bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
From generic partition refinement to weighted tree automata minimization
Authors: Wißmann Thorsten , Deifel Hans-Peter , Milius Stefan , Schröder Lutz 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Partition refinement is a method for minimizing automata and transition systems of various types. Recently,
we have developed a partition refinement algorithm that is generic in the transition type of the given system
and matches the run time of the best known algorithms for many concrete types of systems, e.g. deterministic
automata as well as ordinary, weighted, and probabilistic (labelled) transition systems. Genericity is achieved by
modelling transition types as functors on sets, and systems as coalgebras. In the present work, we refine the run
time analysis of our algorithm to cover additional instances, notably weighted automata and, more generally,
weighted tree automata. For weights in a cancellative monoid we match, and for non-cancellative monoids such
as (the additive monoid of) the tropical semiring even substantially improve, the asymptotic run time of the best
known algorithms. We have implemented our algorithm in a generic tool that is easily instantiated to concrete
system types by implementing a simple refinement interface. Moreover, the algorithm and the tool are modular,
and partition refiners for new types of systems are obtained easily by composing pre-implemented basic functors.
Experiments show that even for complex system types, the tool is able to handle systems with millions of
transitions.
Post-operative septic arthritis after arthroscopy: modern diagnostic and therapeutic concepts
Authors: Voss Andreas , Pfeifer Christian G. , Kerschbaum Maximilian , Rupp Markus , Angele Peter , Alt Volker 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Septic arthritis is a significant complication following arthroscopic surgery, with an estimated overall incidence of less than 1%. Despite the low incidence, an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic pathway is required to avoid serious long-term consequences, eradicate the infection, and ensure good treatment outcomes. The aim of this current review article is to summarize evidence-based literature regarding diagnostic and therapeutic options of post-operative septic arthritis after arthroscopy.

Methods
Through a literature review, up-to-date treatment algorithms and therapies have been identified. Additionally, a supportive new algorithm is proposed for diagnosis and treatment of suspected septic arthritis following arthroscopic intervention.

Results
A major challenge in diagnostics is the differentiation of the post-operative status between a non-infected hyperinflammatory joint versus septic arthritis, due to clinical symptoms, (e.g., rubor, calor, or tumor) can appear identical. Therefore, joint puncture for microbiological evaluation, especially for fast leukocyte cell-count diagnostics, is advocated. A cell count of more than 20.000 leukocyte/µl with more than 70% of polymorphonuclear cells is the generally accepted threshold for septic arthritis.

Conclusion
The therapy is based on arthroscopic or open surgical debridement for synovectomy and irrigation of the joint, in combination with an adequate antibiotic therapy for 6–12 weeks. Removal of indwelling hardware, such as interference screws for ACL repair or anchors for rotator cuff repair, is recommended in chronic cases.

Level of evidence
IV.
Uniform Asymptotics of Toeplitz Determinants with Fisher–Hartwig Singularities
Authors: Fahs B. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractWe obtain an asymptotic formula for $$n\times n$$

n
×
n

Toeplitz determinants as $$n\rightarrow \infty $$

n
→
∞

, for non-negative symbols with any fixed number of Fisher–Hartwig singularities, which is uniform with respect to the location of the singularities. As an application, we prove a conjecture by Fyodorov and Keating (Philos Trans R Soc A 372: 20120503, 2014) regarding moments of averages of the characteristic polynomial of the Circular Unitary Ensemble. In addition, we obtain an asymptotic formula regarding the momentum of impenetrable bosons in one dimension with periodic boundary conditions.
Bat echolocation plasticity in allopatry: a call for caution in acoustic identification of Pipistrellus sp.
Authors: Montauban Cecilia , Mas Maria , Tuneu-Corral Carme , Wangensteen Owen S. , Budinski Ivana , Martí-Carreras Joan , Flaquer Carles , Puig-Montserrat Xavier , López-Baucells Adrià 
Published: March 2021

