bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monofluorinated Nitrogen Containing Heterocycles: Synthesis, Characterization and Fluorine Effect
Authors: Reichel Marco , Karaghiosoff Konstantin
Published: July 2020

A straight forward synthesis and efficient introduction of fluoromethyl group in nitrogen heterocycles is reported. Starting from the respective NH heterocycles fluoromethylation is performed with fluoroiodomethane and proceeds under mild reaction conditions. Structural information of monofluoromethylated nitrogen‐containing cyclic compounds containing the biologically active NCH2F moiety are reported. The particularly impressively change of physical and spectroscopic properties by the substitution of a methyl group by a monofluoromethyl group is discussed based on these examples.
Is adipose tissue suitable for detection of (synthetic) cannabinoids? A comparative study analyzing antemortem and postmortem specimens following pulmonary administration of JWH-210, RCS-4, as well as ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol to pigs
Authors: Schaefer Nadine , Nordmeier Frederike , Kröll Ann-Katrin , Körbel Christina , Laschke Matthias W. , Menger Michael D. , Maurer Hans H. , Meyer Markus R. , Schmidt Peter H.
Published: July 2020

Examining fatal poisonings, chronic exposure may be reflected by the concentration in tissues known for long-term storage of drugs. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) persists in adipose tissue (AT), but sparse data on synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are available. Thus, a controlled pig study evaluating antemortem (AM) disposition and postmortem (PM) concentration changes of the SC 4-ethylnaphthalene-1-yl-(1-pentylindole-3-yl)methanone (JWH-210) and 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(1-pentyl-indole-3-yl)methanone (RCS-4) as well as THC in AT was performed. The drugs were administered pulmonarily (200 µg/kg body weight) to twelve pigs. Subcutaneous (s.c.) AT specimens were collected after 15 and 30 min and then hourly up to 8 h. At the end, pigs were sacrificed and s.c., perirenal, and dorsal AT specimens were collected. The carcasses were stored at room temperature (RT; n = 6) or 4 °C (n = 6) and specimens were collected after 24, 48, and 72 h. After homogenization in acetonitrile and standard addition, LC–MS/MS was performed. Maximum concentrations were reached 0.5–2 h after administration amounting to 21 ± 13 ng/g (JWH-210), 24 ± 13 ng/g (RCS-4), and 22 ± 20 ng/g (THC) and stayed at a plateau level. Regarding the metabolites, very low concentrations of N-hydroxypentyl-RCS-4 (HO-RCS-4) were detected from 0.5 to 8 h. PM concentrations of parent compounds did not change significantly (p > 0.05) over time under both storage conditions. Concentrations of HO-RCS-4 significantly (p < 0.05) increased in perirenal AT during storage at RT. These results suggest a rapid distribution and persistence in s.c. AT. Furthermore, AT might be resistant to PM redistribution of parent compounds. However, significant PM increases of metabolite concentrations might be considered in perirenal AT.
Full Family of Flattening Solitary Waves for the Critical Generalized KdV Equation
Authors: Martel Yvan , Pilod Didier
Published: July 2020

For the critical generalized KdV equation $$\partial _t u + \partial _x (\partial _x^2 u + u^5)=0$$

∂
t

u
+

∂
x

(

∂
x
2

u
+

u
5

)

=
0

on $${\mathbb {R}}$$
R
, we construct a full family of flattening solitary wave solutions. Let Q be the unique even positive solution of $$Q''+Q^5=Q$$

Q

′
′

+

Q
5

=
Q

. For any $$\nu \in (0,\frac{1}{3})$$

ν
∈
(
0
,

1
3

)

, there exist global (for $$t\ge 0$$

t
≥
0

) solutions of the equation with the asymptotic behavior $$\begin{aligned} u(t,x)= t^{-\frac{\nu }{2}} Q\left( t^{-\nu } (x-x(t))\right) +w(t,x) \end{aligned}$$

u

(
t
,
x
)

=

t

-

ν
2

Q

t

-
ν

(
x
-
x

(
t
)

)

+
w

(
t
,
x
)

where, for some $$c>0$$

c
>
0

, $$\begin{aligned} x(t)\sim c t^{1-2\nu } \quad \text{ and }\quad \Vert w(t)\Vert _{H^1(x>\frac{1}{2} x(t))} \rightarrow 0\quad \text{ as } t\rightarrow +\infty . \end{aligned}$$

x

(
t
)

∼
c

t

1
-
2
ν

and

‖
w

(
t
)

‖

H
1

(
x
>

1
2

x

(
t
)

)

→
0

as

t
→
+
∞
.

Moreover, the initial data for such solutions can be taken arbitrarily close to a solitary wave in the energy space. The long-time flattening of the solitary wave is forced by a slowly decaying tail in the initial data. This result and its proof are inspired and complement recent blow-up results for the critical generalized KdV equation. This article is also motivated by previous constructions of exotic behaviors close to solitons for other nonlinear dispersive equations such as the energy-critical wave equation.
Access to Operative Intervention Reduces Mortality in Adult Burn Patients in a Resource‐Limited Setting in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Gallaher Jared R. , Banda Wone , Robinson Brittany , Purcell Laura N. , Charles Anthony
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Early excision and grafting remains the standard of care after burn injury. However, in a resource‐limited setting, operative capacity often limits patient access to surgical intervention. This study sought to describe access to excision and grafting for adult burn patients in a sub‐Saharan African burn unit and its relationship with burn‐associated mortality.

