bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene Acoustic Phonon‐Mediated Pseudo‐Landau Levels Tailoring Probed by Scanning Tunneling Spectroscopy
Authors: Chi Cheng , Shi Bowen , Liu Cong , Kang Yimin , Lin Li , Jiang Meiling , Lu Jing , Shen Bo , Lin Feng , Peng Hailin , Fang Zheyu
Published: December 2019

Graphene has attracted great interests in various areas including optoelectronics, spintronics, and nanomechanics due to its unique electronic structure, a linear dispersion with a zero bandgap around the Dirac point. Shifts of Dirac cones in graphene creates pseudo‐magnetic field, which generates an energy gap and brings a zero‐magnetic‐field analogue of the quantum Hall effect. Recent studies have demonstrated that graphene pseudo‐magnetic effects can be generated by vacancy defects, atom adsorption, zigzag or armchair edges, and external strain. Here, a larger than 100 T pseudo‐magnetic field is reported that generated on the step area of graphene; and with the ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy, the observed Landau levels can be effectively tailored by graphene phonons. The zero pseudo‐Landau level is suppressed due to the phonon‐mediated inelastic tunneling, and this is observed by the scanning tunneling spectroscopy spectrum and confirmed by the Vienna ab initio simulation package calculation, where graphene phonons modulate the flow of tunneling electrons and further mediate pseudo‐Landau levels. These observations demonstrate a viable approach for the control of pseudo‐Landau levels, which tailors the electronic structure of graphene, and further ignites applications in graphene valley electronics.
Condensed tannins as a deterrent to crop depredation by white‐tailed deer: Effects of concentration and learning
Authors: Monteith Kyle B. , Monteith Kevin L. , Jenks Jonathan A.
Published: December 2019

Agricultural producers lose millions of dollars annually to depredation caused by ungulates. Although multiple repellents exist, most are ineffective. Tannins are a plant‐defensive compound that have an astringent taste, reduce digestibility, reduce protein availability, and toxic to rumen microbes, resulting in the reduction of feeding by large herbivores. We hypothesized that chemical application of tannins to forages would provide a nonlethal method to reduce crop depredation in areas susceptible to ungulate damage. We designed an experiment to test the effectiveness of tannins at deterring feeding by captive white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) on soybeans and other forages in 2010–2011 at the Wildlife Research Facility at South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, USA. First, using a cafeteria trial, we monitored weekly intake rates of captive deer (n = 10) offered a selected feed treated with varying concentrations of quebracho tannins (control, 3%, 5%, 10%, and 20%). Second, we manipulated food plots (n = 3) by treating 3 separate blocks with different concentrations (0% [control], 10%, and 20%) of tannins. We monitored feeding selection relative to tannin treatments within food plots 3 times/week, during summer (May–Jul) and autumn (Aug–Sep) using scan‐sampling. During cafeteria trials, intake rate of control feed was ≥3 times greater than all other feed treated with tannins. Similarly, in manipulated food plots, application of 10% and 20% tannins resulted in a 72% and 89% reduction in probability of feeding during the summer; this pattern of selection was intensified when trials occurred in consecutive days with the same deer. Strategic application of tannins to agricultural crops in areas prone to damage may provide a natural deterrent to crop depredation by ungulates. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Cutting massless four-loop propagators
Authors: Magerya Vitaly , Pikelner Andrey
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Among the unitarity cuts of 4-loop massless propagators two kinds are currently fully known: the 2-particle cuts with 3 loops corresponding to form-factors, and the 5-particle phase-space integrals. In this paper we calculate master integrals for the remaining ones: 3-particle cuts with 2 loops, and 4-particle cuts with 1 loop. The 4-particle cuts are calculated by solving dimensional recurrence relations. The 3-particle cuts are integrated directly using 1→3 amplitudes with 2 loops, which we also re-derive here up to transcendentality weight 7. The results are verified both numerically, and by showing consistency with previously known integrals using Cutkosky rules. We provide the analytic results in the space-time dimension 4 − 2ε as series in ε with coefficients being multiple zeta values up to weight 12. In the supplementary material we also provide dimensional recurrence matrices and SummerTime files suitable for numerical evaluation of the series in arbitrary dimensions with any precision.
Chern-Simons dualities with multiple flavors at large N
Authors: Jensen Kristan , Patil Priti
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study U(N )
k
Chern-Simons theory coupled to fundamental fermions and scalars in a large N ‘t Hooft limit. We compute the thermal free energy at high temperature, as well as two- and three-point functions of simple gauge-invariant operators. Our findings support various dualities between Chern-Simons-matter theories with

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 0, 1, and 2 supersymmetry.
Minimally Invasive Pilonidal Excision: Preliminary Report
Authors: Guerra Francesco , Cirullo Eleonora , Di Castro Angelo
Published: December 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to report on the application of a minimally invasive technique to the radical extirpation of primary and recurrent pilonidal disease. This technique does not require specific equipments, is ordinarily performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, and provides optimal cosmetic results.

