bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forschendes Lernen in den Praxisphasen des Lehramtsstudiums
Authors: Beutel Mirja , Floß Peter , Kull Carolin , Wigger-Eckei Aline
Published: August 2020

Das an der Universität vermittelte Theoriewissen schätzen Lehramtsstudierende häufig als weniger relevant ein denn die in Schulpraktika erlangten Erfahrung. Professionelles Handeln erfordert jedoch eine kritisch-reflexive Haltung; dafür sollte das Theoriewissen mit Erfahrungen in der Praxis verknüpft werden. Forschendes Lernen kann für diese Verknüpfung einen wichtigen Beitrag leisten.
Highly Parallel SPARQL Engine for RDF
Authors: Feng Fan , Zhou Weikang , Zhang Ding , Pang Jinhui
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a highly parallel batch processing engine is designed for SPARQL queries. Machine learning algorithms were applied to make time predictions of queries and reasonably group them, and further make reasonable estimates of the memory footprint of the queries to arrange the order of each group of queries. Finally, the query is processed in parallel by introducing pthreads. Based on the above three points, a spall time prediction algorithm was proposed, including data processing, to better deal with batch SPARQL queries, and the introduction of pthread can make our query processing faster. Since data processing was added to query time prediction, the method can be implemented in any set of data-queries. Experiments show that the engine can optimize time and maximize the use of memory when processing batch SPARQL queries.
Minimal 3-loop neutrino mass models and charged lepton flavor violation
Authors: Cepedello Ricardo , Hirsch Martin , Rocha-Morán Paulina , Vicente Avelino
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We study charged lepton flavor violation for the three most popular 3-loop Majorana neutrino mass models. We call these models “minimal” since their particle content correspond to the minimal sets for which genuine 3-loop models can be constructed. In all the three minimal models the neutrino mass matrix is proportional to some powers of Standard Model lepton masses, providing additional suppression factors on top of the expected loop suppression. To correctly explain neutrino masses, therefore large Yukawa couplings are needed in these models. We calculate charged lepton flavor violating observables and find that the three minimal models survive the current constraints only in very narrow regions of their parameter spaces.
Role of trans-Planckian modes in cosmology
Authors: Berera Arjun , Brahma Suddhasattwa , Calderón Jaime R.
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Motivated by the old trans-Planckian (TP) problem of inflationary cosmology, it has been conjectured that any consistent effective field theory should keep TP modes ‘hidden’ behind the Hubble horizon, so as to prevent them from turning classical and thereby affecting macroscopic observations. In this paper we present two arguments against the Hubble horizon being a scale of singular significance as has been put forward in the TP Censorship Conjecture (TCC). First, refinements of TCC are presented that allow for the TP modes to grow beyond the horizon while still keeping the de-Sitter conjecture valid. Second, we show that TP modes can turn classical even well within the Hubble horizon, which, as such, negates this rationale behind keeping them from crossing it. The role of TP modes is known to be less of a problem in warm inflation, because fluctuations start out usually as classical. This allows warm inflation to be more resilient to the TP problem compared to cold inflation. To understand how robust this is, we identity limits where quantum modes can affect the primordial power spectrum in one specific case.
Low-dose radiotherapy for COVID-19 pneumonia treatment: case report, procedure, and literature review
Authors: Del Castillo Ruben , Martinez David , Sarria Gustavo J. , Pinillos Luis , Garcia Bertha , Castillo Luis , Carhuactocto Alicia , Giordano Frank A. , Sarria Gustavo R.
Published: August 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has set the emergency services in developing countries on major alert, as the installed response capacities are easily overwhelmed by the constantly increasing high demand. The deficit of intensive care unit beds and ventilators in countries like Peru is forcing practitioners to seek preventive or early interventional strategies to prevent saturating these chronically neglected facilities.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old patient is reported after presenting with COVID-19 pneumonia and rapidly progressing to deteriorated ventilatory function. Compassionate treatment with a single 1‑Gy dose to the bilateral whole-lung volume was administered, with gradual daily improvement of ventilatory function and decrease in serum inflammatory markers and oxygen support needs, including intubation. No treatment-related toxicity developed. Procedures of transport, disinfection, and treatment planning and delivery are described.

Conclusion

Whole-lung low-dose radiotherapy seems to be a promising approach for avoiding or delaying invasive respiratory support. Delivered low doses are far from meeting toxicity ranges. On-going prospective trials will elucidate the effectiveness of this approach.
Plattenepithelkarzinom auf dem Boden eines oralen Lichen planus
Authors: Koushk-Jalali Bijan , Schürrle Svenja , Kuntz Thomas , Mitrakos Georgios , Tigges Christian , Oellig Frank , Hammacher Andreas , Silling Steffi , Wieland Ulrike , Kreuter Alexander
Published: August 2020

