bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Braiding topology and the energy landscape of chromosome organization proteins
Authors: Krepel Dana , Davtyan Aram , Schafer Nicholas P. , Wolynes Peter G. , Onuchic José N.
Published: December 2019

Significance

SMC−kleisin protein complexes play an important role in establishing the 3-dimensional organization of DNA in cells. Leveraging coevolutionary sequence information and molecular simulations with an energy landscape optimized force field, we developed complete structural models of several kleisin complexes and studied their motions. We find that the coiled-coil regions of the complexes braid together, and this braiding is coupled to the movements of the head domains, which are ATPase motors. By comparison with cross-linking experiments, these simulations suggest that the complexes exist in an ensemble of topologically distinct isomers with different patterns of braiding of the coils. Together, these observations raise the question of whether, in their function, SMC−kleisin complexes couple to the topology of DNA.
Biotic and anthropogenic forces rival climatic/abiotic factors in determining global plant population growth and fitness
Authors: Morris William F. , Ehrlén Johan , Dahlgren Johan P. , Loomis Alexander K. , Louthan Allison M.
Published: December 2019

Multiple, simultaneous environmental changes, in climatic/abiotic factors, interacting species, and direct human influences, are impacting natural populations and thus biodiversity, ecosystem services, and evolutionary trajectories. Determining whether the magnitudes of the population impacts of abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic drivers differ, accounting for their direct effects and effects mediated through other drivers, would allow us to better predict population fates and design mitigation strategies. We compiled 644 paired values of the population growth rate (
λ
) from high and low levels of an identified driver from demographic studies of terrestrial plants. Among abiotic drivers, natural disturbance (not climate), and among biotic drivers, interactions with neighboring plants had the strongest effects on
λ
. However, when drivers were combined into the 3 main types, their average effects on
λ
did not differ. For the subset of studies that measured both the average and variability of the driver,
λ
was marginally more sensitive to 1 SD of change in abiotic drivers relative to biotic drivers, but sensitivity to biotic drivers was still substantial. Similar impact magnitudes for abiotic/biotic/anthropogenic drivers hold for plants of different growth forms, for different latitudinal zones, and for biomes characterized by harsher or milder abiotic conditions, suggesting that all 3 drivers have equivalent impacts across a variety of contexts. Thus, the best available information about the integrated effects of drivers on all demographic rates provides no justification for ignoring drivers of any of these 3 types when projecting ecological and evolutionary responses of populations and of biodiversity to environmental changes.
Critical Assessment 36: Assessing differences between the use of cerium and scandium in aluminium alloying
Authors: Czerwinski Frank
Published: December 2019

Key factors affecting an application of two rare-earth metals cerium and scandium as alloying elements in aluminium are critically assessed. Having similar abundance in the Earth's crust, their cost and consumption differ by three to four orders of magnitude. The spectacular increment of alloy strength, achieved by scandium through the coherent, nano-scale, L12-ordered Al3Sc precipitates is faced by the prohibitive cost barrier. For cerium, the low cost is accompanied by rather limited strengthening effects: negligible solid-state solubility of cerium in aluminium makes age hardening ineffective so the alloy strength depends on the Al11Ce3 eutectic phase, formed during solidification. As a result, there are still no commercial aluminium alloys with large-scale applications that take advantage of cerium, scandium or their combination.
High-nitrogen steel laser-arc hybrid welding in vibration condition
Authors: Li Xingran , Bai Di , Wang Yuqi , Liu Fengde , Zhang Hong , Liu Shuangyu
Published: December 2019

Welding porosity and nitrogen content are considered significant factors affecting the mechanical properties of fusion-welding joints of high-nitrogen steel. In this study, a method of applying mechanical vibration in the welding process to reduce weld porosity and increase weld nitrogen content was investigated. The effects of mechanical vibration on porosity, tensile, and impact properties were analysed. The results indicated that the bubble floating speed in the vibrating weld pool is faster than that in the general welding mode. With the increase of mechanical vibration frequency, the porosity of the weld decreased at first and then rose. The tensile strength and impact energy increased first and then decreased, and the fracture surface indicated a ductile fracture.
Research on netizens’ emotion evolution in emergency based on machine learning
Authors: Ren Zhongjie , Zhang Peng , Liu Jing , Lan Yuexin
Published: December 2019

[Purpose/significance] By analyzing the emotional evolution of Weibo users after emergencies, we can find out the law and potential risks of public opinion evolution and provide instruction for the government to control and guide network public opinion. [Method/process] We proposed an analysis model of public opinion evolution based on Emotional Analysis and GBRT. With the help of Python, a web crawler was developed to collect Weibo comments. After that, a Naive Bayesian Classifier was used for emotional analysis. According to public emotion and the number of comments, we divided the evolution process into fever period, persistence period, incubation period and extinction period. Statistical and visualization methods were used to study the evolution characteristics of word cloud, emotional tendency and age groups. Finally, correlation analysis and GBRT were used to predict each individual’s emotions. [Results/conclusion] Taking the dangerous chemical explosion accident in Tianjin as an example, we can validate our model. Results shows that the model can reasonably divide the evolutionary stages, find out the law of public opinion evolution in different stages, and accurately predict users’ emotional tendency.
Evaluation on intensive use of urban land based on PSR model taking Henan Province as an example
Authors: Zhang Hongmin , Lu Chunyang , Yang Kaidong , Duan Linyun
Published: December 2019

