bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the prevalence and use of questionnaires to detect the neglected sexual side effects after prostate cancer treatment: a scoping review
Authors: Röscher Pierre , Sathiram Ronisha , Milios Joanne E. , van Wyk Jacqueline M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Early prostate cancer (PCa) treatment interventions may leave men with debilitating sexual side effects, especially when not diagnosed or present at initial follow-up treatment. Men are often embarrassed to disclose their sexual dysfunction. This may lead to sexual side effects related to PCa treatment remaining untreated, adding to their burden of disability. This study was conducted to map the evidence on the prevalence of neglected sexual side effects (NSSE) after radical prostatectomy (RP) surgery or radiation treatment (RT) for PCa treatment and the reported use of questionnaires to identify such side effects.

Methods

This systematic scoping review’s search strategy involved searching MEDLINE/PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar databases. Guided by eligibility criteria, two independent reviewers conducted title, abstract and full-text screening. Data from the included studies were extracted. The review team explored the implications of the findings in relation to the research question and aims of the study. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool was used to appraise the quality of the included studies. This review is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines.

Results

Searches of the databases identified 1369 articles, with 23 eventually included for review. The prevalence of NSSE ranged between 0 and 78% in studies reporting on early PCa treatment of RP and RT patients. Orgasmic dysfunction (5–78%), penile curvature changes (10–15.9%) and penile length shortening (0–55%) similarly showed a low to moderate prevalence. Climacturia had low prevalence (4–5.2%) after RT and moderate prevalence (21–38%) after RP, whilst anejaculation had low to high prevalence (11–72%) after RT. No validated questionnaire was used to detect any NSSE after early PCa treatment. Studies mainly modified other questionnaires, and two studies used non-validated questionnaires to identify some NSSE. Participants in the included studies reported being inadequately informed about the possible sexual side effects of their treatment.

Conclusion

This study showed a low to a high prevalence of NSSE in men after RP and RT for early PCa treatment. Questionnaires helped detect individual NSSEs after PCa treatment but there is currently no evidence of a valid, reliable and comprehensive questionnaire to detect the NSSE collectively.

Scoping review registration

N/A
New fractional identities, associated novel fractional inequalities with applications to means and error estimations for quadrature formulas
Authors: Awan Muhammad Uzair , Kashuri Artion , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Javed Muhammad Zakria , Iftikhar Sabah , Kumam Poom , Chaipunya Parin
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the authors derive some new generalizations of fractional trapezium-like inequalities using the class of harmonic convex functions. Moreover, three new fractional integral identities are given, and on using them as auxiliary results some interesting integral inequalities are found. Finally, in order to show the efficiency of our main results, some applications to special means for different positive real numbers and error estimations for quadrature formulas are obtained.
Effects of alternating heat and cold stimulation using a wearable thermo-device on subjective and objective shoulder stiffness
Authors: Sawada Tomonori , Okawara Hiroki , Nakashima Daisuke , Iwabuchi Shuhei , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Nagura Takeo
Published: January 2022

Background

Technological innovations have allowed the use of miniature apparatus that can easily control and program heat and cold stimulations using Peltier elements. The wearable thermo-device has a potential to be applied to conventional contrast bath therapy. This study aimed to examine the effects of alternating heat and cold stimulation (HC) using a wearable thermo-device on subjective and objective improvement of shoulder stiffness.

Methods

Twenty healthy young male individuals (20.3 ± 0.6 years) participated in this study. The interventions were randomly conducted under four conditions, including HC, heat stimulation, cold stimulation, and no stimulation on their bilateral trapezius muscle, after a 30-min typing task. Each intervention was administered at least 1 week apart. The analyzed limb was the dominant arm. Muscle hardness was assessed using a portable muscle hardness meter, as well as the skin temperature over the stimulated area. After each condition, the participants were asked for feedback regarding subjective improvement in refreshed feelings, muscle stiffness, and muscle fatigue using an 11-point numerical rating scale.

Results

With regard to muscle hardness, only the HC condition significantly decreased from 1.43 N to 1.37 N (d= 0.44,p< 0.05). Additionally, reduced muscle hardness in HC condition was associated with the degree of skin cooling during the intervention (cold max:r= 0.634,p< 0.01; cold change:r= −0.548,p< 0.05). Subjective improvement in refreshed feelings, muscle stiffness, and muscle fatigue was determined in the HC and heat stimulation conditions compared with the no stimulation condition (p< 0.01 andp< 0.05, respectively). Moreover, the HC condition showed significantly greater improvements in muscle stiffness and fatigue compared to the cold stimulation condition (p< 0.05).

Conclusions

The current study demonstrated that HC promoted not only better subjective symptoms, such as muscle stiffness and fatigue, but also lesser muscle hardness. Furthermore, an association was observed between the degree of skin temperature cooling and reduced muscle hardness during HC. Further investigations on the ratio and intensity of cooling should be conducted in the future to establish the optimal HC protocol for muscle stiffness or fatigue.

