bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variations in breast cancer surgical treatment and timing: determinants and disparities
Authors: Dankwa-Mullan Irene , George Judy , Roebuck M. Christopher , Tkacz Joseph , Willis Van C , Reyes Fredy , Arriaga Yull E.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To describe clinical and non-clinical factors associated with receipt of breast conserving surgery (BCS) versus mastectomy and time to surgical intervention.

Methods

Cross-sectional retrospective study of January 1, 2012 through March 31, 2018 data from the IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounter and Medicare Supplemental Databases. Area Health Resource Files provided non-clinical characteristics and sociodemographic data. Eligibility: Female sex, claim(s) with ICD-9-CM or ICD-10-CM diagnosis of non-metastatic invasive breast cancer, > 6 months of continuous insurance pre- and post-diagnosis, evidence of BCS or mastectomy following initial ICD9/10 code diagnosis. Logistic and quantile multivariable regression models assessed the association between clinical and non-clinical factors and the outcome of BCS and time to surgery, respectively.

Results

A total of 53,060 women were included in the study. Compared to mastectomy, BCS was significantly associated with older age (ORs: 1.54 to 2.99, 95% CIs 1.45 to 3.38; ps < .0001) and higher community density of medical genetics (OR: 5.88, 95% CIs 1.38 to 25.00; p = 0.02) or obstetrics and gynecology (OR: 1.13, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.25; p = .02) physicians. Shorter time-to-BCS was associated with living in the South (−2.96, 95% CI −4.39 to −1.33; p < .0001). Longer time-to-BCS was associated with residence in more urban (4.18, 95% CI 0.08 to 8.29; p = 0. 05), educated (9.02, 95% CI 0.13 to 17.91; p = 0.05), or plastic-surgeon-dense (4.62, 95% CI 0.50 to 8.73; p = 0.03) communities.

Conclusions

Clinical and non-clinical factors are associated with adoption of BCS and time to treatment, suggesting opportunities to ensure equitable and timely care.
Impact of Parenting Styles on Psychological Flexibility Among Adolescents of Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bibi Akhtar , Hayat Raheela , Hayat Nadia , Zulfiqar Sadia , Shafique Nadia , Khalid Muhammad Adnan
Published: March 2021

The parenting styles and psychological flexibility have been significant variables; however, little empirical work has addressed the impact of parenting in terms of the expansion of psychological flexibility. The present study investigated the impact of different parenting styles as a predictor of psychological flexibility in the adolescent population. A total sample of 100 adolescents (50 boys and 50 girls) whose ages ranged between 12 and 18 years without any previous psychiatric and medical history were recruited from different educational institutes of Pakistan. Results revealed that parenting styles are positively associated with psychological flexibility (r = 0.75, p < 0.05). Moreover, parenting styles significantly predict psychological flexibility among adolescents (p < 0.05). However, no gender differences were found across both variables among adolescents. These findings have highlighted the significance of parenting styles and psychological flexibility with respect to the mental health of adolescents.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: An intelligent trading mechanism based on the group trading strategy portfolio to reduce massive loss by the grouping genetic algorithm
Authors: Chen Chun-Hao , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Diaz Vicente Garcia , Lin Jerry Chun-Wei
Published: March 2021

It is always difficult and challenge to obtain suitable trading signals for the desired securities in financial markets. The popular way to deal with it is through the use of trading strategies (TSs) made up of technical or fundamental indicators. Due to the different properties of TSs, an algorithm was proposed to find trading signals by obtaining the group trading strategy portfolio (GTSP), which is composed of strategy groups that can be employed to generate various TS portfolios (TSP) instead of a single TS. The stop-loss and take-profit points (SLTP) are widely utilized by shareholders to avoid massive losses. However, the appropriate SLTP is hard to set by users. Therefore, in this paper, the algorithm, namely GTSP-SLTP algorithm, is proposed to not only obtain a reliable GTSP but also find appropriate SLTP using the grouping genetic algorithm. A chromosome is encoded by the generated SLTP and GTSP along with the weights for strategy groups that are the SLTP, grouping, weight, and strategy parts. To assess the goodness of a chromosome, the evaluation function that consists of the group balance, weight balance, risk factor, and profit factor, is employed. Genetic operators are then performed to produce new solutions for next population. The genetic process is performed iteratively until the stop conditions have achieved. Last but not the least, empirical experiments were conducted on three financial datasets with different trends and a case study is also given to reveal the effectiveness and robustness of the designed GTSP-SLTP algorithm.
Another Look at Reflection
Authors: Fischer Martin
Published: March 2021

Reflection principles are of central interest in the development of axiomatic theories. Whereas they are independent statements they appear to have a specific epistemological status. Our trust in those principles is as warranted as our trust in the axioms of the system itself. This paper is an attempt in clarifying this special epistemic status. We provide a motivation for the adoption of uniform reflection principles by their analogy to a form of the constructive$$\omega $$ω-rule. Additionally, we analyse the role of informal arithmetic and the conception of natural numbers as an inductive structure, also with regard to extra conceptual resources such as a primitive truth predicate.
Inequality, role reversal and cooperation in multiple group membership settings
Authors: Lange Andreas , Schmitz Jan , Schwirplies Claudia
Published: March 2021

