bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of pilot and small trials in meta-analyses of behavioral interventions: a meta-epidemiological study
Authors: Beets Michael W. , Weaver R. Glenn , Ioannidis John P. A. , Pfledderer Christopher D. , Jones Alexis , von Klinggraeff Lauren , Armstrong Bridget
Published: February 2023

Abstracts

Background

Pilot/feasibility or studies with small sample sizes may be associated with inflated effects. This study explores the vibration of effect sizes (VoE) in meta-analyses when considering different inclusion criteria based upon sample size or pilot/feasibility status.

Methods

Searches were to identify systematic reviews that conducted meta-analyses of behavioral interventions on topics related to the prevention/treatment of childhood obesity from January 2016 to October 2019. The computed summary effect sizes (ES) were extracted from each meta-analysis. Individual studies included in the meta-analyses were classified into one of the following four categories: self-identified pilot/feasibility studies or based upon sample size but not a pilot/feasibility study (N ≤ 100, N > 100, and N > 370 the upper 75th of sample size). The VoE was defined as the absolute difference (ABS) between the re-estimations of summary ES restricted to study classifications compared to the originally reported summary ES. Concordance (kappa) of statistical significance of summary ES between the four categories of studies was assessed. Fixed and random effects models and meta-regressions were estimated. Three case studies are presented to illustrate the impact of including pilot/feasibility and N ≤ 100 studies on the estimated summary ES.

Results

A total of 1602 effect sizes, representing 145 reported summary ES, were extracted from 48 meta-analyses containing 603 unique studies (avg. 22 studies per meta-analysis, range 2–108) and included 227,217 participants. Pilot/feasibility and N ≤ 100 studies comprised 22% (0–58%) and 21% (0–83%) of studies included in the meta-analyses. Meta-regression indicated the ABS between the re-estimated and original summary ES where summary ES ranged from 0.20 to 0.46 depending on the proportion of studies comprising the original ES were either mostly small (e.g., N ≤ 100) or mostly large (N > 370). Concordance was low when removing both pilot/feasibility and N ≤ 100 studies (kappa = 0.53) and restricting analyses only to the largest studies (N > 370, kappa = 0.35), with 20% and 26% of the originally reported statistically significant ES rendered non-significant. Reanalysis of the three case study meta-analyses resulted in the re-estimated ES rendered either non-significant or half of the originally reported ES.

Conclusions

When meta-analyses of behavioral interventions include a substantial proportion of both pilot/feasibility and N ≤ 100 studies, summary ES can be affected markedly and should be interpreted with caution.
Aptamer-based CRISPR-Cas powered diagnostics of diverse biomarkers and small molecule targets
Authors: Kadam Ulhas Sopanrao , Cho Yuhan , Park Tae Yoon , Hong Jong Chan
Published: February 2023

CRISPR-Cas systems have been widely used in genome editing and transcriptional regulation. Recently, CRISPR-Cas effectors are adopted for biosensor construction due to its adjustable properties, such as simplicity of design, easy operation, collateral cleavage activity, and high biocompatibility. Aptamers’ excellent sensitivity, specificity, in vitro synthesis, base-pairing, labeling, modification, and programmability has made them an attractive molecular recognition element for inclusion in CRISPR-Cas systems. Here, we review current advances in aptamer-based CRISPR-Cas sensors. We briefly discuss aptamers and the knowledge of Cas effector proteins, crRNA, reporter probes, analytes, and applications of target-specific aptamers. Next, we provide fabrication strategies, molecular binding, and detection using fluorescence, electrochemical, colorimetric, nanomaterials, Rayleigh, and Raman scattering. The application of CRISPR-Cas systems in aptamer-based sensing of a wide range of biomarkers (disease and pathogens) and toxic contaminants is growing. This review provides an update and offers novel insights into developing CRISPR-Cas-based sensors using ssDNA aptamers with high efficiency and specificity for point-of-care setting diagnostics.
Clinical efficacy and complications of transurethral resection of the prostate versus plasmakinetic enucleation of the prostate
Authors: Yang Chong-Yi , Chen Ge-Ming , Wu Yue-Xiang , Zhang Wei-Jie , Wang Jie , Chen Peng-Peng , Lou Zhen-Yuan
Published: February 2023

Background

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease in elderly males, and many kinds of minimally invasive procedures can be used for the treatment of BPH. However, various procedures have caused some controversies regarding clinical outcomes, so more studies are needed to validate these controversial topics.

Aims

This study aimed to explore differences of clinical efficacy, surgical features, and complications between transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and plasmakinetic enucleation of the prostate (PKEP) for BPH.

Methods

A total of eligible 850 cases of BPH underwent TURP (the TURP group, 320 cases) or PKEP (the PKEP group, 530 cases) in the urology department of our hospital from March 2015 to 2018 were involved in this study. Then, the baseline data, surgical characteristics, IPSS, QoL, PVR, Qmax, IIEF-5, and documented complications were compared between the two groups.

