bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization Design of Rail Station Signal Monitoring System Based on Role Autonomous Decentralized System
Authors: Yuan Tengfei , Shi Tongguang , Shen Tuo , Ren Guangxian
Published: February 2021

Online-expansion, online maintenance and fault tolerance are vital functions of rail signal monitoring system, which can guarantee the system always in working status and satisfy the sustainable development of rail transit. Due to the limitations of traditional centralized system structure, it is necessary to optimize the design of rail station signal monitoring system to make the system possess these functions. In this research, the novel concept of Role on Autonomous Decentralized System (RoADS) is adopted to optimize the design of rail signal monitoring system. On the one hand, RoADS has the characteristic of role dynamic conversion which is essential to realize the special function of online-expansion, online maintenance and fault tolerance. On the other hand, RoADS also can support the basic function of data collection. In order to verify the validity of the proposed method, a case study has been performed on ZPW-2000 track circuit monitoring system which is the subsystem of rail signal system mainly responsible to monitor the track circuit. The results clearly indicate that the optimized system based on RoADS can not only realize the function of data collection, but also possess the function of online-expansion, online maintenance and fault tolerance. Consequently, the proposed method based on RoADS can improve the safety level of rail transit and reduce the cost operation which is of great significance for maintaining the sustainable urban development of rail transit.
DECOMPOSITION FORMULA FOR ROUGH VOLTERRA STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY MODELS
Authors: MERINO RAÚL , POSPÍŠIL JAN , SOBOTKA TOMÁŠ , SOTTINEN TOMMI , VIVES JOSEP
Published: February 2021

The research presented in this paper provides an alternative option pricing approach for a class of rough fractional stochastic volatility models. These models are increasingly popular between academics and practitioners due to their surprising consistency with financial markets. However, they bring several challenges alongside. Most noticeably, even simple nonlinear financial derivatives as vanilla European options are typically priced by means of Monte–Carlo (MC) simulations which are more computationally demanding than similar MC schemes for standard stochastic volatility models. In this paper, we provide a proof of the prediction law for general Gaussian Volterra processes. The prediction law is then utilized to obtain an adapted projection of the future squared volatility — a cornerstone of the proposed pricing approximation. Firstly, a decomposition formula for European option prices under general Volterra volatility models is introduced. Then we focus on particular models with rough fractional volatility and we derive an explicit semi-closed approximation formula. Numerical properties of the approximation for a popular model — the rBergomi model — are studied and we propose a hybrid calibration scheme which combines the approximation formula alongside MC simulations. This scheme can significantly speed up the calibration to financial markets as illustrated on a set of AAPL options.
Number of rational points of elliptic curves
Authors: Ďuriš Viliam , Šumný Timotej
Published: February 2021

In the modern theory of elliptic curves, one of the important problems is the determination of the number of rational points on an elliptic curve. The Mordel–Weil theorem [T. Shioda, On the Mordell–Weil lattices, Comment. Math. University St. Paul. 39(2) (1990) 211–240] points out that the elliptic curve defined above the rational points is generated by a finite group. Despite the knowledge that an elliptic curve has a final number of rational points, it is still difficult to determine their number and the way how to determine them. The greatest progress was achieved by Birch and Swinnerton–Dyer conjecture, which was included in the Millennium Prize Problems [A. Wiles, The Birch and Swinnerton–Dyer conjecture, The Millennium Prize Problems (American Mathematical Society, 2006), pp. 31–44]. This conjecture uses methods of the analytical theory of numbers, while the current knowledge corresponds to the assumptions of the conjecture but has not been proven to date. In this paper, we focus on using a tangent line and the osculating circle for characterizing the rational points of the elliptical curve, which is the greatest benefit of the contribution. We use a different view of elliptic curves by using Minkowki’s theory of number geometry [H. F. Blichfeldt, A new principle in the geometry of numbers, with some applications, Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 15(3) (1914) 227–235; V. S. Miller, Use of elliptic curves in cryptography, in Proc. Advances in Cryptology — CRYPTO ’85, Lecture Notes in Computer Science, Vol. 218 (Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg, 1985), pp. 417–426; E. Bombieri and W. Gubler, Heights in Diophantine Geometry, Vol. 670, 1st edn. (Cambridge University Press, 2007)].
Certain congruences on free g-dimonoids
Authors: Zhuchok Anatolii V.
Published: February 2021

Loday introduced the notions of a dimonoid and a dialgebra, and constructed the free dimonoid and the free dialgebra. The [Formula: see text]-dimonoids are a natural generalization of dimonoids and every [Formula: see text]-dialgebra with associative operations is a linear analog of a [Formula: see text]-dimonoid. This paper is devoted to the study of congruences on [Formula: see text]-dimonoids. We characterize the least dimonoid congruence and the least semigroup congruence on the free (commutative, [Formula: see text]-nilpotent) [Formula: see text]-dimonoid. The obtained results can be applied to the theory of [Formula: see text]-dialgebras with associative operations.
Classification for Thumb Opposition in Children with Thumb Hypoplasia
Authors: Vergara-Amador Enrique , Herrera-Rodríguez Juan , López-Rincón Laura
Published: February 2021

Background: The Kapandji scale has 10 levels and includes abduction, rotation and flexion movements. Assessing children with thumb hypoplasia, this scale is poorly understood and confusing. The objective of the study is to evaluate an opposition scale simpler and understandable for children.

