bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prescribed drugs in 27 000 individuals after diagnosis of colorectal cancer: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Engeland Anders , Ghaderi Sara , dos‐Santos‐Silva Isabel , Furu Kari , Hjellvik Vidar , Kvåle Rune , Bjørge Tone
Published: April 2021

Background

The prevalence of prescribed drugs in survivors of colorectal cancer (CRC) was evaluated.

Methods

Data from the Cancer Registry of Norway were linked to the Norwegian Prescription Database for a study population of 3.52 million individuals. Prevalence ratios (PRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of prescribed drugs in CRC‐survivors compared to the cancer‐free population, were estimated by log‐binomial regression, adjusting for age and education.

Results

Almost 27 000 individuals, aged 20 to 84, were diagnosed with CRC during 2005 to 2014. The first year after diagnosis, the prevalence of prescribed drugs was higher in CRC‐survivors compared with the cancer‐free population, especially drugs for anxiety and tension, and steroid‐responsive conditions. PRs for several drugs, especially drugs used for mental and behavioural disorders, decreased with time since diagnosis. The prevalence of drugs used for anxiety and tension was elevated 10 years after diagnosis; PRs the first year after diagnosis were 20 (95% CI: 18‐22) in males and 17 (16‐18) in females. Ten years after diagnosis PRs were 5.0 (3.1‐7.9) and 2.0 (1.0‐3.8), respectively. In absolute numbers, the largest increase, compared to the cancer‐free population, was in drugs used for gastric acid disorders and pain. The prevalence of neuromodulatory drugs was higher in CRC‐survivors.

Conclusions

The prevalence of several drugs was higher in CRC‐survivors than in the cancer‐free population 10 years after diagnosis. The largest absolute excess in prevalence was for gastric acid disorder and pain medications, while the relative prevalence of drugs used for anxiety and tension was high in CRC‐survivors. Long persisting neuropathia was indicated.
Relationships between role stress, professional identity, and burnout among contemporary school counselors
Authors: Maor Rotem , Hemi Alla
Published: April 2021

Continuous exposure to stress has psychological and physiological consequences for employees, especially for mental health professionals whose professions are known as demanding and stressful. The current study focuses on the relationship between role stress and burnout in the contemporary school counselors' role. We also aimed to examine whether professional identity might serve as a protective mechanism against burnout. School counselors (N = 205, 96% female, mean age = 43.03) currently practicing in the Israeli education system filled out questionnaires assessing their perceived role stress, burnout, and professional identity. Results indicated that school counselors perceived noncounseling role stressors as more stressful than counseling role stressors. Noncounseling role stressors contributed to burnout more than counseling role stressors. Professional identity was negatively correlated with burnout. Last, professional identity moderated the relationship between role stress and burnout. Findings highlight the negative impact of noncounseling stressors on burnout and the importance of professional identity as a protective factor against burnout among school counselors.
The fitness advantages of bistrifluron resistance related to chitin synthase A in Spodoptera litura (Fab.) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera)
Authors: Gong Changwei , Wang Xuegui , Huang Qian , Zhang Jinyue , Zhang Yuming , Zhan Xiaoxu , Zhang Shuirong , Hasnain Ali , Ruan Yanwei , Shen Litao
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Spodoptera litura is one of the major agricultural pests in China, and it has developed serious resistance to many traditional chemical insecticides. In the present study, the bistrifluron‐resistant (Bis‐SEL) strain accompanied by a higher oviposition, 113.8‐fold RR compared to the bistrifluron‐susceptible (Bis‐UNSEL) strain, was obtained by bidirectional screening. A comparison of their gonad coefficiency and genes related to oviposition or resistance was used to elucidate the resurgence mechanism.

RESULTS

The ovarian index, oviposition, and potential egg production in the Bis‐SEL strain of female adults were significantly higher than those in the Bis‐UNSEL strain, and the length of ovariole in the Bis‐SEL strain was also significantly elongated. The protein contents of vitellogenin (Vg) and vitellogenin receptor (VgR) in the Bis‐UNSEL strain were lower than those in the Bis‐SEL strain, consistent with their gene expressions levels, and there was a significantly positive linear correlation between Vg and VgR protein contents, further confirming that resistant strains have high reproductive fitness. Moreover, the chitin synthase A in the Bis‐SEL strain was clearly up‐regulated, and a mutation (H866Y) near the QRRRW in the catalytic domain caused a rise in the hydrogen bond between UDP‐GlcNAc and chitin synthase, and its chitin content was higher than that in the Bis‐UNSEL strain. Nevertheless, the sensitivity of the Bis‐SEL strain to bistrifluron was significantly recovered when it was knocked down though RNA interference.

CONCLUSION

The fitness advantages of bistrifluron resistance may be related to the up‐regulation and mution of chitin synthase A. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Market and contractor factors affecting rapid acquisition strategies
Authors: Etemadi Amir , Kamp John
Published: April 2021

The Department of Defense (DoD) is experimenting with acquisition strategies intended to deliver new capabilities in cycle times of 2 to 5 years. These are executed in a market of few sellers, limited procurement quantities, and constrained budgets. Defense contractors respond by developing, producing, and supporting products.