This paper evaluates the level of urban land intensive use in Henan Province and analyzes the influence of different indexes on urban land intensive use in Henan Province. PSR model was adopted. The conclusions are as follows: (1) the intensive use level of urban land in Henan Province gradually increased from 2008 to 2016, but it was still in the stage of overuse, only in 2010 reached a moderate level of utilization; (2) the intensive use level of urban land in Henan Province is not high. Population is one of the main factors restricting the intensive use level of urban land in Henan Province; (3) the government of Henan Province should comprehensively consider the actual situation of Henan Province, increase the intensity of intensive use of urban land, and formulate relevant policies to improve the level of intensive use of urban land in Henan Province.
Adaptive emergency control system with an algorithm for rapid assessment of sustainability united energy system
Authors: Popov Maxim G , Lu Zhiyu
Published: December 2019

In the present study described the methodology for determination of sustainable modes of long equivalent of the interconnected power systems of various structures with simplified representation of excitation controllers of generators. According to the results of numerous studies, the criterion of oscillatory disturbance of static stability based on the control of the partial derivative ∂AN
/∂δ is formulated. To confirm the formulated criterion of violation of the static vibrational stability performed quantitative mapping of polynomial coefficients of haracteristics equations and additional applications of the matrix equations is redundant points of the equivalent circuit of the Electrical Power Systems (EPS) obtained under the criterion Hurwitz. Quantitative comparison and qualitative analysis of the nature of the change in the roots of the characteristic equation and the Hurwitz determinants confirm that the transition across the boundary of the stability region, found by the formulated criterion on the basis of the control of the partial derivative ∂AN
/∂δ taking into account the proposed simplified model of generators at the constant excitation voltage Uf
= const, is accompanied by the appearance of reciprocal values of the Hurwitz determinants. Taking into account the generalizations and conclusions obtained, a modified method of studying the static oscillatory stability of the EPS is proposed. The efficiency of the developed algorithm for determining the boundary of the region of potentially stable regimes is estimated. It is shown that the proposed method has the best performance indicators and can reduce the computational cost.
Design and implementation of flight test parameter calibration data management system
Authors: Bai Xue , Tang Ning , Li Wei
Published: December 2019

Given the shortcomings of current flight test calibration data management mode, in order to improve the calibration data management technology, based on user requirements, a test flight parameter calibration data management system with multiple functional modules was built under Visual C# and SQL Server platform. The C919 and HO300-903 flight test parameter calibration data was used for system function test. The efficiency of the system was tested with another sample of calibration data. The results show that the system is scientific and effective compared to the traditional file-based mode calibration data management method. The efficiency is increased by at least 2 times. The design of the system enhances the ability to calibrate data management techniques and reserve for calibration data mining for flight test sensors.
Expert strategic management systems in precision farming
Authors: Mikhaylenko Ilya M. , Timoshin Valery N.
Published: December 2019

Evaluating the modern market of the Internet of things, one should consider equipment connected into a single network, solutions, applications along the entire chain of product creation, including the end user. In this paper, such a binding is based on cloud information technologies. Through these technologies, the intellectualization of agrotechnology management is implemented through the creation of expert management decision support systems (DSS). The aim of the work is to consider the methodology for constructing DSS of strategic management in precision farming systems, where this type of management has not been implemented to date. To this kind of management, the task of forming strategies for the application of mineral fertilizers and ameliorants of prolonged action for all the years of various types of crop rotations is included. To solve the problem, an algorithm for the formation of optimal strategies for the application of mineral fertilizers and ameliorants, which is implemented in an analytical automated control system of agricultural technologies, through which a knowledge base (KB) is transmitted from the cloud system to local DSS, is substantiated. To select the best option from the knowledge base, the pattern recognition method is used. The technique was tested on arbitrary initial conditions of local systems, including extreme combinations of initial conditions. Based on the analysis of the loss of optimality associated with the discrepancy of the initial conditions on the local DSS and the KB, a method for controlling the formation of the BR, aimed at reducing these losses, is substantiated.
Financial deepening, inclusive finance and economic growth: analysis based on endogenous growth theory
Authors: He Jun , Zhang Yue , Zheng Datang , Wan Hongyan
Published: December 2019

This article studies the relationship between financial development and economic growth from the perspectives of financial deepening and inclusive finance. The theoretical research expands the financial endogenous economic growth model, constructs the Hamilton function, using the first-order optimization condition to obtain explicit relationship between economic growth and financial development under balanced path. Theoretical research shows that financial deepening and inclusive finance are significant and stable in promoting economic growth.
Simulation test of driving assistance system based on virtual scene
Authors: Meng Xing , Gan Haiyun , Yan Ying
Published: December 2019

