bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delta opioid peptide [d-Ala2, d-Leu5] enkephalin confers neuroprotection by activating delta opioid receptor-AMPK-autophagy axis against global ischemia
Authors: Lai Zelin , Gu Lingling , Yu Lu , Chen Huifen , Yu Zhenhua , Zhang Cheng , Xu Xiaoqing , Zhang Mutian , Zhang Min , Ma Mingliang , Zhao Zheng , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2020

Background

Ischemic stroke poses a severe risk to human health worldwide, and currently, clinical therapies for the disease are limited. Delta opioid receptor (DOR)-mediated neuroprotective effects against ischemia have attracted increasing attention in recent years. Our previous studies revealed that DOR activation by [d-Ala2, d-Leu5] enkephalin (DADLE), a selective DOR agonist, can promote hippocampal neuronal survival on day 3 after ischemia. However, the specific molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the DOR-induced improvements in ischemic neuronal survival remain unclear.

Results

We first detected the cytoprotective effects of DADLE in an oxygen–glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model and observed increased viability of OGD/R SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. We also evaluated changes in the DOR level following ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and DADLE treatment and found that DADLE increased DOR levels after ischemia in vivo and vitro. The effects of DOR activation on postischemic autophagy were then investigated, and the results of the animal experiment showed that DOR activation by DADLE enhanced autophagy after ischemia, as indicated by elevated LC3 II/I levels and reduced P62 levels. Furthermore, the DOR-mediated protective effects on ischemic CA1 neurons were abolished by the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA). Moreover, the results of the cell experiments revealed that DOR activation not only augmented autophagy after OGD/R injury but also alleviated autophagic flux dysfunction. The molecular pathway underlying DOR-mediated autophagy under ischemic conditions was subsequently studied, and the in vivo and vitro data showed that DOR activation elevated autophagy postischemia by triggering the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 signaling pathway, while the addition of the AMPK inhibitor compound C eliminated the protective effects of DOR against I/R injury.

Conclusion

DADLE-evoked DOR activation enhanced neuronal autophagy through activating the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 signaling pathway to improve neuronal survival and exert neuroprotective effects against ischemia.
A non-data-aided SNR estimator based on maximum likelihood method for communication between orbiters
Authors: Sun Zezhou , Gong Xin , Lu Fan
Published: June 2020

Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is an important metric for performance assessment in numerous scenerios. In order to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of the system performance, plenty of situations require the information of SNR estimate. At the same time, Mars exploration has been a hot topic in recent years, which leads to the research attention of scholars extending to deep space. In this paper, a new SNR estimator related to deep space scene is proposed. On the one hand, the time of essential data transmission is limited in Mars exploration system. On the other hand, the relative position and condition between orbiters vary quickly all the time, which makes it difficult to obtain the accurate and significant information for Mars exploration. Therefore, it is obvious that the information of SNR can promote the system to adjust the signal transmission rate automatically. Subsequently, the estimation of SNR becomes a fundamental research in automatic digital communications. In this paper, an SNR estimation method based on non-data-aided (NDA) with maximum likelihood (ML) estimation is proposed to enhance the accuracy and reliability of Mars exploration process. Additionally, the Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB) related to the designed ML algorithm is derived. Finally, the Monte Carlo simulation results demonstrate that the proposed ML estimator algorithm obtains a superior performance when compared to the existing SNR estimators.
A new proof for the generalized law of large numbers under Choquet expectation
Authors: Chen Jing , Chen Zengjing
Published: June 2020

In this article, we employ the elementary inequalities arising from the sub-linearity of Choquet expectation to give a new proof for the generalized law of large numbers under Choquet expectations induced by 2-alternating capacities with mild assumptions. This generalizes the Linderberg–Feller methodology for linear probability theory to Choquet expectation framework and extends the law of large numbers under Choquet expectation from the strong independent and identically distributed (iid) assumptions to the convolutional independence combined with the strengthened first moment condition.
Tenth order boundary value problem solution existence by fixed point theorem
Authors: Fabiano Nicola , Nikolić Nebojša , Shanmugam Thenmozhi , Radenović Stojan , Čitaković Nada
Published: June 2020

