Original Study Research Articles

Exploring gift gaps: A meta‐analysis of giver–recipient asymmetries

AbstractGift giving has long intrigued and perplexed consumers and scholars alike. Of particular interest is when and why givers bestow gifts that miss the mark with recipients. The current meta‐analysis quantitatively investigates giver–recipient mismatches by empirically examining 153 unique effects from 114 studies across 29 papers. Results suggest that characteristics of the gifts, characteristics of the occasion, and characteristics of the giver/receiver in the gift exchange presented in the original studies affect the degree to which giver–recipient asymmetries are more/less pronounced. This research confirms a persistent disconnect between evaluations gift givers and recipients make about the exchanges in which they participate. This “Gift Gap” is exacerbated when the gift exchanged is sentimental in value, consumed privately, and when the exchange occurs between friends. These results provide some support for various theoretical perspectives hypothesized to explain these asymmetric evaluations. Finally, this research reveals the dearth of research focused on familial gift exchange, cultural differences in gift exchange, and gift exchange for unpleasant occasions or occasions unrelated to birthdays and holidays.

Association Between Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Metastatic Breast Cancer—A Mapping Review

Aim: The authors of the present study speculate that metastasis of breast cancer cells to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region mimics classical signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The aim of this mapping review was to investigate the association between metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and TMD. Materials and Methods: The focused question was, “Is there an association between MBC and TMD?” Indexed databases (PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, OVID, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) were electronically searched up to and including March 2022. These databases were searched using different combinations of the following keywords: cancer, carcinoma, temporomandibular disorders, temporomandibular joint, disc displacement disorder, nociception, and tumor. Original clinical studies that meet the inclusion criteria were included. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for case reports. The structure of this current evidence-based review was tailored to primarily condense the relevant information. Results: Fifteen case reports were selected after screening the retrieved records from the electronic search. Fifteen out of 16 patients were women aged between 32 and 78 years. All patients were diagnosed with MBC, and most presented with adenocarcinoma. The symptoms identified in patients with TMD included: (a) preauricular pain; (b) preauricular swelling; (c) limited mouth opening; and (d) malocclusion. Fourteen of the included studies had a low RoB, while one had a moderate RoB. Conclusion: Based on the currently available evidence, a direct association between TMD and MBC or vice versa cannot be established. Routine visits to medical and oro-dental healthcare providers can contribute toward early diagnosis and management of TMD and MBC.

Exploring strategies for pet owners experiencing homelessness: A rapid scoping review

Abstract Approximately 10% of homeless individuals keep pets, but little information exists on specific interventions for this population. The aim of this rapid review is to describe what is currently known about intervention strategies for improving the health of homeless pet owners and their companion animals to identify knowledge gaps and inform future research and interventions. A database search of PubMed and Embase was conducted, and relevant articles were divided into primary research studies and “white papers” reporting proposed or attempted interventions, with each group analyzed separately. Common intervention strategies found across the literature were then summarized in narrative form. Nineteen articles fit the inclusion criteria, including 6 original research studies, 9 case reports and 4 narrative reviews. From analysis of these articles, 5 common intervention strategies emerged, including: (1) Free veterinary clinics, (2) Joint human/animal clinics, (3) Stigma reduction, (4) Interdisciplinary relationships and (5) Pet-friendly lodging. Studies on this population exhibited significant heterogeneity, and further program evaluation is needed to recommend intervention best practices. Joint human/animal clinics and interdisciplinary partnerships are promising avenues for evaluating interventions and improving health outcomes.

FAPi-Based Agents in Thyroid Cancer: A New Step towards Diagnosis and Therapy? A Systematic Review of the Literature.

