bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dependability Aspects in Configurable Embedded Operating Systems
Authors: Schirmeier Horst , Borchert Christoph , Hoffmann Martin , Dietrich Christian , Martens Arthur , Kapitza Rüdiger , Lohmann Daniel , Spinczyk Olaf
Published: December 2020

As all conceptual layers in the software stack depend on the operating system (OS) to reliably provide resource-management services and isolation, it can be considered the “reliable computing base” that must be hardened for correct operation under fault models such as transient hardware faults in the memory hierarchy. In this chapter, we approach the problem of system-software hardening in three complementary scenarios. (1) We address the following research question: Where do the general reliability limits of static system-software stacks lie, if designed from scratch with reliability as a first-class design goal? In order to reduce the proverbial “attack surface” as far as possible, we harness static application knowledge from an AUTOSAR-compliant task set, and protect the whole OS kernel with AN-encoding. This static approach yields an extremely reliable software system, but is constrained to specific application domains. (2) We investigate how reliable a dynamic COTS embedded OS can become if hardened with programming-language and compiler-based fault-tolerance techniques. We show that aspect-oriented programming is an appropriate means to encapsulate generic software-implemented hardware fault tolerance mechanisms that can be application-specifically applied to a selection of OS components. (3) We examine how system-software stacks can survive even more adverse fault models like whole-system outages, using emerging persistent memory (PM) technology as a vehicle for state conservation. Our findings include that software transactional memory facilitates maintaining consistent state within PM and allows fast recovery.
Fault-Tolerant Computing with Heterogeneous Hardening Modes
Authors: Kriebel Florian , Khalid Faiq , Prabakaran Bharath Srinivas , Rehman Semeen , Shafique Muhammad
Published: December 2020

Fault-tolerance using (full-scale) redundancy-based techniques has been employed to detect and correct reliability errors (i.e., soft errors), but they pose significant area and power overhead. On the other hand, due to the masking and the error tolerance properties at different system layers and of different applications, respectively, reliable heterogeneous architectures have been emerged as an attractive design choice for power-efficient dependable computing platforms. This chapter discusses the building blocks of such computing systems, based on both embedded and superscalar processors, with different reliability (fault-tolerant) modes at the architecture layer to memories like caches, for heterogeneous in-order and out-of-order processors. We provide a comprehensive reliability, i.e., soft error, vulnerability analysis of different components in in-order and out-of-order processors, e.g., caches. We also discuss different methodologies to improve the performance and power of such a system by analyzing these vulnerabilities. Moreover, we show how such heterogeneous hardware-level hardening modes can further be complemented by software-level techniques that can be realized using a reliability-driven compiler (as introduced in Chapter “Dependable Software Generation and Execution on Embedded Systems”).
Thermal Management and Communication Virtualization for Reliability Optimization in MPSoCs
Authors: van Santen Victor M. , Amrouch Hussam , Wild Thomas , Henkel Jörg , Herkersdorf Andreas
Published: December 2020

This chapter covers the interdependencies of temperature and the reliable operation of multiprocessor systems on chip (MPSoC). Starting with the assessment of temperature values for the different cores either through measurement or estimation, it is shown which methods on system level can be applied to balance the thermal stress in the system and thus to come to an evenly distributed probability of errors. Special focus is given to task migration as a system-level means, which is supported by an on-chip interconnect virtualization technique that eases fast and transparent switch-over of communication channels. Overall, it is shown how mechanisms on different levels of the system stack can be combined to cooperate across layers for improving system reliability.
Lightweight Software-Defined Error Correction for Memories
Authors: Alam Irina , Dolecek Lara , Gupta Puneet
Published: December 2020

Reliability of the memory subsystem is a growing concern in computer architecture and system design. From on-chip embedded memories in Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices and on-chip caches to off-chip main memories, the memory subsystems have become the limiting factor in the overall reliability of computing systems. This is because they are primarily designed to maximize bit storage density; this makes memories particularly sensitive to manufacturing process variation, environmental operating conditions, and aging-induced wearout. This chapter of the book focuses on software managed techniques and novel error correction codes to opportunistically cope with memory errors whenever they occur for improved reliability at minimal cost.
Introduction
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

The policy idea of facilitating circular migration entered the European Union’s agenda more than a decade ago as part of a worldwide buzz among international organisations that it could provide a ‘triple win solution’ that would benefit all: the countries of origin and destination as well as the migrant workers themselves. According to the European Commission’s vision, this type of migration was to be facilitated in such a way as to allow some degree of legal mobility for migrants between two countries. Chapter 1 aims to introduce the understanding of this concept in the EU context and to set the scene for the book to unfold.
Methodological Framework
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

This chapter aims to shed light on the methodological framework employed in this interdisciplinary research. It presents the case study selection by outlining the differences and similarities in terms of contextual factors and legal and policy issues. This chapter concludes with a focus on the data sources used and the ethical considerations at the heart of this study.
The Formulation of the EU’s Approach to Circular Migration
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

