bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change of Serum Inflammatory Cytokines Levels in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Pneumonia and Lung Cancer
Authors: Chen Jian , Li Xincai , Huang ChaoLin , Lin Ying , Dai Qingfu
Published: October 2020

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the serum inflammatory cytokines levels in patients with COPD, pneumonia and lung cancer, and assess the correlation between the levels of inflammatory cytokines levels and development of these diseases.

Methods:

Two hundred thirty-two patients including 114 patients with pneumonia, 76 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and 42 patients with lung cancer, and 62 age-matched healthy volunteers as controls were enrolled. The pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6, IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 in serum were analyzed by flow cytometry microsphere array (CBA).

Results:

We found that the levels of TNF-α and IL-10 in patients with lung cancer, COPD and pneumonia were significantly higher than control group. The IL-6 in the lung cancer group were significantly increased compared with the controls and COPD group, pneumonia group. IFN-γ and IL-2 levels were lower in lung cancer compared with controls and COPD group, pneumonia group. TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-10 levels were increased in patients with COPD and pneumonia compared with controls. In addition, the concentrations of IFN-γ and IL-6 were increased in acute exacerbation COPD (AECOPD) group compared with stable COPD group.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, elevated TNF-α and IL-10 levels in serum may be related with lung diseases including lung cancer, COPD and pneumonia. Additionally, IFN-γ and IL-6 might be potential biomarkers for the further deterioration of lung disease patients. The increased concentrations of IFN-γ and IL-6 might be used to predict the exacerbation of COPD.
Ultrasound-Targeted Microbubble Destruction-Mediated miR-206 Overexpression Promotes Apoptosis and Inhibits Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Via Targeting PPIB
Authors: Wu Huating , Xie Dawei , Yang Yingxia , Yang Qing , Shi Xiajun , Yang Rong
Published: October 2020

Background:

Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) has been found to be an effective method for delivering microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs). The current study is aimed at discovering the potential anti-cancer effects of UTMD-mediated miR-206 on HCC.

Methods:

In our study, the expressions of miR-206 and peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase B (PPIB) in HCC tissues and cells were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). PPIB expressions in HCC and adjacent normal tissues were analyzed by gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA). MiR-206 mimic and mimic control were transfected into HCC cells using UTMD. Potential binding sites between miR-206 and PPIB were predicted and confirmed by TargetScan and dual-luciferase reporter assay, respectively. Cell migration, invasion, and apoptosis were detected by wound healing assay, Transwell, and flow cytometry, respectively. The expressions of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2), Epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) markers (E-cadherin, N-cadherin and Snail) and PPIB were measured by Western blot.

Results:

MiR-206 expression was downregulated while PPIB expression was upregulated in HCC, and PPIB was recognized as a target gene of miR-206 in HCC tissues. UTMD-mediated miR-206 inhibited HCC cell migration and invasion while promoting apoptosis via regulating the expressions of proteins related to apoptosis, migration, and invasion by targeting PPIB.

Conclusion:

Our results suggested that the delivery of UTMD-mediated miR-206 could be a potential therapeutic method for HCC treatment, given its effects on inhibiting cell migration and invasion and promoting cell apoptosis.
The Long Intergenic Noncoding RNA 00707 Sponges MicroRNA-613 (miR-613) to Promote Proliferation and Invasion of Gliomas
Authors: Liu Handong , Hu Keqi
Published: October 2020

Background:

Glioma is one of the most deadly malignant tumors in humans. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plays a key role in the occurrence, development and invasion of tumors by regulating oncogenic and tumor suppressor pathways. However, the role and action mechanism of long intergenic non-coding RNA 00707 (LINC00707) in gliomas have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between LINC00707 and miR-613 as well as its role in gliomas.

Materials and Methods:

The expression levels of LINC00707 and miR-613 were detected by qRT-PCR. The chi-square test was used to analyze the correlation between LINC00707 expression and clinicopathological parameters. CCK-8 and colony formation assays were used to detect glioma cell proliferation; and wound healing and transwell assays were used to detect glioma cell migration and invasion. The relationship between LINC00707 and miR-613 was predicted by Starbase, and verified by qRT-PCR and dual luciferase reporter gene assay.

Results:

LINC00707 was up-regulated in gliomas. Up-regulated LINC00707 increased the proliferation, migration and invasion of glioma cells, and silenced LINC00707 reduced these abilities. The increase of the expression level of LINC00707 down-regulated miR-613 in glioma cells, while the inhibition of the expression level of LINC00707 up-regulated miR-613 in glioma cells. The high expression of LINC00707 was related to the Karnofsky performance status (KPS) score and WHO staging. LINC00707 could offset the ability of miR-613 to inhibit glioma proliferation and invasion.

