bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular alterations identified in pluripotent stem cell-derived midbrain spheroids generated from a female patient with progressive external ophthalmoplegia and parkinsonism who carries a novel variation (p.Q811R) in the POLG1 gene
Authors: Chumarina Margarita , Russ Kaspar , Azevedo Carla , Heuer Andreas , Pihl Maria , Collin Anna , Frostner Eleonor Åsander , Elmer Eskil , Hyttel Poul , Cappelletti Graziella , Zini Michela , Goldwurm Stefano , Roybon Laurent
Published: December 2019

Variations in the POLG1 gene encoding the catalytic subunit of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma, have recently been associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD), especially in patients diagnosed with progressive external ophthalmoplegia (PEO). However, the majority of the studies reporting this association mainly focused on the genetic identification of the variation in POLG1 in PD patient primary cells, and determination of mitochondrial DNA copy number, providing little information about the cellular alterations existing in patient brain cells, in particular dopaminergic neurons. Therefore, through the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we assessed cellular alterations in novel p.Q811R POLG1 (POLG1Q811R) variant midbrain dopaminergic neuron-containing spheroids (MDNS) from a female patient who developed early-onset PD, and compared them to cultures derived from a healthy control of the same gender. Both POLG1 variant and control MDNS contained functional midbrain regionalized TH/FOXA2-positive dopaminergic neurons, capable of releasing dopamine. Western blot analysis identified the presence of high molecular weight oligomeric alpha-synuclein in POLG1Q811R MDNS compared to control cultures. In order to assess POLG1Q811R-related cellular alterations within the MDNS, we applied mass-spectrometry based quantitative proteomic analysis. In total, 6749 proteins were identified, with 61 significantly differentially expressed between POLG1Q811R and control samples. Pro- and anti-inflammatory signaling and pathways involved in energy metabolism were altered. Notably, increased glycolysis in POLG1Q811R MDNS was suggested by the increase in PFKM and LDHA levels and confirmed using functional analysis of glycolytic rate and oxygen consumption levels. Our results validate the use of iPSCs to assess cellular alterations in relation to PD pathogenesis, in a unique PD patient carrying a novel p.Q811R variation in POLG1, and identify several altered pathways that may be relevant to PD pathogenesis.
Beauty is skin deep: the skin tones of Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring
Authors: van Loon Annelies , Vandivere Abbie , Delaney John K. , Dooley Kathryn A. , De Meyer Steven , Vanmeert Frederik , Gonzalez Victor , Janssens Koen , Leonhardt Emilien , Haswell Ralph , de Groot Suzan , D’Imporzano Paolo , Davies Gareth R.
Published: December 2019

The soft modelling of the skin tones in Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring (Mauritshuis) has been remarked upon by art historians, and is their main argument to date this painting to c. 1665. This paper describes the materials and techniques Vermeer used to accomplish the smooth flesh tones and facial features of the Girl, which were investigated as part of the 2018 Girl in the Spotlight research project. It combines macroscopic X-ray fluorescence imaging (MA-XRF), reflectance imaging spectroscopy (RIS), and 3D digital microscopy. Vermeer built up the face, beginning with distinct areas of light and dark. He then smoothly blended the final layers to create almost seamless transitions. The combination of advanced imaging techniques highlighted that Vermeer built the soft contour around her face by leaving a ‘gap’ between the background and the skin. It also revealed details that were otherwise not visible with the naked eye, such as the eyelashes. Macroscopic imaging was complemented by the study of paint cross-sections using: light microscopy, SEM–EDX, FIB-STEM, synchrotron radiation µ-XRPD and FTIR–ATR. Vermeer intentionally used different qualities or grades of lead white in the flesh paints, showing different hydrocerussite/cerussite ratios and particle sizes. Lead isotope analysis showed that the geographic source of lead, from which the different types of lead white were manufactured, was the same: the region of Peak District of Derbyshire, UK. Finally, cross-section analysis identified the formation of new lead species in the paints: lead soaps and palmierite (K2Pb(SO4)2), associated with the red lake.
“I Broke Your Game!”: critique among middle schoolers designing computer games about climate change
Authors: Tucker-Raymond Eli , Puttick Gillian , Cassidy Michael , Harteveld Casper , Troiano Giovanni M.
Published: December 2019

Background

There have been increasing calls for integrating computational thinking and computing into school science, mathematics, and engineering classrooms. The learning goals of the curriculum in this study included learning about both computational thinking and climate science. Including computer science in science classrooms also means a shift in the focus on design and creation of artifacts and attendant practices. One such design practice, widespread in the design and arts fields, is critique. This paper explores the role of critique in two urban, heterogenous 8th grade science classrooms in which students engaged in creating computer games on the topic of climate systems and climate change. It explores and compares how practices of critique resulted from curricular decisions to (i) scaffold intentional critique sessions for student game designers and (ii) allow for spontaneous feedback as students interacted with each other and their games during the process of game creation.

