bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can we control the amount of useful nonclassicality in a photon added hypergeometric state?
Authors: Malpani Priya , Thapliyal Kishore , Pathak Anirban
Published: March 2021

Non-Gaussianity inducing operations are studied in the recent past from different perspectives. Here, we study the role of photon addition, a non-Gaussianity inducing operation, in the enhancement of nonclassicality in a finite dimensional quantum state, namely hypergeometric state with the help of some quantifiers and measures of nonclassicality. We observed that measures to characterize the quality of single photon source and anticlassicality lead to the similar conclusion, i.e. to obtain the desired quantum features one has to choose all the state parameters such that average photon numbers remains low. Wigner logarithmic negativity of the photon added hypergeometric state and concurrence of the two-mode entangled state generated at the output of a beamsplitter from this state show that nonclassicality can be enhanced by increasing the state parameter and photon number addition but decreasing the dimension of the state. In principle, decreasing the dimension of the state is analogous to holeburning and is thus expected to increase nonclassicality. Further, the variation of Wigner function not only qualitatively illustrates the same features as observed quantitatively through concurrence potential and Wigner logarithimic negativity, but illustrate non-Gaussianity of the quantum state as well.
Detailed Reanalysis of 500 Breast Cancers With Equivocal HER2 Immunohistochemistry and Borderline ERBB2 Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Results
Authors: Geiersbach Katherine B , Sill Daniel R , Del Rosario Kristina M , Meyer Reid G , Spears Grant M , Yuhas Jason A , Sukov William R , Jenkins Robert B , Ocal Idris T , Mounajjed Taofic , Chen Beiyun
Published: March 2021

Objectives

We investigated the impact of our laboratory’s reflex testing process for resolving ERBB2 (HER2) status on breast cancer samples that require additional workup after fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), per guideline recommendations published in 2018 by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP).

Methods

In total, 500 breast cancer specimens with ERBB2 FISH results in groups 2 through 4 (all reported as immunohistochemistry [IHC] equivocal [2+] at external laboratories) were resubmitted for IHC testing in our laboratory. Per the ASCO/CAP guideline, FISH was rescored when internal IHC was also equivocal (2+), targeted to tumor areas demonstrating more intense IHC staining, if observed.

Results

Reflex IHC/FISH testing changed the final reported ERBB2 status in 185 of 500 (37.0%) samples. Result changes included discordant IHC (n = 4 score 0, n = 132 score 1+, and n = 16 score 3+) and discordant FISH (n = 33). Numerical differences in FISH scores were comparable for targeted vs nontargeted FISH rescoring (P = .086 for ERBB2 copy number; P = .49 for ERBB2 ratio). Two cases showed larger differences in FISH scores, suggesting heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Retesting of breast cancer samples with equivocal IHC frequently changes IHC results, but targeted reanalysis of borderline FISH results rarely identifies significant differences in ERBB2 copy number or ratio.
Association of Anthropometric Measures With the Risk of Prostate Cancer in the Multiethnic Cohort
Authors: Sattayapiwat Olivia , Wan Peggy , Hernandez Brenda Y , Le Marchand Loic , Wilkens Lynne , Haiman Christopher A
Published: March 2021

In studies of anthropometric measures and prostate cancer risk, conducted primarily in White men, positive associations with advanced disease have been reported. We assessed body size in relation to incident prostate cancer risk in 79,950 men from the Multiethnic Cohort, with 8,819 cases identified over 22 years (1993–2015). Height was associated with increased risk of advanced prostate cancer (≥68 inches (≥ 173 cm) vs. < 66 inches (168 cm); hazard ratio (HR) = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04, 1.48) and high-grade disease (HR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.31). Compared with men of normal weight, men overweight at baseline were at higher risk of high-grade cancer (HR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.26). Greater weight was positively associated with localized and low-grade disease in Blacks and Native Hawaiians (by race, P for heterogeneity = 0.0002 and 0.008, respectively). Weight change since age 21 years was positively associated with high-grade disease (for ≥ 40 pounds (18 kg) vs. 10 pounds (4.5 kg), HR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.37; P for trend = 0.005). Comparing highest versus lowest quartile, waist-to-hip ratio was associated with a 1.78-fold increase (95% CI: 1.28, 2.46) in the risk of advanced prostate cancer. Positive associations with the majority of anthropometric measures were observed in all 5 racial/ethnic groups, suggesting a general impact of anthropometric measures on risk across populations.
The Take-off for Private Consultants in Child Protection Investigations—How Did Sweden Get Here?
Authors: Järkestig Berggren Ulrika , Arnesson Kerstin , Bergman Ann-Sofie
Published: March 2021