Trial registration

UMIN000040620. Registered 1 June 2020
A systematic review of post-release programs for women exiting prison with substance-use disorders: assessing current programs and weighing the evidence
Authors: Edwards Layla , Jamieson Sacha Kendall , Bowman Julia , Chang Sungwon , Newton Josie , Sullivan Elizabeth
Published: January 2022

Background

The rising rates of women in prison is a serious public health issue. Unlike men, women in prison are characterised by significant histories of trauma, poor mental health, and high rates of substance use disorders (SUDs). Recidivism rates of women have also increased exponentially in the last decade, with substance related offences being the most imprisoned offence worldwide. There is a lack of evidence of the effectiveness of post-release programs for women. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesise and evaluate the evidence on post-release programs for women exiting prison with SUDs.

Methods

We searched eight scientific databases for empirical original research published in English with no date limitation. Studies with an objective to reduce recidivism for adult women (⩾18 years) with a SUD were included. Study quality was assessed using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials (RoB2) and the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies - of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tools.

Results

Of the 1493 articles, twelve (n = 3799 women) met the inclusion criteria. Recidivism was significantly reduced in five (42%) programs and substance-use was significantly reduced in one (8.3%) program. Common attributes among programs that reduced recidivism were: transitional, gender-responsive programs; provision of individualised support; providing substance-related therapy, mental health and trauma treatment services. Methodological and reporting biases were common, which impacted our ability to synthesize results further. Recidivism was inconsistently measured across studies further impacting the ability to compare results across studies.

Conclusions

Recidivism is a problematic measure of program efficacy because it is inconsistently measured and deficit-focused, unrecognising of women’s gains in the post-release period despite lack of tailored programs and significant health and social disadvantages. The current evidence suggests that women benefit from continuity of care from prison to the community, which incorporated gender-responsive programming and individualised case management that targeted co-morbid mental health and SUDs. Future program design should incorporate these attributes of successful programs identified in this review to better address the unique challenges that women with SUDs face when they transition back into the community.
Pre-surgery supportive and goal-oriented strategies are associated with lower post-surgery perceived distress in women diagnosed with breast cancer
Authors: Taurisano Paolo , Abbatantuono Chiara , Verri Veronica , Pepe Ilaria , Stucci Luigia S. , Taurino Alessandro , Moschetta Marco , De Caro Maria F. , Antonucci Linda A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Psycho-oncology literature pointed out that individual health outcomes may depend on patients’ propensity to adopt approach or, conversely, avoidant coping strategies. Nevertheless, coping factors associated with postoperative distress remain unclear, unfolding the lack of tailored procedures to help breast cancer patients manage the psychological burden of scheduled surgery. In view of this, the present study aimed at investigating: 1. pre-/post-surgery distress variations occurring among women diagnosed with breast cancer; 2. the predictivity of approach and avoidant coping strategies and factors in affecting post-surgery perceived distress.

Methods

N = 150 patients (mean age = 59.37; SD =  ± 13.23) scheduled for breast cancer surgery were administered a screening protocol consisting of the Distress Thermometer (DT) and the Brief-COPE. The DT was used to monitor patients’ distress levels before and after surgery (± 7 days), whereas the Brief-COPE was adopted only preoperatively to evaluate patients’ coping responses to the forthcoming surgical intervention. Non-parametric tests allowed for the detection of pre-/post-surgery variations in patients’ perceived distress. Factor analysis involved the extraction and rotation of principal components derived from the Brief-COPE strategies. The predictivity of such coping factors was investigated through multiple regression (Backward Elimination).

Results

The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test yielded a significant variation in DT mean scores (TW = -5,68 < -zα/2 = -1,96; p < .001) indicative of lower perceived distress following surgery. The four coping factors extracted and Varimax-rotated were, respectively: 1. cognitive processing (i.e., planning + acceptance + active coping + positive reframing); 2. support provision (i.e., instrumental + emotional support); 3. emotion-oriented detachment (i.e., self-blame + behavioral disengagement + humor + denial); 4. goal-oriented detachment (i.e., self-distraction). Among these factors, support provision (B = .458; β = − .174; t = − 2.03; p = .045), encompassing two approach coping strategies, and goal-oriented detachment (B = .446; β = − .176; t = − 2.06; p = .042), consisting of one avoidant strategy, were strongly related to post-surgery distress reduction.

Conclusion

The present investigation revealed that the pre-surgery adoption of supportive and goal-oriented strategies led to postoperative distress reduction among breast cancer patients. These findings highlight the importance of timely psychosocial screening and proactive interventions in order to improve patients’ recovery and prognosis.
Comparing success of female students to their male counterparts in the STEM fields: an empirical analysis from enrollment until graduation using longitudinal register data
Authors: Vooren Melvin , Haelermans Carla , Groot Wim , van den Brink Henriette Maassen
Published: January 2022

Background

In this paper, we investigate the predictors for enrollment and success in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs in higher education. We develop a sequential logit model in which students enroll in STEM education, may drop out from STEM higher education, or continue studying until they graduate in an STEM field. We use rich Dutch register data on student characteristics and high school exam grades to explain the differences in enrollment, success, and dropout rates.