Conclusion:

LINC00707 promotes proliferation and invasion of glioma cells by sponging miR-613. The regulatory axis of LINC00707/miR-613 provides new insights into the mechanism and treatment of gliomas.
Identification of lnc RNAs Related to Prognosis of Patients With Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sun Yuqi , Peng Peng , He Lanlan , Gao Xueren
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to identify long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) related to prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and develop a prognostic prediction model for CRC. Transcriptome data and survival information of CRC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) between CRC and normal colorectal tissues were identified by the edgeR package. The association of DElncRNAs expression with prognosis of CRC patients was analyzed by the survival package. A nomogram predicting 3- and 5- year overall survival of CRC patients was drawn by the rms package. A total of 1046 DElncRNAs were identified, including 271 down-regulated and 775 up-regulated lncRNAs in CRC. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed 10 lncRNAs related to the prognosis of CRC patients. Thereinto high expression of AC004009.1, LHX1-DT, ELFN1-AS1, AL136307.1, AC087379.2, RBAKDN and AC078820.1 was associated with poorer prognosis of CRC patients. High expression of LINC01055, AL590483.1 and AC008514.1 was associated with better prognosis of CRC patients. Furthermore, the risk score model developed based on the 10 lncRNAs could effectively predict overall survival of CRC patients. In conclusion, 10 prognostic biomarkers for CRC were identified, which would be helpful to understand the role of lncRNAs in CRC progression.
LncRNA HOTAIR Influences the Growth, Migration, and Invasion of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma via Affection on the miR-488-5p/NUP205 Axis
Authors: Xia Feng , Xia Wei , Yu Xudong
Published: October 2020

Objective:

The study was aim to investigate the effect of HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) on the growth, migration, and invasion of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

Cell growth, invasion, and migration was respectively investigated using the MTT assay, trans-well assay, and wound healing assay. The expression of genes and proteins was respectively determined by Western blot analysis and RT-PCR experiments.

Results:

It was demonstrated that high expression of HOTAIR in PTC cells (BCPAP) and tissues resulted in fast tumor growth and poor survival time of the PTC-bearing mice models. Moreover, overexpression of HOTAIR leaded to markedly enhanced proliferation, migration, and invasion of BCPAP cells. Increase the levels of HOTAIR in BCPAP cells signally down-regulated the miR-488-5p levels which was able of inhibiting the growth rate, increasing the apoptosis rate, and decreasing the invasion/migration ability of BCPAP cells. Further studies indicated that HOTAIR promoted BCPAP cell growth, invasion, and migration mainly through regulating the miR-488-5p/NUP205 axis and the levels of Bcl-2 as well.

Conclusion:

HOTAIR promoted the growth, migration, and invasion of papillary thyroid carcinoma mainly through regulating the miR-488-5p/NUP205 axis.
SRS in Combination With Ipilimumab: A Promising New Dimension for Treating Melanoma Brain Metastases
Authors: Badrigilan Samireh , Choupani Jalal
Published: October 2020

Dear Editor,

I am writing to you in order to highlight some miscalculations in an article published in the journal of Technology in Cancer Research & Treatment, entitled; “SRS in Combination with Ipilimumab: A Promising New Dimension for Treating Melanoma Brain Metastases” by Khan, et al.1 These miscalculations changed the derived conclusion about median survival time, and adverse effects in the selected treatment groups. So, amending these miscalculations may help readers in future research decisions.
MYC Regulates PHF8, Which Promotes the Progression of Gastric Cancer by Suppressing miR-22-3p
Authors: Cai Ming-Zhi , Wen Shao-Yan , Wang Xue-Jun , Liu Yong , Liang Han
Published: October 2020

Plant homeodomain finger protein 8 (PHF8) has been reported to participate in cancer development and metastasis of various types of tumors. However, little is known about the functional mechanism of PHF8 in gastric cancer (GC). This study aimed to explore the PHF8 expression pattern and function, and the role of the MYC/miRNA/PHF8 axis in GC. PHF8 expression was upregulated in GC tissues and cells as measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. PHF8 knockdown suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells, as determined using the CCK-8 assay and Transwell assay. MicroRNA-22-3p targeted PHF8, as verified by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. MYC upregulated the protein expression of PHF8 but had no effect on PHF8 mRNA expression. MYC regulates PHF8 by affecting the stability of miR-22-3p. We identified a novel MYC/miR-22-3p/PHF8 regulatory axis in GC. Therefore, PHF8 may provide a new therapeutic target for patients with GC.
Monster, P.I.: Validation Evidence for an Assessment of Adolescent Language That Assesses Vocabulary Knowledge, Morphological Knowledge, and Syntactical Awareness
Authors: Goodwin Amanda P. , Petscher Yaacov , Tock Jamie , McFadden Sara , Reynolds Dan , Lantos Tess , Jones Sara
Published: October 2020

