bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexural behavior of slender long‐span precast prestressed high‐strength concrete girders
Authors: Fernandes Paulo , Cavaco Eduardo , Maranha Paulo , Júlio Eduardo
Published: June 2021

The flexural behavior of slender (1/40) long‐span precast high‐strength concrete girders was experimentally investigated as a competing solution to steel alternatives for highway overpasses. Half‐scale specimens were produced using an economical and high‐strength (120 MPa) concrete mixture, non‐fiber reinforced, designed only with conventional raw materials, currently available at Portuguese precast companies. Two girder specimens were subjected to quasi‐static short‐term loading up to structural failure in bending. Results have shown the typical behavior of conventional reinforced concrete members in bending, despite the brittle behavior of non‐fiber‐reinforced high strength concretes. Results also showed acceptable ductility (2.6) and the ability of the girder specimens to experience large deformation without significant softening. An analytical approach, based on plane sections and short‐term stress–strain constitutive model recommended by the Eurocode 2 for concrete up to the C90/105 strength class, showed to predict accurately the behavior of girders in bending, both to ultimate and serviceability limit states, including cracking, yielding, maximum loads, and ultimate deflections.
Cultivating Students’ Text Creation
Authors: Danielsson Kristina , Selander Staffan
Published: June 2021

Work with multimodal texts as described above is also relevant for students’ own text production.
The Role of Data Regulation in Shaping AI: An Overview of Challenges and Recommendations for SMEs
Authors: Timan Tjerk , van Oirsouw Charlotte , Hoekstra Marissa
Published: June 2021

In recent debates around the regulation of artificial intelligence, its foundations, being data, are often overlooked. In order for AI to have any success but also for it to become transparent, explainable and auditable where needed, we need to make sure the data regulation and data governance around it is of the highest quality standards in relation to the application domain. One of the challenges is that AI regulation might – and needs to – rely heavily on data regulation, yet data regulation is highly complex. This is both a strategic problem for Europe and a practical problematic: people, institutions, governments and companies might increasingly need and want data for AI, and both will affect each other technically, socially but also regulatory. At the moment, there is an enormous disconnect between regulating AI, because this happens mainly through ethical frameworks, and concrete data regulation. The role of data regulation seems to be largely ignored in the AI ethics debate, Article 22 GDPR being perhaps the only exception. In this chapter, we will provide an overview of current data regulations that serve as inroads to fill this gap.
Data Economy 2.0: From Big Data Value to AI Value and a European Data Space
Authors: Zillner Sonja , Gomez Jon Ander , García Robles Ana , Hahn Thomas , Le Bars Laure , Petkovic Milan , Curry Edward
Published: June 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) has a tremendous potential to benefit European citizens, economy, environment and society and already demonstrated its potential to generate value in various applications and domains. From a data economy point of view, AI means algorithm-based and data-driven systems that enable machines with digital capabilities such as perception, reasoning, learning and even autonomous decision making to support people in real scenarios. Data ecosystems are an important driver for AI opportunities as they benefit from the significant growth of data volume and the rates at which it is generated. This chapter explores the opportunities and challenges of big data and AI in exploiting data ecosystems and creating AI value. The chapter describes the European AI framework as a foundation for deploying AI successfully and the critical need for a common European data space to power this vision.
Stakeholder Analysis of Data Ecosystems
Authors: ul Hassan Umair , Curry Edward
Published: June 2021

Stakeholder analysis and management have received significant attention in management literature primarily due to the role played by key stakeholders in the success or failure of projects and programmes. Consequently, it becomes important to collect and analyse information on relevant stakeholders to develop an understanding of their interest and influence. This chapter provides an analysis of stakeholders within the European data ecosystem. The analysis identifies the needs and drivers of stakeholders concerning big data in Europe; furthermore, it examines stakeholder relationships within and between different sectors. For this purpose, a two-stage methodology was followed for stakeholder analysis, which included sector-specific case studies and a cross-case analysis of stakeholders. The results of the analysis provide a basis for understanding the role of actors as stakeholders who make consequential decisions about data technologies and the rationale behind the incentives targeted at stakeholder engagement for active participation in a data ecosystem.
A Roadmap to Drive Adoption of Data Ecosystems
Authors: Zillner Sonja , Le Bars Laure , de Lama Nuria , Scerri Simon , García Robles Ana , Tonna Marie Claire , Kenneally Jim , Mayer Dirk , Hahn Thomas , Caj Södergård , Seidl Robert , Carbonare Davide Dalle , Curry Edward
Published: June 2021

To support the adoption of big data value, it is essential to foster, strengthen, and support the development of big data value technologies, successful use cases and data-driven business models. At the same time, it is necessary to deal with many different aspects of an increasingly complex data ecosystem. Creating a productive ecosystem for big data and driving accelerated adoption requires an interdisciplinary approach addressing a wide range of challenges from access to data and infrastructure, to technical barriers, skills, and policy and regulation. In order to overcome the adoption challenges, collective action from all stakeholders in an effective, holistic and coherent manner is required. To this end, the Big Data Value Public-Private Partnership (BDV PPP) was established to develop the European data ecosystem and enable data-driven digital transformation, delivering maximum economic and societal benefit, and achieving and sustaining Europe’s leadership in the fields of big data value creation and Artificial Intelligence. This chapter describes the different steps that have been taken to address the big data value adoption challenges: first, the establishment of the BDV PPP to mobilise and create coherence with all stakeholders in the European data ecosystem; second, the introduction of five strategic mechanisms to encourage cooperation and coordination in the data ecosystem; third, a three-phase roadmap to guide the development of a healthy European data ecosystem; and fourth, a systematic and strategic approach towards actively engaging the key communities in the European Data Value Ecosystem.
Data Innovation Spaces
Authors: Alonso Daniel
Published: June 2021

