bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiographic Outcomes of Immobilization using Boston Brace for Pediatric Spondylolysis
Authors: Virkki E. , Holstila M. , Mattila K. , Pajulo O. , Helenius I.
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims:

Spondylolysis is a common cause of lower back pain during youth. The aim of this study is to report the bony union rate and risk factors for non-union of the lumbar spondylolysis of pediatric patients treated with a rigid thoracolumbosacral orthosis (Boston brace).

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review of 68 children (mean age = 13.9 years) treated for spondylolysis with a thoracolumbosacral orthosis. Patient charts and imaging studies were evaluated to identify the bony union rate of the spondylolysis after a minimum of 3 months of immobilization (mean = 4.2 months). Laterality, grade, level, and presence of high signal intensity in the magnetic resonance imaging were evaluated as prognostic factors.

Results:

Sixty-eight patients presented with 110 defects. Of them, 46 (42%) were incomplete fractures, 38 (35%) complete fractures, and 26 (24%) pseudoarthrosis. Of these defects, 38 (82.6%), 11 (28.9%), and 0 (0.0%) had bony union at the end of the treatment (p < 0.001). Unilateral defects healed significantly better than bilateral ones (relative risk = 1.71, 95% confidence interval = 1.16–2.54, 17/26 (65%) vs 32/84 (38%), p = 0.014). High signal intensity in the magnetic resonance images before the treatment predicted healing (relative risk = 13.24, 95% confidence interval = 1.93–91.01, 48/87 (55%) vs 1/24 (4.3%), p < 0.001). The level of the spondylolysis (L5 vs above L5) did not affect the healing rate.

Conclusion:

The union rates of spondylolysis with a thoracolumbosacral orthosis were similar as compared to earlier studies done with a low thoracolumbosacral orthosis. The grade of the defect, laterality, and presence of high signal intensity increased the probability of bony union. A high thoracolumbosacral orthosis (underarm) does not seem to improve the healing rate of pediatric spondylolysis defects.
Use of videos in the Information and Communication Technology Massive Open Online Course: Insights for learning and development of transformative digital agency with pre- and in-service teachers in Norway
Authors: Engeness Irina , Nohr Magnus , Singh Ammar Bahadur , Mørch Anders
Published: January 2020

This study examines how videos may support participants’ learning in the Information and Communication Technology Massive Open Online Course (ICTMOOC) aimed to develop digital skills with pre- and in-service teachers in Norway and provides an insight into how teachers’ interactions with videos may contribute to enhancing their agentic capacity to learn and transformative digital agency. Analyses of participants’ interactions with the videos are located in the cultural-historical theory and draw on Galperin’s conceptualisation of learning processes.

The data consisted of 501 participants’ responses to the questionnaire administered to all pre- and in-service teachers engaged in the ICTMOOC in 2014–2018. Mixed methods were applied to analyse the data by providing quantitative and qualitative evidence about the processes of video use.

Findings reveal the patterns of participants’ interactions with videos: (a) seeking explicit information about how to engage in learning; (b) seeking assistance while engaged with the assigned tasks; (c) support to compare learning outcomes with the requirements outlined in the videos. In doing so, the videos provided orienting, executive and controlling support and might have contributed to enhancing participants’ capacity to learn in digital environments and their transformative digital agency. The majority of participants used videos for executive support and the learners preferred videos in the range of 5–10 min. By providing these types of support by the videos, a learning activity carries a new function as a tool for studying the essence of learning in digital environments.

These findings have implications for the design of videos in online courses. They also emphasise the crucial importance of awareness about the type of support videos provide to enhance participants’ learning in digital environments.
The Effect of Diversity Climate on Institutional Affiliation/Pride and Intentions to Stay and Graduate: A Comparison of Latinx and Non-Latinx White Students
Authors: Gavino Monica C. , Akinlade Ekundayo
Published: January 2020

This study analyzed student perceptions of diversity climate factors in a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). The climate of respect, perceived value of diversity on campus, and interracial interactions with faculty and staff were explored to determine their effects on institutional affiliation/pride and intentions to remain and graduate. Results indicated that the three factors of diversity climate affect institutional affiliation/pride and intentions to stay and graduate for Latinx students.
Rights, Wrongs, and Remedies for Inclusive Education for Students with Significant Support Needs: Professional Development, Research, and Policy Reform
Authors: Turnbull Ann , Turnbull Rud
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this article is to respond to the perspectives of Agran and colleagues concerning barriers to general education placement for students with significant support needs from an “on the ground” lens of participation in mediations and due process hearings, as well as conversations with parental inclusion advocates throughout the country. We focus on rights, wrongs, and remedies regarding three key issues: (a) strengthening professional development, (b) conducting and disseminating research on inclusive practices, and (c) reforming policy for stronger implementation and accountability.
Effects of a Perioperative Safety Checklist on Postoperative Complications Following Surgery for Gastric Cancer: A Single-Center Preliminary Study
Authors: Yu Deliang , Zhao Qingchuan
Published: January 2020

