 41%. Our secondary outcome—assessing study characteristics—indicated significantly higher completeness of reporting in the absence of a conflict of interest statement (p<0.05), ‘some concerns’ for bias (p<0.005), and when journals required the use of the CONSORT statement (p<0.005). The RoB assessment determined overall suspicion for bias among included RCTs, with 35% (n=11/31) being labeled as ‘high,’ 58% (n=18/31) as ‘some concerns,’ and 7% (n=2/31) as ‘low.’

Conclusions

Our study indicated that the completeness of CONSORT-PRO reporting was deficient within CTS trials. Because of the importance placed on PROs in clinical practice, we recommend adherence to CONSORT-PRO prior to publication of RCTs to increase the understanding of various interventions on patients’ quality of life (QoL).
UHRF1-induced connexin26 methylation is involved in hearing damage triggered by intermittent hypoxia in neonatal rats
Authors: Zhang Xingang , Zheng Jishan , Xu Huiqing , Ma Zhaoxin
Published: February 2023

Ubiquitin-like with plant homeodomain and ring finger domains 1 (UHRF1) promotes the maintenance of established patterns of DNA methylation in mammalian cells. Extensive methylation of connexin26 (COX26) during hearing impairment has been demonstrated. The present study aims to determine whether UHRF1 can induce the methylation of COX26 in cochlea damaged by intermittent hypoxia (IH). After the establishment of the cochlear injury model through IH treatment or isolation of the cochlea containing Corti’s organ, pathological changes were observed via HE staining. Expressions of COX26 and UHRF1 were detected by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The effect of COX26 methylation levels was analyzed by methylation-specific PCR (MSP). Phalloidin/immunofluorescence staining was used to observe structural changes. The binding relationship between UHRF1 and COX26 was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation. IH caused cochlear damage, accompanied by increased methylation of COX26 and expression of UHRF1 in the cochlea of neonatal rats. CoCl2 treatment caused the loss of cochlear hair cells, downregulation and hypermethylation of COX26, abnormal upregulation of UHRF1, and disordered expressions of apoptosis-related proteins. UHRF1 in cochlear hair cells binds to COX26, and its knockdown upregulated COX26 level. Overexpressed COX26 partially alleviated the CoCl2-caused cell damage. UHRF1 induces COX26 methylation and aggravates the cochlear damage caused by IH.
Transit Vector Data
Authors: Rivard Joël , Kenny Meaghan
Published: February 2023

Explore the Esri StoryMap Tour highlighting the creation of individual vector transit routes for OC Transpo, the City of Ottawa's public transit agency between 1929 and 2021. The StoryMap illustrates the two processes used to compile these route datasets and touches on the various resources used in the past and the ones that are currently in use. Also provided are information on the final products, such as attribute information, file format as well as information on how to access them.
Book Reviews
Authors: Pival Paul , Stevens Rhys , Berish Francine , MacDonald Zack
Published: February 2023

Books reviewed in this issue:

Emma Willard, Maps of History by Susan Schulten, Reviewed by Rhys Stevens, University of Lethbridge
Atlas of Design Published by North American Cartographic Information Society (NACIS)Reviewed by Francine Berish, Queen’s University
The Atlas of Atlases: Exploring the most important atlases in history and the cartographers who made them. By Philip Parker Reviewed by Zack MacDonald, Western University
3D Spheroids — a Cellular Model for Studying the Effects of Hypoxia on the Epicardial Microenvironment
Authors: Dergilev K. V. , Tsokolaeva Z. I. , Beloglazova I. B. , Traktuev D. O. , Rasulova M. T. , Parfenova E. V.
Published: February 2023

Fundamental research in recent years has allowed us to reassess the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cardiac ontogenesis and its repair after damage. The epicardium, the outer, tightly adjoining layer of the cardiac wall formed by epicardial mesothelial cells, collagen and elastic ﬁbers, has gained special relevance as an important participant of reparative processes. Better insight into poorly understood epicardial function is challenged due to anatomical issues and lack of relevant cellular models.

The aim of this study was to develop a spheroid 3D model of the epicardial microenvironment and determine responses of spheroids to hypoxia.

Materials and methods. Spheroids were harvested in V-shaped culture dishes with a low adhesion coating. Immunofluorescent staining of cryosections, histological methods and real-time PCR were used for characterization of cultured spheroids.

Results. We demonstrated that cultivation of cells under low adhesion conditions in V-shaped culture dishes resulted in the formation of spheroids with an average size of 136+21 µm and cell viability rates of over 98%. The cells in the spheroids cultured under normoxic conditions formed tight junctions and were characterized by a low level of proliferation and the ability to synthesize extracellular matrix proteins. Under hypoxia cells in the spheroids showed partial loss of intercellular contacts, acquired a spindle shape, started to express HIF1a, SNAIL, COL1Al and accumulate collagen. All these features demonstrated the activation of mesothelial(endothelial)-mesenchymal transition strongly resembling epicardial cellular responses to ischemia in vivo.

Conclusion. An epicardial spheroid cell culture model suitable for study cellular responses to hypoxic environment was developed. This model can be used to clarify mechanisms regulating epicardial microenvironment and test new targeted candidate drugs.
3D EEG and Clinical Evidence of Brain Dying. Preliminary Report
Authors: Drobný M. , Drobná Sániová B. , Učňová S. , Sobolová G. , Koyš R. , Machado C. , Machado Ya.
Published: February 2023

Determination of brain dying means reversible or irreversible injury to the brain, including the brainstem. Current guidelines rely on clinical examination including the proof of coma, absent brain stem reﬂexes, and apnoea test. Neurophysiological testing using electroencephalography and evoked potentials — somatosensory evoked potentials and brainstem auditory evoked potential could have been helpful in the final diagnostic brain death conclusion, but the diagnostic accuracy of these methods in the last years has revealed controversies. Here, we present data on quantitative EEG signal evaluation (qEEG) by a 3-dimensional brain mapping (3D BM) as developing tool to clarify whether the transverse and anterior posterior coherences such as connectivity indices may demonstrate connection in transversal or anterior posterior dimensions with «wavelet transformation» and if the 3D BM visualization of the of representative EEG signals may improve informative value of EEG signals quantification when evaluating the brain dying.