Results

We find that females are less likely to enroll in STEM-related fields, while students with higher high school mathematics grades are more likely to enroll in STEM. Female students have lower first-year dropout rates at university of applied sciences STEM programs. With respect to study success, we find that conditional on enrollment in STEM, women are less likely to graduate than men within the nominal duration or the nominal duration plus one additional year. However, female students do perform equally well as male students in terms of graduation within 10 years.

Conclusions

We conclude that STEM programs are less popular among female students and that female students are less likely to graduate on time. However, females perform equally well in STEM higher education in the long run. For this reason, policy should be geared at increasing study success in terms of nominal graduation rates among female STEM students.
A systematic review of STEM education research in the GCC countries: trends, gaps and barriers
Authors: Kayan-Fadlelmula Fatma , Sellami Abdellatif , Abdelkader Nada , Umer Salman
Published: January 2022

Abundant research conducted in many countries has underlined the critical role of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in developing human capital in fields important to a nation’s global competiveness and prosperity. In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States, recent long-term policy plans emphasize the ever-increasing need of transition to a knowledge-based economy and preparing highly qualified nationals with credentials in STEM fields to meet the current and future needs of the labor market. Yet, despite multiple educational reforms and substantial resources, national and international indicators of student performance still demonstrate insignificant improvement in GCC students’ achievement in STEM subjects. Demonstrably, the GCC youth still lack interest in STEM careers and represent low enrollment rates in STEM fields. This paper presents the results of a systematic review conducted on STEM education research in GCC countries. The review seeks to contribute to the body of the existing STEM literature, explore the factors influencing student participation in STEM, and identify the gaps in STEM education research in those countries.
Investigating the histological and structural properties of tendon gel as an artificial biomaterial using the film model method in rabbits
Authors: Shimozaki Kengo , Nakase Junsuke , Ohashi Yoshinori , Kuzumaki Toru , Yamaguchi Tatsuya , Torigoe Kojun , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the properties of tendon gel by investigating the histological and structural differences among tendon gels under different preservation periods using a rabbit model.

Methods

Forty mature female rabbits were divided into four groups, each containing ten rabbits, on the basis of in-vivo preservation periods of tendon gels (3, 5, 10, and 15 days). We created the Achilles tendon rupture models using the film model method to obtain tendon gels. Tensile stress was applied to the tendon gel to promote maturation. Histological and structural evaluations of the tendon gel were performed before and after applying the tensile force, and the results obtained from the four groups were compared.

Results

Although the day-3 and day-5 tendon gels before applying tensile stress were histologically more immature than the day-10 and day-15 gels, type I collagen fibers equivalent to those of normal tendons were observed in all groups after the tensile process. Based on the surface and molecular structural evaluations, the day-3 tendon gels after the tensile process were molecularly cross-linked, and thick collagen fibers similar to those present in normal tendons were observed. Structural maturation observed in the day-3 tendon gels caused by traction was hardly observed in the day-5, -10, and -15 tendon gels.

Conclusions

The day-3 tendon gel had the highest regenerative potential to become a normal tendon by applying a traction force.
Relationship between tracheal intubation and the drugs used by patients with drug overdose due to self-harm
Authors: Nagashima Kazuki , Hosono Hiroyuki , Watanabe Machiko
Published: January 2022

Background

Tracheal intubation may be performed in patients with drug overdose due to self-harm; however, the details of the causative drug are unknown. The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between drugs or its blood levels of patients with drug overdose and the need for tracheal intubation based on the actual measurement results.

Methods

From October 2018 to March 2020, 132 patients with drug overdose due to self-harm who were transported to the emergency department (ED) were studied. Patient drugs were measured using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and were analyzed on the basis of the GC/MS Forensic Toxicological Database. Logistic analysis was performed by combining patient information and GC-MS information.

Results

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and Japan Coma Scale (JCS) efficiently predicted tracheal intubation in patients with drug overdose during transport triage; GCS (cut-off value: 12, area under the curve (AUC): 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71–0.88, sensitivity: 0.85, specificity: 0.71, P < 0.05) and JCS (cut-off value: 3, AUC: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.60–0.84, sensitivity: 0.60, specificity: 0.84, P < 0.05). The drugs detected in all patients with drug overdose in order were benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZs; 43.9%), anticonvulsants (38.6%), antipsychotics (25.0%), and antidepressants (9.8%). In univariate logistic analysis, antipsychotics (odds ratio (OR) 2.46, 95% CI 1.19–5.20, P < 0.05), anticonvulsants (OR 2.71, 95% CI 1.26–5.98, P < 0.05), and anticonvulsants above alert blood levels (OR 27.8, 95% CI 2.92–264.1, P < 0.05) were significantly associated with tracheal intubation in patients with drug overdose, but not BZs and antidepressants. Also, in multivariate logistic analysis, antipsychotics (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.07–4.83, P < 0.05), anticonvulsants (OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.14–5.64, P < 0.05) and in multivariate logistic analysis of blood levels, anticonvulsants above the alert blood levels (OR 24.9, 95% CI 2.56–241.6, P < 0.05) were significantly associated with tracheal intubation in patients with drug overdose respectively.

