bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gedächtnisambulanzen in Deutschland – strukturell-organisatorische Voraussetzungen und Aufgabenfelder
Authors: Hausner Lucrezia , Frölich Lutz , von Arnim Christine A. F. , Bohlken Jens , Dodel Richard , Otto Markus , Rapp Michael , Schulz Jörg , Supprian Tilmann , Wollmer M. Axel , Jessen Frank ,   Deutsches Netzwerk Gedächtnisambulanzen
Published: October 2020

Hintergrund

Gedächtnisambulanzen (GA) sind auf (Differenzial‑)Diagnostik, Therapie, Aufklärung, Management und Beratung von kognitiven Störungen im Alter und deren Risikostadien spezialisierte Einrichtungen. In der Praxis haben sie sehr unterschiedliche Organisationsformen. Aufgrund der wachsenden diagnostischen Möglichkeiten bei neurodegenerativen Erkrankungen, dem steigenden Bedarf an Früherkennung und Prädiktion sowie absehbaren neuen diagnostischen Verfahren und krankheitsmodifizierenden Therapien ist eine Vereinheitlichung der strukturellen Voraussetzungen und Aufgabenbereiche für GA sinnvoll.

Ziel der Arbeit

Der Artikel macht Vorschläge für strukturelle und organisatorische Voraussetzungen, Aufgaben sowie einheitliche Arbeitsweisen von GA in Deutschland.

Methoden

Expertenkonsens von Psychiatern, Neurologen und Geriatern aus universitären und außeruniversitären Einrichtungen.

Ergebnisse

Gedächtnisambulanzen sollen den Facharztstandard für Psychiatrie und/oder Neurologie vorhalten und sich in ihrer Arbeitsweise bez. (Differenzial‑)Diagnostik und Therapie von Demenzen eng an der S3-Leitlinie (S3LL-)Demenz orientieren. In Bezug auf Früherkennung und Prädiktion neurodegenerativer Erkrankungen gehen sie über die S3LL-Demenz hinaus. So werden leichte kognitive Störungen (MCI) als Risiko- oder auch Prodromalstadien neurodegenerativer Demenzen verstanden und Biomarker regelhaft für eine ätiologische (Früh- und Differenzial‑)Diagnostik eingesetzt. Es soll eine enge Vernetzung mit den diagnostischen Fachdisziplinen bestehen. Ferner sollen sie Beratung zu sozialen und rechtlichen Fragen sowie Angehörigenberatung anbieten. Aktuelle Erkenntnisse aus der Forschung sollen durch sie frühzeitig in die Versorgung integriert werden. GA sind damit regionale Expertenzentren.

Diskussion

Gedächtnisambulanzen implementieren den evidenzbasierten Standard in Diagnostik und Therapie in die klinische Versorgung von Patienten mit kognitiven Störungen im Alter. Zusätzlich führen sie diagnostische und therapeutische Innovationen in die Versorgung dieser Patienten ein. Ihre Rolle in der Regelversorgung muss gestärkt werden, wobei auch Finanzierungsfragen geklärt werden müssen, da die derzeitigen Finanzierungsmodelle in der Regel nicht kostendeckend sind.
Measuring gender attitudes using list experiments
Authors: Asadullah M. Niaz , De Cao Elisabetta , Khatoon Fathema Zhura , Siddique Zahra
Published: October 2020

We elicit adolescent girls’ attitudes towards intimate partner violence and child marriage using purposefully collected data from rural Bangladesh. Alongside direct survey questions, we conduct list experiments to elicit true preferences for intimate partner violence and marriage before age 18. Responses to direct survey questions suggest that very few adolescent girls in the study accept the practises of intimate partner violence and child marriage (5% and 2%). However, our list experiments reveal significantly higher support for both intimate partner violence and child marriage (at 30% and 24%). We further investigate how numerous variables relate to preferences for egalitarian gender norms in rural Bangladesh.
Better outcomes after minimally invasive surgeries compared to the standard invasive medial parapatellar approach for total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Eschweiler Jörg , Baroncini Alice , Tingart Markus , Maffulli Nicola
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is often marketed as being able to speed up healing times over standard invasive surgery (SIS) through the medial parapatellar approach. The advantages of these minimally invasive approaches, however, are not yet definitively established. A meta-analysis of studies comparing peri-operative and post-operative differences and long-term complications of MIS versus SIS for TKA was conducted.

Methods

This meta-analysis was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The Pubmed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Embase databases were accessed in September 2020. All clinical trials comparing minimally-invasive versus standard approaches for TKA were considered. Only studies reporting quantitative data under the outcomes of interest were included. Methodological quality assessment was performed using the PEDro appraisal score.

Results

This meta-analysis covers a total of 38 studies (3296 procedures), with a mean 21.3 ± 24.3 months of follow-up. The MIS group had shorter hospitalization times, lower values of total estimated blood loss, quicker times of straight-leg raise, greater values for range of motion, higher scores on the Knee Society Clinical Rating System (KSS) and its related Function Subscale (KSFS). Pain scores, anterior knee pain and revision rate were similar between MIS and SIS. SIS allowed a quicker surgical duration.