Methods

A total of 187 patients including 68% of patients with previous pilonidal surgery and 12% cases of extensive disease underwent surgery as day case. The series was thus reviewed in terms of perioperative data, time off daily activities, time to complete wound healing, and recurrence.

Results

Overall, the incidence of postoperative complications was 9%, with 2% being the relative rate of >grade I complications. The median time off school/work was of 2 days, while the median time to complete wound healing was 35 days. At a median follow‐up of 16 months, the overall rate of disease recurrence was 5, 6%.

Conclusions

This analysis demonstrates that minimally invasive pilonidal excision is an effective option for pilonidal disease, also in the case of recalcitrant or extensive disease.
Early Fistulography Can Predict Whether Biochemical Leakage Develops to Clinically Relevant Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula
Authors: Takeda Yoshinori , Saiura Akio , Inoue Yosuke , Mise Yoshihiro , Ishizawa Takeaki , Takahashi Yu , Ito Hiromichi
Published: December 2019

Background

As complete prevention of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreatic surgery remains difficult, many risk factors for clinically relevant POPF (CR‐POPF) have been reported. However, their clinical impact could be limited because all previous reports included patients without biochemical leakage (BL) that rarely developed to CR‐POPF. Therefore, a new strategy for identifying high‐risk patients who develop delayed complications from patients with confirmed BL and for implementing interventions for such patients in the early postoperative period is required. This study aimed to examine the role of fistulography in predicting CR‐POPF from confirmed BL.

Methods

Consecutive patients diagnosed with BL on postoperative day 3 after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or distal pancreatectomy (DP) from January 2013 to June 2015 in our institution were included. Fistulography was performed 1 week after the operation, and the associations between findings on fistulography and delayed complications associated with POPF were evaluated.

Results

Eighty‐four (37%) of 227 patients who underwent PD and 45 (48%) of 94 patients who underwent DP were included and divided to two groups according to fistulographic findings (simple type, n = 107, 83%; cavity type, n = 22, 17%). The latter finding was associated with a greater morbidity rate (Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ 2: 36% vs 59%, p = 0.018) and a worse final POPF grade (B/C 64% vs 95%, p = 0.003). In the multivariate analysis, cavity type on fistulography was a significant predictive factor for grade B/C POPF.

Conclusions

Fistulography is a useful examination for identifying patients with a high risk of developing delayed complications associated with POPF.
Temporal and spatial variations in freeze warnings in the conterminous United States: 2005–2018
Authors: Lawhorn Brandon , Balling Robert C.
Published: December 2019

It is well-documented that the United States (US), along with other mid-latitude land locations, has experienced warming in recent decades in response to changes in atmospheric composition. Among other changes, Easterling (2002) reported that the frost-free period is now longer across much of the US with the first frost in fall occurring later and the last freeze in spring occurring earlier. In this investigation, we explore spatial and temporal variations in all freeze warnings issued by the US National Weather Service. Freeze warning counts are highest in the southeastern US peaking overall in the spring and fall months. Freeze warnings tend to occur more toward summer moving northward and westward into more northerly states. Consistent with the warming in recent decades, we find statistically significant northward movements in freeze warning centroids in some months (December, February) across the study period (2005–2018). Detection of spatial and temporal trends in freeze warnings may be of interest to any number of scientists with applied climatological interests.
Examining the relationship between finance, institutions and economic growth: evidence from the ASEAN economies
Authors: Haini Hazwan
Published: December 2019

This study investigates the role of financial and institutional development on economic growth in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economies from 1995 to 2017 using a dynamic panel estimator. Financial development is instrumental in promoting economic growth; however, the effect of financial institutions and financial markets can differ. In recent years, the ASEAN economies have launched financial and institutional integration initiatives towards the goal of an integrated ASEAN Economic Community, which can have a profound impact on economic growth. The estimated results show that financial institutions are positive and significant towards economic growth, while financial markets are insignificant. Equally important, institutional quality plays a significant and positive role in economic growth. More interestingly, the study finds that institutional development is complementary to financial institutions and markets. Member states should emphasise on further financial integration across the ASEAN economies, allowing for the development of financial institutions and markets alongside improvements in institutional quality to increase the effectiveness of financial development.
To discriminate or not to discriminate? Personalised pricing in online markets as exploitative abuse of dominance
Authors: Botta Marco , Wiedemann Klaus
Published: December 2019

