bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to cheat the page limit
Authors: Duivesteijn Wouter , Hess Sibylle , Du Xin
Published: February 2020

Every conference imposing a limit on the length of submissions must deal with the problem of page limit cheating: authors tweaking the parameters of the game such that they can squeeze more content into their paper. We claim that this problem is endemic, although we lack the data to formally prove this. Instead, this paper provides a far from exhaustive summary of ways to cheat the page limit, a case study involving the papers accepted for the Research and Applied Data Science tracks at the European Conference on Machine Learning and Principles and Practice of Knowledge Discovery in Databases (ECMLPKDD) 2019, and a discussion of ways for program chairs to tackle this problem. Of the 130 accepted papers in these two ECMLPKDD 2019 tracks, 68 satisfied the page limit; 62 (47.7%) turned out to spill over the page limit, by up to as much as 50%. To misappropriate a phrase from Darrell Huff's “How to Lie with Statistics,” we intend for this paper not to be a manual for swindlers; instead, nefarious paper authors already know these tricks, and honest program chairs must learn them in self‐defense.

This article is categorized under:

Commercial, Legal, and Ethical Issues > Fairness in Data Mining
Graft choice for isolated MPFL reconstruction: gracilis versus semitendinosus
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Trivellas Andromahi , Driessen Arne , Quack Valentin , Tingart Markus , Eschweiler Jörg
Published: February 2020

Introduction

After the first patellar dislocation, most patients report damage of the medio-patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and surgical reconstruction is required. The purpose of this study is to systematically review current evidence and to clarify the role of the gracilis and semitendinosus tendons as graft for isolated MPFL reconstruction.

Materials and methods

The present systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The literature search was conducted in October 2019. All clinical trials using the semitendinosus and/or gracilis tendon grafts for isolated MPFL reconstruction in patients with patellofemoral instability were considered for inclusion. Only articles reporting a minimum of 12-month follow-up were considered. The PEDro score was used for the methodological quality assessment.

Results

Data from 1491 procedures were collected. The mean follow-up was 36.12 months. There was comparability among the patient baseline. All the scores of interests (Kujala, Tegner, Lysholm) and range of motion scored better in the semitendinosus group. Moreover, in favour of the semitendinosus group, a statistically significant reduction of the revision surgeries and re-dislocations were evidenced. Apprehension test and persistent instability sensation found any statistical correlations.

Conclusion

Isolated MPFL reconstruction through semitendinosus tendon graft performed better than the gracilis in selected patients suffering from recurrent patellofemoral instability.
Weak tangent and level sets of Takagi functions
Authors: Yu Han
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we study some properties of Takagi functions and their level sets. We show that for Takagi functions $$T_{a,b}$$Ta,b with parameters a, b such that ab is a root of a Littlewood polynomial, there exist large level sets. As a consequence, we show that for some parameters a, b, the Assouad dimension of graphs of $$T_{a,b}$$Ta,b is strictly larger than their upper box dimension. In particular, we can find weak tangents of those graphs with large Hausdorff dimension, larger than the upper box dimension of the graphs.
A conceptual model for unbiased calculations of invertebrate abundances from freeze core samples
Authors: Huber T. , Hauer C.
Published: February 2020

Freeze coring is a commonly used method for the investigation of the bed sediment fauna of rivers. It is considered to produce quantitative numbers of invertebrate abundance in different depth layers. Calculations of abundance use total volume of the freeze core sample as spatial reference. This definition of sample volume is incorrect. In the present, study freeze core samples are shown to consist of two parts: (1) a cylindrical inner core in which the pore water has turned into ice and (2) all parts of sediment, which protrude from this inner core. Invertebrates are fixed only within the inner core since the protruding parts contain no pores and therefore no invertebrate habitat. In samples from gravel rivers, the protruding parts form a considerable bias, which depends on the size of the core and the coarseness of the sediment. In the present study, total volume of individual core segments varied between 97 and 248% of actual sample volume. The inner core can be measured directly to avoid the bias. The procedure is proposed for future studies to produce unbiased, comparable values of invertebrate abundance and consequently reliable data on vertical distribution.
Exploring Realistic Mathematics Education in a Flipped Classroom Context at the Tertiary Level
Authors: Fredriksen Helge
Published: February 2020

Flipped classroom (FC) pedagogical frameworks have recently gained considerable popularity, especially at secondary school levels. However, there are rich opportunities to explore FC at tertiary levels, but progress on the area requires instructors’ attention to well-designed tasks for students’ collaborative learning. Realistic Mathematics Education (RME) provides a foundation for the development of such tasks. This article advances research on the role of task design in a FC context by considering how RME heuristics may be developed to include the out-of-class phase, where students prepare for in-class work with videos. This adaption, named flipped RME classroom design, is explored through two realizations of such a design with a group of computer engineering students during their first year of studying compulsory mathematics. Thematic analysis of the classroom observations shows that students’ modelling activity in-class is supported by the design of an out-of-class component in combination with teacher guidance of students’ modelling activity.
Aggregates, Formational Emergence, and the Focus on Practice in Stone Artifact Archaeology
Authors: Rezek Zeljko , Holdaway Simon J. , Olszewski Deborah I. , Lin Sam C. , Douglass Matthew , McPherron Shannon P. , Iovita Radu , Braun David R. , Sandgathe Dennis
Published: February 2020

