bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustic global–local full‐waveform inversion for P‐wave velocity estimation of near‐surface seismic data acquired in Luni, Italy
Authors: Stucchi Eusebio , Pierini Silvio , Tognarelli Andrea , Brunod Jimi
Published: February 2020

In this work, we describe an experiment concerning global–local full‐waveform inversion, carried out on a P‐wave seismic reflection profile that was acquired at Luni, an archaeological site in Italy. The global full‐waveform inversion makes use of a two‐grid genetic algorithm scheme and recorded refraction and diving waves, to build an initial velocity model of the subsurface. Two important pieces of a priori information which help to better constrain the inversion results are the refraction velocity model and the Dix‐converted semblance velocity field obtained from time processing. A good match between observed and predicted data allows us to use the estimated velocity field as the starting point for a local, gradient‐based full‐waveform inversion that inverts the recorded data (except the surface waves). The final estimated velocity field shows two main discontinuities: one is very shallow and related to the refractor velocity model used and the other corresponds to the strongest reflection event observed in the pre‐stack depth‐migrated section, at a depth of 100 m. The pre‐stack depth‐migrated common image gathers provide evidence of a good horizontal alignment of this reflection, indicating an accurate velocity estimation down to 100 m depth that corresponds to the maximum offset used in the acquisition.
Reconstructing diets and subsistence strategies of the Bronze Age humans from the Central Plains of China: A stable isotopic study on the Nanwa site
Authors: Zhang Guowen , Zhang Jihua , Zhao Lingyi , Tao Dawei , Zhou Yawei , Han Guohe , Richards Michael P.
Published: February 2020

A multicrop agricultural system, including millet, wheat, rice, and soybeans, first emerged in China in the Late Longhang period and is considered to be one of the most important basic foundations underpinning the origin and development of early states in China. However, there is still a lack of studies on the specific subsistence strategies of humans from the Bronze Age, specifically addressing how widespread the multicrop agricultural system was. To explore these questions above, carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis on human bones from the Nanwa site (ca 1720–256 BC & 960–1279 AD) was undertaken to investigate the palaeodiet and subsistence strategies of the Nanwa humans. This paper also reviews the existing stable isotope data of Bronze Age humans on the Central Plains of China.

The Nanwa humans from the Erlitou and Yinxu periods have a mean δ13C value of −9.4 ± 0.7‰ and −9.1 ± 0.9‰, suggesting a predominantly C4 diet, probably derived from millet agriculture or domesticated animals fed on millet. Nanwa humans of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty have a relatively low mean δ13C value of −10.5 ± 2.4‰, indicating a consumption of much more C3 foods, likely derived from rice, wheat, soybean, or animals that fed on those plants. A temporal stable isotopic comparison from the Erlitou period to the Eastern Zhou Dynasty on the Central Plains of China shows the majority of the Bronze Age humans have high mean δ13C value (−9.5 ± 1.8‰), suggesting a predominantly C4‐based diet. We infer that millet agriculture was still the primary economy for humans during the Bronze Age. However, there is a relatively large proportion of humans from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty that have decreased δ13C values, indicating a much more C3 foods consumption and diversity diet, presumably derived from a multicrop agricultural system of millet, wheat, rice, and soybean. It is possible that the trend moved from a narrowly focused, mainly millet‐based diet, to a more diverse agricultural system and was triggered by a combination of factors such as climate change, agricultural reform, social stratification, wars, migration, and so on.
The relevance of nutrition to pediatric oncology: A cancer control perspective
Authors: Rogers Paul C. , Barr Ronald D.
Published: February 2020

It is indisputable that adequate and appropriate nutrition is fundamental to the health, growth, and development of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with cancer. Nutrition has a role in most of the accepted components of the cancer control spectrum, from prevention through to palliation. The science of nutrigenomics, nutrigenetics, and bioactive foods (phytochemicals), and how nutrition affects cancer biology and cancer treatment, is growing. Nutritional epigenetics is giving us an understanding that there are possible primary prevention strategies for pediatric cancers, especially during conception and pregnancy, which need to be studied. Primary prevention of cancer in adults, such as colorectal cancer, should commence early in childhood, given the long gestation of nutritionally related cancers. Obesity avoidance is definitely a target for both pediatric and adult cancer prevention, commencing in childhood. There is now compelling evidence that the nutritional status of children with cancer, both overweight and underweight, does affect cancer outcomes. This is a potentially modifiable prognostic factor. Consistent longitudinal nutritional assessment of patients from diagnosis through treatment and long‐term follow‐up is required so that interventions can be implemented and evaluated. While improving, there remains a dearth of basic and clinical nutritional research in pediatric oncology. The perspective of evaluating nutrition as a cancer control factor is discussed in this article.
A decade on: Follow‐up findings of indigenous children with bronchiectasis
Authors: McCallum Gabrielle B. , Singleton Rosalyn J. , Redding Gregory J. , Grimwood Keith , Byrnes Catherine A. , Valery Patricia C. , Mobberley Charmaine , Oguoma Victor M. , Eg Kah Peng , Morris Peter S. , Chang Anne B.
Published: February 2020

Objective

The sole prospective longitudinal study of children with either chronic suppurative lung disease (CSLD) or bronchiectasis published in the current era was limited to a single center. We sought to extend this study by evaluating the longer‐term clinical and lung function outcomes and their associated risk factors in Indigenous children of adolescents from Australia, Alaska, and New Zealand who participated in our previous CSLD or bronchiectasis studies during 2004‐2010.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2018, we evaluated 131 out of 180 (72.8%) children of adolescents from the original studies at a single follow‐up visit. We administered standardized questionnaires, reviewed medical records, undertook clinical examinations, performed spirometry, and scored available chest computed tomography scans.

