bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rule based fuzzy cognitive maps and natural language processing in machine ethics
Authors: Omari Rollin M. , Mohammadian Masoud
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The developing academic field of machine ethics seeks to make artificial agents safer as they become more pervasive throughout society. In contrast to computer ethics, machine ethics is concerned with the behavior of machines toward human users and other machines. This study aims to use an action-based ethical theory founded on the combinational aspects of deontological and teleological theories of ethics in the construction of an artificial moral agent (AMA).

Design/methodology/approach

The decision results derived by the AMA are acquired via fuzzy logic interpretation of the relative values of the steady-state simulations of the corresponding rule-based fuzzy cognitive map (RBFCM).

Findings

Through the use of RBFCMs, the following paper illustrates the possibility of incorporating ethical components into machines, where latent semantic analysis (LSA) and RBFCMs can be used to model dynamic and complex situations, and to provide abilities in acquiring causal knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

This approach is especially appropriate for data-poor and uncertain situations common in ethics. Nonetheless, to ensure that a machine with an ethical component can function autonomously in the world, research in artificial intelligence will need to further investigate the representation and determination of ethical principles, the incorporation of these ethical principles into a system’s decision procedure, ethical decision-making with incomplete and uncertain knowledge, the explanation for decisions made using ethical principles and the evaluation of systems that act based upon ethical principles.

Practical implications

To date, the conducted research has contributed to a theoretical foundation for machine ethics through exploration of the rationale and the feasibility of adding an ethical dimension to machines. Further, the constructed AMA illustrates the possibility of utilizing an action-based ethical theory that provides guidance in ethical decision-making according to the precepts of its respective duties. The use of LSA illustrates their powerful capabilities in understanding text and their potential application as information retrieval systems in AMAs. The use of cognitive maps provides an approach and a decision procedure for resolving conflicts between different duties.

Originality/value

This paper suggests that cognitive maps could be used in AMAs as tools for meta-analysis, where comparisons regarding multiple ethical principles and duties can be examined and considered. With cognitive mapping, complex and abstract variables that cannot easily be measured but are important to decision-making can be modeled. This approach is especially appropriate for data-poor and uncertain situations common in ethics.
The impact of discussion board usage on overall performance in an introductory accounting subject
Authors: Halabi Abdel K. , Larkins Jo-ann
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to examine the academic performances of first-year accounting students using a discussion board.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a model to determine the impact of discussion board usage on overall student performance. A number of variables are controlled for including academic aptitude, previous accounting experience, gender and student background. Included in the model are diagnostic information indicators of student use of the discussion board, obtained from the Web-based learning environment tracking reports.

Findings

The multiple regression analysis shows a positive benefit in terms of greater marks for students who post on the discussion board compared to those who do not post, even after controlling for academic ability.

Research limitations/implications

The improved knowledge construction gained by actively using discussion boards may be used by teaching staff to promote greater student acceptance and voluntary participation in discussion boards resulting in more interaction and possibly higher academic achievement.

Originality/value

While technology and WBLEs have been well accepted in accounting education, and are widely used (Watsonet al., 2007), the introduction of discussion boards has resulted in a dearth of research on their use and effectiveness. In-depth accounting educational literature reviews (Apostolouet al., 2013, 2010; Watsonet al., 2007; Watsonet al., 2003; Rebeleet al., 1998) have reported very few studies on discussion boards over three decades.
Efficacy of a probiotic bacterium to treat bats affected by the disease white‐nose syndrome
Authors: Cheng Tina L. , Mayberry Heather , McGuire Liam P. , Hoyt Joseph R. , Langwig Kate E. , Nguyen Hung , Parise Katy L. , Foster Jeffrey T. , Willis Craig K. R. , Kilpatrick Auston Marm , Frick Winifred F.
Published: August 2016

The management of infectious diseases is an important conservation concern for a growing number of wildlife species. However, effective disease control in wildlife is challenging because feasible management options are often lacking. White‐nose syndrome (WNS) is an infectious disease of hibernating bats that currently threatens several North American species with extinction. Currently, no effective treatments exist for WNS.

We conducted a laboratory experiment to test the efficacy of probiotic treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens, a bacterium that naturally occurs on bats, to reduce disease severity and improve survival of little brown bats Myotis lucifugus exposed to Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungal pathogen that causes WNS.

We found that application of the probiotic bacteria at the time of fungal infection reduced several measures of disease severity and increased survival, whereas bacterial treatment prior to pathogen exposure had no effect on survival and worsened disease severity.

