bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR-655-3p inhibits the progression of osteoporosis by targeting LSD1 and activating BMP-2/Smad signaling pathway
Authors: Wang X-J , Liu J-W , Liu J
Published: May 2020

Osteoporosis (OP) is one of the most common chronic metabolic bone diseases in the seniors and postmenopausal women. Plenty of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been confirmed to be involved in OP progression. However, the role of miR-655-3p in osteogenic differentiation and bone formation was still unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the cellular function of miR-655-3p and its underlying mechanism in OP. We found that miR-655-3p expression was downregulated in both ovariectomized (OVX) mice bone tissues and MC3T3-E1 cells treated with simulated microgravity (MG). MiR-655-3p overexpression facilitated cell differentiation but suppressed cell apoptosis of MC3T3-E1 cells induced by simulated MG. Mechanistically, we confirmed that lysine-specific histone demethylase 1 (LSD1) is a downstream target gene of miR-655-3p. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-655-3p activated the bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2)/decapentaplegic homolog (Smad) signaling pathway by suppressing LSD1 expression. Moreover, LSD1 knockdown accelerated osteogenic differentiation and inhibited apoptosis in MC3T3-E1 cells under simulated MG. Additionally, the OVX mouse model was established to investigate the role of miR-655-3p/LSD1 axis in vivo. The results demonstrated that LSD1 could reverse the effects triggered by the injection of adeno-associated virus-miR-655-3p on OP development. Further investigations revealed that miR-655-3p boosted osteogenic differentiation through LSD1/BMP-2/Smad signaling pathway. In summary, these findings implied a potential value of miR-655-3p in OP therapy.
Selecting and Designing Measurements to Track the Reading Progress of Students With Disabilities
Authors: Austin Christy R. , Filderman Marissa J.
Published: May 2020

To support students with disabilities who do not respond to typically effective reading intervention, special education teachers are expected to implement evidence-based practices for intensifying intervention. Data-based individualization is an effective, evidence-based practice recommended in research to intensify intervention, but requires knowledge and skills in data use that many teachers are not trained for. This article provides guidance for teachers to select appropriate tools for measuring progress during the data-based individualization process. In addition, guidelines for how to design appropriate mastery measures based on a student’s individual weaknesses and information gathered from progress monitoring are provided. Together, these data provide a foundation for making sound decisions on when and how to adjust reading intervention to meet student needs.
Histomorphometric Analysis of Pre- and Post-Denosumab–Treated Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
Authors: Ud Din Nasir , Umer Masood , Park Yong-Koo
Published: May 2020

Context. Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody against RANK ligand. Its administration in giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) cases results in elimination of giant cells and new bone formation. Neoplastic stromal cells of GCTB harbor mutation of histone 3.3 and have pre-osteoblastic properties and thus express SATB2. Objectives. To (1) analyze histological changes in post-denosumab–treated GCTB, (2) analyze expression of H3.3G34W and SATB2 in pre- and post-denosumab–treated samples, and (3) to discuss why changes occur in the expression of not only H3.3G34W but also SATB2. Materials and Methods. Hematoxylin and eosin slides of 19 cases of denosumab-treated GCTB were reviewed. Immunohistochemical stains H3.3G34W and SATB2 were performed. The number of positive mononuclear cells were counted and graded. Results. Complete absence of osteoclast-like giant cells (OCLGCs) was noted in most cases along with a fibro-osseous component merging with peripheral shell of reactive bone. Irregular trabeculae of woven bone and osteoid with focal osteoblastic rimming was seen. Spindle cells were arranged predominantly in fascicular pattern. Morphometric analysis of H3.3G34W showed a mean of 68.8% positive stromal cells in pretreatment and a mean of 26.9% positive stromal cells in posttreated specimens with a statistically significant P value (.001). Mean percentage of SATB2-positive stromal cells in the pre- and posttreatment specimens was 36.46% and 20.8%, respectively. Conclusions. Our study validates that denosumab treatment results in marked reduction of OCLGCs with increased osteoblastic activity. Decreased expression of H3.3G34W in posttreatment may be a result of decreased antigenicity of neoplastic mononuclear cells. No significant change in SATB2 expression was noted.
An acceleration-based approach for crack localisation in beams subjected to moving oscillators
Authors: Nikkhoo Ali , Karegar Hossein , Karami Mohammadi Reza , Hajirasouliha Iman
Published: May 2020

In this study, an output-only crack localisation method based on the Hilbert–Huang transform is proposed for crack localisation in bridge-type structures subjected to a moving vehicle simulated by a moving oscillator. The proposed method can accurately identify the location of cracks without using the conventional computationally expensive model updating techniques. The new crack localisation method can be adopted using fixed sensor and moving sensor approaches. In the fixed sensor approach, an acceleration sensor is located on an arbitrary point of the bridge, whereas in the moving sensor approach, an acceleration sensor is attached to a moving vehicle. The efficiency of the fixed sensor and moving sensor approaches is assessed through several numerical examples. A comprehensive analytical study is also conducted to investigate the impacts of crack depth and moving vehicle characteristics (such as damping coefficient, natural frequency, and velocity) on the accuracy of the predictions. It is shown that the proposed crack localisation method using fixed sensor and moving sensor approaches could efficiently identify the location and localisation of the cracks in all cases. However, the results indicate that the accuracy of the fixed sensor approach is generally better than that of the moving sensor approach in the localisation of cracks with small depth.
The Contribution of Chinese Process Thought to Psychology as a Global Science: Filial Piety as an Example
Authors: Bedford Olwen , Yeh Kuang-Hui
Published: May 2020

