bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Burden of Asymptomatic Bacteriuria Amongst Nigerian Pregnant Women: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Onwusulu Daniel N , Okoye Helen Chioma , Nna Emmanuel O , Onuka Samuel , Nnamani Amaka Obiageli , Ikeagwulonu Richard Chinaza , Duru Augustine Nwakuche , Asiegbu Uzoma Vivian , Obu Dorathy Chinwe , Okoye Ngozika Veronica , Afolabi Bamgboye M , Akanni Oluyemi Oluwatosin , Esangbedo Dorothy Omono , Garba Yunusa , Ezeonu Chinonyelum Thecla , Coker Motunrayo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAsymptomatic bacteriuria can be a cause of adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes if undetected and untreated. Pregnant women are usually routinely screened with urine cultures at antenatal booking. However, the exact burden of asymptomatic bacteriuria in Nigeria is unknown. Our protocol is aimed at determining the pooled prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria amongst Nigerian pregnant women as well as the associated risk factors and pregnancy outcomes.MethodsNine databases: PubMed, African Journal Online, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase, ResearchGate, Scopus, and Web of Science will be searched using a search strategy that is developed by combinations of MeSH terms, keywords, text words, and entry terms. Only observational studies published or retrievable in the English Language will be included. Studies must be conducted in Nigeria. The primary measurable outcome of this study is the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women. Identified studies will be screened, selected, and deduplicated in DistillerSR. Data items will be extracted into predefined forms in the DistillerSR. Reports including Prisma flow chart, quality scores, risk of bias, and study outcomes will be generated in DistillerSR. Extracted data items will be exported into the Comprehensive Meta-analysis Software version 3 for quantitative analysis. Methodological, clinical, and statistical heterogeneity will be assessed for all the studies. Publication bias will be assessed using Funnel plots. There will be a subgroup analysis of pooled prevalence using categorical variables. The primary outcome will be expressed in pooled prevalence, standard error, variance, and 95% CI of variance. Quantitative risk factors and pregnancy outcomes will be used used for meta-regression. The reporting of the systematic review and meta-analysis will be according to PRISMA 2015 Statement.DiscussionThe pooled prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in Nigeria will be examined in relation to associated risk factors and pregnancy outcomes. The study will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.Trial Registration NumberThis protocol is registered with the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with registration number CRD42020213810
The Suitability of Mesozoic Limestone Aggregate for Possible use as Pavement Material in Harer-Dire Dawa Area.
Authors: Gudissa Leta , Raghuvanshi Tarun K. , Meten Matebie , Chemeda Yadeta C. , Schmerold Ronald 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Road construction requires a prime quality and a tremendous amount of aggregates, within which their quality is set by geological and geotechnical properties. Therefore, the Mesozoic limestone was studied in the vicinity of Harer and Dire Dawa towns, for the fundamental engineering assessments. Thirty-seven Mesozoic limestone samples obtained from the area were subjected to petrographic and geotechnical analyses to work out the suitability of the rock as a road aggregate. Physical properties were investigated using ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), water absorption, Na2So4 soundness, and specific gravity tests. However, the mechanical properties were determined using unconfined compressive strength (UCS), Aggregate crushing value (ACV), Aggregate Impact Value (AIV), and Los Angles Abrasion value (LAAV). The study aimed to see if the limestone aggregate complies with the globally accepted standards by employing geotechnical laboratory analyses and petrographic examination. The petrographic observations reveal the Mesozoic limestones of the area are dominantly composed of micrite, sparite, and bioclasts with subordinate intraclasts, ooids, Fe-oxides, and dolomites. Results of the physical properties show the rock has a mean UPV of 4859 m/s, a dry specific gravity of 2.64, and very low water absorption ranging from 0.2-5.7%, and Na2So4 soundness ranges from 1-14%. Among the mechanical properties, UCS, AIV, ACV, and LAAV range from 20.5-180.5Mpa, 8-20%, 24-34%, and 18.9-31.1%, respectively.Based on the aforementioned results, the limestones of the area are suitable for aggregate in road construction as they’re complying with ERA, AASHTO, ASTM, and BS standards used for pavement works.