We investigate the role of endowment inequality in a local and global public goods setting with multiple group membership and examine the effect of temporal role reversal on cooperation decisions. Subjects can contribute to a global public good which benefits all subjects and two local public goods which benefit only subjects of either their own group or the group of the other endowment type. Endowment inequality per-se decreases contributions of subjects with a high endowment to the global public good, but increases cooperation of subjects with a low endowment on their local public good, thereby aggravating income disparities. Exogenously induced role reversal for several periods affects cooperation behavior of subjects with a high endowment positively and induces them to contribute more to the global good. Cooperation in unequal environments thus appears to be more stable when all parties have experienced the public goods game from the disadvantageous perspective.
Non-malignant conjunctival epithelial masses with ocular surface squamous neoplasia-like optical coherence tomography features
Authors: Füst Ágnes , Tóth Jeannette , Imre László , Nagy Zoltán Zsolt
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To observe and describe the anterior segment optical coherence tomography features of limbally localised non-malignant epithelial mass lesions

Methods

Thirteen patients (age: 66.9 ± 16.3 years) with conjunctival mass suggesting ocular surface squamous neoplasia with biomicroscopic examination were imaged using anterior segment ocular coherence tomography (anterior segment optical coherence tomography)/Cirrus HD-OCT, Model 4000, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., Dublin, CA, and Spectralis HRA + OCT system, Heidelberg Engineering, Vista, CA/. Cases with ocular surface squamous neoplasia-like anterior segment optical coherence tomography (hyperreflective, thickened epithelium and an abrupt transition from normal to abnormal) were included in the study. Maximal thickness of the epithelium was measured. Histological diagnosis was gained from an excisional or incisional biopsy or impression cytology specimens.

Results

In six patients (age: 68.5 ± 15.4 years) with ocular surface squamous neoplasia-like anterior segment optical coherence tomography features, the histological diagnosis was other than ocular surface squamous neoplasia (papilloma, parakeratosis and a keratotic plaque with mild dysplasia), and ocular surface squamous neoplasia in seven cases (age: 65.6 ± 18.0 years). The maximal epithelial thickness was between 250 and 859 µm in non-ocular surface squamous neoplasia cases and between 252 and 596 µm in ocular surface squamous neoplasia cases.

Conclusion

Non-malignant epithelial lesions can mimic ocular surface squamous neoplasia on anterior segment optical coherence tomography.
Online Gambling Activity, Pay-to-Win Payments, Motivation to Gamble and Coping Strategies as Predictors of Gambling Disorder Among e-sports Bettors
Authors: Lelonek-Kuleta Bernadeta , Bartczuk Rafał Piotr
Published: March 2021

Research on esports activity usually captures it from the perspective of involvement in gaming. This study presents the results of the first research in Poland (N = 438) on esports betting (ESB). ESB is compared to other forms of e-gambling and involvement in pay-to-win games. The aim was to build a predictive model of gambling disorder among people betting on esports. A predictive model of gambling disorder based on ordinal regression was built, including sociodemographic variables, involvement in esports betting, involvement in other Internet activities connected to ESB, as well as psychological variables—motivation to gamble and coping strategies. The results showed that gambling disorder among esports bettors is associated with time spent on one game session, placing other forms of online gambling bets once a week or more often, and paying in pay-to-win games. Gambling disorder was also predicted by escape coping strategies and lower engaged strategies as well as financial and coping motivation to bet on esports results. The results show the crucial role of psychological factors (motivation, coping) in the development of esports betting addiction. Esports betting is an activity associated with both gambling and gaming—involvement in both activities explains the development of ESB addiction. There is a need for further research focused on the specificity of esports betting behavior to discover the direction of links among gaming, gambling, and esports gambling.
First-episode Psychosis and Migration in Italy: Results from a Study in the Italian Mental Health Services (Pep-Ita Study)
Authors: Tarricone Ilaria , D’Andrea Giuseppe , Storbini Viviana , Braca Mauro , Ferrari Silvia , Reggianini Corinna , Rigatelli Marco , Gramaglia Carla , Zeppegno Patrizia , Gambaro Eleonora , Luciano Mario , Ceregato Alessio , Altamura Mario , Barrasso Giuseppe , Primavera Diego , Carpiniello Bernardo , Todarello Orlando , Berlincioni Vanna , Podavini Francesca , Morgan Craig , Murray Robin M. , Di Forti Marta , Muratori Roberto , Berardi Domenico
Published: March 2021