In this article, we use Birch and Cobb’s argument for the application of dual paradigms in the natural sciences and theoretical advances in Chinese indigenous psychology to indicate how a process-relational perspective can contribute to the development of psychology as a global science able to represent the full human experience. We first review the philosophical foundations of mainstream psychology, which emphasizes substance thinking and methodological individualism, and highlight its limitations for supporting truly culture-inclusive global research. Scholars in other natural science disciplines have likewise encountered limitations with a substance approach. Birch and Cobb described a paradigm shift from a substance perspective focused on entities to a process perspective focused on relationships and advocated that a multi-paradigm approach be adopted in natural science research. Chinese indigenous psychologists have made a similar theoretical argument with respect to the field of psychology, but there are few examples of the application of their ideas. We trace the development of Chinese filial piety as a psychological concept to demonstrate in detail how a multi-paradigm approach encompassing a Chinese process-relational perspective and indigenous research can harmonize with the mainstream perspective to contribute to culture-inclusive global psychological research.
Three-snip punctoplasty versus perforated plugs for management of lacrimal punctal stenosis
Authors: Tamer Salma S , Abdelghany Ahmed A , Elshafei Ahmed MK , Abdelrahman Abdallah Raafat Mohyeldeen
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To compare rectangular three-snip punctoplasty and polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated perforated punctal plugs for treatment of acquired lacrimal punctal stenosis.

Patients and methods

In a prospective comparative non-randomized interventional study, 80 eyes with acquired lacrimal punctal stenosis were classified into two groups. Group A was treated by insertion of polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated perforated punctal plugs (FCI ophthalmics)™ and Group B was treated by rectangular three-snip punctoplasty. The study was done in Minia University Hospital between January 2018 and April 2019. Exclusion criteria included allergic punctal stenosis, lid malposition, and lacrimal obstruction distal to the punctum. All patients were subjected to complete history taking, slit lamp examination of tear meniscus height, fluorescein dye disappearance test, punctal position, shape, size, grading of stenosis, and grading of epiphora.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 43.85 ± 14.93 years. They were 30 females and 10 males. Eepiphora Grade 3 or 4, improved postoperatively to Grade 0 or 1 in 97.5% of eyes in Group A versus 55% of eyes in Group B. All eyes (100%) in Group A versus 21 eyes (52.5%) in Group B improved regarding fluorescein dye disappearance test grade ( p < 0.001). Restenosis did not occur after plug removal, while it occurred in 10% of eyes subjected to three-snip punctoplasty.

Conclusion

Perforated punctal plugs and three-snip punctoplasty are safe and effective in treatment of punctal stenosis. However, perforated plugs are less invasive, better tolerated, and have more stable results compared to three-snip punctoplasty.
Foveal thickness, foveal microvasculature, and refractive error in children with asymmetric involvement of retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Celik Gokhan , Gunay Murat , Vural Asli , Kizilay Osman
Published: May 2020

Objective

To evaluate foveal thickness, foveal microvasculature, and refractive error in children with asymmetric involvement of retinopathy of prematurity who had laser treatment in one eye and spontaneously regressed retinopathy of prematurity in the fellow eye.

Methods

Totally, 17 children (34 eyes) with a history of asymmetric course of acute Zone II retinopathy of prematurity were assessed. Data on best-corrected visual acuity, refractive status, axial length, anterior chamber depth, and optical coherence tomography angiography findings were analyzed between treated and non-treated fellow eyes.

Results

Treated eyes were more myopic than non-treated eyes (mean, –0.09 ± 1.86 diopters vs mean, 0.07 ± 0.98 diopters, p = 0.026). Compared to non-treated eyes, treated eyes had shallower anterior chamber depth (mean, 3.27 ± 0.24 mm vs mean, 3.55 ± 0.19 mm, p = 0.02). No significant difference was observed regarding optical coherence tomography angiography parameters between two eyes of the children. The mean central foveal thickness was found to be higher in treated eyes than in non-treated eyes (297.46 ± 22.03 vs 275.55 ± 18.45, p = 0.009). Higher number of laser spots were associated with decreased parafoveal superficial capillary plexus vessel density ( r = –0.56, p = 0.02) and increased central foveal thickness ( r = 0.62, p = 0.008).

