bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of Post-Discharge Navigation Added to an Inpatient Addiction Consultation for Patients with Substance use Disorder; a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wakeman Sarah E. , Rigotti Nancy A. , Herman Grace E. , Regan Susan , Chang Yuchiao , Snow Rachel , Isenberg Benjamin , Metlay Joshua P.
Published: September 2020

Background

It is unknown whether post-discharge navigation enhances the impact of hospital-initiated addiction care. This study tested the incremental benefit of telephonic linkage to a post-discharge navigator for patients who received an addiction consultation during hospitalization.

Methods

A two-arm, randomized controlled trial of 395 hospitalized adults with substance use disorder who received an addiction consultation. The intervention group received post-discharge phone calls from a navigator to review the recommended treatment plan and address barriers to engagement on days 3, 7, 14, and 21. The primary outcome was days of alcohol or drug use in the past 30 assessed by Timeline Follow-back at 1 month.

Results

Follow-up assessment completion rates were 46% at 1 month, and 41%, at 2 months. At baseline, intervention and control groups did not differ in substance use patterns; 45% reported primary alcohol use, 43% drugs, and 12% both. Heroin was the most common drug. At baseline, mean days of past 30-day alcohol or drug use were 13.6 in the intervention and 14.9 in the control group. The median number of navigation calls completed was 3 out of 4. At 1 month, both groups reported less use (decrease of 4.8 in intervention vs. 4.2 days in control group, p = 0.49). There were no differences between groups at 2 months. Compared to controls, participants who received all four calls had a greater decrease in use with a mean 8.6 days decrease from baseline (difference of 4.4 days, p = 0.0009).

Conclusion

Post-discharge telephonic patient navigation did not further improve substance use outcomes following addiction consultation.
An experimental demonstration for a well-known example of Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction
Authors: Smith Glenn S
Published: September 2020

One of the more interesting applications of the integral form of Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction is to an open surface whose contour is changing with time. An often-used theoretical example for this is a track formed from two parallel, conducting rails. The planar surface between the rails is bounded by a voltmeter at one end and a moving, conducting bar across and in contact with the rails at the other end. A uniform magnetic field is everywhere normal to this surface. As the bar moves through this magnetic field, changing the contour and the enclosed area, it induces a voltage between the rails. Of course, this theoretical example is an idealization containing impractical or impossible elements, such as a uniform magnetic field throughout space, and a lack of any interference from external sources. In this paper, we present a practical experimental realization for this theoretical example. The rails are a length of model railroad track, and the magnetic field is provided by a string of powerful neodymium magnets. A battery-powered, motorized car drags the shorting bar along the track, and the voltage between the rails is displayed on an oscilloscope. The approximations necessarily present in the experiment are accounted for in a manner that still allows good comparison with the theory. Modifications of the basic experiment that provide additional understanding for Faraday’s law are also presented.
Electrostatics and Riemann surfaces
Authors: Tamagni Spencer , Efthimiou Costas
Published: September 2020

Using techniques from geometry and complex analysis in their simplest form, we present a derivation of electric fields on surfaces with non-trivial topology. A byproduct of this analysis is an intuitive visualization of elliptic functions when their argument is complex-valued. The underlying connections between these techniques and the theory of Riemann surfaces are also explained. Our goal is to provide students and instructors a quick reference article for an extraordinary topic that is not included in the standard books.
Structure of the simple harmonic-repulsive system in liquid and glassy states studied by the triple correlation function
Authors: Levashov V A , Ryltsev R E , Chtchelkatchev N M
Published: September 2020

An efficient description of the structures of liquids and, in particular, the structural changes that happen with liquids on supercooling remains to be a challenge. The systems composed of soft particles are especially interesting in this context because they often demonstrate non-trivial local orders that do not allow to introduce the concept of the nearest-neighbor shell. For this reason, the use of some methods, developed for the structure analysis of atomic liquids, is questionable for the soft-particle systems. Here we report about our investigations of the structure of the simple harmonic-repulsive liquid in 3D using the triple correlation function (TCF), i.e., the method that does not rely on the nearest neighbor concept. The liquid is considered at reduced pressure (P = 1.8) at which it exhibits remarkable stability against crystallization on cooling. It is demonstrated that the TCF allows addressing the development of the orientational correlations in the structures that do not allow drawing definite conclusions from the studies of the bond-orientational order parameters. Our results demonstrate that the orientational correlations, if measured by the heights of the peaks in the TCF, significantly increase on cooling. This rise in the orientational ordering is not captured properly by the Kirkwood’s superposition approximation. Detailed considerations of the peaks’ shapes in the TCF suggest the existence of a link between the orientational ordering and the slowdown of the system’s dynamics. Our findings support the view that the development of the orientational correlations in liquids may play a significant role in the liquids’ dynamics and that the considerations of the pair distribution function may not be sufficient to understand intuitively all the structural changes that happen with liquids on supercooling. In general, our results demonstrate that the considerations of the TCF are useful in the discussions of the liquid’s structures beyond the pair density function and interpreting the results obtained with the bond-orientational order parameters.
The competition between the intrinsic and Rashba spin–orbit coupling and effects of correlations on Rashba SOC-driven transitions in the Kane–Mele model
Authors: Du Tao , Li Yue-Xun , Lu He-Lin , Zhang Hui , Du Song
Published: September 2020

