bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observational Evidence Linking Arctic Supercooled Liquid Cloud Biases in CESM to Snowfall Processes
Authors: McIlhattan Elin A. , L’Ecuyer Tristan S. , Miller Nathaniel B.
Published: February 2017

Clouds are a key regulator of Earth’s surface energy balance. The presence or absence of clouds, along with their macroscale and microscale characteristics, is the primary factor modulating the amount of radiation incident on the surface. Recent observational studies in the Arctic highlight the ubiquity of supercooled liquid-containing clouds (LCCs) and their disproportionately large impact on surface melt. Global climate models (GCMs) do not simulate enough Arctic LCCs compared to observations, and thus fail to represent the surface energy balance correctly. This work utilizes spaceborne observations from NASA’s A-Train satellite constellation to explore physical processes behind LCCs and surface energy biases in the Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble (CESM-LE) project output. On average CESM-LE underestimates LCC frequency by ~18% over the Arctic, resulting in a ~20 W m−2 bias in downwelling longwave radiation (DLR) over the ~18 × 106 km2 area examined. Collocated observations of falling snow and LCCs indicate that Arctic LCCs produce precipitation ~13% of the time. Conversely, CESM-LE generates snow in ~70% of LCCs. This result indicates that the Wegener–Bergeron–Findeisen (WBF) process—the growth of ice at the expense of supercooled liquid—may be too strong in the model, causing ice to scavenge polar supercooled cloud liquid too efficiently. Ground-based observations from Summit Station, Greenland, provide further evidence of these biases on a more local scale, suggesting that CESM-LE overestimates snow frequency in LCCs by ~52% at the center of the ice sheet leading to ~21% too few LCCs and ~24 W m−2 too little DLR.
Evaluation of MRMS Snowfall Products over the Western United States
Authors: Wen Yixin , Kirstetter Pierre , Gourley J. J. , Hong Yang , Behrangi Ali , Flamig Zachary
Published: February 2017

Snow is important to water resources and is of critical importance to society. Ground-weather-radar-based snowfall observations have been highly desirable for large-scale weather monitoring and water resources applications. This study conducts an evaluation of the Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) quantitative estimates of snow rate using the Snowpack Telemetry (SNOTEL) daily snow water equivalent (SWE) datasets. A detectability evaluation shows that MRMS is limited in detecting very light snow (daily snow accumulation <5 mm) because of the quality control module in MRMS filtering out weak signals (<5 dBZ). For daily snow accumulation greater than 10 mm, MRMS has good detectability. The quantitative comparisons reveal a bias of −77.37% between MRMS and SNOTEL. A majority of the underestimation bias occurs in relatively warm conditions with surface temperatures ranging from −10° to 0°C. A constant reflectivity–SWE intensity relationship does not capture the snow mass flux increase associated with denser snow particles at these relatively warm temperatures. There is no clear dependence of the bias on radar beam height. The findings in this study indicate that further improvement in radar snowfall products might occur by deriving appropriate reflectivity–SWE relationships considering the degree of riming and snowflake size.
Values of deference to authority in Japan and China
Authors: Zhai Yida
Published: February 2017

Values of deference to authority have long been prevalent in Japan and China. These two societies feature hierarchical social structures, harmonious orientations, and collectivism, which are regarded as cultural characteristics of East Asia. Through distinguishing traditional values in the political sphere from those in the non-political sphere, this article examines the relationship between traditional values and political deference levels in Japan and China. The empirical results show that conformity in family and school, preference for political harmony, and prioritization of national interests positively correlated with political deference in the two countries. However, prioritizing family and collective interests significantly correlated with political deference in China, while no significant effect was observed in Japan. Neither did preference for harmony in community and in the workplace have a positive effect on political deference in Japan.
Preparation and mechanical properties of thermosetting epoxy foams based on epoxy/ 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazol system with different curing agent contents
Authors: Li Jiantong , Zhang Guangcheng , Fan Xiaolong , Fan Xun , Zhou Lisheng , Li Jianwei , Shi Xuetao , Zhang Hongming
Published: February 2017

Epoxy/2-ethyl-4-methylimidazol system with different curing agent content was completely cured for foaming, and the effect of a systematic variation in 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazol content on the crosslinking density of cured epoxy resins was investigated. It was found that the crosslinking density of completed cured epoxy reduced as the 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazol content increased in certain range of contents (10–50 mol%). Then the precursors were foamed by a batch foaming process with supercritical carbon dioxide. The cellular morphologies of foamed epoxy resins were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that the reduced crosslinking density would improve the foamability of cured epoxy resin. The microcellular epoxy foams could be obtained by maintaining a moderate crosslinking density, which can be controlled by varying 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazol content. For the completely cured epoxy with different curing agent content, when the crosslinking density of epoxy resin was 232.40 mol m–3 (the 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazol content was 35 mol%) or lower, microcellular structure was obtained by adjusting the foaming conditions. The effects of foaming on the mechanical properties were also discussed. The results indicated that microcellular epoxy foams had higher impact strength but lower tensile strength and tensile modulus, validating that the introduction of microcellular structure in epoxy matrix was conducive to the improvement of the ductility of epoxy foams.
Learning to walk in another’s shoes
Authors: Gehlbach Hunter
Published: February 2017

