bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronically Tunable Mixed Mode Quadrature Oscillator Using DX-MOCCII
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Kushwaha Ajay Kumar , Paul Sajal K.
Published: July 2020

A new electronically tunable quadrature oscillator is presented using a biquad band pass filter. The new band pass filter is designed using two dual X second-generation multi-output current conveyors (DX-MOCCIIs), two grounded capacitors, two grounded resistors and one NMOS transistor working in the triode region. It is used to design a four-phase voltage and three-phase current output quadrature oscillator simultaneously. The frequency of the oscillator can be tuned externally through the MOS gate voltage without affecting the condition of oscillation. The phase noise, frequency stability and nonideality analysis are given. The functionality of the oscillator circuit has been confirmed by SPICE simulation and also hardware realization using commercially available IC AD844.
COLLOCATING VOLATILITY: A COMPETITIVE ALTERNATIVE TO STOCHASTIC LOCAL VOLATILITY MODELS
Authors: VAN DER STOEP ANTHONIE W. , GRZELAK LECH A. , OOSTERLEE CORNELIS W.
Published: July 2020

We discuss a competitive alternative to stochastic local volatility models, namely the Collocating Volatility (CV) framework, introduced in [L. A. Grzelak (2019) The CLV framework — A fresh look at efficient pricing with smile, International Journal of Computer Mathematics 96 (11), 2209–2228]. The CV framework consists of two elements, a “kernel process” that can be efficiently evaluated and a local volatility function. The latter, based on stochastic collocation — e.g. [I. Babuška, F. Nobile & R. Tempone (2007) A stochastic collocation method for elliptic partial differential equations with random input Data, SIAM Journal on Numerical Analysis 45 (3), 1005–1034; B. Ganapathysubramanian & N. Zabaras (2007) Sparse grid collocation schemes for stochastic natural convection problems, Journal of Computational Physics 225 (1), 652–685; J. A. S. Witteveen & G. Iaccarino (2012) Simplex stochastic collocation with random sampling and extrapolation for nonhypercube probability spaces, SIAM Journal on Scientific Computing 34 (2), A814–A838; D. Xiu & J. S. Hesthaven (2005) High-order collocation methods for differential equations with random inputs, SIAM Journal on Scientific Computing 27 (3), 1118–1139] — connects the kernel process to the market and allows the CV framework to be perfectly calibrated to European-type options. In this paper, we consider three different kernel process choices: the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU) and Cox–Ingersoll–Ross (CIR) processes and the Heston model. The kernel process controls the forward smile and allows for an accurate and efficient calibration to exotic options, while the perfect calibration to liquid market quotes is preserved. We confirm this by numerical experiments, in which we calibrate the OU-CV, CIR-CV and Heston-CV frameworks to FX barrier options.
Dynamics of a stochastic periodic SIRS model with time delay
Authors: Shi Xiangyun , Cao Yimeng
Published: July 2020

Dynamical behaviors of a stochastic periodic SIRS epidemic model with time delay are investigated. By constructing suitable Lyapunov functions and applying Itô’s formula, the existence of the global positive solution and the property of stochastically ultimate boundedness of model (1.1) are proved. Moreover, the extinction and the persistence of the disease are established. The results are verified by numerical simulations.
Covered interest parity in cross-currency swap bases and demand for US treasuries
Authors: Hui Cho-Hoi , Lo Chi-Fai , Fung Chin-To
Published: July 2020

This paper studies the dynamic relationship between demand for the US Treasury yields and cross-currency swap (CCS) bases since the 2008 global financial crisis. Using a three-factor non-Gaussian-term structure model for the US Treasuries, an estimated short-rate premium in the yield curve tends to move in tandem with and lead the euro and Japanese yen CCS bases against the US dollar. The dynamics between the premium and CCS bases are found to be co-integrated, suggesting a long-run equilibrium between them. Empirically, the premium is found to be positively related to demand for Treasuries. This is consistent with recent studies in which factors including the strength of the US dollar, the demand for dollar funding and banks’ balance-sheet structures play important roles in determining the CCS bases. These factors increase demand for US Treasuries (high-quality US dollar assets) by investors searching for safe dollar assets and banks with higher leverages due to increased demand for dollar funding. The findings in this paper contribute to explaining the widespread failure of covered interest parity in foreign exchange swap markets.
Sleep Efficiency and Total Sleep Time in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes with and without Insomnia Symptoms
Authors: Alshehri Mohammed M. , Alkathiry Abdulaziz A. , Alenazi Aqeel M. , Alothman Shaima A. , Rucker Jason L. , Phadnis Milind A. , Miles John M. , Kluding Patricia M. , Siengsukon Catherine F.
Published: July 2020

