bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of power distribution on the temperature evolution in laser-MIG hybrid welding for Q235 Steel
Authors: Zhou Shujun , Bu Hengchang , Gao Qiyu , Lu Weihua , Zhan Xiaohong
Published: October 2019

Numerical simulation of laser-MIG hybrid welded Q235 steel was conducted using finite element simulation software with a 3D model. The thermal analysis was performed with a combined ellipsoid-Gaussian heat source. Double ellipsoid heat source and Gaussian heat source (Gauss rotating body heat source and Gauss cylinder heat source) were utilized to represent arc and laser heat, respectively. The effects of power distribution on the temperature evolution and the geometry of molten pool were numerically investigated. The simulated temperature field shows that the increase of the power ratio of laser in laser-MIG hybrid welding (LMHW) is more conducive to improve the peak temperature, leading to remelt interlayer and promote interlayer heat accumulation. Meanwhile, the depth-to-width-ratio (DTW) of molten pool increases with the risen laser power. The change of DTW value with [Formula: see text] value is more obvious when the [Formula: see text] value is greater than 1. Comparison of the calculated and validation experiment results suggested that the LMHW process is characterized well by the combined heat source model. Fine weld joint with good shape of molten pool morphology is obtained when the DTW of first pass, second pass and third pass are 0.94, 0.34 and 0.27, respectively.
Recognizing Geometric Trees as Positively Weighted Straight Skeletons and Reconstructing Their Input
Authors: Eder Günther , Held Martin , Palfrader Peter
Published: October 2019

We extend results by Biedl et al. (ISVD’13) on the recognition and reconstruction of straight skeletons: Given a geometric tree [Formula: see text], can we recognize whether [Formula: see text] resembles a weighted straight skeleton [Formula: see text] and, if so, can we reconstruct an appropriate polygonal input [Formula: see text] and an appropriate positive weight function [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]? We show that a solution polygon [Formula: see text] and a weight function [Formula: see text] can be found in [Formula: see text] time and space for a geometric tree [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] faces if at most one node of [Formula: see text] has two incident edges that span an angle greater than [Formula: see text]. In addition, we show that [Formula: see text] implicitly encodes enough information such that all other weighted bisectors of any solution [Formula: see text] can be obtained from [Formula: see text] without explicitly computing [Formula: see text].
Resonant states 0+ of the Boron isotope 8B from the Jost-matrix analysis of the partial cross-sections
Authors: Rakityansky S. A. , Ershov S. N. , Tshipi T. J.
Published: October 2019

The available [Formula: see text]-matrix parametrization of experimental data on the excitation functions for the elastic and inelastic [Formula: see text] scattering at the collision energies up to 3.4[Formula: see text]MeV is used to generate the corresponding partial-wave cross-sections in the states with [Formula: see text]. Thus, obtained data are fitted using the semi-analytic two-channel Jost matrix with a proper analytic structure and some adjustable parameters. Then the spectral points are sought as zeros of the Jost matrix determinant (which correspond to the [Formula: see text]-matrix poles) at complex energies. The correct analytic structure makes it possible to calculate the fitted Jost matrix on any sheet of the Riemann surface whose topology involves not only the square-root but also the logarithmic branching caused by the Coulomb interaction. In this way, two overlapping [Formula: see text] resonances at the excitation energies [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MeV have been found.
Sufficient conditions for expansive group action
Authors: Barzanouni Ali
Published: October 2019

Existence of expansivity for group action [Formula: see text] depends on algebraic properties of [Formula: see text] and the topology of [Formula: see text]. We give an expansive action of a solvable group on [Formula: see text] while there is no expansive action of a solvable group on a dendrite [Formula: see text]. We prove that a continuous action [Formula: see text] on a compact metric space [Formula: see text] is expansive if and only if there exists an open cover [Formula: see text] such that for any other open cover [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] for some finite set [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we introduce the notion of topological expansivity of a group action [Formula: see text] on a [Formula: see text]-paracompact space [Formula: see text]. If a [Formula: see text]-paracompact space [Formula: see text] admits topologically expansive action, then [Formula: see text] is Hausdorff space. We also show that a continuous action [Formula: see text] of a finitely generated group [Formula: see text] on a compact Hausdorff uniform space [Formula: see text] is expansive with an expansive neighborhood [Formula: see text] if and only if for every [Formula: see text] there is an entourage [Formula: see text] such that for every two [Formula: see text]-pseudo orbit [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text].

