bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracapsular sling technique for treatment of three canine caudoventral hip luxation cases
Authors: Martin Chloé , Cabon Quentin , Dembour Thierry
Published: February 2022

The objective of this study was to report surgical stabilisation of caudoventral coxofemoral luxation by an extra‐articular technique in dogs. Medical records from caudoventral coxofemoral luxations in dogs and cats presented at our institution between January 2012 and December 2020 were reviewed. Caudoventral luxations were relatively rare and were found in one cat and in 13 dogs. Three cases of surgical stabilisation using a ventral coxofemoral approach were reviewed, replacing function of the transverse acetabular ligament using a figure of eight braided suture passed around two pelvic screws and one femoral screw. Functional recovery was obtained in all three cases, without complication or re‐luxation. Extra‐articular stabilisation using a sling implant is a simple, effective method for treatment of caudoventral coxofemoral luxation in dogs.
Entwicklung des klinischen Risikomanagements in deutschen Krankenhäusern
Authors: Bartz Hans-Jürgen
Published: February 2022

Das klinische Risikomanagement (kRM) unterstützt Mitarbeitende im Gesundheitswesen dabei, Risiken bei der Patient:innenversorgung zu erkennen, zu reduzieren und zu bewältigen. Es ist für alle ambulanten und stationären Einrichtungen des deutschen Gesundheitswesens verpflichtend. Die Inhalte des kRM sind im Fünften Sozialgesetzbuch (SGB V), der Richtlinie des Gemeinsamen Bundesausschusses (G-BA), dem Patientenrechtegesetz und in Normen geregelt. Darüber hinaus gibt es die Empfehlungen des Aktionsbündnisses Patientensicherheit (APS). Der G‑BA weist explizit auf Mindeststandards hin. Diese gelten für das Risikomanagement, das Fehlermanagement, die Fehlermeldesysteme, das Beschwerdemanagement sowie die Nutzung von Checklisten bei operativen Eingriffen.

Der Gesetzgeber fordert, die Wirksamkeit des kRM regelmäßig zu überprüfen. Fragebogenerhebungen zum kRM in Deutschland zeigen insgesamt eine positive Entwicklung. Die Daten sind jedoch für eine umfassende Bewertung nicht hinreichend. Es sollten deshalb methodisch belastbare Verfahren entwickelt werden, die den Status des kRM deutlich häufiger und regelmäßiger überprüfen. Struktur‑, Prozess- und Ergebnisqualitätsdaten sollten systematisch erhoben und, bezogen auf die Einrichtungen, vergleichend dargestellt werden.

Chancen für das klinische Risikomanagement ergeben sich aus dem Global Action Safety Plan der Weltgesundheitsorganisation, Fortschritten in der Digitalisierung, der Integration des klinischen Risikomanagements in ein Organisationsrisikomanagement und der Verbesserung der Strukturqualität. Dem kRM muss in der täglichen Routine von Ärzt:innen und Pflegekräften noch mehr Raum gegeben werden. Dazu bedarf es Kompetenz und personeller Ressourcen im kRM. Diese sind in deutschen Krankenhäusern nicht ausreichend vorhanden.
Efficient aeroelastic wing optimization through a compact aerofoil decomposition approach
Authors: Poole Daniel J. , Allen Christian B. , Rendall Thomas C. S.
Published: February 2022

Efficient optimization of an aeroelastic wing is presented through multi-disciplinary analysis using low-dimensional modal design variables. Much work in wing optimization has concentrated on high-fidelity surface control, therefore utilising often hundreds of design variables. However, whilst fine surface control can be useful, problems can arise such as large disparities in design variable values when planform variables are introduced, slow convergence speeds, and lack of compatibility with global algorithms. Therefore, the focus of this paper is to filter the design space of this problem to reduce the dimensionality and complexity of the problem. Orthogonal geometric design variables are derived in the geometric space via singular value decomposition. Orthogonality of design variables leads to a well-conditioned design space and ensures effective optimizer convergence. These variables are applied in a sectional fashion for fixed planform drag minimization of a flexible transonic wing, using a gradient-based optimizer. Shock-free solutions are demonstrated when optimizing a rigid wing, indicating suitability of the aerofoil modes for sectional-based wing optimization. However, it is shown that these wings have poor performance when subsequently deformed under flight loads, hence optimisation including full aeroelastic performance is performed. Encouragingly, shock-free solutions are again computed. Loading is shifted outboard, leading to increased tip deflection. Monotonic improvement in the objective function (drag) with increase in dimensionality is also proven. Furthermore, applying these sectional deformation modes globally across the wing with only 10 design variable leads to a 28% drag reduction, which is within 7 drag counts of when the modes are applied locally through 82 design variables. This therefore opens the possibility of introducing global optimization algorithms to high-fidelity aeroelastic wing optimization.
Osteocondritis dissecans lesions of the knee restored by bone marrow aspirate concentrate. Clinical and imaging results in 18 patients
Authors: Baldassarri Matteo , Buda Roberto , Perazzo Luca , Ghinelli Diego , Sarino Ricciardello , Grigolo Brunella , Faldini Cesare
Published: February 2022

Background

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a common cartilage disorder that specifically affects the knees of skeletally immature and young adult patients. There have been a few treatments that have been proposed: fixation of the fragment, drilling, microfractures. The aim of this study was to analyze retrospectively clinical and imaging results obtained by treating it with one-step bone marrow-derived cells Transplantation (BMDCT) technique.