Despite the enthusiasm around social-emotional learning, the vast number of skills, dispositions, and attitudes we hope to infuse into students will overwhelm even the most ambitious schools. However, a single core capacity underlies a great many social-emotional learning outcomes: social perspective taking. Recent research on this process of “reading” others — figuring out their thoughts, feelings, and motivations — suggests that we now know enough to teach this capacity to students. By helping youth engage in this process regularly as “detectives” rather than “judges” and providing them with feedback, a constellation of social-emotional learnings will blossom.
Does stressing performance goals lead to too much, well, stress?
Authors: Dockterman David , Weber Chris
Published: February 2017

There is compelling evidence that stressing goals leads to stress and negatively affects the very objectives that educators are trying to achieve. Reaching testing goals matter, but if we're not careful, the goal of educating children for the 21st century becomes subsumed by the narrow measures meant to track progress. Performance measures become the goals. Stress overtakes inspiration. If it's true that what gets measured, gets done, then it's important that we measure the right things. Outputs like standardized test scores and graduation rates matter, but how we achieve outputs matters too. Process really is as important as product.
Get it right the first time!
Authors: Heflebower Tammy , Hoegh Jan , Warrick Phil
Published: February 2017

Getting initial instruction right is essential for improving student and teacher efficacy. Teachers are more likely to hit the mark when they work with colleagues to unpack the standards before instruction. By designing what the authors call a “proficiency scale,” and aligning instructional strategies for the varied levels, teachers can design lessons that better meet student needs.
Leadership
Authors: Starr Joshua P.
Published: February 2017

Recent school reform efforts have been dominated by discussions about getting the right people into the right jobs and holding them accountable for outcomes. Educators have paid less attention to the importance of developing human capital, a process that includes promoting adult learning and providing teachers and staff with the support they need to do their best work. The author’s experience at revamping alternative education programs in Montgomery County (Md.) Public Schools demonstrates how deployment and development can unite in support of what students need.
Backtalk
Authors: Goldstein Lisa S.
Published: February 2017

A teacher educator tells how best to adopt and adapt the Common Core State Standards in the classroom and how she came to embrace them.
Interfaith dialogue in the new religious America
Authors: Eck Diana
Published: February 2017

In the decades since the passage of the 1965 Immigration and Nationalities Act, the United States has become significantly more religiously diverse. Thus, interreligious relations and interfaith dialogue have gained attention as part of our American reality. Beginning with my own experience, I outline five kinds of interfaith dialogue. First, the dialogue of life is the ordinary give and take of relationships in the neighborhood, workplace, hospital, or town council. Second, there is the dialogue of learning—the intentional study of another culture and faith, involving the intellectual energy required to understand someone else, in this case someone of another faith. In many situations today, this is a mutual process of learning and understanding. Third, dialogue in community refers to the ways in which people engage with one another in shaping their community and society—a Habitat for Humanity project, a blood drive, or a city clean-up campaign. Fourth, there is philosophical and theological dialogue, in which people engage one another on the deepest and foundational issues of their faith. Finally, there is the dialogue within—reflection on what all this means for one’s own faith, recognizing that the diversity of spiritual voices and perspectives is not only “out there” in society, but in here, within ourselves.
Scriptural paths for interfaith relations
Authors: Heim S. Mark
Published: February 2017

Many aspects of Scripture bear on our relationship with neighbors of other faith traditions and on the realities of religious pluralism. Yet, the Bible does not give us direct teaching about the living religions around us. To find guidance we need to coordinate material from several contexts: material about the nature of believers’ commitment to Christ, general norms by which we should relate to our neighbors (and enemies), examples of interactions of Israelites and the God of Israel with those of other religious backgrounds, the example of the one “other” religion whose validity is affirmed in Scripture—the Judaism of Jesus and of early Christians, and evidence on the witness and encounter of early Christians with those of other faiths. This article will provide a brief overview of these resources and of the multiple perspectives available to orient Christian participation in interfaith relations.
Interfaith relations and the global church
Authors: Premawardhana Shanta
Published: February 2017