The use of private consultants in child protection investigations in Sweden is an evolving practice that occurs under the radar; it is not in the political agenda and it is obscure in relation to legislation. The aim of this article is to analyse the contextual forces, facilitators and intentions behind the ongoing implementation of privatisation in child protection investigations. For this article, both quantitative and qualitative data for the years 2013–2017 were obtained through a telephone questionnaire. Managers of 32 social services departments were interviewed. Statistical data of the year 2018 collected by the National Board of Health and Welfare was also included in the analysis. Applying a mixed-method design, the article shows that some prerequisites in legislation make it possible for privatisation to develop. There are societal changes that act as contextual forces, and there are structures in place from earlier stages of the development of privatisation that facilitate the new practice. Also, there are professional intentions that drive the process. The implementation of private consultants in child protection takes place during a period of high workload for social services. The article concludes with a discussion about the consequences for children and families of this new trend in privatisation.
School Social Worker Voice during COVID-19 School Disruptions: A National Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Capp Gordon , Watson Kate , Astor Ron A , Kelly Michael S , Benbenishty Rami
Published: March 2021

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has created unprecedented impacts on our schools and society, requiring school social workers (SSWs) to attend to layered and cascading effects for students and their families. This study presents rich qualitative data from a national survey of SSWs about their personal and professional roles supporting students, families, and staff members as schools shifted to remote instruction. Findings indicate that SSWs are highly concerned about a lack of basic needs resources, including food, housing, and mental health support for students and families. SSWs highlighted the unequal effects of school closures for families without technology and Internet access as well as the difficulties providing services during the pandemic. Recovery policies should target resources to schools with the highest needs while prioritizing food, housing, mental health, and access to tools for online learning. SSWs also need additional and refined professional support to overcome their isolated roles in schools and bolster their ability to deliver online services effectively.
A De Novo Transcriptome Assembly ofCeratopteris richardiiProvides Insights into the Evolutionary Dynamics of Complex Gene Families in Land Plants
Authors: Geng Yuan , Cai Chao , McAdam Scott A.M , Banks Jo Ann , Wisecaver Jennifer H , Zhou Yun
Published: March 2021

As the closest extant sister group to seed plants, ferns are an important reference point to study the origin and evolution of plant genes and traits. One bottleneck to the use of ferns in phylogenetic and genetic studies is the fact that genome-level sequence information of this group is limited, due to the extreme genome sizes of most ferns. Ceratopteris richardii (hereafter Ceratopteris) has been widely used as a model system for ferns. In this study, we generated a transcriptome of Ceratopteris, through the de novo assembly of the RNA-seq data from 17 sequencing libraries that are derived from two sexual types of gametophytes and five different sporophyte tissues. The Ceratopteris transcriptome, together with 38 genomes and transcriptomes from other species across the Viridiplantae, were used to uncover the evolutionary dynamics of orthogroups (predicted gene families using OrthoFinder) within the euphyllophytes and identify proteins associated with the major shifts in plant morphology and physiology that occurred in the last common ancestors of euphyllophytes, ferns, and seed plants. Furthermore, this resource was used to identify and classify the GRAS domain transcriptional regulators of many developmental processes in plants. Through the phylogenetic analysis within each of the 15 GRAS orthogroups, we uncovered which GRAS family members are conserved or have diversified in ferns and seed plants. Taken together, the transcriptome database and analyses reported here provide an important platform for exploring the evolution of gene families in land plants and for studying gene function in seed-free vascular plants.
Predictive Performance of Blood S100B in the Management of Patients Over 65 Years Old With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Oris Charlotte , Bouillon-Minois Jean-Baptiste , Pinguet Jérémy , Kahouadji Samy , Durif Julie , Meslé Vallauris , Pereira Bruno , Schmidt Jeannot , Sapin Vincent , Bouvier Damien
Published: March 2021

Background

We previously assessed the inclusion of S100B blood determination into clinical decision rules for mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) management in the Emergency Department (ED) of Clermont-Ferrand Hospital. At the 0.10 µg/L threshold, S100B reduced the use of cranial computed tomography (CCT) scan in adults by at least 30% with a ~100% sensitivity. Older patients had higher serum S100B values, resulting in lower specificity (18.7%) and decreased CCT reduction. We conducted this study to confirm the age effect on S100B concentrations, and to propose new decisional thresholds for older patients.

Methods

A total of 1172 mTBI patients aged 65 and over were included. They were divided into 3 age groups: 65–79, 80–89, and ≥ 90 years old. S100B’s performance to identify intracranial lesions (sensitivity [SE] and specificity [SP]) was assessed using the routine 0.10 µg/L threshold and also other more efficient thresholds established for each age group.

Results

S100B concentration medians were 0.18, 0.26, and 0.32 µg/L for the 65–79, 80–89, and ≥ 90 years old age groups, respectively (p < .001). The most efficient thresholds were 0.11 µg/L for the 65–79 age group and 0.15 µg/L for the other groups. At these new thresholds, SP was respectively 28.4%, 34.3%, and 20.5% for each age group versus 24.9%, 18.2%, and 10.5% at the 0.10 µg/L threshold.

