bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenomic insights into evolutionary trajectories of multidrug resistant S. pneumoniae CC271 over a period of 14 years in China
Authors: Zeng Yuan , Song Yuqin , Cui Lanqing , Wu Qi , Wang Chao , Coelho Adriano Cappellazzo , Zhang Gang , Wei Dawei , Li Chao , Zhang Jingren , Corbeil Jacques , Li Yun , Feng Jie
Published: July 2023

Background

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a gram-positive opportunistic pathogen, and infection risks of S. pneumoniae can be profoundly augmented by its acquired multidrug-resistance (MDR). The rapid development of MDR in S. pneumoniae was attributed to the international dissemination of a small number of multidrug-resistant “clones.” Clonal complex (CC) 271 is a prevalent MDR CC in the world and the most prevalent CC in China. However, the evolutionary trajectories of multidrug-resistant S. pneumoniae CC271 in China still are largely unknown.

Methods

We investigated a collection of 1312 S. pneumoniae isolates collected from 28 tertiary hospitals in China from 2007 to 2020. Recombination prediction and recombination-masked phylogenetic analysis were combined to determine the population structure and mode of evolution of CC271. Data from the Global Pneumococcal Sequencing program (GPS) were combined to understand the global distribution of clones identified in this study. Bayesian analysis were recruited to analysis the evolutionary dynamics of dominant clones within CC271 in China.

Results

The phylogenomic analysis resulted in the discovery of two globally distributed clones, ST271-A and ST271-B. ST271-A was a derivative of ST236 and an ancestor of ST271-B and ST320, refining the internal phylogenetic relationship of CC271. ST271-B was the most dominant clone in China, with higher β-lactam resistance especially for cephalosporins comparing to other MDR clones. Bayesian skyline plot showed a rapid expansion of 19F ST271-B from 1995 to 2000, which correlates with the widespread use of cephalosporins in the 1990s in China. 19A ST320, a vaccine-escape clone, is the second largest population in China. The Bayesian skyline plot showed that the 19A ST320 began to expand rapidly around 2001, which appeared to coincide with the prevalence of 19A after application of PCV7 in 2000 in the USA. We also observed frequent transmission of 19A ST320 between countries. It suggests that mass vaccination in some countries could affect the prevalence of clones in unvaccinated countries in the context of high-frequency international transmission.

Conclusions

Our results refined the internal phylogenetic relationship of CC271, showing that the 19F ST271-B and 19A ST320 evolved independently from ST271-A, with different histories and driving forces for their evolution and dissemination in China.
Comparison of renal growth in breast fed and artificial fed infants: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alam Aisha Tariq , Ijaz Iftikhar , Mukhtar Muhammad Umer , Qureshi Muhammad Ahmad , Mehmood Qasim , Abbas Farnaz , Junaid Khunsa
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Renal growth in infancy determines renal function in adulthood and can easily be assessed via infant renal volume. Renal growth is influenced by many endogenous and exogenous factors among which nutrition is of prime importance. Worldwide, infants get their nutrition either from breast milk or formula, both of which have controversial roles in kidney growth and development.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was done on healthy infants in the Pediatric Nephrology Department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore. These infants were either breastfed or artificially fed and their kidney volumes were noted to determine any significant difference in kidney size. Both informed and written consent was taken before data collection and the data was analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results

Out of 80 infants included in our study, 55% were male and 45% were female. The mean age was 8.9 months and the mean weight was 7.6 kg. The mean total kidney volume was 45.38 cm3 and the mean relative kidney volume was 6.12 cm3/kg. No statistical difference in relative renal volume was found between breastfed and artificially fed infants.

Conclusion

The present study aimed to compare the renal volume and thus renal growth in breastfed versus formula-fed infants. No statistical significance was found in relative renal volume between breastfed and artificially fed infants.
bTB eradication in Ireland: where to from here?
Authors: More Simon J.
Published: July 2023

Background

In an earlier paper from 2019, this author concluded that successful eradication of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) from Ireland by 2030 would be unlikely, given control strategies in place at that time plus the addition of badger vaccination. He argued that additional measures will be needed, broadly focusing on bTB risks from wildlife, risk-based cattle controls, and industry commitment. This paper considers these points in further detail.

Main text

Ongoing monitoring of the badger vaccination programme (which is progressively being rolled out nationally) and associated research will be critical, with a focus both on programme inputs and outcomes. The direct contribution of cattle movements to bTB restrictions in Ireland has been evaluated. However, it is the indirect role of cattle movements in bTB restrictions that is likely of greater importance, particularly towards the latter phase of the eradication programme. In other national programmes, a range of risk-based approaches have been used to address the challenge of residual infection in cattle (that is, the presence of animals with persistent but undetected infection), and similar approaches are needed in Ireland. A number of authors have highlighted the critical importance of industry commitment to programme success, and the key role of programme governance to achieving this. In this commentary, the author briefly considers experiences from Australia and New Zealand in this regard. The author also reflects on the challenge of uncertainty in decision-making, the relevance to Ireland of lessons from other countries, and the potential contribution of new methodologies in support of the national programme.