We investigate, firstly, the competition between the Rashba spin–orbit coupling (SOC) and the intrinsic SOC in Kane–Mele model. For the small intrinsic SOC, we investigate the effects of the Rashba SOC on the touching point of the valence and conduction bands when the ratio of the Rashba SOC to the intrinsic SOC is greater than classical value

2

3

. For the large intrinsic SOC, we find that the critical ratio of the two SOCs at which the band touching occurs decreases with the increasing intrinsic SOC and the locations of these touching points deviate from points K and K′ of the Brillouin zone. Furthermore, effects of the Rashba SOC on these touching points are discussed in detail when the ratio is greater than the critical value. The Rashba SOC-driven topologically trivial and non-trivial transitions are also obtained in the first part of the work. Secondly, using the slave-rotor mean field method we investigate the influences of the correlation on the Rashba SOC-driven topologically trivial and non-trivial transitions in both the charge condensate and Mott regions. The topological Mott insulator with gapped or gapless spin excitations which arises from the interplay of the Rashba SOC and correlations is obtained in the work.
Effect of layer-distributed carbon nanotube (CNT) on mechanical and piezoresistive performance of intelligent cement-based sensor
Authors: Dong Wenkui , Li Wengui , Luo Zhiyu , Guo Yipu , Wang Kejin
Published: September 2020

Agglomerated carbon nanotube (CNT) powder was scattered into a cement paste layer-by-layer to form layer-distributed CNT composite (LDCC) as intelligent cement-based sensor. The characteristic of the CNT agglomerations and its effect on the mechanical and piezoresistive properties of cement paste were investigated in this study, and the results were compared with those of uniformly-dispersed CNT composites (UDCC). Based on the statistics of CNT agglomerations, it was found that the sizes of agglomerations varied from several to dozens of micrometres. The larger sized agglomerations with poorer roundness exhibited a higher possibility to cause the pores or voids accompanied with stress concentration when subjected to external forces. Hence, it is necessary to control the agglomeration sizes to reduce the porosity with edges and corners. The UDCC reached the highest compressive strength, followed by the plain cement paste and then LDCC. The mechanical strength of LDCC decreased with the increase of CNT layers. The piezoresistivity occurred in both the UDCC and LDCC, with the former possessing stable and repeatable performance. In addition, the strain-sensing ability of LDCC with moderate CNT layers presented similar sensing efficiency and repeatability to that of UDCC. The related results provide insight into the intelligent cement-based sensors with layer-distributed CNT and agglomerations, which can improve the efficiency and effectively reduce the cost for practical application.
A study of n-doping in self-catalyzed GaAsSb nanowires using GaTe dopant source and ensemble nanowire near-infrared photodetector
Authors: Devkota Shisir , Parakh Mehul , Johnson Sean , Ramaswamy Priyanka , Lowe Michael , Penn Aubrey , Reynolds Lew , Iyer Shanthi
Published: September 2020

This work reports a comprehensive investigation of the effect of gallium telluride (GaTe) cell temperature variation (TGaTe) on the morphological, optical, and electrical properties of doped-GaAsSb nanowires (NWs) grown by Ga-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). These studies led to an optimum doping temperature of 550 °C for the growth of tellurium (Te)-doped GaAsSb NWs with the best optoelectronic and structural properties. Te incorporation resulted in a decrease in the aspect ratio of the NWs causing an increase in the Raman longitudinal optical/transverse optical vibrational mode intensity ratio, large photoluminescence emission with an exponential decay tail on the high energy side, promoting tunnel-assisted current conduction in ensemble NWs and significant photocurrent enhancement in the single nanowire. A Schottky barrier photodetector (PD) using Te-doped ensemble NWs with broad spectral range and a longer wavelength cutoff at ∼1.2 µm was demonstrated. These PDs exhibited responsivity in the range of 580–620 A W−1 and detectivity of 1.2–3.8 × 1012 Jones. The doped GaAsSb NWs have the potential for further improvement, paving the path for high-performance near-infrared (NIR) photodetection applications.
Global regularity for solutions of the three dimensional Navier–Stokes equation with almost two dimensional initial data
Authors: Miller Evan
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we will prove a new result that guarantees the global existence of solutions to the Navier–Stokes equation in three dimensions when the initial data is sufficiently close to being two dimensional. This result interpolates between the global existence of smooth solutions for the two dimensional Navier–Stokes equation with arbitrarily large initial data, and the global existence of smooth solutions for the Navier–Stokes equation in three dimensions with small initial data in