Results

Participants were seen at a mean age of 12.3 years (standard deviation: 2.6) and a median of 9.0 years (range: 5.0‐13.0) after their original recruitment. With increasing age, rates of acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) declined, while lung function was mostly within population norms (median forced expiry volume in one‐second = 90% predicted, interquartile range [IQR]: 81‐105; forced vital capacity [FVC] = 98% predicted, IQR: 85‐114). However, 43 out of 111 (38.7%) reported chronic cough episodes. Their overall global rating judged by symptoms, including ALRI frequency, examination findings, and spirometry was well (20.3%), stable (43.9%), or improved (35.8%). Multivariable regression identified household tobacco exposure and age at first ALRI‐episode as independent risk factors associated with lower FVC% predicted values.

Conclusion

Under our clinical care, the respiratory outcomes in late childhood or early adolescence are encouraging for these patient populations at high‐risk of premature mortality. Prospective studies to further inform management throughout the life course into adulthood are now needed.
Investigation and management of giant cell arteritis
Authors: Tracey Gerald , Kevin SU
Published: February 2020

Early recognition of the symptoms of giant cell arteritis (GCA), followed by urgent referral and treatment are important in order to prevent possible sight loss. This article discusses the clinical presentation of GCA, the investigations needed to aid diagnosis, and recommended management.
Galcanezumab: a monoclonal antibody for migraine prophylaxis
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: February 2020

Galcanezumab (Emgality) is one of three new anti‐CGRP monoclonal antibodies licensed for the prophylaxis of migraine in adults. Here, we discuss its administration, efficacy and side‐effects.
Adaptive fault tolerant control for a class of uncertain fractional‐order systems based on disturbance observer
Authors: Hou Chuanjing , Liu Xiaoping , Wang Huanqing
Published: February 2020

In this paper, a class of fractional‐order nonlinear systems are considered in the presence of actuator faults. A novel fault tolerant control scheme based on disturbance observer has been presented, where the actuator faults are considered as the system disturbance and can be approximated by the proposed disturbance observer. The developed fault tolerant control guarantees the convergence of the closed‐loop system and the output tracking performance. Finally, a simulation example is presented to verify the effectiveness of the new method.
Source and formulation matter: New insights into phosphorus fertilizer fate and transport in mildly calcareous soils
Authors: Weeks Joseph J. , Hettiarachchi Ganga M.
Published: February 2020

Phosphorus fertilizer use efficiency can be poor in calcareous soils as a result of calcium phosphate precipitation reactions. To avoid crop P deficiency, growers may apply more fertilizer than is agronomically necessary, creating a surplus of P in soil that can erode or leach into nearby waterbodies and promote eutrophication. This study investigated the effects of liquid P fertilizer source, application volume, and co‐application of a gelling agent on P partitioning in two mildly calcareous soils from Kansas. Treatments included phosphoric acid, monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate, ammonium polyphosphate (APP), and an 80% MAP/20% APP mixture applied at one total P rate over two concentrations or co‐applied with sodium alginate (AG). Soils were incubated for 4 wk in Petri dishes and then sectioned in concentric rings from the point of application. Anion exchange resin (AER) extractability assessed plant availability and total P determination evaluated diffusion. Sequential extraction and synchrotron‐based X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure spectroscopy were implemented to probe reaction products and pathways. Incorporation of polyphosphates, co‐application of AG, and dilution with water improved the proportion of P that was AER extractable in the case of monoammonium phosphate from ∼36 to 66, 58, and 65%, respectively. Increased plant availability may be accomplished through a combination of at least two mechanisms: retarded ripening of calcium phosphate minerals into sparingly soluble forms and altered partitioning of P to soil colloids. Understanding the conditions under which these concepts scale to the field could result in increased farm profitability and nutrient use efficiency.
A bootstrap semiparametric homogeneity test for the distributions of multigroup proportional data, with applications to analysis of quality of life outcomes in clinical trials
Authors: Wang Chunlin , Tu Dongsheng
Published: February 2020

