bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The story of Wānanalua: Stranded whales and contested marine sovereignties in Hawai‘i
Authors: Ritts Max , Wiebe Sarah M
Published: February 2020

This paper considers how systems of interspecies knowing and care in Hawai'i push against state-supported frameworks of liberal biopolitical governance. In 2015, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a citation two Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) women under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, for unlawfully “tak[ing] and/or or transporting” a stranded melon-headed whale (“Wānanalua”). In the lawsuit, prosecutors deliberated on the legality of the traditional sea burial situating it within a broader context of cultural accommodations granted by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. From our examination of the lawsuit, we develop the argument that marine mammal care operates in Hawaiʻi as a regulatory device for ordering interspecies relations and for pacifying Indigenous demands for greater marine political authority. To combine these claims, we consider the relation between two governance logics: liberal “recognition,” wherein accommodations regarding culture are extended to previously disenfranchised social groups, and biopolitics, pertaining in the present case to care practices governing more-than-human actors and environments. Our arguments are supported by detailed case files and interviews with local informants, including the Kanaka women accused of mishandling Wānanalua. The “ruptures” marking the Wānanalua case suggest a liberal recognition framework whose failures are connected to the biopolitics it embraces, but with an added detail: The present story reflects on how an interspecies biopolitics—an attempted management of Kānaka-whale care practices—structures strategies of liberal recognition.
Akopovaite, Li2Al4(OH)12(CO3)(H2O)3, a new Li member of the hydrotalcite supergroup from Turkestan Range, Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Karpenko Vladimir Yu. , Zhitova Elena S. , Pautov Leonid A. , Agakhanov Atali A. , Siidra Oleg I. , Krzhizhanovskaya Maria G. , Rassulov Victor A. , Bocharov Vladimir N.
Published: February 2020

Akopovaite, ideally Li2Al4(OH)12(CO3)(H2O)3, is a new hydrotalcite-supergroup mineral from the Karasu–Karavshinskoye Sn deposit, Turkestan Range, Kyrgyzstan. It occurs as white or pale yellowish rosette-like aggregates that are composed of tiny curved plates up to 20–30 μm. Akopovaite is associated with gibbsite, quartz, albite, microcline, muscovite, montebrasite, siderite, schorl and birnessite-like Fe–Mn oxides. Akopovaite has a perfect cleavage along {001}, the mineral is transparent and very soft (VHN = 24 that corresponds to Mohs hardness of ca. 1). Dmeas = 2.12(2) g/cm3 and Dcalc = 2.106 g/cm3. The Raman spectra contain bands of carbonate groups and bands of O–H stretching vibrations. The chemical composition (wt.%, electron microprobe for Al and Fe; ICP-OES for Li; CHN method for CO2 and H2O) is Li2O 6.43, Al2O3 45.79, Fe2O3 0.27, CO2 10.09, H2O 36.1, total 98.68. The empirical formula based on (Li + Al + Fe) = 6 apfu is Li1.94(Al4.05Fe0.02)Σ4.07(OH)12(CO3)1.03(H2O)3.03. The crystal structure was refined by the Rietveld method with RB = 0.006 and Rwp = 0.014. Akopovaite is monoclinic, C2/m, a = 5.0953(6), b = 8.877(1), c = 7.806(1) Å, β = 102.572(6)°, V = 344.61(8) Å3 and Z = 1. The polytype should be denoted as 1M. The strongest lines of the powder X-ray diffraction pattern [d, Å (I, %) (hkl)] are: 7.66(100)(001), 4.397(27)(020), 3.821(45)(002,021), 2.4881(27)(200), 2.2273(16)(201) and 1.9027(18)(202). Akopovaite is the first naturally occurring hydrotalcite-supergroup carbonate species of Al and Li; its synthetic analogue is known.
MicroRNA-429 inhibits neuroblastoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion via the NF-κB pathway
Authors: Zhou Xianjun , Lu Hongting , Li Fujiang , Hao Xiwei , Han Lulu , Dong Qian , Chen Xin
Published: February 2020

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) can participate in the development and progression of neuroblastoma. Many studies have indicated that miR-429 can participate in tumor development. However, the mechanism underlying miR-429-mediated progression of neuroblastoma remains largely unclear.

Methods

Colony formation and apoptosis assays were used to determine the effect of miR-429 on cell proliferation. Its impact on cell migration was determined using the wound-healing and Transwell assays. The target gene of miR-429 was confirmed via western blotting and luciferase reporter assays. A nude mouse xenograft model with miR-429 overexpression was used to assess the effect on tumor growth.

Results

Our findings indicate that miR-429 is downregulated in neuroblastoma cell lines. We also found that it can induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation in cells of those lines. MiR-429 can bind to the 3′-UTR of IKKβ mRNA and overexpression of IKKβ can reverse cell proliferation, blocking the effect of miR-429. Furthermore, miR-429 overexpression inhibited neuroblastoma growth in our nude mouse xenograft model.