Assisted driving technology has received increasing attention. In order to verify the function of the assisted driving technology, this paper takes the automatic emergency braking system as an example and uses CarMaker simulation software to construct a standardized test scenario. Build a vehicle model and add sensors to detect the environment around the vehicle. Set up the Simulink control model. Use the PID control to brake the vehicle. The simulation test of the automatic emergency braking system was completed and the dynamic characteristics of the test vehicle were analyzed. Finally, through simulation experiments, it is verified that the simulation test can achieve extremely dangerous working conditions and reduce the possibility of accidents. Simulation tests can improve the efficiency of the test, and can repeat the test multiple times, reducing the cost of testing.
Epidemiology of Cholera in Bangladesh: Findings From Nationwide Hospital-based Surveillance, 2014–2018
Authors: Khan Ashraful Islam , Rashid Md Mahbubur , Islam Md Taufiqul , Afrad Mokibul Hassan , Salimuzzaman M , Hegde Sonia Tara , Zion Md Mazharul I , Khan Zahid Hasan , Shirin Tahmina , Habib Zakir Hossain , Khan Iqbal Ansary , Begum Yasmin Ara , Azman Andrew S , Rahman Mahmudur , Clemens John David , Flora Meerjady Sabrina , Qadri Firdausi
Published: December 2019

Background

Despite advances in prevention, detection, and treatment, cholera remains a major public health problem in Bangladesh and little is known about cholera outside of limited historical sentinel surveillance sites. In Bangladesh, a comprehensive national cholera control plan is essential, although national data are needed to better understand the magnitude and geographic distribution of cholera.

Methods

We conducted systematic hospital-based cholera surveillance among diarrhea patients in 22 sites throughout Bangladesh from 2014 to 2018. Stool specimens were collected and tested for Vibrio cholerae by microbiological culture. Participants’ socioeconomic status and clinical, sanitation, and food history were recorded. We used generalized estimating equations to identify the factors associated with cholera among diarrhea patients.

Results

Among 26 221 diarrhea patients enrolled, 6.2% (n = 1604) cases were V. cholerae O1. The proportion of diarrhea patients positive for cholera in children <5 years was 2.1% and in patients ≥5 years was 9.5%. The proportion of cholera in Dhaka and Chittagong Division was consistently high. We observed biannual seasonal peaks (pre- and postmonsoon) for cholera across the country, with higher cholera positivity during the postmonsoon in western regions and during the pre–monsoon season in eastern regions. Cholera risk increased with age, occupation, and recent history of diarrhea among household members.

Conclusions

Cholera occurs throughout a large part of Bangladesh. Cholera-prone areas should be prioritized to control the disease by implementation of targeted interventions. These findings can help strengthen the cholera-control program and serve as the basis for future studies for tracking the impact of cholera-control interventions in Bangladesh.
Fraction of Exhaled Nitric Oxide Levels Are Elevated in People Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Compared to Uninfected Controls, Suggesting Increased Eosinophilic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Thudium Rebekka F , Hughes Nicolai L P , Afzal Shoaib , Çolak Yunus , Gelpi Marco , Knudsen Andreas D , Kirkegaard-Klitbo Ditte Marie , Borges Álvaro H , Gerstoft Jan , Nordestgaard Børge G , Vestbo Jørgen , Lundgren Jens , Ronit Andreas , Nielsen Susanne D
Published: December 2019

Background

Increased risk of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has been reported in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). Fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a marker of eosinophilic airway inflammation. We assessed FeNO levels in PLWH and matched uninfected controls and investigated whether human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status is independently associated with elevated FeNO.

Methods

FeNO was quantified by NIOX Vero and pulmonary function was assessed by spirometry in 432 PLWH from the Copenhagen Comorbidity in HIV Infection Study and in 1618 age- and sex-matched uninfected controls from the Copenhagen General Population Study. Elevated FeNO was defined as ≥25 parts per billion. Associations between FeNO and HIV status were adjusted for known potential confounders.

Results

Mean age of PLWH was 50.7 (standard deviation [SD], 11.1) years and 97.4% received combination antiretroviral therapy. PLWH had higher FeNO than uninfected controls (median, 17.0 [interquartile range {IQR}, 11.0–26.0] vs 13.0 [IQR, 9.0–19.0]; P < .001). Also, PLWH had a higher prevalence of elevated FeNO than uninfected controls (27.5% vs 12.3%; P < .001). This association remained after adjusting for age, sex, height, smoking status, use of airway medication, blood eosinophils, and immunoglobulin E (adjusted OR [aOR], 3.56 [95% CI, 2.51–5.04]; P < .001). Elevated FeNO was associated with self-reported asthma (aOR, 2.65 [95% CI, 1.66–4.24]; P < .001) but not with airflow limitation (aOR, 1.07 [95% CI, .71–1.62]; P = .745).