There is increasing awareness of the high prevalence of insomnia symptoms in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Past studies have established the importance of measuring sleep parameters using measures of central tendency and variability. Additionally, subjective and objective methods involve different constructs due to the discrepancies between the two approaches. Therefore, this study is aimed at comparing the averages of sleep parameters in individuals with T2D with and without insomnia symptoms and comparing the variability of sleep parameters in these individuals. This study assessed the between-group differences in the averages and variability of sleep efficiency (SE) and total sleep time (TST) of 59 participants with T2D with and without insomnia symptoms. Actigraph measurements and sleep diaries were used to assess sleep parameter averages and variabilities calculated by the coefficient of variation across 7 nights. Mann–Whitney U tests were utilized to compare group differences in the outcomes. Validated instruments were used to assess the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and pain as covariates. Objective SE was found to be statistically lower on average (85.98±4.29) and highly variable (5.88±2.57) for patients with T2D and insomnia symptoms than in those with T2D only (90.23±6.44 and 3.82±2.05, respectively). The subjective average and variability of SE were also worse in patients with T2D and insomnia symptoms, with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and pain potentially playing a role in this difference. TST did not significantly differ between the groups on averages or in variability even after controlling for age and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and pain. Future studies are needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of worse averages and variability of SE in individuals with T2D and insomnia symptoms. Additionally, prompting the associated risk factors of insomnia symptoms in individuals with T2D might be warranted.
Fractional Hybrid Differential Equations and Coupled Fixed-Point Results for
α
-Admissible
F

ψ

1

,

ψ

2

−
Contractions in
M
−
Metric Spaces
Authors: Karapinar Erdal , Moustafa Shimaa I. , Shehata Ayman , Agarwal Ravi P.
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we investigate the existence of a unique coupled fixed point for

α
−

admissible mapping which is of

F

ψ

1

,

ψ

2

−

contraction in the context of

M
−

metric space. We have also shown that the results presented in this paper would extend many recent results appearing in the literature. Furthermore, we apply our results to develop sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of a solution for a coupled system of fractional hybrid differential equations with linear perturbations of second type and with three-point boundary conditions.
Use of Imaging Modalities in Real Life: Impact on Visual Acuity Outcomes of Ranibizumab Treatment for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Germany
Authors: Wachtlin Joachim , Spital Georg , Schmitz-Valckenberg Steffen , Liakopoulos Sandra , Vögeler Jessica , Müller Bettina , Ziemssen Focke , Ocean study group
Published: July 2020

Background. To date, there are limited prospective real-world data on the impact of optical coherence tomography (OCT) diagnostics on treatment outcomes in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Therefore, the prospective, noninterventional OCEAN study (NCT02194803) evaluated the use of OCT imaging and its impact on functional outcomes in Germany. Methods. The use of OCT imaging for treatment decisions was documented in nAMD patients receiving intravitreal ranibizumab injections at 347 study centres. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) testing and treatment were performed according to routine clinical practice and documented over 24 months. Results. The majority of the 3,631 nAMD patients (59.6%) received a combination of OCT and fluorescein angiography imaging within the first 6 months. Over the remaining study course, this combination was used infrequently (range: 7.6% to 13.4%) and continually decreased over time; most patients received only OCT examinations (range: 48.9% to 52.5%; median: 3 within 12 months and 4 within 24 months). Subgroups according to the number of OCT examinations (≤4, rarely OCT examined; 5–8, moderately OCT examined; ≥8, well monitored) were associated with different treatment frequencies and outcomes: Rarely OCT-examined patients had received a median of 4 injections (range: 1–19) at 24 months; well-monitored patients had received a median of 8 injections (range: 1–21) at 24 months. Rarely OCT-examined patients had a mean change of BCVA of −0.3 letters (±26.1) at 24 months (n = 165); well-monitored patients showed a change of +2.0 letters (±20.8) at 24 months (n = 249). Time-to-response was greater for rarely examined than well-monitored patients, while duration-of-response was similar. Conclusion. Low number of visits as well as high number of treatment decisions without the use of OCT may contribute to undertreatment and poorer functional outcomes in patients undergoing ranibizumab treatment for nAMD in Germany. One potential reason for this could be that OCT was not covered by insurance for all patients during the study.
Effects of Climate Change on the Season of Botanical Tourism: A Case Study in Beijing
Authors: Zang Yaqiong , Dai Junhu , Tao Zexing , Wang Huanjiong , Ge Quansheng
Published: July 2020

Climate change could affect botanical tourism by altering the plant phenology (e.g., flowering and leaf coloring date) and the physical comfort of tourists. To date, few studies have simultaneously considered the influence of plant phenology and physical comfort on the travel suitability of botanical tourism. Taking Beijing as an example, this study used phenological data of 73 species from 1963 to 2017 to construct a phenological ornamental index (POI) according to the flowering and leaf coloring date of ornamental plant. The climate comfort index (CCI) of tourism was calculated by using meteorological data of the corresponding periods. Finally, the travel suitability index (TSI) was constructed by integrating the two indices (POI and CCI). The POI showed that the best period for spring flower viewing was from April 4 to May 10, while the best period for autumn leaves viewing was from October 11 to November 6 on average. According to the variation of the CCI within the year, the most comfortable period for spring tourism was matched with the best period for spring flower viewing (April 4 to June 1), but the most comfortable period for autumn tourism (September 4 to October 19) was earlier than the best period for autumn leaves viewing. The TSI indicated that the best periods for spring and autumn botanical tourism were April 7 to May 10 and October 10 to November 7, respectively. Based on the climate data under different scenarios (representative concentration pathways 4.5 and 8.5), we simulated the climate and phenological suitability for botanical tourism in the next thirty years. The results showed that the best period for spring botanical tourism during 2040–2050 was earlier and the period for autumn botanical tourism was later than that in the past 55 years. Meanwhile, the duration would shorten by 2–7 days for both seasons. This study provided a reference for assessing the impact of global climate change on the best season of botanical tourism.
Bilateral Intratesticular Spermatoceles in a Critically Endangered Dama Gazelle (Nanger dama mhorr)
Authors: Thompson Riley E. , Haefele Holly J. , O’Neil Daniel P. , Pukazhenthi Budhan S.
Published: July 2020