Results

Although we designed formal opportunities for critique, the participatory dimension of the project meant that students were free to critique each other’s games at any time during the building process and did so voluntarily. Data indicate that students focused much more on the game play dimension of the design than the science, particularly in those critique sessions that were student-initiated. Despite the de-emphasis on science in spontaneous critiques, students still focused on several dimensions of computational thinking, considering user experience, troubleshooting, modeling, and elegance of solutions.

Conclusions

Students making games about science topics should have opportunities for both formal and spontaneous critiques. Spontaneous critiques allow for students to be authorities of knowledge and to determine what is acceptable and what is not. However, formal, teacher-designed critiques may be necessary for students to focus on science as part of the critique. Furthermore, one of the benefits to critiquing others was that students were able to see what others had done, how they had set up their games, the content they included, and how they had programmed certain features. Lastly, critiques can help facilitate iteration as students work to improve their games.
Five years of development in pursuing excellence in quality and global impact to become the first journal in STEM education covered in SSCI
Authors: Li Yeping
Published: December 2019

With the completion of its first five publication cycle years (August 2014 to July 2019), the International Journal of STEM Education has made great progress with its commitments to pursue excellence in quality and worldwide impact. In this editorial, I specifically share the journal’s achievements since August 2018 in obtaining Scopus’s CiteScore and for being included in Web of Science’s Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), which reflect the journal’s continued growth with on-going strong support from researchers and readers internationally.
Four hours of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation using bi-caval cannulation affects kidney function and induces moderate lung damage in a mouse model
Authors: Natanov Ruslan , Khalikov Abdurasul , Gueler Faikah , Maus Ulrich , Boyle Erin C. , Haverich Axel , Kühn Christian , Madrahimov Nodir
Published: December 2019

Background

Improvement of single site cannulation for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy is pivotal for reduction of patient morbidity and mortality in respiratory failure. To further improve the cardiopulmonary outcomes and reduce end organ damage, we established a murine model for single site cannulation with a double lumen cannula.

Results

We created a hemodynamically stable double lumen cannula and successfully implanted it through the jugular vein into the upper and lower vena cava. This allowed adequate drainage of the blood. Blood gas analysis showed excellent oxygenation and CO2 reduction. There was no excessive bleeding. No signs of right heart congestion were present which was confirmed in the histological analysis of the liver. Histology demonstrated moderate lung damage and mild acute kidney injury. Neutrophil infiltration was similar in ECMO and sham kidneys.

Conclusions

Veno-venous extracorporeal circulation deteriorates kidney function and promotes moderate pulmonary damage.
Radiological semantics discriminate clinically significant grade prostate cancer
Authors: Li Qian , Lu Hong , Choi Jung , Gage Kenneth , Feuerlein Sebastian , Pow-Sang Julio M. , Gillies Robert , Balagurunathan Yoganand
Published: December 2019

Background

Identification of imaging traits to discriminate clinically significant prostate cancer is challenging due to the multi focal nature of the disease. The difficulty in obtaining a consensus by the Prostate Imaging and Data Systems (PI-RADS) scores coupled with disagreements in interpreting multi-parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) has resulted in increased variability in reporting findings and evaluating the utility of this imaging modality in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer. This study assess the ability of radiological traits (semantics) observed on multi-parametric Magnetic Resonance images (mpMRI) to discriminate clinically significant prostate cancer.

Methods

We obtained multi-parametric MRI studies from 103 prostate cancer patients with 167 targeted biopsies from a single institution. The study was approved by our Institutional Review Board (IRB) for retrospective analysis. The biopsy location had been identified and marked by a clinical radiologist for targeted biopsy based on initial study interpretation. Using the target locations, two study radiologists independently re-evaluated the scans and scored 16 semantic traits on a point scale (up to 5 levels) based on mpMRI images. The semantic traits describe size, shape, and border characteristics of the prostate lesion, as well as presence of disease around lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). We built a linear classifier model on these semantic traits and related to pathological outcome to identify clinically significant tumors (Gleason Score ≥ 7). The discriminatory ability of the predictors was tested using cross validation method randomly repeated and ensemble values were reported. We then compared the performance of semantic predictors with the PI-RADS predictors.

Results

We found several semantic features individually discriminated high grade Gleason score (ADC-intensity, Homogeneity, early-enhancement, T2-intensity and extraprostatic extention), these univariate predictors had an average area under the receiver operator characteristics (AUROC) ranging from 0.54 to 0.68. Multivariable semantic predictors with three features (ADC-intensity; T2-intensity, enhancement homogenicity) had an average AUROC of 0.7 [0.43, 0.94]. The PI-RADS based predictor had average AUROC of 0.6 [0.47, 0.75].