This article is concerned about the test for the difference in the distributions of multigroup proportional data, which is motivated by the problem of comparing the distributions of quality of life (QoL) outcomes among different treatment groups in clinical trials. The proportional data, such as QoL outcomes assessed by answers to questions on a questionnaire, are bounded in a closed interval such as [0,1] with continuous observations in (0,1) and, in addition, excess observations taking the boundary values 0 and/or 1. Common statistical procedures used in practice, such as t‐ and rank‐based tests, may not be very powerful since they ignore the specific feature of the proportional data. In this article, we propose a three‐component mixture model for the proportional data and a density ratio model for the distributions of continuous observations in (0,1). A semiparametric test statistic for the homogeneity of distributions of multigroup proportional data is derived based on the empirical likelihood ratio principle and shown to be asymptotically distributed as a chi‐squared random variable under null hypothesis. A nonparametric bootstrap procedure is proposed to further improve the performance of the semiparametric test. Simulation studies are performed to evaluate the empirical type I error and power of the proposed test procedure and compare it with likelihood ratio tests (LRTs) under parametric distribution assumptions, rank‐based Kruskal‐Wallis test, and Wald‐type test. The proposed test procedure is also applied to the analysis of QoL outcomes from a clinical trial on colorectal cancer that motivated our study.
Structural behaviour of optimized cold‐formed steel beams
Authors: Gatheeshgar Perampalam , Poologanathan Keerthan , Gunalan Shanmuganathan , Nagaratnam Brabha , Tsavdaridis Konstantinos Daniel , Ye Jun
Published: February 2020

Cold‐formed steel (CFS) members have been used significantly in light‐gauge steel buildings due to their inherent advantages. Optimizing these CFS members in order to gain enhanced loadbearing capacities will result in economical and efficient building solutions. This research presents the investigation and results of the optimization of CFS members for flexural capacity. The optimization procedure was performed using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method, while the section moment capacity was determined based on the effective width method adopted in EN 1993‐1‐3 (EC3). Theoretical and manufacturing constraints were incorporated while optimizing the CFS cross‐sections. In total, four CFS sections – lipped channel beam (LCB), optimized LCB, folded‐flange and super‐sigma – were considered in the optimization process, including new sections. The section moment capacities of these sections were also obtained through non‐linear finite element (FE) analysis and compared with the EC3‐based, optimized section moment capacities. The results show that, compared with a commercially available LCB with the same amount of material, the new CFS sections possess the highest section moment capacity enhancements (up to 65 %). In addition, the performance of these CFS sections when subjected to shear and web‐crippling actions was also investigated using non‐linear FE analysis.
Scalar neutrino dark matter in U(1)XSSM
Authors: Zhao Shu-Min , Feng Tai-Fu , Zhang Ming-Jie , Yang Jin-Lei , Zhang Hai-Bin , Ning Guo-Zhu
Published: February 2020

Abstract

U(1)X SSM is the extension of the minimal supersymmetric standard model (MSSM) and its local gauge group is SU(3)C× SU(2)L× U(1)Y× U(1)X . To obtain this model, three singlet new Higgs superfields and right-handed neutrinos are added to MSSM. In the framework of U(1)XSSM, we study the Higgs mass and take the lightest CP-even sneutrino as a cold dark matter candidate. For the lightest CP-even sneutrino, the relic density and the cross section for dark matter scattering off nucleon are both researched. In suitable parameter space of the model, the numerical results satisfy the constraints of the relic density and the cross section with the nucleon.
Sprachentwicklung des jungen Kindes
Authors: Bühler D. , Ernst B. , Jenni O.
Published: February 2020

Entwicklungsförderung der Sprache, sei es zu Hause, in Institutionen oder in der Sprachtherapie, erfordert die frühe Erfassung der Sprachkompetenz möglichst aller Kinder im Rahmen präventiver Untersuchungen (wie z. B. den kinderärztlichen Vorsorgeuntersuchungen). Der vorliegende Beitrag fasst dasjenige Wissen zusammen, das der Kinderarzt haben muss, um Kinder mit Risiken für Spracherwerbsverzögerungen oder manifesten Störungen der Sprache in der Praxis zuverlässig erkennen zu können. Außerdem werden die wichtigsten Maßnahmen bei Kindern mit sprachlichen Schwierigkeiten erläutert.
Value and limitation of structure-based profilers to characterize developmental and reproductive toxicity potential
Authors: Manganelli Serena , Schilter Benoît , Scholz Gabriele , Benfenati Emilio , Lo Piparo Elena
Published: February 2020

The uncertainty regarding the safety of chemicals leaching from food packaging triggers attention. In silico models provide solutions for screening of these chemicals, since many are toxicologically uncharacterized. For hazard assessment, information on developmental and reproductive toxicity (DART) is needed. The possibility to apply in silico toxicology to identify and quantify DART alerts was investigated. Open-source models and profilers were applied to 195 packaging chemicals and analogues. An approach based on DART and estrogen receptor (ER) binding profilers and molecular docking was able to identify all except for one chemical with documented DART properties. Twenty percent of the chemicals in the database known to be negative in experimental studies were classified as positive. The scheme was then applied to 121 untested chemicals. Alerts were identified for sixteen of them, five being packaging substances, the others structural analogues. Read-across was then developed to translate alerts into quantitative toxicological values. They can be used to calculate margins of exposure (MoE), the size of which reflects safety concern. The application of this approach appears valuable for hazard characterization of toxicologically untested packaging migrants. It is an alternative to the use of default uncertainty factor (UF) applied to animal chronic toxicity value to handle absence of DART data in hazard characterization.
Anti-inflammatory microenvironment of esophageal adenocarcinomas negatively impacts survival
Authors: Karstens Karl-Frederick , Kempski Jan , Giannou Anastasios D. , Pelczar Penelope , Steglich Babett , Steurer Stefan , Freiwald Eric , Woestemeier Anna , Konczalla Leonie , Tachezy Michael , Reeh Matthias , Bockhorn Maximilian , Perez Daniel , Mann Oliver , Lohse Ansgar W. , Roesch Thomas , Izbicki Jakob R. , Gagliani Nicola , Huber Samuel
Published: February 2020

