bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Causal Role of Left and Right Superior Temporal Gyri in Speech Perception in Noise: A Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Study
Authors: Kennedy-Higgins Dan , Devlin Joseph T. , Nuttall Helen E. , Adank Patti
Published: January 2020

Successful perception of speech in everyday listening conditions requires effective listening strategies to overcome common acoustic distortions, such as background noise. Convergent evidence from neuroimaging and clinical studies identify activation within the temporal lobes as key to successful speech perception. However, current neurobiological models disagree on whether the left temporal lobe is sufficient for successful speech perception or whether bilateral processing is required. We addressed this issue using TMS to selectively disrupt processing in either the left or right superior temporal gyrus (STG) of healthy participants to test whether the left temporal lobe is sufficient or whether both left and right STG are essential. Participants repeated keywords from sentences presented in background noise in a speech reception threshold task while receiving online repetitive TMS separately to the left STG, right STG, or vertex or while receiving no TMS. Results show an equal drop in performance following application of TMS to either left or right STG during the task. A separate group of participants performed a visual discrimination threshold task to control for the confounding side effects of TMS. Results show no effect of TMS on the control task, supporting the notion that the results of Experiment 1 can be attributed to modulation of cortical functioning in STG rather than to side effects associated with online TMS. These results indicate that successful speech perception in everyday listening conditions requires both left and right STG and thus have ramifications for our understanding of the neural organization of spoken language processing.
Temperature-Based Crossmodal Correspondences: Causes and Consequences
Authors: Spence Charles
Published: January 2020

The last few years have seen an explosive growth of research interest in the crossmodal correspondences, the sometimes surprising associations that people experience between stimuli, attributes, or perceptual dimensions, such as between auditory pitch and visual size, or elevation. To date, the majority of this research has tended to focus on audiovisual correspondences. However, a variety of crossmodal correspondences have also been demonstrated with tactile stimuli, involving everything from felt shape to texture, and from weight through to temperature. In this review, I take a closer look at temperature-based correspondences. The empirical research not only supports the existence of robust crossmodal correspondences between temperature and colour (as captured by everyday phrases such as ‘red hot’) but also between temperature and auditory pitch. Importantly, such correspondences have (on occasion) been shown to influence everything from our thermal comfort in coloured environments through to our response to the thermal and chemical warmth associated with stimulation of the chemical senses, as when eating, drinking, and sniffing olfactory stimuli. Temperature-based correspondences are considered in terms of the four main classes of correspondence that have been identified to date, namely statistical, structural, semantic, and affective. The hope is that gaining a better understanding of temperature-based crossmodal correspondences may one day also potentially help in the design of more intuitive sensory-substitution devices, and support the delivery of immersive virtual and augmented reality experiences.
A new subgenus for “Acalathus” advena (LeConte, 1846) and the challenge of defining Calathina based on morphological characters (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Sphodrini)
Authors: SCHMIDT JOACHIM , WILL KIPLING
Published: January 2020

The taxonomic position of Pristodactyla advena LeConte, 1848 (= “Acalathus” advena in the sense of previous authors) is discussed in light of a novel review of the morphological characters of Calathina and closely related taxa. All Acalathus Semenov, 1889 species and all other Dolichina share the distinct character state of having the sensory pits of the apical gonocoxites reduced or absent, while these pits are well-developed in P. advena. Therefore, P. advena is moved into the genus Calathus Bonelli, 1810 (Calathina), where it is placed in the molecular phylogeny of Ruiz et al. (2010). This move necessitates the description of Certocalathus subgen. n. for this species. Diagnostic characters of the new subgenus with respect to other Calathina and Dolichina beetles are presented. Given the lack of any clear synapomorphies, the subtribe Calathina is not obviously defined by morphology alone. However, recent molecular phylogenies indicate its monophyly is highly likely and therefore diagnostic morphological characters are polythetic. The states of selected morphological characters in Calathina and Dolichina taxa are provided as a summary for this and future studies.
A new free-living marine nematode, Polkepsilonema arabicensis sp. n. (Desmodorida: Epsilonematidae), from Lakshadweep, India
Authors: DATTA TRIDIP KUMAR , RAJMOHANA KELOTH
Published: January 2020

Polkepsilonema arabicensis sp. n. is discovered from the coralline sand of Lakshadweep island, located off the south-western coast of India. The species differs from other congeners by its unique combination of characters: presence of fine spines along the body curvatures, 5–6 rows of bisinuous ambulatory setae, male with two clusters of ventral copulatory thorns and 14 subcephalic sensilla. The novel species is the fourth discovery of the genus and first record from the coastal areas of Indian subcontinent. A key to species level is provided.
Endemism in the Italian stonefly-fauna (Plecoptera)
Authors: FOCHETTI ROMOLO
Published: January 2020

Remarks on the endemicity of the Italian stonefly-fauna are presented. Notes on conservation issues are also given, together with the updated list of stoneflies of Italy.
The cognitive premises of myth-oriented semiosis
Authors: Kolesnyk Oleksandr
Published: January 2020