Conclusion

We find semantics traits are related to pathological findings with relatively higher reproducibility between radiologists. Multivariable predictors formed on these traits shows higher discriminatory ability compared to PI-RADS scores.
Yield models for predicting aboveground ectomycorrhizal fungal productivity in Pinus sylvestris and Pinus pinaster stands of northern Spain
Authors: Sánchez-González Mariola , de-Miguel Sergio , Martin-Pinto Pablo , Martínez-Peña Fernando , Pasalodos-Tato María , Oria-de-Rueda Juan Andrés , Martínez de Aragón Juan , Cañellas Isabel , Bonet José Antonio
Published: December 2019

Background

Predictive models shed light on aboveground fungal yield dynamics and can assist decision-making in forestry by integrating this valuable non-wood forest product into forest management planning. However, the currently existing models are based on rather local data and, thus, there is a lack of predictive tools to monitor mushroom yields on larger scales.

Results

This work presents the first empirical models for predicting the annual yields of ectomycorrhizal mushrooms and related ecosystem services inPinus sylvestrisandPinus pinasterstands in northern Spain, using a long-term dataset suitable to account for the combined effect of meteorological conditions and stand structure. Models were fitted for the following groups of fungi separately: all ectomycorrhizal mushrooms, edible mushrooms and marketed mushrooms. Our results show the influence of the weather variables (mainly precipitation) on mushroom yields as well as the relevance of the basal area of the forest stand that follows a right-skewed unimodal curve with maximum predicted yields at stand basal areas of 30–40 m2∙ha− 1.

Conclusion

These models are the first empirical models for predicting the annual yields of ectomycorrhizal mushrooms inPinus sylvestrisandPinus pinasterstands in northern Spain, being of the highest resolution developed to date and enable predictions of mushrooms productivity by taking into account weather conditions and forests’ location, composition and structure.
Rationale, design, and methodology for the healthy mothers-healthy children study: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Berry Diane C. , Gonzales Cecilia , Montano Nilda Peragallo , Perreira Krista M. , Ammerman Alice S. , Crandell Jaime , Evenson Kelly R. , Faith Myles S. , Waters Hugh , Linares Crystal , Cόrtes Yamnia I. , Perrin Eliana M.
Published: December 2019

Background

Hispanic women and children who become overweight or obese are at risk for developing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease later in life. Interdisciplinary interventions which target Hispanic women and their 3–5-year old children to improve nutrition and physical activity behaviors, manage adiposity and weight in mothers, and prevent excessive adiposity and weight gain trajectory in their children offer promise to break the intergenerational cycle.

Methods

Using a randomized two-group, repeated measures experimental design, the goal of the proposed study is to investigate the efficacy of a 12-week nutrition and physical activity program including education, coping skills training, and home-based intervention in Hispanic women and their 3–5-year old children. The program includes 6 months of continued monthly contact to help overweight and obese Hispanic mothers and their children improve adiposity, weight (trajectory for children), health behaviors (nutrition and physical activity), and self-efficacy We will partner with two federally qualified health departments in Durham and Chatham counties, North Carolina to enroll participants. We will partner with community centers to deliver the intervention. A total of 294 Hispanic women with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2and 294 Hispanic 3–5-year old children with a ≥ 25th BMI percentile will be enrolled over 4 years and randomized to the experimental or equal attention control group. Data will be collected at Time 1 (0 months [baseline]) to Time 2 (9 months [completion of the intervention]) and Time 1 to Time 3 (15 months [after 6 months with no contact from the study staff]). Data collected will include adiposity and weight in mothers and children (primary outcomes). Secondary outcomes will include health behaviors and self-efficacy in the mothers and in the children. We will also evaluate the cost of delivering the program for public health departments. We will use general linear mixed models to test the hypotheses.

Discussion

Decreasing overweight and obesity in Hispanic women and slowing adiposity and weight gain trajectory in young Hispanic children is urgently needed to decrease morbidity, mortality, and future health care costs.

Trial registration

NCT03866902. (March 7, 2019).
Correction to: Cytogenotoxic and mutagenic profiling of cashew nut shell liquids and cardanol
Authors: de Sousa Leite Aracelli , Islam Muhammad Torequl , Paz Márcia Fernanda Correia Jardim , Júnior Antônio Luiz Gomes , da Silva Oliveira George Laylson , das Graças Lopes Cito Antônia Maria , de Carvalho Melo-Cavalcante Ana Amélia , Lopes José Arimatéia Dantas
Published: December 2019

In the original publication of this article [1], one author’s name needs to be revised from Ana Ana Amélia de Carvalho Melo-Cavalcante to Ana Amélia de Carvalho Melo-Cavalcante.
Spectral tuning mediated by helix III in butterfly long wavelength-sensitive visual opsins revealed by heterologous action spectroscopy
Authors: Saito Tomoka , Koyanagi Mitsumasa , Sugihara Tomohiro , Nagata Takashi , Arikawa Kentaro , Terakita Akihisa
Published: December 2019