Dama gazelles (Nanger dama mhorr) are considered critically endangered by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species since the wild population is comprised of fewer than 200 animals. Several zoos in Europe and some private ranches in the US (Texas) maintain this species in captivity as a hedge against extinction. A routine reproductive exam on an adult male revealed bilateral cysts in the testicular parenchyma. The fluid in the cysts contained copious, moderately progressive motile spermatozoa. Following examination, the gazelle was diagnosed with bilateral intratesticular spermatoceles. Electroejaculation yielded 1.5 ml of semen containing 387×106 total sperm with 50% motility and 45% morphologically normal sperm. The spermatoceles did not appear to cause pain or dysfunction, so no treatment was performed at this time. Since fewer than 10 animals are managed in captivity in the US, no intervention (castration/hemicastration) was considered.
LWS-Based Time-Domain Synthetic Algorithm with Constant Amplitude in Radar Transmit Waveform
Authors: Wang Bin , Li Shumin , Xin Fengming
Published: July 2020

As the working electromagnetic environment of radar is becoming more and more complex, the research on single-target problem can no longer meet the actual needs. Therefore, this paper changes single-target problem into multitarget problem based on the traditional water-filling method. In order to better meet the actual environment and requirement, this paper proposes a new algorithm with phase factor added based on the general water-filling algorithm. A time-domain synthetic algorithm based on the linear weighted summation (LWS) method is proposed. The minimum mean square error (MMSE) is used to measure the proximity between the radar multitarget optimal transmit waveform algorithm and the time-domain synthetic algorithm. The MMSE-based cost function is a nonlinear least square error estimation problem, and the time-domain waveform can be obtained after solving it. Simulation results show that the energy spectrum density (ESD) of the synthetic signal after adding the phase is very close to the optimal energy spectrum density of LWS algorithm in three cases. The time-domain synthetic algorithm based on signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) has better detection and recognition performance than that based on mutual information (MI).
Droplet Size Spatial Distribution Model of Liquid Jets Injected into Subsonic Crossflow
Authors: Liu Luhao , Yang Lijun , Fu Qingfei
Published: July 2020

Liquid jet injected into transverse subsonic gaseous flow has been widely utilized in many industrial applications. It is useful to determine the spatial distribution of generated droplets in the near-field region for high-efficiency combustion. In this paper, we propose a simplified model to predict droplet spatial distribution in transverse subsonic gaseous flow. Linear stability analysis has been used to determine the disturbance growth rate on the surface of a liquid column. When the amplitude of disturbance is of the same order of magnitude as jet radius, the liquid jet breaks up into ligaments. We can make an assumption that the generation rate of small droplet equals to liquid breakup rates, which varies with a spatial location under this circumstance. Combining these relations with the definition of SMD (Sauter mean diameter), a semitheoretical relation to evaluate droplet spatial distribution along the liquid column can be established. The present model has been compared with empirical relation based on experiments under different conditions. Results indicate that in the surface breakup region, the current model shows great consistency with experimental observations while there exists a relatively large discrepancy between the current model and experimental observation in the column breakup region because of its strong nonlinear effect near the breakup point. In addition, the effects of flow parameters on droplet size spatial distribution have been investigated.
Overall Maternal Morbidity during Pregnancy Identified with the WHO‐WOICE Instrument
Authors: Pabon Stephanie , Parpinelli Mary A. , Narvaez Martha B. , Charles Charles M’poca , Guida Jose P. , Escobar Maria F. , Cecatti Jose G. , Costa Maria L.
Published: July 2020

Objective. To evaluate the prevalence of nonsevere maternal morbidity (including overall health, domestic and sexual violence, functionality, and mental health) in women during antenatal care and further analyze factors associated with compromised mental functioning and clinical health by administration of the WHO’s WOICE 2.0 instrument. Method. A cross‐sectional study was conducted at a referral center in Brazil with an interview and questionnaire administered to pregnant women at 28 weeks of gestation and beyond. Data collection and management were supported by REDCAP software. A descriptive analysis was performed, and a multiple regression analysis also investigated factors associated with impairment in mental conditions, functionality, and clinical health. Results. 533 women at a mean age of 28.9 years (±6.7) were included, and the majority had a partner (77.1%) and secondary education (67.7%). Exposure to violence occurred in 6.8%, and 12.7% reported substance use. Sexual satisfaction was reported by the vast majority (91.7%), although almost one‐fifth were sexually abstinent. Overall, women reported very good and good health (72%), despite being told that they had a medical condition (66%). There was an overall rate of anxiety in 29.9%, depression in 39.5%, and impaired functioning in 20.4%. The perception of an abnormal clinical condition was the only factor independently associated with impaired functioning and mental health in the multiple regression model. Obesity was independently associated with clinical impairment. Conclusion. During antenatal care, pregnant women in the study reported having a high rate of anxiety, depression, impaired functioning, and substance use. These issues can affect a woman’s health and should be further addressed for specific interventions and improved quality of care.
Course of Urological Problems in Children with Spinal Dysraphism: Long-Term Follow-Up Results
Authors: Solakhan Mehmet , Oktay Kadir , Guzel Ebru , Bayrak Omer , Guzel Aslan
Published: July 2020