Assessment of language skills for upper elementary and middle schoolers is important due to the strong link between language and reading comprehension. Yet, currently few practical, reliable, valid, and instructionally informative assessments of language exist. This study provides validation evidence for Monster, P.I., which is a gamified, standardized, computer-adaptive assessment (CAT) of language for fifth to eighth grade students. Creating Monster, P.I. involved an assessment of the dimensionality of morphology and vocabulary and an assessment of syntax. Results using multiple-group item response theory (IRT) with 3,214 fifth through eighth graders indicated morphology and vocabulary were best assessed via bifactor models and syntax unidimensionally. Therefore, Monster, P.I. provides scores on three component areas of language (multidimensional morphology and vocabulary and unidimensional syntax) with the goal of informing instruction. Validity results also suggest that Monster, P.I. scores show moderate correlations with each other and with standardized reading vocabulary and reading comprehension assessments. Furthermore, hierarchical regression results suggest an important link between Monster, P.I. and standardized reading comprehension, explaining between 56% and 75% of the variance. Such results indicate that Monster, P.I. can provide meaningful understandings of language performance which can guide instruction that can impact reading comprehension performance.
Two Patient Studies of a Companion Diagnostic Immuno-Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Tracer for Measuring Human CA6 Expression in Cancer for Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) Therapy
Authors: Natarajan Arutselvan , Srinivas Shyam M. , Azevedo Carmen , Greene Lacey , Bauchet Anne-Laure , Jouannot Erwan , Lacoste-Bourgeacq Anne-Sophie , Guizon Isabelle , Cohen Patrick , Naneix Anne-Laure , Ilovich Ohad , Cisneros Jordan , Rupanarayan Krithika , Chin Frederick T. , Iagaru Andrei , Dirbas Frederick M. , Karam Amer , Gambhir Sanjiv S.
Published: October 2020

An antigen binding fragment (BFab) derived from a tumor-associated mucin 1–sialoglycotope antigen (CA6) targeting antibody (huDS6) was engineered. We synthesized a companion diagnostic positron emission tomography (PET) tracer by radiolabeling BFab with [64Cu] to measure CA6 expression on cancer tissues prior to anti-human CA6 (huDS6-DM4 antibody-drug conjugate) therapy for ovarian and breast cancer patients. After chemotherapy, the ovarian patient received PET scan with 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose ([18F]FDG: 10 mCi), followed by [64Cu]-DOTA-BFab ([64Cu]BFab; 5.5 mCi) 1 week later for PET scanning of CA6 expression and subsequent surgery. The breast cancer patient was treated with chemotherapy before primary tumor resection and subsequent [18F]FDG-PET scan. 4 weeks later the patient received of [64Cu]BFab (11.7 mCi) for CA6 PET scan. Whole body [18F]FDG-PET of the breast cancer patient indicated FDG-avid tumor metastases to the liver, bilateral hila and thoracic spine, but no uptake was observed for the ovarian patient. Each patient was also imaged by PET/CT with [64Cu]BFab at 1 and 24 hours after tracer administration. The [64Cu]BFab tracer was well tolerated by both patients without adverse effects, and no significant tracer uptake was observed in both patients. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) data indicated CA6 expressions were weak to intermediate and matched with the [64Cu]BFab-PET signals.
Scoring Balloon Reduces the Severity of Dissection and Stent Implantation Rate in Superficial Femoral Artery Angioplasty Compared to Plain Balloon
Authors: Hong Hanbee , Park Ui Jun , Roh Young Nam , Kim Hyoung Tae
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

The knowledge regarding the benefits of the scoring balloon (SB) in comparison to the plain balloon (PB) is limited. This study aims to elucidate the difference in efficacy between SB and PB as pre-balloon in superficial femoral artery angioplasty.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed angiographic images of 113 lesions in 98 patients treated with endovascular surgery. 37 lesions were prepared by SB and 76 lesions by PB. Lesions without significant residual stenosis nor a flow-limiting dissection were treated by drug-coated balloon and the others by drug-eluting stent. Severity of dissection was evaluated by Kobayashi dissection grade and NHLBI classification. The rate of stent implantation was compared between the 2 groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR) rate at 12 months.

Results:

Severe dissections (>1/3 of lumen) occurred less frequently in the SB group (SB 40.5% vs. PB 75.0%, P = 0.001). Overall stent implantation rate was lower in the SB group (SB 27.0% vs. PB 55.3%, P = 0.005). In subgroup analysis for the complex lesions, the SB group had lower rate of severe dissection(>1/3 of lumen) in patients with long lesions(>15 cm) (SB 51.7% vs. PB 76.9%, P = 0.020) and lesions of calcium grade ≥2 (SB 43.8% vs. PB 72.5%, P = 0.009). SB group had lower stent implantation rate in patients with long lesions (SB 34.5% vs. PB 59.6%, P = 0.030), lesions of calcium grade ≥2 (SB 31.3% vs. PB 56.9%, P = 0.023), and total occlusion (SB 30.8% vs. PB 80.0%, P = 0.002). There were no procedure-related complications in either group except 1 case of puncture-site hematoma. There was no significant difference in TLR rate between both groups at 12 months (P = 0.509).