Objective

Reflux promotes esophageal adenocarcinomas (EACs) creating a chronic inflammatory environment. Survival rates are low due to early local recurrences and distant metastasis. Hence, there is a need for new potential treatment options like immunotherapies.
However, the inflammatory microenvironment in EACs and its impact on patient outcome remain to be fully understood.

Methods

mRNA expression levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory markers in 39 EAC
patients without neoadjuvant radio-chemotherapy were measured. Data were confirmed using flow cytometric analysis of freshly resected surgical specimens. Inflammatory alterations in premalignant lesions of Barrett’s esophagus were analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Expression levels of IL22 were reduced in EAC, while expression levels of FOXP3, IL10 and CTLA4 were increased. Flow cytometry demonstrated a strong infiltration of CD4+ T cells with a reduction in CD4+ T cells producing IL-22 or IL-17A. We also observed an increase in CD4+CD127lowFOXP3+ cells producing IL-10. Accumulation of FOXP3+ T cells occurred prior to malignant changes. High expression of IL10 and low expression of IL22 in EAC were associated with reduced overall survival. Moreover, increased expression of IL10, CTLA4 and PD1 in the unaltered esophageal mucosa distant to the EAC was also linked with an unfavorable prognosis.

Conclusion

EAC shows an anti-inflammatory environment, which strongly affects patient survival. The microscopically unaltered peritumoral tissue shows a similar anti-inflammatory pattern indicating an immunological field effect, which might contribute to early local recurrences despite radical resection. These data suggest that using checkpoint inhibitors targeting anti-inflammatory T cells would be a promising therapeutic strategy in EAC.
Epidemiology of Injuries Sustained by Civilians and Local Combatants in Contemporary Armed Conflict: An Appeal for a Shared Trauma Registry Among Humanitarian Actors
Authors: Wild Hannah , Stewart Barclay T. , LeBoa Christopher , Stave Christopher D. , Wren Sherry M.
Published: February 2020

Background

Conflict‐related injuries sustained by civilians and local combatants are poorly described, unlike injuries sustained by US, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and coalition military personnel. An understanding of injury epidemiology in twenty‐first century armed conflict is required to plan humanitarian trauma systems capable of responding to population needs.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of databases (e.g., PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, World Health Organization Catalog, Google Scholar) and grey literature repositories to identify records that described conflict‐related injuries sustained by civilians and local combatants since 2001.

Results

The search returned 3501 records. 49 reports representing conflicts in 18 countries were included in the analysis and described injuries of 58,578 patients. 79.3% of patients were male, and 34.7% were under age 18 years. Blast injury was the predominant mechanism (50.2%), and extremities were the most common anatomic region of injury (33.5%). The heterogeneity and lack of reporting of data elements prevented pooled analysis and limited the generalizability of the results. For example, data elements including measures of injury severity, resource utilization (ventilator support, transfusion, surgery), and outcomes other than mortality (disability, quality of life measures) were presented by fewer than 25% of reports.

Conclusions

Data describing the needs of civilians and local combatants injured during conflict are currently inadequate to inform the development of humanitarian trauma systems. To guide system‐wide capacity building and quality improvement, we advocate for a humanitarian trauma registry with a minimum set of data elements.
Short‐ and Long‐Term Outcomes of Right‐Sided Diverticulitis: Over 15 Years of North American Experience
Authors: Zuckerman Jesse , Garfinkle Richard , Vasilevksy Carol‐Ann , Ghitulescu Gabriela , Faria Julio , Morin Nancy , Boutros Marylise
Published: February 2020

Background

Right‐sided colonic diverticulitis represents less than 5% of diverticulitis cases in North America. The purpose of this study was to describe the management and outcomes for patients with a first episode of right‐sided diverticulitis in a North American center.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study, including all patients managed for right‐sided diverticulitis at a single tertiary‐care institution from 2000 to 2017. Patient demographics, disease characteristics, and treatment strategies were described. Short‐ (emergency surgery, operative morbidity, treatment failure) and long‐term (recurrence, elective operation) outcomes were reported. Patients with right‐sided diverticulitis were then compared to a cohort of patients with left‐sided diverticulitis.