Conclusions

‘The tragedy of the horizon’ was a term first used in the context of climate change, referring to the costs imposed on future generations that the current generation has no direct incentives to fix. This concept is equally relevant to bTB eradication in Ireland, where current decisions will have long-term consequences for future generations, including both the general public (through the Exchequer) and future Irish farmers.
A positioning algorithm based on improved robust extended Kalman filter with NLOS identification and mitigation
Authors: Wang Yan , Yang Huikang , Gong Yuxin
Published: July 2023

With the development of the information age and the maturity of Internet of Things technology, wireless sensor network has been widely applied in indoor localization. However, the non-line-of-sight (NLOS) propagation in complicated environment and the inherent noise of the sensor will introduce errors in the measurements, which will seriously lead to inaccurate positioning. In this paper, a novel localization scheme based on the mean reconstruction method is proposed, which reconstructs the distance measurements from all beacon nodes by taking the average twice to weaken the adverse effects of NLOS. At the same time, the noise average is re-estimated when the distance difference is not too large. Next, the robust extended Kalman filter (REKF) is used to process the reconstructed distance measurements to obtain positioning results. To make the positioning results more accurate, hypothesis test is used as NLOS identification to classify the position estimates generated from all distance combinations by least-squares. Then, the residual weighting (RWGH) method is utilized to combine the position estimates that fall into the validation region. At last, we merge the results from RWGH and REKF. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has high positioning accuracy and strong positioning robustness.
The determinants of the nutritional quality of food provided to the homeless population: a mixed methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Ravikumar-Grant Divya , Kelly Colette , Gabhainn Saoirse Nic
Published: July 2023

Background

Studies assessing the nutritional quality of food provided to the homeless population show deficiencies in micronutrients and excess fat, sugar, and salt. The availability of cheap, energy-dense and nutrient-poor food has changed the profile of people living with homelessness from primarily underweight to obese in western countries. Many factors influence the nutritional quality of food provided to the homeless population such as budget and time constraints, food donations and limited equipment. Nutrient intakes in this population are unlikely to be met outside of charitable meal programmes, making the nutritional quality of these meals crucial. This review will synthesise mixed methods literature with the overarching aim of understanding the determinants of the nutritional quality of food provided to the homeless population.

Methods

This mixed methods systematic review will include English language empirical research studies from Europe, North America and Oceania. The following electronic databases have been chosen for this review: SCOPUS, EMBASE, PsycINFO, EBSCOHost SocIndex and CINAHL. The grey literature databases OpenGrey and ProQuest will also be searched. Quality appraisal will be conducted using the Mixed-Methods Appraisal Tool. Two independent reviewers will be included in study selection, data extraction and quality appraisal. A third reviewer will resolve conflicts. Thematic synthesis will be employed.

Discussion

Results will be organised based on a determinants of health model, to highlight areas where change may be effective, thereby making it more likely to be useful to practitioners and researchers. The iterative steps in the systematic review process will be the focus of this article. Findings from this review will be used to develop best-practice guidelines for stakeholders such as policy makers and service providers to improve the nutritional quality of food provided in the homeless sector.

Systematic review registration

This mixed methods systematic review protocol has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): CRD42021289063.
Influence of tree species on soil microbial residue accumulation and distribution among soil aggregates in subtropical plantations of China
Authors: Jing Yanli , Zhao Xuechao , Liu Shengen , Tian Peng , Sun Zhaolin , Chen Longchi , Wang Qingkui
Published: July 2023

Background

Microbial residues are significant contributors to stable soil organic carbon (SOC). Soil aggregates effectively protect microbial residues against decomposition; thus, microbial residue accumulation and distribution among soil aggregates determine long-term SOC stability. However, how tree species influence accumulation and distribution of soil microbial residues remains largely unknown, hindering the chances to develop policies for SOC management. Here, we investigated microbial residue accumulation and distribution in soil aggregates under four subtropical tree species (Cunninghamia lanceolata, Pinus massoniana, Michelia macclurei, and Schima superba) after 29 years of afforestation.

