bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance analysis firm operating in the sector of IT services through the model HGN
Authors: Hyránek Eduard , Mišota Branislav
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we will briefly explain the application of the HGN model designed to measure performance, on the example of a selected non-financial corporation operating in the Slovak Republic. The aim of the paper is the application of the HGN model to IBM Slovakia Ltd. for the period from 2017 to 2019.At the same time, we will point out some difficulties in the application and the possibilities of improving the model.
Analysis of the use of venture capital in Central and Eastern Europe countries
Authors: Kalusová Lenka
Published: October 2020

We classify venture capital as a non-standard, alternative source of financing. Venture capital has an important position especially in financing innovative project activities. For this reason, the main goal of the paper is to analyze the use of venture capital in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe with the focus on the Visegrad Group countries. We used scientific methods, both from the general - logical methods, as well as from exact methods (in the form of statistical methods and comparison). We analysed the years 2010 – 2018. The results of our study show that the use of venture capital is very low in the Central and Eastern Europe countries.
Assessing progress towards responsible consumption and production
Authors: Rybárová Daniela
Published: October 2020

The success of building sustainable consumption and production depends on creating a sufficient awareness and above all the involvement of all countries in the process of improving the environmental performance of products throughout their life cycle. Awareness and understanding of the social and economic dimension, influences building of sustainable consumption and production in the widest scale and makes it possible to encourage and motivate to socially responsible behavior. The article focuses on summarizing the basic attributes of sustainable consumption and production, as well as on the comparison of the progress of V4 countries in meeting the goal of "Responsible consumption and production" forming part of the Sustainable Development Agenda until 2030. We focus on indicators with quantitative target, where insufficient progress towards the EU target was achieved or there was a movement away from the target. The indicators are Primary energy consumption and Final energy consumption.
Changes in Urinary Titin Fragment in Response to Different Types of Dynamic Eccentric Exercises
Authors: Lee Minjung , Goral Kamil , Flis DamianJ , Skrobot Wojciech , Cieminski Karol , Olek RobertA , Akimoto Takayuki , Ziolkowski Wieslaw
Published: October 2020

The urinary level of the titin fragment has been considered a non-invasive and sensitive biomarker for muscle damage in clinical cases. However, there is little evidence regarding changes in the urinary titin fragment in response to exercise-induced muscle damage. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the urinary titin fragment reflects the magnitude of muscle damage induced by two lower-limb eccentric exercises. In this study, healthy young male subjects performed drop jump (n=9) and eccentric ergometer exercise (n=9). Blood and urine samples were collected at various time points before and after the exercises. Although perceived muscle soreness assessed by sit-to-stand tasks was increased at 24 h and 48 h after both drop jump and the eccentric ergometer exercise groups, the pressure pain threshold was not changed. Changes of the urinary titin fragment, plasma myomesin 3 fragments, creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin (Mb) after the eccentric exercises were increased but not statistically significant. Meanwhile, we found that the changes in the urinary titin fragment levels in response to both drop jump and the eccentric ergometer exercise were correlated with those of plasma CK and Mb levels. These results provide evidence that the urinary titin fragment level is a non-invasive biomarker reflecting the magnitude of eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage.
The Reliability of Ultrasound in the Assessment of Hyaline Cartilage in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Healthy Metacarpal Heads
Authors: Cipolletta Edoardo , Filippucci Emilio , Di Matteo Andrea , Tesei Giulia , Cosatti Micaela Ana , Di Carlo Marco , Grassi Walter
Published: October 2020

Purpose i) To assess the inter- and intra-observer reliability of ultrasound (US) in the evaluation of the hyaline cartilage (HC) of the metacarpal head (MH) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in healthy subjects (HS) both qualitatively and quantitatively. ii) To calculate the smallest detectable difference (SDD) of the MH cartilage thickness measurement. iii) To correlate the qualitative scoring system and the quantitative assessment.

Materials and Methods US examination was performed on 280 MHs of 20 patients with RA and 15 HS using a very high frequency probe (up to 22 MHz). HC status was evaluated both qualitatively (using a five-grade scoring system) and quantitatively (using the average value of the longitudinal and transverse measures). The HC of MHs from II to V metacarpophalangeal joint of both hands were scanned independently on the same day by two rheumatologists to assess inter-observer reliability. All subjects were re-examined using the same scanning protocol and the same US setting by one sonographer after a week to assess intra-observer reliability.

Results The inter-observer agreement and intra-observer agreement were moderate to substantial (k = 0.66 and k = 0.73) for the qualitative scoring system and high (ICC = 0.93 and ICC = 0.94) for the quantitative assessment. The SDD of the MH cartilage thickness measurement was 0.09 mm. A significant correlation between the two scoring systems was found (r = –0.35; p < 0.001).