H

̇

1

2

. This result states that the closer the initial data is to being two dimensional, the larger the initial data can be in

H

̇

1

2

while still guaranteeing the global existence of smooth solutions. In the whole space, this set of almost two dimensional initial data is unbounded in the critical space

H

̇

1

2

, but is bounded in the critical Besov spaces

B

̇

p
,
∞

−
1
+

3

p

for all 2 < p ⩽ +∞. On the torus, however, this approach does give examples of arbitrarily large initial data in the endpoint Besov space

B

̇

∞
,
∞

−
1

that generate global smooth solutions to the Navier–Stokes equation. In addition to these new results, we will also sharpen the constants in a number of previously known estimates for the growth of solutions to the Navier–Stokes equation and clarify the relationship between certain component reduction type regularity criteria.
Doping effects on the composition, electric and optical properties of MBE-grown 1.1 eV GaNAsSb layers
Authors: Gabás M , Ochoa-Martínez E , Bielak K , Pucicki D , Lombardero I , Barrutia L , Fuertes-Marrón D , Ochoa M , García I , Yoon S F , Loke W K , Wickasono S , Tan K H , Johnson A D , Davies J I , Algora C
Published: September 2020

Dilute nitrides based on GaAs constitute a family of compounds whose main characteristic is the band-gap tunability, depending on the nitrogen content. In this work we have focussed our attention on the indium free dilute nitrides, i.e. GaNAsSb with a bandgap of around 1.1 eV, to study the effects that doping has on the crystalline structure, electrical and optical properties of the material. For such purpose, p-doped and n-doped GaNAsSb layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy and characterized using x-ray diffraction, spectroscopic ellipsometry and photoreflectance among other techniques. The GaNAsSb optical properties match the double band-anticrossing model which is the proposed one to explain the dilute nitride band structure. However, the determined optical bandgap value does not follow any trend with doping, neither with concentration nor type. This is related with doping effects on the crystalline quality and layer composition, thus inducing a Sb gradient along layer thickness together with variations in N and Sb concentrations for different doping levels. Besides these structural variations, the complex refraction index, Hall mobility and carrier concentration as a function of temperature have been determined for these GaNAsSb layers.
The relativistic tunneling flight time may be superluminal, but it does not imply superluminal signaling
Authors: Dumont Randall S , Rivlin Tom , Pollak Eli
Published: September 2020

Wavepacket tunneling, in the relativistic limit, is studied via solutions to the Dirac equation for a square barrier potential. Specifically, the arrival time distribution (the time-dependent flux) is computed for wavepackets initiated far away from the barrier, and whose momentum is well below the threshold for above-barrier transmission. The resulting distributions exhibit peaks at shorter times than those of photons with the same initial wavepacket transmitting through a vacuum. However, this apparent superluminality in time is accompanied by very low transmission probabilities. We discuss these observations, and related observations by other authors, in the context of published objections to the notion that tunneling can be superluminal in time. We find that many of these objections are not consistent with our observations, and conclude that post-selected (for transmission) distributions of arrival times can be superluminal. However, the low probability of tunneling means a photon will most likely be seen first and therefore the superluminality does not imply superluminal signaling.
Solar System Physics for Exoplanet Research
Authors: Horner J. , Kane S. R. , Marshall J. P. , Dalba P. A. , Holt T. R. , Wood J. , Maynard-Casely H. E. , Wittenmyer R. , Lykawka P. S. , Hill M. , Salmeron R. , Bailey J. , Löhne T. , Agnew M. , Carter B. D. , Tylor C. C. E.
Published: September 2020

Over the past three decades, we have witnessed one of the great revolutions in our understanding of the cosmos—the dawn of the Exoplanet Era. Where once we knew of just one planetary system (the solar system), we now know of thousands, with new systems being announced on a weekly basis. Of the thousands of planetary systems we have found to date, however, there is only one that we can study up-close and personal—the solar system. In this review, we describe our current understanding of the solar system for the exoplanetary science community—with a focus on the processes thought to have shaped the system we see today. In section one, we introduce the solar system as a single well studied example of the many planetary systems now observed. In section two, we describe the solar system's small body populations as we know them today—from the two hundred and five known planetary satellites to the various populations of small bodies that serve as a reminder of the system's formation and early evolution. In section three, we consider our current knowledge of the solar system's planets, as physical bodies. In section four we discuss the research that has been carried out into the solar system's formation and evolution, with a focus on the information gleaned as a result of detailed studies of the system's small body populations. In section five, we discuss our current knowledge of planetary systems beyond our own—both in terms of the planets they host, and in terms of the debris that we observe orbiting their host stars. As we learn ever more about the diversity and ubiquity of other planetary systems, our solar system will remain the key touchstone that facilitates our understanding and modeling of those newly found systems, and we finish section five with a discussion of the future surveys that will further expand that knowledge.
Thermodynamics and weak cosmic censorship conjecture of 4D Gauss-Bonnet-Maxwell black holes via charged particle absorption *
Authors: Ying Shuxuan
Published: September 2020