Results

The operative time, intraoperative irrigation volume, postoperative hemoglobin, decrease in hemoglobin, postoperative irrigation time and volume, catheterization time, and hospital stay of the PKEP group were significantly less than those of the TURP group (all P < 0.05). At 3 months, 1, 2, and 3 years after operation, no significant differences were observed in IPSS, QoL, PVR, but the results of Qmax and IIEF-5 in the PKEP group were significantly higher than those parameters in the TURP group (all P < 0.05). The incidences of massive blood loss, postoperative secondary bleeding, blood transfusion, capsular perforation, urinary tract irritation, bladder spasm, clot retention, urinary tract infection, transient incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and the incidences of II, III grade of Clavien–Dindo classification in the PKEP group were significantly lower than those of the TURP group (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The clinical efficacy of PKEP is compared favorably with TURP during midterm follow-up. Given the merits such as less blood loss and hospital stay, lower complications, PKEP should be given a priority for BPH.
The essential roles of FXR in diet and age influenced metabolic changes and liver disease development: a multi-omics study
Authors: Yang Guiyan , Jena Prasant K. , Hu Ying , Sheng Lili , Chen Shin-Yu , Slupsky Carolyn M. , Davis Ryan , Tepper Clifford G. , Wan Yu-Jui Yvonne
Published: February 2023

Background

Aging and diet are risks for metabolic diseases. Bile acid receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) knockout (KO) mice develop metabolic liver diseases that progress into cancer as they age, which is accelerated by Western diet (WD) intake. The current study uncovers the molecular signatures for diet and age-linked metabolic liver disease development in an FXR-dependent manner.

Methods

Wild-type (WT) and FXR KO male mice, either on a healthy control diet (CD) or a WD, were euthanized at the ages of 5, 10, or 15 months. Hepatic transcriptomics, liver, serum, and urine metabolomics as well as microbiota were profiled.

Results

WD intake facilitated hepatic aging in WT mice. In an FXR-dependent manner, increased inflammation and reduced oxidative phosphorylation were the primary pathways affected by WD and aging. FXR has a role in modulating inflammation and B cell-mediated humoral immunity which was enhanced by aging. Moreover, FXR dictated neuron differentiation, muscle contraction, and cytoskeleton organization in addition to metabolism. There were 654 transcripts commonly altered by diets, ages, and FXR KO, and 76 of them were differentially expressed in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and healthy livers. Urine metabolites differentiated dietary effects in both genotypes, and serum metabolites clearly separated ages irrespective of diets. Aging and FXR KO commonly affected amino acid metabolism and TCA cycle. Moreover, FXR is essential for colonization of age-related gut microbes. Integrated analyses uncovered metabolites and bacteria linked with hepatic transcripts affected by WD intake, aging, and FXR KO as well as related to HCC patient survival.

Conclusion

FXR is a target to prevent diet or age-associated metabolic disease. The uncovered metabolites and microbes can be diagnostic markers for metabolic disease.
Optimal clinical protocols for total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT examination under different activity administration plans
Authors: Huang Yanchao , Wang Meng , Jiang Li , Wang Lijuan , Chen Li , Wang Qiaoyu , Feng Jiatai , Wang Jingyi , Xu Wanbang , Wu Hubing , Han Yanjiang
Published: February 2023

Background

Highly sensitive digital total-body PET/CT scanners (uEXPLORER) have great potential for clinical applications and fundamental research. Given their increasing sensitivity, low-dose scanning or snapshot imaging is now possible in clinics. However, a standardized total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT protocol is still lacking. Establishing a standard clinical protocol for total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT examination under different activity administration plans can help provide a theoretical reference for nuclear radiologists.

Methods

The NEMA image quality (IQ) phantom was used to evaluate the biases of various total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT protocols related to the administered activity, scan duration, and iterations. Several objective metrics, including contrast recovery (CR), background variability (BV), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), were measured from different protocols. In line with the European Association of Nuclear Medicine Research Ltd. (EARL) guidelines, optimized protocols were suggested and evaluated for total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging for three different injected activities.

Results

Our NEMA IQ phantom evaluation resulted in total-body PET/CT images with excellent contrast and low noise, suggesting great potential for reducing administered activity or shortening the scan duration. Different to the iteration number, prolonging the scan duration was the first choice for achieving higher image quality regardless of the activity administered. In light of image quality, tolerance of oncological patients, and the risk of ionizing radiation damage, the 3-min acquisition and 2-iteration (CNR = 7.54), 10-min acquisition and 3-iteration (CNR = 7.01), and 10-min acquisition and 2-iteration (CNR = 5.49) protocols were recommended for full-dose (3.70 MBq/kg), half-dose (1.95 MBq/kg), and quarter-dose (0.98 MBq/kg) activity injection schemes, respectively. Those protocols were applied in clinical practices, and no significant differences were observed for the SUVmax of large/small lesions or the SUVmean of different healthy organs/tissues.