Methods

We analyzed patients recorded in the Kamuzu Central Hospital Burn Registry in Lilongwe, Malawi from 2011–2019. We examined patient characteristics, interventions, and outcomes for adults aged ≥16 years. Modified Poisson regression modeling was used to identify risk factors for mortality.

Results

Five hundred and seventy‐three patients were included. Median age was 30 years (IQR 23–40) with a male preponderance (63%). Median percent total body surface area burned (%TBSA) was 15% (IQR 8–26) and 68% of burns were caused by flame. 27% (n = 154) had burn excision with skin grafting, with a median time to operation of 18 days (IQR 9–38). When adjusted for age, %TBSA, and time to presentation, operative intervention conferred a survival benefit for patients with flame burns with a RR 0.16 (95% CI 0.06, 0.42).

Conclusions

In a resource‐limiting setting, access to the operating room is inadequate, and burn patients are not prioritized. While many scald burn patients may be managed with wound care alone, patients with flame burn require surgical intervention to improve clinical outcomes. Burn injury in this region continues to confer a high risk of mortality, and more investment in operative capacity is imperative.
Comparison of a coaxial versus non-coaxial liver biopsy technique in an oncological setting: diagnostic yield, complications and seeding risk
Authors: Fotiadis Nicos , De Paepe Katja N. , Bonne Lawrence , Khan Nasir , Riddell Angela , Turner Nicholas , Starling Naureen , Gerlinger Marco , Rao Sheela , Chau Ian , Cunningham David , Koh Dow-Mu
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Percutaneous liver biopsy (PLB) poses specific challenges in oncological patients such as bleeding and tumour seeding. This study’s aim was to compare a coaxial (C-PLB) and non-coaxial (NC-PLB) biopsy technique in terms of diagnostic yield, safety and seeding risk of image-guided PLB techniques in an oncological setting.

Methods

Local research committee approval was obtained for this single-site retrospective study. Patients who underwent a PLB between November 2011 and December 2017 were consecutively included. Medical records were reviewed to determine diagnostic yield and complications. Follow-up imaging was re-reviewed for seeding, defined as visible tumour deposits along the PLB track. Mann-Whitney U and chi-squared tests were performed to investigate differences between biopsy techniques in sample number, complications and seeding rate.

Results

In total, 741 patients (62 ± 13 years, 378 women) underwent 932 PLB (C-PLB 72.9% (679/932); NC-PLB 27.1% (253/932)). More tissue cores (p < 0.001) were obtained with C-PLB (median 4 cores; range 1–12) compared with NC-PLB (2 cores; range 1–4) and diagnostic yield was similar for both techniques (C-PLB 92.6% (629/679); NC-PLB 92.5% (234/253); p = 0.940). Complication rate (9.3%; 87/932) using C-PLB (8.2% (56/679)) was lower compared with NC-PLB (12.3% (31/253); p = 0.024). Major complications were uncommon (C-PLB 2.7% (18/679); NC-PLB 2.8% (7/253)); bleeding developed in 1.2% (11/932; C-PLB 1.2% (8/679); NC-PLB 1.2% (3/253)). Seeding was a rare event, occurring significantly less in C-PLB cases (C-PLB 1.3% (7/544); NC-PLB 3.1% (6/197); p = 0.021).

Conclusions

C-PLB allows for high diagnostic tissue yield with a lower complication and seeding rate than a NC-PLB and should be the preferred method in an oncological setting.

Key Points

• A coaxial percutaneous liver biopsy achieves a significant higher number of cores and fewer complications than a non-coaxial biopsy technique.

• The risk of tumour seeding is very low and is significantly lower using the coaxial biopsy technique.

• In this study, a larger number of cores (median = 4) could be safely acquired using the coaxial technique, providing sufficient material for advanced molecular analysis.
Großes Makulaforamen – immer eine schlechte Prognose?
Authors: Friedrich J. , Bleidißel N. , Klaas J. , Feucht N. , Nasseri A. , Lohmann C. P. , Maier M.
Published: July 2020

Hintergrund

Alter, präoperativer Visus und Makulaforamengröße gelten als prognostische Marker für das postoperative Ergebnis bei Patienten mit durchgreifendem Makulaforamen (MF).

Ziel der Arbeit

Um den postoperativen Verlauf nach i‑ILM Peeling (inverted-Flap ILM-Peeling) mit konventionellem ILM-Peeling (k-ILM) zu vergleichen, wurde eine retrospektive Beobachtungsstudie durchgeführt. Patienten mit i‑ILM Peeling hatten dabei präoperativ ein statistisch signifikant größeres Makulaforamen.