Conclusion

We provide important insight into miR-429 as a tumor suppressor through interaction with IKKβ, which is a catalytic subunit of the IKK complex that activates NF-κB nuclear transport. Our results demonstrate that miR-429 may be a new target for the treatment of neuroblastoma.
A systematic review of approaches to improve practice, detection and treatment of unhealthy alcohol use in primary health care: a role for continuous quality improvement
Authors: Dzidowska Monika , Lee K. S. Kylie , Wylie Claire , Bailie Jodie , Percival Nikki , Conigrave James H. , Hayman Noel , Conigrave Katherine M.
Published: February 2020

Background

Unhealthy alcohol use involves a spectrum from hazardous use (exceeding guidelines but no harms) through to alcohol dependence. Evidence-based management of unhealthy alcohol use in primary health care has been recommended since 1979. However, sustained and systematic implementation has proven challenging. The Continuing Quality Improvement (CQI) process is designed to enable services to detect barriers, then devise and implement changes, resulting in service improvements.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of literature reporting on strategies to improve implementation of screening and interventions for unhealthy alcohol use in primary care (MEDLINE EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, the Australian Indigenous Health InfoNet). Additional inclusion criteria were: (1) pragmatic setting; (2) reporting original data; (3) quantitative outcomes related to provision of service or change in practice. We investigate the extent to which the three essential elements of CQI are being used (data-guided activities, considering local conditions; iterative development). We compare characteristics of programs that include these three elements with those that do not. We describe the types, organizational levels (e.g. health service, practice, clinician), duration of strategies, and their outcomes.

Results

Fifty-six papers representing 45 projects were included. Of these, 24 papers were randomized controlled trials, 12 controlled studies and 20 before/after and other designs. Most reported on strategies for improving implementation of screening and brief intervention. Only six addressed relapse prevention pharmacotherapies. Only five reported on patient outcomes and none showed significant improvement. The three essential CQI elements were clearly identifiable in 12 reports. More studies with three essential CQI elements had implementation and follow-up durations above the median; utilised multifaceted designs; targeted both practice and health system levels; improved screening and brief intervention than studies without the CQI elements.

Conclusion

Utilizing CQI methods in implementation research would appear to be well-suited to drive improvements in service delivery for unhealthy alcohol use. However, the body of literature describing such studies is still small. More well-designed research, including hybrid studies of both implementation and patient outcomes, will be needed to draw clearer conclusions on the optimal approach for implementing screening and treatment for unhealthy alcohol use. (PROSPERO registration ID: CRD42018110475).
Design for a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled study to evaluate safety and efficacy after treatment with the Nuvaira® lung denervation system in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AIRFLOW-3)
Authors:   on behalf of the AIRFLOW-3 Trial Study Group, Slebos Dirk-Jan , Degano Bruno , Valipour Arschang , Shah Pallav L. , Deslée Gaetan , Sciurba Frank C.
Published: February 2020

Background

Targeted lung denervation (TLD) is a bronchoscopically delivered ablation therapy that selectively interrupts pulmonary parasympathetic nerve signaling. The procedure has the potential to alter airway smooth muscle tone and reactivity, decrease mucous secretion, and reduce airway inflammation and reflex airway hyperresponsiveness. Secondary outcome analysis of a previous randomized, sham-controlled trial showed a reduction in moderate-to-severe exacerbations in patients with COPD after TLD treatment. A pivotal trial, AIRFLOW-3 has been designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of TLD combined with optimal medical therapy to reduce moderate or severe exacerbations throughout 1 year, compared with optimal medical therapy alone.

Methods

The study design is a multicenter, randomized, full sham bronchoscopy controlled, double-blind trial that will enroll 400 patients (1:1 randomization). Key inclusion criteria are FEV1/FVC < 0.7, FEV1 30 to 60% of predicted, post-bronchodilator, ≥ 2 moderate or 1 severe COPD exacerbations in the prior year, and COPD assessment test (CAT) ≥ 10. Primary objective will be the comparison of moderate or severe COPD exacerbations through 12 months of TLD therapy with optimal medical therapy versus optimal medical therapy alone. The sham group will be allowed to cross over at 1 year. Patients will be followed for up to 5 years.

Discussion

The multicenter, randomized, full sham bronchoscopy controlled, double-blind AIRFLOW-3 trial will evaluate the efficacy of TLD to reduce moderate or severe COPD exacerbations beyond optimal medical therapy alone. The target population are patients with COPD, who suffer persistent symptoms and exacerbations despite optimal treatment, defining an unmet medical need requiring novel therapeutic solutions. This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03639051.
Frequent mutation of hypoxia-related genes in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
Authors: Wang Mingbang , Zhuang Deyi , Mei Mei , Ma Haiyan , Li Zixiu , He Fusheng , Cheng Guoqiang , Lin Guang , Zhou Wenhao
Published: February 2020

Aims

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is characterized by sustained high levels of pulmonary vascular resistance after birth with etiology unclear; Arterial blood oxygen saturation of Tibetan newborns at high latitudes is higher than that of Han newborns at low latitudes, suggesting that genetic adaptation may allow sufficient oxygen to confer Tibetan populations with resistance to pulmonary hypertension; We have previously identified genetic factors related to PPHN through candidate gene sequencing; In this study, we first performed whole exome sequencing in PPHN patients to screen for genetic-related factors.