Background: Migrants present high rates of psychosis. A better understanding of this phenomenon is needed. Methods: We conducted a multicentre First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) prospective study over two years (January 2012–December 2013) to evaluate first-generation migrants presenting with FEP at the participating Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs). Results: 109 FEP migrants were identified. Almost half of them were highly educated, employed and in a stable affective relationship. The average age was 32.8 (± 9.8) years, and the average length of stay in Italy was 8.6 (± 8.8) years. About 2/3 of patients were referred to CMHCs following Emergency Department access or psychiatric admission. Conclusions: Our finding of a “high functioning portrait” of FEP migrants allow us to hypothesize that a high burden of negative psychosocial factors is likely to be needed for the FEP onset. Furtherly, mental health services should implement more appropriate resources and organizational methods to respond to migrants’ health needs.
Heat kernels of the discrete Laguerre operators
Authors: Kostenko Aleksey
Published: March 2021

For the discrete Laguerre operators we compute explicitly the corresponding heat kernels by expressing them with the help of Jacobi polynomials. This enables us to show that the heat semigroup is ultracontractive and to compute the corresponding norms. On the one hand, this helps us to answer basic questions (recurrence, stochastic completeness) regarding the associated Markovian semigroup. On the other hand, we prove the analogs of the Cwiekel–Lieb–Rosenblum and the Bargmann estimates for perturbations of the Laguerre operators, as well as the optimal Hardy inequality.
A modular framework for distributed model predictive control of nonlinear continuous-time systems (GRAMPC-D)
Authors: Burk Daniel , Völz Andreas , Graichen Knut
Published: March 2021

The modular open-source framework GRAMPC-D for model predictive control of distributed systems is presented in this paper. The modular concept allows to solve optimal control problems in a centralized and distributed fashion using the same problem description. It is tailored to computational efficiency with the focus on embedded hardware. The distributed solution is based on the alternating direction method of multipliers and uses the concept of neighbor approximation to enhance convergence speed. The presented framework can be accessed through C++ and Python and also supports plug-and-play and data exchange between agents over a network.
Evidence Production in Merger Control: The Role of Remedies
Authors: Dertwinkel-Kalt Markus , Wey Christian
Published: March 2021

We analyze evidence production in merger control as a delegation problem in an inquisitorial competition policy system. The antitrust agency’s incentives to produce evidence on the efficiency of a merger proposal depend critically on its action set. Allowing for a compromising remedy solution reduces information acquisition incentives, and could therefore reduce consumer welfare. The effort-frustrating effect of the remedy solution can be eliminated if a remedy solution can be implemented only after evidence on the efficiency of a merger proposal has been produced.
Social Study Resources and Social Wellbeing Before and During the Intelligent COVID-19 Lockdown in The Netherlands
Authors: van Zyl Llewellyn Ellardus
Published: March 2021

The first intelligent COVID-19 lockdown resulted in radical changes within the tertiary educational system within the Netherlands. These changes posed new challenges for university students and many social welfare agencies have warned that it could have adverse effects on the social wellbeing (SWB) of university students. Students may lack the necessary social study-related resources (peer- and lecturer support) (SSR) necessary to aid them in coping with the new demands that the lockdown may bring. As such, the present study aimed to investigate the trajectory patterns, rate of change and longitudinal associations between SSR and SWB of 175 Dutch students before and during the COVID-19 lockdown. A piecewise latent growth modelling approach was employed to sample students’ experiences over three months. Participants to complete a battery of psychometric assessments for five weeks before the COVID-19 lockdown was implemented, followed by two directly after and a month follow-up. The results were paradoxical and contradicting to initial expectations. Where SSR showed a linear rate of decline before- and significant growth trajectory during the lockdown, SWB remained moderate and stable. Further, initial levels and growth trajectories between SSR and SWB were only associated before the lockdown.
Deep neural network-based fusion model for emotion recognition using visual data
Authors: Do Luu-Ngoc , Yang Hyung-Jeong , Nguyen Hai-Duong , Kim Soo-Hyung , Lee Guee-Sang , Na In-Seop
Published: March 2021

In this study, we present a fusion model for emotion recognition based on visual data. The proposed model uses video information as its input and generates emotion labels for each video sample. Based on the video data, we first choose the most significant face regions with the use of a face detection and selection step. Subsequently, we employ three CNN-based architectures to extract the high-level features of the face image sequence. Furthermore, we adjusted one additional module for each CNN-based architecture to capture the sequential information of the entire video dataset. The combination of the three CNN-based models in a late-fusion-based approach yields a competitive result when compared to the baseline approach while using two public datasets: AFEW 2016 and SAVEE.
Numerical and experimental investigations for distortion-reduced laser heat treatment of aluminum
Authors: Rigas Nikolaos , Merklein Marion
Published: March 2021