Finally, we introduce measure [Formula: see text]-expansive actions on a uniform space. The set of all [Formula: see text]-expansive measures with common expansive neighborhood for a group action [Formula: see text] is a convex, closed and [Formula: see text]-invariant subset of the set of all Borel probability measures on [Formula: see text]. Also, we show that a group action [Formula: see text] is expansive if all Borel probability measures are [Formula: see text]-expansive or all Dirac measures [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], have a common expansive neighborhood.
HUMAN CAPITAL ENDOWMENTS, ESTABLISHMENTS’ PRACTICES, AND INNOVATION: A CROSS-COUNTRY ANALYSIS OF THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY
Authors: AZEEM MUHAMMAD MASOOD , BAKER DEREK
Published: October 2019

This paper examines the role of human capital and establishments’ practices in fostering food industry innovation across 13 low and middle-income countries. We estimate average marginal effects that also control for the variables traditionally recognized as affecting firm-level innovation, such as R&D expenditures. Our results suggest that establishments’ human capital endowments, such as top managers’ experience in the food industry and employees’ education, alone may not be sufficient to achieve high levels of innovation. In fact, human capital endowments are found to be more effective in delivering innovation when they are combined with establishments’ best practices such as providing employees slack time i.e., allocation of work-time on self-chosen projects of personal interests. Our key recommendation to food firms is to support employee slack time and human capital endowments as mutually reinforcing drivers of innovation.
Partitions associated with two fifth-order mock theta functions and Beck-type identities
Authors: Li Runqiao , Wang Andrew Y. Z.
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we first generalize Ramanujan’s partition identity derived from the fifth order mock theta functions [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Then we establish Beck-type identities based on our general partition identity. All the results are proved both analytically and combinatorially.
Size-Separation and Self-Assembly of Anisotropic Nanoparticles in a Coffee-Stain Ring
Authors: Ahmad Imtiaz , Jan Rahim
Published: October 2019

Nanoparticles deposition via droplet drying technique generally leads to a coffee-stain-like ring. In the case of different shapes and sizes of nanoparticles, such ring-like deposits also demonstrate various phases within the self-assembly superstructures. For broad spectrum sizes in suspension, size-separation effect has not been considered before. Herein, polydisperse gold anisotropic nanoparticles have been prepared via wet chemical synthesis technique. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) at various positions of a coffee-stain ring displayed both size-separation and self-assembly of nanoparticles. Especially at the outer edges of a ring-like deposit, side-by-side organized arrays of anisotropic nanoparticles have been observed. Likewise, such ordered arrays generally begin with thin nanorods and the width of nanoparticles increases as one moves inward within such arrays. Also, assembly of deposited arrays is more orderly arranged at the periphery of the ring, whereas such order significantly decreases at the interior region of the ring. Furthermore, it has been observed for a mixture of thick–thin nanorods and spheres that only thick nanorods self-assemble into ordered arrays whereas thin rod-sphere was found disordered everywhere within the ring. Nanoscale interactions are quantified for these systems to understand self-assembly behavior of such anisotropic nanoparticles.
High-Purity Carbon Dots Prepared by Modulating Morphology of Carbon Nano-Crystals: In Vitro and In Vivo Multi-Color Bioimaging
Authors: Huo Feng , Tang Yuran , Liu Yuhang , Tan Chao , Chang Lin , Mirza Zakaria , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2019

Due to the unique optical properties and excellent biological applications, carbon-based luminescent materials have become a research hotspot in recent years. In this paper, we report a synthesis method under mild condition, in which Carbon NanoCrystals (CNCs) were first prepared, and then high-purity multi-color carbon dots (HPMCCDs) were synthesized by modulating crystal morphology. The prepared nonfluorescent CNCs are, respectively, dissolved in a strong polar solvent and a weak polar solvent to prepare HPMCCDs. It exhibits the multi-excitation and multi-emission features (from green to yellow). The high-purity carbon dots (HPCDs) prepared by using this method demonstrate the higher quantum yields (QYs) (53.7%) than that of the carbon dots (CD) by traditional hydrothermal methods with dialysis, and make full use of the atomic economic model. Besides, it shows the unique up-conversion luminescence property (UCLP) at lower wavelength excitation and, which can also be placed for a long time at room temperature without being oxidized or deteriorated. Furthermore, we explored the regulation of polar-chromism mechanism of the CNCs. Finally, the HPMCCDs can be used for multi-color bioimaging in vivo and in vitro and as well as many other potential applications.
Modern Discrimination in Organizations
Authors: Hebl Mikki , Cheng Shannon K. , Ng Linnea C.
Published: October 2019

This review describes the history, current state, and future of modern discrimination in organizations. First, we review development of discrimination from the early 1900s to the present day, specifically discussing various stigmatized identities, including gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, disability, weight, and age. Next, we describe both individual-level (e.g., identity management, allyship) and organization-level (e.g., training, norm setting) strategies for reducing and reacting to discrimination. Finally, we describe future research directions in the relationship between subtle and overt discrimination, intersectionality, the impact of social media, and cross-cultural considerations—areas that we suggest would help us gain a more comprehensive understanding of modern discrimination.
Anticoagulants and Breast Cancer Survival: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Kinnunen Pete T. , Murto Mika O. , Artama Miia , Pukkala Eero , Visvanathan Kala , Murtola Teemu J.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Various components of the coagulation cascade have been linked to breast cancer progression. In vivo results suggest that anticoagulants possess anticancer properties, but there are virtually no studies in human populations. Our nationwide study explored the association between anticoagulant use and breast cancer survival.