The cognitive premises of myth-oriented semiosisThis article addresses the cognitive premises of designation units denoting mythic concepts in a variety of texts and discourses. The article focuses on myth-oriented semiosis as a cognitive and cultural phenomenon reflected in the semantic transformations of lingual signs, resulting in the development of noematic senses relevant to the states of affairs in diverse worldviews or modelled alternative realities. This article provides an analysis of the basic cognitive models and procedures responsible for irrational cognition. The reconstructed cognitive models are then discussed in terms of their correspondence with the universal patterns of open system interaction and information exchange. Poznawcze przesłanki semiozy zorientowanej na mitTen artykuł dotyczy poznawczych przesłanek jednostek desygnacyjnych oznaczających mityczne pojęcia w różnych tekstach i dyskursach. Artykuł koncentruje się na semiozie zorientowanej na mit jako zjawisku poznawczym i kulturowym odzwierciedlonym w semantycznych przekształceniach znaków językowych, co skutkuje rozwojem noematycznych zmysłów związanych ze stanami rzeczy w różnych światopoglądach lub modelowanych alternatywnych rzeczywistościach. Ten artykuł zawiera analizę podstawowych modeli i procedur poznawczych odpowiedzialnych za irracjonalne poznanie. Zrekonstruowane modele poznawcze są następnie omawiane pod kątem ich zgodności z uniwersalnymi wzorcami interakcji otwartego systemu i wymiany informacji.
The verbalization of the concept of “fear” in English and Ukrainian phraseological units
Authors: Mykhalchuk Nataliia , Bihunova Svitozara
Published: January 2020

The verbalization of the concept of “fear” in English and Ukrainian phraseological unitsThis article is devoted to the study of English and Ukrainian phraseological units related to the emotional concept of “fear”. The article presents a sample of these phraseological units, compares them, and analyses the inner form of the concept of “fear” in the selected phraseological units. Werbalizacja pojęcia „strachu” w angielskich i ukraińskich jednostkach frazeologicznychArtykuł poświęcony jest badaniu angielskich i ukraińskich jednostek frazeologicznych związanych z emocjonalną koncepcją „strachu”. Artykuł przedstawia próbkę tych jednostek frazeologicznych, porównuje je i analizuje wewnętrzną formę pojęcia „strachu” w wybranych jednostkach frazeologicznych.
Telepsychology: A Primer for Counseling Psychologists
Authors: Cooper Stewart E. , Campbell Linda F. , Smucker Barnwell Sara
Published: January 2020

Telepsychology is having a profound influence on professional practice. Currently, however, many psychologists lack the requisite knowledge and skill to provide ethical and competent telepractice services. Moreover, the field has lagged in developing the educational and supervised experiences required to achieve competency. Yet, there is great opportunity as well. The purpose of this article is to identify the natural integration of the pillars of counseling psychology with the major domains of telepractice and to link telepractice to the values and mission of counseling psychologists. We present aspects of telepsychology including ethical and legal factors, asynchronous and synchronous practice, and group-focused practice along with technologies and the rules that govern them. We also describe interjurisdictional practice, and introduce a proposed curriculum based upon the benchmark competencies for infusion of telepsychology into training across the professional lifespan.
Usability: Adoption, Measurement, Value
Authors: Mator Janine D. , Lehman William E. , McManus Wyatt , Powers Sarah , Tiller Lauren , Unverricht James R. , Still Jeremiah D.
Published: January 2020

Objective

We searched for the application of usability in the literature with a focus on adoption, measurements employed, and demonstrated value. Five human factors domains served as a platform for our reflection, which included the last 20 years.

Background

As usability studies continue to accumulate, there has been only a little past reflection on usability and contributions across a variety of applications. Our research provides a background for general usability, and we target specific usability research subareas within transportation, aging populations, autistic populations, telehealth, and cybersecurity.

Method

“Usability” research was explored across five different domains within human factors. The goal was not to perform an exhaustive review but, rather, sample usability practices within several specific subareas. We focused on answering three questions: How was usability adopted? How was it measured? How was it framed in terms of value?

Conclusion

We found that usability is very domain specific. Usability benchmarking studies and empirical standards are rare. The value associated with improving usability ranged widely—from monetary benefits to saving lives. Thus, researchers are motivated to further improve usability practices. A number of data collection and interpretation challenges still call for solutions.

Application

Findings offer insight into the development of usability, as applied across a variety of subdomains. Our reflection ought to inform future theory development efforts. We are concerned about the lack of established benchmarks, which can help ground data interpretation. Future research should address this gap in the literature. We note that our findings can be used to develop better training materials for future usability researchers.
Incidental giant cystic pheochromocytoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Clements Hollie Alice , Wilson Michael SJ , Smith David M
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Pheochromocytoma is a tumour arising from the adrenal medulla, which secretes catecholamines. Approximately 20% of pheochromocytomas are cystic and more likely to be asymptomatic. They should be surgically resected as all have a malignant potential and pose cardiovascular risk. Case presentation: We report the case of a 61-year-old female patient admitted electively for laparoscopic adrenalectomy for a large cystic pheochromocytoma detected incidentally. Diagnosis was confirmed preoperatively by elevated 24-h urinary metanephrines. The patient was treated preoperatively with alpha and beta blockade. Surgery was without complication; she had an uneventful postoperative recovery and no evidence of recurrence at one-year follow-up.