Recently, the non-trivial solutions for 4-dimensional black holes of Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet gravity had been discovered. In this paper, considering a charged particle entering into a 4-dimensional Gauss-Bonnet-Maxwell black hole, we calculate the black hole thermodynamic properties using the Hamilton-Jacobi equation. In the normal phase space, the cosmological constant and Gauss-Bonnet parameter are fixed, the black hole satisfies the first and second laws of thermodynamics, and the weak cosmic censorship conjecture (WCCC) is valid. On the other hand, in the case of extended phase space, the cosmological constant and Gauss-Bonnet parameter are treated as thermodynamic variables. The black hole also satisfies the first law of thermodynamics. However, the increase or decrease in the black hole's entropy depends on some specific conditions. Finally, we observe that the WCCC is violated for the near-extremal black holes in the extended phase space.
Fine tuning problem of the cosmological constant in a generalized Randall-Sundrum model *
Authors: Kang Guang-Zhen , Zhang De-Sheng , Jun Li , Zong Hong-Shi
Published: September 2020

To solve the cosmological constant fine tuning problem, we investigate an (n+1)-dimensional generalized Randall-Sundrum brane world scenario with two

-branes instead of two 3-branes. Adopting an anisotropic metric ansatz, we obtain the positive effective cosmological constant

of order

and only require a solution

. Meanwhile, both the visible and hidden branes are stable because their tensions are positive. Therefore, the fine tuning problem can be solved quite well. Furthermore, the Hubble parameter

as a function of redshift

is in good agreement with the cosmic chronometers dataset. The evolution of the universe naturally shifts from deceleration to acceleration. This suggests that the evolution of the universe is intrinsically an extra-dimensional phenomenon. It can be regarded as a dynamic model of dark energy that is driven by the evolution of the extra dimensions on the brane.
Global optical model potential describing 12C-nucleus elastic scattering *
Authors: Xu Yong-Li , Han Yin-Lu , Su Xin-Wu , Sun Xiao-Jun , Liang Hai-Ying , Guo Hai-Rui , Cai Chong-Hai
Published: September 2020

We construct a new global optical model potential to describe the elastic scattering of 12C. The experimental data of elastic-scattering angular distributions and total reaction cross sections for targets from 24Mg to 209Bi are considered below 200 MeV within the framework of the optical model. The results calculated using the derived global optical potential are then compared with the existing experimental data. The reliability of the global optical potential is further tested by predicting the elastic scattering data out of the mass and energy ranges, within which the global potential parameters are determined, and reasonable results are also obtained.
Accurate correction of arbitrary spin fermion quantum tunneling from non-stationary Kerr-de Sitter black hole based on corrected Lorentz dispersion relation *
Authors: Sha Bei , Liu Zhi-E , Liu Yu-Zhen , Tan Xia , Zhang Jie , Yang Shu-Zheng
Published: September 2020

According to a corrected dispersion relation proposed in the study on the string theory and quantum gravity theory, the Rarita-Schwinger equation was precisely modified, which resulted in the Rarita-Schwinger-Hamilton-Jacobi equation. Using this equation, the characteristics of arbitrary spin fermion quantum tunneling radiation from non-stationary Kerr-de Sitter black holes were determined. A number of accurately corrected physical quantities, such as surface gravity, chemical potential, tunneling probability, and Hawking temperature, which describe the properties of black holes, were derived. This research has enriched the research methods and enabled increased precision in black hole physics research.
Ultra-stiff compressed collagen for corneal perforation patch graft realized by in situ photochemical crosslinking
Authors: Hong Hyeonjun , Kim Jeongho , Cho Hoseong , Park Sang Min , Jeon Mansik , Kim Hong Kyun , Kim Dong Sung
Published: September 2020

Despite the potential of a collagen construct, consisting of a major extracellular matrix component of the native cornea, as a patch graft to treat the corneal perforation, there has still been difficulty in acquiring sufficient mechanical properties for clinical availability. This study developed a novel in situ photochemical crosslinking (IPC)-assisted collagen compression process, namely, the IPC-C2 process, to significantly enhance the mechanical properties of the collagen construct for the development of a collagenous patch graft. For the first time, we found that compressed collagen construct was rapidly rehydrated in an aqueous solution, which inhibited effective riboflavin-mediated photochemical crosslinking for mechanical improvement. The IPC-C2 process was designed to concurrently induce the physical compaction and photochemical crosslinking of a compressed collagen construct, thereby avoiding the loosening of collagen fibrillar structure during rehydration and ultimately improving crosslinking efficiency. Hence, the suggested IPC-C2 process could fabricate a collagen construct with a high collagen density (∼120–280 mg ml−1) and ∼103-fold increased mechanical properties (an elastic modulus of up to ∼29 MPa and ultimate tensile strength of ∼8 MPa) compared with collagen gel. This construct can then be used as a clinically applicable collagenous patch graft. With sufficient mechanical strength for surgical suture and the controllable thickness for patient specificity, the potential of the fabricated IPC-compressed collagen construct for clinical applications was demonstrated by using an in vivo rabbit corneal perforation model. It effectively protected aqueous humor leakage and maintained the integrity of the eye globe without an additional complication.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of a CrCN/Cr multilayer film
Authors: Liu Eryong , Yu Bo , Xue Yuan , Pu Jibin , Du Shuangming , Du Huiling
Published: September 2020