In the field of mobility, increased safety and emission requirements lead to steadily rising demands on materials used and their performance. Over the last decades, 5000 and 6000 series aluminum alloys have become more and more attractive as lightweight material due to their beneficial weight to strength ratio. The 7000 series offers extended lightweight potential due to its high strength. Until now, this class of alloys has not been widely used in mass production due to its limited corrosion resistance and poor forming behavior. By using so-called Tailor Heat Treated Blanks, it is possible to set increased forming limits of previously locally heat treated components. The reason for the enhanced formability is the local softening, with the resulting improved material flow and the reduced critical forming stresses of the sheet metal before the forming operation. Despite these advantages, the use of previously heat treated materials has been very limited so far. For example, the distortion that occurs during local heat treatment reduces geometrical accuracy and thus automated handling. Therefore, the focus of this thesis is the investigation of tailored heat treatment strategies, permitting a distortion-reduced local short-term heat treatment. For this purpose, the distortion behavior is represented and quantified both numerically and experimentally. The generated knowledge is then transferred to a large volume component and characterized.
Existence and exponential stability of almost-periodic solutions for MAM neural network with distributed delays on time scales
Authors: Gao Jin , Wang Qi-ru , Lin Yuan
Published: March 2021

This paper is concerned with multidirectional associative memory neural network with distributed delays on almost-periodic time scales. Some sufficient conditions on the existence, uniqueness and the global exponential stability of almost-periodic solutions are established. An example is presented to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the obtained results.
Analysis method and algorithm design of biological sequence problem based on generalized k-mer vector
Authors: Liu Wen-li , Wu Qing-biao
Published: March 2021

K-mer can be used for the description of biological sequences and k-mer distribution is a tool for solving sequences analysis problems in bioinformatics. We can use k-mer vector as a representation method of the k-mer distribution of the biological sequence. Problems, such as similarity calculations or sequence assembly, can be described in the k-mer vector space. It helps us to identify new features of an old sequence-based problem in bioinformatics and develop new algorithms using the concepts and methods from linear space theory. In this study, we defined the k-mer vector space for the generalized biological sequences. The meaning of corresponding vector operations is explained in the biological context. We presented the vector/matrix form of several widely seen sequence-based problems, including read quantification, sequence assembly, and pattern detection problem. Its advantages and disadvantages are discussed. Also, we implement a tool for the sequence assembly problem based on the concepts of k-mer vector methods. It shows the practicability and convenience of this algorithm design strategy.
Numerical Analysis of the Effects of Periodic Gust Flow on the Wake Structure of Ventilated Supercavities
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Zhigang , He Guanghua , Mo Weijie
Published: March 2021

A computational model is established to investigate the effects of a periodic gust flow on the wake structure of ventilated supercavities. The effectiveness of the computational model is validated by comparing with available experimental data. Benefited from this numerical model, the vertical velocity characteristics in the entire flow field can be easily monitored and analyzed under the action of a gust generator; further, the unsteady evolution of the flow parameters of the closed region of the supercavity can be captured in any location. To avoid the adverse effects of mounting struts in the experiments and to obtain more realistic results, the wake structure of a ventilated supercavity without mounting struts is investigated. Unsteady changes in the wake morphology and vorticity distribution pattern of the ventilated supercavity are determined. The results demonstrate that the periodic swing of the gust generator can generate a gust flow and, therefore, generate a periodic variation of the ventilated cavitation number σ. At the peak σ, a re-entrant jet closure appears in the wake of the ventilated supercavity. At the valley σ, a twin-vortex closure appears in the wake of the ventilated supercavity. For the forward facing model, the twin vortex appears as a pair of centrally rolled-up vortices, due to the closure of vortex is affected by the structure. For the backward facing model, however, the twin vortex appears alternately as a pair of centrally rolled-up vortices and a pair of centrally rolled-down vortices, against the periodic gust flow.
Early warning scores and critical care transfer – patient heterogeneity, low sensitivity, high mortality
Authors: Nestor Claire C. , Donnelly Maria , Connors Siobhán , Morrison Patricia , Boylan John
Published: March 2021

Background

Emergency warning systems (EWS) are becoming a standard of care, but have unproven screening value in early critical illness. Similarly, emergency response team (ERT) care is of uncertain value. These questions are most controversial in mixed patient populations, where screening performance might vary, and intensivist-led ERT care might divert resources from existing patients.

Aims

To examine triggering events, disposition and outcome data for an intensivist-staffed EWS-ERT system.

Methods

We analysed process and outcome data over three years, classing EWS-triggered patients into three categories (non-escalated, escalated ward care and critical care transfer). The relationships between EWS data, pre-triggering clinical data, and patient disposition and outcome were examined.

Results

There were 1675 calls in 1190 patients. Most occurred later during admission, with critical care transfer in a minority; the rest were followed by escalated or non-escalated ward care. Patients transferred to critical care had high mortality (40.3%); less than half of patient transfers occurred following triggering EWS score predicted overall hospital mortality, but not mortality after critical care.

