bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity Potentiates Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Growth and Invasion by AMPK-YAP Pathway
Authors: Liu Jia-Huang , Wu Qi-Fei , Fu Jun-Ke , Che Xiang-Ming , Li Hai-Jun
Published: December 2020

Obesity could increase the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and affect its growth and progression, but the mechanical links are unclear. The objective of the study was to explore the impact of obesity on ESCC growth and progression utilizing in vivo trials and cell experiments in vitro. Diet-induced obese and lean nude mice were inoculated with TE-1 cells, then studied for 4 weeks. Serum glucose, insulin, leptin, and visfatin levels were assayed. Sera of nude mice were obtained and then utilized to culture TE-1. MTT, migration and invasion assays, RT-PCR, and Western blotting were used to analyze endocrine effect of obesity on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and related genes expression of TE-1. Obese nude mice bore larger tumor xenografts than lean animals, and were hyperglycemic and hyperinsulinemic with an elevated level of leptin and visfatin in sera, and also were accompanied by a fatty liver. As for the subcutaneous tumor xenograft model, tumors were more aggressive in obese nude mice than lean animals. Tumor weight correlated positively with mouse body weight, liver weight of mice, serum glucose, HOMA-IR, leptin, and visfatin. Obesity prompted significant TE-1 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by endocrine mechanisms and impacted target genes. The expression of AMPK and p-AMPK protein decreased significantly (

P
<
0.05

); MMP9, total YAP, p-YAP, and nonphosphorylated YAP protein increased significantly (

P
<
0.05

) in the cells cultured with conditioned media and xenograft tumor from the obese group; the mRNA expression of AMPK decreased significantly (

P
<
0.05

); YAP and MMP9 mRNA expression increased significantly (

P
<
0.05

) in the cells exposed to conditioned media from the obese group. In conclusion, the altered adipokine milieu and metabolites in the context of obesity may promote ESCC growth in vivo; affect proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC cells in vitro; and regulate MMP9 and AMPK-YAP signaling pathway through complex effects including the endocrine effect.
Intravitreal Use of a Bone Marrow Mononuclear Fraction (BMMF) Containing CD34+ Cells in Patients with Stargardt Type Macular Dystrophy
Authors: Cotrim Carina Costa , Vieira Messias André M. , Jorge Rodrigo , Siqueira Rubens Camargo
Published: December 2020

To assess the therapeutic potential and the safety of intravitreous use of a bone marrow mononuclear fraction (BMMF) containing CD34+ cells in patients with Stargardt type macular dystrophy. The study was conducted on 10 patients with Stargardt dystrophy with worse

eye
 
visual
 
acuity
≤
20
/
125

. A bone marrow aspirate was obtained from all patients, and after processing in the cell therapy center (CTC), 0.1 ml of the intravitreous BMMF suspension was injected into the eye with worse visual acuity. A sham injection was performed in the contralateral eye. The patients were evaluated at baseline and one, three, and six months after the injection. All of them were submitted to measurement of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), microperimetry, multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and full field electroretinography (ffERG), autofluorescence (AF), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Fluorescein angiography was also performed before and six months after the injection. All patients completed the six-month period of evaluation. Mean visual acuity of the treated eye was 1.1 logMAR (20/250) before intravitreous (IV) injection, 0.96 logMAR (20/200+2) one month after injection, and 0.92 logMAR (20/160-1) 3 months after injection. In the untreated eye, mean VA was 1.0 logMAR (20/200) at baseline and 0.96 logMAR (20/200+2) and 0.94 logMAR (20/160-2) one and three months after injection, respectively. In the treated group, VA at baseline ranged from best acuity of 20/125-1 to worst acuity of 20/640+2, going through 20/100+2 and 20/400 during the first month. In the untreated group, BCVA ranged from 20/100+2 to 20/400 at baseline and from 20/100 to 20/400 after one month. The results for the treated group differed significantly at all follow-up times, whereas no significant difference was observed in the untreated group. Regarding the mean sensitivity of microperimetry, although there was improvement throughout all months, a significant difference occurred only during the first month. In the untreated eye, there was no significant difference in any analysis. Angiofluoresceinography did not reveal neovessel formation or tumor growth. The remaining exams were used in order to aid the diagnosis. The results indicate that the use of intravitreous BMMF in patients with Stargardt dystrophy is safe and is associated with a discrete improvement of BCVA and microperimetry in the treated eye compared to the untreated one.
Analysis of a Novel Magnetic-Hydrodynamic Double Levitated Motor for an Implantable Axial Flow Blood Pump
Authors: Wang Liang , Tang Xiaoyan , Yun Zhong , Xiang Chuang
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a novel design for a bearingless axial flow blood pump based on the magnetic-hydrodynamic double levitated concept. In the axial direction, the magnetic levitation system consisted of two pairs of permanent magnet rings offsets the force of fluid. The hydrodynamic shell mounted on the impeller rotor is designed for generating dynamic pressure, which can balance the radial force like gravity when the blood pump is working. Because of the unsteady force and torque acting on the rotor and the passive suspension, the position of the rotor is not steady. The suspension force, stiffness, and torque of the rotor are calculated by the theoretical method and finite element method. Then, the dynamics of the rotor are analyzed. Arrangements of Hall-effect sensors with the corresponding data acquisition system which can measure the axial displacement of the rotor are explained. The sensorless drive control system for the blood pump is described too. With a prototype pump, an external circulation experiment system is built and then the axial and radial displacements of the rotor are measured by using Hall-effect sensors and the laser vibrometer under different working conditions.
A Secure and Effective Construction Scheme for Blockchain Networks
Authors: Qin Chaoxia , Guo Bing , Shen Yan , Li Tao , Zhang Yun , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2020