Synthesis and applications. Our results suggest that probiotic treatment with Ps. fluorescens has potential for white‐nose syndrome disease management, but the timing of application is critical and should coincide with natural exposure of bats to P. destructans. These results add to the growing knowledge of how natural host microbiota can be implemented as a biocontrol treatment to influence disease outcomes.
Ignis mutat res: Reflections on working with fire
Authors: Higgin Marc
Published: August 2016

This article is a reflection on my fieldwork experience working alongside the sculptor Alexandra Engelfriet. Over the course of 2013, we built a series of improvised, ‘ephemeral’ wood‐fired kilns, each one constructed around individual clay sculptures far too large to fire otherwise. As I will show, the level of practical involvement these kilns demand marks them out as somewhat of an anachronism, going against much of the progress in firing technologies that have characterized the industrialization of ceramic production over the last 300 years here in Europe, as elsewhere. As such, these kilns serve as an interesting pyrotechnology with which to engage critically what we mean by energy and its place within social life.
Medicare Part D's Effects on Drug Utilization and Out‐of‐Pocket Costs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Park Young Joo , Martin Erika G.
Published: August 2016

Objective

To update a past systematic review on whether Medicare Part D changed drug utilization and out‐of‐pocket (OOP) costs overall and within subpopulations, and to identify evidence gaps.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Published and gray literature from 2010 to 2015 meeting prespecified screening criteria, including having a comparison group, and utilization or OOP cost outcomes.

Study Design

We conducted a systematic literature review with a quality assessment.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

For each study, we extracted information on study design, data sources, analytic methods, outcomes, and limitations. Because outcome measures vary across studies, we did a qualitative synthesis rather than meta‐analysis.

Principal Findings

Sixty‐five studies met screening criteria. Overall, Medicare Part D enrollees have increased drug utilization and decreased OOP costs, but coverage gaps limit the program's impact. Beneficiaries whose insurance becomes more generous after enrollment had disproportionately increased drug utilization and decreased OOP costs. Outcomes among dual‐eligibles were mixed.

Conclusions

There is strong evidence on how Medicare Part D and the donut hole coverage gap affect utilization and OOP costs, but weak evidence on how effects vary among dual‐eligibles or across diseases. Findings suggest that the Affordable Care Act's provisions to expand coverage and reduce the donut hole should improve patient outcomes.
To be, or not to be biodegradable… that is the question for the bio‐based plastics
Authors: Prieto Auxiliadora
Published: August 2016

Global warming, market and production capacity are being the key drivers for selecting the main players for the next decades in the market of bio‐based plastics. The drop‐in bio‐based polymers such as the bio‐based polyethylene terephtalate (PET) or polyethylene (PE), chemically identical to their petrochemical counterparts but having a component of biological origin, are in the top of the list. They are followed by new polymers such as PHA and PLA with a significant market growth rate since 2014 with projections to 2020. Research will provide improved strains designed through synthetic and systems biology approaches; furthermore, the use of low‐cost substrates will contribute to the widespread application of these bio‐ based polymers. The durability of plastics is not considered anymore as a virtue, and interesting bioprospecting strategies to isolate microorganisms for assimilating the recalcitrant plastics will pave the way for in vivo strategies for plastic mineralization. In this context, waste management of bio‐based plastic will be one of the most important issues in the near future in terms of the circular economy. There is a clear need for standardized labelling and sorting instructions, which should be regulated in a coordinated way by policymakers and material producers.
Adaptive trans‐generational phenotypic plasticity and the lack of an experimental control in reciprocal match/mismatch experiments
Authors: Engqvist Leif , Reinhold Klaus
Published: August 2016

Parental information about the prevailing environmental condition may enable offspring to adjust their phenotypes in accordance with future demands.

The state‐of‐the‐art experimental test of the occurrence of such adaptive trans‐generational phenotypic plasticity is a ‘match/mismatch’ approach: a fully factorial reciprocal transplant experiment where offspring encounter environments either matching or mismatching parents’ experience.

Here, we highlight that a hidden assumption of this approach is that the effect of early and late offspring environment acts completely additively on offspring fitness. Likely violations of this assumption, such that early ‘silver‐spoon’ effects are more valuable when later environmental conditions are relatively harsh, will bias the estimates of potential trans‐generational effects.

We discuss the different implications of this on the interpretation of the outcome of match/mismatch experiments and suggest different complementary and alternative approaches.
Effect of ovsynch versus prostaglandin F2α protocol on estrus response, ovulation rate, timing of ovulation and pregnancy per artificial insemination in Sahiwal cows
Authors: Hassan Mubbashar , Husnain Ali , Naveed Muhammad Ilyas , Riaz Umair , Ahmad Nasim
Published: August 2016

Sahiwal cow is Bos indicus which is an important dairy breed of tropical and sub‐tropical region. Research on reproduction is rare in this breed. The objectives of the present study were to determine the effect of Ovsynch (OVS) versus prostaglandin F2α (PG) protocol on estrus response and its intensity, ovulation rate, timing of ovulation and pregnancy per artificial insemination (AI) in Sahiwal cows. Experimental cows (n = 80) were of mixed parity, lactating, suckled, ≥120 days postpartum with body condition score 3.08 ± 0.34 and 375‐475 kg of body weight which were randomly assigned to receive either OVS (n = 46) or PG (n =34) protocol. Cows were inseminated twice at 12 and 24 h after second gonadotropin releasing hormone in the OVS group, and 72 and 84 h after administration of prostaglandin F2α in PG group, respectively. The results revealed that estrus response did not differ (P > 0.05) and was 87% in OVS and 78% in PG cows. Ovulation rate did not differ (P > 0.05) and was 50% in both, OVS and PG cows. The pregnancy per AI did not differ (P > 0.05) and was 43% in OVS compared to 31% in PG cows. It is concluded that estrus response, ovulation rate and pregnancy per AI of OVS protocol is the same as PG in Sahiwal cows.
Systematic review of published Phase 3 data on anti‐PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies in patients with hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Gouni‐Berthold Ioanna , Descamps Olivier S. , Fraass Uwe , Hartfield Elizabeth , Allcott Kim , Dent Ricardo , März Winfried
Published: August 2016

