bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ethics of Machine-Based Learning
Authors: Willis III James E. , Strunk Viktoria A.
Published: April 2017

Technological advances in the previous two decades have created an environment of innovation; however, there seems to be sometimes conflicting, emerging educational practices within communities of learners and educators. The central role of the instructor is being redefined by technology due to quickly-changing educational delivery modalities. By employing utilitarianism, relativism, and care ethics, the centrality of human agency in educational interaction is argued to be indispensable. Teaching and learning in massive open online courses, automated instruction, and learning analytics is altering the role of human instructors. This rapid modification of instructors' roles suggests that the ethical discourse of new educational technologies can be a frontier of critical thinking, especially as rubric-driven, automatic graders are refined and scaled.
Evidence-Based Decision Making to Underpin the Thresholds in New Zealand's Craft Risk Management Standard: Biofouling on Vessels Arriving to New Zealand
Authors: Georgiades Eugene , Kluza Daniel
Published: April 2017

AbstractVessel biofouling is a significant pathway for the introduction of nonindigenous marine species (NIMS). New Zealand is the first nation to regulate the vessel biofouling pathway, with controls scheduled to come into force in May 2018. The Craft Risk Management
Standard (CRMS): Biofouling on Vessels Arriving to New Zealand specifies the hull fouling thresholds that vessels must meet; and here, we present the evidence-based decisions that underpin these thresholds.Under the CRMS, a vessel must arrive in New Zealand with a “clean hull,”
the thresholds for which are governed by the intended duration of a vessel's stay in New Zealand. For example, long-stay (≥21 days) vessels must meet a more stringent standard of hull cleanliness due to the increased likelihood of release and establishment of NIMS. While setting a clean
hull threshold at “slime layer only” can be tractable when vessels operate within the specifications of antifouling coatings, incidental amounts of macrofouling can establish even under the best management practices. Because of such instances, the thresholds within the CRMS were
designed to allow for the presence of some macrofouling species, albeit with restrictions to minimize biosecurity risk. These thresholds are intended to limit species richness and to prevent successful reproduction and settlement of the allowed taxonomic groups while considering the practicality
and feasibility of implementation.The difficulties of managing biofouling on different areas of the hull are acknowledged within these thresholds. For example, a greater tolerance of macrofouling has been allowed for niche areas due to the difficulties in preventing biofouling on these
areas.
CD40L-Dependent Pathway Is Active at Various Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Progression
Authors: Guo Yanxia , Walsh Alice M. , Fearon Ursula , Smith Malcolm D. , Wechalekar Mihir D. , Yin Xuefeng , Cole Suzanne , Orr Carl , McGarry Trudy , Canavan Mary , Kelly Stephan , Lin Tai-An , Liu Xuejun , Proudman Susanna M. , Veale Douglas J. , Pitzalis Costantino , Nagpal Sunil
Published: April 2017

The inflammatory CD40–CD40L pathway is implicated in various autoimmune diseases, but the activity status of this pathway in various stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression is unknown. In this study, we used gene signatures of CD40L stimulation derived from human immature dendritic cells and naive B cells to assess the expression of CD40-downstream genes in synovial tissues from anti-citrullinated protein Ab–positive arthralgia, undifferentiated arthritis (UA), early RA, and established RA cohorts in comparison with healthy donors. Interestingly, the expression of CD40LG and active full-length CD40 was increased in the disease tissues, whereas that of a dominant-negative CD40 isoform was decreased. Gene set variation analysis revealed that CD40L-responsive genes in immature dendritic cells and naive B cells were significantly enriched in synovial tissues from UA, early RA, and established RA patients. Additionally, CD40L-induced naive B cell genes were also significantly enriched in synovial tissues from arthralgia patients. In our efforts to characterize downstream mediators of CD40L signaling, we have identified GPR120 and KDM6B as novel components of the pathway. In conclusion, our data suggest that therapeutic CD40–CD40L blocking agents may prove efficacious not only in early and established RA, but also in inhibiting the progression of the disease from arthralgia or UA to RA.
Egr2 and 3 Inhibit T-bet–Mediated IFN-γ Production in T Cells
Authors: Singh Randeep , Miao Tizong , Symonds Alistair L. J. , Omodho Becky , Li Suling , Wang Ping
Published: April 2017

T-bet is important for differentiation of cytotoxic CD8 and Th1 CD4 T cells. We have discovered that Egr2 and 3 are potent inhibitors of T-bet function in CD4 and CD8 effector T cells. Egr2 and 3 were essential to suppress Th1 differentiation in Th2 and Th17 conditions in vitro and also to control IFN-γ–producing CD4 and CD8 T cells in response to virus infection. Together with Egr2 and 3, T-bet is induced in naive T cells by Ag stimulation, but Egr2 and 3 expression was inhibited by Th1–inducing cytokines. We found that Egr2 and 3 physically interact with the T-box domain of T-bet, blocking T-bet DNA binding and inhibiting T-bet–mediated production of IFN-γ. Thus, Egr2 and 3 are antagonists of T-bet function in effector T cells and are important for the control of inflammatory responses of T cells.
Problematiche di fine vita: il ruolo della medicina interna ospedaliera
Authors: Zulian F. , Campanini M. , Lusiani L. , Magnani L. , Pinna G. , Nardi R.
Published: April 2017