Results

Accumulation of microbial residues in the 0–10 cm soil layer was 13.8–26.7% higher under S. superba than that under the other tree species. A structural equation model revealed that tree species affected the accumulation of microbial residues directly by altering fungal biomass. Additionally, tree species significantly affected microbial residue distribution and contribution to SOC in the top 20 cm soil. In particular, microbial residue distribution was 17.2–33.4% lower in large macro-aggregates (LMA) but 60.1–140.7% higher in micro-aggregates (MA) under S. superba than that under the other species in the 0–10 cm soil layer, and 14.3–19.0% lower in LMA but 43–52.1% higher in MA under S. superba than that under C. lanceolata and M. macclurei in the 10–20 cm soil layer. Moreover, the contribution of microbial residues to SOC was 44.4–47.5% higher under S. superba than under the other tree species. These findings suggest a higher stability of microbial residues under S. superba than that under the other studied tree species.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that tree species influence long-term microbial persistence in forest soils by affecting accumulation and stabilization of microbial residues.
Impact of anesthesia modalities on functional outcome of mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke: a subgroup analysis of DIRECT-MT trial
Authors: Li Zifu , Ma Hongyu , Li Binben , Zhang Lei , Zhang Yongwei , Xing Pengfei , Zhang Yongxin , Zhang Xiaoxi , Zhou Yu , Huang Qinghai , Li Qiang , Zuo Qiao , Ye Xiaofei , Liu Jianmin , Qureshi Adnan I. , Chen Wenhuo , Yang Pengfei ,   DIRECT-MT Investigators
Published: July 2023

Background

This subgroup analysis of Direct Intraarterial Thrombectomy in Order to Revascularize Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Large Vessel Occlusion Efficiently in Chinese Tertiary Hospitals Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial (DIRECT-MT) aimed to investigate the influence of anesthesia modalities on the outcomes of endovascular treatment.

Methods

Patients were divided into two groups by receiving general anesthesia (GA) or non-general anesthesia (non-GA). The primary outcome was assessed by the between-group difference in the distribution of the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days, estimated using the adjusted common odds ratio (acOR) by multivariable ordinal regression. Differences in workflow efficiency, procedural complication, and safety outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Totally 636 patients were enrolled (207 for GA and 429 for non-GA groups). There was no significant shift in the mRS distribution at 90 days between the two groups (acOR, 1.093). The median time from randomization to reperfusion was significantly longer in GA group (116 vs. 93 min, P < 0.0001). Patients in non-GA group were associated with a significantly lower NIHSS score at early stages (24 h, 11 vs 15; 5–7 days or discharge, 6.5 vs 10). The rate of severe manipulation-related complication did not differ significantly between GA and non-GA groups (0.97% vs 3.26%; P = 0.08). There are no differences in the rate of mortality and intracranial hemorrhage.

Conclusions

In the subgroup analysis of DIRECT-MT, we found no significant difference in the functional outcome at 90 days between general anesthesia and non-general anesthesia, despite the workflow time being significantly delayed for patients with general anesthesia.

Clinical trail registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT03469206.
Impact of County-level health infrastructure on participation in a reform effort to reduce the use of jail for individuals with mental health disorders
Authors: Ramezani Niloofar , Hailemariam Maji , Breno Alex J. , Mackey Benjamin J. , Cuellar Alison Evans , Johnson Jennifer E. , Taxman Faye S.
Published: July 2023

Background

The national Stepping Up Initiative has attracted over 500 counties interested in reducing the use of jail for individuals with mental health disorders. This paper identifies socioeconomic, criminal legal, and health care factors that predict the likelihood of counties joining Stepping Up.

Results

After performing variable selection, logistic regression models were performed on 3,141 U.S. counties. Counties designated as medically underserved and/or mental health staffing shortage areas were less likely to participate in this initiative. Logistic regression models showed that larger counties (populations over 250,000) with better health care infrastructure, more mental health providers per capita, higher percent of Medicaid funded drug treatment services, and at least one medical school, were more likely to join Stepping Up. These counties had lower per capita jail populations, higher concentration of police resources, and higher pretrial incarceration rate.

Conclusions

County-level health care delivery factors are major contributors to a county’s likelihood, or willingness, of engaging in Stepping Up reform efforts to reduce jail population with mental health disorders issues. Therefore, improving availability and accessibility of medical and behavioral health care in different communities, may facilitate efforts to address the unnecessary incarceration of individuals with mental health disorders.
Irrational beliefs indirectly predict retirement satisfaction through the conceptualization of retirement: a cross-sectional study in a sample of recent retirees
Authors: Bačová Viera , Halama Peter , Kordačová Jana
Published: July 2023

Background

Although most retirees are satisfied, some do not feel well in retirement. The resource-based dynamic perspective explains retirement dissatisfaction as the lack of resources. This study focused on psychological resources, specifically on the role of rational/irrational beliefs and retirement concepts in retirement satisfaction. While irrational beliefs have many consequences, we know little about their role in retirement experiences, nor do we know about the benefits/harm of retirement concepts for retirement satisfaction. We assumed that not succumbing to irrational beliefs and conceptualizing retirement actively and positively add to psychological resources helping to adjust to retirement and retirement satisfaction. Our objective was to examine whether irrational beliefs and retirement concepts contributed to satisfaction or dissatisfaction in recent retirees.

Methods

200 recent retirees (average retirement time 2.8 years) completed questionnaires containing the Irrational Belief Scale, the Satisfaction with Retirement Scale, and the Retirement Lifestyles Questionnaire, which determines the inclination toward four retirement concepts: Transition to Old Age, New Start, Continuation, and Imposed Disruption. The Pearson correlation coefficients were used to estimate the relationship between irrational beliefs, retirement concepts, and retirement satisfaction. We used a parallel mediation model with multiple mediators in the mediation analysis where irrational beliefs were the independent variable, retirement satisfaction was the dependent variable, and the four retirement concepts were mediators.

