bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus tyrosine kinase inhibitors versus TACE in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Duan Ruihua , Gong Fen , Wang Yan , Huang Caixia , Wu Jiaming , Hu Leihao , Liu Min , Qiu Shijun , Lu Liming , Lin Yisheng
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has been increasingly used to treat unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). However, the superiority of combination therapy to TACE monotherapy remains controversial. Therefore, here we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TACE plus TKIs in patients with uHCC.

Methods

We searched four databases for eligible studies. The primary outcome was time to progression (TTP), while the secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS), tumor response rates, and adverse events (AEs). Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were collected for TTP and OS, and the data were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis models in STATA software. OR and 95% CIs were used to estimate dichotomous variables (complete remission[CR], partial remission[PR], stable disease[SD], progressive disease[PD], objective response rate[ORR], disease control rate[DCR], and AEs) using RStudio’s random-effects model. Quality assessments were performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) for observational studies and the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Results

The meta-analysis included 30 studies (9 RCTs, 21 observational studies) with 8246 patients. We judged the risk of bias as low in 44.4% (4/9) of the RCTs and high in 55.6% (5/9) of the RCTs. All observational studies were considered of high quality, with a NOS score of at least 6. Compared with TACE alone or TACE plus placebo, TACE combined with TKIs was superior in prolonging TTP (combined HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.65–0.80), OS (combined HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.49–0.67), and objective response rate (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.23–3.67) in patients with uHCC. However, TACE plus TKIs caused a higher incidence of AEs, especially hand-foot skin reactions (OR 87.17%, 95%CI 42.88–177.23), diarrhea (OR 18.13%, 95%CI 9.32–35.27), and hypertension (OR 12.24%, 95%CI 5.89–25.42).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis found that TACE plus TKIs may be beneficial for patients with uHCC in terms of TTP, OS, and tumor response rates. However, combination therapy is also associated with a significantly increased risk of adverse reactions. Therefore, we must evaluate the clinical benefits and risks of combination therapy. Further well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm our findings.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022298003.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans infection in a 15-year-old boy with pulmonary empyema: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Mesturino Maria Alessia , Bitetti Carol , Clemente Anna , Krzysztofiak Andrzej , Lancella Laura , Lombardi Roberta , Cursi Laura , Boccuzzi Elena , Musolino Anna Maria , Villani Alberto
Published: March 2023

Background

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), previously known as Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, is a slow-growing Gram-negative coccobacillus, member of the HACEK group of bacteria colonizing oral flora. Besides causing infectious diseases in the oral cavity such as dental caries and periodontitis, it is responsible for severe extra-oral infections secondary to hematogenous spread or aspiration, such as endocarditis, soft tissue abscesses and osteomyelitis. The diagnosis depends on prolonged bacterial culture of biological material obtained through biopsy. Aa is susceptible to most antibiotics but complete eradication often requires a long term treatment.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 15-year-old previously healthy boy diagnosed with both pulmonary empyema and subphrenic chest wall abscess caused by Aa. He was admitted to our Pediatric Emergency department for evaluation of a right mass associated with marked asthenia and dry cough. After radiological findings etiological diagnosis was made by culture of fluid drainage of pleural empyema. He started empirical antibiotic therapy with intravenous piperacillin/tazobactam, whose sensibility was confirmed by the antibiogram, then, for occurrance of hepatopathy it was switched to ciprofloxacin: the patient almost completely recovered after 6-month therapy.

Conclusions

Extra-oral infections caused by Aa are extremely rare, especially in children, and not well described yet. To our knowledge, there is only another similar case described in literature. However, the case described in our manuscript represents the only one presenting with pulmonary empyema without involvement of lung parenchyma in children. We also conducted a brief review of published cases of Aa infection in the pediatric population. This case report reminds us the importance of an accurate inspection of the oral cavity during the examination of pediatric patients.
Congenital hypothyroidism: a case report of an Egyptian child with congenital heart disease, pelvic kidney and cavernous transformation of portal vein
Authors: Elsedfy Heba , Gamal Radwa
Published: March 2023

Background

A case of thyroid hormone deficiency which presented at birth. Thyroid hormones are essential for brain development and normal cognitive function. Common symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) include constipation, decreased activity, increased sleep and feeding difficulty. Common signs include dry skin, macroglossia and umbilical hernia. If congenital hypothyroidism is left untreated after birth, it can lead to permanent intellectual disability and growth failure.

Case presentation.

Here, we report a 10.5-year-old female with the typical features of CH. She is the sixth in order of birth of consanguineous Egyptian parents. No family history of similar condition. Our patient had primary CH caused by thyroid agenesis. She had congenital heart disease, pelvic kidney, cavernous transformation of portal vein and parenchymatous liver disease.