(1) Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is often treated with surgery followed by iodine-131. Up to 50% of the instances of TC lose their avidity to 131I, becoming more aggressive. In this scenario, [18F]FDG PET/CT imaging is used for evaluating the widespread nature of the disease, despite its low sensitivity and a false negative rate of 8-21.1%. A novel class of PET agents targeting the fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPi) has emerged, studied particularly for their potential application to theranostics. (2) Methods: A search of the literature was performed by two independent authors (P.G. and L.E.) using the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases. The following terms were used: "FAP" or "FAPi" or "Fibroblast activating protein" and "thyroid" or "thyroid cancer", in different combinations. The included papers were original articles, clinical studies, and case reports in the English language. No time limits were used. Editorials, conference papers, reviews, and preclinical studies were excluded. (3) Results: There were 31 papers that were selected. Some studies reported a low or absent FAPi uptake in TC lesions; others reported promising findings for the detection of metastases. (4) Conclusions: The preliminary results are encouraging. FAPI agents are an alternative to [18F]FDG and a promising theranostic tool. However, further studies with a larger population are needed.

Genetic confounds of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mice.

Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals remains a controversial phenomenon. A recent study by Takahashi et al. provides evidence for this mode of inheritance in mice by using a CRISPR/Cas9-based epigenetic editing technique to modify DNA methylation levels at specific promoters and then demonstrating the inheritance of the gain in methylation in offspring. In this technical commentary, we argue that the method used in the original study inherently amplifies the likelihood of genetic changes that thereafter lead to the heritability of epigenetic changes. We provide evidence that genetic changes from multiple sources do indeed occur in these experiments and explore several avenues by which these changes could be causal to the apparent inheritance of epigenetic changes. We conclude a genetic basis of inheritance cannot be ruled out and thus transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has not been adequately established by the original study.

Determination of Elementary Teachers’ Opinions on Child Abuse and Neglect Training Programs Developed According to the Quantum Learning Model

This study was conducted to determine the opinions of elementary teachers about the child abuse and neglect education program developed according to the quantum learning model. This study was carried out with the participation of 20 elementary teachers working in the Yozgat province of Turkey. Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used together. Within the scope of the quantitative research, the “In-Service Training Programs Evaluation Scale” developed by Tekin and Yaman in 2008 was used. This scale had two factors and 28 items. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the scale in the original study was 0.95. Within the scope of the qualitative research, open-ended structured questions were asked to determine the opinions of elementary teachers on child abuse and neglect and the quantum learning model. Descriptive statistics and descriptive analysis were used in the analysis of the data. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that the opinions of teachers on the in-service training program were positive; they considered the quantum learning model as a physics-related model that developed the student in all aspects; they did not plan to implement the quantum learning model in the classroom; and they found it positive that the quantum learning model and child abuse and neglect were handled together. Teachers also reported that parents should participate in the training program on child abuse and neglect. The teachers acquired the learning outcome “Knows that he/she should call the Alo 183 social support line in case of child abuse and neglect” at the end of the training program. As a result of the study, recommendations were made regarding the nature of the courses to be organized for teachers, the arrangements that can be made in schools for the implementation of the quantum learning model, and the need to organize educational programs for parents.

Beyond conventional therapies: exploring the role of Pilates in neurological physical therapy – a review of the latest research

Pilates exercise method, characterized by its holistic approach, underscores core stability, strength, and flexibility, coupled with meticulous muscle control, optimal posture, and focused attention on breathing. Widely embraced in both general and clinical fitness realms, this study aims to evaluate the integration of Pilates into physical therapy practices for patients with neurological disorders.
 Existing studies indicate the potential efficacy of Pilates in diverse rehabilitation contexts. However, neurological disorders, specifically multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson's disease (PD), have been the primary focus. While systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest Pilates as a plausible option in physiotherapy for PD and MS patients, a paucity of research on this subject necessitates a comprehensive review of recent original studies.
 Analysis of gathered data suggests that Pilates, when incorporated, may yield benefits for patients with various neurological disorders. Consideration of Pilates as a supplementary element to physical activity for those with PD and MS emerges as a reasonable proposition. The study also encourages contemplation of Pilates in rehabilitation research across a broader spectrum of neurological disorders. Subsequent investigations, incorporating relevant considerations, will contribute to a nuanced understanding of Pilates' potential benefits and its comparative advantages over traditional interventions for neurological disorders.