Conclusion The present study describes the main methodological issues of HC assessment. Using a standardized protocol, both the qualitative and the quantitative scoring systems can be reliable.
Highly Diastereoselective Reactions of Isoxazolidine-4,5-diols with Grignard Reagents: A New Approach to anti,syn-γ-Amino-α,β-diols
Authors: Záborský Ondrej , Fischer Róbert , Ďurina Lukáš , Malatinský Tomáš , Moncol Ján
Published: October 2020

An investigation of the reaction of 3,4-trans-isoxazolidine-4,5-diols with Grignard reagents is described for the first time. Their resemblance to five-membered cyclic hemiacetals allows them to react as α-hydroxy-β-(hydroxyamino)aldehydes in a highly stereoselective manner, providing anti,syn-γ-(hydroxyamino)-α,β-diols in moderate yields and with good to excellent syn-diastereoselectivities, which can be improved by the addition of anhydrous cerium chloride. The obtained (hydroxyamino­)diols serve as suitable precursors of anti,syn-γ-amino-α,β-diols that represent valuable scaffolds for the synthesis of various biologically active compounds.
Postoperative Thoracic Pain Treatment: Serratus Anterior or Erector Spinae Plane Block?
Authors: Ülgey Ayşe , Pehlivan Sibel Seçkin , Demir Ömer Faruk
Published: October 2020

Background Thoracic surgery is one of the most painful surgeries. Effective analgesia is important in postoperative pain management. In this study, we aimed to compare the two new fascial block techniques.

Methods A total of 107 patients who underwent thoracic surgery between October 2018 and November 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The study included 59 patients in the serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) group and 48 patients in the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) group. Both groups were administered 30 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine and their morphine consumption was evaluated by a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) method during the 2nd, 6th, 12th, 24th, and 48th postoperative hours. Pain was measured with the visual analog scale (VAS). Intraoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded.

Results During the first 24 hours, VAS values were significantly lower in the ESPB group (p < 0.05). Moreover, morphine consumption was significantly lower in the ESPB group in the 24th and 48th hours (p < 0.05). Intraoperative remifentanil consumption was also significantly lower in the ESPB group (p < 0.05). Intraoperative MAP in the ESPB group was found to be significantly lower after the 4th hour. HR was similar in both groups.

Conclusion ESPB was more effective compared with SAPB in postoperative thoracic pain management.
Anterior Tibial Artery and Its Clinical Importance in the Posterolateral Approach to the Tibial Plateau: An Angiographic Study on 219 Lower Limbs
Authors: May Hasan , Kastan Ozlem , Emre Tuluhan Yunus , Cetin Mustafa , Unal Melih , Kose Ozkan
Published: October 2020

The anterior tibial artery (ATA) is the most critical anatomical structure at risk at the distal border of the posterolateral approach to the tibial plateau. This study aimed to use available lower extremity digital subtraction angiography (DSA) images to determine the distal safe limit of this approach by measuring the distance from the tibial joint line to the ATA where it pierces the interosseous membrane. Tibial plateau mediolateral width (TP-ML-W) and the perpendicular distances from the ATA to the tibial joint line and fibular head were measured on DSA images in 219 lower extremities. To normalize the distances according to the tibial dimensions, each distance was divided by the TP-ML-W, and a ratio was obtained. Popliteal artery branching pattern was categorized according to the classification proposed by Kim et al. Comparative analysis between right and left extremities, genders, and anatomical variations were performed. There were 102 male and 26 female subjects with a mean age of 60.7 ± 15.7 years (range, 17–92 years). Ninety-one subjects had bilateral lower extremity DSA; thus, a total of 219 extremities were analyzed. The TP-ML-W was wider in male (78.3 ± 7.0) than female (70.5 ± 7.3) subjects (p = 0.001). The ATA coursed through the interosseous membrane at 50.9 ± 6.9 mm (range, 37.4–70.2 mm) distal to the tibial plateau joint line, and it was 66.5 ± 7.2% of the TP-ML-W. The ATA coursed through the interosseous membrane at 36.5 ± 6.0 mm (range, 21.9–53.8 mm) distal to the fibular head, and it was 47.7 ± 6.6% of the TP-ML-W. All measured variables were similar between the regular branching pattern of the popliteal artery (type 1A) and other observed variations among male subjects. The safe length of dissection in the posterolateral approach is average 66.5% (range, 45.7–86.7%) of the TP-ML-W. This ratio is valid for both genders. The use of a ratio instead of a distance, which is subject to personal variations, seems to be more logical and practical for planning this surgery, but the wide range should still not be ignored.
Rapid Deployment Aortic Valve Replacement with the Perceval S and Intuity Elite
Authors: Liakopoulos Oliver J. , Gerfer Stephen , Rahmanian Parwis , Eghbalzadeh Kaveh , Djordjevic Ilija , Schlachtenberger Georg , Zeriouh Mohamed , Mader Navid , Choi Yeong-Hoon , Wahlers Thorsten
Published: October 2020

Background Rapid deployment aortic valve replacement (RDAVR) has emerged as an alternative to conventional aortic valve replacement. This single-center study retrospectively analyzed clinical outcomes and hemodynamic performance of the Perceval S (LivaNova) and Intuity Elite (Edwards LifeSciences) rapid deployment valves (RDVs) in a propensity score matched patient cohort.