Conclusions

Adjustment of the S100B threshold is necessary in older patients’ management. An increased threshold of 0.15 µg/L is particularly interesting for patients ≥ 80 years old, allowing a significant increase of CCT scan reduction (29.3%).
Aging as Otherness: Revisiting Simone de Beauvoir’s Old Age
Authors: Gilleard Chris
Published: March 2021

Aging has been given short shrift as a topic in philosophy. The aim of this article is to redress this neglect by revisiting some of the key philosophical issues in Simone de Beauvoir’s book, Old Age. In her notion of old age’s unrealizability, its impossibility of fully embodying a subject position, and the role played by the other in denying such subjectivity, she draws upon the work of both Heidegger and Sartre. The dilemma she repeatedly draws attention to, of always seeming to age in ways other than as one’s self, raises the question of whether any view of aging as an authentic subjectivity may be no more than, in Heidegger’s words, a “chimerical undertaking.” In examining how the concepts of bad faith and inauthenticity are used by Heidegger and Sartre, the article concludes that for both these writers, an authentic subject position can be maintained in later life, without ending up as the otherwise inauthentic subject of others’ collective imaginary of “a good age.”
‘We’re not gonna have a big quit if loose ones are around’: urban, African American smokers’ beliefs concerning single cigarette use reduction
Authors: Phan Lilianna , Kuo Charlene Chao-Li , Fryer Craig S , Smith-Bynum Mia A , Clark Pamela I , Butler James
Published: March 2021

Single cigarette use (i.e. loosies, loose ones, singles) poses risks for smoking continuation among urban, African American smokers. There is, however, limited research to inform health education interventions addressing this behavior. We conducted 25 in-depth interviews with urban, African American users (ages 20–58 years) from Baltimore, MD and the District of Columbia in June and July 2018 to assess their beliefs about reducing single cigarette use. Interviews were guided by the Health Belief Model and its constructs of perceived benefits, perceived barriers, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity and self-efficacy. We analyzed qualitative data using framework analysis. Perceived benefits of reducing single cigarette use involved the avoidance of health risks, including concerns about buying fake cigarettes and exposure to unknown personal hygiene practices from sellers. Perceived barriers were the convenience of buying singles due to their availability, accessibility and low cost. Participants shared they were willing to use cognitive behavioral strategies to reduce their purchasing and use of singles. This study provides insights on potential intervention targets related to beliefs towards reducing single cigarette use. These findings can inform enforcement policies and health education interventions targeting single cigarette use among urban, African American smokers who use singles.
Sequencing at lymphoid neoplasm susceptibility loci maps six myeloma risk genes
Authors: Waller Rosalie Griffin , Klein Robert J , Vijai Joseph , McKay James D , Clay-Gilmour Alyssa , Wei Xiaomu , Madsen Michael J , Sborov Douglas W , Curtin Karen , Slager Susan L , Offit Kenneth , Vachon Celine M , Lipkin Steven M , Dumontet Charles , Camp Nicola J
Published: March 2021

Inherited genetic risk factors play a role in multiple myeloma (MM), yet considerable missing heritability exists. Rare risk variants at genome-wide association study (GWAS) loci are a new avenue to explore. Pleiotropy between lymphoid neoplasms (LNs) has been suggested in family history and genetic studies, but no studies have interrogated sequencing for pleiotropic genes or rare risk variants. Sequencing genetically enriched cases can help discover rarer variants. We analyzed exome sequencing in familial or early-onset MM cases to identify rare, functionally relevant variants near GWAS loci for a range of LNs. A total of 149 distinct and significant LN GWAS loci have been published. We identified six recurrent, rare, potentially deleterious variants within 5 kb of significant GWAS single nucleotide polymorphisms in 75 MM cases. Mutations were observed in BTNL2, EOMES, TNFRSF13B, IRF8, ACOXL and TSPAN32. All six genes replicated in an independent set of 255 early-onset MM or familial MM or precursor cases. Expansion of our analyses to the full length of these six genes resulted in a list of 39 rare and deleterious variants, seven of which segregated in MM families. Three genes also had significant rare variant burden in 733 sporadic MM cases compared with 935 control individuals: IRF8 (P = 1.0 × 10−6), EOMES (P = 6.0 × 10−6) and BTNL2 (P = 2.1 × 10−3). Together, our results implicate six genes in MM risk, provide support for genetic pleiotropy between LN subtypes and demonstrate the utility of sequencing genetically enriched cases to identify functionally relevant variants near GWAS loci.
The Concept of (In)admissibility in Investment Treaty Arbitration: Limited Yet Indispensable
Authors: Pauker Saar A , Winston Benny
Published: March 2021