Ever since early human beings were able to seek meaning and purpose in life, religious diversity has existed. Jesus and the early Church needed to navigate this reality as well. Through most of the five hundred year history of the colonial period, Western Christians neglected to address this question with the seriousness it requires, mostly because of a theological attitude of Christian superiority and triumphalism that accompanied the colonial movement. Notable exceptions include the 1893 World’s Parliament of Religions convened in Chicago by a Presbyterian minister and chaired by a Swedenborgian layman, and the 1910 International Mission Conference convened in Edinburgh that gave birth to the modern ecumenical movement. This article will lay out the key theological touch points in the global ecumenical movement’s journey toward interreligious dialogue from 1910 to the present day. It will also offer a proposal for addressing challenges and promises of theological methodology if we were to take seriously the reality of religious diversity.
The things that make for peace: The purpose, promise, and peril of interfaith engagement
Authors: Sehested Ken
Published: February 2017

In the early weeks of 2011, during the Arab Spring uprising, Egyptian blogger Nevine Zaki posted a photograph from Cairo’s Tahrir Square. It showed a group of people bowing in the traditional style of Muslim prayer, surrounded by other people standing hand-in-hand, facing outward, as a wall of protection against hostile pro-government forces. Zaki affixed this caption: “A picture I took yesterday of Christians protecting Muslims during their prayers.” Similar scenes, some ancient, some as recent as yesterday’s newspaper, can be referenced in numerous ways with a variety of religious identities. No religious tradition can claim a monopoly on compassionate courage, yet such stories are rarely headlined.

This article will review some of the progress made in interfaith collaboration on issues of justice, peace, and human rights, beginning with a review of organizational breakthrough statements, like “Dabru Emet,” a document from Jewish intellectuals and rabbis affirming that “Jews and Christians worship the same God,” and “A Common Word Between Us and You,” by leading Islamic scholars and clerics, followed by multiple responses from Christian bodies. With these as evidence of closer interfaith orbits on a large scale, we then examine the purpose, promise and pitfalls of interfaith collaboration on the ground in regions and communities, especially in the United States.
A Word from Carolyn Blevins: Justice: For the Poor
Authors: Blevins Carolyn
Published: February 2017

Poverty is more than an economic issue. Poverty is complicated culture. Communities of faith can be agents of change when they learn effective ways of addressing the culture of poverty. Fortunately, there are experienced voices who share their wisdom in publications that are valuable resources for churches interested in working the poor in their community. The commitment is not short-term, but the results can be life-changing for those who have never experienced any other way of life.
A Seminarian’s Word: The power of a name: Ingroups, outgroups, and canonical imagination
Authors: Estes Thomas W.
Published: February 2017

This article examines the ethical consequences of the ways we narrate the identity of outsiders in the local church. Because names are not neutral things, the names Christians assign to outgroup members materially affect both parties. Using Social Identity Theory as a lens, I explore the problem of intergroup bias and the ways it justifies practices of exclusion and violence in the current North American context. I then offer a few canonical practices as a modest place from which to begin reforming harmful and theologically problematic narrations of identity.
Interfaith relations and the Christian disciple: Living with others in the way of Jesus
Authors: Sellers Robert P.
Published: February 2017

People of other faith traditions are our fellow Americans in this religiously-diverse nation. Although some American Christians regrettably are judgmental, suspicious, fearful, or rejecting of the Religious Other in our midst, many do respect and welcome these followers of other spiritual paths and desire to speak of and act toward them in a kind, generous fashion. It is profoundly important that we learn how to live well with our neighbors who are different, not only because such behavior validates the message we preach about love and forgiveness, but also because building personal friendships makes for societal and even global peace. The best role model for how to treat others, including those who are religiously different, is arguably Jesus, who demonstrated in his words and actions why he was rightly called the “Prince of Peace.” If we choose to live with others in the way of Jesus, then at least in our individual “worlds”—and hopefully in the world at large—we will be doing the good work that will bring to reality the astute observation of Hans Küng: “There will be no world peace without peace between the world’s religions.”
A word about: Revisiting a theology of institutions
Authors: Carter Nick
Published: February 2017

The author argues for a more robust commitment to a theology of institutions. Acknowledging the roots of such thinking and work that has already been done, the case is built for those who guide contemporary prophets and train the rising ones to be doing a more thorough job of grounding their work in the reality of fallen institutions in need of redemption. Likewise, he argues that administrators and boards need to be modeling such a redemptive approach in the way seminaries are organized and run. For too long, he says, “we have been sending out precious cargo in leaky boats. These are times that call on us to do a better job of building worthy institutional boats.”
A hybrid impedance control scheme for underwater welding robots with a passive foundation in the controller domain
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Rastogi Vikas , Gupta Pardeep
Published: February 2017