Objective. A Perioperative Safety Checklist (PSC) for gastric cancer (GC) was established to evaluate the effects of PSC on the clinical outcomes of GC. Methods. This single-center preliminary observational study conducted at a tertiary referral hospital included patients with GC who underwent surgery from January 1, 2016, to June 30, 2016, treated without PSC (allocated to the control group) and those who underwent surgery between January 1, 2017, and June 30, 2017, managed according to the PSC designated as the PSCGC (Perioperative Safety Checklist for Gastric Cancer) group. Results. Overall, 1072 cases were enrolled, 556 cases in PSCGC group and 526 cases in control group. After matching, there were 474 patients in each group. PSC intervention led to significant reductions of the incidence of postoperative intestinal fistula formation ( P = .034), the incidence of unplanned secondary surgery ( P = 0.039), and the total hospitalization expenses ( P < .001). Total completion rate of all 14 checklists items was 79.1%. Intraoperative blood loss in the complete and partial implementation groups was significantly lower than the complete nonimplementation group ( P = .002), whereas hospitalization cost showed an opposite trend, which was significantly higher in the incomplete nonimplementation group ( P = .015). Conclusion. PSC implementation was associated with a decreased incidence of gastrointestinal fistula formation, unplanned secondary surgery, and hospitalization cost in patients with GC. However, it had no effect on the in-hospital mortality, the incidence of postoperative complications during hospitalization (ie, incision complications and lung infections), unplanned secondary admission, and the duration of postoperative hospital stay.
The Morrison County School District: Issues Involving Employee Misconduct
Authors: Heisler William , Hanlin Lesa
Published: January 2020

A school principal has been placed on administrative leave for allegedly having sexual relations on school property after hours with a member of the county sheriff’s department. The principal denies the allegations but, in an effort to get his job back, the deputy confesses to the affair. The school district says that the case is under investigation. The case has also been referred to the State Department of Education for review.
Early Clinical Experiences of Robotic Assisted Aortic Valve Replacement for Aortic Valve Stenosis with Sutureless Aortic Valve
Authors: Nagaoka Eiki , Gelinas Jill , Vola Marco , Kiaii Bob
Published: January 2020

Robotic assisted aortic valve surgery is still challenging and debatable. We retrospectively reviewed our cases of robotic assisted aortic valve replacement utilizing sutureless aortic valve with following surgical technique: 3 ports, 1 for endoscope and 2 for the robotic arms were inserted in the right chest and da Vinci Si robotic system (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) was adapted to these ports. Cardiopulmonary bypass was initiated through peripheral cannulations. A vent cannula was placed through the right superior pulmonary vein and a cardioplegia cannula in the ascending aorta. After cardioplegic arrest following aortic cross-clamp, the aortic valve was exposed through a clam shell aortotomy. Valvectomy along with decalcification was performed. Next using 3 guiding sutures the Perceval S valve (LivaNova, London, UK) was parachuted down and deployed. After confirming valve position, the aortotomy was closed. There were no major complications during the procedures and no conversion to sternotomy. Exposure of aortic valve was of high quality. Valvectomy required assistance with long scissors by the bedside surgeon for excision of the severely calcified valve cusps and effective decalcification of annulus. Postoperative convalescence was uncomplicated except for postoperative atrial fibrillation in 1 patient. Robotic assistance in aortic valve procedure enabled excellent exposure of the aortic valve and improved manipulation and suturing of the aortic annulus and aorta. There needs to be improvement of instrumentation for valve debridement and removal of calcium from the annulus. In addition, the sutureless valve technology contributes to the feasibility and the efficacy of this procedure.
Hybrid Minimally Invasive Approach for Combined Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease and Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Pirelli Luigi , Patel Nirav C. , Scheinerman Jacob S. , Brinster Derek R. , Hemli Jonathan M. , Basman Craig , Kliger Chad A.
Published: January 2020

Objective

There is a high prevalence of concomitant coronary artery disease (CAD) and aortic stenosis (AS), and these conditions can be treated with a variety of invasive and/or percutaneous approaches. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of a staged transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) after a hybrid minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass surgery (MIDCAB) to treat combined complex CAD and AS.

Methods

Six patients with concomitant CAD and severe AS underwent staged treatment of their CAD with MIDCAB and TAVR. All patients had significant complex left main or left anterior descending artery (LAD) stenosis deemed to be not amenable to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Results

The average syntax score was 22±8 and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons score for surgical AVR was 8±3%. All patients underwent a single vessel MIDCAB for revascularization of the LAD (three patients required additional PCI for non-LAD disease). Two patients had pre-TAVR balloon aortic valvuloplasty and one patient also required treatment of severe mitral valve regurgitation with percutaneous edge-to-edge repair (the MitraClip). There was no intraprocedural or hospital mortality. No neurological deficits or vascular complications were recorded.