This chapter presents the process of the formulation of the circular migration approach at the European level. It examines the genesis of the circular migration concept in the EU’s migration policy by discussing the main policy developments and legal acts adopted since the Tampere programme as well as by analysing the interviews concluded with EU and international actors that have had a bearing on the topic. In doing so it outlines the formulation of a two-fold approach towards the facilitation of circular migration at the EU level, incorporating legal migration directives and policy initiatives developed under the auspices of the Global Approach to Migration and Development (GAMM).
The Implementation of the EU’s Approach to Circular Migration Through Legal and Policy Routes
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

This chapter brings together the legal and policy instruments developed as part of the EU’s circular migration approach in order to assess its implementation and establish whether it provides rights-based outcomes for migrant workers. In order to do so, it employs a benchmark framework for analysis based on universal and regional international standards and soft law principles as well as policy measures that have been identified as conducive to circular migration (presented in Chap.1). The benchmark framework covers six policy areas considered inherent to this type of labour migration and which at the same time could help distinguish circular migration from the guest-worker model and other time-bound migration policies: entry and re-entry conditions, work authorisation, residence status, social security coordination, entry and residence conditions for family members, and recognition of qualifications. To be beneficial for migrant workers, policies need to allow for a certain degree of migrant-led trajectory of movement and provide adequate protection of the rights of migrant workers.
National Approaches to Circular Migration in Bulgaria and Poland
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

This chapter aims to illustrate national variances in instruments conducive to circular migration as part of the implementation of the EU’s approach. It serves as an introduction to the two different national approaches to circular migration facilitation developed in Bulgaria and Poland, which were chosen as case studies. First, the chapter examines the respective strategies of these two countries in their pre-accession periods that influenced the instruments developed in Bulgaria and Poland. Second, it zooms in on the national contexts in order to put some flesh on the different instruments seen as fostering circular migration at the national level.
Implementation of National Approaches to Circular Migration: Work Authorisation, Residence Status, and Social Security Coordination for Migrant Workers in Bulgaria and Poland
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

This chapter aims to assess the implementation of national and EU legal migration instruments conducive to circular migration against the study’s benchmarks in the areas of work authorisation, residence status, and social security coordination which are key policy areas that need to be considered if this type of migration is to be facilitated. Each section commences with a legal and policy analysis of these instruments as of mid-2019 and then moves on to reveal their implementation dynamics. The implementation analysis is based on data retrieved from the Bulgarian and Polish administrations, focus groups with Ukrainian and Russian migrant workers, and interviews conducted with relevant stakeholders as part of the study as well as available data from recent studies. The chapter concludes with an assessment of the developed instruments against the study’s benchmarks in these three policy areas, looking inter alia into the possibility for migrants to change employer and occupation, access prolonged status, and export their pensions.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Authors: Vankova Zvezda
Published: December 2020

This book demonstrated that the EU’s circular migration concept has entered the migration policy agendas of Bulgaria and Poland as part of the policy transfer driven by the process of Europeanisation. Furthermore, it became clear that the concept of circular migration, as it has been promoted by the EU, serves as an empty shell that is shaped by different EU and national instruments, depending on local contexts and labour market needs. This chapter aims to answer the main research question of this study, namely: how the EU’s approach to circular migration has been implemented through the developed legal and policy instruments, and does it provide for rights-based circularity for migrant workers in the Central and Eastern European context. The chapter concludes with policy recommendations to this end.
European Union’s Democratic Legitimacy after the MoUs: The Political Legacy of an Economic Crisis
Authors: Katsikas Dimitris
Published: December 2020

This chapter focuses on two significant aspects of crisis management in the Eurozone: (a) its democratic legitimacy and (b) its socioeconomic consequences. The two issues are very important, since both the socioeconomic effects of an adjustment program and its democratic credentials determine to a large extent its “ownership” by local societies and consequently its chances of success. Effectively, these two aspects refer to the “input” and “output” side of democratic legitimacy, that is, to legitimation through democratic processes and representation, and policy outcomes respectively. The analysis evaluates the first aspect of the legitimacy equation using criteria derived from democratic theory and applying them to the governance structure of the bailout programs. On the second aspect of legitimacy, that of outcomes, the socioeconomic consequences of the crisis management are reviewed, and their distributive aspects discussed. The chapter demonstrates that the EU’s legitimacy has suffered along both aspects as a result of the crisis and the way it was handled. This leaves the EU in a particularly vulnerable state in the event of a future crisis.
The Crisis: Its Management and Impact on Equity and Democracy in Portugal and Possible Consequences for the EU
Authors: Lehmann Kai Enno
Published: December 2020

This chapter analyses the reaction of Portugal to the Euro crisis, in particular, the absence of popular revolt, and explores the possibilities to replicate the ‘Portuguese experience’ elsewhere.
Unfolding the Educational and Practical Resources Inherent in Mathematics for Teaching Mathematics
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