Conclusion:

SB reduces the incidence of severe dissection (>1/3 of lumen) and rate of overall stent implantation in comparison with PB. The use of SB is a safe and effective method of lesion preparation in SFA angioplasty.
Threshold Concepts Theory as a Pedagogical Tool for Articulating Transformational Learning: An Initial Exploration
Authors: Atherton Matthew Christopher , Meulemans Yvonne Nalani
Published: October 2020

As the landscape of higher education gets more complex, there is a need to increase engagement and student reflection on their academic experiences. This research explores whether a threshold concept framework (TCF) can be used in an interdisciplinary social science culminating course as a tool for students to consider the transformative nature of their education and articulate the meaning of their educational experiences. Student reflective work was analyzed to see whether students can (1) understand TCF, which is typically used to analyze student learning, rather than as a reflective tool for students and (2) successfully apply TCF to their educational experiences. The authors conclude that using written reflections, students could understand and apply TCF to articulate the transformational nature of their education and consider the impact of their experiences as an undergraduate. These results illuminate the potential of using TCF as a pedagogical tool within the classroom and curriculum development.
Deciding Whether to Accept or Decline Collections: Legal, Ethical, and Practical Considerations at the Arizona State Museum
Authors: Lyons Patrick D.
Published: October 2020

The Arizona State Museum (ASM), at the University of Arizona, is required to accept collections recovered from state, county, and municipal lands in Arizona. In deciding whether to accept other collections, ASM personnel must consider each offer in the context of the institution’s legal mandates, the ethical principles that guide the fields of archaeology and museology, and the practical realities of space and funding. In this paper, the decision-making process at ASM is described and illustrated using examples of collections accepted and collections declined. ASM personnel strive for clarity and consistency in such processes by prioritizing optional acquisitions based on the institution’s mission, its collecting focus, a collection’s (or an object’s) research potential, and ASM’s ability to provide appropriate care and access in perpetuity.
How Much Scaphoid Can be Safely Resected? A Biomechanical Analysis of the Effects of Distal Scaphoid Resection
Authors: Kadar Assaf , Grewal Ruby , Padmore Clare E. , Fan Stacy , Langohr Daniel G. , Suh Nina
Published: October 2020

Background:

Resection of the distal pole of the scaphoid has been advocated as a simple alternative to other wrist salvage procedures for scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse and scaphotrapezio-trapezoid arthritis. However, the extent of scaphoid that may be resected without adversely affecting carpal kinematics has never been clearly defined.

Methods:

Seven cadaveric upper extremities were tested in a custom motion wrist simulator. A 3-stage sequential sectioning of the distal scaphoid protocol was performed in 25% increments then cyclic active wrist flexion-extension and dart thrower’s motion trials were recorded.

Results:

The extent of distal scaphoid resection had no effect on overall wrist range of motion. The lunate assumed a more extended position following resection of the distal scaphoid compared to intact. At 25%, 50%, and 75% of distal scaphoid resection, the lunate extended to 13.32° ± 9.4°, 23.43° ± 7.5°, and 15.81° ± 16.9°, respectively. The capitate migrated proximally with 25% and 50% distal scaphoidectomy, and proximally and radially with 75% of the scaphoid resected. Resection of 75% of the scaphoid resulted in unstable wrist kinematics.

Conclusions:

Resection of up to 25% of the distal scaphoid did not significantly influence carpal kinematics and induced mild lunate extension deformity. Resection of 50% of the scaphoid induced further and potentially clinically significant lunate extension and dorsal intercalated segment instability. Further removal of 75% of the distal scaphoid induced capitate migration radially and unpredictable wrist kinematics. Consequently, removal of over 25% of the scaphoid should be avoided or supplemented with partial wrist fusion.
Girls’ Perspectives on Gendered Violence in Rural Sweden: Photovoice as a Method for Increased Knowledge and Social Change
Authors: Brännström Lotta , Nyhlén Sara , Gådin Katja Gillander
Published: October 2020

Research has shown for decades that gendered violence against girls and women is a major public health problem with devastating long-term health consequences for individuals and communities alike. Knowledge of gendered violence against girls and young women thus needs to be increased not only in urban, but also in rural areas, and from girls’ own perspectives. Research methods should also be developed that will facilitate the possibility of reaching policy makers, i.e. to reach those with the power to bring about social change. This study had two main goals. The first was to use photovoice as a methodology to gain increased knowledge about gendered violence against girls and young women in rural Sweden, while the second was to discuss the potential of reaching social change through photovoice as well as offer some critique. We worked with 35 adolescent girls enrolled in an upper secondary school in rural Sweden. Six workshops, which focused on (un)safety, different forms of violence, and the consequences of violence, were analyzed with an action-oriented approach and content analysis. The photovoice material also resulted in an exhibition that was used to reach policy makers. The findings show that the girls’ ability to control their own lives was limited and that a number of different situations in their everyday lives were related to a reduced sense of space and reduced sense of agency. The findings also highlight that the girls were constantly sexually harassed online, which created a feeling of being unable to escape. We argue that photovoice is suitable in mediating girls’ perspectives and in engaging and informing key policy makers, although the method alone cannot assure social change.
Distal bare metal stent implantation during thoracic endovascular aortic repair is beneficial to treat complicated type B aortic dissection: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kong Xuanzhu , Peng Li , Wu Fengrui , Bi Jiaxue , Pan Hongrui , Dai Xiangchen
Published: October 2020

Objective

To explore whether thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) plus distal bare metal stent (BMS) implantation leads to favorable clinical outcomes compared with standard TEVAR in treating acute complicated type B aortic dissection.