Aims

Two anti‐proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) monoclonal antibodies, alirocumab and evolocumab, have been approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia in certain patients. We reviewed data from Phase 3 studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these antibodies.

Methods

We systematically reviewed Phase 3 English‐language studies in patients with hypercholesterolaemia, published between 1 January 2005 and 20 October 2015. Congress proceedings from 16 November 2012 to 16 November 2015 were also reviewed.

Results

We identified 12 studies of alirocumab and nine of evolocumab, including over 10 000 patients overall. Most studies enrolled patients with hypercholesterolaemia and used anti‐PCSK9 antibodies with statins. The ODYSSEY FH I, FH II and HIGH FH alirocumab studies and the RUTHERFORD‐2 evolocumab study exclusively recruited patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia. Two evolocumab studies focused mainly on homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HoFH): TESLA Part B and TAUSSIG (a TESLA sub‐study); only those data for HoFH are reported here. All comparator studies demonstrated a reduction in LDL cholesterol (LDL‐C) with the anti‐PCSK9 antibodies. No head‐to‐head studies were conducted between alirocumab and evolocumab. Up to 87% of patients receiving alirocumab and up to 98% receiving evolocumab reached LDL‐C goals. Both antibodies were effective and well tolerated across a broad population of patients and in specific subgroups, such as those with type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

Using anti‐PCSK9 antibodies as add‐on therapy to other lipid‐lowering treatments or as monotherapy for patients unable to tolerate statins may help patients with high cardiovascular risk to achieve their LDL‐C goals.
Doubly Robust Estimator for Net Survival Rate in Analyses of Cancer Registry Data
Authors: Komukai Sho , Hattori Satoshi
Published: August 2016

Cancer population studies based on cancer registry databases are widely conducted to address various research questions. In general, cancer registry databases do not collect information on cause of death. The net survival rate is defined as the survival rate if a subject would not die for any causes other than cancer. This counterfactual concept is widely used for the analyses of cancer registry data. Perme, Stare, and Estève (2012) proposed a nonparametric estimator of the net survival rate under the assumption that the censoring time is independent of the survival time and covariates. Kodre and Perme (2013) proposed an inverse weighting estimator for the net survival rate under the covariate-dependent censoring. An alternative approach to estimating the net survival rate under covariate-dependent censoring is to apply a regression model for the conditional net survival rate given covariates. In this article, we propose a new estimator for the net survival rate. The proposed estimator is shown to be doubly robust in the sense that it is consistent at least one of the regression models for survival time and for censoring time. We examine the theoretical and empirical properties of our proposed estimator by asymptotic theory and simulation studies. We also apply the proposed method to cancer registry data for gastric cancer patients in Osaka, Japan.
Rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone (R‐CHOP) in the management of primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma: a subgroup analysis of the UK NCRI R‐CHOP 14 versus 21 trial
Authors: Gleeson Mary , Hawkes Eliza A. , Cunningham David , Chadwick Nick , Counsell Nicholas , Lawrie Anthony , Jack Andrew , Smith Paul , Mouncey Paul , Pocock Christopher , Ardeshna Kirit M. , Radford John , McMillan Andrew , Davies John , Turner Deborah , Kruger Anton , Johnson Peter W.M. , Gambell Joanna , Linch David
Published: August 2016

We performed a subgroup analysis of the phase III UK National Cancer Research Institute R‐CHOP‐14 versus R‐CHOP‐21 (two‐ versus three‐weekly rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone) trial to evaluate the outcomes for 50 patients with World Health Organization 2008 classified primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma identified from the trial database. At a median follow‐up of 7·2 years the 5‐year progression‐free survival and overall survival was 79·8% and 83·8%, respectively. An exploratory analysis raised the possibility of a better outcome in those who received R‐CHOP‐14 and time intensification may still, in the rituximab era, merit testing in a randomised trial in this subgroup of patients.
A Phase‐Based Approach for Animating Images Using Video Examples
Authors: Prashnani Ekta , Noorkami Maneli , Vaquero Daniel , Sen Pradeep
Published: August 2016