The stone artifact record has been one of the major grounds for investigating our evolution. With the predominant focus on their morphological attributes and technological aspects of manufacture, stone artifacts and their assemblages have been analyzed as explicit measures of past behaviors, adaptations, and population histories. This analytical focus on technological and morphological appearance is one of the characteristics of the conventional approach for constructing inferences from this record. An equally persistent routine involves ascribing the emerged patterns and variability within the archaeological deposits directly to long-term central tendencies in human actions and cultural transmission. Here we re-evaluate this conventional approach. By invoking some of the known concerns and concepts about the formation of archaeological record, we introduce notions of aggregates and formational emergence to expand on the understanding of how artifacts accumulate, what these accumulations represent, and how the patterns and variability among them emerge. To infer behavior that could inform on past lifeways, we further promote a shift in the focus of analysis from the technological and morphological appearance of artifacts and assemblages to the practice of stone use. We argue for a more rigorous and multi-level inferential procedure in modeling behavioral adaptation and evolution.
Operation of a Diamond Cryogenic Detector for Low-Mass Dark Matter Searches
Authors: Canonica L. , Abdelhameed A. H. , Bauer P. , Bento A. , Bertoldo E. , Ferreiro Iachellini N. , Fuchs D. , Hauff D. , Mancuso M. , Petricca F. , Pröbst F. , Rothe J.
Published: February 2020

Despite the multiple and convincing evidence of the existence of dark matter (DM) in our Universe, its detection is one of the most pressing questions in particle physics. As of today, there is no unambiguous hint which could clarify the particle nature of DM. For these reasons, a huge experimental effort is ongoing, trying to realize experiments which can probe the particle properties of DM. In particular, direct search experiments are trying to cover the largest possible mass range, from a few MeVs up to TeVs. Particularly suited for the sub-GeV mass region are detectors containing light nuclei, which are sensitive to the scattering of light DM candidates. Among them, we investigate a carbon-based absorber to explore DM masses down to the MeV region. Thanks to their cryogenic properties (high Debye temperature and long-lived phonon modes), carbon-based materials operated as low temperature calorimeters could reach an energy threshold in the eV range and would allow for the exploration of new parameters of the DM–nucleus cross section. Despite several proposals, the possibility of operating a carbon-based cryogenic detector is yet to be demonstrated. In this contribution, the preliminary results obtained with a diamond absorber operated with a TES temperature sensor will be reported. The potential of such a detector in the current landscape of DM searches will also be illustrated.
Split-and-Merge in Stationary Random Stirring on Lattice Torus
Authors: Ioffe Dmitry , Tóth Bálint
Published: February 2020

We show that in any dimension $$d\ge 1$$

d
≥
1

, the cycle-length process of stationary random stirring (or, random interchange) on the lattice torus converges to the canonical Markovian split-and-merge process with the invariant (and reversible) measure given by the Poisson–Dirichlet law $$\mathsf {PD(1)}$$

PD
(
1
)

, as the size of the system grows to infinity. In the case of transient dimensions, $$d\ge 3$$

d
≥
3

, the problem is motivated by attempts to understand the onset of long range order in quantum Heisenberg models via random loop representations of the latter.
Challenges of unculturable bacteria: environmental perspectives
Authors: Bodor Attila , Bounedjoum Naila , Vincze György Erik , Erdeiné Kis Ágnes , Laczi Krisztián , Bende Gábor , Szilágyi Árpád , Kovács Tamás , Perei Katalin , Rákhely Gábor
Published: February 2020

Environmental biotechnology offers several promising techniques for the rehabilitation of polluted environments. The modern industrialized world presents novel challenges to the environmental sciences, requiring a constant development and deepening of knowledge to enable the characterization of novel pollutants and a better understanding of the bioremediation strategies as well as their limiting factors. The success of bioremediation depends heavily on the survival and activities of indigenous microbial communities and their interaction with introduced microorganisms. The majority of natural microbiomes remain uncultivated; therefore, further investigations focusing on their intrinsic functions in ecosystems are needed. In this review, we aimed to provide (a) a comprehensive overview of the presence of viable but nonculturable bacteria and yet-to-be-cultivated cells in nature and their diverse awakening strategies in response to, among other factors, signalling extracellular metabolites (autoinducers, resuscitation promoting factors, and siderophores); (b) an outline of the trends in isolating unculturable bacteria; and (c) the potential applications of these hidden players in rehabilitation processes.
Numeracy practices and vulnerability in old age: interdependencies and reciprocal effects
Authors: Zeuner Christine , Pabst Antje , Benz-Gydat Melanie
Published: February 2020

In this paper we discuss individual numeracy practices of older people (age cohort 65 and above), concentrating on findings concerning interdependencies of numeracy practices and vulnerability and their reciprocal effects, drawing on first results of a qualitative, explorative study entitled ‘Numeracy as social practice in the course of time’. For this paper, we examine the issue of vulnerability in relation to dimensions such as financial and economic situation, health and social embeddedness. Drawing on the concept of ‘numeracy as social practice’ according to Baker and Street (International encyclopedia of adult education and training, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 1996), we focus on the strategies of older people using numeracy practices and skills to lead independent, self-determined and autonomous lives, to experience individual life satisfaction and to avoid vulnerable situations. The findings, derived from in-depth interviews with the above-mentioned cohort, show that various meanings are attributed to numeracy practices in response to certain requirements and needs concerning personal well-being, as well as anticipating developments such as biographical transitions. We discuss how mathematical knowledge and skills are applied when transformed into individual numeracy practices. Our findings, which demonstrate the creative and meaningful use of numeracy practices according to personal needs, are then discussed within the scope of formal teaching and learning processes in basic adult education.
Photoreduction of Methylviologen in Saponite Clay: Effect of Methylviologen Adsorption Density on the Reaction Efficiency
Authors: Fujimura Takuya , Shimada Tetsuya , Sasai Ryo , Takagi Shinsuke
Published: February 2020