Beim Lichen planus handelt es sich vermutlich um eine chronisch inflammatorische, immunologisch induzierte mukokutane Dermatose. Der Lichen planus mucosae manifestiert sich am häufigsten in der Mundhöhle. Diverse Triggerfaktoren wie bakterielle oder virale Infektionen, Medikamente oder physikalische Reize werden bei der Entstehung der Erkrankung diskutiert. Auch eine Assoziation mit Infektionen durch humane Papillomviren wurde beschrieben, ein kausaler Zusammenhang ist jedoch nicht hinreichend belegt. Als fakultative Präkanzerose kann sich auf dem Boden eines Lichen planus mucosae ein Plattenepithelkarzinom entwickeln, die maligne Transformationsrate ist aber gering. Das Risiko der malignen Transformation ist signifikant erhöht bei Patienten mit oralem Lichen planus, die rauchen, vermehrt Alkohol konsumieren oder an Hepatitis C erkrankt sind. Wir beschreiben 2 Patienten, bei denen sich lokal fortgeschrittene Plattenepithelkarzinome auf dem Boden eines langjährig bestehenden oralen Lichen planus entwickelten. Beide Fälle wurden erfolgreich durch radikale Tumorresektion mit anschließender Rekonstruktion und adjuvanter Radiatio/Radiochemotherapie behandelt.
Strahlenexposition bei häufigen interventionellen Eingriffen der Leber im Vergleich
Authors: Nadjiri Jonathan , Geith Tobias , Waggershauser Tobias , Heuser Lothar , Morhard Dominik , Bücker Arno , Paprottka Philipp M.
Published: August 2020

Hintergrund

Die transarterielle Chemoembolisation (TACE) oder auch Gallenganginterventionen stellen häufige Leberinterventionen dar.

Ziel der Arbeit

In dieser retrospektiven Studie soll die Strahlenexposition der Patienten mit einem hepatischen Eingriff in Abhängigkeit von Art und Feinziel der Intervention analysiert und verglichen werden.

Material und Methoden

Dies ist eine Analyse von 7003 DeGIR-Registerdatensätzen aus den Jahren 2016 bis 2018 für TACE und Gallenganginterventionen. Das Dosisflächenprodukt (DFP) und die Durchleuchtungszeit (DL) sowie die Interventionsart und das anatomisch definierte Feinziel der Interventionen wurden erfasst.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt lagen Dosiswerte für 4985 durchgeführte TACE und 2018 Gallenganginterventionen vor. Bei Gallenganginterventionen lag der Median des DFP bei 2594 (Interquartilbereich [IQR] = 1174–5858) cGy*cm2. Bei der TACE betrug der Median des DFP 11.632 [IQR = 5530–22.800] cGy*cm2 und lag damit signifikant höher als bei Gallenganginterventionen (p < 0,0001). Gallengangeingriffe mit dem höchsten DFP sind Interventionen am Ductus hepaticus, während Eingriffe mit der längsten DL an der Hepatikusgabel stattfinden.

Diskussion

Die individuelle Strahlendosis für einen Patienten bei einer Leberintervention hängt weniger von der Komplexität des Eingriffs bzw. Durchleuchtungszeit ab, sondern von der Art des Eingriffs und vom Feinziel der Intervention. Die vorliegenden Dosisdaten können eine Hilfe sein, die Strahlenexposition bei einer Leberintervention bereits vor dem Eingriff grob abzuschätzen.
Strontium isotope stratigraphy through the Flatreef PGE-Ni-Cu mineralization at Turfspruit, northern limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex: evidence of correlation with the Merensky Unit of the eastern and western limbs
Authors: Mayer Cédric C. , Jugo Pedro J. , Leybourne Matthew I. , Grobler Danie F. , Voinot Alexandre
Published: August 2020

The origin of PGE-Ni-Cu mineralization in the Platreef, northern limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex (BIC), and the possible correlation with the Merensky Reef in the eastern and western limbs has been long debated. The Platreef and Merensky Reef share the same stratigraphic position in the uppermost part of the Upper Critical Zone (UCZ), near the transition to the overlaying Main Zone (MZ). However, discrepancies in interpretations have been difficult to resolve due to the effects of intense magma-country rock interaction throughout most of the northern limb succession. To address this problem, we generated a detailed stratigraphic profile of the initial strontium isotopic ratio [Sri = (87Sr/86Sr)i] in plagioclase across a Flatreef interval lacking macroscopic evidence of country rock assimilation. The in situ Sr isotopic ratios in plagioclase were determined using LA-MC-ICP-MS analysis on 37 samples from a drill core (UMT094) at the Turfspruit project. Strontium isotope stratigraphy is useful because of a well-documented shift in Sri near the base of the Merensky Unit in the eastern and western limbs. The results show the existence of a significant shift (from Sri = 0.7060 to Sri = 0.7090) that matches the isotopic shift documented through the Merensky Unit in the eastern and western limbs. Thus, this new Sr isotope data indicates that the main mineralized interval of the Flatreef can be stratigraphically correlated to the Merensky Reef in the remainder of the BIC. In addition, we interpret these results as compelling evidence to suggest that the main mineralization processes in the Flatreef were likely similar to those operating in the eastern and western limbs and that interaction with local country rocks was not a necessary condition.
Teichmüller spaces and Torelli theorems for hyperkähler manifolds
Authors: Looijenga Eduard
Published: August 2020

Kreck and Yang Su recently gave counterexamples to a version of the Torelli theorem for hyperkählerian manifolds as stated by Verbitsky. We extract the correct statement and give a short proof of it. We also revisit a few of its consequences, some of which are given new (shorter) proofs, and ask some questions.
Optimization of a sequential extraction procedure for trace elements in Arctic PM10
Authors: Conca Eleonora , Malandrino Mery , Giacomino Agnese , Costa Emanuele , Ardini Francisco , Inaudi Paolo , Abollino Ornella
Published: August 2020