Etica cristiana e malattia
E. Bianchi

Le problematiche di fine vita: quale consapevolezza da parte degli internisti?
M. Gambacorta, M. Campanini, R. Nardi

Il concetto di terminalità: certezze e incertezze
L. Lusiani, C. Bullo

Traiettorie di malattia: non sempre i pazienti e le famiglie sono informati
L. Magnani

La dignità come fattore di cura: pratica clinica nel fine vita nella medicina patient centered
M. Felici, A. Pulerà, S. Lenti

L’assistenza nel fine vita: quali responsabilità? Un approccio medico-legale al tema
A. Aprile, M. Bolcato, D. Rodriguez

Il paziente terminale: aspetti di tipo etico
R. Cavaliere

Cure palliative, assistenza domiciliare e caregiver burden: il modello dell’efficienza terapeutica
L. Occhini, A. Pulerà, M. Felici

Nutrizione ed idratazione nei malati terminali
R. Risicato

La gestione del dolore nel paziente terminale
G. Civardi, M. Bosco, R. Bertè

Sedazione di fine vita: aspetti decisionali clinici ed etici
M. Carassiti, A. De Benedictis, M. Del Prete, B. Vincenzi, V. Tambone

La rimodulazione della terapia negli anziani in fase terminale
A. Cester, F. Busonera

Ruolo dell’infermiere nel comfort care del paziente a fine vita in Medicina Interna
D. Simonazzi, M. Lince, S. Tanzi, G. Bordin

Percorso di fine vita e diagnosi di terminalità: l’esperienza dell’Ausl di Modena e Reggio Emilia
G. Chesi, E. Scalabrini, P. Vacondio, G. Pinelli, G. Carrieri, G. Cioni

APPENDICE I
Metodi di riconoscimento e di valutazione del paziente in fase terminale o a rischio di elevata mortalità in ospedale
R. Nardi, G. Belmonte, L. Lusiani, M. Gambacorta, G. Pinna, M. Campanini, A. Fontanella

APPENDICE II
RECENSIONE - Riflessioni sul dolore di Umberto Eco
R. Nardi
Influence of automatic feeding systems on design and management of dairy farms
Authors: Da Borso Francesco , Chiumenti Alessandro , Sigura Maurizia , Pezzuolo Andrea
Published: April 2017

During the last decades, many dairy farmers have actively advanced their farms toward automation. Automatic concentrate dispensers and automatic milking systems have been utilised for years, and several manufacturers have introduced automatic feeding systems (AFS). AFSs allow for the increase in frequency of feed distribution with significant advantages in terms of health and production. Furthermore, they provide a reduction of man labour related to preparation of feed, distribution, and propelling the ration closer to the feeding rack. The present research was focused on the monitoring of a dairy farm, located in the Veneto region of Italy, during the transition from a conventional feeding system (CFS), based on a tractor operated mixing wagon, to an automatic system equipped with stationary feeding hoppers, mixing unit, and distribution wagon operating on rail. The article reports a comparative analysis of the structural modifications required for the adoption of AFS, including an analysis of the AFS/CFS systems based on their functionality, energy, and man labour requirements. In the case study, AFS represented an affordable way to reduce covered area of the housings, as a result of the reduction in width of foraging lane and the reduction of manger front length. In addition, AFS demonstrated a reduction in labour requirements and improvement of quality and consistency of work when feeding total mixed ration. Finally, the research was addressed to study dairy cow behaviour. A method for monitoring the feeding, resting, and standing indexes was applied to the CFS farm. As a preliminary result of this activity, a positive correlation between cow resting activity and milk production was discovered.
Die debat oor selfdegeslagverhoudings: ’n Genuanseerde behoudende benadering
Authors: Goede Hennie
Published: April 2017

No abstract avialable.
IREB2, CHRNA5, CHRNA3, FAM13A & hedgehog interacting protein genes polymorphisms & risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Tatar population from Russia
Authors: Korytina Gulnaz Faritovna , Akhmadishina Leysan Zinurovna , Viktorova Elena Vitalievna , Kochetova Olga Vladimirovna , Viktorova Tatyana Victorovna
Published: April 2017

Background & objectives:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory system affecting primarily distal respiratory pathways and lung parenchyma. This study was aimed at investigating the association of COPD with IREB2, CHRNA5, CHRNA3, FAM13A and hedgehog interacting protein (HHIP) genes in a Tatar population from Russia.

Methods:

Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs13180, rs16969968, rs1051730, rs6495309, rs7671167, rs13118928) were genotyped by the real-time polymerase chain reaction in this study (511 COPD patients and 508 controls). Logistic regression was used to detect the association of SNPs and haplotypes of linked loci in different models. Linear regression analyses were performed to estimate the relationship between SNPs and lung function parameters and pack-years.

Results:

The rs13180 (IREB2), rs16969968 (CHRNA5) and rs1051730 (CHRNA3) were significantly associated with COPD in additive model [P
adj=0.00001, odds ratio (OR)=0.64; P
adj=0.0001, OR=1.41 and P
adj=0.0001, OR=1.47]. The C-G haplotype by rs13180 and rs1051730 was a protective factor for COPD in our population (P
adj=0.0005, OR=0.61). These results were confirmed only in smokers. The rs16969968 and rs1051730 were associated with decrease of forced expiratory volume in 1 sec % predicted (P
adj=0.005 and P
adj=0.0019).