Conclusion

Our results revealed no difference in optical coherence tomography angiography parameters between laser-treated and non-treated eyes in children with asymmetric involvement of Zone II retinopathy of prematurity except for a higher central foveal thickness in laser-treated eyes. Treated eyes were more myopic than the non-treated eyes. Number of laser applications during treatment had an impact on parafoveal superficial capillary plexus vessel density.
The Canadian Dermatology Association’s Top Five Choosing Wisely Canada Recommendations
Authors: Zhou Linghong Linda , Nurmohamed Sabrina , Au Sheila , Beecker Jennifer , Green Peter , Robertson Lynne , Mydlarski Regine
Published: May 2020

Introduction

In this article, we present the Canadian Dermatology Association’s (CDA) Choosing Wisely Canada (CWC) list of top “Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question in Dermatology” and the evidence in support of each recommendation.

Methods

Using a nominal technique, the CDA Working Group and Task Force generated an initial list based on literature review and expert consultation. After several rounds of list refinement via a modified Delphi process, a final list of recommendations was generated. These were approved by the CDA Board of Directors, presented at the CDA 93rd Annual Conference in 2018, and published by CWC in 2019.

Results

The top five recommendations are as follows: (1) Don’t routinely prescribe antibiotics for bilateral lower leg redness and swelling; (2) Don’t routinely prescribe topical combination corticosteroid/antifungal products; (3) Don’t routinely use topical antibiotics on a surgical wound; (4) Don’t prescribe systemic antifungals without mycological confirmation of dermatophyte infection; and (5) Don’t use oral antibiotics for acne vulgaris for more than 3 months without assessing efficacy.

Discussion

This list of recommendations aims to encourage both physicians and patients to reevaluate ineffective, yet common, practices in treating dermatologic conditions. These recommendations represent actionable changes in practice, and therefore have considerable potential to enhance value-based care in dermatology.

Conclusions

This list was developed to identify tangible changes in practice within dermatology that may reduce inefficiencies, prevent potential patient harm, and improve care. Future advocacy work may include updates, feedback obtainment, and patient care handouts, to continue to promote value-based healthcare and best practices.
Implementing early intensive behavioral intervention in community settings
Authors: Plavnick Joshua B , Bak M Y Savana , Avendaño Sarah M , Dueñas Ana D , Brodhead Matthew T , Sipila Emma S
Published: May 2020

Although research shows early intensive behavioral intervention is efficacious when delivered in university or private intervention centers, little is known about effectiveness or feasibility of disseminating early intensive behavioral intervention to larger communities. The Michigan State University Early Learning Institute was developed to address gaps in distribution of early intensive behavioral intervention to community settings, with an emphasis of serving children and families on Medicaid. This short report describes the Early Learning Institute’s approach and preliminary utilization data among Medicaid families. Results suggest the model has potential for dissemination within community settings and promote utilization among Medicaid children.

Lay abstract

Although research shows early intensive behavioral intervention can be very beneficial for children with autism spectrum disorder when delivered in university or private intervention centers, little is known about the best way to provide early intensive behavioral intervention within the broader community. The Michigan State University Early Learning Institute was developed to address challenges with providing early intensive behavioral intervention in community settings, with an emphasis on serving children and families on Medicaid. This short report describes the approach taken by the Early Learning Institute and reports data regarding enrollment and utilization among Medicaid families. Results suggest the model has potential to be used within community settings and that children on Medicaid are likely to consistently attend their treatment sessions.
Recovery from Anorexia Nervosa in contemporary Taiwan: A multiple-case qualitative investigation from a cultural-contextual perspective
Authors: Lee Yunung , Kuo Ben C. H. , Chen Ping-Hwa , Lai Nien-Hwa
Published: May 2020

Grounded in a cultural and contextual perspective, the current study examined the lived experiences and the recovery pathways of three Taiwanese women diagnosed with various subtypes of anorexia nervosa, at varying stages of their recovery. Specifically, using a multiple-case qualitative method, this study explored the complex, dynamic interactions of sociocultural factors and forces (i.e., cultural, familial, and societal influences) that impinge upon the three Taiwanese female participants in relation to living with anorexia nervosa in contemporary Taiwan. Data were collected based on in-depth, semi-structured interviews with the participants and relevant written materials and journal entries provided by these participants. The data were first analyzed within each case and then again across all cases. Accordingly, we present the results of the study by illustrating each participant’s story and narrative of struggling with and recovering from anorexia. We then describe three main culturally-related themes that emerged from the cross-case analysis, which pertain specifically to the recovery process of the participants under the East-West ‘biculturalism’ in Taiwan: 1) anorexia as a function of the conflictual bicultural self; 2) recovery as a pathway towards an integrated bicultural self; and 3) the paradoxical roles of Chinese cultural heritage in anorexia and recovery. Findings of the study highlight the role of local cultural factors/forces, including Chinese familism, Confucianism, filial piety, face-saving, gender role prescriptions, biculturalism, Westernization, and self-relation-coordination, in affecting and shaping Taiwanese women’s struggling with anorexia. Implications and recommendations for future research and clinical interventions are discussed.
Fields and individuals: From Bourdieu to Lahire and back again
Authors: Atkinson Will
Published: May 2020