Conclusion

This case highlights the necessity of investigating for biochemical function in all adrenal lesions by measuring metanephrines, even when entirely cystic on imaging. Given the surgical and anaesthetic risk in resection of pheochromocytoma, attaining a preoperative diagnosis allows for careful preoperative planning and safe surgery.
Where Ivy Matters: The Educational Backgrounds of U.S. Cultural Elites
Authors: Brint Steven , German Komi T. , Anderson-Natale Kayleigh , Shuker Zeinab F. , Wang Suki
Published: January 2020

Status transmission theory argues that leading educational institutions prepare individuals from privileged backgrounds for positions of prestige and power in their societies. We examine the educational backgrounds of more than 2,900 members of the U.S. cultural elite and compare these backgrounds to a sample of nearly 4,000 business and political leaders. We find that the leading U.S. educational institutions are substantially more important for preparing future members of the cultural elite than they are for preparing future members of the business or political elite. In addition, members of the cultural elite who are recognized for outstanding achievements by peers and experts are much more likely to have obtained degrees from the leading educational institutions than are those who achieve acclaim from popular audiences. By focusing on the extent to which industries and cultural domains depend on quickness and facility in the absorption and manipulation of complex and sophisticated symbolic media, our analysis leads to an important specification of the role of highly selective colleges and universities in elite formation.
China’s Village Tourism Committees: A Social Network Analysis
Authors: Yi Jin , Ryan Chris , Wang Degang
Published: January 2020

Xi Jinping has set the goal of eliminating rural poverty in China by 2020. One critical component if this target is to be achieved is the effectiveness of village tourist committees, and the article reports findings from a study of social networks and their operation in five Shandong villages. Using both thematic and social network analysis, the networks are shown to be diffuse and dependent on familial circles and wider guanxi possessed by key actors. However, the findings indicate how these networks are being extended beyond the village into the higher echelons of provincial administration while also illustrating the importance of socio-biological ties as defined by Hamilton, Fennell, and others.
Truth, lies and tweets: A Consensus Theory of Post-Truth
Authors: Bufacchi Vittorio
Published: January 2020

This article rejects the received view that Post-Truth is a new, unprecedented political phenomenon. By showing that Truth and Post-Truth share the same genesis, this article will submit the idea of a Consensus Theory of Post-Truth. Part 1 looks at the difference between Post-Truth, lies and bullshit. Part 2 suggests reasons behind the current preoccupation with Post-Truth. Part 3 focuses on Habermas’s influential consensus theory of truth to suggest that truth and Post-Truth have more in common than is generally assumed. Part 4 puts forward the Consensus Theory of Post-Truth. Part 5 suggests three ways to emasculate the potentially destructive effect of Post-Truth on democratic society.
The Role of Local Voting Rights for Non-Naturalized Immigrants: A Catalyst for Integration?
Authors: Engdahl Mattias , Lindgren Karl-Oskar , Rosenqvist Olof
Published: January 2020

Recent decades have seen a strong trend among democratic countries to extend voting rights at subnational levels to non-naturalized immigrants, creating substantial variation across countries in terms of voting eligibility rules for non-naturalized immigrants. Our knowledge of the consequences of these different systems for immigrant political integration is, however, limited. This article seeks to shed new light on this important issue by using Swedish data to study whether immigrants who face shorter residency requirements for voting eligibility in local elections are more likely to integrate politically. We find little compelling evidence that such is the case. The results suggest that immigrants who became eligible to vote after six to seven years were as likely to naturalize and vote in future elections in both the short and long run as those who received the right to vote after only three years of residency. Thus, although expanded franchise can be of symbolic, as well as practical, value, it is unlikely to be a panacea for immigrant political inclusion. The argument that early voting rights for non-naturalized immigrants is desirable since it helps speed up immigrant political integration should, therefore, be used with some care by those advocating for such reforms.
Memories of the struggles for the rights of immigrant women in Barcelona
Authors: Martínez-Conde Catalina Álvarez , Boteman Clara Elena Romero , Leal Karina Fulladosa , Montenegro Marisela
Published: January 2020

This article is the result of an intentional articulation between the authors’ activist and academic positions as feminists and anti-racists in Barcelona. Using a narrative construction, we discuss memories of the struggles for the rights of immigrant women in the city. Firstly, the memories interact with other trajectories of struggle that go beyond ‘immigrant’ identity. Secondly, the memories give an account of activisms crossed by difference, in which difference operates as a linking category, from where dialogue and interpellation relationships are established. Thirdly, the memories help to construct the body and day-to-day life within spaces of resistance, serving as an instrument alongside gender in the struggles for rights. We close the article reflecting on memory and gender as intersectional processes that offer further perspectives on resistance and immigration.
What should happen after the death of a probationer? Learning from suicide investigations in prison
Authors: Phillips Jake
Published: January 2020

