bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Model set adaptive filtering algorithm using variational Bayesian approximations and Rényi information divergence
Authors: Ma Tianli , Chen ChaoBo , Gao Song 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThe paper presents a model set adaptive filtering algorithm based on variational Bayesian approximation (MSA-VB) for the target tracking system with the model and noise uncertainties. The Rényi information divergence, as a criterion, is to choose the best match model that has the minimum divergence between candidate models and true mode. Subsequently, the model-conditioned estimation based on variational Bayesian approximation is proposed to estimate system state and measurement noise variances. To deal with the coupled noise intractability, the moments matching technique is used to obtain the mixed statistics of measurement noise at the fusion stage. The proposed algorithm is compared with the interacting multiple models (IMM) algorithm and the variational Bayesian-interacting multiple models (IMM-VB) algorithm via two scenarios for maneuvering target tracking, and simulation results show that the MSA-VB has improved estimation and tracking performance.
Pharmacists at the frontline beating the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bukhari Nadia , Rasheed Huma , Nayyer Bismah , Babar Zaheer-Ud-Din 
Published: April 2020

AbstractAs the lockdowns are being observed all over the globe and the national level pharmacy professionals are performing frontline roles, this editorial highlights the role of pharmacists in the COVID − 19 pandemic. Pharmacists globally are providing services amidst pandemic, including TRIAGE services, seeing patients and reducing the patients’ burden on health care facilities such as hospitals and GP practices. Pharmacists are also working to providing home deliveries, as well as dealing with the increasing number of patients coming through to pharmacies with the other ailments. Pharmacy associations have issued their guidelines and in this editorial, several global examples of pharmacists’ role in the COVID 19 are being discussed. Pakistan is used as a country case study in this editorial. The editorial also elaborates how pharmacists in the UK and Pakistan have teamed up together to compile 10-steps protection guidelines for the pharmacy teams in Pakistan in English and Urdu language. This 10-point guidance educates community pharmacies for safety and standard operation as the number of patients in the country continues to rise. These guidelines are endorsed by the government and private bodies. These can be adopted and adapted by any country; keeping in view their laws and regulations.
Boundary crossing pedagogy in STEM education
Authors: Leung Allen 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThis commentary aims to discuss an overarching boundary crossing framework under which integrated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) pedagogy can be conceptualized. Four potential learning dialogical processes for boundary crossing are presented and used as the main theoretical construct for the discussion. A proposal of an interactive pedagogical framework is put forward accompanied by a provisional statement to relate the connective factors that are critical in the formation of a boundary crossing STEM pedagogy. These factors are situated learning, communities of practices, problem solving, learning dialogical processes, and boundary objects. A Hong Kong school STEM case is employed to illustrate the applicability of this framework. The commentary ends with a reflective remark on boundary crossing STEM pedagogy.
The effect of scleral buckling on accommodative amplitude
Authors: Ebrahimiadib Nazanin , Hassanpoor Narges , Niyousha Mohammadreza , Modjtahedi Bobeck Seyed 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the effect of scleral buckling on accommodative amplitude.

Design
Non-randomized, prospective, double masked clinical trial in which the fellow eye of patients undergoing scleral buckling served as a control.

Methods
Patients who underwent scleral bucking for the management of retinal detachment in at least one eye were enrolled. Accommodative amplitude was measured monocularly 1 month and 3 months post operatively by two masked optometrists using a near-point “push” technique and minus-to-blur technique. Accommodative amplitude in eyes that underwent scleral buckle surgery were compared to their fellow eyes. Buckle type, buckle location, lens status and age were analyzed. Generalized Estimation Equations (GEE) were used to compare means and percentages between two groups.