Blockchain technology has emerged as a novel distributed ledger technology, facilitating data sharing and system management securely and efficiently without interventions from a central authority. However, blockchain technology alone is not suitable for enterprise-class applications, mainly due to the limitations in capacity expansion and veriﬁcation speed of blockchain systems. This paper proposes a secure and effective construction scheme for blockchain networks to improve performance and address the effective management concerns of blockchain data based on transaction categories. We designed a network link protocol to construct a directed acyclic graph (DAG) blockchain network and used a sharding protocol to divide the DAG blockchain into multiple category shards to process transactions in parallel. We then extensively evaluated our proposed design on local clusters. The experimental results show that our link and shard protocols achieved high throughput and the category-based sharded DAG blockchain demonstrated high scalability.
Disseminated Thrombosis in COVID-19 Cases: The Role of Early Antithrombotic Treatments?
Authors: Alhashmi Jasem Mohammed , Elhoufi Ashraf M. , Elhatou Eman , Ghanaim Mahmood
Published: December 2020

Many newly published articles have focused on the association between COVID-19 and thrombogenicity. Indeed, it has become a frequently observed phenomena. In this study, we report on a 45-year-old man with a COVID-19-positive test. His dramatic progression started 5 days after admission. He developed a right ventricular (RV) thrombus (rare condition) and multiple brain sites infarction. We discuss this phenomena by showing the extent to which the thrombosis can take place, the possible relation between inflammatory, D-dimer and case progression and suggest a treatment approach particularly in cases with multiple thrombogenicity organ involvement.
Association of Electrocardiographic P-Wave Markers and Atrial Fibrillation in Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source
Authors: Li Tony Y.W. , Yeo Leonard Leong L. , Ho Jamie Sin Ying , Leow Aloysius S. , Chan Mark Y. , Dalakoti Mayank , Chan Bernard P.L. , Teoh Hock Luen , Seow Swee-Chong , Kojodjojo Pipin , Sharma Vijay K. , Tan Benjamin Y.-Q. , Sia Ching-Hui
Published: December 2020

Background: Several P-wave indices are thought to represent underlying atrial remodeling and have been associated with ischaemic stroke even in the absence of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the utility of these P-wave indices in predicting outcomes in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) has not been studied. The aim of this study is to examine these different P-wave indices towards predicting new-onset AF and stroke recurrence in a cohort of patients with ESUS, thereby demonstrating the value of these electrocardiographic markers for stroke risk stratification. Methods: Between October 2014 and October 2017, consecutive patients diagnosed with ESUS were followed for new-onset AF and ischaemic stroke recurrence. The various P-wave indices, namely, the P-terminal force in the precordial lead V1 (PTFV1), P-wave duration, P-wave dispersion, interatrial blocks, and P-wave axis, were assessed on the initial electrocardiogram on presentation and studied for their relation to eventual AF detection and recurrent stroke. Results: 181 ischaemic stroke patients with ESUS were recruited and followed up for a median duration of 2.1 years. An abnormal PTFV1 was associated with occult AF detection but not with recurrent ischaemic strokes. No significant association was observed between the other P-wave indices with either occult AF or stroke recurrence. Conclusion: PTFV1 is associated with AF detection but not recurrent strokes in ESUS patients and can be a useful electrocardiographic marker for further risk stratification in ESUS patients.
Anatomical Predictors of Pacemaker Dependency After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Nai Fovino Luca , Cipriani Alberto , Fabris Tommaso , Massussi Mauro , Scotti Andrea , Lorenzoni Giulia , Guerra Maria Chiara , Cardaioli Francesco , Rodinò Giulio , Matsuda Yuji , Masiero Giulia , Leoni Loira , Zorzi Alessandro , Fraccaro Chiara , Tarantini Giuseppe
Published: December 2020

Background:

Conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are often transient. Limited data exist on anatomic factors predisposing to pacemaker dependency after TAVR. We sought to assess the rate and the possible predictors of pacemaker dependency after TAVR.

Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing pacemaker implantation up to 30 days after TAVR between May 2014 and September 2019 were included. Baseline electrocardiographic, computed tomography, and procedural characteristics were collected, including valve implantation depth and membranous septum length, an anatomic surrogate of the distance between the aortic annulus and the His bundle. Pacemaker dependency at 30 days and 1 year and all-cause mortality during follow-up were evaluated.