Conclusions

HIV status was independently associated with elevated FeNO, suggesting increased eosinophilic airway inflammation. The potential impact on chronic lung disease pathogenesis needs further investigation.
Safety and Effectiveness of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy in Pregnant Women Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus on Antiretroviral Therapy: An Observational Study Using Linked Population Data
Authors: Kalk Emma , Heekes Alexa , Mehta Ushma , de Waal Renee , Jacob Nisha , Cohen Karen , Myer Landon , Davies Mary-Ann , Maartens Gary , Boulle Andrew
Published: December 2019

Background

Isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) is widely used to protect against tuberculosis (TB) in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Data on the safety and efficacy of IPT in pregnant women living with HIV (PWLHIV) are mixed. We used an individual-level, population-wide health database to examine associations between antenatal IPT exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes, maternal TB, all-cause mortality, and liver injury during pregnancy through 12 months postpartum.

Methods

We used linked routine electronic health data generated in the public sector of the Western Cape, South Africa, to define a cohort of PWLHIV on antiretroviral therapy. Pregnancy outcomes were assessed using logistic regression; for maternal outcomes we applied a proportional hazards model with time-updated IPT exposure.

Results

Of 43 971 PWLHIV, 16.6% received IPT. Women who received IPT were less likely to experience poor pregnancy outcomes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.83 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .78–.87]); this association strengthened with IPT started after the first trimester compared with none (aOR, 0.71 [95% CI, .65–.79]) or with first-trimester exposure (aOR, 0.64 [95% CI, .55–.75]). IPT reduced the risk of TB by approximately 30% (aHR, 0.71 [95% CI, .63–.81]; absolute risk difference, 1518/100 000 women). The effect was modified by CD4 cell count with protection conferred if CD4 count was ≤350 cells/μL (aHR, 0.51 [95% CI, .41–.63]) vs 0.93 [95% CI, .76–1.13] for CD4 count >350 cells/µL).

Conclusions

This analysis of programmatic data is reassuring regarding the safety of antenatal IPT, with the greatest benefits against TB disease observed in women with CD4 count ≤350 cells/μL.
Diagnosis of coronary microvascular dysfunction in the clinic
Authors: Ong Peter , Safdar Basmah , Seitz Andreas , Hubert Astrid , Beltrame John F , Prescott Eva
Published: December 2019

The coronary microcirculation plays a pivotal role in the regulation of coronary blood flow and cardiac metabolism. It can adapt to acute and chronic pathologic conditions such as coronary thrombosis or long-standing hypertension. Due to the fact that the coronary microcirculation cannot be visualized in human beings in vivo, its assessment remains challenging. Thus, the clinical importance of the coronary microcirculation is still often underestimated or even neglected. Depending on the clinical condition of the respective patient, several non-invasive (e.g. transthoracic Doppler-echocardiography assessing coronary flow velocity reserve, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography) and invasive methods (e.g. assessment of coronary flow reserve (CFR) and microvascular resistance (MVR) using adenosine, microvascular coronary spasm with acetylcholine) have been established for the assessment of coronary microvascular function. Individual patient characteristics, but certainly also local availability, methodical expertise and costs will influence which methods are being used for the diagnostic work-up (non-invasive and/or invasive assessment) in a patient with recurrent symptoms and suspected coronary microvascular dysfunction. Recently, the combined invasive assessment of coronary vasoconstrictor as well as vasodilator abnormalities has been titled interventional diagnostic procedure (IDP). It involves intracoronary acetylcholine testing for the detection of coronary spasm as well as CFR and MVR assessment in response to adenosine using a dedicated wire. Currently, the IDP represents the most comprehensive coronary vasomotor assessment. Studies using the IDP to better characterize the endotypes observed will hopefully facilitate development of tailored and effective treatments.
Smartphone application-assisted oral hygiene of orthodontic patients: a multicentre randomized controlled trial in adolescents
Authors: Deleuse Marine , Meiffren Catherine , Bruwier Annick , Maes Nathalie , Le Gall Michel , Charavet Carole
Published: December 2019

Objective

The aim of this trial was to test whether the use of a smartphone application (app) connected to a toothbrush improves the oral hygiene compliance of adolescent orthodontic patients.

Design

The study was designed as a multicentre, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Setting

Two academic hospitals.

Ethical approval

The study was approved by the ethics committee.

Subjects and methods

This multicentre randomized controlled trial was conducted on 38 adolescents aged 12–18 years with full-fixed orthodontic appliances. Participants were randomly assigned either to a test group that used an interactive oscillating/rotating electric toothbrush connected to a brushing aid app or to a control group that used an oscillating/rotating electric toothbrush alone. At baseline, all patients received verbal and written oral hygiene instructions.

Outcome measurements

Data collection was performed at T1 (baseline), T2 (6 weeks), T3 (12 weeks) and T4 (18 weeks—end of the study). At each time point, the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI) and white spot lesion (WSL) score were recorded. Several app-related parameters were evaluated. Patient-related outcome measures were investigated in the test group.

Results

Test and control groups were similar at baseline except for WSL score. Between T1 and T4, PI and GI decreased significantly in both groups but evolutions were globally similar in both groups. Interestingly, at T3 (12 weeks), the PI was significantly lower in the app group than in the control group (P = 0.014). Data showed a marked decline in the use of the app over time in the test group.