Absorption spectra of opsin-based pigments are tuned from the UV to the red regions by interactions of the chromophore with surrounding amino acid residues. Both vertebrates and invertebrates possess long-wavelength-sensitive (LWS) opsins, which underlie color vision involving “red” sensing. The LWS opsins have independently evolved in each lineage, which suggests the existence of diverse mechanisms in spectral tuning. In vertebrate LWS opsins, the mechanisms underlying spectral tuning have been well characterized by spectroscopic analyses with recombinant pigments of wild type (WT) and mutant opsins. However in invertebrate LWS opsins including insect ones, the mechanisms are largely unknown due to the difficulty in obtaining recombinant pigments. Here we have overcome the problem by analyzing heterologous action spectra based on light-dependent changes in the second messenger in opsin-expressing cultured cells. We found that WTs of two LWS opsins of the butterfly,Papilio xuthus, PxRh3 and PxRh1 have the wavelengths of the absorption maxima at around 570 nm and 540 nm, respectively. Analysis of a series of chimeric mutants showed that helix III is crucial to generating a difference of about 15 nm in the wavelength of absorption maxima of these LWS opsins. Further site-directed mutations in helix III revealed that amino acid residues at position 116 and 120 (bovine rhodopsin numbering system) are involved in the spectral tuning of PxRh1 and PxRh3, suggesting a different spectral tuning mechanism from that of primate LWS opsins.
Versatility of the pedicled buccal fat pad flap for the management of oroantral fistula: a retrospective study of 25 cases
Authors: Park Jinyoung , Chun Byung-do , Kim Uk-Kyu , Choi Na-Rae , Choi Hong-Seok , Hwang Dae-Seok
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Maxillary bone grafts and implantations have increased over recent years despite a lack of maxillary bone quality and quantity. The number of patients referred for oroantral fistula (OAF) due to implant or bone graft failure has increased, and in patients with an oroantral fistula, the pedicled buccal fat pad is viewed as a robust, reliable option. This study was conducted to document the usefulness of buccal fat pad grafts for oroantral fistula closure.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively studied 25 patients with OAF treated with a buccal fat pad graft from 2015 to 2018. Sex, age, OAF location, cause, duration, presence of systemic disease, smoking, previous dental surgery, and side effects were investigated.

Results

A total of 25 patients were studied. Mean patient age was 54.8 years, and the male to female ratio was 19:6. Causes of oroantral fistula were cyst enucleation, tumor resection, implant removal, bone graft failure, and extraction. Excellent results were obtained in 23 (92%) of the 25 patients. In the other two patients that both smoked, a small fistula was observed during follow-up. No recurrence of oroantral fistula was observed after 2 months to 1 year of follow-up.

Conclusions

The incidence of oroantral fistula is increasing due to implant and bone graft failures. Oroantral fistula closure using a pedicled buccal fat pad was found to have a high success rate.
Wide-field imaging in proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Liu T. Y. Alvin , Arevalo J. Fernando
Published: December 2019

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. For decades, 7-field 30-degree fundus imaging has been the gold standard for DR classification. The aim of this review article is to discuss how the advent of ultra-wide-field (UWF) fundus imaging has changed the management of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

Main body

Current data suggests that UWF imaging, as compared to conventional Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) fields, detects additional and more extensive PDR pathologies. DR lesions, captured by UWF imaging outside of ETDRS fields, likely carry prognostication value.

Conclusion

UWF imaging represents a major advancement in the detection and management of DR. It remains unclear whether, when and how patients, with PDR changes only peripheral to standard ETDRS fields, should be treated. A larger, prospective, randomized clinical trial is also needed to compare the efficacy of UWF image-guided targeted laser photocoagulation with that of conventional panretinal photocoagulation.
Wide field retinal imaging and the detection of drug associated retinal toxicity
Authors: Corradetti Giulia , Violanti Sara , Au Adrian , Sarraf David
Published: December 2019

Background

To describe the peripheral retinal findings associated with systemic medication toxicity and to outline the importance of ultra-widefield imaging in the detection, analysis and monitoring of these abnormalities.

Main text

This review highlights the retinal manifestations associated with the more common drug toxicities, with emphasis on the peripheral features and the indications for wide field imaging. The presenting findings, underlying pathophysiology, and retinal alterations in hydroxychloroquine, thioridazine, didanosine, tamoxifen, MEK-inhibitor, and immune checkpoint inhibitor associated drug toxicity will be described and the importance of wide field imaging in the evaluation of these abnormalities will be emphasized.