The purpose of our work is to provide an update on the evidence and controversies on the use of EEG for determining brain dying and raise discussion on EEG applications to improve the transplantation program.

Results. We analyzed the EEG records of 10 patients admitted for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during September, 2017 — August, 2018. Data from one patient, ŽM, 33 years old, after haemorrhagic shock (August 2018) were analyzed in details. Quantitative EEG dynamics by images and clinical course of brain dying were monitored prior and after the amantadine sulfate intravenous administration for brain revival. Data demonstrated the ability of brain to survive; the cause of final brain death was heart failure.

Conclusion. Data confirm the hope for survival of the brain in a coma and demonstrate brain capability to keep functionally optimal state as a potential for a good social adaptation.
Qigong, obesity, and immunity dynamics and its application to long COVID-19 syndrome
Authors: Marks Ray
Published: February 2023

COVID-19, an acute respiratory condition resulting in high rates of excess mortality, particularly among adults in later life remains challenging to prevent uniformly and is now found to induce a series of long term adverse health impacts termed ‘long COVID’ syndrome. But can more be done to avert the risk of COVID-19 and its observed long term impact in older adults? This mini review strove to examine, summarize and synthesize the research base concerning the key risk factors underpinning later life acquisition of COVID-19 and whether an ancient mind body technique known as Qigong may be one possible largely overlooked strategy for promoting immunity and minimizing the related health correlate of obesity that can both raise the risk for severe COVID-19 infections and delay its recovery among older adult survivors. A second was to provide related intervention directives for health professionals working or who are likely to work with this vulnerable population in the future. Using the PUBMED and other leading electronic data bases and the key words: Qigong, Immunity, COVID-19, Long COVID-19, Obesity, Older Adults, a fair number of articles indicate that the practice of Qigong may be very useful as an adjunctive intervention strategy for raising immunity levels and fostering weight control among older adults, especially those survivors suffering from long COVID syndrome who remain at risk for second infections.
Relapsed cholangitis revealing hepatic distomatosis in western Algeria apropos of a case
Authors: Y Badla , A Benzeroual , N Rebib
Published: February 2023

Fascioliasis is a worldwide but unevenly distributed zoonosis caused by the trematode Fasciola hepatica that infects domesticated herbivores. Fascioliasis also occurs accidentally in humans through ingestion of freshwater or aquatic plants laden with metacercariae. Human infections are common in developing countries and not uncommon in Europe, and rare in Algeria. The clinical evolution has been classically described in two phases: an acute phase of hepatic parenchymal invasion of an immature worm larva (parenchymal phase) and a stationary phase after stay in the bile duct and egg production (ductal phase). We report a case of a 50-year-old man from Tlemcen, western Algeria, with cholangitis (liver disorder, abdominal pain and jaundice). The diagnosis was confirmed by serology. The serological examination (Western Blot) was positive and the results of magnetic resonance imaging were compatible with fascioliasis.
Bleeding giant Meckel diverticulum, masquerading as abdominal tuberculosis
Authors: Nalinikanta Ghosh Nalinikanta Ghosh , Malag Somanath , shish Singh shish Singh , Rahul Dr , Saxena Rajan
Published: February 2023

Meckel’s diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of gastrointestinal(GI) tract. It’s clinical presentation varies with age and overlaps with multiple GI pathologies. We are presenting a case of 18-year old boy presenting with overt lower GI bleeding, suspected to be intestinal tuberculosis based on imaging and Mantoux test. Initially responded to anti-tubercular treatment. However, his symptoms of GI bleed recurred, and repeat computed tomography(CT) scan showed suspicion of small bowel stricture with a dilated bowel loop. Exploration revealed a giant Meckel’s diverticulum which was resected and patient remained asymptomatic in the follow-up for 2 years. Bleeding giant Meckel’s diverticulum is sparingly reported in literature. However, even in tuberculosis endemic countries it showed be suspected as a possible cause of lower GI bleeding in young age group.
Drone transportation of FFP maintained frozen using a vaccine refrigerated transport box
Authors: Yakushiji Fumiatsu , Yakushiji Koki , Murata Mikio , Teratani Miyuki , Fujita Hiroshi
Published: February 2023

Background: In cases of emergency injury, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is necessary to compensate for the consumption of clotting factors. The emergent delivery of FFP can be critical to survival and reduction of complications. We hypothesize that drone transport of FFP under appropriate conditions below -30°C would be possible if we used a BioBox Cell® normally employed for COVID-19 vaccine transport. Method: We transported FFP packs inside a BioBox Cell® that was continuously chilled by dry ice by an automobile-transport, to Tomi where a test location at a distance of approximately 200 km away from our laboratory. We transported FFP packs inside a BioBox Cell®　by a drone (M1000) and, back to the laboratory by an automobile. For about a day, the FFP was transported car transport, and drone transport under low-temperature without power. Results: The influence of drone flight on FFP clotting factor activity, such as fibrinogen, factors II, V, VIII, IX, X, XI, XIII, and von Willebrand factor (vWF), was minimal. Conclusion: We transported FFPs at an adequate temperature using a drone and confirmed that there was little reduction in clotting factor activity. FFP can be transported easily and quickly using a drone using a low-temperature refrigerator.