bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-purity magnesium pin enhances bone consolidation in distraction osteogenesis model through activation of the VHL/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling
Authors: Hamushan Musha , Cai Weijie , Zhang Yubo , Lou Tengfei , Zhang Shaoxiang , Zhang Xiaonong , Cheng Pengfei , Zhao Changli , Han Pei
Published: May 2020

Distraction osteogenesis has widespread clinical use in the treatment of large bone defects. Nonetheless, the prolonged consolidation period carries the risk of complications. Magnesium-based materials have been shown to promote bone regeneration in fracture healing both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we investigated whether high-purity magnesium could enhance bone formation in distraction osteogenesis. High-purity magnesium pins were placed into the medullary cavity in the rat distraction osteogenesis model. Results showed that the bone volume/total tissue volume, bone mineral density, and mechanical properties of new callus were significantly higher in the high-purity magnesium group compared to stainless steel and control group (p < 0.01). Histological analyses confirmed improved bone consolidation and vascularization in high-purity magnesium group. Further, polymerase chain reaction-array investigation, Western blot, and immunohistochemical results found that vascular endothelial growth factor and hypoxia inducible factor-1α were highly expressed in the high-purity magnesium group, while Von Hippel–Lindau protein was the opposite (p < 0.01). In conclusion, high-purity magnesium implants have the potential to enhance angiogenesis and bone consolidation in the distraction osteogenesis application, and this process might be via the regulation of Von Hippel–Lindau/hypoxia inducible factor-1α/vascular endothelial growth factor signaling.
Factors Associated with Domestic Violence in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Haque Md Ahshanul , Choudhury Nuzhat , Ahmed S. M. Tanvir , Farzana Fahmida Dil , Ali Mohammad , Rahman Sheikh Shahed , Faruque A. S. G. , Raihan Mohammad Jyoti , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: May 2020

Women’s experience of domestic violence has adverse consequences on women’s health globally and is itself affected by several factors. This study aims to determine the factors that are associated with experience of any form of domestic violence in rural Bangladesh. Data were derived from the baseline survey database of Suchana, a large-scale nutrition program in Bangladesh. Data of 5,440 women from poor households in rural areas were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors that were significantly associated with experiencing any form of domestic violence. The prevalence of women experiencing domestic violence was found to be 35% and household food insecurity was 86%. Of the women’s characteristic domain, age at marriage, lack of any support from household members, visit from non-governmental organizations (NGO) health professionals, number of children, and decision-making power of women at the household level were significantly associated with reporting of domestic violence. Of the household characteristic domain, the associated factors were having a male household head, increased household size, low socio-economic status, having a loan, experience of at least one crisis event, and household food insecurity. The strength of association between household food insecurity and domestic violence was higher among poor families. Experience of domestic violence is inevitably associated with women’s decision-making power and household food insecurity. Behavioral change communication interventions may help to positively affect decision-making power but a holistic approach needs to be undertaken to reduce food insecurity, for which the underlying mechanism of food insecurity in Bangladesh needs to be explored further.
Historical Research: The Origin of ‘Formula’: State of the Science, 1890s
Authors: Wolf Jacqueline H.
Published: May 2020

In 1900, 13% of infants in the United States died before their first birthday, most of dehydration from diarrhea. As part of a nationwide effort to “save the babies,” pediatricians focused on several endeavors—experimenting with commercially made infant-food products; working with dairy farmers to clean up cows’ milk; lobbying to pass municipal and state legislation regulating the dairy industry; and devising mathematical “formulas” that represented instructions to chemists on how to “humanize” cows’ milk for the needs of a particular infant. Pediatricians dubbed the latter endeavor “percentage feeding” and, from the 1890s to the 1920s, they deemed percentage feeding a lifesaving scientific achievement. The complex, virtually infinite array of mathematical formulas that comprised this infant-feeding system is the origin of the word “formula” as used today to describe artificial baby milk.
Biodiesel/butanol blends as a pure biofuel excluding fossil fuels: Effects on diesel engine combustion, performance, and emission characteristics
Authors: Huang Yongcheng , Li Yaoting , Luo Kun , Wang Jiyuan
Published: May 2020