The concept of “admissibility of claims” in investment treaty arbitration is far from settled. Its very existence (and if so, its scope) has given rise to voluminous divergence of views amongst tribunals and scholars. Under the debatable assumption that admissibility is more discretionary than jurisdiction, various requirements, such as the requirement to have recourse to the local courts of the host State for twelve or eighteen months, have sometimes been characterized as referring to “admissibility” rather than as jurisdictional requirements. By contrast, other arbitrators and scholars contest the very existence of “admissibility” in investment treaty arbitration, and criticize any “downgrading” of jurisdictional requirement in order to “bypass” it. This article is focused on four particular issues, in light of recent cases decided since 2017, and in view of Söderlund and Burova's detailed contribution: waiting/negotiations and prior local recourse periods; shareholder's claims; exclusive contractual forum selection clause; and denial of benefits. It argues that the while the recourse to the concept of “admissibility” of claims in investment treaty arbitration should be limited and cautious, it is still indispensable.
Incidence and severity of surgical complications after pectus excavatum bar removal
Authors: Media Ara Shwan , Christensen Thomas Decker , Katballe Niels , Pilegaard Hans Kristian , de Paoli Frank Vincenzo
Published: March 2021

OBJECTIVES

Pectus bar removal is the final step of minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum. Complication rates related to bar removal have been reported in 2–15% of patients and severe, near-fatal and fatal complications have been reported. No systematic assessment of complication severity or risk factors associated with bar removal has been reported in large study populations. The aim of this paper is to investigate the safety of the bar removal procedure with regard to complication rates and severities as well as assessment of risk factors.

METHODS

Between 2003 and 2019, 1574 patients underwent the bar removal procedure. Medical records were assessed retrospectively and complications registered. Complications were categorized in infections, bleedings and other complications. The severity of the surgical complications was systematically classified using the validated Clavien–Dindo classification. Furthermore, risk factors associated with complications were assessed.

RESULTS

The overall complication rate was 4.1% (Clavien–Dindo classification I–IV), mainly consisting of bleedings (1.3%) and infections (1.5%). Five cases of severe bleedings were registered (0.3%, Clavien–Dindo classification IV). Risk factors associated with complications during bar removal were greater age and removal of more than one bar.

CONCLUSIONS

The bar removal procedure is a safe and effective procedure. Both age and number of bars inserted should be considered prior to surgical correction of pectus excavatum as these factors predict complications related to bar removal.
Principles and practice of designing microbial biocatalysts for fuel and chemical production
Authors: Shanmugam K T , Ingram Lonnie O
Published: March 2021

The finite nature of fossil fuels and the environmental impact of its use have raised interest in alternate renewable energy sources. Specifically, nonfood carbohydrates, such as lignocellulosic biomass, can be used to produce next generation biofuels, including cellulosic ethanol and other nonethanol fuels like butanol. However, currently there is no native microorganism that can ferment all lignocellulosic sugars to fuel molecules. Thus, research is focused on engineering improved microbial biocatalysts for production of liquid fuels at high productivity, titer, and yield. A clear understanding and application of the basic principles of microbial physiology and biochemistry are crucial to achieve this goal. In this review, we present and discuss the construction of microbial biocatalysts that integrate these principles with ethanol-producing Escherichia coli as an example of metabolic engineering. These principles also apply to fermentation of lignocellulosic sugars to other chemicals that are currently produced from petroleum.
Children’s Pain During IV Induction: A Randomized-Controlled Trial With the MEDi® Robot
Authors: Lee-Krueger Rachelle C W , Pearson Jacqueline R , Spencer Adam , Noel Melanie , Bell-Graham Lisa , Beran Tanya N
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study examined the impact of a humanoid robot (MEDi®) programmed to teach deep breathing as a coping strategy, on children’s pain and fear as primary and secondary outcomes, respectively, during intravenous (IV) line placement. The completion of IV induction was also examined as an exploratory outcome.

Methods

In this randomized controlled, two-armed trial, 137 children (4–12 years) were recruited in Short Stay Surgery at a tertiary pediatric hospital. Patients were randomly assigned to standard care (SC) with Ametop© only (N = 60) or SC and robot-facilitated intervention (N = 59) before induction. Pain and fear before, during, and after IV insertion were rated by patients and observers.

Results

No significant differences were found between groups and there were no changes over time for pain or fear (ps > .05). Exploratory analyses show that patients in the MEDi® group were 5.04 times more likely to complete IV induction, compared to SC, Fisher’s exact test: X2 (1) = 4.85, p = .04, φc = 0.22, odds ratio = 5.04, 95% CI [1.06, 24.00].