The objective of this introductory chapter is to explain the common rationale behind the papers of this volume. The structure is as follows. The first section shows that learning environments are a natural way to address teachers in their main role, teaching, and that therefore this approach is promising for improving mathematics teaching in an effective way. The section ends with a teaching model based on Guy Brousseau’s theory of didactical situations.
Collective Teaching Experiments: Organizing a Systemic Cooperation Between Reflective Researchers and Reflective Teachers in Mathematics Education
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

The success of any substantial innovation in mathematics teaching depends crucially on the ability and readiness of teachers to make sense of this innovation and to transform it effectively and creatively to their context. This refers not only to the design and the implementation of learning environments but also to their empirical foundation. Empirical studies conducted in the usual style are not the only option for supporting the design empirically. Another option consists of uncovering the empirical information that is inherent in mathematics by means of structure-genetic didactical analyses. In this chapter, a third option is proposed as particularly suited to bridge the gap between didactical theories and practice: collective teaching experiments.
Understanding and Organizing Mathematics Education as a Design Science–Origins and New Developments
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

The objective of this paper is

to revisit briefly the conception of mathematics education as a design science as it has been evolving alongside the developmental research in the project Mathe 2000 from 1987 to 2012

to report in some detail on recent developments, as concerns both conceptual and practical issues.

The paper is a plea for appreciating and (re-)installing “well-understood mathematics” as the natural foundation for teaching and learning mathematics.
Clinical Interviews Embedded in the “Philosophy of Teaching Units”—A Means of Developing Teachers’ Attitudes and Skills
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

Within the field of mathematics education there is at present a clearly increased interest in methodological issues. This fact cannot be explained only by internal motives but is also a reaction to pressures coming from well-established disciplines, which question the academic status of mathematics education, as well as from teachers’ associations, which question the utility of mathematics education for practice.
The Mathematical Training of Teachers from the Point of View of Education
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

The paper describes an approach to integrating the mathematical and educational components in teacher training which is based on elaborating educational and psychological aspectsinherent in“good mathematics”.
When Is a Proof a Proof?
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

In his famous talk at ICME 2 (Exeter 1972) the French mathematician R. Thom pointed out that any conception of mathematics teaching necessarily rests on a certain view of mathematics (Thom 1973, 204). As a consequence mathematics education cannot develop without close links to mathematics.
Mathematics Education as a ‘Design Science’
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

Mathematics education (didactics of mathematics) cannot grow without close relationships to mathematics, psychology, pedagogy and other areas. However, there is the risk that by adopting standards, methods and research contexts from other well-established disciplines, the applied nature of mathematics education may be undermined. In order to preserve the specific status and the relative autonomy of mathematics education, the suggestion to conceive of mathematics education as a “design science” is made. In a paper presented to the twenty second Annual Meeting of German mathematics educators in 1988 Heinrich Bauersfeld presented some views on the perspectives and prospects of mathematics education. It was his intention to stimulate a critical reflection’among the members of the community’ on what they do and what they could and should do in the future (Bauersfeld 1988). The early seventies have witnessed a vivid programmatic discussion on the role and nature of mathematics education in the German speaking part of Europe (cf., the papers by Bigalke, Griesel, Wittmann, Freudenthal, Otte, Dress and Tietz in the special issue 74/3 of the Zentralblatt für Didaktik der Mathematik as well as Krygowska 1972). Since then the status of mathematics education has not been considered on a larger scale despite the contributions by Bigalke (1985) and Winter (1986). So the time is overdue for redefining the basic orientation for research; therefore, Bauersfeld’s talk could hardly have been more appropriate. In recent years the interest in a better understanding of the nature and role of mathematics education has also grown considerably at the international level as indicated, for example, by the ICMI-study on ‘What is research in mathematics education and what are its results?’ launched in 1992 (cf., Balacheff et al. 1992). The following considerations are intended both as a critical analysis of the present situation and an attempt to capture the specificity of mathematics education. Like Bauersfeld, the author presents them ‘in full subjectivity and in a concise way’ as a kind of ‘thinking aloud about our profession’. (The present paper concentrates on the didactics of mathematics although the line of argument pertains equally to the didactics of other subjects and also to education in general (cf., Clifford and Guthrie 1988, a detailed study on the identity crisis of the Schools of Education at the leading American universities).)
Developing Mathematics Education in a Systemic Process
Authors: Wittmann Erich Christian
Published: December 2020

The aim of this paper is to make a concrete proposal for bridging the gap between theory and practice in mathematics education and for establishing a systemic relationship between researchers and teachers as well as to explain the background and the implications of this proposal.
Long-term follow-up of children with neuroblastoma receiving radiotherapy to metastatic lesions within the German Neuroblastoma Trials NB97 and NB 2004
Authors: Jazmati Danny , Butzer Sarina , Hero Barbara , Doyen Jerome , Ahmad Khalil Dalia , Steinmeier Theresa , Schulze Schleithoff Stefanie , Eggert Angelika , Simon Thorsten , Timmermann Beate
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid malignancy during childhood. Despite a multimodal treatment approach, the prognosis of patients with metastatic NB is not satisfactory. Although radiotherapy (RT) has become an integral part of treatment of the primary tumor, the role of RT in osteomedullary lesions is not well defined. A retrospective analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of RT for metastatic sites in children with high-risk NB.