Although both biodiesel and n-butanol are excellent renewable biofuels, most of the existing research works merely use them as the additives for petroleum diesel. As the main fuel properties of biodiesel and n-butanol are complementary, the biodiesel/ n-butanol blends are promising to be a pure biomass-based substitute for diesel fuel. In this paper, the application of the biodiesel/ n-butanol blends on an agricultural diesel engine was comprehensively investigated, in terms of the combustion, performance, and emission characteristics. First, the biodiesel/ n-butanol blends with 10%, 20%, and 30% n-butanol by weight were prepared and noted as BBu10 (10 wt% n-butanol + 90 wt% biodiesel), BBu20 (20 wt% n-butanol + 80 wt% biodiesel), and BBu30 (30 wt% n-butanol + 70 wt% biodiesel). It was found that adding 30 wt% n-butanol to biodiesel can reduce the viscosity by 39.3% and increase the latent heat of vaporization by 57.3%. Then the engine test results showed that with the addition of n-butanol to biodiesel, the peak values of the cylinder pressure and temperature of the biodiesel/ n-butanol blends were slightly decreased, the peak values of the pressure rise rate and heat release rate of the blends were increased, the fuel ignition was delayed, and the combustion duration was shortened. BBu20 has the approximate ignition characteristics with diesel fuel. Both the brake thermal efficiency and the brake-specific fuel consumption of BBu30 were increased by the average percentages of 2.7% and 14.9%, while NO x, soot, and CO emissions of BBu30 were reduced by the average percentages of 17.6%, 34.1%, and 15.4%, compared to biodiesel. The above variations became more evident as the n-butanol proportion increased.
Reformulating the network theory of mental disorders: Folk psychology as a factor, not a fact
Authors: Oude Maatman Freek
Published: May 2020

Borsboom et al. (2019) argue that the network theory of mental disorders, if correct, blocks the biological reduction of mental disorders. This is mainly argued through a partial reformulation of network theory which combines multiple realizability of symptoms with a realist interpretation of folk psychological explanations. In this article, I argue that (a) the latter is problematic and that (b) the combination of these arguments voids the previous predictive and explanatory power of network theory. I then present a novel way in which network theory could avoid biological reductionism by considering folk psychology not as a fact, but as a structuring cause of causal connections between intentional state symptoms, together with culture and time period. Drawing from this, a novel principle for network theory is proposed, which allows it to retain force against reductionism while also retaining predictive and explanatory power.
The Proposal of an Electronic Business Model in Agriculture Case Study: The Orchard Products in Isfahan Province
Authors: Saberi Tabasom , Khodadadi Abbas , Saeedi Hamid
Published: May 2020

The four indicators, occupational personality, information, money and product mechanisms, are assessed in this study. Experts from the Isfahan province’s agricultural sector have focused on the quality method to find an approved e-commerce model for the orchard of products. The qualitative evaluation method in this study is of Delphi carried out in three phases of snowball sampling in five groups of agricultural experts. The results indicate that the main actors in this field consist of three groups, intellectual, realistic and conventional, which areas of similarities, differentiation and prediction. The results from the review run on information, money and product indicate that experts in the selection of purchasing, exchange and communication mechanisms, in some respects, agree on similar models of the merchant, manufacturer and brokerage, and in some other areas they have represented new definitions.
The intersubjective accomplishment of power by medical professionals within unregulated combat sports
Authors: Channon Alex , Matthews Christopher R , Hillier Mathew
Published: May 2020

The lack of power experienced by medical professionals working in various sport settings has been consistently evidenced by sociologists researching the provision of medical care to athletes. In this paper, which focuses on the work of medical professionals within unregulated combat sports in England, we extend this discussion by focusing on the means by which such professionals attempt to (re)construct power within contexts where it cannot be taken for granted. To explore this issue, we conducted 200 hours of observational fieldwork at competitive combat sports events, along with interviews with 25 medical professionals with experience in this field, 7 combat sports referees and 9 event promoters and their staff. Employing the concept of power as ‘intersubjective accomplishment’, we argue that the influence necessary for medical professionals to undertake their work must be actively won within specific situations, principally relying on their ability to tactically interact with various other people. In so doing, we evidence both successes and failures of medical staff in this respect, arguing that such informal means of securing power make caring for the health of combat athletes a challenging proposition.
Design and experimental analysis of a smart bearing using shape memory alloy springs
Authors: Guimarães Oliveira Andersson , Almeida Silva Antônio , Jose de Araújo Carlos , Senko Richard , Pierre B dos Reis Rômulo
Published: May 2020

Among many rotating machinery vibration sources, there is one due to resonance, when the machine operation frequency crosses the natural frequency region. This study proposes a smart bearing that employs shape memory alloy NiTi helical springs for vibration-level reduction. This smart bearing is capable of dynamically changing its stiffness during machine acceleration or deceleration, keeping its natural frequency far from resonance. Activated by Joule effect and cooled by forced air convection, the prototype installed in horizontal rotating machinery reaches reduction of vibration amplitude of about 63% (root mean square) and 73% (Peak) at critical speed, with response time between 12–15 s. Compared with the results of the reference articles, satisfactory amplitude reduction and better response time were observed.
Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Transport and Palliative Care: A Case Series
Authors: Garcia Xiomara , Frazier Elizabeth , Kane Janie , Jones Amber , Brown Carrie , Bryant Tonja , Prodhan Parthak
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To present our center’s experience with terminal extubation in 3 palliative critical care home transports from the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Unit.