Methods: It is a validation study of a simplified scale to qualify the opposition of the thumb, in order to asses only the abduction - rotation but not the flexion of the metacarpo-phalangeal (MP) or interphalangeal (IF) joint. The proposed classification goes from 0 to 3 degrees, where 0: No opposition, 1: The thumb touches the middle phalanx of the 2nd finger, 2: the thumb touches the pulp of the 2nd finger and 3: the thumb touches the pulp of the 5th finger. 10 patients with thumb hypoplasia were analyzed by 9 hand surgeons and 9 orthopedic surgeons.

Results: The intraclass correlation coefficient shows a very good inter-observer reliability with a kappa of 0.991 (p = 0.000). When correlated by groups, the finding were very good between the hand surgeons group k = 0.980 (p = 0.000) and the orthopedic surgeons group 0.974 (p = 0.000). At 6 weeks a new evaluation was made, the intra-observer reliability was excellent k = 0.995 (p = 0.000).

Conclusions: The proposed scale for the evaluation of the abductionrotation of the thumb is validated and useful in the evaluation of the results of a thumb opposition transfer with a good inter-observer and intra-observer reliability between orthopedic and hand surgeons.
Delayed Rupture of All Digital Flexor Tendons Following Volar Locking Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Otani Kazuhiro , Kakinoki Ryousuke , Akagi Masao , Kitano Naoshi , Ohue Mutsumi
Published: February 2021

A 68-year-old man with a right distal radius fracture treated with volar locking plate fixation previously was unable to flex his right thumb and four fingers without experiencing any adverse event. The flexor pollicis longus was reconstructed with a tendon graft using the lengthened flexor digitorum superficialis. The flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) of the ring finger was reconstructed with a tendon graft using the palmaris longus. The FDP of the index and little fingers was reconstructed using the interconnected tendon graft to the ring finger. Postoperatively, active flexion of all fingers and thumb was restored; however, he was unable to grasp thin objects because of the absence of full finger flexion. This is the first case wherein all nine flexor tendons being involved after volar locking plate fixation for a distal radius end fracture. We demonstrated a reconstructive procedure for long-standing multiple flexor tendon rupture after volar locking plate fixation.
Empirical Spatial Density-Based Emergency Medical Service Demand Forecast for Ambulance Allocation
Authors: Tsai Yihjia , Lin Hwei Jen , Chi Pei-Wen , Lee Kelvin W.
Published: February 2021

In a previous study, we solved the two-fold dynamic ambulance allocation problem, including forecasting the distribution of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) requesters and dynamically allocating ambulances according to the predicted distribution of requesters. In the definition of the coverage region, the Euclidean distance was used, which is not suitable for measuring the length of a route between two places. This study improved on the previous one by redefining the coverage region for practical application and providing a simulation model to verify the effectiveness of the proposed ambulance allocation method. The simulation results show the proposed allocation method providing higher demand coverage rates and shorter response distances than the official allocation.
Critique of the Biot Theory of Propagation in Fluid-Saturated Porous Solids
Authors: Pierce Allan D.
Published: February 2021

Biot’s theory of porous media is discussed critically, with emphasis on the first 1956 JASA paper that purports to apply for low frequencies. It is pointed out that the use of two and only two displacement fields has a certain arbitrariness, and that models with additional displacement fields are possible. Biot’s expression for the strain-energy per unit volume is justified in part, but it is pointed out that additional terms might be included. The theory in the low-frequency limit is discussed in detail, and the partitioning of the disturbance into three distinct types of fields is discussed. It is shown that there is sufficient latitude in the choice of coefficients in the Biot low-frequency model that the coefficients can be adjusted to fit all the major parameters associated with the three types of disturbances at low frequencies, but it is conjectured that the model will lead to inconsistencies for prediction of minor parameters. Unless measurements of such minor parameters are known from independent experiments, the model cannot be tested quantitatively. The use of the low-frequency Biot model at higher frequencies is discussed, and it is shown that in the high-frequency limit there are always two propagating modes where the displacement fields have zero curl. It is also shown that the model predicts the attenuation at high frequencies to be independent of frequency. The validity of such high-frequency predictions is questioned, and it is argued that the Biot low-frequency model has substantial wide-spread validity at low frequencies.
Separator Aging and Performance Degradation Caused by Battery Expansion: Cyclic Compression Test Simulation of Polypropylene Separator
Authors: Yuan Zidan , Xue Nanxiang , Xie Jiayi , Xu Ruijie , Lei Caihong
Published: February 2021

The structural changes of polyolefin separator during its service life greatly affect the working efficiency and safety of the lithium-ion battery. Researchers have known little about the relationship between the structural change of the separator and battery performance aging during the service cycle. Therefore, we design one device that could simulate the separator environment in the battery to track the separator structure evolution during the periodic deformation process. In this work, the polypropylene separator is chosen and 1-, 50- and 100- cycle compression tests are carried out saturated with dimethly carbonate at different compression strain 7.5%, 12.5% and 15%. The separators show different degree of transparent wrinkles on the surface and higher impedance as the strain increases. The ionic conductivity becomes lower. The discharge capacity declines by 32.2% in DMC-12.5% and by 46.3% in DMC-15%. The voltage platform of charge and discharge in DMC-15% reduce obviously. The damaged degree of lamellae skeleton around the transparent wrinkles in the separator is increased with the cycle times and compression strain. Along the transverse direction, some pores are compressed and even closed, leading to the appearance of transparent wrinkles on the separator surface and resulting in the worse electrochemical performance.
Influence of Reducing Agent on Chemical Decomposition of Bis(3- sulfopropyl) Disulfide (SPS) in Cu Plating Bath
Authors: Kim Tae Young , Lee Myung Hyun , Byun Jinuk , Jeon Hyunwoo , Choe Seunghoe , Kim Jae Jeong
Published: February 2021