Conclusions

Congenital hypothyroidism is associated with an elevated risk of congenital anomalies. Clinical suspicion of symptoms and signs of congenital hypothyroidism are important for early diagnosis and prevention of serious problems that are related to congenital hypothyroidism.
Challenges in the Implementation of Human Papillomavirus Self-Sampling for Cervical Cancer Screening in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hariprasad Roopa , John Amrita , Abdulkader Rizwan Suliankatchi
Published: March 2023

PURPOSE

In the light of WHO's call for elimination of cervical cancer, primary human papillomavirus (HPV) screening through self-collection is a powerful tool that can improve screening coverage. Challenges encountered during implementation of the program are unique to each country. We conducted this systematic review to list the challenges in implementing primary HPV screening through self-sampling in Indian context.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar since their inception till July 2022 for peer-reviewed articles published in the English. Non-Indian studies and those which did not mention implementation challenges were excluded. Articles were screened and reviewed independently by two authors. The results were discussed using a narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

All the eight original articles included in the review were of cross-sectional design. The challenges identified in these studies were grouped into beneficiary, health care provider, and health system perspectives. Beneficiary-related issues outnumbered other challenges in all the studies which included misconceptions and fear, lack of motivation, low self-efficacy in collection leading to poor sample quality, low socioeconomic status leading to lack of privacy, and refusal for screening and further treatment.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the challenges for the implementation of HPV self-sampling in India. Future programs should incorporate context-specific solutions for the success of primary HPV screening and cervical cancer elimination.
Land Misallocation and Productivity
Authors: Chen Chaoran , Restuccia Diego , Santaeulàlia-Llopis Raül
Published: March 2023

Using detailed household-level data from Malawi on physical quantities of agricultural outputs and inputs, we measure farm total factor productivity (TFP), controlling for land quality, rain, and transitory shocks. We find that operated land size and capital are essentially unrelated to farm TFP, implying substantial factor misallocation. The agricultural output gain from a reallocation of factors to their efficient use among existing farmers is a factor between 1.7- and 2.8-fold. We provide suggestive evidence connecting misallocation with the extent of land markets and illustrate how an efficient allocation via rental markets can substantially reduce agricultural income inequality and poverty. (JEL D24, D31, I32, O13, O15, Q12, Q15)
Self-Harming Trade Policy? Protectionism and Production Networks
Authors: Barattieri Alessandro , Cacciatore Matteo
Published: March 2023

Using monthly data on temporary trade barriers (TTBs), we estimate the dynamic employment effects of protectionism through vertical production linkages. First, exploiting high-frequency data and TTB procedural details, we identify trade policy shocks exogenous to economic fundamentals. We then use input-output tables to construct measures of protectionism affecting downstream producers. Finally, we estimate panel local projections using the identified trade policy shocks. Protectionism has small and insignificant beneficial effects in protected industries. The effects in downstream industries are negative, sizable, and significant. The employment decline follows an increase in intermediate input and final goods prices and a decline in stock market returns. (JEL E24, F13, F14, F16, G14, L14)
Quantitative image analysis in COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome: a cohort observational study.
Authors: Dolinay Tamas , Jun Dale , Maller Abigail , Chung Augustine , Grimes Brandon , Hsu Lillian , Nelson David , Villagas Bianca , Kim Grace Hyun J , Goldin Jonathan
Published: March 2023

Background

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe form of acute lung injury commonly associated with pneumonia, including coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The resultant effect can be persistent lung damage, but its extent is not known. We used quantitative high resolution computed tomography (QHR-CT) lung scans to radiographically characterize the lung damage in COVID-19 ARDS (CARDS) survivors.

Methods

Patients with CARDS (N=20) underwent QHR-CT lung scans 60 to 90 days after initial diagnosis, while hospitalized at a long-term acute care hospital (LTACH). QHR-CT assessed for mixed disease (QMD), ground glass opacities (QGGO), consolidation (QCON) and normal lung tissue (QNL). QMD was correlated with respiratory support on admission, tracheostomy decannulation and supplementary oxygen need on discharge.

Results

Sixteen patients arrived with tracheostomy requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. Four patients arrived on nasal oxygen support. Of the patients included in this study 10 had the tracheostomy cannula removed, four remained on invasive ventilation, and two died. QHR-CT showed 45% QMD, 28.1% QGGO, 3.0% QCON and QNL=23.9%. Patients with mandatory mechanical ventilation had the highest proportion of QMD when compared to no mechanical ventilation. There was no correlation between QMD and tracheostomy decannulation or need for supplementary oxygen at discharge.