Conclusions

In a diverse hospital population, most triggering patients did not receive critical care and most critical care transfers occurred without triggering. Triggering was an insensitive screening measure for critical illness, followed by poor outcome. Higher scores predicted higher probability of transfer, but not later mortality, suggesting that EWS is being used as a decision aid but is not a true severity of illness score. Other, non-EWS data are needed for earlier detection and for prioritizing access to critical care.
Lipid Lowering Drugs: Present Status and Future Developments
Authors: Ruscica Massimiliano , Ferri Nicola , Santos Raul D. , Sirtori Cesare R. , Corsini Alberto
Published: March 2021

Purpose of review

Based on the recent data of the DA VINCI study, it is clear that, besides utilization of statins, there is a need to increase non-statin lipid lowering approaches to reduce the cardiovascular burden in patients at highest risk.

Recent findings

For hypercholesterolemia, the small synthetic molecule bempedoic acid has the added benefit of selective liver activation, whereas inclisiran, a hepatic inhibitor of the PCSK9 synthesis, has comparable effects with PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies. For hypertriglyceridemia, cardiovascular benefit has been achieved by the use of icosapent ethyl, whereas results with pemafibrate, a selective agonist of PPAR-α, are eagerly awaited. In the era of RNA-based therapies, new options are offered to dramatically reduce levels of lipoprotein(a) (APO(a)LRX) and of triglycerides (ANGPTL3LRX and APOCIII-LRx).

Despite the demonstrated benefits of statins, a large number of patients still remain at significant risk because of inadequate LDL-C reduction or elevated blood triglyceride-rich lipoproteins or lipoprotein(a). The area of lipid modulating agents is still ripe with ideas and major novelties are to be awaited in the next few years.
Development of central auditory processes in Polish children and adolescents at the age from 7 to 16 years
Authors: Lewandowska Monika , Milner Rafał , Ganc Małgorzata , Włodarczyk Elżbieta , Dołżycka Joanna , Skarżyński Henryk
Published: March 2021

There are discrepancies in the literature regarding the course of central auditory processes (CAP) maturation in typically developing children and adolescents. The purpose of the study was to provide an overview of age – related improvement in CAP in Polish primary and secondary school students aged 7–16 years. 180 children/adolescents, subdivided into 9 age categories, and 20 adults (aged 18–24 years) performed the Dichotic Digit Test (DDT), Duration Pattern Test (DPT), Frequency Pattern Test (FPT), Gap Detection Test (GDT) and adaptive Speech-in-Noise (aSpN). The 12-year-olds was retested after w week. We found the age effects only for the DDT, DPT and FPT. In the right ear DDT the 7-year-olds performed more poorly than all groups ≥12. In the left ear DDT both 7- and 8-year-olds achieved less correct responses compared with the 13-, 14-, 15-year-olds and with the adults. The right ear advantage was greater in the 7-year-olds than in the 15-year-olds and adult group. At the age of 7 there was lower DPT and FPT scores than in all participants ≥13 whereas the 8-year-olds obtained less correct responses in the FPT than all age categories ≥12. Almost all groups (except for the 7-year-olds) performed better in the DPT than FPT. The test-retest reliability for all tests was satisfactory. The study demonstrated that different CAP have their own patterns of improvement with age and some of them are specific for the Polish population. The psychoacoustic battery may be useful in screening for CAP disorders in Poland.
Impacts of alien tree species on the abundance and diversity of terricolous bryophytes
Authors: Dyderski Marcin K. , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: March 2021

Bryophytes comprise an important element of temperate forest biodiversity and functioning. Although numerous studies reported impacts of alien tree species on understorey vegetation, few focused on impacts on bryophytes. Here we checked whether three invasive tree species in Europe (Prunus serotina Ehrh., Quercus rubra L. and Robinia pseudoacacia L.) influence terricolous bryophyte communities, alpha and beta diversity, and cover. We used a set of 186 study plots in western Poland with data on the cover of bryophytes species, as well as light availability, soil C:N ratio and pH. We found that light availability was the main driver of bryophyte species richness, cover and composition. Poor Pinus sylvestris L. forests invaded by P. serotina hosted more species and higher species richness than non-invaded P. sylvestris forests, while forests invaded by Q. rubra and R. pseudoacacia hosted fewer species than native forest types. Low differences among forest types studied resulted from small pools of species and the presence of generalist species. Fagus sylvatica L. forest, Q. rubra and R. pseudoacacia forests hosted the smallest number of species, while the most species rich stands were poor P. sylvestris forest invaded by P. serotina and non-invaded P. sylvestris forests. We concluded that light limitation by invasive species might be more important than dominant tree species identity in limiting terricolous bryophyte species richness and abundance. This requires further studies, accounting for varied abundances of invasive tree species. Therefore, the conservation of sites with high terricolous bryophyte biodiversity needs to be focused on canopy cover.
Benchmarking Energy Quantification Methods to Predict Heating Energy Performance of Residential Buildings in Germany
Authors: Wenninger Simon , Wiethe Christian
Published: March 2021