Conclusion

The present meta-analysis encourages the use of minimally invasive techniques for total knee arthroplasty. However, MIS TKA is technically demanding and requires a long learning curve.

Level of evidence

III, meta-analysis of clinical trials.
Winning coalitions in plurality voting democracies
Authors: van den Brink René , Dimitrov Dinko , Rusinowska Agnieszka
Published: October 2020

We consider plurality voting games being simple games in partition function form such that in every partition there is at least one winning coalition. Such a game is said to be weighted if it is possible to assign weights to the players in such a way that a winning coalition in a partition is always one for which the sum of the weights of its members is maximal over all coalitions in the partition. A plurality game is called decisive if in every partition there is exactly one winning coalition. We show that in general, plurality games need not be weighted, even not when they are decisive. After that, we prove that (i) decisive plurality games with at most four players, (ii) majority games with an arbitrary number of players, and (iii) decisive plurality games that exhibit some kind of symmetry, are weighted. Complete characterizations of the winning coalitions in the corresponding partitions are provided as well.
Impact of COVID-19 on stroke admissions, treatments, and outcomes at a comprehensive stroke centre in the United Kingdom
Authors: Padmanabhan Nishita , Natarajan Indira , Gunston Rachel , Raseta Marko , Roffe Christine
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has changed routine clinical practice worldwide with major impacts on the provision of care and treatment for stroke patients.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included all patients admitted to the Royal Stoke University Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent, UK, with a stroke or transient ischaemic attack between March 15th and April 14th, 2020 (COVID). Patient demographics, characteristics of the stroke, treatment details and logistics were compared with patients admitted in the corresponding weeks in the year before (2019).

Results

There was a 39.5% (n = 101 vs n = 167) reduction in admissions in the COVID cohort compared with 2019 with more severe strokes (median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) 7 vs 4, p = 0.02), and fewer strokes with no visible acute pathology (21.8 vs 37.1%, p = 0.01) on computed tomography. There was no statistically significant difference in the rates of thrombolysis (10.9 vs 13.2%, p = 0.72) and/or thrombectomy (5.9 vs 4.8%, p = 0.90) and no statistically significant difference in time from stroke onset to arrival at hospital (734 vs 576 min, p = 0.34), door-to-needle time for thrombolysis (54 vs 64 min, p = 0.43) and door-to-thrombectomy time (181 vs 445 min, p = 0.72). Thirty-day mortality was not significantly higher in the COVID year (10.9 vs 8.9%, p = 0.77). None of the 7 stroke patients infected with COVID-19 died.

Conclusions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of stroke admissions fell, and stroke severity increased. There was no statistically significant change in the delivery of thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy and no increase in mortality.
Telemedicine for management of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through COVID-19 tail
Authors: Bombaci Alessandro , Abbadessa Gianmarco , Trojsi Francesca , Leocani Letizia , Bonavita Simona , Lavorgna Luigi ,   on behalf of the Digital Technologies, Web and Social Media Study Group of the Italian Society of Neurology, Tedeschi Gioacchino , Mancardi Giovanni , Padovani Alessandro , Clerico Marinella , Brigo Francesco , Lanzillo Roberta , Russo Antonio , Giometto Bruno , Straccia Giulia , Iodice Rosa , Bucello Sebastiano , Annovazzi Pietro , Moccia Marcello , Prosperini Luca , Stromillo Maria Laura , Repice Anna Maria , Miele Giuseppina , Lerario Alberto , De Martino Antonio , Iodice Francesco , Di Lorenzo Francesco , Cuffaro Luca , Romoli Michele , Silvestro Marcello , Artusi Carlo Alberto
Published: October 2020

Over the last months, due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, containment measures have led to important social restriction. Healthcare systems have faced a complete rearrangement of resources and spaces, with the creation of wards devoted to COVID-19 patients. In this context, patients affected by chronic neurological diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are at risk to be lost at follow-up, leading to a higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Telemedicine may allow meet the needs of these patients. In this commentary, we briefly discuss the digital tools to remotely monitor and manage ALS patients. Focusing on detecting disease progression and preventing life-threatening conditions, we propose a toolset able to improve ALS management during this unprecedented situation.
Full integration of geomorphological, geotechnical, A-DInSAR and damage data for detailed geometric-kinematic features of a slow-moving landslide in urban area
Authors: Peduto Dario , Santoro Mariantonia , Aceto Luigi , Borrelli Luigi , Gullà Giovanni
Published: October 2020