The advent of big data analytics has favoured the emergence of forms of price discrimination based on consumers’ profiles and their online behaviour (i.e. personalised pricing). The paper analyses this practice as a possible exploitative abuse by dominant online platforms. The paper argues that, in view of its “mixed” effect on consumers’ welfare, personalised pricing requires a case-by-case assessment under EU competition law and thus it should not be banned a priori. However, in view of the recent case law of the European Court of Justice on price discrimination, the National Competition Authorities (NCAs) and the European Commission would face a high burden of proof to sanction this conduct under Art. 102(c) TFEU. Finally, the paper argues that, due to its case-by-case approach, competition law seems more suitable thanomnibusregulation to tackle the negative effects that personalised pricing could have on consumers’ welfare. In particular, an NCA/the European Commission could negotiate with online platforms different kinds of behavioural commitments: transparency requirements, limits on data collection/user profiling, rights to opt out of personalised pricing and the obligation to share customers’ data with competitors could significantly tame the risks of personalised pricing.
Survivorship of a Medialized Glenoid and Lateralized Onlay Humerus Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty is High at Midterm Follow-up
Authors: Rauck Ryan C. , Eck Eric P. , Chang Brenda , Craig Edward V. , Dines Joshua S. , Dines David M. , Warren Russell F. , Gulotta Lawrence V.
Published: December 2019

Background

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is a common treatment of a variety of disabling shoulder conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine revision-free survivorship after RSA using a medialized glenoid and lateralized onlay-type humerus implant and to identify etiologies of revision.

Methods

All RSAs performed using the Comprehensive® Reverse Shoulder System (Zimmer Biomet, Inc.; Warsaw, IN, USA) at one institution from 2008 to 2014 were identified through a retrospective review. Charts were reviewed to determine whether the RSA was a primary or revision surgery. Patients were contacted by telephone, and survivorship was defined as no subsequent surgery after RSA. Of the 526 RSAs performed, responses were obtained from 403 patients (77%). A Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to determine survivorship over time. A χ2 test was used to determine differences between revision rates after RSA.

Results

Minimum follow-up was 3 years, and average follow-up was 4.83 ± 1.60 years. Survivorship was 96% at 2 years and 93% at 5 years after RSA. Revisions were performed for instability ( n = 8), humeral tray-taper junction failure ( n = 5), acute fracture ( n = 4), infection ( n = 3), glenoid loosening ( n = 3), osteolysis ( n = 1), or notching ( n = 1). Fourteen of the 151 patients (9.2%) who had surgery prior to RSA required revision after RSA. Having shoulder surgery prior to RSA was associated with higher rates of subsequent revision after RSA.

Conclusion

Overall, survivorship after RSA using a medialized glenoid and lateralized onlay-type humerus RSA is high, and prostheses implanted in native shoulders have lower rates of revision at midterm follow-up. Instability (1.9%) was the most common reason for revision.
Strategies to Achieve Spinal Fusion in Multilevel Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: An Overview
Authors: McCarthy Michael H. , Weiner Joseph A. , Patel Alpesh A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Anterior cervical fusion offers surgeons a safe and reliable surgical option for single-level and multilevel pathology; however, multilevel fusions pose a higher risk of complications than single-level fusions, including possible pseudoarthrosis, adjacent segment disease, sagittal imbalance, and construct subsidence. Various techniques can be used to mitigate risk in multilevel anterior cervical fusion.

Questions/Purposes

We reviewed the literature to determine the best surgical strategies in multilevel anterior cervical fusion.

Methods

We searched the PubMed database for articles published from January 1980 through July 2019. Two authors identified relevant articles and then manually screened them for others to include in this review.

Results

We initially identified 1936 articles and included 48 in our review. We found that clinical outcomes of multilevel anterior cervical fusion can be optimized through the use of biologics and graft selection, the evaluation of pre-existing deformity, the assessment of comorbidities, and the selection of fusion levels. Meticulous surgical technique in conjunction with modern surgical tools, such as instrumentation and biologics, allow surgeons to address complex cervical problems while limiting morbidity and enhancing clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Multilevel anterior cervical fusions offer a relatively safe and reliable treatment option for both single-level and multilevel pathology.
Examining the Effectiveness of Restorative Justice in Reducing Victims’ Post-Traumatic Stress
Authors: Lloyd Alex , Borrill Jo
Published: December 2019

Crime victimisation is a significant life event that can lead to the development of post-traumatic symptomology. Compared with the general population, victims of crime are significantly more likely to present with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Restorative justice is an approach to criminal justice that considers the goal of the justice system to restore victims to their state pre-victimisation. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the effectiveness of restorative justice in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress that develop following victimisation. Relevant databases were searched to identify quantitative studies measuring post-traumatic symptoms in victims of crime who successfully completed either a restorative justice or customary justice intervention. A total of seven studies were identified examining one or more facet of post-traumatic symptomology. These studies provide modest support that restorative justice did produce a greater improvement on post-traumatic symptoms than customary justice procedures. However, this was only consistently evidenced for symptoms of avoidance and intrusion, whereas there were mixed findings with regard to the subscales of negative alterations in mood and cognition, and arousal and reactivity. Reasons for these inconsistencies are discussed and recommendation made for further empirical work on this subject.
China and The Belt and Road Initiative: Transnational Labor Law Under State Capitalism 4.0
Authors: Zou Mimi
Published: December 2019