Conclusions

A hybrid staged approach for combined complex CAD and severe AS with MIDCAB, PCI, and TAVR is a valid option in high-risk patients. The order and timing of these procedures must be tailored to the patient’s clinical symptoms, stability, and severity of disease.
Health Behavior Change Following Stroke: Recommendations for Adapting the Diabetes Prevention Program–Group Lifestyle Balance Program
Authors: Bailey Ryan R. , Stevenson Jennifer L. , Driver Simon , McShan Evan
Published: January 2020

Objective. History of stroke increases risk for recurrent stroke, which is a significant issue faced by survivors. The Diabetes Prevention Program–Group Lifestyle Balance (DPP-GLB) program is an effective lifestyle modification intervention for ameliorating cardiovascular risk factors but has not been adapted to account for common stroke-related deficits. The purpose of this study was to determine appropriate adaptations to the DPP-GLB for adults with stroke. Design and Methods. In this phenomenological qualitative study, a total of 15 community-dwelling adults with stroke and 10 care-partners participated in 4 focus groups to review DPP-GLB curriculum materials and provide recommendations for adaptation. Focus groups were recorded and transcribed. Inductive content analysis was used to identify key themes. Results. Three themes were identified. First, physical, cognitive, sensory, and psychosocial stroke-related deficits could affect DPP-GLB participation. Second, existing DPP-GLB characteristics could facilitate participation by adults with stroke. Third, stroke-specific adaptations were recommended, including modified session content and format, adapted physical activity and dietary recommendations, and inclusion of care-partners. Conclusion. Current DPP-GLB content and structure may be insufficient to meet the unique needs of adults with stroke. The suggested adaptations should be incorporated into a stroke-specific curriculum and tested for preliminary efficacy for reducing recurrent stroke risk.
Using Grounded Theory to Understand a Cutting-Edge Issue: Effects of Integrative Tactics on Chinese Gay Men’s and Lesbians’ Social Well-Being
Authors: Ning Xuan , Cheung Chau-Kiu , Guo Sijia
Published: January 2020

This study aims to demonstrate how grounded theory can be used to explore and analyze negotiation processes between self-identified gay men and lesbians and their parents. For a majority of Chinese gay men and lesbians, marriage proves to be the primary concern that drives negotiations with parents. Extant research documents the precarious consequences of gay men’s and lesbians’ social well-being yielded by these negotiations, which primarily employ distributive negotiating tactics. As integrative tactics prove to be conducive to favorable outcomes, their application in same-sex children’s negotiation with parents informs the present study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 25 Chinese participants (15 gay men and 10 lesbian women). Grounded theory analysis of interviewee data identified a grounded theory of soft-power-based negotiation, which illustrated detailed negotiation processes between gay men and lesbians and their parents and critical conditions mediating this process. The grounded theory elaborated concrete soft-power bases and integrative tactics used by participants and their parents. Conditions for integrative tactics to sustain gay men and lesbians’ social well-being emerged. Results implied viable solutions for resolving conflicts between social minorities and social majorities in general.
“What’s He a Judge Of?”: Blood Meridian’s Paths of Law
Authors: Kirsch Geoffrey R.
Published: January 2020

This article reads Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian as a legal allegory. It focuses on the novel’s mysterious villain, Judge Holden, and traces three titular “paths of law.” First, it reads Blood Meridian as a self-deconstructing legal origin myth, arguing that the murderous but cultured Holden reveals the law’s tautological foundations by blurring Walter Benjamin’s binaries of “lawmaking” and “law-preserving” violence. Second, it construes the judge’s destructive pursuit of natural science as allegorizing the violence of legal interpretation, in which the validation of one interpretation entails the destruction of all others. Finally, it finds a counterpoise to Holden’s juridical violence in the cryptic epilogue, in which the possibility of meaning is not arbitrarily narrowed but endlessly proliferated.
Reliability of a toroidal connected-(r,s)-out-of-(m,n):F lattice system
Authors: Nakamura Taishin , Yamamoto Hisashi , Akiba Tomoaki
Published: January 2020

This article focuses on a toroidal connected-( r,s)-out-of-( m,n):F lattice system, which has m vertical circles and n horizontal circles, and the components are deployed at their intersections. This system fails if and only if the system has an [Formula: see text] sub-matrix where all components fail. It might be used to evaluate the reliability of a system with a toroidal structure, for example, toroidal storage tanks and neutron accelerators. The purpose of this article is to efficiently compute the reliability of the toroidal connected-( r,s)-out-of-( m,n):F lattice system. First, we propose a recursive method and then develop two kinds of algorithms based on this method. We apply an idea of preparing a set in a pre-processing phase to one algorithm, and consequently, the algorithm with the idea requires the extra memory space but has better time complexity compared with the other one. Finally, we investigate the efficiency of the two algorithms through numerical experiments.
Raised blood glucose due to heterozygous glucokinase gene mutation (GCK-MODY) diagnosed for the first time in pregnancy: The dilemmas and successful management – Case report and review of literature
Authors: Rengaraj Sasirekha , Thiyagalingam Sutharsika , Kathirvel Vimala , Delhikumar CG
Published: January 2020