In this work, a two-step sequential extraction scheme for the determination of trace elements in Arctic PM10samples was optimized by using two certified reference materials (CRMs). By means of an experimental design for qualitative variables, the five most common extracting solutions for particulate matter (PM) sequential extraction (high purity water (HPW), 0.032 M HNO3, 0.022 M HCl, 0.11 M CH3COOH, and 0.012 M CH3COOH/CH3COONH4buffer) and two different extraction methods (stirring and ultrasounds) were compared. The purpose of the study was the identification of the procedure which gives the best estimation of the anthropogenic portion of the elements present in PM10samples. The use of ultrasounds instead of stirring induced a low but significant decrease of the extraction of all the elements and a decrease in the repeatability of the procedure. Diluted HNO3was the extractant which allowed to maximize the extraction of anthropogenic elements (As, Cd, Pb, Zn) with respect to crustal ones (Al, Si, Ti). The optimized procedure proved successful in avoiding contaminations and, therefore, suitable to be applied to PM samples having extremely low concentrations, such as samples collected in polar or other remote areas. The chosen procedure was applied to ten Arctic PM10samples, allowing for a better identification of their sources. Indeed, it was possible to hypothesize that even though the concentrations of As, Cd, K, Mg, Mn, and Ni in spring and summer were different, their mobility and, therefore, their chemical form in the analyzed PM10samples were probably similar.
Conformal 3-Point Functions and the Lorentzian OPE in Momentum Space
Authors: Gillioz Marc
Published: August 2020

In conformal field theory in Minkowski momentum space, the 3-point correlation functions of local operators are completely fixed by symmetry. Using Ward identities together with the existence of a Lorentzian operator product expansion (OPE), we show that the Wightman function of three scalar operators is a double hypergeometric series of the Appell $$F_4$$

F
4

type. We extend this simple closed-form expression to the case of two scalar operators and one traceless symmetric tensor with arbitrary spin. Time-ordered and partially-time-ordered products are constructed in a similar fashion and their relation with the Wightman function is discussed.
Specific B- and T-cell populations are associated with cognition in patients with epilepsy and antibody positive and negative suspected limbic encephalitis
Authors: Helmstaedter Christoph , Hansen Niels , Leelaarporn Pitshaporn , Schwing Kerstin , Oender Demet , Widman Guido , Racz Attila , Surges Rainer , Becker Albert , Witt Juri-Alexander
Published: August 2020

Objective

Neuropsychological impairments are major symptoms of autoimmune limbic encephalitis (LE) epilepsy patients. In LE epilepsy patients with an autoimmune response against intracellular antigens as well as in antibody-negative patients, the antibody findings and magnetic resonance imaging pathology correspond poorly to the clinical features. Here, we evaluated whether T- and B-cells are linked to cognitive impairment in these groups.

Methods

In this cross-sectional, observational, case–controlled study, we evaluated 106 patients with adult-onset epilepsies with a suspected autoimmune etiology. We assessed verbal and visual memory, executive function, and mood in relation to the presence or absence of known auto-antibodies, and regarding T- and B-cell activity as indicated by flow cytometry (fluorescence-activated cell sorting = FACS, peripheral blood = PB and cerebrospinal fluid = CSF).

Results

56% of the patients were antibody-negative. In the other patients, auto-antibodies were directed against intracellular antigens (GAD65, paraneoplastic: 38%), or cellular surface antigens (LGI1/CASPR2/NMDA-R: 6%). Excluding LGI1/CASPR2/NMDA-R, the groups with and without antibodies did not differ in disease features, cognition, or mood. CD4+ T-cells and CD8+ T-cells in blood and CD4+ T-cells in CSF were prominent in the auto-antibody positive group. Regression analyses indicated the role education, drug load, amygdala and/or hippocampal pathology, and CD4+ T-cells play in verbal memory and executive function. Depressed mood revealed no relation to flow cytometry results.

Conclusion

Our results indicate a link between T- and B-cell activity and cognition in epilepsy patients with suspected limbic encephalitis, thus suggesting that flow cytometry results can provide an understanding of cognitive impairment in LE patients with autoantibodies against intracellular antigens.
The Stokes resolvent problem: optimal pressure estimates and remarks on resolvent estimates in convex domains
Authors: Tolksdorf Patrick
Published: August 2020