Background/Aims: We aimed to evaluate the course of urinary problems in children with spinal dysraphism. Methods: This multicenter study evaluated data on pediatric patients diagnosed with spinal dysraphism between 2010 and 2019. The neurological and urological conditions of the patients were examined retrospectively. This study focused on the course of urological problems. Urodynamic examinations including urodynamic bladder capacity, bladder pressure in maximal capacity, compliance, detrusor hyperactivity, uroflowmetry, and residual urine amount were evaluated. All patients underwent urinary system ultrasonography, urinalysis, hemogram and biochemical tests, and urodynamics at admission and follow-ups. Results: A total 62 patients (35 males, 27 females) with a mean age of 7.50 ± 4.01 years and age range of 1–16 years were included in the study. Ultrasonographic evaluation revealed normal results in 32 patients and abnormal findings, including moderate-to-severe calyceal dilatation, parenchymal thinning, and residual urine, in 30 patients. At the time of diagnosis, culture-positive urinary tract infection was detected in 22 patients, and leukocyte and/or bacterial positivity was detected in 18 patients. The differences between bladder capacity, bladder pressure at maximal capacity, compliance, and detrusor hyperactivity at first admission and post-treatment were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Vesicoureteral reflux was also detected in 25 patients. Thirty patients underwent oral anticholinergic and antibiotic prophylaxis, while 17 additionally underwent clean intermittent catheterization. Five patients underwent intravesical Botox injection, clean intermittent catheterization, and medical treatment, and 10 patients underwent augmentation cystoplasty. Conclusion: The prevalence of urinary tract problems is high in patients with spinal dysraphism for whom early diagnosis is very important for both urologic and neurosurgical considerations. Early follow-up of urodynamics should be performed, and treatment should be carried out if necessary. Regular follow-up and appropriate treatment have positive effects on the quality of life of these patients and may also prevent the occurrence of severe renal dysfunction.
PIK3CA Mutations and Their Impact on Survival Outcomes of Patients with Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pergialiotis Vasilios , Nikolaou Christina , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Frountzas Maximos , Thomakos Nikolaos , Bellos Ioannis , Papapanagiotou Angeliki , Rodolakis Alexandros
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Several studies have implicated the PIK3/AKT pathway in the pathophysiology of cancer progression as its activation seems to be aberrant in several forms of cancer. The purpose of the present systematic review is to evaluate the impact of PIK3CA mutations on survival outcomes of patients with cervical cancer. Methods: We used the Medline (1966–2020), Scopus (2004–2020), ClinicalTrials.gov (2008–2020), EMBASE (1980–2020), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (1999–2020), and Google Scholar (2004–2020) databases in our primary search along with the reference lists of electronically retrieved full-text papers. Statistical meta-analysis was performed with the RevMan 5.3 software. Results: Overall, 12 articles were included in the present study that comprised 2,196 women with cervical cancer. Of those, 3 studies did not report significant differences in survival outcomes among patients with mutated versus wild-type PIK3CA tumors, 5 studies reported decreased survival outcomes, and 3 studies revealed increased survival rates. The meta-analysis revealed that patients with the mutated PIK3CA genotypes had worse overall survival compared to patients with wild-type PIK3CA (HR 2.31; 95% CI: 1.51, 3.55; 95% PI: 0.54, 9.96; data from 3 studies) and the same was observed in the case of DFS rates (HR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.47, 2.25; 95% PI: 1.29, 2.56; data from 4 studies). Conclusion: Current evidence concerning the impact of PIK3CA mutations on survival outcomes of patients with cervical cancer is inconclusive, although the majority of included studies support a potential negative effect, primarily among those with squamous cell carcinoma tumors.
Stem Cell Pluripotency Genes Klf4 and Oct4 Regulate Complex SMC Phenotypic Changes Critical in Late-Stage Atherosclerotic Lesion Pathogenesis
Authors: Alencar Gabriel F. , Owsiany Katherine M. , Karnewar Santosh , Sukhavasi Katyayani , Mocci Giuseppe , Nguyen Anh T. , Williams Corey M. , Shamsuzzaman Sohel , Mokry Michal , Henderson Christopher A. , Haskins Ryan , Baylis Richard A. , Finn Aloke V. , McNamara Coleen A. , Zunder Eli R. , Venkata Vamsidhar , Pasterkamp Gerard , Björkegren Johan , Bekiranov Stefan , Owens Gary K.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Rupture and erosion of advanced atherosclerotic lesions with a resultant myocardial infarction or stroke are the leading worldwide cause of death. However, we have a limited understanding of the identity, origin, and function of many cells that make up late-stage atherosclerotic lesions, as well as the mechanisms by which they control plaque stability.

Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive single-cell RNA sequencing of advanced human carotid endarterectomy samples and compared these with single-cell RNA sequencing from murine microdissected advanced atherosclerotic lesions with smooth muscle cell (SMC) and endothelial lineage tracing to survey all plaque cell types and rigorously determine their origin. We further used chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq), bulk RNA sequencing, and an innovative dual lineage tracing mouse to understand the mechanism by which SMC phenotypic transitions affect lesion pathogenesis.

Results:

We provide evidence that SMC-specific Klf4- versus Oct4-knockout showed virtually opposite genomic signatures, and their putative target genes play an important role regulating SMC phenotypic changes. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed remarkable similarity of transcriptomic clusters between mouse and human lesions and extensive plasticity of SMC- and endothelial cell-derived cells including 7 distinct clusters, most negative for traditional markers. In particular, SMC contributed to a Myh11
-
, Lgals3
+
population with a chondrocyte-like gene signature that was markedly reduced with SMC-
Klf4
knockout. We observed that SMCs that activate Lgals3 compose up to two thirds of all SMC in lesions. However, initial activation of Lgals3 in these cells does not represent conversion to a terminally differentiated state, but rather represents transition of these cells to a unique stem cell marker gene–positive, extracellular matrix-remodeling, “pioneer” cell phenotype that is the first to invest within lesions and subsequently gives rise to at least 3 other SMC phenotypes within advanced lesions, including Klf4-dependent osteogenic phenotypes likely to contribute to plaque calcification and plaque destabilization.

Conclusions:

Taken together, these results provide evidence that SMC-derived cells within advanced mouse and human atherosclerotic lesions exhibit far greater phenotypic plasticity than generally believed, with Klf4 regulating transition to multiple phenotypes including Lgals3
+
osteogenic cells likely to be detrimental for late-stage atherosclerosis plaque pathogenesis.
Beckett as Muse for Egyptian Playwrights
Authors: ElHalawani Amina
Published: July 2020

In 1962, Beckett’s theatre debuted in Egypt and, ever since, it has inspired Egyptian playwrights. This paper examines how two Egyptian writers engaged with Beckett’s Waiting for Godot, as an example of both Beckett’s work and so-named absurdist theater, revealing it to have more potential for political and social engagement than traditionally understood. Masir Sursar [Fate of a Cockroach] by Tawfiq Al-Hakim and Musafir Layl [Night Traveller] by Salah Abdul Saboor make a good case study of these effects.
Written in Sand
Authors: Doshi Neil
Published: July 2020

This article reinterprets the Algerian writer Mohammed Dib’s 1992 novel Le désert sans détour through the analysis of its reference to Samuel Beckett’s En attendant Godot. I argue that for Dib, Beckett offers an important model for a post-revolutionary politics that expresses extreme skepticism over clichéd notions of historical progress and universal humanism. Recuperating this ignored Beckettian strand in Dib’s novel, I revise the critical reception that has read the text as apolitical and focused on spirituality. I offer a better understanding of Dib’s aesthetic as one emerging out of a dialectical tension between discourses of Sufi illumination and a Beckettian politics radically enmeshed in the world.
From Waiting for Godot to Andrzej Stasiuk
Authors: Wiśniewski Tomasz , Kręglewska Katarzyna
Published: July 2020

Beckett’s importance for Polish culture was established by the first production of Waiting for Godot in 1957. Since then, his significance has evolved in aesthetic, social and political terms. This may be illustrated by a model that focuses on: 1) the post-war sense of frustrated expectations (Waiting for Godot); 2) the approaching fall of the Iron Curtain (Catastrophe); and 3) a contemporary search for a new geo-political identity (“neither”). Direct and indirect parallels between Beckett and Polish artists are discussed (Jerzy Kreczmar, Antoni Libera, and Andrzej Stasiuk).
China and the United States: Business, Technology, and Networks, 1914–1941
Authors: Lin-chun Wu
Published: July 2020

This paper studies the activities of American enterprises, technology, and related business organizations and engineering groups in China from the outbreak of World War i to the Pacific War and explains how these activities helped establish connections between China and the world. It borrows the concept of “networks” from Professor Sherman Cochran’s extraordinary book titled Encountering Chinese Networks, but broadens the scope of the term to include activity at the level of management and competition, as well as placing Sino-American relations in transnational perspective. Using a multi-archival approach to examine China’s major attempts at internationalization, this article focuses on the cases of the American Asiatic Association, the American Chamber of Commerce of China, and the Association of Chinese and American Engineers to show how these networks played important roles in the development of Chinese-American relations. It also discusses the issues of standardization, “scientific management,” and professionalism of entrepreneurs and engineers in influencing network making.
A Power-Driven Stochastic-Deterministic Hierarchical High-Level Synthesis Framework for Module Selection, Scheduling and Binding
Authors: Zhang Xiuyan , Shi Ouwen , Xu Jian , Dutt Shantanu
Published: July 2020