This research analyzed selected publicly‐released acquisition program data from 2007 to 2018.  Quantitative methods identified significant factors and analyzed how acquisition strategy decisions and market conditions are related to these factors.

Outcomes important to the government such as shorter cycle times are shown to be statistically associated with early government strategy decisions such as agile software development, and intentional use of commercial technology. Defense contractor responses within this market are related to government programmatic factors and not to reduced cycle times.
Trade and Growth
Authors: Cilliers Jakkie
Published: April 2021

Cilliers starts by exploring the modern history of international trade and the importance of trade to economic growth and global cooperation. The chapter then provides an overview of Africa’s trading partners, the need for greater regional integration in the continent and the challenges to achieving intra-regional cooperation. It examines the need to improve the quality of governance, bridge the infrastructure deficit and eventually focus on a manufacturing-led growth path. Reducing both tariff and non-tariff barriers could facilitate the successful implementation of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), induce economic growth, increase per capita incomes and reduce poverty. A penultimate section models the potential impact of the AfCFTA on growth, poverty reduction and increased average incomes.
Good Governance, Democracy and Development
Authors: Cilliers Jakkie
Published: April 2021

In this chapter, Cilliers explores how democracy has swept across the globe to become the dominant form of governance. Africa, too, has become increasingly democratic, but often in name only: regular elections are often façades for corrupt, autocratic regimes. Cilliers explains how, in fact, competitive politics in poorly developed countries with weak political institutions may actually hinder development. However, public support for democracy has surged in Africa and it is critical that African countries protect and advance the strides they have made towards substantive democratic governance. The Fourth Wave scenario laid out in this chapter demonstrates how a more democratic Africa would impact on development.
Africa’s Current Path
Authors: Cilliers Jakkie
Published: April 2021

Cilliers provides a summary and analysis of Africa’s development history since the 1980s including the impact of the Brundtland Commission report that culminated in the Millennium Development Goals and, in 2015, the Sustainable Development Goals. Other key matters covered in the chapter are the impact of the various structural adjustment programmes, Africa’s growing dependence upon commodities, the continents rapid democratisation and slow pace of urbanisation. The chapter concludes with a summary of key characteristics of Africa’s likely future—the Current Path forecast to 2040—that includes a forecast of economic size, demographics, income and poverty levels. The chapter serves as essential backdrop to the struggle for development that is examined across different sectors in subsequent chapters.
Poverty, Inequality and Growth
Authors: Cilliers Jakkie
Published: April 2021

Cilliers first explores the progress that has been made globally in poverty reduction in a historical context and then the relationship between inequality and growth. He concludes that Africa will miss goal 1 of the Sustainable Development Goals on the elimination of extreme poverty by 2030 by a substantial margin. The chapter uses three income measures of extreme poverty for low, lower-middle and upper-middle countries to frame the current situation in Africa and then discusses and forecasts the impact of social grants on poverty alleviation. A final section presents the results of a scenario, Social Grants for Africa, and compares the results with the poverty forecast in the Current Path.
A Vision for Resilient Urban Futures
Authors: McPhearson Timon , Iwaniec David M. , Hamstead Zoé A. , Berbés-Blázquez Marta , Cook Elizabeth M. , Muñoz-Erickson Tischa A. , Mannetti Lelani , Grimm Nancy
Published: April 2021

A fundamental systems approach is essential to advancing our understanding of how to address critical challenges caused by the intersection of urbanization and climate change. The social–ecological–technological systems (SETS) conceptual framework brings forward a systems perspective that considers the reality of cities as complex systems and provides a baseline for developing a science of, and practice for, cities. Given the urgency of issues we collectively face to improve livability, justice, sustainability, and resilience in cities, bringing a systems approach to resilience planning and policymaking is critical, as is development of positive visions and scenarios that can provide more realistic and systemic solutions. We provide a vision for more resilient urban futures that learns from coproduced scenario development work in nine US and Latin American cities in the URExSRN. We find that developing an urban systems science that can provide actionable knowledge for decision-making is an emerging, and much needed, transdisciplinary research agenda. It will require true boundary-crossing to bring the knowledge, skills, tools, and ideas together in ways that can help achieve the normative goals and visions we have for our shared urban future.
Producing and Communicating Flood Risk: A Knowledge System Analysis of FEMA Flood Maps in New York City
Authors: Hobbins Robert , Muñoz-Erickson Tischa A. , Miller Clark
Published: April 2021