Results:

Of 728 TAVR patients, 112 (53.5% men; median age, 81 years) underwent pacemaker implantation after TAVR. Of these, 44.6% (50 of 112) were pacemaker dependent at 30 days and 46.7% (36 of 77) at 1 year. By multivariate analysis, independent predictors of 30-day pacemaker dependency included left ventricular outflow tract calcifications under the left coronary cusp (odds ratio, 5.69 [95% CI, 1.45–22.31];
P
=0.013) and a difference between membranous septum length and implantation depth (ΔMSID) ≥3 mm (odds ratio, 7.58 [95% CI, 2.07–27.78];
P
=0.002). Conversely, membranous septum length and implantation depth alone were not associated with pacemaker dependency (odds ratio, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.60–1.05];
P
=0.11 and odds ratio, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.99–1.24];
P
=0.08). At a median follow-up of 28.1 (11.7–48.6) months, pacemaker-dependent patients did not show a worse survival (
P
=0.26).

Conclusions:

Less than half of the patients undergoing pacemaker implantation after TAVR are pacemaker-dependent at midterm follow-up. ΔMSID ≥3 mm and the presence of left ventricular outflow tract calcifications under the left coronary cusp, but not membranous septum length nor implantation depth alone, are predictive of long-term pacemaker dependency after TAVR, thus influencing device selection and programming.
Do Better Prisons Reduce Recidivism? Evidence from a Prison Construction Program
Authors: Tobón Santiago
Published: December 2020

I study the effects of prison quality on recidivism using individual-level data from Colombia. To estimate causal effects, I leverage the quasi-random assignment of inmates to newer, less crowded, and higher service prisons. For inmates assigned to newer facilities, I find that the probability of returning to prison within one year is 36% lower. Criminal capital, access to rehabilitation programs, and negative prison experiences, which could trigger changes in intrinsic preferences over illegal occupations, seem to be important mechanisms. The program led to substantial welfare gains, even when assuming a low social cost per crime.
Pentecostalism as a Theological Tradition
Authors: Vondey Wolfgang
Published: December 2020

The concern for a theological tradition among Pentecostals responds to pressing questions of the recognition, invention, and rejection of tradition in late modern society and religion. Tradition, to put it succinctly, is a concern not for the past but for the future of Pentecostalism. This essay critically examines the challenges of designating pentecostal theology as a global tradition by asking what theological elements constitute Pentecostalism as a tradition, what are the dominant theological patterns of its reenactment, and how these constructs aid or resist the formation of pentecostal theology in the future. The quest for answers follows the five essential patterns of tradition proposed by Anthony Giddens: collective memory, ritual expression, a formulaic conception of truth, guardians of the tradition, and its normative content. The results form an ideological, historical, and institutional critique of Pentecostalism and its existential challenges as a theological tradition.
Prosperity, Prophecy and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ukah Asonzeh
Published: December 2020

One of the intractable problems of Africa is socioeconomic development. It is a “wicked problem” that has defied decades of tinkering and tweaking of economic policies and government interventions. Like many African governments that succeeded oppressive colonial governments, many religious organizations frequently promise their members the help of divine power to deliver development. African Pentecostalism, especially the prosperity variant, has been at the forefront of promising to make its members healthy and wealthy through divine means. How the theology of plenty and healing has practically improved the economic and therapeutic systems of Africa is a question of debate. Some scholars, in line with pentecostal self-representation, claim that Pentecostalism inspires development from below. This essay critiques this self-image of African Pentecostalism in the context of African economic indices and the raging and ravaging coronavirus disease pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic presents an important challenge but also an opportunity to test the doctrines and claims of pentecostal leaders. In the attempt to cater to leaders’ economic self-interest, pentecostal responses to the pandemic have, however, been uncoordinated and have failed adequately to mobilize resources that serve its members and the larger society in their moment of needs.
Mind and Hand: Early Scientific Instruments from al-Andalus, and ʿAbbas ibn Firnas in the Cordoban Umayyad Court
Authors: Anderson Glaire D.
Published: December 2020

This essay explores the symbiotic relationship between visual culture and the exact sciences that is revealed by the career of ʿAbbas b. Firnas (d. circa 876), as recounted in the Cordoban court chronicle compiled by the historian Ibn Hayyan (d. 1076), and by early scientific instruments from al-Andalus. Ibn Firnas is today remembered as a polymath and early scientist, yet neither historians of art nor of science have fully explored the implications of his reputation among medieval intellectuals as the wellspring of an Andalusi tradition of fine scientific instrumentation. This essay considers the Arabic account of Ibn Firnas as a maker of such objects, alongside early scientific instruments, exploring what these reveal about connections between elite intellectual culture and craft, between science and art making. It argues that considering the objects and texts in tandem reveals that intellectuals, especially those working in the exact sciences, were also “makers” of medieval Islamic visual culture.
Shah ʿAbbas’s Patronage of the Dynastic Shrine at Ardabil
Authors: Melville Charles
Published: December 2020