In this paper we consider the Green function for a boundary value problem of generic order. For a specific case, the Leray–Schauder form of the fixed point theorem has been used to prove the existence of a solution for this particular equation. Our theoretical approach generalizes, extends, complements, and enriches several results in the existing literature.
Solving two-dimensional fuzzy Fredholm integral equations via sinc collocation method
Authors: Ma Yanying , Li Hu , Zhang Suping
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we present a numerical method to solve two-dimensional fuzzy Fredholm integral equations (2D-FFIE) by combing the sinc method with double exponential (DE) transformation. Using this method, the fuzzy Fredholm integral equations are converted into dual fuzzy linear systems. Convergence analysis is performed in terms of the modulus of continuity. Numerical experiments demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Long-time behavior of stochastic reaction–diffusion equation with multiplicative noise
Authors: Wang Jing , Ma Qiaozhen , Liu Tingting
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we study the dynamical behavior of the solution for the stochastic reaction–diffusion equation with the nonlinearity satisfying the polynomial growth of arbitrary order $p\geq2$p≥2 and any space dimension N. Based on the inductive principle, the higher-order integrability of the difference of the solutions near the initial data is established, and then the (norm-to-norm) continuity of solutions with respect to the initial data in $H_{0}^{1}(U)$H01(U) is first obtained. As an application, we show the existence of $(L^{2}(U),L^{p}(U))$(L2(U),Lp(U)) and $(L^{2}(U),H_{0}^{1}(U))$(L2(U),H01(U))-pullback random attractors, respectively.
Near-coincidence point results in metric interval space and hyperspace via simulation functions
Authors: Ullah Misbah , Sarwar Muhammad , Khan Hasib , Abdeljawad Thabet , Khan Aziz
Published: June 2020

Recently, Wu (Mathematics 6(11):219, 2018; Mathematics 6(6):90, 2018) introduced the concept of a near-fixed point and established some results on near fixed points in a metric interval space and hyperspace. Motivated by these papers, we studied the near-coincidence point theorem in these spaces via a simulation function. To show the authenticity of the established results and definitions, we also provide some examples.
Dynamics of a stochastic population model with Allee effects under regime switching
Authors: Ji Weiming , Liu Meng
Published: June 2020

A stochastic single-species model with Allee effects under regime switching is developed and detected in the present study. First, extinction and persistence of the model are dissected. Subsequently, sufficient criteria are offered to ensure that the model possesses a unique ergodic stationary distribution. Finally, the theoretical outcomes are employed to evaluate the evolution of the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) in Africa, and some significant functions of stochastic perturbations are exposed.
The establishment of a micro-scale heat market using a biomass-fired district heating system
Authors: Sebestyén Tihamér Tibor , Pavičević Matija , Dorotić Hrvoje , Krajačić Goran
Published: June 2020

Background

Local biomass potential in Southeastern European countries is relatively high. Nevertheless, biomass residues such as wood leftovers, straw and energy crops are often not properly managed or inefficiently utilised for energy purposes in individual house heating or domestic hot water preparation. This is more relevant in rural areas, where the utilisation of biomass resources is mainly based upon traditional technologies, has low efficiency or is carried out by using individual bases without local energy supply management. Usage of biomass residues in combination with other renewable energy sources is in agreement with the targets of the EU’s Energy and Climate Goals and promotes rural development and a circular economy.

Methods

For this purpose, local heating and domestic hot water preparation demands, as well as the available biomass potentials, were analysed and mapped by using a geographic information system (GIS). A model for analysing the optimal operation of the district heating boiler with a relatively high share of solar energy, which is backed up by either a short- or long-term heat storage, was developed. The model takes the supply and the return temperatures from the DH network into account and decides whether the excess of solar heat produced by the prosumers can be delivered into the network. This reduces heat overproduction and enables a smooth and uninterrupted operation of the system. Such configuration would benefit both the DH Company and the prosumers. The DH Company would have the opportunity to buy cheaper excess heat from the prosumers rather than to start its own and relatively slow biomass boiler.

Results

In this paper, several scenarios are proposed for the Romanian village Ghelinta. The target village is characterised by a small-scale biomass district heating boiler with thermal storage and prosumers with either solar thermal collectors or locally installed heat pumps. Integration of seasonal thermal storage and local prosumers can smooth out the biomass district heating boiler operation and bring additional socio-economic benefits for the bioenergy village communities. This could be the first step towards the establishment of a micro-scale thermal energy market.

Conclusions

Analysis has proven that the proposed system configuration is socio-technically feasible, even for micro-scale systems, as apparent in the Romanian target village Ghelinta. The main objective of this research is to analyse the implementation of a small-scale biomass and renewable energy-based district heating system and to prove the concept of bioenergy villages from a technical and economical perspective. Furthermore, the role of residential household prosumers has been analysed. Based on outcomes, the transferability of the results is also discussed, while several suggestions for stakeholders who implement such projects were formulated for future research as well.
Smartphone applications targeting borderline personality disorder symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ilagan Gabrielle S. , Iliakis Evan A. , Wilks Chelsey R. , Vahia Ipsit V. , Choi-Kain Lois W.
Published: June 2020

Background

Smartphone applications could improve symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD) in a scalable and resource-efficient manner in the context limited access to specialized care.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of applications designed as treatment interventions for adults with symptoms such as anger, suicidality, or self-harm that commonly occur in BPD.

Data sources

Search terms for BPD symptoms, smartphone applications, and treatment interventions were combined on PubMed, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO from database inception to December 2019.

Study selection

Controlled and uncontrolled studies of smartphone interventions for adult participants with symptoms such as anger, suicidality, or self-harm that commonly occur in BPD were included.