Glucokinase mutation (GCK-MODY) is frequently misdiagnosed as either type I or type II diabetes mellitus, especially if presented for the first time during pregnancy. Generally GCK-MODY affects 1–2% of individuals with a diagnosis of diabetes. The defect in the glucose sensing mechanism in GCK-MODY results in a higher set point for maintenance of glucose homeostasis. Treatment is not recommended outside the pregnancy; however, in pregnancy, fetal abdominal circumference helps to decide about the likelihood of the fetus having inherited the condition and therefore whether insulin is required in pregnancy. We present a case in which GCK-MODY was diagnosed for the first time after pregnancy; the subsequent pregnancy was uneventful. Genetic testing is mandatory to establish the diagnosis. Here the implications of MODY and its subtypes, along with the pattern of inheritance and management aspects are discussed.
Learning patterns at three years old: Contributions of a learning trajectory and teaching itinerary
Authors: Inchaustegui Yeni Acosta , Alsina Ángel
Published: January 2020

The mathematics curricula of countries such as the United States, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand have started to incorporate the teaching of algebra in early childhood education. From this perspective, our study has two objectives: (a) to design a learning trajectory and teaching itinerary introducing patterns for children between the ages of three and four years old; and (b) to apply the previously validated learning trajectory and teaching itinerary to a group of 24 children between three and four years old from Spain. The results obtained through a design-based research methodology indicate that children recognize and represent seriations that follow a simple pattern in different teaching contexts. It is concluded that the trajectory and itinerary empower a specialized educational intervention to promote the initiation of algebraic thinking in early childhood education.
Changes in City-Level Foreclosure Rates and Home Prices through the Great Recession and Depressive Symptoms among Older Americans
Authors: Settels Jason
Published: January 2020

The changing economic fortunes of cities influence mental health. However, the mechanisms through which this occurs are underexplored. I address this gap by investigating the Great Recession of 2007-2009. Using the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project survey ( N = 1,341), I study whether rises in cities’ home foreclosure rates and declines in median home prices through the Great Recession increase older persons’ depressive symptoms. I also study possible mediation through household assets declines. I find that increases in cities’ home foreclosure rates and declines in median home prices increase depressive symptoms beyond the effects of personal financial losses. Results show no evidence of mediation through asset loses, suggesting effects through other channels. Supplementary analyses reveal less direct links between changes in city-level unemployment rates and median household incomes and changes in depressive symptoms.
Religiosity as a Cultural Resource for Arab-Palestinian Women’s Coping with Cancer
Authors: Almuhtaseb Mona I. A. , Alby Francesca , Zucchermaglio Cristina , Fatigante Marilena
Published: January 2020

Drawing on the discourse analysis of 36 in-depth interviews, this qualitative study explores how Arab-Palestinian women cope with breast cancer and ascribe meaning to their illness within the local religious and traditional cultural context. In particular, the study shows that religious beliefs and practices help Arab-Palestinian women to handle emotional and psychological difficulties while perpetuating traditional cultural norms of concealment. Two main functions of religiosity as a coping resource are analyzed by (a) managing distress and identity crisis and (b) changing the meaning of the illness experience. In this sociocultural context, the practice of religious rituals provides cancer patients with an effective and culturally situated instrument for coping with a deep existential crisis. Practical implications of the study are discussed in the conclusions.
Maturity Model for Supporting Graduates’ Early Careers Within Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Pažur Aničić Katarina , Divjak Blaženka
Published: January 2020

Recently, the employability of higher education graduates has been a topic of interest within many policy documents and scientific studies. Given the lack of comprehensive research identifying the implications of this issue for practice, this article presents a maturity model to support graduates’ early careers within higher education institutions (HEIs). The model is developed using a five-step approach, following the design science paradigm and exploiting four case studies across Europe. The final maturity model contains 65 practices within four key process areas—13 within strategic planning, 26 within curriculum design and delivery, 16 within student support, and 10 within the provision of extracurricular activities. In addition, a description of capability assessment criteria at the five maturity levels for each practice is provided. The model presented in this article can be used by HEIs as a tool to assess the maturity of their practices that contribute to graduates’ employability.
Do Gender, Discipline, and Mental Rotation Influence Orientation on “You-Are-Here” Maps
Authors: Campos Alfredo , Campos-Juanatey Diego
Published: January 2020