The aim of this paper is to introduce information provided by Fazli Beg Khuzani Isfahani (d. after 1640) in the third volume of his chronicle, Afżal al-tavārīkh (The Best of Histories), concerning the building program and patronage of Shah ʿAbbas I (r. 1587–1629), emphasizing his activities away from the capital Isfahan. In the account of a single year, Fazli Beg documents Shah ʿAbbas’s patronage of the dynastic shrine at Ardabil, providing details on both the architectural development of the shrine and the endowment (waqf) deed drawn up to support its charitable work. In the course of his account, Fazli Beg also mentions various local officials whose existence is otherwise unknown.
Archaeology and Cultural Policy in Ottoman Tunisia Part I: Muhammad Khaznadar (1865–70)
Authors: Moumni Ridha
Published: December 2020

During the period of the “Great Reforms” (1837–81), the Ottoman province of Tunisia underwent major changes in its political, military, and economic arenas. This was also the case in the field of archaeology, where the history of excavations in Tunisia had been characterized by competition among foreign archaeologists seeking to enrich their national museums as a reflection of European imperialism. This dynamic would soon change thanks to Muhammad Khaznadar, the elder son of the grand vizier Mustafa Khaznadar. Through a unique trajectory that led him to study with the French historian Ernest Desjardin in Paris from 1863 to 1865, Muhammad Khaznadar developed a passion for antiquities that he would later apply by being the first Tunisian to excavate Carthage. The young dignitary rapidly gathered an important collection of antiquities that he displayed at the World’s Fair in Paris and acquired an international reputation as a modern man. Soon, he secured a “monopoly over antiquities,” which prevented the export of archaeological artifacts from Tunisia. Based on unpublished archives, this inquiry focuses on the rise of Muhammad Khaznadar as a collector and his role in the major cultural reforms that led Tunisians to claim the material remains of their pre-Islamic heritage.
Introduction to the Special Issue ‘Enlightenment and Modernity’
Authors: Vartija Devin J.
Published: December 2020

These introductory remarks present a brief overview of the question of the Enlightenment’s relationship to modernity. It charts the emergence of a novel sense of historicity connected to eighteenth-century usage of the term ‘enlightened’ and the belated, late twentieth-century attempts to connect this usage to modernity. The three contributions to this special issue are then introduced and the commonalities and divergences between them are highlighted.
Phenomenology and God after Heidegger
Authors: Littlejohn M.E. , Rumpza Stephanie
Published: December 2020

In this concluding reflection, the editors of this special issue reflect on the significance that Heidegger has had for French philosophy, precisely because of the creative and critical engagement of many of the original thinkers demonstrated above. It is not insignificant that Christian thinkers were drawn to Heidegger, seeing promise in his expansion of philosophical questioning, above all an enrichment of the idea of truth. However it is equally important to recognize that Heidegger’s native Christian roots were stripped of their animating spirit, the question of God and the revelation of the Hebraic scriptures. It is thus notable that the criticisms from this conference originating from the side of faith frequently appeal to the Scriptures as they argue that there are truths which Heidegger himself simply does not seem to see.
Pollen morphology of Indian Aponogeton (Aponogetonaceae, Alismatales) and the problem of recognizing palynotypes in a taxonomically diverse and ancient genus

Authors: SEVEROVA ELENA E. , YADAV SHRIRANG RAMCHANDRA , SOKOLOFF DMITRY D.
Published: December 2020