CrCN/Cr multilayer films were synthesized by multi-arc ion plating deposition technique, and the microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of films were systematically investigated. The results showed that the thickness of the CrCN and Cr layers in CrCN/Cr multilayer films was between 2.1 μm to 0.45 μm and 90 nm, respectively. X-Ray diffraction results indicated that the composite films were composed of CrN, Cr7C3 and metallic Cr phase, then the mechanical and tribological properties results confirmed that the multilayer structure not only increased the hardness and toughness of the CrCN multilayer film but also decreased the friction coefficient (16%) and wear rate (45%) when compared with a CrN film. This result was attributed to the presence of a complete and dense lubricating film on the worn surface. Therefore, the excellent performance of the CrCN/Cr multilayer films supports their potential application as a replacement for CrN films in industrial applications.
The effect of the substrate on the damage threshold of gold nano-antennas by a femtosecond laser
Authors: Morshed Monir , Haque Md Ahasanul , Hattori Haroldo T
Published: September 2020

Gold nano-antennas with silica substrate may not be suitable for high power applications such as heat resisted magnetic recording, solar thermophotovoltaics, and nano-scale heat transfer systems. When a laser beam reaches to these nano-antennas, part of the light is absorbed by the metallic regions, leading to a temperature rise of the device. If these devices reach a temperature beyond its Tamman temperature (the temperature at which sintering of atoms or molecules start to occur), the antenna can be damaged. One strategy to allow the antenna to work at higher fluences (energy density) is to employ substrates that can quickly carry the heat away from the antennas. In this paper, we show that high thermal conductivity substrates, such as diamond, can allow the antenna to withstand 20 times higher fluence than a low thermal conductivity silica substrate.
A systematic variation in cationic distribution and its influence on the magnetization of mixed-metal (nickel and zinc) cobaltite spinels
Authors: Deeloed Wanchai , Wattanathana Worawat , Jantaratana Pongsakorn , Prompinit Panida , Wannapaiboon Suttipong , Singkammo Suparat , Sattayaporn Suchinda , Laobuthee Apirat , Suramitr Songwut , Hanlumyuang Yuranan
Published: September 2020

Cobaltite oxide spinel (CoCo2O4) is one promising material that has been extensively studied for decades due to its versatile applications. Revealing the correlation among chemical compositions, cationic distributions, and physical properties are crucial for exploring its novel application. Here, a series of nickel/zinc co-substituted cobaltite spinels, Zn1−XNiXCo2O4 (ZNCO-X; where X = 0.00, 0.25, …, 1.00), was synthesized by calcining the hydrothermal-derived precursors and their magnetic properties have been investigated. Multiple x-ray based characterization techniques (XRD, XRF, XPS, and XAS) were applied to determine the crystalline structure and appropriated compositions of cation species (Zn2+, Ni2+, Ni3+, Co2+, and Co3+). In conjunction with Neel’s theory of antiferromagnetism, the theoretical magnetization of the spinel series was calculated based on the assumption that Zn2+ ion was located in tetrahedral (A site) while nickel cations (Ni2+ and Ni3+) occupying the octahedral (B site). The theoretical magnetization profile exhibited a good correlation. Superparamagnetic effect and cationic site exchange can be used to explain the discrepancies between the measured and calculated magnetizations. This work reported a systematic controlling of materials structure and cationic distribution, which are crucial for fine-tuning the magnetic property of the Zn1−XNiXCo2O4 cobaltite system.
Methyl methacrylate-styrene copolymers prepared by utilizing the Trommsdorff effect in an inverted two-stage extruder
Authors: Zhan Pengfei , Chen Jianding , Zheng Anna , Shi Han , Wu Tao , Wei Dafu , Xu Xiang , Guan Yong
Published: September 2020

In this work, the influence of initial viscosity on the Trommsdorff effect was firstly investigated, and it was confirmed that 1000 ± 100 Pa · s of viscosity could be a criterion of the Trommsdorff effect. On this basis, a new inverted two-stage extruder was established, the designed ‘blocking unit’ was introduced to the screw configuration, and then the continuous bulk copolymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and styrene (St) was carried out. The results showed that the blocking unit could effectively enhance the residence time of copolymerization, and make the molecular weight distribution of copolymer more uniform. The position of the Trommsdorff effect in the extruder was then determined by the thermal effect of copolymerization, and the mixed monomers were continuously added to effectively utilize the Trommsdorff effect. As a result, the MMA-St copolymers with high molecular weight and narrow distribution were prepared via reactive extrusion, which possessed higher melt flow rate and better thermal stability than pure-PMMA. The present work provides important reference and guidance for the industrialization of bulk free radical copolymerization via reactive extrusion.
An experimental test to separate the effects of male age and mating history on female mate choice
Authors: Aich Upama , Bonnet Timothee , Fox Rebecca J , Jennions Michael D
Published: September 2020