Design:

All cases were identified from our Cardiovascular intensive care unit ( CVICU). Patients were terminally ill children with no other surgical or medical option who were transported home between 2014 and 2018, for terminal extubation and end-of-life care according to their families’ wishes.

Interventions:

The patients were 7, 9 months, and 19 years; and they had very complex and chronic conditions. The families were approached by the CVICU staff during multidisciplinary meetings, where goals of care were established. Parental expectations were clarified, and palliative care team was involved, as well as home hospice was arranged pre transfer. The transfer process was discussed and all the needs were established. All patients had unstable medical conditions, with needs for transport for withdrawal of life support and death at home. Each case needed a highly trained team to support life while in transport. The need of these patients required coordination with home palliative care services, as well as community resources due to difficulty to get in their homes.

Conclusions:

Transportation of pediatric cardiac critical care patients for terminal extubation at home is a relatively infrequent practice. It is a feasible alternative for families seeking out of the hospital end-of-life care for their critically ill and technology dependent children. Our single-center experience supports the need for development of formal programs for end-of-life critical care transports.
Three-Dimensional Printing of Prenatal Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Cleft Lip and Palate: Presenting the Needed “Know-How” and Discussing Its Use in Parental Education
Authors: Schlund Matthias , Levaillant Jean-Marc , Nicot Romain
Published: May 2020

Parental prenatal counseling is of paramount significance since parents often experience an emotional crisis with feelings of disappointment and helplessness. Three-dimensional (3D) printed model of the unborn child’s face presenting with cleft lip and palate, based on ultrasonographic information, could be used to provide visual 3D information, further enhancing the prospective parent’s comprehension of their unborn child’s pathology and morphology, helping them to be psychologically prepared and improving the communication with the caretaking team. Prospective parents appreciate if prenatal counseling is available with the most detailed information as well as additional resources. The technique necessary to create 3D models after ultrasonographic information is explained, and the related costs are evaluated. The use of such models in parental education is then discussed.
Young Children and Ongoing Child Welfare Services: A Multilevel Examination of Clinical and Worker Characteristics
Authors: Filippelli Joanne , Lwin Kristen , Fallon Barbara , Trocmé Nico
Published: May 2020

There is a growing body of research that underscores that young child welfare-involved children are a unique vulnerable subgroup of children. The decision to provide postinvestigation child welfare services is consequential to children’s safety and well-being and has fiscal implications for organizations. Despite the potential ramifications of the decision, there is little known about the factors associated with the ongoing services provision for young children. This study uses secondary data analysis of the Canadian Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect 2008 to explore what case and worker factors predict the provision of ongoing child welfare services. Multilevel modeling was used to assess the relationship between independent variables and the decision to provide ongoing services; analyses included 2,296 children and 555 workers. Case and worker characteristics, including worker training and worker position, predicted ongoing child welfare services suggesting that further research examining the role of what worker characteristics impact child welfare decisions is warranted and essential.
Trans Manhood: The Intersections of Masculinities, Queerness, and the South
Authors: Rogers Baker A.
Published: May 2020

Using qualitative interviews with trans men across the Southeastern United States, this article examines how regional constructions of masculinities and manhood shape how trans men understand and do gender in this region of the country. This analysis is situated at the intersections of three areas of study—southern studies, masculinities studies, and trans studies—and demonstrates how trans masculinities in the South broaden the conversations occurring in each. The key finding in this study is that trans men, despite not being assigned male-bodied at birth and despite not being socialized as boys/men through childhood, understand and do masculinities and manhood in similar ways to their southern cis counterparts. Through three primary mechanisms, southern trans men uphold southern gender ideology and performances of masculinities. These mechanisms include (a) understanding gender as binary and essential; (b) performing stereotypical versions of southern manhood; and, (c) maintaining mastery, honor, and independence.
Appetite-stimulating effect of gabapentin vs mirtazapine in healthy cats post-ovariectomy
Authors: Fantinati Marco , Trnka Julien , Signor Amélia , Dumond Séverine , Jourdan Géraldine , Verwaerde Patrick , Priymenko Nathalie
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate the appetite-stimulating effect of gabapentin by comparing it with mirtazapine in healthy cats in the first 8 h after ovariectomy surgery.

Methods

This double-masked, placebo-controlled, prospective clinical trial included 60 healthy cats presented to the hospital for ovariectomy: 20 received gabapentin, 21 received mirtazapine and 19 received a placebo immediately before and 6 h after surgery. Food was offered at 2, 4, 6 and 8 h post-ovariectomy. After each meal, food intake was measured. Data were analysed using repeated-measure ANOVA and a linear mixed-model analysis. Post-hoc Tukey’s honest significant difference test was performed for multiple comparisons.

Results

Food intake increased in both treatment groups vs placebo. No statistically significant difference was found between cats treated with gabapentin or mirtazapine.