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our study showed the association of rs13180, rs16969968 and rs1051730 with COPD and lung function in Tatar population from Russia. Further studies need to be done in other ethnic populations.
Correlation of cartilage metabolic markers & antioxidants with the severity of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Bhutia Sonam Choden , Sherpa Mingma Lhamu , Dewan S. K. , Singh T. A.
Published: April 2017

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the degeneration of articular cartilage. Cartilage metabolic markers have been explored as possible markers for osteoarthritis, and osteogenic protein -1 (OP-1) has emerged out to play a major role in cartilage repair. Oxidative stress has been implicated as a mediator of cartilage damage in patients with osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to correlate the cartilage metabolic markers and antioxidants with the severity of knee osteoarthritis.
Preclinical safety & toxicity evaluation of pooled, allogeneic human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Rengasamy Mathiyazhagan , Gupta Pawan Kumar , Kolkundkar Udaykumar , Singh Gurbind , Balasubramanian Sudha , SundarRaj Swathi , Chullikana Anoop , Majumdar Anish Sen
Published: April 2017

Background & objectives:

Administration of ex vivo-expanded human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hBMMSC) obtained from single donors has shown therapeutic benefits in both preclinical and clinical studies. In this study, the safety, toxicity and biodistribution profiles of a pooled hBMMSC population, produced from three healthy donors were assessed in rodent and non-rodents.

Methods:

The pooled hBMMSC population was characterized by their expression of various cell surface markers, differentiation potential and immunomodulatory activity. To establish in vivo safety of the pooled cells, these were administered by various injection routes into rodents and non-rodents to determine overall toxicity, biodistribution and tumorigenic potential in a series of preclinical studies.

Results:

Single injections of hBMMSC at various doses through intravenous or intramuscular routes did not cause toxicity in rats and rabbits. In addition, repeat administration of hBMMSC was also well tolerated by rats, and no prenatal toxicity was observed by multiple administration in the same animal species. Ex vivo-expanded and cryopreserved hBMMSCs did not induce tumour formation in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our results showed that the pooled hBMMSC population was non-toxic, non-teratogenic and non-tumorigenic in animals. Further studies need to be done to find out if it can be safely administered in human patients.
Viruses causing severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) in children ≤5 years of age at a tertiary care hospital in Rajasthan, India
Authors: Malhotra Bharti , Swamy M. Anjaneya , Janardhan Reddy P. V. , Gupta M. L.
Published: April 2017

Background & objectives:

Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) is one of the leading causes of death among children worldwide. As different respiratory viruses exhibit similar symptoms, simultaneous detection of these viruses in a single reaction mixture can save time and cost. The present study was done in a tertiary care children's hospital for rapid identification of viruses causing SARI among children less than or equal to five years of age using multiplex real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) kit.

Methods:

A total of 155 throat swabs were collected from equal number of children suspected to have SARI and processed for extraction of nucleic acids using automated extraction system. Multiplex real-time RT-PCR was done to identify the viruses in the samples.

Results:

The overall positivity for viruses in the study was found to be 72.9 per cent with a co-infection rate of 19.5 per cent. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) was the predominant virus detected in 25.7 per cent children followed by influenza A (H1N1)pdm09, human rhinovirus (HRV) and human adenovirus (HAdV) in 19.9, 11.0 and 8.8 per cent children, respectively. The HMPV was at its peak in February 2013, HAdV showed two peaks in March-April, 2012 and November 2012-March 2013 while HRV was detected throughout the year.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Multiplex real-time PCR helped in rapid identification of viruses. Seventeen viruses were detected in SARI cases with overall positivity of 72.9 per cent. HMPV was the most predominant virus. However, for better clinico-virological correlation, studies are required with complete work up of all the aetiological agents, clinical profile of patients and treatment outcome.
Feeder & basic fibroblast growth factor-free culture of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Teotia Pooja , Sharma Shilpa , Airan Balram , Mohanty Sujata
Published: April 2017

Background & objectives:

Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines are commonly maintained on inactivated feeder cells, in the medium supplemented with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). However, limited availability of feeder cells in culture, and the high cost of growth factors limit their use in scalable expansion of hESC cultures for clinical application. Here, we describe an efficient and cost-effective feeder and bFGF-free culture of hESCs using conditioned medium (CM) from immortalized feeder cells.

Methods:

KIND-1 hESC cell line was cultured in CM, collected from primary mouse embryonic fibroblast, human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) and immortalized HFF (I-HFF). Pluripotency of KIND-1 hESC cell line was confirmed by expression of genes, proteins and cell surface markers.