Bernard Lahire’s critique of Pierre Bourdieu’s sociology aims to establish a ‘dispositionalist-contextualist’ vision of human agency capable of fully sociologising biography and individuality. While accepting the utility of the notion of field, Lahire emphasises the plurality of non-field entities – including games, worlds and figurations – shaping people’s dispositions and the contexts in which they come to act, leading him to downgrade the notion of habitus and cast fields as only a small part of the picture. While appreciating the motivation underpinning Lahire’s project and the usefulness of some of his research-led insights, this article argues that his skewed and partial reading of Bourdieu blinds him to the fact that solutions to some of the problems he identifies are already there in Bourdieu’s framework and, indeed, that these are more coherent and comprehensive than some of the conceptual suggestions Lahire offers.
Shaping news waves and constructing events: Iranian journalists’ use of online platforms as sources of journalistic capital
Authors: Ranji Banafsheh
Published: May 2020

This article investigates the influence of online communications platforms on Iranian journalists’ struggle for countering the restrictions, and achieving their journalistic ends. Based on 26 interviews with journalists working in the established media in Iran, it shows that social networking websites and mobile messaging applications are arenas of mobilization and leverage for journalists in this semi-authoritarian context. Online platforms function as sources of social and symbolic assets for journalists enabling them to make others see and think about an issue, and act on it, thus employ journalistic symbolic power. This article applies Bourdieu’s concepts of doxa, social capital, symbolic capital and symbolic power to explain, why and under what circumstances certain journalistic online strategies become operative. The findings offer insights into how new media affect power relations between journalists and the forces that restrict their practices and offer potentials for relatively more journalistic autonomy in a controlled media environment.
Development, Applications, and Refinement of the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) Child Obesity Prevention Screening
Authors: Peyer Karissa L. , Bailey-Davis Lisa , Welk Gregory
Published: May 2020

Concerns regarding the continued high prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity have created a need for proactive approaches to behavior change. The Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) screening tool was developed for research and clinical use to identify home environments and behaviors that could predispose youth to increased weight. FNPA scores have been shown to correlate with body mass index (BMI) percentiles in first-grade students and to predict unique variance in change in BMI percentiles from first to second grade. The FNPA has been used for family behavior counseling and is now a standard component of well-child visits throughout the Geisinger Health System in Pennsylvania. Parents complete the FNPA prior to annual visits, and providers can discuss areas of concern based on screening results. Children of parents who complete the FNPA have shown smaller increases in BMI z-scores over the following year than children of parents who did not complete the FNPA. The FNPA is also used to inform the arrangement of family-centered obesity treatment for children. Recently, the FNPA has undergone a systematic update to ensure its continued relevance and utility. The updated tool is provided, and current and future users can access more information about the tool at myfnpa.org .
Hypogastric Artery Stenting for Chronic Intermittent Spinal Cord Ischemia After Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Gronert Catharina , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Panuccio Giuseppe , Eleshra Ahmed , Rohlffs Fiona , Kölbel Tilo
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

To report a case of chronic intermittent spinal cord ischemia (SCI) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and its successful treatment using hypogastric artery stenting.

Case Report:

A 79-year-old patient presented in May 2013 with a thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) and a contained rupture. He urgently underwent TEVAR that covered 274 mm of descending thoracic aorta without immediate postoperative signs of acute SCI. At 3-month follow-up, he reported repeating incidents of sudden lower extremity weakness leading to a fall with a humerus fracture. A neurological consultation revealed the tentative diagnosis of intermittent SCI caused by TEVAR and initially recommended a conservative approach. During the following year there was no clinical improvement of the symptoms. Computed tomography angiography showed a high-grade stenosis of the right hypogastric artery, which was stented in November 2014 to improve the collateral network of spinal cord perfusion. Following treatment, the patient had no further neurological symptoms; at 32 months after the reintervention, the imaging follow-up documented a patent stent and continued exclusion of the TAA.

Conclusion:

Intermittent neurological symptoms after TEVAR should be suspected as chronic intermittent SCI. The improvement of collateral networks of the spinal cord by revascularization of the hypogastric artery is a viable treatment option.
A study on the viscoelastic behaviors of tire cords using dynamic mechanical analysis
Authors: Tian Liyong , Wang Di , Su Peng , Wei Qufu
Published: May 2020