Methods A total of 372 consecutive patients with symptomatic aortic valve stenosis underwent RDAVR between 2012 and 2018 at our institution. The Intuity Elite (INT group) and Perceval S (PER group) were implanted in 251 and 121 patients, respectively. After 1:1 propensity score matching for relevant preoperative comorbidities, 107 patient pairs were compared with respect to relevant perioperative data including hemodynamic parameter, postoperative pacemaker implantation, and 30-day all-cause mortality.

Results Propensity score matching resulted in balanced characteristics between groups. Cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp time did not differ between groups, but more patients in the INT group received coronary artery bypass grafting compared with the PER group (56 vs. 42%; p = 0.055). Thirty-day mortality (4.7 vs. 2.2%) and need for permanent pacemaker implantation (7 versus 4.4%) were comparable between the INT and PER groups for isolated AVR and also for combined procedures, respectively. Cerebrovascular events showed comparable low rates for both RDVs (INT group [1.9%] vs. PER group [2.8%]). Indexed effective orifice area was higher in the INT group (0.90 vs. 0.82 cm2/m2) and coupled to a lower peak (17 ± 7 vs. 22 ± 8) and mean (10 ± 5 vs. 12 ± 4) pressure gradients compared with the PER group.

Conclusions Our propensity score analysis in AVR patients showed good hemodynamic characteristics with comparable 30-day mortality rate and complications rates for both investigated RDVs.
COVID-19 Management in India: Medical Aspects, Current Concepts, and Evolving Directions
Authors: Hazra Daya K. , Neehazra Padmamalika K. , Hazra Suratwant , Segal Adarsh N.
Published: October 2020

This review deals with the emerging coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic summarizing current and evolving medical management in India, and also indicating future directions in the light of possible resurgence of this disease as pandemic as well as prospective biological threats resulting from acts of bioterrorism. Clinical accounts both in published or prepublication reports from the frontline epicenters were used, incorporating the evolving flux in guidelines and current controversies, expressed not only in Print media but also video-webinars and conferences constantly in progress. Rather than presenting hard conclusions from the few randomized controlled trials, less formal clinical impressions have been incorporated in the review as it is felt that at this stage of the COVID-19 battle, such data are relevant! Periodic rewriting on this subject is in our opinion, therefore, eminently desirable (Box format used to allow this). Apart from the respiratory crisis aggravated by cytokine storms, reference is made to the cardiovascular, neurological, renal, gastrointestinal, and cutaneous features, these generalized manifestations being related to the widespread distribution of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptors in the body as well as to the acute inflammatory hypercoagulopathy and disseminated intravascular coagulation typified by hyperacute levels of acute phase reactants as well as the effects of hypoxia-overt or silent!
Apófise supracondilar do úmero: Causa rara de compressão alta do nervo mediano
Authors: Vital Luísa , Vidinha Vitor , Neves Nuno , Negrão Pedro
Published: October 2020

A apófise supracondilar (ASC) é uma proeminência óssea que tem origem na face anteromedial do úmero distal com projeção inferior e que, apesar de habitualmente assintomática, pela relação com as estruturas adjacentes pode causar sintomatologia. Descrevemos o caso de uma mulher de 42 anos, com queixas álgicas irradiadas do cotovelo à mão, com 6 meses de evolução. Ao exame objetivo, a paciente apresentava um déficit sensorial no território do nervo mediano e diminuição da força de preensão. Foram realizadas radiografias do úmero distal nas quais era visível uma espícula óssea, e na ressonância magnética era evidente o espessamento do epineuro do nervo mediano. A eletromiografia apresentou uma desmielinização axonal grave do nervo mediano proximal ao cotovelo. Foi diagnosticada uma compressão do nervo mediano por uma ASC. A paciente foi submetida à cirurgia e 1 ano pós-operatório apresentou recuperação clínica total. A ASC é uma causa rara, mas possível e tratável da compressão alta do nervo mediano.
Thickness-dependent electrical transport in weak topological insulator Bi1Se1
Authors: Majhi Kunjalata , Banerjee Abhishek , Ganesan R. , Anil Kumar P. S.
Published: October 2020

Weak topological insulators are elusive topological materials that were subjected to relatively few experimental studies in the past owing to the lack of stable systems. Here, a detailed investigation of the low-temperature electrical transport on Bi1Se1 thin films, a weak topological insulator, over a wide range of thicknesses has been carried out. Robust signatures of weak anti-localization were observed from the electrical transport measurements where the magnetic field is applied perpendicular and parallel to the sample plane. The low-field data are analyzed using the Hikami–Larkin–Nagaoka equation. By combining the transport parameters (α, Lϕ) extracted from both perpendicular and parallel field measurements, our results indicate that apart from three-dimensional bulk states, 2D surface states are also present in our system and their origin could be linked to the weak topological nature of Bi1Se1.
Natural convection of Cu-water nanofluid in enclosed cavity with porous effect and wavy surface based on energy-flux-vector visualization method
Authors: Cho Ching-Chang
Published: October 2020