Within the European Big Data Ecosystem, cross-organisational and cross-sectorial experimentation and innovation environments play a central role. European Innovation Spaces (or i-Spaces for short) are the main elements to ensure that research on big data value technologies and novel applications can be quickly tested, piloted and exploited for the benefit of all stakeholders. In particular, i-Spaces enable stakeholders to develop new businesses facilitated by advanced Big Data Value (BDV) technologies, applications and business models, bringing together all blocks, actors and functionalities expected to provide IT infrastructure, support and assistance, data protection, privacy and governance, community building and linkages with other innovation spaces, as well as incubation and accelerator services. Thereby, i-Spaces contribute to building a community, providing a catalyst for engagement and acting as incubators and accelerators of data-driven innovation, with cross-border collaborations as a key aspect to fully unleash the potential of data to support the uptake of European AI and related technologies.
Transnational Labour Law? “Corporate Social Responsibility” and the Law
Authors: Kocher Eva
Published: June 2021

The article traces the development of transnational concepts of corporate social responsibility (CSR), particularly in relation to International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. It analyses the relationship between transnational private law instruments, and national and international law. It points out opportunities and limits of new enforcement mechanisms, emphasising the role of national legal systems: It will only be possible to prevent the law from becoming a pawn in corporate strategies if CSR instruments become sufficiently effective.
Confined Employment: Exploring Labor Marginalization in Workplace Safety
Authors: Shahab Palvasha
Published: June 2021

This chapter argues that Pakistan has never had a bona fide system of occupational safety and health (OSH) laws, policies, standards or enforcement mechanisms (“OSH infrastructure”). Instead, the country’s present OSH infrastructure remains divorced from workers’ most urgent needs and the country’s institutional capacity—effectively leaving workers without protection. This chapter traces the progress of the fire, delineates violations of OSH law and provides an account of the actions and inactions of various actors involved. In doing so, it highlights the gap between the OSH system’s deficiencies and the fatalities they caused; outlining what measures were legally required to prevent such a tragedy but they were not in place. Then, it explores the geneology of these illegalities and accompanying apathies as it traces the history of Pakistan’s OSH infrastructure back to its origins under British colonial rule and contextualises it with the overarching global (politico-economic) order in which the factory fire should perhaps be seen. Thus, it renders visible the historical trajectories and contemporary political and economic factors that have led to workers’ persistent exclusion from the politico-legal sphere, denial of their rights and their dehumanisation—specifically in Pakistan and generally in the Global South. It concludes by identifying some directions that could be taken for a renewed and vitalised mandate to govern the OSH infrastructure in Pakistan.
Loss and Legibility: A Conversation with Saeeda Khatoon
Authors: Shahab Palvasha
Published: June 2021

Saeeda Khatoon rose as a prominent figure and main voice of the Ali Enterprises Factory Fire Affectees Association (AEFFAA). She lost her son in the fire of 11 September 2012 and was one of the four petitioners in the German case against KiK. In this interview, she speaks to Palvasha Shahab about the events unfolding from her perspective as well as strategic decisions and collective organizing in light of the transnational lawsuits she was involved in.
Einleitung
Authors: Kleinschmidt Malte
Published: June 2021

In der Einleitung wird zunächst die gesellschaftliche Dringlichkeit einer dekolonialen politischen Bildung entwickelt. Diese ergibt sich gleichermaßen aus den untersuchten Vorstellungen der Schüler_innen sowie aus gesellschaftlichen Prozessen der Gegenwart - von Black Lives Matter über das EUropäische Migrationsregime bis zu Strukturen globaler Ungleichheit. Im Anschluss wird die Untersuchungsperspektive und die Struktur des Buches skizziert sowie einige Überlegungen zu machtvollen Implikationen sprachlicher Strukturen und den Umgangsformen damit in diesem Text angestellt.
Empirischer Teil: Vorstellungen von Lernenden über Globalisierung aus dekolonialer Perspektive
Authors: Kleinschmidt Malte
Published: June 2021

Im Zuge der Auswertung haben sich – nach zahlreichen Umwegen – drei Hauptkategorien ergeben: Eurozentrismus, Selfing/Othering und Agency/Subalternität. Diese stellen den Versuch dar, die auch induktiv entwickelten Subkategorien zu ordnen und den sich aus der theoretischen Diskussion ergebenden Fragestellungen gerecht zu werden. Die titelgebenden Begriffe der drei Hauptkategorien stellen grundlegende Elemente dekolonialer Theoriebildung dar.
8d supergravity, reconstruction of internal geometry and the Swampland
Authors: Hamada Yuta , Vafa Cumrun
Published: June 2021