Monogeneric Aponogetonaceae is sister to the rest of tepaloid core Alismatales and its members are characterized by a number of plesiomorphic features including monosulcate pollen. A recent study documented the earliest fossil pollen records of Aponogeton in late Cretaceous and early Cenozoic as well as recognized six pollen types in the genus. However, there are remaining gaps in palynological investivation of Aponogeton species. We present data on eight Indian species of the genus. Pollen of Aponogeton appendiculatus, A. crispus, A. bruggenii, A. microphyllus, A. natans, A. nateshii and A. wolfgangianus is reticulate with quite small lumina of irregular shape with short, convex and wide muri bearing small (up to 0.5 μm) echini. Pollen of Aponogeton satarensis clearly differs from that of the rest of examined species in larger lumina and muri bearing large (0.8–1 μm) and wide conical echini. These palynological differences fit well with molecular phylogenetic data and earlier ideas based on gross morphology. Our data suggest that although exine sculpturing is taxonomically significant in Aponogeton, the use of size of echini as a character distinguishing some palynotypes is problematic. Quantitative characters such as equatorial diameter and polar axis length showed no clear differences between examined species, but differences were found between analyzed samples (more precise, individuals) of the same species. Our new data support the earlier conclusion on the homoplastic nature of pollen evolution in Aponogeton.
miR126-Mediated Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Signaling Pathway Regulates the Malignant Biological Behavior of Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Kong Demao , Wang Xia
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose: As a type of non-coding genetic material widely existing in eukaryotes, a growing amount of research have confirmed that it have close connection with the occurrence and progression of various malignancies. MicroRNA126 is increased in non-small-cell lung cancer,
liver cancer and gastric carcinoma. The up-regulation of miR126 in cervical cancer is closely associated with the clinical staging, histological grade, depth of invasion and early metastasis of the tumor, and it is also of great value in predicting the survival prognosis of the tumor. However,
there is little known about the relationship between miR126 and pancreatic carcinoma. Therefore, this study explored the miR126-mediated STAT3 signaling pathway in medicating pancreatic cancer cell multiplication, migration, cell cycle and apoptosis in vitro . Methods: PANC-1 cell (human
pancreatic cancer cell line) was selected for routine resuscitation and subculture. The experiment is grouped as: blank control group (NC group), empty plasmid transfection group (miR126-NC group), miR126mimic transfection group (overexpression Group) and miR126 inhibition plasmid transfection
group (low expression group); cell viability of each group for 12 h, 24 h, 48 h and 72 h was detected using MTT assay. Wound healing assay was used to evaluated the ability of cell migration. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze cell cycle. The mRNA expression of Caspase-3 was determined
by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). STAT3 protein was evaluated by western blot. Results: miR126 overexpression significantly increased cell proliferation at 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h, while the cell proliferation rates of the low expression group at each time point were significantly
reduced in comparision with those of the NC group and the miR126-NC group (P < 0 05). miR126 overexpression significantly induced cell migration, while miR126 low-expression significantly inhibited cell migration (P < 0 05). miR126 overexpression significantly enhanced the percentage
of G2/M, while the percentage of G2/M in the low-expressed group was remarkably reduced in comparision with those of the NC group and the miR126-NC group (P < 0 05). The mRNA expression of Caspase-3 was significantly inhibited in miR126 overexpression group, while the expression of Caspase-3
mRNA in the cells with miR126 low expression was remarkably increased (P < 0 05). The protein expression of STAT3 in miR126 overexpression group was notably up-regulated, while the expression level of STAT3 protein in the low expression group was prominently down-regulated (P <0 05).
Conclusion: MiR126 overexpression may induces the STAT3 signaling pathway and then regulates cell proliferation, cell migration, cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis in pancreatic carcinoma.
The Role and Mechanism of Human Papillomavirus16 E7 (HPV16 E7) in the Proliferation and Invasion of Cervical Cancer Cells Through Regulating Forkhead Box Protein A1
Authors: Ma Yunyan , Xiaoyan LV , Jia Xiaojiang , Zhou Jingzhen , Ouyang Zhenbo , Gao Zhen , Qiao Wenjuan , Liu Xin , Zhu Ninghu
Published: December 2020

High-risk HPV16 is an important factor for cervical cancer. HPV16 E7 can promote the malignant transformation of cervical epithelial cells. Forkhead box protein A1 (FOXA1) is abnormally expressed in several tumors. Our study assessed HPV16 E7's effect on cervical cancer cells. Hela
cells were divided into control group; HPV16 E7 group; and siFOXA1+ HPV16 E7 group followed by analysis of HPV16 E7 and FOXA1 expression by Real-time PCR and Western blot, cell proliferation by MTT assay, Caspase 3 activity, Bax and Bcl-2 expression by Real-time PCR as well as cell invasion
by Transwell assay. In HPV16 E7 group, HPV16 E7 and HOXA1 expression was significantly increased, cell proliferation was promoted, invasive ability was increased, Caspase 3 activity and Bax expression was decreased, and Bcl-2 expression was increased compared to control group (P < 0 05).
Conversely, inhibition of FOXA1 expression in Hela cells overexpressing HPV16 E7 can significantly inhibit cell proliferation and invasion, and promote apoptosis (P < 0 05). HPV16 E7 protein can up-regulate FOXA1 in host cells, and promote cervical cancer cell growth, proliferation and
invasion, indicating that it is one of the key factors contributing to cervical cancer.
Agencification revisited: trends in consolidation of central government administration in Europe
Authors: Sześciło Dawid
Published: December 2020

Agencification was one of the main pillars of the New Public Management reforms in Europe in the 1980s and 1990s. The strong increase in the number of agencies and the extension of their autonomy (especially with regard to independent regulatory agencies) significantly changed the organizational architecture of governments. However, the review of organizational reforms implemented over the past two decades in European administrative systems demonstrates a trend towards the rationalization and consolidation of the agency landscape. This article provides insight into major forms and patterns of consolidation, including comprehensive, cross-sectoral agency rationalization initiatives and more selective reforms regarding specific policy areas or types of government functions. It also explores the background of the consolidation reforms, confirming that economic pressures affecting governments in the era of austerity played a crucial role in redefining the position of agencies in governments’ organizational set-up.