Conclusions

Logistic analysis revealed that the use of anticonvulsants and antipsychotics were significantly associated with an increased OR in the tracheal intubation of patients with drug overdose due to self-harm.
CHoosing Active Role Models to INspire Girls (CHARMING): protocol for a cluster randomised feasibility trial of a school-based, community-linked programme to increase physical activity levels in 9–10-year-old girls
Authors: Pell Bethan , Hawkins Jemma , Cannings-John Rebecca , Charles Joanna M. , Hallingberg Britt , Moore Graham , Roberts Joan , van Sluijs Esther , Morgan Kelly
Published: January 2022

Background

In the UK, there is evidence that girls’ physical activity tends to decline to a greater extent than boys as they enter adolescence. ‘Role models’ could play a vital role in inspiring girls to become or remain physically active. The CHARMING Programme is a primary school-based community linked role-model programme, co-developed in 2016, with children, parents, schools and wider stakeholders. It involves different types of physical activity delivered for 1-h each week by a community provider and peer role models (e.g. older girls from secondary schools) joining in with the sessions. The programme ultimately aims to increase and sustain physical activity levels among 9–10-year-old girls. This study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the CHARMING Programme and of evaluating it using a randomised trial.

Methods

This study is a feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial, with embedded process evaluation and health economic evaluation. Approximately 90 Year 5 (i.e. 9–10-year-old) girls will be recruited across six primary schools in Mid-South Wales. Participating schools will be allocated to the programme: control on a 2:1 basis; four intervention schools will run the CHARMING Programme and two will continue with usual practice. A survey and accelerometer will be administered at baseline and repeated at 12 months. Interviews and focus groups will be conducted post-intervention delivery. The primary aim is to assess feasibility of a future randomised trial via the recruitment of schools, participants and role models; randomisation; retention; reach; data collection completion rates; programme adherence; and programme fidelity, views on intervention acceptability and programme barriers and facilitators. Secondary aims are to evaluate established physical activity outcome measures for children plus additional health economic outcomes for inclusion in a future full-scale trial.

Discussion

The results of this study will inform decisions on whether and how to proceed to a full-scale evaluation of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the CHARMING Programme to improve or sustain physical activity.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govISRCTN36223327. Registered March 29, 2021
Korea hypertension fact sheet 2021: analysis of nationwide population-based data with special focus on hypertension in women
Authors: Kim Hyeon Chang , Lee Hokyou , Lee Hyeok-Hee , Seo Eunsun , Kim Eunji , Han Jiyen , Kwon Ja-Young ,   for the Korean Society of Hypertension (KSH)–Hypertension Epidemiology Research Working Group, Kim Hyeon Chang , Ahn Song Vogue , Jee Sun Ha , Park Sungha , Lee Hae-Young , Shin Min Ho , Ihm Sang-Hyun , Lee Seung Won , Lee Hokyou , Park Jong Ku , Suh Il , Lee Tae-Yong
Published: January 2022

Background

The Korean Society of Hypertension has published the Korea Hypertension Fact Sheet 2021 to provide an overview of the magnitude and management status of hypertension and their recent trends.

Methods

The Fact Sheets were based on the analyses of Korean adults aged 20 years or older of the 1998–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the 2002–2019 National Health Insurance Big Data.

Results

Currently, the population average of systolic/diastolic blood pressure was 119/76 mmHg in Korean adults aged 20 years or older showing little change in the recent decade. It is estimated that 28% of the adult population aged 20 or older (33% of adults aged 30 or older) have hypertension. The estimated number of people with hypertension was 6.30 million for men and 5.77 million for women, and 1.96 million for men and 2.99 million for women among the population aged 65 or older. The number of people diagnosed with hypertension increased from 3.0 million in 2002 to 10.1 million in 2019. During the same period, the number of people using antihypertensive medication increased from 2.5 million to 9.5 million, and the number of people adherent to treatment increased from 0.6 million to 6.9 million. Among antihypertensive prescriptions, 40.6% of the patients received monotherapy, 43.4% received dual therapy, and 16.0% received triple or more therapy. The most commonly prescribed antihypertensive medication was angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), followed by calcium channel blockers (CCB) and diuretics. In young women, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), ARB and CCB are less frequently prescribed than in men, but 59.5% of hypertensive women aged 20–39 are prescribed ACEi or ARBs. Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy have been increasing over the past 10 years. In 2019, 5.4% of women who gave birth were diagnosed with chronic hypertension and 3.1% with pregnancy-induced hypertension.

Conclusions

To achieve further improvement in management of hypertension, we need to encourage awareness and treatment in young adults. It is required to develop tailored prevention and management strategies that are appropriate for and inclusive of various demographics.
Diabetic retinopathy classification for supervised machine learning algorithms
Authors: Nakayama Luis Filipe , Ribeiro Lucas Zago , Gonçalves Mariana Batista , Ferraz Daniel A. , dos Santos Helen Nazareth Veloso , Malerbi Fernando Korn , Morales Paulo Henrique , Maia Mauricio , Regatieri Caio Vinicius Saito , Mattos Rubens Belfort
Published: January 2022

Background

Artificial intelligence and automated technology were first reported more than 70 years ago and nowadays provide unprecedented diagnostic accuracy, screening capacity, risk stratification, and workflow optimization.