Methods and results

In this two-phase genetic study, we first sequenced the whole exome of 20 Tibetan PPHN patients and compared it with the published genome sequences of 50 healthy high-altitude Tibetanshypoxia-related genes, a total of 166 PPHN-related variants were found, of which 49% were from 43 hypoxia-related genes; considering many studies have shown that the differences in the genetic background between Tibet and Han are characterized by hypoxia-related genetic polymorphisms, so it is necessary to further verify whether the association between hypoxia-related variants and PPHN is independent of high-altitude life. During the validation phase, 237 hypoxia-related genes were sequenced in another 80 Han PPHN patients living in low altitude areas, including genes at the discovery stage and known hypoxia tolerance, of which 413 variants from 127 of these genes were shown to be significantly associated with PPHN.hypoxia-related genes.

Conclusions

Our results indicates that the association of hypoxia-related genes with PPHN does not depend on high-altitude life, at the same time, 21 rare mutations associated with PPHN were also found, including three rare variants of the tubulin tyrosine ligase-like family member 3 gene (TTLL3:p.E317K, TTLL3:p.P777S) and the integrin subunit alpha M gene (ITGAM:p.E1071D). These novel findings provide important information on the genetic basis of PPHN.
Endoscopic radial incision method for two strictures of the esophagus after endoscopic submucosal dissection: a case report
Authors: Huang Zhong , Wei Wei , Cheng Fang
Published: February 2020

Background

The development of severe esophageal stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early esophageal carcinoma is not uncommon. Dilation by Savary-Gilliard dilators or balloon dilators is the first-line treatment for such complex refractory benign stricture, but it has a high risk of treatment failure. So far, endoscopic radial incision (ERI) as a new technology for the treatment of post-ESD esophageal stricture has been rarely reported. We report a case, which we designed to assess the efficacy and safety of ERI technology for two severe strictures of the esophagus after ESD.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old man had suffered from two complex refractory benign strictures of the esophagus after ESD for early esophageal carcinoma. The patient was refractory to multiple endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) therapy previously. Thus, the patient underwent ERI successfully and without postoperative complications such as fever, poststernal pain, bleeding, and perforation. During 3 months of follow-up after ERI, the patient had no recurrence of dysphagia.

Conclusions

Refractory strictures of the esophagus after ESD are common. ERI is a safe and efficient strategy for treating such multiple refractory esophageal strictures.
Can-Seq: a PCR and DNA sequencing strategy for identifying new alleles of known and candidate genes
Authors: Cao Jiangling , Gursanscky Nial R. , Fletcher Stephen J. , Sawyer Anne , Wadia Mehershad , McKeough Lachlan , Coleman Marek , Dressel Uwe , Taochy Christelle , Mitter Neena , Vaucheret Hervé , Carroll Bernard J.
Published: February 2020

Background

Forward genetic screens are a powerful approach for identifying the genes contributing to a trait of interest. However, mutants arising in genes already known can obscure the identification of new genes contributing to the trait. Here, we describe a strategy called Candidate gene-Sequencing (Can-Seq) for rapidly identifying and filtering out mutants carrying new alleles of known and candidate genes.

Results

We carried out a forward genetic screen and identified 40 independent Arabidopsis mutants with defects in systemic spreading of RNA interference (RNAi), or more specifically in root-to-shoot transmission of post-transcriptional gene silencing (rtp). To classify the mutants as either representing a new allele of a known or candidate gene versus carrying a mutation in an undiscovered gene, bulk genomic DNA from up to 23 independent mutants was used as template to amplify a collection of 47 known or candidate genes. These amplified sequences were combined into Can-Seq libraries and deep sequenced. Subsequently, mutations in the known and candidate genes were identified using a custom Snakemake script (https://github.com/Carroll-Lab/can_seq), and PCR zygosity tests were then designed and used to identify the individual mutants carrying each mutation. Using this approach, we showed that 28 of the 40 rtp mutants carried homozygous nonsense, missense or splice site mutations in one or more of the 47 known or candidate genes. We conducted complementation tests to demonstrate that several of the candidate mutations were responsible for the rtp defect. Importantly, by exclusion, the Can-Seq pipeline also identified rtp mutants that did not carry a causative mutation in any of the 47 known and candidate genes, and these mutants represent an undiscovered gene(s) required for systemic RNAi.