Should females prefer older males as mates? Male survival to old age might indicate the presence of fitness-enhancing genes that increase offspring fitness. However, many correlational studies show that mating with older males can lower female fecundity and even reduce offspring fitness due to epigenetic or germline mutation effects. One problem in quantifying female choice based on male age is that age is usually confounded with mating history. This begs a question: Do females choose males based on their age or their mating history? The answer requires an experimental approach, but few such studies exist. Here, we test if experimentally induced variation in the mating history of old and young males (12-week difference in postmaturity age) affects female choice in the eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki). To vary mating history, adult males were either allowed to freely mate with females for 3 weeks or they only had visual contact with females. Immediately thereafter, we ran four-choice mating trials, using association time, to test the effects of male age and mating history (2 × 2 design) on male attractiveness. Females did not show a clear preference for males based on either characteristic. This was not due to a lack of female choice: females spent significantly more time with larger males. In addition, female choice was significantly repeatable across four trials: twice as a virgin and twice as a nonvirgin. Finally, female mating status (virgin or nonvirgin) did not affect her choice of mate, although virgin females spent significantly more time associating with test males.
Characteristics of Ebola Virus Disease Survivor Blood and Semen in Liberia: Serology and Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Authors: Kofman Aaron , Linderman Susanne , Su Kaihong , Purpura Lawrence J , Ervin Elizabeth , Brown Shelley , Morales-Betoulle Maria , Graziano James , Cannon Deborah L , Klena John D , Desamu-Thorpe Rodel , Fankhauser John , Orone Romeo , Moses Soka , Glaybo Uriah , Massaquoi Moses , Nyenswah Tolbert , Nichol Stuart T , Kollie Jomah , Kiawu Armah , Freeman Edna , Giah Giovanni , Tony Henry , Faikai Mylene , Jawara Mary , Kamara Kuku , Kamara Samuel , Flowers Benjamin , Mohammed Kromah , Chiriboga David , Williams Desmond E , Hinrichs Steven H , Ahmed Rafi , Vonhm Benjamin , Rollin Pierre E , Choi Mary J
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Ebola virus (EBOV), species Zaire ebolavirus, may persist in the semen of male survivors of Ebola virus disease (EVD). We conducted a study of male survivors of the 2014–2016 EVD outbreak in Liberia and evaluated their immune responses to EBOV. We report here findings from the serologic testing of blood for EBOV-specific antibodies, molecular testing for EBOV in blood and semen, and serologic testing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in a subset of study participants.

Methods

We tested for EBOV RNA in blood by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and for anti-EBOV-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for 126 study participants. We performed PBMC analysis on a subgroup of 26 IgG-negative participants.

Results

All 126 participants tested negative for EBOV RNA in blood by qRT-PCR. The blood of 26 participants tested negative for EBOV-specific IgG antibodies by ELISA. PBMCs were collected from 23/26 EBOV IgG-negative participants. Of these, 1/23 participants had PBMCs that produced anti-EBOV-specific IgG antibodies upon stimulation with EBOV-specific glycoprotein (GP) and nucleoprotein (NP) antigens.

Conclusions

The blood of EVD survivors, collected when they did not have symptoms meeting the case definition for acute or relapsed EVD, is unlikely to pose a risk for EBOV transmission. We identified 1 IgM/IgG negative participant who had PBMCs that produced anti-EBOV-specific antibodies upon stimulation. Immunogenicity following acute EBOV infection may exist along a spectrum, and absence of antibody response should not be exclusionary in determining an individual’s status as a survivor of EVD.
Link prediction in complex networks using information-theoretic measures
Authors: Malhotra Deepanshu , Goyal Rinkaj
Published: September 2020

Interconnections among real-world entities through explicit or implicit relationships form complex networks, such as social, economic and engineering systems. Recently, the studies based on such complex networks have provided a boost to our understanding of various events and processes ranging from biology to technology. Link prediction algorithms assist in predicting, analysing and deciphering more significant details about the networks and their future structures. In this study, we propose three different link prediction algorithms based on different structural features of the network combined with the information-theoretic analyses. The first two algorithms (variants) are developed for unweighted networks, while the third approach deals with the weighted ones. The proposed methods exhibit better and robust performances in the majority of cases, and at least comparable, if not better in other cases. This work is built upon the previously published mutual information-based approaches for link prediction; however, this study considers structural features of the network to augment mutual information measures and provides insights for finding hidden links in the network.
Effectiveness and Safety of Ustekinumab Intensification at 90 mg Every 4 Weeks in Crohn’s Disease: A Multicentre Study
Authors: Fumery Mathurin , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Nancey Stephane , Altwegg Romain , Gilletta Cyrielle , Veyrard Pauline , Bouguen Guillaume , Viennot Stephanie , Poullenot Florian , Filippi Jerome , Buisson Anthony , Bozon Anne , Brazier Franck , Pouillon Lieven , Flourie Bernard , Boivineau Lucile , Siproudhis Laurent , Laharie David , Roblin Xavier , Diouf Momar , Treton Xavier
Published: September 2020