To identify the mechanisms for and to estimate the photochemical reaction efficiency of molecules in solid-state host materials is difficult. The objective of the present research was to measure the photogeneration efficiency of the methylviologen cation radical (MV+•) hosted in a semi-transparent hybrid film composed of MV2+ and saponite, a 2:1 clay mineral. MV+• is the one-electron reduced species of MV2+. MV+• was generated by UV irradiation of these films. The fluorescence intensity of MV2+ and the photogeneration efficiency of MV+• depended on the loading level of MV2+. When the loading level of MV2+ was high (75% of the cation exchange capacity (abbreviated as % CEC) of saponite), its fluorescence was reduced considerably because of the self-fluorescence quenching reaction, and the photogeneration efficiency of MV+• was relatively high (quantum yield φ = 3.5×10–2) compared to that of films with low adsorption density (10% CEC, φ = 1.1×10–2). Furthermore, when the loading level of MV2+ was very low (0.13% CEC), a self-fluorescence quenching reaction was not observed and MV+• was not generated. From these observations, one of the principal mechanisms of the self-quenching reaction and MV+• formation in saponite is the electron transfer reaction between excited MV2+ and adjacent MV2+ molecules in the ground state.
Unique continuation principles in cones under nonzero Neumann boundary conditions
Authors: Dipierro Serena , Felli Veronica , Valdinoci Enrico
Published: February 2020

We consider an elliptic equation in a cone, endowed with (possibly inhomogeneous) Neumann conditions. The operator and the forcing terms can also allow non-Lipschitz singularities at the vertex of the cone.

In this setting, we provide unique continuation results, both in terms of interior and boundary points.

The proof relies on a suitable Almgren-type frequency formula with remainders. As a byproduct, we obtain classification results for blow-up limits.
Feasibility of vessel sealing devices in surgical excision of vascular malformations– novel approach
Authors: Hosny Ahmed Samir , Elmahrouky Ahmed , Balboula Ahmed , Yousry Marwan , Sharkawy M.
Published: February 2020

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Vascular malformations are localized defects in vascular morphogenesis that are believed to be caused by dysfunction in embryogenesis and vasculogenesis. However, with the development of new vessel sealing devices, surgical removal of the vascular malformations can be safely undertaken. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of vessel sealing devices in the complete excision of vascular malformations.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed medical records of all patients with vascular malformation who underwent a surgical excision of vascular malformations at our institution from January 2015 to June 2018. All patients were followed up after 1 week; 1, 3, 6 months; and 1 year.

Results:

We assessed 14 patients with vascular malformation (median age, 21 years; malformation: arteriovenous, n = 5; venous, n = 7; lymphatic, n = 1; and combined, n = 1). These vascular malformations were localized in the right lower (n = 5) and left upper (n = 3) limbs, right upper limb (n = 2), head and neck (n = 3), and chest wall (n = 1). Using vessel sealing instruments, the nidus in AVM was excised, and complete excision of vascular malformations was achieved without depriving the skin of dermal blood supply. One patient died three weeks later due to secondary hemorrhage. Complication related to gangrenous skin over the patella was healed by vacuum-assisted closure therapy. Post-excision MRI after 18 months suggested recurrence in one patient.

Conclusion:

The use of vessel sealing devices was found to be feasible, for surgical excision of vascular malformations. However, further evidence from larger studies, prefereably randomized controlled trials, is required to support the routine use of these devices.

Highlights:
Reduction of Arterial Oxygen Saturation Among Rescuers During Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in a Hypobaric Hypoxic Environment
Authors: Suto Takashi , Saito Shigeru , Tobe Masaru , Kanamoto Masafumi , Matsui Yusuke
Published: February 2020

We experienced a case involving prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during cardiac arrest on Mt. Fuji (3776 m), demanding lengthy exertion by the rescuers performing CPR. Considering the effects of exertion on the rescuers, we examined their percutaneous arterial oxygen saturation during simulated CPR and compared the effects of compression-only and conventional CPR at 3700 m above sea level. The effects of CPR on the physical condition of rescuers were examined at the summit of Mt. Fuji: three rescue staff equipped with pulse-oximeters performed CPR with or without breaths using a CPR mannequin. At 3700 m, the rescuers’ heart rate increased during CPR regardless of the presence or absence of rescue breathing. Percutaneous arterial oxygen saturation measured in such an environment was reduced only when CPR without rescue breathing was performed. Scores on the Borg scale, a subjective score of fatigue, after CPR in a 3700 m environment were 13 to 15 of 20 (somewhat hard to hard). Performing CPR at high altitude exerts a significant physical effect upon the condition of rescuers. Compression-only CPR at high altitude may cause a deterioration in rescuer oxygenation, whereas CPR with rescue breathing might ameliorate such deterioration.
On the virtual automorphism group of a minimal flow
Authors: AUSLANDER JOSEPH , GLASNER ELI
Published: February 2020