The reconnaissance, mapping and analysis of kinematic features of slow-moving landslides evolving along medium-deep sliding surfaces in urban areas can be a difficult task due to the presence and interactions of/with anthropic structures/infrastructures and human activities that can conceal morphological signs of landslide activity. The paper presents an integrated approach to investigate the boundaries, type of movement, kinematics and interactions (in terms of damage severity distribution) with the built environment of a roto-translational slow-moving landslide affecting the historic centre of Lungro town (Calabria region, southern Italy). For this purpose, ancillary multi-source data (e.g. geological-geomorphological features and geotechnical properties of geomaterials), both conventional inclinometer monitoring and innovative non-invasive remote sensing (i.e. A-DInSAR) displacement data were jointly analyzed and interpreted to derive the A-DInSAR-geotechnical velocity (DGV) map of the landslide. This result was then cross-compared with detailed information available on the visible effects (i.e. crack pattern and width) on the exposed buildings along with possible conditioning factors to displacement evolution (i.e. remedial works, sub-services, etc.). The full integration of multi-source data available at the slope scale, by maximizing each contribution, provided a comprehensive outline of kinematic-geometric landslide features that were used to investigate the damage distribution and to detect, if any, anomalous locations of damage severity and relative possible causes. This knowledge can be used to manage landslide risk in the short term and, in particular, is propaedeutic to set up an advanced coupled geotechnical-structural model to simulate both the landslide displacements and the behavior of interacting buildings and, therefore, to implement appropriate risk mitigation strategies over medium/long period.
Pertussis (Keuchhusten)
Authors: Heininger Ulrich
Published: October 2020

Pertussis wird durch das gramnegative Bakterium Bordetella pertussis verursacht. Die Krankheitsmanifestationen reichen von unspezifischem Husten bis zu lebensbedrohlichen Verläufen mit Hyperleukozytose und respiratorischer Insuffizienz, v.a. bei jungen Säuglingen. Die Diagnose basiert auf klinischer Symptomatik und mikrobiologischen Nachweisverfahren. Die Therapie besteht aus Makrolidantibiotika; bei Apnoen kann Koffein versucht werden. Die Inzidenz beträgt 10–40 Fälle/100.000 Bevölkerung und Jahr, bei Säuglingen ist sie am höchsten (ca. 50), gefolgt von Jugendlichen (30–35). Mehr als 50 % der in den ersten 5 Lebensmonaten an Pertussis erkrankten Kinder werden hospitalisiert. Die Impfprävention umfasst Grundimmunisierung und regelmäßige Auffrischimpfungen mit azellulären Impfstoffen. Um schwere Verläufe bei jungen Säuglingen zu verhindern, ist die Impfung schwangerer Frauen am erfolgversprechendsten. Säuglinge geimpfter Mütter sollen zeitgerecht ab dem Alter von 2 Monaten für den Eigenschutz immunisiert werden.
Techniques for In Vivo Measurement of Ligament and Tendon Strain: A Review
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Adam Naomi C. , Hosseini Nasab S. H. , Taylor William R. , Smith Colin R.
Published: October 2020

The critical clinical and scientific insights achieved through knowledge ofin vivomusculoskeletal soft tissue strains has motivated the development of relevant measurement techniques. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the key findings, limitations, and clinical impacts of these techniques to quantify musculoskeletal soft tissue strains during dynamic movements. Current technologies generally leverage three techniques to quantifyin vivostrain patterns, including implantable strain sensors, virtual fibre elongation, and ultrasound. (1) Implantable strain sensors enable direct measurements of tissue strains with high accuracy and minimal artefact, but are highly invasive and current designs are not clinically viable. (2) The virtual fibre elongation method tracks the relative displacement of tissue attachments to measure strains in both deep and superficial tissues. However, the associated imaging techniques often require exposure to radiation, limit the activities that can be performed, and only quantify bone-to-bone tissue strains. (3) Ultrasound methods enable safe and non-invasive imaging of soft tissue deformation. However, ultrasound can only image superficial tissues, and measurements are confounded by out-of-plane tissue motion. Finally, allin vivostrain measurement methods are limited in their ability to establish the slack length of musculoskeletal soft tissue structures. Despite the many challenges and limitations of these measurement techniques, knowledge ofin vivosoft tissue strain has led to improved clinical treatments for many musculoskeletal pathologies including anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, Achilles tendon repair, and total knee replacement. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of these measurement techniques and identifies the key features ofin vivostrain measurement that can facilitate innovative personalized sports medicine treatment.
Experimental seismic response of a resilient 3-storey post-tensioned timber framed building with dissipative braces
Authors: Di Cesare Antonio , Ponzo Felice Carlo , Lamarucciola Nicla , Nigro Domenico
Published: October 2020

With the increased number of multi-storey buildings in seismic areas, research efforts have been focused on developing earthquake resilient systems, such as low-damage techniques based on the combination of post-tensioning and dissipating devices. This paper describes the experimental study performed on a 3-storey post-tensioned timber framed (Pres-Lam) building equipped with energy dissipating systems. The testing project consisted of three phases adopting different configurations of the experimental model: (1) post-tensioning to beam-column joints only, (2) post-tensioning and dissipative rocking mechanisms and (3) post-tensioning and dissipative braces. The main objective of this paper is to experimentally investigate on the seismic response of a large-scale specimen with dissipative braces located in high seismic area, considering construction details similar to those adopted in practical applications. During the experimental campaign, the test frame was subjected to more than one hundred ground motions considering a set of seven spectra-compatible earthquakes at increasing intensity levels. The dissipating bracing system with external replaceable hysteretic dampers improves the seismic resilience of multi-storey Pres-Lam buildings, showing inter-storey drift comparable to those with rocking walls, with full recentring capability and without structural damages or post-tensioning losses through seismic tests.
The role of international case law in implementing the obligation not to cause significant harm
Authors: Tignino Mara , Bréthaut Christian
Published: October 2020