We present a novel approach for animating static images that contain objects that move in a subtle, stochastic fashion (e.g. rippling water, swaying trees, or flickering candles). To do this, our algorithm leverages example videos of similar objects, supplied by the user. Unlike previous approaches which estimate motion fields in the example video to transfer motion into the image, a process which is brittle and produces artefacts, we propose an Eulerian phase‐based approach which uses the phase information from the sample video to animate the static image. As is well known, phase variations in a signal relate naturally to the displacement of the signal via the Fourier Shift Theorem. To enable local and spatially varying motion analysis, we analyse phase changes in a complex steerable pyramid of the example video. These phase changes are then transferred to the corresponding spatial sub‐bands of the input image to animate it. We demonstrate that this simple, phase‐based approach for transferring small motion is more effective at animating still images than methods which rely on optical flow.
Clinical Impact of Not Achieving Recommended Dose on Duration of Atomoxetine Treatment in Adults with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Clemow David B. , Nyhuis Allen W. , Robinson Rebecca L.
Published: August 2016

Aim

To compare atomoxetine (ATX) length of therapy (LoT) among adults with ADHD who reached the recommended dose of 80 mg/day (ATX ≥ 80) versus those who did not (ATX < 80) analyzed separately in patients prescribed ATX as monotherapy (mono) and in combination with other ADHD medications (combo).

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cohort study of the Truven Health Marketscan Commercial Claims Database from January 1, 2006–September 30, 2013, with a 6‐month preindex period free of ATX (1st ATX claim as index event) and a 1‐year follow‐up. LoT during follow‐up was calculated using prescription claim fill dates and included all days with medication on hand regardless of treatment gaps.

Results

Only 45.0% of the 36,076 mono and 77.9% of the 1548 combo patients reached an ATX dose of ≥80 mg/day in 1‐year follow‐up. When patients filled at least one 80 mg prescription, their total days of therapy over the course of a year were significantly greater than if they did not (mono: 159.3 vs. 65.6 days; combo: 237.4 vs. 172.0; P < 0.0001). Across all timepoints examined (Day 14, 30, 60, 90, 210) for mono and combo, ATX ≥ 80 versus ATX < 80 patients had greater mean doses (P < 0.0001). Combo patients had longer ATX LoT than mono patients regardless if they reached 80 mg or not (P < 0.0001), but mono patients LoT was 93.8 days longer for ATX ≥ 80 versus ATX < 80 patients compared to 65.5 days for combo patients. Of patients reaching 80 mg/day, 71.7% of mono and 62.8% of combo patients did so by Day 30. For mono ATX ≥ 80 and ATX < 80 patients, LoT was significantly (P < 0.0001) less in previously treated patients compared to naive patients.

Conclusion

Ensuring adult ADHD patients are treated with ATX at a target dose of 80 mg/day is an important clinical consideration for maximizing patient days on therapy, which can be important for treatment optimization.
Ensemble ecosystem modeling for predicting ecosystem response to predator reintroduction
Authors: Baker Christopher M. , Gordon Ascelin , Bode Michael
Published: August 2016

Introducing a new or extirpated species to an ecosystem is risky, and managers need quantitative methods that can predict the consequences for the recipient ecosystem. Proponents of keystone predator reintroductions commonly argue that the presence of the predator will restore ecosystem function, but this has not always been the case, and mathematical modeling has an important role to play in predicting how reintroductions will likely play out. We devised an ensemble modeling method that integrates species interaction networks and dynamic community simulations and used it to describe the range of plausible consequences of 2 keystone‐predator reintroductions: wolves (Canis lupus) to Yellowstone National Park and dingoes (Canis dingo) to a national park in Australia. Although previous methods for predicting ecosystem responses to such interventions focused on predicting changes around a given equilibrium, we used Lotka–Volterra equations to predict changing abundances through time. We applied our method to interaction networks for wolves in Yellowstone National Park and for dingoes in Australia. Our model replicated the observed dynamics in Yellowstone National Park and produced a larger range of potential outcomes for the dingo network. However, we also found that changes in small vertebrates or invertebrates gave a good indication about the potential future state of the system. Our method allowed us to predict when the systems were far from equilibrium. Our results showed that the method can also be used to predict which species may increase or decrease following a reintroduction and can identify species that are important to monitor (i.e., species whose changes in abundance give extra insight into broad changes in the system). Ensemble ecosystem modeling can also be applied to assess the ecosystem‐wide implications of other types of interventions including assisted migration, biocontrol, and invasive species eradication.
Bundling of Vertically Differentiated Products in a Supply Chain*
Authors: Ma Minghui , Mallik Suman
Published: August 2016

We consider a supply chain consisting of a single manufacturer and a single retailer. The manufacturer produces a basic and a premium product. If desired, a bundle of the two products might also be produced at a unit bundling cost. We allow either the manufacturer or the retailer to produce the bundle from the component products. All products, however, must be sold exclusively through the retailer. Using game theoretic models, we compare and contrast the equilibrium outcomes under retailer bundling and manufacturer bundling scenarios. We show that under manufacturer bundling, the manufacturer never offers the full product line composed of the basic product, the premium product, and the bundle, at equilibrium; while the same does not hold under retailer bundling. We show that total supply chain profit under retailer bundling weakly dominates that under manufacturer bundling and characterize the region in the parameter space where this domination is strict. We explore an extension where there is a capacity constraint in producing one or both of the component products and characterize the equilibrium outcomes. We show that unlike the infinite capacity case, offering the full product line is an equilibrium outcome under manufacturer bundling when the capacity of the premium good is limited.
Migration of eels tagged in the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren—in the context of the stocking question
Authors: Sjöberg Niklas B. , Wickström Håkan , Asp Anders , Petersson Erik
Published: August 2016