A hybrid impedance control scheme for the force and position control of an end-effector is presented in this paper. The interaction of the end-effector is controlled using a passive foundation with compensation gain. For obtaining the steady state, a proportional–integral–derivative controller is tuned with an impedance controller. The hybrid impedance controller is implemented on a terrestrial (ground) single-arm robot manipulator. The modeling is done by creating a bond graph model and efficacy is substantiated through simulation results. Further, the hybrid impedance control scheme is applied on a two-link flexible arm underwater robot manipulator for welding applications. Underwater conditions, such as hydrodynamic forces, buoyancy forces, and other disturbances, are considered in the modeling. During interaction, the minimum distance from the virtual wall is maintained. A simulation study is carried out, which reveals some effective stability of the system.
Primary Care Doctors’ Assessment of and Preferences on Their Remuneration
Authors: Karakolias Stefanos , Kastanioti Catherine , Theodorou Mamas , Polyzos Nikolaos
Published: February 2017

Despite numerous studies on primary care doctors’ remuneration and their job satisfaction, few of them have quantified their views and preferences on certain types of remuneration. This study aimed at reporting these views and preferences on behalf of Greek doctors employed at public primary care. We applied a 13-item questionnaire to a random sample of 212 doctors at National Health Service health centers and their satellite clinics. The results showed that most doctors deem their salary lower than work produced and lower than that of private sector colleagues. Younger respondents highlighted that salary favors dual employment and claim of informal fees from patients. Older respondents underlined the negative impact of salary on productivity and quality of services. Both incentives to work at border areas and choose general practice were deemed unsatisfactory by the vast majority of doctors. Most participants desire a combination of per capita fee with fee-for-service; however, 3 clusters with distinct preferences were formed: general practitioners (GPs) of higher medical grades, GPs of the lowest medical grade, residents and rural doctors. Across them, a descending tolerance to salary-free schemes was observed. Greek primary care doctors are dissatisfied with the current remuneration scheme, maybe more than in the past, but notably the younger doctors are not intended to leave it. However, Greek policy makers should experiment in capitation for more tolerable to risk GPs and introduce pay-for-performance to achieve enhanced access and quality. These interventions should be combined with others in primary care’s new structure in an effort to converge with international standards.
Cultivating Conditions for Access
Authors: Hannah Mark A. , Arreguin Alex
Published: February 2017

Gaining access to interdisciplinary research sites poses unique research challenges to technical and professional communication scholars and practitioners. Drawing on applied experiences in externally funded interdisciplinary research projects and scholarship about interdisciplinary research, this article describes a training protocol for preparing graduate students to understand the dynamic nature of access in interdisciplinary work as well as to develop a capacity for making a case about the value of their expertise in interdisciplinary research contexts. The authors situate the training protocol in the context of three distinct phases of case-making (individual, relational, and speculative) and note how the conditions for negotiating access vary within and across these phases. The authors conclude by describing implications to graduate students and faculty for theorizing access in this way and developing training to support graduate students’ negotiation of access in interdisciplinary work.
Graduate Students “Show Their Work”
Authors: Pantelides Kate L.
Published: February 2017

To address graduate writing pedagogy in technical communication, this article reports on a study of 14 award-winning dissertations in the field. By treating dissertations as cultural artifacts constitutive of the educational contexts in which they are authored, this study reads dissertation methodology sections as research narratives to understand how we prepare new scholars and to examine the changing nature of what we value in the field.
Changes in heparin dose response slope during cardiac surgery: possible result in inaccuracy in predicting heparin bolus dose requirement to achieve target ACT
Authors: Ichikawa Junko , Mori Tetsu , Kodaka Mitsuharu , Nishiyama Keiko , Ozaki Makoto , Komori Makiko
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

The substantial interpatient variability in heparin requirement has led to the use of a heparin dose response (HDR) technique. The accuracy of Hepcon-based heparin administration in achieving a target activated clotting time (ACT) using an HDR slope remains controversial.

Methods:

We prospectively studied 86 adult patients scheduled for cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. The total dose of calculated heparin required for patient and pump priming was administered simultaneously to achieve a target ACT of 450 s for HDR on the Hepcon HMS system. Blood samples were obtained after the induction of anesthesia, at 3 min after heparin administration and after the initiation of CPB to measure kaolin ACT, HDR slope, whole-blood heparin concentration based on the HDR slope and anti-Xa heparin concentration, antithrombin and complete blood count.

Results:

The target ACT of 450 s was not achieved in 68.6% of patients. Compared with patients who achieved the target ACT, those who failed to achieve their target ACT had a significantly higher platelet count at baseline. Correlation between the HDR slope and heparin sensitivity was poor. Projected heparin concentration and anti-Xa heparin concentration are not interchangeable based on the Bland–Altman analysis.