Conclusions

Can-Seq offers an accurate, cost-effective method for classifying new mutants into known versus unknown genes. It has several advantages over existing genetic and DNA sequencing approaches that are currently being used in forward genetic screens for gene discovery. Using Can-Seq in conjunction with map-based gene cloning is a cost-effective approach towards identifying the full complement of genes contributing to a trait of interest.
GrpClassifierEC: a novel classification approach based on the ensemble clustering space
Authors: Abdallah Loai , Yousef Malik
Published: February 2020

Background

Advances in molecular biology have resulted in big and complicated data sets, therefore a clustering approach that able to capture the actual structure and the hidden patterns of the data is required. Moreover, the geometric space may not reflects the actual similarity between the different objects. As a result, in this research we use clustering-based space that convert the geometric space of the molecular to a categorical space based on clustering results. Then we use this space for developing a new classification algorithm.

Results

In this study, we propose a new classification method named GrpClassifierEC that replaces the given data space with categorical space based on ensemble clustering (EC). The EC space is defined by tracking the membership of the points over multiple runs of clustering algorithms. Different points that were included in the same clusters will be represented as a single point. Our algorithm classifies all these points as a single class. The similarity between two objects is defined as the number of times that these objects were not belong to the same cluster. In order to evaluate our suggested method, we compare its results to the k nearest neighbors, Decision tree and Random forest classification algorithms on several benchmark datasets. The results confirm that the suggested new algorithm GrpClassifierEC outperforms the other algorithms.

Conclusions

Our algorithm can be integrated with many other algorithms. In this research, we use only the k-means clustering algorithm with different k values. In future research, we propose several directions: (1) checking the effect of the clustering algorithm to build an ensemble clustering space. (2) Finding poor clustering results based on the training data, (3) reducing the volume of the data by combining similar points based on the EC.

Availability and implementation

The KNIME workflow, implementing GrpClassifierEC, is available at https://malikyousef.com
Nasal Airway Obstruction Study (NAIROS): a phase III, open-label, mixed-methods, multicentre randomised controlled trial of septoplasty versus medical management of a septal deviation with nasal obstruction
Authors:   for the NAIROS Study Group, Rennie Katherine J. , O’Hara James , Rousseau Nikki , Stocken Deborah , Howel Denise , Ternent Laura , Drinnan Mike , Bray Alison , Rooshenas Leila , Hamilton David W. , Steel Alison , Fouweather Tony , Hynes Ann-Marie , Holstein Eva-Maria , Oluboyede Yemi , Abouhajar Alaa , Wilson Janet A. , Carrie Sean
Published: February 2020

Background

Septoplasty (surgery to straighten a deviation in the nasal septum) is a frequently performed operation worldwide, with approximately 250,000 performed annually in the US and 22,000 in the UK. Most septoplasties aim to improve diurnal and nocturnal nasal obstruction. The evidence base for septoplasty clinical effectiveness is hitherto very limited.

Aims

To establish, and inform guidance for, the best management strategy for individuals with nasal obstruction associated with a deviated septum.

Methods/design

A multicentre, mixed-methods, open label, randomised controlled trial of septoplasty versus medical management for adults with a deviated septum and a reduced nasal airway. Eligible patients will have septal deflection visible at nasendoscopy and a nasal symptom score ≥ 30 on the NOSE questionnaire. Surgical treatment comprises septoplasty with or without reduction of the inferior nasal turbinate on the anatomically wider side of the nose. Medical management comprises a nasal saline spray followed by a fluorinated steroid spray daily for six months. The recruitment target is 378 patients, recruited from up to 17 sites across Scotland, England and Wales. Randomisation will be on a 1:1 basis, stratified by gender and severity (NOSE score). Participants will be followed up for 12 months post randomisation. The primary outcome measure is the total SNOT-22 score at 6 months. Clinical and economic outcomes will be modelled against baseline severity (NOSE scale) to inform clinical decision-making. The study includes a recruitment enhancement process, and an economic evaluation.

Discussion

The NAIROS trial will evaluate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of septoplasty versus medical management for adults with a deviated septum and symptoms of nasal blockage. Identifying those individuals most likely to benefit from surgery should enable more efficient and effective clinical decision-making, and avoid unnecessary operations where there is low likelihood of patient benefit.

Trial registration

EudraCT: 2017–000893-12, ISRCTN:16168569. Registered on 24 March 2017.
Evaluation of fluralaner as an oral acaricide to reduce tick infestation in a wild rodent reservoir of Lyme disease
Authors: Pelletier Jérôme , Rocheleau Jean-Philippe , Aenishaenslin Cécile , Beaudry Francis , Dimitri Masson Gabrielle , Lindsay L. Robbin , Ogden Nicholas H. , Bouchard Catherine , Leighton Patrick A.
Published: February 2020

Background

Lyme disease (LD) is an increasing public health threat in temperate zones of the northern hemisphere, yet relatively few methods exist for reducing LD risk in endemic areas. Disrupting the LD transmission cycle in nature is a promising avenue for risk reduction. This experimental study evaluated the efficacy of fluralaner, a recent oral acaricide with a long duration of effect in dogs, for killing Ixodes scapularis ticks in Peromyscus maniculatus mice, a known wildlife reservoir for Borrelia burgdorferi in nature.