The Stokes resolvent problem$$\lambda u - \Delta u + \nabla \phi = f$$λu-Δu+∇ϕ=fwith$${\text {div}}(u) = 0$$div(u)=0subject to homogeneous Dirichlet or homogeneous Neumann-type boundary conditions is investigated. In the first part of the paper we show that for Neumann-type boundary conditions the operator norm of$$\mathrm {L}^2_{\sigma } (\Omega ) \ni f \mapsto \phi \in \mathrm {L}^2 (\Omega )$$Lσ2(Ω)∋f↦ϕ∈L2(Ω)decays like$$|\lambda |^{- 1 / 2}$$|λ|-1/2which agrees exactly with the scaling of the equation. In comparison to that, the operator norm of this mapping under Dirichlet boundary conditions decays like$$|\lambda |^{- \alpha }$$|λ|-αfor$$0 \le \alpha \le 1 / 4$$0≤α≤1/4and we show optimality of this rate, thereby, violating the natural scaling of the equation. In the second part of this article, we investigate the Stokes resolvent problem subject to homogeneous Neumann-type boundary conditions if the underlying domain$$\Omega $$Ωis convex. Invoking a famous result of Grisvard (Elliptic problems in nonsmooth domains. Monographs and studies in mathematics, Pitman, 1985), we show that weak solutionsuwith right-hand side$$f \in \mathrm {L}^2 (\Omega ; {\mathbb {C}}^d)$$f∈L2(Ω;Cd)admit$$\mathrm {H}^2$$H2-regularity and further prove localized$$\mathrm {H}^2$$H2-estimates for the Stokes resolvent problem. By a generalized version of Shen’s$$\mathrm {L}^p$$Lp-extrapolation theorem (Shen in Ann Inst Fourier (Grenoble) 55(1):173–197, 2005) we establish optimal resolvent estimates and gradient estimates in$$\mathrm {L}^p (\Omega ; {\mathbb {C}}^d)$$Lp(Ω;Cd)for$$2d / (d + 2)< p < 2d / (d - 2)$$2d/(d+2)<p<2d/(d-2)(with$$1< p < \infty $$1<p<∞if$$d = 2$$d=2). This interval is larger than the known interval for resolvent estimates subject to Dirichlet boundary conditions (Shen in Arch Ration Mech Anal 205(2):395–424, 2012) on general Lipschitz domains.
Local participation in decentralized water governance: insights from north-central Namibia
Authors: Hegga Salma , Kunamwene Irene , Ziervogel Gina
Published: August 2020

Although several semi-arid African countries are decentralizing water services and attempting to increase the participation of local actors in water resource management, how effectively this is working, and whether it is improving water access, is not yet well researched. Little attention has been paid to the capacities (in terms of knowledge and resources) that local actors need to successfully influence the operation and management of water services they are made responsible for. In a qualitative study, we asked regional and local actors in the Omusati Region of north-central Namibia for their perspectives on how water reforms, initiated in the late 1990s, have impacted on their participation in water governance. Our analysis reveals that decentralized governance of water resources can be ineffective if governments do not allocate sufficient resources to support and enable local actors to participate efficiently and effectively in the governance system. In the context of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, achieving greater equity and efficiency in the water sector while reducing climate risk will require that local actors receive more support in return for fuller and more effective participation. We suggest that policy and practice around decentralized water governance pay more attention to building the capacities of local actors to absorb the responsibilities transferred to them.
Safety and efficacy of etelcalcetide, an intravenous calcimimetic, for up to 52 weeks in hemodialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism: results of a post-marketing surveillance in Japan
Authors: Yokoyama Keitaro , Fukagawa Masafumi , Shigematsu Takashi , Akiba Takashi , Yoshikawa Ken , Tsuchiya Akira , Kuwabara Misato , Akizawa Tadao
Published: August 2020

Background

Etelcalcetide is a second-generation calcimimetic for the management of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) in patients on dialysis. We performed a post-marketing surveillance (PMS) to obtain information on the safety and efficacy of etelcalcetide in clinical practice in Japan.

Methods

This PMS enrolled SHPT patients who started initial treatment with etelcalcetide between April 1, 2017 and February 28, 2018 in Japan. Safety [adverse drug reactions (ADRs)] and efficacy [serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), corrected calcium (cCa), phosphorous (P), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)] were recorded for up to 52 weeks or until treatment discontinuation. Treatment decisions were at the physician’s discretion.

Results

Of 1226 patients enrolled across 282 centers, safety and efficacy data were available for 1195 and 1192, respectively, while 933 continued treatment to Week 52. The starting dose was 5 mg in 82.0% of patients. There were 218 ADRs in 169 patients (14.1%). Metabolism and nutrition disorders (8.8%), adverse laboratory test results (1.8%), and gastrointestinal disorders (1.6%) were the most frequent classes of ADRs. Hypocalcemia-related ADRs occurred in 104 patients (8.7%). The percentage of patients with iPTH levels within the target range (60–240 pg/mL) steadily increased from 19.5% at Week 0 to 64.1% at Week 52 or last dose. cCa, P, and ALP levels remained well controlled.

Conclusion

This was the first real-world, large-scale, long-term observational PMS of etelcalcetide in Japan. We did not observe any new safety concerns. Etelcalcetide was associated with clinically relevant improvements in serum iPTH and maintenance of serum cCa, P, and ALP levels.
Quantification of Myocardial Blood Flow by Machine Learning Analysis of Modified Dual Bolus MRI Examination
Authors: Husso Minna , Afara Isaac O. , Nissi Mikko J. , Kuivanen Antti , Halonen Paavo , Tarkia Miikka , Teuho Jarmo , Saunavaara Virva , Vainio Pauli , Sipola Petri , Manninen Hannu , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo , Knuuti Juhani , Töyräs Juha
Published: August 2020

Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a promising method for estimating myocardial blood flow (MBF). However, it is often affected by noise from imaging artefacts, such as dark rim artefact obscuring relevant features. Machine learning enables extracting important features from such noisy data and is increasingly applied in areas where traditional approaches are limited. In this study, we investigate the capacity of machine learning, particularly support vector machines (SVM) and random forests (RF), for estimating MBF from tissue impulse response signal in an animal model. Domestic pigs (n = 5) were subjected to contrast enhanced first pass MRI (MRI-FP) and the impulse response at different regions of the myocardium (n = 24/pig) were evaluated at rest (n = 120) and stress (n = 96). Reference MBF was then measured using positron emission tomography (PET). Since the impulse response may include artefacts, classification models based on SVM and RF were developed to discriminate noisy signal. In addition, regression models based on SVM, RF and linear regression (for comparison) were developed for estimating MBF from the impulse response at rest and stress. The classification and regression models were trained on data from 4 pigs (n = 168) and tested on 1 pig (n = 48). Models based on SVM and RF outperformed linear regression, with higher correlation (R
SVM
2
 = 0.81, R
RF
2
 = 0.74, R
linear_regression
2
 = 0.60; ρSVM = 0.76, ρRF = 0.76, ρlinear_regression = 0.71) and lower error (RMSESVM = 0.67 mL/g/min, RMSERF = 0.77 mL/g/min, RMSElinear_regression = 0.96 mL/g/min) for predicting MBF from MRI impulse response signal. Classifier based on SVM was optimal for detecting impulse response signals with artefacts (accuracy = 92%). Modified dual bolus MRI signal, combined with machine learning, has potential for accurately estimating MBF at rest and stress states, even from signals with dark rim artefacts. This could provide a protocol for reliable and easy estimation of MBF, although further research is needed to clinically validate the approach.
The Psychosocial Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Youth Living with HIV in Western Kenya
Authors: Dyer Jessica , Wilson Kate , Badia Jacinta , Agot Kawango , Neary Jillian , Njuguna Irene , Kibugi James , Healy Elise , Beima-Sofie Kristin , John-Stewart Grace , Kohler Pamela
Published: August 2020

The objective of this study was to assess psychosocial effects of COVID-19 among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in Kenya and to assess the feasibility of conducting behavioral surveys by phone. We adapted our protocol to administer telephone rather than in-person follow-up surveys and included questions about COVID-19. The majority of participants (99%) reported having heard of COVID-19; 23% reported no longer being able to go outside, 17% reported that they could no longer go to their regular clinic for medical care, and 3% reported that they could no longer get medication refills. PHQ-9 screening identified 9% (n = 45) with mild depression symptoms, and 1% (n = 3) with moderate-to-severe depression symptoms. Young adults 20–24 years old had more mild to severe depressive symptoms than the younger age groups (p < 0.001). Offering remote peer-support or mental health care, continuing to offer differentiated care services, and considering financial support will support the health and well-being of ALHIV.
Using occupancy models to assess the direct and indirect impacts of agricultural expansion on species’ populations
Authors: Semper-Pascual Asunción , Decarre Julieta , Baumann Matthias , Camino Micaela , Di Blanco Yamil , Gómez-Valencia Bibiana , Kuemmerle Tobias
Published: August 2020

Land-use change is a global threat to biodiversity, but how land-use change affects species beyond the direct effect of habitat loss remains poorly understood. We developed an approach to isolate and map the direct and indirect effects of agricultural expansion on species of conservation concern, using the threatened giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) in the Gran Chaco as an example. We reconstructed anteater occupancy change between 1985 and 2015 by fitting single-season occupancy models with contemporary camera-trap data and backcasting the models to 1985 and 2000 land-cover/use maps. Based on this, we compared the area of forest loss (direct effect of agricultural expansion) with the area where forests remained but occupancy still declined (indirect effect of agricultural expansion). Anteater occupancy decreased substantially since 1985, particularly after 2000 when agriculture expanded rapidly. Between 1985 and 2015, ~ 64,000 km2of forest disappeared, yet occupancy declined across a larger area (~ 102,000 km2), extending far into seemingly untransformed habitat. This suggests that widespread sink habitat has emerged due to agricultural land-use change, and that species may lose their habitat through direct and indirect effects of agricultural expansion, highlighting the urgent need for broad-scale conservation planning in the Chaco. Appropriate management responses could proactively protect more habitat where populations are stable, and restore habitat or address causes of mortality in areas where declines occur. Our work also highlights how occupancy modelling combined with remote sensing can help to detect the direct and indirect effects of agricultural expansion, providing guidance for spatially targeting conservation strategies to halt extinctions.
Analyzing non-sentinel axillary metastases in patients with T3–T4 cN0 early breast cancer and tumor-involved sentinel lymph nodes undergoing breast-conserving therapy or mastectomy
Authors: Riedel Fabian , Heil Joerg , Feisst Manuel , Moderow Mareike , von Au Alexandra , Domschke Christoph , Michel Laura , Schaefgen Benedikt , Golatta Michael , Hennigs André
Published: August 2020

Purpose

In the ACOSOG Z0011 trial, completing axillary lymph node dissection (cALND) did not benefit patients with T1–T2 cN0 early breast cancer and 1–2 positive sentinel lymph nodes (SLN) undergoing breast-conserving surgery (BCT). This paper reports cALND rates in the clinical routine for patients who had higher (T3–T4) tumor stages and/or underwent mastectomy but otherwise met the ACOSOG Z0011 eligibility criteria. Aim of this study is to determine cALND time trends and non-sentinel axillary metastases (NSAM) rates to estimate occult axillary tumor burden.

Methods

Data were included from patients treated in 179 German breast cancer centers between 2008 and 2015. Time-trend rates were analyzed for cALND of patients with T3–T4 tumors separated for BCT and mastectomy and regarding presence of axillary macrometastases or micrometastases.