The burgeoning development of coastal cities coupled with increasing exposure to sea level rise and extreme weather events has exacerbated the vulnerability of coastal communities and infrastructure to floods. In order to make good flood risk reduction and resilience decisions, cities are interested in gaining better insights into what are perceived to be the “real” risks of floods. However, what counts as a good estimate of such risks is constructed through the design of a knowledge system that ratifies certain ideas and methods over others. We refer to knowledge systems as the organizational practices and routines that produce, validate and review, communicate, and use knowledge relevant to policy and decision-making. In this chapter, we conduct a knowledge system analysis of FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps in New York City. In 2012, Superstorm Sandy exposed in the national spotlight the shortcomings of how we calculate, map, and use knowledge about flood risk. Through this case study, we hope to demonstrate the value of knowledge systems analysis as a method to stress-test and identify the weaknesses of a knowledge system that warrant attention, as well as to inform potential methods ofupgrading or redesigning that system in support of building resilient cities.
Positive Futures
Authors: Iwaniec David M. , Berbés-Blázquez Marta , Cook Elizabeth M. , Grimm Nancy B. , Mannetti Lelani M. , McPhearson Timon , Muñoz-Erickson Tischa A.
Published: April 2021

We describe the rationale and framework for developing scenarios of positive urban futures. The scenario framework is conducted in participatory workshop settings and composed of three distinct scenario approaches that are used to (1) explore potential outcomes of existing planning goals (strategic scenarios), (2) articulate visions that address pressing resilience challenges (adaptive scenarios), and (3) envision radical departures from the status quo in the pursuit of sustainability and equity (transformative scenarios). A series of creative and analytical processes are used to engage the community in imagining, articulating, and scrutinizing visions and pathways of positive futures. The approach offers an alternative and complement to traditional forecasting techniques by applying inspirational stories to resilience research and practice.
The Architecture of Arguments in Global Social Governance: Examining Populations and Discourses of International Organizations in Social Policies
Authors: Niemann Dennis , Martens Kerstin , Kaasch Alexandra
Published: April 2021

As this chapter is the introduction to the book, it lays out in broad strokes the knowledge about the purposes, functions and characteristics of International Organizations (IOs) in general, and their involvement in social policy issues in particular. It then sets out some basic conceptualizations for studying IOs in global social governance before specifying the framework applied for exploring populations and discourses of IOs in global social policies. Complementing liberal and constructivist IR theories, the volume uses organizational ecology and soft governance approaches as heuristic frames for the analyses of different architectures of IO global social governance. ‘Populations’ are identified as the dominant as well as regional IOs active in a specific social policy issue; the concept of ‘discourse’ is understood as the strategic way in which individuals or collective actors frame ideas, and not as a structural understanding of how certain meanings influence behavior.
Characterizing Global Health Governance by International Organizations: Is There an Ante- and Post-COVID-19 Architecture?
Authors: Kaasch Alexandra
Published: April 2021

The focus of this chapter is on global social policy actors and their ideas on health care systems. The specific position and constellation of key IOs are illustrated by a mapping and characterization of four central IOs (WHO, World Bank, ILO, OECD). The main ideas on health care systems of these four IOs are presented in relation to each other, taking into account discourses between them. That is then taken further to characterize the global health governance architecture based on contestational and collaborative relationships between IOs. Based on that, the chapter discusses the (preliminary) implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for altering that architecture.
Disability as a ‘New’ Global Social Theme: The Role of International Organizations in an Expanding Global Policy Field
Authors: Schuster Johannes , Kolleck Nina
Published: April 2021

Disability as a global social policy issue has gained increasing importance during recent decades, partly due to a shift in conceptualization from a medical to a social perspective on disability. This new relevance has led to the emergence of a global organizational field around the topic, with a high involvement of International Organizations (IOs). In order to investigate the population of IOs in the field, this chapter identifies influential actors, relates them to the main discourses, and maps their relations. It can be seen that agencies of the United Nations have become the key actors in promoting the rights-based social perspective and the monitoring of the implementation of disability rights. In contrast, the World Health Organization is still the leading organization in the provision of medical classification systems. Overall, it can be noted that the organizational field leaves space for IOs to influence the direction of global and national disability policy.
The Power of Identity in Hybrid Peacebuilding: Buddhist Monks in Post-Conflict Cambodia
Authors: Umeyama Sophie Shiori , Brehm Will
Published: April 2021

This chapter connects the concept of identity to mid-space actors involved in hybrid peacebuilding. The power of identity draws attention to the process of framing and othering as important factors contributing to successful bridge-building across diverse actors during hybrid peacebuilding. Buddhist monks in post-conflict Cambodia are exemplar. How and why monks both succeeded and failed in their role as bridge-builders will be evaluated. Identity frames and networks of mid-space actors predisposes them to excel in particular fields and fail in others. The concept of identity is therefore an important way to explain why and how a mid-space actor may transform from being a bridge-builder into a spoiler during the process of hybrid peacebuilding.
Organisation von Rechtsprechung am Reichskammergericht
Authors: Schwarting Rena
Published: April 2021

Aufbauend auf der komprimierten Illustration der gesellschaftlichen Strukturen, an denen sich die Rechtskommunikation vor der Gründung des RKG orientierte, und der Begründung für die These einer originären Organisationsbildung folgt nachstehend die historisch-empirische Untersuchung der Organisationsförmigkeit des RKG. Im Zentrum stehen dabei ausgewählte Situationsdefinitionen, Rollenauffassungen und Regeln, die Hinweise auf die Ausbildung formaler und informaler Verhaltenserwartungen sowie deren Trennung gegenüber den gesellschaftlichen Erwartungsstrukturen geben.
Urban Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Sabel Clive E. , Amegbor Prince M. , Zhang Zhaoxi , Chen Tzu-Hsin Karen , Poulsen Maria B. , Hertel Ole , Sigsgaard Torben , Horsdal Henriette T. , Pedersen Carsten B. , Khan Jibran
Published: April 2021