Methods

From 2007 to 2014, 18 patients (mean-age 19.1 ± 5.0 years) affected by OCD were treated with one-step BMDC transplantation. In our observational study, clinical evaluation was performed at a scheduled follow-up through IKDC, Tegner, KOOS and EQ-VAS. X-rays and MRI were conducted preoperatively and at 12 months. At final follow-up, MRI MOCART Score was evaluated.

Results

IKDC and KOOS clinical scores showed a progressive increase. Tegner Score at final follow-up (5.3 ± 2.7) was significantly lower compared to the pre-injury level (6.5 ± 2.1); however, these results showed a statistically significant improvement that remained over time. EQ-VAS showed a significant improvement in every follow-up measure. MRI Mocart Score showed a complete or almost complete filling of the lesion in 13 patients.

Conclusions

“One-step” technique allows articular surface restoration with viable physiologic osteochondral tissue with a high clinical efficacy and imaging results. The number of cases is still limited, and further studies with larger sample sizes and greater follow-up evaluations are required to confirm our results. Nevertheless, we believe that BMDCT may represent a suitable option to treat OCD lesion in young adults.
Understanding the impact of temporal scale on human movement analytics
Authors: Su Rongxiang , Dodge Somayeh , Goulias Konstadinos G.
Published: February 2022

Movement is manifested through a series of patterns at multiple spatial and temporal scales. Movement data today are becoming available at increasingly fine-grained temporal granularity. These observations often represent multiple behavioral modes and complex patterns along the movement path. However, the relationships between the observation scale of movement data and the analysis scales at which movement patterns are captured remain understudied. This article aims at investigating the role of temporal scale in movement data analytics. It takes up an important question of “how do decisions surrounding the scale of movement data and analyses impact our inferences about movement patterns?” Through a set of computational experiments in the context of human movement, we take a systematic look at the impact of varying temporal scales on common movement analytics techniques including trajectory analytics to calculate movement parameters (e.g., speed, path tortuosity), estimation of individual space usage, and interactions analysis to detect potential contacts between multiple mobile individuals.
Coagulation/fibrinolysis and circulating tumor cells in patients with advanced breast cancer
Authors: Dirix Luc Y. , Oeyen Steffi , Buys Andy , Liégois Vincent , Prové Annemie , Van De Mooter Tom , Van Laere Steven , Vermeulen Peter B.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the relationship between circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and standard coagulation tests in both a discovery and a validation cohort of patients with advanced breast cancer.

Methods

In a retrospective (n = 77) and a prospective (n = 92) study of patients with progressive advanced breast cancer, CTC count, platelet number, fibrinogen level, D-dimers, prothrombin time, and activated partial thromboplastin time were measured. The association between these coagulation studies and CTC count was analyzed. The impact of these measurements on overall survival (OS) was assessed.

Results

In both cohorts, results were similar; absolute CTC count was significantly associated to D-dimer level and inversely with platelet count. In the prospective cohort, quantification of tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (tdEVs) was associated with CTC count, and with coagulation abnormalities (low platelet count and increased D-dimers). tdEVs did not add to CTC count in predicting changes in platelets or D-dimers. In multivariate analysis only CTC ≥ 5 CTC/7.5 mL, ER status, HER2 status and lines of chemotherapy were associated with OS. In patients with terminally metastatic breast cancer, very high CTC counts are prevalent.

Conclusion

A significant association exists between increasing CTC number and increased D-dimers and decreased platelet counts, suggesting a potential role for CTCs as a direct contributor of intravascular coagulation activation. In patients with advanced and progressive breast cancer, abnormalities in routine coagulation tests is the rule. In patients with terminally advanced breast cancer a “leukemic” phase with high CTC count is prevalent.
Perinatal exposure to pesticides alters synaptic plasticity signaling and induces behavioral deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: López-Merino Esperanza , Cuartero María I. , Esteban José A. , Briz Víctor
Published: February 2022