The no-harm principle is at the heart of the several international conventions focusing on the uses, allocation, management and protection of transboundary water resources. However, in the framework of these agreements, the meaning of “no-harm” remains rather vague. Through an analysis of six emblematic cases brought before the International Court of Justice and arbitration tribunals, we elucidate the various facets of this principle. In doing so, the paper identifies four facets. The first is characterized by concerns related to the protection of territorial integrity rather than those related to the protection of the environment. The second facet focuses on the principle of equitable and reasonable use of water, which testifies to the willingness to anticipate possible harms and to define conditions for cooperation between neighbouring countries. The third facet explores the use of three instruments and emphasizes their importance to clarify the very nature of harm: the conduct of environmental impact assessment, the consultation of local populations and the insurance of minimum environmental flows. The fourth facet develops a preventive perspective on harm by unravelling the duty to take appropriate measures to prevent and mitigate risks deriving from the obligations of notification and consultation.
Suidae Transition at the Miocene-Pliocene Boundary: a Reassessment of the Taxonomy and Chronology of Propotamochoerus provincialis
Authors: Iannucci Alessio , Cherin Marco , Sorbelli Leonardo , Sardella Raffaele
Published: October 2020

The Miocene-Pliocene (Turolian-Ruscinian) transition represents a fundamental interval in the evolution of Euro-Mediterranean paleocommunities. In fact, the paleoenvironmental changes connected with the end of the Messinian salinity crisis are reflected by a major renewal in mammal faunal assemblages. An important bioevent among terrestrial large mammals is the dispersal of the genusSus, which replaced all other suid species during the Pliocene. Despite its possible paleoecological and biochronological relevance, correlations based on this bioevent are undermined by the supposed persistence of the late surviving late MiocenePropotamochoerus provincialis. However, a recent revision of the type material of this species revealed an admixture with remains ofSus strozzii, an early Pleistocene (Middle Villafranchian to Epivillafranchian) suid, questioning both the diagnosis and chronological range ofP. provincialis. Here we review the late Miocene Suidae sample recovered from the Casino Basin (Tuscany, central Italy), whose taxonomic attribution has been controversial over the nearly 150 years since its discovery. Following a comparison with other Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene Eurasian species, the Casino Suidae are assigned toP. provincialisand the species diagnosis is emended. Moreover, it is recognized that all the late Miocene (Turolian) EuropeanPropotamochoerusmaterial belongs toP. provincialisand that there is no compelling evidence of the occurrence of this species beyond the Turolian-Ruscinian transition (MN13-MN14).
Clinician-Scientists in-and-between Research and Practice: How Social Identity Shapes Brokerage
Authors: de Groot Esther , Baggen Yvette , Moolenaar Nienke , Stevens Diede , van Tartwijk Jan , Damoiseaux Roger , Kluijtmans Manon
Published: October 2020

Clinician-scientists (CSs) are vital in connecting the worlds of research and practice. Yet, there is little empirical insight into how CSs perceive and act upon their in-and-between position between these socio-culturally distinct worlds. To better understand and support CSs’ training and career development, this study aims to gain insight into CSs’ social identity and brokerage. The authors conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 17, purposively sampled, CSs to elicit information on their social identity and brokerage. The CSs differ in how they perceive their social identity. Some CSs described their social identity strongly as either a research or clinical identity (dominant research or clinical identity). Other CSs described combined research and clinical identities, which might sometimes be compartmentalised, intersected or merged (non-dominant-identity). In the types of brokerage that they employ, all CSs act as representatives. CSs with a non-dominant identity mostly act as liaison and show considerable variability in their repertoire, including representative and gatekeeper. CSs with a dominant identity have less diversity in their brokerage types. Those with a dominant research identity typically act as a gatekeeper. Combining lenses of social identity theory and brokerage types helps understand CSs who have a dual position in-and-between the worlds of clinical practice and research. Professional development programs should explicitly address CSs’ professional identities and subsequent desired brokerage. Research and policy should aim to clarify and leverage the position of CSs in-and-between research and practice.
The epistemic demands of friendship: friendship as inherently knowledge-involving
Authors: Mason Cathy
Published: October 2020

Many recent philosophers have been tempted by epistemic partialism. They hold that epistemic norms and those of friendship constitutively conflict. In this paper, I suggest that underpinning this claim is the assumption that friendship is not an epistemically rich state, an assumption that even opponents of epistemic partiality have not questioned. I argue that there is good reason to question this assumption, and instead regard friendship as essentially involving knowledge of the other. If we accept this account of friendship, the possibility of epistemic partialism does not arise.
Real-time measurement of adenosine and ATP release in the central nervous system
Authors: Dale Nicholas
Published: October 2020