In this comment piece, I explore the relevance of Tomczak’s (2019) book Prison Suicide: What Happens Afterwards for those of us working and researching in the field of probation. I argue that many of the findings from Tomczak’s research are relevant when thinking about how to enhance accountability and knowledge around the deaths of people under probation supervision.
Collaborative technologies and knowledge management in psychiatric hospitals in South West Nigeria
Authors: Ayanbode Oluyemi Folorunsho , Nwagwu Williams E
Published: January 2020

This study examined the relationships among KM (knowledge creation, sharing), professional development, therapy team’s (TT’s) operation modes, interaction modes and collaborative technologies’ use determinants. A sample survey research design and mixed methods approach that combined quantitative research methods guided the study. Quantitative data was collected from 283 therapy team members in two psychiatric hospitals in Nigeria using a self-administered questionnaire. SPSS version 22 and SPSS (AMOS) version 23 were used to analyse the data. Knowledge creation and knowledge sharing impacted significantly on professional development. Therapy team members’ Intellectual capability, increased innovation, disciplinary specialisation and professional learning are dependent on their creation and sharing of knowledge. Disciplinary socialisation, transdisciplinary socialisation, collaboration and communication summarise their day-to-day operations. Collaboration and knowledge creation and sharing have a very strong relationship. Working together with colleagues is directly related with creation and sharing of both tacit and explicit knowledge. Learning by practical experience, brainstorming of ideas, sharing of clinical information and best practice of medical profession are positively impacted by collaboration. Documentation of such knowledge is needed to promote its sharing and safeguard knowledge loss in psychiatric hospitals.
On an Open Question Regarding When Two-Block Pricing Weakly Dominates Two-Part Tariff
Authors: Chen Frederick
Published: January 2020

Leland and Meyer showed through an example that when the distribution of consumer types is nondegenerate, there exist two-block pricing plans that yield strictly higher producer surplus than the profit maximizing two-part tariff scheme. This led them to pose the following question: does weak dominance (in the sense of profit) rather than strict dominance of two-block pricing over two-part tariff hold only when the distribution of buyer-types is degenerate? This note shows that the answer to this question is, No: even when the distribution of consumer types is continuous, it is possible that the best two-block pricing scheme performs no better than the best two-part tariff.

JEL Classification: D4
Hybrid manufacturing strategies for tissue engineering scaffolds using methacrylate functionalised poly(glycerol sebacate)
Authors: Pashneh-Tala Samand , Moorehead Robert , Claeyssens Frederik
Published: January 2020

Poly(glycerol sebacate) is an attractive biomaterial for tissue engineering due to its biocompatibility, elasticity and rapid degradation rate. However, poly(glycerol sebacate) requires harsh processing conditions, involving high temperatures and vacuum for extended periods, to produce an insoluble polymer matrix. These conditions make generating accurate and intricate geometries from poly(glycerol sebacate), such as those required for tissue engineering scaffolds, difficult. Functionalising poly(glycerol sebacate) with methacrylate groups produces a photocurable polymer, poly(glycerol sebacate)-methacrylate, which can be rapidly crosslinked into an insoluble matrix. Capitalising on these improved processing capabilities, here, we present a variety of approaches for fabricating porous tissue engineering scaffolds from poly(glycerol sebacate)-methacrylate using sucrose porogen leaching combined with other manufacturing methods. Mould-based techniques were used to produce porous disk-shaped and tubular scaffolds. Porogen size was shown to influence scaffold porosity and mechanical performance, and the porous poly(glycerol sebacate)-methacrylate scaffolds supported the proliferation of primary fibroblasts in vitro. Additionally, scaffolds with spatially variable mechanical properties were generated by combining variants of poly(glycerol sebacate)-methacrylate with different stiffness. Finally, subtractive and additive manufacturing methods were developed with the capabilities to generate porous poly(glycerol sebacate)-methacrylate scaffolds from digital designs. These hybrid manufacturing strategies offer the ability to produce accurate macroscale poly(glycerol sebacate)-methacrylate scaffolds with tailored microscale porosity and spatially resolved mechanical properties suitable for a broad range of applications across tissue engineering.
Determinants of university employee intrapreneurial behavior: The case of Latvian universities
Authors: Valka Kristine , Roseira Catarina , Campos Pedro
Published: January 2020

As the ongoing evolution in the higher education sector changes the roles of universities, entrepreneurial practices become more prominent in their agendas. The literature on academic entrepreneurship focuses predominantly on the commercialization of research and less on other intrapreneurial activities—namely those performed by non-academic employees. To fill this gap, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence universities’ faculty members and non-academic staff to engage in intrapreneurial activities. The article analyzes Latvian university employees’ perceptions of 13 organizational, individual, and environmental factors and how they influence intrapreneurial behavior. Regarding the organizational factors, the results show that higher trust in managers, more available resources for innovative ideas, less formal rules and procedures, and greater freedom in decision-making can lead to higher levels of intrapreneurial behavior. With regard to individual factors, intrapreneurial behavior is associated with an employee’s initiative, but is not correlated with risk-taking and personal initiative. As to external factors, while environmental munificence is positively correlated with innovativeness, dynamism and unfavorable change influence employees’ engagement in intrapreneurial activities.
Can Religious Establishment be Liberal Enough?
Authors: Laborde Cécile
Published: January 2020