Methods

All patients with stage 4 NB from the prospective, multicenter NB trials NB97 and NB2004 who received RT to metastatic sites during frontline treatment were included in this retrospective analysis.

Results

A total of 18 children were irradiated with a median dose of 36 Gray (Gy; range 20–45 Gy) to one or more (range 1–3) osteomedullary metastases with or without concomitant RT to the primary tumor site. The median follow-up time was 149 months (range 55–220) in survivors. At 5 years, local relapse-free survival (LRFS) at irradiated metastatic sites and metastases-free survival (MFS) at distant, non-irradiated site rates were 51.4 and 39.9%, respectively. The estimated overall survival (OS) rate at 5 years was 49.4%. No high-grade acute or late toxicity and no secondary malignancy was reported.

Conclusion

RT to metastases is feasible for patients with stage 4 NB. However, an impact of RT to residual metastatic sites on outcome was not found. Studies with larger cohorts or prospective trials would be desirable in order to elucidate the role of RT for metastases.
Success factors for introducing industrial human-robot interaction in practice: an empirically driven framework
Authors: Kopp Tobias , Baumgartner Marco , Kinkel Steffen
Published: December 2020

Human-robot interaction (HRI) promises to be a means whereby manufacturing companies will be able to address current challenges like a higher demand for customization. However, despite comparably low costs, there are only few applications in practice. To date, it remains unclear which factors facilitate or hinder the successful introduction of industrial collaborative robots (cobots). In a three-step approach, we first developed a comprehensive two-dimensional framework covering three separate phases and four essential components for human-robot working systems. Secondly, we reviewed related literature to identify relevant success factors. Thirdly, in an online survey we asked leading representatives of German manufacturing companies (n= 81) to assess the importance of these factors from a practical point of view. The results reveal that besides technology-related factors like occupational safety and appropriate cobot configuration, employee-centered factors like the fear of job loss and ensuring an appropriate level of trust in the robot are considered important. However, company representatives seem to underestimate the impact of subtle measures to increase employee acceptance which could be incorporated into internal communication strategies prior to and during the introduction of cobots. Comparative analysis based on three distinct application scenarios suggests that most success factors’ practical importance is independent of the motivation for implementing HRI. Furthermore, answers from practitioners in free-text fields reveal that success factors which intuitively come to their mind such as financial factors are not necessarily perceived most important. Finally, we argue for more application-oriented research that focuses on practically relevant factors to guide HRI research, inform cobot development, and support companies in overcoming apparent barriers.
Investigation on the droplet evaporation process on local heated substrates with different wettability
Authors: Wang Li , Liu Zeyu , Wang Xin , Yan Yuying
Published: December 2020

Marangoni effect is one of the critical factors in the droplet evaporation process, which is caused by surface tension gradient in the droplet interface. In this study, local heating is adopted to provide a more complicated temperature distribution on the droplet surface, and a detailed numerical investigation is carried out to address the effect of Marangoni flow on the droplet evaporation behaviour. Results show that asymmetric heat source position could result in the droplet morphology being asymmetric, especially for droplets on super-hydrophilic surfaces. The evaporation rate could be affected both by the heat source position and the droplet contact angle. When placed on a smooth substrate, the droplet will slip horizontally as a result of the asymmetric heating condition. The slipping behaviour is affected by both the heat source position and the surface wettability.
Energetic management in wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Valé Prince D. , Béné Jean-Claude K. , N’Guessan Antoine K. , Crockford Catherine , Deschner Tobias , Koné Inza , Girard-Buttoz Cédric , Wittig Roman M.
Published: December 2020

Socioecological theories predict that, in mammals, feeding and mating competitions affect male and female energetic conditions differently but energetic studies investigating both sexes simultaneously are rare. We investigated the effect of socioecological factors on the energetic conditions of male and female western chimpanzees, a long-lived species with high degrees of male-male competition. We used behavioural data collected on one chimpanzee community in the Taï National Park over 12 months, phenological data and urinary c-peptide (UCP) measures, a marker of energy balance. We found a positive effect of food availability on UCP levels in both sexes. Dominance rank also affected chimpanzee UCP levels. High-ranking females had higher UCP levels than low-ranking ones but only in periods when no oestrus females were present in the community. In contrast, high-ranking males had higher UCP levels than low-ranking males in the presence of oestrus females but lower UCP levels in their absence. Our results suggest that oestrus female presence lessened the competitive advantages of high-ranking females in feeding competition and that low-ranking males bore higher energetic costs related to mating competition than high-ranking ones. Yet caution should apply in interpreting these results since the statistical model was only close to significance. High-ranking male and female chimpanzees spent significantly less energy. Furthermore, all chimpanzees significantly spent less time feeding and spent more energy when food availability was high. Finally, our behavioural measure of energy intake and expenditure did not correlate with UCP levels highlighting the value of non-invasive hormonal markers for field studies.