Eels (Anguilla spp.) are in decline worldwide, and the signs of reduced recruitment have been observed in continental Europe since the early 1970s. To aid recovery of the European eel, stocking is used by many European countries as a management option. In this study, tagging experiments were conducted to follow eel migration from Lake Mälaren and four sites along the Swedish east coast in the Baltic Sea. The recaptured tagged eels were retrieved from fishermen, allowing for the opportunity to investigate their origin (brackish water, stocked in freshwater or a mix in between) by otolith microchemistry and to assess for morphological differences after tagging. Several changes took place; for example, eye index increased while weight and condition decreased with migrated distance and time until recapture. In Lake Mälaren, the majority of tagged eels did not migrate out of the outlets, irrespective of their origin. Most of them were caught in the opposite direction and continued to be caught in the lake 1–3 years after tagging, with significant weight losses. Overall, overwintering is suggested to be an inferior option, but it is uncertain whether this is a natural behaviour or a result of translocation and restocking. For coastal eels, origin had no effect on migratory behaviour; a majority of the tagged eels migrated towards the outlet of the Baltic Sea. Interestingly, a minority of the recaptured eels originated from stocked fish. Instead, recaptures were dominated by natural immigrants that had spent most of their lives in brackish waters.
An investigation of T‐stresses in a plate with an inclined crack under biaxial loadings
Authors: Miao X.‐T. , Zhou C.‐Y , Lv F. , Li J. , He X.‐H.
Published: August 2016

For plates with an inclined crack of wide‐range aspect ratios under biaxial loadings, T‐stress values are calculated with three‐dimensional finite element method. The results show that the normalized T‐stress is crack length and orientation dependent. A linear equation for the relationship between normalized T‐stresses and biaxility factors is proposed to describe the normalized T‐stresses for different crack lengths and crack angles under different biaxial loadings, which is more convenient and involves wider biaxility ratios compared with the existing solutions. The plate thickness effect and the trend of normalized T‐stresses along the crack front thickness are also studied for mode I and I–II mixed‐mode cracks. Based on the analyses and comparisons, it is necessary to take the thickness effect into consideration when the crack length is long enough (a/W = 7/10). When the component of mode II is significant (β > 45°), and the biaxility ratios are negative, T‐stresses near the free surface are lower than those at other positions, which are the opposite of mode I crack and most of I–II mixed‐mode crack.
Urban ponds as an aquatic biodiversity resource in modified landscapes
Authors: Hill Matthew J. , Biggs Jeremy , Thornhill Ian , Briers Robert A. , Gledhill David G. , White James C. , Wood Paul J. , Hassall Christopher
Published: August 2016

Urbanization is a global process contributing to the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats. Many studies have focused on the biological response of terrestrial taxa and habitats to urbanization. However, little is known regarding the consequences of urbanization on freshwater habitats, especially small lentic systems. In this study, we examined aquatic macro‐invertebrate diversity (family and species level) and variation in community composition between 240 urban and 782 nonurban ponds distributed across the United Kingdom. Contrary to predictions, urban ponds supported similar numbers of invertebrate species and families compared to nonurban ponds. Similar gamma diversity was found between the two groups at both family and species taxonomic levels. The biological communities of urban ponds were markedly different to those of nonurban ponds, and the variability in urban pond community composition was greater than that in nonurban ponds, contrary to previous work showing homogenization of communities in urban areas. Positive spatial autocorrelation was recorded for urban and nonurban ponds at 0–50 km (distance between pond study sites) and negative spatial autocorrelation was observed at 100–150 km and was stronger in urban ponds in both cases. Ponds do not follow the same ecological patterns as terrestrial and lotic habitats (reduced taxonomic richness) in urban environments; in contrast, they support high taxonomic richness and contribute significantly to regional faunal diversity. Individual cities are complex structural mosaics which evolve over long periods of time and are managed in diverse ways. This facilitates the development of a wide range of environmental conditions and habitat niches in urban ponds which can promote greater heterogeneity between pond communities at larger scales. Ponds provide an opportunity for managers and environmental regulators to conserve and enhance freshwater biodiversity in urbanized landscapes whilst also facilitating key ecosystem services including storm water storage and water treatment.
A Method to Estimate the Hydraulic Conductivity of the Ground by TRT Analysis
Authors: Liuzzo Scorpo Alberto , Nordell Bo , Gehlin Signhild
Published: August 2016