Diabetic retinopathy is an important cause of preventable blindness worldwide, and artificial intelligence technology provides precocious diagnosis, monitoring, and guide treatment. High-quality exams are fundamental in supervised artificial intelligence algorithms, but the lack of ground truth standards in retinal exams datasets is a problem.

Main body

In this article, ETDRS, NHS, ICDR, SDGS diabetic retinopathy grading, and manual annotation are described and compared in publicly available datasets. The various DR labeling systems generate a fundamental problem for AI datasets. Possible solutions are standardization of DR classification and direct retinal-finding identifications.

Conclusion

Reliable labeling methods also need to be considered in datasets with more trustworthy labeling.
Socio-biomedical predictors of child nutrition in India: an ecological analysis from a nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey, 2015–2016
Authors: Prusty Ranjan Kumar , Bairwa Mohan , Anwar Fahmina , Mishra Vijay Kumar , Patel Kamalesh Kumar , Mangal Daya Krishan
Published: January 2022

Background

Despite significant economic growth and development, undernutrition among children remains a major public health challenge for low- and middle-income countries in the twenty-first century. In Millennium Development Goals, India committed halving the prevalence of underweight children by 2015. This study aimed to explain the geographical variation in child malnutrition level and understand the socio-biomedical predictors of child nutrition in India.

Methods

We used the data from India’s National Family Health Survey 2015–2016. The survey provided estimates of stunting, wasting, and underweight at the national, state, and district level to measure nutritional status of under-five children. Level of stunting, wasting and underweight at the district level are considered as outcome variables. We have used variance inflation factor to check the multicollinearity between potential predictors of nutrition. In this study, we performed spatial analysis using ArcGIS and multiple linear regression analysis using Stata version 15.

Results

Five states (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Meghalaya) had very high prevalence of stunting (40% and above). High prevalence of wasting was documented in Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka (23 to 29%). Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh had the highest proportion of underweight children in the country. We found that electricity and clean fuel use in the household, use of iodized salt, and level of exclusive breastfeeding had significantly negative influence on the stunting level in the districts. The use of iodized salt has similar effect on the wasting status of under-five children in the districts (b: − 0.27, p < 0.10). Further, underweight level had a negative association with clean fuel use for cooking (b: − 0.17, p < 0.01), use of iodized salt (b: − 0.36, p < 0.10), breastfeeding within one hour (b: − 0.18, p < 0.10), semisolid/solid food within 6–8 months (b: − 0.11, p < 0.05) and Gross Domestic Product of the districts (b: − 0.53, p < 0.10).

Conclusion

In the study, a variety of factors including electricity and clean fuel use in the household, use of iodized salt, level of exclusive breastfeeding, breastfeeding within one hour, semisolid/solid food within 6–8 months and Gross Domestic Product of the districts have a significant association with nutritional status of children.
Helicobacter pylori cagA status and gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Keikha Masoud , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Yamaoka Yoshio , Karbalaei Mohsen
Published: January 2022

Background

Recent studies have investigated the role of Helicobacter pylori infection in the development of gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. It is estimated that approximately 0.1% of people infected with H. pylori develop gastric MALT lymphoma. However, the role of the CagA antigen, the highest causative agent of H. pylori, in increasing the risk of gastric MALT lymphoma remains unclear and controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the effect of cagA status on the development of gastric MALT lymphoma.

Methods

All articles evaluating the status of the cagA gene in the development of gastric MALT lymphoma were collected using systematic searches in online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar, regardless of publication date. The association between cagA and gastric MALT lymphoma was assessed using the odds ratio (OR) summary. In addition, a random-effects model was used in cases with significant heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 10 studies met our inclusion criteria, among which 1860 patients participated. No association between cagA status and the development of MALT lymphoma (extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma) was found in this study (OR 1.30; 0.906–1.866 with 95% CIs; I2: 45.83; Q-value: 12.92). Surprisingly, a meaningful association was observed between cagA status and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (OR 6.43; 2.45–16.84 with 95% CIs). We also observed an inverse association between vacA and gastric MALT lymphoma risk (OR 0.92; 0.57–1.50 with 95% CIs).

Conclusions

It seems that the infection with cagA-positive H. pylori strains does not have a meaningful effect on the gastric MALT lymphoma formation, while translocated CagA antigen into the B cells plays a crucial role in the development of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
South African and international legislature with relevance to the application of electronic documentation in medicolegal autopsies for practice and research purposes
Authors: Prahladh Salona , Van Wyk Jacqueline
Published: January 2022

Background

Forensic and legal medicine requires all documentation to be recorded in a manner that is admissible in court. Issues surrounding privacy, confidentiality, and security mar the implementation of electronic document systems in medicine. Awareness of current legislature governing record keeping and electronic documentation especially in modern medicine and forensic medicine has not been sufficiently explored. This study explored the current South African and international laws that govern admissibility of evidence, especially relating to electronic evidence, for use in court and research,

Findings

Egypt, UK, Canada and the USA have similar legislation to South Africa regarding admissibility of electronic records. The South African Electronic Communications and Transactions Act no. 25 of 2002 defines data and the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 further defines the admissibility of evidence in court and the National Health Act regulates publication of deceased information after death.