Conclusions and relevance

Cats receiving gabapentin ate more than cats in the placebo group. Thirty percent of cats in the gabapentin group covered their resting energy requirements, while none of the cats in the placebo group did. Gabapentin and mirtazapine produced similar effects on food intake.
Epstein–Barr virus retinitis in an immunocompromised child: A case report
Authors: Chou Hung-Da , Teh Wee Min , Sun Ming-Hui , Chen Kuan-Jen
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The Epstein–Barr virus is a rare causative pathogen identified in the posterior segment. The majority of cases were presented with a serious condition of acute retinal necrosis, and most of these eyes had poor outcomes. The clinical features and effective treatment options for this condition are still unclear. Case description: A 10-year-old boy with leukaemia and receiving immunosuppressive regimen presented with decreasing visual acuity to counting fingers in his left eye for 2 weeks. Fundus examination revealed disc swelling, retinitis, retinal exudates and haemorrhages. Aqueous polymerase chain reaction was positive for Epstein–Barr virus DNA but negative for cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus DNA. Systemic acyclovir and intravitreal ganciclovir injection were administered. Seven months later, retinitis resolved with remnant retinal fibrosis, and visual acuity improved to 20/500.

Conclusion

Epstein–Barr virus is rarely identified as a sole pathogen in retinitis. Peripapillary predilection might be another type of presenting feature apart from the more-commonly reported peripheral acute retinal necrosis.
Knowledge, Awareness, and Perception of Community Pharmacists to Zika Virus Infection in Klang Valley, Malaysia
Authors: Lim Kah Yee , Tham Hong-Wai
Published: May 2020

Background:

Zika fever is a mosquito-borne disease with global health concern. It has been underreported or misdiagnosed due to its unspecific clinical manifestations, including mild-influenza like and subclinical symptoms. However, its associated serious complications which include fetal microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome remained a challenge to the public health sectors. This research aimed to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and perception toward Zika virus infection among community pharmacists in the Klang Valley of Malaysia and to determine the association between the knowledge of Zika virus infectious disease and years of community practice experience among community pharmacists in this region.

Methods:

This survey research was conducted from August to December 2018 through a pre-tested, self-administration, and cross-sectional random convenient sampling at various districts in the Klang Valley. A total of 275 registered community pharmacists were involved in this study by completing a pilot-tested questionnaire. Descriptive analysis, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The knowledge toward Zika virus infection of respondents was classified into “poor” (5.1%), “basic” (70.9%), and “broad” (24.0%). Most of the participants (n = 195, 70.9%) presented with basic knowledge toward Zika virus infection. A total of 268 (97.5%) participants presented with high awareness toward Zika virus infection. The mean score of respondents’ knowledge and awareness was 15.88 ± 3.61 (maximum score = 28) and 13.96 ± 1.60 (maximum score = 16), respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the years of practice of community pharmacists and the level of knowledge toward Zika virus infection.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, our respondents demonstrated a basic level of knowledge and high awareness toward Zika virus infection. Also, we highlighted some possible pitfalls in the knowledge of Zika virus infection, including the virus transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and complications of the disease.
Therapeutic Potential of Vitamin D and Curcumin in an In Vitro Model of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Alamro Abir Abdullah , Alsulami Ebtesam Atiah , Almutlaq Moudhi , Alghamedi Amani , Alokail Majed , Haq Samina Hyder
Published: May 2020

Background:

Alzheimer disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, affecting a very high proportion of the aging population. Several studies have demonstrated that one of the main contributors to this disease is oxidative stress (OS), which causes peroxidation of protein, lipids, and DNA resulting in the formation of advanced glycosylated end products (AGE) in the brain tissues. These AGE are usually associated with the amyloid β (Aβ), which could further aggravate its toxicity and its clearance. Antioxidants counteract the deterioration caused by OS.

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin D3 and curcumin on primary cortical neuronal cultures exposed to Aβ1-42 toxicity for different time periods.

Methods:

Primary cortical neuronal cultures were set up and exposed to Aβ1-42 for up to 72 hours. Cell viability was studied by 3[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-dipheyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. Biochemical assays for OS such as lipid peroxidation, reduced Glutathione(GSH), Glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were conducted. Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to study the neurotrophic growth factor (NGF) expression.

Results:

Treatments with Aβ1-42 caused an elevation in lipid peroxidation products, which were ameliorated in the presence of vitamin D3 and curcumin. Both enzymatic (GST, catalase, and SOD) and nonenzymatic antioxidants (reduced GSH) were raised significantly in the presence of vitamin D3 and curcumin, which resulted in the better recovery of neuronal cells from Aβ1-42 treatment. Treatment with vitamin D3 and curcumin also resulted in the upregulation of NGF levels.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that vitamin D3 and curcumin can be a promising natural therapy for the treatment of Alzheimer disease.
Exploratory study of clinician and patient views regarding the use of a preconception care app for women with diabetes
Authors: Nwolise Chidiebere Hope , Carey Nicola , Shawe Jill
Published: May 2020