Conclusion

These findings support that digital total-body PET/CT scanners can generate PET images with a high CNR and low-noise background, even with a short acquisition time and low administered activity. The proposed protocols for different administered activities were determined to be valid for clinical examination and can maximize the value of this imaging type.
Building Emotional Awareness and Mental Health (BEAM): an open-pilot and feasibility study of a digital mental health and parenting intervention for mothers of infants
Authors: Xie E. Bailin , Freeman Makayla , Penner-Goeke Lara , Reynolds Kristin , Lebel Catherine , Giesbrecht Gerald F. , Rioux Charlie , MacKinnon Anna , Sauer-Zavala Shannon , Roos Leslie E. , Tomfohr-Madsen Lianne
Published: February 2023

Background

Maternal mental health concerns and parenting stress in the first few years following childbirth are common and pose significant risks to maternal and child well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increases in maternal depression and anxiety and has presented unique parenting stressors. Although early intervention is crucial, there are significant barriers to accessing care.

Methods

To inform a larger randomized controlled trial, the current open-pilot trial investigated initial evidence for the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a newly developed online group therapy and app-based mental health and parenting program (BEAM) for mothers of infants. Forty-six mothers 18 years or older with clinically elevated depression scores, with an infant aged 6–17 months old, and who lived in Manitoba or Alberta were enrolled in the 10-week program (starting in July 2021) and completed self-report surveys.

Results

The majority of participants engaged in each of the program components at least once and participants indicated relatively high levels of app satisfaction, ease of use, and usefulness. However, there was a high level of attrition (46%). Paired-samplet-tests indicated significant pre- to post-intervention change in maternal depression, anxiety, and parenting stress, and in child internalizing, but not externalizing symptoms. Effect sizes were in the medium to high range, with the largest effect size observed for depressive symptoms (Cohen’sd= .93).

Discussion

This study shows moderate levels of feasibility and strong preliminary efficacy of the BEAM program. Limitations to program design and delivery are being addressed for testing in adequately powered follow-up trials of the BEAM program for mothers of infants.

Trial registration

NCT04772677. Registered on February 26 2021.
Identification of cell-biologic mechanisms of coronary artery spasm and its ex vivo diagnosis using peripheral blood-derived iPSCs
Authors: Yang Han-Mo , Lee Joo-Eun , Kim Ju-Young , You Jihye , Kim Joonoh , Lee Hak Seung , Yoo Hee Min , Kong Min Gyu , Han Jung-Kyu , Cho Hyun-Jai , Park Kyung Woo , Kang Hyun-Jae , Koo Bon-Kwon , Park Young-Bae , Kim Hyo-Soo
Published: February 2023

Background

Although vasospastic angina (VSA) is known to be caused by coronary artery spasm, no study has fully elucidated the exact underlying mechanism. Moreover, in order to confirm VSA, patients should undergo invasive coronary angiography with spasm provocation test. Herein, we investigated the pathophysiology of VSA using peripheral blood-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and developed an ex vivo diagnostic method for VSA.

Methods and results

With 10 mL of peripheral blood from patients with VSA, we generated iPSCs and differentiated these iPSCs into target cells. As compared with vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) differentiated from iPSCs of normal subjects with negative provocation test, VSA patient-specific iPSCs-derived VSMCs showed very strong contraction in response to stimulants. Moreover, VSA patient-specific VSMCs exhibited a significant increase in stimulation-induced intracellular calcium efflux (Changes in the relative fluorescence unit [ΔF/F]; Control group vs. VSA group, 2.89 ± 0.34 vs. 10.32 ± 0.51,
p
 < 0.01), and exclusively induced a secondary or tertiary peak of calcium efflux, suggesting that those findings could be diagnostic cut-off values for VSA. The observed hyperreactivity of VSA patient-specific VSMCs were caused by the upregulation of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) due to its enhanced small ubiquitin-related modifier
(
SUMO)ylation. This increased activity of SERCA2a was reversed by treatment with ginkgolic acid, an inhibitor of SUMOylated E1 molecules (pi/µg protein; VSA group vs. VSA + ginkgolic acid, 52.36 ± 0.71 vs. 31.93 ± 1.13,
p
 < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our findings showed that abnormal calcium handling in sarco/endoplasmic reticulum could be induced by the enhanced SERCA2a activity in patients with VSA, leading to spasm. Such novel mechanisms of coronary artery spasm could be useful for drug development and diagnosis of VSA.
Research Buddy partnership in a MD–PhD program: lessons learned
Authors: Gould Daniel J. , Glanville-Hearst Marion , Bunzli Samantha , Choong Peter F. M. , Dowsey Michelle M.
Published: February 2023

Background and aims

There is increasing recognition of the importance of patient involvement in research. In recent years, there has also been growing interest in patient partnerships with doctoral studies students. However, it can be difficult to know where to start and how to go about such involvement activities. The purpose of this perspective piece was to share experiential insight of the experience of a patient involvement program such that others can learn from this experience.

Body

This is a co-authored perspective piece centred on the experience of MGH, a patient who has had hip replacement surgery, and DG, a medical student completing a PhD, participating in a Research Buddy partnership over the course of over 3 years. The context in which this partnership took place was also described to facilitate comparison with readers’ own circumstances and contexts. DG and MGH met regularly to discuss, and work together on, various aspects of DG’s PhD research project. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted on reflections from DG and MGH regarding their experience in the Research Buddy program to synthesise nine lessons which were then corroborated with reference to published literature on patient involvement in research. These lessons were: learn from experience; tailor the program; get involved early; embrace uniqueness; meet regularly; build rapport; ensure mutual benefit; broad involvement; regularly reflect and review.