Study appraisal and synthesis methods

Comprehensive Meta-Analysis v3 was used to compute between-groups effect sizes in controlled designs. The primary outcome was BPD-related symptoms such as anger, suicidality, and impulsivity; and the secondary outcome was general psychopathology. An average dropout rate across interventions was computed. Study quality, target audiences, therapeutic approach and targets, effectiveness, intended use, usability metrics, availability on market, and downloads were assessed qualitatively from the papers and through internet search.

Results

Twelve studies of 10 applications were included, reporting data from 408 participants. Between-groups meta-analyses of RCTs revealed no significant effect of smartphone applications above and beyond in-person treatments or a waitlist on BPD symptoms (Hedges’ g = − 0.066, 95% CI [−.257, .125]), nor on general psychopathology (Hedges’ g = 0.305, 95% CI [− 0.14, 0.75]). Across the 12 trials, dropout rates ranged from 0 to 56.7% (M = 22.5, 95% CI [0.15, 0.46]). A majority of interventions studied targeted emotion dysregulation and behavioral dyscontrol symptoms. Half of the applications are commercially available.

Conclusions

The effects of smartphone interventions on symptoms of BPD are unclear and there is currently a lack of evidence for their effectiveness. More research is needed to build on these preliminary findings in BPD to investigate both positive and adverse effects of smartphone applications and identify the role these technologies may provide in expanding mental healthcare resources.
Shortening of low-flow duration over time was associated with improved outcomes of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in in-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Higashi Akiko , Nakada Taka-aki , Imaeda Taro , Abe Ryuzo , Shinozaki Koichiro , Oda Shigeto
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Quality improvement in the administration of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) over time and its association with low-flow duration (LFD) and outcomes of cardiac arrest (CA) have been insufficiently investigated. In this study, we hypothesized that quality improvement in efforts to shorten the duration of initiating ECPR had decreased LFD over the last 15 years of experience at an academic tertiary care hospital, which in turn improved the outcomes of in-hospital CA (IHCA).

Methods

This was a single-center retrospective observational study of ECPR patients between January 2003 and December 2017. A rapid response system (RRS) and an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) program were initiated in 2011 and 2013. First, the association of LFD per minute with the 90-day mortality and neurological outcome was analyzed using multiple logistic regression analysis. Then, the temporal changes in LFD were investigated.

Results

Of 175 study subjects who received ECPR, 117 had IHCA. In the multivariate logistic regression, IHCA patients with shorter LFD experienced significantly increased 90-day survival and favorable neurological outcomes (LFD per minute, 90-day survival: odds ratio [OR] = 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.94–1.00, P = 0.032; 90-day favorable neurological outcome: OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.94–1.00, P = 0.049). In the study period, LFD significantly decreased over time (slope − 5.39 [min/3 years], P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

A shorter LFD was associated with increased 90-day survival and favorable neurological outcomes of IHCA patients who received ECPR. The quality improvement in administering ECPR over time, including the RRS program and the ECMO program, appeared to ameliorate clinical outcomes.
Incidence, casualties and risk characteristics of civilian explosion blast injury in China: 2000—2017 data from the state Administration of Work Safety
Authors: Wang Xu , Du Juan , Zhuang Zhuo , Wang Zheng-Guo , Jiang Jian-Xin , Yang Ce
Published: June 2020

Background

Civilian explosion blast injury is more frequent in developing countries, including China. However, the incidence, casualties, and characteristics of such incidents in China are unknown.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of the State Administration of Work Safety database. Incidents during a period from January 1, 2000 to April 30, 2017 were included in the analysis. The explosions were classified based on the number of deaths into extraordinarily major, major, serious and ordinary type. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the incidence and characteristics of the explosions. Correlation analysis was performed to examine the potential correlations among various variables.

Results

Data base search identified a total of 2098 explosions from 2000 to 2017, with 29,579 casualties: 15,788 deaths (53.4%), 12,637 injured (42.7%) and 1154 missing (3.9%). Majority of the explosions were serious type (65.4%). The number of deaths (39.5%) was also highest with the serious type (P = 0.006). The highest incidence was observed in the fourth quarter of the year (October to December), and at 9:00–11:00 am and 4:00–6:00 pm of the day. The explosions were most frequent in coal-producing provinces (Guizhou and Shanxi Province). Coal mine gas explosions resulted majority of the deaths (9620, 60.9%). The number of explosion accidents closely correlated with economic output (regional economy and national GDP growth rate) (r = − 0.372, P = 0.040; r = 0.629, P = 0.028).