Results:

In culture, these cells retained normal morphology, expressed all cell surface markers, could differentiate to embryoid bodies upon culture in vitro. Furthermore, I-HFF feeder cells without supplementation of bFGF released ample amount of endogenous bFGF to maintain stemness of hESC cells.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The study results described the use of CM from immortalized feeder cells as a consistent source and an efficient, inexpensive feeder-free culture system for the maintenance of hESCs. Moreover, it was possible to maintain hESCs without exogenous supplementation of bFGF. Thus, the study could be extended to scalable expansion of hESC cultures for therapeutic purposes.
Ketoprofen-induced photoallergic dermatitis
Authors: Loh Tiffany Yvonne , Cohen Philip R.
Published: April 2017

Drug-induced photosensitivity reactions are significant adverse effects. Ketoprofen is one of the most common drugs that can cause skin rash in sun-exposed areas. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ketoprofen, are often used for a variety of symptoms, including pain and fever. An understanding of the presentation and clinical course of ketoprofen-induced photosensitivity is necessary to correctly diagnose and manage this condition. Ketoprofen-induced photosensitivity reactions usually present as photoallergic dermatitis, which is a cell-mediated immune process. The benzophenone moiety in ketoprofen plays a major role in ketoprofen's ability to act as a photosensitizer. Several agents, such as fenofibrate and octocrylene have been found to be associated with aggravation of ketoprofen-induced photoallergic dermatitis or cross-photosensitization, and these reactions result from structural similarities with ketoprofen. Treatment of ketoprofen-induced photoallergic dermatitis includes discontinuation of ketoprofen, topical or systemic corticosteroids and avoidance of sun exposure and agents known to exacerbate dermatitis. In conclusion, photoallergic dermatitis is a significant adverse effect of ketoprofen. Some agents known to worsen dermatitis may be found in sun protection products (notably, octocrylene in sunscreen). Educating the patient to avoid these products is critical to treatment. Since NSAIDs, such as ketoprofen, are used commonly for a variety of illnesses, drug-induced photoallergic dermatitis should be high on the differential in individuals using these medications who present with acute onset of a rash in sun-exposed areas.
Bone marrow extract as a growth supplement for human iliac apophyseal chondrocyte culture
Authors: Balakumar Balasubramanian , Rajagopal Karthikeyan , Madhuri Vrisha
Published: April 2017

Background & objectives:

Human bone marrow is rich in various growth factors which may support the chondrocyte growth. This study was conducted to compare the culture characteristics of human growth plate chondrocyte in foetal bovine serum (FBS) and human autologous bone marrow extract (BME) in monolayer culture.

Methods:

Iliac crest apophyseal cartilage was harvested from four donors, aged between two and nine years, undergoing hip surgery. Chondrocytes were propagated under two culture conditions, with 10 per cent FBS and 10 per cent autologous BME harvested from the same donors. Cells were harvested at 7, 14 and 21 days to assess viability, morphology, cell count and immunocytochemistry.

Results:

With an initial seeding density of 2500 cells/cm2, the average yield in monolayer cultured with FBS was 3.35 × 105, 5.9 × 105, 14.1 × 105 and BME was 0.66 × 105, 1.57 × 105 and 3.48 × 105 at 7, 14 and 21 days, respectively. Viability was 98.21 per cent with FBS and 97.45 per cent with BME at 21 days. In BME supplemented cultures, hyaline phenotype was maintained up to 21 days. The yield was higher in the FBS supplemented group; however, the phenotype could not be maintained by the FBS group as long as BME group.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Autologous BME was found to be a safer alternative to FBS for human studies. BME could maintain the hyaline phenotype for a longer time. Ways to enhance the cell yield needs to be explored in future studies.
Casa en Chikata
Authors: Fujimoto Kazunori , Hogaki Tomoyasu
Published: April 2017

Arquitectos / Architects: Kazunori Fujimoto Architect & Associates. Kazunori Fujimoto (principal responsable / principal-in-charge), Tomoyasu Hogaki · Localización / Location: Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Japan · Redacción de proyecto / Project Planning: 2002 · Período de construcción / Construction term: 2003 · Superficie de la parcela / Site area: 432.52 m2 · Superficie del edificio / Building area: 138.13 m2 · Ocupación en planta / Total floor area: 105.6 m2 · Ingeniero estructural / Structural engineer: Ike Structural Consultants · Dirección de obra / Construction Team: Fuji Kensetsu Co.,Ltd. · Fotografía / Photography: Kazunori Fujimoto
Casa en Henaji
Authors: Fujimoto Kazunori
Published: April 2017

Arquitectos / Architects: Kazunori Fujimoto Architect & Associates. Kazunori Fujimoto · Localización / Location: Motobu, Okinawa, Japón · Redacción de proyecto / Project Planning: 2004 · Período de construcción / Construction term: 2005 · Superficie de la parcela / Site area: 986.92 m2 · Superficie del edificio / Building area: 123.19 m2 · Ocupación en planta / Total floor area: 123.19 m2 · Ingeniero estructural / Structural engineer: Ike Structural Consultants · Dirección de obra / Construction Team: Ago Kensetsu Kogyo Co.,Ltd. · Fotografía / Photography: Kazunori Fujimoto
Casa en Tajiri
Authors: Fujimoto Kazunori , Hirabayashi Aki
Published: April 2017

Arquitectos / Architects: Kazunori Fujimoto Architect & Associates. Kazunori Fujimoto (principal responsable / principal-in-charge), Aki Hirabayashi · Localización / Location: Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Japan · Redacción de proyecto / Project Planning: 2008 · Período de construcción / Construction term: 2010 · Superficie de la parcela / Site area: 318.85 m2 · Superficie del edificio / Building area: 222.52 m2 · Ocupación en planta / Total floor area: 411.93 m2 · Ingeniero estructural / Structural engineer: Mitsuda Structural Consultants · Dirección de obra / Construction Team: Daiwa Kensetsu Co.,Ltd. · Fotografía / Photography: Kazunori Fujimoto
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Vol. 6, No. 1
Authors: Grey Lexie
Published: April 2017