Abstract

We sharpen Swampland constraints on 8d supergravity theories by studying consistency conditions on worldvolume theory of 3-brane probes. Combined with a stronger form of the cobordism conjecture, this leads to the reconstruction of the compact internal geometry and implies strong restrictions on the gauge algebra and on some higher derivative terms (related to the level of the current algebra on the 1-brane). In particular we argue that 8d supergravity theories with $$ {\mathfrak{g}}_2 $$

g
2

gauge symmetry are in the Swampland. These results provide further evidence for the string lamppost principle in 8d with 16 supercharges.
Early TICI 2b or Late TICI 3—Is Perfect the Enemy of Good?
Authors: Flottmann F. , van Horn N. , Maros M. E. , McDonough R. , Deb-Chatterji M. , Alegiani A. , Thomalla G. , Hanning U. , Fiehler J. , Brekenfeld C. ,   GSR investigators
Published: June 2021

Background and Purpose

A Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score of 3 has been established as therapeutic goal in endovascular therapy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke; however, in the case of early TICI2b reperfusion, the question remains whether to stop the procedure or to continue in the pursuit of perfection (i.e., TICI 2c/3).

Methods

A total of 6635 patients were screened from the German Stroke Registry. Patients who underwent EVT for occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (M1 segment), with final TICI score of 2b/3 were included. Multivariable logistic regression was performed with functional independence (modified Rankin Scale, mRS at day 90 of 0–2) as the dependent variable.

Results

Of 1497 patients, 586 (39.1%) met inclusion criteria with a final TICI score of 2b and 911 (60.9%) with a TICI score of 3. Patients who achieved first-pass TICI3 showed highest odds of functional independence (Odds ratio [OR] 1.71, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.18–2.47). Patients who achieved TICI2b with the second pass (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.31–0.89) or with three or more passes (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.27–0.70) had significantly worse clinical outcomes compared to first-pass TICI2b. TICI3 at the second pass was by trend better than first-pass TICI2b (OR 1.55, 95% CI 0.98–2.45), but TICI3 after 3 or more passes (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.57–1.50) was not significantly different from first-pass TICI2b.

Conclusion

First-pass TICI2b was superior to TICI2b after ≥ 2 retrievals and comparable to TICI3 at ≥ 3 retrievals. The potential benefit in outcome after achieving TICI3 following further retrieval attempts after first-pass TICI2b need to be weighed against the risks.
Ambulante Phonochirurgie
Authors: Bohlender Jörg E.
Published: June 2021

Wesentliche und neue Impulse, die das Behandlungskonzept für ambulante phonochirurgische Eingriffe am unsedierten Patienten betreffen, stammen aktuell aus dem angloamerikanischen Sprachraum. Die dort etablierten „office-based procedures“ werden als eine Alternative zu vielen konventionellen operativen Larynxeingriffen in Vollnarkose propagiert. Maßgeblich für diese Entwicklung ist der Einsatz neuer endoskopischer Techniken in Kombination mit photoangiolytischen Laserverfahren (KTP-Laser und blauer Laser), die eine sichere und effiziente ambulante Phonochirurgie ermöglichen. Die Akzeptanz seitens der Patienten ist hoch, da ambulante Eingriffe als risikoärmer gelten. Ungeachtet der verbreiteten Euphorie fehlen weiterführende Studien, welche die medizinischen Entscheidungskriterien und das Sicherheitsmanagement bei dieser neuen ambulanten Ausrichtung der Kehlkopfchirurgie bewerten.
I am a survivor, keep on surviving: early-life exposure to conflict and subjective survival probabilities in adult life
Authors: Arpino Bruno , Conzo Pierluigi , Salustri Francesco
Published: June 2021

Life-course studies have shown that early-life conditions predict health and socio-economic status in adult life. This study analyzes whether experiencing a traumatic event in childhood, i.e., the Second World War (WW2), affects subjective survival probabilities (SSPs). We rely on a representative sample of European adults who were differentially exposed to WW2 during childhood as a result of their date and place of birth. Results show that exposure to WW2 increases SSPs, with socio-economic and health characteristics not playing a mediating role. War exposure also counterbalances the adverse effects of health impairments on SSPs, but it does not affect health outcomes per se. This fact, jointly with low mortality rates of the cohort under investigation, suggests that selective mortality and post-traumatic stress are not the main channels. Instead, the results support the hypothesis that personal growth and life appreciation emerge after traumatic events, thereby leading to optimistic perceptions of longevity.
High usage of medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty negatively influences total knee arthroplasty revision rate
Authors: Klasan Antonio , Tay Mei Lin , Frampton Chris , Young Simon William
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Surgeons with higher medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) usage have lower UKA revision rates. However, an increase in UKA usage may cause a decrease of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) usage. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of UKA usage on revision rates and patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) of UKA, TKA, and combined UKA + TKA results.

Methods

Using the New Zealand Registry Database, surgeons were divided into six groups based on their medial UKA usage: < 1%, 1–5%, 5–10%, 10–20%, 20–30% and > 30%. A comparison of UKA, TKA and UKA + TKA revision rates and PROMs using the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) was performed.

Results

A total of 91,895 knee arthroplasties were identified, of which 8,271 were UKA (9.0%). Surgeons with higher UKA usage had lower UKA revision rates, but higher TKA revision rates. The lowest TKA and combined UKA + TKA revision rates were observed for surgeons performing 1–5% UKA, compared to the highest TKA and UKA + TKA revision rates which were seen for surgeons using > 30% UKA (p < 0.001 TKA; p < 0.001 UKA + TKA). No clinically important differences in UKA + TKA OKS scores were seen between UKA usage groups at 6 months, 5 years, or 10 years.