Conclusions

The incidence and civilian casualties due to explosions remain unacceptabe in developing China. Measures that mitigate the risk factors are of urgently required.
Uric acid and cardiometabolic diseases
Authors: Lee Seung Jae , Oh Byeong Kil , Sung Ki-Chul
Published: June 2020

Hyperuricemia, which has been considered as a cause of gout and nephrolithiasis has recently been suggested to be associated with hypertension, coronary heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, insulin resistance, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Several clinical and experimental studies have supported uric acid (UA) as an independent risk factor for predicting disease development along with the traditional risk factors. The mechanism by which UA causes cardiometabolic disease has not been fully elucidated to date; however, it has been explained by several hypotheses such as oxidative stress, reduced nitric oxide bioavailability, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and so on. Although evidence of the preventive and therapeutic effects of UA lowering therapy on cardiometabolic diseases is still insufficient, it is expected to be considered as a new treatment strategy for such diseases through additional, carefully designed, large-scale clinical studies.
In situ simulation training in helicopter emergency medical services: feasible for on-call crews?
Authors: Bredmose Per P. , Hagemo Jostein , Røislien Jo , Østergaard Doris , Sollid Stephen
Published: June 2020

Simulation-based training of emergency teams offers a safe learning environment in which training in the management of the critically ill patient can be planned and practiced without harming the patient. We developed a concept for in situ simulation that can be carried out during on-call time. The aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility of introducing in situ, simulation-based training for the on-call team on a busy helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) base.

We carried out a one-year prospective study on simulation training during active duty at a busy Norwegian HEMS base, which has two helicopter crews on call 24/7. Training was conducted as low fidelity in situ simulation while the teams were on call. The training took place on or near the HEMS base. Eight scenarios were developed with learning objectives related to the mission profile of the base which includes primary missions for both medical and trauma patients of all ages, and interhospital transport of adults, children, and neonates. All scenarios included learning objectives for non-technical skills. A total of 44 simulations were carried out. Total median (quartiles) time consumption for on-call HEMS crew was 65 (59-73) min. Time for preparation of scenarios was 10 (5-11) min, time for simulations was 20 (19-26) min, cleaning up 7 (6-10) min, and debrief 35 (30-40) min. For all items on the questionnaire, the majority of respondents replied with the two most positive categories on the Likert scale. Our results demonstrate that in situ simulation training for on-call crews on a busy HEMS base is feasible with judicious investment of time and money. The participants were very positive about their experience and the impact of this type of training.
Benin responds to covid-19: sanitary cordon without generalized containment or lockdown?
Authors: Osseni Issideen Ayinla
Published: June 2020

Since the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been identified in Wuhan, China, in the last week of December, the virus has spread across nations and continents affecting over 3 million people and putting the whole world to a halt. Nations across the globe went on lockdown in an attempt to contain the spread of the virus and curb its propagation curve. Affected African countries did the same except for Benin, which opted for a sanitary cordon around the affected regions with free movement of people. The biggest challenge is the effectiveness of this measure.
Chemical profiling of Thevetia peruviana leaves cytotoxic active extracts enhanced by microemulsion formulation
Authors: El-Sawi Salma A. , Maamoun Amal A. , Salama Alaa H. , Farghaly Ayman A.
Published: June 2020

Background

Natural products played an essential role as a complementary cytotoxic agent avoiding complications of other therapies. In phytoformulation research, herbal drugs of nano-size have attracted more attention for more bioavailability and less active dose. We aim in this work to introduce new non-mutagenic cytotoxic agent from Thevetia peruviana leaves extracts and potentiate the activity by loading upon microemulsion formulations as an advanced mode of drug delivery system.

Results

Thevetia peruviana toxicity test revealed its safety (LD50 = 3.083 g/kg). In vivo genotoxicity tests measuring chromosomal aberrations were done to prove non-mutagenicity of the plant for both somatic and germ cells. The plant showed antioxidant activity with 121.215, 128.925, and 120.098 mg/g extract, calculated as Trolox equivalent (TE/g) for DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, respectively. Successive extracts of the plant were incorporated in microemulsion formulations (MEF) and characterized for their electrical conductivity, poly-dispersity index, and in vitro drug release action. Cytotoxic activity of successive extracts was investigated against breast MCF7 and liver HEPG2 carcinoma cell lines before and after loading upon MEs. Enhancement in activity was detected for both pet. ether and ethanol MEFs, as IC50 of pet. ether extract decreased from 25 to 6.5 μg/ml against MCF7 cell line, while ethanol formulation recorded IC50 = 3.58 μg/ml against HEPG2 cell line after showing no activity of the extract at the tested concentrations.

Regarding metabolites of polar fraction, total ethanol extract was estimated for total phenolic and flavonoid contents to record 47.7941 mg GAE/g calculated as gallic acid equivalent and 32.7667 mg CE/g measured as catechin equivalent, respectively. HPLC analysis for polar fraction recorded twelve compounds identified according to the available authentics with rutin the major flavonoid (7.33 mg/g) and rosmarinic acid (13.48 mg/g) the most abundant phenolic acid. Phytoconstituents of non-polar fraction were investigated after saponification of pet. ether extract using GC/MS analysis revealed the identification of 88.02% of the total unsaponifiable matter and 89.17 % of the total saponifiable matter.