Results

We confirmed higher retirement satisfaction in recent retirees who conceptualize retirement as a New Start and Continuation and higher retirement dissatisfaction in those who see retirement as an Imposed Disruption or Transition to Old Age. The general irrational beliefs had a weaker direct impact on retirement satisfaction than the more specific retirement concepts. Inclination to general irrational beliefs appeared only weakly reflected in retirement dissatisfaction. However, a negative view of retirement as an imposed disruption might increase this inclination by intensifying retirement dissatisfaction.

Conclusions

Our results show a negative retirement concept as an imposed disruptive event that amplifies the impact of general irrational beliefs and leads to retirement dissatisfaction in recent retirees. It suggests that using rational-emotive behavior therapy and interventions to change the negative perception of retirement could be effective in increasing retirement satisfaction.
Site-specific transgene integration in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies
Authors: Dabiri Hamed , Safarzadeh Kozani Pooria , Habibi Anbouhi Mahdi , Mirzaee Godarzee Mohadeseh , Haddadi Mohammad Hossein , Basiri Mohsen , Ziaei Vahab , Sadeghizadeh Majid , Hajizadeh Saffar Ensiyeh
Published: July 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and natural killer (NK) cells are genetically engineered immune cells that can detect target antigens on the surface of target cells and eliminate them following adoptive transfer. Recent progress in CAR-based therapies has led to outstanding clinical success in certain patients with leukemias and lymphomas and offered therapeutic benefits to those resistant to conventional therapies. The universal approach to stable CAR transgene delivery into the T/NK cells is the use of viral particles. Such approaches mediate semi-random transgene insertions spanning the entire genome with a high preference for integration into sites surrounding highly-expressed genes and active loci. Regardless of the variable CAR expression level based on the integration site of the CAR transgene, foreign integrated DNA fragments may affect the neighboring endogenous genes and chromatin structure and potentially change a transduced T/NK cell behavior and function or even favor cellular transformation. In contrast, site-specific integration of CAR constructs using recent genome-editing technologies could overcome the limitations and disadvantages of universal random gene integration. Herein, we explain random and site-specific integration of CAR transgenes in CAR-T/NK cell therapies. Also, we tend to summarize the methods for site-specific integration as well as the clinical outcomes of certain gene disruptions or enhancements due to CAR transgene integration. Also, the advantages and limitations of using site-specific integration methods are discussed in this review. Ultimately, we will introduce the genomic safe harbor (GSH) standards and suggest some appropriate safety prospects for CAR integration in CAR-T/NK cell therapies.
Fostering computational thinking through unplugged activities: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Peng , Yang Dong , Metwally Ahmed Hosny Saleh , Lavonen Jari , Wang Xiao
Published: July 2023

Unplugged activities as a low-cost solution to foster computational thinking (CT) skills seem to be a trend in recent years. However, current evidence of the effectiveness of unplugged activities in promoting students’ CT skills has been inconsistent. To understand the potential of unplugged activities on computational thinking skills, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Our review of 49 studies examined the influence of unplugged activities to improve students’ CT skills in K–12 education between 2006 and 2022. The literature review showed that studies on CT skills were mainly (81.64%) conducted in computer science and STEM education, with board and card games being the most common unplugged activities for fostering CT skills in K–12 education. CT diagnostic tools (36.37%) were frequently used as assessment tools. A follow-up meta-analysis of 13 studies with 16 effect sizes showed a generally large overall effect size (Hedges’s g = 1.028, 95% CI [0.641, 1.415], p < 0.001) for the use of unplugged activities in promoting students’ CT skills. The analysis of several moderator variables (i.e., grade level, class size, intervention duration, and learning tools) and their possible effects on CT skills indicated that unplugged activities are a promising instructional strategy for enhancing students’ CT skills. Taken together, the results highlight the affordances of unplugged pedagogy for promoting CT skills in K–12 education. Recommendations for policies, practice, and research are provided accordingly.
Latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap grafting to the infected recipient site in a patient with irradiated locally advanced breast cancer and multiple lung metastases
Authors: Ishii Yuki , Matsuki Hitomi , Uozumi Nozomi , Oura Shoji
Published: July 2023