Methods

We assigned 87 mice to 3 fluralaner treatment groups (50 mg/kg, 12.5 mg/kg and untreated control) administered as a single oral treatment. Mice were then infested with 20 Ixodes scapularis larvae at 2, 28 and 45 days post-treatment and we measured efficacy as the proportion of infesting larvae that died within 48 h. At each infestation, blood from 3 mice in each treatment group was tested to obtain fluralaner plasma concentrations (Cp).

Results

Treatment with 50 mg/kg and 12.5 mg/kg fluralaner killed 97% and 94% of infesting larvae 2 days post-treatment, but no significant effect of treatment on feeding larvae was observed 28 and 45 days post-treatment. Mouse Cp did not differ significantly between the two tested doses. Mean Cp decreased from 13,000 ng/ml in the 50 mg/kg group and 4000 ng/ml in the 12.5 mg/kg group at Day 2 to < 100 ng/ml in both groups at Day 45.

Conclusions

We provide the first evidence that fluralaner is effective for killing immature ticks in Peromyscus mice, a first step in evaluating its potential for treating wild rodents as a public health intervention to reduce LD risk in endemic areas.
Analysis of the model of HIV-1 infection of $CD4^{+}$ T-cell with a new approach of fractional derivative
Authors: Baleanu Dumitru , Mohammadi Hakimeh , Rezapour Shahram
Published: February 2020

By using the fractional Caputo–Fabrizio derivative, we investigate a new version for the mathematical model of HIV. In this way, we review the existence and uniqueness of the solution for the model by using fixed point theory. We solve the equation by a combination of the Laplace transform and homotopy analysis method. Finally, we provide some numerical analytics and comparisons of the results.
Sex-differences in fine-scale home-range use in an upper-trophic level marine predator
Authors: Lidgard D. C. , Bowen W. D. , Iverson S. J.
Published: February 2020

Background

The distribution of prey in the ocean is spatially and temporally patchy. How predators respond to this prey patchiness may have consequences on their foraging success, and thus physical condition. The recent ability to record fine-scale movements of marine animals combined with novel home-range analyses that incorporate the dimension of time should permit a better understanding of how individuals utilise different regions of space and the consequences on their foraging success.

Methods

Over a six-year study, we used T-LoCoH (Time-Local Convex Hull) home-range software to model archival GPS (Global Positioning System) data from 81 grey seals to investigate the fine-scale spatio-temporal use of space and the distribution of apparent foraging effort. Regions of home-ranges were classified according to the frequency of return visits (site fidelity) and duration of visits (intensity of use). Generalized linear mixed -effects models were used to test hypotheses on seasonal changes in foraging distribution and behaviour and the role of space-use and state on determining foraging success.

Results

Male grey seals had larger home-ranges and core areas than females, and both sexes showed a contraction in home-range and core area in fall leading up to the breeding season compared with summer. Heavier individuals had smaller core areas than lighter ones, suggesting access to higher quality habitat might be limited to those individuals with greater foraging experience and competitive ability. The size of the home-range or core area was not an important predictor of the rate of mass gain. A fine-scale spatio-temporal analysis of habitat use within the home-range provided evidence of intra-annual site fidelity at presumed foraging locations, suggesting predictably in prey distribution. Neither sex nor season were useful predictors for classifying behaviour. Rather, individual identity explained much of the variation in fine-scale behaviour.

Conclusions

Understanding how upper-trophic level marine predators use space provides opportunities to explore the consequences of variation in foraging tactics and their success on fitness. Having knowledge of the drivers that shape this intraspecific variation can contribute toward predicting how these predators may respond to both natural and man-made environmental forcing.
New treatments for canvas consolidation and conservation
Authors: Böhme Nadine , Anders Manfred , Reichelt Tobias , Schuhmann Katharina , Bridarolli Alexandra , Chevalier Aurelia
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to develop new, sustainable treatments for the consolidation and conservation of canvas of modern and contemporary art. Because of the diversity of painting types, two product groups which have polar and nonpolar character were developed. The treatment should be applicable to the back side of the canvas. The deacidification agents are sub-µm-particles of calcium carbonate or magnesium oxide which are dispersed in water or heptane. The polar components are hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose and nanocrystalline cellulose which are biopolymers derived from renewable raw materials. The nonpolar products were obtained by the silylation of the raw materials and allow the solubility in nonpolar solvents as heptane. Each product was applied to highly degraded, acidic model cotton canvas as well as canvas from real paintings. The application of these products showed a good increase of breaking force at a low increase of the mass of the canvas and also had only slight optical changes of the canvas. The deacidification of canvasses is a good preventive measure and can protect canvasses from future damage by acidity. The deacidification agents showed an increase of pH from acidic to alkaline after the treatment and a deposition of an alkaline reserve.
A conceptual framework for teaching computational thinking in personalized OERs
Authors: Moon Jewoong , Do Jaewoo , Lee Daeyeoul , Choi Gi Woong
Published: February 2020