Methods

Relevant publications were found through a precise search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. Count data were calculated as the odd ratio (OR)and 95% confidence interval (CI) using the Mantel–Haenszel statistical method, quantitative data were calculated as mean difference and 95% CI using Inverse Variance statistical method. When the data heterogeneity was large, with an I2 > 50%, a random-effects model and sensitivity analysis were performed. The analysis tool we used was the software Revman 5.3 and G*power 3.1.

Results

There were 7 publications involving 958 patients who were enrolled ultimately. The incidence of unplanned secondary intervention and postoperative adverse events in the TEVAR + BMS were lower than standard TEVAR (OR, 0.42, (95% CI, 0.23 to 0.75); OR, 0.57, (95% CI, 0.37 to 0.90)), and the pooled number needed to treat was 15 for unplanned secondary intervention and 15 for postoperative adverse events. There were no significant difference in the aortic-related or all-cause 30-day mortality (OR, 0.81, (95% CI, 0.25 to 2.61); OR, 0.47, (95% CI, 0.18 to 1.22)), aortic-related, all-cause mortality at least 6 months or incidence of the postoperative endoleak (OR, 0.47, (95% CI, 0.17 to 1.32); OR, 0.42, (95% CI, 0.17 to 1.06); OR, 0.81, (95% CI, 0.32 to 2.05)).

Conclusion

There is no significant outcome difference except for reduced reintervention but this does not seem to adversely affect survival. It is unclear whether this justifies the additional cost of placing it in every complicated type B aortic dissection regardless of anatomy after standard TEVAR alone. Besides, more data are needed to verify the adjunctive distal bare metal stents’ performance at different dissection stages.
Trust in principals, leaders’ focus on instruction, teacher collaboration, and teacher self-efficacy: testing a multilevel mediation model
Authors: Çoban Ömür , Özdemir Nedim , Bellibaş Mehmet Şükrü
Published: October 2020

A vast amount of contemporary research has been devoted to defining effective school leadership roles and practices and measuring their influence on school processes, structures and outcomes. This paper examines the effects of trust in principals and school leaders’ focus on instruction on teacher collaboration and teacher self-efficacy. Using teacher survey data collected from 45 lower secondary Turkish schools across the country in the 2018–2019 academic year, this study employs multilevel structural equation modelling with Bayesian estimation to investigate the structural relationships between trust in principals, alongside leaders’ focus on instruction, and teacher collaboration and teacher self-efficacy. The study confirms previous research, indicating that trust in principals has a crucial role in teachers’ emphasis on instruction and that these principals’ instructional leadership practices enhance teachers’ sense of efficacy both directly and indirectly through teacher collaboration. The research concludes that, while the way these practices are carried out might differ across contexts, the principals’ leadership practices focusing on teaching and learning still matter for teachers’ beliefs and practices in non-western countries. Implications for policy, practice and further research are discussed.
Probation practice, desistance and the penal field in Norway
Authors: Todd-Kvam John
Published: October 2020

While Scandinavia in general and Norway in particular have been the focus of much criminological interest, the work of probation has largely been overlooked in favour of prisons. This article seeks therefore to contribute to our knowledge of Norwegian penality and desistance by analysing how probation caseworkers describe their practice. Caseworkers have a relational, contextualised understanding of probation clients and the challenges they face. That being said, even in a Scandinavian welfare state, caseworkers see the process of reintegration and change as difficult, highlighting a lack of human and social capital and the challenges of navigating an increasingly complex and impersonal welfare apparatus.
An Institutional Politics of Place: Rethinking the Critical Function of Art in Times of Growing Inequality
Authors: Upton-Hansen Christopher , Kolbe Kristina , Savage Mike
Published: October 2020

This article reflects on the current status of art’s critical power in a world of intensifying economic inequality. We document how the art world is saturated with economic imperatives that limit the power of conventional artistic critique to meaningfully contest economic instrumentalism. Such imperatives also constrain both artistic and curatorial choices, with profound implications for questions of representation. Informed by interviews with artists, curators and managers of leading art institutions in London, we outline an emergent politics that acknowledges the way that inequalities are sustained and accumulate over long periods of time and is committed to addressing ‘historic wrongs’. We argue that an especially powerful dimension here is geographical, with institutions reconsidering their own historical and contemporary locations as a means of subverting universalising narratives that mask dominant power. We suggest that this focus on spatiality presents a promising approach to addressing contemporary inequalities in the art world by being able to productively link concerns around representation to a critical recognition of the spatially located impact of economic inequality.
Relational Goes Beyond Interpersonal: The Development of Empathy in the Context of Culture
Authors: Main Alexandra , Kho Carmen
Published: October 2020

It is clear a relational approach to the study of empathy is gaining traction across multiple disciplines. Both commentaries on “A Relational Framework for Integrating the Study of Empathy in Children and Adults” underscored the need to expand the relational framework of empathy to incorporate the broader social and cultural context in which children and adults live. In the present reply we outline some specific ways that culture can inform the study of empathy in interpersonal contexts. We focus on how culture and context shape the meaning of empathy and its expression and highlight how a within-culture approach to the study of empathy will advance our understanding of this nebulous construct.
Comment: How Your Own Becoming Feels
Authors: Di Paolo Ezequiel A.
Published: October 2020