Increasing evidence from animal and epidemiological studies indicates that perinatal exposure to pesticides cause developmental neurotoxicity and may increase the risk for psychiatric disorders such as autism and intellectual disability. However, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain largely elusive. This work was aimed at testing the hypothesis that developmental exposure to different classes of pesticides hijacks intracellular neuronal signaling contributing to synaptic and behavioral alterations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). Low concentrations of organochlorine (dieldrin, endosulfan, and chlordane) and organophosphate (chlorpyrifos and its oxon metabolite) pesticides were chronically dosed ex vivo (organotypic rat hippocampal slices) or in vivo (perinatal exposure in rats), and then biochemical, electrophysiological, behavioral, and proteomic studies were performed. All the pesticides tested caused prolonged activation of MAPK/ERK pathway in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, some of them impaired metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent long-term depression (mGluR-LTD). In the case of the pesticide chlordane, the effect was attributed to chronic modulation of MAPK/ERK signaling. These synaptic alterations were reproduced following developmental in vivo exposure to chlordane and chlorpyrifos-oxon, and were also associated with prototypical behavioral phenotypes of NDD, including impaired motor development, increased anxiety, and social and memory deficits. Lastly, proteomic analysis revealed that these pesticides differentially regulate the expression of proteins in the hippocampus with pivotal roles in brain development and synaptic signaling, some of which are associated with NDD. Based on these results, we propose a novel mechanism of synaptic dysfunction, involving chronic overactivation of MAPK and impaired mGluR-LTD, shared by different pesticides which may have important implications for NDD.

Graphical abstract
Simulations to Teach Science Subjects: Connections Among Students’ Engagement, Self-Confidence, Satisfaction, and Learning Styles
Authors: Almasri Firas
Published: February 2022

With the increasing technology integration practices in education, the adoption of computer simulations to teach conceptual understanding of science concepts is widely accepted by educators across the globe. To understand the connections between learners’ engagement and satisfaction with simulations for science learning and their learning styles, the present study analyzed 1034 university students' perceptions and experiences of using simulations for learning physics, chemistry, and biology subjects. The study took place in a large public university in a gulf country. Precisely, this study provides an empirically driven exploration of the connection between tertiary students' engagement and satisfaction with simulation-based learning and their learning styles. The findings of this study showed that the participants showed a very high level of engagement and satisfaction with the use of simulations for learning science concepts in the subjects of physics, chemistry, and biology. Their self-confidence and VAK learning styles, particularly the kinesthetic style, were significant predictors of their engagement and satisfaction with the learning process. The findings from this study have implications for the benefit of researchers and practitioners interested in the effective adoption of computer simulations as a pedagogical approach in science education.
Stakeholder participation, indicators, assessment, and decision-making: applying adaptive management at the watershed scale
Authors: Zuniga-Teran Adriana A. , Fisher Larry A. , Meixner Thomas , Le Tourneau François-Michel , Postillion Frank
Published: February 2022

Climate change, population growth, and declining federal budgets are threatening the health of ecosystems, and the services they provide. Under these changing conditions, managing landscapes and resources assumes new and unprecedented challenges. Adaptive management has been identified as a natural resource management approach that allows practitioners to incorporate change and uncertainty into decision-making through an iterative process that involves long-term monitoring and continued review and adjustment of management actions. However, the success of these efforts in watershed health relies on the collective and sustained monitoring of indicators, which is seldom studied. The purpose of this analysis is to examine (1) the practical challenge of choosing a list of indicators for long-term monitoring, (2) the negotiation process among stakeholders around the selection and interpretation of indicators, and (3) the communication tools that can be used to convey the assessment’s results and findings. To do this, we analyze our ongoing work in the Cienega Watershed in southern Arizona. Our analysis shows that the selective use of indicators, regular assessment and review, and establishment of partnerships among stakeholders are all important elements in establishing effective adaptive management efforts. The selection of indicators and data sources is a moving target that requires regular consensus and review among stakeholders. The assessment itself is also a powerful engagement tool with the public at large, providing legitimacy and support to land management decision-making. Here, we outline some lessons learned that can be transferred to other cases and identify potential barriers for engagement, decision-making, and project success.
Monitoring of the copper persistence on plant leaves using pulsed thermography
Authors: Rippa Massimo , Battaglia Valerio , Cermola Michele , Sicignano Mariarosaria , Lahoz Ernesto , Mormile Pasquale
Published: February 2022

Copper-based fungicides are largely used in agriculture in the control of a wide range of plant diseases. Applied on plants, they remain deposited on leaf surfaces and are not absorbed into plant tissues. Because of accumulation problems and their ecotoxicological profiles in the soil, their use needs to be monitored and controlled, also by using modern technologies to better optimize the efficacy rendering minimum the amount of copper per season used. In this work, we test a novel approach based on pulsed thermography to evaluate the persistence of the copper on plant leaves so that the time between two applications should be the minimum needs. We monitored the thermal response observed on different treatments of both grapevine and tobacco plants over a 3-week period. Our experimental results demonstrate that the new methodological approach based on pulsed thermography can be an effective tool to evaluate in real time the presence of copper on differently treated plants allowing a tentative quantification and, therefore, to optimize its use in the agricultural practices, according also to the European Regulation n. 1107/2009.
Microsatellite markers as a tool for active germplasm management and bridging the gap between national and local collections of apple
Authors: Venison Edward P. , Litthauer Suzanne , Laws Peter , Denancé Caroline , Fernández-Fernández Felicidad , Durel Charles-Eric , Ordidge Matthew
Published: February 2022