Conclusions

This trial, conducted over 18 weeks in two academic hospitals, showed no significant effect of the use of the app in promoting oral hygiene.

Trial registration

Not registered
Larix decidua and additional light affect the methane balance of forest soil and the abundance of methanogenic and methanotrophic microorganisms
Authors: Praeg Nadine , Schwinghammer Larissa , Illmer Paul
Published: December 2019

Due to the activity of methane-oxidizing bacteria, forest soils are usually net sinks for the greenhouse gas methane (CH4). Despite several hints that CH4 balances might be influenced by vegetation, there are only few investigations dealing with this connection. Therefore, we studied this soil–plant–microbe interaction by using mesocosm experiments with forest soil and Larix decidua, a common coniferous tree species within the Alps. Gas measurements showed that the presence of L. decidua significantly reduced CH4 oxidation of the forest soil by ∼10% (−0.95 µmol m−2 h−1 for soil vs −0.85 µmol m−2 h−1 for soil plus L. decidua) leading to an increased net CH4 balance. Increased light intensity was used to intensify the influence of the plant on the soil's CH4 balance. The increase in light intensity strengthened the effect of the plant and led to a greater reduction of CH4 oxidation. Besides, we examined the impact of L. decidua and light on the abundance of methanogens and methanotrophs in the rhizosphere as compared with bulk soil. The abundance of both methane-oxidizing bacteria and methanogenic archaea was significantly increased in the rhizosphere compared with bulk soil but no significant response of methanogens and methanotrophs upon light exposure was established.
Low-temperature rheology of calcite
Authors: Sly Michael K , Thind Arashdeep S , Mishra Rohan , Flores Katharine M , Skemer Philip
Published: December 2019

Low-temperature plastic rheology of calcite plays a significant role in the dynamics of Earth's crust. However, it is technically challenging to study plastic rheology at low temperatures because of the high confining pressures required to inhibit fracturing. Micromechanical tests, such as nanoindentation and micropillar compression, can provide insight into plastic rheology under these conditions because, due to the small scale, plastic deformation can be achieved at low temperatures without the need for secondary confinement. In this study, nanoindentation and micropillar compression experiments were performed on oriented grains within a polycrystalline sample of Carrara marble at temperatures ranging from 23 to 175 °C, using a nanoindenter. Indentation hardness is acquired directly from nanoindentation experiments. These data are then used to calculate yield stress as a function of temperature using numerical approaches that model the stress state under the indenter. Indentation data are complemented by uniaxial micropillar compression experiments. Cylindrical micropillars ∼1 and ∼3 μm in diameter were fabricated using a focused ion beam-based micromachining technique. Yield stress in micropillar experiments is determined directly from the applied load and micropillar dimensions. Mechanical data are fit to constitutive flow laws for low-temperature plasticity and compared to extrapolations of similar flow laws from high-temperature experiments. This study also considered the effects of crystallographic orientation on yield stress in calcite. Although there is a clear orientation dependence to plastic yielding, this effect is relatively small in comparison to the influence of temperature.
Accounting for pressure-dependent ultrasonic beam skew in transversely isotropic rocks: combining modelling and measurement of anisotropic wave speeds
Authors: Li Wei , Schmitt Douglas R , Chen Xiwei
Published: December 2019

The intrinsic anisotropy of rock influences the paths of propagating seismic waves and indicates mineralogical texture and strains; and as such it is important that laboratory measurements of such properties be fully understood. Usually, when studying anisotropy, ultrasonic wave speeds are measured in a variety of strategic directions and, subsequently transformed to the dynamic elastic moduli using symmetry-appropriate formula. For transversely isotropic rocks the moduli are ideally found by measuring wave speeds in directions vertical, parallel and oblique to the foliation or bedding using finite-width ultrasonic transducers. An important, but ignored, complication is that at oblique angles the ultrasonic beam unavoidably deviates, or skews, away from the transmitter's normal axis making proper wave speed determinations difficult. The pressure dependence of the wave speeds further confounds finding a solution as skew angles, too, vary with confining pressure. We develop a new technique that incorporates dual ultrasonic receivers to account for and mitigate the effects of the pressure-dependent beam skew problem. Anisotropy measurements to 200 MPa hydrostatic confining pressure combined with recent beam modeling algorithms illustrate the errors obtained in the determined wave speeds that are subsequently magnified in calculating the full set of elastic stiffnesses. In materials with P-wave anisotropies near 30 per cent the error introduced by ignoring beam skew exceeds the transit time picking errors by more than a factor of three, these propagate to much larger errors in the stiffnesses particularly for C13 and the dynamic elastic moduli referred to C13. Meanwhile, shortening the sample or enlarging the transmitter size is not suggested to counter the beam skew issue because it reduces the beam skew effect but increases the diffraction effect.
The 1892 general election in England: Home Rule, the Newcastle programme and positive Unionism*
Authors: Lloyd-Jones Naomi
Published: December 2019