Conclusion

Surgeons with higher medial UKA usage have lower UKA revision rates; however, this comes at the cost of a higher combined UKA + TKA revision rate that is proportionate to the UKA usage. There was no difference in TKA + UKA OKS scores between UKA usage groups. A small increase in TKA revision rate was observed for high-volume UKA users (> 30%), when compared to other UKA usage clusters. A significant decrease in UKA revision rate observed in high-volume UKA surgeons offsets the slight increase in TKA revision rate, suggesting that UKA should be performed by specialist UKA surgeons.

Level of evidence

III, Retrospective therapeutic study.
Consensus Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Periprocedural Complications of Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure with the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Sathanandam Shyam , Gutfinger Dan , Morray Brian , Berman Darren , Gillespie Matthew , Forbes Thomas , Johnson Jason N. , Garg Ruchira , Malekzadeh-Milani Sophie , Fraisse Alain , Baspinar Osman , Zahn Evan M.
Published: June 2021

Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature infants is a feasible, safe, and an effective alternative to surgical ligation and may be performed with an implant success rate of 97%. Major procedural complications related to transcatheter PDA closure in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants are relatively infrequent (< 3%) ,but may be associated with a fatality if not optimally managed. Operators performing transcatheter PDA closures should be knowledgeable about these potential complications and management options. Prompt recognition and treatment are often necessary to avoid serious consequences. With strict guidelines on operator training, proctoring requirements, and technical refinements, transcatheter PDA closure in ELBW infants can be performed safely with low complication rates. This article summarizes the consensus guidelines put forward by a panel of physicians for the prevention and management of periprocedural complications of transcatheter PDA closure with the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder in ELBW infants.
Continuous process technology for glucoside production from sucrose using a whole cell-derived solid catalyst of sucrose phosphorylase
Authors: Kruschitz Andreas , Peinsipp Linda , Pfeiffer Martin , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: June 2021

Advanced biotransformation processes typically involve the upstream processing part performed continuously and interlinked tightly with the product isolation. Key in their development is a catalyst that is highly active, operationally robust, conveniently produced, and recyclable. A promising strategy to obtain such catalyst is to encapsulate enzymes as permeabilized whole cells in porous polymer materials. Here, we show immobilization of the sucrose phosphorylase from Bifidobacterium adolescentis (P134Q-variant) by encapsulating the corresponding E. coli cells into polyacrylamide. Applying the solid catalyst, we demonstrate continuous production of the commercial extremolyte 2-α-d-glucosyl-glycerol (2-GG) from sucrose and glycerol. The solid catalyst exhibited similar activity (≥70%) as the cell-free extract (~800 U g−1 cell wet weight) and showed excellent in-operando stability (40 °C) over 6 weeks in a packed-bed reactor. Systematic study of immobilization parameters related to catalyst activity led to the identification of cell loading and catalyst particle size as important factors of process optimization. Using glycerol in excess (1.8 M), we analyzed sucrose conversion dependent on space velocity (0.075–0.750 h−1) and revealed conditions for full conversion of up to 900 mM sucrose. The maximum 2-GG space-time yield reached was 45 g L−1 h−1 for a product concentration of 120 g L−1. Collectively, our study establishes a step-economic route towards a practical whole cell-derived solid catalyst of sucrose phosphorylase, enabling continuous production of glucosides from sucrose. This strengthens the current biomanufacturing of 2-GG, but also has significant replication potential for other sucrose-derived glucosides, promoting their industrial scale production using sucrose phosphorylase.

Key points

• Cells of sucrose phosphorylase fixed in polyacrylamide were highly active and stable.

• Solid catalyst was integrated with continuous flow to reach high process efficiency.

• Generic process technology to efficiently produce glucosides from sucrose is shown.

Graphical abstract
Acute Pancreatitis as the Initial Presentation of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma does not Impact Short‐ and Long‐term Outcomes of Curative Intent Surgery: A Study of the French Surgical Association
Authors: Lupinacci Renato Micelli , Faron Matthieu , Bachellier Philippe , Sauvanet Alain , Beauchet Alain , Le Treut Yves‐Patrice , Adham Mustapha , Mabrut Jean‐Yves , Delpero Jean‐Robert , Paye François
Published: June 2021

Background

Acute pancreatitis (AP) can be one of the earliest clinical presentation of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Information about the impact of AP on postoperative outcomes as well as its influences on PDAC survival is scarce. This study aimed to determine whether AP as initial clinical presentation of PDAC impact the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of curative intent pancreatic resection.

Patients and methods

From 2004 to 2009, 1449 patients with PDAC underwent pancreatic resection in 37 institutions (France, Belgium and Switzerland). We used univariate and multivariate analysis to identify factors associated with severe complications and pancreatic fistula as well as overall and disease‐free survivals.