This paper studies the influences of a porous medium and wavy surface on natural convection of Cu-water nanofluid in an enclosed cavity based on the energy-flux-vector method. The effects of the Darcy number (Da), Rayleigh number (Ra), porosity (ε), nanoparticle volume fraction (ϕ), and geometric wave amplitude (αw) on the energy flux vectors, isotherms, mean Nusselt number (Num), total entropy generation (St), and Bejan number (Be) are examined. It indicates that given a low Ra and any value of the Da or a high Ra and a low Da, the energy flux vectors, isotherms, and entropy generation have similar distributions. Under such conditions, St and Num have low values, while Be approaches unity. However, if Ra and Da have high values, the energy flux vectors form flow recirculation structures. Therefore, St and Num increase, while Be decreases. As ε increases, St and Num increase, while Be reduces. Finally, when a high Ra with a high Da is given, all Num, St, and Be increase as αw is increased.
Variations in the cellular magnetic domain structure in Fe–Ga alloys
Authors: Tianen Matthew N. , Jin Yongmei M.
Published: October 2020

The so-called cellular magnetic domain structure has been widely observed in Fe–Ga alloys of different compositions and heat treatment. It has attracted attention for producing desirable magnetic properties and also for arousing controversy over its cause and identity. Two existing models, one based on novel charge density waves and the other based on traditional V-lines from the classical magnetic domain theory, give contradictory interpretations of the cellular domains in Fe–Ga alloys, which remain to be clarified. The cellular domains observed in Fe–Ga alloys so far are highly periodic, consisting of parallel chains of rectangular cells. This paper reports on the presence of various deviations in the cellular domains from the previously known ideal periodic cellular structure in Fe–Ga alloys and explores the implications of those variations. The variations include changes in the cell shape, spacing, branching, and nesting. It is shown that the observed variations in the cellular domains can be explained well by the V-line model where the competition between elastic and wall energy drives the pattern formation process. In comparison, the disagreements of the charge density wave model with the experimental observations are addressed. Similar cellular domain variations observed previously in Fe–Si alloys are also discussed, confirming the generic aspects of the cellular domains and their variations in cubic magnetostrictive materials. The findings provide insights into the magnetic domain phenomena in Fe–Ga alloys.
Tailoring the magnetic properties of sputtered amorphous CoZrTa/metal-oxide (MO) by interfacial oxygen migration
Authors: Xu Xiulan , Feng Guonan , Liu Jintao , Zhu Ronggui , Yang Xinyan , Liu Mianchen , Xiong Xiaodong , He Xin , Luo Junfeng , Feng Chun , Yu Guanghua
Published: October 2020

Modulating the soft magnetic properties of amorphous magnetic thin films is important for constructing energy-efficient and high performance thin film inductors. Here, a metal (Pt) and an oxide (Al2O3) are selected as the covering layer to investigate the effect of the interfacial microstructure on the magnetic properties of CoZrTa thin films. The results show that the magnetic dead layer thickness (tDL) and coercivity (Hc) decrease and saturation magnetization (Ms) increases with the annealing temperature for the CoZrTa/Al2O3 sample. However, tDL, Hc, and Ms of the CoZrTa/Pt sample show an opposite variation tendency with the annealing temperature. Interfacial structural results indicate that different magnetisms can be ascribed to different interfacial oxygen migration and interfacial diffusion processes. The effective interfacial oxygen migration in CoZrTa/Al2O3 reconstructs oxygen atom distribution at the interface and provides an effective way to enhance the magnetic properties of CoZrTa, whereas the intensified interfacial diffusion between CoZrTa and Pt after annealing in the CoZrTa/Pt sample caused the deterioration of the magnetism. This study will be helpful in advancing the development of magnetic thin film inductor devices.
Interfacial spin transmission and spin–orbit torques in as-grown and annealed W/Co2FeAl/MgO multilayers
Authors: He Congli , Razavi Armin , Wei Jinwu , Xu Hongjun , Yu Guoqiang , Wong Kin L. , Wu Hao , Shen Shipeng , Chen Qingqiang , Zeng Zhongming , Wang Shouguo , Wang Kang L.
Published: October 2020

The interfacial spin transmission and spin–orbit torques (SOTs) in as-grown and annealed W/Co2FeAl(CFA)/MgO multilayers are studied by the spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance (ST-FMR) technique. The effective spin-mixing conductance of 4.40×1014 Ω−1 m−2 and the interfacial spin transparency Tin of 0.47 are obtained for the as-grown samples, which are comparable to those of the widely employed W/CoFeB bilayer. The annealing influence on the W/CFA/MgO multilayer is subsequently studied. The damping-like torque efficiency (ξDL) and field-like torque efficiency (ξFL) are extracted for different annealing temperatures via modulation of damping measurements and the angular dependence of ST-FMR spectra. Importantly, the ξDL value is fairly large (0.3–0.5) and does not degrade even when the annealing temperature is increased up to 420 °C. Our results indicate that the studied W/CFA/MgO multilayers could be promising candidate materials for designing and developing SOT-driven spintronic devices.
Effects of fertilisation on microbial communities in short-term coal mine reclamation
Authors: Zhang Jian , Xie Yinghe , Wei Ying , Meng Huisheng , Cao Yanzhuan , Qin Junmei , Hong Jianping
Published: October 2020