AbstractAnimals modify their behaviours and interactions in response to changing environments. In bats, environmental adaptations are reflected in echolocation signalling that is used for navigation, foraging and communication. However, the extent and drivers of echolocation plasticity are not fully understood, hindering our identification of bat species with ultrasonic detectors, particularly for cryptic species with similar echolocation calls. We used a combination of DNA barcoding, intensive trapping, roost and emergence surveys and acoustic recording to study a widespread European cryptic species complex (Pipistrellus pipistrellusandPipistrellus pygmaeus) to investigate whether sibling bat species could exhibit extreme echolocation plasticity in response to certain environmental conditions or behaviours. We found thatP. pygmaeusoccupied the acoustic niche of their absent congeneric species, producing calls withP. pipistrellus’ characteristic structure and peak frequencies and resulting in false positive acoustic records of that species. Echolocation frequency was significantly affected by the density of bats and by maternity rearing stage, with lower frequency calls emitted when there was a high density of flying bats, and by mothers while juveniles were non-volant. During roost emergence, 29% of calls had peak frequencies typical ofP. pipistrellus, with calls as low as 44 kHz, lower than ever documented. We show that automatic and manual call classifiers fail to account for echolocation plasticity, misidentifyingP. pygmaeusasP. pipistrellus. Our study raises a vital limitation of using only acoustic sampling in areas with high densities of a single species of a cryptic species pair, with important implications for bat monitoring.Significance statementUltrasonic acoustic detectors are widely used in bat research to establish species inventories and monitor species activity through identification of echolocation calls, enabling new methods to study and understand this elusive understudied group of nocturnal mammals. However, echolocation call signalling in bats is intrinsically different to that of other taxa, serving a main function of navigation and foraging. This study demonstrates an extreme level of plasticity, showing large variation in call frequency and structure in different situations. We showcase the difficulty and limitation in using acoustic sampling alone for bat monitoring and the complications of setting parameters for species identification for manual and automatic call classifiers. Our observations of call frequency variation correlated with density and absence of congenerics provide novel insights of behavioural echolocation plasticity in bats.
Patient‐Reported Quality of Life Following Laparotomy in a Resource‐Limited Setting
Authors: Purcell Laura N. , Reiss Rachel , Mtalimanja Mercy , Kuyenda Patricia , Msosa Vanessa , Westmoreland Katherine D. , Charles Anthony 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIntroductionThe burden of surgical diseases is high in sub‐Saharan Africa. Despite limitations to surgical care access, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) data following surgical intervention are scarce.MethodsWe performed a 3‐month prospective observational study of adult patients undergoing an abdominal operation. We administered the Patient‐Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS)‐25 and Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living questionnaire preoperatively (to postoperative day [POD] #1), POD#7, and POD#30. PROMIS‐25 HRQoL domains were measured and converted to standardized T‐scores (median 50, minimal important clinical difference 3).ResultsOf the 117 laparotomy patients who were enrolled, 89 (76.1%) were male with a median age of 39 years (IQR 27–54). Operations were primarily for intestinal volvulus (n = 30, 28.3%) and intestinal perforation (n = 29, 27.4%). We completed a total of 80 (68.4%), 95 (81.2%), and 77 (65.8%) surveys preoperatively, at POD#7, and POD#30, respectively. Preoperatively patients showed high median levels of anxiety (56), depression (60), fatigue (63), and pain interference (62), which all improved postoperatively. Mobility was poor preoperatively (31) and showed improvement during recovery but remained poor [POD#7: 32, POD#30: 39]. Pain intensity was high (10/10) preoperatively and improved to 3/10 by POD#30. Patients with complications compared to those without had clinically significant worse HRQoL in all domains measured by POD#30.DiscussionAbdominal surgery patients in a resource‐limited setting present with poor HRQoL, which improves postoperatively. Mobility remained poor throughout follow‐up despite improved pain scores. Our findings highlight the need for improved HRQoL and pain control among surgical patients.
Non‐operative Management of Small Bowel Obstruction in Patients with No Previous Abdominal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Bayat Zubair , Guttman Matthew P. , Shiroky Jonah , Karanicolas Paul J. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractWhile the contemporary management of adhesive small bowel obstruction (SBO) often includes a trial of non‐operative management (NOM), surgical dogma dictates urgent operative exploration in patients without previous abdominal surgery. This dogma has been challenged by recent evidence suggesting most obstructions in this population are adhesive in nature. The objectives of this review were to evaluate the feasibility of NOM in patients with SBO and no history of previous abdominal surgery, to examine the etiologies of SBO in this population, and to explore the rate of adverse events seen following NOM. Embase, Medline, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to September 24, 2019. Articles reporting on NOM for SBO in patients without previous abdominal surgery and without clinical or radiographic features necessitating an emergent operation were included. Data were combined to obtain a pooled proportion of patients discharged without operation following a trial of NOM. 6 studies reporting on a total of 272 patients were included. The pooled proportion of patients discharged following NOM was 49.5% (95% CI 23.7–75.3%). Adhesions were found to be the predominant cause of obstruction. NOM did not appear to increase short‐term complications. Most SBOs in patients without previous abdominal surgery are adhesive in nature and many patients can be discharged from hospital without surgery. While the short‐term outcomes of NOM are acceptable, future studies are needed to address the long‐term outcomes and safety of NOM as a treatment strategy for SBO in patients without previous abdominal surgery.
How to improve image quality of DWI of the prostate—enema or catheter preparation?
Authors: Reischauer Carolin , Cancelli Timmy , Malekzadeh Sonaz , Froehlich Johannes M. , Thoeny Harriet C. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Objectives
To compare the impact of laxative enema preparation versus air/gas suction through a small catheter on image quality of prostate DWI.