Conclusions

In this perspective piece, a patient and a medical student completing a PhD reflected upon their experience co-designing a Research Buddy partnership within a patient involvement program. A series of nine lessons was identified and presented to inform readers seeking to develop or enhance their own patient involvement programs. Researcher-patient rapport is foundational to all other aspects of the patient’s involvement.
Efficacy and safety of cardioprotective drugs in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity: an updated systematic review & network meta-analysis
Authors: Mir Ali , Badi Yasra , Bugazia Seif , Nourelden Anas Zakarya , Fathallah Ahmed Hashem , Ragab Khaled Mohamed , Alsillak Mohammed , Elsayed Sarah Makram , Hagrass Abdulrahman Ibrahim , Bawek Sawyer , Kalot Mohamad , Brumberger Zachary L.
Published: February 2023

Background

Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy have an increased risk of cardiovascular complications. This limits the widespread use of lifesaving therapies, often necessitating alternate lower efficacy regimens, or precluding chemotherapy entirely. Prior studies have suggested that using common cardioprotective agents may attenuate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. However, small sample sizes and conflicting outcomes have limited the clinical significance of these results.

Hypothesis

A comprehensive network meta-analysis using updated and high-quality data can provide more conclusive information to assess which drug or drug class has the most significant effect in the management of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity.

Methods

We performed a literature search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of cardioprotective agents in patients with chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. We used established analytical tools (netmeta package in RStudio) and data extraction formats to analyze the outcome data. To obviate systematic bias in the selection and interpretation of RCTs, we employed the validated Cochrane risk-of-bias tools. Agents included were statins, aldosterone receptor antagonists (MRAs), ACEIs, ARBs, and beta-blockers. Outcomes examined were improvement in clinical and laboratory parameters of cardiac function including a decreased reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), clinical HF, troponin-I, and B-natriuretic peptide levels.

Results

Our study included 33 RCTs including a total of 3,285 patients. Compared to control groups, spironolactone therapy was associated with the greatest LVEF improvement (Mean difference (MD) = 12.80, [7.90; 17.70]), followed by enalapril (MD = 7.62, [5.31; 9.94]), nebivolol (MD = 7.30, [2.39; 12.21]), and statins (MD = 6.72, [3.58; 9.85]). Spironolactone was also associated with a significant reduction in troponin elevation (MD =  − 0.01, [− 0.02; − 0.01]). Enalapril demonstrated the greatest BNP reduction (MD =  − 49.00, [− 68.89; − 29.11]), which was followed by spironolactone (MD =  − 16.00, [− 23.9; − 8.10]). Additionally, patients on enalapril had the lowest risk of developing clinical HF compared to the control population (RR = 0.05, [0.00; 0.75]).

Conclusion

Our analysis reaffirmed that statins, MRAs, ACEIs, and beta-blockers can significantly attenuate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, while ARBs showed no significant effects. Spironolactone showed the most robust improvement of LVEF, which best supports its use among this population. Our analysis warrants future clinical studies examining the cardioprotective effects of cardiac remodeling therapy in cancer patients treated with chemotherapeutic agents.
Serum Calcium Concentrations and Risk of All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality: Results From 2 Prospective Cohorts
Authors: Yang Mingjia , Miao Junyan , Du Lingbin , Wang Jiayu , Yang Jing , Lu Jiayi , Fan Xikang , Huang Changzhi , Fu Zan , Xu Zekuan , Song Mingyang , Ma Hongxia , Jin Guangfu , Hu Zhibin , Hang Dong , Shen Hongbing
Published: February 2023

Context

Calcium plays a critical role in various physiological activities. However, the association between circulating calcium concentrations and mortality in a general healthy population remains undetermined.

Objective

To examine the association of serum calcium concentrations with all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

Methods

Leveraging data from the UK Biobank (n = 361 662) and the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, n = 36 985), we prospectively examined the association of serum calcium concentrations with all-cause and cause-specific mortality using Cox proportional hazard and restricted cubic spline models.

Results

During a median follow-up of 12.0 years, UK Biobank documented 18 327 deaths, including 3119 (17.0%) from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and 9599 (52.4%) from cancer. We found a U-shaped relationship of albumin-adjusted calcium concentrations with all-cause and CVD mortality. Compared with participants with moderate calcium levels (the third quintile, Q3), those with low and high levels had an increased risk of all-cause (hazard ratio [HR] 1.02 for Q1 vs Q3; 1.10 for Q5 vs Q3) and CVD mortality (HR 1.11 for Q1 vs Q3; 1.25 for Q5 vs Q3). In contrast, there was a linear positive relationship with cancer mortality (HR 1.09 for Q5 vs Q1). Similar results for all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality were observed in US NHANES.

Conclusion

Our findings provide novel insights into the association between serum calcium concentrations and mortality in the general healthy population.
Neuronal Blockade of Thyroid Hormone Signaling Increases Sensitivity to Diet-Induced Obesity in Adult Male Mice
Authors: Rial-Pensado Eva , Canaple Laurence , Guyot Romain , Clemmensen Christoffer , Wiersema Joëlle , Wu Shijia , Richard Sabine , Boelen Anita , Müller Timo D , López Miguel , Flamant Frédéric , Gauthier Karine
Published: February 2023

Thyroid hormone increases energy expenditure. Its action is mediated by TR, nuclear receptors present in peripheral tissues and in the central nervous system, particularly in hypothalamic neurons. Here, we address the importance of thyroid hormone signaling in neurons, in general for the regulation of energy expenditure.