In this article, I aim to do two things. I offer an assessment of religious establishment according to liberal standards. I then ask how this analysis bears on Nigel Biggar’s defence of Anglican establishment. I argue that only some features of Anglican establishment are compatible with the liberal standard of what I call minimal secularism.
Epoxy resin/cyanate ester composites containing DOPO and wollastonite with simultaneously improved flame retardancy and thermal resistance
Authors: Wang Zhengzhou , Gao Xin , Li Wenfeng
Published: January 2020

Flame-retardant epoxy (EP) resin/cyanate ester (CE) composites were prepared with 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene 10-oxide (DOPO) and wollastonite (Wo). The combustion behavior of the flame-retardant EP/CE composites was investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL-94, and cone calorimeter tests. It is found that the EP/CE composite containing 7 wt% DOPO and 3 wt% Wo (sample 7DO/3Wo/EP/CE) exerts the best flame retardancy (LOI 35.5% and UL-94 V-0 rating). The peak heat release rate and total heat release of sample 7DO/3Wo/EP/CE increase slightly, while total smoke release decreases about 14% compared with the EP/CE composite containing 10 wt% DOPO (sample 10DO/EP/CE). Thermal studies indicate that the glass transition temperature and temperature at 5% mass loss of sample 7DO/3Wo/EP/CE are higher than that of sample 10DO/EP/CE. Moreover, the mechanical properties of EP/CE composites were investigated.
Structural characterization, electrical properties and gas sensing applications of polypyrrole/Cu-Al2O3 hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Sankar S , Parvathi K , Ramesan MT
Published: January 2020

The present work focused on the synthesis of polypyrrole (PPy) wrapped nano copper-alumina (Cu-Al2O3) composite by an in situ polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of Cu-Al2O3 nanoparticles. The polymerized samples were systematically characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The properties such as AC and DC conductivity, dielectric constant, and ammonia gas sensing performance of PPy/Cu-Al2O3 composites were investigated in detail as a function of Cu-Al2O3 content. The FTIR spectra showed the existence of sharp and resolved infrared bands of nanoparticles in the PPy chain. The presence of the crystalline peaks of Cu-Al2O3 in the PPy matrix was confirmed from the XRD analysis. SEM images revealed the homogenous growth of Cu-Al2O3 in the polymer with the formation of spherically shaped particles. The HR-TEM observation showed that Cu-Al2O3 particles were dispersed at a nanometer level in the nanocomposites with a width of 30–60 nm. The glass transition temperature of composites obtained from DSC was found to be increased with increase in the content of nanoparticles. TGA analysis proved that the nano Cu-Al2O3 in the content in the composites acted as a mass transport barrier that retards the degradation of the product. The AC conductivity and dielectric constant of the nanocomposite showed that the maximum electrical properties were observed for the composite with 5 weight percentage loading of Cu-Al2O3. DC conductivity showed that the PPy/Cu-Al2O3 composites have higher electrical conductivity than PPy. The ammonia gas sensing property of the composites was significantly enhanced by the addition of Cu-Al2O3 nanoparticles. Therefore, the improved properties of synthesized PPy/Cu-Al2O3 nanocomposite can be useful for developing functional composite material for the fabrication of sensors, electronic devices, and high energy storage capacitors.
A new control method of flexible-joint manipulator with harmonic drive
Authors: Yang Guocai , Liu Yechao , Jin Minghe
Published: January 2020

Considerable elasticity and nonlinear friction caused by harmonic transmission challenge the performance of flexible-joint manipulators. The uncertain dynamics of manipulator and the inadequate measurable states also limit the controller design. A new control method is proposed to address these problems, achieving the precise motion control of the flexible-joint manipulator. The method consists of three cascaded controllers: an adaptive controller, a torque-tracking controller, and a motor controller. The adaptive controller was adopted to generate the desired torque ensuring the robustness for uncertain dynamics. The torque-tracking controller derived the position compensation for motor control according to the torque error. As the elastic torque is under control, the vibration caused by harmonic drive can be eliminated. The motor was controlled based on poles-assignment method and friction compensation. The Kalman observer based on the Brownian motion model observed both velocity and the high-order derivatives of torque sensing. The stability of the control method was strictly proved. Calibration was performed on each joint to obtain the required joint stiffness and motor friction parameters. The control method was verified on a single joint and the frequency response of the system was obtained. The results show that the controller has good performance. The controller was realized on the self-developed seven-degree-of-freedom manipulator. The results reveal that the controller has high-precision tracking performance.
A dynamic tooth wear prediction model for reflecting “two-sides” coupling relation between tooth wear accumulation and load sharing behavior in compound planetary gear set
Authors: Zhang Haibo , Shen Xiaofang
Published: January 2020