Conclusions

Our data shows severe ongoing lung injury in patients with CARDS, beyond what is usually expected in ARDS. In this severely ill population, the extent of mixed disease correlates with mechanical ventilation, signaling formation of interstitial lung disease. QHR-CT analysis can be useful in the post-acute setting to evaluate for interstitial changes in ARDS.
Success Factors for Quality and Safety of Intensive Care Unit Transitional Care – Listening to the Sharp End
Authors: Häggström Marie , Ingelsson Pernilla , Sten Lilly-Mari , Bäckström Ingela
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this paper was to present success factors for increasing quality and safety of intensive care unit (ICU) transitional care as described by co-workers at the sharp end using the core values of total quality management (TQM) as a theoretical lens.
Methodology/Approach: The study had a qualitative design, with data from nine interdisciplinary focus group discussions, including co-workers from the intensive care and general wards. Data were sorted into TQM core values and analysed using qualitative content analysis.
Findings: Quality and safety in transfer processes requires a holistic view, avoiding silos, shared arenas for collaboration, and evidence-based methodologies and tools for safe transfers.
Research Limitation/Implication: A limitation of this study is that it only portrays the challenges encountered by two hospitals during the process of transitional care in the ICU.
Originality/Value of paper: By using TQM core values as a theoretical lens, we could present a usable, holistic picture of success factors and how to improve the transfer process.
Illness Experiences of People with Young-onset Dementia
Authors: Ahn Suyoun , Yi Yeojin
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the illness experiences of people with young-onset dementia who live in a community.Methods: Six community-dwelling patients with young-onset dementia, aged 65 or under, were recruited. Data were collected from August 2019 to July 2020 and analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis.Results: The data were classified into five themes and eleven sub-themes. The following themes emerged: 1) Anguish enough to want to die from dementia symptoms that hit the prime of one's life; 2) Being thrown from middle age to old age; 3) Becoming a burden due to changing roles within the family; 4) Experiencing difficulties in the diagnosis and treatment process due to onset before old age; and 5) Living with young-onset dementia in one's own life.Conclusion: The findings suggest that people with young-onset dementia have unique experiences associated with middle age Korean traits. Therefore, based on their illness experiences, effective psychosocial nursing interventions tailored to their age should be developed.
Website and Mobile Application-Based Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults with Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Noh Dabok , Park Hyunjoo , Shim Mi-So
Published: March 2023

Purpose: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine previous research on website and mobile application-based interventions for adolescents and young adults with depression and to evaluate their effectiveness on depressive symptoms.Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library CENTRAL databases were searched and 22 articles were identified from 16 randomized controlled trial studies.Results: The most frequently used intervention strategy was Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT). Most studies (n = 14) used websites. Two studies used mobile applications. Meta-analysis revealed a significant effect of overall website and mobile application-based interventions on depression at posttest. Subgroup meta-analyses showed that ICBT and website-based interventions had significant effects on depression at posttest. However, there was no significant effect at follow-up assessments.Conclusion: Website and mobile application-based interventions, specifically ICBT, are recommended for adolescents and young adults with depression. Further randomized controlled trials conducting follow-up assessments are required to confirm their long-term effects.
Korkuteli yöresi düğün geleneklerinin müzik folkloru açısından incelenmesi
Authors: Gök Sevilay , Savaş Cem
Published: March 2023

Korkuteli yöresi düğün geleneklerinin müzik folkloru açısından sunulduğu bu çalışmada, yöreye özgü kültürel dokuların öne çıkarılması, toplanan verilerin yazılı dokümanlara dönüştürülerek sonraki çalışmalara kaynaklık etmesi üzerine odaklanılmıştır. Bu çalışmada, Korkuteli yöresinde geleneksel anlayışlarla günümüze kadar gelmiş, özellikle elektriğin ve teknolojik imkânların sınırlı olduğu ya da yeni yeni kullanılmaya başlandığı dönemleri (1970-1980’li yıllar) kapsayan düğün örf ve adetlerinin birinci ağızdan yansıtılması amaçlanmıştır. İlgili veriler yöredeki kaynak kişilerle yapılan görüşmelerden ve elde edilen dokümanlardan yararlanılarak oluşturulmuştur. Nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması ve kültür analizi (etnografi/ etnografya) modeliyle desenlenen bu çalışmanın verileri betimsel analiz yapılarak çözümlenmiştir. Yöredeki düğünler; düğün öncesi, düğün süreci ve düğün sonrası olmak üzere üç aşamada değerlendirilmiş, düğün öncesi süreçte; kız isteme, dürü, oku/davetiye, düğün sürecinde; tongavut/ tartala, keşkek dövme, yuka ağzı, ıspa/ıspayı/ispahi ve düğünlerde oynanan oyunlar, çeyizaltı, maşala, güreş, kına, yas etme, kız alma (gelin alma), düğün sonrasında ise gelin yüzü yapıldığı belirlenmiştir. Geleneksel düğünler cuma, cumartesi ve pazar ya da salı, çarşamba ve perşembe olmak üzere üç gün yapılmakta, düğün öncesi hazırlıklar ve düğün sonrası yapılan ritüellerle süreç beş günü bulabilmektedir. Korkuteli’ne ait TRT Türk halk müziği arşivine kayıtlı dokuz türkü, Gülizar, Hicaz, Hüseyni, Uşşak ve Zirgüleli Hicaz olmak üzere beş farklı makam dizisi ile benzerlik göstermektedir ve kullanım sıklığı bakımından en yaygın görülen Gülizar makamı dizisidir. Türkülerde 2/4, 4/4, 6/2-9/2, 9/4, 7/8 ve 9/8 olmak üzere altı farklı ölçü sayısı kullanılmıştır ve bu ölçülerden en yaygını 9/8’dir. Türküler dört farklı ses sınırında görülmüştür ve ezgiler çoğunlukla sekiz ve dokuz ses sınırındadır. Türkülerin temaları çoğunlukla aşk- sevda ve gurbettir. Yörede, gelin olurken söylenen ve ölenin arkasından söylenen olmak üzere, kadınlar tarafından iki türlü ağıt yakılmaktadır. Ağıtların ritmik ve melodik bir yürüyüşü yoktur ve ağlama biçiminde söylenmektedir. Geleneksel kına ve düğünlerde kadın icracılar bakır leğen, erkek icracılar davul, zurna ve bağlama çalmaktadır. Sonuç olarak, Korkuteli yöresinde 1970-1980’li yıllardan günümüze kadar ulaşan bir zaman diliminde, geleneksel düğün adetleri ile müziklerinin belgelendirildiği ve bu bağlamda yöreye özgü dönemsel kültürel dokuların anlatıldığı, daha sonraki alan araştırmalarına kaynak olma niteliğinde bir çalışma sunulmuştur.
Assessment of Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) as an Independent Marker for Oligozoospermia and Non-Obstructive Azoospermia in Infertile Nigerian Men
Authors: Olumide Olaniru B. , Godwin Adoga I. , O. Titilayo Johnson , Christian Isichei O. , Etukudoh Nkereuwem S. , Uchejeso Obeta M. , Temitope Selowo T. , Dutta Sulagna , Sengupta Pallav
Published: March 2023