Mapping Evidence on Global Perceptions of Environmental Sustainability amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: ANSU-MENSAH PETER , Ansu-Mensah Monica , Kuupiel Desmond 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Identifying and addressing research gaps on environmental sustainability in this striving time of COVID-19, it is imperative to ensure proper waste management disposal, efficient use of energy as well as judicious use of transport in order to achieve the SDGs 2030.Aim: The proposed scoping review is aimed at mapping evidence on global perceptions of environmental sustainability amidst COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The proposed study will be guided by the enhanced version of Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework, and Levac et al. 2010 recommendations together with the 2015 Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. A comprehensive keywords search for relevant studies presenting evidence of environmental sustainability during COVID-19 pandemic will be conducted with the following databases: SCOPUS, Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, and PubMed. Literature from university repositories and international organization such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and government websites relevant to the proposed study will also be retrieved. The proposed review will use the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis: Extension for Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) to present the results of the study. For data extraction in a content thematic manner of analysis, NVivo version 11 software package will be used. A mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) version 2018 will be employed to appraise the quality of all the included studies. Discussion: We are hopeful that the results of the proposed study will inform future research and unveil evidence-based information to report potential environmental sustainability issues that may arise in this new phase of COVID-19 pandemic. It also anticipated that the proposed study will enable policy and regulatory bodies to implement new strategies to achieve the SDGs inclusive of COVID-19 pandemic.
Can Universities be a Platform for Climate Mitigation? Exploring the Impacts of Carbon Pricing in the University Setting
Authors: Lee Suyeon , Lee Seyeon 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Climate Change is one of the most important threats in the world today and it is driven by the human-induced build-up of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere. Despite worldwide policy efforts from the Kyoto Protocol to the Paris Agreement, global emissions of GHG have continued to steadily increase over the past decade. Against this backdrop, many higher education institutions (HEIs) around the world began to engage in sustainable practices implementing green initiatives on their campuses. Using the waste disposal and the associated GHG emissions data from the academic community, this study describes how HEIs can assume a leadership role in climate mitigation through the implementation of a carbon pricing initiative. Specifically, this study estimates the economic costs of carbon emissions from waste and conceptualizes how revenues generated from carbon pricing can be rechanneled to support carbon reduction efforts in HEIs. By this approach, HEIs not only create incentives for campus users such as students and employees to choose cleaner options but also be able to understand their own carbon footprint and adjust strategy accordingly. While carbon pricing has long been regarded as an alternative approach to tackle carbon pollution, it has not been much discussed in the area of waste management. In this regard, this study attempted to fill this research gap by finding emission reduction potentials in waste management using carbon pricing as a mechanism.
Burn the Base to Get the Polyp Erased: A Novel Technique to Reduce Post-EMR Recurrence
Authors: Levenick John Maynard , Groff Adnrew J , Manzo Carl , Lester Courtney , Maranki Jennifer L 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background and Aims: Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) has become the standard for removing large colon polyps but has a 10-30% recurrence rate using standard techniques. Data shows improved recurrence rates with focal therapy of the edge of the resection base using cautery. We examine a novel technique, hybrid APC assisted EMR, which treats both the edge and the base with cautery to assess its effect on local recurrence. Methods: We reviewed all EMRs of polyps >2cm by a single endoscopist with six month follow-up from May 2018-November 2019 using both standard EMR as well as hybrid APC assisted EMR to assess local recurrence as well complications. Results: 48 patients with 59 polyps removed by EMR had full six month follow up with a mean age of 66.1 years of age, 45% were female. 30 polyps were removed by hybrid APC assisted EMR and 29 removed with standard EMR. Overall, 0 (0%) polyps in the h-APC arm had local recurrence while 6 (20.7%) in the standard group had histological proven local recurrence (p=0.01). Post-resection bleeding occurred in 6 patients, 2 in the hAPC arm and 4 in the standard arm (p=0.41). Conclusions: Hybrid APC assisted EMR was superior to conventional EMR for local recurrence after removal of large colon polyps and trended towards a less post-EMR bleeds.
Validation of a Novel Cutoff Point for the Fibrosis-4 Index Modified by Age in Patients with Fatty Liver Diseases
Authors: Fujii Hideki , Fukumoto Shinya , Enomoto Masaru , Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Kimura Tatsuo , Tamori Akihiro , Nadatani Yuji , Takashima Shingo , Nishimoto Naoki , Kawada Norifumi 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background/purpose: Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a new concept that better expresses the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although the Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4) can easily predict the degree of liver fibrosis, its diagnostic ability, especially in the elderly, requires validation. This study aimed to validate the diagnostic ability of revised cutoff points for FIB-4 in patients with MAFLD and NAFLD.Methods: This cross-sectional study included participants who underwent a health check-up from 2014 to 2019. The proportion and number of low, indeterminate, and high cutoff group between the conventional and revised cutoff points for FIB-4 were compared. The diagnostic ability of these points was compared using the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to platelet ratio index (APRI) as a standard.Results: Of 21,801 participants, 5,559 (25.5%) had MAFLD and 4,463 (20.5%) had NAFLD. Using revised cutoff points, the proportion of the indeterminate group dropped from 46% to 15% in the MAFLD and 43% to 14% in the NAFLD group. Approximately 60% of patients with MAFLD and NAFLD from the indeterminate group with conventional FIB-4 moved to the low group with a revised FIB-4. Even after age adjustment, the APRI significantly increased for each FIB-4 category and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve with a diagnosis of APRI ≥ 1.0 increased in both the MAFLD and NAFLD groups.Conclusions: Using cutoff points for the FIB-4 modified by age, the proportion of the indeterminate group dropped and the diagnostic ability increased for both MAFLD and NAFLD.