Conclusions

Wide field retinal imaging can improve the detection of peripheral retinal abnormalities associated with drug toxicity and may be an important tool in the diagnosis and management of these disorders.
Annual dialysis data report 2017, JSDT Renal Data Registry
Authors:   on behalf of Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy Renal Data Registry Committee, Nitta Kosaku , Masakane Ikuto , Hanafusa Norio , Taniguchi Masatomo , Hasegawa Takeshi , Nakai Shigeru , Goto Shunsuke , Wada Atsushi , Hamano Takayuki , Hoshino Junichi , Joki Nobuhiko , Abe Masaki , Yamamoto Keichi , Nakamoto Hidetomo
Published: December 2019

The annual survey of the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy Renal Data Registry (JRDR) was conducted for 4413 dialysis facilities at the end of 2017; among which 4360 facilities (98.8%) responded to the facility questionnaire, and 4188 (94.9%) responded to the patient questionnaire. The response rate of the 2017 survey was comparable with the past, even though it was the third year after the new anonymization method. The number of chronic dialysis patients in Japan continues to increase every year; it has reached 334,505 at the end of 2017. The mean age was 68.43 years. The prevalence rate was 2640 patients per million population. Diabetic nephropathy was the most common primary disease among the prevalent dialysis patients (39.0%), followed by chronic glomerulonephritis (27.8%) and nephrosclerosis (10.3%). The rate of diabetic nephropathy and nephrosclerosis has been increasing year by year, whereas that of chronic glomerulonephritis was declining. The number of incident dialysis patients during 2017 was 40,959; it has remained stable since 2008. The average age was 69.68 years and diabetic nephropathy (42.5%) was the most common cause in the incident dialysis patients. These patients caused by diabetes did not change in number for recent several years. Further, 32,532 patients died in 2017; the crude mortality rate was 9.8%. The patients treated by hemodiafiltration (HDF) have been increasing rapidly from the revision of medical reimbursement for HDF therapy in 2012. It has attained 95,140 patients at the end of 2017, which were 18,304 greater than that in 2016. The number of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients was 9090 in 2017, which had been slightly decreasing since 2014. Further, 19.4% of PD patients treated in the combination of hemodialysis (HD) or HDF therapy (hybrid therapy). And 984 patients were treated by home HD therapy at the end of 2017; it increased by 49 from 2016.

Trial registration

JRDR was approved by the ethical committee of JSDT (approval number 1-3) and has been registered in “University hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry” as a clinical trial ID of UMIN000018641 at 8th August 2015. https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-bin/ctr/ctr_view_reg.cgi?recptno=R000021578 (Accessed 31 July 2019).
Cerebellar glioblastoma multiforme in an adult patient with neurofibromatosis type 1: an extremely rare report with review of literature
Authors: Derakhshan Nima , Azadeh Nazanin , Saffarian Arash , Taghipour Mousa , Eghbal Keyvan , Dehghanian Amirreza
Published: December 2019

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a multisystem genetic disorder with autosomal dominant inheritance which predisposes the affected individuals to increased risk of developing certain benign and malignant central nervous system (CNS) tumors. NF1 patients are most notably prone to develop low-grade optic pathway, brainstem, and cerebellar astrocytoma. Current literature suggests that brain tumors in patients with NF1 tend to be less aggressive compared to sporadic ones. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a high-grade glioma which is relatively rare in patients with NF1 and is most commonly seen in supratentorial regions of the brain.

Case presentation

A 33-year-old patient was admitted in neurosurgery ward with acute hydrocephalus caused by a cerebellar mass lesion. On primary assessment, the patient was diagnosed with NF1. He was followed for 2 months and underwent surgical resection of the mass due to worsening symptoms. The pathology report revealed the malignant nature of the lesion. Patient received adjuvant chemo-radiotherapy with diagnosis of cerebellar GBM. Up to 19 months following surgery, he had gained a relatively well ability to walk and talk again.
Disease activity is associated with LV dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis patients without clinical cardiovascular disease
Authors: Hanvivadhanakul Punchong , Buakhamsri Adisai
Published: December 2019

Objectives

The cross-sectional study aimed to assess left ventricular systolic function using global longitudinal strain (GLS) by speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) and arterial stiffness using cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) in Thai adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and no clinical evidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Confirmed RA patients were selected from a list of outpatient attendees if they were 18 years (y) without clinical, ECG and echocardiographic evidence of CVD, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and excess alcoholic intake. Controls were matched with age and sex to a list of healthy individuals with normal echocardiograms. All underwent STE and CAVI.

Results

60 RA patients (females = 55) were analysed. Mean standard deviation of patient and control ages were 50 ± 10.2 and 51 ± 9.9 y, respectively, and mean duration of RA was 9.0 ± 6.8 y. Mean DAS28-CRP and DAS28-ESR were 2.9 ± 0.9 and 3.4 ± 0.9, respectively. There was no between-group differences in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), LV sizes, LVMI, LV diastolic function and CAVI were within normal limits but all GLSs values was significantly lower in patients vs. controls: 17.6 ± 3.4 vs 20.4 ± 2.2 (p = 0.03). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated significant correlations between GLSs and RA duration (p = 0.02), and GLSs and DAS28-CRP (p = 0.041).