Background: Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a Sertoli cell-derived glycoprotein that mediates regression of Müllerian duct in male embryos. The present study aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of serum AMH in the detection of oligozoospermia and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) in a homogenous population of Nigerian men. Methods: This case-controlled prospective study was conducted on eighty male subjects (aged 18-45 years), at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. Subjects were classified as control (n=30), oligozoospermic (n=27) and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA; n=23) (World Health Organization, 2010). Serum concentrations of various hormones were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using MedCalc. (v.19.5.1, Ostend, Belgium). Results: Serum AMH levels did not differ significantly among the study groups (P>0.05). Serum levels of testosterone were significantly lower, while serum FSH levels were significantly higher in the infertile groups than the control (P<0.000001). Serum LH levels were significantly higher in the NOA men (P<0.000001), while oligozoospermic men showed no significant difference, compared to control. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis depicted the same cut-off value (≤1.7 ng/ml) of serum AMH for oligozoospermia and NOA with low sensitivity and moderate specificity. Conclusion: The findings suggest that serum AMH is not a potent stand-alone marker of NOA or oligozoospermia among Nigerian men.
Evaluation Cytotoxicity Effects of Centaurea Cineraria Extracts Against some of Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Hashim Sumayah Sami , Mahmood Zainab Farqad , Abdulateef Safa M. , Dheeb Batol Imran
Published: March 2023

This research included the detection and determination of flavonoids from Centaurea Cineraria extract collected from public gardens using high-performance liquid chromatography technique. The compounds (Cirsilineol, Jaceosidin, Melitensin) were found, their concentrations were measured and found (36254,63719,89035 µg/ml), and qualitative chemical detections were performed. Study of the effect of the methanolic extract of Centaurea Cineraria containing the flavonoids mentioned above. The extraction process was carried out using an ordinary organic solvent ethanol and using a rotary evaporator device. The flavonoids present in the extract were detected, using standard flavonoids (Cirsilineol, Jaceosidin, Melitensin) and study the effect of the extacts on some cancer cell line also study on utilizing stable free extreme compound 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-Picryl-hydrazil (DPPH). Results uncovered that the more expanding in centralization of the concentrate the seriously rummaging level of the free extremists. The fixations that were utilized gone from36.12 to 2000µg/ml, considered the Methanol concentrate of Centaurea Cineraria essentially showed high anticancer activity agent movement (96% at 2000µg/ml) connected with hexane extricates which were 94.61% at 2000µg/ml. This work additionally planned to concentrate on the cytotoxic and anticancer impacts of Centaurea Cineraria extricates The predominant decrease in attainable count cell was 500/ml in various cell lines, which was associated to methanolic isolates and appeared to cause cell loss in the cell lines L20B, PC-3, and HCT116 separately.
Identiﬁcation of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP) as the Major Contributor of Anti-colon cancer Activity of Active Chromatographic Fraction of Parkia javanica (Lamk.) Merr. Bark Extract
Authors: Saha Partha , Sharma Dipshikha , Dash Suvakanta , Dey Kumar Saurav , Sil Samir Kumar
Published: March 2023

Parkia javanica (Lamk.) Merr. is an ethnomedicinal leguminous plant species from northeastern India with a long history of medicinal use among various tribes of this region to treat cholera, dysentery, stomach aches, diarrhea and food poisoning, having antibacterial, wound-healing, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, in this current study, the methanolic bark extract was carried out and fractionated by using flash chromatography, examined the cytotoxicity of the respective fractions on colon cancer cell lines, and evaluated the major phytochemical compounds present in the fractions using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) chemical profiling. Chemical profiling of the fractions by GC-MS revealed in fraction-1 and -2, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol was the major compound (50.740% in fraction-1, 21.277% in fraction-2, and 7.859% in fraction-3) having reported anticancer activity. The gradation of the presence of this compound in the fractions was corroborated by the gradation of anti-colon cancer activity of the respective fractions on both the colon carcinoma cell lines. However, the presence of D-Allose in a substantial amount (20.870%) in only fraction-3 could not increase the anticancer activity of fraction-3 over the other two fractions. An in vitro cytotoxic assay guided evaluation of three flash chromatographic fractions (fraction-1, -2, and -3) of methanolic extract of Parkia javanica bark showed significant anticancer properties on two human colon carcinoma cell lines (HCT116 and SW480). The order of efficacy of the fractions was fraction-1> fraction-2 > fraction-3. In a time and dose-dependent experiment, fraction-1, being the most active one, showed an IC50 value of 16.25 µgml-1 (24 hrs), 9.94 µgml-1 (48 hrs), and 9.38 µgml-1 (72 hrs) on HCT116 and 35 µgml-1 (24 hrs), 20.14 µgml-1 (48 hrs), and 19.71 µgml-1 (72 hrs) on the SW480 cell line. Parkia javanica bark extract is bestowed with the potential of anti-colon cancer property and upon chemical profiling of different chromatographic fractions of the extract, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol has been identified as the primary anticancer component of the extract.
In Silico Analysis of Bioactive Compounds from Sea Urchin (Echinometra mathaei) against SARS-COV-2
Authors: Kresnamurti Angelica , Izazi Farizah , Praditapuspa Ersanda Nurma , Siswandono Siswandono
Published: March 2023