Since the 2007 global financial crisis, many have questioned the predominant form of neoliberal capitalism that has underpinned a U.S.-led global economic order since the 1980s. Meanwhile, China's state capitalism, led by the Chinese Communist Party, has been ascendant. Some have even posited a “Beijing Consensus” as an alternative to the “Washington Consensus.” This essay advances the concept of State Capitalism 4.0, which is premised on the Chinese party-state's control over state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and private firms, mediated through regulatory and institutional arrangements and the strategic exploitation of technology. I apply this concept to analyse China's approach to transnational labor issues as Chinese enterprises expand their activities abroad and mobilize a growing number of Chinese workers transnationally, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Reflecting on the implications of State Capitalism 4.0 for transnational labor law, I argue that the strategic exercise of state regulatory powers can strengthen labor standards through domestic laws and institutions but is antithetical to a core international labor right: freedom of association.
A DISTRIBUTION ON TRIPLES WITH MAXIMUM ENTROPY MARGINAL
Authors: NORIN SERGEY
Published: December 2019

We construct an

$S_{3}$

-symmetric probability distribution on

$\{(a,b,c)\in \mathbb{Z}_{{\geqslant}0}^{3}\,:\,a+b+c=n\}$

such that its marginal achieves the maximum entropy among all probability distributions on

$\{0,1,\ldots ,n\}$

with mean

$n/3$

. Existence of such a distribution verifies a conjecture of Kleinberg et al. [‘The growth rate of tri-colored sum-free sets’, Discrete Anal. (2018), Paper No. 12, arXiv:1607.00047v1], which is motivated by the study of sum-free sets.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of risk factors associated with acquisition of waterborne healthcare-associated infection or colonization in high-risk units
Authors: Parra Lina M. , Cantero Mireia , Sierra Juliana , Asensio Ángel , García Fernando J.
Published: December 2019

In this meta-analysis, central venous catheter exposure (pooled odds ratio, 8.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.19–29.31; P < .01) in neonates and length of stay (standardized mean difference, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.26–1.05; P = .01) in an adult population were associated with acquisition of waterborne healthcare-associated infections or colonization in ICUs. The quality of evidence was low.
Navigating and understanding organisational complexity in health services: The value of POSH-VRE
Authors: Dadich Ann , Collier Aileen , Hodgins Michael
Published: December 2019

This methodological article introduces positive organisational scholarship in healthcare and video reflexive ethnography (POSH-VRE) as a methodology to cut through the challenges of accessing and engaging organisations for research. We demonstrate how POSH-VRE can open space to navigate and better understand organisational complexity and build capacity. Organisational complexity denotes the interrelated components of a system. POSH-VRE can be helpful within complex organisations, such as health services, because it focuses on positive healthcare practices and experiences. We exemplify this with reference to a study on brilliant community-based palliative care. Using fieldnotes and video-recordings, we reveal the value of positive recognition – or celebration; video-cameras; and courtesy, whereby we adapted to different contexts. POSH-VRE can be of scholarly, methodological, and organisational value. It enables researchers to navigate organisational complexity and co-construct findings with nonacademic experts. Furthermore, it can encourage nonacademic experts to improve practice by learning from their own capacities to navigate organisational complexity.
Vector dynamics predicts transmission dynamics: a simple, realistic and sensible approach for measuring malaria endemicity
Authors: Pradhan Nitika , Tarai Rojalini , Hazra Rupenangshu K.
Published: December 2019

Entomological indicators such as vector density, distribution, biology and bionomics and their vectorial attributes are important parameters for measuring the pattern and intensity of malaria transmission. Although published articles provide evidence for the existence of associations between entomological indices and malaria transmission dynamics, none of them is able to establish a strong correlation. In order to address this issue, the present study aims to assess how malaria transmission is influenced and can be predicted by local major vector dynamics. We carried out an entomological assessment of majorAnophelinevector abundance, habit/habitat, resting and feeding behavior, infectivity rates, and other entomological parameters. Results suggest that malaria transmission was correlated with a vector control intervention and non-intervention scenario in a high endemic region of Kalahandi district of Odisha, India. Amongst all indices, infective anthropophagic vectors established a strong positive correlation with malaria morbidity in comparison to infective or anthropophagic vector species during both the study periods. Though other entomological parameters influenced the transmission intensity, little quantifiable association was detected among study sites. This study provides strong baseline evidence of an association between entomological indices and malaria transmission dynamics, which could be used as an early warning system for outbreak prediction.
Silicon is an inducible and effective herbivore defence againstHelicoverpa punctigera(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in soybean
Authors: Johnson Scott N. , Rowe Rhiannon C. , Hall Casey R.
Published: December 2019