In this study, we investigated the effect of reducing agents to decrease the chemical decomposition of SPS. We added reducing agents (hypophosphite, formaldehyde, glyoxylic acid, hydrazine, and oxalic acid) into the Cu plating bath and examined their effects on the voltammetric response, bath performance, and stability of SPS. Among these, hydrazine and oxalic acid resulted in the formation of precipitates, and thus could not be used for accurate analysis. Hypophosphite was electrochemically active in the cathodic region due to the reduction of metallic phosphite, which led to errors in the CVS analysis. Therefore, it was determined that only formaldehyde and glyoxylic acid could be used as reducing agents in Cu electrolytes. Formaldehyde reduced the rate of SPS decomposition more effectively. The bath performance with and without formaldehyde was evaluated by performing a via-fill test. Consequently, when formaldehyde was not present, SPS was rapidly decomposed by Cu+, and the filling performance became poor after aging for 3 h. However, when formaldehyde was present, the filling performance was maintained for up to 9 h and SPS decomposition in the open-circuit condition rarely occurred. These results indicate that formaldehyde reduces the number of active radicals, thereby reducing the chemical oxidation of SPS.
Assessment of Li-S Battery Performance as a Function of Electrolyte-to-Sulfur Ratio
Authors: Bilal H. Merve , Eroglu Damla
Published: February 2021

Lithium-Sulfur (Li-S) battery performance is greatly sensitive to cell design as a result of the highly complex reaction and shuttle mechanisms within the cathode. Electrolyte-to-sulfur (E/S) ratio is one of the key design parameters that have a great impact on the performance of Li-S batteries. Here, an integrated research methodology coupling experimental characterization and electrochemical modeling is applied to forecast the relation between the E/S ratio and the discharge capacity, cycling performance and cell- and system-level specific energy and energy density of the Li-S battery. The highest initial discharge capacity is achieved with an E/S ratio of 20 μl mg−1, whereas, the best capacity retention is observed for 13 μl mg−1. This experimentally obtained link between the E/S ratio and the discharge performance is taken into consideration in the proposed cell- and system-level performance models. Lower E/S ratios lead to higher battery performance at the cell and system level. Consequently, an E/S ratio of 13 μl mg−1 presents the best performance as the impact of E/S ratio not only on the peak discharge capacity and capacity retention but also on the specific energy and energy density at the cell and system level are all considered.
First Principles, Explicit Interface Studies of Oxygen Vacancy and Chloride in Alumina Films for Corrosion Applications
Authors: Leung Kevin
Published: February 2021

Pitting corrosion is a much-studied and technologically relevant subject. However, the fundamental mechanisms responsible for the breakdown of the passivating oxide layer are still subjects of debate. Chloride anions are known to accelerate corrosion; relevant hypotheses include Cl insertion into positively charged oxygen vacancies in the oxide film, and Cl adsorption on passivating oxide surfaces, substituting for surface hydroxyl groups. In this work, we conduct large-scale first principles modeling of explicit metal/Al2O3 interfaces to investigate the energetics and electronic structures associated with these hypotheses. The explicit interface models allow electron transfer that mimics electrochemical events, and the establishment of the relation between atomic structures at different interfaces and the electronic band alignment. For multiple model interfaces, we find that doubly charged oxygen vacancies, which are key ingredients of the point defect model (PDM) often used to analyze corrosion data, can only occur in the presence of a potential gradient that raises the voltage. Cl− insertion into oxide films can be energetically favorable in some oxygen vacancy sites, depending on the voltage. We also discuss the challenges associated with explicit DFT modeling of these complex interfaces.
Review—Modeling Methods for Analysis of Electromigration Degradation in Nano-Interconnects
Authors: Ceric H. , Selberherr S. , Zahedmanesh H. , de Orio R. L. , Croes K.
Published: February 2021

Mitigation of the degradation for down-scaled interconnects requires an in-depth understanding of the failure mechanisms of electromigration and, therefore, the development of adequate simulation models based on this understanding. We present a novel concept for modeling of nano-interconnect structures, the effective domain method, which describes the impact of grain boundaries and grain distribution on the nano-interconnect reliability and how this impact changes with down-scaling of the interconnect width. Furthermore, a simple and numerically efficient approach for modeling of void growth and its influence on nano-interconnect resistivity is presented. Both novel approaches are studied on timely nano-interconnect layouts and discussed in comparison to experimental results. The simulations based on the novel modeling concept predict the reduction of interconnect lifetime with increased temperature and the reduced linewidth, as observed in experiments.
Role of Molecular Structure on Modulating the Interfacial Dynamics for Shallow Trench Isolation (STI) Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) Applications
Authors: Wortman-Otto Katherine M. , Linhart Abigail N. , Dudek Abigail L. , Sherry Brian M. , Keleher Jason J.
Published: February 2021