Simple sequence repeat (SSR) microsatellite markers have been extensively used to identify duplication and analyse genetic diversity in germplasm collections of apple. Here, we present findings from the use of a standard set of SSR loci in the managed repropagation of a significant international germplasm collection: the UK National Fruit Collection (NFC). A subset of eight SSR loci was deemed sufficient to distinguish all apart from the clonal relatives across a sample of 1995 accessions, with a single exception being one pair of full siblings. In total, 99% of accessions were able to be confirmed present and correct after the replacement of trees initially identified to be incorrectly propagated. In parallel to the curation of the collection itself, through an initiative led by the UK local apple enthusiast community, 3373 SSR profiles for apples held in local collections were compared to the NFC holdings. Overall, in both sets of material, diversity remained high with average gene diversity values of 0.800 and 0.812 in the NFC holdings and local collections, respectively. Accessions in local collections were not found to differ in their overall coverage of genetic diversity to that of the NFC collection (FST = 0.0035) although significant numbers of locally valued, and genetically distinguishable individuals were identified, some of which may represent ‘lost’ cultivars.
Effect of a DACC-coated dressing on keratinocytes and fibroblasts in wound healing using an in vitro scratch model
Authors: Morgner Bianka , Husmark Johanna , Arvidsson Anna , Wiegand Cornelia
Published: February 2022

Wound dressings that exert an antimicrobial effect in order to prevent and treat wound infections can be harmful to the wound healing process. Dressings with hydrophobic coatings, however, have been suggested to both reduce the microbial load and promote the healing process. Therefore, the potential effects of a dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)-coated dressing on fibroblasts and keratinocytes in wound healing were studied using mechanical scratch wounding of confluent cell layers as an in vitro model. Additionally, gene expression analysis by qRT-PCR was used to elucidate the longitudinal effects of the DACC-coated dressing on cell responses, specifically inflammation, growth factor induction and collagen synthesis. DACC promoted cell viability, did not stick to the cell layers, and supported normal wound healing progression in vitro. In contrast, cells became attached to the uncoated reference material, which inhibited scratch closure. Moreover, DACC slightly induced KGF, VEGF, and GM-CSF expression in HaCaT cells and NHDF. Physiological COL1A1 and COL3A1 gene expression by NHDF was observed under DACC treatment with no observable effect on S100A7 and RNASE7 levels in HaCaT cells. Overall, the DACC coating was found to be safe and may positively influence the wound healing outcome.
Offline and Online Gambling in a Swiss Emerging-Adult Male Population
Authors: Tomei Alexander , Petrovic Gordana , Simon Olivier
Published: February 2022

Faced with the rapid expansion of the online gambling offer, a growing number of jurisdictions around the world are developing legislation to regulate online gambling. The new Swiss Act on gambling extends legalization of online gambling from already authorized lottery-type to casino-type gambling. In this context, the present study examines offline and online gambling behaviors in emerging-adult males as a particularly at-risk population for gambling addiction. A sample of 1,869 young males completed a questionnaire assessing offline and online gambling behaviors as well as severity of problem gambling. Results show that 62.1% of the respondents were lifetime gamblers while 46.7% were past-year gamblers. Among the latter, 76.4% had gambled only within offline venues, 21.4% had gambled at both offline and online sites, and 2.2% had gambled online only. Furthermore, 17.6% of past-year gamblers were at moderate-risk of developing problem gambling whilst 3.6% were problem gamblers. Association analysis showed that, compared to non-problem gamblers, at-risk and problem gamblers played online at higher rates. These findings contribute to the growing literature on youth gambling behaviors and on offline-online transitions. In the context of the growing online gambling supply, the evolution of youth gambling behaviors should be monitored through periodical assessments.
One hundred years of rent control in Argentina: much ado about nothing
Authors: Jacobo Alejandro D. , Kholodilin Konstantin A.
Published: February 2022

Following World War I, rent control became a standard policy response to the housing shortage and the resulting rent increases. Typically, economists blame it for creating inefficiencies in the housing market and beyond. We investigate whether rental market regulations (including rent control, protection of tenants from eviction, and housing rationing) had any effects in a middle-income Latin American economy, such as Argentina. To answer this question, we take advantage of a wide range of housing market indicators and restrictive rental regulation indices covering almost one century. Using a standard OLS model and MARS, a nonlinear estimation technique, we find that rental market regulations have exerted a statistically significant negative impact on the growth rates of the real housing rents. However, they were only effective for short periods following both World Wars, when regulations were novel and particularly strong.
Expectations of Mental Illness Disclosure Outcomes in the Work Context: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Dutch Workers
Authors: van Beukering I. E. , Bakker M. , Corrigan P. W. , Gürbüz S. , Bogaers R. I. , Janssens K. M. E. , Joosen M. C. W. , Brouwers E. P. M.
Published: February 2022