Results
Seventy-four eyes of 37 patients were included in the study. Median age was 44 years old (range: 31–67 years old) and 68.4% of patients were male (n = 24). Two patients required bilateral surgery. Thirty-six of 39 operated eyes (92.3%) were phakic and three were pseudophakic. In phakic eyes there was a significantly higher amplitude of accommodation in operated eyes compared to their fellow eyes at post-operative month one (0.99 diopters, p value = 0.002) and three (1.17 diopters, p value = 0.001). The difference in accommodative amplitude in post-operative eyes compared to control eyes did not reach statistical significance in pseudophakic eyes nor did it differ between those who had an encircling band and those with a segmental buckle at both one and 3 months after surgery (p value = 0.37 and 0.38, respectively). In those with a segmental buckle, inferior fixation resulted in a larger difference in accommodative amplitude compared to control eyes than any other location fixation. Age under 40 years old and better post-operative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) both correlated with greater difference in accommodative amplitude compared to fellow eyes.

Conclusion
Compared to fellow eyes not undergoing surgery, those eyes that underwent scleral buckling had a greater accommodative amplitude with larger differences correlating with better post-operative BCVA and younger age.
Intrathecal administration of nusinersen for spinal muscular atrophy: report of three cases with severe spinal deformity
Authors: Nakao Sayo , Yamada Shinichi , Tsuda Katsuya , Yokomizo Taishi , Sato Teruyuki , Tanoue Shuichi , Hiraki Teruyuki 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disease characterized by degeneration of the spinal cord, resulting in progressive muscle atrophy. Recently, nusinersen has been approved for treating SMA, which should be administered intrathecally.

Case presentation
Patient 1 was a 36-year-old woman with SMA type 2. Patients 2 and 3 were 10- and 17-year-old girls with SMA type 1. In patients 1 and 2, the needle was inserted into the spinal column, but outflow of cerebrospinal fluid was unable to be confirmed. CT revealed that the dural sac terminated at the L5 level in patients 1 and 3 and at the L5/S1 level in patient 2.

Conclusions
Patients with SMA often present with high-grade scoliosis, making intrathecal administration difficult. In addition, the dural sac may terminate at a level higher than normal. To ensure intrathecal administration, the level of dural sac termination must be confirmed by CT before puncture.
A fructan: the fructan 1-fructosyl-transferase gene from Helianthus tuberosus increased the PEG-simulated drought stress tolerance of tobacco
Authors: Sun Xuemei , Zong Yuan , Yang Shipeng , Wang Lihui , Gao Jieming , Wang Ying , Liu Baolong , Zhang Huaigang 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background
Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) is a fructan-accumulating plant, and an industrial source of raw material for fructan production, but the crucial enzymes involved in fructan biosynthesis remain poorly understood in this plant.

Results
In this study, a fructan: fructan 1-fructosyl-transferase (1-FFT) gene, Ht1-FFT, was isolated from Jerusalem artichoke. The coding sequence of Ht1-FFT was 2025 bp in length, encoding 641 amino acids. Ht1-FFT had the type domain of the 1-FFT protein family, to which it belonged, according to phylogenetic tree analysis, which implied that Ht1-FFT had the function of catalyzing the formation and extension of beta-(2,1)-linked fructans. Overexpression of Ht1-FFT in the leaves of transgenic tobacco increased fructan concentration. Moreover, the soluble sugar and proline concentrations increased, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was reduced in the transgenic lines. The changes in these parameters were associated with increased stress tolerance exhibited by the transgenic tobacco plants. A PEG-simulated drought stress experiment confirmed that the transgenic lines exhibited increased PEG-simulated drought stress tolerance.

Conclusions
The 1-FFT gene from Helianthus tuberosus was a functional fructan: fructan 1-fructosyl-transferase and played a positive role in PEG-simulated drought stress tolerance. This transgene could be used to increase fructan concentration and PEG-simulated drought stress tolerance in plants by genetic transformation.
Digital divide among higher education faculty
Authors: Soomro Kamal Ahmed , Kale Ugur , Curtis Reagan , Akcaoglu Mete , Bernstein Malayna 
Published: April 2020