Material und Methoden

Es wurden 45 konsekutive Patienten mit durchgreifendem Makulaforamen (MF) in 2 Gruppen (i-ILM vs. k‑ILM) eingeteilt und auf Unterschiede im postoperativen Visus (BCVA) und der Netzhautmorphologie hin untersucht. Die Integrität der äußeren Netzhautschichten, äußere limitierende Membran (ELM), ellipsoide Zone (EZ) und äußere Photorezeptoraußensegmente (OS), wurde postoperativ mittels SD-OCT (Spectral-Domain-OCT) analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Die präoperative Apertur in der i‑ILM Gruppe war signifikant größer (i-ILM = 408,4 µm, SD = 157,5 µm; k‑ILM = 287,4 µm, SD = 104,9 µm;p = 0,01). Der Ausgangsvisus sowie der postoperative Visus nach 1 Monat waren in der Gruppe mit k‑ILM-Peeling signifikant besser (p = 0,03 undp = 0,001). Der postoperative Visus nach mindestens 6 Monaten zeigte keinen signifikanten Unterschied zwischen den beiden Gruppen (p = 0,24). Die ELM zeigte als erste der äußeren Netzhautschichten eine Re-Integrität in beiden Gruppen.

Schlussfolgerung

Mithilfe der i‑ILM-Peeling-Technik erschien es in dieser konsekutiven Serie möglich zu sein, für Patienten mit großem durchgreifendem MF ein ähnliches postoperatives Visusergebnis zur erreichen wie für mittels k‑ILM-Peeling-Technik operierte Patienten mit kleinerem durchgreifendem MF.
Are uterine natural killer and plasma cells in infertility patients associated with endometriosis, repeated implantation failure, or recurrent pregnancy loss?
Authors: Freitag Nadine , Pour Sarah J. , Fehm Tanja N. , Toth Bettina , Markert Udo R. , Weber Maja , Togawa Riku , Kruessel Jan-Steffen , Baston-Buest Dunja M. , Bielfeld Alexandra P.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Infertility is a debilitating situation that millions of women around the world suffer from, but the causal relationship between infertility and endometriosis is still unclear. We hypothesize that the immune cell populations of uterine natural killer cells (uNK) and plasma cells (PC) which define chronic endometritis could differ in patients with or without endometriosis and therefore be the link to endometriosis-associated infertility.

Methods

Our retrospective study includes 173 patients that underwent an endometrial scratching in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle and subsequently immunohistochemical examination for uNK cells and PC. Sixty-seven patients were diagnosed with endometriosis, 106 served as the control cohort.

Results

The risk for an elevated number of uNK cells in women with endometriosis is not increased as compared to the control group. Our findings suggest that patients with endometriosis are 1.3 times more likely to have chronic endometritis (CE) as compared to those without and that the treatment with doxycycline might increase pregnancy rates. Endometriosis and an increased number of uNK cells seem to be unrelated.

Conclusions

In contrast to the lately published connection between endometriosis, infertility and increased uNK cells, we could not find any evidence that patients with endometriosis are more prone to elevated uterine uNK cells. Counting of PC in endometrial biopsies might be a new approach in the search of biomarkers for the nonsurgical diagnosis of endometriosis since our findings suggest a connection.
Causes of nutrition deficit during immediate postoperative period after free flap surgery for cancer of the head and neck
Authors: Nurkkala Juho , Lahtinen Sanna , Kaakinen Timo , Vakkala Merja , Liisanantti Janne
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The aim of the present of study was to examine nutrition deficit during the immediate postoperative in-hospital period following free flap surgery for cancer of the head and neck (HNC). Underfeeding and malnutrition are known to be associated with impaired short- and long-time recovery after major surgery.

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study included 218 HNC patients who underwent free flap surgery in Oulu University Hospital, Finland between the years 2008 and 2018. Nutrition delivery methods, the adequacy of nutrition and complication rates were evaluated during the first 10 postoperative days.

Results

A total of 131 (60.1%) patients reached nutritional adequacy of 60% of calculated individual demand during the follow-up period. According to multivariate analysis, nutrition inadequacy was associated with higher ideal body weight (OR 1.11 [1.04–1.20]), whereas adequate nutrition was associated with higher number of days with oral food intake (OR 0.79 [0.67–0.93]).

Conclusion

Inadequate nutrition is common after HNC free flap surgery. The present results suggest that more adequate nutrition delivery might be obtained by the early initiation of oral food intake and close monitoring of nutrition support.
Insight-related beliefs and controllability appraisals contribute little to hallucinated voices: a transdiagnostic network analysis study
Authors: Pappa Elisavet , Peters Emmanuelle , Bell Vaughan
Published: July 2020

Hallucinated voices cause high levels of distress and disability. Current theories suggest that insight-related beliefs, about internal or external origin, perceived source location, and appraisals of controllability are important in mediating the impact of these experiences but previous findings have been mixed. We report two open code and open data network analytic studies of items in the Psychotic Symptoms Ratings Scale for auditory verbal hallucinations (PSYRATS-AH) in a large sample of patients with hallucinated voices to examine the network structure of items at (1) first assessment, and (2) differences over two consecutive assessments during a wait-list period. Networks were generated using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and extended Bayesian information criterion (EBIC) with node predictability. In Study 1 (N = 386), we report that insight-related items made a negligible contribution to hallucinated voices and the controllability appraisal made at most a modest contribution. Items relating to distress and negative content were the most central and most predicted by the wider network. In Study 2 (N = 204), we tested the longitudinal stability of the structure of hallucinated voices over a period of several months, finding a small change in total hallucination score and global strength but no clear evidence for an alteration in the structural relationship. The insight-related and controllability items remained as least influential over time. Insight-related beliefs and controllability appraisals may contribute less than previously thought to distressing hallucinated voices although we do not discount that other appraisals may remain important.
A mummified human corpse and associated insects of forensic importance in indoor conditions
Authors: Kadej Marcin , Szleszkowski Łukasz , Thannhäuser Agata , Jurek Tomasz
Published: July 2020