Methods:

All anticoagulants used from 1995 to 2015 in women (n = 73,170) diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in Finland between 1995 and 2013 were identified from the national prescription database; women were identified from the Finnish Cancer Registry. Cox regressions were performed to analyze breast cancer survival as a function of pre- and postdiagnostic anticoagulant use; analyses were conducted for different anticoagulant subtypes and overall. Models were adjusted for age, mammography screening, tumor clinical characteristics, comorbidities, statin use, antidiabetic use, and antihypertensive use. To control for immortal time bias, postdiagnostic anticoagulant use was analyzed as a time-dependent variable.

Results:

At a median of 5.8 years after breast cancer diagnosis, 10,900 (15%) women had died from breast cancer. In total, 25,622 (35%) women had used anticoagulants during the study period. Postdiagnostic anticoagulant use increased the risk of breast cancer death (HR = 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.33–1.49). The risk was especially high for low-molecular weight heparin, although the effect disappeared in long-term users.

Conclusions:

Anticoagulant use provides no clinical benefit for breast cancer survival; however, the association between thrombosis and cancer might mask potential survival benefits.

Impact:

Future pharmacoepidemiologic studies should adjust for anticoagulant use. Research should focus on the use of new oral anticoagulants because these are rarely studied and might be associated with improved breast cancer survival.
Prevention of Colorectal Carcinogenesis by DNA-Binding Small-Molecule Curaxin CBL0137 Involves Suppression of Wnt Signaling
Authors: Kirsanov Kirill , Fetisov Timur , Lesovaya Ekaterina A. , Maksimova Varvara , Trukhanova Lubov , Antoshina Elena , Gor'kova Tatiana , Morozova Olga , Safina Alfiya , Fleyshman Daria , Salimov Ramiz , Shipaeva Elena , Ivanov Roman , Leonov Andrey , Purmal Andrei A. , Belitsky Gennady A. , Gudkov Andrei V. , Gurova Katerina V. , Yakubovskaya Marianna G.
Published: October 2019

Chemoprevention is considered a valid approach to reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer, one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Here, we investigated the tumor-preventive activity of curaxin CBL0137. This compound represents a new class of nonmutagenic DNA-binding small molecules that alter chromatin stability and inhibit the function of the histone chaperone FACT. Among downstream effects of CBL0137 treatment are activation of p53 and type I interferons and inhibition of NFκB, HSF1, and MYC. In addition, our data show that in both human and mouse colorectal cancer cells in vitro, CBL0137 inhibits the APC/WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, which plays a key role in colon carcinogenesis. Using quantitative RT-PCR and microarray hybridization, we have demonstrated decreased expression of multiple components and downstream targets of the WNT pathway in colon cancer cells treated with CBL0137. At the same time, CBL0137 induced expression of WNT antagonists. Inhibition of WNT signaling activity by CBL0137 was also confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Tumor-preventive activity of CBL0137 in vivo was tested in a murine model of colorectal carcinogenesis induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH), which is known to involve WNT pathway dysregulation. After DMH subcutaneous treatment, mice were administered CBL0137 in drinking water. Efficacy of CBL0137 in suppressing development of colorectal cancer in this model was evidenced by reduced incidence of adenocarcinomas and adenomas in both males and females and decrease in tumor multiplicity. These data support the prospective use of CBL0137 in chemoprevention of colorectal cancer as well as of other malignances associated with activated WNT signaling.
Serum Level of Biotin Rather than the Daily Dosage Is the Main Determinant of Interference on Thyroid Function Assays
Authors: Paketçi Ahu , Köse Engin , Gürsoy Çalan Özlem , Acar Sezer , Teke Pelin , Demirci Ferhat , Abacı Ayhan , Demir Korcan , Arslan Nur , Böber Ece
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Several case reports stress that high-dose biotin causes incorrect laboratory results. However, the extent of this interference in children is not systematically studied. Aim: To assess factors associated with biotin interference on thyroid function tests in subjects with biotinidase deficiency. Method: The study included 44 children who were treated with oral biotin (Group 1, median dose: 10 mg/day [25–75p; 10–10], age: 1.83 years [1.04–2.90]) and 30 healthy subjects (Group 2, age: 1.05 years [0.37–3.37]). Thyroid function tests were performed with two different assays, and streptavidin-coated particles were used in order to remove biotin from serum samples of cases with biotin interference. Results: The measurements were first performed with Beckman Coulter. In Group 1, remarkably high levels of fT3 and fT4 were found in 26 (59.1%) and 25 (56.8%) patients, respectively. Thyroid hormone functions were all normal in Group 2. Significantly higher serum biotin levels were detected in interference-positive children (p < 0.001). The serum biotin levels in Group 1 showed a strong positive correlation with fT3 (r = 0.867, p < 0.001) and fT4 levels (r = 0.905, p < 0.001). A serum biotin level of 80.35 µg/L was found to be the best cut-off value for predicting interference (sensitivity: 96.2% and specificity: 94.4%). When analyzed with Siemens Advia Centaur XP, all thyroid function tests were normal in both groups except in one patient (2.27%) with slightly elevated fT3 level in Group 1. Repeated tests with Beckman Coulter after neutralization of biotin with streptavidin magnetic particles in serum samples of the interference-positive cases revealed normal thyroid hormone levels. Conclusion: Interference is an important problem in thyroid function tests in nearly 60% of all children receiving biotin treatment for biotinidase deficiency. Serum levels of biotin rather than the dosage are the main determinant of interference, which can be eliminated by choosing appropriate laboratory methods.
Karyomegalic Interstitial Nephritis: Cancer Risk Following Transplantation
Authors: Murray Susan L. , Connaughton Dervla M. , Fennelly Neil K. , Kay Elaine W. , Dorman Anthony , Doyle Brendan , Conlon Peter J.
Published: October 2019