An Item-Based Revalidation of the Florida Pretrial Risk Assessment Instrument

ABSTRACT Scholars and practitioners continue to examine the growing pretrial detainee population. These individuals have not been convicted of a crime, and yet they sit in detention, taxing jail facilities and their limited budgets. Pretrial risk assessment tools have been created to identify individuals who can be released prior to trial, without jeopardizing community safety. The current study revalidates items included in the Florida Pretrial Risk Assessment Instrument. Results suggest that most individuals on pretrial release do not commit new offenses or fail to appear for future court hearings. Similarities and differences between the original study and the revalidation are noted. The inclusion of assessing “community ties” is also explored.

Insights into Hyperparathyroidism-Jaw Tumour Syndrome: From Endocrine Acumen to the Spectrum of CDC73 Gene and Parafibromin-Deficient Tumours.

A total of 1 out of 10 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) presents an underlying genetic form, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia types 1, 2A, etc., as well as hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumour syndrome (HJT). We aimed to summarise the recent data, thus raising more awareness regarding HJT, from the clinical perspective of PHP in association with the challenges and pitfalls of CDC73 genetic testing and parafibromin staining. This narrative review included a sample-focused analysis from the past decade according to a PubMed search. We identified 17 original human studies (≥4 patients per article). The mean age at disease onset was between 20.8 and 39.5 years, while the largest study found that 71% of patients had HJT recognised before the age of 30. Males and females seemed to be equally affected, in contrast with sporadic PHP. PHP represented the central manifestation of HJT, occurring as the first manifestation in up to 85% of HJT cases. A biochemistry panel found a mean serum calcium level above the level of 12 mg/dL in PHP. PTH was elevated in HJT as well, with average values of at least 236.6 pg/mL. The most frequent pathological type in PHP was a parathyroid adenoma, but the incidence of a parathyroid carcinoma was much higher than in non-HJT cases (15% of all parathyroid tumours), with the diagnosis being established between the age of 15 and 37.5. In some families up to 85% of carriers suffered from a parathyroid carcinoma thus indicating that certain CDC73 pathogenic variants may harbour a higher risk. An important issue in HJT was represented by the parafibromin profile in the parathyroid tumours since in HJT both parathyroid adenomas and carcinomas might display a deficient immunoreactivity. Another frequent manifestation in HJT was ossifying fibromas of the jaw (affecting 5.4% to 50% of patients; the largest study found a prevalence of 15.4%). HJT was associated with a wide variety of kidney lesion (mostly: kidney cysts, with a prevalence of up to 75%, and renal tumours involved in 19% of patients). The risk of uterine lesions seemed increased in HJT, especially with concern to leiomyomas, adenofibromas, and adenomyosis. The underlying pathogenic mechanisms and the involvement of CDC73 pathogenic variants and parafibromin expression are yet to be explored. Currently, the heterogeneous expression of parafibromin status and, the wide spectrum of CDC73 mutations including the variety of clinical presentations in HJT, make it difficult to predict the phenotype based on the genotype. The central role of HJT-PHP is, however, the main clinical element, while the elevated risk of parathyroid carcinoma requires a special awareness.