Methods
In this single-center study, 200 consecutive patients (100 in each arm) with either enema or catheter preparation were retrospectively included. Two blinded readers independently assessed aspects of image quality on 5-point Likert scales. Scores were compared between groups and the influence of confounding factors evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. Prostate diameters were compared on DWI and T2-weighted imaging using intraclass correlation coefficients.

Results
Image quality was significantly higher in the enema group regarding the severity of susceptibility-related artifacts (reader 1: 0.34 ± 0.77 vs. 1.73 ± 1.34, reader 2: 0.38 ± 0.86 vs. 1.76 ± 1.39), the differentiability of the anatomy (reader 1: 3.36 ± 1.05 vs. 2.08 ± 1.31, reader 2: 3.37 ± 1.05 vs. 2.09 ± 1.35), and the overall image quality (reader 1: 3.66 ± 0.77 vs. 2.26 ± 1.33, Reader 2: 3.59 ± 0.87 vs. 2.23 ± 1.38) with almost perfect inter-observer agreement (κ = 0.92–0.95). In the enema group, rectal distention was significantly lower and strongly correlated with the severity of artifacts (reader 1: ρ = 0.79, reader 2: ρ = 0.73). Furthermore, there were significantly fewer substantial image distortions, with odds ratios of 0.051 and 0.084 for the two readers which coincided with a higher agreement of the prostate diameters in the phase-encoding direction (0.96 vs. 0.89).

Conclusions
Enema preparation is superior to catheter preparation and yields substantial improvements in image quality.

Key Points
• Enema preparation is superior to decompression of the rectum using air/gas suction through a small catheter.
• Enema preparation markedly improves the image quality of prostate DWI regarding the severity of susceptibility-related artifacts, the differentiability of the anatomy, and the overall image quality and considerably reduces substantial artifacts that may impair a reliable diagnosis.
Does the choice of the reference model affect the results of 3D-3D superimposition procedure? A comparison of different protocols for personal identification
Authors: Palamenghi Andrea , De Angelis Danilo , Cellina Michaela , Sforza Chiarella , Cattaneo Cristina , Gibelli Daniele 
Published: March 2021