This brief review recounts how, stimulated by the work of Geoff Burnstock, I developed biosensors that allowed direct real-time measurement of ATP and adenosine during neural function. The initial impetus to create an adenosine biosensor came from trying to understand how ATP and adenosine-modulated motor pattern generation in the frog embryo spinal cord. Early biosensor measurements demonstrated slow accumulation of adenosine during motor activity. Subsequent application of these biosensors characterized real-time release of adenosine in in vitro models of brain ischaemia, and this line of work has recently led to clinical measurements of whole blood purine levels in patients undergoing carotid artery surgery or stroke. In parallel, the wish to understand the role of ATP signalling in the chemosensory regulation of breathing stimulated the development of ATP biosensors. This revealed that release of ATP from the chemosensory areas of the medulla oblongata preceded adaptive changes in breathing, triggered adaptive changes in breathing via activation of P2 receptors, and ultimately led to the discovery of connexin26 as a channel that mediates CO2-gated release of ATP from cells.
Modeling maladaptation in the inequality–environment nexus
Authors: Antoci Angelo , Russu Paolo , Ticci Elisa
Published: October 2020

Adaptation against environmental degradation has the potential to generate further environmental pressures. Does this aspect of adaptation affect the inequality–environment link? To answer this question, we develop a one-sector and one-input model which integrates threats to social and environmental sustainability posed by feedback effects of agents’ adaptation strategies. We distinguish between income inequality and welfare inequality with the latter depending on environmental quality, leisure time, income level and allocation of income to consumption or adaptation. Despite its parsimony, the model describes the conditions for the existence of different inequality–environment dynamic regimes. The model confirms the standard view that environmental degradation exacerbates welfare inequality, but it also produces non-trivial and surprising insights. It illustrates that income inequality affects the type of dynamic regime followed by the economy. High-income economies and economies with high-income inequality are most at risk of following a pattern of maladaptive growth with increasing welfare inequality and environmental pressure.
Pediatric Trauma and the COVID-19 Pandemic: A 12-Year Comparison in a Level-1 Trauma Center
Authors: Sheridan Gerard A. , Nagle Matthew , Russell Shane , Varghese Stanly , O'Loughlin Padhraig F. , Boran Sinead , Taylor Colm , Harty James A.
Published: October 2020

Background

The effect of COVID-19 on pediatric trauma rates is still largely under investigation. With the potential need to reallocate human and financial resources at this challenging time, it will be useful to have detailed descriptions of the rates of pediatric trauma and understanding of how the pandemic affects these rates.

Questions/Purposes

We sought to describe the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number of acute pediatric trauma admissions and procedures performed in a level-I trauma center in Cork University Hospital, Ireland.

Methods

We compared the number of acute traumatic pediatric admissions and procedures that occurred during the first 4 weeks of a nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19 with that of the same 4-week period in each of the preceding 11 years. Seasonal variables were measured and controlled for using multivariate regression analysis.

Results

A total of 545 pediatric patients (under 16 years of age) were included. Over 12 years, the lowest number of acute traumatic pediatric admissions and procedures was recorded during the 2020 pandemic. There was a significant correlation between the number of school days and the number of acute traumatic admissions, as well as the procedures performed. The relationship between the number of school days and the number of trauma procedures was evident even when controlling for confounder variables of seasonal variation.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the number of acute traumatic pediatric admissions and procedures performed in our level-I trauma center, likely because of a reduction in school days. With the reopening of schools, playgrounds, and sporting events, an increase in pediatric trauma admissions is anticipated. The results of this study can help prepare institutions and regulatory bodies to plan appropriately for this new phase.
Hysterie und Hysterese. Die Asylmigration und der Erfolg der Alternative für Deutschland (AfD)
Authors: Klein Markus , Springer Frederik
Published: October 2020

Die Zahl der in Deutschland gestellten Asylanträge ist in den Jahren 2015 und 2016 deutlich angestiegen. Dass die Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) von dieser Entwicklung politisch profitiert hat, ist weitgehend unbestritten. Ungeklärt ist allerdings, ob ein vorübergehender Anstieg der Zahl der Asylanträge die Wahlchancen der AfD nur kurzfristig (Hysterie-Hypothese) oder aber nachhaltig (Hysterese-Hypothese) erhöht. Die Erwartung einer nachhaltigen Wirkung wird damit begründet, dass ein Asylantrag letztlich den Zuzug einer asylsuchenden Person auf das Gebiet der Bundesrepublik indiziert und diese dort mit relativ hoher Wahrscheinlichkeit auch verbleibt. Die Hysterie- und die Hysterese-Hypothese werden auf der Grundlage von Zeitreihendaten für den Zeitraum April 2013 bis Dezember 2019 empirisch untersucht. Dabei bestätigen sich beide Hypothesen. Die AfD profitiert kurzfristig von einem Anstieg der Zahl der Asylanträge. Gleichzeitig ist die Unterstützung der AfD aber auch von der Zahl der aktuell in Deutschland befindlichen Schutzsuchenden abhängig. Der Effekt des Bestands an Schutzsuchenden ist dabei stärker als der Effekt der Zahl der Asylanträge.
Homogamy in Gender Role Attitudes Among Young Couples: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Hudde Ansgar
Published: October 2020