Results

There were 764 males (52,7%), and the median age was 64 years. A total of 781 patients (53.9%) developed at least one complication, among whom 317 (21.8%) were classified as Clavien–Dindo ≥ 3. A total of 114 (8.5%) patients had AP as the initial clinical manifestation of PDAC. This situation was not associated with any increase in the rates of postoperative fistula (21.2% vs 16.4%, P = 0.19), postoperative complications (57% vs 54.2%, P = 0.56), and 30 day mortality (2.6% vs 3.4%, P = 1). In multivariate analysis, AP did not correlate with postoperative complications or pancreatic fistula. The median length of follow‐up was 22.4 months. The median overall survival after surgery was 29.9 months in the AP group and 30.5 months in the control group. Overall recurrence rate and local recurrence rate did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

AP before PDAC resection did not impact postoperative morbidity and mortality, as well as recurrence rate and survival.
Halting targeted and collateral damage to red blood cells by the complement system
Authors: Jalink M. , de Boer E. C. W. , Evers D. , Havinga M. Q. , Vos J. M. I. , Zeerleder S. , de Haas M. , Jongerius I.
Published: June 2021

The complement system is an important defense mechanism against pathogens; however, in certain pathologies, the system also attacks human cells, such as red blood cells (RBCs). In paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), RBCs lack certain complement regulators which sensitize them to complement-mediated lysis, while in autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), antibodies against RBCs may initiate complement-mediated hemolysis. In recent years, complement inhibition has improved treatment prospects for these patients, with eculizumab now the standard of care for PNH patients. Current complement inhibitors are however not sufficient for all patients, and they come with high costs, patient burden, and increased infection risk. This review gives an overview of the underlying pathophysiology of complement-mediated hemolysis in PNH and AIHA, the role of therapeutic complement inhibition nowadays, and the high number of complement inhibitors currently under investigation, as for almost every complement protein, an inhibitor is being developed. The focus lies with novel therapeutics that inhibit complement activity specifically in the pathway that causes pathology or those that reduce costs or patient burden through novel administration routes.
Correction to: Impact of previous transurethral prostate surgery on health-related quality of life after radical prostatectomy: Does the interval between surgeries matter?
Authors: Chaloupka Michael , Figura Franka , Weinhold Philipp , Jokisch Friedrich , Westhofen Thilo , Pfitzinger Paulo , Bischoff Robert , Magistro Giuseppe , Strittmatter Frank , Becker Armin , Ormanns Steffen , Schlenker Boris , Buchner Alexander , Stief Christian G. , Kretschmer Alexander
Published: June 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00345-020-03327-4
Interdisziplinäre Betreuung von Menschen mit Marfan-Syndrom – Pharmakologie, Schwangerschaft, Auge, Skelett und organisatorische Aspekte
Authors: Yildiz Murat , Matyas Gabor , Wustmann Kerstin , Attenhofer Jost Christine , Bonassin Francesca , Früh Beatrice , Min Kan , Gehle Petra , Bombardieri Giancarlo , Carrel Thierry , Schoenhoff Florian
Published: June 2021

Im ersten Teil des vorliegenden Beitrags wurde im Detail auf die Genetik, Diagnose, Differenzialdiagnose, die diagnostische Bildgebung, Follow-up, die kardiovaskulären Probleme sowie die Manifestation an Aorta und den großen Gefäßen bei Patienten mit dem Marfan-Syndrom (MFS) eingegangen. In diesem zweiten Teil werden die medikamentöse Therapie des MFS, seine Bedeutung im Zusammenhang mit einer Schwangerschaft, die Beteiligung von Augen und Wirbelsäule bei MFS-Patienten sowie die organisatorischen Aspekte einer Marfan-Sprechstunde erläutert. Das MFS ist mit einer Prävalenz von etwa 1–2:10.000 die häufigste hereditäre Bindegewebserkrankung mit vaskulärer Komponente. Ursache sind Mutationen im Gen, das für das extrazelluläre Matrixprotein Fibrillin‑1 kodiert. Die Erkrankung wird autosomal-dominant vererbt. Es handelt sich um eine Multisystemerkrankung mit Beteiligung der Aorta, der Mitralklappe, Augen- und Skelettveränderungen. Die Augen- und/oder die Wirbelsäulenbeteiligung sind nicht zu unterschätzen, da sowohl die Skoliose als auch die Linsendislokation etwa 60 % der Patienten mit MFS betreffen. Bis anhin konnte kein Wirkstoff einen klaren Vorteil hinsichtlich klinischer Ereignisse in MFS-Patienten zeigen. Es besteht jedoch der allgemeine Konsens, Patienten mit MFS einen β‑Rezeptoren- oder Angiotensinrezeptorblocker isoliert oder als Kombinationstherapie zu verabreichen. Bei bestehendem Kinderwunsch muss ein besonderes Augenmerk auf die Planung der Schwangerschaft gelegt werden. Im Fall eines Aortenwurzeldurchmessers > 4–4,5 cm empfiehlt sich, entweder einen prophylaktischen Aortenwurzelersatz zu erwägen oder von einer Schwangerschaft abzuraten. Eine strukturierte Langzeitbetreuung ist für Patienten mit MFS essenziell.
Survey of practices for the clinical management of febrile neutropenia in children in hematology-oncology units in Latin America
Authors: Melgar Mario A. , Homsi Maysam R. , Happ Brooke , Su Yin , Tang Li , Gonzalez Miriam L. , Caniza Miguela A.
Published: June 2021