Women with diabetes are at increased risk of adverse maternal and foetal outcomes. Preconception care can minimise risk of complications and improve outcomes, but current provision is inadequate. Electronic health technology, particularly apps, could improve preconception care provision but research is lacking in this area. The aim of this article is to explore the views and experiences of clinicians and women with diabetes regarding the use of a mobile app for preconception care. An exploratory study was conducted. Data were collected using focus group and interviews with 19 participants, comprising 10 clinicians and 9 women with type 1 or 2 diabetes. Data were analysed thematically. Women with diabetes and clinicians highlighted the inadequacy and challenges of current preconception care service provision and expressed a high level of enthusiasm and interest, towards a preconception care app that could support preconception care delivery for women with diabetes and overcome barriers to preconception care service provision and uptake. The acceptability of mobile health technology to both women and clinicians creates an important opportunity to overcome existing barriers to service provision, delivery and uptake, and improve both maternal and foetal outcomes for women with diabetes.
When consumers live several experiences in one: Syncretic thematization and consumers’ productive use of free time
Authors: Chaney Damien , Fırat Fuat A.
Published: May 2020

In a culture of experiential consumption, themed consumer experiences have become highly marketable commodities, giving birth to new types of experiences. In this research, we explore these new forms of experiences that try to escape from commodification through syncretism. We conduct an ethnography of a highly themed festival, Hellfest in France. We identify that this festival offers an experience based on cognitive, sensory, and praxeological syncretism which aims to re-enchant as well as disorient consumers. Since syncretic experiences are perceived as several sub-experiences in one, we also show how these new types of experiences are rooted in a new conception of space-time in which consumers want productively to collect memorable experiences.
Clarifying the information and support needs of family caregivers of nursing home residents with advancing dementia
Authors: Thompson Genevieve , Hack Thomas , Rodger Kerstin , St. John Phil , Chochinov Harvey , McClement Susan
Published: May 2020

Background

Research has identified inadequacies in the quality and quantity of dementia-related information, particularly end-of-life information provided to those living with dementia and their family caregivers. The purpose of this study was to identify what types of information family caregivers of persons living with dementia in nursing homes would deem useful in preparing them for their relative’s end-of-life and assist them to make decisions about care along the dementia trajectory.

Methods

The qualitative methodology of interpretive description was used to guide the study in which semi-structured interviews were conducted with nursing home staff in clinical roles (e.g., nurses, health care aides, social workers, speech language pathologists; N = 26), palliative care clinicians ( N = 7), and bereaved family caregivers of persons with dementia ( N = 17). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Eight substantive categories essential to meeting family members’ needs for information and preparing them for the future were identified including: (i) dementia in general, (ii) dementia toward the end-of-life, (iii) care of persons dying with dementia, (iv) the role of family caregiver as decision maker, (v) sustaining connection, (vi) emotional impact of dementia on caregivers, (vii) relationships with staff, and (viii) general questions about life in a NH.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that family caregivers of nursing home residents with dementia have unique information and support needs, some disease specific, others more related to life in a nursing home in general. Health care providers need to support and encourage dementia literacy for family caregivers. A key strategy is to proactively broach these topic areas, as too often family caregivers may not recognize or value their need for information.
Gene Expression Profiling to Delineate the Anticancer Potential of a New Alkaloid Isopicrinine From Rhazya stricta
Authors: Hajrah Nahid H. , Abdul Waseem Mohammed , Abdul-Hameed Zainab H. , Alarif Walied M. , Al-Abbas Nouf Saeed A. , Ayyad Seif-Eldin N. , Omer Abdulkader M. Shaikh , Mutawakil Mohammed Zainy , Hall Neil , Obaid Abdullah Y. , Bora Roop Singh , Sabir Jamal S. M. , Saini Kulvinder Singh
Published: May 2020

Background: Rhazya stricta has been used as a folkloric medicinal herb for treating various diseases such as diabetes, inflammatory disorders, and sore throat. Several studies have revealed the potential of this plant as an important source of phytochemicals with anticancer properties. Objective: The present study was designed to isolate a novel anticancer compound from Rhazya stricta and elucidate its mechanism of action using genomics approach. Methods: Rhazya stricta leaves extract was prepared, and several alkaloids were purified and characterized. These alkaloids were screened for their anticancer potential. One of the alkaloids, termed as isopicrinine, showed efficient cytotoxicity against MCF7 breast cancer cell line and was selected for further analysis. RNA-Seq transcription profiling was conducted to identify the affected genes and cellular pathways in MCF7 cells after treatment with isopicrinine alkaloid. Results: In vitro studies revealed that newly identified isopicrinine alkaloid possess efficient anticancer activity. Exposure of MCF7 cells with isopicrinine affected the expression of various genes involved in p53 signaling pathway. One of the crucial proapoptotic genes, significantly upregulated in MCF7 after exposure to alkaloid, was PUMA (p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis), which is involved in p53-dependent and -independent apoptosis. Moreover, exposure of sublethal dose of isopicrinine alkaloid in breast cancer cell line led to the downregulation of survivin, which is involved in negative regulation of apoptosis. Besides, several genes involved in mitosis and cell proliferation were significantly downregulated. Conclusion: In this article, we report the determination of a new alkaloid isopicrinine from the aerial parts of Rhazya stricta with anticancer property. This compound has the potential to be developed as a drug for curing cancer.
Implementing Restorative Justice in an Urban Elementary School: A Principal’s Commitment and Experiences Eliminating Exclusionary Discipline
Authors: Farr Bridget , Gandomi Mackenzie , DeMatthews David E.
Published: May 2020