Romantic partners’ similarity in gender role attitudes affects important outcomes such as sharing of housework, relationship stability, or fertility. However, there is little knowledge about how similar romantic partners are in these attitudes. Using dyadic panel data from German couples (sourced from pairfam), this study puts the degree of homogamy in gender role attitudes among young couples into perspective by comparing real couples with two types of counterfactuals. To create these counterfactuals, I re-mate couples in two ways: (a) randomly and (b) in such a way that similarity in attitudes between partners is maximized. Real couples differ only slightly from randomly mated couples, which suggests rather weak attitudinal similarity. Using longitudinal information, I further test the mechanisms that determine the degree of homogamy: there is strong evidence for alignment over time and for lower rates of separation among homogamous couples, but no evidence for homogamy as a by-product of assortative mating on other variables. This paper offers methodological and substantial contributions to the literature: it presents a method for intuitive assessment of the degree of homogamy with multiple variables simultaneously. It also shows that in Germany, macro-level diversity in attitudes largely translates into dissimilar attitudes between partners—with important implications for relationship dynamics.
Inflammatory Cytokines and Atherosclerotic Plaque Progression. Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Sterpetti Antonio V
Published: October 2020

Purpose of the Review

Inflammatory cytokines play a major role in atherosclerotic plaque progression. This review summarizes the rationale for personalized anti-inflammatory therapy.

Recent Findings

Systemic inflammatory parameters may be used to follow the clinical outcome in primary and secondary prevention. Medical therapy, both in patients with stable cardiovascular disease, or with acute events, may be tailored taking into consideration the level and course of systemic inflammatory mediators. There is significant space for improvement in primary prevention and in the treatment of patients who have suffered from severe cardiovascular events, paying attention to not only blood pressure and cholesterol levels but also including inflammatory parameters in our clinical analysis.

The potential exists to alter the course of atherosclerosis with anti-inflammatory drugs. With increased understanding of the specific mechanisms that regulate the relationship between inflammation and atherosclerosis, new, more effective and specific anti-inflammatory treatment may become available.
Regulating around freedom in the “forum internum”
Authors: Alegre Susie
Published: October 2020

Regulation of the digital space has, so far, focused on the rights to privacy and data protection or the right to freedom of expression. But the increased impact of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) on the way we think, feel and behave calls for a new perspective on regulation to protect our rights to freedom of thought and opinion in the “forum internum.” These rights are absolute rights and, as such, require a different and radical approach to regulation including the potential to ban the use of technology that interferes with our minds in any sphere. International and regional organisations like the Council of Europe and UN Special Rapporteurs are increasingly recognising the risks posed by technology for human agency and autonomy. There is an opportunity for Europe to take the lead in regulating digital technology to protect freedom of thought and the potential for innovation in the future. This requires a new approach that must embed the Precautionary Principle in technological research and development as well as the definition of practices that may never be permissible.
Endlich?!
Authors: Aner Kirsten , Löffler Eva Maria
Published: October 2020

Der Beitrag blickt ausgehend von der Corona-Pandemie auf die Theorie Sozialer Arbeit als Menschenrechtsprofession und die Rahmenbedingungen der Sozialen Altenarbeit. Vorgeschlagen wird, sich nicht nur in der Arbeit mit Kindern und Jugendlichen, sondern auch in der Arbeit mit älteren Menschen an Janusz Korczaks Magna Charta Libertatis zu orientieren.
Russlands Wende nach Osten. Kleine Schritte statt umfassende Neuorientierung
Authors: Hoppe Sebastian , Rogova Vera
Published: October 2020

In den vergangenen Jahren hat Russland sein Engagement in Asien verstärkt, die Wende nach Osten wird gar als strategische Neuausrichtung des Landes diskutiert. Abseits der Rhetorik zeigt sich jedoch eine durchwachsene Bilanz. Nicht nur die Wirtschaftsaußenpolitik läuft mit ihrem Fokus auf Energie- und Rüstungsprojekte Gefahr, jene Strukturen zu reproduzieren, die Russlands außenpolitische Handlungsspielräume und ökonomische Entwicklung in der Vergangenheit eher behindert denn befördert haben. Auch der einstweilen erfolgreiche Ausbau des sicherheitspolitischen Engagements in Asien steht vor der Herausforderung, die sich abzeichnende Abhängigkeit gegenüber China zu gestalten.
Surgical treatment of transcatheter aortic valve infective endocarditis
Authors: Malvindi P. G. , Luthra S. , Sarvananthan S. , Zingale A. , Olevano C. , Ohri S.
Published: October 2020