We introduce the notions ‘virtual automorphism group’ of a minimal flow and ‘semiregular flow’ and investigate the relationship between the virtual and actual group of automorphisms.
General three-dimensional equilibria for gravitating ideal magnetohydrodynamics of field-aligned steady incompressible flows with an application to solar prominences
Authors: Moawad S. M.
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates the motion of three-dimensional ideal magnetohydrodynamics with incompressible flows. The governing equation is performed at steady state, with the magnetic field parallel to the plasma flow. The equations of stationary equilibrium are derived and described mathematically in Cartesian space. Two approaches for derivation of general three-dimensional solutions for Alfvénic and non-Alfvénic flows at constant and variable fluid densities are constructed. The general vector and scalar potentials of the velocity field are used to derive general formulas of general three-dimensional solutions for Alfvénic and non-Alfvénic flows. To verify the general results we have obtained, some examples are presented. An application that may be of interest for coronal loops and solar prominences is presented.
On the Squeezing of the Middle Class: Overview and Prospects for the EU-15
Authors: Salido Olga , Carabaña Julio
Published: February 2020

This article was inspired by Atkinson and Brandolini’s work on the economic middle classes and deals with the evolution of the income share of the middle class compared with that of the extreme classes in the EU-15 (the EU’s first 15 member states) over the last two decades. Our research draws on the paradox of the EU officially assuming dominant ideas about rising inequalities and the squeezing of middle-class income produced by globalization and technological change while at the same time producing and disseminating empirical evidence contrary to this view. We first synthesize this evidence, also contributing some additional analyses of Eurostat data, confirming that the income share of the middle class has not changed in the past two decades, as could be expected from the invariance in income inequality. We finally put forward some considerations about the theoretical implications of these empirical results and the interaction between ideas and empirical evidence in political societies and organizations.
Crustal and Upper Mantle Shear Wave Velocity Structure of Botswana: The 3 April 2017 Central Botswana Earthquake Linked to the East African Rift System
Authors: Fadel Islam , Paulssen Hanneke , van der Meijde Mark , Kwadiba Motsamai , Ntibinyane Onkgopotse , Nyblade Andrew , Durrheim Raymond
Published: February 2020

Rayleigh wave group and phase velocity measurements obtained from ambient noise and earthquake data at 51 broadband stations were used to construct the first 3‐D crustal and upper mantle shear wave velocity model of Botswana. The model shows low crustal velocities associated with the Passarge and Nosop sedimentary basins, whereas the Kaapvaal, Zimbabwe, Maltahohe, and Congo Cratons are recognized by high mantle velocities. The lowest upper mantle shear wave velocity, beneath northeastern Botswana, is associated with the southwestern branch of the East African Rift System. This low‐velocity mantle anomaly appears to be linked to the crust of the Okavango Rift Zone and the location of the 3 April 2017
6.5 earthquake in central Botswana. We suggest that fluids or melt at the base of the crust from the southward continuation of the East African Rift Zone triggered the intraplate earthquake in an extensional tectonic setting.
Silicate Melting and Vaporization During Rocky Planet Formation
Authors: Davies E. J. , Carter P. J. , Root S. , Kraus R. G. , Spaulding D. K. , Stewart S. T. , Jacobsen S. B.
Published: February 2020

Collisions that induce melting and vaporization can have a substantial effect on the thermal and geochemical evolution of planets. However, the thermodynamics of major minerals are not well known at the extreme conditions attained during planet formation. We obtained new data at the Sandia Z Machine and use published thermodynamic data for the major mineral forsterite (Mg
SiO
) to calculate the specific entropy in the liquid region of the principal Hugoniot. We use our calculated specific entropy of shocked forsterite, and revised entropies for shocked silica, to determine the critical impact velocities for melting or vaporization upon decompression from the shocked state to 1 bar and the triple points, which are near the pressures of the solar nebula. We also demonstrate the importance of the initial temperature on the criteria for vaporization. Applying these results to
‐body simulations of terrestrial planet formation, we find that up to 20% to 40% of the total system mass is processed through collisions with velocities that exceed the criteria for incipient vaporization at the triple point. Vaporizing collisions between small bodies are an important component of terrestrial planet formation.
Overview and detectability of the genetic modifications in ornamental plants
Authors: Boutigny Anne-Laure , Dohin Nicolas , Pornin David , Rolland Mathieu
Published: February 2020

The market of ornamental plants is extremely competitive, and for many species genetic engineering can be used to introduce original traits of high commercial interest. However, very few genetically modified (GM) ornamental varieties have reached the market so far. Indeed, the authorization process required for such plants has a strong impact on the profitability of the development of such products. Considering the numerous scientific studies using genetic modification on ornamental species of interest, a lot of transformed material has been produced, could be of commercial interest and could therefore be unintentionally released on the market. The unintentional use of GM petunia in breeding programs has indeed recently been observed. This review lists scientific publications using GM ornamental plants and tries to identify whether these plants could be detected by molecular biology tools commonly used by control laboratories.
Improved SERS activity of non-stoichiometric copper sulfide nanostructures related to charge-transfer resonance
Authors: Chen Menglei , Li Ke , Luo Yuanyuan , Shi Jianping , Weng Chaocang , Gao Lei , Duan Guotao
Published: February 2020