Conclusion

Thevetia peruviana is a safe cytotoxic agent. Microemulsion formulations of active extracts potentiate the cytotoxic actions against HEPG2 and MCF7 cell lines with better bioavailability and less medicinal doses.
Resource recovery and waste-to-energy from wastewater sludge via thermochemical conversion technologies in support of circular economy: a comprehensive review
Authors: Bora Raaj R. , Richardson Ruth E. , You Fengqi
Published: June 2020

With the rapid rise in global population over the past decades, there has been a corresponding surge in demand for resources such as food and energy. As a consequence, the rate of waste generation and resultant pollution levels have risen drastically. Currently, most organic solid wastes are either land applied or sent to landfills, with the remaining fraction incinerated or anaerobically digested. However, with the current emphasis on the reduction of emissions, nutrient recovery, clean energy production and circular economy, it is important to revisit some of the conventional methods of treating these wastes and tap into their largely unrealized potential in terms of environmental and economic benefits. Wastewater sludge, with its high organic content and fairly constant supply, provides a great opportunity to implement some of these strategies using thermochemical conversion technologies, which are considered as one of the alternatives for upcycling such waste streams. This paper summarizes the results of prominent studies for valorizing wastewater sludge through thermochemical conversion technologies while drawing inferences and identifying relationships between different technical and operating parameters involved. This is followed by sections emphasizing the environmental and economic implications of these technologies, and their corresponding products in context of the broader fields of waste-to-energy, nutrient recycling and the progress towards a circular economy.
Dot product graphs and domination number
Authors: Saleh Dina , Megahed Nefertiti
Published: June 2020

Let A be a commutative ring with 1≠0 and R=A×A. The unit dot product graph of R is defined to be the undirected graph UD(R) with the multiplicative group of units in R, denoted by U(R), as its vertex set. Two distinct vertices x and y are adjacent if and only if x·y=0∈A, where x·y denotes the normal dot product of x and y. In 2016, Abdulla studied this graph when $A=\mathbb {Z}_{n}$
A
=

ℤ

n

, $n \in \mathbb {N}$
n
∈
ℕ
, n≥2. Inspired by this idea, we study this graph when A has a finite multiplicative group of units. We define the congruence unit dot product graph of R to be the undirected graph CUD(R) with the congruent classes of the relation $\thicksim $
∽
defined on R as its vertices. Also, we study the domination number of the total dot product graph of the ring $R=\mathbb {Z}_{n}\times... \times \mathbb {Z}_{n}$
R
=

ℤ

n

×
...
×

ℤ

n

, k times and k<∞, where all elements of the ring are vertices and adjacency of two distinct vertices is the same as in UD(R). We find an upper bound of the domination number of this graph improving that found by Abdulla.
Reduced dose iterative reconstruction versus standard dose filtered back projection in detection of bladder tumors
Authors: Sharafeldeen Mohamed , Shaaban Mohamed , Ramadan Asmaa Mahmoud , Rashad Tarek , Elsaqa Mohamed
Published: June 2020

Background

The purpose was to assess radiation dose, image quality, and diagnostic performance of reduced-dose scanning with iterative reconstruction (IR) compared with standard-dose with filtered back projection (FBP) with CT urography for detection of bladder tumor. This study was prospectively conducted on 21 patients with bladder masses. All patients were subjected to two scanning protocols: protocol A (standard dose with FBP) and protocol B (additional limited scan to the pelvis at delayed phase with low dose with IR). Based on body weight (< or > 80 kg), each protocol was subdivided into 2 protocols A1 (130 kVp) and A2 (130 kVp) and protocols B1 (80 kVp) and B2 (110 kVp). Radiation dose was assessed in terms of mean CT dose index (CTDI), Dose-length product (DLP) and effective dose (ED). Image quality and diagnostic accuracy were compared in both groups.

Results

Mean CTDI, DLP and ED were reduced by average 72.3 % in the 80 kVp protocol (B1) and by 36.3% in 110 kVp (B2) protocol compared to standard-dose protocols. There were significantly lower SNR (signal to noise ratio) between protocol A1 and B1 at aorta and psoas muscles. Subjective image quality analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the protocol A2 and B2 whereas there were significant differences between protocol A1and B1 as regards to visual image noise and overall image quality. Diagnostic accuracy was identical among different protocols.

Conclusion

CT urography with IR scanning showed reduced radiation dose and no difference in detection of urothelial carcinomas from standard dose with FBP despite of degraded image quality in 80 kVp scanning.
Homelessness, housing instability and mental health: making the connections
Authors: Padgett Deborah K.
Published: June 2020

Research on the bi-directional relationship between mental health and homelessness is reviewed and extended to consider a broader global perspective, highlighting structural factors that contribute to housing instability and its mental ill health sequelae. Local, national and international initiatives to address housing and mental health include Housing First in Western countries and promising local programmes in India and Africa. Ways that psychiatrists and physicians can be agents of changes range from brief screening for housing stability to structural competence training. Narrow medico-scientific framing of these issues risks losing sight of the foundational importance of housing to mental health and well-being.
Differentiation of the human PAX7-positive myogenic precursors/satellite cell lineage in vitro
Authors: Al Tanoury Ziad , Rao Jyoti , Tassy Olivier , Gobert Bénédicte , Gapon Svetlana , Garnier Jean-Marie , Wagner Erica , Hick Aurore , Hall Arielle , Gussoni Emanuela , Pourquié Olivier
Published: June 2020