Results

Sixty‐seven patients were managed for a first episode of right‐sided diverticulitis, three (4.5%) of which were subsequently diagnosed with right‐sided colon cancer; 64 patients therefore formed the population. Mean age was 51.2 ± 17.7 years. Eight patients (12.5%) self‐identified as being Asian. The majority of patients had uncomplicated disease (90.6%); six (9.4%) presented with complicated diverticulitis. Most cases were diagnosed by computed tomography (78.1%), while 17.2% were diagnosed intra‐operatively and 4.7% by pathology. Almost all patients diagnosed by computed tomography were managed nonoperatively. Fifteen patients (23.4%) were managed surgically: ten for suspected appendicitis, three for suspected colon mass, and two for diffuse peritonitis. After a median follow‐up of 74.8 months (IQR 30.2–130.5), only two patients (3.1%) developed recurrent right‐sided diverticulitis. Among patients managed nonoperatively, recurrence was significantly lower in patients with right‐sided diverticulitis relative to left‐sided diverticulitis (4.1% vs. 32.8%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Right‐sided diverticulitis can be successfully managed nonoperatively with low rates of recurrence. In populations in which this condition is more seldom observed, underlying colon cancers should be considered.
Chordome: Gibt es eine molekulargenetische Grundlage für Diagnostik und Therapie?
Authors: Scheipl Susanne , Igrec Jasminka , Leithner Andreas , Smolle Maria , Haybäck Johannes , Liegl Bernadette
Published: February 2020

Chordome sind maligne Knochentumoren, die mit einer jährlichen Inzidenz von 0,08 pro 100.000 Personen auftreten. Sie zeigen eine notochordale Differenzierung mit einer nukleären Expression von Brachyury (TBXT). Hauptlokalisation ist das axiale Skelett vom Clivus bis zum Sakrum und dem Os coccygis. Chordome wachsen langsam und lange nur lokal destruierend. Sie werden daher oft erst spät diagnostiziert. Putative Vorläuferläsionen sind Chordareste und der benigne notochordale Zelltumor. Dabei handelt es sich um zumeist mikroskopisch kleine, intraossäre Läsionen. Bei Chordomen werden unterschiedliche histologische Subtypen differenziert, welche sich prognostisch unterscheiden. Wiederkehrende genetische Veränderungen als Tumorauslöser sind nicht bekannt. Brachyury scheint eine noch nicht im Detail geklärte Schlüsselfunktion in der Entstehung von Chordomen zu besitzen. Die chirurgische En-bloc-Resektion mit negativen Resektionsrändern ist die einzige kurative Behandlungsoption. Die Hochdosisbestrahlung, speziell mit Protonen und Carbonionen, ist eine therapeutische Alternative in inoperablen Fällen. Medikamentöse Therapien sind für Chordome derzeit nicht zugelassen. Erste klinische Studien zu neuen Therapiemodalitäten laufen.
The vascularized fascia lata free flap: an anatomical study and clinical considerations
Authors: Janik Stefan , Hirtler Lena , Traxler Hannes , Weninger Wolfgang J. , Seemann Rudolf , Erovic Boban M.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Fascia lata (FL) is often used as fascial component of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap in head and neck reconstruction. No distinct data exist on whether the FL has its own reliable vascular supply and whether the fascia alone can be harvested as a fascia lata free flap.

Methods

We dissected 25 thighs of 15 cadavers. The lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA) was identified, and the size of stained fascia and skin were measured after injection of methylene blue into the descending branch (DB). Finally, topography of fascial vessels was determined.

Results

Staining of fascia and skin paddle was found in all 25 cases. Ascending skin perforators of the DB of the LCFA gave off branches for supply of the FL enabling harvest of a fascia lata free flap. Septo- or musculocutaneous perforators pierced FL and entered skin within the proximal 38.6–60% of the thigh. The mean length and width of stained FL was 15.8 ± 4.1 cm and 8.7 ± 2.0 cm, respectively, and size of stained FL ranged from 40.0 to 336.0 cm2. In 20 cases (80%), skin paddles were 2.4 times larger on average compared to corresponding FL.

Conclusion

We could demonstrate that the FL receives its own vascular supply from perforators of the DB originating from the LCFA. Hence, harvest of a fascia lata free flap is possible, reliable, and the size of the fascia is suitable for reconstruction of small and large defects of the head and neck.
Spatiotemporal cluster and incidence analysis of cattle mortality caused by bovine babesiosis in Styria, Austria, between 1998 and 2016
Authors: Schlögl Karoline Stefanie , Hiesel Jörg Anton , Wolf Robert , Kopacka Ian , Wagner Peter , Kastelic John , Deutz Armin
Published: February 2020

Reported fatal cases of bovine babesiosis (syn.: piroplasmosis, red water fever) in cattle were analyzed to identify spatial and temporal clusters of their incidence in the Austrian province of Styria. Data were collected within a governmental babesiosis compensation program. Diagnosis was performed using a standardized necropsy protocol. Between 1998 and 2016, a total of 1257 cases of fatal babesiosis were registered and compensated. Within the study interval, annual numbers of fatal babesiosis differed significantly among municipalities. Spatiotemporal analysis covering the entire study period revealed one high-risk cluster in the western and central northern region of Styria and a low-risk cluster in the southeastern part of Styria. Annual temporal analysis demonstrated that cases accumulated in June. Annual spatial analysis revealed consistently that cases mainly occurred in the western and central northern regions, whereas they occurred rarely in the southeastern regions. These results should increase awareness and facilitate protective actions against ticks during certain time periods and geographic areas.
Non-intersection of transient branching random walks
Authors: Hutchcroft Tom
Published: February 2020