A brother and sister presented individually in their forties with progressive renal failure, bronchiectasis and mild derangements of their liver function tests. Both developed end-stage renal disease before the age of 50. Both siblings were found to carry a pathogenic, recessive, compound heterozygote mutation in the gene FAN1, which causes karyomegalic interstitial nephritis. Both siblings underwent renal transplantation. The sister developed small cell carcinoma of the lung 18 months after transplantation. Despite intensive chemotherapy she died 6 months later. Six years after transplant, the brother has developed prostate cancer and over 30 individual skin cancers. To our knowledge, only 6 other patients with FAN1 mutations have undergone solid organ transplantation. Outcomes have been poor, with only 3 patients surviving beyond 1 year. While cancer is a significant risk for all patients in the post-transplant period, only 0.01% of patients develop >10 skin cancers. Transplantation may be an unrecognised risk in patients with FAN1 mutations.
Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome in India in the Current Era: A Multicenter Case Series
Authors: Sinha Rajiv , Vasudevan Anil , Agarwal Indira , Sethi Sidharth Kumar , Saha Abhijeet , Pradhan Subal , Ekambaram Sudha , Thaker Nilam , Matnani Manoj , Banerjee Sushmita , Sharma Jyoti , Singhal Jyoti , Ashraf Shazia , Mandal Kausik
Published: October 2019

Background: There is a paucity of information on epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) in developing countries. Methods: Retrospective (2012–2017) review of case records undertaken across 12 Indian pediatric nephrology centers. Results: Sixty-five children (58% male, median birth weight 2.4 kg [interquartile range (IQR) 2.1–2.86]) were identified with CNS. Nearly half (45%) were preterm with previous history of fetal loss/sibling death in 22% and history of consanguinity in a third. No infective etiology was confirmed. Genetic reports available for 15 (23%) children identified causal mutations in 10 (8 in NPHS1 [1 novel variant], 1 in WT 1 [novel variant], and 1 in PLCE-1 gene). In addition, 1 child was clinically diagnosed as Galloway Mowat syndrome. Next-generation sequencing showed 80% yield and Sanger sequencing 20%. Albumin infusion and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors were used initially in around two-third of cohort, while only 12% of children received indomethacin. Totally, 22 (34%) children were lost to follow-up after initial visit, and among the rest median follow-up was 69 days (IQR 20–180) with 18 (42%) deaths. Eight children showed partial response (including 2 with NPHS1 compound mutation), 1 complete response, and all of them were alive at last follow-up in contrast to 53% mortality among nonresponders, p = 0.004. Conclusion: This largest reported series on CNS from India revealed suboptimal management with poor outcome as well as low number of CNS being subjected to genetic evaluation.
Sensitive Assessment of Acute Optic Neuritis by a New, Digital Flicker Test
Authors: Pihl-Jensen Gorm , Ivanov Iliya , Hinze Desiree , Trauzettel-Klosinski Susanne , Frederiksen Jette Lautrup
Published: October 2019

Background: The Aulhorn flicker test (AFT) previously showed promise in diagnosing acute optic neuritis (ON) albeit with suboptimal sensitivity. A new, digitalized version of the AFT (the DFT) has not previously been examined in acute ON. Objectives: To examine the sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility of the DFT in acute ON. Method: The DFT assesses the subjective brightness of a flickering field (1–60 Hz). In normal subjects, brightness enhancement occurs at intermediate frequencies, whereas in acute ON darkness enhancement (DE) is hypothesized. AFT and DFT measurements were obtained in acute ON patients (≤31 days from first symptom) with DE as a quantitative covariate. Reproducibility of the DFT end point was assessed in the form of an intraclass correlation. Results: 30 untreated first-time acute ON patients and 55 healthy controls were examined. AFT and DFT were performed 12.7 days (range: 4–30) following ON onset. The DFT showed a sensitivity of 0.93 (95% CI = 0.78–0.99) to a specificity of 0.96 (95% CI = 0.87–1.00). The AFT showed a sensitivity of 0.76 (95% CI = 0.56–0.90) to a specificity of 1.00 (95% CI = 0.93–1.00). No significant correlation was shown between DFT and visual acuity. The intraclass correlation of the DFT end point in healthy subjects was 0.84. Conclusions: We present a new DFT in acute ON displaying a high specificity of 0.96 and a sensitivity of 0.93. Our study indicates the DFT to be an accurate and easy-to-use tool in diagnosing acute ON, which may be especially helpful in atypical cases.
Safety and Utility of Spinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with High-Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulators: A Prospective Single-Centre Study
Authors: Manfield James , Bartlett Richard , Park Nicholas
Published: October 2019