Background

Musculocutaneous (MC) flaps are more resistant to infection than implants, but no clinical results have been reported so far about the grafting of MC flap to the overtly infected sites.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old woman had received radiotherapy, a total dose of 50 Gy, to her large mucinous breast cancer to control bleeding from the tumor and was referred to our hospital for further treatment. On her first visit to our hospital, her left breast showed radiation-induced total necrosis with Pseudomonasaeruginosa infection. Removal of the necrotic breast tissue resulted in direct exposure of the left ribs and intercostal muscles with intractable chest pain requiring analgesics. The presence of concomitant life-threatening multiple lung metastases made us change the treatment from letrozole and palbociclib to bevacizumab and paclitaxel, leading to marked regression of the lung metastases. To alleviate her chest pain and get local wound healing, we treated the patient with latissimus dorsi (LD)-MC flap grafting to the exposed chest wall after four months of taxane-containing chemotherapy. The patient has got marked pain relief immediately after the operation. Skin island of the grafted LD-MC flap showed no problems for 4 days just after the operation but gradually turned out to be edematous to ill-colored in the distal part of the skin island. Post-operative clinical outcome suggested that Pseudomonasaeruginosa infection might have had some adverse effect, e.g., microemboli, on MC flap blood flow. Partial necrosis of the LD-MC flap made the patient receive conservative wound management for a very long period of 11 months, finally leading to complete wound healing. After palliative surgery, the patient has been receiving fulvestrant and palbociclib for 14 months and doing well with good control of multiple lung metastases.

Conclusions

Breast surgical oncologists should note that partial flap necrosis can occur when a LD-MC flap is grafted to the infected recipient site and consider the anti-coagulant therapy just after the operation to avoid the adverse effects of the infection.
Youth engagement in research: exploring training needs of youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities
Authors: Dong Samantha Yimeng , Nguyen Linda , Cross Andrea , Doherty-Kirby Amanda , Geboers Jessica , McCauley Dayle , Soper Alice Kelen , St. Dennis Amanda , Steeves Danny , Trehan Natasha , Gorter Jan Willem
Published: July 2023

Background

Authentic researcher-youth partnerships in patient-oriented research (POR) where the research responds to the needs expressed by youth themselves are essential to make research meaningful. While patient-oriented research (POR) is increasingly practiced, few training programs exist in Canada and none, to our knowledge, are tailored for youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD). Our primary objective was to explore the training needs of youth (ages 18–25) with NDD to enhance their knowledge, confidence, and skills as research partners. Our secondary objective was to identify the benefits and challenges of engaging youth with NDD in a POR approach.

Methods

Our team of four youth and one parent with lived experience [Youth Engagement in Research (YER) partners] and six researchers engaged in POR to investigate the primary objective via two phases: (1) individual interviews with youth living with NDD and (2) a two-day virtual symposium with focus groups with youth and researchers. Collaborative qualitative content analysis was employed to synthesize the data. Our secondary objective was assessed by asking our YER partners to complete the Public and Patient Engagement Evaluation Tool (PPEET) survey and participate in reflective discussions.

Results

Phase 1 participants (n = 7) identified various barriers and facilitators to their engagement in research and offered suggestions to meet their needs through minimizing barriers and integrating facilitators, which would subsequently enhance their knowledge, confidence, and skills as research partners. Informed by phase 1, phase 2 participants (n = 17) prioritized the following POR training needs: researcher-youth communication, research roles and responsibilities, and finding partnership opportunities. For delivery methods, participants stated the importance of youth representation, using Universal Design for Learning, and co-learning between youth and researchers. Based on the PPEET data and subsequent discussions, YER partners agreed that they were able to express views freely, feel that their views were heard, and that their participation made a meaningful difference. Challenges included scheduling difficulties, ensuring multiple methods for engagement, and working under short timelines.

Conclusion

This study identified important training needs for youth with NDD and for researchers to engage in meaningful POR, which can subsequently inform the co-production of accessible training opportunities with and for youth.
Prosocial behaviour axioms and values: Influence of gender and volunteering
Authors: Olmos-Gómez María del Carmen , Ruiz-Garzón Francisca , Azancot-Chocron David , López-Cordero Rafael
Published: July 2023

To promote prosocial behaviour, in the present study, we observed the human values that may predict it within the realms of the transcendental views of life, society’s shared culture and the world of personal and interpersonal affections. To do this, we started with two hypotheses: (1) prosocial behaviour differs according to gender and participation in volunteering; and (2) the variables of transcendental values, cultural development, affective development, gender and participation in volunteering predict prosocial behaviour.

To do so, we conducted a quantitative study based on the cross-sectional, social analytical-empirical research method. We used a validated instrument with a large sample of 1,712 individuals living in the multicultural context of the Spanish city of Melilla, located in North Africa and one of only two land borders between Europe and Morocco. Values that could promote prosocial behaviour were grouped into four dimensions to locate relevant factors that helped identify which values are linked to specific actions, both formal and informal, through an inferential analysis focusing on regression and multivariate analysis of variance.

Our findings highlighted the linkage of the transcendent dimension of the individual in relation to his or her level of prosocial behaviour and the role of women as socialising agents.
Cartilage evaluation by ultrasonography in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a scoping review
Authors: Ogura Takehisa , Katagiri Takaharu , Kameda Hideto
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to provide an overview of ultrasonographic cartilage evaluation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and identify research gaps in the utilization of cartilage evaluation.