Interests towards teaching programming skills have risen recently in the realm of computing education. Learning how to program not only enables learners to develop computing applications, but it can also enhance learners’ computational thinking (CT) practice. CT refers to learners’ ability to approach ill-structured tasks systematically based on algorithmic thinking in computing. Along with growing academic interests towards CT in recent studies, researchers have emphasized the role of teaching programming in facilitating learners’ problem-solving skills. Emerging OERs have expanded learners’ opportunities to engage in hands-on programming exercises; yet a challenge still remains as to how learners’ programming exercises can be tailored to accommodate individual differences in terms of learners’ digital literacy skills. There is still a lack of in-depth discussions on how to support learners’ personalized learning experiences during programming exercises associated with CT. This study hence proposes a conceptual framework that seeks to consider how to promotelearners’ personalized learning experiences and enhance their CT skills in OERs. Through extensive reviewing of literature, this study provides several implications for further research.
“I was seen by a radiologist, but unfortunately I can’t remember the name and I still have questions. What should I do?” Radiologists should give thoughts to improve service professionalism and patient esteem
Authors: Gutzeit Andreas , Fischmann Arne , Forstner Rosemarie , Goette Romana , Herzog Bernhard , Kurtz Claudia , Hebler Chantal , Ladinger Andrea , Froehlich Johannes M , Blautzik Janusch , Kolokythas Orpheus , Matoori Simon , Kos Sebastian , Reischauer Carolin , Schefer Hubert , Dubsky Peter , Gampenrieder Simon Peter , Hergan Klaus , Gaissmaier Wolfgang , Koh Dow-Mu , Meissnitzer Matthias
Published: February 2020

Background

The aim of the study is to investigate how well patients remember the radiologist’s name after a radiological examination, and whether giving the patient a business card improves the patient’s perception of the radiologist’s professionalism and esteem.

Methods

In this prospective and randomized two-centre study, a total of 141 patients with BI-RADS 1 and 2 scores were included. After screening examination comprising mammography and ultrasound by a radiologist, 71 patients received a business card (group 1), while 70 received no business card (group 2). Following the examination, patients were questioned about their experiences.

Results

The patients in group 1 could remember the name of the radiologist in 85% of cases. The patients in group 2, in contrast, could only remember the name in 7% of cases (p < 0.001). 90% of the patients in group 1 believed it was very important that they are able to contact the radiologist at a later time, whereas only 76% of patients in group 2 felt that this was a very important service (p < 0.025). A total of 87% of the patients in group 1 indicated that they would contact the radiologist if they had any questions whereas 73% of the patients in group 2 would like to contact the radiologist but were not able to do so, because they could not remember the name (p < 0.001).

All questions were analysed with a Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel (CMH) test that took study centre as stratification into account. In some cases, two categories were collapsed to avoid zero cell counts.

Conclusions

Using business cards significantly increased the recall of the radiologist’s name and could be an important tool in improving the relationships between patients and radiologists and enhancing service professionalism.

Trial registration

We have a general approval from our ethics committee. The patients have given their consent to this study.
Improved genetic distance-based spatial deployment can effectively minimize inbreeding in seed orchard
Authors: Yang Boning , Sun Haihong , Qi Jiandong , Niu Shihui , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Li Wei
Published: February 2020

Background

Inbreeding in seed orchards is expected to increase with the advancement of breeding cycles, which results in the delivery of crops with suboptimal genetic gain, reduced genetic diversity, and lower seed set. Here, a genetic distance-dependent method for clonal spatial deployment in seed orchards was developed and demonstrated, which reduced the inbreeding levels. The method’s main evaluation parameter of inbreeding is the genetic distance among individuals and the deployment method used an improved adaptive parallel genetic algorithm (IAPGA) based on Python language. Using inbreeding-prone Chinese Mongolian pine breeding population material originating from a single natural population, the proposed method was compared to a traditional orchard design and a distance-based design; namely, complete randomized block (RCB) and optimum neighborhood (ONA) designs, respectively.

Results

With the advancement of selective breeding cycles, group separation among orchard related individuals is expected to increase. Based on the genetic distance among individuals, the IAPGA design was superior in significantly reducing the inbreeding level as compared to the two existing designs, confirming its suitability to advanced-generation orchards where relatedness among parents is common. In the 1st, 2nd, and mixed generations clonal deployment schemes, the IAPGA design produced lower inbreeding with 87.22%, 81.49%, and 87.23% of RCB, and 92.78%, 91.30%, and 91.67% of ONA designs, respectively.

Conclusions

The IAPGA clonal deployment proposed in this study has the obvious advantage of controlling inbreeding, and it is expected to be used in clonal deployment in seed orchards on a large-scale. Further studies are needed to focus on the actual states of pollen dispersal and mating in seed orchards, and more assumptions should be taken into account for the optimized deployment method.
Successful management of an infant with hypertensive heart failure associated with Wilms’ tumor: a case report
Authors: Miura Hiroko , Kawana Shin , Sugino Shigekazu , Kikuchi Chika , Yamauchi Masanori
Published: February 2020

Background

Wilms’ tumor with hyperreninemia may result in critical cardiovascular decompensation. We report a case of severe hypertensive heart failure followed by tumor resection in a 3-month-old infant with Wilms’ tumor.