AbstractDigital divide centers on access to various dimensions of information and communication technology (ICT) including physical access, motivation, skills, and actual usage of digital technologies. This divide tends to be even wider in the context of developing countries. Yet, there is a lack of literature on the digital divide among the faculty who teach in higher education settings. Thus, as a preliminary effort, by using a 57-item Faculty’s ICT Access (FICTA) scale, we investigated the digital inequalities (at the physical, motivational, skills, and usage levels) among Pakistani faculty in respect of their personal and positional categories. We also examined the relationship between faculty’s instructional usage of ICT and other dimensions of their ICT access. The findings revealed that there were significant differences in the faculty’s access to technology at the four levels in respect of their personal and positional categories. Further, the findings of the study shed light on the theoretical implications of the framework of successive kinds of ICT access suggested by van Dijk (The deepening divide: inequality in the information society, 2005).
Diagnostic performance of GI-RADS reporting system in evaluation of adnexal masses
Authors: Abd elsalam Sahar Mahmoud , Hamed Soha Talaat , Sayed Mohamed Abd elghafar 
Published: April 2020

AbstractBackgroundTransvaginal and pelvic ultrasound are considered the primary imaging modality in evaluating adnexal masses. Gynaecologic Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS) depends on different ultrasound patterns and criteria adopted by the International Ovarian Tumour Analysis (IOTA) group. The current study aimed to detect the diagnostic accuracy of the GI-RADS classification in evaluating adnexal masses. In this prospective cross-sectional study, a total of 112 adnexal masses belonging to 100 women, age ranged 12 to 66 years old, were included. The study population was recruited throughout the period between January and November 2017. Ultrasound examination was performed to all patients; different US and Doppler criteria were assessed.ResultsOut of the 112 lesions, 36 (32.1%) were GI-RADS 2, 32 (28.6%) GI-RADS 3, 13 (11.6%) GI-RADS 4, and 31 (27.7%) GI-RADS 5. The GI-RADS classification showed sensitivity 97%, specificity 84.8%, positive predictive value (PPV) 72.7%, negative predictive value (NPV) 98.5%, and accuracy 88.4%.ConclusionThe GI-RADS reporting system carried a high sensitivity in identifying adnexal masses at high risk of malignancy. The increased number of benign lesions misclassified as GI-RADS 4 required additional markers to improve the specificity in GI-RADS classification.
Decline Pattern of Beta-cell Function in Adult-onset Latent Autoimmune Diabetes: an 8-year Prospective Study
Authors: Li Xia , Chen Yan , Xie Yuting , Xiang Yufei , Yan Xiang , Huang Gan , Zhou Zhiguang 
Published: April 2020

AbstractObjectiveTo explore the decline pattern and possible determinants of beta-cell function progression in patients with latent-onset autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA).Research Design and MethodsIn this 8-year prospective study, 106 LADA individuals underwent annual follow-up and their pattern of beta-cell function progression was assessed. Beta-cell function failure was defined by fasting C-peptide (FCP) &lt; 75 pmol/L. Other clinical characteristics, including age of onset, body mass index (BMI), and glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody (GADA) titer, were analyzed to find out possible determinants of beta-cell function progression.ResultsThe dropout rate was 4.7%. During the 8-year follow-up period, 29 (28.7%) of the 101 subjects developed beta-cell function failure. The decline pattern of C-peptide in LADA was biphasic, showing an initial rapid linear progression and then followed by a stable mode. The declination speed of FCP was 55.19 pmol/L/year (95% CI, −62.54 to −47.84, P &lt; 0.001) during the first 5 years and 4.62 pmol/L/year (95% CI, −69.83 to 60.60, P = 0.790) thereafter. Further analysis showed that GADA titer was the most valuable discriminatory parameter related to a higher risk of development of beta-cell function failure (GADA titer of 173.5 WHO units/mL; area under the curve [AUC], 0.824). Beta-cell function failure occurred in 71.3% of high-GADA titer patients while only 6.2% of low-titer patients.ConclusionsThe decline pattern of C-peptide was a fast-followed-by-slow biphasic mode, with about a quarter of LADA patients developing beta-cell function failure during the first 8 years. GADA titer less than 173.5 WHO units /mL was propitious for the preservation of beta-cell function.
Digenic Heterozygous Mutations in SLC34A3 and SLC34A1 Cause Dominant Hypophosphatemic Rickets with Hypercalciuria
Authors: Gordon Rebecca J , Li Dong , Doyle Daniel , Zaritsky Joshua , Levine Michael A 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Context
Hypophosphatemia and metabolic bone disease are associated with hereditary hypophosphatemic rickets with hypercalciuria (HHRH) due to biallelic mutations of SLC34A3 encoding the NPT2C sodium-phosphate cotransporter and nephrolithiasis/osteoporosis, hypophosphatemic 1 (NPHLOP1) due to monoallelic mutations in SLC34A1 encoding the NPT2A sodium-phosphate cotransporter.