Mascolo (2020) successfully defends a relational, developmental approach to emotions. I draw parallels between his perspective and the enactive approach, in particular with the concept of participatory sense-making. I suggest that the need to understand emotions developmentally reveals a deeper link between affective life and human unfinishedness, namely, that emotions are collectively constituted ways of regulating human becoming.
Comment: Collective Epistemic Emotions and Individualized Learning: A Relational Account
Authors: Sander David
Published: October 2020

This comment considers some potential implications of both the appraisal approaches and the framework proposed by Mascolo in regard to a mechanism that is particularly important for development: learning. More specifically, I discuss Mascolo’s account of emotion with respect to how appraisal processes can be considered relational, automatic, social, as well as the drivers of learning amplification.
The atraumatic limp in childhood
Authors: Babakhanlou Rodrick , Beattie Tom
Published: October 2020

Limping in children is not an uncommon presentation in general practice. Although trauma is a major cause, and the aetiology usually obvious, the presentation of a child with atraumatic limp can cause significant concern in parents and carers. This paper will discuss atraumatic limp, concentrating on diagnoses which are common, serious or both.
Aging and efficacy of disease-modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis: a meta-analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Zhang Yinan , Gonzalez Caldito Natalia , Shirani Afsaneh , Salter Amber , Cutter Gary , Culpepper William , Wallin Mitchell , Kosa Peter , Bielekova Bibiana , Lublin Fred , Stuve Olaf
Published: October 2020

Background:

Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) are approved for the treatment of disease activity and are effective in reducing relapses and new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions. However, disease activity generally subsides with time, and age-dependent changes in DMT efficacy are not well-established. We aimed to investigate whether age impacts the efficacy of DMTs in treating disease activity in patients with relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS).

Methods:

DMT efficacy related to age was assessed through a meta-analysis of clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of DMTs in RRMS patients as measured by reductions in the annualized relapse rate (ARR), new T2 lesions, and gadolinium-enhanced lesions on MRI. Using the mean baseline patient age from each trial, a weighted linear regression was fitted to determine whether age was associated with treatment efficacy on a group level.

Results:

Group-level data from a total of 28,082 patients from 26 trials of 14 different DMTs were included in the meta-analysis. There were no statistically significant associations between age and reductions in ARR, new T2 lesions, and gadolinium-enhanced lesions of the treatment group compared with placebo.

Conclusion:

DMTs for RRMS show efficacy in treating disease activity independent of age as demonstrated by group-level data from DMT clinical trials. Nevertheless, clinical trials select for patients with baseline disease activity regardless of age, thereby not representing real-world patients with RRMS, where disease activity declines with age.
Feather morphological predictors of angle-dependent color changes in parrot plumage
Authors: Reed Steven , Simpson Richard K , McGraw Kevin J
Published: October 2020

Among the most ornate animal traits in nature are the angle-dependent (e.g. iridescent) structural colors of many fishes, damselflies, birds, beetles, and butterflies. Though we now have a solid understanding of the mechanisms that create angle-dependent coloration in several groups, we know little about whether pigmentary colors reflect light in an angle-dependent fashion or if similar or different mechanisms govern angle-dependent reflectance from pigmentary versus structural colors. Here for the first time we describe non-iridescent angle-dependent coloration from the tail and wing feathers of several parrot species (Aves: Psittaciformes). We employed a novel approach—by calculating chromatic and achromatic contrasts (in just noticeable differences, JNDs) of straight and angled measurements of the same feather patch—to test for perceptually relevant angle-dependent changes in coloration on dorsal and ventral feather surfaces. We found, among the 15 parrot species studied, significant angle dependence for seven of our eight feather JND parameters. We then measured micro-scale features on each side of feathers, including size and color of barbs and barbules, to attempt to predict interspecific variation in degree of angle-dependent reflectance. We found that barb height, plumage-color type (e.g. melanin, structural), and differences between barb-barbule coloration (measured using Euclidean distances) were the strongest predictors of angle-dependent coloration. Interestingly, there was no significant phylogenetic signal in any of the angle-dependence models tested. These findings deepen our views on the importance of microscopic feather features in the production of directional animal coloration, especially in tissues that are colored predominantly by pigments and appear to be statically colored.
Croatia’s EU Presidency: A strong Europe in a world of challenges
Authors: Bandov Goran
Published: October 2020

The article reflects on Croatia’s EU Council Presidency in the first half of 2020. The programme for Croatia’s Presidency had four pillars: a Europe that is developing, a Europe that connects, a Europe that protects and an influential Europe. The article focuses on the various challenges faced by the Croatian Presidency during its six-month term. The period of Croatia’s Presidency will forever be remembered as the time when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Other demanding issues also had to be dealt with: the UK leaving the EU; the challenges of European (non-)solidarity; the continuation of the enlargement process, with the green light being given to Northern Macedonia and Albania; the migrant crisis at the border of Turkey and Greece; the preparations for the EU’s 2021–7 budget; and the COVID-19 recovery plan.
A Gunshot, Dying, and Living: Writing Into Activism
Authors: Soler Gabriel
Published: October 2020