Conclusions

Forensic medicine requires all documentation to be admissible in court and the storage of data thus requires proper custodianship and a high level of security, which can be achieved with modern technology. Modern medicine is evolving and technology can create secure and efficient methods of record keeping which will benefit forensic and legal medicine. Knowledge of the laws regarding admissibility of evidence can assist in creating electronic evidence that is permitted in court and can be used for research.
Management of Pancreatico-duodenal arterio-venous malformation
Authors: Marcelin Clement , Park Auh Whan , Gilbert Patrick , Bouchard Louis , Therasse Eric , Perreault Pierre , Giroux Marie France , Soulez Gilles
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To describe the interventional management and clinical outcome of pancreatico-duodenal arterio-venous malformations (PDAVMs).

Material and Methods

Seven patients presenting a PDAVM (6 women, 1 male; mean age: 61) were retrospectively reviewed. Technical, clinical success and complications of embolization and surgical management of symptomatic PDAVMs were assessed. Technical success was defined as a complete occlusion of the PDAVM and clinical success as no clinical symptom or recurrence during follow-up. Patients with asymptomatic PDAVMs were followed clinically, by Doppler ultrasound and CT-angiography.

Results

Mean follow-up time was 69 months (15-180). Five symptomatic patients presented with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (n=3), ascites (n=1), and abdominal pain (n=1). Two patients were asymptomatic. The PDAVMs were classified as follow: Yakes I (1), IIIa (2), IIIb (3) and IV (1). Five symptomatic patients were treated with 9 embolization sessions with arterial approach (onyx®, glue, coils) in 7 and venous approach in 2 (plugs, coils, covered stents, STS foam and onyx®). Technical success of embolization was 60% (3/5). Devascularization was incomplete for 2 Yakes IIIB patients. Clinical success of embolization was estimated at 80% (4/5) as one patient required additional surgery (Whipple) because of persistent bleeding. One splenic vein thrombosis was treated successfully by mechanical thrombectomy and heparin. No recurrence occurred during follow-up. No progression was documented in asymptomatic patients.

Conclusion

Embolization of symptomatic PDAVMs is effective and surgery should be performed in second intention. Complete devascularization is more difficult to obtain in Yakes III PDAVM.
Performance of distinct microbial based solutions in a Campylobacter infection challenge model in poultry
Authors: Ty Maxine , Taha-Abdelaziz Khaled , Demey Vanessa , Castex Mathieu , Sharif Shayan , Parkinson John
Published: January 2022

Background

Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) are commonly used within poultry production to improve feed conversion, bird growth, and reduce morbidity and mortality from clinical and subclinical diseases. Due to the association between AGP usage and rising antimicrobial resistance, the industry has explored new strategies including the use of probiotics and other microbial-based interventions to promote the development of a healthy microbiome in birds and mitigate against infections associated with food safety and food security. While previous studies have largely focused on the ability of probiotics to protect against Clostridium perfringens and Salmonella enterica, much less is known concerning their impact on Campylobacter jejuni, a near commensal of the chicken gut microbiome that nevertheless is a major cause of food poisoning in humans.

Results

Here we compare the efficacy of four microbial interventions (two single strain probiotics, the bacterium—Pediococcus acidilactici, and the yeast—Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii; and two complex, competitive exclusion, consortia—Aviguard and CEL) to bacitracin, a commonly used AGP, to modulate chicken gut microbiota and subsequently impact C. jejuni infection in poultry. Cecal samples were harvested at 30- and 39-days post hatch to assess Campylobacter burden and examine their impact on the gut microbiota. While the different treatments did not significantly decrease C. jejuni burden relative to the untreated controls, both complex consortia resulted in significant decreases relative to treatment with bacitracin. Analysis of 16S rDNA profiles revealed a distinct microbial signature associated with each microbial intervention. For example, treatment with Aviguard and CEL increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidaceae and Rikenellaceae respectively. Furthermore, Aviguard promoted a less complex microbial community compared to other treatments.

Conclusions

Depending upon the individual needs of the producer, our results illustrate the potential of each microbial interventions to serve flock-specific requirements.
Increased psychological distress after the lifting of COVID-19 lockdown in the Saudi population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alharbi Hatim Yousef , Alharthi Sami S. , Alzahrani Ahmed S. , Dakhel Mohammed Khalid A. , Alawaji Ziyad Hussain
Published: January 2022

Background

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its global health and socioeconomic aftereffects, the enduring state of crisis is increasingly impacting the coping capacity of the populations. In this study, we aimed to characterize the levels of psychological distress after the lifting of COVID-19 lockdown.

Results

The Impact of Event Scale (IES-R) and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales-21 items (DASS-21) were used to screen for post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and stress. The prevalence of PTSD was 41.6% and was associated with severe or extremely severe stress (27.8%), anxiety (31.4%), and depression (39.0%). All disorders were strongly correlated with one another. The risk of developing PTSD was independently associated with residence in high COVID-19 prevalence region (OR = 2.25, p = 0.004), poor (OR = 3.98, p = 0.002), or moderate (OR = 1.63, p = 0.048) self-assessed overall physical health, psychiatric comorbidity (OR = 1.87, p = 0.036), number of COVID-19-like symptoms (OR = 1.94, p = 0.039), and severe COVID-19 morbidity in the acquaintances (OR = 1.54, p = 0.026). Four theories were proposed to explain these high figures, with a discussion of their practical implications.