Conclusion:

It can be hypothesized that the wide discrepancy in HDR slope versus heparin sensitivity may be explained by an inaccurate prediction of the plasma heparin level and/or the change in HDR of individual patients, depending on in vivo factors such as extravascular sequestration of heparin, decreased intrinsic antithrombin activity level and platelet count and/or activity.
Socioeconomic consequences of climate induced human displacement and migration in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam M Rezaul , Shamsuddoha M
Published: February 2017

The main objective of this study was to explore the types and nature of climate induced human displacement and migration, and their socioeconomic consequences in the agro-ecological zones of Bangladesh. The study followed a qualitative research design, where six agro-ecological zones were selected purposively from different parts of Bangladesh. A multi-method data collection method was applied, where the study conducted six participatory rural appraisals (PRAs), eight focus group discussions (FGDs), 24 key informant interviews (KIIs) and 12 in-depth case studies. Data were collected in 2012, and the study used a thematic approach for data analysis. Results showed that the dramatic onset disasters usually caused mass displacement, while the slow onset disasters affected the environment, local ecosystem services and employment opportunities that forced people to undergo routine economic migration at first, followed later by permanent migration. This permanent migration had long-term negative consequences on their livelihoods in terms of poverty, and especially for women, the elderly and those with a disability. It is concluded that while the study focuses on Bangladesh, the implications are international in scope. The findings serve as important guidelines to policy makers, disaster managers and development practitioners.
The influence of diffusion gradient direction on diffusion-weighted imaging of breast mass-like lesions at 3.0T
Authors: Yao Feifei , Li Ying , Xiao Yunfei , Zheng Dandan , Zhang Yan , Cheng Jingliang
Published: February 2017

Background

It has been challenging to achieve ideal breast diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). The optimization of diffusion gradient direction is of great importance.

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of diffusion gradient direction on the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of breast mass-like lesions and the visual grades of image quality, lesion visibility, and sharpness of breast contour at 3.0T.

Material and Methods

Sixty consecutive patients with mass-like lesions were enrolled in this study. In addition to typical breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocols, the breasts were scanned with conventional orthogonal DWI (c-DWI), tetrahedral DWI (t-DWI), and 3in1 DWI (3in1-DWI) sequences. The DW images were observed and visually graded by two radiologists independently. For ADC measurement, one radiographer manually selected the region of interest (ROI).

Results

For both readers, t-DWI had better image quality and sharpness of breast contour than c-DWI. Regarding lesion visibility, no significant differences were observed among three sequences. The mean ADC values were 1.462 × 10−3, 1.490 × 10−3, and 1.446 × 10−3 mm2 s−1 for c-DWI, t-DWI, and 3in1-DWI, respectively. The ADC values extracted from both t-DWI and 3in1-DWI were not statistically different compared with those from c-DWI. In all DWI sequences, the ADC of malignant lesions was significantly reduced compared with benign lesions.

Conclusion

DWI with tetrahedral or 3in1 diffusion gradients is a more useful technique in clinical breast MRI than c-DWI because the image quality and sharpness of breast contour are improved. ADC is comparable to c-DWI.
The effects of uterine artery embolization with a new degradable microsphere in an experimental study
Authors: Bengtsson Johan , Cwikiel Wojciech , Sundgren Pia C , Karlstam Erika , Gavier-Widén Dolores , Keussen Inger
Published: February 2017

Background

Transarterial particle embolization is a common treatment of uterine fibroids, aiming to obtain ischemia resulting in shrinking of the fibroid with preservation of normal uterine tissue. Embolization with non-degradable microspheres is established, but causes permanent occlusion of the arteries, affecting both the uterus as well as the fibroids.

Purpose

To evaluate in vivo degradation, local tissue effects, and possible recanalization following intra-arterial deposition of the new, degradable starch microspheres (DSM), in a short-term experimental pilot study.

Material and Methods

Under general anesthesia, unilateral transarterial embolization of the uterine artery (UA) with DSM 500–700 µm was performed in five female sheep. The animals underwent renewed angiography at different intervals after embolization (19–65 h) and were subsequently sacrificed. Histological examination was performed.

Results

Embolization with absent flow in the UA could be completed in five of six animals. At final angiographic evaluation, recanalization of the embolized arteries was evident in three sheep. At the gross postmortem examination, edema and discoloration indicating ischemia of the uterus at the embolized side, was observed in all the sheep. At histopathological examination, different stages of DSM degradation in the arterial branches were observed in both endometrium and myometrium. Mild-to-moderate vasculitis and mild-to-extensive ischemic changes were present along with degeneration of the uterine glands.