Dental caries and mean values of DMFT among children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionOne of the most prevalent causes of physical disability in children is cerebral palsy (CP), which is a series of complicated neurological disorders. Children with cerebral palsy suffer from multiple problems and potential disabilities, including dental caries. Hence, this study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of dental caries and mean DMFT (Decayed, Missed, and Filled Permanent Teeth) among children with cerebral palsy in Africa and Asia.MethodsA comprehensive search of the literature was made to locate relevant studies in PubMed/Medline, HINARI, Web of Science, Science Direct, the Cochrane Library, the Worldwide Science Database, and Google Scholar. The data were extracted in Microsoft Excel and transferred to Stata version 17 software for further analysis. A random-effect model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of dental caries and the pooled mean value of DMFT among children with cerebral palsy in Africa and Asia. Heterogeneity between studies was checked using the Cochrane Q test and I2 test statistics. Sub-group analysis by continent was done, and sensitivity analysis was checked. A small study effect was checked using Egger’s statistical test at the 5% level of significance.ResultsIn this study, 25 original studies conducted in 17 countries in Africa and Asia that fulfilled the eligibility criteria were included in the review. The overall pooled prevalence of dental caries in Africa and Asia among children with cerebral palsy was 55.6% (95% CI: 42.4, 68.8). The pooled prevalence of dental caries among children with cerebral palsy in Africa was 42.43% (95% CI: 30.39, 54.58), and it was slightly higher in Asia with 64% (95% CI: 48.32, 79.72). In the random effect model analysis, the pooled mean DMFT of dental caries in children with cerebral palsy was 2.25 (95% CI: 1.86, 2.64). The pooled mean DMFT in Africa was 1.47 (95% CI: 0.86, 2.09), and in Asia it was 3.01 (95% CI: 2.43, 3.60).ConclusionIn this study, we found that children with cerebral palsy experienced an alarming rate of dental caries. In these settings, dental caries affected roughly more than half of the children with cerebral palsy. Hence, oral health promotion initiatives should target children with CP, and this group of children must receive early preventive dental care.

Platelet-Rich Plasma Has Better Results for Long-term Functional Improvement and Pain Relief for Lateral Epicondylitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Corticosteroids (CS) have shown good short-term performance in terms of pain relief and functional improvement. However, the safety and long-term efficacy of this treatment remains controversial. Several studies have reported good results of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of tendinopathies. However, whether its use in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis (LE) is superior to that of CS remains controversial. To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of original studies to determine whether the prognosis of LE patients treated with PRP is better than that of CS. Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 2. Two independent reviewers searched online databases from January 2000 to July 2022 according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to evaluate prospective studies of PRP versus CS injection for LE. A third author addressed any discrepancies. Evidence quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Risk ratios for dichotomous variables and mean differences (MDs) for continuous variables were used to compare clinical outcomes. P values <.05 were considered statistically significant. Eleven randomized controlled trials with 730 patients were included in this review. PRP provided a significantly worse short-term (<2 months) improvement in the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (MD, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.42 to 1.44]; I2 = 85%; P = .0003) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score (MD, 10.23 [95% CI, 9.08 to 11.39]; I2 = 67%; P < .0001) but better long-term (≥6 months) improvement in the VAS score (MD, -2.18 [95% CI, -3.13 to -1.22]; I2 = 89%; P < .0001), DASH score (MD, -8.13 [95% CI, -9.87 to -6.39]; I2 = 25%; P < .0001), and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MD, 16.53 [95% CI, 1.52 to 31.53]; I2 = 98%; P = .03) than CS. The medium-term (2-6 months) reduction in the VAS score was not significantly different between the 2 groups. After sensitivity analysis, none of the results changed except for the short-term VAS scores (MD, 0.53 [95% CI, -0.13 to 1.19]; I2 = 78%; P = .12). Both PRP and CS injections are effective treatments for patients with LE. CS provides better short-term (<2 months) functional improvement and may be more advantageous in terms of short-term pain relief, while PRP provides better long-term (≥6 months) functional improvement and better performance regarding long-term pain relief.

Differences in enteric neuronal density in the NSE-Noggin mouse model across institutes

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is a large and complex part of the peripheral nervous system, and it is vital for gut homeostasis. To study the ENS, different hyper- and hypo-innervated model systems have been developed. The NSE-Noggin mouse model was described as one of the few models with a higher enteric neuronal density in the colon. However, in our hands NSE-Noggin mice did not present with a hyperganglionic phenotype. NSE-Noggin mice were phenotyped based on fur appearance, genotyped and DNA sequenced to demonstrate transgene and intact NSE-Noggin-IRES-EGFP construct presence, and RNA expression of Noggin was shown to be upregulated. Positive EGFP staining in the plexus of NSE-Noggin mice also confirmed Noggin protein expression. Myenteric plexus preparations of the colon were examined to quantify both the overall density of enteric neurons and the proportions of enteric neurons expressing specific subtype markers. The total number of enteric neurons in the colonic myenteric plexus of transgenic mice did not differ significantly from wild types, nor did the proportion of calbindin, calretinin, or serotonin immunoreactive myenteric neurons. Possible reasons as to why the hyperinnervated phenotype could not be observed in contrast with original studies using this mouse model are discussed, including study design, influence of microbiota, and other environmental variables.