Significance statement

General socioecological theories hypothesize that the social grouping dynamic and energetics of females are highly influenced by food competition, whereas in males, competition for sexual partners is more influential for these factors. Recent studies in the non-invasive physiological assessment of energy balance in primates have begun to test the implied relationship between chimpanzee socioecology and individual energetic condition, with inconsistent results. However, only a few studies have investigated this relationship concurrently for both sexes. Here, using non-invasive measures of energy balance in wild western chimpanzees, we found that the energetics of both males and females are related to ecological factors, such as food availability. However, female energy balance appears also to be related to increased male mating competition, as this can result in increased aggression directed from males to females, with apparent energetic costs for females.
Inhibition of macrophage proliferation dominates plaque regression in response to cholesterol lowering
Authors: Härdtner Carmen , Kornemann Jan , Krebs Katja , Ehlert Carolin A. , Jander Alina , Zou Jiadai , Starz Christopher , Rauterberg Simon , Sharipova Diana , Dufner Bianca , Hoppe Natalie , Dederichs Tsai-Sang , Willecke Florian , Stachon Peter , Heidt Timo , Wolf Dennis , von zur Mühlen Constantin , Madl Josef , Kohl Peter , Kaeser Rafael , Boettler Tobias , Pieterman Elsbeth J. , Princen Hans M. G. , Ho-Tin-Noé Benoît , Swirski Filip K. , Robbins Clinton S. , Bode Christoph , Zirlik Andreas , Hilgendorf Ingo
Published: December 2020

Statins induce plaque regression characterized by reduced macrophage content in humans, but the underlying mechanisms remain speculative. Studying the translational APOE*3-Leiden.CETP mouse model with a humanized lipoprotein metabolism, we find that systemic cholesterol lowering by oral atorvastatin or dietary restriction inhibits monocyte infiltration, and reverses macrophage accumulation in atherosclerotic plaques. Contrary to current believes, none of (1) reduced monocyte influx (studied by cell fate mapping in thorax-shielded irradiation bone marrow chimeras), (2) enhanced macrophage egress (studied by fluorescent bead labeling and transfer), or (3) atorvastatin accumulation in murine or human plaque (assessed by mass spectrometry) could adequately account for the observed loss in macrophage content in plaques that undergo phenotypic regression. Instead, suppression of local proliferation of macrophages dominates phenotypic plaque regression in response to cholesterol lowering: the lower the levels of serum LDL-cholesterol and lipid contents in murine aortic and human carotid artery plaques, the lower the rates of in situ macrophage proliferation. Our study identifies macrophage proliferation as the predominant turnover determinant and an attractive target for inducing plaque regression.
Prognostic evaluation of HCC patients undergoing surgical resection: an analysis of 8 different staging systems
Authors: Bednarsch Jan , Czigany Zoltan , Heise Daniel , Joechle Katharina , Luedde Tom , Heij Lara , Bruners Philipp , Ulmer Tom Florian , Neumann Ulf Peter , Lang Sven Arke
Published: December 2020

Purpose

No consensus exists regarding the most appropriate staging system to predict overall survival (OS) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in surgical candidates. Thus, we aimed to determine the prognostic ability of eight different staging systems in a European cohort of patients undergoing liver resection for HCC.

Methods

Patients resected for HCC between 2010 and 2019 at our institution were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses. Likelihood ratio (LR) χ2 (homogeneity), linear trend (LT) χ2 (discriminatory ability), and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC, explanatory ability) were used to determine the staging system with the best overall prognostic performance.

Results

Liver resection for HCC was performed in 160 patients. Median OS was 39 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 32–46 months) and median RFS was 26 months (95% CI: 16–34 months). All staging systems (BCLC, HKLC, Okuda, CLIP, ITA.LI.CA staging and score, MESH, and GRETCH) showed significant discriminatory ability regarding OS, with ITA.LI.CA score (LR χ2 30.08, LT χ2 13.90, AIC 455.27) and CLIP (LR χ2 28.65, LT χ2 18.95, AIC 460.07) being the best performing staging systems.

Conclusions

ITA.LI.CA and CLIP are the most suitable staging system to predict OS in European HCC patients scheduled for curative-intent surgery.
Association between operation volume and postoperative mortality in elective endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms: systematic review—continuation
Authors: Ronellenfitsch U. , Meisenbacher K. , Ante M. , Grilli M. , Böckler D.
Published: December 2020

Background

Many surgical interventions show an inverse association between case volume per hospital/surgeon and perioperative mortality. In the first part of this systematic review it was shown that such an association also exists for the open treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms. The second part now examines a possible association with endovascular treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms.

Objective

In a systematic review, the data available on the association between the case volume per hospital/surgeon and perioperative mortality in elective endovascular treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms are presented.