The recovery of the belowground microbial community structure and diversity that occurs in long-term coal mining reclamation is critical to reclamation success. However, long-term coal mining reclamation can take ~10–30 years. Therefore, finding an effective method for promoting coal mine soil restoration in the short-term is necessary to minimise reclamation time. This study investigated the response of soil bacterial communities to fertilisation along a chronosequence of short-term reclamation. Fertilised and unfertilised soils with three short-term reclamation stages were examined to characterise soil properties, as well as bacterial structure and diversity. Fertilisation promoted available nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, and soil organic matter, as well as benefits in bacterial community diversity across the three stages, with the most beneficial effects at 7 years. 16S rRNA sequencing data showed that the predominant phyla across all soils were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Chloroflexi, and Gemmatimonadetes. Abundance of each phylum was altered by reclamation time and fertilisation. Clustering and functional analysis indicated that the bacterial community structure in soils with a longer reclamation time was more similar to that in natural soils, suggesting that longer reclamation resulted in increased soil activity and bacterial community diversity, which is likely also true for fertilisation. Our results demonstrate that reclamation duration is the main driving force to recover soil properties and bacterial communities, and fertilisation could enhance the beneficial effects with longer reclamation duration. Therefore, short-term reclamation, combined with fertiliser, is a potential strategy to improve soil conditions in coal mine areas and shorten the recovery time of reclaimed soils.
TAZ/Wnt-β-catenin/c-MYC axis regulates cystogenesis in polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Lee Eun Ji , Seo Eunjeong , Kim Jin Won , Nam Sun Ah , Lee Jong Young , Jun Jaehee , Oh Sumin , Park Minah , Jho Eek-hoon , Yoo Kyung Hyun , Park Jong Hoon , Kim Yong Kyun
Published: October 2020

Significance

Autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common genetic renal disease, primarily caused by germline mutation of
PKD1
or
PKD2
, leading to end-stage renal disease. There are few cures for ADPKD, although many researchers are trying to find a cure. The Hippo signaling pathway regulates organ growth and cell proliferation. Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) is a Hippo signaling effector. In this study, we demonstrated that the PKD1–TAZ–Wnt–β-catenin–c-MYC signaling axis plays a critical role in cystogenesis. Endo IWR1 treatment, which inhibited β-catenin activity via AXIN stabilization, reduced cyst growth in an ADPKD model. Our findings provide a potential therapeutic target against ADPKD and would be important for clinical translation.
Paralinguistic resources in persuasive business communication in
English and Spanish
Authors: Cestero Mancera Ana M. , Díez Prados Mercedes
Published: October 2020

This study presents the results of research
carried out to unveil how nonverbal paralinguistic signs are used in
persuasive business communication in two parallel Spanish/British
English corpora of TV entrepreneurial pitches. A specific analytic
method has been developed to identify discrete nonverbal signs
together with their function in the communicative acts studied, to
ascertain frequency of sign use and the influence L1 and gender may
exert on the quantity, type, and function of such devices. Results
show that of all devices (i.e., volume, tone, speed,
sound-lengthening, emotional reactions, quasi-lexical elements, and
pauses), pauses are the most profusely used (65% of the cases),
although both variables (L1 and gender) have a bearing on the
socio-communicative variations of paralinguistic devices among
different subjects.
Homogenisation effect on mechanical and pitting behaviour of 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Dias Francislaynne Lages , Cardeal Stumpf Guilherme , Ferreira de Dafé Sara Silva , Santos Dagoberto Brandão
Published: October 2020

We investigated the effect of homogenisation on the grain boundary character distribution and its influence on the mechanical behaviour and pitting resistance of an ultrafine grained 2205 duplex stainless steel after cold rolling and annealing. The results revealed that the cold rolling process induced the formation of a strain-induced martensite (SIM). Additionally, the Kurdjumov–Sachs relationship between the martensite laths and the metastable austenite was established through texture analysis. Furthermore, the homogenisation process enhanced the ductility of the steel. An increase in the pitting resistance after homogenisation was attributed to the grain boundary character distribution. This improvement corresponds to the increase in the ∑3 boundaries in the austenite and increase in the ∑17b boundaries fraction in the ferrite.
Co-regulating algorithmic disclosure for digital platforms
Authors: Di Porto Fabiana , Zuppetta Marialuisa
Published: October 2020

With digital platforms gaining dominant intermediating role and exerting regulatory functions vis-à-vis small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through algorithms, EU institutions have started considering to rely on their analytical capacity to regulate the myriads of market transactions occurring within and through them (so-called platform-to-business, or P2B transactions). Most of the time, the EU suggests recurring to light-tough disclosure duties. Hence, the European model falls short in rebalancing information asymmetry and unequal bargaining power plaguing the SMEs. In practice, the EU model consists either in pure delegation of self-regulatory powers (codes of conduct) or non-enforceable co-regulatory schemes (with technical standards established by the platforms themselves). Other models have been suggested that rely on the regulator's access to the platform's data (so called savvy and data-delegated options). These governance models present several limitations, making the platforms' role as regulatory intermediators little credible. In this scenario, the paper purports that a third option should be considered. In particular, to tackle the multifaceted risks associated with algorithmic decisions by digital platforms, while at the same time avoiding stifling innovation, it makes three suggestions: (1) also information disclosures should be done by an algorithm; (2) that is pre-tested in a co-regulatory process, that involves the regulator and stakeholders; and (3) enforced through legal and other empowerment tools, rather than sole fines.
Report on the CCM key comparison of kilogram realizations CCM.M-K8.2019
Authors: Stock M , Conceição P , Fang H , Bielsa F , Kiss A , Nielsen L , Kim D , Kim M , Lee K -C , Lee S , Seo M , Woo B -C , Li Z , Wang J , Bai Y , Xu J , Wu D , Lu Y , Zhang Z , He Q , Haddad D , Schlamminger S , Newell D , Mulhern E , Abbott P , Kubarych Z , Kuramoto N , Mizushima S , Zhang L , Fujita K , Davidson S , Green R G , Liard J O , Murnaghan N F , Sanchez C A , Wood B M , Bettin H , Borys M , Mecke M , Nicolaus A , Peter A , Müller M , Scholz F , Schofeld A
Published: October 2020