Case presentation

A 3-month-old girl was admitted to the intensive care unit for Wilms’ tumor with hypertension and hypoxia. Her systolic blood pressure was 110 mmHg, and her SpO2 was 92%. She presented with severe hypertensive heart failure and received mechanical ventilation and antihypertensive therapy for hypertension and heart failure. An alpha 2-adrenergic receptor agonist was used for sedation as part of her antihypertensive therapy. On hospital day 16, nephrectomy with tumor resection was performed under general anesthesia. Her systolic blood pressure did not vary more than 20 mmHg during surgery due to appropriate preoperative management. Hemodynamic collapse did not occur.

Conclusions

The highlight of this case report is the successful management of an infant with Wilms’ tumor, particularly with respect to preoperative hemodynamic control and sedation.
A clinical nomogram for the prediction of early mortality in elderly patients initiating dialysis for end-stage renal disease
Authors: Yoshida Masaki , Otsuka Masanori , Watanabe Yoshikazu , Harigai Takako , Sakurai Noriyuki , Kobatake Keiko , Yoshida Hiroaki , Kobayashi Satsuki , Matsumoto Takayuki , Sakamoto Tatsuhiko , Ueki Kazue
Published: February 2020

Background

The number of elderly patients (> 80 years of age) with end-stage renal disease is rapidly increasing. The initiation of dialysis extends the duration of survival; however, the rate of early mortality, that which occurs within the first few months after the initiation of dialysis, is reportedly higher than the rate of late mortality.

Methods

We retrospectively studied a cohort of 300 patients, aged 80 years or older, in whom dialysis was initiated between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2017, at TOHO Hospital (Gunma, Japan). The rate of early mortality was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the equivalence of survival curves was tested using log-rank tests. The univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using the Cox proportional hazards model. To evaluate nomogram performance, we assessed both the discrimination and calibration of these models. Two hundred bootstrap resamples were used for internal validation of the accuracy estimates to reduce overfit bias and to determine 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The nomogram was built using the following nine predictors: serum albumin grams per deciliter (hazard ratio [HR] 0.63, p < 0.001), congestive heart failure (HR 1.81, p = 0.004), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR 2.47, p = 0.014), peripheral vascular disease (HR 2.03, p = 0.019), hemiplegia (HR 2.06, p = 0.001), malignant tumors (no metastasis; HR 2.00, p < 0.001), metastatic malignant tumors (HR 4.67, p = 0.006), cardiovascular disease (HR 1.59, p = 0.002), bone fractures due to falls within 1 year (HR 1.85, p = 0.011), and Karnofsky Performance Status (HR 0.98, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

We developed and validated a nomogram that predicts early mortality in elderly patients at the initiation of dialysis for end-stage renal disease. The nomogram may help nephrologists make a shared decision with patients and families regarding the initiation of dialysis.
Detection of airway protective level of the cough reflex in acute stroke patients
Authors: Belal Ehab Shaker , Selim Samah , Aboul fotouh Alshaimaa M. , Mohammad Asmaa
Published: February 2020

Background

The most common respiratory complications in cerebrovascular strokes were respiratory infection, pulmonary edema, acute lung injury (ALI) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and pulmonary embolism (PE). The inhalation cough challenge facilitates the quantification of cough.

Objectives

To detect the level of cough reflex that is enough to protect against respiratory infection in stroke patients, and to identify predictors of post-stroke respiratory infection.

Patients and methods

One hundred and one of cerebrovascular stroke patients were assessed in the first week of symptoms by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) Arabic version, Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (MASA), cough challenge test, cough flow meter, and A2DS2 score. Then, follow up after 1 week.

Results

Post-stroke respiratory infection was higher in older patients and those who were not working. Respiratory infection was significantly associated with high A2DS2 and NIHSS score (p value < 0.001). A highly significant increase in the levels of the inflammatory markers was detected in patients with a respiratory infection. Eighty percent of stroke patients with no cough developed a respiratory infection. The Mann total scores and the peak cough flow were lower in patients who had a respiratory infection.

Conclusion

Preserved cough reflex is essential in preventing aspirations and consequent respiratory infections.
Recurrent priapism in the setting of cannabis use
Authors: Montgomery Sebastian , Sirju Kristal , Bear Joseph , Ganti Latha , Shivdat John
Published: February 2020

Priapism (persistent and painful erection of the penis) is a notable urological emergency, with over 90% of those remaining erect for 24 h losing sexual function. Drug-induced priapism is common in the adult population, with intracavernosal injectables for erectile dysfunction topping the list. A variety of illicit drugs associated with priapism have been described; however, we are not aware of any other case reports showing cannabis alone as the inciting factor. Here, we present a case of a healthy 32-year-old African American man with a history of stuttering (recurrent) priapism secondary to mild cannabis substance use without comorbid substance use, licit or illicit.
Maternal Larp6 controls oocyte development, chorion formation and elevation
Authors: Hau Hoi Ting A. , Ogundele Oluwaseun , Hibbert Andrew H. , Monfries Clinton A. L. , Exelby Katherine , Wood Natalie J. , Nevarez-Mejia Jessica , Carbajal M. Alejandra , Fleck Roland A. , Dermit Maria , Mardakheh Faraz K. , Williams-Ward Victoria C. , Pipalia Tapan G. , Conte Maria R. , Hughes Simon M.
Published: February 2020