Objective
To identify a genetic cause of apparent dominant transmission of HHRH.

Design and Setting
Retrospective and prospective analysis of clinical and molecular characteristics of patients studied in 2 academic medical centers.

Methods
We recruited 4 affected and 3 unaffected members of a 4-generation family in which the proband presented with apparent HHRH. We performed clinical examinations, biochemical and radiological analyses, and molecular studies of genomic DNA.

Results
The proband and her affected sister and mother carried pathogenic heterozygous mutations in 2 related genes, SLC34A1 (exon 13, c.1535G&gt;A; p.R512H) and SLC34A3 (exon 13, c.1561dupC; L521Pfs*72). The proband and her affected sister inherited both gene mutations from their mother, while their clinically less affected brother, father, and paternal grandmother carried only the SLC34A3 mutation. Renal phosphate-wasting exhibited both a gene dosage–effect and an age-dependent attenuation of severity.

Conclusions
We describe a kindred with autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets in which whole exome analysis identified digenic heterozygous mutations in SLC34A1 and SLC34A3. Subjects with both mutations were more severely affected than subjects carrying only one mutation. These findings highlight the challenges of assigning causality to plausible genetic variants in the next generation sequencing era.
Comparison of performance on written and OSCE assessment during end semester pediatric examination
Authors: Memon Shazia , Shaikh Siraj-ul-Haque 
Published: April 2020

Objective: To compare the scores obtained on written and OSCE examination during pediatrics end semester examination and to find out the reasons for the discrepancies among the scores obtained.
Methods: This co-relational study was carried out in pediatric department, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS). The performance of medical students who were posted in the pediatric department for one semester (November 2016 to October 2017) was compared on the basis of scores obtained in their written and OSCE during end semester examination. To find out the reasons for discrepancies qualitative data was collected by using likert scale on Pre-designed questionnaire distributed among the students at the end of assessment. Frequencies of their responses were calculated.
Results: Data of 160 students who participated in study was analyzed by SPSS version 22. The mean and standard deviation of participant’s score was 51.25 ± 12.19. Females performed better in written as well as in OSCE. Moderate correlation was seen between MCQ and SAQ scores (r=0.5, p <0.01). Around 60% considered OSCE as their preferred mode of assessment. Deep learning approach and group discussion was found in female students (65%).
Conclusion: Our study concluded that students performed better in OSCE than in written assessment. However, in OSCE they had shown unsatisfactory performance for some important competencies like clinical examination methods and procedural skills. Female students performed better in both segments of assessment.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.2026
How to cite this:Memon S, Shaikh SH. Comparison of performance on written and OSCE assessment during end semester pediatric examination. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(4):711-716. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.2026
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.
Characterization method of a mid-infrared graphene-on-silicon microring with a monochromatic laser
Authors: Han Senmiao , Chen Weicheng , Hu Haofeng , Cheng Zhenzhou , Liu Tiegen 
Published: April 2020