Results

Data were available for 188,909 patients, of whom 19,009 were identified with 1–2 positive SLN. Those 19,009 patients were separated into 4 cohorts: (1) Patients with T1–T2 tumors receiving BCT (ACOSOG Z0011 eligible; n = 13,741), (2) T1–T2 with mastectomy (n = 4093), (3) T3–T4 with BCT (n = 269), (4) T3–T4 with mastectomy (n = 906). Among patients with T3–T4 tumors, cALND rates declined from 2008 to 2015: from 88.2 to 62.6% for patients receiving mastectomy and from 96.6 to 58.1% in patients receiving BCT. Overall rates for any NSAM after cALND for cohorts 1–4 were 33.4%, 42.3%, 46.9%, 58.8%, respectively.

Conclusions

The cALND rates have decreased substantially in routine care in patients with ‘extended’ ACOSOG Z0011 eligibility criteria. Axillary tumor burden is higher in these patients than in the ACOSOG Z0011 trial.
Impact of Motivation on Selected Aspects of Attention in Children with ADHD
Authors: Skalski Sebastian , Pochwatko Grzegorz , Balas Robert
Published: August 2020

Earlier reports showed the co-occurrence of a motivation deficit in children with ADHD. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of extrinsic motivation on selected aspects of attention in children with ADHD, as well as to measure cortical activity and dimensions of motivation as per the self-determination theory. The study included 30 children with ADHD and 30 typically developing (TD) children aged 9–13 years. Children with ADHD exhibited a higher theta/beta power ratio (TBR) in the midline and a lower regional cerebral blood oxygenation (rCBO2) level in prefrontal areas measured using the HEG ratio compared to TD children. Children with ADHD were more likely to undertake activity under the pressure of external stimuli and exhibited attention deficits regarding vigilance, visual search and divided attention. Differences between groups regarding attention decreased in conditions of increased motivation, indicating that motivation can reduce cognitive deficits in children with ADHD.
Underspecification, Parsing Mismatches and Routinisation: The Historical Development of the Clitic Systems of Greek Dialects
Authors: Chatzikyriakidis Stergios
Published: August 2020

In this paper, the historical development of the clitic systems of Standard Modern, Cypriot and Pontic Greek is discussed. These three varieties not only present the whole range of variation one can find across clitic systems in Greek but, furthermore, derive from a common linguistic ancestor, i.e. Koine Greek. This paper argues that the transition from Koine Greek to the Medieval varieties and from the Medieval varieties to the respective modern ones can be explained by making the assumption that routinisation (in the sense of Pickering and Garrod in Behav Brain Sci 27:169–226, 2004) and parsing/hearer assymetries are two important factors behind syntactic change. The claim is that the transition from Koine to the Medieval Greek varieties involves the emergence of a clitic system with encoded syntactic constraints out of a freer one, where clitic positioning was regulated by pragmatic preferences rather than syntactic constraints. Then, the transition to the modern varieties from the respective medieval ones is explained, at least partly, on the assumption that production/parsing mismatches are capable of triggering syntactic change. This last assumption combined with: (a) the tendency to obtain more generalised parsing triggers for parsing the individual clitics and (b) the fact that the Medieval varieties in question differ in minimal but crucial ways, provides us an explanation for the transition to the modern varieties.
A novel design, analysis and 3D printing of Ti-6Al-4V alloy bio-inspired porous femoral stem
Authors: Mehboob Hassan , Tarlochan Faris , Mehboob Ali , Chang Seung-Hwan , Ramesh S. , Harun Wan Sharuzi Wan , Kadirgama Kumaran
Published: August 2020

The current study is proposing a design envelope for porous Ti-6Al-4V alloy femoral stems to survive under fatigue loads. Numerical computational analysis of these stems with a body-centered-cube (BCC) structure is conducted in ABAQUS. Femoral stems without shell and with various outer dense shell thicknesses (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2 mm) and inner cores (porosities of 90, 77, 63, 47, 30, and 18%) are analyzed. A design space (envelope) is derived by using stem stiffnesses close to that of the femur bone, maximum fatigue stresses of 0.3σys in the porous part, and endurance limits of the dense part of the stems. The Soderberg approach is successfully employed to compute the factor of safety Nf > 1.1. Fully porous stems without dense shells are concluded to fail under fatigue load. It is thus safe to use the porous stems with a shell thickness of 1.5 and 2 mm for all porosities (18–90%), 1 mm shell with 18 and 30% porosities, and 0.5 mm shell with 18% porosity. The reduction in stress shielding was achieved by 28%. Porous stems incorporated BCC structures with dense shells and beads were successfully printed.
Vocational Rehabilitation for Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain With or Without a Work Module: An Economic Evaluation
Authors: Reneman Michiel F. , Beemster Timo T. , Welling Sybren J. , Mierau Jochen O. , Dijk Hermien H.
Published: August 2020

Purpose Vocational rehabilitation (VR) is a widely used intervention aimed to optimize work participation for patients on sick leave due to chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP). Economic evaluations of care as usual VR are scarce, and may provide relevant information to guide clinical, reimbursement and policy decisions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term cost-effectiveness and return on investment (ROI) of VR for patients on sick leave due to CMP with an additional work module (VR+) compared to VR without work module, from a societal and employers’ perspective. Methods A retrospective longitudinal cohort study within a Dutch care as usual context was applied. Participants with CMP and decreased work participation originating from seven Dutch rehabilitation centers were included in this study. Participants underwent VR or VR+. Main data sources at baseline and discharge: Quality-adjusted life year (QALY) based on EQ-5D, intervention costs, self-reported productivity and health care utilization. Main analyses cost-effectiveness, including incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and a cost-effectiveness acceptability curve (CEAC); and ROI analyses with use of the human capital method. Results N = 324 participants were analyzed. The results show that VR+ was cost-effective compared to VR: mean cost savings of €820 per 0.012 QALY gained. CEAC suggests probability of VR+ being cost-effective is > 0.91 for thresholds of €20.000 and higher. The mean ROI of VR+ for employers was 38%. Conclusion It was concluded that at discharge, VR+ was cost-effective compared to VR. ROI was positive for employers.
Bi-stability of SUDR+K model of epidemics and test kits applied to COVID-19
Authors: Zlatić Vinko , Barjašić Irena , Kadović Andrea , Štefančić Hrvoje , Gabrielli Andrea
Published: August 2020