Identification of Key Genes and Pathways in Ulcerative Colitis Through Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liu Mingdi , Li Fa Ping , Jian Yong Ping , Yang Ge , Zhang Dan , Wang Yi Shu , Xu Zhi Xiang 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease whose therapy remains largely uncertain due to the lack of etiological understanding. It is also a higher risk factor for colon cancer. Aims This study was designed to identify key genes correlated with intestinal epithelial repair and their associated signaling pathways in the pathogenesis and malignant transformation of UC.Methods With an online database pubmed2ensemble, correlative genes were identified to be associated with both UC and its self-healing, and then were imported in Cytoscape for enrichment analysis. A protein-protein interaction network containing was established, and the most significant gene modules and top ten hub genes were selected for further enrichment analysis. Then, potential drugs that target the corresponding genes were identified with online tool in DGIdb. A map which reflected the links among genes, drugs, and their associated pathways was constructed. Finally, we searched the TCGA database and CPTAC database for testing the gene expression of identified UC-associated genes in colon cancer.Results We identified FN1, GRB2, EGF, CXCL8, VEGFA, STAT3, IL6, IL4, IL10, TNF, CSF2, IL13, IL1A, CCL2, ICAM1 and IL18 had closest associations with the function of epithelial function in UC patients, based on functional enrichment analysis. Besides, 11 of them were validated in colon cancer. Conclusions The corresponding signaling pathways that are altered in UC, which provide a new clue for understanding the mechanism underlying the UC pathogenesis and malignant transformation. Key signals in the process and their target drugs might serve as new treatment strategy for UC.
Ileostomy or Ileal Pouch-anal Anastomosis for Ulcerative Colitis: Patient Participation and Decisional Needs.
Authors: Cohan Jessica N. , Ozanne Elissa M. , Hofer Rebecca K. , Kelly Yvonne M. , Kata Anna , Larsen Craig , Finlayson Emily 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Up to 30% of patients with ulcerative colitis will undergo surgery resulting in an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) or permanent end ileostomy (EI). We aimed to understand how patients decide between these two options. Methods: We performed semi-structured interviews with ulcerative colitis patients who underwent surgery. Areas of questioning included the degree to which patients participated in decision-making, challenges experienced, and suggestions for improving the decision-making process. We analyzed the data using a directed content and thematic approach. Results: We interviewed 16 patients ranging in age from 28-68 years. Nine were male, 10 underwent IPAA, and 6 underwent EI. When it came to participation in decision-making, 11 patients felt independently responsible for decision-making, 3 shared decision-making with the surgeon, and 2 experienced surgeon-led decision-making. Themes regarding challenges during decision-making included lack of support from family, lack of time to discuss options with the surgeon, and the overwhelming complexity of the decision. Themes for ways to improve decision-making included the need for additional information, the desire for peer education, and earlier consultation with a surgeon. Only 3 patients were content with the information used to decide about surgery. Conclusions: Patients with ulcerative colitis who need surgery largely experience independence when deciding between IPAA and EI, but struggle with inadequate educational information and social support. Patients may benefit from early access to surgeons and peer guidance to enhance independence in decision-making. Preoperative educational materials describing surgical complications and postoperative lifestyle could improve decision-making and facilitate discussions with loved ones.