In this article, I explore the idea of inquiry as activism through remembering the activism made by my aunt and uncle during the Chilean dictatorship (1973–1989). I try to understand how their story lives on in me and affects who I am and who I have become. I work with the idea of “the ghost,” as something missing that calls for a change, as something of the past that keeps asking for answers in the present. With the death of my uncle and the gunshot my aunt received, I try to think of how their “ghost” keeps doing activism when I am working on my own trauma.
Restoration of Endodontic Ally-Treated Anterior Teeth
Authors: Shelley Andrew
Published: October 2020

Detailed consideration of a case involving the restoration of an endodontically-treated maxillary canine tooth provides opportunity to review the many different considerations and treatment options in such situations. The restoration of endodontically-treated anterior teeth must be patient-centred, applying materials and techniques best suited to achieve a successful clinical outcome.
Dento-Legal Implications in Digital Dentistry
Authors: Johnstone Philip
Published: October 2020

There are various dento-legal considerations when adopting digital technologies, including record systems and issues surrounding communications in an increasingly social media driven world.
Powder and Powder-Free Intra-Oral Scanners: Digital Impression Accuracy
Authors: Hategan Simona Ioana , Ionel Topala Florin , Goguta Luciana , Gavrilovici Andrei , Negrutiu Meda Lavinia , Jivanescu Anca
Published: October 2020

AIM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of digital impressions taken with two different intra-oral scanners (with and without optical powder), by dentists with different level of experience.

Material and Methods

Two intra-oral scanning devices (Apollo Dl and Cerec Omnicam, Sirona Dental GmbH, Germany) were used to obtain a digital cast from scanning different preparations on a maxillary typodont. Three operator groups scanned five crown preparations using both powder and powder-free scanning systems. One group consisted of fourth year dental students, a second group consisted of prosthodontic residents, and third group consisted of prosthodontic specialists. The precision of spray application and impression expertise was compared between the three groups.

Results

The most frequently encountered errors were non-linear powder application, inappropriate intra-oral scanner manipulation, and insufficient digital data for crown fabrication.

Conclusion

Experience is needed in order to achieve high quality digital impressions. A prosthodontic specialist avoided incorrect manipulation of an intra-oral camera, uneven application of powder spray and achieved a better marginal fit.
Sample‐size estimation is not reported in 24% of randomised controlled trials of inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review
Authors: Iheozor‐Ejiofor Zipporah , Lakunina Svetlana , Gordon Morris , Akintelure Daniel , Sinopoulou Vasiliki , Akobeng Anthony
Published: October 2020

Background

Sample‐size estimation is an important factor in designing a clinical trial. A recent study found that 65% of Cochrane systematic reviews had imprecise results.

Objective

This study set out to review the whole body of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) randomised controlled trials systematically in order to identify the reporting of sample‐size estimation.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive hand search of the Cochrane Library and Cochrane IBD Specialized Trials Register. We extracted information on relevant features and the results of the included studies. We produced descriptive statistics for our results.

Results

A total of 242 randomised controlled trials were included from 44 Cochrane systematic reviews. About 25% of the studies failed to report on sample‐size estimation. Of those that did report on sample‐size estimation, 33% failed to recruit their target sample size.

Conclusions

Around half of the randomised controlled trials in IBD either do not report sample‐size estimation or reach their recruitment target with the level of detail in reporting being limited.
Prevalence of smoking among health science students in Vietnam in 2018 and associated factors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tien Nam Pham , Thanh Tung Pham , Hanh Dung Nguyen , Hoang An Duong , Dang The Anh Bui , Bich Diep Quan , Bao Giang Kim , Huong Giang Dang , Thi Thu Hien Ngo , Ngoc Hung Pham , Thi Thanh Huong Nguyen , Phuong Linh Bui , Thi Dieu Linh Dao , Xuan Long Nguyen , Gia Thu Hoang , Viet Tuan Duong , Huu Tu Nguyen , Van Minh Hoang
Published: October 2020

Smoking is a global health problem among health science students. The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of smoking and to examine associated factors among health science students from five universities in Vietnam. Among 5946 participants (95.0% response rate), the smoking prevalence was 19.2% (95% CI:17.4–21.0%) among male students and 2.9% (95% CI:2.4–3.5%) among female students. In the multivariable regression models, significant factors for smoking were the perceived financial burden, the respondent’s year in university, a non-self-determined motivation profile, self-reported depression and/or anxiety, the level of vigorous physical activity, and alcohol drinking.
Functional evolution of visual involvement in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Marenna Silvia , Huang Su-Chun , Castoldi Valerio , d’Isa Raffaele , Costa Gloria Dalla , Comi Giancarlo , Leocani Letizia
Published: October 2020

Background

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a common animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). C57BL/6 mice immunized with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein exhibit chronic disease course, together with optic neuritis, consisting of demyelination/axonal loss of the optic nerve.

