bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing North Atlantic winter climate response to geomagnetic activity and solar irradiance variability
Authors: Maliniemi Ville , Asikainen Timo , Salminen Antti , Mursula Kalevi
Published: September 2019

Recent studies suggest a response in the North Atlantic winter circulation which lags by a couple of years with respect to sunspot maximum. This has been explained by two different top‐down mechanisms: a solar wind driven particle effect in the polar atmosphere during the declining phase of the solar cycle, and the re‐emergence and amplification of heat anomalies in the Atlantic Ocean produced by enhanced solar ultraviolet (UV). Here we study how December to February climate is affected by two solar‐related drivers: geomagnetic activity (proxy of particle precipitation) and sunspot activity (proxy of solar UV) during 1948–2017. We use reanalysis data of sea‐level pressure (SLP) and zonal wind (U) to show that both geomagnetic activity and sunspot activity independently and simultaneously produce atmospheric circulation responses in the North Atlantic whose evolutions clearly differ from each other. Geomagnetic activity produces a strengthening of the polar vortex and a negative poleward SLP gradient between mid‐ and high latitudes, resembling a positive NAO‐type circulation pattern during December to February. Solar UV produces a positive U anomaly in the low‐latitude stratosphere during December, which moves poleward and downward during the winter resulting in a negative poleward SLP gradient between mid‐ and high latitudes during February. We find the lagged sunspot activity responses in SLP to form zonal pressure patterns (wave‐train structure) resembling the Eurasian pattern. Geomagnetic activity responses remain essentially the same when we introduce the lag with respect to sunspot activity supporting its independency as a driving mechanism. Our results suggest that solar wind related particle precipitation and (lagged) solar UV mechanism provide independent, significant circulation signals in the North Atlantic winter.
Leadership expert shares practical strategies for making shifts that lead to success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2019

ORLANDO, FLA. — Yesterday's style of leadership is no longer enough to effectively lead your organization today.
Carbon‐Intercalated 0D/2D Hybrid of Hematite Quantum Dots/Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanosheets as Superior Catalyst for Advanced Oxidation
Authors: Xi Junhua , Xia Hong , Ning Xingming , Zhang Zhen , Liu Jia , Mu Zijie , Zhang Shouting , Du Peiyao , Lu Xiaoquan
Published: September 2019

Efficient charge separation and sufficiently exposed active sites are important for light‐driving Fenton catalysts. 0D/2D hybrids, especially quantum dots (QDs)/nanosheets (NSs), offer a better opportunity for improving photo‐Fenton activity due to their high charge mobility and more catalytic sites, which is highly desirable but remains a great challenge. Herein, a 0D hematite quantum dots/2D ultrathin g‐C3N4 nanosheets hybrid (Fe2O3 QDs/g‐C3N4 NS) is developed via a facile chemical reaction and subsequent low‐temperature calcination. As expected, the specially designed 0D/2D structure shows remarkable catalytic performance toward the removal of p‐nitrophenol. By virtue of large surface area, adequate active sites, and strong interfacial coupling, the 0D Fe2O3 QDs/2D g‐C3N4 nanosheets establish efficient charge transport paths by local in‐plane carbon species, expediting the separation and transfer of electron/hole pairs. Simultaneously, highly efficient charge mobility can lead to continuous and fast Fe(III)/Fe(II) conversion, promoting a cooperative effect between the photocatalysis and chemical activation of H2O2. The developed carbon‐intercalated 0D/2D hybrid provides a new insight in developing heterogeneous catalysis for a large variety of photoelectronic applications, not limited in photo‐Fenton catalysis.
Self‐Destruction of Cancer Induced by Ag2S Amorphous Nanodots
Authors: Wang Ge , Liu Jing , Zhu Lin , Ma Xiaoming , Wang Xiaobing , Yang Xiaoli , Guo Yuming , Yang Lin , Lu Jun
Published: September 2019

Studies on distinctive performances and novel applications of amorphous inorganic nanomaterials are becoming attractive. Herein, Ag2S amorphous and crystalline nanodots (ANDs and CNDs) are prepared via facile methods. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that Ag2S ANDs, rather than CNDs, can induce the self‐destruction of tumors, which can be attributed to their distinctive chemical properties, e.g., the higher electrochemical active surface area and lower redox potential well matching with the redox reaction requirement in the tumor microenvironment. Ag2S ANDs can be oxidized by intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) to release Ag+, which further stimulates high generation of intracellular ROS. This mutual stimulation damages the mitochondria, induces apoptosis, and leads to the self‐destruction of the tumor. Moreover, Ag2S ANDs do not show observable in vitro and in vivo side effects. These findings provide a promising self‐destructive strategy for cancer therapy by utilizing distinctive chemical properties of inorganic nanomaterials, while avoiding complicated external assistance.
On the Structure of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Pink Demi L. , Loruthai Orathai , Ziolek Robert M. , Wasutrasawat Prawarisa , Terry Ann E. , Lawrence M. Jayne , Lorenz Christian D.
Published: September 2019