Conclusion

This study was the first to examine children’s IV induction experience when provided MEDi® support. Reasons for nonsignificance, limitations, and research suggestions were made.
Intuitionistic multi-agent subatomic natural deduction for belief and knowledge
Authors: Więckowski Bartosz
Published: March 2021

This paper proposes natural deduction systems for the representation of inferences in which several agents participate in deriving conclusions about what they believe or know, where belief and knowledge are understood in an intuitionistic sense. Multi-agent derivations in these systems may involve relatively complex belief (resp. knowledge) constructions which may include forms of nested, reciprocal, shared, distributed or universal belief/knowledge as well as attitudes de dicto/re/se. The systems consist of two main components: multi-agent belief bases which assign to each agent a subatomic system that represents the agent’s beliefs concerning atomic sentences and a set of multi-agent labelled rules for logically compound formulae. Derivations in these systems normalize. Moreover, normal derivations possess the subexpression property (a refinement of the subformula property) which makes them fully analytic. Relying on the normalization result, a proof-theoretic approach to the semantics of the intensional operators for intuitionistic belief/knowledge is presented which explains their meaning entirely by appeal to the structure of derivations. Importantly, this proof-theoretic semantics is autarkic with respect to its foundations as the systems (unlike, e.g. external/labelled proof systems which internalize possible worlds truth conditions) are not defined on the basis of a possible worlds semantics. Detailed applications to a logical puzzle (McCarthy’s three wise men puzzle) and to a semantical difficulty (Geach’s problem of intentional identity), respectively, illustrate the systems. The paper also provides comparisons with other approaches to intuitionistic belief/knowledge and multi-agent natural deduction.
What Are the Symptoms of Psychosis?
Authors: Broussard Beth , Compton Michael T.
Published: March 2021

Understanding the various symptoms of psychosis, and the treatments that are most effective for them, is key to engaging in treatment and recovery. Symptoms of psychosis can be very scary for those experiencing them and for their families. Help is available. Symptoms, whether in the past or present, are important to discuss with your mental health professional. An individual’s early symptoms are important to remember because they usually are the same ones that occur before another episode and are therefore early warning signs. Family and friends can provide information to mental health professionals about symptoms and behaviors, as well as report how symptoms are changing over time, including when they are improving or getting worse. Sharing information and making shared treatment decisions are key to successful treatment.
What Diagnoses Are Associated with Psychosis?
Authors: Broussard Beth , Compton Michael T.
Published: March 2021

In this chapter we discuss the different diagnoses associated with psychosis. Schizophrenia is one of several primary psychotic disorders, a group of psychiatric disorders that primarily cause psychosis. Other disorders can cause psychotic symptoms—or symptoms similar to these—but are not considered psychotic disorders. A few examples of such disorders are major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and some substance-related disorders. It is often difficult to make a specific diagnosis when long-term information is not available at first. In instances in which a definitive diagnosis is uncertain, a working diagnosis allows the healthcare provider to begin effective treatments for psychosis even before a more certain diagnosis is made.
Going Back to School and Work
Authors: Broussard Beth , Compton Michael T.
Published: March 2021

Finishing high school, going off to college, and getting a first job are visible signs of adult independence and set the foundation for future employment, income, and achievements. Though some may think that going back to school or work could be too stressful for a young person who has recently experienced a first episode of psychosis, psychosocial treatments called supported employment and supported education have been shown to be beneficial. These specialized supports help many young people get back into school, find and keep a job, or pursue both school and work goals. Doing well in school, or going to work, gives one a sense of purpose and achievement. These are important steps in recovery that can be achieved with the right supports from family, friends, and mental health professionals.
The Influence of Finasteride on the Development of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sathianathen Niranjan
Published: March 2021

This chapter describes the design, main findings, relevance, and limitations of the landmark Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT), which randomized men to finasteride versus placebo and followed them for 7 years. It found a major reduction in prostate cancer incidence but also a higher proportion of high-risk cancer in men diagnosed with prostate cancer. The study did not address the more important oncological outcomes of disease-specific and overall survival. Secondary analyses of PCPT outcomes favored the finasteride arm and suggested that the risk of high-risk cancer is not increased. Linkage analysis of participants from PCPT to Medicare claims data suggested no adverse long-term cardiac, endocrine, or sexual effects.
Long-Term Survival Among Men With Conservatively Treated Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sathianathen Niranjan , Dahm Philipp
Published: March 2021

This chapter provides the summary of the landmark observational study from the Connecticut Tumor Registry in which men diagnosed with clinically localized prostate cancer who did not undergo curative treatment were followed up to time of death. The study established the safety of conservative management/watchful waiting for men with low-grade prostate cancer, especially older men and/or men with comorbidities, by showing that most had favorable survival outcomes with conservative management.
Clinical Results of Long-Term Follow-Up of a Large, Active Surveillance Cohort With Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sathianathen Niranjan
Published: March 2021