This report describes the first CCM key comparison of realizations of the kilogram definition based on the fixed numerical value of the Planck constant, which came into force on 20 May 2019. The objectives were to determine the level of agreement between realizations of the kilogram using Kibble and joule balances and the X-ray crystal density (XRCD) method and to provide input for the calculation of the first "consensus value" of the kilogram. The consensus value will serve as the basis for an internationally coordinated dissemination of the kilogram which will continue until sufficient agreement between realization experiments has been achieved.

The comparison was organized by the BIPM and had seven participants. The BIPM, KRISS, NIST and NRC operated Kibble balances, the NIM used a joule balance and the NMIJ and the PTB participated using 28Si spheres, the masses of which were determined with the XRCD method. These realization methods were used to calibrate 1 kg mass standards under vacuum. The standards were sent (in air) to the BIPM where they were compared under vacuum with each other and with BIPM Pt-Ir working standards. The latter were calibrated (in air) traceable to the International Prototype of the Kilogram (IPK), the mass of which served as the definition of the kilogram until 20 May 2019.

The results of the weighings at the BIPM together with the measurement results communicated by the participants allowed comparison of the values attributed to mass standards of 1 kg using the participating realization experiments. The level of agreement between mass determinations with the realization experiments and the BIPM as-maintained mass unit, traceable to the Planck constant through the mass of the International Prototype of the Kilogram can also be deduced.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Self-powered broadband photodetector based on a solution-processed p-NiO/n-CdS:Al heterojunction
Authors: K Chandra Sekhar Reddy , Willars-Rodríguez F J , Ramirez Bon Rafael
Published: October 2020

Solution-processed photodetectors have emerged as the next generation of sensing technology owing to their ease of integration with electron devices and of tuning photodetector performance. Currently, novel self-powered photodetectors without an external power source, for use in sensing, imaging and communication, are in high demand. Herein, we successfully developed a self-powered photodetector based on a novel solution-processed p-NiO/n-CdS:Al heterojunction, which shows an excellent current rectification characteristic ratio of up to three orders in the dark and distinctive photovoltaic behavior under light illumination. The complete solution synthesis route followed the development of CdS:Al thin films on ITO substrates by chemical bath deposition and NiO thin films by the sol-gel route. Optical absorption data revealed that NiO is more active in the UV region and CdS:Al has a majority of absorption in the visible region; so, upon light illumination, the effective separation of photogenerated carriers produces fast photodetection in the UV–visible region. The photoresponsivity values of the fabricated device were calculated to be 55 mA W−1 and 30 mA W−1 for UV and visible illumination, respectively. Also, the device has a fast rise and decay photoresponse speed at zero bias voltage, due to the self-driven photovoltaic effect which makes this heterojunction a self-powered device. This complete solution and new method of fabrication make it possible to combine different materials and flexible substrates, enhancing its potential applications in photodetectors, optoelectronic devices and sensors.
Feature extraction of EEG signals based on functional data analysis and its application to recognition of driver fatigue state
Authors: Shangguan Pengpeng , Qiu Taorong , Liu Tao , Zou Shuli , Liu Zhuo , Zhang Siwei
Published: October 2020

Objective: Our objective is to study how to obtain features which can reflect the continuity and internal dynamic changes of electroencephalography (EEG) signals and study an effective method for fatigued driving state recognition based on the obtained features. Approach: A method of EEG signalfeature extraction based on functional data analysis is proposed. Combined with kernel principal component analysis method, the obtained features are applied to the recognition of driver fatigue state, and a corresponding recognition model of fatigued driving state is constructed. Main results: The recognition model is tested on the real collected driver fatigue EEG signals by selecting a suitable classifier. The test results show that the proposed driver fatigue state recognition method has good recognition effect, especially on the classifier based on decision tree, with an average accuracy of 99.50%. Significance: The extracted features well reflect the continuityand internal dynamic changes of the EEG signals, and it is of great significance and application value to study an effective method of fatigued driver state recognition based on the features.
Performance evaluation of a 3D haptic joystick featuring two bidirectional MR actuators and a linear MRB
Authors: Diep Bao Tri , Nguyen Quoc Hung , Kim Joo-Hyung , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: October 2020