Purpose The decision whether to disclose mental illness at work can have important positive and negative consequences for sustainable employment and well-being. The aim of the study is (1) to examine workers’ expectations of outcomes of mental illness disclosure in the workplace and to evaluate their expectations regarding which factors are of influence on these outcomes, (2) to identify distinct subgroups of workers, and (3) to characterize these subgroups in terms of personal, sociodemographic, and work-related characteristics. Methods In this cross-sectional survey study, a sample of 1224 Dutch workers was used. Latent Class Analysis (LCA) was used to identify classes of workers based on expected workplace mental illness outcomes. A three-step approach LCA was chosen to investigate whether the classes differed in characteristics. Results The majority of workers expected predominantly positive outcomes of workplace mental illness disclosure (e.g., being able to be one’s authentic self; 82.4%), even though they simultaneously expected disclosure to lead to advancement-related discrimination (e.g., lower chances of contract renewal; or getting a promotion; 68.4% and 57%, respectively). Six distinct subgroups of workers were identified based on expected workplace mental illness disclosure outcomes: two positive classes (50.1%), two negative classes (33.3%), and two classes who indicated not to know what the outcomes would be (16.7%). Significant differences between the classes were found on personal experience, work-related association with mental illness, gender, educational level, and workplace atmosphere. Conclusion The disclosure process is complex, as most workers were optimistic (i.e., expected generally positive outcomes) whilst simultaneously expecting workplace discrimination. Subgroup differences in expectations regarding workplace mental illness disclosure outcomes were found.
An Augmented Lagrangian Method Exploiting an Active-Set Strategy and Second-Order Information
Authors: Cristofari Andrea , Di Pillo Gianni , Liuzzi Giampaolo , Lucidi Stefano
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we consider nonlinear optimization problems with nonlinear equality constraints and bound constraints on the variables. For the solution of such problems, many augmented Lagrangian methods have been defined in the literature. Here, we propose to modify one of these algorithms, namely ALGENCAN by Andreani et al., in such a way to incorporate second-order information into the augmented Lagrangian framework, using an active-set strategy. We show that the overall algorithm has the same convergence properties as ALGENCAN and an asymptotic quadratic convergence rate under suitable assumptions. The numerical results confirm that the proposed algorithm is a viable alternative to ALGENCAN with greater robustness.
Lagrange Multipliers, Duality, and Sensitivity in Set-Valued Convex Programming via Pointed Processes
Authors: García-Castaño Fernando , Melguizo-Padial Miguel Ángel
Published: February 2022

We present a new kind of Lagrangian duality theory for set-valued convex optimization problems whose objective and constraint maps are defined between preordered normed spaces. The theory is accomplished by introducing a new set-valued Lagrange multiplier theorem and a dual program with variables that are pointed closed convex processes. The pointed nature assumed for the processes is essential for the derivation of the main results presented in this research. We also develop a strong duality theorem that guarantees the existence of dual solutions, which are closely related to the sensitivity of the primal program. It allows extending the common methods used in the study of scalar programs to the set-valued vector case.
Comparison of Sinus Deposition from an Aqueous Nasal Spray and Pressurised MDI in a Post-Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Nasal Replica
Authors: Siu Joey , van Strien James , Campbell Rosa , Roberts Paul , Tingle Malcolm Drummond , Inthavong Kiao , Douglas Richard George
Published: February 2022

Background

Optimising intranasal distribution and retention of topical therapy is essential for effectively managing patients with chronic rhinosinusitis, including those that have had functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). This study presents a new technique for quantifying in vitro experiments of fluticasone propionate deposition within the sinuses of a 3D-printed model from a post-FESS patient.

Methods

Circular filter papers were placed on the sinus surfaces of the model. Deposition of fluticasone on the filter paper was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay-based techniques. The deposition patterns of two nasal drug delivery devices, an aqueous nasal spray (Flixonase) and metered dose inhaler (Flixotide), were compared. The effects of airflow (0 L/min vs. 12 L/min) and administration angle (30° vs. and 45°) were evaluated.

Results

Inhaled airflow made little difference to sinus deposition for either device. A 45° administration angle improved frontal sinus deposition with the nasal spray and both ethmoidal and sphenoidal deposition with the inhaler. The inhaler provided significantly better deposition within the ethmoid sinuses (8.5x) and within the maxillary sinuses (3.9x) compared with the nasal spray under the same conditions.

Conclusion

In the post-FESS model analysed, the inhaler produced better sinus deposition overall compared with the nasal spray. The techniques described can be used and adapted for in vitro performance testing of different drug formulations and intranasal devices under different experimental conditions. They can also help validate computational fluid dynamics modelling and in vivo studies.
When do firms use one set of books in an international tax compliance game?
Authors: Reineke Rebecca , Weiskirchner-Merten Katrin , Wielenberg Stefan
Published: February 2022