This chapter provides a summary of an important observational study of men with clinically localized, mostly favorable-risk prostate cancer who were followed with active surveillance, which consisted of periodic prostate-specific antigen testing and repeat biopsies. It found that local treatment with curative intent can be safely deferred long term in many patients as long as they are carefully monitored.
Comparative Effectiveness of Minimally Invasive Versus Open Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Dahm Philipp
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes an important observational study using claims-based data that compared minimally invasive radical prostatectomy (mostly performed as robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy) to open radical prostatectomy using propensity scoring. The results favored minimally invasive radical prostatectomy for the outcomes of perioperative complications, rates of transfusion, and length of stay but not other patient-important outcomes.
Quality of Life and Satisfaction With Outcome Among Prostate Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sathianathen Niranjan , Dahm Philipp
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes the design, findings, and implications of an observational study of men with prostate cancer who chose prostatectomy, brachytherapy, or external-beam radiotherapy as primary treatment. The chapter provides detailed information on the unique impact of prostatectomy, external-beam radiotherapy, and brachytherapy on quality-of-life domains related to urinary, sexual, bowel, and hormonal function. It also describes the impact of patient quality of life on partner satisfaction.
Abiraterone and Increased Survival in Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zabell Joseph
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes the findings of a landmark trial conducted in men with castrate-resistant prostate cancer who had received prior chemotherapy comparing abiraterone to placebo. It demonstrated improved progression-free and overall survival. It was relatively well tolerated, with most adverse effects related to mineralocorticoid excess.
Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) Immunotherapy for Recurrent Noninvasive Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Narayan Vikram M.
Published: March 2021

This study summarizes the landmark study assessing the value of maintenance intravesical Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) to reduce the risk for recurrence or progression of high-grade superficial or carcinoma in situ (CIS) transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The trial randomized patients with completely resected noninvasive urothelial cell carcinoma at high risk of recurrence to BCG induction alone versus BCG induction plus maintenance therapy in the form of six weekly treatments. The study found that maintenance BCG reduces disease-specific recurrence and may also reduce the rate of disease progression.
Gemcitabine and Cisplatin Versus Methotrexate, Vinblastine, Doxorubicin, and Cisplatin in Advanced or Metastatic Bladder Cancer
Authors: Narayan Vikram M.
Published: March 2021

This chapter reviews the landmark trial conducted in patients with advanced bladder cancer that compared treatment with gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC) chemotherapy versus treatment with methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (M-VAC) chemotherapy. It found that the two regimens provided similar overall response rates, time to progression, and median survival but less grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, mucositis, and neutropenic fever/sepsis.
Pembrolizumab as Second-Line Therapy for Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Dahm Philipp , Narayan Vikram M.
Published: March 2021

This chapter reviews the first landmark trial of an immune checkpoint inhibitor in patients with advanced urothelial cancer that had recurred or progressed following platinum-based chemotherapy, comparing pembrolizumab as an anti-PD-1 immunotherapy agent to standard second-line chemotherapy agents such as paclitaxel, docetaxel, or vinflunine. The study found that pembrolizumab was associated with significantly longer overall survival and with a lower rate of treatment-related adverse events than chemotherapy.
A Prospective Study of Dietary Calcium and Other Nutrients and the Risk of Symptomatic Kidney Stones
Authors: Borofsky Michael S. , Bird Vincent G.
Published: March 2021

This chapter reviews the results of an important observational study seeking to establish how, in individuals without a history of nephrolithiasis, dietary calcium intake is associated with the risk of symptomatic stone disease. The study found that the mean daily dietary calcium intake was lower in the group who formed stones compared to those who did not and that, after adjusting for covariates, high daily dietary calcium intake was strongly associated with decreased risk of stones.
First Clinical Experience With Extracorporeally Induced Destruction of Kidney Stones by Shock Waves
Authors: Borofsky Michael S. , Bird Vincent G.
Published: March 2021

This chapter reviews the findings of the initial case series of patients with renal stones treated with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) with 12 months of follow-up. In the majority of patients, the renal stones were broken up into fragments that could pass spontaneously, and only a few patients required surgical interventions. Renal function did not appear adversely impacted by the procedure.
A Randomized Trial of Urodynamic Testing Before Stress Incontinence Surgery
Authors: Dixon Colby A. , Lane Giulia I. , Fok Cynthia S. , Louis Moy M.
Published: March 2021

This chapter summarizes the results of the VALUE trial, in which women with stress urinary incontinence scheduled to undergo incontinence surgery were randomized to undergo preoperative urodynamic testing versus office evaluation alone. Treatment was considered successful in a similar, large proportion of women in both groups. A diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence was confirmed in most of the women who underwent urodynamic testing; changes were made to their surgical planning on the basis of the additional testing in very few of them. These findings suggested that urodynamic testing may not contribute to the overall success rate of surgery in healthy women with uncomplicated stress urinary incontinence.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Authors: Robinson Terry , Scullion Jane
Published: March 2021

The incidence of describing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is approximately 23% in mechanically ventilated patients. The diagnosis of ARDS varies widely; studies report a variation in the population diagnosed with ARDS, from 10 to 86 cases per 100,000. Complications of mechanical ventilation are common and include ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), barotrauma from excessive airway pressures, and volutrauma from excessive tidal volumes which may both worsen ARDS. Pneumothorax occurs in some patients, necessitating the placement of chest drains. This chapter starts with describing ARDS and the Berlin Definition, and its incidence. It also covers aetiology and physiology, then goes on to its treatment and general management. This includes respiratory support, position changes, and other treatments. Situation-dependent prognoses are outlined. Specific nursing care is also described.
Pneumonia
Authors: Robinson Terry , Scullion Jane
Published: March 2021