In this paper, a 3D force feedback system featuring a 2D-gimbal mechanism incorporated with two bidirectional magneto-rheological actuators (BMRAs) and a linear magnetorheological brake (LMRB) is designed, manufactured and experimentally tested. Firstly, a configuration of the 3D force feedback system is introduced, and then the BMRAs and the LMRB for force feedback are proposed and experimentally evaluated. Based on experimental results, experiment-based models of the BMRAs and LMRB are identified. A controller is then proposed for the 3D force feedback system. In order to evaluate performance of the proposed 3D force feedback system, a prototype of the proposed force feedback system is manufactured and experimental apparatus for force feedback testing is set up. Experimental works on performance testing of the force feedback system is then conducted and the results are presented and evaluated.
Compact 4-bit all optical digital to analog converter based on photonic crystal ring resonators
Authors: Sridarshini T , Indira Gandhi S , Jannath Ui Firthouse V N
Published: October 2020

A compact all optical 4-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) based on 2D photonic crystals is proposed to operate in the III transmission window 1550 nm of optical communication systems. The DAC consists of a photonic crystal ring resonator whose operation is based on the nonlinear Kerr effect. The overall operation of the proposed DAC is analyzed using the finite difference time domain method and plane wave expansion method. The total footprint of the proposed structure is 1150 µm2 with silicon rods of refractive index equal to 3.4641 placed in an air substrate with a 2D square lattice, exhibiting an insertion loss of −11 dB and absolute error of 2.79% which is suitable for photonic integrated circuits.
The bar and spiral arms in the Milky Way: structure and kinematics
Authors: Shen Juntai , Zheng Xing-Wu
Published: October 2020

The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy with the Schechter characteristic luminosity L
*, thus an important anchor point of the Hubble sequence of all spiral galaxies. Yet the true appearance of the Milky Way has remained elusive for centuries. We review the current best understanding of the structure and kinematics of our home galaxy, and present an updated scientifically accurate visualization of the Milky Way structure with almost all components of the spiral arms, along with the COBE image in the solar perspective. The Milky Way contains a strong bar, four major spiral arms, and an additional arm segment (the Local arm) that may be longer than previously thought. The Galactic boxy bulge that we observe is mostly the peanut-shaped central bar viewed nearly end-on with a bar angle of ∼ 25° – 30° from the Sun-Galactic center line. The bar transitions smoothly from a central peanut-shaped structure to an extended thin part that ends around R ∼ 5 kpc. The Galactic bulge/bar contains ∼ 30% – 40% of the total stellar mass in the Galaxy. Dynamical modelling of both the stellar and gas kinematics yields a bar pattern rotation speed of ∼ 35 – 40 km s−1kpc −1, corresponding to a bar rotation period of ∼ 160 – 180 Myr. From a galaxy formation point of view, our Milky Way is probably a pure-disk galaxy with little room for a significant merger-made, “classical” spheroidal bulge, and we give a number of reasons why this is the case.
A tale of planet formation: from dust to planets
Authors: Liu Beibei , Ji Jianghui
Published: October 2020

The characterization of exoplanets and their birth protoplanetary disks has enormously advanced in the last decade. Benefitting from that, our global understanding of the planet formation processes has been substantially improved. In this review, we first summarize the cutting-edge states of the exoplanet and disk observations. We further present a comprehensive panoptic view of modern core accretion planet formation scenarios, including dust growth and radial drift, planetesimal formation by the streaming instability, core growth by planetesimal accretion and pebble accretion. We discuss the key concepts and physical processes in each growth stage and elaborate on the connections between theoretical studies and observational revelations. Finally, we point out the critical questions and future directions of planet formation studies.
Astronomy from Dome A in Antarctica
Authors: Shang Zhaohui
Published: October 2020

Dome A in Antarctica has been demonstrated to be the best site on earth for optical, infrared, and terahertz astronomical observations by more and more evidence, such as excellent free-atmosphere seeing, extremely low perceptible water vapor, low sky background, and continuous dark time, etc. In this paper, we present a complete picture of the development of astronomy at Dome A from the very beginning, review recent progress in time-domain astronomy, demonstrate exciting results of the site testing, and address the challenges in instrumentation. Currently proposed projects are briefly discussed.
Biased measures for random constraint satisfaction problems: larger interaction range and asymptotic expansion
Authors: Budzynski Louise , Semerjian Guilhem
Published: October 2020

We investigate the clustering transition undergone by an exemplary random constraint satisfaction problem, the bicoloring of k-uniform random hypergraphs, when its solutions are weighted non-uniformly, with a soft interaction between variables belonging to distinct hyperedges. We show that the threshold α
d(k) for the transition can be further increased with respect to a restricted interaction within the hyperedges, and perform an asymptotic expansion of α
d(k) in the large k limit. We find that

α

d

(

k

)

=

2

k
−
1

k

(

ln

k
+
ln

ln

k
+

γ

d

+
o

(

1

)

)

, where the constant γ
d is strictly larger than for the uniform measure over solutions.
Cost Control of Sub-contracted Projects Based on EPC Petrochemical Engineering
Authors: Li Weifang , Lin Ling
Published: October 2020