This chapter explores how the Internet of Things and the utilization of cutting-edge information technology are shaping global research and discourse on the health and wellbeing of urban populations. The chapter begins with a review of smart cities and health and then delves into the types of data available to researchers. The chapter then discusses innovative methods and techniques, such as machine learning, personalized sensing, and tracking, that researchers use to examine the health and wellbeing of urban populations. The applications of these data, methods, and techniques are then illustrated taking examples from BERTHA (Big Data Centre for Environment and Health) based at Aarhus University, Denmark. The chapter concludes with a discussion on issues of ethics, privacy, and confidentiality surrounding the use of sensitive and personalized data and tracking or sensing individuals across time and urban space.
Underground Utilities Imaging and Diagnosis
Authors: Lai Wallace Wai-Lok
Published: April 2021

The invisible and congested world of underground utilities (UU) is an indispensable mystery to the general public because their existence is invisible until problems happen. Their growth aligns with the continuous development of cities and the ever-increasing demand for energy and quality of life. To satisfy a variety of modern requirements like emergency or routine repair, safe dig and excavation, monitoring, maintenance, and upscaling of the network, two basic tasks are always required. They are mapping and imaging (where?), and diagnosis (how healthy?). This chapter gives a review of the current state of the art of these two core topics, and their levels of expected survey accuracy, and looks forward to future trends of research and development (Sects. 24.1 and 24.2). From the point of view of physics, a large range of survey technologies is central to imaging and diagnosis, having originated from electromagnetic- and acoustic-based near-surface geophysical and nondestructive testing methods. To date, survey technologies have been further extended by multi-disciplinary task forces in various disciplines (Sect. 24.3). First, it involves sending and retrieving mechanical robots to survey the internal confined spaces of utilities using careful system control and seamless communication electronics. Secondly, the captured data and signals of various kinds are positioned, processed, and in the future, pattern-recognized with a database to robustly trace the location and diagnose the conditions of any particular type of utilities. Thirdly, such a pattern-recognized database of various types of defects can be regarded as a learning process through repeated validation in the laboratory, simulation, and ground-truthing in the field. This chapter is concluded by briefly introducing the human-factor or psychological and cognitive biases, which are in most cases neglected in any imaging and diagnostic work (Sect. 24.4). In short, the very challenging nature and large demand for utility imaging and diagnostics have been gradually evolving from the traditional visual inspection to a new era of multi-disciplinary surveying and engineering professions and even towards the psychological part of human–machine interaction.
Smartphone-Based Indoor Positioning Technologies
Authors: Chen Ruizhi , Chen Liang
Published: April 2021

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) have achieved great success in providing localization information in outdoor open areas. However, due to the weakness of the signal, GNSS signals cannot be received well indoors. Currently, indoor positioning plays a significant role in many areas, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), but given the complexity of indoor spaces and topology, it is still challenging to achieve an accurate, effective, full coverage and real-time positioning solution indoors. With the development of information technology, the smartphone has become more and more popular. With a large number of sensors embedded in smartphones, it is thus possible to achieve low cost, continuity, and high usability for indoor positioning. In this chapter, we focus on indoor positioning technologies with smartphones, and in particular, emphasize the technologies based on radio frequency (RF) and built-in sensors. The pros and cons of the technologies are reviewed and discussed in the context of different applications. Moreover, the challenges of indoor positioning are pointed out and the directions for the future development of this area are discussed.
User-Generated Content: A Promising Data Source for Urban Informatics
Authors: Gao Song , Liu Yu , Kang Yuhao , Zhang Fan
Published: April 2021

This chapter summarizes different types of user-generated content (UGC) in urban informatics and then gives a systematic review of their data sources, methodologies, and applications. Case studies in three genres are interpreted to demonstrate the effectiveness of UGC. First, we use geotagged social media data, a type of single-sourced UGC, to extract citizen demographics, mobility patterns, and place semantics associated with various urban functional regions. Second, we bridge UGC and professional-generated content (PGC), in order to take advantage of both sides. The third application links multi-sourced UGC to uncover urban spatial structures and human dynamics. We suggest that UGC data contain rich information in diverse aspects. In addition, analysis of sentiment from geotagged texts and photos, along with the state-of-the-art artificial intelligence methods, is discussed to help understand the linkage between human emotions and surrounding environments. Drawing on the analyses, we summarize a number of future research areas that call for attention in urban informatics.
3D Modeling of the Cadastre and the Spatial Representation of Property
Authors: Li Lin , Guo Renzhong , Ying Shen , Zhu Haizhong , Wu Jindi , Liu Chencheng
Published: April 2021