Motivated by the many diverse responses of different countries to the COVID-19 emergency, here we develop a toy model of the dependence of the epidemics spreading on the availability of tests for disease. Our model, that we call SUDR+K, grounds on the usual SIR model, with the difference of splitting the total fraction of infected individuals in two components: patients that are still undetected and patients that have been already detected through tests. Moreover, we assume that available tests increase at a constant rate from the beginning of epidemics but are consumed to detect infected individuals. Strikingly, we find a bi-stable behavior between a phase with a giant fraction of infected and a phase with a very small fraction. We show that the separation between these two regimes is governed by a match between the rate of testing and a rate of infection spread at given time. We also show that the existence of two phases does not depend on the mathematical choice of the form of the term describing the rate at which undetected individuals are tested and detected. Presented research implies that a vigorous early testing activity, before the epidemics enters its giant phase, can potentially keep epidemics under control, and that even a very small change of the testing rate around the bi-stable point can determine a fluctuation of the size of the whole epidemics of various orders of magnitude. For the real application of realistic model to ongoing epidemics, we would gladly collaborate with field epidemiologists in order to develop quantitative models of testing process.
Metaphysical explanations and the counterfactual theory of explanation
Authors: Roski Stefan
Published: August 2020

According to an increasingly popular view among philosophers of science, both causal and non-causal explanations can be accounted for by a single theory: the counterfactual theory of explanation. A kind of non-causal explanation that has gained much attention recently but that this theory seems unable to account for are grounding explanations. Reutlinger (Eur J Philos Sci 7(2):239-256, 2017) has argued that, despite these appearances to the contrary, such explanations are covered by his version of the counterfactual theory. His idea is supported by recent work on grounding by Schaffer and Wilson who claim there to be a tight connection between grounding and counterfactual dependence. The present paper evaluates the prospects of the idea. We show that there is only a weak sense in which grounding explanations convey information about counterfactual dependencies, and that this fact cannot plausibly be taken to reveal a distinctive feature that grounding explanations share with other kinds of explanations.
Non-supernaturalism: Linguistic Convention, Metaphysical Claim, or Empirical Matter of Fact?
Authors: Jaksland Rasmus
Published: August 2020

This paper examines our pre-theoretic conception of non-supernaturalism; the thesis that all that exists is natural. It is argued that we intuitively take this thesis to be a substantive, non-dogmatic, empirically justified, not merely contingent truth. However, devicing an interpretation of non-supernaturalism that captures all aspects of this intuition is difficult. Indeed, it is found that this intuition conflates the strong inferential scope of a metaphysical claim with the modest justificatory requirements of an empirical matter of fact. As such, non-supernaturalism, in itspre-theoreticform, contains an internal tension that must be navigated whenever the thesis features in systematic thinking.
HBIM for the preservation of a historic infrastructure: the Carlo III bridge of the Carolino Aqueduct
Authors: Conti Alessandro , Fiorini Lidia , Massaro Rosanna , Santoni Camilla , Tucci Grazia
Published: August 2020

The research on Carlo III bridge in Moiano (Benevento, Italy) has been an opportunity for testing the HBIM methodology to the architectural heritage in terms of not only gathering information but as a design tool. The bridge, almost without previous drawings and documents, was surveyed with an integrated approach using laser scanner, photogrammetry and topography. Data produced a metrically reliable HBIM model, complete with graphical and non-graphical information, to be used in a maintenance and restoration project.
Metallographic investigation of Early Bronze Age armbands from Western Switzerland (ca. 2200–1500 BC): new highlights about early manufacturing processes
Authors: Piccardo Paolo , Vernet Justine , Voland Guillaume , Ghiara Giorgia
Published: August 2020

The Valaisan-type armband (a specific type of bracelet) is a typical metallurgical production from the western area of Switzerland belonging to the classic phase of the Aare-Rhone group (BzA2a, ca. 2000–1800 BC). This investigation aims to (i) characterize the metal composition, (ii) reconstruct the thermomechanical treatments applied during the manufacturing process, and (iii) gather information on the possible exploitation of the local ores coupling metallography and chemical analysis. The results show that each armband is manufactured from a hammered sheet of copper-based alloy, containing either tin (up to 3.0 wt.%) or a combination of antimony, nickel, and silver. In several cases, it is assumed that minor elements are already part of the original ore, suggesting a conscious selection of copper veins. In other armbands, a direct addition of cassiterite (SnO2) to the copper matrix is hypothesized based on the material composition and features of the inclusions. Microstructural features are coherent with a procedure that combines mechanical deformation (with a total deformation degree between 70 and 76%), annealing, and quenching, coherently with more recent productions (Late Bronze Age). The analysis of inclusions, rarely performed during metallographic investigations, provides precious evidences on thermal treatments applied during the manufacturing process and shows that annealing was carried out at low temperatures.
A dynamic, network and resource-based approach to the sustainable business model
Authors: Ujwary-Gil Anna , Potoczek Natalia Regina
Published: August 2020