EPC model is one kind of scientific and efficient petrochemical engineering management at present in our country. The EPC general contractor should effectively control the cost of sub-contracted construction projects, in the process of EPC petrochemical engineering construction. The aim is to rational use of the limited resources including human, funds and material resources, to obtain greater economic effects and social benefits for the EPC general contractor. The paper studies some impact factors of the sub-contracted projects based on EPC petrochemical engineering. And corresponding solutions are puts forward in the paper, such as paying more attention subcontract management, advocating strict control of direct expense, optimizing construction scheme, and so on. Through the above analysis, some references are hoped to provide some advantages of the cost control of sub-contracted projects for the EPC petrochemical engineering general contractor.
The Characteristics and Tectonic Evolution of Deep Buried Structures in Manas in the Southern Margin of Junggar Basin
Authors: Zhou Xiaojun , Li Yongxu , Wang Xu
Published: October 2020

The Manas anticline belongs to the second tectonic belt in front of the southern margin of Junggar Basin. Due to the multi-stage tectonic compression activity of the Indian plate and the Eurasian plate since the Cenozoic era, the tectonic activity is frequent and the deep tectonic style is complex, so the deep tectonic style of the quasi-south has not been clearly understood. For the study of the deep concealed characteristics of Manas anticline structure, in this paper, we will use the theory of fault-related fold, the geometric analysis and the balanced section forward simulation to construct the detailed structural analysis and simulation of kinematics of structural deformation process of the type section of the Manas anticline based on wide line seismic profile. The study shows that the vertical and upward parts of the Manas anticline are fault-propagated folds and thrust nappe structures while the deep parts are mainly composed of complex structural triangular wedges, burst structures and secondary fold regulating faults. The deformation process is the early low-amplitude fault-turning fold, which is blocked at the front of thrust and forms complex triangular wedge and burst structure. In the late neogene, large thrust faults and fault-propagated folds were developed along the bottom of Anji Haihe formation under the action of strong thrust nappe in the piedmont.
Creative Transformation and Innovative Development of Lingnan Traditional Architectural Culture-Taking the Architecture Reconstruction Design of Liwan District in Guangzhou as an Example
Authors: Zhong Feifeng
Published: October 2020

This paper first discusses the historical background of Lingnan traditional architectural culture, then summarizes the general situation of Lingnan traditional architectural culture from the characteristics of Lingnan traditional architecture and the cultural connotation of Lingnan traditional architecture. Subsequently, taking the architecture reconstruction of Liwan District in Guangzhou as an example, it expounded from the three aspects of micro level, meso level and macro level, and tried to propose a practical model that has practical guiding significance for the creative transformation and innovative development of Lingnan traditional architectural culture.
Inheritance and Innovative Application of Lingnan Traditional Architectural Culture in Architectural Design
Authors: Zhong Feifeng
Published: October 2020

This thesis first discusses the necessity of the inheritance and innovation of Lingnan traditional architectural culture, then analyzes the connotation of Lingnan traditional architectural culture and studies the inheritance of Lingnan traditional architectural culture in modern architectural design, and finally focuses on the integration of Lingnan traditional architectural culture into architectural design Innovative application methods. Through these approaches, Lingnan traditional architectural culture can be better inherited and innovated in architectural design, and it is hoped that it will have some practical guiding significance for the application of architectural designers in architectural design.
Analysis and Evaluation of Energy and Environmental Benefits of New Energy Vehicles
Authors: Nie Yongtao , Cui Dong , Wang Bin
Published: October 2020

At present, China’s oil and natural gas external dependence is increasing, the energy security situation is increasingly grim, the automobile industry is an important reason for the rapid growth of crude oil consumption, the development of new energy automobile industry has become a global consensus. This paper aims to study the development strategy of China’s new energy(NE) vehicle industry through cost-benefit analysis, so as to provide reference for China’s NE vehicle demonstration and promotion vehicle selection and the next step of technology research and development, which has certain reference significance for China’s NE vehicle technology research and development and promotion. From a macro perspective, this paper firstly analyzes the problems existing in the industrialization process of NE vehicles in combination with the current development status of China’s NE vehicle industry. Secondly, the cost-benefit analysis theory is introduced into the strategy research of China’s NE vehicle industry, and the cost-benefit index of China’s NE vehicle development is identified and selected to construct the index system. Thirdly, the ahP is used to analyze the cost-benefit index and predict its development trend. Finally, according to the results of the previous analysis, the policy recommendations for the rational development of China’s NE vehicle industry are put forward, and the development priorities and tasks of China’s NE vehicles are clearly put forward.
Research on Computer Stochastic Simulation of Large Spacing Pillar-less Mining Ore Drawing
Authors: Lin You
Published: October 2020

The new technology of large spacing Pillarless Mining has been widely used because of its advantages, such as timely increase of parameters, improvement of stope ground pressure, and suitable for mining of gently inclined orebody. It has brought good benefits and has high research value. Based on this, this paper first analyzes the mining theory of pillarless sublevel caving method, then studies the computer random simulation test of large spacing pillarless large parameter mining, and finally analyzes the results of the new technology of large spacing Pillarless Mining Based on computer random simulation.