We report, for the first time from Poland, the presence ofDermestes haemorrhoidalis(Coleoptera: Dermestidae) on a mummified human corpse found in a flat (Lower Silesia province, south-western Poland). Different life stages ofD. haemorrhoidaliswere gathered from the cadaver, and the signs of activity of these beetles (i.e. frass) were observed. On the basis of these facts, we concluded that the decedent, whose remains were discovered in the flat on 13 December 2018, died no later than the summer of 2018, with a strong probability that death occurred even earlier (2016 or 2017). A case history, autopsy findings, and entomological observations are provided. The presence of larvae of Dermestidae in the empty puparia of flies is reported for the first time. A list of the invertebrate species found in the corpse is provided, compared with available data, and briefly discussed.
Bioenergetics of the VO2 slow component between exercise intensity domains
Authors: Colosio Alessandro L. , Caen Kevin , Bourgois Jan G. , Boone Jan , Pogliaghi Silvia
Published: July 2020

During heavy and severe constant-load exercise, VO2 displays a slow component (VO2sc) typically interpreted as a loss of efficiency of locomotion. In the ongoing debate on the underpinnings of the VO2sc, recent studies suggested that VO2sc could be attributed to a prolonged shift in energetic sources rather than loss of efficiency. We tested the hypothesis that the total cost of cycling, accounting for aerobic and anaerobic energy sources, is affected by time during metabolic transitions in different intensity domains. Eight active men performed 3 constant load trials of 3, 6, and 9 min in the moderate, heavy, and severe domains (i.e., respectively below, between, and above the two ventilatory thresholds). VO2, VO2 of ventilation and lactate accumulation ([La−]) were quantified to calculate the adjusted oxygen cost of exercise (AdjO2Eq, i.e., measured VO2 − VO2 of ventilation + VO2 equivalent of [La−]) for the 0–3, 3–6, and 6–9 time segments at each intensity, and compared by a two-way RM-ANOVA (time × intensity). After the transient phase, AdjO2Eq was unaffected by time in moderate (ml*3 min−1 at 0–3, 0–6, 0–9 min: 2126 ± 939 < 2687 ± 1036, 2731 ± 1035) and heavy (4278 ± 1074 < 5121 ± 1268, 5225 ± 1123) while a significant effect of time was detected in the severe only (5863 ± 1413 < 7061 ± 1516 < 7372 ± 1443). The emergence of the VO2sc was explained by a prolonged shift between aerobic and anaerobic energy sources in heavy (VO2 − VO2 of ventilation: ml*3 min−1 at 0–3, 0–6, 0–9 min: 3769 ± 1128 < 4938 ± 1256, 5091 ± 1123, [La−]: 452 ± 254 < 128 ± 169, 79 ± 135), while a prolonged metabolic shift and a true loss of efficiency explained the emergence of the VO2sc in severe.
A Bayesian estimation method for variational phase-field fracture problems
Authors: Khodadadian Amirreza , Noii Nima , Parvizi Maryam , Abbaszadeh Mostafa , Wick Thomas , Heitzinger Clemens
Published: July 2020

In this work, we propose a parameter estimation framework for fracture propagation problems. The fracture problem is described by a phase-field method. Parameter estimation is realized with a Bayesian approach. Here, the focus is on uncertainties arising in the solid material parameters and the critical energy release rate. A reference value (obtained on a sufficiently refined mesh) as the replacement of measurement data will be chosen, and their posterior distribution is obtained. Due to time- and mesh dependencies of the problem, the computational costs can be high. Using Bayesian inversion, we solve the problem on a relatively coarse mesh and fit the parameters. In several numerical examples our proposed framework is substantiated and the obtained load-displacement curves, that are usually the target functions, are matched with the reference values.
Challenges in coupling atmospheric electricity with biological systems
Authors: Hunting Ellard R. , Matthews James , de Arróyabe Hernáez Pablo Fernández , England Sam J. , Kourtidis Konstantinos , Koh Kuang , Nicoll Keri , Harrison R. Giles , Manser Konstantine , Price Colin , Dragovic Snezana , Cifra Michal , Odzimek Anna , Robert Daniel
Published: July 2020

The atmosphere is host to a complex electric environment, ranging from a global electric circuit generating fluctuating atmospheric electric fields to local lightning strikes and ions. While research on interactions of organisms with their electrical environment is deeply rooted in the aquatic environment, it has hitherto been confined to interactions with local electrical phenomena and organismal perception of electric fields. However, there is emerging evidence of coupling between large- and small-scale atmospheric electrical phenomena and various biological processes in terrestrial environments that even appear to be tied to continental waters. Here, we synthesize our current understanding of this connectivity, discussing how atmospheric electricity can affect various levels of biological organization across multiple ecosystems. We identify opportunities for research, highlighting its complexity and interdisciplinary nature and draw attention to both conceptual and technical challenges lying ahead of our future understanding of the relationship between atmospheric electricity and the organization and functioning of biological systems.
Characteristics and predicted outcome of patients lost to follow-up after degenerative lumbar spine surgery
Authors: Parai C. , Hägg O. , Willers C. , Lind B. , Brisby H.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The relatively large number of participants lost to follow-up (attrition) in spinal registers calls for studies that investigate the features of these individuals and their possible outcome. The aim was to explore the effect of attrition on patient-reported outcome in patients undergoing degenerative lumbar spine surgery. Three groups were studied: spinal stenosis (LSS), disc herniation (LDH) and degenerative disc disorder (DDD).