Design of experiments was adopted to evaluate the effect of selected test parameters on the viscoelastic behaviors of polyester tire cords through dynamic mechanical analysis systematically. Design of experiments results showed that temperature, static load, and dynamic amplitude had significant effects on the responses of complex modulus (E*) and Tan δ. Furthermore, temperature had significant interactions with static load and dynamic amplitude factors on the responses. None of the test parameters had any significant effect on the response of glass transition temperature (Tg). Below Tg, thermoplastic tire cords exhibited a high and constant dynamic modulus, whereas, beyond this point, the modulus decreased dramatically. The thermosetting tire cords exhibited a constant performance due to an ordered and tight molecular chain arrangement. The magnitude of Tan δ reached its peak value at Tg due to the increase in internal friction as a result of increasing temperature. The dynamic modulus increased and Tan δ decreased with the increasing static load as a result of restricting the mobility of chain segments. The reverse was true when the dynamic amplitude increased, most probably because of higher chain segment mobility and early stage of polymer chain slippage. Activation energy (Ea), derived from Arrhenius equation, can be used to predict its long-term performance. Tg shifted to a higher temperature as the frequency increased. In addition, by increasing the twist level of the polyester tire cord, the dynamic modulus decreased and Tan δ increased. Tg was evaluated as the upper limit working temperature, Tan δ was related to energy dissipation, and E* determined the overall performance of the tire cord. By displacing Tg to a higher temperature, reducing the magnitude of Tan δ and increasing the dynamic modulus are of great importance to a tire cord’s performance.
Prospective Randomized Study Examining Preoperative Opioid Counseling on Postoperative Opioid Consumption after Upper Extremity Surgery
Authors: Vincent Sage , Paskey Taylor , Critchlow Elizabeth , Mann Erica , Chapman Talia , Abboudi Jack , Jones Christopher , Kirkpatrick William , Namdari Surena , Hammoud Sommer , Ilyas Asif M.
Published: May 2020

Background: Rates of opioid addiction and overdose continue to climb in the United States, increasing pressure on prescribers to identify solutions to decrease postoperative opioid consumption. Hand and upper extremity surgeries are high-volume surgeries with a predilection for inadvertent overprescribing. Recent investigations have shown that preoperative opioid counseling may decrease postoperative opioid consumption. In order to test this hypothesis, a prospective randomized trial was undertaken to determine the effect of preoperative opioid counseling on postoperative opioid consumption. Methods: Eligible patients undergoing outpatient upper extremity surgery were randomized to either receive preoperative opioid counseling or to receive no counseling. Surgeons were blinded to their patient’s counseling status. Preoperatively, patient demographics, surgical and prescription details were recorded. Postoperatively, patients’ pain experience including opioid consumption, pain levels, and satisfaction was recorded. Results: There were 131 total patients enrolled, with 62 in the counseling group and 69 in the control group. Patients receiving counseling consumed 11.8 pills compared to 17.4 pills in the control group ( P = .007), which translated to 93.7 Morphine Equivalent Units (MEU) in the counseling group compared to 143.2 MEU in the control group ( P = .01). There was no difference in pain scores at any time point between groups. Among all study patients a total of 3767 opioid pills were prescribed with approximately 50% left unused. Conclusion: Patients receiving preoperative counseling consumed significantly fewer opioids postoperatively. Inadvertant overprescribing remains high. Routine use of preoperative counseling should be implemented along with prescribing fewer opioids overall to prevent overprescribing.
Construction of irf4a Transgenic Zebrafish Using Tol2 System and Its Potential Application
Authors: Gou Yawei , Sun Wei , Liu Lingling , Zhang Mingming , Du Jianan , Wang Ruonan , Xu Xuesong
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is identified as a transcriptional factor and plays an important role in the immune response in mammals; however, there are few reports about the function of zebrafish IRF4.

Methods:

We first amplified the coding sequence of irf4a from the testis of zebrafish. Besides, the fragments of irf4a, P2A, EGFP, and Tol2 vector were added for homologous recombination. By sequencing, we can get the Tol2-ef1α-irf4a-EGFP recombinant plasmid and it was microinjected into zebrafish embryos. Fluorescence observation was proceeded at days 3 post fertilization; F0 generations expressing green fluorescence in multiple tissues throughout the body were screened as the founder and raised them to sexual maturity. After mating with WT zebrafish to generate F1 offspring, polymerase chain reaction was used to identify whether irf4a was integrated into the zebrafish genome.

Conclusion:

We obtained the systematic overexpressed irf4a transgenic zebrafish with green fluorescence labeled in spine, eyes, heart, brain, and other tissues. The transgenic zebrafish will be used as a tool for the role of IRF4a in the immune response to the inflammation preconditioning in the future study.
One-size-fits-all? A cross-validation study of distributed leadership and teacher academic optimism
Authors: Thien Lei Mee , Chan Sui Yin
Published: May 2020

This study aims to validate Western-based distributed leadership and teacher academic optimism scales in the Malaysian primary school context. This study further examined the relationships between distributed leadership and teacher academic optimism as well as each dimension of teacher academic optimism. Data were collected from 442 primary school teachers in Penang, Malaysia. This study used exploratory factor analysis and partial least squares structural equation modeling for data analyses. Findings revealed that both distributed leadership and teacher academic optimism scales were applicable in the Malaysian primary school context. Distributed leadership has a significant positive relationship with teacher academic optimism by controlling teacher gender and teaching experience. Likewise, distributed leadership has a significant positive relationship with academic emphasis, teachers’ trust in students and parents, and teacher sense of efficacy. Implications and future studies are presented.
Detection of nearby UAVs using a multi-microphone array on board a UAV
Authors: Cabrera-Ponce Aldrich A , Martinez-Carranza J , Rascon Caleb
Published: May 2020