Conclusions

The lifting of lockdown measures was associated with a substantial increase in psychological distress among the Saudi population, referring to figures reported during the lockdown. This may indicate a decline in the overall population’s coping capacity with the enduring crisis.
Early outcomes of aortic valve repair versus replacement for aortic regurgitation: a single-center experience
Authors: Amr Mohamed A. , Fayad Elsayed
Published: January 2022

Background

Aortic valve repair in rheumatic patients is not well-studied. We aimed to present our initial Egyptian experience in the aortic valve repair and compare it with the aortic valve replacement. The study included 85 patients who had an aortic valve surgery for aortic regurgitation (AR) in a single center from 2018 to 2020. We assigned the patients to either aortic valve repair (n= 39) or aortic valve replacement (n= 46). Fifty-nine patients (69.4%) had rheumatic heart disease. Study outcomes were hospital complications and the degree of aortic regurgitation after 6 months in patients who had aortic valve repair.

Results

Patients who had replacement were significantly older (49.6± 7.2 vs. 43.8± 8.6 years: P= 0.002) and had more advanced New York Heart Association (P<0.001) and Canadian Cardiovascular Scoring (P= 0.03) classes. Hypertension (31 (67.4%) vs. 17 (43.6%); P= 0.03) and hypercholesteremia (18 (40%) vs. 17 (18.9%); P= 0.04) were more common in the replacement group. Patients who had replacement had a significantly higher percentage of valve retraction (P<0.001). Cardiopulmonary bypass (54.5 (49.5–60) vs. 45 (41–49) min; P<0.001) and ischemic times (36.5 (31–40) vs. 30 (28–33) min; P<0.001) were longer in patients who had an aortic valve replacement. Blood transfusion (28 (60.9%) vs. 11 (282%); P= 0.003) and ICU stay (24.5 (24–48) vs 23 (20–31) h; P= 0.01) were higher in the replacement group. Hospital mortality was non-significantly different between groups. Four patients had trivial AR (10.3%), and six had mild AR (15.4%) in the repair group. There was no difference in valve pathology or outcomes in aortic valve repair patients for degenerative versus rheumatic pathologies. After a 6-month follow-up, four patients had trivial AR (10.3%), and six patients had mild AR (15.4%) in the repair group.

Conclusions

Aortic valve repair could be an alternative to replacement in selected patients with rheumatic heart disease. Shorter cardiopulmonary bypass and ischemic times may improve repair outcomes compared to replacement.
Predictors of perioperative myocardial infarction in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Amr Mohamed A. , Fayad Elsayed
Published: January 2022

Background

Perioperative myocardial infarction (PMI) increases morbidity and mortality after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The objective of the current study was to characterize patients with PMI after off-pump CABG and identify its predictors.

Results

We included 1181 patients who had off-pump CABG from 2010 to 2020; 59 patients (5%) had PMI. We compared patients with PMI to those without PMI. Patients with PMI were older (57 (25th–75th percentiles: 51–63) vs. 54 (48–60) years; P = 0.01) and had higher NYHA class (28 (47.46%) vs. 326 (29.06%): P = 0.01). The distal anastomosis time was longer in patients with PMI (28 (23–35) vs. 24 (16–30) min; P ˂ 0.001). Patients with PMI had higher postoperative low cardiac output (10 (18.18%) vs. 1 (0.1%): P ˂ 0.001), prolonged ventilation (12 (8–39) vs. 8 (6–10) h, P ˂ 0.001), ICU (71 (46–138) vs. 24 (23–42) h; P ˂ 0.001), and hospital stay (9 (6–15) vs. 7 (6–8) days; P ˂ 0.001). Mortality was significantly higher in patients with PMI (20 (33.9%) vs. 6 (0.53%); P ˂ 0.001). Older age (OR: 1.05 (95% CI: 1.01–1.1); P = 0.02), increased number of distal anastomoses (OR: 1.74 (95% CI: 1.20–2.50); P = 0.003), preoperative congestive heart failure (OR: 10.27 (95% CI: 2.58–40.95); P = 0.001), and thrombolysis within 24 h of surgery (OR: 15.34 (1.93–121.9); P = 0.01) were associated with increased PMI, while PMI was lower in male patients (OR: 0.42 (95% CI: 0.19–0.93); P = 0.03) and with higher body surface area (BSA) (OR: 0.08 (95% CI: 0.07–0.86); P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Post-off-pump CABG PMI was associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Risk factors for PMI were older age, lower BSA, females, increased distal anastomoses, preoperative heart failure, and thrombolysis.
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adolescents
Authors: Mostafa Mohamed Saber , Youssef Ahmed Abdelhaseeb , Soliman Mohamed Hisham
Published: January 2022

Background

Metabolic diseases have been associated with childhood obesity no longer restricted to adults as previously known. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus (DM) have been reported in children with morbid obesity. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been used as a primary procedure for weight control among children and adolescents with acceptable records of effective weight loss together with evidence of improvement of associated co-morbidities.