Methods

Patients who underwent surgery for degenerative lumbar spine conditions during 2008–2012 according to registration in the Swespine national register were eligible for the study. Non-respondents were registered in Swespine prior to surgery, but not at follow-up. Swespine data were merged with hospital data from seven Swedish regions (65% of the population), Statistics Sweden, the National Patient Register and the Social Insurance Agency.

Baseline characteristics of non-respondents were described and compared to those of the respondents. Coefficients from regression analyses on PROM values for respondents were used to estimate the levels of PROM values for non-respondents, assuming the same effects of baseline characteristics for the two subgroups. Regression analyses were then conducted to identify variables associated with non-response. The results from the regression analyses were used to predict outcomes for patients with the characteristics of a non-respondent. Primary outcome variable in LSS and LDH was Global Assessment for leg pain, and in DDD, Global Assessment for back pain.

Results

Age, sex, educational level, smoking, living alone, being born outside the EU, previous spine surgery and unexpected events before follow-up were factors that were significantly associated with non-response. Being born inside, the EU was important in all of the studied groups (LSS: OR 0.61 p =  < 0.000; LDH: OR 0.68 p = 0.001; DDD: OR 0.58 p = 0.04). For spinal stenosis patients, an unexpected event appeared particularly important (OR 3.40, p = 0.000). The predicted outcome of non-respondents was significantly worse than for respondents (LSS: 75.4% successful outcome vs. 78.7%; LDH: 53.9% vs. 58.2%; DDD: 62.7% vs. 67.5%. P-value in all groups =  < 0.000).

Conclusion

Attrition in Swespine cannot be ignored, as non-respondents were predicted to have worse outcome. The effect of attrition bias should always be considered when contemplating outcome recorded in a quality register with patients lost to follow-up.
An estimation of the accuracy of the topoclimate range based on the land surface temperature with reference to a case study of the Drawa National Park, Poland
Authors: Półrolniczak Marek , Zwolska Aleksandra , Kolendowicz Leszek
Published: July 2020

Topoclimate depends on specifically local-scale climatic features caused by the interrelations between topography, water, soil, and land cover. The main purpose of this study is to identify, characterize, and delimit the range of topoclimate types at the Drawa National Park (DPN) and to estimate their accuracy while taking into consideration the thermal conditions of the land surface. Based on a set of digital maps, and with the use of the heat-balance Paszyński method, seven types of topoclimate were distinguished. Next, with the use of Landsat 8 and Terra satellite images, the DPN’s land surface temperature (LST) was calculated. The estimation of LST using the distinguished types of topoclimate allowed for determining their degree of quantity diversification as well as assessing the differences between those types. The obtained LST values indicated statistically significant differences between the medians of LST values for almost all of the distinguished topoclimate types, thereby confirming the suitability of the applied topoclimate determination procedure.
ESCAP practice guidance for autism: a summary of evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Fuentes Joaquin , Hervás Amaia , Howlin Patricia ,   (ESCAP ASD Working Party)
Published: July 2020

Across Europe, there is increased awareness of the frequency and importance of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is now recognised not only as a childhood disorder but as a heterogeneous, neurodevelopmental condition that persists throughout life. Services for individuals with autism and their families vary widely, but in most European countries, provision is limited. In 2018, European Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (ESCAP) identified the need for a Practice Guidance document that would help to improve knowledge and practice, especially for individuals in underserviced areas. The present document, prepared by the ASD Working Party and endorsed by the ESCAP Board on October 3, 2019, summarises current information on autism and focuses on ways of detecting, diagnosing, and treating this condition.
Quasi-Monte Carlo methods for two-stage stochastic mixed-integer programs
Authors: Leövey H. , Römisch W.
Published: July 2020

We consider randomized QMC methods for approximating the expected recourse in two-stage stochastic optimization problems containing mixed-integer decisions in the second stage. It is known that the second-stage optimal value function is piecewise linear-quadratic with possible kinks and discontinuities at the boundaries of certain convex polyhedral sets. This structure is exploited to provide conditions implying that first and higher order terms of the integrand’s ANOVA decomposition (Math. Comp. 79 (2010), 953–966) have mixed weak first order partial derivatives. This leads to a good smooth approximation of the integrand and, hence, to good convergence rates of randomized QMC methods if the effective (superposition) dimension is low.
A skull of a very large crane from the late Miocene of Southern Germany, with notes on the phylogenetic interrelationships of extant Gruinae
Authors: Mayr Gerald , Lechner Thomas , Böhme Madelaine
Published: July 2020