As feature sizes continue to shrink well beyond the 7 nm node, understanding the delicate balance present in the chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) process is of utmost importance. In order to achieve high through-put and defect-free CMP processes it is critical to develop predictive analytical techniques that directly correlate to macroscopic STI CMP performance metrics (i.e. oxide/nitride removal, defectivity, and dishing/erosion). This work employed a suite of techniques to monitor the CeO2 nanoparticle interfacial redox processes in the presence of structurally diverse rate modulating additives. Specifically, utilizing a UV–vis spectroscopic technique, the Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio in the presence of different slurry additives was monitored and proved to directly correlate to removal rate performance (i.e. an increase in Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio shows an increase in rate). This finding coupled with the rate of dissolved O2 evacuation and a modified QCM technique determined the mode of interaction/adsorption which validates that the mechanism of oxide removal does not strictly depend on redox capacity, but also depends on the dynamic O2 equilibrium at the CeO2 nanoparticle surface. It was determined that the modulation of oxide removal was directly related to the distribution of interactions (i.e. steric vs redox) and was highly dependent on the slurry additive functionality.
Central activation deficits contribute to post stroke lingual weakness in a rat model
Authors: Cullins Miranda J. , Russell John A. , Booth Zoe E. , Connor Nadine P.
Published: February 2021

Despite significant reductions in maximum volitional forces, the intrinsic force-generating capacity of the protrusive lingual muscles was not reduced with unilateral cerebral ischemia. Small yet significant increases in denervated NMJs and fiber-type grouping of the contralesional genioglossus suggest that the muscle underwent denervation and reinnervation. Together these results suggest that spontaneous neuromuscular plasticity was sufficient to prevent atrophy, yet central activation deficits remain and contribute to chronic lingual weakness after stroke.
Involvement of the BNP/NPR-A/BKCa pathway in rat trigeminal ganglia following chronic constriction injury
Authors: Xu Wenhua , Yao Yuzhi , Zhu Dawei , Han Liang , Wang Liecheng , Wang Yuanyin
Published: February 2021

BNP has been known to activate its receptor, NPR-A, to modulate inflammatory pain. However, the potential modulatory roles of BNP in TN have not been investigated in detail. We established an ION-CCI model of TN in the rat and observed an upregulation of BNP and NPR-A and a downregulation of BKCa in rats subjected to ION-CCI. Moreover, BNP can increase BKCa currents in ION-CCI rats. Thus, BNP and NPR-A might have inhibitory effects on trigeminal neuralgia through activating the BNP/NPR-A/BKCa channel pathway.
Comparison of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Genomes Reveals Frequent Deletions in a 20 kb Variable Region in Clinical Isolates
Authors: Ho Timothy B. L. , Robertson Brian D. , Taylor G. Michael , Shaw Rory J. , Young Douglas B.
Published: February 2021

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex is associated with a remarkably low level of structural gene polymorphism. As part of a search for alternative forms of genetic variation that may act as a source of biological diversity in M. tuberculosis, we have identified a region of the genome that is highly variable amongst a panel of unrelated clinical isolates. Fifteen of 24 isolates examined contained one or more copies of the M. tuberculosis-specific IS6110 insertion element within this 20 kb variable region. In nine of the isolates, including the laboratory-passaged strain H37Rv, genomic deletions were identified, resulting in loss of between two and 13 genes. In each case, deletions were associated with the presence of a copy of the IS6110 element. Absence of flanking tri- or tetra-nucleotide repeats identified homologous recombination between adjacent IS6110 elements as the most likely mechanism of the deletion events. IS6110 insertion into hot-spots within the genome of M. tuberculosis provides a mechanism for generation of genetic diversity involving a high frequency of insertions and deletions.
Pharmacogenomics: The Genomics of Drug Response
Authors: March Ruth
Published: February 2021

Pharmacogenomics is defined as the study of the association between genetics and drug response. This is a rapidly expanding field with the hope that, within a few years, prospective genotyping will lead to patients being prescribed drugs which are both safer and more effective (‘the right drug for the right patient’, or personalized medicine). There are many existing examples in the literature of strong associations between genetic variation and drug response, and some of these even form the basis of accepted clinical tests. The molecular basis for some of these associations is described, and includes examples of variation in genes responsible for absorption and metabolism of the drug, and in target and disease genes. However, there are many issues surrounding the legal, regulatory and ethical framework to these studies that remain unanswered, and a huge amount of education both for the public and haelthcare professionals will be needed bafore the results of this new madicine can be widely accepted.
Graphical Tools for Comparative Genome Analysis
Authors: Dicks Jo
Published: February 2021

Visualization of data is important for many data-rich disciplines. In biology, where data sets are becoming larger and more complex, grephical analysis is felt to be ever more pertinent. Although some patterns and trends in data sets may only be determined by sophisticated computional analysis, viewing data by eye can provide us with an extraordinary amount of information in an instant. Recent advances in bioinformatic technologies allow us to link graphical tools to data sources with ease, so we can visualize our data sets dynamically. Here, an overview of graghical software tools for comparative genome analysis is given, showing that a range of simple tools can provide us with powerful view of the differences and similarities between genome.
Distinct Requirements for Zebrafish Angiogenesis Revealed by a VEGF-A Morphant
Authors: Nasevicius Aidas , Larson Jon , Ekker Stephen C.
Published: February 2021