Background: Implanted high-frequency spinal cord stimulators at 10 kHz (HF-SCS) have recently acquired conditional approval for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including retrospective application to previously implanted devices. Under certain conditions, there are greater specific absorption rate (SAR) scanning restrictions compared to some conventional alternatives. This poses technical challenges to obtain diagnostic quality imaging. Objectives: To describe our experience with 9 such scans, demonstrating that safe and diagnostically useful images can be obtained despite these restrictions. Methods: We report a prospective single-centre series of 9 scans within a tertiary neuroscience centre, all obtained within the required SAR limit of ≤0.4 W/kg, and describe the scanning protocol we have developed. We further illustrate this with 2 representative patient cases. Results: The imaging studies were well tolerated without complication. In all cases, the imaging quality was sufficient for the reporting neuroradiologist to answer the clinical question posed. Conclusion: Despite technical challenges, MRI is feasible, safe and diagnostically useful in HF-SCS-implanted patients. We would invite other centres that implant these devices to consider the development of their own scanning protocols to avoid the morbidity and inconvenience of explantation or computed tomography myelography. To our knowledge, this is the first reported study of MRI in HF-SCS-implanted patients achieving the requisite SAR limit of ≤0.4 W/kg.
Cloning and expression analysis of Serum Amyloid A (SAA) from Exopalaemon carinicauda (Holthuis, 1950) (Caridea, Palaemonidae)
Authors: Sun Shu Jie , Li Xue , Wang Chun Mei , Chen Jian Hua , Gao Huan , Yan Bin Lun
Published: October 2019

Serum amyloid A (SAA), an acute-phase protein, has been demonstrated to play a critical role in the inflammatory response. However, data regarding its function in crustaceans are still scarce. In the present study, cDNA of SAA from Exopalaemon carinicauda (Holthuis, 1950) (designated as EcSAA) was cloned and characterized. The full-length cDNA was 683 bp, including an open reading frame (ORF) of 267 bp that encoded 88 amino acid residues. The predicted amino acid sequence of EcSAA contained characteristic motifs of the SAA family. The EcSAA was widely expressed in all tissues, with the highest expression in gill and hepatopancreas. In response to the Vibrio anguillarum Bergeman, 1909 challenge, EcSAA mRNA was up-regulated in gill, hepatopancreas, and haemolymph. These results suggest thatEcSAA may be a constitutive and inducible acute-phase protein involved in anti-pathogen responses in E. carinicauda.
A Contested Field: Half a Century of Study of Second Temple Judaism
Authors: Collins John J.
Published: October 2019

There has been an explosion of interest in Second Temple Judaism over the last fifty years. In the first half of the period under review, the Pseudepigrapha were at the cutting edge. This period culminated in the publication of the new enlarged edition of the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha, edited by James H. Charlesworth. Beginning in the 1980s, interest shifted to the Dead Sea Scrolls, culminating in the rapid publication of the corpus under the editorship of Emanuel Tov. At the same time, new discoveries shed light on the encounter of Judaism with Hellenism, both in Judea in the Maccabean period and in the Egyptian diaspora. Few scholars would now defend an idea of “normative Judaism” in this period, but that idea still casts a shadow on the ongoing debates.
Assessing Postural Instability and Cybersickness Through Linear and Angular Displacement
Authors: Widdowson Christopher , Becerra Israel , Merrill Cameron , Wang Ranxiao Frances , LaValle Steven
Published: October 2019

Objective

To examine the hypothesis that constant speed is more comfortable than variable speed profiles and may minimize cybersickness.

Background

Current best practices for virtual reality (VR) content creation suggest keeping any form of acceleration as short and infrequent as possible to mitigate cybersickness.

Methods

In Experiment 1, participants experienced repetitions of simulated linear motion, and in Experiment 2, they experienced repetitions of a circular motion. Three speed profiles were tested in each experiment. Each trial lasted 2 min while standing. Cybersickness was measured using the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) and operationally defined in terms of total severity scores. Postural stability was measured using a Wii Balance Board and operationally defined in terms of center of pressure (COP) path length. Postural measures were decomposed into anterior-posterior and medial-lateral axes and subjected to detrended fluctuation analysis.

Results

For both experiments, no significant differences were observed between the three speed profiles in terms of cybersickness or postural stability, and none of the baseline postural measures could predict SSQ scores for the speed profile conditions. An axis effect was observed in both experiments such that normalized COP movement was significantly greater along the anterior-posterior axis than the medial-lateral axis.

Conclusion

Results showed no convincing evidence to support the common belief that constant speed is more comfortable than variable speed profiles for scenarios typical of VR applications.