An emerging technology, three-dimensional (3D) cadastres as extensions to the current parcel-based or two-dimensional (2D) cadastre, has been developed to meet the management of 3D urban land use and 3D properties. This chapter provides a brief review of the key issues of 3D cadastre and the spatial representation of ownership. In order to understand the importance of legislation for developing modeling technology for 3D property, the legislative context of ownership is addressed in specific reference to China. In light of spatial rights of land-use space, a 3D spatial model of property is presented in terms of polyhedra with four-layer structures. Being compatible with the existing 2D cadastre, this 3D spatial data structure is suitable as a hybrid cadastral system for 2D and 3D property and provides an available means to spatially represent 3D property with integrity. By analyzing the heterogeneity of the land space used for property, the ownership of condominiums with internal structure is addressed and spatial representation of ownership is presented by instantiation in a case study in China.
Visual Analytics for Characterizing Mobility Aspects of Urban Context
Authors: Andrienko Gennady , Andrienko Natalia , Patterson Fabian , Chen Siming , Weibel Robert , Huang Haosheng , Doulkeridis Christos , Georgiou Harris , Pelekis Nikos , Theodoridis Yannis , Nanni Mirco , Longhi Leonardo , Koumparos Athanasios , Yasar Ansar , Kureshi Ibad
Published: April 2021

Visual analytics science develops principles and methods for efficient human–computer collaboration in solving complex problems. Visual and interactive techniques are used to create conditions in which human analysts can effectively utilize their unique capabilities: the power of seeing, interpreting, linking, and reasoning. Visual analytics research deals with various types of data and analysis tasks from numerous application domains. A prominent research topic is analysis of spatiotemporal data, which may describe events occurring at different spatial locations, changes of attribute values associated with places or spatial objects, or movements of people, vehicles, or other objects. Such kinds of data are abundant in urban applications. Movement data are a quintessential type of spatiotemporal data because they can be considered from multiple perspectives as trajectories, as spatial events, and as changes of space-related attribute values. By example of movement data, we demonstrate the utilization of visual analytics techniques and approaches in data exploration and analysis.
AI and Deep Learning for Urban Computing
Authors: Wang Senzhang , Cao Jiannong
Published: April 2021

In the big data era, with the large volume of available data collected by various sensors deployed in urban areas and the recent advances in AI techniques, urban computing has become increasingly important to facilitate the improvement of people’s lives, city operation systems, and the environment. In this chapter, we introduce the challenges, methodologies, and applications of AI techniques for urban computing. We first introduce the background, followed by listing key challenges from the perspective of computer science when AI techniques are applied. Then we briefly introduce the AI techniques that are widely used in urban computing, including supervised learning, semi-supervised learning, unsupervised learning, matrix factorization, graphic models, deep learning, and reinforcement learning. With the recent advances of deep-learning techniques, models such as CNN and RNN have shown significant performance gains in many applications. Thus, we briefly introduce the deep-learning models that are widely used in various urban-computing tasks. Finally, we discuss the applications of urban computing including urban planning, urban transportation, location-based social networks (LBSNs), urban safety and security, and urban-environment monitoring. For each application, we summarize major research challenges and review previous work that uses AI techniques to address them.
Cellular Automata Modeling for Urban and Regional Planning
Authors: Yeh Anthony G. O. , Li Xia , Xia Chang
Published: April 2021

In recent decades, cellular automata (CA) have become popular for evaluating and forecasting urban transformation over time and space, especially in rapidly developing countries. These models enhance the understanding of urban dynamics and the complex interplay between land-use changes and urban sustainability. CA help governments, planners, and stakeholders to predict and evaluate the potential outcomes of future policy alternatives before making decisions. Thus, CA are frequently used to create what-if scenarios for policy implementation. This chapter includes an overview of the basic and state-of-the-art concepts and methods in urban CA modeling, as well as the latest studies, applications, and current problems. First, we conduct a systematic review of urban CA modeling to provide critical comments on previous and recent studies. The basic techniques, including the components of a basic CA model, modifications for urban modeling, and collection of data sources, are then provided, along with a classification of different types of urban CA. Finally, the applications of CA in urban studies and planning practices are presented, as well as discussions of further research. We also point out the major problems in recent studies and applications for further research.
Spatial Economics, Urban Informatics, and Transport Accessibility
Authors: Jin Ying
Published: April 2021