Background

The approved maintenance regimens for ustekinumab in Crohn’s disease [CD] are 90 mg every 8 or 12 weeks. Some patients will respond partially to ustekinumab or will experience a secondary loss of response. It remains poorly known if these patients may benefit from shortening the interval between injections.

Methods

All patients with active CD, as defined by Harvey–Bradshaw score ≥ 4 and one objective sign of inflammation [C-reactive protein > 5 mg/L and/or faecal calprotectin > 250 µg/g and/or radiological and/or endoscopic evidence of disease activity] who required ustekinumab dose escalation to 90 mg every 4 weeks for loss of response or incomplete response to ustekinumab 90 mg every 8 weeks were included in this retrospective multicentre cohort study.

Results

One hundred patients, with a median age of 35 years [interquartile range, 28–49] and median disease duration of 12 [7–20] years were included. Dose intensification was performed after a median of 5.0 [2.8–9.0] months of ustekinumab treatment and was associated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants in respectively 29% and 27% of cases. Short-term clinical response and clinical remission were observed in respectively 61% and 31% after a median of 2.4 [1.3–3.0] months. After a median follow-up of 8.2 [5.6–12.4] months, 61% of patients were still treated with ustekinumab, and 26% were in steroid-free clinical remission. Among the 39 patients with colonoscopy during follow-up, 14 achieved endoscopic remission [no ulcers]. At the end of follow-up, 27% of patients were hospitalized, and 19% underwent intestinal resection surgery. Adverse events were reported in 12% of patients, including five serious adverse events.

Conclusion

In this multicentre study, two-thirds of patients recaptured response following treatment intensification with ustekinumab 90 mg every 4 weeks.
Extracellular Vesicles in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Small Particles, Big Players
Authors: Valter M , Verstockt Sare , Finalet Ferreiro J A , Cleynen I
Published: September 2020

Extracellular vesicles are nanovesicles released by many cell types into the extracellular space. They are important mediators of intercellular communication, enabling the functional transfer of molecules from one cell to another. Moreover, their molecular composition reflects the physiological status of the producing cell and tissue. Consequently, these vesicles have been involved in many [patho]physiological processes such as immunomodulation and intestinal epithelial repair, both key processes involved in inflammatory bowel disease. Given that these vesicles are present in many body fluids, they also provide opportunities for diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic applications. In this review, we summarise functional roles of extracellular vesicles in health and disease, with a focus on immune regulation and intestinal barrier integrity, and review recent studies on extracellular vesicles and inflammatory bowel disease. We also elaborate on their clinical potential in inflammatory bowel disease.
Assessing the Impact of Central Bank Digital Currency on Private Banks
Authors: Andolfatto David
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates how a central bank digital currency can be expected to impact a monopolistic banking sector. The paper’s framework of analysis combines the Diamond (1965) model of government debt with the Klein (1971) and Monti (1972) model of a monopoly bank. The paper finds that the introduction of a central bank digital currency has no detrimental effect on bank lending activity and may, in some circumstances, even serve to promote it. Competitive pressure leads to a higher monopoly deposit rate which reduces profit but expands deposit funding through greater financial inclusion and desired saving. An appeal to available theory and evidence suggests that a properly designed central bank digital currency is not likely to threaten financial stability.
Graft endoclamping with brachio-femoral wire conduit for elephant trunk retrieval in open thoraco-abdominal aortic repair
Authors: Gatta Emanuele , Berretta Paolo , Carbonari Luciano , Di Eusanio Marco
Published: September 2020

Staged repair involving aortic arch replacement with elephant trunk (ET) technique and thoraco-abdominal aorta (TAA) replacement is the treatment of choice for patients with extensive aortic disease. The ET graft serves as a proximal platform for subsequent distal aortic repair as it allows one to avoid hazardous dissection of the distal arch and facilitate proximal anastomosis. However, in patients with large proximal descending aorta aneurysm, identifying and retrieving the ET during the second-stage TAA intervention can be challenging because of an unclampable aorta. Here, we present our brachio-femoral wire conduit technique for a safe ET clamping and retrieval during second-stage TAA procedures.
Lead performance and clinical outcomes of patients with permanent His-Purkinje system pacing: a single-centre experience
Authors: Qian Zhiyong , Qiu Yuanhao , Wang Yao , Jiang Zeyu , Wu Hongping , Hou Xiaofeng , Zou Jiangang
Published: September 2020

Aims

His-Purkinje system (HPS) pacing, including His bundle (HB) and left bundle branch (LBB) pacing, has emerged as a highlighted topic in recent years. Comparisons in lead performance and clinical outcomes between HB and LBB pacing were seldom reported. We aimed to investigate the mid-long-term lead performance and clinical outcomes of permanent HPS pacing patients in our centre.