We present a power-driven hierarchical framework for module/functional-unit selection, scheduling, and binding in high level synthesis. A significant aspect of algorithm design for large and complex problems is arriving at tradeoffs between quality of solution and timing complexity.
Towards this end, we integrate an improved version of the very runtime-efficient list scheduling algorithm called modified list scheduling (MLS) with a power-driven simulated annealing (SA) algorithm for module selection. Our hierarchical framework efficiently explores the problem solution
space by an extensive exploration of the power-driven module-selection solution space via SA, and for each module selection solution, uses MLS to obtain a scheduling and (integrated) binding (S&B) solution in which the binding is either a regular one (minimizing number of FUs and thus
FU leakage power) or power-driven with mux/demux power considerations. This framework avoids the very runtime intensive exploration of both module selection and S&B within a conventional SA algorithm, but retains the basic prowess of SA by exploring only the important aspect of power-driven
module-selection in a stochastic manner. The proposed hierarchical framework provides an average of 9.5% FU leakage power improvement over state of the art (approximate) algorithms that optimize only FU leakage power, and has a smaller runtime by factors of 2.5–3x. Further, compared
to a sophisticated flat simulated annealing framework and an optimal 0/1-ILP formulation for total (dynamic and leakage) FU and architecture power optimization under latency constraints, PSA-MLS provides an improvement of 5.3–5.8% with a runtime advantage of 2x, and has an average optimality
gap of only 4.7–4.8% with a significant runtime advantage of a factor of more than 1900, respectively.
Calibrating Hourly Precipitation Forecasts with Daily Observations
Authors: Cattoën C. , Robertson D. E. , Bennett J. C. , Wang Q. J. , Carey-Smith T. K.
Published: July 2020

Calibrated high-temporal-resolution precipitation forecasts are desirable for a range of applications, for example, flood prediction in fast-rising rivers. However, high-temporal-resolution precipitation observations may not be available to support the establishment of calibration methods, particularly in regions with low population density or in developing countries. We present a new method to produce calibrated hourly precipitation ensemble forecasts from daily observations. Precipitation forecasts are taken from a high-resolution convective-scale numerical weather prediction (NWP) model run at the hourly time step. We conduct three experiments to develop the new calibration method: (i) calibrate daily precipitation totals and disaggregate daily forecasts to hourly; (ii) generate pseudohourly observations from daily precipitation observations, and use these to calibrate hourly precipitation forecasts; and (iii) combine aspects of (i) and (ii). In all experiments, we use the existing Bayesian joint probability model to calibrate the forecasts and the well-known Schaake shuffle technique to instill realistic spatial and temporal correlations in the ensembles. As hourly observations are not available, we use hourly patterns from the NWP as the template for the Schaake shuffle. The daily member matching method (DMM), method (iii), produces the best-performing ensemble precipitation forecasts over a range of metrics for forecast accuracy, bias, and reliability. The DMM method performs very similarly to the ideal case where hourly observations are available to calibrate forecasts. Overall, valuable spatial and temporal information from the forecast can be extracted for calibration with daily data, with a slight trade-off between forecast bias and reliability.
Understanding the Initial Stories of Families Preferring Homeschooling: A Narrative Study
Authors: AHI Berat , Sengil-Akar Seyma
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study is to understand the story underlying the preference of parents (mothers–fathers) for home school in Turkey and to determine the main points in this story. For this purpose, this study was conducted according to the narrative study model, one of the qualitative research designs. Within the context of this study, the opinions of mothers and fathers of three children receiving their education in the same home school during their preschool period were elicited. As a result of the analysis of the interviews conducted within the context of this study, three super themes and seven different codes gathered under these themes were obtained. As a conclusion, the reasons for the parents’ choice of home school instead of a formal education institution were found to be “Inconsistency between the parents’ expectations and what is offered by the education system, negative effects of formal education on the child, family ideal, school experiences, educational philosophy and employment status, developmental reasons/concerns, negative social interaction at school, and their encounter with the proposal for home school.”
Catholic Moral Theology and the Virtues: Integrating Psychology in Models of Moral Agency
Authors: Cloutier David , Ahrens Anthony H.
Published: July 2020

The widespread embrace of virtue ethics in Catholic morality has not overcome sharp disagreement on particular moral issues. The authors argue that more attention be paid to developing the account of what a virtue is (“virtue theory”) in order to connect virtues with individual acts. Building on Thomas Aquinas, the authors suggest social cognitive theory provides key insights into the mechanics of agents “acting from character” and offers an empirical program that can further our understanding of moral disagreement.
Grace in Our Place? The Concept of Representation in the Theology of Karl Rahner
Authors: Peterson Brandon R.
Published: July 2020