The role of silicon (Si) in alleviating the effects of biotic and abiotic stresses, including defence against insect herbivores, in plants is widely reported. Si defence against insect herbivores is overwhelmingly studied in grasses (especially the cereals), many of which are hyper-accumulators of Si. Despite being neglected, legumes such as soybean (Glycine max) have the capacity to control Si accumulation and benefit from increased Si supply. We tested how Si supplementation via potassium, sodium or calcium silicate affected a soybean pest, the native budwormHelicoverpa punctigeraWallengren (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Herbivory reduced leaf biomass similarly in Si-supplemented (+Si) and non-supplemented (–Si) plants (c. 29 and 23%, respectively) relative to herbivore-free plants. Both Si supplementation and herbivory increased leaf Si concentrations. In relative terms, herbivores induced Si uptake by c. 19% in both +Si and –Si plants. All Si treatments reducedH. punctigerarelative growth rates (RGR) to a similar extent for potassium (−41%), sodium (−49%) and calcium (−48%) silicate. Moreover, there was a strong negative correlation between Si accumulation in leaves and herbivore RGR. To our knowledge, this is only the second report of Si-based herbivore defence in soybean; the rapid increase in leaf Si following herbivory being indicative of an induced defence. Taken together with the other benefits of Si supplementation of legumes, Si could prove an effective herbivore defence in legumes as well as grasses.
Does feeding on pollen grains affect the performance ofAmblyseius swirskii(Acari: Phytoseiidae) during subsequent generations?
Authors: Nemati Alireza , Riahi Elham
Published: December 2019

Diet is a critical component of the mass-rearing of biological control agents, but the impacts of diet are not always immediately obvious and can take several generations to manifest, resulting in poor survival, reproduction, and ability to kill prey under natural conditions. Our present study aimed to investigate the performance of a commercially-reared phytoseiid mite,Amblyseius swirskii, after four (G4) and six (G6) consecutive generations on pollen grains of two plant species, as well as its ability to find and kill its natural prey,Tetranychus urticae, after long-term rearing on each diet. We found no significant difference between the two diets in intrinsic and finite rates in G4. However, both diet and generation exerted a significant influence on the fecundity ofA. swirskii. By G6, females reared on almond pollen had greater net reproductive and intrinsic rate compared to those reared on maize pollen. Conversely,A. swirskiifed on maize pollen consumed fewer prey than those reared on other diets, especially at higher prey densities. The findings have important implications for developing the mass-rearing program ofA. swirskiion non-prey diets. Further research must explore the suitability of almond pollen in the large-scale culture ofA. swirskii.
Implementation of cell-free DNA-based non-invasive prenatal testing in a National Health Service Regional Genetics Laboratory
Authors: Togneri Fiona S. , Kilby Mark D. , Young Elizabeth , Court Samantha , Williams Denise , Griffiths Michael J. , Allen Stephanie K.
Published: December 2019

Background

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for the detection of foetal aneuploidy through analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in maternal blood is offered routinely by many healthcare providers across the developed world. This testing has recently been recommended for evaluative implementation in the UK National Health Service (NHS) foetal anomaly screening pathway as a contingent screen following an increased risk of trisomy 21, 18 or 13. In preparation for delivering a national service, we have implemented cfDNA-based NIPT in our Regional Genetics Laboratory. Here, we describe our validation and verification processes and initial experiences of the technology prior to rollout of a national screening service.

Methods

Data are presented from more than 1000 patients (215 retrospective and 840 prospective) from ‘high- and low-risk pregnancies’ with outcome data following birth or confirmatory invasive prenatal sampling. NIPT was by the Illumina Verifi® test.

Results

Our data confirm a high-fidelity service with a failure rate of ~0.24% and a high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of foetal trisomy 13, 18 and 21. Secondly, the data show that a significant proportion of patients continue their pregnancies without prenatal invasive testing or intervention after receiving a high-risk cfDNA-based result. A total of 46.5% of patients referred to date were referred for reasons other than high screen risk. Ten percent (76/840 clinical service referrals) of patients were referred with ultrasonographic finding of a foetal structural anomaly, and data analysis indicates high- and low-risk scan indications for NIPT.

Conclusions

NIPT can be successfully implemented into NHS regional genetics laboratories to provide high-quality services. NHS provision of NIPT in patients with high-risk screen results will allow for a reduction of invasive testing and partially improve equality of access to cfDNA-based NIPT in the pregnant population. Patients at low risk for a classic trisomy or with other clinical indications are likely to continue to access cfDNA-based NIPT as a private test.
Wincing at Shakespeare: Looking B(l)ack at the Bard
Authors: DADABHOY AMBEREEN
Published: December 2019

This article explores how black artists and intellectuals approach, challenge, and appropriate the works of William Shakespeare. Beginning with W. E. B. Du Bois's contention “I sit with Shakespeare and he winces not,” I examine how Keith Hamilton Cobb in American Moor interrogates Shakespeare's presentation of black identity. In particular, I suggest that modes of ambivalence undergird black American engagement with Shakespeare and that this ambivalence creates the space for black artists to interrogate Shakespeare's representation of blackness and white culture's gatekeeping of the Shakespearean text and its performance while also reimagining and recasting that representation to fit their contemporaneous needs.
Associations between maternal depressive symptoms and risk for offspring early-life psychopathology: the role of genetic and non-genetic mechanisms
Authors: Gjerde Line C. , Eilertsen Espen M. , Hannigan Laurie J. , Eley Thalia , Røysamb Espen , Reichborn-Kjennerud Ted , Rijsdijk Fruhling V. , McAdams Tom A. , Ystrom Eivind
Published: December 2019

Background

Although maternal depressive symptoms are robustly associated with offspring early-life psychopathology symptoms, it is not clear which potential mechanisms are at play. We aimed to estimate the relative importance of genetic transmission and direct environmental exposure in these associations on three occasions in early childhood.