SARS-CoV-2 is a kind of coronavirus that produces Covid-19 illness, which is still a public health concern in Indonesia. Meanwhile, an effective drug has not yet been found and although vaccination has been carried out, in several regions and neighboring countries there is still an increase in Covid-19 cases. This study aimed to obtain bioactive compounds from sea urchins (Echinometra mathaei) that have greater antiviral potential and lower toxicity than remdesivir. This research was started by predicting druglikeness with SwissADME, followed ADMET predicition with pkCSM online, and docking of molecule using the Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) 5.5 software against the main protease (Mpro) target (PDB ID: 6W63). The results showed that six compounds from sea urchins (Echinometra mathaei) had antiviral activity, where the bioactive compound from sea urchins (Echinometra mathaei) with the highest affinity was shown by Spinochrome C a smaller rerank score compared with Remdesivir and native ligand (X77). So that Spinochrome C compounds are candidates as SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors potential developed drug.
El sabotaje durante la Guerra Civil: la industria naval de Cartagena
Authors: Egea Bruno Pedro Ma
Published: March 2023

Análisis del sabotaje llevado a cabo en el Arsenal y la factoría cartagenera de la Sociedad Española de Construcción Naval, un sector estratégico para la defensa de la República, dada su significación en el mantenimiento de la flota y la producción armamentística. Quedan de manifiesto la amplia red quintacolumnista, su desarrollo y actuaciones, pudiendo deducirse su contribución a la derrota republicana.
Factors influencing community acceptability of mass drug administration for the elimination of onchocerciasis in the Asante Akim South Municipal, Ghana
Authors: Kumah Emmanuel , Owusu Patrick , Otchere Godfred , Ankomah Samuel E. , Fusheini Adam , Kokuro Collins , Mensah-Acheampong Frederick , Atta Joseph Amankwah , Agyei Samuel Kofi
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Onchocerciasis is one of the eleven neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) recently targeted by the World Health Organization (WHO) for elimination. Mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin has become the main intervention for reducing the burden of onchocerciasis and controlling its transmission. However, despite the considerable gains in the fight against onchocerciasis in Ghana, the infection remains endemic in some communities. This study aimed to ascertain community members’ acceptability levels and factors associated with ivermectin MDA for the elimination of onchocerciasis in the Asante Akim South Municipal in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.

Methods

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted in six communities in the Asante Akim South Municipal from 7th May to 9th July, 2021. The study population comprised all persons aged 18 years and above who had lived in the study communities for more than three months prior to the study. The main outcome variable was the acceptability of ivermectin MDA by the community members. This was measured using a composite acceptability score adapted from the Intervention Rating Profile tool. The explanatory variables were the respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, self-rated knowledge of onchocerciasis, perceived side effects of ivermectin, and self-reported level of education received on MDA activities.

Results

Out of 450 community members included in the study, 50.4% were male while 49.6% were female. The respondents’ mean age was 39.57±10.64 years. The mean acceptability score for ivermectin MDA was 20.52±2.91 (range, 9–36). Acceptability of ivermectin MDA was positively associated with gender, educational status, employment status, self-rated knowledge of onchocerciasis, and level of education received on MDA; and negatively associated with perceived side effect of ivermectin.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable information to inform policy decisions on planning and implementing MDA programs for the elimination of onchocerciasis in the study area and the country as a whole.
Safety and efficacy of probiotic supplements as adjunctive therapies in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Julie , Pitre Tyler , Ching Carmen , Zeraatkar Dena , Gruchy Steven
Published: March 2023

Background and aims

Oral probiotic supplementation may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for patients with symptomatic COVID-19. However, its safety and efficacy are unclear. We aimed to investigate how probiotic supplementation impacts COVID-19 symptom trajectory and patient outcomes by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

RCTs randomizing patients with COVID-19 to probiotics were searched in PubMed Central, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library from inception to July 31, 2022. We performed a random-effects pairwise meta-analysis for all outcomes using the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) estimator. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of the evidence.