Satellite cells (SC) are muscle stem cells which can regenerate adult muscles upon injury. Most SC originate from PAX7-positive myogenic precursors set aside during development. While myogenesis has been studied in mouse and chicken embryos, little is known about human muscle development. Here, we report the generation of human induced Pluripotent Stem (iPS) cell reporter lines in which fluorescent proteins have been introduced into the PAX7 and MYOG loci. We use single cell RNA sequencing to analyze the developmental trajectory of the iPS-derived PAX7-positive myogenic precursors. We show that the PAX7-positive cells generated in culture can produce myofibers and self-renew in vitro and in vivo. Together, we demonstrate that cells exhibiting characteristics of human fetal satellite cells can be produced in vitro from iPS cells, opening interesting avenues for muscular dystrophy cell therapy. This work provides significant insights into the development of the human myogenic lineage.
Slc26a9
P2ACre, a new CRE driver to regulate gene expression in the otic placode lineage and other FGFR2b-dependent epithelia
Authors: Urness Lisa D. , Wang Xiaofen , Li Chaoying , Quadros Rolen M. , Harms Donald W. , Gurumurthy Channabasavaiah B. , Mansour Suzanne L.
Published: June 2020

Pan-otic CRE drivers enable gene regulation throughout the otic placode lineage, comprising the inner ear epithelium and neurons. However, intersection of extra-otic gene-of-interest expression with the CRE lineage can compromise viability and impede auditory analyses. Furthermore, extant pan-otic CREs recombine in auditory and vestibular brain nuclei, making it difficult to ascribe resulting phenotypes solely to the inner ear. We previously identified Slc26a9 as an otic placode-specific target of FGFR2b ligands, FGF3 and FGF10. We show here that Slc26a9 is otic-specific through E10.5, but not required for hearing. We targeted P2ACre to the Slc26a9 stop codon, generating Slc26a9P2ACre mice, and observed CRE activity throughout the otic epithelium and neurons, with little activity evident in the brain. Notably, recombination was detected in many FGFR2b ligand-dependent epithelia. We generated Fgf10 and Fgf8 conditional mutants, and activated an FGFR2b ligand trap from E17.5-P3. In contrast to analogous mice generated with other pan-otic CREs, these were viable. Auditory thresholds were elevated in mutants, and correlated with cochlear epithelial cell losses. Thus, Slc26a9P2ACre provides a useful complement to existing pan-otic CRE drivers, particularly for postnatal analyses.
Nrf2/HO-1 mediates neuroprotective effects of pramipexole by attenuating oxidative damage and mitochondrial perturbation after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Salman Mohd. , Tabassum Heena , Parvez Suhel
Published: June 2020

Pramipexole (PPX), a D2-like receptor agonist, is generally used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and restless leg syndrome. It's neuroprotective effects have been shown against various neurological disorders. Recent research work has demonstrated that PPX exerts neuroprotection through mitochondria. However, the neuromodulator related effects of PPX against traumatic brain injury (TBI) remain unexplored. The present study was, therefore, aimed to explore the mechanism of neuroprotection by PPX against oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal damage following TBI. We hypothesized that the neuroprotection by PPX might involve activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in TBI-subjected rats. PPX was injected intraperitoneally (0.25 & 1.0 mg/kg b.wt.) at different time interval post-TBI. Several neurobehavioral parameters were assessed at 48 h post-TBI, and the brain was isolated for molecular and biochemical analysis. The results demonstrated that PPX treatment significantly improved the behavioral deficits, decreased lipid peroxidation rate, increased glutathione level, and decreased the 4-hydroxynonenal protein expression in TBI-subjected rats. PPX also increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase enzymes. In addition, PPX treatment inhibited the mitochondrial ROS production, restored mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased ATP level after TBI. Further, PPX treatment reduced the Bax/Bcl2 ratio and translocation of Bax to mitochondria and cytochrome-c to cytosol. Finally, PPX treatment greatly accelerated the translocation of Nrf2 to the nucleus and upregulated the HO-1 protein expression. We concluded that the neuroprotective effects of PPX were mediated by activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway following TBI.
Nonfunctional distractor analysis: An indicator for quality of Multiple choice questions
Authors: Sajjad Madiha , Iltaf Samina , Khan Rehan Ahmed
Published: June 2020

Objectives: To analyze the low to medium distractor efficiency items in a multiple-choice question (MCQ) paper for item writing flaws.

Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at Islamic International Medical College Rawalpindi, in October 2019. Archived item- analysis report from a midyear medium stakes MCQ paper of 2nd year MBBS class, was analyzed to determine the non-functional distractors (NFDs) and distractor efficiency (DE) of items, in a total of 181 MCQs. DE was categorized as low (3-4 NFDs), medium (1-2 NFDs) and high (0 NFD). Subsequently, qualitative document analysis of the MCQ paper whose item analysis report was assessed was conducted to investigate the item flaws in the low to medium DE items. The flaws identified were coded and grouped as, within option flaws, alignment flaws between options and stem/ lead-in and other flaws.