Conclusions

Patients with RA and no clinical CV disease have reduced LV systolic function as shown by lower GLSs. It is common and associated with disease activity and RA disease duration. 2D speckle-tracking GLSs is robust in detecting this subclinical LV systolic dysfunction.
Role of ultrasound, Color duplex Doppler and sono-elastography in the evaluation of renal allograft complications
Authors: El-Motaal Abeer Mohammed Abd , Dawoud Rasha M. , Sherif Mohamed F. , Eldiasty Tarek A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Renal transplantation could be considered for patients with end-stage renal disease. Ultrasonography is the imaging method chosen for renal allograft evaluation early in the postoperative period. Sono-elastography is used to estimate tissue stiffness. This study aimed to assess the correlation between sono-elastography and renal allograft histopathology in patients who had transplanted kidney and determine the efficacy of grayscale ultrasound, sono-elastography, and color duplex in evaluation renal allograft complications and correlation with renal function.

Results

Forty patients (26 males and 14 females) who underwent renal transplantation were included. Their ages ranging from 10:52 years; they all subjected to ultrasound, color Doppler, sono-elastography, and histopathology. The studded patients were divided into 3 groups according to histopathology: patient with normal results, patients with ATI, and patients with CAI. The difference between the mean elasticity values between the three groups was statistically highly significant (p value < 0.001) with high specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy in differentiating ATI and normal groups and also CAI and normal groups, while the lowest sensitivity noticed in differentiating between ATI and CAI groups that is mean elasticity was good to differentiating between ATI and normal groups and also between CAI and normal groups while it was less in differentiating between ATI and CAI groups. As regards the RI, the highest sensitivity of the RI was in differentiating ATI and normal with high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, and the lowest sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of RI were in differentiating CAI and normal groups.

Conclusion

Transplanted renal allograft could be assessed by combined US, color duplex Doppler, and sono-elastography examination; also we can detect posttransplant complications early. Sono-elastography could be an efficient noninvasive method to diagnose and monitor kidney allograft rejection and follow-up of the renal allograft, which may give a further and possibly earlier prognostic index for chronic dysfunction in addition to serum creatinine.
Capivasertib Plus Paclitaxel Versus Placebo Plus Paclitaxel As First-Line Therapy for Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: The PAKT Trial
Authors: Schmid Peter , Abraham Jacinta , Chan Stephen , Wheatley Duncan , Brunt Adrian Murray , Nemsadze Gia , Baird Richard D. , Park Yeon Hee , Hall Peter S. , Perren Timothy , Stein Robert C. , Mangel László , Ferrero Jean-Marc , Phillips Melissa , Conibear John , Cortes Javier , Foxley Andrew , de Bruin Elza C. , McEwen Robert , Stetson Daniel , Dougherty Brian , Sarker Shah-Jalal , Prendergast Aaron , McLaughlin-Callan Max , Burgess Matthew , Lawrence Cheryl , Cartwright Hayley , Mousa Kelly , Turner Nicholas C.
Published: December 2019

PURPOSE

The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway is frequently activated in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The AKT inhibitor capivasertib has shown preclinical activity in TNBC models, and drug sensitivity has been associated with activation of PI3K or AKT and/or deletions of PTEN. The PAKT trial was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of adding capivasertib to paclitaxel as first-line therapy for TNBC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized phase II trial recruited women with untreated metastatic TNBC. A total of 140 patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to paclitaxel 90 mg/m2 (days 1, 8, 15) with either capivasertib (400 mg twice daily) or placebo (days 2-5, 9-12, 16-19) every 28 days until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary end points included overall survival (OS), PFS and OS in the subgroup with PIK3CA/ AKT1/ PTEN alterations, tumor response, and safety.

RESULTS

Median PFS was 5.9 months with capivasertib plus paclitaxel and 4.2 months with placebo plus paclitaxel (hazard ratio [HR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.50 to 1.08; 1-sided P = .06 [predefined significance level, 1-sided P = .10]). Median OS was 19.1 months with capivasertib plus paclitaxel and 12.6 months with placebo plus paclitaxel (HR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.99; 2-sided P = .04). In patients with PIK3CA/ AKT1/ PTEN-altered tumors (n = 28), median PFS was 9.3 months with capivasertib plus paclitaxel and 3.7 months with placebo plus paclitaxel (HR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.11 to 0.79; 2-sided P = .01). The most common grade ≥ 3 adverse events in those treated with capivasertib plus paclitaxel versus placebo plus paclitaxel, respectively, were diarrhea (13% v 1%), infection (4% v 1%), neutropenia (3% v 3%), rash (4% v 0%), and fatigue (4% v 0%).