The management of febrile neutropenia (FN) in pediatrics is evolving. Our objective was to describe current practices for the care of patients with FN in pediatric oncology centers in Latin America and identify areas for practice improvement. We used an online survey to enroll eligible healthcare providers who treat children with cancer in Latin America. The survey addressed respondents’ characteristics, the environment of care, and FN care practices, including risk assessment, criteria for hospitalization, initial management of FN, evaluation, antibiotic administration, and discharge. From 220 surveys sent, we received 109 responses and selected 108 from 19 countries for analysis. Most (94%) respondents were working in specialized oncology centers, oncology units within a pediatric or general care hospital. The cohort included oncologists (42%) and infectious diseases physicians (30%). Most (67%) respondents had available guidelines; they used a risk-stratification scoring system (73%) for severe infection; and their guidelines had locally adapted risk stratification (34%) or published risk stratification (51%). The respondents used diverse FN definitions and concepts, including fever definitions, temperature-obtaining methods, neutropenia values for assigning risk, empiric antimicrobials administration, and length of hospitalization. Overall, we detected common practices aligning with standard published recommendations, as well as care variability. These findings can guide further evaluations of care resources and practices to prioritize interventions, and professional networks can be used for FN discussions and consensus in Latin America.
Development and Interrogation of a Transcriptomic Resource for the Giant Triton Snail (Charonia tritonis)
Authors: Klein AH , Motti CA , Hillberg AK , Ventura T , Thomas-Hall P , Armstrong T , Barker T , Whatmore P , Cummins SF
Published: June 2021

Gastropod molluscs are among the most abundant species that inhabit coral reef ecosystems. Many are specialist predators, along with the giant triton snail Charonia tritonis (Linnaeus, 1758) whose diet consists of Acanthaster planci (crown-of-thorns starfish), a corallivore known to consume enormous quantities of reef-building coral. C. tritonis are considered vulnerable due to overexploitation, and a decline in their populations is believed to have contributed to recurring A. planci population outbreaks. Aquaculture is considered one approach that could help restore natural populations of C. tritonis and mitigate coral loss; however, numerous questions remain unanswered regarding their life cycle, including the molecular factors that regulate their reproduction and development. In this study, we have established a reference C. tritonis transcriptome derived from developmental stages (embryo and veliger) and adult tissues. This was used to identify genes associated with cell signalling, such as neuropeptides and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), involved in endocrine and olfactory signalling. A comparison of developmental stages showed that several neuropeptide precursors are exclusively expressed in post-hatch veligers and functional analysis found that FFamide stimulated a significant (20.3%) increase in larval heart rate. GPCRs unique to veligers, and a diversity of rhodopsin-like GPCRs located within adult cephalic tentacles, all represent candidate olfactory receptors. In addition, the cytochrome P450 superfamily, which participates in the biosynthesis and degradation of steroid hormones and lipids, was also found to be expanded with at least 91 genes annotated, mostly in gill tissue. These findings further progress our understanding of C. tritonis with possible application in developing aquaculture methods.
Einstellungen und Hinderungsgründe bezüglich Telemedizin bei Epilepsien: Eine Umfrage in neurologischen Praxen
Authors: Zöllner Johann Philipp , Noda Anna H. , McCoy Jeannie , Roth Christian , Fischer Doris , Bollensen Edgar , Henn Karl-Heinz , Willems Laurent M. , Leyer Anne-Christine , Schubert-Bast Susanne , Rosenow Felix , Strzelczyk Adam
Published: June 2021

Hintergrund

In Anbetracht ihres bedeutenden Potenzials zur Verbesserung der medizinischen Versorgung wird Telemedizin weiterhin zu wenig genutzt. Trotz einiger erfolgreicher Pilotprojekte in den vergangenen Jahren ist insbesondere über die Hindernisse der Etablierung und Verstetigung von Telemedizin wenig bekannt. Diese Studie hatte das Ziel, die Einstellung niedergelassener Neurologen hinsichtlich der Nutzung von Telemedizin in der Epileptologie und resultierende Hinderungsgründe zu verstehen. Gleichzeitig werden mögliche Lösungsansätze präsentiert.

Methoden

Mithilfe eines individuell erstellten 14-Item-Fragebogens befragten wir prospektiv alle Neurologen, die zuvor die Teilnahme an einem transregionalen Telemedizinpilotprojekt im Bereich der Epileptologie abgelehnt oder keine Rückmeldung gegeben hatten, zu Gründen für und gegen den generellen Einsatz von bzw. die Teilnahme an Telemedizin.

Ergebnisse

Von 58 kontaktierten Neurologen antworteten 33 (57 %). Die häufigsten Gründe für die fehlende Nutzung der Telemedizin waren ein vermuteter Zeitmangel oder ein vermuteter zu großer organisatorischer Aufwand (49 %). Zudem wurden Bedenken bezüglich der technischen Ausstattung (30 %) und eine Präferenz für alternative Wege der intersektoralen Kommunikation (30 %) angegeben. Befürchtete Probleme in Bezug auf die Kostenerstattung für telemedizinische Leistungen waren für 27 % ein Hindernis. Neurologen in ländlichen Gebieten waren signifikant häufiger bereit, zunächst eine telemedizinische Konsultation anzufordern, bevor sie eine Überweisung ausstellen (p = 0,006).