In this work, we address the problem of UAV detection flying nearby another UAV. Usually, computer vision could be used to face this problem by placing cameras onboard the patrolling UAV. However, visual processing is prone to false positives, sensible to light conditions and potentially slow if the image resolution is high. Thus, we propose to carry out the detection by using an array of microphones mounted with a special array onboard the patrolling UAV. To achieve our goal, we convert audio signals into spectrograms and used them in combination with a CNN architecture that has been trained to learn when a UAV is flying nearby, and when it is not. Clearly, the first challenge is the presence of ego-noise derived from the patrolling UAV itself through its propellers and motor’s noise. Our proposed CNN is based on Google’s Inception v.3 network. The Inception model is trained with a dataset created by us, which includes examples of when an intruder UAV flies nearby and when it does not. We conducted experiments for off-line and on-line detection. For the latter, we manage to generate spectrograms from the audio stream and process it with the Nvidia Jetson TX2 mounted onboard the patrolling UAV.
Mechanism Analysis of Coix Seed in Gastric Cancer Treatment Based on Biological Network Modules
Authors: Zhang Fengbin , Liu Xiaoyan , Huo Bingjie , Li Bing , Zhang Ruixing
Published: May 2020

Coix seed, the mature seed of Coix lacryma-jobi L., is a traditional herb widely used in various cancer adjuvant treatments; however, its mechanism is unknown. The aim of this study was to reveal the multitarget mechanisms of Coix seed in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC) by biological network and modular analysis methods. Forty-one ingredients and 482 targets of Coix seed and 165 GC-related genes were obtained from databases. Twelve on-target genes ( AICDA, CASP3, EP300, ERBB2, FGFR2, IL12A, IL12B, IL1B, LOX, TJP1, TP53, and TRIB3) of Coix seed overlapped with GC-related genes. Using compound-target and protein–protein interaction network analyses, we discovered the core targets of Coix seed. Markov cluster algorithm-based modular analysis identified 5 potential module targets of Coix seed for GC. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis demonstrated the vast actions of Coix seed, which involve pathways in cancer, the cell cycle, receptor signal transduction, deoxyribonucleic acid damage response, transcriptional regulation, apoptosis, and cell connections. This study elucidated the potential mechanisms of Coix seed on GC, which may lead to the development of an effective drug. Additionally, this study showed the feasibility of network and modular analysis methods to investigate traditional Chinese medicinal herbal mechanisms and may provide a new angle for further research in the field of anticancer mechanisms and multitarget drugs.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activities of the Essential Oils From Аrtemisia annua L. Growing Wild in Tajikistan
Authors: Sharopov Farukh S , Salimov Aminjon , Numonov Sodik , Safomuddin Abduahad , Bakri Mahinur , Salimov Tojiddin , Setzer William N , Habasi Maidina
Published: May 2020

The aerial parts of Аrtemisia annua L. were collected from Varzob, Rudaki, and Hisor regions of Tajikistan. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The essential oils of aerial parts of А. annua were dominated by the monoterpenoids like camphor (32.5%-58.9%), 1,8-cineole (13.7%-17.8%), camphene (4.5%-8.4%), and α-pinene (1.9%-7.3%). Hierarchical cluster analysis of A. annua essential oils indicated the existence of 3 A. annua chemotypes: camphor/1,8-cineole, camphor, and artemisia ketone. The essential oils of А. annua show weak antioxidant activity and average antibacterial activity. In our opinion, the antibacterial activity of А. annua essential oils is related to the presence of 1,8-cineole. To our best knowledge, this is the first report concerning the chemical composition, chemotypic variation, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the essential oils obtained from the aerial parts of А. annua, growing wild in Tajikistan.
Admitting Low-Risk Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage to a Neurological Step-Down Unit Is Safe, Results in Shorter Length of Stay, and Reduces Intensive Care Utilization: A Retrospective Controlled Cohort Study
Authors: Laws Lindsay , Lee Flavia , Kumar Abhay , Dhar Rajat
Published: May 2020

Background and Purpose:

Patients suffering intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are at risk for early neurologic deterioration and are often admitted to intensive care units (ICU) for observation. There is limited data on the safety of admitting low-risk patients with ICH to a non-ICU setting. We hypothesized that admitting such patients to a neurologic step-down unit (SDU) is safe and less resource-intensive.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with primary ICH admitted to our SDU. We compared this cohort to a control group of ICH patients admitted to a neurologic-ICU (NICU) at a partner institution. We analyzed patients with supratentorial ICH ≤15 cc, Glasgow Coma Scale ≥ 13, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ≤ 10, and no to minimal intraventricular hemorrhage. Primary end points were (re-)admission to an NICU and rates of hematoma expansion (HE). We also compared total NICU days and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results:

Eighty patients with ICH were admitted to the SDU. Only 2 required transfer to the NICU for complications related to ICH, including 1 for HE. Seventy-four SDU patients met inclusion criteria and were compared to 58 patients admitted to an NICU. There was no difference in rates of NICU (re-)admission (7 vs 2, P = .17) or rates of HE (3 vs 5, P = .28). Median NICU days were 0 versus 1 ( P < .001). Step-down unit admission was associated with shorter LOS (3 vs 4 days, P = .05).