Non-stoichiometric CuS improves the SERS activity of copper sulfide-based samples in the detection of R6G molecules due to charge transfer resonance.
A ratiometric electrochemical sensor for lead ions based on bismuth film coated porous silicon nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Lei , Cui Xin , Yue Xiangguo , Yu Zhenguo
Published: February 2020

A ratiometric electrochemical sensor for the detection of lead ions was developed based on porous silicon nanoparticles with in situ plated bismuth to improve the accuracy and reliability.
Sec-O-glucosylhamaudol suppressed inflammatory reaction induced by LPS in RAW264.7 cells through inhibition of NF-κB and MAPKs signaling
Authors: Liu Guiming , Xie Jing , Shi Yurui , Chen Rongda , Li Li , Wang Mengxue , Zheng Meizhu , Xu Jiaming
Published: February 2020

As a major bioactive compound from the Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk, sec-O-glucosylhamaudol (SOG), has been reported to have anti-nociceptive activity and high 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) activity. Nevertheless, the mechanism of the potential anti-inflammatory effects of SOG is unclear. The anti-inflammatory impacts of SOG in RAW 264.7 cell lines stimulated by LPS were explored in the present study. It was found that SOG dose-dependently reduced the emergence of inflammation cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α in Raw264.7 murine macrophages stimulated by LPS. Real-time PCR assay demonstrated the SOG dose-dependently inhibited transcription of these cytokines as well. In addition, it was also found that NF-κB activation and MAPKs phosphorylation including p38, JNK and ERK1/2 induced by LPS were suppressed by SOG. Due to its anti-inflammatory activity, our results suggest that SOG might have therapeutic effects on inflammatory disease, such as acute lung injury or rheumatoid arthritis.
Dual‐band balanced‐to‐single‐ended crossover based on composite right‐ and left‐handed transmission lines
Authors: Bayat M. , Shahi H. , Mazloum J.
Published: February 2020

This Letter presents a balanced‐to‐single‐ended (BS) crossover for dual‐band applications by using two rings included of composite right‐ and left‐handed (CRLH) transmission lines (TLs) with controllable frequency ratio feature. Two dumbbell defected ground structures (DGSs) are employed through balanced TLs to suppress out‐of‐band common‐mode. Theoretical analysis expresses that the frequency ratio can be controlled by suitable selecting of the element values and the number of designing cells of the CRLH TLs. Furthermore, desired impedances and electrical lengths of DGSs are obtained at the frequency of common‐mode rejection by using even‐ and odd‐mode analyses. To validate the proposed structure, a dual‐band BS crossover operating at 1.8 and 4.2 GHz is fabricated. Measurement results show that the fabricated proposed structure has good performance at the designed frequency bands.
H∞ filtering for multi‐rate multi‐sensor systems with randomly occurring sensor saturations under the p ‐persistent CSMA protocol
Authors: Shen Yuxuan , Wang Zidong , Shen Bo , Alsaadi Fuad E.
Published: February 2020

In this study, the filtering problem is studied for a class of discrete networked multi‐rate multi‐sensor systems with randomly occurring sensor saturations under the p ‐persistent carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) protocol. A set of mutually independent Bernoulli distributed white sequences is introduced to characterise the random occurrence of the sensor saturations. The p ‐persistent CSMA protocol is employed to decide which sensor is allowed to transmit its measurement to the filter at a certain time instant. By using the lifting technique, the multi‐rate system is converted to a single‐rate one for convenient analysis. The main purpose of the addressed problem is to design an filter such that the filtering error dynamics is exponentially mean‐square stable and the performance requirement is satisfied simultaneously. Sufficient conditions are established on the existence of the desired filters and the corresponding filter gains are then characterised by resorting to the feasibility of certain matrix inequalities. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed filtering scheme.
Analysis and design of L + LCL‐filtered dual‐frequency single‐phase grid‐connected inverter
Authors: Yang Liyong , He Xiaojuan , Chang Aoyu , Liu Shuo
Published: February 2020

To increase the efficiency of the grid‐connected inverter, this study proposes an L + LCL‐filtered dual‐frequency single‐phase grid‐connected inverter. The proposed inverter consists of the low‐frequency unit and high‐frequency unit. The low‐frequency unit transmits power to the grid at the low switching frequency. The high‐frequency unit uses the feed‐forward method to eliminate grid switching current ripples without current harmonics detection. The passive damping LCL filter is used to attenuate high‐frequency unit switching harmonics. The operation principle of the proposed inverter is analysed, and the parameter design method of the inverter is introduced. An experimental prototype is built to test the performances of the inverter. Simulation and experimental results show that the grid current harmonics are effectively suppressed, and the efficiency of the proposed inverter can be higher than that of the L‐type inverter and LCL‐type inverter.
Ionospheric total electron content of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Authors: Hajra Rajkumar , Henri Pierre , Vallières Xavier , Galand Marina , Rubin Martin , Tsurutani Bruce T. , Gilet Nicolas , Bucciantini Luca , Nemeth Zoltan
Published: February 2020