Conclusion

This short-term pilot study proved efficacy of embolization with DSM causing ischemic changes in the embolized organ, but also degradation of the DSM with subsequent recanalization of the embolized arteries.
The effects of a short-term music program on preschool children’s executive functions
Authors: Bugos Jennifer A. , DeMarie Darlene
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a short-term preschool music program with creativity, bimanual gross motor training, and vocal development on preschool children’s inhibition. Inhibition is the key factor in preschool children’s executive functions development between 3–5 years. Thirty-six preschool children were randomly assigned to music or Lego training, a comparable control task. We administered neuropsychological measures pre- and post-training. Results of a repeated measures ANOVA on the Matching Familiar Figures Test (MFFT), a task requiring inhibition and visual discrimination, indicated a significant time by group interaction, with fewer errors committed post-training by the music group compared to controls. However, only a main effect of time was found for the second inhibition task, the Day/Night Stroop Task, a task requiring inhibition of a dominant verbal response. Music training in early childhood that includes an emphasis on bimanual coordination in gross motor movements may contribute to enhanced inhibition performance on complex tasks.
Finasteride-loaded biodegradable nanoparticles: Near-infrared quantification of plasma and prostate levels
Authors: Ahmed Osama AA , Fahmy Usama A , Al-Ghamdi Ahmed S , Aljaeid Bader M , Aldawsari Hibah , Fahmy Omar , Sarhan Hatem A , Khairul Asri Mohd G
Published: February 2017

Finasteride is an orally active testosterone 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that is used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia as a surgical alternative. The aim of this work was to improve finasteride levels in plasma and prostate through the formulation of biodegradable finasteride nanoparticles and to quantify finasteride levels using near-infrared application. Finasteride nanoparticles were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method utilizing the biodegradable polymers poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) and poly-ϵ-caprolactone. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by particle size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The selected finasteride-biodegradable formula was examined in vivo, and both plasma and prostate levels of finasteride were quantified utilizing near-infrared technique. Results revealed that the prepared finasteride nanoparticles size range was from 231 ± 78 to 956 ± 224 nm with finasteride–poly-ϵ-caprolactone nanoparticles showing larger particle sizes compared with finasteride–poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles. The encapsulation efficiency ranged from 68.89% ± 2.99% to 99.15% ± 4.32%. The selected formula of finasteride nanoparticles showed improved levels of finasteride in both plasma and prostate of the investigated rats. The realization of sustained release of biodegradable finasteride nanoparticles for possible oral or parenteral application could improve the activity of the drug for sustaining release time with lower dosing recurrence that improves patient compliance.
Multi-objective optimization of a tapered elliptical tube under oblique impact loading
Authors: Gao Qiang , Wang Liangmo , Wang Yuanlong , Wang Chenzhi
Published: February 2017

All types of thin-walled tube with different configurations were studied to determine their crashworthiness performances. A novel single-cell tapered elliptical tube is proposed in this paper. First, the crashworthiness performance of the single-cell tapered elliptical tube subjected to different oblique impacts was compared with those of other tubes with different configurations (straight, tapered, and multi-cell tapered) and different cross-sections (square, rectangular, and circular). It can be found that the single-cell tapered elliptical tube shows a better crashworthiness performance at multiple loading angles by comparing the specific energy absorption values and minimizing the peak crushing force. Second, to simplify the optimization process, the radial basis function model combined with the design-of-experiments method was utilized. Third, to determine the ideal radial rate f, the taper angle θ and the thickness t of the wall of the single-cell tapered elliptical tube, this paper adopted the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II to maximize the specific energy absorption and to minimize the peak crushing force. When determining the effect of the uncertainty in the loading angle, two different weighting-factor cases (case 1 and case 2) can be considered. In both cases, the optimized single-cell tapered elliptical tube has a better crashworthiness performance than tubes with other different cross-sections do. The design has a great influence on the optimization results. In comparison with the original single-cell tapered elliptical tube, in case 1, the composite specific energy absorption index under multiple oblique loading of the optimal tube increases by 12.81% and the peak crushing force at 0° decreases by 16.66% and, in case 2, the specific energy absorption index under multiple oblique loading increases by 11.8% and the peak crushing force at 0° decreases by 12.83%.
A doubly robust approach for cost–effectiveness estimation from observational data
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Vachani Anil , Epstein Andrew , Mitra Nandita
Published: February 2017

Estimation of common cost–effectiveness measures, including the incremental cost–effectiveness ratio and the net monetary benefit, is complicated by the need to account for informative censoring and inherent skewness of the data. In addition, since the two components of these measures, medical costs and survival are often collected from observational claims data, one must account for potential confounders. We propose a novel doubly robust, unbiased estimator for cost–effectiveness based on propensity scores that allow the incorporation of cost history and time-varying covariates. Further, we use an ensemble machine learning approach to obtain improved predictions from parametric and non-parametric cost and propensity score models. Our simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed doubly robust approach performs well even under mis-specification of either the propensity score model or the outcome model. We apply our approach to a cost–effectiveness analysis of two competing lung cancer surveillance procedures, CT vs. chest X-ray, using SEER-Medicare data.
Data Envelopment Analysis of Selected Specialized Health Centres and Possibilities of its Application in the Terms of Slovak Republic Health Care System
Authors: Lacko Roman , Hajduová Zuzana , Gábor Vladimír
Published: February 2017