Cancer and Clinical Oncology wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal is greatly appreciated.Cancer and Clinical Oncology is recruiting reviewers for the journal. If you are interested in becoming a reviewer, we welcome you to join us. Please find the application form and details at http://www.ccsenet.org/reviewer and e-mail the completed application form to cco@ccsenet.org.Reviewers for Volume 6, Number 1Aditya R Bele, University Of Florida, UsaAnand Kumar, Banaras Hindu University, IndiaDonghui Zhou, Iupui, United StatesHemendra Mod, Aaruni Hospital Pvt Ltd, IndiaJuan Luis Callejas Valera, Ucsd/Moores Cancer Center, United StatesJulita Kulbacka, Wroclaw Medical University, PolandMarco Gambarotti, Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, ItalyMohammed Abdelmoneam Osman, General Organization for Teaching Hospitals, EgyptMona Mostafa Mohamed, Cairo University, EgyptNorma Varela, Mcmaster University, CanadaRakesh Ponnala, Zoetis Inc, UsaRuofeng Qiu, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, United StatesSarandeep S S Boyanapalli, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc, UsaSoumitra Ghosh, Washington Univ @ St. Louis, United StatesSourav Banerjee, University Of California San Diego, Usa
Researching Hemispheric Specialization in the Control of Final Position Accuracy Using the Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
Authors: Teymuri Kheravi Mostafa , Saberi Kakhki Alireza , Taheri Hamidreza , Ghanaie Chamanabad Ali , Darainy Mohammad
Published: April 2017

Transcranial Direct Current Simulation (tDCS) can improve or disrupt brain functions and can therefore be used to investigate hemispheric specialization. Accordingly, this study was designed to research hemispheric specialization in the control of final position accuracy by comparing the effects of tDCS on dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in the right and left hemispheres. Forty-three right-handed male university students (aged 21.34±1.61) volunteered to participate in this study. They were divided into the right DLPFC, left DLPFC, sham, and practice groups, including 12, 11, 9, and 11 participants, respectively. After learning motor skills in two days, the participants practiced final position accuracy in one day. They were asked to move the cursor toward the centers of targets appearing randomly at the top, middle, and bottom on the right side of a monitor as accurately and quickly as they could. At the time of practice, the participants received anodic stimulation in one hemisphere and cathodic stimulation in the other. The results indicated that the left anodic/right cathodic group (left DLPFC) showed the worst performance, which may be caused by the inhibitory effects of cathodic stimulations in the right DLPFC. Therefore, it is predicted that the right hemisphere may have greater specialization in final position accuracy of movement.
Threshold Cointegration, Asymmetric Causality and Wagner’s Law: The African Experience Revisited
Authors: Keho Yaya
Published: April 2017

This study re-examines the Wagner's law of public expenditure for six sub-Saharan African countries while relaxing the assumption of a symmetric adjustment process underlying standard cointegration tests and error-correction models. The empirical methodology uses threshold cointegration tests to establish that there is a long-run relationship between government expenditure and per capita GDP for five countries, with income being positively related to public spending. Furthermore, the results of asymmetric Granger-causality tests provide support for Wagner’s law in the long run for five countries (Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, and Senegal), while the Keynesian view holds only in the short run for three countries (Benin, Cameroon, and Cote d’Ivoire). The short run evidence for two countries (Kenya and Senegal) support both Wagner’s law and Keynesian view.
A New Margin Function for Anti-infective Trials
Authors: -Arao Félix Almendra , Reyes-Cervantes Hortensia J. , Castro-Alva José J.
Published: April 2017

In diverse contexts comparison of groups is giving frequently. Particularly, comparison of groups based on non-inferiority statistical tests is becoming more frequent and have had a very special boom in clinical trials, especially in trials related to testing new anti-infective products. Non-inferiority tests are statistical procedures that allow verify whether a sample provides sufficient evidence that the efficacy of a new treatment is not substantially inferior to the known efficacy of a standard treatment. For the selection of the non-inferiority margin for anti-infective trials, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Committee for Proprietary of Medical Products (CPMP) have provided some general guidance. In this investigation we propose a new parametric family of margin functions for testing non-inferiority in the context of anti-infective trials. One important feature of this parametric family is that fit together recommendations of FDA and CPMP jointly with some other important mathematical properties underlined in this research.
Opportunity and Choice: Concise Evaluation on Chinese Health System Reform
Authors: Chen Yuzhao , Ma Jie
Published: April 2017

A research report published by Three Parties and Five Departments was released in Beijing, which is devoted to establishing a people-oriented integrated service model. Although it hasn’t aroused strong repercussions., there is still an opportunity that Chinese medical and health system reform get the right direction. A retrospective study of reform since 1990s showed that the dedate still lies in the market-led or government-led, however, it does not grasp the root. The essence of medical and health system reform is to clarify the boundary between government and market, and brings out the best in them, that is, it should be conductive to both market and the government.
A Correlational Analysis of Public Procurement Policy and Utilisation of Public Funds for Service Delivery in Ondo State (2007-2013)
Authors: Benson Kunle Sehinde , Asere Olumide Olusesan , Lamidi Kazeem Oyedele
Published: April 2017