This study examines how a strategic tax auditor affects a multinational firm’s transfer pricing in a tax compliance game. Our model uses a divisionalized firm, in both a low-tax and a high-tax country, that decides to implement a transfer-pricing regime with either one or two sets of books. After observing its unit costs, the firm reports a compliant or noncompliant tax transfer price. In a regime with one set of books, the single transfer price coordinates the quantity decision and determines the tax payments. In a regime with two sets, different transfer prices serve those tasks. In contrast to previous studies, our analysis incorporates a strategic tax auditor, who observes the tax transfer price and decides whether to audit the firm. Real-world regulations suggest larger penalties for detected noncompliance under a two-sets-of-books transfer-pricing regime. Our analysis identifies the mixed strategy equilibria and examines how variations in the tax regulation—the tax rate difference and the penalty difference—affect the firm’s tax aggressiveness. We show that a firm acts less tax aggressively with a higher tax rate difference. Additionally, the model predicts that the firm either increases or decreases the probability of keeping one set of books for a smaller penalty difference.
The Impact of Collaboration Between Science and Religious Education Teachers on Their Understanding and Views of Argumentation
Authors: Chan Jessica , Erduran Sibel
Published: February 2022

Teachers’ understanding and teaching of argumentation is gaining more attention in science education research. However, little is known about how science teachers engage in argumentation with teachers of different subject taking an interdisciplinary perspective that may inspire new pedagogical ideas or strategies. In particular, the positioning of argumentation at the juncture of science and religion is rare. This paper reports an empirical study involving science and religious education (RE) teachers who collaborated on teaching argumentation in three secondary schools in England. Their interdisciplinary collaboration was sustained by a series of professional development sessions over 18 months. Analysis of the interview data unfolds how the teachers’ collaboration impacted their understanding of argumentation and views of teaching their subject. Through working relationally in exploring and teaching argumentation, the science teachers reflected more notable changes than their RE counterparts. Science teachers came to appreciate student voice in the learning process and the role of argumentation in fostering students’ scientific reasoning. The paper is a salient step to researching argumentation in a cross-curricular terrain, particularly in relation to RE. It also sheds light on how collaborating with teachers of another subject bolstered science teachers’ professional development and broke subject barriers.
A feedback model applied in a ubiquitous microlearning environment using SECA rules
Authors: Tabares Marta S. , Vallejo Paola , Montoya Alex , Correa Daniel
Published: February 2022

Understanding learners’ behavior is the key to the success of any learning process. The more we know about them, the more likely we can personalize learning experiences and provide successful feedback. This paper presents a feedback model implemented in a ubiquitous microlearning environment based on contextual and behavioral information and evaluation results. The model uses SECA rules where the Scenario (S) represents the ubiquitous context variables reflecting the learner behavior during the learning process. The Event (E) identifies the probability that a learner fails or passes its evaluation. Condition (C) evaluates the results of the events. Moreover, Action (A) provides feedback to the learner. The proposal is developed through a controlled experiment whereby a microlearning environment can collect data from a ubiquitous context. The feedback model applies an analytics process to find the best context and behavior variables through different classification models. Those models predict whether a learner could fail, determine evaluation results’ causes, and provide feedback. The Random Forest was the model with the best performance. Thus, 94% accuracy, a 97% Recall, a 93% Precision, an F1 score of 95%, and a Jaccard of 91%. Hence, each scenario is defined from a branch of every tree obtained from the Random Forest model personalizing feedback actions applying clustering techniques. Finally, we presented an exemplified set of feedback rules, providing automatic recommendations and improving learner experiences. Thus, the experiment allows analyzing the learner behavior in a ubiquitous microlearning context from a feedback perspective.
$$\mathtt {Tenscalc}$$: a toolbox to generate fast code to solve nonlinear constrained minimizations and compute Nash equilibria
Authors: Hespanha João P.
Published: February 2022

We describe the toolbox $$\mathtt {Tenscalc}$$
Tenscalc
that generates specialized C-code to solve nonlinear constrained optimizations and to compute Nash equilibria. $$\mathtt {Tenscalc}$$
Tenscalc
is aimed at scenarios where one needs to solve very fast a large number of optimizations that are structurally similar. This is common in applications where the optimizations depend on measured data and one wants to compute optima for large or evolving datasets, e.g., in robust estimation and classification, maximum likelihood estimation, model predictive control (MPC), moving horizon estimation (MHE), and combined MPC-MHE (which requires the computation of a saddle-point equilibria). $$\mathtt {Tenscalc}$$
Tenscalc
is mostly aimed at generating solvers for optimizations with up to a few thousands of optimization variables/constraints and solve times up to a few milliseconds. The speed achieved by the solver arises from a combination of features: reuse of intermediate computations across and within iterations of the solver, detection and exploitation of matrix sparsity, avoidance of run-time memory allocation and garbage collection, and reliance on flat code that improves the efficiency of the microprocessor pipelining and caching. All these features have been automated and embedded into the code generation process. We include a few representative examples to illustrate how the speed and memory footprint of the solver scale with the size of the problem.
Food systems and rural wellbeing: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Woodhill Jim , Kishore Avinash , Njuki Jemimah , Jones Kristal , Hasnain Saher
Published: February 2022