We generated mice devoid of functional TR in neurons using the Cre/LoxP system. In hypothalamus, which is the center for metabolic regulation, mutations were present in 20% to 42% of the neurons.

Phenotyping was performed under physiological conditions that trigger adaptive thermogenesis: cold and high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. Mutant mice displayed impaired thermogenic potential in brown and inguinal white adipose tissues and were more prone to diet-induced obesity. They showed a decreased energy expenditure on chow diet and gained more weight on HFD. This higher sensitivity to obesity disappeared at thermoneutrality. Concomitantly, the AMPK pathway was activated in the ventromedial hypothalamus of the mutants as compared with the controls. In agreement, sympathetic nervous system (SNS) output, visualized by tyrosine hydroxylase expression, was lower in the brown adipose tissue of the mutants. In contrast, absence of TR signaling in the mutants did not affect their ability to respond to cold exposure.

This study provides the first genetic evidence that thyroid hormone signaling exerts a significant influence in neurons to stimulate energy expenditure in some physiological context of adaptive thermogenesis. TR function in neurons to limit weight gain in response to HFD and this effect is associated with a potentiation of SNS output.
Tripes (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) associados ao Ipê-roxo, em Rio Branco, Acre
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Souza , Lima Élison Fabrício Bezerra , Silva Vanessa Vitória Leão da
Published: February 2023

O Ipê-roxo, Handroanthus impetiginosus (Mart. ex DC.) Mattos, é uma árvore encontrada em todos os biomas brasileiros (Amazônia, Caatinga, Cerrado, Mata Atlântica e Pantanal), com exceção dos Pampas, a qual pode ser utilizada em regeneração florestal e em paisagismo. Insetos e ácaros já foram relatados associados a mudas e plantas adultas de Ipês no Brasil. Nesse sentido, o objetivo desse trabalho foi registrar espécies de tripes associados ao Ipê-roxo, em Rio Branco, Acre. Em agosto de 2022 foram coletados ramos contendo flores de uma árvore adulta de Ipê-roxo, localizado no campo experimental da Embrapa Acre (09º58’29”S; 67º44’28”O). Em laboratório as flores foram vistoriadas sob microscópio estereoscópio e, com auxílio de pincel fino, aproximadamente 60 espécimes de tripes foram coletados e preservados em frasco contendo álcool etílico (70%). Posteriormente os espécimes foram montados em lâminas de microscopia e identificados com auxílio de literatura especializada. Os insetos foram identificados como Frankliniella insularis (Franklin), Frankliniella condei John e Frankliniella sp.. Frankliniella insularis já foi registrada causando danos em pétalas de Hibiscus sp. e rosas, além de ser mencionada como uma praga secundária de citros. A espécie F. condei já foi registrada nos Estados de São Paulo e Minas Gerais em abacate, roseira (flores), chá-da-índia (folhas), citros, mangueira (inflorescência), limoeiro, crisântemo e "arbusto-do-mato". Este trabalho faz o primeiro registro de F. condei e F. insularis em associação ao Ipê-roxo no estado do Acre.
Similarity of adaptogenic effects of bioactive naftussya water and phytocomposition “Balm Truskavets’”
Authors: Popovych Igor L.
Published: February 2023

Background. From previous studies, it is known about the adaptogenic properties of Naftussya bioactive water and the Ukrainian phytocomposition "Balm Truskavets’". Both adaptogens have a common component of the composition - polyphenols, which suggests the existence of similar effects on the parameters of the body responsible for adaptation. The purpose of this study is to test the hypothesis. Material and methods. The object of clinical-physiological observation were 30 practically healthy individuals of both sexes with dysfunction of the neuro-endocrine-immune complex as a manifestation of maladaptation. Before and after a one-week course of using Balm (10 people) or Naftussya water (20 people), plasma levels of the main adaptation hormones, parameters of electroencephalogram (EEG), heart rate variability (HRV), phagocytosis, leukocytogram, as well as acupuncture and bioelectrophotonics were recorded. Results. 39 parameters (18 EEGs, 8 HRVs, 5 biophysical, 4 phagocytosis, as well as the Popovych’s leukocytary adaptation index, triiodothyronine, testosterone and cortisol) were identified, the physiologically favorable changes of which are common to both adaptogenic means. Conclusion. The influence of adaptogens of various nature on the state of adaptation of the body is non-specific and is implemented through the neuro-endocrine-immune complex.
Effect of diet on body composition and performance parameters - VO2max, HR and power, among young football players
Authors: Mizera Krzysztof Maciej
Published: February 2023

Nutrition acts an important role for soccer players as it provides energy and affects recovery after training.

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the method and quality of nutrition of young football players and the impact of nutrition on VO2max, power, heart rate and somatic parameters.