Results

Thirty-two patients were diagnosed with morbid obesity and DM presented to obesity and nutrition clinic and were included in this study. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) was the chosen operation to treat their obesity and associated co-morbidities. Fasting blood sugar and HbA1c were measured before the operation and 1 year after surgery. Twenty-seven patients had significant improvement of their glycemic profile and managed to stop the hypoglycemic medication.

Conclusion

LSG may play an important role as a metabolic control procedure rather than a bariatric restrictive procedure only.
“How Do We Do This at a Distance?!” A Descriptive Study of Remote Undergraduate Research Programs during COVID-19
Authors: Erickson Olivia A. , Cole Rebecca B. , Isaacs Jared M. , Alvarez-Clare Silvia , Arnold Jonathan , Augustus-Wallace Allison , Ayoob Joseph C. , Berkowitz Alan , Branchaw Janet , Burgio Kevin R. , Cannon Charles H. , Ceballos Ruben Michael , Cohen C. Sarah , Coller Hilary , Disney Jane , Doze Van A. , Eggers Margaret J. , Farina Stacy , Ferguson Edwin L. , Gray Jeffrey J. , Greenberg Jean T. , Hoffmann Alexander , Jensen-Ryan Danielle , Kao Robert M. , Keene Alex C. , Kowalko Johanna E. , Lopez Steven A. , Mathis Camille , Minkara Mona , Murren Courtney J. , Ondrechen Mary Jo , Ordoñez Patricia , Osano Anne , Padilla-Crespo Elizabeth , Palchoudhury Soubantika , Qin Hong , Ramírez-Lugo Juan , Reithel Jennifer , Shaw Colin A. , Smith Amber , Smith Rosemary , Summers Adam P. , Tsien Fern , Dolan Erin L.
Published: January 2022

This study describes the design and implementation of remote Summer undergraduate research programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, including program strengths and recommendations for improvement from the perspectives of undergraduate researchers.
Prevalence, predictors and types of unpleasant and adverse effects of meditation in regular meditators: international cross-sectional study
Authors: Pauly Luca , Bergmann Niklas , Hahne Inge , Pux Sarah , Hahn Eric , Ta Thi Minh Tam , Rapp Michael , Böge Kerem
Published: January 2022

Background

Meditation is commonly implemented in psychological therapies since the ‘third wave’ of cognitive–behavioural therapy has increased the focus on mindfulness-based interventions. Although extensive research literature demonstrates its benefits, little is known about potential adverse effects.

Aims

The aim of this study is to report the prevalence, type and severity of particularly unpleasant meditation-related experiences in the largest cross-sectional study on this topic to date, with 1370 regular meditators.

Method

The participants were asked whether they ever encountered particularly unpleasant experiences as a result of their meditation experience. For the first time, the type and severity of those experiences were assessed and the association with several predictors, such as pre-existing mental disorders, were explored via logistic and linear regression.

Results

Similar to previous studies, 22% of participants (95% CI 20–24) reported having encountered unpleasant meditation-related experiences, and 13% of participants (95% CI 3–5) reported experiences that were categorised as adverse. Those were mostly of affective, somatic and cognitive nature. Unpleasant meditation-related experiences were more likely to occur in participants with pre-existing mental illnesses (P= 0.000, 95% CI 1.25–2.12).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that unpleasant meditation-related experiences are prevalent among meditators and, to a relevant extent, severe enough to warrant further scientific inquiry. Longitudinal studies are needed to examine whether the unpleasant meditation-related experiences are merely negative and thus should be avoided, or are an inherent part of the contemplative path.
O diálogo competitivo na nova lei de licitações e contratos da Administração Pública
Authors: Santos de Aragão Alexandre
Published: January 2022

Inaugurando uma nova disciplina legislativa em relação às contratações públicas, foi editada, já em boa hora, a Lei nº 14.133, de 1º de abril de 2021, que trouxe importantes inovações em relação à sua predecessora. Entre as novidades da lei, destaca-se a previsão do denominado “diálogo competitivo”, modalidade de licitação por meio da qual a Administração Pública e os particulares licitantes, após negociações mútuas, desenvolvem, juntos, soluções técnicas capazes de atender às necessidades do contratante que levaram à abertura do procedimento licitatório. A ela dedicase o presente trabalho. Buscando examinar as origens do novo instituto e entender o caminho percorrido até a sua positivação no direito brasileiro, o artigo começa traçando um panorama geral da consensualidade administrativa na contemporaneidade brasileira e examinando o tema também no direito comparado. Em seguida, o trabalho passa ao seu principal objetivo, consistente no estudo específico da disciplina conferida pela nova Lei de Licitações e Contratos ao instituto, momento em que investigamos cada uma das respectivas fases da nova modalidade licitatória e as peculiaridades a elas inerentes. Por fim, o artigo também examina o “diálogo competitivo” comparativamente a outras modalidades licitatórias participativas já existentes, destacando as principais diferenças que o fazem ser um instituto realmente inovador.