This paper investigated public procurement policy vis-à-vis effective and efficient utilization of public fund for service delivery using Ondo State as a case study. Primary and secondary data were utilised for this study. The study universe 1,422 respondents comprised senior officials from selected service delivery ministries, agencies and civil society groups. 284 respondents were selected from sample groups using stratified sampling technique with a sample fraction of 20%. Interviews were conducted to complement the data gathered through questionnaire administration. The results showed that there is about thirty three percent (33%) positive relationship between the application of procurement policy and effective and efficient utilization of public fund for service delivery in Ondo State (r = +0.332, p < 0.01). This paper concluded that public procurement policy had a minor influence on effective and efficient utilization of public fund for service delivery in Ondo State.
English and Welsh experience of marketisation, payment by results and justice devolution in the probation sector
Authors: Fox Chris
Published: April 2017

English and Welsh experience of marketisation, payment by results and justice devolution in the probation sector

The UK government has embarked on an ambitious programme to reform the English and Welsh probation sector. Key to these reforms has been ‘marketisation’ involving Payment by Results. More recently the devolution of justice has become a key theme. This paper describes key reforms that have taken place since 2010 and sets out evidence for their effectiveness. Currently, the available evidence is limited, but more evidence is available from other sectors where similar models have also been used. This evidence base is discussed with particular reference to the potential for the reforms to promote innovation.
Professionaliteit als norm in het reclasseringswerk
Authors: Menger Anneke
Published: April 2017

Professionalism as norm in probation

New demands require probation to invest in high standards of professionalism. Probation officers can nowadays build their professionalism on common values, scientific knowledge, professional discretion and public accountability. Collaboration with universities of applied sciences results in a common research agenda, new degree programs and well-structured post-initial training. Questions yet to answer are how to guarantee professionalism in a context of large professional discretion. Probation seeks answers in facilitating their professionals to do the master degree program forensic social professional, in developing peer audits based on new quality standards and in initiating a professional register.
Hoe slachtofferbewust werkt de reclassering?
Authors: Mollen Debbie J.M. , van Vliet Jaap A.
Published: April 2017

Victim conscious work in probation

The probation in the Netherlands works more victim conscious since last year. Victim conscious working in probation is defined as: involving the perspective and interests of the victim when working with offenders. This broadly and to the extent it is justifiable from the primary task of the probation to reduce recidivism and promote the re-integration of probation clients/offenders. With this justification is both the moral level (right action) as being involved professional standards (effective action).

The article describes, among other, a study on how the victim consciously work has been implemented within the Salvation Army Probation Service in the Netherlands.
Autoconfrontación a la propia actividad de enseñanza. Formación e investigación de la formación
Authors: Alonso Amezua Idurre , Azpeitia Eizagirre Agurtzane , Iriondo Arana Itziar , Zulaika Galdos Teresa
Published: April 2017

Partimos de un posicionamiento epistemológico accional, praxiológico que toma la actividad humana (aquí la enseñanza de las lenguas y la formación) en tanto objeto de estudio. La formación inicial del profesorado se aborda en tanto proceso en devenir, en relación con dispositivos de formación que se conciben y examinan con vistas a favorecer el desarrollo de la acción de los formados. Los elementos teóricos convocados provienen de diversos modelos de la acción y de la actividad humana, en particular la teoría de la acción social (Schütz, 1950).

Los métodos de investigación y de formación que se emplean tienen como finalidad la producción de trazas de la actividad, al tiempo que proporcionan espacios adecuados para su análisis por los actores. Las grabaciones - principalmente vídeo - se utilizan para realizar entrevistas de autoconfrontación que son a su vez momentos propicios para la producción de significados en relación con las actividades observadas.

Los primeros resultados obtenidos muestran algunas de las actividades típicas realizadas por estudiantes durante el Practicum en relación con la enseñanza de lenguas y los fenómenos formativos producidos. Estos resultados son empleados a su vez para acondicionar los entornos de formación basados en el análisis de la actividad docente.

 
Prevalence and Factors Associated With Prostate Cancer Among Transgender Women
Authors: Manfredi Celeste , Franco Antonio , Ditonno Francesco , Bologna Eugenio , Licari Leslie Claire , Leonardo Costantino , Antonelli Alessandro , De Nunzio Cosimo , Cherullo Edward E. , De Sio Marco , Autorino Riccardo
Published: October 2024

Importance

Evidence on prostate cancer (PCa) in transgender women is very limited; data are needed to reduce gender disparities in both PCa knowledge and health care.

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of PCa among transgender women in the US and assess the factors associated with PCa, and factors associated with biochemical recurrence (BCR) and bone metastases (BM) secondary to PCa in the transgender population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in October 2023, covering the period between 2011 and 2022 (12-year analysis). The study was based on a large, all-payer claims, deidentified, US database (PearlDiver Mariner). Transgender women who were identified as male before assignment of transsexual status codes were included. Patients with PCa were detected in the transgender women population.

Main Outcomes and Measures

PCa diagnosis was selected as primary outcome; BCR and BM were chosen as secondary outcomes.