AbstractIn literature, 3D-3D superimposition has been widely recognized as a valid method for personal identification. However, very little information is available about possible variability due to differences in protocols of registration of 3D models and calculation of RMS (root mean square) point-to-point distance. Frontal sinuses from 50 CT scans were segmented twice through the ITK-SNAP software and grouped in two samples (1 and 2). Maximum breadth, height and volume were measured. 3D models belonging to the same subject were then superimposed one on each other in 50 matches. In addition, superimposition of 50 random mismatches was performed. For each superimposition, the procedure was repeated four times choosing different reference models both for registration and calculation of RMS. Differences in RMS value among protocols of registration and RMS calculation were assessed through paired Student’s t-test (p < 0.05). Possible correlations between differences in RMS among groups and differences in frontal sinus size between the superimposed models were analysed through calculation of Pearson’s correlation coefficient (p < 0.05). Results showed that RMS calculation did not yield significant differences according to which 3D model is used as reference; on the other hand, RMS values from registration procedure significantly differ according to which model is chosen as reference, but only in the mismatch group (p < 0.001). Differences in RMS value according to RMS calculation are dependent upon all the three measurements, whereas differences according to registration protocols were significantly related only with the breadth of frontal sinuses but only in mismatches (p < 0.001). In no case, superimpositions of RMS values were found between matches and mismatches. This article for the first time proves that the protocol of registration and calculation of RMS significantly influences the results of 3D-3D superimposition only in case of mismatches.
Frameless x-ray-based lead re-implantation after partial hardware removal of deep brain stimulation system with preservation of intracerebral trajectories
Authors: Malinova Vesna , Jaskólski Dariusz J. , Wójcik Rafal , Mielke Dorothee , Rohde Veit 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundDeep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established treatment for patients with medical refractory movement disorders with continuously increasing use also in other neurological and psychiatric diseases. Early and late complications can lead to revision surgeries with partial or complete DBS-system removal. In this study, we aimed to report on our experience with a frameless x-ray-based lead re-implantation technique after partial hardware removal or dysfunction of DBS-system, allowing the preservation of intracerebral trajectories.MethodsWe describe a surgical procedure with complete implant removal due to infection except for the intracranial part of the electrode and with non-stereotactic electrode re-implantation. A retrospective analysis of a patient series treated using this technique was performed and the surgical outcome was evaluated including radiological and clinical parameters.ResultsA total of 8 DBS-patients with lead re-implantation using the frameless x-ray-based method were enrolled in the study. A revision of 14 leads was performed, whereof a successful lead re-implantation could be achieved without any problems in 10 leads (71%). In two patients (one patient with dystonia and one patient with tremor), the procedure was not successful, so we placed both leads frame-based stereotactically.ConclusionsThe described x-ray-based technique allows a reliable frameless electrode re-implantation after infection and electrode dysfunction and might represent an efficient alternative to frame-based procedures for lead revision making the preservation of intracerebral trajectories possible.
Offshore telemedicine emergency service: a 1-year experience
Authors: Mastella Giulio , Darstein Lars , Raufhake Carsten , Schneider Vera , Corletto Anna , Buiatti Alessandra , Müller Alexander , Schuessler-Hahn Franziska , Gondert Markus , Gerdes Heiko , Martens Eimo 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Aim
Offshore wind energy is a fast growing market. Accordingly, a correspondingly large number of employees are working at the wind farms. Owing to the harsh operating conditions, accidents and medical emergencies occur there. The care of these patients poses special challenges. The aim of the investigation was to determine whether telemedical emergency care is technically possible on the North Sea, far away from any medical care.

Subject and methods
We were able to establish a raw data supported telemedical integration with a rescue service monitor for transmission of ECG, blood pressure, saturation and other vital parameters to a telemedicine centre. As a first step, a satellite connection was set up on a supply ship for the transmission, which was then made available for data transfer via WLAN.

Results
In this project, we were able to show in tests as well as in actual patient care that telemedical support of rescue service personnel on site using raw data transmission is also possible offshore on a supply ship. In this project, defined areas with WLAN coverage were necessary in which the transmission worked in 100% of cases.