Results: Distractor efficiency was high in 69 items (38%), moderate in 75 items (42%) and low in 37 items (20%). The item-writing flaws identified in low to moderate DE items within distractors included, non-homogenous length (1.8%), non-homogenous content (8%) and repeat in distractor (1.7%). Alignment flaws between distractors and stem/ lead-in identified were linguistic cues (10%), logic cues (12.5%) and irrelevant distractors (16%). Flaws unrelated to distractors were low cognitive level items (40%) and unnecessarily complicated stems (11.6%).

Conclusions: Analyzing the low to medium DE items for item writing flaws, provides valuable information about item writing errors which negatively impact the distractor efficiency.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.2439

How to cite this:Sajjad M, Iltaf S, Khan RA. Nonfunctional distractor analysis: An indicator for quality of Multiple choice questions. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(5):982-986. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.2439

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Outside: Let’s Promote Biodiversity
Authors: Soares M. F. , Liz R. , Ganço I.
Published: June 2020

The school Santa Marta do Pinhal opened in the academic year 2017/2018 with many expectations, but the reality caused some disappointment. The playground was small for so many children, and everything seemed impersonal, lifeless. It was necessary to act and the whole school community got involved. Class assemblies were held within all school groups, where problems were discussed and suggestions were made. This was followed by meetings of delegates, teachers, parents and local authorities, which led to new partnerships. Thanks to the enormous willingness, determination, commitment and resilience of all stakeholders, our school are now very different. The pond enchants kids and grownups, the flowerbeds, the aromatic spiral and the vegetable garden give life to the playground. Many of the classes are now OUTSIDE, willing to learn and where discoveries are made every moment.
Let's Turn the Lights Off to Turn the Stars On
Authors: Pinto G. A.
Published: June 2020

In this project, the causes and consequences of light pollution were discussed. The students concluded that light pollution is not only responsible for the “disappearance” of the starry sky in cities, but also a threat to living beings and a huge waste of energy. They also concluded that the measures to avoid light pollution are within the reach of citizens and municipalities and are based on the use of energy-efficient exterior lighting that directs light only downwards.Students shared their findings with the community and, at the same time, developed an interest in Astronomy, together with their families.
A Schoolyard to Play
Authors: Guerra H. , Cortes N. , Santos C.
Published: June 2020

This is an entrepreneurship project that promotes awareness, as its main action is to make the school more appealing. Students have raised this problem and identified the main goal of improving the schoolyard spaces. Problems were surveyed and solutions presented, with the focus of intervention in green spaces, new paintings, and organization of leisure spaces. Contacts were initiated with different stakeholders, for the potential implementation of the solutions found in this project.
Atmosphere Control of a House
Authors: Madaleno I. , Branco S.
Published: June 2020

The project consists of the prototype of a house, whose atmosphere is controlled automatically. Specific Aims of learning: studying the Arduíno board and sensors for collecting information, controlling and executing actions, knowing the language of programming needed, searching for solutions to the challenges using technological resources. With this project, the students got toknow better the functioning of some sensors and how to apply them in other contexts. And they realized the importance of home automation in people's lives.
Maker Club in Pre-School
Authors: Freitas L. , Ferrás A. , Vaz C. , Fernandes A. S. , Torres F. , Queirós M. I. , Pint M. B.
Published: June 2020

The project allows pre-school children to develop the problematization of what they are learning and, in secondary school, students’ perspectives of cooperative in the development of scientific literacy. In this type of activity, children, with the help of high school students, deepen and consolidate behavioral values for life, thus enabling a positive change in their attitudes, in the way of believing, innovating, planning and persisting to conquer. Theactivities developed are accessible, both in approach and availability as well as in the cost of materials.
Ribeira da Lage, a Stream to Protect
Authors: Tomaz M. , Vidal S. , Lopes A. , Espinha A. , Barata C. , Parente G. , Coito J. , Gouveia L.
Published: June 2020

The students started by identifying the most vulnerable ecosystems in the vicinity of the school. The stream Ribeira da Lage was identified and this ecosystem was characterized and the possible sources of pollution were surveyed. Macroinvertebrates were analyzed for subsequent determination of the BMWP (Biological Monitoring Working Party) index to assess water quality. After the research work, several contacts began with local entities and institutions (CMO, ITQB; Parish Council) to raise awareness and create measures to protect the assessed and monitored ecosystem.
Local Shops of Cantanhede Online Platform
Authors: Teixeira M.
Published: June 2020

This project is an initiative of a group of students of the technical course in management and programming of computer systems, taught at the Technical School of Cantanhede, which will allow consumers, through the Internet, to discover micro and small companies of the city through web pages. The idea came about following the analysis that has been made to the increasing decline of traditional shops and markets because of the increasing of large shopping centers. The project's objectives are to promote trade and proximity services; counteract the trend of exclusive promotion of large commercial groups to digital platforms; and give visibility to small local shops, so that they are able to attract new customers. It should be noted that this project aims to be multidisciplinary and promote a culture of proximity between the localcommunity and the school community, benefiting responsible citizenship.
There is Science at Guadalupe
Authors: Figueiredo S.
Published: June 2020