A215 DEFINING THE MODERN GLOBAL INCIDENCE AND PREVALENCE OF EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS IN POPULATION-BASED STUDIES

Abstract Background Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an immune-mediated condition that results in esophageal dysfunction. Previous research demonstrated a marked increase in both incidence and prevalence of EoE globally, associated with a concomitant increase in type 2 inflammatory diseases. A previous meta-analysis suggested that the pooled prevalence of EoE was 34.4 cases/100,000 population and the incidence was 6.6 cases/100,000 person-years, but this analysis included only studies conducted to 2018. Aims To assess the current global incidence and prevalence of EoE, through systematic review and meta-analysis of population-based studies. Methods Electronic databases (Medline and Embase) were searched to February 22, 2023. Abstracts were screened, and full texts were reviewed for inclusion in meta-analysis. Original population-based studies published after 2018 that reported the incidence or prevalence of EoE in adults or children were included. Meta-analysis of incidence and prevalence rates, reported per 100,000 person-years or per 100,000 population, respectively, were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic. Results A total of 1916 unique reports were identified, and abstracts were reviewed. 129 full texts were read, and 21 reports met inclusion criteria for population based, incidence and prevalence studies. The pooled global incidence of EoE was 8.43 cases per 100,000 person-years [95% CI: 6.52, 10.34] (I2=99%) (Figure 1). The incidence was similar in adult and pediatric subgroups. The pooled global prevalence of EoE was 68.0 cases per 100,000 population [95% CI: 37.5, 123.4] (I2=99%). Conclusions The incidence and prevalence of EoE in recent studies is higher than that previously published. The prevalence of EoE is anticipated to compound, given that this is a disease typically diagnosed in young patients without an associated increased risk of mortality. Funding Agencies None

Assessing Meaningful Improvement: Focus on the Tinnitus Functional Index.

Many studies have attempted to determine methodology for interpreting change on outcome instruments that result from an intervention. The objective of these studies has been to devise methods to identify the minimal level of change that would be consistent with actual benefit perceived by the patient, and not just statistically significant change. With respect to intervention for bothersome tinnitus, the authors of the original study to develop and validate the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) suggested that a minimum 13-point reduction in the TFI score was likely to reflect a change perceived as meaningful to an individual. The 13-point estimation of meaningful change for an individual is appropriate for use with any adult seeking care for tinnitus. However, it cannot be relied upon in isolation to determine if an individual believes that there has been a noticeable, or meaningful improvement in their quality of life. It is important to use subjective impressions elicited from the patient to assist in interpreting the meaning of TFI data for an individual. For clinicians engaging in care for tinnitus, we recommend using the TFI and pairing it with the patient's belief/impression as to whether they are doing better than they were before care for tinnitus was provided. Ideally, the outcome assessment would be conducted by someone other than the clinician who provided the intervention.