CONCLUSION

Addition of the AKT inhibitor capivasertib to first-line paclitaxel therapy for TNBC resulted in significantly longer PFS and OS. Benefits were more pronounced in patients with PIK3CA/ AKT1/ PTEN-altered tumors. Capivasertib warrants further investigation for treatment of TNBC.
Successful Use of High-Flow Nasal Cannula for Concurrent Vocal Cord Electromyography and Tubeless Microlaryngeal Surgery in a Spontaneously Breathing Adult Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Zee Howard , Song Sungjin A. , Sahani Nita , Macias Alvaro Andres , Song Phillip C. , Juang Jeremy
Published: December 2019

Ventilation during microlaryngoscopy previously included jet ventilation, microlaryngeal endotracheal tubes, and extended apnea. Historically, apneic oxygenation provided a tubeless field but limited operative time. Increased utilization of high-flow nasal cannula in intensive care units and operating rooms has created new opportunities to expand tubeless microlaryngoscopy. Although few studies have described high-flow nasal cannula for microlaryngoscopy, there remains much to be explored. In this case report, we describe the unique setting of utilizing high-flow nasal cannula in a spontaneously breathing patient to create an optimal tubeless surgical field for both microlaryngoscopy and vocal cord electromyography.
Successful Verbal Communication Using Google Translate to Facilitate Awake Intubation of a Patient With a Language Barrier: A Case Report
Authors: Kapoor Ravish , Truong Angela T. , Vu Catherine N. , Truong Dam-Thuy
Published: December 2019

Perioperative difficult airway management is one of the most challenging tasks encountered by anesthesiologists. Awake intubation is considered the gold standard in securing the anticipated difficult airway. Effective communication between the anesthesiologist and patient is vital during awake intubation. A language barrier can significantly hinder success and jeopardize patient safety. We report a case of a monolingual Arabic-speaking patient with a difficult airway who required awake intubation to undergo surgery. Google Translate, a free and accessible translation software application, was used during his awake intubation—we recommend such an approach to be considered to reduce anxiety and facilitate success by providing concise, real-time instruction in the patient’s preferred language.
Microsurgical scleral drainage and trabeculectomy-scleral flap adjustable suture combination technique in the treatment of primary glaucoma
Authors: Xiahou Li , Liu Chunlan , Zhou Weihong , Yang Shasha
Published: December 2019

Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of microsurgical scleral drainage and trabeculectomy combined with scleral flap adjustable suture technique in the treatment of primary glaucoma.

Methods: One hundred primary glaucoma patients (120 eyes) in Xinyu People’s Hospital of Jiangxi province were selected from July 2014 to June 2016. The patients were randomly divided into control group and study group. The control group was treated with compound trabeculectomy, while the study group was treated with microsurgical scleral drainage and trabeculectomy combined with scleral flap adjustable suture technique. In both groups of patients, intraocular pressure, functional filtering bleb formation, and complications before and after surgery were monitored for three days, one week, one month, three months, six months and one year, while anterior chamber depth was determined one week after operation. The extent of success of operation was compared between the two groups.

Results: At three days, one week, one month, three months, six months and one year after surgery, intraocular pressure of study group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). There was 93.33% formation of functional filtering blebs in the study group, which was significantly higher than that in the control group (60.00%, P<0.001). Moreover, normal anterior chamber formation was significantly higher in the study group (91.67%) than in the control group (71.67%, P<0.01). There was 95.00% operation success in the study group, relative to 68.33% success in the control group (P<0.001).

Conclusion: Microsurgical scleral drainage and trabeculectomy combined with scleral flap adjustable suture technique has better curative effect on primary glaucoma than compound trabeculectomy. Moreover, it does not exacerbate complications. Therefore, the combination treatment technique merits clinical application.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1439

How to cite this:Xiahou L, Liu C, Zhou W, Yang S. Microsurgical scleral drainage and trabeculectomy-scleral flap adjustable suture combination technique in the treatment of primary glaucoma. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(2):234-239. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1439

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.
Comparison of azithromycin and erythromycin in the treatment of mycoplasma pneumonia in children
Authors: Han Rui , Yu Qianqian , Zhang Guohui , Li Baoqiang , Han Shuzhen , Li Guiying
Published: December 2019

Objective: To study and compare the clinical effects of azithromycin and erythromycin on children with mycoplasma pneumonia.

Methods: Total 132 children with mycoplasma pneumonia who were admitted to our hospital between November 2017 and September 2018 were selected as the research subjects. All the children were divided into an observation group and a control group according to random number table, 66 each. The observation group was treated with azithromycin, while the control group was treated with erythromycin. The therapeutic effect, incidence of adverse reactions and disappearance time of clinical symptoms were compared between the two groups.

Results: The total efficacy of the observation group was 98.04%, and that of the control group was 74.51%; there was a significant difference (X2=7.184, P=0.007). The incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group was 15.69%, significantly lower than that in the control group (41.18%) (X2=6.376, P=0.002). The disappearance of fever, cough, rale and X ray shadow of the observation group was significantly earlier than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Compared with erythromycin, azithromycin is more effective in the treatment of mycoplasma pneumonia in children. Azithromycin can further shorten the improvement time of clinical symptoms and signs and has few adverse reactions and high safety. It is worth clinical application.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1441

How to cite this:Han R, Yu Q, Zhang G, Li B, Han S, Li G. Comparison of azithromycin and erythromycin in the treatment of mycoplasma pneumonia in children. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(2):156-159. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1441

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.
Gastrointestinal endoscopy in early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors
Authors: Li Chunmei , Li Lingzhi , Shi Juan
Published: December 2019

Objective: To explore the value of gastrointestinal endoscopy in the early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors and lay a foundation for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors.