Results: The obtained results indicate that with the increase in calories and nutrients, the percentage of water in the body decreases. In other cases, increasing the amount of calories consumed is associated with an increase in BMI, fat content, lean body mass and muscle mass. VO2max did not correlate with any of the dietary parameters as did the number of breaths per minute. Heart rate results in most cases, when correlated with dietary parameters, produce an inversely proportional fit. Resting heart rate (HR) correlates with eight of the eleven deictic parameters, giving a level of compliance in the range of -0.48 to -0.73.

In the case of the size of the change in heart rate after exercise, its size is greater the more calories and nutrients are consumed by the test subjects. These correlations are then proportional. These results range from 0.52 to 0.75.

Conclusion: It is not the amount of calories consumed, but mainly carbohydrates that influence the weight of soccer players. On the other hand, the amount of calories and proteins consumed have an impact on the maximum power generated by players. The diet used by the players does not affect their VO2max and the number of breaths per minute, and the amount of calories and carbohydrates consumed affects the recovery time of the circulatory system (heart rate decrease) immediately after exercise.
The impact of using probiotics on metabolic disorders of women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Wesołowska Zuzanna , Zdun Sylwia , Walczak Klaudia , Gaweł Weronika , Jędruszczak Przemysław
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The course is primarily associated with menstrual disorders, obesity, insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism. The gut microbiota dysbiosis theory (DOGMA), established in 2012, suggests a link between the composition of gut bacteria and the development of metabolic disorders. Other studies confirm this relationship. This article analyzes the effect of probiotic supplementation on the alteration of gut microbial flora and the course of PCOS.
Aim of the study: Aim of our study was to review the available studies on the effect of probiotic use on the course of polycystic ovary syndrome. We considered the influence of supplementation on body weight, insulin resistance and lipid profile of the women studied.
Methods and materials: This article is based on the literature found in PubMed Database with use of keywords such as “PCOS”; „polycystic ovary syndrome”; “probiotics”; „gut microbiota”; „gut microbiome”.
Results: The collective results of the reviewed literature indicate that probiotics may have a beneficial effect on the course of polycystic ovary syndrome. In a number of studies, their supplementation resulted in a decrease in weight, insulin, triglycerides and VLDL cholesterol. For fasting glucose, HOMAR-IR, total cholesterol and LDL fraction, the results were inconclusive.
Conclusion: Probiotics may have a positive effect on metabolic disorders in women with PCOS, but more research is needed to confirm the good effects of their use in treatment.
Effect of hypertension on uric acid metabolism in patients with gout
Authors: Dolenha Arsen , Ochał Justyna , Karwanska Aleksandra , Matyka Kamila , Uniłowska Izabela , Kojder Ewa , Kulbat Aleksandra , Dovzhuk Yuliia , Ferschke Anna , Szymczyk Aleksandra
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The most common pаthologicаl condition аssociаted with gout is hypertension (HT). The mаin orgаn responsible for this process is the kidneys. The development of chronic tubulointerstitiаl nephritis in the course of gout leаds to ischemiа of the renаl pаrenchymа, аctivаtion of the renin-аngiotensin-аldosterone system (RAAS), sodium аnd wаter retention in the body, which leаds to the development of hypertension. The kidneys, on the other hаnd, аre responsible for the metаbolism аnd excretion of uric аcid from the body, so their dаmаge аccordingly leаds to the deteriorаtion of this process. In pаtients with gout, the level of uric аcid determines the severity of gouty аrthritis, dаmаge to blood vessels аnd joints. Therefore, it is extremely importаnt to know the specifics of uric аcid metаbolism in pаtients with gout, since the effectiveness of the prescribed hypouricemic therаpy depends on it.

Aim of the study

The аim of the study wаs to аnаlyze the metаbolism of uric аcid in pаtients with gout аnd concomitаnt аrteriаl hypertension, аnd to determine the impаct of concomitаnt metаbolic disorders on the excretory function of the kidneys.

Conclusion

The results of the conducted reseаrch prove thаt: 1. Pаtients with gout with concomitаnt hypertension hаve more pronounced metаbolic disorders thаn pаtients with gout without hypertension. This is mаnifested by impаired cаrbohydrаte tolerаnce, аn increаse in totаl cholesterol, triglycerides аnd а decreаse in HDL levels.2. Pаtients with gout аnd hypertension hаve deeper renаl dysfunction, which is mаnifested by а tendency to decreаse GFR аnd increаse creаtinine levels compаred to pаtients with gout without hypertensive syndrome.3. Violаtion of uric аcid metаbolism in pаtients with gout аnd аrteriаl hypertension is mаnifested by аn increаse in the reаbsorption process аnd а decreаse in the filtrаtion process of uric аcid, which results in higher rаtes of uricemiа.
Nutritional factors in the prevention and treatment of gout
Authors: Tomaszuk Sebastian , Wąsik Karolina , Wojtuś Magda
Published: February 2023

Introduction and purpose: Despite the fact that effective urate lowering therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of gout are commonly available, there is considerable interest in novel treatment approaches. Gouty patients often have a multitude of comorbidities, which lead to concern over drug–drug interactions and medication adverse events. Thus, diet modifications are examined as a way of nonpharmacological treatment of gout. In this review, we explore the potential impact of nutritional factors on hyperuricemia and clinical gout outcomes. A search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholarship databases.