Our project seeks to disseminate science throughout the school community. 12th-grade students are building a scientific magazine and developing mini-projects, in small groups, which aim to stimulate the school community's interest in science and scientific discoveries. There are groups of students doing research and planning experiments. Other groups have establishedpartnerships with pre-school and 1st cycle classes so that, in a playful and fun way, interest in science grows more and earlier. The project started in October/November 2019 and, at this moment, we are still planning and devising strategies. In parallel, some of the mini-projects are already being implemented. In partnerships with the pre-school and 1st cycle classes, we have already started a scientific cooking project. We will also hold workshops on building terrariums, maintaining aquariums, and composting projects.
Vegetable Garden at School
Authors: Serra S. , Menezes S. , Afonso P. , Rosário I. , Santos J.
Published: June 2020

This project began in 2018/2019 due to the interests shown by three classes of the 5th year. Through a brainstorm, we realized that the concern about the lack of green spaces was common to several students of the school. Thus, the vegetable garden would make the school greener and more open to the community. The space for construction was chosen and partnerships were created with the department of environmental management and transport of Odivelas (CMO), and the school parents association. We have privileged collaborative and interdisciplinary work to streamline various activities throughout the school year. The study ofsoil, seeds, autochthonous plants and pollinating insects was done with the help of class teachers and librarian teachers. The days of the native forest and the tree were celebrated with the planting of trees and the holding of a plant fair. At school and throughout the year students disseminated their project through informative posters, school radio and the school's website.
Understanding central sensitization for advances in management of carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Fernández-de-las-peñas César , Arias-Buría José L , Ortega-Santiago Ricardo , De-la-Llave-Rincón Ana I
Published: June 2020

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common nerve compression disorder of the upper extremity, and it is traditionally considered a peripheral neuropathy associated with a localized compression of the median nerve just at the level of the carpal tunnel. Surgery and physiotherapy are treatment approaches commonly used for this condition; however, conflicting clinical outcomes suggest that carpal tunnel syndrome may be more complex. There is evidence supporting the role of peripheral nociception from the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome; however, emerging evidence also suggests a potential role of central sensitization. The presence of spreading pain symptoms (e.g. proximal pain), widespread sensory changes, or bilateral motor control impairments in people presenting with strictly unilateral sensory symptoms supports the presence of spinal cord changes. Interestingly, bilateral sensory and motor changes are not directly associated with electrodiagnostic findings. Other studies have also reported that patients presenting with carpal tunnel syndrome exhibit neuroplastic brainstem change supporting central sensitization. Current data would support the presence of a central sensitization process, mediated by the peripheral drive originating in the compression of the median nerve, in people with carpal tunnel syndrome. The presence of altered nociceptive gain processing should be considered in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome by integrating therapeutic approaches aiming to modulate long-lasting nociceptive barrage into the central nervous system (peripheral drive) and strategies aiming to activate endogenous pain networks (central drive).
Prediction of repurposed drugs for treating lung injury in COVID-19
Authors: He Bing , Garmire Lana
Published: June 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease discovered in 2019 and currently in outbreak across the world. Lung injury with severe respiratory failure is the leading cause of death in COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, there still lacks efficient treatment for COVID-19 induced lung injury and acute respiratory failure.

Methods: Inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) caused by the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is the most plausible mechanism of lung injury in COVID-19. We performed drug repositioning analysis to identify drug candidates that reverse gene expression pattern in L1000 lung cell line HCC515 treated with ACE2 inhibitor. We confirmed these drug candidates by similar bioinformatics analysis using lung tissues from patients deceased from COVID-19. We further investigated deregulated genes and pathways related to lung injury, as well as the gene-pathway-drug candidate relationships.

Results: We propose two candidate drugs, COL-3 (a chemically modified tetracycline) and CGP-60474 (a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor), for treating lung injuries in COVID-19. Further bioinformatics analysis shows that 12 significantly enriched pathways (P-value <0.05) overlap between HCC515 cells treated with ACE2 inhibitor and human COVID-19 patient lung tissues. These include signaling pathways known to be associated with lung injury such as TNF signaling, MAPK signaling and chemokine signaling pathways. All 12 pathways are targeted in COL-3 treated HCC515 cells, in which genes such as RHOA, RAC2, FAS, CDC42 have reduced expression. CGP-60474 shares 11 of 12 pathways with COL-3 and common target genes such as RHOA. It also uniquely targets other genes related to lung injury, such as CALR and MMP14.

Conclusions: This study shows that ACE2 inhibition is likely part of the mechanisms leading to lung injury in COVID-19, and that compounds such as COL-3 and CGP-60474 have potential as repurposed drugs for its treatment.