Methods: One hundred and eight patients with gastrointestinal tumors who were admitted to our hospital from August 2016 to April 2018 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into observation group and control group according to different diagnostic methods, 54 cases in each group. The control group was treated with traditional endoscopy (white light imaging) and traditional surgery, while the observation group underwent narrow band imaging (NBI) based on endoscopic examination and endoscopic mucosal resection. The image quality scores (morphological image, gastric pit image and capillary image), diagnostic accuracy, surgery related clinical indicators (operation time, intraoperative bleeding volume, hospitalization days) and complications were observed and compared between the two groups.

Results: The morphological image, gastric pit image and capillary image scores of the observation group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The diagnostic accuracy rate of the observation group was 96.30%, which was significantly higher than 75.93% (P<0.05). The operation time and hospitalization days of the observation group were shorter than those of the control group, and the intraoperative bleeding volume of the observation group was less than that of the control group; the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The incidence of complications of the observation group was lower than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Gastrointestinal endoscopy can accurately identify the pathological changes of tumors in the early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors, improve the diagnostic accuracy rate, and guide the implementation of treatment measures to improve clinical indicators. Moreover the incidence of postoperative complications is low. It is worth clinical promotion.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.707

How to cite this:Li C, Li L, Shi J. Gastrointestinal endoscopy in early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(2):203-207. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.707

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.
Pharmacovigilance in perspective: drug withdrawals, data mining and policy implications
Authors: Alomar Muaed , Palaian Subish , Al-tabakha Moawia M.
Published: December 2019

Considering that marketed drugs are not free from side effects, many countries have initiated pharmacovigilance programs. These initiatives have provided countries with methods of detection and prevention of adverse drug reactions at an earlier stage, thus preventing harm occurring in the larger population. In this review, examples of drug withdrawals due to effective pharmacovigilance programs have been provided with details. In addition, information concerning data mining in pharmacovigilance, an effective method to assess pharmacoepidemiologic data and detecting signals for rare and uncommon side effects, is also examined, which is a method synchronized with information technology and advanced electronic tools. The importance of policy framework in relation to pharmacovigilance is discussed in detail, and country experiences upon implementation of pharmacovigilance policies is highlighted.
About the Concept of «Universal Values»
Authors: Oganesyan Sergey
Published: December 2019

The article attempts to show that the concept of “universal values” could arise only in the conditions of the entry of mankind into a fundamentally new civilization era in its mentality, which is characteristic of our time, with its most powerful integration and migration processes, embracing all of humanity with its influence. It is demonstrated that such concepts as “life”, “good”, “evil”, “friend”, “enemy” and many others, which some researchers regard as common values for all people at all times of their existence, had different meanings various mental eras. And only in a time when people are becoming aware of themselves interrelated and interdependent elements of a single universal system and begin to form the values of universal nature.
Grupos de Lie e Equações Diferenciais Ordinárias
Authors: Pinto Alisson Da Silva , Silva Patrícia Nunes da , Santos André Luiz Cordeiro dos
Published: December 2019

O ensino de equações diferenciais ordinárias se restringe a apresentação de uma variedade de técnicas para solucionar tipos específicos de equações, tais como exatas, separáveis, homogêneas, etc. Isto faz com que estudantes imaginem que o estudo de equações diferenciais se resume a uma lista de técnicas para resolver tais equações. Veremos que há uma teoria que unifica e estende a maioria destes métodos estudados que aparentemente não estão relacionados.
Vivências de sofrimento e prazer das acadêmicas de enfermagem nas maternidades
Authors: Progianti Jane Mácia , Souza Marina Nunes de , Oliveira Elias Barbosa de , Rodrigues Fernanda Alves Bittencourt , Prata Juliana Do Amaral , Vargens Octavio Muniz da Costa
Published: December 2019

Objetivo: identificar as vivências de sofrimento e prazer das acadêmicas de enfermagem frente à organização do trabalho das enfermeiras que atuam em maternidade. Método: pesquisa exploratória, descritiva com abordagem qualitativa. Realizada com 13 acadêmicas de enfermagem de uma Instituição do Ensino Superior (IES) do Rio de Janeiro. Os dados foram colhidos em 2018, através de entrevistas semiestruturadas, categorizados com análise de conteúdo de Bardin e analisados a partir do referencial teórico de Christopher Dejours. Estudo apreciado e aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: as participantes vivenciam sofrimento quando percebem a falta de reconhecimento do trabalho das enfermeiras e quando presenciam violência obstétrica. Sentem prazer ao receber gratidão pelos clientes e familiares e ao sentir-se enfermeira útil para a sociedade. Conclusão: vivências de prazer e sofrimento são aspectos subjetivos da organização do trabalho da enfermagem e por impactar na saúde do trabalhador e na construção do cuidado devem ser abordados durante a formação acadêmica.