The future wellbeing of billions of rural people is interconnected with transforming food systems for equity, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and resilience. This article tackles three blind spots in the understanding of rural poverty and vulnerability: the narrow focus on extreme poverty and hunger that hides a much wider set of inequalities and vulnerabilities, insufficient recognition of the diversity of rural households, and an inadequate appreciation of the impact of rapid structural changes in markets, the physical environment, and the political economic context. A better understanding of these areas is necessary for imagining a new policy landscape that can align progress on rural poverty alleviation with a wider transformation of food systems. The article provides a framework for assessing the dynamics of rural wellbeing and food systems change. It looks at the viability of small-scale farming and the diversification of livelihood options needed to overcome rural poverty and inequality. The analysis suggests that the future prosperity of rural areas will depend on policy reforms to address market failures in the food system, which currently work against equity, good nutrition and sustainability. Investments will also be needed to enable rural economies to capture greater value from the food system, particularly in the midstream of food distribution, processing and services. The likely future scale and nature of rural poverty and inequality is such that improved social protection and humanitarian relief schemes that support those in crisis or being left behind will still be essential.
Creatine kinase-(MB) and hepcidin as candidate biomarkers for early diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis: a proof-of-concept study in Lambaréné, Gabon
Authors: Essone Paulin N. , Adegbite Bayode R. , Mbadinga Marien J. M. , Mbouna Armel V. , Lotola-Mougeni Fabrice , Alabi Ayodele , Edoa Jean R. , Lell Bertrand , Alabi Abraham S. , Adegnika Ayola A. , Ramharter Michael , Siawaya Joel F. D. , Grobusch Martin P. , Kremsner Peter G. , Agnandji Selidji T.
Published: February 2022

Background

The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utility of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), hepcidin (HEPC), phospholipase A2 group IIA (PLa2G2A), and myosin-binding protein C (MYBPC1) for tuberculosis (TB). These four biomarkers are differentially regulated between quiescent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infected individuals (non-progressors to TB disease) and Mtb-infected TB disease progressors 6 months before the onset of symptoms.

Methods

We enrolled samples from patients experiencing moderate-to-severe pulmonary infections diseases including 23 TB cases confirmed by smear microscopy and culture, and 34 TB-negative cases. For each participant, the serum levels of the four biomarkers were measured using ELISA.

Results

The levels of CK-MB and HEPC were significantly reduced in patients with active TB disease. CK-MB median level was 2045 pg/ml (1455–4000 pg/ml) in active TB cases and 3245 pg/ml (1645–4000 pg/ml) in non-TB pulmonary diseases. Using the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, HEPC and CK-MB had the Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 79% (95% CI 67–91%) and 81% (95% CI 69–93%), respectively. Both markers correlated with TB diagnosis as a single marker. PLa2G2A and MYBPC1 with AUCs of 48% (95% CI 36–65%) and 62% (95% CI 48–76%) did not performed well as single biomarkers. The three markers’model (CK-MB-HEPC-PLa2G2A) had the highest diagnostic accuracy at 82% (95% CI 56–82%) after cross-validation.

Conclusion

CK-MB and HEPC levels were statistically different between confirmed TB cases and non-TB cases. This study yields promising results for the rapid diagnosis of TB disease using a single marker or three biomarkers model.
Orbital Muscle Enlargement: What if It’s Not Graves’ Disease?
Authors: Lakerveld Mieke , van der Gijp Anouk
Published: February 2022

Purpose of Review

To provide the radiologist with tools to recognize findings atypical for Graves’ ophthalmopathy and differentiate between the most important and common alternative causes of extraocular muscle enlargement on CT and MR imaging.

Recent findings

We introduce five ‘red flags’ representing features that are atypical for Graves’ ophthalmopathy: unilateral disease, atypical pattern of muscle involvement, adjacent structure involvement, restricted diffusion, and absence of pain.

About 95% of the cases with extraocular enlargement are due to Graves’ ophthalmopathy, other causes are less well known and recognized. The ‘red flags’ may aid in recognizing and suggesting alternative diagnoses.
Gait characteristics in community-dwelling older persons with low skeletal muscle mass and low physical performance
Authors: Longobucco Yari , Krumpoch Sebastian , Lauretani Fulvio , Angileri Valentina , Sieber Cornel , Marzetti Emanuele , Calvani Riccardo , Cherubini Antonio , Landi Francesco , Bernabei Roberto , Freiberger Ellen , Maggio Marcello
Published: February 2022

Background

Demographic changes in the western world entail new clinical approaches and challenges in older persons. Low skeletal muscle mass and low physical performance in older persons are both predisposing conditions for disability and obtaining knowledge in this cohort is essential.

Aim

The primary aim of the study was to analyze a broader spectrum of gait characteristics within this specific population and differentiate them across different test conditions.

Methods

Two centers participating at the SPRINTT project with hi-tech gait analysis available conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study on N = 115 community-dwelling older persons with low muscle mass and physical performance.

Reference values of 13 gait parameters were collected across different conditions: usual gait speed, fast gait speed, and usual gait speed while simultaneously naming animals.