We study the evolution of a cometary ionosphere, using approximately two years of plasma measurements by the Mutual Impedance Probe on board the Rosetta spacecraft monitoring comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko (67P) during August 2014–September 2016. The in situ plasma density measurements are utilized to estimate the altitude-integrated electron number density or cometary ionospheric total electron content (TEC) of 67P based on the assumption of radially expanding plasma. The TEC is shown to increase with decreasing heliocentric distance (rh) of the comet, reaching a peak value of ~(133 ± 84) × 109cm−2averaged around perihelion (rh< 1.5 au). At large heliocentric distances (rh> 2.5 au), the TEC decreases by ~2 orders of magnitude. For the same heliocentric distance, TEC values are found to be significantly larger during the post-perihelion periods compared to the pre-perihelion TEC values. This “ionospheric hysteresis effect” is more prominent in the southern hemisphere of the comet and at large heliocentric distances. A significant hemispheric asymmetry is observed during perihelion with approximately two times larger TEC values in the northern hemisphere compared to the southern hemisphere. The asymmetry is reversed and stronger during post-perihelion (rh> 1.5 au) periods with approximately three times larger TEC values in the southern hemisphere compared to the northern hemisphere. Hemispheric asymmetry was less prominent during the pre-perihelion intervals. The correlation of the cometary TEC with the incident solar ionizing fluxes is maximum around and slightly after perihelion (1.5 au <rh< 2 au), while it significantly decreases at larger heliocentric distances (rh> 2.5 au) where the photo-ionization contribution to the TEC variability decreases. The results are discussed based on cometary ionospheric production and loss processes.
The diversity of active microbial groups in an activated sludge process treating painting process wastewater
Authors: Ariesyady Herto Dwi , Mayanda Mentari Rizki , Ito Tsukasa
Published: February 2020

Activated sludge process is one of the wastewater treatment method that is applied for many wastewater types including painting process wastewater of automotive industry. This wastewater is well-known to have high heavy metals concentration which could deteriorate water environment if appropriate performance of the wastewater treatment could not be achieved. In this study, we monitored microbial community diversity in a Painting Biological Treatment (PBT) system. We applied a combination of cultivation and genotypic biological methods based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis to identify the diversity of active microbial community. The results showed that active microbes that could grow in this activated sludge system were dominated by Gram-negative bacteria. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis, it was revealed that their microbial diversity has close association with Bacterium strain E286, Isosphaera pallida, Lycinibacillus fusiformis, Microbacterium sp., Orchobactrum sp., Pseudomonas guariconensis, Pseudomonas sp. strain MR84, Pseudomonas sp. MC 54, Serpens sp., Stenotrophomonas acidaminiphila, and Xylella fastidiosa with similarity of 86 – 99%. This findings reflects that microbial community in a Painting Biological Treatment (PBT) system using activated sludge process could adapt with xenobiotics in the wastewater and has a wide range of diversity indicating a complex metabolism mechanism in the treatment process.
Entwicklungen in der Analyse von Tumorheterogenität in computertomografischen Aufnahmen
Authors: Steinacker Jochen
Published: February 2020

Lange beschränkte sich die bildmorphologische Beurteilung von Tumoren auf deren Größe einschließlich der Größendynamik, das Kontrastierungsmuster sowie deren visuell fassbarem Verhalten zum umliegenden Gewebe. In der letzten Dekade rückten zunehmend weitere Aspekte der Bildauswertung von in der klinischen Routine angefertigten Bilddatensätzen in den Fokus, welche dank stetig steigender Prozessorleistung und entsprechend neuer Anwendungsmöglichkeiten erstmals in größerem Umfang analysiert werden konnten. Begriffe wie Tumorheterogenität, „Machine Learning“ und „Big Data“ fanden sich immer häufiger in den Überschriften der Publikationen. Es ist gemeinhin anerkannt, dass Tumoren biologisch in der überwiegenden Zahl der Fälle keine homogene Masse darstellen, sondern sowohl auf makroskopischer als auch auf mikroskopischer und genetischer Ebene heterogene Gewebe darstellen. Diese histopathologischen und immunhistochemischen Erkenntnisse mit Tumorarealen unterschiedlicher Zelldichte, Angioneogenese und nekrotischen Anteilen sollten ein entsprechend quantifizierbares Korrelat in den bildgebenden Verfahren aufweisen. Die Heterogenitätsanalyse von Geweben in computertomografischen Datensätzen findet entsprechend in der Onkologie ein breites Anwendungsspektrum, aber auch nicht maligne Erkrankungen stellen einen möglichen Anwendungsbereich für diese Art der Bilddatenauswertung dar. Der nachfolgende Artikel soll eine Übersicht über bereits erfolgte Auswertungen von CT-Datensätzen bei verschiedenen Tumorentitäten und nichtonkologischen Fragestellungen liefern und die Herausforderungen für die weitere Anwendung von Heterogenitätsanalysen aufzeigen.