The knowledge of hydraulic properties of aquifers is important in many engineering applications. Careful design of ground‐coupled heat exchangers requires that the hydraulic characteristics and thermal properties of the aquifer must be well understood. Knowledge of groundwater flow rate and aquifer thermal properties is the basis for proper design of such plants. Different methods have been developed in order to estimate hydraulic conductivity by evaluating the transport of various tracers (chemical, heat etc.); thermal response testing (TRT) is a specific type of heat tracer that allows including the hydraulic properties in an effective thermal conductivity value. Starting from these considerations, an expeditious, graphical method was proposed to estimate the hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer, using TRT data and plausible assumption. Suggested method, which is not yet verified or proven to be reliable, should be encouraging further studies and development in this direction.
Long‐term outcome of total hip arthroplasty in patients with haemophilia
Authors: Strauss A. C. , Rommelspacher Y. , Nouri B. , Bornemann R. , Wimmer M. D. , Oldenburg J. , Pennekamp P. H. , Schmolders J.
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Besides the target joints (elbow, knee and ankle), the hip is one of the commonly affected joints in haemophilic arthropathy. Hip arthroplasty is the therapy of choice after failure of conservative treatment. There are only limited data on long‐term results after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Aim

The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse clinical outcome and complication rate after total hip replacement in patients with severe haemophilic arthropathy.

Methods

Forty‐three patients with haemophilia (PWH), one patient with von Willebrand disease and one patient with a Factor‐VII‐deficiency undergoing 49 total hip arthroplasties, were evaluated in a retrospective study. Harris hip score (HHS), range of motion (ROM), pain status (visual analogue scale, VAS) complication rate and patient satisfaction were assessed at a mean follow‐up of 11.5 years (range: 3–32).

Results

HSS, ROM and VAS improved significantly combined with high patient satisfaction. In total, three (6.1%) periprosthetic infections and five (10.2%) aseptic implant loosenings occurred after THA leading to revision arthroplasty. In two (4.1%) cases, a pseudotumour and one (2.0%) periarticular ossification had to be resected after THA.

Conclusion

Total hip replacement in PWH leads to a significant increase of function, reduction of pain and a high satisfaction. Due to the relatively high complication rate (infections and aseptic loosening) compared to patients without haemophilia, an individual assessment of the risk–benefit ratio from surgical and haemostaseological point of view is needed.
Pilot study of once‐a‐day prophylaxis for youth and young adults with severe haemophilia A
Authors: Crivianu‐Gaita V. , Rivard G. E. , Carcao M. , Teitel J. , St‐Louis J. , Blanchette V. , Pullenayegum E. , Abad A. , Feldman B. M.
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Standard prophylaxis has been shown to be an effective treatment for severe haemophilia A. According to pharmacokinetic principles, daily factor infusions of smaller doses can maintain similar trough factor VIII (FVIII) levels, and perhaps the same protection as standard prophylaxis.

Aim

This multicentre study examined the feasibility of daily prophylaxis for youth and young adults with severe haemophilia A in Montreal and Toronto.

Methods

Bleeding rates, joint status, quality of life and physical activity were monitored for 14 patients during this study. At baseline, subjects continued their regular treatment regimen and switched to daily prophylaxis after 4 months; nine had begun daily prophylaxis before enrolment. Additional visits occurred at 8 and 12 months which included a physical examination, inhibitor testing, HJHS and FISH assessments, the CHO‐KLAT/Haemo‐QoL‐A and PDPAR. Treatment satisfaction was assessed using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication ver.II and perceived difficulty questions at the end of study.

Results and conclusions

There were no significant changes in quality of life except for concerns with the demanding daily infusion schedule. The number of bleeds did not statistically differ from the initial 4 months of the study to the last 8 months. Monthly bleeding rates from the year prior to the study and during the intervention phase were not statistically different. It was also found that daily prophylaxis used 24% less FVIII compared to standard prophylaxis. Taking all of this into account, we have found that providing daily prophylaxis is feasible and that it is feasible to prospectively study daily prophylaxis in youth and young adults.
Muscle volume loss as a prognostic marker in hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with sorafenib
Authors: Hiraoka Atsushi , Hirooka Masashi , Koizumi Yohei , Izumoto Hirofumi , Ueki Hidetaro , Kaneto Miho , Kitahata Shogo , Aibiki Toshihiko , Tomida Hideomi , Miyamoto Yuji , Yamago Hiroka , Suga Yoshifumi , Iwasaki Ryuichiro , Mori Kenichiro , Miyata Hideki , Tsubouchi Eiji , Kishida Masato , Ninomiya Tomoyuki , Abe Masanori , Matsuura Bunzo , Kawasaki Hideki , Hiasa Yoichi , Michitaka Kojiro
Published: August 2016

Aim

To elucidate the clinical significance of muscle wasting in regard to survival of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing sorafenib treatment, we evaluated prognostic factors including muscle wasting at the start of sorafenib treatment.