Methods

Biometric modeling of maternal sisters and their offspring from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study. The analyzed sample comprised 22 316 mothers and 35 589 offspring. Mothers reported their own depressive symptoms using the Symptom checklist, and offspring's concurrent symptoms of psychopathology using the Child Behavior Checklist at 1.5, 3, and 5 years postpartum.

Results

Associations between maternal symptoms of depression and offspring emotional problems were predominantly explained by passive genetic transmission at 1.5 and 3 years postpartum. At age 5, associations were more due to direct environmental exposure. For offspring behavioral problems, there was no net increase in the importance of direct environmental exposure across occasions.

Conclusions

Associations between maternal depressive symptoms and offspring psychopathology symptoms remained after accounting for shared genes, consistent with a small, causal effect. For offspring emotional problems, this effect appeared to increase in importance over time. Our findings imply that treatment of maternal depressive symptoms could also benefit the offspring, and that genetic confounding should be considered in future studies of such mother–offspring associations.
Older adults’ integration in the labour market: a global view
Authors: Börsch-Supan Axel , Hanemann Felizia , Beach Brian , Halimi Didier , Harding Susana , van der Waal Marieke , Watanabe Daisuke , Staudinger Ursula M.
Published: December 2019

What governs labour force participation in later life and why is it so different across countries? Health and labour force participation in older ages are not strongly linked, but we observe a large variation across countries in old-age labour force participation. This points to the important role of country-specific regulations governing pension receipt and old-age labour force participation. In addition to the statutory eligibility age for a pension, such country-specific regulations include: earnings tests that limit the amount of earnings when pension benefits are received; the amount of benefit deductions for early retirement; the availability of part-time pensions before normal retirement; special regulations that permit early retirement for certain population groups; and either subsidies or extra costs for employers if they keep older employees in their labour force. This paper asks two questions: Can we link a relatively low labour force participation at ages 60–64 to country-specific regulations that make early retirement attractive? and Can we link a relatively high labour force participation at ages 65–74 to country-specific regulations that make late retirement attractive? To answer these questions, we compared the experiences in a set of developed countries around the world in order to understand better the impact of country-specific rules and laws on work and retirement behaviour at older ages and, by consequence, on the financial sustainability of pension systems.
Altitudinal shifts in forest birds in a Mediterranean mountain range: causes and conservation prospects
Authors: TELLERÍA JOSÉ LUIS
Published: December 2019

Mediterranean mountains are biodiversity hotspots where northern species occur surrounded by drier and warmer lowlands. In this context, global warming is pushing these species to higher elevations. This paper assesses whether forest birds have experienced a shift upwards over the elevation gradient in the last 35 years in the Guadarrama Mountains (600–2,400 m asl; central Spain). Alternatively, the paper tests whether the reported shifts are related to changes in forest structure resulting from rural abandonment and/or forest management. To do this, sampling carried out from 1976 to 1980 along the elevation gradient was repeated in 2014–2015. In addition, the habitat preferences of birds were used to test if the elevation shifts were related to changes in forest structure. Results show that the mean range position of birds associated with tree cover shifted downwards, a trend supported by an increase in tree-dependent birds at mid-elevations. These trends suggest that an increase in tree cover has buffered the altitudinal shifts of forest birds predicted by climate warming. Results also suggest that proper forest management may improve the resilience of forest bird communities to the pervasive effects of climate warming.
Seed coat formation: its evolution and regulation
Authors: Matilla Angel J.
Published: December 2019

In higher plants, the seed precursor (ovule primordia) is composed of three parts: funiculus, nucellus and chalaza, generating the latter one (II) or two (OI and II) protective maternal integuments (seed coat, SC). The appearance of a viable seed requires the coordinate growth and development of the preceding three compartments. Integuments are essentials for seed life as they nourish, protect and facilitate seed dispersion. Endosperm and integument growth and development are tightly coupled. Gymnosperm and angiosperm ovules are commonly unitegmic and bitegmic, respectively. Unusually, ategmy and threetegmy (OI, II and aril) also exist. The expression of theINO,ATSandETTgenes, involved in integument development, seems to have demonstrated that the fusion of OI and II leads to the appearance of unitegmy in higher plants. Likewise,INOexpression also manifests the conservation of OI during evolution. The molecular control of SC development is constituted by a signalling network with still a multitude of gaps. The fertilization-independent development of the ovule is repressed by the FERTILIZATION INDEPENDENT SEED (FIS), a Polycomb-Repressive-Complex-2 (PRC2). Both endosperm and SC development are tightly linked to PRC2 function. As in many other developmental processes, auxin plays an essential role during ovule and SC development. Auxin transport from the endosperm to the integuments is regulated by AGL62 (AGAMOUS-LIKE 62), the encoding gene of which is specifically expressed in the endosperm to suppress its cellularization. In the absence of AGL62 (i.e.agl62mutants), auxin remains trapped in the endosperm and the SC fails to develop (i.e. seed abortion). This update shows that auxin biosynthesis, transport and signalling play a predominant role and seem to be absolutely required in the pathway(s) that lead to SC formation, most likely not as a unique hormonal component.
Healthcare utilisation and health literacy among young adults seeking care in Sweden: findings from a cross-sectional and retrospective study with questionnaire and registry-based data
Authors: Viktorsson Lisa , Yngman-Uhlin Pia , Törnvall Eva , Falk Magnus
Published: December 2019