Conclusion
The care of emergencies in the area of offshore wind farms is an increasing problem, which can be sensibly treated with telemedical support. Technical possibilities can also be created on site in the North Sea. The further expansion of a communication network, for example, with LTE or 5G, is necessary to enable telemedical care independent of supply ships.
Seasonal variability, long-term distribution (2001–2014), and risk assessment of polar organic micropollutants in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Fisch Kathrin , Brockmeyer Berit , Gerwinski Wolfgang , Schulz-Bull Detlef E. , Theobald Norbert 
Published: March 2021

AbstractFrom 2001 to 2014, 13 surveys were conducted in the Baltic Sea, to determine its pollution of 50 micropollutants. The investigations focused mostly on the German western Baltic Sea; in 2008, one survey covered the entire Baltic Sea. Various groups of herbicides (such as triazines, phenoxyacetic acid, phenylurea), perfluoroalkyl substances, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products were analyzed during these surveys. The highest concentrations (median 1 to 4 ng/L) were observed for atrazine, simazine, chloridazone, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, benzotriazole, primidone, and carbamazepine. Most micropollutants exhibited a relatively homogenous spatial distribution, though some herbicides show elevated concentrations in certain regions (e.g., Odra estuary), indicating a riverine input. The data set was analyzed, both for seasonal influences and long-time trends. Some herbicides exhibited higher concentrations during summertime. Both upward- and downward-directed time trends could be identified for some herbicides and perfluorinated compounds. For most of the detected compounds, a low-risk quotient was calculated. Only the occurrence of carbendazim could potentially pose a higher risk to the Baltic Sea.
The effect of time pressure on metacognitive control: developmental changes in self-regulation and efficiency during learning
Authors: Gönül Gökhan , Tsalas Nike , Paulus Markus 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe effect of time pressure on metacognitive control is of theoretical and empirical relevance and is likely to allow us to tap into developmental differences in performances which do not become apparent otherwise, as previous studies suggest. In the present study, we investigated the effect of time pressure on metacognitive control in three age groups (10-year-olds, 14-year-olds, and adults, n = 183). Using an established study time allocation paradigm, participants had to study two different sets of picture pairs, in an untimed and a timed condition. The results showed that metacognitive self-regulation of study time (monitor-based study time allocation) differed between age groups when studying under time pressure. Even though metacognitive control is firmly coupled at 10 years of age, the overall level of self-regulation of adults was higher than that of children and adolescents across both study time conditions. This suggests that adults might have been more sensitive to experiential metacognitive cues such as JoL for the control of study time. Moreover, the timed condition was found to be more effective than the untimed, with regard to study time allocation. Also, there was an age effect, with adults being more efficient than 10- and 14-year-olds.
Health outcomes in COPD smokers using heated tobacco products: a 3-year follow-up
Authors: Polosa Riccardo , Morjaria Jaymin B. , Prosperini Umberto , Busà Barbara , Pennisi Alfio , Gussoni Gualberto , Rust Sonja , Maglia Marilena , Caponnetto Pasquale 
Published: March 2021

AbstractGiven that many patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) smoke despite their symptoms, it is important to understand the long-term health impact of cigarette substitution with heated tobacco products (HTPs). We monitored health parameters for 3 years in COPD patients who substantially attenuated or ceased cigarette consumption after switching to HTPs. Changes in daily cigarette smoking, annualized disease exacerbations, lung function indices, patient-reported outcomes (CAT scores) and 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) from baseline were measured in COPD patients using HTPs at 12, 24 and 36 months. These were compared to a group of age- and sex-matched COPD patients who continued smoking. Complete data sets were available for 38 patients (19 in each group). Subjects using HTPs had a substantial decrease in annualized COPD exacerbations within the group mean (± SD) from 2.1 (± 0.9) at baseline to 1.4 (± 0.8), 1.2 (± 0.8) and 1.3 (± 0.8) at 12-, 24- and 36-month follow-up (p < 0.05 for all visits). In addition, substantial and clinically significant improvements in CAT scores and 6MWD were identified at all three time points in the HTP cohort. No significant changes were observed in COPD patients who continued smoking. This study is the first to describe the long-term health effects of HTP use in COPD patients. Consistent improvements in respiratory symptoms, exercise tolerance, quality of life, and rate of disease exacerbations were observed in patients with COPD who abstained from smoking or substantially reduced their cigarette consumption by switching to HTP use.