Largely ignored as an anomaly, the 1892 general election represents a major gap in the scholarship on late nineteenth-century British politics. This article is the first to analyse the issues on and electioneering rhetoric with which it was fought, with a focus on England’s constituencies. It argues that the early 1890s saw the inauguration of a new, ‘positive’ kind of political appeal. It explores how Liberals embraced the radical reforms of the National Liberal Federation’s ‘Newcastle programme’ and how Unionists constructed a self-referential ‘positive Unionism’ that trumpeted their achievements in government. In addition, by considering the limits of Home Rule as an electoral strategy, the article challenges accepted narratives of Liberalism’s slide into ‘faddism’ and Unionist dominance. The article draws on my databases of election addresses. Addresses were an essential medium for the communication of political appeals; by analysing their content, the article highlights the utility of quantitative methodologies for studying shifts in and the transmission of political discourses.
The impact of acetabular labral tears on sexual activity in women
Authors: Raut Shruti , Kamal Jessica , Norrish Alan , Khanduja Vikas
Published: December 2019

A healthy sex-life is an important component of a good quality of life. However, sexual function may be inhibited in women with acetabular labral tears because of the labrum being caught between the femoral head neck junction and the acetabular rim during flexion and/or abduction of the hip. The aim of this article is to quantify the effect that acetabular labral tears may have on the sexual lives of women and to establish the extent to which they may be expected to resolve after arthroscopic intervention. The article also highlights the importance of including questions related to the impact on sexual activity as a routine part of our taking history for a young adult with hip pain, to gain a true appreciation of the impact the symptoms have on the day-to-day lives of our patients.
Punish and Be Punished?
Authors: Spadaro Alessandra
Published: December 2019

Pursuant to the doctrine of command responsibility, military commanders can be found criminally responsible for having failed to take necessary and reasonable measures to prevent or punish the crimes of their subordinates. Focusing on the duty of commanders of organized armed groups to punish the war crimes committed by their subordinates, this article enquires whether the commanders’ duty is subject to any limit under international law. By analysing the imposition of disciplinary and criminal measures, including prosecution in armed group courts and detention, the article argues that a commander cannot fulfil their duty to punish through unlawful measures and can only be required to take punitive measures which are not themselves illegal or criminal under international law. Otherwise, the commander would face a paradoxical choice: not punish their subordinates and be punished for having failed to do so or punish them and nonetheless be punished for having done so through illegal or criminal measures. Courts should be mindful of this when holding an individual responsible for failing to take certain punitive measures pursuant to the doctrine of command responsibility.
Application of quality control circle in the treatment of moderate cancer pain in inpatients
Authors: Liu Yehuan , Lin Beibei
Published: December 2019

Context

Pain is one of the most common and intolerable symptoms in cancer patients. But cancer pain control is still negative in China.

Objectives

This paper explores the application of quality control circle in the treatment of cancer pain in inpatients to improve the quality of life of patients with cancer pain.

Method

Established a quality control circle group to analyze the current status of cancer pain control in inpatients with moderate cancer pain, set goals, formulate corresponding countermeasures and implement and review them in stages. The plan-do-check-act method was cyclically applied. The Brief Pain Inventory was used to evaluate the cancer pain status of patients with cancer pain hospitalized before (January to April 2016) and after (September to December 2016) the implementation of quality control circle activities.

Results

The pain control effect of the observation group was significantly better than that of the control group. The mean (standard deviation) of pain severity and pain interference in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (6.21 [2.86] vs 4.31 [2.25], 10.54 [4.10] vs 7.25 [3.77]). There was significant difference after the implementation of quality control circle (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Quality control circle activities are used to manage patients with cancer pain, to improve the situation of pain control and to improve the quality of life of patients. This management tool and method is worthy of clinical promotion and application.
Perch use by flycatching Rhinolophus formosae in relation to vegetation structure
Authors: Lee Ya-Fu , Kuo Yen-Min , Chu Wen-Chen , Lin Yu-Hsiu
Published: December 2019

Flycatching is relatively uncommon in insectivorous bats, yet members of the family Rhinolophidae constitute over one-half of the documented flycatching species. The Formosan woolly horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus formosae, is among the largest in size and relies primarily on flycatching for foraging. We assessed perch use of flycatching R. formosae in relation to vegetation structure in tropical monsoon forests in southern Taiwan. We located bats using acoustic detectors in forest interior and edge-open forest sites, and measured perch features, dispersion of the nearest trees, and vegetation structure within a 5-m radius of each perch. The same measurements were applied to randomly selected perches in both habitats where bats were not detected. We found no seasonal effects or differences between used and random perches in perch features, dispersion of neighboring trees, or vegetation structure surrounding the perches. Perches used at edge-open forest sites were farther from the perch tree trunk and neighboring trees, and surrounded by larger trees than in forest interiors. In contrast, perches in forest interiors were surrounded by higher shrub and reef layers and greater canopy, shrub, and reef layer cover, than those at edge-open forests. Overall, perches in forest interiors were in more cluttered settings, containing higher vegetation obstacles than edge-open habitats. In both habitats, vegetation obstacles generally increased in a curvilinear manner when moving horizontally and downward from the perch. However, in forest interiors perches used by bats had significantly lower vegetation obstacles horizontally and downwardly and were less cluttered than randomly selected perches. Overall, our results indicate that R. formosae in forest interiors selectively used perches associated with more open space that allows for more maneuverable sally flights and a longer detection range suitable for its exceptionally low constant frequency calls to explore less cluttered environments.
Application of the Joint Trauma System Clinical Practice Guideline for Pain, Anxiety, and Delirium in a Combat Support Hospital in Iraq
Authors: Dhanjal Sandeep T , Jannace Kalyn C , Giordano Nicholas A , Highland Krista B
Published: December 2019