How does Jesus bring about human salvation? Throughout his career, Karl Rahner expressed deep suspicion of answers that portray Christ as “stepping in” for us ( Stellvertretung) and performing a great redemptive act in our stead: grace ought to capacitate rather than displace, he argued. Rahner’s assessment provoked great protest from Hans Urs von Balthasar, for whom Stellvertretung was indispensable. This article considers their exchange by examining (1) Rahner’s distinction between mere “signs” ( Vertretungssymbole) and real symbols as well as (2) his favored alternative for Stellvertretung, the notion of Repräsentation, an underappreciated dimension of his soteriology adopted from his early patristic studies.
The Bidirectional Association Between Physical and Cognitive Function Among Chinese Older Adults: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Zhao Xiaohang , Jin Lei , Sun Skylar Biyang
Published: July 2020

This study investigated the bidirectional association between physical and cognitive function in later life and examined the mechanisms underlying the interrelationship. We employed cross-lagged panel models to analyze a sample of 4232 unique participants aged 65 years and older from three waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Physical activity and social participation were tested as potential mediators between physical and cognitive function. Our findings revealed a reciprocal relationship between physical and cognitive function and a reciprocal relationship between physical and cognitive decline. Moreover, physical activity was confirmed to mediate the bidirectional association between physical and cognitive function, whereas social participation did not seem to be a mediator. A vicious cycle linking physical and cognitive decline may exist in Chinese older adults. However, leading a physically active lifestyle could be an effective intervention to slow physical and cognitive aging, thereby toning down the vicious cycle.
Value conflicts in academic teaching
Authors: de Graaf Gjalt
Published: July 2020

Many professors will recognize the dilemma when having to choose between the values of professionalism and of collegiality. Everyone will endorse these two values as important in academic teaching, yet professors sometimes find them conflicting. The central research question of this manuscript is threefold: which value conflicts do academic teachers perceive in the Netherlands; what strategies are used to deal with these conflicts; and what value profiles do they have? The empirical study took place at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Data from Q-methodological and 32 semi-structured interviews were gathered and analysed to answer the research question. Thirty-five of the 41 dilemmas found fell within three categories: dilemmas in this particular case study of higher education occur mainly in the area of quality versus efficiency, quality versus equity and between equality and reasonableness. Mostly the old institutional professional values (quality of teaching, equality, and reasonableness) prevail among the academic teachers. Yet, in these times of cutbacks, the tensions between the professional and economic value systems are clearly prevalent in this Dutch case study. The most important coping strategy is hybridization. This indicates something important about the profession of academic teacher. Hybridization is a strategy often used when professionals cannot choose between two values because they value both too highly. For better or worse, the academic teachers (in this case) want to guard the quality of teaching against pressures from career demands (doing research and publish successfully) and from cutbacks and concomitant heavy teaching loads.
Reliability and Validity of the Spoken Knowledge in Low Literacy in Diabetes in Measuring Diabetes Knowledge Among Hispanics With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hu Jie , Amirehsani Karen A. , McCoy Thomas P. , Wallace Debra C. , Coley Sheryl L. , Zhan Fei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Spoken Knowledge in Low Literacy in Diabetes (SKILLD) scale in measuring diabetes knowledge among Hispanics with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

A total of 111 Hispanic participants with T2DM were recruited from clinics and churches in the Southeastern US. The Spanish version of the SKILLD was used. Internal consistency reliability and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) were examined for the Spanish SKILLD. Spearman rank correlations of SKILLD scores with the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) scores were inspected for evidence of convergent validity along with A1C level and duration of diabetes.

Results

The average SKILLD score was 35.1% (SD = 23.4%). The correct response for each SKILLD item ranged from 4.5% to 56.8%. The estimated reliability via internal consistency was adequate (Kuder-Richardson 20 = 0.706). EFA of the SKILLD items modestly indicated 1 factor could be retained. Spearman rank correlations of SKILLD scores with diabetes self-care activities were significant and positive for foot self-care. Higher SKILLD scores were significantly correlated with duration of diabetes, using insulin, having a high education level, ever attending a diabetes class, or having a parent with diabetes.

Conclusion

The Spanish SKILLD showed acceptable reliability and adequate validity in this sample of Hispanics with T2DM. SKILLD scores indicated low diabetes knowledge in this sample. Patient-centered diabetes education tailored to low literacy needs of Hispanics is needed.
Applying a Solution-Focused Approach to Life With Diabetes: Insights Gleaned via Twitter
Authors: Greenwood Deborah A. , Ross Tami A. , Reifsnider Elizabeth
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore responses of people with diabetes (PWD) when exposed to a solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) approach. This approach focuses on solutions rather than the problems and what is desired in life rather than what will not occur.

Methods

Ten SFBT questions were presented for discussion during 1 hour of a Twitter chat on November 14, 2018, during a World Diabetes Day multiple-hour chat. Verbatim transcripts of Twitter data were downloaded from Symplur Signals LLC. Thirty-two participants from 4 countries created 358 tweets, 118 retweets, and 1.5 million impressions. A qualitative content analysis was then completed.

Results

Five themes emerged regarding the desired future state: more living life, laughter and humor, self-compassion, resilience, and support. There was an overwhelming sense of burden associated with diabetes yet a global feeling of hope, acceptance, and being “capable” to manage diabetes.