La-related protein6 (Larp6) is a conserved RNA binding protein found across eukaryotes that has been suggested to regulate collagen biogenesis, muscle development, ciliogenesis and various aspects of cell proliferation and migration. Zebrafish have two Larp6 family genes, larp6a and larp6b. In situ hybridisation revealed significant expression of both genes in early embryos, followed by decline of larp6b mRNA by gastrulation stages, whereas larp6a mRNA showed widespread low-level expression throughout the first few days of life. To test the role of Larp6 proteins, genome editing generated predicted nonsense mutations in the first coding exon of each gene, and breeding yielded viable and fertile single and double homozygous mutants. Contrary to expectation, analysis of muscle structure revealed no defects and mutant fish grew and behaved indistinguishably from heterozygous or wild type siblings. No phenotypes similar to collagen or ciliogenesis mutants were observed. Zygotic mutants lacking all wild type Larp6 activity displayed no apparent phenotype and were viable and fertile. However, larp6a mutant females produced defective eggs with chorions that failed to elevate fully and were fragile. Eggs from larp6b single mutant females showed minor chorion defects, but chorions from eggs laid by larp6a;larp6b double mutant females were more defective than those from larp6a single mutant females. Electron microscopy revealed defective chorionogenesis during oocyte development. Nevertheless, maternal zygotic single and double mutants were viable and fertile despite defective chorions and misshapen and constricted early embryogenesis. Mass spectrometry analysis of chorions provided an initial description of chorion protein composition and revealed significant reductions in a subset of zona pellucida and lectin-type proteins between wild type and mutant chorions that paralleled the severity of the phenotype. We conclude that Larp6 proteins are required for normal oocyte development, chorion formation and egg activation.
Value of ambroxol in the treatment of asthmatic bronchitis
Authors: Du Xiaoxia , Zhao Chengyan , Liu Shiqing , Su Shufen
Published: February 2020

Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of ambroxol in the treatment of asthmatic bronchitis.

Methods: One hundred and twenty patients with asthmatic bronchitis who were admitted to our hospital from June 2017 to August 2018 were selected as the research subjects and divided into a control group and an observation group according to random number table method, 60 in each group. The control group was treated with conventional treatment, while the observation group was treated with ambroxol in addition to conventional treatment. The therapeutic effect, disappearance time of symptoms and signs and the recovery of pulmonary function were compared between the two groups.

Results: The total effective rate of the observation group was 96.7%, and that of the control group was 73.3%. The control effect of the observation group was significantly better than that of the control group, showing a significant difference (P<0.05). The disappearance time of symptoms of the observation group was shorter than that of the control group, and the recovery of pulmonary function was better; the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion: For asthmatic bronchitis patients, addition of ambroxol to conventional treatment can improve the therapeutic effect, shorten the disappearance time of clinical signs and symptoms, and promote the recovery of patients, which is worth clinical application.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.3.1607

How to cite this:Du X, Zhao C, Liu S, Su S. Value of ambroxol in the treatment of asthmatic bronchitis. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(3):501-504.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.3.1607

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Assessment of attitudes of patients with psychiatric disorders regarding electroconvulsive therapy as a treatment option
Authors: Khan Ghaazaan , Nazar Zahid , Ul-Haq Mian Mukhtiar , Hussain Mian Iftikhar
Published: February 2020

Objective: To assess the attitudes of psychiatric patients towards electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a treatment modality.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st January, 2017 to 15th April, 2018 in Department of Psychiatry, MTI, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. It comprised of total 154 patients, having previous experience with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) who were selected through a non-probability consecutive sampling. Their attitude was assessed by their responses to 15 questions on a Likert Scale, each question scoring 01-05 with a summed up cut-off score of 45 points. Score over 45 points is considered positive and below 45 as negative while those scoring exactly 45 points were considered as having Ambivalent attitude towards ECT.

Results: Of all, 73% patients revealed positive and 27% negative attitude towards ECT. Mean age of the sample was 35 years. Out of all patients, 67.5% were males & 32.5% females, 73% were married & 27% unmarried, 47% were illiterate & 53% variably educated, 43% were employed while 57% were unemployed.

Conclusion: A significant majority of the patients accepted ECT as an effective treatment modality. However, to make the procedure more acceptable, it may be made more effective and safe to the expectations of the patients and medical professionals for better outcomes.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.3.1637

How to cite this:Khan G, Nazar Z, Ul-Haq MM, Hussain MI. Assessment of attitudes of patients with psychiatric disorders regarding electroconvulsive therapy as a treatment option. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(3):565-568. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.3.1637

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.