Aim:

The objective of this study was to examine young adults’ healthcare utilisation and its possible association with health literacy.

Background:

Many countries struggle with insufficient accessibility at emergency departments (EDs) and primary healthcare centres (PHCs). Young adults, aged 20–29 years old, account for a substantial number of unnecessary doctor visits where health literacy could be an explanatory factor.

Method:

This study incorporated a combined retrospective and cross-sectional study design with analysis of registry data, including all registered outpatient doctor visits between 2004 and 2014 (n = 1 086 432), and strategic sample questionnaire data (n = 207), focusing on socio-demographics, symptoms and information-seeking behaviour. Mean differences between first-year and last-year doctor visits for each age group were calculated using registry data. Fischer’s exact test was applied to questionnaire data to analyse group differences between ED and PHC visitors as well as between patients with sufficient health literacy and insufficient health literacy. Binary logistic regression was used to investigate covariation.

Findings:

Healthcare utilisation has increased among young adults during the past decade, however, not comparatively more than for other age groups. ED patients (n = 49) compared to PHC patients (n = 158) were more likely to seek treatment for gastrointestinal symptoms (P = 0.001), had shorter duration of symptoms (P = 0.001) and sought care more often on the recommendation of a healthcare professional (P = 0.001). Insufficient/problematic health literacy among young adults was associated with having lower reliance on the healthcare system (P = 0.03) and with a greater likelihood of seeking treatment for psychiatric symptoms (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

Young adults do not account for the increase in healthcare utilisation during the last decade to a greater extent than other age groups. Young adults’ reliance on the healthcare system is associated with health literacy, an indicator potentially important for consideration when studying health literacy and its relationship to more effective use of healthcare services.
The effect of high maternal linoleic acid on endocannabinoid signalling in rodent hearts
Authors: Sleep Simone L. , Shrestha Nirajan , Cuffe James S. M. , Holland Olivia J. , Headrick John P. , McAinch Andrew J. , Hryciw Deanne H.
Published: December 2019

The endocannabinoid system (ECS), modulated by metabolites of linoleic acid (LA), is important in regulating cardiovascular function. In pregnancy, LA is vital for foetal development. We investigated the effects of elevated LA in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts in vitro and of a high linoleic acid (HLA, 6.21%) or low linoleic acid (LLA, 1.44%) diet during pregnancy in maternal and offspring hearts. H9c2 cell viability was reduced following LA exposure at concentrations between 300 and 1000 µM. HLA diet decreased cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) mRNA expression in foetal hearts from both sexes. However, HLA diet increased CB2 expression in maternal hearts. The mRNA expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in foetal hearts was higher in females than in males irrespective of diet and N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) mRNA expression showed an interaction between diet and sex. Data indicate that a high LA diet alters cell viability and CB2 expression, potentially influencing cardiac function during pregnancy and development of the offspring’s heart.
Employees First, Technology Second
Authors: Paruzel Agnieszka , Bentler Dominik , Schlicher Katharina D. , Nettelstroth Wolfgang , Maier Günter W.
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Digitization and connectivity are hot topics for nearly every company today; numerous new technologies offer diverse options. In this project, a specific technology − smart glasses − was implemented in a manufacturing company. The implementation process was innovative, as the employees’ perspective was taken into account from the beginning, rather than solely designing the technological aspects and involving the users after decisions were taken. Employees involved with the new technology were surveyed to take into account the employees’ expectations and fears regarding work design characteristics. This allowed us to customize features of the smart glasses, adapt the work organization, and inform employees about unclear points concerning the implementation process. Moreover, the competencies required for future work were analyzed using a comprehensive work analysis method. We report the results of two quantitative studies and summarize the lessons learned from this project, which can serve as a guideline for other companies.
Trust in Management Information Systems (MIS)
Authors: Meeßen Sarah M. , Thielsch Meinald T. , Hertel Guido
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Digitalization, enhanced storage capacities, and the Internet of Things increase the volume of data in modern organizations. To process and make use of these data and to avoid information overload, management information systems (MIS) are introduced that collect, process, and analyze relevant data. However, a precondition for the application of MIS is that users trust them. Extending accounts of trust in automation and trust in technology, we introduce a new model of trust in MIS that addresses the conceptual ambiguities of existing conceptualizations of trust and integrates initial empirical work in this field. In doing so, we differentiate between perceived trustworthiness of an MIS, experienced trust in an MIS, intentions to use an MIS, and actual use of an MIS. Moreover, we consider users’ perceived risks and contextual factors (e. g., autonomy at work) as moderators. The introduced model offers guidelines for future research and initial suggestions to foster trust-based MIS use.
Transient Change of Io's Neutral Oxygen Cloud and Plasma Torus Observed by Hisaki
Authors: Koga Ryoichi , Tsuchiya Fuminori , Kagitani Masato , Sakanoi Takeshi , Yoshioka Kazuo , Yoshikawa Ichiro , Kimura Tomoki , Murakami Go , Yamazaki Atsushi , Smith H. Todd , Bagenal Fran
Published: December 2019