One central pillar in the development of urban science which is key to the development of simulation of models of urban structure is spatial econometrics. In this chapter, we outline the way in which ideas pertaining to accessibility which we define conventionally, as in transport economics, as the relative nearness and size of locations to one another, can be embedded in a wider econometric framework. We are thus able to explore how GDP (gross domestic product) of different locations is influenced by different spatial investments. To illustrate this, we first outline the intellectual context, followed by a review of the most relevant econometric models. We examine the data required for such models and look at various quantifications in terms of elasticities of business productivity with respect to transport accessibility, using ordinary least squares, time-series fixed effects, and a range of dynamic panel-data models which narrow down the valid range of estimates. We then show how the model is applied to Guangdong province (with its connections to Hong Kong and Macau), which is one of the three major mega-city regions and a leading adopter of new technologies in China.
Solving puzzles in deformed JT gravity: phase transitions and non-perturbative effects
Authors: Johnson Clifford V. , Rosso Felipe
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Recent work has shown that certain deformations of the scalar potential in Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity can be written as double-scaled matrix models. However, some of the deformations exhibit an apparent breakdown of unitarity in the form of a negative spectral density at disc order. We show here that the source of the problem is the presence of a multi-valued solution of the leading order matrix model string equation. While for a class of deformations we fix the problem by identifying a first order phase transition, for others we show that the theory is both perturbatively and non-perturbatively inconsistent. Aspects of the phase structure of the deformations are mapped out, using methods known to supply a non-perturbative definition of undeformed JT gravity. Some features are in qualitative agreement with a semi-classical analysis of the phase structure of two-dimensional black holes in these deformed theories.
High-temperature electroweak symmetry breaking by SM twins
Authors: Matsedonskyi Oleksii
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We analyse a possible adjustment of Twin Higgs models allowing to have broken electroweak (EW) symmetry at all temperatures below the sigma-model scale ∼ 1 TeV. The modification consists of increasing the Yukawa couplings of the twins of light SM fermions. The naturalness considerations then imply a presence of relatively light electroweak-charged fermions, which can be produced at the LHC, and decay into SM gauge and Higgs bosons and missing energy. Analysis of experimental bounds shows that such a modified model features an increased amount of fine-tuning compared to the original Twin Higgs models, but still less tuning than the usual pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone Higgs models not improved by Z2 twin symmetry. The obtained modification in the evolution of the EW symmetry breaking strength can, in particular, have interesting implications for models of EW baryogenesis, which we comment on.
Effect of the fiber orientation on the tensile and flexural behavior of continuous carbon fiber composites made via fused filament fabrication
Authors: Parmiggiani Alberto , Prato Mirko , Pizzorni Marco
Published: April 2021

Recent years have seen the wide diffusion of composite materials in many manufacturing fields and the rapid evolution of additive manufacturing. Lately, these technologies have been combined practically allowing the fabrication of continuous-fiber reinforced polymer parts via 3D-printing. This topic is gaining attention both in the research community and among industrial users. Because of their novelty, such manufacturing methods are, however, still not thoroughly understood, and their performance limits have not yet been fully characterized. This study aims at analyzing the mechanical resistance of components made with continuous carbon fiber (CCF) thermoplastic materials by means of fused filament fabrication (FFF), focusing on the influence of the fiber orientation on such properties. In particular, both the tensile and the bending characteristics are evaluated according to the relative test standards, in specimens with both unidirectional and mixed-isotropic configurations. The experimental findings are compared with a set of reference specimens made with a base polymer filled with chopped “short” carbon fibers, allowing one to appreciate the advantages or limitations of the different fiber arrangements.
A meta-synthesis of qualitative literature on female chronic pelvic pain for the development of a core outcome set: a systematic review
Authors:   CHORUS: An International Collaboration for Harmonising Outcomes, Research and Standards in Urogynaecology and Women’s Health, Ghai Vishalli , Subramanian Venkatesh , Jan Haider , Thakar Ranee , Doumouchtsis Stergios K.
Published: April 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

Qualitative research has an increasing role in the development of core outcome sets (COS) adding patient perspectives to the considerations of core outcomes. We aimed to identify priorities of women with experience of chronic pelvic pain (CPP).

Methods

The search strategy was a systematic review of qualitative studies identified from Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycInfo databases. Selection criteria were qualitative studies exploring the experience of women with CPP. Two independent researchers extracted data and summarized findings using thematic analysis. A CERQual assessment was performed to assess the confidence of review findings.

Results

We identified pertinent issues affecting women with CPP including the lack of holistic care, influence of psychosocial factors and the impact of pain on quality of life. Five meta-themes central to delivering a patient-centred approach were highlighted: acceptance of pain, quality of life, management of CPP, communication and support. Management of CPP was the most commonly reported meta-theme across seven studies and half of studies reported quality of life, management, communication and support. Quality appraisal of included studies identified only a single study that met all CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) criteria. There was high confidence in the evidence for acceptance of pain, quality of life and communication meta-themes.

Conclusion

Meta-themes revealed by this review should be considered as a priority and reflected in outcomes reported by future studies evaluating interventions for CPP. In addition, these themes should be considered by clinicians managing women with CPP.
Validation of the Appendicitis Inflammatory Response (AIR) Score
Authors: Andersson Manne , Kolodziej Blanka , Andersson Roland E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Patients with suspicion of appendicitis present with a wide range of severity. Score‐based risk stratification can optimise the management of these patients. This prospective study validates the Appendicitis Inflammatory Response (AIR) score in patients with suspicion of appendicitis.

Method

Consecutive patients over the age of five with suspicion of appendicitis presenting at 25 Swedish hospital's emergency departments were prospectively included. The diagnostic properties of the AIR score are estimated.