To achieve ambitious climate goals, it is necessary to increase the rate of purposeful retrofit measures in the building sector. As a result, Energy Performance Certificates have been designed as important evaluation and rating criterion to increase the retrofit rate in the EU and Germany. Yet, today’s most frequently used and legally required methods to quantify building energy performance show low prediction accuracy, as recent research reveals. To enhance prediction accuracy, the research community introduced data-driven methods which obtained promising results. However, there are no insights in how far Energy Quantification Methods are particularly suited for energy performance prediction. In this research article the data-driven methods Artificial Neural Network, D-vine copula quantile regression, Extreme Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, and Support Vector Regression are compared with and validated by real-world Energy Performance Certificates of German residential buildings issued by qualified auditors using the engineering method required by law. The results, tested for robustness and systematic bias, show that all data-driven methods exceed the engineering method by almost 50% in terms of prediction accuracy. In contrast to existing literature favoring Artificial Neural Networks and Support Vector Regression, all tested methods show similar prediction accuracy with marginal advantages for Extreme Gradient Boosting and Support Vector Regression in terms of prediction accuracy. Given the higher prediction accuracy of data-driven methods, it seems appropriate to revise the current legislation prescribing engineering methods. In addition, data-driven methods could support different organizations, e.g., asset management, in decision-making in order to reduce financial risk and to cut expenses.
SARS-CoV-2-directed antibodies persist for more than six months in a cohort with mild to moderate COVID-19
Authors: Glück Vivian , Grobecker Sonja , Tydykov Leonid , Salzberger Bernd , Glück Thomas , Weidlich Tanja , Bertok Manuela , Gottwald Christine , Wenzel Jürgen J. , Gessner André , Schmidt Barbara , Peterhoff David
Published: March 2021

Objective

To follow serological immune responses of front-line healthcare workers after PCR-confirmed COVID-19 for a mean of 30 weeks, describe the time-course of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-specific IgG, IgA and IgM levels and to identify associations of the immune response with symptoms, demographic parameters and severity of disease.

Methods

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S protein-specific IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies were measured at three time points during the 30-week follow-up. COVID-19-specific symptoms were assessed with standardized questionnaires.

Results

95% of the participants mounted an IgG response with only modest decline after week 12. IgG-type antibodies were still detectable in almost 90% of the subjects at 30 weeks. IgA and IgM responses were less robust and antibody titers decreased more rapidly. At 30 weeks, only 25% still had detectable IgA-type and none had IgM-type antibodies. Higher age and higher disease severity were independently associated with higher IgG antibody levels, albeit with wide variations.

Conclusion

Serological immune responses after COVID-19 show considerable inter-individual variability, but show an association with increasing age and higher severity of disease. IgG-type anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies remain positive in 90% of the individuals 30 weeks after onset of symptoms.
Experimental and numerical investigation on the thermal and mechanical behaviours of thermal barrier coatings exposed to CMAS corrosion
Authors: Li Dongxu , Jiang Peng , Gao Renheng , Sun Fan , Jin Xiaochao , Fan Xueling
Published: March 2021

Calcium-magnesium-alumino-silicate (CMAS) corrosion is a critical factor which causes the failure of thermal barrier coating (TBC). CMAS attack significantly alters the temperature and stress fields in TBC, resulting in their delamination or spallation. In this work, the evolution process of TBC prepared by suspension plasma spraying (SPS) under CMAS attack is investigated. The CMAS corrosion leads to the formation of the reaction layer and subsequent bending of TBC. Based on the observations, a corrosion model is proposed to describe the generation and evolution of the reaction layer and bending of TBC. Then, numerical simulations are performed to investigate the corrosion process of free-standing TBC and the complete TBC system under CMAS attack. The corrosion model constructs a bridge for connecting two numerical models. The results show that the CMAS corrosion has a significant influence on the stress field, such as the peak stress, whereas it has little influence on the steady-state temperature field. The peak of stress increases with holding time, which increases the risk of the rupture of TBC. The Mises stress increases nonlinearly along the thick direction of the reaction layer. Furthermore, in the traditional failure zone, such as the interface of the top coat and bond coat, the stress obviously changes during CMAS corrosion.
System dynamics mechanism of cross-regional collaborative dispatch of emergency supplies based on multi-agent game
Authors: Qiu Ying , Shi Meng , Zhao Xinna , Jing Yongping
Published: March 2021

The cross-regional coordinated dispatch of emergency supplies is a complex issue involving multiple topics, which covers multiple relationships and is affected by multiple variables. In the face of severe emergencies, relief supplies inside a specific area are far from meeting the explosive demand for emergency supplies. Besides, the supply of emergency materials and the disaster areas often have a spatial mismatch. Considering the attributes of externalities and public goods of emergency rescue, there are many obstacles for Local administration of emergency (LAE) and emergency logistics enterprises (ELE) spontaneously carrying out emergency supplies across regions. To solve this complexity problem, this research abstracts higher-level administration of emergency (HAE), LAE and ELE as the main stakeholders, with which a tripartite evolutionary game (ETG) model and a system dynamic (SD) model are constructed to analyze the dynamic mechanism of the complex system and to carry out the numerical simulation of the three-party game process. All the analyses and tests in this study have proved that the strong supervision of HAE has a decisive impact on the realization of cross-regional coordinated dispatch of emergency supplies, and the financial rewards and punishments imposed by HAE on other entities can accelerate or delay the achievement of the equilibrium strategy. However, when HAE chooses not to regulate, the cooperation willingness of LAE affects a lot that all the stakeholders will eventually reach equilibrium at (1,1,1) only if LAE chooses to actively carry out cross-regional coordinated dispatch of emergency supplies.
Polypharmacy in older adults: a narrative review of definitions, epidemiology and consequences
Authors: Pazan Farhad , Wehling Martin
Published: March 2021