Angiogenesis is a fundamental vertebrate developmental process that requires signalling by the secreted protein vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). VEGF-A functions in the development of embryonic structures, during tissue remodelling and for the growth of tumour-induced vasculature. The study of the role of VEGF-A during normal development has been significantly complicated by the dominant, haplo-insufficient nature of VEGF-A-targeted mutations in mice. We have used morpholino-based targeted gene knock-down technology to generate a zebrafish VEGF-A morphant loss of function model. Zebrafish VEGF-A morphant embryos develop with an enlarged pericardium and with major blood vessel deficiencies. Morphological assessment at 2 days of development indicates a nearly complete absence of both axial and intersegmental vasculature, with no or reduced numbers of circulating red blood cells. Molecular analysis using the endothelial markers fli-1 and flk-1 at 1 day of development demonstrates a fundamental distinction between VEGF-A requirements for axial and intersegmental vascular structure specification. VEGF-A is not required for the initial establishment of axial vasculature patterning, whereas all development of intersegmental vasculature is dependent on VEGF-A signalling. The zebrafish thus serves as a quality model for the study of conserved vertebrate angiogenesis processes during embryonic development.
Beyond the Genome 2000: The 18th International Congress of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Authors: Wixon Jo , Brancia Francesco
Published: February 2021

The meeting was held on 16–20 July 2000 at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, UK, and was co-organized by the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB) and the Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS). Although the meeting had a broad subject area, the emphasis was firmly placed on post-genomic studies, and hence several sessions should be of interest to our readers. We provide highlights of these sessions, bringing you a report on the most exciting and informative presentations.
A Patient with Multiple Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumours Presenting with Jejunal Intussusception
Authors: Bandara Kavinda Deshapriya , Ravindrakumar Sanjeevan , Veerasingam Kirushanthan , Jayarajah Umesh , Rodrigo V. S. D.
Published: February 2021

Carcinoid tumours are neuroendocrine tumours which arise from the enterochromaffin cells in the gastrointestinal and bronchopulmonary systems. The presentation of multiple gastrointestinal carcinoids with jejunal intussusception is rare, and the diagnosis may be challenging. A 49-year-old patient with adult onset bronchial asthma presented with pain around the umbilical region for 1-day duration. Physical examination revealed only mild abdominal tenderness. Abdominal computed tomography revealed small bowel intussusception with two separate highly vascular tumours arising in the small bowel mesentery. Exploratory laparotomy was done, with resection of the tumours arising from the small bowel mesentery and the proximal jejunum causing the intussusception which were excised. Histopathological diagnosis confirmed the presence of a Grade 1 carcinoid tumour of classic type. After surgery, he had an uneventful recovery and was asymptomatic. Carcinoid tumours are a very rare cause of adult intussusception. So far, there have been only two reported cases of jejunal intussusception secondary to carcinoid tumours. These will require a combination of surgical intervention and systemic therapy in selective cases for complete management.
Multicenter Investigation of the Initial Hemodialysis Vascular Access and Its Related Factors in Hangzhou of China
Authors: Ying Qisu , Mao Yong , Xie Xiangcheng , Wu Ping , Ma Jilin , Zhou Wei , Xu Jinhua , Fei Xiao , Wang Ming , Qian Yingying , Shao Jiayu , Xia Xiaofeng , Yang Xiu
Published: February 2021

Objective. To investigate the initial hemodialysis vascular access in Hangzhou and provide evidence for improving the use of autologous arteriovenous fistula by identifying factors associated with the choice of initial vascular access. Methods. We retrospectively studied the initial hemodialysis vascular access of 257 patients in five hemodialysis units in Hangzhou of China during a 21‐month period (January 2018 to September 2019). A logistic regression was used to identify the risk factors of failing to use an arteriovenous fistula at the initiation of hemodialysis. Results. (1) 257 participants with mean age 67.65 ± 13.43 years old were reviewed, including 165 males (64.2%) and 92 females (35.8%). The etiologies of end‐stage renal disease included diabetic nephropathy (37.35%), chronic glomerulonephritis (31.13%), hypertensive nephropathy (14.01%), and other diseases (17.51%). Only 51 patients (19.84%) received arteriovenous fistula, whereas the remaining 206 patients (80.16%) initiated dialysis with a central venous catheter. (2) Logistic regression analysis revealed that the independent risk factors for central venous catheter at the initial hemodialysis were age >70 years old (OR = 4.827, p < 0.01 versus ≤70 years old), chronic glomerulonephritis as the primary etiology (OR = 2.565, p < 0.05 versus nonchronic glomerulonephritis) and eGFR <8.5 mL/min/1.73m2 (OR = 2.283, p < 0.05 versus eGFR ≥8.5 mL/min/1.73m2). Conclusion. The proportion of patients using arteriovenous fistula as the initial hemodialysis vascular access in Hangzhou was still low. The choice of vascular access for the first hemodialysis was related to age, eGFR, and the primary etiology of end‐stage renal disease. Increasing the proportion of planned vascular access and arteriovenous fistula at the initiation of hemodialysis is still our current goal.
SMC-Based Synchronization of Multiple Inertial Measurement Units with Application to Attitude Tracking Control
Authors: He Yuping , Zhang Shijie
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the attitude control of aircraft with multiple inertial measurement units under the influence of unknown gyro zero drift and external disturbance is studied. First of all, the observers are designed to estimate the zero drift biases based on the consensus algorithm. The angular velocity used for aircraft control is obtained by compensating the biases. Then, considering the external disturbance in the aircraft motion, this paper introduces a super-twisting sliding-mode algorithm to design the observer in order to compensate the disturbance. In addition, based on the proposed observers, a controller is designed to realize attitude control of the aircraft with the gyro zero drift and the external disturbance. Finally, the simulation results are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control law.
Application of Partial Least Squares-Discriminate Analysis Model Based on Water Chemical Compositions in Identifying Water Inrush Sources from Multiple Aquifers in Mines
Authors: Bi Yaoshan , Wu Jiwen , Zhai Xiaorong , Shen Shuhao , Tang Libin , Huang Kai , Zhang Dawei
Published: February 2021