Points for practitioners

Agencies remain the main vehicle for policy implementation across Europe but the trend towards de-agencification emerged in the decade of the 2010s, represented by both comprehensive, cross-sectoral initiatives reducing the agency stock, and consolidations in specific policy areas or covering agencies of specific types. De-agencification was triggered by the 2008 global financial crisis that increased the pressure on the reduction of administrative expenditure. To a lesser extent, it was a reaction to the adverse effects of agencification, such as coordination and steering problems, or the ambiguous impact of agencification on the efficiency of the public administration.
Original Unity
Authors: Dorner Deacon Dennis
Published: December 2020

Thomas Merton’s vision of the original unity of humankind speaks of the oneness of the inner life of the Trinity. It is a vision that we need and one that the healers among us can offer us, whether they are acting as doctors or simply as Christians.
Subacute thyroiditis complicating dengue fever – Case report and brief review of literature
Authors: Mangaraj Swayamsidha
Published: December 2020

The spectrum of dengue infection illness ranges from mildly symptomatic disease to severe forms of dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Expanded dengue syndrome refers to unusual complications involving gastrointestinal, hepatic, neurological, pulmonary and renal systems. Subacute thyroiditis represents a very rare and under-recognised complication of dengue. We report a case of a 38-year-old female presenting with recurrent fever and throat pain following an episode of dengue. After detailed clinical examination, biochemical evaluation and imaging studies, a diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis complicating dengue was made. We discuss its clinical course and management in this report. Only four such cases have previously been reported in literature. Subacute thyroiditis may represent another rare facet of dengue expanded syndrome.
Benefits of Movement-Integrated Learning Activities in Statistics and Research Methods Courses
Authors: Rhoads Michael C. , Kirkland Rena A. , Baker Crystal A. , Yeats Jeremy T. , Grevstad Nels
Published: December 2020

Background:

College students majoring in psychology often report low interest and engagement in statistics and research methods courses.

Objective:

The purpose of the current study was to examine potential benefits of integrating movement with learning activities in Introduction to Statistics and Research Methods courses at the college level.

Method:

A quasi-experimental design examined movement-based learning activities compared to traditional learning activities during class periods. Students’ perceptions of the activities were assessed using an experience sampling method.

Result:

Hierarchical linear models revealed that students rated the movement-integrated activities higher compared to control activities for the following subscales: physical, affect, enjoyment, concentration, and social states.

Conclusion:

College students may benefit from integration of the movement learning activities into statistics and research methods classes.

Teaching Implications:

Movement-integrated learning activities offer the potential to increase physical activity, increase positive affect, enhance concentration, and provide opportunities to socialize with classmates. We offer specific techniques for incorporating movement into the college classroom.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients With Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis
Authors: Anderson Catherine , Sandhu Guri , Al Yaghchi Chadwan
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

To determine the number of patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) who have contracted coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the impact of the pandemic on patients’ attitudes on seeking help and attending hospitals, as well as the delays in the offer of treatment from the local health care systems.

Methods:

A 29-question survey was distributed to an international mailing list of patients with subglottic stenosis to assess the patient experience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results:

A total of 543 patients with iSGS participated. Fewer than 1 in 10 patients with iSGS have experienced COVID-19 symptoms, which were predominantly mild to moderate, with only 2 hospitalizations. Most patients with iSGS (80.0%) have not been advised they are high risk for COVID-19, despite 36.5% of patients with iSGS being obese (body mass index of 30+). Delays to surgeries and in-office procedures have impacted 40.1% of patients currently receiving treatment, with 38.8% of patients increasingly struggling to breathe as a result. Anxiety and stress are increasing among patients, with 3 in 4 (75.2%) reporting they are anxious about travelling by public transport, contracting the virus in hospital and infecting loved ones (69.0% and 71.9%, respectively). Of greater concern is that 23.1% with increasing dyspnea state they are staying away from hospital despite their deteriorating health.

Conclusions:

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the physical and psychological health of patients with iSGS. Surgeons managing cases of laryngotracheal stenosis need to offer appropriate support and communication to these high risk patients. During the pandemic, this should include self-isolation if they are dyspneic or on treatments that may have reduced their immunity. In addition, they should offer safe clinical pathways to airway assessment and treatments, if they become necessary. To minimize unnecessary travel, much of the clinical monitoring can be carried out remotely, using telephone or video-based consultations, in conjunction with local health professionals.
Association of mammography and ultrasound features with MammaPrint in patients with estrogen receptor-positive, HER2-negative, node-positive invasive breast cancer
Authors: Choi Woo Jung , Sim Hayan , Kim Hee Jeong , Cha Joo Hee , Shin Hee Jung , Chae Eun Young , Kim Hak Hee
Published: December 2020

Background

MammaPrint is a 70-gene signature microarray assay that predicts the likelihood of recurrence of breast cancer and chemotherapeutic benefits.

Purpose

To investigate the association between mammography and ultrasound (US) features and MammaPrint results in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, HER2-negative, node-positive invasive breast cancer, and to identify the predictive factors for high risk of recurrence.

Material and Methods

This retrospective study included 251 patients with ER-positive, HER2-negative, 1–3 node-positive invasive breast cancer. Mammography and US findings were reviewed according to the BI-RADS criteria. The association between MammaPrint results and the clinicopathological and imaging features was evaluated. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors for high risk of recurrence.