Introduction

The 2017 Joint Trauma System Clinical Practice Guideline for Pain, Anxiety, and Delirium (JTS CPG) provides an evidence-based framework for managing pain, anxiety, and delirium in combat settings. In this study, we evaluate the use of multimodal analgesia and assess pain outcomes, as indicated by the JTS CPG, at the combat support hospital (CSH).

Materials and Methods

In this quality improvement project, data were collected for all patients, presenting to the CSH in Baghdad, Iraq, who received consultation from the acute pain service from October 10, 2017 to February 27, 2018. Univariate analyses described patient demographic and clinical characteristics. Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS) scores, physical therapy completion, and sleep duration were recorded for each patient daily. Correlations assessed relationships between variables, including clinical characteristics and DVPRS scores.

Results

34 patients were included in this study. About 65% of the patients included in this study were Iraqi military, while the other 35% were U.S. or Coalition Forces. Over half received more than one class of analgesic medication. The majority of patients received regional anesthesia, with 17 different techniques utilized. The DVPRS had acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.87, 95% CI 0.80, 0.95). There was a significant difference in median DVPRS pain intensity scores between those who met physical therapy goals and those who did not. Sleep duration was negatively correlated with both the DVPRS pain intensity and sleep scores.

Conclusions

This report indicates that acute pain service teams integrated in a CSH can feasibly implement JTS CPGs using a team-based approach. Given the military’s emphasis on managing complex pain and disability among survivors beginning in the combat environment, it is imperative that innovations and best practices, like the JTS CPG, be assessed in the combat setting.
Search for point sources of ultra-high-energy photons with the Telescope Array surface detector
Authors: Abbasi R U , Abe M , Abu-Zayyad T , Allen M , Azuma R , Barcikowski E , Belz J W , Bergman D R , Blake S A , Cady R , Cheon B G , Chiba J , Chikawa M , di Matteo A , Fujii T , Fujita K , Fujiwara R , Fukushima M , Furlich G , Hanlon W , Hayashi M , Hayashi Y , Hayashida N , Hibino K , Honda K , Ikeda D , Inoue N , Ishii T , Ishimori R , Ito H , Ivanov D , Jeong H M , Jeong S , Jui C C H , Kadota K , Kakimoto F , Kalashev O , Kasahara K , Kawai H , Kawakami S , Kawana S , Kawata K , Kido E , Kim H B , Kim J H , Kim J H , Kishigami S , Kuzmin V , Kuznetsov M , Kwon Y J , Lee K H , Lubsandorzhiev B , Lundquist J P , Machida K , Martens K , Matsuyama T , Matthews J N , Mayta R , Minamino M , Mukai K , Myers I , Nagataki S , Nakai K , Nakamura R , Nakamura T , Nonaka T , Oda H , Ogio S , Ohnishi M , Ohoka H , Okuda T , Omura Y , Ono M , Onogi R , Oshima A , Ozawa S , Park I H , Pshirkov M S , Remington J , Rodriguez D C , Rubtsov G , Ryu D , Sagawa H , Sahara R , Saito K , Saito Y , Sakaki N , Sako T , Sakurai N , Scott L M , Seki T , Sekino K , Shah P D , Shibata F , Shibata T , Shimodaira H , Shin B K , Shin H S , Smith J D , Sokolsky P , Stokes B T , Stratton S R , Stroman T A , Suzawa T , Takagi Y , Takahashi Y , Takamura M , Takeda M , Takeishi R , Taketa A , Takita M , Tameda Y , Tanaka H , Tanaka K , Tanaka M , Tanoue Y , Thomas S B , Thomson G B , Tinyakov P , Tkachev I , Tokuno H , Tomida T , Troitsky S , Tsunesada Y , Tsutsumi K , Uchihori Y , Udo S , Urban F , Wong T , Yada K , Yamamoto M , Yamaoka H , Yamazaki K , Yang J , Yashiro K , Yoshii H , Zhezher Y , Zundel Z ,   (Telescope Array Collaboration)
Published: December 2019