Methods

We enrolled 93 patients with unresectable HCC (68.3 ± 9.4 years old, 81 men, 12 women, Child–Pugh score 5:6:7 = 69:22:2) who were treated with sorafenib. Muscle wasting was evaluated based on psoas muscle area index (psoas muscle area at level of middle of third lumbar vertebra [cm2] / height [m]2) calculated from computed tomography findings. Previously reported cut‐off values for muscle wasting in men and women (4.24 and 2.50 cm2/m2, respectively) were used. Patients were divided into those with (muscle‐atrophy group, n = 20) and without (non‐atrophy group, n = 73) muscle wasting.

Results

There were no significant differences in regard to etiology, Child–Pugh classification, and tumor–node–metastasis stage between the groups. In contrast, body mass index in the muscle‐atrophy group was lower (20.9 ± 2.4 vs. 23.5 ± 3.4, P = 0.003). Although time to progression was not different (median 2.1 vs. 2.8 months, P = 0.242), the 6‐, 12‐, and 18‐month survival rates were worse in the muscle‐atrophy group (62.7%, 32.3%, and 32.3% vs. 78.3%, 64.7% and 48.1%, respectively, P = 0.042). In multivariate Cox hazard analysis, des‐γ‐carboxy prothrombin level (≥100 mAU/mL) (hazard ratio, 2.540; P = 0.018) and positive for muscle wasting (hazard ratio, 2.158; P = 0.032) were significant prognostic factors at the start of sorafenib treatment.

Conclusion

Muscle wasting is an important prognostic factor in patients treated with sorafenib.
Very low level viraemia and risk of virological failure in treated HIV‐1‐infected patients
Authors: Teira R , Vidal F , Muñoz‐Sánchez P , Geijo P , Viciana P , Ribera E , Domingo P , Castaño M , Martínez E , Roca B , Puig T , Estrada V , Deig E , Galindo MJ , de la Fuente B , Lozano F , Montero M , Muñoz‐Sanz A , Sanchez T , Terrón A , Romero‐Palacios A , Lacalle JR , Garrido M , Suárez‐Lozano I ,   the VACH Study Group
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate whether very low level viraemia (VLLV) (20–50 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL) was associated with increased risk of virological failure (VF) as compared with persistent full suppression (< 20 copies/mL).

Methods

From the VACH Cohort database, we selected those patients who started antiretroviral therapy (ART) after January 1997 and who achieved effective viral suppression [two consecutive viral loads (VLs) < 50 copies/mL] followed by full suppression (at least one VL <20 copies/mL). We carried out survival analyses to investigate whether the occurrence of VLLV rather than maintaining full suppression at < 20 copies/mL was associated with virological failure (two consecutive VLs > 200 copies/mL or one VL > 200 copies/mL followed by a change of ART regimen, administrative censoring or loss to follow‐up), adjusted for nadir CD4 cell count, sex, age, ethnicity, transmission group, type of ART and time on effective suppression at < 50 copies/mL.

Results

Of 21 480 patients who started ART, 13 674 (63.7%) achieved effective suppression at < 50 copies/mL, of whom 4289 (31.4%) further achieved full suppression at < 20 copies/mL after May 2009. A total of 2623 patients (61.1%) remained fully suppressed thereafter, while 1666 had one or more episodes of VL detection > 20 copies/mL (excluding virological failure). A total of 824 patients had VLLV after suppression at < 20 copies/mL. VLLV was not associated with virological failure as compared with persistent full suppression [hazard ratio (HR) 0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44–1.00], independently of the number of blips recorded (from one to 18).

Conclusions

In our population of HIV‐infected patients on ART who achieved viral suppression at < 20 copies/mL, the risk of virological failure was no different for patients who remained fully suppressed compared with those who experienced subsequent episodes of VLLV.
Unions and unequal pay: The establishment of the “family wage”
Authors: LURIE Lilach
Published: August 2016

Equal pay laws in many OECD countries establish the right of men and women to equal pay for work of equal value. Nevertheless, during the first half of the 20th century, before the enactment of equal pay laws, employers and unions in several countries promoted unequal pay through “family wage” arrangements. This article seeks to improve understanding of the historical and sociological origins of “family wage” arrangements through both comparative research and in‐depth historical archival research on family wage arrangements in Israel. It shows that unions played a complex role in promoting family wage arrangements. While their action refected their patriarchal understanding of society, they were also guided by socialist principles.
Dendritic cells and adipose tissue
Authors: Sundara Rajan Sandeep , Longhi Maria Paula
Published: August 2016

Visceral adipose tissue inflammation in obesity is an established risk factor for metabolic syndrome, which can include insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. With obesity and related metabolic disorders reaching epidemic proportions globally, an understanding of the mechanisms of adipose tissue inflammation is crucial. Within the immune cell cohort, dendritic cells (DC) play a key role in balancing tolerance and immunity. Despite decades of research into the characterization of DC in lymphoid and non‐lymphoid organs, their role in adipose tissue function is poorly understood. There is now an increasing interest in identification and characterization of DC in adipose tissue and understanding their function in regulating tissue metabolic homeostasis. This review provides an overview of the study of DC in adipose tissue, focusing on possible mechanisms by which DC may contribute to adipose tissue homeostasis.
Growing Restrictiveness or Changing Selection? The Nature and Evolution of Migration Policies1
Authors: de Haas Hein , Natter Katharina , Vezzoli Simona
Published: August 2016