A common challenge people encounter in unfamiliar cities is finding their way using static maps. In the present study, we analyzed the relationship of a person’s mental rotation ability, college educational specialization (e.g., Architecture, Fine Arts, Psychology, and Business Studies), and sex with personal orientation when using “you-are-here” maps. We recruited a sample of 547 individuals, undergraduates who were tasked with orientation maps placed in different positions (e.g., 0º, 90º, and 180º). All three variables were related to the number of correct responses in orientation using these “you-are-here” maps. Participants with high mental rotation ability obtained significant higher correct orientations than those with low ability. Men obtained more correct orientations responses than women, and Architecture, Fine Arts, and Psychology undergraduates had more correct responses than Business Studies undergraduates.
Platelet-rich plasma versus hyaluronic acid in knee osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis with the consistent ratio of injection
Authors: Wu Qipeng , Luo Xuefen , Xiong Yuan , Liu Guohui , Wang Junwen , Chen Xi , Mi Bobin
Published: January 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an extremely common form of chronic joint disease which can affect the knees and other joints of older adults, leading to debilitating disability in the knee and consequent reduction in quality of life. Intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or hyaluronic acid (HA) injections are effective for maintaining long-term beneficial effects without increasing the risk of intra-articular infection. However, few studies have compared the relative value of HA and PRP for OA treatment. PRP is more effective than HA for OA treatment in recent studies of this topic. We systematically searched Medline, SpringerLink, Embase, Pubmed, Clinical Trials.gov, the Cochrane Library, and OVID for all articles published through May 2018. Any study was included that compared the effect of HA and PRP (consistent treatment cycle and frequency of injection) on patient’s pain levels and functionality improvements. Review Manager 5.3 was used to analyze data regarding these two primary outcomes. We included 10 total studies in the present meta-analysis. International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC; MD: 10.37, 95% confidence interval (CI): 9.13 to 11.62, p < 0.00001), Western Ontario and MacMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC; MD: −20.69, 95% CI: −24.50 to −16.89, p < 0.00001, I2 = 94%), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS; MD: −1.50, 95% CI: −1.61 to −1.38, p < 0.00001, I2 = 90%) differed significantly between the PRP and HA groups. Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOSs) did not differ significantly ( χ2 = 23.53, I2 = 41%, p = 0.11). Our hypothesis appears not to be confirmed because PRP and HA did not differ significantly with respect to KOOS score. However, the IKDC, WOMAC, and VAS scores differed significantly. Thus, based on the current evidence, PRP appears to be better than HA at achieving pain relief and self-reported functional improvement. Ia, meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Proximal Hamstring Repair: All-Suture Anchor Versus Titanium Suture Anchor
Authors: Otto Alexander , DiCosmo Alyssa M. , Baldino Joshua B. , Mehl Julian , Obopilwe Elifho , Cote Mark P. , Imhoff Andreas B. , Beitzel Knut , Mazzocca Augustus D. , Coyner Katherine
Published: January 2020

Background:

Proximal hamstring avulsions are severe tendon injuries and are commonly sports-related. Open and endoscopic techniques as well as different anchor configurations have already been described for proximal hamstring repair. Novel all-suture anchors have been developed to provide decreased bone loss during placement and reduced occupied bone volume when compared with titanium suture anchors.

Hypothesis:

Complete proximal hamstring avulsions repaired with all-suture anchors will demonstrate equal load to failure and comparable displacement under cyclic loading when compared with titanium suture anchors.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Complete proximal hamstring avulsions were created in 18 paired cadaveric specimens (mean ± SD age, 63.0 ± 10.4 years). Either all-suture anchors or titanium suture anchors were used for repair. Cyclic loading from 10 to 125 N at 1 Hz was performed for 1500 cycles with a material testing machine. Displacement was assessed along anterior and posterior aspects of the tendon repair with optical tracking. Specimens were loaded to failure at a rate of 120 mm/min. Displacement, load to failure, and repair construct stiffness were compared between matched pairs with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Correlations were determined by Spearman rho analysis.

Results:

The all-suture anchors showed significantly higher load-to-failure values when compared with the titanium anchor repairs (799.64 ± 257.1 vs 573.27 ± 89.9 N; P = .008). There was no significant difference in displacement between all-suture anchors and titanium suture anchors at the anterior aspect (6.60 ± 2.2 vs 5.49 ± 1.1 mm; P = .26) or posterior aspect (5.87 ± 2.08 vs 5.23 ± 1.37 mm; P = .678) of the repaired hamstring tendons.

Conclusion:

All-suture anchors demonstrated similar displacement and superior load to failure when compared with titanium suture anchors.