Materials and Methods

Systematic research using defined keywords was carried out. All original works comparing elective endovascular treatment of an infrarenal aortic aneurysm in a “high volume” center with a “low volume” center or by a “high volume” surgeon with a “low volume” surgeon, as defined in each study, were included.

Results

After deduplication, the literature search produced 1,021 hits. Of these, 16 publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. With regard to the thresholds for the definition of high volume and low volume, there was marked heterogeneity between individual studies. Twelve of the 15 studies showed a significantly lower mortality in high volume than in low volume centers. The effect measures, usually odds ratios, were between 0.43 and 0.91. In the comparison between high volume and low volume surgeons, there was no difference in mortality in any of the five studies included.

Discussion

The available data on the association between case volume per hospital and surgeon and the perioperative mortality in elective endovascular treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms consistently show that patients operated on in high volume centers have a lower mortality. The volume per surgeon seems to have no influence on perioperative mortality. To achieve the lowest perioperative mortality possible in endovascular treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms, centralization with high volume per hospital should be aimed for, taking into consideration the context of the health care system.
Correction to: Effect of early tumor response on the health-related quality of life among patients on second-line chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer in the ABSOLUTE trial
Authors: Fujitani Kazumasa , Shitara Kohei , Takashima Atsuo , Koeda Keisuke , Hara Hiroki , Nakayama Norisuke , Hironaka Shuichi , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Kimura Yutaka , Amagai Kenji , Hosaka Hisashi , Komatsu Yoshito , Shimada Ken , Kawabata Ryohei , Ohdan Hideki , Kodera Yasuhiro , Nakamura Masato , Nakajima Takako Eguchi , Miyata Yoshinori , Moriwaki Toshikazu , Kusumoto Tetsuya , Nishikawa Kazuo , Ogata Kazuhiro , Shimura Masashi , Morita Satoshi , Koizumi Wasaburo
Published: December 2020

The article Effect of early tumor response on the health-related quality of life among patients.
A spatiotemporal object-oriented data model for landslides (LOOM)
Authors: Valiante Mario , Guida Domenico , Della Seta Marta , Bozzano Francesca
Published: December 2020

LOOM (landslide object-oriented model) is here presented as a data structure for landslide inventories based on the object-oriented paradigm. It aims at the effective storage, in a single dataset, of the complex spatial and temporal relations between landslides recorded and mapped in an area and at their manipulation. Spatial relations are handled through a hierarchical classification based on topological rules and two levels of aggregation are defined: (i) landslide complexes, grouping spatially connected landslides of the same type, and (ii) landslide systems, merging landslides of any type sharing a spatial connection. For the aggregation procedure, a minimal functional interaction between landslide objects has been defined as a spatial overlap between objects. Temporal characterization of landslides is achieved by assigning to each object an exact date or a time range for its occurrence, integrating both the time frame and the event-based approaches. The sum of spatial integrity and temporal characterization ensures the storage of vertical relations between landslides, so that the superimposition of events can be easily retrieved querying the temporal dataset. The here proposed methodology for landslides inventorying has been tested on selected case studies in the Cilento UNESCO Global Geopark (Italy). We demonstrate that the proposed LOOM model avoids data fragmentation or redundancy and topological inconsistency between the digital data and the real-world features. This application revealed to be powerful for the reconstruction of the gravity-induced deformation history of hillslopes, thus for the prediction of their evolution.
New species and nomenclatural changes in Angraecum (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar
Authors: Hermans Johan , Verlynde Simon , Rajaovelona Landy , Cribb Phillip J. , Hervouet Jean-Michel
Published: December 2020

Three new species:Angraecum archangelicum, A. polyphemusandA. rotundifoliumare described for the first time.Pectinariellais evaluated; a case is made to keep it at subgeneric level and the necessary two new combinations are made.Angraecum dasycarpumis neotypified. FinallyA. ochraceumandA. setipesare compared with the latter being reduced to a synonym of the former.
Discovered online: Hibiscus hareyae sp. nov. of sect. Lilibiscus (Malvaceae), threatened in coastal thicket at Lindi, Tanzania
Authors: Thomson Lex A. J. , Cheek Martin
Published: December 2020