The network perspective of a business model provides an attractive outlook on the interactions and interdependencies of its components. The network is a “living organism,” it changes constantly and dynamically. Therefore, the key nodes in the network, and their potential loss, may be of vital importance to the network itself. The paper presents the network of relations between the components of a company business model operating in a sector of new technologies – virtual reality – and indicates the prominent and most influential nodes in the network that can affect value creation. The authors analyzed the influence exerted by a key node that has been eliminated from the network on the remaining structure, based on the immediate impact (change analysis), which computes the key nodes of the network and then isolates them individually to determine the effect on measured values. The primary research approach is an organizational network analysis (mostly centrality measures) and a simulation functionality used for determining measures and visualization, before and after changes. The results indicate the level of centrality measures of all nodes in the network (a virtual reality company’s business model), their interdependence, and the dynamics of their change. The paper concludes with implications for theory and practice, limitations, and directions for further research.
Predictors of attrition from a weight loss program. A study of adult patients with obesity in a community setting
Authors: Ponzo Valentina , Scumaci Elena , Goitre Ilaria , Beccuti Guglielmo , Benso Andrea , Belcastro Sara , Crespi Chiara , De Michieli Franco , Pellegrini Marianna , Scuntero Paola , Marzola Enrica , Abbate-Daga Giovanni , Ghigo Ezio , Broglio Fabio , Bo Simona
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Obesity unit attrition is frequent and contributes to treatment failure. Many studies evaluating attrition predictors were part of randomized trials, and different terminology and criteria were used in the engagement field. We aimed to investigate the factors potentially implicated in early (< 12 weeks) and late (> 12 weeks) attrition from an obesity unit in a community setting

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 250 patients with obesity who were followed-up at our obesity unit. Our program included at least 6 meetings in 12 months. Sociodemographic and anthropometric data, and psychometric questionnaires were collected from all participants.

Results

One-hundred thirty-four (53.6%) participants dropped out. Those individuals showed lower BMI, lower overall health status, and increased depression scores. In a multiple regression model, BMI (inversely; OR = 0.90; 95%CI 0.84–0.96) and depression score (directly, OR = 1.05; 1.00–1.10) were associated with attrition risk. Early dropouts (n = 47) had lower weights, smaller waist circumferences and worse mental health scores than late dropouts (n = 87) and more frequently lived alone. When compared to completers, early dropouts had lower weights, BMIs, waist circumferences, overall health and mental status scores, increased depression scores and percentage of individuals living alone. In a multiple regression, lower BMI (OR = 0.83; 0.75–0.92), lower mental status score (OR = 3.17; 1.17–8.59) and living alone (OR = 2.25; 1.02–4.97) were associated with early attrition risk.

Conclusion

Lower BMI and increased depression score were associated with attrition. Early attrition was associated with lower weight, decreased mental well-being, and living alone. Individuals with these characteristics might need tailored approaches to enhance their engagement.

Level of evidence

Level V, retrospective descriptive study.
Side-Effects Causing Hidden Conflicts in Software-Defined Networks
Authors: Danciu Vitalian , Tran Cuong Ngoc
Published: August 2020

The Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architecture facilitates the flexible deployment of network functions by detaching them from network devices to a logically centralized point, the so-called SDN controller, and maintaining a common communication interface between them. While promoting innovation for each side, this architecture also induces a higher chance of conflicts between concurrent control applications compared to existing traditional networks. We have discovered a new type of anomalies that we call hidden conflicts. They appear to occur only due to side-effects of control application’s behaviour and to be independent of and distinct from the class of conflicts between rules present in the network devices. We analyse the SDN interaction primitives susceptible to such disruptions and present experiments supporting our analysis, the result of which indicates the necessity of the knowledge on the control mechanics in detecting hidden conflicts. We present a hidden conflict prediction approach that employs speculative provocation to determine the deployed applications’ behaviour. The observed behaviour can be leveraged to predict undesired network state. Evaluation of our prediction prototype suggests that prediction functions should be integrated into control applications.
Energy acquisition of a small solar UAV using dynamic soaring
Authors: Liu S. , Bai J. , Wang C.
Published: August 2020

Dynamic soaring improves the endurance of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) by obtaining energy from the horizontal wind shear gradient. The use of dynamic soaring in small solar UAVs can mitigate the trade-off between energy capacity and battery weight to achieve continuous all-day flight. The goal of this study is to determine the optimal energy acquisition methods for small solar UAVs using dynamic soaring and to decrease the battery weight to achieve all-day flight. A dynamic soaring UAV model that considers the influence of the wind shear gradient and a solar power energy model are established. The conditions to obtain a closed-loop energy system during daytime and nighttime flights are discussed, and the minimum mass of the energy system required for these conditions is determined. Simulations of single-cycle circular flights and a 72-h continuous flight of a small solar UAV are performed. The analyses and simulation results show that: (1) the combination of dynamic soaring and solar technology significantly reduces the energy consumption and reduces the required battery weight, (2) the flight speed and flight attitude angles have significant effects on the optimal total energy acquisition and (3) wind fields with a large horizontal gradient and strong solar illumination provide energy and load advantages.