This paper demonstrates that, since 1945, migration policies have overall become less restrictive. Challenging common assumptions, this long-term trend is robust across most of the 45 countries included in the DEMIG POLICY database. While the period after 1989 is characterized by a slowing down of the rapid post-WWII liberalization of migration policies, liberal policy changes have continued to outnumber restrictive policy changes until today. Yet policy developments differ across policy types and migrant categories: Entry and integration policies have become less restrictive, while border control and exit policies have become more restrictive. Also, while policies towards irregular migrants and family migrants have been tightened in recent years, less restrictive changes have dominated policies targeting high- and low-skilled workers, students, and refugees. The essence of modern migration policies is thus not their growing restriction, but their focus on migrant selection.
News
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: August 2016

Claims and counter-claims kept fact-checkers busy in the run-up to the EU referendum, but – ultimately – the experts were ignored. If this campaign was the embodiment of post-truth politics, what comes next?
How Much Marijuana Goes up in Smoke?
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: August 2016

Using Bayesian inference, researchers have estimated how much weed is in the average joint
Scrambled Statistics: What are the Chances of Finding Multi-Yolk Eggs?
Authors: Toher Deirdre
Published: August 2016

Journalists ask a lot of questions of statisticians, but some are more bizarre than others. Statistical ambassador Deirdre Toher recounts one such experience
Are our Brains Bayesian?
Authors: Bain Robert
Published: August 2016

Artificial intelligence researchers have made impressive use of Bayesian inference as a means of approximating some human capabilities, which raises the question: do human judgements and decisions adhere to similar rules? Robert Bain delves into the arguments, both for and against
Making Maps
Authors: Harkness Timandra
Published: August 2016

In an extract from her book, Big Data: Does Size Matter?, Timandra Harkness meets data-based map makers CartoDB to discuss citizen cartographers and the pros and cons of location intelligence
Genetic diversity of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates during an outbreak in a non‐human primate research colony
Authors: Gozalo Alfonso S. , Elkins William R. , Lambert Lynn E. , Stock Frida , Thomas Marvin L. , Woodward Ruth A.
Published: August 2016

Background

Klebsiella pneumoniae can be a serious pathogen in non‐human primates, particularly Neotropical monkeys.

Methods

During a K. pneumoniae outbreak in an owl monkey research colony, 13 K. pneumoniae isolates were DNA fingerprinted by automated repetitive extragenic palindromic‐polymerase chain reaction and the profiles compared to isolates obtained from other non‐human primate species during the same time period and isolates from previous outbreaks.

Results

Eleven different types of K. pneumoniae were circulating in the owl monkey colony at the time of the outbreak. When comparing owl monkey isolates relatedness to previous colony outbreak isolates and squirrel monkey and capuchin monkey isolates, all were different.

Conclusions

These results agree with recent reports where K. pneumoniae nosocomial isolates in hospital settings can have high genetic diversity, and multiple strains can be circulating simultaneously. This potential genetic diversity should be considered when designing strategies for controlling K. pneumoniae outbreaks in captive non‐human primate colonies.
The experiences of families living with the anticipatory loss of a school‐age child with spinal muscular atrophy – the parents’ perspectives
Authors: Yang Bao‐Huan , Mu Pei‐Fan , Wang Wen‐Sheng
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

To probe into parents’ anticipatory loss of school‐age children with Type I or II spinal muscular atrophy.

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy is a rare disorder that causes death. Children die early due to either gradual atrophy or an infection of the lungs. Therefore, family members experience anticipatory loss, which causes grief before the actual loss. Family members feel physically and mentally exhausted, which results in a family crisis. Therefore, it is important to explore their experiences related to anticipatory loss to assist with the adjustment of the families to their circumstances.

Design

This study applied a phenomenology method and purposive sampling.

Participants

The 19 parents who participated in this study were referred to us by two medical centers in Taiwan. Their average age was 32–49 years.

Methods

Using in‐depth interviews, this study explored parents’ anticipatory loss. The interviews were recorded and transcribed. Meanings were extracted using Giorgi analysis, and precision was assessed according to Guba and Lincoln, which was treated as the evaluation standard.

Results

Four themes were identified from the parents’ interviews. The themes included enduring the helplessness and pressure of care, suffering due to the child's rare and unknown condition, loss of hope and a reinforcement of the parent–child attachment, and avoiding the pressure of death and enriching the child's life.

Conclusions

The research findings help nurses identify anticipatory loss among parents of school‐age children with type I or II spinal muscular atrophy. They enhance health professionals’ understanding of the panic that occurs in the society surrounding the families, family members’ dynamic relationships, and the families’ demands for care.

Relevance to clinical practice

In an attempt to providing intersubjective empathy and support with family having a child with type I and II SMA, nurses may recognize relevant family reactions and enhancing their hope and parent‐child attachment. Encourage family members and child go beyond the pressure of death and create customized care plans meeting families’ emotional and medical needs.