There is growing interest in infections occurring after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The incidence, and clinical and anatomical features suggest many similarities with prosthetic valve endocarditis. The survival of patients with an infected TAVI prosthesis is generally poor; however, only a minority of them (10%) have undergone treatment with surgical explantation of the infected prosthesis. A literature search was performed using online databases. Papers reporting surgical treatment of TAVI prosthesis infections were retrieved, focusing on pre- and intraoperative characteristics and early outcome. Thirty-seven papers ultimately provided information on 107 patients. Their mean ± standard deviation (SD) age was 76 ± 8 years and 72% were male. The mean ± SD time interval between the TAVI procedure and reoperation was 10 ± 10 months. Annular abscess formation was described in 34% of cases and mitral valve involvement in 31%. All patients underwent TAVI prosthesis explantation and surgical aortic valve replacement; concomitant mitral valve replacement was necessary in 22% of cases. Postoperative in-hospital mortality was 28%. Surgical explantation of infected TAVI prostheses was associated with a high postoperative mortality, although these initial experiences included elderly and high-risk patients. Considering the expansion of TAVI procedures towards younger and lower-risk patients, surgical treatment of TAVI endocarditis may represent the best option for a life-saving procedure.
Effects of supplementary feed for game birds on activity of brown rats Rattus norvegicus on arable farms
Authors: Saad Siti Md , Sanderson Roy , Robertson Peter , Lambert Mark
Published: October 2020

Brown rats are widespread in agroecosystems, but our understanding of factors affecting their activity is incomplete due to cryptic, nocturnal behaviours. Indirect monitoring methods include tracking plates and camera traps. Supplementary feeding of game birds may provide resources for rats away from farm buildings, allowing them to persist in winter when there is little other food available. Developing reliable methods to monitor such populations will facilitate landscape-scale studies of rat populations in farm environments and aid ecologically based approaches for controlling rats on farms. We compared camera traps and tracking plates to monitor brown rat activity near game bird feeders at a mixed farm in Northumberland, UK. Generalized linear models (GLM) were used to compare rat incidence estimated from camera traps and tracking plates. A strong positive relationship was found between the two methods, although tracking plate estimates were less reliable when rat activity was very low. Factors that affected populations of brown rats near game bird feeders were assessed via linear mixed-effect models (LMM) of monthly tracking plate data (October 2017 to September 2018). Populations were highest at the feeders (0 m) compared with further away (10 m, 20 m) and were also higher in periods of cold, wet weather and when more food was available from the feeders. Rodenticide application near feeders did not significantly affect activity, nor did land cover 100 m around each feeder. A highly significant relationship was detected with food supply, suggesting that the use of game bird feeders could potentially have major impacts on rat population dynamics.
Perspective taking, empathic concern, agreeableness, and parental support: Transactional associations across adolescence
Authors: Van Heel Martijn , Bijttebier Patricia , Colpin Hilde , Goossens Luc , Van Den Noortgate Wim , Verschueren Karine , Van Leeuwen Karla
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Empathy consists of a cognitive and an affective component, of which it is thought that there are gender differences. Previous studies also suggest that maternal and paternal support play a more prominent role in the development of an adolescent's affective and cognitive empathy, respectively. Besides the environmental factor, that is parenting, adolescent personality, and more specifically, agreeableness, is closely linked to both empathy and support, but this interplay was not extensively investigated longitudinally. The present study investigated the transactional associations among parental support, adolescent agreeableness, and adolescent empathy. More specifically, we examined (a) whether maternal/paternal support is differentially associated with cognitive/affective empathy, while taking into account adolescent agreeableness and (b) whether adolescent agreeableness still predicts empathy, while taking into account parental support.

Methods

Data from 993 Belgian adolescents (MageT1 = 13.96 years; [12.6–18.4]) and their parents across four time points were used in a random intercept cross‐lagged panel model.

Results

At the between‐person level, maternal support was associated with affective, but not cognitive empathy, whereas agreeableness was associated with maternal and paternal support as well as with both types of empathy. At the within‐person level, affective empathy predicted cognitive empathy one wave later.

Conclusions

At a population level, agreeableness and support are both important in adolescent empathy development with limited evidence for the differential roles of mothers and fathers. Within participants, affective empathy, and not parental support or agreeableness, predicted cognitive empathy.
Pediatric syndrome of the splenic flexure of the colon: A case report and literature review
Authors: Min Jie , Wu Bin , Zhu Jie , Gu Zhicheng , Huang Shungen , Wang Jian
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Syndrome of the splenic flexure of the colon is caused by congenital splenic colon curvature with excessively high fixed points, a lengthy transverse colon, and a narrow splenic flexure angle. Clinical manifestations of this syndrome lack specificity. To date, the causes of the syndrome are poorly characterized. Syndrome of the splenic flexure of the colon usually occurs in elderly women, but it is extremely rare in children. Here we report a case of a child with syndrome of the splenic flexure of the colon.

Presentation of case:

A 14-year old female patient developed constipation and bloating two years ago and received conservative treatment at their local hospital. One week earlier, the patient again experienced abdominal pain, constipation, and abdominal distension. After failure in improving the symptoms, the patient was transferred to our hospital. Through the preoperative abdominal barium enema X-ray and CT scan, the patient was finally diagnosed with syndrome of the splenic flexure of the colon. A laparoscopy-assisted subtotal colectomy and anastomosis were subsequently performed. The resected specimens were ˜70 cm in length and ˜10 cm in diameter. Histopathology was performed on the surgically removed specimens.The patient is undergoing regular re-examinations and is recovering satisfactorily.