The surface detector (SD) of the Telescope Array (TA) experiment allows us to detect indirectly photons with energies of the order of 1018 eV and higher, and to separate photons from the cosmic ray background. In this paper, we present the results of a blind search for point sources of ultra-high-energy (UHE) photons in the Northern sky using the TA SD data. The photon-induced extensive air showers are separated from the hadron-induced extensive air shower background by means of a multivariate classifier based upon 16 parameters that characterize the air shower events. No significant evidence for the photon point sources is found. The upper limits are set on the flux of photons from each particular direction in the sky within the TA field of view, according to the experiment’s angular resolution for photons. The average 95 per cent confidence level upper-limits for the point-source flux of photons with energies greater than 1018, 1018.5, 1019, 1019.5 and 1020 eV are 0.094, 0.029, 0.010, 0.0073 and 0.0058 km−2yr−1, respectively. For energies higher than 1018.5 eV, the photon point-source limits are set for the first time. Numerical results for each given direction in each energy range are provided as a supplement to this paper.
TOROS optical follow-up of the advanced LIGO–VIRGO O2 second observational campaign
Authors: Artola Rodolfo , Beroiz Martin , Cabral Juan , Camuccio Richard , Castillo Moises , Chavushyan Vahram , Colazo Carlos , Cuevas Hector , DePoy Darren L , Díaz Mario C , Domínguez Mariano , Dultzin Deborah , Fernández Daniela , Ferreyra Antonio C , Fonrouge Aldo , Franco José , Graña Darío , Girardini Carla , Gurovich Sebastián , Kanaan Antonio , Lambas Diego G , Lares Marcelo , Hinojosa Alejandro F , Hinojosa Andrea , Hinojosa Americo F , López-Cruz Omar , Macri Lucas M , Marshall Jennifer L , Melia Raul , Mendoza Wendy , Castellón José L Nilo , Padilla Nelson , Perez Victor , Peñuela Tania , Rattray Wahltyn , Renzi Víctor , Ríos-López Emmanuel , Rivera Amelia Ramírez , Ribeiro Tiago , Rodriguez Horacio , Sánchez Bruno , Schneiter Matías , Schoenell William , Starck Manuel , Vrech Rubén , Quiñones Cecilia , Tapia Luis , Tornatore Marina , Torres-Flores Sergio , Vilchis Ervin , Zadrożny Adam
Published: December 2019

We present the methods and results of the optical follow-up, conducted by the Transient Optical Robotic Observatory of the South Collaboration, of gravitational wave events detected during the Advanced LIGO–Virgo second observing run (2016 November–2017 August). Given the limited field of view (∼100 arcmin) of our observational instrumentation, we targeted galaxies within the area of high localization probability that were observable from our sites. We analysed the observations using difference imaging, followed by a random forest algorithm to discriminate between real and spurious transients. Our observations were conducted using telescopes at Estación Astrofísica de Bosque Alegre, Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory, the Dr. Cristina V. Torres Memorial Astronomical Observatory, and an observing station in Salta, Argentina.
Job demands, resources and work-related well-being in UK firefighters
Authors: Payne N , Kinman G
Published: December 2019

Background

There is evidence that firefighters are at risk of work-related stress and mental health problems, but little is known about the organizational hazards they experience. Insight is needed into the work-related factors that are most likely to threaten or protect their work-related well-being.

Aims

To identify levels of job demands and resources (including demands relating to workload, work patterns and the working environment, relationship conflicts, control, support, role clarity and change management) among firefighters, and to use a job demands–resources framework to examine their impacts on work-related well-being. The role played by recovery strategies in predicting work-related well-being was also considered.

Methods

Job demands and resources were assessed by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Management Standards Indicator Tool. Validated scales measured recovery strategies (detachment, affective rumination and problem-solving pondering) and work-related well-being (anxiety–contentment and depression–enthusiasm). The impact of job demands, resources and recovery strategies was tested by multiple linear regression.

Results

The sample comprised 909 firefighters across seven Fire and Rescue Services in the UK (85% male). Levels of job demands and resources did not meet HSE benchmarks. The main risk factors for poor work-related well-being were relationship conflicts and affective rumination, but resources such as role clarity and job control and the use of problem-solving pondering and detachment were beneficial.

Conclusions

Interventions that aim to reduce relationship conflicts at work and promote problem-solving rather than affective rumination, and detachment from work when off-duty, are likely to improve work-related well-being. Attention to enhancing job resources may also be beneficial.
Choice Simplification: A Theory of Mental Budgeting and Naive Diversification*
Authors: Kőszegi Botond , Matějka Filip
Published: December 2019

We develop a theory of how an agent makes basic multiproduct consumption decisions in the presence of taste, consumption opportunity, and price shocks that are costly to attend to. We establish that the agent often simplifies her choices by restricting attention to a few important considerations, which depend on the decision at hand and affect her consumption patterns in specific ways. If the agent’s problem is to choose the consumption levels of many goods with different degrees of substitutability, then she may create mental budgets for more substitutable products (e.g., entertainment). In some situations, it is optimal to specify budgets in terms of consumption quantities, but when most products have an abundance of substitutes, specifying budgets in terms of nominal spending tends to be optimal. If the goods are complements, in contrast, then the agent may—consistent with naive diversification—choose a fixed, unconsidered mix of products. And if the agent’s problem is to choose one of multiple products to fulfill a given consumption need (e.g., for gasoline or a bed), then it is often optimal for her to allocate a fixed sum for the need.