Beta-Catenin-Mutated Hepatocellular Adenomas at Hepatobiliary Phase MRI: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Beta-catenin-mutated hepatocellular adenomas (β-HCAs) can appear iso- to hyperintense at the hepatobiliary phase (HBP) at magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Given the relatively lower prevalence of β-HCAs, prior studies had limited power to show statistically significant differences in the HBP signal intensity between different subtypes. To assess the diagnostic performance of HBP MRI to discriminate β-HCA from other subtypes. Systemic review and meta-analysis. Ten original studies were included, yielding 266 patients with 397 HCAs (9%, 36/397 β-HCAs and 91%, 361/397 non-β-HCAs). 1.5 T and 3.0 T, HBP. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched from January 1, 2000, to August 31, 2023, for all articles reporting HBP signal intensity in patients with histopathologically proven HCA subtypes. QUADAS-2 was used to assess risk of bias and concerns regarding applicability. Univariate random-effects model was used to calculate pooled estimates. Heterogeneity estimates were assessed with I2 heterogeneity index. Meta-regression (mixed-effect model) was used to test for differences in the prevalence of HBP signal between HCA groups. The threshold for statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. HBP iso- to hyperintensity was associated with β-HCAs (pooled prevalence was 72.3% in β-HCAs and 6.3% in non-β-HCAs). Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 72.3% (95% confidence interval 54.1-85.3) and 93.7% (93.8-97.7), respectively. Specificity had substantial heterogeneity with I2 of 83% due to one study, but not for sensitivity (I2 = 0). After excluding this study, pooled sensitivity and specificity were 77.4% (59.6-88.8) and 94.1% (88.9-96.9), with no substantial heterogeneity. One study had high risk of bias for patient selection and two studies were rated unclear for two domains. Iso- to hyperintensity at HBP MRI may help to distinguish β-HCA subtype from other HCAs with high specificity. However, there was heterogeneity in the pooled estimates. 3 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

Conectividad cerebral, empatía, insensibilidad emocional y toma de decisiones en el trastorno de la conducta: Una revisión sistemática.

The deficits in empathy, emotional insensitivity, and decision-making constitute the core of symptoms defining conduct disorder. Although several studies have established some correlates between brain connectivity and symptoms separately, there has been little effort to systematize such information. The current systematic review aimed to describe the findings obtained through analyzing brain connectivity networks by functional magnetic resonance imaging associated with alterations in empathy, emotional insensitivity, and decision-making in subjects with conduct disorder. A systematic search was carried out for original studies published in Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Scielo, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Nature. Articles published between 2000 and 2022 were included; a qualitative synthesis was obtained with the six selected articles at the end of the process. The findings show altered brain connectivity patterns in brain regions associated with empathy and insensitivity in subjects with conduct disorder.

Analysis of the zakat village model for economic sector utilization: ANP approach

Purpose – This study evaluates the economic sectors of the Zakat Village Program by identifying the objectives, criteria, and risks.Methodology – This study uses a qualitative Analytic Network Process (ANP) approach to determine the order of priorities and decision-making. Data were collected through interviews and questionnaires with expert respondents in the field of zakat utilization and empowerment.Finding – This research shows that the village zakat program plays an important role in overcoming economic problems. However, experts believe that the aspect of determining activities is still considered low.Implication – The findings of this study contribute to the enhancement of zakat village program planning, so that the objective components of the zakat village program can be expressed more clearly and in detail in the future.Originality – This original study collected the views of experts in evaluating village zakat programs by confirming them through the geometric mean as a priority value for each objective, criteria, main criteria, and risk.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of MRI Radiomics for Predicting Microvascular Invasion in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

The prediction power of MRI radiomics for microvascular invasion (MVI) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains uncertain. To investigate the prediction performance of MRI radiomics for MVI in HCC. Original studies focusing on preoperative prediction performance of MRI radiomics for MVI in HCC, were systematically searched from databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. Radiomics quality score (RQS) and risk of bias of involved studies were evaluated. Meta-analysis was carried out to demonstrate the value of MRI radiomics for MVI prediction in HCC. Influencing factors of the prediction performance of MRI radiomics were identified by subgroup analyses. 13 studies classified as type 2a or above according to the Transparent Reporting of a Multivariable Prediction Model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis statement were eligible for this systematic review and meta-analysis. The studies achieved an average RQS of 14 (ranging from 11 to 17), accounting for 38.9% of the total points. MRI radiomics achieved a pooled sensitivity of 0.82 (95%CI: 0.78 - 0.86), specificity of 0.79 (95%CI: 0.76 - 0.83) and area under the summary receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.88 (95%CI: 0.84 - 0.91) to predict MVI in HCC. Radiomics models combined with clinical features achieved superior performances compared to models without the combination (AUC: 0.90 vs 0.85, P < 0.05). MRI radiomics has the potential for preoperative prediction of MVI in HCC. Further studies with high methodological quality should be designed to improve the reliability and reproducibility of the radiomics models for clinical application. The systematic review and meta-analysis was registered prospectively in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (No. CRD42022333822).