Brief description of the state of knowledge: Management in patients with gout should be holistic. Incorrect nutrition may lead to hyperuricemia. Studies to date suggest that avoidance of certain foods and beverages can decrease the frequency of gout flares. Weight loss may be beneficial for prevention as well as treatment of gout and its comorbidities. The impact of various types of diet on the course of gout has been given particular attention and recent research suggests that vegetarian, mediterranean and dash diets may be beneficial for gouty patients. Also, some vitamins and omega-3 PUFA have favorable effects and the potential clinical use in gout treatment.

Conclusions: We propose that simple dietary regimens may be beneficial to complement therapeutic management or contribute to the prevention of flares in gout patients. Although piecemeal modifications of various nutrients often provide incomplete dietary recommendations, understanding the role of nutritional factors in gout development would be helpful for patients in choosing their healthy diet.
Is the perception of physicians based on the type and colour of attire?
Authors: Kolasa Agata , Radziejowska Zuzanna , Bielak Alicja , Gryta Jakub , Iwan Karolina , Janczewska Martyna , Kalicka Maria , Krysa Tomasz , Szklarz Magdalena
Published: February 2023

Introduction:  Patients’ confidence in a physician is influenced by many factors. Recent studies suggest that there’s an association between doctor’s attire and the way patients view physician’s trustworthyness, competence and empathy in various specialties and contexts of care. Along with the developement of medical attire market comes a need to understand how the choice of professional clothes infulences patients’ perceptions.
Purpose of the study: The aim of this study was to determine whether patients perception of physician and the confidence in professional skills is determined by the type and colour of doctor’s attire.
Materials and methods: We carried out literature search using English based databases (PubMed, Springer, Google Scholar) using key words: physician attire, profesionalism, scrubs, patients perception, psychology of colour. Most recent studies matching this criteria were analysed and those most relevant were picked for this review.
Results and conclusions: The assotiation between physician’s attire and patients’ perceptions is complex and depends on numerous factors including age, gender, geographic location and culture, as well as physician’s specialty and context of care. The white coat, despite latest research on it’s role in infections spread, remains an important attribute of a doctor.  Physicians who wear white coats are viewed as more trustworthy, knowledgeable, competent and more caring. Colour of scrubs may serve as a valuable hospital personel identification tool. Various colours evoke possitive emotions in patients, navy blue, light blue and green remain the the colours of scrubs that patients perceive as the most professional and appropriate.
Obesity: Latest NCMP data shows strong link with deprivation
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: February 2023

A new report by NHS Digital shows that the number of young children who are overweight or obese is still rising. The data also shows a strong link between obesity and deprivation.
Acquired brain injury: Providing support in schools
Authors: Morley Emily , Bennett Emily , Costello Gemma
Published: February 2023

Thousands of children experience brain injuries every year and the impact on their education and wellbeing can be severe. Emily Morley, Dr Emily Bennett, and Dr Gemma Costello provide practical advice that can be shared with school staff, while signposting to a range of useful resources.
What is the role of the children's community nurse in childhood cancer care?
Authors: Green Georgina Elizabeth Rose
Published: February 2023

Aim:

To highlight the experiences of children's community nurses (CCNs) within cancer care and to identify their day-to-day roles and responsibilities.

Method:

Questionnaires were completed by 12 CCNs and oncology specialist nurses within London, these were analysed using a coding software.

Findings:

Children and their families perceive CCNs as knowledgeable, happy and friendly professionals, essential in reducing hospital admissions and who have a positive impact on a child and their family's well-being. The CCN has a varied role in cancer care, however, currently in the UK there is no framework specific to caring for a child at home with cancer. In response to the findings, one has been written to identify care needs and to emphasise service expectations.

Conclusion:

Specific training for caring for a child with cancer should be prioritised for all staff working within a CCN team and to ensure best practice, the framework should be implemented once reviewed and services re-evaluated.
Body image: Advice for supporting pupils
Authors: Kekeliadis Yvonne
Published: February 2023

There is huge pressure on young people to conform to unrealistic body image, not least on social media. Yvonne Kekeliadis offers some tips for supporting young people to better understand social media and develop a positive relationship with their body image.
Safeguarding the safeguarders: Improving access to supervision
Authors: White Sharon
Published: February 2023

Current workload pressures have meant that some school nurses have been asked to delay safeguarding supervision, even though it is essential to safe and effective practice. Sharon White explains
Journal scan
Authors: Welyczko Nikki
Published: February 2023

A brief overview of recently published articles on gastroenterology, hepatology and stoma care
Convexity in stoma care: developing a new ASCN UK guideline on the appropriate use of convex products
Authors: Perrin Angie , White Maddie , Burch Jennie
Published: February 2023