In planetary gear set, load sharing behavior determines the average amplitude of meshing force, so determines the tooth wear. Meanwhile, tooth wear accumulation increases the backlash, so affects the load sharing behavior. As a result, a “two-sides” coupling relation appears between load sharing behavior and tooth wear. In order to reveal this coupling relation, a static tooth wear prediction model for compound planetary gear set is employed to describe the wear distribution along tooth profile and backlash generated by tooth wear accumulation. Then, a “translational-rotational” lumped-parameter dynamic model of compound planetary gear set is built to calculate the eccentric load coefficient for each meshing pair, under the excitation from the backlash generated by tooth wear accumulation, transmission error, and other excitation. Based on the aforementioned two models, a dynamic tooth wear prediction model is put forward to reflect “two-sides” coupling relation between tooth wear accumulation and load sharing behavior in compound planetary gear set. Lastly, in order to improve the reliability, a 3D-diformable model is built to study the influence of tooth wear on load sharing. The results indicated that, with the system running and tooth wear increasing, under the condition of no-initial transmission error, tooth wear accumulation decreases the load sharing at meshing engagement and disengagement, and under the condition of initial transmission error, tooth wear accumulation improves load sharing behavior slightly.
Choroidal thickness in lupus nephritis
Authors: Lee I , Marshall B , Ranganathan P , Eisen S , Rajagopal R , Kim A H J , Li T
Published: January 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare choroidal thickness between patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN) in complete renal remission to that of patients with SLE without LN.

Methods

This was a retrospective case-control study of 23 SLE patients meeting either the American College of Rheumatology or Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics classification criteria and followed at Washington University School of Medicine Rheumatology or Nephrology, and Ophthalmology outpatient clinics. The diagnosis of LN was based on renal pathology, and complete renal remission was defined as proteinuria <500 mg/daily and serum creatinine at baseline. Extra-renal flare status was determined using modified Fortin criteria. Choroidal thickness was measured using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and read by blinded reviewers.

Results

In SLE patients without extra-renal flare, choroidal thickness of LN patients was 281 ± 78 µm compared to 288 ± 70 µm in non-LN SLE patients ( p = 0.766) at the fovea.

Conclusion

Choroidal thickness was not different in patients with LN in remission compared to non-LN SLE patients in remission. Additional studies are needed to examine choroidal thickness in patients with SLE with active LN.
Damage accrual related to pregnancies before and after diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional and nested case-control analysis from a lupus registry
Authors: Morishita M , Sada K-E , Ohashi K , Miyawaki Y , Asano Y , Hayashi K , Asano S Hiramatsu , Yamamura Y , Watanabe H , Narazaki M , Matsumoto Y , Kawabata T , Yajima N , Wada J
Published: January 2020

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chronic damage associated with pregnancies before and after the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Using childbearing-aged female SLE patient data registered at the Okayama and Showa University Hospitals, a nested case-control analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between pregnancy and chronic damage using the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI).

Results

Pregnancy occurred in 22 patients before and 13 patients after the diagnosis of SLE in 104 eligible patients. Live births occurred in 82% (33/40) and 50% (9/18) of the pregnancies before and after the diagnosis of SLE, respectively. After matching age and disease duration, 33 case patients with chronic damage (SDI ≥ 1) and 33 control patients without chronic damage (SDI = 0) were selected. Hypertension was more frequent in cases than in controls (48% vs. 24%, p = 0.041). Pregnancies before and after the diagnosis of SLE were comparable between cases and controls (before the diagnosis: nine case patients and eight control patients; after the diagnosis: three case patients and five control patients; p = 1.00). Even after adjusting for hypertension using multivariate analysis, the pregnancies before and after the diagnosis were not significant predictors for chronic damage (odds ratio = 1.48 (95% confidence interval 0.33–6.65)), p = 0.60 of the pregnancy before the diagnosis; odds ratio = 0.78 (95% confidence interval 0.13–4.74), p = 0.78 of the pregnancy after the diagnosis).

Conclusion

Pregnancies, either before or after the diagnosis of SLE, did not show any differences in chronic damage. Our results help alleviate fears regarding childbearing in female patients with SLE and their families.
Triple-negative mammary carcinoma in two male dogs
Authors: Machado Marília C. A. , Ocarino Natalia M. , Serakides Rogéria , Moroz Ludmila R. , Sementilli Angelo , Damasceno Karine A. , Cruz Claudia H. , Estrela-Lima Alessandra
Published: January 2020

Triple-negative tumors are characterized immunohistochemically by the absence of positivity to sex hormone receptors and to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Additionally, they are differentiated into basal-like and non-basal (or null) subtypes, based on the presence of basal cytokeratin expression (CK5/6, 14, and17). Triple-negative subtypes are yet to be characterized in male dogs, to our knowledge. We report herein the clinical and pathologic findings and molecular characterization of carcinoma in the mammary glands of 2 male dogs. Case 1 was diagnosed as a grade II tubulopapillary carcinoma; case 2 was diagnosed as a grade II carcinoma in a mixed tumor. The tumors were characterized phenotypically as triple-negative basal and triple-negative non-basal, respectively.
A Malignant Neoplasm From the Jejunum With a MALAT1-GLI1 Fusion and 26-Year Survival History
Authors: Prall Owen William John , McEvoy Christopher Robert Edward , Byrne David John , Iravani Amir , Browning Judy , Choong David Yew-Huong , Yellapu Bhargavi , O’Haire Sophie , Smith Kortnye , Luen Stephen James , Mitchell Paul Leslie Ross , Desai Jayesh , Fox Stephen Bernard , Fellowes Andrew , Xu Huiling
Published: January 2020