Results

A total of 95 460 transgender women with a mean (SD) age of 52.5 (9.4) years were included. PCa was diagnosed in 589 individuals with a mean (SD) age of 66.8 (10.0) years (estimated prevalence, 0.62%; 95% CI, 0.54%-0.77%). Age (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% CI, 1.08-1.12; P < .001) and family history (adjusted OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.60-4.92; P < .001) were positively associated with PCa in transgender women. Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) was negatively associated with PCa in transgender women (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.56-0.89; P < .001) but positively associated with BCR (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.21-2.86; P < .001) and BM (OR, 3.96; 95% CI, 1.50-9.99; P < .001) in the transgender population with PCa.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that PCa appeared to be relatively uncommon in transgender women. GAHT may reduce the risk of PCa in transgender patients, but it may also increase the risk of BCR and BM in transgender women with PCa. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Clinical implementation and patient‐specific quality assurance solutions for real‐time target tracking and dynamic delivery in Radixact synchrony
Authors: Trujillo‐Bastidas Christian D. , Taylor Michael J. , Díaz‐Londoño Gloria M.
Published: October 2024

Background

The installation and testing of the first Radixact with Synchrony system in Colombia marked a significant milestone in Latin America's medical landscape. There was a need to devise a robust quality assurance protocol to comprehensively evaluate both dose delivery and motion tracking accuracy. However, testing experiences under clinical conditions have not been extensively reported. Additionally, there are limited recommended measuring devices for Synchrony evaluation.

Purpose

To validate and implement an alternative setup for dynamic‐PSQA while testing Synchrony's functionality under clinical scenarios, including real‐patient motion traces, and to provide guidance to new centers undergoing clinical implementation of Helical Synchrony.

Methods

This approach involves using the Iba miniPhantomR with strategically placed fiducial markers for configuring Gafchromic‐films and array‐based setups. When paired with the CIRS Dynamic Platform, this enables an innovative dynamic setup with trackable features for Synchrony delivery testing. Assessment scenarios, including compensation (M1S1) and no‐motion compensation (M1S0), were evaluated using 2D‐gamma pass rate analysis with multiple clinical gamma criteria. The Synchrony‐Simulation feature was used to assess pre‐treatment performance and capture the patient's target motion pattern. Synchrony for common clinical cases with patient's motion‐traces was validated.

Results

The results for M1S0 and M1S1 demonstrated consistency with previous studies evaluating Synchrony functionality. Analysis using different gamma criteria unveiled dosimetric differences and impacts across various motion ranges. The application of effective kV‐dose subtraction for array‐based methods is of upmost importance when evaluating dynamic‐PSQA with stringent gamma‐criteria. However, no significant kV‐dose impact on EBT3‐Film was detectable.

Conclusion

Two implemented configurations for dynamic‐PSQA setups were validated and successfully integrated into our clinic. We addressed both the benefits and limitations of array‐based and film‐based methods. The functionality and limitations of Synchrony were evaluated using the proposed setups. The potential utility of Synchrony‐Simulation, along with the proposed patient‐case classification table, can offer valuable support for new users during the clinical implementation of Synchrony treatments.
Revisiting Stability Criteria in Ball‐Milled High‐Entropy Alloys: Do Hume–Rothery and Thermodynamic Rules Equally Apply?
Authors: Blázquez Javier S. , Manchón‐Gordón Alejandro F. , Vidal‐Crespo Antonio , Caballero‐Flores Rafael , Ipus Jhon J. , Conde Clara F.
Published: October 2024

Stability descriptors for the formation of solid solutions can be divided into two categories: inspired by Hume–Rothery rules (HRR) and derived from thermodynamic approaches. Herein, HRRs are extended from binary to high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) focusing on compositions prepared by ball milling. Parameters describing stability criteria are interrelated and implicitly account for the microstrains’ storage energy, more determinant than entropy increase in stabilization of HEAs and more effective in bcc structures than close‐packed ones (fcc and hcp). An effective temperature, Teff, is defined as the ratio between increase in metallic bonding energy of solid solutions with respect to segregated pure constituents and configurational entropy. This versatile parameter is used as a threshold for stabilization of HEAs at equilibrium and out of equilibrium. When Teff is below room temperature, HEA would be stable at equilibrium. When Teff is below melting temperature, HEA would be obtained by rapid quenching. Limitations related to electronegativity differences remain valid in mechanically alloyed solid solutions. However, ball milling broadens the allowed differences in atomic size to form HEA. Moreover, thermodynamic criteria can be surpassed in these systems, allowing the formation of single‐phase solid solutions beyond the compositional range predicted by those criteria.
A Multifunctional NaxBi/NaCl Flexible Interface Layer for Solid‐State Na Metal Batteries
Authors: Gu Yifan , Ma Hui , Fan Xiaomeng , Tao Huachao , Yang Xuelin , Fan Li‐Zhen
Published: October 2024