One of the biggest challenges for specialist stoma care nurses (SCNs) caring for anyone living with a stoma is that of being confronted with a problematic stoma. This can be described as an ostomy that continues to cause leakage issues for the patient which, if persistent can quickly impact negatively on their quality of life. A convex stoma appliance, also termed convexity, is a possible solution to a problematic stoma. However, the use of a convex appliance should be considered only after a thorough assessment has been undertaken by a specialist SCN. Professionally, stoma care nursing has advanced greatly in recent years and there has been a realisation that there is a need for clinical guidelines to direct practice and offer a process for the novice SCN to follow. This realisation has been the catalyst behind the development of the new guideline for the assessment and use of convexity by the Association of Stoma Care Nurses UK, which was published this year ( https://ascnuk.com/ ). This article explores the concept of convexity and how the guideline can assist the practice of specialist SCNs, as well as that of ward and community-based nurses who wish to gain more information on using convexity within the specialist sphere of stoma care.
Pregnancy outcomes after stoma surgery for inflammatory bowel disease: results of a multicentre retrospective audit
Authors: Blackwell Sue
Published: February 2023

Background:

Active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and IBD surgery can have a negative impact on ability to conceive a pregnancy many patients with stomas are concerned about pregnancy.

Aim:

This study aimed to describe IBD-related, stoma-related, obstetric and neonatal outcomes in pregnancies of women who had stomas formed for IBD prior to the reported pregnancies.

Methods:

A multicentre retrospective audit used routine records from 15 UK hospitals on women with IBD and pregnancy after stoma formation since 2014.

Results:

In one miscarriage, one stillbirth and 80 live births, delivery occurred in 58 cases by caesarean section (CS), of which 44 were elective and 14 emergency. The 73% CS rate compares to a national rate of 29.1%. There was a high rate of serious stoma complications at 24%, although most were managed conservatively.

Conclusions:

Guidance and patient information should be updated to facilitate early conversations with obstetric teams and counsel women about increased risk of planned CS after IBD surgery with a stoma.
Student nurses are the future
Authors: Harrison Penny
Published: February 2023

Penny Harrison explores the role of clinical placements and teachable moments in nurse education
Reviewing BSG Campus 2022
Authors: Brayford Paula
Published: February 2023

Paula Brayford looks back on the learning opportunities at the British Society of Gastroenterology's most recent remote conference
A forum for discussion
Authors: Hill Rebekah
Published: February 2023

Rebekah Hill celebrates the 10th National Gastrointestinal Nursing Conference
Increased harmful alcohol consumption since the COVID-19 pandemic: causes, impacts and risk screening
Authors: Sample Linda
Published: February 2023

An alcohol care team in an acute hospital in the North East of England had first-hand experience of the documented increase in harmful alcohol consumption during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Patients linked this increase in use to anxiety, boredom and isolation, driven by economic pressures and uncertainty about the future. Studies suggest that drinking levels stayed higher after lockdown, with major long-term consequences. Thus, alcohol services should engage with the post-pandemic economic climate, highlight the risks of liver disease and provide alcohol screening at every opportunity to identify those at risk of future alcohol-related harm.
A multidisciplinary approach to palliation in liver disease
Authors: Caddick Katharine
Published: February 2023

Katharine Caddick shares her experience of a multidisciplinary team approach to palliative care in liver disease
Research round-up
Authors: Jack Kathryn , Bager Palle
Published: February 2023

A brief overview of recently published articles on hepatology and liver nursing
Personnel Risk in Assessing the Effectiveness of Ground-based Tests of Complex Technical Systems
Authors: Kirillin Andrei V. , Iosifov Pavel A.
Published: February 2023

The article provides an original approach to taking into account the risk ofpersonnel in the process of assessing the effectiveness of testing complextechnical systems. Models of assessment and predictive models of personnelrisks based on the study of their qualification level are considered. The advan-tages and limitations of the given approach to the analysis and accounting ofpersonnel risks are shown.
Software Reliability Growth Modeling Based on Fault Count Increment Due to Features Enhancement
Authors: Aggrawal Deepti , Anand Adarsh , Shahid Zuha
Published: February 2023

With every up-gradation made in the software there are chances that thenumber of new faults might creep in the software. This concept has beenreadily worked upon in the past and is still an active area of research.Software industry has been readily evolving with time and has seen manyadvancements wherein innovation rate and creation of knowledge has playeda pivotal role for continued growth of firms. Often, the use of coming up withnew set of features in the base product has brought in answers to many user’squeries. But these up-gradations also known as add-ons also bring in certainnew flaws in the software system which is newly created. In the current paper,this fundamental has been worked upon with the help of certain proposedmodels. Results are supplemented with numerical examples.
Reconsidering the Role of Fatigue Irregular Testing in Scientific Conclusions About the Fatigue Limit
Authors: Gadolina I. V.
Published: February 2023

We propose using the irregular loading fatigue testing to study the cru-cial topics of the subject, for instance, concerning the fatigue limit. Thischaracteristic is important to know (1) for test accelerating; (2) To guar-antee stable, reliable service. Comparative studies under block and randomloading present an opportunity to draw conclusions without the ultra-soundfrequencies loading, which are at some extend controversial. We presentan example of proposed method application. The second stage of fatigue –namely, the crack propagation stage, is also considered (in reference). Therethe main idea is similar – the irregular testing provides an opportunity tojudge about the maxim among the small amplitudes, which are not harmful.Direct experimental estimation of true fatigue limit requires the testing underultra-sound frequencies, which is not under the questions nowadays