Conclusion:

For children with recurrent abdominal pain, bloating and constipation, a barium enema X-ray is recommended. Surgery is recommended if syndrome of the splenic flexure of the colon is considered.

Highlights:
Quantitative Genetics
Authors: Caballero Armando
Published: October 2020

Quantitative genetics is the study of continuously varying traits which make up the majority of biological attributes of evolutionary and commercial interest. This book provides a much-needed up-to-date, in-depth yet accessible text for the field. In lucid language, the author guides readers through the main concepts of population and quantitative genetics and their applications. It is written to be approachable to even those without a strong mathematical background, including applied examples, a glossary of key terms, and problems and solutions to support students in grasping important theoretical developments and their relevance to real-world biology. An engaging, must-have textbook for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students. Given its applied focus, it also equips researchers in genetics, genomics, evolutionary biology, animal and plant breeding, and conservation genetics with the understanding and tools for genetic improvement, comprehension of the genetic basis of human diseases, and conservation of biological resources.
Origametry
Authors: Hull Thomas C.
Published: October 2020

Origami, the art of paper folding, has a rich mathematical theory. Early investigations go back to at least the 1930s, but the twenty-first century has seen a remarkable blossoming of the mathematics of folding. Besides its use in describing origami and designing new models, it is also finding real-world applications from building nano-scale robots to deploying large solar arrays in space. Written by a world expert on the subject, Origametry is the first complete reference on the mathematics of origami. It brings together historical results, modern developments, and future directions into a cohesive whole. Over 180 figures illustrate the constructions described while numerous 'diversions' provide jumping-off points for readers to deepen their understanding. This book is an essential reference for researchers of origami mathematics and its applications in physics, engineering, and design. Educators, students, and enthusiasts will also find much to enjoy in this fascinating account of the mathematics of folding.
Aspects of Truth
Authors: Pickstock Catherine
Published: October 2020

What is 'truth'? The question that Pilate put to Jesus was laced with dramatic irony. But at a time when what is true and what is untrue have acquired a new currency, the question remains of crucial significance. Is truth a matter of the representation of things which lack truth in themselves? Or of mere coherence? Or is truth a convenient if redundant way of indicating how one's language refers to things outside oneself? In her ambitious new book, Catherine Pickstock addresses these profound questions, arguing that epistemological approaches to truth either fail argumentatively or else offer only vacuity. She advances instead a bold metaphysical and realist appraisal which overcomes the Kantian impasse of 'subjective knowing' and ban on reaching beyond supposedly finite limits. Her book contends that in the end truth cannot be separated from the transcendent reality of the thinking soul.
Debating with Demons
Authors: Heckman Christina M.
Published: October 2020

A consideration of the theme of demons as teachers in early English literature.
Recognize Everyone’s Interests: An Algorithm for Ethical Decision-Making about Trade-Off Problems
Authors: Scharding Tobey K.
Published: October 2020

This article addresses a dilemma about autonomous vehicles: how to respond to trade-off scenarios in which all possible responses involve the loss of life but there is a choice about whose life or lives are lost. I consider four options: kill fewer people, protect passengers, equal concern for survival, and recognize everyone’s interests. I solve this dilemma via what I call the new trolley problem, which seeks a rationale for the intuition that it is unethical to kill a smaller number of people to avoid killing a greater number of people based on numbers alone. I argue that killing a smaller number of people to avoid killing a greater number of people based on numbers alone is unethical because it disrespects the humanity of the individuals in the smaller-numbered group. I defend the recognize-everyone’s-interests algorithm, which will probably kill fewer people but will not do so based on numbers alone.
Successful termination of an outbreak of Mycobacterium chimaera infections associated with contaminated heater-cooler devices
Authors: Marra Alexandre R. , Diekema Daniel J. , Edmond Michael B.
Published: October 2020

The global outbreak of invasive Mycobacterium chimaera infections associated with heater-cooler devices (HCDs) presented several important and unique challenges. To mitigate the risk of infection, we removed the HCDs from operating rooms (ORs) at our hospital and since that time (4.5 years ago) we have had no new cases.
INFERENCE FROM LARGE SETS OF RADIOCARBON DATES: SOFTWARE AND METHODS
Authors: Crema Enrico R , Bevan Andrew
Published: October 2020

The last decade has seen the development of a range of new statistical and computational techniques for analysing large collections of radiocarbon (14C) dates, often but not exclusively to make inferences about human population change in the past. Here we introducercarbon, an open-source software package for the R statistical computing language which implements many of these techniques and looks to foster transparent future study of their strengths and weaknesses. In this paper, we review the key assumptions, limitations and potentials behind statistical analyses of summed probability distribution of14C dates, including Monte-Carlo simulation-based tests, permutation tests, and spatial analyses. Supplementary material provides a fully reproducible analysis with further details not covered in the main paper.