Background

The number of older adults has been constantly growing around the globe. Consequently, multimorbidity and related polypharmacy have become an increasing problem. In the absence of an accepted agreement on the definition of polypharmacy, data on its prevalence in various studies are not easily comparable. Besides, the evidence on the potential adverse clinical outcomes related to polypharmacy is limited though polypharmacy has been linked to numerous adverse clinical outcomes. This narrative review aims to find and summarize recent publications on definitions, epidemiology and clinical consequences of polypharmacy.

Methods

The MEDLINE database was used to identify recent publications on the definition, prevalence and clinical consequences of polypharmacy using their respective common terms and their variations. Systematic reviews and original studies published between 2015 and 2020 were included.

Results

One hundred and forty-three definitions of polypharmacy and associated terms were found. Most of them are numerical definitions. Its prevalence ranges from 4% among community-dwelling older people to over 96.5% in hospitalized patients. In addition, numerous adverse clinical outcomes were associated with polypharmacy.

Conclusion

The term polypharmacy is imprecise, and its definition is yet subject to an ongoing debate. The clinically oriented definitions of polypharmacy found in this review such as appropriate or necessary polypharmacy are more useful and relevant. Regardless of the definition, polypharmacy is highly prevalent in older adults, particularly in nursing home residents and hospitalized patients. Approaches to increase the appropriateness of polypharmacy can improve clinical outcomes in older adults.
Shakespeare and Lost Plays
Authors: McInnis David
Published: March 2021

Shakespeare and Lost Plays returns Shakespeare's dramatic work to its most immediate and (arguably) pivotal context; by situating it alongside the hundreds of plays known to Shakespeare's original audiences, but lost to us. David McInnis reassesses the value of lost plays in relation to both the companies that originally performed them, and to contemporary scholars of early modern drama. This innovative study revisits key moments in Shakespeare's career and the development of his company and, by prioritising the immense volume of information we now possess about lost plays, provides a richer, more accurate picture of dramatic activity than has hitherto been possible. By considering a variety of ways to grapple with the problem of lost, imperceptible, or ignored texts, this volume presents a methodology for working with lacunae in archival evidence and the distorting effect of Shakespeare-centric narratives, thus reinterpreting our perception of the field of early modern drama.
A Preliminary Exploration of Behaviours Associated with Negative Urgency in Individuals High and Low in Chronic Worry
Authors: Malivoire Bailee L. , Stewart Kathleen E. , Koerner Naomi
Published: March 2021

While chronic worry is typically associated with cautious and harm-avoidant behaviours, there is evidence that people high in chronic worry are characterised by negative urgency (NU), that is, the propensity to act rashly when experiencing negative affect. The present study was a preliminary examination of how rash action and impulsive decision-making manifest for chronic worriers compared to individuals low in worry. In total, 93 participants who endorsed high and low worry and NU responded to open-ended questions about their experience of NU on Amazon Mechanical Turk. Themes were identified using a data-driven approach. Participants high in chronic worry endorsed significantly greater NU compared to those low in worry. However, the types of NU behaviours were similar across participants, with a majority of responses involving initiating interpersonal conflict. Other themes included spending money, excessive eating, alcohol use, and aggressive behaviours. The manifestations of NU were largely consistent with those described in the model of NU. Although individuals higher in chronic worry engaged in NU behaviours to a greater extent, the types of behaviours were similar to those reported by people lower in worry. More research is needed to understand the characteristics of NU-motivated behaviour in individuals high in chronic worry.
Telemedicine Use in Disasters: A Scoping Review
Authors: Litvak Mark , Miller Katherine , Boyle Tehnaz , Bedenbaugh Rachel , Smith Christina , Meguerdichian David , Reisman David , Biddinger Paul , Licurse Adam , Goralnick Eric
Published: March 2021