Conclusions:

Select patients with ICH can be safely admitted to an SDU. This may reduce LOS and ICU utilization. We also propose criteria for admitting patients with ICH to an SDU.
Alisol B 23-acetate attenuates CKD progression by regulating the renin–angiotensin system and gut–kidney axis
Authors: Chen Hua , Wang Min-Chang , Chen Yuan-Yuan , Chen Lin , Wang Yan-Ni , Vaziri Nosratola D. , Miao Hua , Zhao Ying-Yong
Published: May 2020

Background:

Increasing evidence suggests a link between the gut microbiome and various diseases including hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, studies examining the efficacy of controlling blood pressure and inhibiting the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) in preventing CKD progression are limited.

Methods:

In the present study, we used 5/6 nephrectomised (NX) and unilateral ureteral obstructed (UUO) rat models and cultured renal tubular epithelial cells and fibroblasts to test whether alisol B 23-acetate (ABA) can attenuate renal fibrogenesis by regulating blood pressure and inhibiting RAS.

Results:

ABA treatment re-established dysbiosis of the gut microbiome, lowered blood pressure, reduced serum creatinine and proteinuria, suppressed expression of RAS constituents and inhibited the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in NX rats. Similarly, ABA treatment inhibited expression of collagen I, fibronectin, vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin and fibroblast-specific protein 1 at both mRNA and protein levels in UUO rats. ABA was also effective in suppressing activation of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad3 and preserving Smad7 expression in both NX and UUO rats. In vitro experiments demonstrated that ABA treatment inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin and mitochondrial-associated caspase pathways.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that ABA attenuated renal fibrosis through a mechanism associated with re-establishing dysbiosis of the gut microbiome and regulating blood pressure, and Smad7-mediated inhibition of Smad3 phosphorylation. Thus, we demonstrate ABA as a promising candidate for treatment of CKD by improving the gut microbiome and regulating blood pressure.
The contingency of corporate political advocacy: Nike’s ‘dream crazy’ campaign with Colin Kaepernick
Authors: Hoffmann Jochen , Nyborg Karina , Averhoff Charlotte , Olesen Simone
Published: May 2020

An emerging field of research views Corporate Political Advocacy (CPA) as a communication strategy that responds to the challenges of public relations in divided societies. CPA takes a political position in public and, by doing so, appears to deliberately alienate some of its stakeholders. This study challenges the assumption that CPA discards a unifying epideictic rhetoric in favour of agonistic politics. The investigated case is Nike’s Dream Crazy campaign starring American football player Colin Kaepernick, whose protest against race discrimination in the United States sparked a heated public debate. Although the critical analysis of the campaign and responses on Twitter reveal deep political cleavages, Nike is concurrently engaged in unchallenged communication praising the hyper-individualism of a market ideology. The epideictic contingency of Nike’s CPA undermines the social cause ostensibly at the heart of the campaign: the fight against racial discrimination.
The virtue of simplicity: On machine learning models in algorithmic trading
Authors: Hansen Kristian Bondo
Published: May 2020

Machine learning models are becoming increasingly prevalent in algorithmic trading and investment management. The spread of machine learning in finance challenges existing practices of modelling and model use and creates a demand for practical solutions for how to manage the complexity pertaining to these techniques. Drawing on interviews with quants applying machine learning techniques to financial problems, the article examines how these people manage model complexity in the process of devising machine learning-powered trading algorithms. The analysis shows that machine learning quants use Ockham’s razor – things should not be multiplied without necessity – as a heuristic tool to prevent excess model complexity and secure a certain level of human control and interpretability in the modelling process. I argue that understanding the way quants handle the complexity of learning models is a key to grasping the transformation of the human’s role in contemporary data and model-driven finance. The study contributes to social studies of finance research on the human–model interplay by exploring it in the context of machine learning model use.
Examining Economic Growth Through Brand Development: A Multinational Analysis
Authors: Asfuroglu Dila , Ökten Nuriye Zeynep , Okan Elif Yolbulan
Published: May 2020

Due to the increasing importance of human capital for economic growth, this article aims to clarify the relationship between economic growth and human capital by concentrating on the growth effects of an average number of brands in the economy. An endogenous growth model where branding emerges as the “growth engine” of the economy is followed by a quantitative analysis regarding the relationship between brands and economic growth. The findings suggest that developing countries should shift from traditional mass production to high value-added production, such as brand development, to achieve a similar economic performance in developed countries.
Consumer Response to Perceived Hypocrisy in Corporate Social Responsibility Activities
Authors: Zhigang Wang , Haoming Zhu
Published: May 2020