Electrocardiographic abnormalities in patients with sickle cell disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Previous studies have documented that electrocardiography (ECG) can reveal a range of abnormalities, offering valuable insights into the cardiac evaluation of patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). The objective of this study is to assess the patterns of ECG abnormalities observed in these patients with SCD, and to determine their prevalence. We systematically reviewed the literature using online databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar to identify original studies that reported findings of standard ECG assessments in patients with SCD. Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model. Additional analyses including sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were also conducted. Analysis of data from 59 studies involving 897,920 individuals with SCD revealed that 75% of these patients had abnormal ECG findings (67%-81%), which were predominantly nonspecific ST-T changes, left ventricular hypertrophy, T-wave changes, prolonged corrected QT (QTc) interval, and ischemic changes. Besides, it was shown that these patients had significantly higher odds of having any ECG abnormalities (OR of 17.50, 4.68-65.49), right atrial enlargement (6.09, 1.48-25.09), left ventricular hypertrophy (3.45, 1.73-6.89), right ventricular hypertrophy (7.18, 2.28-22.57), biventricular hypertrophy (10.11, 1.99-51.38), prolonged QTc interval (5.54, 2.44-12.59), ST depression (3.34, 1.87-5.97), and T-wave changes (5.41, 1.43-20.56). Moreover, the mean of QTc interval was significantly higher among those with SCD (23.51milliseconds, 16.08-30.94). Our meta-analysis showed a higher prevalence of abnormal ECG findings among individuals with SCD. A significant proportion of these patients had various ECG abnormalities, suggesting a potential need for regular ECG assessments for patients with SCD.

Cultural Competency: A Cardinal Force in Social Work Practice and Service-A Cultural Practice Guide for Human Services and the Helping Professions

Culture is a significant factor in human development, sustainability, and societal cohesion. It is greatly cherished and holds universal significance to individuals, groups, families, communities, societies, and nations. Culture affects how a victim, survivor, client, or family responds to life altering experiences such as domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, sexual abuse, and trauma. It also influences how a client or family deals with loss and grief, resilience, and recovery. Hence, understanding different cultures and cultural practices, symbols, artifacts, the meaning they hold, and respecting and operating within the confines of a set culture is very important. Cultural competency is a key medium through which this need can be addressed. Cultural competency is a core principle that should undergird a social worker’s service/practice with clients as enshrined in the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. Failure to execute cultural competency is detrimental to the delivery of appropriate and effective services to clients, and a digression from the code of ethics and professional standard of practice within the profession of social work. The execution of cultural competency in social work practice fosters a positive and enduring therapeutic relationship between the social worker and client, and lays the foundation for productive engagement, interaction, and intervention. From this perspective, this article embodies a review of the research literature on the topic of culture and culturally competent practice from different disciplines. The review and analysis include a study this author conducted in Ghana-Africa that examined the significance of culture and its impact on individuals and their perceptions as well as behaviors within a cultural context. Specifically, the study focused on the cultural effects on learning and the transfer of knowledge, and this paper relates its significant implications for understanding culture and responsiveness to cultural practices within professional practice. The findings from this original study revealed that culture impacts an individual’s perception and behavior significantly. The implications for culturally effective social work practice were discussed and recommendations for cultural competence, responsive, and responsible practices including anti-oppressive intervention strategies at the micro, mezzo and macro levels were put forward. In addition, a cultural conceptual practice model called GACIE was proposed for use in assessing and intervening with culturally diverse ethnic minority clients.