Schlussfolgerungen

Die flächendeckende Etablierung von Telemedizinstrukturen ist immer noch durch Hindernisse erschwert, die meist im organisatorischen Bereich liegen. Die bestehenden Herausforderungen im Gesundheitswesen in ländlichen Gebieten sind eine besondere Chance für die Implementierung von Telemedizin. Die meisten Probleme der Telemedizin können gelöst werden, sollten aber bereits bei der Konzeptionierung von Projekten mitbedacht werden, um ihre Verstetigung zu erleichtern.
Kommunale Instrumente gegen Schottergärten
Authors: Ferber Kevin
Published: June 2021

Der vorliegende Beitrag möchte aufzeigen, weshalb sogenannte Schottergärten eine problematische
Art der Freiflächengestaltung darstellen und welche Möglichkeiten für Kommunen bestehen,
um gegen sie vorgehen zu können. Dabei wird der Ansatz einer Einordnung als bauliche Anlage verfolgt,
was dazu führt, dass Eigentümer von Schottergärten mittels der bauordnungsrechtlichen Beseitigungsanordnung
dazu verpflichtet werden können, diese zu entfernen. Anschließend werden Möglichkeiten für
die Kommunen dargestellt, eine für die Beseitigungsanordnung notwendige materielle Illegalität
der Schottergärten festzustellen oder wenigstens für zukünftige Schottergärten herzustellen.
Der Beitrag versucht, das Bauordnungsrecht länderübergreifend darzustellen, kann allerdings nicht
auf jede Feinheit der einzelnen Bauordnungen eingehen.
Estimation of the potential of Lemna minor for effluent remediation in integrated multi-trophic aquaculture using newly developed synthetic aquaculture wastewater
Authors: Paolacci Simona , Stejskal Vlastimil , Jansen Marcel A. K.
Published: June 2021

Aquaculture is an important source of animal protein and a key contributor to global food security. However, aquaculture can exert a negative effect on the aquatic environment due to the release of effluents containing high nutrient levels. In integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), the waste produced by one species is the input for another, referred to as extractive species (ES). Potential ES include plants. In the present study, it was explored whetherLemna minorcan be used to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from aquaculture wastewater. A representative synthetic wastewater was designed based on the composition of aquaculture effluents found in the literature. Synthetic wastewater was found to be a suitable medium for growth ofLemna minor, and plants readily took up NH4+-N, NO3-N and PO43--P. In particular, NH4+-N concentrations rapidly decreased. The highest removal rates per square meter of water surface, calculated for NH4+-N, NO3-N and PO43--P, were, respectively, 158, 206 and 32 mg·m-2·day-1, and these rates were achieved at a plant surface density of 80%. As removal of nutrients is essentially a surface area–related process, the effect of plant density on nutrient uptake was determined. Uptake of nutrients per square meter of surface area was highest at the highest plant density. Yet, when uptake rates were calculated per square meter of water area covered byLemnafronds, the highest removal rates were found at the lowest plant density, and this is likely to be associated with a reduced intraspecific competition. The present work enables the calculation of potential nutrient uptake byLemna minorand lays the foundation for a more scientific approach to the design of duckweed-based aquaculture wastewater treatment systems.
Shipwrecks on Roncador Cay, the Caribbean Sea and Their Relationship with Hurricanes, 1492-1920
Authors: Gomez Pretel William , Jeong Moon-Soo
Published: June 2021

Previous studies suggest that tropical storms and hurricanes are among the leading causes of shipwrecks in the Caribbean Sea since 1492. This paper will explore the relationship between shipwrecks and hurricanes in the Western Caribbean, particularly Roncador Cay, a place with complex environmental conditions that have made this area a trap for ships, but has up until now, been without rigorous shipwreck analysis. This study covers the period 1492 to 1920 with search results of 23 shipwrecks and 37 tropical cyclones compiled in databases, reviewing seven wrecks already documented and revealing new information on 16, previously not recorded. The sources provide detailed shipwrecks, demonstrating that most accidents occurred by unspecific causes and no direct relationship with hurricanes but were influenced by environmental conditions, such as geomorphology, cold fronts, or currents. There is also a reflection on the sociocultural changes and the influence of power in the region. The study includes a suggested tool for future research, protecting the wreck site and emphasizing the importance of the underwater cultural heritage as an indicator of the active maritime past.
Research on Learners and Teachers of Mathematics and Science: Forerunners to a Focus on Teacher Educator Professional Growth
Authors: Krainer Konrad , Even Ruhama , Park Rogers Meredith , Berry Amanda
Published: June 2021

This introductory paper first reflects the genesis of research in mathematics and science teacher education. The analyses show a movement from foci of research in mathematics and science education from students to teachers, and then to teacher educators. Next, an overview of research in mathematics and science teacher education and its development is provided, including teacher educators’ growth. This is followed by a comparative look at the seven papers in this special issue through three lenses, focusing on who the teacher educators in these papers are, the practices which are the focus for development, and the contexts in which the professional growth is situated. The seven papers not only exemplify how teacher educators might critically and systematically reflect on their own growth, educate new teacher educators, and do corresponding research, but also demonstrate the considerable progress the research community has made with respect to the professional growth of mathematics and science teacher educators in the last decade. Finally, challenges and questions are raised, in particular in relation to raising the quality and quantity of proficient teacher educators in order to strengthen teacher education research, and to have enough human resources to offer more and better professional development opportunities and to support schools.
Fabrication of porous-Ti6Al4V alloy by using hot pressing technique and Mg space holder for hard-tissue biomedical applications
Authors: Aslan N. , Aksakal B. , Findik F.
Published: June 2021