Results

A total of 1027 participants from eight RCT studies were included in the meta-analysis. Probiotic supplements probably reduce the incidence of diarrhea (RR 0.61 [0.43 to 0.87]; moderate certainty) and probably reduce cough or dyspnea compared to placebo/standard care (RR 0.37 [0.19 to 0.73]; moderate certainty). Probiotic supplements may improve composite endpoint measured by clinical escalation or mortality compared to placebo (RR 0.41 [0.18 to 0.93]; low certainty evidence); however, they may not significantly reduce the need for clinical escalation (RR 0.57 [0.31 to 1.07]; low certainty evidence) or mortality (RR 0.50 [0.20 to 1.29]; low certainty evidence). In addition, the probiotic supplement is associated with reduced adverse events (RR 0.62 [0.46 to 0.83]; moderate certainty).

Conclusion

Early probiotic supplement is a safe and effective adjunctive therapy that reduces the risk of symptoms and health care burden related to COVID-19 across all severity types.
Dietary intake and stunting in children aged 6-23 months in rural Sumba, Indonesia
Authors: Limardi Suryadi , Hasanah Dini Mutia , Utami Ni Made Dwiyathi
Published: March 2023

Background Linear growth retardation in the first two years of life leads to numerous harmful consequences. Lack of diversity in the diet and inadequate amounts of complementary food have been associated with stunted growth in children.

Objective To assess the dietary intake and investigate for associations with stunting among children aged 6-23 months.

Methods This case-control study compared the dietary intake of children aged 6-23 months with and without stunting in the South and West Wewewa subdistricts of Southwest Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Complementary food types, dietary diversity, and nutritional intake were assessed and compared between groups. Nutrient intake sufficiency and stunting were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results A total of 200 participants were equally allocated into groups with and without stunting. Only 6% of stunted children received adequate complementary food diversity compared to 14% of non-stunted children (P=0.05). The stunted group had significantly lower consumption of flesh foods (beef, fish, poultry, organ meat, and other kinds of meat) compared to the non-stunted group (7% vs. 16% of subjects, respectively; P<0.05). The median total protein intake was also significantly lower in stunted children compared to non-stunted children [7.72 (IQR 6.46, 11.31) g vs. 10.02 (IQR 6.53, 13.95) g, respectively; P<0.05] although no association was found between protein intake sufficiency and stunting in the multivariate analysis. Only maternal unemployment was positively associated with stunting (OR 2.32; 95%CI 1.26 to 4.26).

Conclusion Overall, most subjects did not receive sufficient amounts of nutrients. Although dietary diversity was not found to be significantly different between those with and without stunting, a significantly lower proportion of stunted children consumed flesh food. The stunted group also received significantly lower protein from their diet although no association was found between nutrient intake sufficiency and stunting. Further studies are needed to longitudinally assess the effects of macronutrient and micronutrient intake sufficiency on linear growth in children.
The Incidence, Changes and Treatments of Cervical Deformity After Infection and Inflammation
Authors: Han Bo , Wang Jianqiang , Hai Yong , Sun Duan , Liang Weishi , Yin Peng , Ding Hongtao
Published: March 2023

A healthy cervical spine with normal movement is the basis of many daily activities and is essential for maintaining a good quality of life. However, the alignment, fusion, and structure of the cervical spine can change for various reasons, leading to cervical deformity, mainly kyphosis. Approximately 5%‒20% of spinal infections in the cervical spine cause cervical deformity. The deformity can recover early; however, the disease's long-term existence or the continuous action of abnormal stress may lead to intervertebral fusion and abnormal osteophytes. Many gaps and controversies exist regarding infectious cervical deformities, including a lack of clear definitions and an acceptable classification system thereby requiring further research. Moreover, there is no consensus on the indications for postinfectious cervical deformity associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Brucellosis. Therefore, we reviewed and discussed the incidence, clinical manifestations, changes, and treatment of infectious and inflammatory secondary cervical deformities from common to rare to provide a theoretical basis for clinical decision-making.
Reduction of Lower Cervical Facet Dislocation: A Review of All Techniques
Authors: Liu Ke , Zhang Zhengfeng
Published: March 2023

Objective: The surgical treatment of lower cervical facet dislocation is controversial. Great advancements on reduction techniques for lower cervical facet dislocation have been made in the past decades. However, there is no article reviewing all the reduction techniques yet. The aim is to review the evolution and advancements of the reduction techniques for lower cervical facet dislocation.Methods: The application of all reduction techniques for lower cervical facet dislocation, including closed reduction, anterior-only, posterior-only, and combined approach reduction, is reviewed and discussed. Recent advancements on the novel techniques of reduction are also described. The principles of various techniques for reduction of cervical facet dislocation are described in detail.Results: All reduction techniques are useful. The anterior-only surgical approach appears to be the most popular approach. Moreover, many novel or modified reduction and fixation methods have been introduced in recent years.Conclusion: The selection of surgical approach depends on a combination of factors, including surgeon preference, patient factors, injury morphology, and inherent advantages and disadvantages of any given approach.
Comparison of Cortical Bone Trajectory to Pedicle-Based Dynamic Stabilization: An Analysis of 291 Patients
Authors: Chang Chih-Chang , Chang Hsuan-Kan , Ko Chin-Chu , Wu Ching-Lan , Kuo Yi-Hsuan , Tu Tsung-Hsi , Huang Wen-Cheng , Wu Jau-Ching
Published: March 2023