Methods

The study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. A systematic literature search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted for articles published up to July 2022 using the search term variations of “cartilage,” “ultrasonography,” and “rheumatoid arthritis.” Studies that included patients with RA who underwent cartilage evaluation by ultrasonography were selected. Articles published in languages other than English and about juvenile idiopathic arthritis were excluded.

Results

Twenty-nine articles were identified. Most were cross-sectional studies (86%), mainly involving the metacarpophalangeal (55%) and knee (34%) joints. Assessments were performed using quantitative, binary, and semi-quantitative methods in 15, 10, and 15 studies, respectively. Reliability assessments were conducted in 10 studies, which showed feasible reliability but were limited to the finger joints. The validity assessment was validated in one study each that compared cartilage thickness measurements with cadaveric specimens and histological and semi-quantitative methods with surgical specimens, respectively. Comparisons with conventional radiography were also performed in six studies, which showed significant correlations. However, there was heterogeneity in the examination and assessment methods, and no adequate longitudinal evaluation was conducted.

Conclusion

This review highlights the need for further research and validation of ultrasonographic cartilage assessment in patients with RA.
An alginate-based encapsulation enhances shelf life and bioactivity of the entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae
Authors: Sarma B. D. , Puzari K. C. , Dutta Pranab , Pandey Abhay K.
Published: July 2023

Background

This study evaluated the shelf life and effectiveness of Metarhizium anisopliae encapsulated in Na (sodium)-alginate matrix. Air-flow-dried and freeze-dried beads containing conidia of M. anisopliae produced in submersion in the liquid broth were fabricated and characterized. Shelf life and efficacy of fabricated beads against three species of the white grubs, namely Holotrichia serrata, Adoretus sp., and Lepidiota mansueta, were evaluated under greenhouse conditions.

Results

The mean size of the wet beads ranged between 1.4 and 3.2 mm. The mean size of beads that were dried through freeze drying ranged between 0.55 and 2.3 mm. However, the mean size of beads dried through air flow ranged between 0.55 and 2.35 mm. Viability of M. anisopliae was more in freeze-dried beads stored at 8 °C compared to air-flow-dried beads with 20.0 × 107 and 16.00 × 107 CFU/g, respectively, after two weeks of drying. Further, freeze-dried beads supported M. anisopliae conidial viability till 10 months with 2.0 × 107 CFU/g. The LC50 values of the freeze-dried beads with M. anisopliae after 21 days of treatment were 0.35 (2.1 × 108 CFU/g), 0.31 (2.1 × 108 CFU/g), and 0.76 mg (2.1 × 108 CFU/g) against H. serrata, Adoretus sp., and L. mansueta, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of this study support the use of Na-alginate beads followed by freeze drying to maintain the viability of M. anisopliae. The effectiveness of freeze-dried beads with M. anisopliae against white grubs indicates that these beads can be an alternative option of synthetic insecticides against soil dwelling insect pests. In addition, this study offers a steppingstone for further advancement of sodium alginate encapsulated formulations for soil insect control.
Unravelling early childhood pre-service teachers’ implicit stereotypes of scientists by using the repertory grid technique
Authors: Yilmaz-Na Elanur , Sönmez Elif
Published: July 2023

Considering teachers’ roles in developing children’s scientific literacy in preschools, a better understanding of pre-service teachers’ conceptualizations about scientific inquiry and scientists’ practices that have an impact on the science teaching practices offered to their future students is very much needed. Stereotypes were examined here as a component or root for many of the explanations for pre-service teachers’ conceptualizations about scientists. Aligned with the interpretivist paradigm, this phenomenographic study was, mostly qualitative in nature, specifically concerned with exploring pre-service teachers’ stereotypes of scientists by using the repertory grid technique, in which they perceived and differentiated between scientists. 119 early childhood pre-service teachers were recruited. Various types of analysis were carried out to analyze the data gathered in each repertory grid. We investigated the original 66 elicited bipolar constructs into 28 aggregated bi-polar construct groupings, systematically categorized into four bi-polar categories: (1) Recognition vs. Disregarded, (2) Scientific Integrity vs. Misconduct, (3) Communal vs. Dissociation, and (4) Agentic vs. Passivity. The findings suggest that pre-service teachers had typical stereotypical traits of scientists like being introverted, intelligent loners, into experiments and masters in their field with often-unrecognizable female figures. However, there was no association between gender, grade, and stereotypes of scientists elicited in the study. These types of stereotypes of scientists might potentially threaten effective science teaching at early ages. Science education practices can be rooted in these stereotypes of pre-service teachers. Considering these findings, structural changes in science education practices in teacher education programs are very much needed. This study also seems to confirm the importance of using the repertory grid technique as a good starting point to expose especially the implicit stereotypes of pre-service teachers about “who does science”, “how scientists think” and “what scientists do” before their actual actions in future classrooms.
The role of shear wave elastography in early prediction of response to neaodjuvant chemotherapy in cases of breast cancer
Authors: Elmoghazy Alaa Mohamed Ahmed Elmosselhy , Nada Omina Mokhtar , Beshir Manal Mohamed Refaat , Elhakim Rehab Ahmed Elbadri , Hashem Tarek Mohamed , Mansour Osman Mohamed , Radwan Amira Hamed
Published: July 2023

Background

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor and the commonest cause of death in female between 35 and 55 years of age. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is used in large scale nowadays in management of breast cancer. Recent studies propose that shear wave elastography (SWE) can early predict tumor therapy response during NACT for invasive breast cancer.