Application

The present findings offer guidelines for the design of locomotion techniques involving traversal in VR environments.
Diversity of social ties and creativity: Creative self-efficacy as mediator and tie strength as moderator
Authors: Gong Yaping , Kim Tae-Yeol , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: October 2019

How does diversity of social ties influence creativity? Moving beyond the information argument, we theorize creative self-efficacy as a motivational explanation for the relationship between diversity of social ties and creativity. We further posit tie strength as a boundary condition for this mechanism. We collected social ties data from 309 employees and creativity data from 98 direct supervisors. Results showed that diversity of social ties had a direct positive relationship with creative self-efficacy and an indirect positive relationship with employee creativity via creative self-efficacy. These direct and indirect relationships were fortified when tie strength was reinforced. We contribute to and advance theory development by identifying and testing creative self-efficacy as a motivational mechanism for diversity of social ties. We show the importance of diversity of social ties and tie strength and their synergistic role in the motivational process linking social ties to creativity.
Development of modular and robust high power solid-state transmit–receive module for Gadanki Ionospheric Radar Interferometer
Authors: Rao Durga , Rao Srinivasa
Published: October 2019

The study of ionospheric effects1 on the satellite-based communication signals has been a continued topic of interest both for academic interest and global positioning system aided navigation applications. These communication signals are affected by the field-aligned irregularities, suffers from fading and range spreading when they pass through the ionosphere. 2 To study the low latitude ionospheric plasma irregularities, dedicated radar with wide beam steering capabilities is required. Recently Gadanki Ionospheric Radar Interferometer, which operates at 30 MHz frequency, has been realized at National Atmospheric Research Laboratory, Gadanki, to scan a larger part of the sky up to ±50° in East-West direction. The radar system employs a 160 element phased antenna array, antenna system, state-of-the-art 8 kW high power solid-state transmit–receive modules, and direct digital receiver. In order to carryout round-the-clock scientific observations, highly reliable, robust designs are required to realize the high power transmit–receive modules. Detailed design philosophies are described with modular concept and better thermal designs in this paper to achieve the high power requirements. Performance results of the transmit–receive module and the sample scientific results obtained by employing these transmit–receive modules are presented in this paper.
Polarisation and the Sustenance of Biafra Secessionist Discourses Online
Authors: Ajiboye Esther
Published: October 2019

This study examines polarisation in citizens’ online discourses about Biafra agitations in Nigeria. Using critical discourse analysis and the appraisal framework, it analyses 350 Biafra-related posts sampled from Nigerian digital communities. Analysis reveals that polarisation is discursively strengthened through labelling, ethnocentrism, generalisations, and historical allusions. This study concludes that the creation, consumption and unfettered distribution of such polarised discourses reflect Nigeria’s unitarist-federalism. It adds that the instigation of this socio-political fact about Nigeria can foster the cultivation/reinforcement of cognitive biases, harmful ideologies, and consequently, radicalisation/violence. It recommends that the minders of the Nigerian state should amicably address the Biafran agitations.
Improvement of the Mouse Grimace Scale set-up for implementing a semi-automated Mouse Grimace Scale scoring (Part 1)
Authors: Ernst Lisa , Kopaczka Marcin , Schulz Mareike , Talbot Steven R , Zieglowski L , Meyer M , Bruch S , Merhof Dorit , Tolba Rene H
Published: October 2019

The Mouse Grimace Scale (MGS) has been widely used for the noninvasive examination of distress/pain in mice. The aim of this study was to further improve its performance to generate repeatable, faster, blinded and reliable results for developing automated and standardized pictures for MGS scoring and simultaneous evaluation of up to four animals.

Videos of seven C57BL/6N mice were generated in an experiment to assess pain and stress induced by repeated intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). MGS scores were taken 1 h before and after the injection. Videotaping was performed for 10 min in special observation boxes. For manual selection, pictures of each mouse were randomly chosen for quality analysis and scored according six quality selection criteria (0 = no, 1 = moderate, 2 = full accordance); the maximum possible score was 12.

Overall, 609 pictures from six videos were evaluated for MGS scoring quality; evaluation was performed by using the picture selection tool or by manual scoring. With manual scoring, 288 pictures (48.3% of all randomly generated pictures) were deemed scorable using MGS (mean score = 22.15 ± SD 6.3). To evaluate the algorithm, ratings from different rater groups (beginner, medium-level trained, professional) were compared with the automated image generated. These differences were not significant ( p = 0.1091).