Io's atmospheric oxygen atoms are heated by atmospheric sputtering and escape from Io's gravity, forming a neutral oxygen cloud around Io's orbit. This neutral cloud is important as a source of the Io oxygen plasma torus. Previous studies derived the distribution and density of the equilibrium neutral oxygen cloud. However, little is known about the evolution of the neutral cloud. In this study, we analyzed Hisaki satellite observations of the spatial distribution of OI 130.4 nm emissions around Io's orbit during transient strong density enhancement in the torus in 2015 (called high density period). Comparing time variations of OI and OII 83.4 nm emissions, we estimated that the lifetimes of O+ in this period were about 21 days in the high density period and 41 days in the normal density period. Hisaki observations are consistent with a decrease in the lifetime of O+ when the density in the torus increases. The radial distribution showed the neutral oxygen cloud spread outward up to 8.6 Jupiter radii during the high density period. We also show that during the high density period, the neutral oxygen number density at Io's orbit (where north‐south thickness is assumed to be 1.2 Jupiter radii) increased to
cm−3, more than three times the value during the normal density period (
cm−3). The azimuthal distribution showed a dense region around Io and a longitudinally uniform, diffuse region distributed along Io's orbit that enlarges during the high density period.
A Method to Estimate the Physical Properties of Magnetospheric Generators From Observations of Quiet Discrete Auroral Arcs
Authors: Echim M. M. , Lamy H. , De Keyser J. , Maggiolo R. , Gunell H. , Simon Wedlund C. L.
Published: December 2019

We discuss a method to estimate the properties of a magnetospheric generator using a quasi‐electrostatic magnetosphere‐ionosphere coupling model and in situ or remote sensing observations of discrete quiet arcs. We first construct an ensemble of Vlasov equilibrium solutions for generator structures formed at magnetospheric plasma interfaces. For each generator solution, we compute the ionospheric electric potential from the current continuity equation. Thus, we estimate the field‐aligned potential drop that allows us to assess several properties of the discrete auroral arc, such as the field‐aligned potential difference, the field‐aligned current density, the flux of precipitating energy, and the height‐integrated Pedersen conductance. A minimization procedure based on comparing the numerical results with observations is defined and applied to find which solution of the current continuity equation and which generator model give auroral arc properties that best fit the observations. The procedure is validated in a case study with observations by DMSP and Cluster and can be generalized to other types of data.
A Neural Network‐Based Ionospheric Model Over Africa From Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate and Ground Global Positioning System Observations
Authors: Okoh Daniel , Seemala Gopi , Rabiu Babatunde , Habarulema John Bosco , Jin Shuanggen , Shiokawa Kazuo , Otsuka Yuichi , Aggarwal Malini , Uwamahoro Jean , Mungufeni Patrick , Segun Bolaji , Obafaye Aderonke , Ellahony Nada , Okonkwo Chinelo , Tshisaphungo Mpho , Shetti Dadaso
Published: December 2019

The first regional total electron content (TEC) model over the entire African region (known as AfriTEC model) using empirical observations is developed and presented. Artificial neural networks were used to train TEC observations obtained from Global Positioning System receivers, both on ground and onboard the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate satellites for the African region from years 2000 to 2017. The neural network training was implemented using inputs that enabled the networks to learn diurnal variations, seasonal variations, spatial variations, and variations that are connected with the level of solar activity, for quiet geomagnetic conditions (−20 nT ≤ Dst ≤ 20 nT). The effectiveness of three solar activity indices (sunspot number, solar radio flux at 10.7‐cm wavelength [F10.7], and solar ultraviolet [UV] flux at 1 AU) for the neural network trainings was tested. The F10.7 and UV were more effective, and the F10.7 was used as it gave the least errors on the validation data set used. Equatorial anomaly simulations show a reduced occurrence during the June solstice season. The distance of separation between the anomaly crests is typically in the range from about 11.5 ± 1.0° to 16.0 ± 1.0°. The separation is observed to widen as solar activity levels increase. During the December solstice, the anomaly region shifts southwards of the equinox locations; in year 2012, the trough shifted by about 1.5° and the southern crest shifted by over 2.5°.