Objective: Pedicle-based dynamic stabilization (DS) has gained popularity outside of America. Although pedicle screw (PS) loosening has always been a concern, it is reportedly innocuous. Cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screw is an emerging option with less invasiveness and similar effectiveness to PS in short-segment lumbar fusion. This study aimed to verify the use of CBT for DS by comparing the outcomes between pedicle- and CBT-based DS.Methods: Consecutive patients with lumbar spondylosis or low-grade spondylolisthesis who underwent 1- or 2-level DS between L3–5 with a minimum follow-up of 24 months were reviewed. Screw loosening was determined by computed tomography and the incidences were compared.Results: A total of 291 patients who underwent Dynesys DS (235 pedicle- and 56 CBT-based, respectively) were compared. The demographics and preoperative conditions were similar. All the clinical outcomes improved at 24-month postoperation, while the CBT-based group had less operation time and blood loss than the pedicle-based group. The rates of screw loosening were lower in the CBT-based (5.4% per screw and 12.5% per patient) than the pedicle-based group (9% per screw and 26.4% per patient). Furthermore, there were no differences in the clinical outcomes and complication profiles.Conclusion: The CBT-based DS for 1- or 2-level lumbar degeneration demonstrated equivalent clinical improvement as the pedicle-based DS. The adaption of CBT-based screws for DS could be a less invasive approach (shorter operation time and less blood loss), with lower chances of screw loosening than the conventional PS-based DS.
Robotics in Cervical Spine Surgery: Feasibility and Safety of Posterior Screw Placement
Authors: Zhou Lu-Ping , Zhang Zhi-Gang , Li Dui , Fang Shu , Sheng Rui , Zhang Ren-Jie , Shen Cai-Liang
Published: March 2023

Objective: Robot-assisted (RA) techniques have been widely investigated in thoracolumbar spine surgery. However, the application of RA methods on cervical spine surgery is rare due to the complex morphology of cervical vertebrae and catastrophic complications. Thus, the feasibility and safety of RA cervical screw placement remain controversial. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and safety of RA screw placement on cervical spine surgery.Methods: A comprehensive search on PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase Database, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Databases, and Wanfang Database was performed to select potential eligible studies. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), comparative cohort studies, and case series reporting the accuracy of cervical screw placement were included. The Cochrane risk of bias criteria and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale criteria were utilized to rate the risk of bias of the included literatures. The primary outcome was the rate of cervical screw placement accuracy with robotic guidance; subgroup analyses based on the screw type and insertion segments were also performed.Results: One RCT, 3 comparative cohort studies, and 3 case series consisting of 160 patients and 719 cervical screws were included in this meta-analysis. The combined outcomes indicated that the rates of optimal and clinically acceptable cervical screw placement accuracy under robotic guidance were 88.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 84.1%–91.4%; p = 0.073; I2 = 47.941%) and 98.4% (95% CI, 96.8%–99.5%; p = 0.167; I2 = 35.954%). The subgroup analyses showed that the rate of optimal pedicle screw placement accuracy was 88.2% (95% CI, 83.1%–92.6%; p = 0.057; I2 = 53.305%); the rates of optimal screw placement accuracy on C1, C2, and subaxial segments were 96.2% (95% CI, 80.5%–100.0%; p = 0.167; I2 = 44.134X%), 89.7% (95% CI, 80.6%–96.6%; p = 0.370; I2 = 0.000X%), and 82.6% (95% CI, 70.9%–91.9%; p = 0.057; I2 = 65.127X%;), respectively.Conclusion: RA techniques were associated with high rates of optimal and clinically acceptable screw positions. RA cervical screw placement is accurate, safe, and feasible in cervical spine surgery with promising clinical potential.
Effectiveness of the Endplate Reduction Technique Combined With Bone Grafting for the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fractures by Using Posterior Short-Segment Fixation
Authors: Hou Jiguang , Ren Dong , Chen Yufeng , Geng Lindan , Yao Shuangquan , Wu Haotian , Wang Pengcheng
Published: March 2023

Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of the endplate reduction (EPR) technique combined with bone grafting for treating thoracolumbar burst fractures using posterior short-segmental fixation.Methods: Patients with thoracolumbar fractures admitted between January 2018 and October 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, and those meeting the criteria were assigned to the EPR group and the intermediate screws (IS) group. The vertebral wedge angle (VWA), Cobb angle (CA), anterior vertebral body height (AVBH), middle vertebral body height (MVBH), upper endplate line (UEPL), upper intervertebral angle (UIVA), and upper intervertebral disc height (UIDH) indices were examined and compared preoperatively, first day postoperatively, as well as at 12 months postoperatively.Results: The result indicated that the EPR group achieved better MVBH reduction (p < 0.001), UEPL reduction (p < 0.001), vertebral body fracture healing (p = 0.006), as well as implant breakage (p = 0.04) than the IS group; VWA (p < 0.001), CA (p = 0.005), AVBH (p < 0.001), MVBH (p < 0.001), UEPL (p < 0.001), and UIDH (p < 0.001) were lost after reduction less than those in the IS group. There was no significant difference in operative time (p = 0.315) and intraoperative bleeding (p = 0.274) between the 2 groups.Conclusion: The EPR group achieved better results in repositioning and maintaining MVBH and endplate morphology, with less correction loss after the reduction of the VWA, CA, AVBH, and endplate morphology. The EPR group exhibited a better healing pattern after vertebral fracture and disc degeneration was better relieved.
A 30-Year Worldwide Research Productivity of Scientific Publication in Full-Endoscopic Decompression Spine Surgery: Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Liu Yanting , Kotheeranurak Vit , Quillo-Olvera Javier , Facundo Van Isseldyk , Sharma Sagar , Suvithayasiri Siravich , Jitpakdee Khanathip , Lin Guang-Xun , Mahatthanatrakul Akaworn , Jabri Hussam , Khandge Ashwinkumar Vasant , Aher Rajendra B. , Wu Meng-Huang , Ho Angela Wing Hang , Wong Nang Man Raymond , Wing Lau Sun , Akbary Kutbuddin , Patel Kandarpkumar K. , Pakdeenit Boonserm , Chen Kuo Tai , Lokanath Yadhu K. , Jaiswal Milin S. , Suen Tsz King , Hasan Ghazwan A. , Sabal Luigi Andrew , Kim Jin-Sung
Published: March 2023