Clinical Relevance:

The results of this study suggest that all-suture anchors are an equivalent alternative to titanium suture anchors for proximal hamstring avulsion repair.
Santa Marta Urban Grammar: Unraveling the spontaneous occupation of Brazilian informal settlements
Authors: Verniz Debora , Duarte José P
Published: January 2020

The World experiences a significant growth in population coupled with fast urbanization processes particularly in the Southern hemisphere, which puts an enormous pressure on cities, giving rise to numerous social, infrastructural, ecological, and urban problems. In this context, the formal sector is often unable to provide adequate housing for this growing population who resorts to self-help processes that lead to informal settlements. This paper focuses on the development of an analytical shape grammar for Santa Marta, the iconic settlement used as a critical case study, whose rules describe the generation of the self-constructed urban fabric. The methodology includes an analysis of the built shape and the physical urban relations. The resulting model is a shape grammar that recreates the urban fabric of Santa Marta. Future work includes the evaluation of the settlement’s urban space and the corresponding transformation of the analytic grammar to generate a synthetic grammar for planning new housing settlements.
Medicine as microcosm: Pharmaceutical bioprospecting and the political epistemology of nature in industrial–capitalist and indigenous Amazonian societies
Authors: Tym Christian
Published: January 2020

Dynamics of economic and spatial rationalization are widely acknowledged characteristics of industrial–capitalist society, but the way in which these dynamics might shape the incorporation of so-called natural spaces into regimes of regulation and valuation is still being conceptualized in political ecology. Extending on the work of theorists who have documented and theorized the extension of neoliberal governance regimes over nature, this article argues that even the knowledge of nature produced in industrial–capitalist society is circumscribed by the biases inherent in its socio-cultural heritage. The argument, which can be described as a political epistemology of nature, is advanced by reference to medical science and industrial pharmacy, which has sought to understand and apprehend the value of nature via pharmaceutical bioprospecting research on medicinal plants. An analysis of one such project, pursued in the indigenous Aguaruna territory of the Peruvian Amazon, illustrates that the same processes of economic and spatial rationalization characteristic of industrial–capitalist society can be seen to recur in its production of knowledge about nature. Pharmaceutical bioprospecting evidences the extension of the rationalization of society and space to the molecular and genetic level, such that medicine becomes the microcosm to the macrocosm of industrial–capitalist society. The article goes on to compare the pharmaceutical industry’s epistemology of nature with non-profit research on indigenous people’s medicinal plants, and finally with the epistemology of nature evidenced in ancestral health-seeking practices of the Shuar, an indigenous Amazonian group bordering the Aguaruna. Drawing on the author’s fieldwork, a comparative analysis of these distinct epistemologies of nature is developed that illustrates a spectrum of constraints upon the agency of nature, each of which to differing extents pre-forms nature’s modes of action, at the same time as that action can never be fully determined by those constraints.
Environmental colonialism, digital indigeneity, and the politicization of resilience
Authors: Young Jason C
Published: January 2020

While there is wide scholarly agreement that anthropogenic climate change has serious global implications, more debate exists around whether discourses of adaptation and resilience are effective at inspiring the necessary politics for addressing those implications. Resilience-based policies have been criticized for being overly techno-bureaucratic in nature, while leaving intact the deeper colonial and neoliberal logics that produce ecological destruction in the first place. This paper examines the Internet as a tool that Indigenous peoples are using to intervene in discourses of resilience, to mitigate the colonial impact that resilience and adaptation policies have on their communities. It does this through an exploration of how Inuit in Canada are leveraging digital technologies to engage in discussions about hunting and climate change in the Arctic. The paper argues that Inuit are engaging in digital forms of politics to re-scale their vulnerability beyond the local, to highlight dimensions of Arctic resilience beyond the “traditional,” and to intervene in the colonial relationships that produce environmental vulnerability in the first place.
Dual-Mode On-to-Off Modulation of Plasmon-Induced Transparency and Coupling Effect in Patterned Graphene-Based Terahertz Metasurface
Authors: Liu Zhimin , Gao Enduo , Zhang Zhenbin , Li Hongjian , Xu Hui , Zhang Xiao , Luo Xin , Zhou Fengqi
Published: January 2020

The plasmon-induced transparency (PIT), which is destructive interference between the superradiation mode and the subradiation mode, is studied in patterned graphene-based terahertz metasurface composed of graphene ribbons and graphene strips. As the results of finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation and coupled-mode theory (CMT) fitting, the PIT can be dynamically modulated by the dual-mode. The left (right) transmission dip is mainly tailored by the gate voltage applied to graphene ribbons (stripes), respectively, meaning a dual-mode on-to-off modulator is realized. Surprisingly, an absorbance of 50% and slow-light property of 0.7 ps are also achieved, demonstrating the proposed PIT metasurface has important applications in absorption and slow-light. In addition, coupling effects between the graphene ribbons and the graphene strips in PIT metasurface with different structural parameters also are studied in detail. Thus, the proposed structure provides a new basis for the dual-mode on-to-off multi-function modulators.
An improved bind-n-seq strategy to determine protein-DNA interactions validated using the bacterial transcriptional regulator YipR
Authors: An Shi-qi , Valvano Miguel A. , Yu Yan-hua , Webb Jeremy S. , Lopez Campos Guillermo
Published: January 2020