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the tissue in one or both lungs, usually caused by a bacterial infection. This chapter begins with a brief background to pneumonia, and then describes three different types of the disease: community-acquired pneumonia, hospital-acquired pneumonia, and aspiration pneumonia. Symptoms are listed, along with a severity assessment. Transmission, risk factors, and treatment are all outlined. Most types of pneumonia can be effectively treated with antibiotics, but it can be a serious illness, especially in frail older people, young people, and those already ill or immunocompromised. In these cases, the mortality rate is between 5% and 14%. Pneumonia can occur at any time of the year, but it is more common in the autumn and winter. Investigations and prevention are also covered, as well as specific nursing care considerations including oxygen therapy.
Missing an Opportunity? The Limited Civic Imagination of Votes at 16
Authors: Bowman Benjamin
Published: March 2021

The debate over reform to the voting age at Westminster elections is dominated by a concept of young people as deficient and disengaged citizens. In the contemporary context of young civic action, new approaches to the civic can support a regeneration of the vote in young people’s expanded political toolbox. A conceptual approach to the debate on voting reform is presented alongside a critical appraisal of the opportunities available, to all sides of the debate, to contribute to young political regeneration.
Rituximab plus leflunomide in rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized, placebo-controlled, investigator-initiated clinical trial (AMARA study)
Authors: Behrens Frank , Koehm Michaela , Rossmanith Tanja , Alten Rieke , Aringer Martin , Backhaus Marina , Burmester Gerd R , Feist Eugen , Herrmann Eva , Kellner Herbert , Krueger Klaus , Lehn Annette , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Rubbert-Roth Andrea , Tony Hans-Peter , Wassenberg Siegfried , Burkhardt Harald
Published: March 2021

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab + LEF in patients with RA.

Methods

In this investigator-initiated, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial, patients with an inadequate response to LEF who had failed one or more DMARD were randomly assigned 2:1 to i.v. rituximab 1000 mg or placebo on day 1 and 15 plus ongoing oral LEF. The primary efficacy outcome was the difference between ≥50% improvement in ACR criteria (ACR50 response) rates at week 24 (P ≤ 0.025). Secondary endpoints included ACR20/70 responses, ACR50 responses at earlier timepoints and adverse event (AE) rates. The planned sample size was not achieved due to events beyond the investigators’ control.

Results

Between 13 August 2010 and 28 January 2015, 140 patients received rituximab (n = 93) or placebo (n = 47) plus ongoing LEF. Rituximab + LEF resulted in an increase in the ACR50 response rate that was significant at week 16 (32 vs 15%; P = 0.020), but not week 24 (27 vs 15%; P = 0.081), the primary endpoint. Significant differences favouring the rituximab + LEF arm were observed in some secondary endpoints, including ACR20 rates from weeks 12 to 24. The rituximab and placebo arms had similar AE rates (71 vs 70%), but the rituximab arm had a higher rate of serious AEs (SAEs 20 vs 2%), primarily infections and musculoskeletal disorders.

Conclusion

The primary endpoint was not reached, but rituximab + LEF demonstrated clinical benefits vs LEF in secondary endpoints. Although generally well tolerated, the combination was associated with additional SAEs and requires monitoring.

Trial registration

EudraCT: 2009-015950-39; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01244958.
Administrative Measures Against Far-Right Protesters: An Example of Japan’s Social Control
Authors: LÖSCHKE Ayaka
Published: March 2021

Japan’s pre-emptive approach to far-right demonstrations has had a significant impact. Far-right street protests accompanied by hate speech have been rapidly decreasing, although Japan has not introduced penalties. Why did the Japanese approach have such an effect? While the regulation of hate speech in Japan has been discussed mainly in legal studies, Japan’s use of administrative measures against hate speech has not been emphasized. Focusing on the implementation of the 2016 Hate Speech Law, this article examines administrative measures against far-right protestors as an example of Japan’s ‘soft’ approach to social control: not directly banning but discouraging social activities that are deemed harmful to social harmony. These measures have a pre-emptive character and are implemented based on a prior consensus between local officials and far-right activists about appropriate ways to use public spaces and possible expressions. This article also shows that Japan’s treatment of both far-right protesters and counterdemonstrators is guided by the harmony-related concept of kenka ryōseibai, which imposes punishment on both parties in a private quarrel, whether right or wrong. Japan’s approach to far-right protests thereby differs from the conventional American and European approaches in terms of both forms of regulation and central values.
Factors associated with antenatal care service utilization among women with children under five years in Sunyani Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Owusu Sekyere Stephen
Published: March 2021

Background

Maternal and neonatal mortality remains a public health burden around the globe most especially in developing countries. A well utilized antenatal care (ANC) is however among the identified interventions to reduce this burden of maternal and neonatal mortality rates. A lot of factors therefore predispose, enable and cause mothers to identify the need to utilize this service (ANC).