Results

Some 3878 patients were included, 821 with uncomplicated and 724 with complicated appendicitis, 1986 with non‐specific abdominal pain and 347 with other diagnoses. The score performed better in detecting complicated appendicitis (ROC area 0.89 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.88–0.90) versus 0.83 (CI 0.82–0.84) for any appendicitis, p < 0.001), in patients below age 15 years and in patients with >47 h duration of symptoms (ROC area 0.93, CI 0.90–0.95 for complicated and 0.87, CI 0.84–0.90 for any appendicitis in both categories). Complicated appendicitis is unlikely at AIR score <4 points (Negative Predictive Value 99%, CI 98–100%). Appendicitis is likely at AIR score >8 points, especially in young patients (positive predictive value (PPV) 96%, CI 90–100%) and men (PPV 89%, CI 84–93%).

Conclusions

The AIR score has high sensitivity for complicated appendicitis and identifies subgroups with low probability of complicated appendicitis or high probability of appendicitis. The discriminating capacity is high in children and patients with long duration of symptoms. It performs equally well in both sexes. This verifies the AIR score as a valid decision support.

Trial registration number

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00971438
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) have a Differential Impact on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS): Retrospective Analysis of the Multicentre UK-ROPE (UK Register of Prostate Embolization) Study
Authors: Vigneswaran Ganesh , Maclean Drew , Hadi Mohammed , Maher Benjamin , Modi Sachin , Bryant Timothy , Harris Mark , Hacking Nigel
Published: April 2021

Purpose

To compare the relative IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) improvement in storage and voiding symptoms between prostatic artery embolization (PAE) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Method

Retrospective analysis of the UK-ROPE (UK Register of Prostate Embolization) multicentre database was conducted with inclusion of all patients with full IPSS questionnaire score data. The voiding and storage subscore improvement was compared between interventions. Student’s t-test (paired and unpaired) and ANOVA (Analysis of variance) were used to identify significant differences between the groups.

Results

146 patients (121 PAE, 25 TURP) were included in the analysis. Storage symptoms were more frequently the most severe symptom (‘storage’ in 75 patients vs ‘voiding’ in 17 patients). Between groups, no significant difference was seen in raw storage subscore improvement (TURP 4.9 vs PAE 4.2; p = 0.34) or voiding subscore improvement (TURP 8.4 vs PAE 6.7; p = 0.1). ANOVA demonstrated a greater proportionate reduction (relative to total IPSS) towards voiding symptoms in the TURP group (27.3% TURP vs 9.9% PAE, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Although both TURP and PAE improve voiding symptoms more than storage, a significantly larger proportion of total symptom reduction is due to voiding in the TURP cohort, with PAE providing a more balanced improvement between voiding and storage.
CSF3R T618I, SETBP1 G870S, SRSF2 P95H, and ASXL1 Q780* tetramutation co-contribute to myeloblast transformation in a chronic neutrophilic leukemia
Authors: Qian Yi , Chen Yan , Li Xiaoming
Published: April 2021

Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare but serious myeloid malignancy. In a review of reported cases for WHO-defined CNL, CSF3R mutation is found in about 90% cases and confirmed as the molecular basis of CNL. Concurrent mutations are observed in CSF3R-mutated CNL patients, including ASXL1, SETBP1, SRSF2, JAK2, CALR, TET2, NRAS, U2AF1, and CBL. Both ASXL1 and SETBP1 mutations in CNL have been associated with a poor prognosis, whereas, SRSF2 mutation was undetermined. Our patient was a 77-year-old man and had no significant past medical history and symptoms with leukocytosis. Bone marrow (BM) aspirate and biopsy revealed a markedly hypercellular marrow with prominent left-shifted granulopoiesis. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of DNA from the BM aspirate of a panel of 28 genes, known to be pathogenic in MDS/MPN, detected mutations in CSF3R, SETBP1, and SRSF2, and a diagnosis of CNL was made. The patient did not use a JAK-STAT pathway inhibitor (ruxolitinib) but started on hydroxyurea and alpha-interferon and developed pruritus after 4 months of diagnosis and nasal hemorrhage 1 month later. Then, the patient was diagnosed with CNL with AML transformation and developed intracranial hemorrhage and died. We repeated NGS and found that three additional mutations were detected: ASXL1, PRKDC, MYOM2; variant allele frequency (VAF) of the prior mutations in CSF3R, SETBP1, and SRSF2 increased. The concurrence of CSF3RT618I, ASXL1, SETBP1, and SRSF2 mutation may be a mutationally detrimental combination and contribute to disease progression and AML transformation, as well as the nonspecific treatment of hydroxyurea and alpha-interferon, but the significance and role of PRKDC and MYOM2 mutations were not undetermined.
Online-Untersuchungskurs statt Präsenzveranstaltung: Anpassung der studentischen Lehre im Medizinstudium während der COVID-19-Pandemie
Authors: Wiedenmann Cornelius , Wacker Katrin , Böhringer Daniel , Maier Philip , Reinhard Thomas
Published: April 2021

Hintergrund

Da Präsenzveranstaltungen im Sommersemester 2020 durch die Coronavirus-Disease-2019(COVID-19)-Pandemie nicht möglich waren, entwickelten wir einen Online-Untersuchungskurs.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die Studie untersuchte die Zufriedenheit der Student*innen mit dem Online-Untersuchungskurs und die Auswirkungen auf die praktische „Objective structured clinical examination“(OSCE)-Prüfung.