Scientific approach in health centres management does not have a long history in Slovakia. There exist only a limited number of articles devoted to methods of efficiency evaluation. The aim of this article is to point out the options and the readiness of particular Data envelopment analysis (DEA) models in the conditions in specialized institutions in Slovakia. This article records scientific approach using the DEA method and also practical approach from the management of the chosen specialized medical institution. It evaluates the suggestibility of individual models and their influentiability factor by the management of respective health institutions. By using the DEA bootstrap method, we indicated where the possible deviations/differences from the measured values could lie.
Book Review: Gautam Mahajan, Value Creation: The Definitive Guide for Business Leaders
Authors: Poddar Surendra
Published: February 2017

Gautam Mahajan, Value Creation: The Definitive Guide for Business Leaders, Sage Response. New Delhi, India: SAGE Publications India Pvt Ltd, 2016, 340 pp., ₹ 450 (ISSN: 978-93-515-0897-7) (Paperback)
Deep sequencing of the TP53 gene reveals a potential risk allele for non–small cell lung cancer and supports the negative prognostic value of TP53 variants
Authors: Deben Christophe , Van den Bossche Jolien , Van Der Steen Nele , Lardon Filip , Wouters An , de Beeck Ken Op , Hermans Christophe , Jacobs Julie , Peeters Marc , Van Camp Guy , Rolfo Christian , Deschoolmeester Vanessa , Pauwels Patrick
Published: February 2017

The TP53 gene remains the most frequently altered gene in human cancer, of which variants are associated with cancer risk, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis in several tumor types. To determine the true prognostic value of TP53 variants in non–small cell lung cancer, this study conducted further research, particularly focusing on subtype and tumor stage. Therefore, we determined the TP53 status of 97 non–small cell lung cancer adenocarcinoma patients using next generation deep sequencing technology and defined the prognostic value of frequently occurring single nucleotide polymorphisms and mutations in the TP53 gene. Inactivating TP53 mutations acted as a predictor for both worse overall and progression-free survival in stage II–IV patients and patients treated with DNA-damaging (neo)adjuvant therapy. In stage I tumors, the Pro-allele of the TP53 R72P polymorphism acted as a predictor for worse overall survival. In addition, we detected the rare R213R (rs1800372, minor allele frequency: 0.0054) polymorphism in 7.2% of the patients and are the first to show the significant association with TP53 mutations in non–small cell lung cancer adenocarcinoma patients (p = 0.003). In conclusion, Our findings show an important role for TP53 variants as negative predictors for the outcome of non–small cell lung cancer adenocarcinoma patients, especially for TP53 inactivating mutations in advanced stage tumors treated with DNA-damaging agents, and provide the first evidence of the R213R G-allele as possible risk factor for non–small cell lung cancer.
What Barriers and Facilitators Do School Nurses Experience When Implementing an Obesity Intervention?
Authors: Schroeder Krista , Smaldone Arlene
Published: February 2017

A recent evaluation of a school nurse–led obesity intervention demonstrated a 5% implementation rate. The purpose of this study was to explore school nurses’ perceived barriers to and facilitators of the intervention in order to understand reasons for the low implementation rate. Methods included semi-structured individual interviews with school nurses. Data were analyzed using content analysis and heat mapping. Nineteen nurses participated and eight themes were identified. Parental and administrative gatekeeping, heavy nurse workload, obesogenic environments, and concerns about obesity stigma were barriers to implementation. Teamwork with parents and school staff was a key facilitator of implementation. Nurses also noted the importance of cultural considerations and highlighted the need to tailor the intervention to the unique needs of their school environment and student population. These findings suggest that for school nurses to play a key role in school-based obesity interventions, barriers must be identified and addressed prior to program implementation.
Describing the Mental Health Profile of First Responders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jones Sara
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND: First responders (FRs) are responsible for providing multiple services during various critical events. Considering the frequency, nature, and intensity of duty-related traumatic exposures, the cumulative impact on FRs’ mental health is of paramount importance. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this systematic review was to describe how duty-related trauma exposure can affect the comprehensive mental health profile of FRs, including firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and paramedics. DESIGN: Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a literature search was conducted using keywords related to FRs and mental health. RESULTS: Twenty-seven data-based articles met eligibility criteria and were included in this systematic review. Studies explored various mental health concerns, including posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, suicidality, anxiety, alcohol use, and sleep disturbances. CONCLUSIONS: Findings pose significant implications for psychiatric nurses in practice and research, including the need for tailored strategies to meet the mental health needs of this at-risk population.
Early Cosmetic Results and Midterm Follow-up Findings of Rhinophyma Patients Treated With High-Frequency Electrosurgery and a Discussion on the Severity Assessment of the Disease
Authors: Göktay Fatih , Erfan Gamze , Çelik Nil Su , Öztürk Canan , Doruk Tuba , Albayrak Hülya , Yanık Mehmet Emin , Albayrak Şule
Published: February 2017