Methods and results

Permanent HB pacing was implemented by placing the pacing lead helix at the HB area. Left bundle branch pacing was achieved by placing the lead helix in the left-side sub-endocardium of the interventricular septum. Pacing parameters, 12-lead ECG, echocardiography, and clinical outcomes were evaluated during follow-up. A total of 64 patients with HB pacing and 185 with LBB pacing were included. Left bundle branch pacing exhibited a slightly longer paced QRS duration than HB pacing (117.7 ± 11.0 vs. 113.7 ± 19.8 ms, P = 0.04). Immediate post-operation, LBB pacing had a significant higher R-wave amplitude (16.5 ± 7.5 vs. 4.3 ± 3.6 mV, P < 0.001) and lower capture threshold (0.5 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.8 V, P < 0.001) compared with HB pacing. During follow-up, an increase in capture threshold of >1.0 V from baseline was found in eight (12.5%) patients in the HB pacing group and none in LBB pacing. Paced QRS morphology changed from Qr to QS in lead V1 in seven patients (3.8%) with LBB pacing. Both HB and LBB pacing preserved cardiac function in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) over 50%. In patients with LVEF <50%, both HB and LBB pacing improved clinical outcomes during follow-up.

Conclusion

His-Purkinje system pacing produced favourable electrical synchrony and improved cardiac function in patients with heart failure. Left bundle branch pacing showed superior pacing parameters over HB pacing. Lead micro-displacement with changes in paced QRS morphology posts a concern in LBB pacing.
Effect of usual source of care on receiving smoking cessation advice: Korean National Health Panel data analysis
Authors: Kim Sollip , Park Hye Kyeong , Lee Jae Ho , Cho Hong-Jun , Sung Nak Jin
Published: September 2020

Background

Despite various anti-smoking policies, the smoking rate in adults is still high in Korea. Doctors’ advice is known to increase the smoking cessation success rate. However, few studies have reported the effect of having a usual source of care (USC) on receiving smoking cessation advice.

Objective

To determine the effect of USC on receiving smoking cessation advice.

Methods

We performed multiple panel logistic regression analyses to identify the effect of having a USC on the rate of receiving a doctor’s smoking cessation advice using 2009, 2012 and 2013 datasets from the Korea Health Panel database. Only people who responded to questions regarding a USC and smoking cessation advice were analysed. Eventually, 5243 observations were included in the final analysis.

Results

A higher percentage of people with a USC received smoking cessation advice from doctors (58.4% in 2009, 64.0% in 2012 and 59.6% in 2013) than those not having a USC (28.6% in 2009, 37.5% in 2012 and 34.8% in 2013). The odds ratios (ORs) of receiving smoking cessation advice in people with a USC were higher than those of people without a USC after performing multiple panel logistic regression analysis with random effects (OR: 2.24; 95% confidence interval: 1.90–2.63).

Conclusions

Having a USC increased the odds of receiving a doctor’s smoking cessation advice in Koreans. The results of this study suggest that a health care policy that encourages having a USC is useful in receiving more smoking cessation advice in a Korean population.
The Impact of Volunteering and Its Characteristics on Well-being After State Pension Age: Longitudinal Evidence From the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Matthews Katey , Nazroo James
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Volunteering after retirement age is beneficial to well-being. This study furthers previous research by presenting a longitudinal analysis of the well-being of volunteers, compared to non-volunteers, based on characteristics of the voluntary work in which they participate.

Method

Participants were 3,740 people aged State Pension Age and over from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Longitudinal regression models were used to determine whether frequent volunteers saw beneficial changes in well-being (depression, satisfaction with life, CASP-19, and social isolation) compared to non-volunteers. The initial model used a hierarchical approach so that we could also examine the impact of social and health factors. Models were then run to determine whether well-being in relation to volunteering was influenced by its continuity, the number of activities engaged in, whether the volunteering was formal or informal in nature, and whether or not the respondent reported feeling appreciated for their efforts.

Results

Although sociodemographic and health circumstances reduce the magnitude of the effects of volunteering on well-being, the effect of volunteering remained significant in almost all analyses. The beneficial effect of volunteering appeared to stop among respondents who stopped volunteering between waves. The best outcomes were observed among those participating in higher numbers of activities, regardless of whether or not these were classed as formal or informal, and who felt appreciated for their work.

Discussion

Certain aspects of volunteering might be especially beneficial to the well-being of older people. That these effects stop when volunteering stops suggest a causal element to this relationship.