The spectacular new species with horticultural potential described in this paper, Hibiscus hareyae L.A.J.Thomson & Cheek, was identified during an assessment of online digitised botanical specimens of H. schizopetalus (Dyer) Hook.f. as part of a review of species in Hibiscus sect. Lilibiscus Hochr. A short updated description and delimitation of the horticulturally important sect. Lilibiscus is presented. Flowering and fruiting specimens of Hibiscus hareyae are readily distinguished from H. schizopetalus by their short (0.4 – 2 (– 4.5) cm long, non-articulated peduncle-pedicels vs (6 –) 8 – 11 (– 14) cm long, articulated peduncle-pedicels, and larger, broader epicalyx bracts (1.5 – 4 × 1 – 1.2 mm vs 0.6 – 1.5 × 0.1 – 0.3 (– 0.5) mm), the epicalyx forming a shallow cup 0.5 – 1 × 2 – 3 mm vs bracts appearing free. The absence of an articulation of the peduncle-pedicel of H. hareyae is unique within sect. Lilibiscus. The species is also well-marked from H. schizopetalus by other morphological differences in corolla and foliage, and in ecology and geography. Hibiscus hareyae has a restricted natural distribution as an element in deciduous coastal thicket, usually on coral rag formations, sometimes in or near mangrove, in Lindi Province, southern Tanzania. It ranges from the Indian Ocean coast to as much as 20 km inland, from about 8.5oS to 10oS (c. 140 × 20 km) and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU B2ab(iii)). Hibiscus hareyae has high ornamental potential but is unknown in cultivation.
Children’s Evaluations of a Therapy Dog and Biomimetic Robot: Influences of Animistic Beliefs and Social Interaction
Authors: Barber Olivia , Somogyi Eszter , McBride Anne E. , Proops Leanne
Published: December 2020

Social robots are being used increasingly across a range of settings, including in the context of therapeutic interactions with children. While research has shown that interaction with live therapy dogs can be calming and enjoyable for children, it is currently unclear whether social robots can produce similar outcomes. In this study, 11–12-year old children completed a questionnaire about their biophilic beliefs and attitudes to dogs and robots before engaging in two separate free-play, non-goal directed, non-therapeutic sessions with an interactive biomimetic MiRo-E robot and a living therapy dog in a controlled setting. Behavioural observations of social interaction, initiation and reaction behaviours by the child and dog/robot showed that participants spent a similar amount of time engaging in positive social touch with the robot and the dog, but overall more time interacting with the robot. This may be because the robot was more responsive to the children’s initiation behaviours. In self-report, participants significantly preferred the session with the living dog. However, overall enjoyment was high and more positive emotions were reported following interaction with the robot. The more participants attributed mental attributes and animacy to the dog/robot, the more they enjoyed the interactions, demonstrating that participants’ animistic beliefs were an important factor in their evaluations. Levels of social interaction did not correlate with enjoyment, suggesting that the nature of the interaction was less important than pre-existing participant attitudes in producing reported positive outcomes. Although there were some differences in behaviour and evaluations, these preliminary results suggest that MiRo-E provides a useful comparison to therapy dogs and may be a suitable alternative for use in interventions with children.
An Online Mindful Parenting Training for Mothers Raising Toddlers: Assessment of Acceptability, Effectiveness, and Personal Goals
Authors: Boekhorst Myrthe G. B. M. , Hulsbosch Lianne P. , Nyklíček Ivan , Spek Viola , Kastelein Anna , Bögels Susan , Pop Victor J. M. , Potharst Eva S.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Mindful parenting (MP) interventions show promising results, but they mostly target parents (of children) with mental health problems. This study examined an online MP intervention for mothers with toddlers in a population-based sample. Aims were to assess acceptability and effectiveness of the intervention for mothers with and without parental stress, and examine their predetermined personal goals.

Methods

The study included 157 mothers with toddlers from the general population of whom 73 reported parental stress. The mothers participated in an 8-week online MP training. Questionnaires were completed at waitlist, pretest, posttest, and follow-up.

Results

Mothers rated the training positively, although only 23.1% completed the training. Personal goals were analyzed qualitatively, establishing four different themes: attention, well-being, patience, and balance. Significant improvements in personal goals posttest and follow-up were found (large and very large effect size, respectively). We found no significant improvements from waitlist to pretest for all outcome variables, except personal goals (medium effect size). Mixed-linear model analyses showed significant improvements posttest and follow-up as compared to pretest regarding Self-compassion, Parental over-reactivity and Symptoms of anxiety and depression (small to medium effect sizes). There was an effect at posttest for Parenting problems, and for Parental role restriction at follow-up (small effect sizes). Levels of parental stress and theme of personal goal did not influence the effectiveness of the intervention.

Conclusions

The current study provides initial evidence that an online MP training could be an easily accessible, inexpensive, and valuable intervention for parents without an indication for a therapist-assisted intervention.

Trial Registration

Dutch Trial Register (NTR7401)
Understanding German farmer’s intention to adopt mixed cropping using the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Bonke Vanessa , Musshoff Oliver
Published: December 2020