We describe a partial skull of a very large crane from the early late Miocene (Tortonian) hominid locality Hammerschmiede in southern Germany, which is the oldest fossil record of the Gruinae (true cranes). The fossil exhibits an unusual preservation in that only the dorsal portions of the neurocranium and beak are preserved. Even though it is, therefore, very fragmentary, two morphological characteristics are striking and of paleobiological significance: its large size and the very long beak. The fossil is from a species the size of the largest extant cranes and represents the earliest record of a large-sized crane in Europe. Overall, the specimen resembles the skull of the extant, very long-beaked Siberian Crane,Leucogeranus leucogeranus, but its affinities within Gruinae cannot be determined owing to the incomplete preservation. Judging from its size, the fossil may possibly belong to the very large “Grus”pentelici, which stems from temporally and geographically proximate sites. The long beak of the Hammerschmiede crane conforms to an open freshwater paleohabitat, which prevailed at the locality.
Berufe und soziale Ungleichheit – Thematische Einführung und Inhalte des Sonderhefts
Authors: Ebner Christian , Haupt Andreas , Matthes Britta
Published: July 2020

Die Untersuchung der Bedeutung des Berufs für die soziale Ungleichheit hat eine lange Tradition. In diesem einleitenden Beitrag werden die im hier vorliegenden Sonderheft der Kölner Zeitschrift für Soziologie und Sozialpsychologie gesammelten Aufsätze in den Kontext der bisherigen Berufsforschung gestellt. Der Anspruch des Sonderhefts besteht darin, Berufe nicht wie andernorts als „Blackbox“ zu betrachten, sondern explizit danach zu fragen, welche sozialen Mechanismen den Berufen ihre ungleichheitsrelevante Wirkung verleihen. Der erste Themenblock des Sonderhefts verschafft den Leserinnen und Lesern einen Zugang zu theoretischen Grundlagen und Messkonzepten im Forschungsfeld „Berufe und soziale Ungleichheit“. In den anschließenden Themenblöcken wird anhand konkreter Forschungsfragen aufgezeigt, welches Potenzial in der hier vorgestellten Perspektive auf Mechanismen im Themenfeld Berufe und soziale Ungleichheit steckt. Die Themenblöcke befassen sich mit Fragen von Berufswahl und beruflichen Karrieren, mit dem Zusammenhang von Berufen und Geschlechterungleichheit, mit der Bedeutung von Berufen im Kontext der Debatten um Migration und Zuwanderung sowie mit dem Thema Berufe im Zeitalter der Digitalisierung und Globalisierung. Dabei handelt es sich explizit um theoretisch fundierte, empirische Beiträge, die gleichzeitig die Vielfalt der für diese Art von Analysen verwendbaren Datengrundlagen und methodischen Zugänge aufzeigt.
Datenerhebung bei Mietspiegeln: Überblick und Einordnung aus Sicht der Statistik
Authors: Kauermann Göran , Windmann Michael , Münnich Ralf
Published: July 2020

Der Artikel diskutiert die verschiedenen Methoden bei der Datenerhebung von Mietspiegeln. Es werden Vor- und Nachteile der in der Praxis zu findenden Methoden diskutiert und aus dem statistischen Blickwinkel beleuchtet. Dabei gehen wir den drei Fragen nach: Wer wird befragt? Wie wird befragt? Wie erfolgt die Stichprobenziehung? Neben statistischen Aspekten werden die Mietspiegel der 30 größten Städte als Beispiel herangezogen, um aufzuzeigen, dass die angewandte Methodik in der Praxis sehr heterogen ist.
The mediational role of emotion regulation in the relationship between personality and subjective well-being
Authors: Kobylińska Dorota , Zajenkowski Marcin , Lewczuk Karol , Jankowski Konrad S. , Marchlewska Marta
Published: July 2020

In this research we examined relationships between Big Five personality traits, emotion regulation strategies and subjective well-being. In two studies we explored the mediational role of habitual use of two regulation strategies: reappraisal and suppression in the relationship between personality traits and two aspects of well-being (i.e., life satisfaction and experience of positive affect and negative affect). In Study 1 (n = 233) we found that the most robust predictors of higher life satisfaction were higher extraversion, conscientiousness, emotional stability (lower neuroticism) and reappraisal, as well as lower suppression of emotions. We obtained similar pattern of results in Study 2 (n = 265) which showed that higher positive affect was significantly predicted by higher extraversion, conscientiousness, emotional stability, and reappraisal. Negative affect was negatively predicted only by emotional stability. Additional analyses indicated that suppression mediated the link between extraversion and life satisfaction, whereas reappraisal mediated associations of emotional stability with life satisfaction and positive affect. The studies reveal the role of emotion regulation for extraversion and emotional stability and their association with well-being.
Giere’s instrumental Perspectivism
Authors: Baker Kane
Published: July 2020

When Ron Giere (1999, 2006) introduced perspectivism into philosophy of science, he provided a perspectivist analysis of both scientific instruments and scientific theorizing. Today, there is a burgeoning literature that extends Giere’s analysis of theorizing, with many philosophers examining the perspectivist approach to aspects of theorizing such as models, laws, explanations, and so on. However, relatively little attention has been paid to Giere’s analysis of instruments. In this article, I hope to fill this gap. I argue that the perspectivist analysis of instruments (“instrumental perspectivism”) should be rejected. First, I give a general account of the kind of instrumentation relevant to instrumental perspectivism, drawing on Cartwright’s notion of nomological machines, which forms the basis of my criticism of Giere’s argument for instrumental perspectivism. Next, I present the case against instrumental perspectivism. I argue that instrumental perspectivism is dependent on theoretical perspectivism in a way that robs it of philosophical significance, and that it introduces new puzzles while adding little to our understanding of instruments.
Neoteric approach for mitigation of fouling in membrane bioreactor utilizing green composites
Authors: Surappanahalli Rajanna Sowmya , Gattumane Motappa Madhu , Chengala Damodara Madhusoodana
Published: July 2020