Conclusion

Employing SFBT, asking future-directed questions with a focus on solutions and the desired state, generated impactful insights around life with diabetes. Diabetes care and education specialists can incorporate SFBT as a tool to focus diabetes care, education, and support in partnership with PWD. Use of SFBT in diabetes demonstrates potential to strengthen resilience and confidence needed to manage this challenging condition.
Dynamics of Moral Repair: Forgiveness, Self-Forgiveness, and the Restoration of Value Consensus as Interdependent Processes
Authors: Wenzel Michael , Woodyatt Lydia , Okimoto Tyler G. , Worthington Everett L.
Published: July 2020

Most psychological research has investigated victims’ forgiveness and offenders’ self-forgiveness separately, ignoring interactive and dynamic processes between them. We suggest that both parties are interdependent in their attempts to revalidate the values violated by the wrongdoing. In the present study, both partners of close relationships dyads (including 164 complete couples) were surveyed over three time-points following the report of a wrongdoing by one of the partners. Latent growth modeling showed that victims’ forgiveness was associated with growth in their perception of a value consensus with the offender. Victims’ value consensus perception was associated with growth in offenders’ perception of value consensus and engagement in genuine self-forgiveness (working through). However, directly, forgiveness was associated with decline in offenders’ genuine self-forgiveness, while offenders’ self-punitiveness was associated with decline in victims’ forgiveness. The findings highlight the regulatory function of victim forgiveness and the pivotal role of restoring value consensus in interactive moral repair.
The Palliative Performance Scale predicts mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19
Authors: Fiorentino Michele , Pentakota Sri Ram , Mosenthal Anne C , Glass Nina E
Published: July 2020

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a substantial mortality risk with increased rates in the elderly. We hypothesized that age is not sufficient, and that frailty measured by preadmission Palliative Performance Scale would be a predictor of outcomes. Improved ability to identify high-risk patients will improve clinicians’ ability to provide appropriate palliative care, including engaging in shared decision-making about life-sustaining therapies.

Aim:

To evaluate whether preadmission Palliative Performance Scale predicts mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

Design:

Retrospective observational cohort study of patients admitted with COVID-19. Palliative Performance Scale was calculated from the chart. Using logistic regression, Palliative Performance Scale was assessed as a predictor of mortality controlling for demographics, comorbidities, palliative care measures and socioeconomic status.

Setting/participants:

Patients older than 18 years of age admitted with COVID-19 to a single urban public hospital in New Jersey, USA.

Results:

Of 443 admitted patients, we determined the Palliative Performance Scale score for 374. Overall mortality was 31% and 81% in intubated patients. In all, 36% (134) of patients had a low Palliative Performance Scale score. Compared with patients with a high score, patients with a low score were more likely to die, have do not intubate orders and be discharged to a facility. Palliative Performance Scale independently predicts mortality (odds ratio 2.89; 95% confidence interval 1.42–5.85).

Conclusions:

Preadmission Palliative Performance Scale independently predicts mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Improved predictors of mortality can help clinicians caring for patients with COVID-19 to discuss prognosis and provide appropriate palliative care including decisions about life-sustaining therapy.
Can oligodendrocyte precursor cells be a therapeutic target for mitigating cognitive decline in cerebrovascular disease?
Authors: Arai Ken
Published: July 2020

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) give rise to mature myelin-forming oligodendrocytes during white matter development. In adult brains, some populations of OPCs remain to renew oligodendrocyte pools and myelin. Two recent studies highlight the importance of OPCs in white matter homeostasis. Genetic tracing studies suggest that age-related decline in OPCs may contribute to diminished myelin renewal and memory deficits in mouse models. Single cell transcriptomics and imaging may now define specific subsets of OPCs involved in process elaboration, motility and myelination. These advances raise the possibility of pursuing OPCs as novel therapeutic targets for vascular cognitive impairment.
Effects of cyclosporin A pre-treatment combined with etomidate post-treatment on lung injury induced by limb ischemia-reperfusion in rats
Authors: Zou Haibo , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To investigate the influence of cyclosporin A (CsA) pre-treatment and etomidate (ETO) post-treatment on lung injury induced by limb ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) in rats.

Methods

Rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham, I/R, I/R+CsA, I/R+ETO, and I/R+CsA+ETO. Limb I/R lung injury was established by bilateral clamping of the femoral arteries for 2 hours. Following reperfusion for 3 hours, blood gas analysis was performed. Pathological changes were assessed using immunohistochemistry. The apoptosis index (AI) and wet/dry weight ratio (W/D) were calculated. Levels of Fas protein and FasL mRNA were assessed by western blotting and RT-PCR, respectively. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β were detected by ELISA.

Results

I/R resulted in decreased PaO2 but increased AI, W/D, Fas, FasL mRNA, TNF-α and IL-1β. Scattered punctate apoptosis and necrosis were observed by immunohistochemistry. Compared with the I/R group, the I/R+ETO and I/R+CsA groups showed increased SpO2, decreased AI, W/D, Fas, FasL mRNA, TNF-α and IL-1β, and decreased numbers of apoptotic and necrotic cells. Combined treatment with CsA+ETO resulted in more dramatic changes in these parameters.

Conclusions

ETO post-treatment and CsA pretreatment reduced lung injury induced by limb I/R in rats. The mechanism may be related to synergistic inhibition of Fas/FasL signaling.