Mine water inrush seriously threatens the safety of coal mine production. Quick and accurate identification of mine water inrush sources is of great significance to preventing mine water hazards. This paper combined partial least squares-discriminate analysis (PLS-DA) with inrush water chemical composition to identify the source of water inrush from multiple aquifers in mines. The Renlou Coal Mine in the Linhuan mining area was selected for this study, and seven conventional water chemical compositions from 54 water samples in three aquifers were collected and tested, of which 45 water samples were used to establish the PLS-DA discriminant model, and nine were used to test the prediction effect. To improve model accuracy and predictive ability, hierarchical clustering analysis method was used to eliminate seven unqualified water samples to reduce the errors caused by improper data. PCA and PLS-DA methods were used to analyze and process the remaining water sample data, and on the basis of PCA analysis, the remaining 38 water samples were used to establish the PLS-DA discriminant model. The model was validated using permutation and external prediction tests. The research shows the following results: (1) Both PCA and PLS-DA methods can distinguish water samples from three different water sources, but the classification effect of PLS-DA was better than PCA because it can strengthen the difference of water chemical composition between different water sources. (2) The correct discrimination rate of the PLS-DA discriminant model was as high as 100%, and permutation tests showed that the model was not overfit. External validation found that the model had good stability and discrimination. (3) HCO3- and total dissolved solids (TDS) were the most important differential marker compositions that affected the discrimination results based on Variable Importance for the Projection (VIP) scores. The discriminant model established in this study combined the advantages of principal component analysis and multiple regression analysis, providing a new method for accurately identifying the sources of water inrush in mines.
Evaluation of Accuracy of Preoperative Planning of the Femurofibular Angle in Open‐Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy for Mild Medial Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang Peizhao , Wang Xiao , Shi Xiaotao , Tan Honglue
Published: February 2021

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of preoperative planning of the femurofibular angle (FFA) in medial open‐wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) for mild medial knee osteoarthritis. Methods. Thirty‐two patients (32 knees) with mild medial knee OA were retrospectively reviewed. The patients underwent preoperative planning of the FFA for OWHTO. For preoperative planning, a full‐length weight‐bearing X‐ray photograph of the lower limb was opened within Adobe Photoshop Software, and a targeted corrective mechanical axis line of the lower limb and its intersecting point at the lateral tibial plateau surface was drawn using rectangle selection and filling tools. A frame, which encircled the tibia and fibula, was created around the predicted osteotomy plane and then rotated until the ankle center was on the targeted mechanical axis line. Subsequently, a distal femoral condyle line and a proximal fibula axis line were drawn, and the angle between the two lines was measured and defined as the femurofibular angle (FFA). During biplane OWHTO, the preoperatively determined FFA was used to complete the correction of the mechanical axis. During follow‐up, the postoperative mechanical weight‐bearing line (WBL) of the lower limb, the mechanical femorotibial angle (mFTA), and the FFA were measured and compared with the preoperatively determined values. Results. The mechanical WBL shifted from a preoperative value of 25.36 ± 5.02% to a postoperative value of 56.19 ± 0.10% from the medial border along the mediolateral width of the tibial plateau, and it was 56.57 ± 0.08% at the final follow‐up (P < 0.01). The preoperatively determined value was 56.25%, and no significant difference was found compared with postoperative week‐one and final follow‐up values (P > 0.05). The mFTA was corrected from a preoperative varus of 4.02 ± 0.63° to a postoperative week‐one valgus of 2.37 ± 0.28°, and it had a valgus of 2.48 ± 0.39° at the final follow‐up (P < 0.01). No significant difference in the valgus was found compared with the postoperative week‐one, final follow‐up and preoperatively determined valgus of 2.34 ± 0.26° (P > 0.05). The postoperative week‐one and final follow‐up FFAs were 90.34 ± 1.53° and 90.33 ± 1.52°, respectively, and no significant difference was found compared with the preoperatively determined value of 90.12 ± 1.72° and the intraoperative setting value of 90.25 ± 1.67° (P > 0.05). All corrected values were within the acceptable range of preoperative planning. Conclusion. Preoperative planning of the FFA may be useful in OWHTO for patients with mild medial knee OA. Satisfactory correction of the postoperative targeted mechanical axis line of the lower limb can be obtained.
Incidental Finding and Endovascular Repair of a Left Internal Mammary Artery Aneurysm following a Multivessel Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
Authors: Lawani Osayi , Ganim Jiries , Ganim Rick
Published: February 2021