The diversification of cropping systems has the potential to contribute towards a sustainable land use while preserving biodiversity. Mixed cropping is one possibility to increase biodiversity within farming systems. However, adoption of mixed cropping systems is challenging for farmers, as the agricultural sector has evolved around pure stands over the past decades and path dependencies have emerged. Yet, little is known about farmers’ motivation to adopt mixed cropping. Utilizing the theory of planned behavior as the main framework, this paper studies the psychological factors underlying farmers’ intention to adopt mixed cropping based on an online survey with 172 German farmers. In addition, the most crucial adoption obstacles are assessed. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling, we show for the first time that attitude, perceived behavioral control, and injunctive as well as descriptive group norms explain over 52% of farmers’ intention to adopt mixed cropping. Our results also demonstrate that perceived ecological benefits positively influence a farmer’s attitude towards mixed cropping. Missing sales opportunities for mixed yields, the uneven maturing of crops, and deficient economic benefits are ranked as the most crucial obstacles for the implementation of mixed cropping. These results, which can be relevant for other European countries as well, indicate that the introduction of a voluntary agri-environmental scheme could encourage adoption and that considering positive effects of group norms within policy schemes could further increase adoption on a large scale.
Report of epibenthic macrofauna found from Haima cold seeps and adjacent deep-sea habitats, South China Sea
Authors: Dong Dong , Li Xinzheng , Yang Mei , Gong Lin , Li Yang , Sui Jixing , Gan Zhibin , Kou Qi , Xiao Ning , Zhang Junlong
Published: December 2020

This work reports on a preliminary taxonomic study of epibenthic macroinvertebrates collected or observed by underwater video at the Haima cold seeps and in adjacent deep-sea habitats, including a mud volcano field and Ganquan Plateau, during an expedition in the South China Sea by the Chinese-manned submersible Shenhai Yongshi in May 2018. A total of 41 species belonging to 6 phyla were identified, among which 34 species were collected from the Haima cold seeps. Mollusks and crustaceans that are specialized in reducing habitats were predominant in biotopes of the Haima cold seeps, whereas sponges and cold-water corals and their commensals were prominent in communities of the mud volcano field and the slopes of Ganquan Plateau. The distribution and faunal composition of each taxonomic group are discussed.
Promovieren in Informatik – Eine Studie mit Doktorandinnen und Doktoranden
Authors: Alfermann Dorothee , Reimann Swantje
Published: December 2020

Zusammenfassung: Der niedrige Frauenanteil in Informatik ist Anlass für die vorliegende Studie. Hierbei sollen erstmalig in Deutschland mögliche Besonderheiten speziell im Promotionsprozess von Informatikerinnen und Informatikern untersucht werden. Dazu nahmen 690 Doktorandinnen und Doktoranden an einer online-Befragung teil, von denen 254 Personen die Befragung zu unterschiedlichen Zeitpunkten abbrachen. Die Auswertung basiert auf den 436 Personen (113 Doktorandinnen, 320 Doktoranden, 3 divers), die bis zum Schluss Fragen beantworteten (Alter: M = 30.74 Jahre, SD = 4.16). Die Hauptziele der Studie sind zum einen ein Geschlechtervergleich in den untersuchten Merkmalen der Befragten (Berufliche Motive, Geschlechtsrollenselbstkonzept, berufliche Selbstwirksamkeit, soziale Unterstützung) und im wahrgenommenen Verlauf der Promotion (Themenfindung, Zufriedenheit mit Betreuung, geschätzte Zeitdauer der Promotion, wahrgenommene Belastungen). Zum zweiten wird untersucht, ob im Verlauf der Promotion Schwierigkeiten auftraten, die zu einer Krise führten. Erwartet werden geringe Geschlechterunterschiede und deutliche Unterschiede zwischen Personen mit und ohne erlebte Krise. Die Ergebnisse bestätigen die Erwartungen. Es finden sich keine bis geringe Geschlechterunterschiede in den untersuchten Variablen, was mit der vorliegenden Literatur übereinstimmt. Demgegenüber finden sich mittlere bis große Unterschiede zwischen Personen mit und ohne erlebte Krise. Doktorandinnen und Doktoranden, die eine Krise erlebten, berichten häufiger von Abbruchgedanken, schätzen ihre berufliche Selbstwirksamkeit signifikant niedriger ein, sind unzufriedener mit der Betreuung, brauchen länger für ihre Dissertation und schätzen die erfragten psychischen Belastungen signifikant höher ein als die ohne Krise. Diese Ergebnisse werden im Hinblick auf vorliegende Literatur zur psychischen Belastung von Promovendinnen und Promovenden diskutiert und es werden Vorschläge für eine verbesserte Betreuung und Unterstützung an Universitäten gemacht.
Transkatheter-Verfahren bei schwerer Trikuspidalklappeninsuffizienz
Authors: Winkel Mirjam , Hunziker Lukas , Pilgrim Thomas , Brugger Nicolas , Windecker Stephan , Praz Fabien
Published: December 2020

Zusammenfassung. Die schwere Trikuspidalklappeninsuffizienz kann durch klinische Beschwerden und Beeinträchtigung von Organfunktionen zu erhöhter Morbidität und Sterblichkeit führen. Durch die Entwicklung neuer interventioneller Behandlungsmöglichkeiten gewinnt die lange Zeit als vernachlässigte Trikuspidalklappe zunehmend an Aufmerksamkeit. Der folgende Beitrag soll einen Überblick über die Ursachen, Diagnostik und therapeutischen Möglichkeiten bei schwerer Trikuspidalklappeninsuffizienz geben.