Principals play a critical role in creating safe, inclusive, and equitable schools. Unfortunately, many schools maintain a legacy of exclusionary discipline and racial bias. In such contexts, principals can work collaboratively with school personnel and community members to interrogate existing policies, practices, and outcomes to inform subsequent school improvement efforts. In this case, a principal in an urban school district situated within a gentrifying school–community identifies her school’s legacy of racial bias and works to enact restorative justice. However, the principal confronts challenges and resistance during the implementation process.
Composite clustering normal distribution transform algorithm
Authors: Liu Tian , Zheng Jiongzhi , Wang Zhenting , Huang Zhengdong , Chen Yongfu
Published: May 2020

Scan registration is a fundamental step for the simultaneous localization and mapping of mobile robot. The accuracy of scan registration is critical for the quality of mapping and the accuracy of robot navigation. During all of the scan registration methods, normal distribution transform is an efficient and wild-using one. But normal distribution transform will lead to the unreasonable interruption when splitting the grid and can’t express the points’ local geometric feature by prefixed grid. In this article, we propose a novel method, composite clustering normal distribution transform, which comprises the density-based clustering and k-means clustering to aggregate the points with similar local distributing feature. It takes singular value decomposition to judge the suitable degree of one cluster for further division. Meanwhile, to avoid the radiating phenomenon of LIDAR in measuring the points’ distance, we propose a method based on trigonometric to measure the internal distance. The clustering method in composite clustering normal distribution transform could ensure the expression of LIDAR’s local distribution and matching accuracy. The experimental result demonstrates that our method is more accurate and more stable than the normal distribution transform and iterative closest point methods.
Efficacy and safety of second-line nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine after progression on FOLFIRINOX for unresectable or metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: multicenter retrospective analysis
Authors: Chae Heejung , Jeong Hyehyun , Cheon Jaekyung , Chon Hong Jae , Ryu Hyewon , Kim Il-Hwan , Kang Myoung Joo , Jeong Jae Ho , Ryoo Baek-Yeol , Kim Kyu-pyo , Yoo Changhoon
Published: May 2020

Background:

FOLFIRINOX (fluorouracil, folinic acid, irinotecan plus oxaliplatin) is an effective standard first-line treatment option for advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). There is no clear consensus on the second-line treatment following progression on FOLFIRINOX. In this multicenter retrospective analysis, we evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of second-line nab-P/Gem (nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine) after progression on FOLFIRNOX in PDAC.

Methods:

Patients with unresectable or metastatic PDAC who received nab-P/Gem after progression on FOLFIRINOX between February 2016 and February 2019 were identified from five referral cancer centers in South Korea. Baseline characteristics, treatment history, survival outcomes, and toxicity profile were obtained retrospectively from medical records.

Results:

A total of 102 patients treated with second-line nab-P/Gem for advanced PDAC after progression on FOLFIRINOX were included. At the time of nab-P/Gem, the median age was 60 years, with males comprising 49.0%, and most (75.5%) had metastatic disease. Patients received a median of three cycles (range 1–12) of nab-P/Gem. The median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) from the start of second-line nab-P/Gem therapy were 9.8 (95% CI, 8.9–10.6) and 4.6 months (3.7–5.5), respectively. A partial response was achieved in 8.5%, and the disease control rate was 73.6%. From the start of first-line FOLFIRIOX, the OS1+2 and PFS1+2 were 20.9 (15.7–26.1) and 13.9 (10.8–17.0) months, respectively, with a 2-year survival rate of 45.1%. There was no treatment-related mortality and grade ⩾3 toxicity was observed in 60.2%.