Aims/objectives

The aim of this study was to determine factors associated with the utilization of ANC service among postpartum mothers in the Sunyani municipality.

Methods

This study employed descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A semi-structured questionnaire consisting of demographic profile of the respondents, their knowledge about ANC services and the level of ANC utilization. Logistic regression analysis techniques and chi-square were used for the categorical variables to examine the associations between the dependent and independent variables. Data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Science software (SPSS) version 22.

Results

Majority (87%) of postpartum mothers in the Sunyani municipality attended ANC at least once during their last pregnancy of which 95.6% had four or more visits and 77.1% initiated their ANC attendance within their first trimester. It was further observed that 97.3% of the mothers had good knowledge about ANC. Marital status and ANC knowledge were found to be significantly associated with ANC attendance. Husbands were found to be poorly involved in ANC services in the Sunyani municipality.

Conclusion

Marital status and ANC knowledge predisposes most mothers to utilize ANC services. Hence, health education activities about ANC services and its importance should be channeled more to areas where ANC utilization is low.
Development of a yeast-based assay for bioavailable phosphorus
Authors: Shepherd Heather A.M. , Trentman Matt T. , Tank Jennifer L. , Praner Jennifer , Cervantes Anissa , Chaudhary Priya , Gezelter Jonah , Marrs Allyson J. , Myers Kathryn A. , Welsh Jonathan R. , Wu Yueh-Fu O. , Goodson Holly V.
Published: March 2021

Preventing eutrophication of inland freshwater ecosystems requires quantifying the phosphorus (P) content of the streams and rivers that feed them. Typical methods for measuring P assess soluble reactive P (SRP) or total P (TP) and require expensive analytical techniques that produce hazardous waste. Here we present a novel method for measuring the more relevant bioavailable P (BAP); this assay utilizes the growth of familiar baker’s yeast, avoids production of hazardous waste, and reduces cost relative to measurements of SRP and TP. The yeast BAP (yBAP) assay takes advantage of the observation that yeast density at saturating growth increases linearly with provided P. We show that this relationship can be used to measure P in freshwater in concentration ranges relevant to eutrophication. In addition, we measured yBAP in water containing known amounts of fertilizer and in samples from agricultural waterways. We observed that the majority of yBAP values were between those obtained from standard SRP and TP measurements, demonstrating that the assay is compatible with real-world settings. The cost-effective and nonhazardous nature of the yeast-based assay suggests that it could have utility in a range of settings, offering added insight to identify water systems at risk of eutrophication from excess phosphorus.
Synthesis and crystal structure of allyl 7-(diethylamino)-2-oxo-2H-chromene-3-carboxylate
Authors: Nowatschin Vanessa , Näther Christian , Lüning Ulrich
Published: March 2021

The title compound, C17H19NO4, was synthesized by the reaction of 7-(diethylamino)-2-oxo-2H-chromene-3-carboxylic acid with allyl bromide and purified by flash column chromatography on silica gel. Crystals suitable for single-crystal X-ray diffraction were obtained by recrystallization from acetone. The aromatic core of the molecule is not planar with the diethylamino group and with the carboxyl group that are rotated out of the 2-oxo-2H-chromene plane by 6.7 (2)° and 11.4 (2)°. The NC2unit of the diethylamino group is planar with an angle sum close to 360°. Intermolecular Car—H...Ocarbonylinteractions lead to the formation of chains parallel to thebaxis. X-ray powder diffraction analysis proves that the title compound was obtained as a pure phase.
Limiting vs. diversifying patterns of recommendations for key protein sources emerging: a study on national food guides worldwide from a health and sustainability perspective
Authors: de Boer Joop , Aiking Harry
Published: March 2021

Purpose

A shift to a healthy and sustainable diet (as recommended by the EAT Lancet Commission) needs to have a strong societal legitimation. This makes it relevant to investigate to what extent countries are using their Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs) in ways that can stimulate such a shift.

Design/methodology/approach

Given the pivotal role of protein, the authors examined what patterns of protein-related recommendations are used to guide consumers and how these patterns are related to specific contexts and societal priorities of the countries.

Findings

The analysis of data from 93 countries worldwide revealed two emerging patterns of recommendations. One pattern (found in a cluster of 23% of the countries) combined positive advice about key protein sources with limiting messages to reduce (or replace) the consumption of animal protein. The other pattern (found in a cluster of 24%) encouraged both animal and plant protein, thereby diversifying the set of protein sources, without negative advice on animal-based food sources. The two patterns of recommendations were differently associated with health and nutrition variables, including the countries' level of animal protein supply (in particular, dairy) and the prevalence of overweight individuals among adult men.

Social implications

For all stakeholders, it is of crucial importance to realize that an increasing number of countries in the world are moving in the direction of acknowledging and addressing the diet-health-environment nexus by adapting their patterns of recommendations for key protein sources.

Originality/value

This study is the first that reveals patterns in recommendations with respect to protein sources by different nations worldwide.