Material und Methoden

Der Online-Untersuchungskurs wurde als videobasiertes Tutorial nach dem SMART(Specific, Measurable, Activating, Reasonable, Time-bound)-Prinzip entwickelt und allen Student*innen des Blockpraktikums Augenheilkunde zur Verfügung gestellt. Die Student*innen benoteten am Ende des Semesters den Online-Untersuchungskurs mittels Online-Fragebogen auf einer Ordinalskala von 1 bis 6 und wurden um Freitextkommentare gebeten. Die relative Punktzahl der OSCE-Prüfung am Ende des Semesters wurde mit den Prüfungsergebnissen des vorangegangenen Semesters verglichen. Alle Auswertungen erfolgten anonymisiert.

Ergebnisse

Es beteiligten sich 67 der 164 Student*innen des Blockpraktikums an der Online-Evaluation (41 %). Die Student*innen fühlten sich auf die praktische Prüfung gut vorbereitet (Mittelwert 2,0; SD 1,0); 70 % der Student*innen (47 von 67) wünschten sich auch zukünftig die Möglichkeit eines digitalen Angebots in Ergänzung zur Lehre vor Ort. Die Prüfungsergebnisse im OSCE waren im Mittelwert mit einer Note von 1,1 sehr gut (SD 0,2;n = 164) und ähnlich zum vorangegangenen Semester (Mittelwert 1,1; SD 0,2;n = 166, zweiseitigert-Testp = 0,86).

Diskussion

Der Online-Untersuchungskurs erlaubt es den Student*innen, sich auf die OSCE-Prüfung vorzubereiten. Über die COVID-19-Pandemie hinaus kann die Bereitstellung eines Online-Untersuchungskurses eine gewinnbringende Ergänzung zur Präsenzlehre darstellen.
Neonatal brain abscess development following fetal scalp electrode placement: a rare complication
Authors: Fick T. , Woerdeman P. A.
Published: April 2021

A fetal scalp electrode (FSE) is a frequently used investigation during labor. However, it is an invasive procedure which can lead to complications. Our patient developed a very large brain abscess after initial superficial infection of the skin site due to an FSE. The patient was admitted to the hospital after an asymmetric growth of the skull was noticed with no further signs of clinical illness. MRI showed a very large brain abscess which was aspirated and treated with antibiotics for 10 weeks. A 2-year follow-up showed only a slight developmental delay in gross motor skills. Only once before a similar case has been described at which the patient developed a brain abscess after superficial infection of the scalp following an FSE. In both cases, the brain abscess was noticed due to an asymmetric growth of the skull without any further signs of clinical illness. A brain abscess has a high mortality and morbidity rate, and early diagnosis is vital for the optimal outcome. We therefore recommend to organize an out-patient clinical follow-up for every infant with a superficial infection of the skin site after placement of an FSE.
Influence of patella height after patella fracture on clinical outcome: a 13-year period
Authors: Sebastian Pesch , Michael Zyskowski , Frederik Greve , Michael Müller , Marcus Wurm , Moritz Crönlein , Peter Biberthaler , Chlodwig Kirchhoff
Published: April 2021

Introduction

The incidence of patella fracture is statistically low (0.5–1.5%) compared to other fractures of the extremities [Patella fractures 76(10):987–997, 2005]. In the latter research, patella fractures if treated surgically present an overall inferior functional outcome. Little is known about the influence of the postoperative patella height on the clinical outcome. Therefore, the aim of our study was to analyse the influence of the patella height on the patients’ functional outcome after surgery.

Methods

In this retrospective study the in-house trauma register of our level I University trauma center was screened for patients suffering patella fractures treated surgically. Patella height of the same patients was evaluated on lateral X-rays using the Insall–Salvati Ratio (ISR). The patients’ X-rays were analyzed at two time points for the ISR, whereas group A presents ISR data right after surgery and group B data at the latest follow up (minimum 6 weeks). The change of mean ISR at both time points was tested for significance. The functional outcome was measured by the “Munich Knee Questionaire” (MKQ). These MKQ results of different patella heights and fracture types were compared.

Results

The screening of our in-house trauma register revealed 375 patients between the years 2003 and 2016. Out of these 54 patients (34f, 20 m) were enrolled. In detail the follow-up time for ISR between group A and B accounted for a mean of 503.8 ± 655.7 days. The MKQ was assessed at a mean of 1367.0 ± 1042.8 days after surgery. According to the AO-classification 10% AO.34 type B and 90% AO.34 type C fractures were found. Group A showed in 9.1% a patella baja and in 27.3% a patella alta compared to group B presenting 20.0% patella baja and 14.5% patella alta. There was no significant difference in functional outcome referring to the MKQ in patella alta (MKQ 69.0% ± 18.2) or baja (MKQ 67.1% ± 17.9) (p = 0.9). No significant functional difference between AO34.type B (MKQ 74.5% ± 11.0) and AO34.type C fractures (MKQ 64.0% ± 15.0) resulted (p = 0.1).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that different postoperative patella heights apparently do not influence the functional outcome in the short follow-up.