Conclusion:

Our results showed that nab-P/Gem was an effective and tolerable second-line treatment option in medically fit patients with advanced PDAC who progressed on first-line FOLFIRNOX.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:

NCT04133155
Management of clozapine treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gee Siobhan , Gaughran Fiona , MacCabe James , Shergill Sukhi , Whiskey Eromona , Taylor David
Published: May 2020

Clozapine is the only available treatment for refractory schizophrenia but its use involves frequent physical contact with healthcare workers for the purpose of mandatory blood monitoring. During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients taking clozapine will be self-isolating to reduce the risk of infection, not least because these patients are at high risk of serious illness and fatality because of high rates of diabetes, obesity and pulmonary disease and an increased risk of pneumonia. Problems may also arise because both clozapine-induced myocarditis and neutropenic sepsis share signs and symptoms with COVID-19 (fever, chest pain, dyspnoea, etc.). We recommend decreasing the frequency of physical contacts by extending the blood monitoring interval to 12 weeks in those patients taking clozapine for more than 1 year. To distinguish COVID-19 from clozapine-related physical adverse effects, we suggest an urgent antigen test alongside a full blood count. In those taking clozapine who develop COVID-19, we suggest continuing with clozapine whenever possible (even during ventilation), reducing the dose if necessary in line with blood assay results. Blood monitoring should continue but clozapine should only cease if there is a significant fall in neutrophils (COVID-19 is linked to lymphopenia but not neutropenia). To protect against the likelihood and severity of respiratory infection, we recommend the use of vitamin D in all clozapine patients. Initiation of clozapine is likely to remain problematic while the risk of infection remains, given the degree of physical contact required to assure safety.
Preoccupied and Dismissing Attachment Representations Are Differentially Associated With Anxiety in Adolescence and Adulthood: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dagan Or , Facompré Christopher R. , Nivison Marissa D. , Roisman Glenn I. , Bernard Kristin
Published: May 2020

The claim that insecure attachment predisposes individuals to anxiety was put forth by attachment theorists more than 45 years ago, yet evidence of this association has produced mixed results. By conducting a series of meta-analyses ( k = 53, N = 4,970), we found that individuals with secure and insecure attachment representations did not differ in their reported anxiety symptoms. However, individuals with preoccupied ( d = 0.35) but not dismissing attachment representations ( d = −0.02) endorsed significantly more anxiety symptoms than secure individuals. Individuals with preoccupied attachment representations also endorsed greater anxiety symptoms than people with dismissing attachment representations ( d = 0.31), and this difference was stronger when assessed in high-risk samples than low-risk samples. Unresolved individuals were more anxious than nonunresolved individuals ( d = 0.29), but exploratory analysis suggested that secondary preoccupied attachment subtype drove this effect. Results highlight the relevance of attachment representations for prevention and intervention efforts targeting anxiety.
Spine Surgery Supported by Augmented Reality
Authors: Carl Barbara , Bopp Miriam , Saß Benjamin , Pojskic Mirza , Voellger Benjamin , Nimsky Christopher
Published: May 2020

Study Design:

A prospective, case-based, observational study.

Objectives:

To investigate how microscope-based augmented reality (AR) support can be utilized in various types of spine surgery.

Methods:

In 42 spinal procedures (12 intra- and 8 extradural tumors, 7 other intradural lesions, 11 degenerative cases, 2 infections, and 2 deformities) AR was implemented using operating microscope head-up displays (HUDs). Intraoperative low-dose computed tomography was used for automatic registration. Nonlinear image registration was applied to integrate multimodality preoperative images. Target and risk structures displayed by AR were defined in preoperative images by automatic anatomical mapping and additional manual segmentation.

Results:

AR could be successfully applied in all 42 cases. Low-dose protocols ensured a low radiation exposure for registration scanning (effective dose cervical 0.29 ± 0.17 mSv, thoracic 3.40 ± 2.38 mSv, lumbar 3.05 ± 0.89 mSv). A low registration error (0.87 ± 0.28 mm) resulted in a reliable AR representation with a close matching of visualized objects and reality, distinctly supporting anatomical orientation in the surgical field. Flexible AR visualization applying either the microscope HUD or video superimposition, including the ability to selectively activate objects of interest, as well as different display modes allowed a smooth integration in the surgical workflow, without disturbing the actual procedure. On average, 7.1 ± 4.6 objects were displayed visualizing target and risk structures reliably.

Conclusions:

Microscope-based AR can be applied successfully to various kinds of spinal procedures. AR improves anatomical orientation in the surgical field supporting the surgeon, as well as it offers a potential tool for education.
Comparison of Minimally Invasive Versus Open Transforaminal Interbody Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Kim Chi Heon , Easley Kirk , Lee Jun-Seok , Hong Jae-Young , Virk Michael , Hsieh Patrick C. , Yoon Sangwook T.
Published: May 2020

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Objectives:

In this review, we address the question of whether the literature supports the notion that minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) improves outcome as compared with open TLIF (open-TLIF). Short and long-term outcomes, fusion rate, and cost-effectiveness were reviewed.

Methods:

This is a narrative review using various databases. Open-TLIF and MIS-TLIF studies were included and posterior lumbar interbody fusion studies were excluded. A description of paramedian incision in surgical technique was essential to the definition of MIS-TLIF. The present review included 14 prospective observational studies and 6 randomized controlled trials.