Na3Zr2Si2PO12 (NZSP) electrolyte with excellent air stability and acceptable ionic conductivity demonstrates a significant potential for application in solid‐state Na metal batteries. However, the poor interfacial contact between NZSP and Na anode has severely hindered its practical application. Herein, a BiCl3/polytetrafluoroethylene flexible interface layer is constructed between NZSP and Na metal anode. BiCl3 can react with Na metal to form a multifunctional NaxBi/NaCl‐rich flexible interface layer during the cycling process, which can effectively enhance the interfacial contact, avoid the formation of voids and reduce the interfacial resistance. NaxBi with low energy barrier can provide fast Na+ diffusion path, and NaCl with a wide band gap can inhibit electron injection and suppress Na dendrite growth. Owing to the multifunctional NaxBi/NaCl flexible interface layer, the Na/BiCl3@NZSP/Na symmetric cell exhibits a reduced interfacial resistance from 1252.1 to 67.6 Ω and achieves a high critical current density of 2 mA cm⁻2 at 25 °C. At 0.1 mA cm⁻2/0.1 mAh cm⁻2 and 0.3 mA cm⁻2/0.3 mAh cm⁻2, the symmetric cell can stably cycle for 3000 and 1100 h. Additionally, the Na3V2(PO4)3/BiCl3@NZSP/Na full cell can retain 96.7% of initial capacity (≈111 mAh g−1) after 300 cycles at 0.5 C and excellent rate capability.
Engineered Shape‐Morphing Transitions in Hydrogels Through Suspension Bath Printing of Temperature‐Responsive Granular Hydrogel Inks
Authors: Nakamura Keisuke , Di Caprio Nikolas , Burdick Jason A.
Published: October 2024

4D printing of hydrogels is an emerging technology used to fabricate shape‐morphing soft materials that are responsive to external stimuli for use in soft robotics and biomedical applications. Soft materials are technically challenging to process with current 4D printing methods, which limits the design and actuation potential of printed structures. Here, a simple multi‐material 4D printing technique is developed that combines dynamic temperature‐responsive granular hydrogel inks based on hyaluronic acid, whose actuation is modulated via poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) crosslinker design, with granular suspension bath printing that provides structural support during and after the printing process. Granular hydrogels are easily extruded upon jamming due to their shear‐thinning properties and their porous structure enables rapid actuation kinetics (i.e., seconds). Granular suspension baths support responsive ink deposition into complex patterns due to shear‐yielding to fabricate multi‐material objects that can be post‐crosslinked to obtain anisotropic shape transformations. Dynamic actuation is explored by varying printing patterns and bath shapes, achieving complex shape transformations such as ‘S’‐shaped and hemisphere structures. Furthermore, stepwise actuation is programmed into multi‐material structures by using microgels with varied transition temperatures. Overall, this approach offers a simple method to fabricate programmable soft actuators with rapid kinetics and precise control over shape morphing.
Cover Image, Volume 141, Issue 43
Authors: Barayavuga Theogene , Jianlei Cui , wei Fengqi , Mei Huanhuan , Rahman Mostafizur , Wang Zhijun , Mei Xuesong
Published: October 2024

The cover image is based on the Article Enhancing durable electrical conductivity in multiwalled carbon nanotubes‐epoxy composites via laser repetition rate nanojoining for flexible electronics by Theogene Barayavuga et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/app.56135.

image
Command filter‐based adaptive finite‐time control of fractional‐order nonlinear constrained systems with input saturation
Authors: Chen Lu , Chen Fa , Fang Jian‐an
Published: October 2024

In this article, the command filter‐based finite‐time tracking control issue is explored for fractional‐order nonlinear constrained systems (FONCSs) with saturated input. Firstly, a novel fractional‐order Lyapunov stability lemma is put forward, thereby offering a reliable strategy for finite‐time convergence of FONCSs. By employing an improved error compensation system and introducing auxiliary signal, a new finite‐time command filtered backstepping technique is developed. The proposed control strategy guarantees the finite‐time convergence characteristic of filtering signals, in addition to alleviate the impacts produced by saturated input. After that, a modified nonlinear state‐dependent function (NSDF) is developed to solve the state constraint problem while fulfilling the concavity condition. In comparison to the existing constrained control techniques in FONCSs, this approach not only ensures finite‐time convergence of the tracking error but also gets rid of feasibility demands. Ultimately, two simulation scenarios are supplied to illustrate the feasibility and usefulness of the suggested strategy.
‘Integration by immersion’: A contemporary model of integration for psychotherapeutic and pedagogical practice
Authors: O'Brien Charlotte , Charura Divine
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Psychotherapeutic integration has been a source of contentious debate and increasing authorship for over five decades. Yet, the challenge remains as to how practitioners learn to integrate their practice according to the philosophical, theoretical and practical procedures of their chosen modalities. Pedagogically, there is also a challenge for educators to support trainees to develop their own congruent model of integrative practice, which may change over time. The objectives of this study were to critically explore the traditional models of integration, highlighting their gaps and limitations, and to propose a new model of integration, which is befitting to contemporary psychotherapeutic and pedagogical practice.

Methods

Rigorous methods of analysis were employed utilising a three‐phased approach, which included survey data analysis from a convenience sample of 104 counselling psychologists, and critical theoretical analysis of the traditional models of psychotherapeutic integration. A duoethnographic method was then employed to analyse the data further, illuminating the gaps and limitations.

Results

The results make a significant contribution to the knowledge and theoretical framework in the field of integration by offering a new model of ‘Integration by Immersion’. This model is an alternative approach steeped in a framework of love and relationship as a foundation for unifying integrative practice. It flexibly fits and flows with practitioners' personal and professional development, making it applicable to evolving psychotherapeutic practice.

Conclusion

The impact of ‘Integration by Immersion’ is that it offers an alternative model that advances psychotherapeutic trainees', practitioners' and educators' knowledge, skills and practice, enabling them to develop their own idiosyncratic model of integration.