Results

Of the patients, 143 (57.0%) and 108 (43.0%) had low and high risks for recurrence on MammaPrint, respectively. Young age (odds ratio [OR] 1.08; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.12; P<0.001), posterior enhancement on US (OR 2.45; 95% CI 1.16–5.20; P = 0.019), absence of posterior shadowing on US (OR 3.19; 95% CI 1.17–8.62; P = 0.023), high histologic grade (OR 113.36; 95% CI 6.79–1893.53; P = 0.001), and high Ki-67 level (OR 4.90; 95% CI 2.62–9.17; P<0.001) were independently associated with high risk of recurrence on multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion

Posterior features in US may predict a high risk of recurrence in patients with ER-positive, HER2-negative, node-positive invasive breast cancer, which may be useful in enhancing the diagnostic value of MammaPrint and aid in the decision-making process regarding treatment.
The Pong Effect as a Robust Visual Illusion: Evidence From Manipulating Instructions
Authors: Laitin Emily L. , Witt Jessica K.
Published: December 2020

Visual perception is not always veridical but can be influenced by factors such as ease of acting, energetic cost, and even body type of the observer. This notion is called action-specific perception. Several effects of action capability on visual perception have been found, but there is much controversy as to whether these effects are truly perceptual. Because perception cannot be measured directly, resolving the controversy relies on ruling out alternative explanations through systematic testing. We combined one of the most robust action-specific effects (the Pong effect) with one of the primary suggestions for exploring an alternative explanation, namely whether the effect persists across instructions that emphasize different aspects of the task. The Pong effect was robust to the type of instructions. The results provide critical evidence that the Pong effect is truly perceptual, furthering the argument that a person’s ability to act can influence visual perception.
Human Stress Detection: Cortisol Levels in Stressed Speakers Predict Voice-Based Judgments of Stress
Authors: Pisanski Katarzyna , Sorokowski Piotr
Published: December 2020

Despite recent evidence of a positive relationship between cortisol levels and voice pitch in stressed speakers, the extent to which human listeners can reliably judge stress from the voice remains unknown. Here, we tested whether voice-based judgments of stress co-vary with the free cortisol levels and vocal parameters of speakers recorded in a real-life stressful situation (oral examination) and baseline (2 weeks prior). Hormone and acoustic analyses indicated elevated salivary cortisol levels and corresponding changes in voice pitch, vocal tract resonances (formants), and speed of speech during stress. In turn, listeners’ stress ratings correlated significantly with speakers’ cortisol levels. Higher pitched voices were consistently perceived as more stressed; however, the influence of formant frequencies, vocal perturbation and noise parameters on stress ratings varied across contexts, suggesting that listeners utilize different strategies when assessing calm versus stressed speech. These results indicate that nonverbal vocal cues can convey honest information about a speaker’s underlying physiological level of stress that listeners can, to some extent, detect and utilize, while underscoring the necessity to control for individual differences in the biological stress response.
Dona Flor and Scarlett O’Hara: One dilemma, two love stories in Brazilian and American cultures
Authors: Rocha Everardo , Frid Marina
Published: December 2020

In this article we analyze two popular films, one from Brazil and another from the United States. Specifically, we examine and compare Bruno Barreto’s Dona Flor and her Two Husbands (Brazil, 1976) and Victor Fleming’s Gone with the Wind (USA, 1939). Both films have as a central plot a love triangle in which a woman, Flor and Scarlett respectively, is torn between two very different romantic interests. However, Flor’s decision to commit to two men contrasts with Scarlett’s solitary end. We demonstrate that the films express distinct ways of reconciling values associated to ‘tradition’ and ‘modernity’ through the heroines’ romantic relationships and, above all, their opposite endings.
The Gender Perspective on Parent-to-child Aggression: Gender and Gender-constellations
Authors: Mehlhausen-Hassoen David
Published: December 2020

Parent-to-child aggressive behavior is a common risk factor for children’s health. Gender is correlated also to the odds of using aggression and the odds of being a victim of aggression. Yet, only few studies have considered the constellation of perpetrator’s and victim’s gender as a factor of parental aggression. The current study addresses parent-to-child aggressive behavior while focusing on the constellation of perpetrator’s and victim’s gender (i.e., mother–daughter, mother–son, father–daughter, father–son). It utilizes a community sample of Israeli university students ( N = 508), 78% of which are female, on average 25.67 years of age ( SD = 8.29). The participants reported the incidence and frequency of verbal and physical aggressive behavior of their parents against them during the years of middle school. The results show gender and gender-constellation to be significantly correlated with parental aggression. Overall, sons were more likely to suffer both verbal and physical aggression from their parents than daughters were. Only paternal verbal and physical aggression was more common against daughters, and only maternal verbal and physical aggression was more common against sons. Parental verbal and physical aggression from both parents were more common against sons. For all types and forms of parental aggression, daughters reported higher frequencies. These results suggest that while parent’s gender might predict their overall aggressive behavior, and child’s gender might predict their overall odds to be victimized by parental aggression, gender-constellation might create gender-specific selective patterns of parental aggressive behavior. Thus, the theoretical contribution of this study is in emphasizing that gender-constellations have an explanatory value beyond gender alone. These findings might be valuable to assess the risk of daughters and sons to suffer parental aggression, and for practitioners to provide apt professional response.
Evaluating a Pharmacist-Led Intervention on Cardiovascular- and Diabetes-Related Quality Measures in a Primary Care-Based Accountable Care Organization
Authors: Joseph Tina , Hale Genevieve , Moreau Cynthia , Rosario Elaina D. , Logan Nichelle , Perez Alexandra
Published: December 2020