Companies may be confused by consumers’ perceptions of hypocrisy related to corporate social responsibility activities. This study investigates the mechanism of consumer response to perceived hypocrisy and determines that internal attribution and negative emotion play vital roles. The findings may be summarized as follows. First, the consumers’ internal attribution of corporate hypocrisy increases the perceived hypocrisy. Second, the consumers’ internal attribution of corporate hypocrisy also increases their negative emotions. Third, consumers’ perceptions of hypocrisy intensify their negative emotions. Fourth, the negative emotions of consumers negatively influence their attitude toward companies. Finally, consumers’ negative emotions increase their negative behavior. The findings demonstrate that the influence of perceived hypocrisy on consumers’ attitude and behavior is affected by negative emotion. Consumers’ internal attribution of corporate hypocrisy affects their perceptions of hypocrisy, prompting negative emotions. The psychological and behavioral mechanism of consumer response to perceived hypocrisy is discussed, thus contributing to the study of corporate hypocrisy.
Optimisation of building and road network densities in terms of variation in plot sizes and shapes
Authors: Usui Hiroyuki
Published: May 2020

Urban form at the district scale is defined as a unique combination of the following basic spatial objects: road networks, plot patterns and building configurations. In particular, a plot represents one of the most important basic spatial objects of urban form. In recent theoretical and empirical work from downtown districts in Tokyo, it was found that (1) plot sizes and frontages approximately follow a log-normal distribution and (2) the parameters can be primarily estimated by building density (the number of buildings per unit area) and road network density (total length of road networks per unit area). High demand for housing and commerce in a district requires as many buildings and their plots as possible. However, this may generate many small and narrow plots, which makes the residential environment worse in terms of ventilation, sunlight and accessibility to a road. Hence, the ratio of the number of plots that cannot satisfy minimum criteria regarding their sizes and frontages should be as small as possible, taking into consideration the variation in plot sizes and frontages. Therefore, the rationale for the building and road network densities presented here will be discussed by considering the variation in plot sizes and frontages through a stochastic approach. Allowing for plot sizes that are smaller than the minimum plot size regulation as well as for plot frontages that are narrower than the minimum plot frontage regulation (these minimum criteria being determined by Japanese building codes), the maximum building density and optimal road network density will be obtained. These findings are expected to provide urban planners with a theoretical basis to discuss the validity of these two density values (based on the deterministic approach that assumes uniform urban form) in terms of evaluating the policy effect, such as minimum plot size and frontage regulation.
Mirtazapine for treatment of visual snow syndrome: A case series with insights into pathophysiology and therapy
Authors: Eren Ozan , Schankin Christoph J
Published: May 2020

Background:

Patients with visual snow syndrome (VSS) describe tiny flickering dots in the entire visual field resembling the noise of a poorly adjusted channel of analogue television with additional symptoms. Little is known about the pathophysiology and therapeutic options for this debilitating condition.

Objectives:

We present a case series of three patients with VSS taking mirtazapine, one of the most often prescribed antidepressants, and discuss the utility of antidepressants by reviewing our current understanding of pathophysiology and therapy.

Results:

Mirtazapine has no effect on VSS, neither positive nor negative. This is in line with the reports from the literature suggested only some beneficial effects from lamotrigine.

Conclusions:

Since the pathophysiology of VSS is not fully understood, we still rely on the reports of individual cases or patient series. This includes not only the positive, but also the negative results to avoid unnecessary treatment trials. Looking into the literature, antidepressants do not seem to be a solution for the visual symptoms. So far, best data exists for the anticonvulsant lamotrigine.
Comparison of Diagnostic Accuracy in Vascular Neurology Between Neurology Residents and a Neurology Differential Diagnosis App: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Vinny Pulikottil Wilson , Padma Madakasira Vasantha , Sylaja P. N. , Kesav Praveen , Lal Vivek , Narasimhan Lakshmi , Dwivedi S. N. , Nair Pradeep P. , Iype Thomas , Gupta Anu , Patil Anuja , Vishnu Venugopalan Y.
Published: May 2020

Background: Diagnostic errors in neurological diagnosis are a source of preventable harm. Software tools like Differential Diagnosis (DDx) apps in neurology that hold the potential to mitigate this harm are conspicuously lacking.

Materials and Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional observational study was designed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of a Neurology DDx App (Neurology Dx) with neurology residents by using vascular neurology clinical vignettes. The study was conducted at 7 leading neurology institutes in India. Study participants comprised of 100 neurology residents from the participating institutes.

Measurements: Detecting diagnostic accuracy of residents and App measured as a proportion of correctly identified high likely gold standard DDx was prespecified as the main outcome. Proportions of correctly identified first high likely, first 3 high likely, first 5 high likely, and combined moderate plus high likely gold standard differentials by residents and App were secondary outcomes.

Results: 1,000 vignettes were attempted by residents. Frequency of gold standard, high likely differentials correctly identified by residents was 27% compared to 72% by App (absolute difference 45%, 95% CI 35.7-52.8). When high and moderate likely differentials were combined, residents scored 17% compared to 57% by App (absolute difference 40%, 95% CI 33.8-50.0). Residents correctly identified first high likely gold standard differential as their first high likely differential in 34% compared to 18% by App (absolute difference 16%, 95% CI 1.2-25.4).

Conclusion: App with predefined knowledge base can complement clinical reasoning of neurology residents. Portability and functionality of such Apps may further strengthen this symbiosis between humans and algorithms (CTRI/2017/06/008838).