Disasters have many deleterious effects and are becoming more frequent. From a health-care perspective, disasters may cause periods of stress for hospitals and health-care systems. Telemedicine is a rapidly growing technology that has been used to improve access to health-care during disasters. Telemedicine applied in disasters is referred to as disaster telemedicine. Our objective was to conduct a scoping literature review on current use of disaster telemedicine to develop recommendations addressing the most common barriers to implementation of a telemedicine system for regional disaster health response in the United States. Publications on telemedicine in disasters were collected from online databases. This included both publications in English and those translated into English. Predesigned inclusion/exclusion criteria and a PRISMA flow diagram were applied. The PRISMA flow diagram was used on the basis that it would help streamline the available literature. Literature that met the criteria was scored by 2 reviewers who rated relevance to commonly identified disaster telemedicine implementation barriers, as well as how disaster telemedicine systems were implemented. We also identified other frequently mentioned themes and briefly summarized recommendations for those topics. Literature scoring resulted in the following topics: telemedicine usage (42 publications), system design and operating models (43 publications), as well as difficulties with credentialing (5 publications), licensure (6 publications), liability (4 publications), reimbursement (5 publications), and technology (24 publications). Recommendations from each category were qualitatively summarized.
A community health volunteer delivered problem-solving therapy mobile application based on the Friendship Bench ‘Inuka Coaching’ in Kenya: A pilot cohort study
Authors: Doukani Asmae , van Dalen Robin , Valev Hristo , Njenga Annie , Sera Francesco , Chibanda Dixon
Published: March 2021

Background

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has the largest care gap for common mental disorders (CMDs) globally, heralding the use of cost-cutting approaches such as task-shifting and digital technologies as viable approaches for expanding the mental health workforce. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a problem-solving therapy (PST) intervention that is delivered by community health volunteers (CHVs) through a mobile application called ‘Inuka coaching’ in Kenya.

Methods

A pilot prospective cohort study recruited participants from 18 health centres in Kenya. People who self-screened were eligible if they scored 8 or higher on the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20), were aged 18 years or older, conversant in written and spoken English, and familiar with the use of smart mobile devices. The intervention consisted of four PST mobile application chat-sessions delivered by CHVs. CMD measures were administered at baseline, 4-weeks (post-treatment), and at 3-months follow-up assessment.

Results

In all, 80 participants consented to the study, of which 60 participants (female, n = 38; male, n = 22) completed their 4-week assessments, and 52 participants completed their 3-month follow-up assessment. The results showed a significant improvement over time on the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20). Higher-range income, not reporting suicidal ideation, being aged over 30 years, and being male were associated with higher CMD symptom reduction.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this report is the first to pilot a PST intervention that is delivered by CHVs through a locally developed mobile application in Kenya, to which clinically meaningful improvements were found. However, a randomised-controlled trial is required to robustly evaluate this intervention.
Less Populist in Power? Online Communication of Populist Parties in Coalition Governments
Authors: Schwörer Jakob
Published: March 2021

Recently several populist parties have become part of coalition governments in multiparty democracies, specifically in Western Europe. Based on the inclusion-moderation thesis, academics assume that incumbent populist parties tone down their populist rhetoric as a result of the daily businesses of deliberation and compromises in coalitions. However, while the assumption of tamed populists in power is widespread, there is little empirical work dealing with the topic. Using a classical quantitative content analysis of 1,210 Facebook posts published by populist parties in Italy, Spain, Austria and New Zealand, this article examines whether opposition parties are more populist and nativist than those in coalition governments. The findings indicate that populists do not decrease the degree of anti-elite and people-centred messages when they are in power but rather change the type of elites they attack and the antagonist groups they juxtapose. We should therefore rethink the validity of the inclusion-moderation thesis for populist parties in coalition governments.
The Danger of Blindly Following: Examining the Relationship Between Authoritarian Leadership and Unethical Pro-organizational Behaviors
Authors: Liu Fangzhou , Liang Jian , Chen Mo
Published: March 2021

Researchers have paid much attention to the performance implications of authoritarian leadership. However, less effort has been devoted to exploring its ethical consequences at work. Drawing on the social cognitive theory of morality, this study explores the indirect relationship between authoritarian leadership and subordinates’ unethical pro-organizational behaviors (UPB) via displacement of responsibility. A vignette-based experimental study (Study 1) and a time-lagged field study (Study 2) were conducted to test our hypotheses. Consistent findings were accumulated for the indirect relationship between authoritarian leadership and UPB through displacement of responsibility (both Study 1 and 2). Furthermore, this indirect relationship was stronger among employees with low level of moral efficacy (Study 2). We conclude this study by discussing the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
The Fair Value of Bread: Tunisia, 28 December 1983–6 January 1984
Authors: Dakhli Leyla
Published: March 2021

The “Bread Riots” that broke out in Tunisia on 28 December 1983 lasted barely ten days. Yet, they cost the lives of over one hundred people. The revolt studied here centred on two popular neighbourhoods of Tunis in the wake of massive, World Bank-sponsored development plans. This article seeks to understand how the inhabitants in these quarters reacted to the establishment of a new welfare state that was more concerned with fighting poverty – or fighting the poor – than with equalizing conditions or offering the same opportunities for everyone. Based on this case study, I argue that the great Bread Revolt of 1983–1984 marked a break with past practices of state reform and popular protest and suggest that International Monetary Fund and World Bank prescriptions and state implementations reconfigured the political and social landscape of independent Tunisia.