Mid-infrared microring resonators have been extensively studied for biochemical sensing applications. To characterize such resonators, a tunable laser or spectrometer has usually been utilized in previous studies. However, it is challenging to integrate these bulky instruments on a chip, ineluctably limiting practical applications. Here, we study a method for characterizing a microring resonator by using a monochromatic laser to conquer this limitation. Specifically, we theoretically probe the quality factor, extinction ratio, and resonant wavelength shift of a graphene-on-silicon microring resonator at a wavelength of 2.7 µm. Our work paves the way for studying monochromatically chip-integrated cavities and their applications.
Utilizing 3D printing for prosthetic limbs in developing nations and conflict zones
Authors: Rosenberger Madeline Rae 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Traditional methods of prosthetics fabrication are slow, messy, inaccessible and prohibitively expensive, particularly in developing nations and conflict areas. The development of 3D printing technology allows for prosthetics to be made cost-effectively with an added degree of customization and personalization not previously utilized. 3D printing is quickly expanding in the field of prosthetics, but has rarely been implemented in developing nations or countries in armed conflict, despite these areas having the largest number of amputees and the greatest shortage of prosthetics. Resource-poor areas can use 3D printing as a means of providing prosthetic care for local amputees, as this technology is uniquely suited to help amputees acquire high-quality, affordable, comfortable prosthetics. The use of 3D printing can fulfil the critically unmet need for culturally appropriate prosthetic technology and alleviate many of the psychosocial effects suffered by amputees worldwide, but only if such programmes are implemented properly. This synthesized literature review provides information on the process of, usage for and benefits of utilizing 3D printing for prosthetic limbs.
Under pressure: Psychological perspectives on letterpress, craft and well-being
Authors: Squire Victoria , Homer Sophie R. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Arts and crafts are widely considered to be psychologically beneficial. Letterpress, as a traditional method of printing, was made redundant by computers in the later twentieth century but has enjoyed a 'rebirth' in recent years. There are a growing number of independent presses, and universities who are recognizing its potential as a pedagogical tool. As a printing method, it is no longer a necessity, so what is its role going forward? The techniques are not lost, but their value has changed. As a craft, letterpress has several distinctive qualities, particularly when compared to digital alternatives. When working with letterpress, students are no longer alone at their desks. Rather, the letterpress workshop is a social, communal space. In this article we reflect on the resurgence of letterpress as a celebration of culture and heritage: a coming together of like-minded individuals in a community of action. What is the value of enabling students to immerse themselves in letterpress, and what are the effects of this immersion on the practitioner and their well-being? There is a shift in focus of letterpress from output – mass-produced printed media – to process. We analyse the unique qualities of this process – its physicality, the restrictions it imposes and the latitude it allows – and explore links to mental and physical health and well-being. This position paper explores the practical, conceptual and emotional dimensions of letterpress as a craft. It draws upon personal reflection, observation and anecdotal accounts collected over years of teaching (V. S.), while offering psychological perspectives on the links between letterpress, craft and well-being (S. R. H.).
The stability of aggregates and organic carbon content after the application of gypsum, soil scarification and a succession of agricultural crops
Authors: Santos Eduardo Santos Neves dos , Campos Milton César Costa , Souza Fernando Gomes de , Cunha Jose Mauricio , Pinheiro Elyenayra Nogueira , Lima Alan Ferreira Leite de , Brito Wildson Benedito Mendes , Wadt Paulo Guilherme Salvador 
Published: April 2020

Studies related to the monitoring of soil quality by physical attributes are important for the evaluation and maintenance of the sustainability of agricultural systems, besides indicating the appropriate management of the environment, aiming at its conservation and productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the stability of aggregates and organic carbon after the application of gypsum, soil scarification and a succession of crops. The treatments consisted of an absence and addition of gypsum, absence and presence of soil scarification, and three systems of crops in succession. The experimental design was made of randomized blocks, in a 2x2x4 factorial scheme, with eight replications. The aggregates were evaluated as stabled in water and soil organic carbon content. The treatment where gypsum was applied, as well as the soybean/maize/brachiaria/fallow (SMBF) succession system, presented better results in soil aggregation and higher levels of organic carbon.