The transcription factor GLI1 is a critical effector of the sonic hedgehog pathway. Gene fusions that activate GLI1 have recently been reported in several tumor types including gastroblastoma, plexiform fibromyxoma, a subset of pericytomas, and other soft tissue tumors. These tumors arise in a wide variety of anatomical origins and have variable malignant potentials, morphologies, and immunohistochemistry profiles. In this case report, we describe a malignant tumor from the jejunum with a MALAT1-GLI1 gene fusion that expressed a truncated constitutively active GLI1 protein and GLI1 targets that were detectable by immunohistochemistry. The tumor showed high-grade epithelioid and spindle cell morphology, strongly expressed CD56, and focally expressed other neuroendocrine markers and cytokeratins, but not S100 protein or SMA. The tumor recurred multiple times in liver, soft tissue, and lung over the course of 26 years, the longest reported follow-up for a GLI1 fusion-associated tumor. These metastatic tumors were also composed of epithelioid and spindle cells, but showed lower morphological grade than the primary tumor. The metastatic tumors resembled the recently reported “malignant epithelioid neoplasms with GLI1 rearrangements.” The tumor also had a relatively high tumor mutation burden for a sarcoma. This case report expands the sites of origin for GLI1 rearranged neoplasms and shows that despite being associated with high-grade morphology, these malignancies can be associated with very long-term survival.
Efficacy of a Community Health Worker–Based Intervention in Improving Dietary Habits Among Community-Dwelling Older People: A Controlled, Crossover Trial in Japan
Authors: Murayama Hiroshi , Taguchi Atsuko , Spencer Michael S. , Yamaguchi Takuhiro
Published: January 2020

Background. Community health workers (CHWs), often called “health promotion volunteers” in Japan, are individuals who act as a natural helping resource in the community. Aim. This study tested the efficacy of a CHW-based intervention to improve dietary habits among community-dwelling older people in Japan, using a controlled, crossover design. Method. Seventy-eight people aged 65 to 74 years with poor dietary variety living in four administrative districts in Hikone City (Shiga Prefecture, Japan) were nonrandomly allocated to an immediate-intervened group (IIG; n = 41) or a delayed-intervened group (DIG; n = 37). Participants joined a biweekly, four-session program (120 minutes/session), comprising “CHW drama-style lectures,” “group discussion among participants and CHWs,” “tasting of dishes,” and “take-home practical activities.” For the initial 2-month period, the IIG received the intervention and the DIG did not. The groups were crossed over for the subsequent 2-month period. The primary outcome measure was participants’ dietary variety score (score range: 0-10). Results. The dietary variety score in the IIG significantly increased in the initial 2-month period compared with the DIG (effect size 1.60 points; 95% confidence interval: 0.75, 2.45). The intervention had a similar effect in the DIG in the subsequent 2-month period. Moreover, an analysis within the IIG showed that the intervention effects persisted for at least 2 months after the intervention. Conclusions. The CHW-based intervention improved dietary habits among older people. Our findings provide evidence that a CHW-based natural helping approach is a possible solution to promote healthy aging in the community.
Toxicity Assessment of 4 Azo Dyes in Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Jiang Ling-Ling , Li Kang , Yan Dong-Lin , Yang Mi-Fang , Ma Lan , Xie Li-Zhe
Published: January 2020

Azo dyes are used widely as color additives in food, drugs, and cosmetics; hence, there is an increasing concern about their safety and possible health hazards. In the present study, we chose 4 azo dyes tartrazine, Sunset Yellow, amaranth, and Allura red and evaluated their developmental toxicity on zebrafish embryos. At concentration levels of 5 to 50 mM, we found that azo dyes can induce hatching difficulty and developmental abnormalities such as cardiac edema, decreased heart rate, yolk sac edema, and spinal defects including spinal curvature and tail distortion. Exposure to 100 mM of each azo dye was completely embryolethal. The median lethal concentration (LC50), median effective concentration (EC50), and teratogenic index (TI) were calculated for each azo dye at 72 hours postfertilization. For tartrazine, the LC50 was 47.10 mM and EC50 value was at 42.66 mM with TI ratio of 1.10. For Sunset Yellow, the LC50 was 38.93 mM and EC50 value was at 29.81 mM with TI ratio of 1.31. For amaranth, the LC50 was 39.86 mM and EC50 value was at 31.94 mM with TI ratio of 1.25. For Allura red, the LC50 was 47.42 mM and EC50 value was 40.05 mM with TI ratio of 1.18. This study reports the developmental toxicity of azo dyes in zebrafish embryos at concentrations higher than the expected human exposures from consuming food and drugs containing azo dyes.
Effect of the length of basalt fibers on the shear mechanical properties of the core structure of biomimetic fully integrated honeycomb plates
Authors: Tuo Wanyong , Yan Li , Chen Jinxiang , Chang Xiaoling , Gao Yibin , Wang Yan
Published: January 2020