True aneurysms discovered within the internal mammary artery are extremely rare and typically have an asymptomatic occurrence. Their presentation and management have also been variable due to their low incidence, decreased detection, or lack of documentation. They have a high risk for morbidity or mortality as they can possibly rupture with increasing size and thus become life-threatening. Coronary CT angiography is the most definitive test for confirming and finding complications related to the aneurysm. With an increase in the aging population and advancement in the techniques used in coronary artery bypass grafting, it is likely that the rate of recorded occurrence of aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms will increase. Endovascular repair is currently the most favored treatment modality. In this report, we describe a case of a 74-year-old male who was incidentally found to have a left internal mammary artery aneurysm following complaints of chest pain related to another nearly occluded grafted vessel. To the best of our knowledge, and following an extensive literature review, this is likely the first documented case of a true aneurysm found within a left internal mammary artery bypass graft. The patient recovered well following placement of a covered stent; however, upon follow-up one year later, he was found to have stenosis of the same vessel, which was subsequently treated without further complication.
Inotuzumab Ozogamicin for Relapsed/Refractory Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in the INO-VATE Trial: CD22 Pharmacodynamics, Efficacy, and Safety by Baseline CD22
Authors: Kantarjian Hagop M. , Stock Wendy , Cassaday Ryan D. , DeAngelo Daniel J. , Jabbour Elias , O'Brien Susan M. , Stelljes Matthias , Wang Tao , Paccagnella M. Luisa , Nguyen Kevin , Sleight Barbara , Vandendries Erik , Neuhof Alexander , Laird A. Douglas , Advani Anjali S.
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

We assessed the relationship between cluster of differentiation-22 (CD22) expression and outcomes of inotuzumab ozogamicin versus standard of care (SC) in INO-VATE (NCT01564784).

Patients and Methods:

Adults with relapsed/refractory B-cell precursor CD22-positive (by local or central laboratory) acute lymphoblastic leukemia were randomized to inotuzumab ozogamicin (n = 164) or SC (n = 162). Outcomes were analyzed by baseline CD22 positivity (percentage of leukemic blasts CD22 positive, ≥90% vs. <90%) and CD22 receptor density [molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochrome (MESF), quartile analysis].

Results:

Most patients had high (≥90%) CD22 positivity per central laboratory. The response rate was significantly higher with inotuzumab ozogamicin versus SC. Minimal/measurable residual disease negativity, duration of remission (DoR), progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS) were significantly better with inotuzumab ozogamicin versus SC in patients with CD22 positivity ≥90%. Fewer patients had CD22 positivity <90%; for whom, response rates were higher with inotuzumab ozogamicin versus SC, but DoR and OS appeared similar. Similar trends were evident in quartile analyses of CD22 MESF and CD22 positivity per local laboratory. Among inotuzumab ozogamicin–responding patients with subsequent relapse, decrease in CD22 positivity and receptor density was evident, but not the emergence of CD22 negativity. Rates of grade ≥3 hematologic adverse events (AEs) were similar and hepatobiliary AEs rate was higher for inotuzumab ozogamicin versus SC. No apparent relationship was observed between the rates of hematologic and hepatic AEs and CD22 expression.

Conclusions:

Inotuzumab ozogamicin demonstrated a favorable benefit–risk profile versus SC in patients with higher and lower CD22 expression. Patients with high CD22 expression and normal cytogenetics benefited the most from inotuzumab ozogamicin therapy.
Adaptive Natural Killer Cells Facilitate Effector Functions of Daratumumab in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Cho Hyunsoo , Kim Kyung Hwan , Lee Hoyoung , Kim Chang Gon , Chung Haerim , Choi Yoon Seok , Park Su-Hyung , Cheong June-Won , Min Yoo Hong , Shin Eui-Cheol , Kim Jin Seok
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

To investigate the different roles of heterogeneous natural killer (NK)-cell subpopulations in multiple myeloma and to identify NK-cell subsets that support the robust anti-myeloma activity of daratumumab via antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).

Experimental Design:

We performed single-cell RNA sequencing of NK cells from patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) and delineated adaptive NK cells in their bone marrow (BM). We further characterized the distinct immunophenotypic features and functions of adaptive NK cells by multicolor flow cytometry in 157 patients with NDMM.

Results:

Adaptive NK cells exhibit a significantly lower level of CD38 expression compared with conventional NK cells, suggesting that they may evade daratumumab-induced fratricide. Moreover, adaptive NK cells exert robust daratumumab-mediated effector functions ex vivo, including cytokine production and degranulation, compared with conventional NK cells. The composition of adaptive NK cells in BM determines the daratumumab-mediated ex vivo functional activity of BM NK cells in patients with NDMM. Unlike conventional NK cells, sorted adaptive NK cells from the BM of patients with NDMM exert substantial cytotoxic activity against myeloma cells in the presence of daratumumab.