Background:

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) publishes quality measures to gauge performance in Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). ACO-27 (Diabetes Mellitus: Hemoglobin A1c Poor Control) and ACO-41 (Diabetes: Eye Exam), are 2 components for the Diabetes Composite measure. ACO-42 focuses on Statin Therapy for the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular (CV) Disease. There are limited studies regarding the pharmacist role in CV and Diabetes Management in the ACO primary care setting.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of pharmacist-led interventions on CV- and diabetes-related CMS quality measures within a primary care-based ACO.

Methods:

This retrospective pre-post intervention study included 3 primary care-based ACO offices. Patients who met eligibility criteria for CMS quality measures ACO-27, -41 and -42 were included. Pharmacist interventions occurred in December 2018. The study co-primary outcomes were the percentage of patient meeting ACO-27/-41 (composite diabetes-related) and -42 (statin-related) CMS quality measures in the pre-intervention compared to the post-intervention phases.

Results:

Of 105 patients meeting study inclusion criteria, 77.1% were on statin therapy prior to intervention. After pharmacist intervention, the prevalence of patients on statin therapy increased to 80.0% (p = 0.083). All patients had a HbA1c less than 9% pre-intervention. Sixty-one (58.1%) patients had a documented dilated eye exam prior to intervention. Post-intervention, the prevalence of exams increased to 73.3% (p < 0.0005).

Conclusions:

Pharmacists can assist primary care providers in the ACO setting meet CV- and diabetes-related CMS quality measures, demonstrating the value of the pharmacist in value-based health care settings.
A tolerance constrained robot path circular interpolation method for industrial SCARA robots
Authors: He Shanshan , Deng Yanchao , Yan Changya , Gao Zhishan , Lee Chen-Han
Published: December 2020

The linear robot path is tangential and curvature discontinuity, which will lead to vibration and unnecessary hesitation during execution. Local corner transition method and local spline interpolation method are used in state-of-art industrial robot controller to reduce vibration, while local corner transition method cannot interpolate target points and local spline interpolation method cannot constrain chord errors. This research proposes a robot path local interpolation method that eliminates deficiencies of each method. The smoothing method satisfies all of the following requirements: G1 continuity, target point interpolation and chord tolerance confined, shape-preserving (free of self-intersection), and unified parameterization. The generated smooth path consists of linear path and circular arc path with G1 continuity. A geometric iterative method cooperating with local corner transition method is used to generate local interpolation path. Simulations and actual experiments verify the generated smooth path is G1 continuous, tolerance constrained, shape-preserving, and have high computational efficiency.
Carl Theodor, Duke in Bavaria (1839–1909): A royal ophthalmologist
Authors: Feibel Robert M , Letocha Charles E
Published: December 2020

Carl Theodor (1839–1909), a royal Duke in the ruling house of the Kingdom of Bavaria, was born to a life of wealth, privilege, and leisure. As was usual for sons of the nobility, he trained as a military officer. He fought in the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871) and was decorated for his service in battle. Inspired by the tragedies he observed during the War, he decided to become a physician and received his medical degree from the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. After working in general medicine, he embarked on an extensive post-graduate program of study in ophthalmology. Starting in 1880, he practiced ophthalmology full time and devoted his life to his patients. He performed most of his work gratis and he personally underwrote most of the costs for his practice. His wife, the Duchess Marie José (1857–1943), a princess of the royal house of Portugal, was as committed to his medical career and philanthropy as he was, and she served as his assistant in the clinic and the operating room. Her untiring support made it possible for Carl Theodor to maintain his busy schedule. After his death, she established a Foundation to administer his clinic and operating facility in Munich.
Journey to Shanghai: The Effects of Rural-to-urban Migration and Social Class on Perceptions of Home
Authors: Ponzini Arianna
Published: December 2020

The present article centers on the home, the perceptions of which are challenged, and modified by rural-to-urban migration dynamics and outcomes. The core research interest hereby presented pertains to the effects of migration and social advancement on individuals’ perceptions of home: whereas some identify their original rural home as their “home,” others manage to achieve a “shift” of the home after migration, by relocating their “home” from their original home in the village to their created home in the city. These two opposite perceptions about where the home of primary reference is located are not coincidental. Rather, the article presents a pattern that connects home shifting to upward mobility and social advancement: in fact, the shift in the location of the home owes to three major driving forces that are key in social mobility processes: career development, locus, and networks. The findings of this research, reached through the analysis of empirical qualitative data, provide practical insights to post-migratory class formation as well as upward mobility dynamics.