To promote the application of basalt fibers, this study investigated the effect of different fiber lengths (Lf) of short basalt fibers on the shear mechanical properties of biomimetic fully integrated honeycomb plates, which were manufactured with a short basalt fiber-reinforced epoxy resin polymer composite, using a double shear experiment. The results showed that the fully integrated honeycomb plate with an Lf of 6 mm had the best mechanical properties, and the shear modulus of the fully integrated honeycomb plate with an Lf of 9 mm was close to that of the former. However, the shear strength and energy dissipation capacity of the 9 mm-fiber specimen were worse than those of the 6 mm-fiber specimen, and its energy dissipation capacity was even less than that of the fully integrated honeycomb plate with an Lf of 3 mm. The intrinsic mechanism underlying this effect is that the thicknesses of the laminates and honeycomb walls of the fully integrated honeycomb plate are smaller than the lengths of the short fibers, and the corresponding structure is complicated. However, for short basalt fiber-reinforced epoxy resin polymers, the larger the Lf is, the faster the growth rate of the shear elastic modulus, which, to some extent, eliminates the adverse effects of the longer Lf. Therefore, the shear modulus of the fully integrated honeycomb plate with an Lf of 9 mm was close to that of the fully integrated honeycomb plate with an Lf of 6 mm. This research provides a useful reference for promoting the engineering applications of basalt fibers and fully integrated honeycomb plates.
Vacuum-assisted mechanical thrombectomy in extensively occlusive thrombosis of dialysis arteriovenous grafts with indigo system
Authors: Piacentino Filippo , Coppola Andrea , Zaghetto Andrea , Macchi Edoardo , De Marchi Giuseppe , Ossola Christian , Zorzetto Giada , Beneventi Alessandro , Casamassima Nicola , Tagliaferri Chiara , Tozzi Matteo , Piffaretti Gabriele , Fontana Federico , Genovese Eugenio Annibale
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

To present a selected series of extensively occlusive thrombosis of arteriovenous graft treated with the Penumbra’s Indigo System.

Materials and Methods:

Ten patients with acute (within 72 h) extensively occlusive thrombosis of arteriovenous graft (mean extension = 30.1 (range = 15–45) cm) were treated at our institution with the Indigo System. Of the 10 cases, thrombosis was extended to venous outflow in 7 cases and to both arterial inflow and venous outflow in 3 cases.

Results:

Both anatomic and clinical success were achieved in 8 of the 10 procedures (80.0%). In the 2 cases of technical failure, the patients underwent surgical thrombectomy with the finding of arteriovenous graft exhaustion, which was then replaced. The 6-month primary patency, primary-assisted patency, and secondary patency rates were 37.5% (3/8), 50.0% (4/8), and 62.5% (5/8). We reported 2 complications (one minor and one major adverse event).

Conclusion:

Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy aspiration with Indigo System is a relatively safe and effective procedure and can be used even in extensively thrombosed arteriovenous graft.
Queernormativity: Norms, values, and practices in social justice fandom
Authors: Fielding Dan Michael
Published: January 2020

What, if anything, is the queer project? Queer theorists have detailed the ways that gays and lesbians, and transgender people, de-radicalize a potentially queer upsetting of heteronormative systems. Homonormativity and transnormativity have been used to describe the ways that marginalized sexualities and genders are rendered heteronormative. These concepts are important, yet incomplete to capture the experiences of queer people for two reasons. First, they equate ‘normativity’ always with ‘ heteronormativity,’ surrendering the ability to define ‘the normal’ to heteronormative constructions. Second, they render invisible the work done by queer people to redefine the normative in ways that dismantle heteronormativity and affirm queer identities. Through interviews (n = 39), my study works to rectify these twin issues by illuminating the ways queer social actors actively work to redefine what it means to be normative, resulting in queernormativity.
Effect of particulate iron on tracking indoor PM2.5 of outdoor origin: A case study in Nanjing, China
Authors: Wang Zhitong , Liu Cong , Hua Qian , Zheng Xiaohong , Ji Wenjing , Zhang Xiaosong
Published: January 2020

A tracer element can help distinguish between indoor PM2.5 of outdoor origin and that of indoor origin. PM2.5-associated iron has been proposed as a tracer element of PM2.5 in Beijing. This study aims to examine the effect of particulate iron on tracking indoor PM2.5 of outdoor origin in temporal and spatial scales. From July 2018 to March 2019, we collected 24 pairs of indoor and outdoor PM2.5 samples in Nanjing, China. We calculated a normalized ratio (ratio of indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratio of iron to that of PM2.5). Results show a mean ± SD of the normalized ratio of 1.0 ± 0.38. It suggests that particulate iron tracks PM2.5 well during outdoor-to-indoor transport on average. This tracking performance varies temporally. The mean ± SD of the normalized ratio is 0.79 ± 0.17 from July to December 2018 and 1.2 ± 0.41 in March. The results from studies published in different regions of the world over recent years show a mean normalized ratio of 0.88, 0.67, 1.3 and 0.8 in Asia, Europe, North America and South America, respectively, indicating the spatial heterogeneity of iron’s tracking effect. In comparison, sulphate appears to exhibit a less stable tracking effect than iron.