Ein wichtiges Ziel stellt hierbei die Identifikation von möglichen bildgebenden Biomarkern zur Therapieresponseevaluation dar, um mit entsprechenden Rückschlüssen die Fortführung oder Umstellung der therapeutischen Maßnahmen zu untermauern.
Bildgebende Diagnostik zur Therapieplanung bei Lip- und Lymphödem
Authors: Zetzmann Katharina , Ludolph Ingo , Horch Raymund E , Boos Anja Miriam
Published: February 2020

Das Lipödem ist eine progrediente Erkrankung, die immer mehr Frauen betrifft und zunehmend bewusster als Krankheit wahrgenommen wird. Sie ist gekennzeichnet durch eine Umfangsvermehrung durch Fettgewebsvermehrung der Extremitäten und kann im Verlauf zu Ödemen führen. Im Gegensatz dazu ist das Lymphödem durch eine umschriebene Lymphabflussstörung definiert, die zur Bindegewebsfibrose des umliegenden Gewebes führen kann. Während das Lipödem als klinische Diagnose gesichert werden kann und eine bildgebende Diagnostik meist nur zum Ausschluss von Begleiterkrankungen eingesetzt werden kann, gibt es bei einem Lymphödem die Möglichkeit zur Darstellung einer Lymphabflussstörung durch bildgebende Verfahren. Eine Ultraschalluntersuchung ist als Basisdiagnostik zur Darstellung der eingelagerten interstitiellen Flüssigkeit sowohl beim Lip- als auch Lymphödem indiziert. Der Goldstandard zur Darstellung einer Lymphabflussstörung ist die Lymphszintigrafie, die auch in Kombination mit einer Computertomografie durchgeführt werden kann. Eine weitere dynamische Untersuchung ist die Indocyaningrün (ICG)-Lymphografie, deren Durchführung immer mehr an Bedeutung gewinnt, weil sie auch intraoperativ genutzt werden kann. Eine Magnetresonanz (MR)-Lymphografie zur 3-dimensionalen Darstellung eines Lymphödems und einer Lymphabflussstörung kann eine sinnvolle Ergänzung zur Therapie eines Lip- bzw. Lymphödems sein. Zur Therapie des Lip- und Lymphödems sollte stets eine Kombination aus konservativen und operativen Maßnahmen angestrebt werden. Während die Liposuktion und andere resezierende Verfahren Möglichkeiten zur Beschwerdelinderung bei bestehendem Lipödem oder fortgeschrittenem Lymphödem bieten, stellen die neuen rekonstruktiven Verfahren, wie beispielsweise die Lymphknotentransplantation und die Schaffung von lymphovenösen Anastomosen, vielversprechende, moderne Methoden zur Behandlung eines Lymphödems dar. Durch die Schaffung neuer Lymphabflusswege können Patienten mit einem Lymphödem auf eine langfristige Volumenreduktion der betroffenen Extremität oder Körperstelle und der damit verbundenen Symptomlinderung und Verbesserung der Lebensqualität hoffen.
A Single-Center Experience of Osteosynthesis Material Infection after Rib Fixation for Blunt Trauma
Authors: Agrafiotis Apostolos C. , Etienne Harry , Le Roux Marielle , Mazzoni Lucia , Giol Mihaela , Debrosse Denis , Assouad Jalal
Published: February 2020

Introduction There is no data regarding the incidence and treatment of deep infection affecting the surgical implants after rib fixation. The aim of this study is to share our experience in the management of infected material after surgical rib fixation.

Methods The medical records of operated patients from January 2012 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results Three patients out of 87 (3.44%) developed an infection. One patient was treated conservatively and two patients were operated for hardware removal.

Conclusions The lack of evidence prompts for the design of surgical databases to share experience and enhance available data.
Hypothyroidism and the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Wei Wei-Ting , Liu Peter Pin-Sung , Lin Shu-Man , Peng Carol Chiung-Hui , Wang Jen-Hung , Huang Huei-Kai , Loh Ching-Hui
Published: February 2020

Background Previous studies have shown that hypothyroidism may have an impact on blood coagulation. However, how hypothyroidism and thyroxine replacement therapy (TRT) affect the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains controversial. This study aimed to examine the associations of hypothyroidism and TRT with VTE risks.

Materials and Methods This nationwide population-based cohort study was conducted using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. We enrolled 10,818 hypothyroid patients (the exposed cohort) and 21,636 non-hypothyroid subjects (the unexposed cohort) between 2001 and 2014 after 1:2 exact matching according to age, sex, and index year. Hypothyroid patients were further divided into two groups depending on whether they received TRT or not. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for VTE were calculated using Fine and Gray competing risk models.

Results The mean follow-up period was 7.5 years. Hypothyroidism was significantly associated with a higher risk of VTE (aHR = 1.83 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44–2.33, p < 0.001]). Among hypothyroid patients, the TRT subgroup had a non-significant trend of lower VTE risk than the non-TRT subgroup (aHR = 0.73 [95% CI: 0.52–1.01, p = 0.058]). The analysis for individual events revealed a significant association between TRT use and a lower risk of pulmonary embolism among hypothyroid patients (aHR = 0.34 [95% CI: 0.13–0.88, p = 0.026]).