Background:

Different methods can be used in the surgical treatment of patients with rhinophyma. There are limited numbers of reports on high-frequency electrosurgery treatment. In addition, an efficient scoring system is required to evaluate severity of the disease in clinical progress and recurrence after treatment.

Objectives:

We evaluated patients with rhinophyma who were treated with high-frequency electrosurgery and discussed the methods used to assess severity of the disease.

Methods:

Data and photos of 13 patients were retrospectively evaluated and scored via 2 different forms of the rhinophyma severity index.

Results:

Median rhinophyma severity index scores of patients at first visits were significantly higher than those at second and third visits ( P = .002 and P = .002, respectively). Likewise, median modified rhinophyma severity scores of patients at first visits were significantly higher than those at second and third visits ( P = .001 and P = .001, respectively). Also, there was a strong positive correlation between these 2 assessment methods ( r = 0.838, P < .001).

Conclusions:

The rhinophyma severity assessment methods used in this study are positively correlated. High-frequency electrosurgery seems to be a procedure that is safe, effective, and relatively cost-effective in the treatment of rhinophyma lesions.
Material form as a structural force in Nicki Greenberg’s The Great Gatsby and Hamlet
Authors: Scott Ronald
Published: February 2017

Comics or ‘sequential art’ has historically been considered an art of time. Yet, many recent artists privilege comics’ spatial extensions over the dimension of time. This article explores the role played by space in structuring comics. It does so by analysing two comics by Australian artist Nicki Greenberg, The Great Gatsby (2007) and Hamlet (2010). These two adaptations, which marry conventions of comics with a photo album and a theatrical stage, exploit the tension between material forms outside the comic, the material forms that influence the comic’s creation, and the material form taken by the work itself. They are examples of innovative comics made possible when material form is viewed as a structural force. Through analysing Greenberg’s methods for adapting existing works ‘through’ other material forms, I argue that material form is a structural force that can be analysed alongside optional conceptual structures such as the panel and gutter.
The future isn’t coming; the future is here: The New Zealand Children’s Screen Trust’s engagement with media policy for children
Authors: Zanker Ruth
Published: February 2017

This article draws on contributions by the New Zealand Children’s Screen Trust to a strategic review of children’s media provision and delivery in 2015–2016. The Trustees’ understanding of local media policy settings, their research into international best practice and their local production expertise enable them to address the challenges facing local public service provision for children in Aotearoa/New Zealand. How can one effect change to meet children’s evolving media requirements in a radically deregulated broadcasting and media economy with static funding? This article tracks the Trust’s engagement with children’s media policy in New Zealand from the perspective of one of the trustees.
Risk factors for non-adherence to disease-modifying therapy in pediatric multiple sclerosis
Authors: Schwartz Carolyn E , Grover Stephanie A , Powell Victoria E , Noguera Austin , Mah Jean K , Mar Soe , Mednick Lauren , Banwell Brenda L , Alper Gulay , Rensel Mary , Gorman Mark , Waldman Amy , Schreiner Teri , Waubant Emmanuelle , Yeh E Ann
Published: February 2017

Background:

Adherence to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) is not well understood. We examined the prevalence and risk factors for poor adherence in pediatric MS.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study recruited youth with MS from 12 North American pediatric MS clinics. In addition to pharmacy-refill data, patients and parents completed self-report measures of adherence and quality of life. Additionally, patients completed measures of self-efficacy and well-being. Factor analysis and linear regression methods were used.

Results:

A total of 66 youth (mean age, 15.7 years) received MS DMTs (33% oral, 66% injectable). Estimates of poor adherence (i.e. missing >20% of doses) varied by source: pharmacy 7%, parent 14%, and patient 41%. Factor analysis yielded two composites: adherence summary and parental involvement in adherence. Regressions revealed that patients with better self-reported physical functioning were more adherent. Parents were more likely to be involved in adherence when their child had worse parent-reported PedsQL School Functioning and lower MS Self-Efficacy Control. Oral DMTs were associated with lesser parental involvement in adherence.

Conclusion:

Rates of non-adherence varied by information source. Better self-reported physical functioning was the strongest predictor of adherence. Parental involvement in adherence was associated with worse PedsQL School Functioning and lower MS Self-Efficacy-measured confidence in controlling MS.