Objectives

To characterize functional and structural visual damages in two different phases of EAE: pre- and post-motor onset.

Methods

Visual alterations were detected with Visual Evoked Potential (VEP), Electroretinogram (ERG) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Optic nerve histology was performed at 7 (pre-motor onset) or 37 (post-motor onset) days post-immunization (dpi).

Results

At 7 dpi, optic nerve inflammation was similar in EAE eyes with and without VEP latency delay. Demyelination was detected in EAE eyes with latency delay (p < 0.0001), while axonal loss (p < 0.0001) and ERG b-wave amplitude (p = 0.004) were decreased in EAE eyes without latency delay compared to Healthy controls. At 37 dpi, functional and structural optic nerve damage were comparable between EAE groups, while a decrease of ERG amplitude and NGCC thickness were found in EAE eyes with VEP latency delay detected post-motor onset.

Conclusions

Thanks to non-invasive methods, we studied the visual system in a MS model, which could be useful for developing specific therapeutic strategies to target different disease phases.
Personal Viewpoints Pedagogy and counterfactual thinking: Year 7 students’ development of agency, resilience, critical thinking and fourth-person perspective
Authors: Smith Thomas , Knowles Anne
Published: October 2020

Agentic orientation, critical thinking (CrT) and taking the fourth-person perspective (4PP) are described as teachable attainments. A Personal Viewpoints (PVs) Biblical Studies curriculum challenged Year 7 students to resolve socially problematic situations through group discussion and perspective-taking. A life-issue scenario was used to pre- and post-test. Students’ PVs were coded. Responses were more personally agentic following the curriculum intervention, suggesting a strengthened resilience when faced with the threat of an oppressor. Increased perspective-taking and CrT, encouraged by counterfactual thinking, fostered students’ reliance on personal Bible-based judgements and led to greater other-focused, personally agentic resilience in socially problematic situations.
Real-world Drivers Behind Communication, Medication Adherence, and Shared Decision Making In Minority Adults with Asthma
Authors: Norful Allison A. , Bilazarian Ani , Chung Annie , George Maureen
Published: October 2020

Background:

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the foundation of asthma management. However, ICS non-adherence is common. Black adults have lower ICS adherence than white adults, which likely contributes, in part, to the asthma disparities that Black adults experience.

Objective:

To explore how Black adults with uncontrolled asthma and their primary care providers communicated about ICS non-adherence and used shared decision-making to identify strategies to increase ICS use.

Design:

Eighty routine clinical visits for uncontrolled asthma were audio recorded and inductively analyzed using methods adapted from grounded theory methodology.

Participants:

Study participants included 80 Black adults (83% female) largely low-income (83% Medicaid) and their 10 primary care providers. The study settings were 2 Federally Qualified Health Centers.

Key Results:

Three overarching themes were identified: (1) ICS misuse and lack of knowledge; (2) external influences informed personal misconceptions about ICS; and (3) patient-provider communication to individualize plan of care.

Conclusions:

Reasons for ICS non-adherence in Black adults with uncontrolled asthma offer potential targets for interventions that facilitate enhanced adherence. Future research should include PCP training on strategies that support patient-centered care, such as communication, shared decision-making and patient engagement.
Predictor Factors of Intention to Use Technological Resources: A Multigroup Study About the Approach of Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Moura Ivanildo Viana , de Almeida Lauro Brito , da Silva Wesley Vieira , Veiga Claudimar Pereira da , Costa Flaviano
Published: October 2020

The aim of this article is to investigate the influence relationships between factors of an extended model of TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) and the behavioral intention of professors for the acceptance and use of information and communications technology (ICT) in work environment. The model used in this research includes, besides the original TAM variables, another five external variables. Twelve research hypotheses regarding the relationship between TAM factors and the intention and acceptance of ICT in the work environment were elaborated. Data collection was done through a questionnaire available on the Google doc platform to the teachers of the educational institution. The sample is formed by 147 teachers from several courses of one institution in the State of Paraná, Brazil. Initially, the demographic profile data were treated using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factorial analysis, and structural equations, which were the techniques used to test the research hypothesis. All research hypotheses based on the original TAM model were corroborated. Regarding the extended model, one of the external variables was not valid and was excluded from the proposed relations by two hypotheses referring to this construct. The results of the multigroup analysis—which includes the variables demographic, gender, age, schooling, and working time in the institution—showed the significant moderating effect of relationship only for the educational variable.
Exploring Finnish Guidance Counselors’ Conceptions of Career Management Skills
Authors: Kettunen Jaana , Lee Jeong , Vuorinen Raimo
Published: October 2020

This article reports the findings from a phenomenographic investigation into guidance counselors’ conceptions of career management skills (CMS). The results show that CMS was conceived as (a) information-based knowledge, (b) personal skills development, (c) interpersonal skills development, and (d) autonomous application of skills. The differences appeared along six dimensions of variation that included awareness of CMS, emphasis, promotion of CMS, teaching practice, assessment, and attitude. The findings give us a more profound understanding of critical aspects that may have an important role in the development of individual’s CMS.