Conclusions:

Our findings indicate that adaptive NK cells are an important mediator of ADCC in multiple myeloma and support direct future efforts to better predict and improve the treatment outcome of daratumumab by selectively employing adaptive NK cells.
Recommendations on Eliminating Racial Disparities in Multiple Myeloma Therapies: A Step toward Achieving Equity in Healthcare
Authors: Gormley Nicole , Fashoyin-Aje Lola , Locke Trevan , Unger Joseph M. , Little Richard F. , Nooka Ajay , Mezzi Khalid , Popa-McKiver Mihaela , Kobos Rachel , Biru Yelak , Williams Tiffany H. , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: February 2021

African Americans are at higher risk of multiple myeloma (MM) yet are underrepresented in clinical trials and reap fewer benefits from novel therapies of the disease. To improve representation of African Americans in MM clinical trials, researchers, healthcare providers, patients, industry partners, and regulators at an FDA–AACR workshop developed recommendations to all stakeholders. The outlined principles offer a road map to addressing disparities broadly in clinical trials.
Pluricentrismo no ensino de Alemão como Língua Estrangeira: uma proposta para análise de material didático
Authors: Savedra Mônica Maria Guimarães , Meirelles Camila
Published: February 2021

Neste artigo abordamos o pluricentrismo da língua alemã através de uma revisão da literatura sobre o tema que privilegia os estudos sobre variantes e variedades do alemão. Após uma retrospectiva histórica, a partir de uma noção pluricêntrica para o ensino de Alemão como Língua Estrangeira, apresentamos uma proposta para análise de material didático a partir de seis categorias. Três categorias são baseadas no Quadro Europeu Comum de Referência para as Línguas: competência, tema e tipo de fonte textual, e três se referem às questões de base do DACH-Prinzip: tópicos discursivos de pluricentricidade, abordagem e variedade pluricêntrica. Os resultados da implementação da análise com as categorias propostas apontam para uma relativa incipiência da conscientização da língua alemã como língua pluricêntrica em uso em diferentes centros.
História, analogia e natureza em Novalis
Authors: Losso Eduardo Guerreiro Brito
Published: February 2021

Ao formular as três etapas do destino histórico do Ocidente em Cristandade ou Europa, Novalis oferece a promessa de uma síntese futura entre a Idade Média e o Iluminismo na figura do erudito alemão romântico. Nele, o entusiasmo científico e filosófico irá ao encontro do arrebatamento místico e poético, em vez de o combater. Ele reconciliará arte e ciência, mundo sensível e espiritual, natureza e história, sagrado e profano. Já no romance Os discípulos de Sais há uma série de correlações vertiginosas entre natureza, espírito, corpo e história que não podem ser feitas por um cientista. Só podem ser geradas pelo poeta, o único que compreende o sentido da natureza. O artigo pretende mostrar o quanto o ideal de reencantamento dos dois livros está ligado ao saber analógico renascentista que, segundo Hartmut Böhme, introduz uma semiologia da natureza baseada em vínculos de semelhança entre as coisas. Se, na Renascença, é o filósofo natural que decifra a assinatura das coisas, em Novalis é o poeta que faz da linguagem a chave do reencantamento e da liberdade. O artigo termina refletindo sobre o conflito entre ilusão e realidade na poesia moderna.
Plurizentrik und DACH-Bezug bei Lehrwerken in brasilianischen Deutschstudiengängen: eine Bilanz
Authors: Voerkel Jean Paul , Huang Zichun
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo parte da dúvida de numerosos professores de Alemão como Língua Estrangeira (ALE) sobre uma representação adequada que respeita a grande heterogeneidade linguística e cultural dos países germânicos em livros didáticos elaborados na Alemanha. Na primeira parte se situa a apresentação de algumas bases de avaliação de manuais didáticos e didática cultural sob a perspectiva da disciplina ALE. Na segunda parte, segue a análise de nove livros de ALE em uso em universidades brasileiras no ano 2019, com indicadores do “princípio DACH”. Os resultados indicam que as dificuldades encontradas por professores de alemão em matéria de cultura alemã não teriam sua origem necessariamente na falta de material adequado, mas que seriam relacionadas com uma insegurança de como trabalhar conteúdo cultural em sala de aula. O artigo fecha com a reivindicação de integrar, ainda em escala maior, conteúdos culturais na formação de professores de alemão no Brasil.
Deutsch lernen im Blended-Format: Erfahrungen mit dem brasilianischen Sprachlernprogramm „Idiomas sem Fronteiras – Alemão“
Authors: Chaves Giovanna , Mariano Thiago Viti , Voerkel Jean Paul
Published: February 2021

Der vorliegende Artikel nimmt die stetig zunehmende Nutzung von OnlineMedien im Fremdsprachenunterricht zum Anlass, um anhand eines konkreten Beispiels die Heraus-forderungen und Möglichkeiten des Blended Learning (BL) zu umreißen. Grundlage der Überlegungen ist das Sprachlernprogramm Idiomas sem Fronteiras („Sprachen ohne Grenzen“), über das seit 2016 Online-Deutschkurse mit tutorieller (Präsenz-)Begleitung an brasilianischen Hochschulen angeboten werden. Eine Umfrage unter 228 Teilnehmenden eines Kursdurchlaufs im Jahr 2019 an brasilianischen Universitäten liefert empirisch belegbare Ergebnisse zum BLSetting, die analysiert werden und in Überlegungen zur didaktischen Umsetzung münden.