Let G be a Cayley graph of a nonamenable group with spectral radius $$\rho < 1$$

ρ
<
1

. It is known that branching random walk on G with offspring distribution $$\mu $$
μ
is transient, i.e., visits the origin at most finitely often almost surely, if and only if the expected number of offspring $${\overline{\mu }}$$

μ
¯

satisfies $$\overline{\mu }\le \rho ^{-1}$$

μ
¯

≤

ρ

-
1

. Benjamini and Müller (Groups Geom Dyn, 6:231–247, 2012) conjectured that throughout the transient supercritical phase $$1<\overline{\mu } \le \rho ^{-1}$$

1
<

μ
¯

≤

ρ

-
1

, and in particular at the recurrence threshold $${\overline{\mu }} = \rho ^{-1}$$

μ
¯

=

ρ

-
1

, the trace of the branching random walk is tree-like in the sense that it is infinitely-ended almost surely on the event that the walk survives forever. This is essentially equivalent to the assertion that two independent copies of the branching random walk intersect at most finitely often almost surely. We prove this conjecture, along with several other related conjectures made by the same authors. A central contribution of this work is the introduction of the notion of local unimodularity, which we expect to have several further applications in the future.
Does the external remote controller’s reading correspond to the actual lengthening in magnetic-controlled growing rods?
Authors: Teoh Kar Hao , Moideen Abdul Nazeer , Mukherjee Kausik , Kamath Sridhar , James Stuart H. , Jones Alwyn , Howes John , Davies Paul R. , Ahuja Sashin
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Magnetic-controlled growing rods (MCGRs) are now routinely used in many centres to treat early-onset scoliosis (EOS). MCGR lengthening is done non-invasively by the external remote controller (ERC). Our experience suggests that there may be a discrepancy between the reported rod lengthening on the ERC and the actual rod lengthening. The aim of this study was to investigate this discrepancy.

Methods

This was a prospective series. Eleven patients who were already undergoing treatment for EOS using MCGRs were included in this study.

Results

One hundred and ninety-two sets of ultrasound readings were obtained (96 episodes of rod lengthening on dual-rod constructs) and compared to their ERC readings. Only 15/192 (7.8%) readings were accurate; 27 readings (14.9%) were false positive; and 8 readings (4.2%) were an underestimation while 142 readings (74.0%) were an overestimation by the ERC. Average over-reporting by the ERC was 5.31 times of the actual/ultrasound reading. When comparing interval radiographs with lengthening obtained on ultrasound, there was a discrepancy with an average overestimation of 1.35 times with ultrasound in our series. There was a significant difference between ERC and USS (p = 0.01) and ERC and XR (p = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between USS and XR (p > 0.99).

Conclusion

The reading on the ERC does not equate to the actual rod lengthening. The authors would recommend that clinicians using the MCGR for the treatment of early-onset scoliosis include pre- and post-extension imaging (radiographs or ultrasound) to confirm extension lengths at each outpatient extension. In centres with ultrasound facilities, we would suggest that patients should have ultrasound to monitor each lengthening after distraction but also 6-month radiographs.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Patient-reported experience measures in patients undergoing navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS): the introduction of nTMS-PREMs
Authors: Patel Sabina , Ghimire Prajwal , Lavrador José Pedro , Jung Josephine , Gullan Richard , Ashkan Keyoumars , Bhangoo Ranjeev , Vergani Francesco
Published: February 2020

Background

Patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) are a unique measure of experience of patients which can help address the quality of care of the patients.

Objective

Our aim of the study is to collect quality of care outcomes with our newly navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation patient-reported experience measure (nTMS-PREMs) questionnaire among neurosurgical patients undergoing nTMS.

Methods

A single-centre prospective nTMS-PREMs 19-item questionnaire study was performed between February 2018 and December 2018 on patient referred for nTMS at our hospital. The Data was analysed using Likert scale, linear and logistic regression using statistical software (STATA 13.0®).

Results

Fifty patient questionnaires were collected (30 males, 20 females, mean age of 47.6 ± 2.1 years) among which 74% of patients underwent both motor and language mapping with a mean duration of 103.3 ± 5.1 min. An overall positive response was noted from the results of the questionnaire, tiredness and anxiety being the common effects noted. Patients with the left-sided disease appreciated more the conditions provided in our laboratory (Q4, p = 0.040) and increasing age was related to less confidence and trust (Q6, p = 0.038) in the staff performing the exam. Younger patients tolerated nTMS better than older patients (> 65 years). PubMed literature search resulted in no relevant articles on the use of PREMs in nTMS patients.