Results and discussion

This study shows the first spatio-temporal reference values in a community-dwelling older population composed of individuals with low skeletal muscle mass and low physical performance. In comparison to the normative spatio-temporal gait parameters in older persons reported in the literature, this population showed some differences. The mean gait speed was lower than 1 m/s, considered as a cutoff for vulnerable community-dwelling individuals, which corresponds to a greater risk of falls, hospitalization, and mortality. The stride length variability was higher, exposing to a greater risk of falling, and was also associated with a higher risk of developing cognitive decline.

Conclusion

This study represents the first step in the development of quantitative reference values in community-dwelling older persons with low physical performance and low skeletal muscle mass.
Stability Improvement of Model-Free Control Based on a Virtual Structure Against the Resonance of a Proof-Mass Actuator
Authors: Sato Yuto , Yonezawa Heisei , Yonezawa Ansei , Kajiwara Itsuro
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study improves the robustness of the model-free controller based on a virtual structure. Additionally, the adverse interference between the proof-mass actuator resonance and a controlled object is investigated as it is not clarified in the previous studies.

Methods and Results

A virtual structure modeled as a SDOF system was inserted between the actuator and the actual controlled object. This achieved the indirect damping of the actual controlled object and model-free control. Vibration control simulations were conducted for various finite element models with a model-free $${H}_{\infty }$$

H
∞

controller based on a virtual structure. The results demonstrate that the actuator resonance adversely affects the stability of the control system when the controlled object has a mode whose natural frequency is too close to that of the actuator. Therefore, a notch filter was applied to the model-free $${H}_{\infty }$$

H
∞

controller design approach to suppress the resonance without affecting the damping performance. The improved controller with notch filter is more robust to the resonance of the actuator than the previous one.

Conclusions

The resonance of the proof-mass actuator adversely affects the stability of the control system composed of the previous model-free $${H}_{\infty }$$

H
∞

controller when the low-order vibration mode of the actual controlled object is too close to the natural frequency of the actuator. Introducing a notch filter into the model-free approach based on a virtual structure effectively reduces the negative impact due to the resonance of the actuator and improves the robustness of the control system.
Sex Workers’ Work-Related Victimisation and Drug Use During the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Switzerland
Authors: Molnar Lorena , Ros Jenny
Published: February 2022

Criminologists have monitored the coronavirus pandemic’s effects on crime and criminal justice since the pandemic’s outbreak. Nonetheless, vulnerable and difficult-to-reach populations have been understudied thus far. This study sheds light on the experiences of sex workers (SW) during the first year of the coronavirus in Switzerland, a country where prostitution is legal. Based upon 40 questionnaires with SW outdoors and indoors and 50 h of field observation, SW reported that the pandemic has had adverse financial and psychosocial effects on them. During the first year of COVID-19, seventeen SW were victims of at least one work-related offence, the most prevalent of which were theft and fraud. Nevertheless, most SW did not report the incidents to the police. Comparing the non-victims with victims, we found that victims, particularly those of multiple crimes, are younger, more often foreigners from extra-EU countries, in an illegal situation and needed to work face to face during the prostitution ban during the lockdown in Switzerland. However, despite these circumstances, most SW do not use illegal drugs, and only a few of them used more during the pandemic. Our research findings were similar to those reported in former studies, although we could infer that the violent victimisation of our sample is less and none of the SW indicated violence on the part of the police. Nevertheless, we have no point of comparison with former years and thus propose a periodic crime victim survey of SW, as well as further prevention measures in the prostitution area.
Philosophy of Neuroscience
Authors: Bechtel William , Huang Linus Ta-Lun
Published: February 2022

This Element provides a comprehensive introduction to philosophy of neuroscience. It covers such topics as how neuroscientists procure knowledge, including not just research techniques but the use of various model organisms. It presents examples of knowledge acquired in neuroscience that are then employed to discuss more philosophical topics such as the nature of explanations developed in neuroscience, the different conception of levels employed in discussions of neuroscience, and the invocation of representations in neuroscience explanations. The text emphasizes the importance of brain processes beyond those in the neocortex and then explores what makes processing in neocortex different. It consider the view that the nervous system consists of control mechanisms and considers arguments for hierarchical vs. heterarchical organization of control mechanisms. It concludes by considering implications of findings in neuroscience for how humans conceive of themselves and practices such as embracing norms.
Rétrospective 20/20 : Regarder en arrière pour une vision d’avenir en gérontologie
Authors: Meisner Brad A.
Published: February 2022

Cet article est constitué d’extraits des messages d’ouverture et de clôture livrés lors de l’ACG2021 – la réunion scientifique et éducative annuelle de l’Association canadienne de gérontologie (ACG) – qui s’est déroulée en mode virtuel du 21 au 23 octobre 2021. Cet événement célébrait le 50e anniversaire de l’ACG et a accueilli 645 délégués de partout au Canada et dans le monde. Placée sous le thème « Rétrospective 20/20 : Regarder en arrière pour une vision d’avenir en gérontologie », le congrès a présenté des travaux émergents examinant les répercussions diverses et complexes de la COVID-19 sur les personnes âgées et sur le vieillissement, et a mis en lumière la nécessité de renforcer la justice, l’équité, la diversité, et l’inclusion dans le domaine de la gérontologie.