Conclusion The data suggest that hypothyroidism was significantly associated with an increased risk of VTE. Among hypothyroid patients, a non-significant trend of lower VTE risk in patients treated with TRT was observed. Further prospective studies or clinical trials are necessary to confirm causality.
A broad acoustic bandwidth helps listeners understand fragmented speech
Authors: Berkowitz Rachel
Published: February 2020

High-frequency audibility is critical for understanding speech in crowded social settings.
The genus
Garcinia
L. - genetic resources diversity and utilization.
Authors: Guedje N. M.
Published: February 2020

The Clusiaceae family is widespread in tropical regions and includes 27 genera, among which is the genus
Garcinia
Lin.
Garcinia
species have multiple applications in traditional and industrial fields. Although these species are gaining much attention worldwide due to their traditional uses and potential bioactivities, such information, usually scattered in diverse literature or other unpublished sources, is not easily accessible to give a comprehensive picture of the value in use of this genus. The current review aims to summarize the main
Garcinia
genus diversity traits and to produce an indicative checklist of the species utilization. Of the approximate 418
Garcinia
species with accepted species names according to the online working list of all plant species (The Plant List) database (accessed until October 2019), a total of 60 (14.4%) species recorded with accepted scientific names were widely used in many regions or countries worldwide for multipurpose aims. The use categories include building and equipment material, colouring, cosmetic, ecosystem service, fodder, food product, industrial raw material, latex, medicine, miscellaneous products, spice and condiment, veterinary medicine and wood. Almost every plant part was found to be useful in these different use categories. There is an increased demand for plant-derived natural products worldwide. The checklist of useful species hereby provided is a starting point for deep knowledge of the genus potential. As essential prerequisites for a better planning of sustainable resource utilization, such knowledge has a direct bearing in attempts to promote the most useful species as raw material for plant-based products in industrial sectors such as food, cosmetic or pharmaceutical. This assumes a thorough assessment and selection of the most important and widely used
Garcinia
species for further development such as bio-essays or clinical tests, specification establishments for official compendia, pharmacopoeias or formularies.
A Lifespan fMRI Study of Neurodevelopment Associated with Reading Chinese
Authors: Siok Wai Ting , Jia Fanlu , Liu Chun Yin , Perfetti Charles A , Tan Li Hai
Published: February 2020

We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to map the neural systems involved in reading Chinese in 125 participants 6–74 years old to examine two theoretical issues: how brain structure and function are related in the context of the lifetime neural development of human cognition and whether the neural network for reading is universal or different across languages. Our findings showed that a common network of left frontal and occipital regions typically involved in reading Chinese was recruited across all participants. Crucially, activation in left mid-inferior frontal regions, fusiform and striate–extrastriate sites, premotor cortex, right inferior frontal gyrus, bilateral insula, and supplementary motor area all showed linearly decreasing changes with age. These findings differ from previous findings on alphabetic reading development and suggest that early readers at age 6–7 are already using the same cortical network to process printed words as adults, though the connections among these regions are modulated by reading proficiency, and cortical regions for reading are tuned by experience toward reduced and more focused activation. This fMRI study has demonstrated, for the first time, the neurodevelopment of reading across the lifespan and suggests that learning experience, instead of pre-existing brain structures, determines reading acquisition.
National Policy for Carbapenem-ResistantEnterobacteriaceae(CRE) Clearance and Discontinuation of Contact Precautions for CRE Carriers in Post–Acute Care Hospitals in Israel: Impact on Isolation-Days and New Acquisitions
Authors: Ben-David Debby , Masarwa Samira , Fallach Noga , Temkin Elizabeth , Solter Ester , Carmeli Yehuda , Schwaber Mitchell J ,   Israel Long-term Care Facility (LTCF) CRE Working Group, Laxer Irit , Pankin Marianna , Kental Sigalit , Zuderiants Ekaterina , Zaigraykin Natalia , Mattar Matanis Rihan , Karpechenka Irina , Shimonov Angela , Friedman Gideon , Landau Tzvi , Frodin Evgeny , Kunin Yanina , Sharhiya Samer , Glam Nili , Mendelson Gad , Zheleznyak Svetlana , Yehuda Nava , Ciobotaro Pnina , Gershkovich Polina , Yosef Hana , Atun Moria , Dar Meytal , Davidovitch Yosef , Aidinov Elena , Ben-Aroya Nurit , Or Ilana , Berg Yana , Matron Marina , Mishiev Ruth , Kogan Evgeni , Tzabari Ahuva , Boguslavsky Tania , Nissan Sarit , Granot Ester
Published: February 2020

Background

In 2009, the Israeli Ministry of Health implemented in post–acute care hospitals (PACHs) a process of discontinuing carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) carrier status. We evaluated the policy’s impact on isolation-days, CRE prevalence among known carriers who had completed clearance testing, and CRE acquisition among noncarriers.

Methods

This retrospective study summarized findings from all 15 PACHs in 2009–2017. CRE carriers were considered cleared and removed from contact isolation after 2 rectal cultures negative for CRE and polymerase chain reaction negative for carbapenemases. Data sources included routine surveillance and 4 point prevalence surveys conducted from 2011 to 2017.

Results

During the study period, 887 of 6101 CRE carriers (14.5%) completed clearance testing. From 2013 to 2016, the percentage of patient-days in CRE isolation decreased from 9.4% to 3.9% (P = .008). In all surveys combined, there were 819 known CRE carriers; 411 (50%) had completed clearance testing. Of these, 11.4% (47/411) were CRE positive in the survey. At the ward level, the median percentage of patients with no CRE history who were positive on survey decreased from 11.3% in 2011 to 0% in 2017 (P < .001). We found no ward-level correlation between the proportion of carriers who completed clearance and new acquisitions (ρ = 0.02, P = .86).

Conclusions

A process for discontinuing CRE carrier status in PACHs led to a significant reduction in the percentage of patient-days in contact isolation without increasing CRE acquisitions among noncarriers.