Conclusion

nTMS is a well-tolerated non-invasive tool and nTMS-PREMS provides a promising role in identifying the unmet needs of the patients and improving the quality of their care.
A multi-method approach to explore environmental governance: a case study of a large, densely populated dry forest region of the neotropics
Authors: Siegmund-Schultze Marianna
Published: February 2020

Semiarid regions are often secondary on the national to global (scientific) agenda, especially if abundant vegetation elsewhere draws attention and the local population is considered backwards thinking and poverty-stricken. The Caatinga, our case study, is such a region, home to millions of Brazilians and a vast biodiversity. Unfortunately, a widely uncoordinated land use change and biodiversity decline are happening, while farmers’ livelihoods are at risk. We hypothesize substantial weaknesses in the current governance practices. To explore governance of the less noticed region, we conducted interviews and field visits and complemented the findings with the literature and internet resources. Our multi-method approach combines the social–ecological systems framework with constellation analysis and dynamic modeling. The aim was to understand the current state of governance in the region and identify clues for more sustainable land management. The use and conservation of Caatinga are negotiated at multiple levels, which are only sporadically interlinked. The conversion of forest land into alternative land uses shifts and shares responsibility among different sectors, while cross-sectoral cooperation is rarely observed. The region and its population face massive prejudices. Obstructing attitudes, such as thinking in dichotomies, and paternalistic and opportunistic approaches, are being addressed by some new coalitions taking alternative action. It is unlikely that these isolated initiatives will converge by themselves to a larger transformation toward sustainable resource use. There is a need to bring the dispersed actions in a more focused and coordinated approach, integrating socioeconomic and ecological concerns, values, and partnerships.
Effects of Water Cleaning on Different Deposit Types: An Experimental Study Combined with Mathematical Investigations
Authors: Graube-Kühne Franziska , Heißen Nina , Grahl Sebastian , Beckmann Michael , Patel Bhaumik
Published: February 2020

The deposits in waste incinerators are commonly removed with cleaning systems. Hitherto, the power plants lack the possibility to adjust the cleaning optimally to the specific situation. As a result, the cleaning sometimes has no effect and the deposits remain on the walls, while another time, the cleaning is applied too frequently and may result in damage of the water walls. The current paper evaluates investigations of the cleaning effects of water cleaning systems and their dependency on deposit properties. Real deposits are classified regarding their properties with focus on water cleaning systems. A mathematical model is established which calculates the dominating cleaning effect for known deposits and firing parameters. Firstly, a parameter study analyzes the influence of the deposit’s porosity, material properties, structure and layer thickness on the cleaning results. Afterwards, the model is applied to a real incinerator and three actual cleaning procedures are evaluated concerning their suitability to the existing impurification. The results demonstrate the principal assessment ability of the cleaning cycle and reveal weak points that have to be considered in cleaning setups.

Graphic Abstract
Hypothesis paper: electroacupuncture targeting the gut–brain axis to modulate neurocognitive determinants of eating behavior—toward a proof of concept in the obese minipig model
Authors: Zhang Xuwen , Chen Hanwei , Val-Laillet David
Published: February 2020

Acupuncture has thousands of years of history and perspective for the treatment of many health problems and disorders. Beneficial effects of acupuncture on obesity have been demonstrated at various levels in animals and clinical trials, with almost no adverse effect, even when combined with local electrical stimulation, i.e., electroacupuncture (EA), a way to potentiate the effects of acupuncture. However, there is still scattered evidence about the impact of EA on brain functions related to the control of eating behavior, and notably on the gut–brain axis mechanisms involved in these putative central modulations. During the past 10 years, we have described a convincing diet-induced obese minipig model, and successfully implemented brain imaging and neurocognitive approaches to challenge mechanistic hypotheses and innovative therapeutic strategies. In the present article, we propose to confront the current literature on the acupuncture and EA effects on the gut–brain axis and obesity with the latest developments in nutrition and neuroscience research using the minipig model. Our aims are to (a) elaborate functional hypotheses on the gut–brain mechanisms underlying EA effects on obesity, and especially on the role of the vagus nerve, and (b) present the rational for testing these hypotheses in the minipig model.
The Natural Monopoly Effect in Brand Purchasing: Do Big Brands Really Appeal to Lighter Category Buyers?
Authors: Dawes John
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates the Natural Monopoly [NM] effect, which is that large brands have buyers who are on average less frequent or ‘lighter’ purchasers of the product category. The study analyzes the NM effect for brands in 28 consumer goods categories in The Netherlands. The analysis employs a multiple regression with category purchase rate as the dependent variable; and brand penetration, together with brand price, brand type, average pack size and promotion incidence as independent variables. The study finds that higher brand penetration is indeed associated with a lower rate of category purchase, controlling for the other variables in the model. The NM effect is reasonably large: the largest two brands in a category tend to have a buyer base that on average purchase the category about 25% less frequently than those of the smallest two. The study also derives an explanation for how large brands are generally purchased more frequently, even when their buyer base on average buys the category less frequently. The findings imply that a focus on heavy category buyers is inconsistent with the goal of growing a brand.
Emic and essentialist perspectives on Gaelic heritage: New speakers, language policy, and cultural identity in Nova Scotia and Scotland
Authors: Dunmore Stuart S.
Published: February 2020