Objective: The ever-growing number of articles related to full-endoscopic spine surgery published in the last few decades presents a challenge which is perplexing and time-consuming in identifying the current research status. The study aims to identify and analyze the most cited works related to full-endoscopic decompression spine surgery, compare the articles published by different publishers and area, and show the current publication status of full-endoscopic research.Methods: Using Bibliometrix, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer, we analyzed the bibliometric data selected from the Web of Science database between 1992 and 2022. Spine has the highest H-index with the most-cited journal in the field of full-endoscopic decompression spine surgery. China ranked as the most productive country, whereas the most cited with high H-index papers came from South Korea. For the author analysis, Yeung AT, Ruetten S, Hoogland T, Ahn Y, Choi G, and Mayer HM were the most impactful authors in the global and local citations. The most productive organization is Wooridul Spine Hospital.Conclusion: The bibliometric study showed a growing trend of research on full-endoscopic decompression spine surgery over the past 30 years. It has demonstrated that there is a significant increase in the number of authors, institutions, and internationally collaborated countries. However, the quality of studies is still low, and the lack of high-quality clinical evidence and the trend of general journal submissions has somewhat affected the quality of endoscopy journals in recent years.
Developmental competence of chimeric porcine embryos through the aggregation of parthenogenetic embryos and somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos
Authors: Lee Joohyeong , Cai Lian , Kim Mirae , Choi Hyerin , Oh Dongjin , Jawad Ali , Lee Eunsong , Hyun Sang-Hwan
Published: March 2023

The efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer (NT) in pigs is low and requires enhancement. We identified the most efficient method for zona pellucida (ZP) removal and blastomere aggregation in pigs and investigated whether the aggregation of NT and parthenogenetic activation (PA) of blastomeres could reduce embryonic apoptosis and improve the quality of NT-derived embryos by investigating. Embryonic developmental competence after ZP removal using acid Tyrode's solution or protease (pronase E). The embryonic developmental potential of NT-derived blastomeres was also investigated using well-of-the-well or phytohemagglutinin-L. We analyzed apoptosis in aggregate-derived blastocysts. The aggregation rate of protease-treated embryos was lower than that of Tyrode’s solution-treated embryos (69.2% vs. 88.3%). No significant difference was observed between phytohemagglutinin-L and well-of-the-well (35.7%–38.5%). However, 2P1N showed a higher number of blastocysts compared to 3N (73.8% vs. 24.3%) and an increased blastocyst diameter compared to the control and 1P2N (274 μm vs. 230–234 μm). In blastomeres aggregated using phytohemagglutinin-L, the apoptotic cell ratio was significantly higher in 1P2N and 3N than in 3P (5.91%–6.46% vs. 2.94%, respectively). Our results indicate that aggregation of one NT embryo with two PA embryos improved the rate of blastocysts with increased blastocyst diameter.
THE INTENTION TO SETTLE DRIVERS OF CONSTRUCTION DISPUTE NEGOTIATION
Authors: LIN SEN , CHEUNG SAI ON
Published: March 2023

Negotiators may take different behaviors to pursue their goals. Having varying levels of intention to settle is considered as the impetus that underpins the respective strategy. This study aims to understand the aggressive-cooperative nature of negotiating behaviors from the perspective of negotiators’ settlement intention. In this regard, we identified six drivers of intention to settle from a review of literature. These are preparation, integrating, goodwill, trust, commitment, and self-efficacy. A self-reported questionnaire was designed to measure negotiators’ assessments about their negotiating behaviors and intention to settle drivers. Factor scores of each driver were calculated to show the relative importance respective to negotiating behaviors. Results showed that negotiators who adopt cooperative behaviors also score the highest among the six intentions to settle drivers, suggesting that intention fosters amicable actions whereby settlement is more likely. The findings also reveal that negotiators having the intention to settle would avoid using aggressive negotiation behaviors to pursue amicable settlement. Furthermore, the most critical driver of intention to settle is ‘preparation,’ whereas ‘trust’ between the negotiating parties is found to be the most difficult to cultivate.