Background

Interactions between transcription factors and DNA lie at the centre of many biological processes including DNA recombination, replication, repair and transcription. Most bacteria encode diverse proteins that act as transcription factors to regulate various traits. Several technologies for identifying protein–DNA interactions at the genomic level have been developed. Bind-n-seq is a high-throughput in vitro method first deployed to analyse DNA interactions associated with eukaryotic zinc-finger proteins. The method has three steps (i) binding protein to a randomised oligonucleotide DNA target library, (ii) deep sequencing of bound oligonucleotides, and (iii) a computational algorithm to define motifs among the sequences. The classical Bind-n-seq strategy suffers from several limitations including a lengthy wet laboratory protocol and a computational algorithm that is difficult to use. We introduce here an improved, rapid, and simplified Bind-n-seq protocol coupled with a user-friendly downstream data analysis and handling algorithm, which has been optimized for bacterial target proteins. We validate this new protocol by showing the successful characterisation of the DNA-binding specificities of YipR (YajQ interacting protein regulator), a well-known transcriptional regulator of virulence genes in the bacterial phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc).

Results

The improved Bind-n-seq approach identified several DNA binding motif sequences for YipR, in particular the CCCTCTC motif, which were located in the promoter regions of 1320 Xcc genes. Informatics analysis revealed that many of these genes regulate functions associated with virulence, motility, and biofilm formation and included genes previously found involved in virulence. Additionally, electromobility shift assays show that YipR binds to the promoter region of XC_2633 in a CCCTCTC motif-dependent manner.

Conclusion

We present a new and rapid Bind-n-seq protocol that should be useful to investigate DNA-binding proteins in bacteria. The analysis of YipR DNA binding using this protocol identifies a novel DNA sequence motif in the promoter regions of target genes that define the YipR regulon.
The pathogen Moniliophthora perniciosa promotes differential proteomic modulation of cacao genotypes with contrasting resistance to witches´ broom disease
Authors: dos Santos Everton Cruz , Pirovani Carlos Priminho , Correa Stephany Cristiane , Micheli Fabienne , Gramacho Karina Peres
Published: January 2020

Background

Witches’ broom disease (WBD) of cacao (Theobroma cacaoL.), caused byMoniliophthora perniciosa, is the most important limiting factor for the cacao production in Brazil. Hence, the development of cacao genotypes with durable resistance is the key challenge for control the disease. Proteomic methods are often used to study the interactions between hosts and pathogens, therefore helping classical plant breeding projects on the development of resistant genotypes. The present study compared the proteomic alterations between two cacao genotypes standard for WBD resistance and susceptibility, in response toM. perniciosainfection at 72 h and 45 days post-inoculation; respectively the very early stages of the biotrophic and necrotrophic stages of the cacao xM. perniciosainteraction.

Results

A total of 554 proteins were identified, being 246 in the susceptible Catongo and 308 in the resistant TSH1188 genotypes. The identified proteins were involved mainly in metabolism, energy, defense and oxidative stress. The resistant genotype showed more expressed proteins with more variability associated with stress and defense, while the susceptible genotype exhibited more repressed proteins. Among these proteins, stand out pathogenesis related proteins (PRs), oxidative stress regulation related proteins, and trypsin inhibitors. Interaction networks were predicted, and a complex protein-protein interaction was observed. Some proteins showed a high number of interactions, suggesting that those proteins may function as cross-talkers between these biological functions.

Conclusions

We present the first study reporting the proteomic alterations of resistant and susceptible genotypes in theT. cacaoxM. perniciosapathosystem. The important altered proteins identified in the present study are related to key biologic functions in resistance, such as oxidative stress, especially in the resistant genotype TSH1188, that showed a strong mechanism of detoxification. Also, the positive regulation of defense and stress proteins were more evident in this genotype. Proteins with significant roles against fungal plant pathogens, such as chitinases, trypsin inhibitors and PR 5 were also identified, and they may be good resistance markers. Finally, important biological functions, such as stress and defense, photosynthesis, oxidative stress and carbohydrate metabolism were differentially impacted withM. perniciosainfection in each genotype.
Women’s experiences of midwifery care immediately before and after caesarean section deliveries at a public Hospital in the Western Region of Ghana
Authors: Afaya Agani , Dzomeku Veronica Millicent , Baku Elizabeth A. , Afaya Richard Adongo , Ofori Mavis , Agyeibi Samuel , Boateng Frederick , Gamor Rosemond Ohwui , Gyasi-Kwofie Elsie , Mwini Nyaledzigbor Prudence P.
Published: January 2020

Background

Childbirth remains a uniquely multifaceted, mental-cognitive and a major life experience to women. It is composed of a variety of psycho social and emotional aspects and creates memories, sometimes bad experiences and unmet expectations which leaves the mother with lasting scars. Therefore, this study aimed at exploring post-caesarean section delivered mothers experiences of midwifery care in a public hospital in Ghana.