The concept of the ‘new speaker’ has gained currency in the sociolinguistics of minority languages in the past decade, referring to individuals who have acquired an additional language outside of the home and who make frequent use of it in the course of their daily lives. Policymakers and language advocates in both Scotland and Canada make frequent reference to the role that new speakers may play in the future of the Gaelic language on both sides of the Atlantic, and Gaelic language teaching of various kinds has been prioritised by policymakers as a mechanism for revitalising the language. This article examines reflexes of this policy in the two countries, juxtaposing the ongoing fragility of Gaelic communities with new speaker discourses around heritage, identity, and language learning motivations. In particular, I consider Nova Scotian new speakers’ sense of identity as ‘Gaels’, an ethnonym largely avoided or problematised by Scottish new speakers. (Ethnolinguistic identity, heritage, language revitalisation, new speakers)*
Hagen Bræ: A Surging Glacier in North Greenland—35 Years of Observations
Authors: Solgaard A. M. , Simonsen S. B. , Grinsted A. , Mottram R. , Karlsson N. B. , Hansen K. , Kusk A. , Sørensen L. S.
Published: February 2020

We use remotely sensed ice velocities in combination with observations of surface elevation and glacier area change to investigate the dynamics of Hagen Bræ, North Greenland in high detail over the last 35 years. From our data, we can establish for the first time that Hagen Bræ is a surge‐type glacier with characteristics of both Alaskan‐ and Svalbard‐type surging glaciers. We argue that the observed surge was preconditioned by the glacier geometry and triggered by englacially stored meltwater. At present, the glacier is in a transitional state between active and quiescence phases and is not building up to its pre‐surge geometry. We suggest that the glacier is adjusting to the loss of its floating section, general thinning, and changes in fjord conditions that occurred over the study period which are unrelated to the surge behavior. The high temporal resolution of the ice velocity data gives insight to the sub‐annual glacier flow.
Bias‐Free Estimation of Ice Nucleation Efficiencies
Authors: Barahona Donifan
Published: February 2020

Ice nucleation efficiencies, expressed in terms of either the active site density or the ice nucleation rate coefficient, are widely used to estimate ice formation rates in atmospheric models. Most estimates are, however, subject to bias since composition and surface area variation between particles is commonly neglected. This may amount to several orders of magnitude error in active site densities and introduce substantial error in cloud freezing temperatures impacting the accuracy of atmospheric models. Here it is shown that by performing droplet freezing experiments, varying mean particle surface area along with the temperature removes such a bias. The proposed method offers, for the first time, a solution to the long‐standing problem of differentiating the “freezing rate” from the ice nucleation rate, or the apparent and the actual active site density of a material, and will likely improve the estimation of ice crystal formation rates in clouds.
Warm Temperature Extremes Across Greenland Connected to Clouds
Authors: Gallagher Michael R. , Chepfer Hélène , Shupe Matthew D. , Guzman Rodrigo
Published: February 2020

Greenland ice sheet melt is a large contributor to rising global sea level and melt is dependent on surface air temperature. Arctic temperatures are strongly coupled to clouds but spatial connections between clouds and temperature have yet to be established across Greenland. By mapping spaceborne lidar measurements and surface observations, it is shown that radiatively opaque clouds generally coincide with anomalously warm near‐surface temperatures at Greenland sites. These results indicate that both temperatures over 0 °C as well as positive daily temperature anomalies relate to spatially extensive opaque cloud cover. While prior studies indicate that clouds enhance extreme melt events, this research shows that opaque cloud cover and surface warming are closely related across the Greenland ice sheet, particularly in the ablation region. These findings establish broadly the spatial relationships between opaque clouds and temperatures and demonstrate the importance of direct observations across Greenland.
Assessment of the JMA Serial Observation Lines in the Northwestern Pacific in OSSE Studies with the GFDL Ensemble Coupled Data Assimilation System
Authors: Lee Jae‐Ho , Chang You‐Soon , Zhang Shaoqing
Published: February 2020

Two major serial observational positions (137°E and 165°E, operated by the Japan Meteorological Agency [JMA] in the Northwestern Pacific) were assessed using observation system simulation experiments (OSSEs) with the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) ensemble coupled data assimilation system. In the OSSEs, the “True Ocean” is a simulation time series of the fully coupled GFDL climate model (CM2.1), and the “control ocean” is defined as the same CM2.1 simulation result using different initial conditions and ensemble members. The sea surface temperature, subsurface temperature, and salinity data that were drawn from the “truth” were assimilated into the “control.” The degree by which the assimilation recovers the “truth” is an assessment of the representation of the serial observation lines for regional circulations and their variability in the Northwestern Pacific. Results show that the assimilation effect of sea surface temperature is maintained to the deeper ocean by adjusting the interannual variability of the ocean temperature in the Northwestern Pacific. The root mean square error in the western area of each observational system was much lower than that in the eastern area. This is closely related to the anomalous geostrophic clockwise flow pattern strengthened throughout the assimilation process of the JMA data. We confirmed this result using a reverse bias experiment. Therefore, the assimilation effect of 165°E appearing larger western areas is also stronger than 137°E. However, the assimilation performances of the two observation systems were not significantly different in the long‐term simulations of more than 25 years in the Northwestern Pacific.