This study demonstrates an improved set-up and a picture selection tool that can generate repeatable, not-observer biased and standardized pictures for MGS scoring.
An Exploratory Study of the Views of Supervision Strategies by Community Corrections Probationers in China
Authors: Jiang Shanhe , Zhang Dawei , Irwin Darrell D. , Yang Can , Xing Minhui
Published: October 2019

Offenders’ attitudes toward supervision models are critical for the success of supervision practices in community corrections. It is surprising, however, that there is a general lack of research on offenders’ attitudes toward supervision models or strategies in community corrections. Using a sample of 351 offenders serving community corrections in City W, China, the current study found that the majority of the respondents positively perceived rehabilitation supervision and the environmental supervision strategies. The punishment supervision strategy was supported by the respondents but with a lower degree, relative to the support for other supervision strategies. Institutional factors were the most important predictors of the offenders’ attitudes.
Odor in textiles: A review of evaluation methods, fabric characteristics, and odor control technologies
Authors: McQueen Rachel H , Vaezafshar Sara
Published: October 2019

During use, textile items can develop unpleasant odors that arise from many different sources, both internal and external to the human body. Laundering is not always effective at removing odors, with odor potentially building up over time due to incomplete removal of soils and odorous compounds and/or malodors transferred during the laundering process. Textile odor can lead to consumer dissatisfaction, particularly as there are high expectations that clothing and textile products meet multiple aesthetic and functional needs. The problem of odor in textiles is complex and multi-faceted, with odorous volatile compounds, microorganisms, and precursors to odor, such as sweat, being transferred to, and retained by, fabrics. This article reviews the literature that specifically relates to odor within textiles. Methods for evaluating odor in textiles, including methods for collecting odor on textile substrates, as well as sensory and instrumental methods of odor detection, were reviewed. Literature that examined differences among fabrics that varied by fabric properties were reviewed. As well, the effectiveness of specific odor controlling finishing technologies to control malodor within textiles was also examined.
Doctor–patient communication about existential, spiritual and religious needs in chronic pain: A systematic review
Authors: Andersen Aida Hougaard , Assing Hvidt Elisabeth , Hvidt Niels Christian , Roessler Kirsten K
Published: October 2019

Research documents that many chronic non-malignant pain patients experience existential, spiritual and religious needs; however, research knowledge is missing on if and how physicians approach these needs. We conducted a systematic review to explore the extent to which physicians address these needs in their communication with chronic non-malignant pain patients and to explore the facilitators and challenges of this communication. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, searching Embase, Medline, Scopus and PsycINFO. The quality of the included articles was assessed based on design-specific screening tools. We included four of 2337 screened articles and found the quality to be good. Physicians’ communication about existential, spiritual and religious needs was given low priority and depended on the patients’ own initiative, except when clinicians were interested in holistic care. Patient dissatisfaction with the physician’s attention to these needs was related to higher pain and depression. Physicians’ challenges for addressing these needs were their tendency to prioritize physiological aspects and close further elaboration of existential needs when addressed by the patients. The main facilitator was the individual physician’s willingness to listen with openness and empathy to the patients’ existential concerns. A tentative conclusion is that physicians rarely meet the existential, spiritual and religious needs of their chronic non-malignant pain patients. This might be due to higher priority of physical aspects, lack of time and a lack of knowledge about the importance of and training in the ability to address these needs. Further research is needed on physicians’ communication about existential, spiritual and religious needs and on their training in here.
Ultrasonic-assisted rapid preparation of three-phase nanocomposites: The effects of zinc manganite nanoparticles and polyurethane on the thermomechanical, physicochemical, and antibacterial properties of polymer matrix composites
Authors: Shabani Nayyereh , Ghasemi Ahmad Reza , Hamadanian Masood
Published: October 2019

Polymeric mixing and ultrasonic dispersion method as a green, fast, effective, and inexpensive technique was utilized to prepare epoxy/polyurethane/zinc manganite nanoparticles (EP/PU/ZnMn2O4 NPs) nanocomposites. The ZnMn2O4 NPs and PU were used for the optimization of mechanical properties of EP resin. Response surface methodology (RSM) coupled with central composite design (CCD) was employed to obtain suitable mathematical models as function of physico- and thermomechanical factors. The weight fractions of PU and ZnMn2O4 NPs were chosen as the independent variables, and the effect of these variables on the mechanical properties of the EP resin was investigated. The tensile test showed that the addition of the PU and ZnMn2O4 NPs in the polymer matrix improved the mechanical properties. The dynamic mechanical analysis results showed that the storage modulus and the glass transition temperatures of the nanocomposites increased and decreased, respectively. The optimum values of PU and ZnMn2O4 NPs contents for good mechanical properties were determined as 0.73 weight percentage (wt%) and 0.15 wt% ratio to EP resin, respectively. The antibacterial properties of the optimum sample were also investigated, and the results showed that, with the addition of the NPs, the antibacterial performance of EP/PU increased. The X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and vibrating sampler magnetmeter analyses were also applied to study the chemical and magnetic properties of the optimized nanocomposite samples.
Institutional interests and the politics of constitutional amendment
Authors: Fruhstorfer Anna , Hein Michael
Published: October 2019