Porous-Ti6Al4V (P-Ti6Al4V) alloys were produced using the hot pressing and spacer methods for hard tissue biomedical applications and in particular, the effects of porosity on the mechanical and morphological properties of the structures were investigated. P-Ti6Al4V structures having the homogeneously distributed porosities at 41.08, 52.37 and 64.10% were fabricated by adding 40, 50 and 60% spherical magnesium (Mg) powder with 350 μm particle sizes in average as spacers and evaporating magnesium via the atmosphere-controlled sintering. The obtained porous structures were characterized by SEM, XRD and EDS. Furthermore, the strength and elastic modulus were evaluated by performing compression tests. Elastic modulus and densities were found to be 40–171 MPa, 2–5 GPa and 1.59–2.61, respectively and these values have been shown to decrease with an increase in porosity. The achieved density and mechanical property values, in particular, elastic modulus are close to human bone and within acceptable ranges for with biomedical application purposes. In addition, it was also found out from the analysis of produced P-Ti6Al4V that macropores were responsible for mechanical anisotropy contributed to formation of homogeneous and inter-connected open pores.
The Central Decomposition of FD01(n)
Authors: Köhler Peter
Published: June 2021

The paper presents a method of composing finite distributive lattices from smaller pieces and applies this to construct the finitely generated free distributive lattices from appropriate Boolean parts.
An experimental investigation of the influence of plasticity on creep degradation rate
Authors: Olek Bartłomiej Szczepan
Published: June 2021

Intrinsic soil properties, such as the Atterberg limits, are essential factors influencing the mechanical behaviour of the fine-grained soils. In this study, a series of long-term multiple-stage loading oedometer tests were performed on alluvial organic soils to investigate the creep behaviour. The plasticity ratios ranged from 0.4 to 0.63. The smaller value of the plasticity ratio Rp indicated higher soil plasticity. The results showed that the coefficient of secondary compression Cαe of alluvial organic soils was stress- and strain-rate-dependent. The coefficient of secondary compression change index m was derived using a double-logarithmic approach for a creep degradation and was related to the plasticity and clay percentage to fines. Based on the results, it was found that high plasticity soils exhibit slow creep degradation rate during one-dimensional straining under normally consolidated state. The results show that the higher soil plasticity expressed by the plasticity index, plasticity ratio and clay percentage to fines, smaller the coefficient of secondary compression change index. Moreover, the correlations among a soil plasticity properties and creep parameters for the alluvial soils have also been proposed.
Bildungsfinanzierung: Bemerkungen zu einem vernachlässigten Thema der Erziehungswissenschaft
Authors: Barz Heiner
Published: June 2021

In der deutschsprachigen erziehungswissenschaftlichen Forschung findet sich eine vertiefte Thematisierung von Fragen aus dem Umfeld der Bildungsfinanzierung und der Bildungsökonomie kaum. Themen, die den Zusammenhang von Bildung und finanziellen Parametern (Kosten, Erträgen, Renditen) betreffen, finden in der Bildungsforschung meist nur bei bildungspolitisch relevanten Weichenstellungen etwas Aufmerksamkeit – etwa in der Diskussion über Studiengebühren oder Digitalpakt. Der Beitrag versucht Schlaglichter auf grundlegende Positionen zu werfen und das verfügbare Wissen in der Grenzregion zwischen Wirtschaft und Pädagogik zu systematisieren. Insbesondere stehen dabei Fragen der Bildungsfinanzierung im Fokus. Beispielhaft kommen dabei der soziokulturelle Ansatz Bourdieus („kulturelles Kapital“), strittige Zuordnungen bei der Zusammenstellung des deutschen Bildungsbudgets und eine Auseinandersetzung mit dem Konzept der Finanzautonomie im Schulbereich zur Darstellung.
High anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody seroprevalence in healthcare workers in an Irish university teaching hospital
Authors: Leonard Ann , Prior Anna Rose , Reilly Phyllis , Murray Caroline , Brien Meghan O’ , Maguire Gillian , Ennis Deborah , Reid Alex , Rakovac Ana , Boran Gerard
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Healthcare workers are at very high risk for SARS-CoV-2 exposure and infection. This study evaluated anti-SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in healthcare workers in a tertiary care hospital and then correlated seroprevalence with confirmed or suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection in this population since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

The study was approved by our institution’s Joint Research Ethics Committee in June 2020. All volunteers were provided with a consent form, an information leaflet and a questionnaire on the day before phlebotomy. Serum samples were collected from 1176 participants over a 3-month period and analysed using the Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 assay (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany) which detects total antibodies against the nucleocapsid protein of SARs-COV-2.

Results

Overall anti-SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among participating healthcare workers was 17.9%. The rate of confirmed infection by real-time polymerase chain reaction molecular testing prior to participation was 12.2%. Of 211 participants who had a reactive antibody test result, 37% did not have COVID-19 infection confirmed at any point prior to participation in this study, either having had a swab which did not detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA or having never been tested. Seropositivity was the highest (30%) in the youngest quintile of age (20–29 years old). Staff with more patient contact had a higher seroprevalence of 19.5% compared to 13.4% in staff with less patient contact.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that a substantial proportion of SARS-CoV-2 infections in healthcare workers may be asymptomatic or subclinical and thus potentially represent a significant transmission risk to colleagues and patients.