Purification of water is a critical and inevitable process at present to avoid the harmful effect of polluted water and to meet the need for safe drinking water to millions of people in the world. Several methods of water purification exist, but the combination of adsorption and filtration is found to be paramount in the water treatment process owing to the cost-effectiveness and efficacy of the process. The submerged ceramic membrane bioreactor, which includes both bioreactor and filtration system, is one of the most promising technologies effectively employed for water purification. The main hardship in using the membrane bioreactor system  is the phenomena called fouling which decreases and gradually ceases the separation capacity of the membrane. The present work focuses on the reduction of fouling, thus increasing the efficacy of the membrane bioreactor system. The two green composite materials, chitosan beads with activated carbon (CH-AC) and cellulose acetate flakes with activated carbon (CA-AC), were used for the first time for reduction of fouling and found to be an excellent aid in the reduction of fouling. The composites synthesized were subjected to characterization using SEM, TEM and BET to study the physical properties of the composites. The optimum dosage of CH-AC and CA-AC for effective reduction of fouling was analysed. Thus, the present work imparts the novel, efficient, economical and eco-friendly solution for fouling reduction and also a significant improvement in the quality of effluent water.
Fisurectomy and anoplasty with botulinum toxin injection in patients with chronic anal posterior fissure with hypertonia: a long-term evaluation
Authors: D’Orazio Beatrice , Geraci Girolamo , Martorana Guido , Sciumé Carmelo , Corbo Giovanni , Di Vita Gaetano
Published: July 2020

Chronic anal fissure’s (CAF) etiopathogenesis remain unclear. CAF of the posterior commissure (CAPF) are often characterized by internal anal sphincter (IAS) hypertonia. The treatment of this disease aimed to reduce IAS hypertonia. Due to the high rate of anal incontinence after LIS, the employment of sphincter preserving surgical techniques associated to pharmacological sphincterotomy appears more sensible. The aim of our study is to evaluate the long-term results of fissurectomy and anoplasty with V–Y cutaneous flap advancement associated to 30 UI of botulinum toxin injection for CAPF with IAS hypertonia. We enrolled 45 patients undergone to fissurectomy and anoplasty with V–Y cutaneous flap advancement and 30 UI botulinum toxin injection. All patients were followed up for at least 5 years after the surgical procedure, with evaluation of anal continence, recurrence rate and MRP (Maximum resting pressure), MSP (Maximum restricting pressure), USWA (Ultrasound wave activity). All patients healed within 40 days after surgery. We observed 3 “de novo” post-operative anal incontinence cases, temporary and minor; the pre-operative ones have only temporary worsened after surgery. We reported 3 cases of recurrences, within 2 years from surgery, all healed after conservative medical therapy. At 5 year follow-up post-operative manometric findings were similar to those of healthy subjects. At 5 years after the surgical procedure, we achieved good results, and these evidences show that surgical section of the IAS is not at all necessary for the healing process of the CAPF.
Single-step extraction–esterification process to produce biodiesel from palm oil mill effluent (POME) using microwave heating: a circular economy approach to making use of a difficult waste product
Authors: Davies Elis , Deutz Pauline , Zein Sharif H.
Published: July 2020

This investigation explores single-step biodiesel synthesis using palm oil mill effluent (POME) as a feedstock. Normally considered a waste product from the extraction process of palm oil, POME treatment is difficult and can cause significant environmental pollution if discharged directly into watercourses. Fatty acids (FAs) present in POME were extracted and subsequently esterified in situ to FA methyl esters (FAME) suitable for use as biodiesel. The process of simultaneous extraction and esterification was performed under microwave irradiation in a sealed vessel, which has been shown to reduce both time of reaction and energy use considerably in other reactions. The simultaneous extraction and esterification result in an 89% yield of biodiesel from the available FAs in the POME solids. The facile separation of biodiesel products from the reaction mixture augments the process and here presented is a potential route to making economic use of this difficult feedstock.
Ancient Maya Politics
Authors: Martin Simon
Published: July 2020

The Classic Maya have long presented scholars with vexing problems. One of the longest running and most contested of these, and the source of deeply polarized interpretations, has been their political organization. Using recently deciphered inscriptions and fresh archaeological finds, Simon Martin argues that this particular debate can be laid to rest. He offers a comprehensive re-analysis of the issue in an effort to answer a simple question: how did a multitude of small kingdoms survive for some six hundred years without being subsumed within larger states or empires? Using previously unexploited comparative and theoretical approaches, Martin suggests mechanisms that maintained a 'dynamic equilibrium' within a system best understood not as an array of individual polities but an interactive whole. With its rebirth as text-backed historical archaeology, Maya studies has entered a new phase, one capable of building a political anthropology as robust as any other we have for the ancient world.
Field experiments and public policy: festina lente
Authors: HARRISON GLENN W.
Published: July 2020