Methods

This descriptive exploratory qualitative research used an interpretative approach to explore mothers’ experiences of midwifery care immediately before and after caesarean section (CS). The study employed a purposive sampling technique in recruiting 22 participants who had knowledge of the phenomenon under study. Data collection was guided by an interview guide, which involved face to face individual interviews and focus group discussion at the postnatal ward and clinic. All interviews were audio-recorded and lasted 30–40 min. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and inductive thematic data analysis employed.

Results

Four major themes emerged from the analysis of participants’ transcripts: Support by Midwives (physical and psychological, and attitude towards patients’ pain management); Protection of mothers (provision of privacy, confidentiality and physical environment); Provision of information/communication (before caesarean section, and before a minor task) and midwives’ attitude (attitude towards delivery care).

Conclusion

Mothers delivered by caesarean section had varied experiences of midwifery care which were both positive and negative ones. Provision of psychological support and adequate pain management were positive experiences. The challenges experienced were related to provision of information, privacy, and physical support. Participants, who underwent emergency CS in particular, were dissatisfied with the provision of information concerning the surgical procedure. Provision of privacy and physical support were also issues of great concern. We therefore, recommend supportive and sensitive midwifery care particularly for mothers undergoing emergency CS. Documenting women’s diverse experiences of midwifery care before and after CS delivery is important to healthcare providers, hospital managers and policy makers as the feedback garnered can be used to improve maternity services and inform decisions on midwifery care.
TP53 and PTEN mutations were shared in concurrent germ cell tumor and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia
Authors: Akizuki Keiichi , Sekine Masaaki , Kogure Yasunori , Kameda Takuro , Shide Kotaro , Koya Junji , Kamiunten Ayako , Kubuki Yoko , Tahira Yuki , Hidaka Tomonori , Kiwaki Takumi , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Sato Yuichiro , Kataoka Hiroaki , Kataoka Keisuke , Shimoda Kazuya
Published: January 2020

Background

The occurrence of a mediastinal germ cell tumor (GCT) and hematological malignancy in the same patient is very rare. Due to its rarity, there have been only two reports of the concurrent cases undergoing detailed genetic analysis with whole-exome sequencing (WES), and the possible clonal relationship between the both tumors remained not fully elucidated.

Methods

We performed whole-exome sequencing analysis of mediastinal GCT and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) samples obtained from one young Japanese male adult patient with concurrent both tumors, and investigated the possible clonal relationship between them.

Results

Sixteen somatic mutations were detected in the mediastinal GCT sample and 18 somatic mutations in the AML sample. Mutations in nine genes, including TP53 and PTEN both known as tumor suppressor genes, were shared in both tumors.

Conclusions

All in our case and in the previous two cases with concurrent mediastinal GCT and AML undergoing with whole-exome sequencing analysis, TP53 and PTEN mutations were commonly shared in both tumors. These data not only suggest that these tumors share a common founding clone, but also indicate that associated mediastinal GCT and AML harboring TP53 and PTEN mutations represent a unique biological entity.
The prevalence and associated factors of depression among patients with schizophrenia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, cross-sectional study
Authors: Fanta Tolesa , Bekele Desalegn , Ayano Getinet
Published: January 2020

Background

Depression is common among people with schizophrenia and associated with severe positive and negative symptoms, higher rates of disability, treatment resistance and mortality related to suicide, physical and drug-related causes. However, to our knowledge, no study has been conducted to report the magnitude of depression among people with schizophrenia in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of depression among people with schizophrenia.

Method

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 418 patients with schizophrenia selected by systematic sampling technique. Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) was used to measure depression among the study participants. To identify the potential contributing factors, we performed binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting the model for the potential confounding factors. Odds ratios (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (95%CI)) was determined to evaluate the strength of association.

Result

The prevalence estimate of depression among people with schizophrenia was found to be 18.0% [95% confidence interval: 14.50–22.30]. Our multivariable analysis revealed that current substance use (AOR 2.28, 95%CI (1.27, 4.09), suicide attempt (AOR 5.24, 95%CI (2.56, 10.72), duration of illness between 6 and 10 years (AOR 2.09, 95%CI (1.08, 4.04) and poor quality of life (AOR 3.13, 95%CI (1.79, 5.76) were found to be the factors associated with depression among people with schizophrenia.

Conclusion

The current study revealed that comorbid depression was high among people with schizophrenia and associated with current substance use, suicide attempt, and long duration of the illness as well as poor quality of life. Attention needs to be given to address comorbid depression among people with schizophrenia.