Institutional interests are often the main determinant of day-to-day politics. However, do they also matter in the more consensus-oriented field of constitutional politics? To answer this question, this article examines the success and failure of constitutional amendment drafts. We reassess a hypothesis proposed by Donald S. Lutz more than 20 years ago, according to which the initiator of an amendment is a significant determinant of its success, that is, of its passing or not passing. This study is based on a unique dataset of successful and failed constitutional amendments, covering 18 post-socialist countries in Central and Eastern Europe (1990–2014). We demonstrate that the chances of success for a given constitutional amendment are clearly driven by institutional interests: cabinet and presidential proposals have significantly higher chances of success than parliamentary and public initiatives. Additionally, success or failure also depend on the level of democracy and the rigidity of the amendment process.
Gender Differences in Risk Factors Influencing Unhealthy Weight Control Behaviors among Adolescents
Authors: Han Jeehee , Kim Sue , Park Chang gi
Published: October 2019

This study was conducted to identify risk factors that influence the probability and severity of unhealthy weight control behaviors (UWCBs) and to consider gender difference. Data were obtained from a national survey. The study population was composed of 66,068 adolescents in grades 7–12 at 400 middle schools. The effect of the independent variables on UWCBs was analyzed using zero inflated negative binominal regression. Higher body mass index group, overweight perception, appearance stress, and depressive mood were found to be risk factors of UWCBs’ probability in both genders. For boys, older age, underweight, accurate or under-perception of weight, and depressive mood influenced severity of UWCBs. For girls, older age, appearance stress, and depressive mood influenced severity of UWCBs. The new findings mean to consider the range of UWCBs experienced, which can offer more sensitive and predictable information. Further interventions should be developed to consider gender specific risk factors.
Successful management of penetrating chest injury causing aortopulmonary shunt
Authors: Patil Ravivarma , Kaskar Ameya , Rao Rahul
Published: October 2019

Penetrating trauma to the chest causing an aortopulmonary shunt is rare. We report the case of a 16-year-old boy with an aortopulmonary shunt caused by a penetrating injury to the left anterior chest. Chest exploration was warranted because computed tomography confirmed a definite injury to the great vessels, causing a left-to-right shunt. The case was successfully managed with prosthetic patch closure of the aortic tear and direct closure of the rent in the main pulmonary artery under cardiopulmonary bypass with cardioplegic arrest.
The Call for a New Earth, a New People: An Untimely Problem
Authors: Lundy Craig
Published: October 2019

In their final book, Deleuze and Guattari state that the practice of philosophy ‘calls for a future form, for a new earth and people that do not yet exist’. This call is deeply problematic: aside from its aristocratic overtones, it is difficult to ascertain what it might sound like, how to give it voice, and what might come of it. But it is also problematic in form. In this paper I will explain how. After investigating its genesis in Deleuze’s engagements with Nietzsche and Bergson, I will outline the geography of the call as it appears in the mature work of Deleuze and Guattari. Aided by this analysis, the paper will conclude by making some tentative remarks on what is to be done with the call for a new earth and people – or, more accurately, what might be done with it, for the benefit of what is to come.
Relational turbulence and psychological distress in romantic relationships in the military
Authors: Monk Kale , Basinger Erin D. , Abendschein Bryan
Published: October 2019

To understand the process of relational turbulence and psychological distress in the context of the military, we used a grounded theory approach to analyze individuals’ experiences in online forums. Analyses revealed a process by which perceived changes in individuals’ romantic partners or their relationships and suspicions of infidelity led to a cycle of turmoil. Participants reported a tension between caring for their partner and upsetting experiences and relational transgressions, which contributed to them feeling caught in the cycle. In addition to feeling conflicted, the cycle of turmoil also encompassed relational turbulence, psychological distress, and fighting between partners. The conceptual model identified in this study has implications for both theory and practice, including underscoring the importance of relational turbulence theory and identifying feeling conflicted as a potentially viable point of intervention.
Self-Efficacy and Perceived Barriers as Determinants of Breast Self-Examination Among Female Nonmedical Students of the University of Ghana
Authors: Boafo Isaac M. , Tetteh Peace Mamle
Published: October 2019

Breast cancer mortality in sub-Saharan Africa is comparatively high largely because of low levels of knowledge and late presentation at hospitals. Breast self-examination (BSE) provides an important way of early detection of breast cancer, particularly for resource constrained countries. This study therefore examined the factors which influence the performance of BSE among female undergraduate nonmedical students of the University of Ghana. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between April and May 2018. It involved 308 students drawn from the University of Ghana. The instrument was based on the Health Belief Model and the Breast Cancer Knowledge questionnaires. The results suggest that about a quarter (23.4%) of the participants performed BSE at least once every month, despite 75.3% believing that checking the breast every month helps in early detection of breast cancer. As expected, those who had ever performed BSE had higher knowledge of breast cancer ( M = 6.722, standard deviation [ SD] = 2.090) compared with those who had never performed BSE ( M = 4.850, SD = 1.982), p = . 000. Similarly, they perceived barriers to performing BSE to be lower ( M = 17.900, SD = 5.733) compared with nonperformers ( M = 19.850, SD = 6.976), p < .05. Results of logistic regression analysis indicated that knowledge level, self-efficacy, and level at the university were statistically significant predictors of BSE. Educational and training programs that focus on equipping women with the skill to perform BSE are therefore recommended.