The current state of the art in field experiments does not give me any confidence that we should be assuming that we have anything worth scaling, assuming we really care about the expected welfare of those about to receive the instant intervention. At the very least, we should be honest and explicit about the need for strong priors about the welfare effects of changes in averages of observables to warrant scaling. What we need is a healthy dose of theory and the implied econometrics.
Higher Testing Coverage Associated With a Lower COVID-19 Mortality Rate: Insights From Italian Regions
Authors: Saglietto Andrea , Moirano Giovenale , Anselmino Matteo , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria
Published: July 2020

Different coronavirus disease (COVID-19) testing approaches have been implemented among Italian regions, reflected in heterogeneous testing rates. We analyzed the number of COVID-19-related deaths in relation to the number of tests performed among the most affected Italian regions. We showed that regions with the highest number of tests performed (Veneto and Toscana) had the lowest 30-day crude mortality rate per 100 000 inhabitants. In addition, an inverse association between crude mortality rates and tests performed (mortality rate ratio for a unit increase in tests per 1000 inhabitants: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.89–0.94) was observed. Early identification and isolation of active cases (including asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic subjects) could have had an important effect in lowering COVID-19 mortality.
Lifting of Social Distancing Measures: Perspectives From Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Trang H.D.
Published: July 2020

While many nations are struggling to slow the transmission rate of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Vietnam has seen no new locally acquired cases since April 16. After implementing 22 d of nationwide social distancing, on April 23, the government of Vietnam announced the easing of social distancing measures. This allows the country to restart its socio-economic activities in a gradual, prudent manner. Domestic tourism and exports of agricultural and anti-COVID-19 medical products take priority over the other sectors in this postpandemic economic recovery. Importantly, the country needs to stay vigilant on the fight against the disease to prevent a possibility of another outbreak.
Environmental Health Workforce – Essential for Interdisciplinary Solutions to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ryan Benjamin J. , Swienton Raymond , Harris Curt , James James J.
Published: July 2020

Interdisciplinary public health solutions are vital for an effective coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response and recovery. However, there is often a lack of awareness and understanding of the environmental health workforce connections and capabilities. In the United States, this is a foundational function of health departments and is the second largest public health workforce. The primary role is to protect the public from exposures to environmental hazards, disasters, and disease outbreaks. More specifically, this includes addressing risks relating to sanitation, drinking water, food safety, vector control, and mass gatherings. This profession is also recognized in the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act of 2019. Despite this, the profession is often not considered an essential service. Rapid integration into COVID-19 activities can easily occur as most are government employees and experienced working in complex and stressful situations. This role, for example, could include working with leaders, businesses, workplaces, and churches to safely reopen, and inspections to inform, educate, and empower employers, employees, and the public on safe actions. There is now the legislative support, evidence and a window of opportunity to truly enable interdisciplinary public health solutions by mobilizing the environmental health workforce to support COVID-19 response, recovery, and resilience activities.
Pooled Testing for Expanding COVID-19 Mass Surveillance
Authors: Sunjaya Angela Felicia , Sunjaya Anthony Paulo
Published: July 2020

Diagnostic testing to identify patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) plays a key role to control the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. While several countries have implemented the use of diagnostic testing in a massive scale as a cornerstone for infection control and surveillance, other countries affected by the pandemic are hampered by its limited testing capacity. Pooled testing was first introduced in the 1940s and is now used for screening in blood banks. Testing is done by pooling multiple individual samples together. Only in the case of a positive pool test would individual samples of the pool be tested, thus substantially reducing the number of tests needed. Several studies regarding their use for SARS CoV-2 have been done in the United States, Israel, and Germany. Studies have shown that an individual positive sample can still be detected in pools of up to 32 samples, and possibly even 64 samples, provided that additional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification cycles are conducted with a sensitivity of 96%. Simulation studies to determine optimal pool size and pooling techniques have also been conducted. Based on these studies, pooled testing is shown to be able to detect positive samples with sufficient accuracy and can easily be used with existing equipment and personnel for population-wide screening.
Disease Outbreak Surge Response: How a Singapore Tertiary Hospital Converted a Multi-story Carpark Into a Flu Screening Area to Respond to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Thangayah Jeevan Raaj , Tan Kenneth Boon Kiat , Lim Chin Siah , Fua Tzay-Ping
Published: July 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), first documented in December 2019, was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 30, 2020 (https://www.who.int/westernpacific/emergencies/covid-19). The disease, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, has affected more than 9 million people and contributed to at least 490,000 deaths globally as of June 2020, with numbers on the rise (https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/#countries).

Increased numbers of patients seeking medical attention during disease outbreaks can overwhelm healthcare facilities, hence requiring an equivalent response from healthcare services. Surge capacity is a concept that has not only been defined as the “ability to respond to a sudden increase in patient care demands” (Hick et al.,Disaster Med Public Health Prep. 2008;2:S51-S57) but also to “effectively and rapidly expand capacity” (Watson et al.,Milbank Q. 2013;91(1):78-122).

This narrative review discusses how Singapore’s largest tertiary hospital has encapsulated the elements of surge capability and transformed a peacetime multi-story carpark into a flu screening area in response to the COVID-19 disease outbreak.