Results:

With short-term outcomes, some studies indicate a better outcome with MIS-TLIF regarding intraoperative bleeding, hospital stay, time to ambulation, postoperative narcotic use, and time to resume work. Both MIS-TLIF and open-TLIF surgeries improved Oswestry Disability Index, back pain, and leg pain. Some studies show that MIS-TLIF resulted in lower back pain than open-TLIF. Radiation exposure was higher with MIS-TLIF. In the longer term, clinical outcomes were improved in both MIS and open TLIF groups. Fusion rates were more than 90% in both MIS-TLIF and open-TLIF. Cost-effectiveness and length of surgery had mixed results.

Conclusions:

The potential benefits of MIS-TLIF might be present in the early recovery period after surgery. Long-term outcomes were similar with both MIS-TLIF and open-TLIF.
Metrics Development for Minimal Invasive Unilateral Laminotomy for Bilateral Decompression of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis With and Without Spondylolisthesis by an International Expert Panel
Authors: Melcher Carolin , Korge Andreas , Cunningham Michael , Foley Kevin T. , Härtl Roger
Published: May 2020

Study Design:

Prospective study.

Objectives:

To develop, operationally define, and seek consensus from procedure experts on the metrics that best characterize a reference approach to the performance of a minimally invasive unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD) for lumbar spinal stenosis.

Methods:

A Metrics Group consisting of 3 experienced spine surgeons (2 neurosurgeons, 1 orthopedic surgeon), each with over 25 years of clinical practice, and an educational expert formed the Metrics Group that characterized a lumbar decompression surgery for spinal stenosis as a “reference” procedure. In a modified Delphi panel, 26 spine surgeons from 14 countries critiqued these metrics and their operational definitions before reaching consensus.

Results:

Performance metrics consisting of 6 phases with 42 steps, 21 errors, and 17 sentinel errors were identified that characterize the procedure. During the peer review, these were evaluated, modified, and agreed.

Conclusions:

Surgical procedures can be broken down into elemental tasks necessary for the safe and effective completion of a reference approach to a specified surgical procedure. Spinal experts from 16 countries reached consensus on performance metrics for the procedure. This metric-based characterization can be used in a training curriculum and also for assessment of training and performance in clinical practice.
The Dangerous Life of a Storm Chaser: A Lightning Strike Injury Causing Serious Injury
Authors: Shipman Jeffrey , Carver Brittany , Painter Kelly , Shipman Stacia
Published: May 2020

Lightning strikes to people are rare events that cause significant injuries and mortality when they do occur. We describe an uncommon case of a storm chaser in Oklahoma who was struck by lightning who suffered cutaneous burns, bilateral tympanic membrane ruptures, as well as pulmonary edema, which is an atypical finding in survivors. This case report highlights several injury patterns seen in lightning strike cases and provides evidence that these patients should be managed at a center with multidisciplinary services available.
Ethics of Finitude: Nursing and the Palliative Approach in Geriatric and Forensic Psychiatry
Authors: Skinner Elise , Jacob Jean Daniel , Vanderspank-Wright Brandi , Wright David Kenneth
Published: May 2020

There is a called-for shift to an upstream provision of palliative care as an overall care approach within a health equity perspective. Our research explored how nurses in psychiatry engage with aging patients and mortality to discern enactment of ethical dimensions of care. Drawing from tenets of interpretative phenomenological analysis, forensic and geriatric psychiatry registered nurses working at a mental health facility in eastern Ontario completed interviews for analysis. Nurses engaged with mortality through a process of recognition and through the affirmation of their values. The affirmed values are aligned with the palliative care approach and within an ethics of finitude lens in that their enactment is partly premised on the recognition of patients’ accumulated losses related to human facticities (social, temporal, mortal). This research underscores preliminary insights on a process identifying care practices aligned with the palliative approach and possibilities for expanding upon an ethics of finitude lens.
Average Power: A Cautionary Note
Authors: McShane Blakeley B. , Böckenholt Ulf , Hansen Karsten T.
Published: May 2020

Replication is an important contemporary issue in psychological research, and there is great interest in ways of assessing replicability, in particular, retrospectively via prior studies. The average power of a set of prior studies is a quantity that has attracted considerable attention for this purpose, and techniques to estimate this quantity via a meta-analytic approach have recently been proposed. In this article, we have two aims. First, we clarify the nature of average power and its implications for replicability. We explain that average power is not relevant to the replicability of actual prospective replication studies. Instead, it relates to efforts in the history of science to catalogue the power of prior studies. Second, we evaluate the statistical properties of point estimates and interval estimates of average power obtained via the meta-analytic approach. We find that point estimates of average power are too variable and inaccurate for use in application. We also find that the width of interval estimates of average power depends on the corresponding point estimates; consequently, the width of an interval estimate of average power cannot serve as an independent measure of the precision of the point estimate. Our findings resolve a seeming puzzle posed by three estimates of the average power of the power-posing literature obtained via the meta-analytic approach.