Aim of work

To study the ability of SWE to predict pathological complete response (pCR) during NACT as early as first cycle.

Subjects and methods

The study analyzed data of 48 patients breast cancer who were scheduled for receiving NACT before surgery. During treatment, SWE examination was done at first four cycles.

Results

Forty-eight breast cancer cases were included in the study with one hundred and ninety two examinations done. The cutoff point of stiffness ratio percent change post-first cycle in differentiating pCR and npCR groups was − 20% (AUC 0.755, sensitivity 81.8%, specificity 61.5%). The cutoff point of stiffness ratio percent change post-second cycle in differentiating pCR and npCR groups was − 49% (AUC 0.741, sensitivity 72.7%, specificity 76.9%). The stiffness ratio could predict pCR in early cycles of NACT.

Conclusions

US using shear wave elastography is an available, cheap, non-contrast, non-ionizing radiation method that predicts pCR in cases of breast cancer at neoadjuvant setting as early as first cycle.
Adaptive IIR model identification using chaotic opposition-based whale optimization algorithm
Authors: Dey Souvik , Roy Provas Kumar , Sarkar Angsuman
Published: July 2023

Infinite impulse response (IIR) filter system recognition is a serious issue nowadays as it has many applications on a diversity of platforms. The whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is a novel nature-motivated population-based meta-heuristic algorithm where the hunting techniques of humpback whales are implemented to solve many optimization problems. But the main disadvantage of WOA is its stagnant convergence rate. As the algorithm is population based, the initialization process is very important in finding the best result and to enhance the convergence rate. In this paper, a novel chaotic oppositional-based initialization process is nominated before the start of conventional WOA to improve the performance. To effectively cover the entire search region, a chaotic-based logistic population map consists of both the actual numbers and its corresponding opposite numbers are incorporated into this opposition-based initialization process. When checked out with some classic model of examples, simulation performance authorizes chaotic oppositional-based whale optimization algorithm (COWOA) as a more convenient contender compared to the other evolutionary techniques in terms of accuracy and convergence speed. Convergence profile and mean square error are the performance specifications that are needed to inspect the performance of our recommended algorithm.
Transformer faults in tanzanian electrical distribution networks: indicators, types, and causes
Authors: Mbembati Hadija , Bakiri Hussein A.
Published: July 2023

Transformers are essential and costly components of electrical secondary distribution networks (ESDNs). Distribution transformers provide electricity to low-voltage consumers that need a consistent power supply for their daily tasks. Transformer faults have an impact on ESDN power reliability. Even though several studies have attempted to investigate fault parameters; types, causes, and indicators in transformers, it is still difficult to generalize these criteria based on diversifications. These diversifications are caused by the architecture of the ESDN itself, transformer type, and insulation materials. Therefore, this paper investigates fault types, causes, and indicators specifically on oil-based transformers in Tanzania’s ESDN using the oil analysis technique and the Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) tool based on descriptive statistical analysis. Results show that cellulose deterioration accounted for 33.2% of all faults, and the leading causes are overload, aging, and moisture content. Despite cellulose deterioration issues, the arcing fault is 26.2% caused by trippings, short circuits, and flashovers. The outcome of this work may help the utility implement a more advanced monitoring tool and maintenance mechanisms to enhance power reliability and reduce transformer faults in ESDN.
Retrospective study of congenital airway malformations detected by flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy in Alexandria University Children’s Hospital
Authors: Abdellah Lina Mortada , Faseeh Nader Abdelmoneim , Abougabal Mohamed Saeed , Farag Marwa Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Background

Congenital airway malformations affect the quality of life and increase the family burden. The care of children who have these lesions requires considerable expenditures of time and other resources within a tertiary care center.

Aim

This work aims to determine the incidence of congenital airway malformations in children with airway-related manifestations detected by flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy at the bronchoscopy unit of Alexandria University Children Hospital during the period from 1st of January 2019 to 31st of December 2019.

Patients and methods

This retrospective study includes symptomatic children who underwent flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy from 1st of January 2019 to 31st of December 2019.

Results

The incidence of congenital airway malformations in the studied population was 32%. The mean age of patients at time of diagnosis was 7 months and the most common congenital anomaly was laryngomalacia.