An Innovative Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for the Treatment of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis with Degenerative Instability: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Yin Peng , Ding Yi , Zhou Lijin , Xu Chunyang , Zhang Liming , Gao Haifeng , Yang Jincai , Hai Yong 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is most common lumbar degenerative diseases for people with low back pain. Endoscopic lumbar fusion technique was considered as a promising treatment for LSS with degenerative instability. The objective of this study was to compared the clinical effects for the treatment of Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) with degenerative instability between the innovative percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (PE-TLIF) technique and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) technique. Between April 2019 and December 2019, 40 patients with single-segment LSS were prospectively included in our study. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) on lumbar and leg pain (VAS-LBP, VAS-LP), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), serum Creatine Kinase (CK), the maximal cross-sectional area of multifidus muscle (Max-CSA) and the peak intensity of Sulphur hexafluoride microbubble contrast agent (PI) around the surgical incision by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography were evaluated preoperatively, post-operatively and at regular follow-up. All patients were followed up. The VAS-LBP, VAS-LP, ODI after operation were improved significantly compared to these data before operation in all the patients (P < 0.05). The VAS-LBP at 1 weeks, 3 months after operation in PE-TLIF group were significantly lower than these in PLIF group (P < 0.05). The injury degree of multifidus muscle evaluated by MAX-CSA and PI was significantly less in PE-TLIF group after operation(P < 0.05). There was no significant difference on the complication rate between these two groups (P > 0.05). Our results presented PE-TLIF technique could obtain comparable effective outcomes as conventional PLIF for the treatment of LSS with degenerative instability. The Patients with PE-TLIF had less muscle injury, less pain and quicker postoperative rehabilitation. (A multicenter non-randomized controlled study for percutaneous endoscope transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (PE-TLIF) and traditional open surgery for the treatment of degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine;2019/4/13; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=38002; ChiCTR1900022492)
Predictive biomarkers of ICU and mechanical ventilation duration in critically-ill COVID19 patients
Authors: Taleb Sara , Yassine Hadi A , Benslimane Fatiha A , Smatti Maria , Schuchardt Sven , Albagha Omar , Al-Thani Asmaa A , Hssain Ali Ait , Diboun Ilhame , Elrayess Mohamed A 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Detection of early metabolic changes in critically-ill COVID-19 patients under invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) at the intensive care unit (ICU) could predict recovery patterns and help in disease management. Methods: Targeted metabolomics of serum samples from 39 COVID-19 patients under IMV in ICU was performed within 48 hours of intubation and a week later. A generalized linear model (GLM) was used to identify, at both time points, metabolites and clinical traits that predict the length of stay (LOS) at ICU (short ≤14 days /long >14 days) as well as the duration under IMV. All models were initially trained on a set of randomly selected individuals and validated on the remaining individuals in the cohort. Further validation in recently published Metabolomics data of COVID-19 severity was performed. Results: A model based on hypoxanthine and betaine measured at first time point was best at predicting whether a patient is likely to experience a short or long stay at ICU (AUC=0.92). A further model based on kynurenine, 3-methylhistidine, Ornithine, p-Cresol sulfate and C24.0 sphingomyelin, measured one-week later, accurately predicted the duration of IMV (Pearson correlation=0.94). Both predictive models outperformed APACHE II scores and differentiated COVID-19 severity in published data. Conclusion: This study has identified specific metabolites that can predict in advance LOS and IMV, which could help in the management of COVID-19 cases at ICU.
Impact of Dietary Intervention on Undernourished Farm Women
Authors: K Geetha , Yankanchi Geetha M , Das Lipi , Hiremath Nethravathi , Yatnatti Shilpa , Sajjan Jyothi T 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background

Women are vulnerable group for under nutrition, due to various physiological states in the life cycle. Especially in developing countries, despite the fact that women are predominantly the food producers for the nation, majority of them are anaemic, malnourished and have health problems due to insufficient nutrient intake. Hence, a study was undertaken to develop a energy dense food product from regionally available food ingredients and to test its efficacy on farm women in improving nutritional status.
Methods

A traditional food product ‘laddu’ was developed from combination of millet, cereal, legume, oil seeds, fats and sugars by application of simple processing techniques. The developed product was further subjected for nutritional evaluation and dietary intervention on farm women up to 120 days. Impact was studied on anthropometric measurements and nutrient intake of subjects.
Results

Findings indicated that, the product contained 516 kcal of energy per 100 gm. The protein, fat, total dietary fiber, iron and calcium content of the product was 9.80 g, 31.60 g, 3.90 g, 2.47 mg and 159.60 mg respectively. Majority of the subjects belonged to lower middle socio-economic group with marginal land holding. Mean body weight of rural farm women increased significantly from 40.67 ± 3.29 to 43.29 ± 4.51 kg and corresponding increase in BMI was also observed from 17.43 ± 0.49 to 18.75 ± 1.26 (kg/ m2). The initial protein, fat and energy intake in experimental group was 31.99 ± 3.01 g, 23.46 ± 4.52 g and 1288 kcal respectively which was increased significantly for all the nutrients after intervention.
Conclusion

In the present scenario, providing nutrition security through development and popularization of nutri- dense food products from regionally available food ingredients among the vulnerable sections of the society is of vital importance.