Conclusion

We concluded that congenital airway malformations are not uncommon in newborns and their early detection can be beneficial for optimum management.
Afghan mental health and psychosocial well-being: thematic review of four decades of research and interventions
Authors: Alemi Qais , Panter-Brick Catherine , Oriya Spozhmay , Ahmady Mariam , Alimi Abdul Qawi , Faiz Hafizullah , Hakim Nadia , Sami Hashemi Sayed A. , Manaly Muhammad Amin , Naseri Roman , Parwiz Khesraw , Sadat Sayed Javid , Sharifi Mohammad Zahid , Shinwari Zalmai , Ahmadi Sayed Jafar , Amin Rohullah , Azimi Sayed , Hewad Atal , Musavi Zeinab , Siddiqi Abdul Majeed , Bragin Martha , Kashino Wataru , Lavdas Michalis , Miller Kenneth E. , Missmahl Inge , Omidian Patricia A. , Trani Jean-Francois , van der Walt Sarah Kate , Silove Derrick , Ventevogel Peter
Published: July 2023

Background

Four decades of war, political upheaval, economic deprivation and forced displacement have profoundly affected both in-country and refugee Afghan populations.

Aims

We reviewed literature on mental health and psychosocial well-being, to assess the current evidence and describe mental healthcare systems, including government programmes and community-based interventions.

Method

In 2022, we conducted a systematic search in Google Scholar, PTSDpubs, PubMed and PsycINFO, and a hand search of grey literature (N= 214 papers). We identified the main factors driving the epidemiology of mental health problems, culturally salient understandings of psychological distress, coping strategies and help-seeking behaviours, and interventions for mental health and psychosocial support.

Results

Mental health problems and psychological distress show higher risks for women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities and youth. Issues of suicidality and drug use are emerging problems that are understudied. Afghans use specific vocabulary to convey psychological distress, drawing on culturally relevant concepts of body–mind relationships. Coping strategies are largely embedded in one's faith and family. Over the past two decades, concerted efforts were made to integrate mental health into the nation's healthcare system, train cadres of psychosocial counsellors, and develop community-based psychosocial initiatives with the help of non-governmental organisations. A small but growing body of research is emerging around psychological interventions adapted to Afghan contexts and culture.

Conclusions

We make four recommendations to promote health equity and sustainable systems of care. Interventions must build cultural relevance, invest in community-based psychosocial support and evidence-based psychological interventions, maintain core mental health services at logical points of access and foster integrated systems of care.
Intracranial Pressure Monitoring in Children With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis Using a Nationwide Inpatient Database in Japan
Authors: Shibahashi Keita , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Matsui Hiroki , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Clinical benefits of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring in the management of children with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) are not universally agreed upon. We investigated the association between ICP monitoring and outcomes in children with severe TBI using a nationwide inpatient database.

METHODS:

This observational study used the Japanese Diagnostic Procedure Combination inpatient database from July 1, 2010, to March 31, 2020. We included patients younger than 18 years, admitted to the intensive care unit or high-dependency unit with severe TBI. Patients who died or were discharged on the day of admission were excluded. One-to-four propensity score matching was performed to compare patients who underwent ICP monitoring on the day of admission with those who did not. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Mixed-effects linear regression analysis compared outcomes and estimated the interaction between ICP monitoring and subgroups in matched cohorts.

RESULTS:

Of the 2116 eligible children, 252 received ICP monitoring on the day of admission. One-to-4 propensity score matching selected 210 patients who had ICP monitoring on admission day and 840 patients who did not. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower in patients who underwent ICP monitoring than those who did not (12.7% vs 17.9%; within-hospital difference, −4.2%; 95% CI, −8.1% to −0.4%). There was no significant difference in the proportion of unfavorable outcomes (Barthel index <60 or death) at discharge, proportion of enteral nutrition at discharge, length of hospital stay, and total hospitalization cost. Subgroup analyses demonstrated a quantitative interaction between ICP monitoring and the Japan Coma Scale (P < .001).

CONCLUSION:

ICP monitoring was associated with lower in-hospital mortality in children with severe TBI. Our results demonstrated the clinical benefits of ICP monitoring in managing pediatric TBI. The advantages of ICP monitoring may be amplified in children who exhibit the most severe disturbances of consciousness.
Multiple neural tube defects: Rare developmental anomaly with an elusive embryological explanation
Authors: Sinha Pallavi , Kumar Atin , Jana Manisha , Kandasamy Devasenathipathy
Published: July 2023

Neural tube defect (NTD) is a congenital anomaly resulting from the failure of fusion of the neural folds in the midline which occurs in the third and the fourth week of embryonic development. These defects can occur at any of the three embryological stages - gastrulation, primary neurulation and secondary neurulation. Presence of neural tube defects at multiple (two or more) sites along the craniospinal axis is an extremely rare anomaly and the management depends on clinical as well as imaging findings. These multiple defects are not well explained by the “Zipper closure” theory and can be better explained by the “Multisite closure theory”, which will be highlighted in this manuscript. Few of these multiple site anomalies can not be fully explained even by the multisite closure theory and more research is needed to decipher this entity.