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have a crystalline lipid core which is stabilized by interfacial surfactants. SLNs are considered favorable candidates for drug delivery vehicles since their ability to store and release organic molecules can be tailored through the identity of the lipids and surfactants used. When stored, polymorphic transitions in the core of drug‐loaded SLNs lead to the premature release of drug molecules. Significant experimental studies have been conducted with the aim of investigating the physicochemical properties of SLNs, however, no molecular scale investigations have been reported on the behaviors that drive SLN formation and their polymorphic transitions. A combination of small angle neutron scattering and all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations is therefore used to yield a detailed atomistic description of the internal structure of an SLN comprising triglyceride, tripalmitin, and the nonionic surfactant, Brij O10 (C18:1E10). The molecular scale mechanisms by which the surfactants stabilize the crystalline structure of the SLN lipid core are uncovered. By comparing these results to simulated liquid and solid aggregates of tripalmitin lipids, how the morphology of the lipids vary between these systems is demonstrated providing further insight into the mechanisms that control drug encapsulation and release from SLNs.
Moiré‐Potential‐Induced Band Structure Engineering in Graphene and Silicene
Authors: Zhao Mengting , Zhuang Jincheng , Cheng Qunfeng , Hao Weichang , Du Yi
Published: September 2019

A moiré pattern results from the projection of one periodic pattern to another with relative lattice constant or misalignment and provides great periodic potential to modify the electronic properties of pristine materials. In this Review, recent research on the effect of the moiré superlattice on the electronic structures of graphene and silicene, both of which possess a honeycomb lattice, is focused on. The moiré periodic potential is introduced by the interlayer interaction to realize abundant phenomena, including new generation of Dirac cones, emergence of Van Hove singularities (vHs) at the cross point of two sets of Dirac cones, Mott‐like insulating behavior at half‐filling state, unconventional superconductivity, and electronic Kagome lattice and flat band with nontrivial edge state. The role of interlayer coupling strength, which is determined by twist angle and buckling degree, in these exotic properties is discussed in terms of both the theoretical prediction and experimental measurement, and finally, the challenges and outlook for this field are discussed.
Highly Efficient (110) Orientated FA‐MA Mixed Cation Perovskite Solar Cells via Functionalized Carbon Nanotube and Methylammonium Chloride Additive
Authors: Wang Yong , Li Wei , Zhang Taiyang , Li Donghui , Kan Miao , Wang Xingtao , Liu Xiaomin , Wang Tao , Zhao Yixin
Published: September 2019

High‐quality perovskite thin film with few defects/traps is the key to assemble high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Because of the high defects/traps density in polycrystalline perovskite films and challenging fabrication of single crystal devices, the polycrystalline perovskite films consisting of the oriented quasi‐single crystals with reduced defect density are the ideal compromise. In this work, the fabrication of highly crystalline uniaxial‐orientated perovskite thin films is demonstrated, with enhanced charge‐carrier transport through amino‐functionalized carbon nanotube (CNT‐NH2) and methylammonium chloride (MACl) additive. X‐ray scattering, including synchrotron‐based grazing incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, reveal that the MA0.85FA0.15PbI3 thin films grown with the assistance of both CNT‐NH2 and MACl additives exhibit strong (110) orientation. Because of the highly crystallinity, uniaxial‐orientation, and large crystal grain size, the FA‐MA mixed cation perovskite films exhibit improved charge‐carrier dynamics to facilitate charge extraction and transport. The champion PSC device based on these perovskite films achieves power conversation efficiency of 21.05%. This work provides a general approach for preparing high crystalline uniaxial‐orientated perovskite films with enhanced charge‐carrier transport for various optoelectronic applications.
Second Near‐Infrared Absorbing Agents for Photoacoustic Imaging and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Lyu Yan , Li Jingchao , Pu Kanyi
Published: September 2019

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT) provide useful tools for diagnosis and treatments of diseases. However, current applications of PA imaging and PTT are greatly limited by their relying on light source in the first near‐infrared (NIR) window (NIR‐I, 750–1000 nm), which shows shallow tissue penetration depth. Recently, this predicament is addressed by the use of second NIR (NIR‐II) light ranging from 1000 to 1700 nm due to reduced light–tissue interaction and increased allowable power density for light irradiation. Since a few endogenous biomolecules can absorb or emit NIR‐II light, it is necessary to develop contrast and therapeutic agents used for PA imaging and PTT in the NIR‐II window. This review summarizes the recent progresses of NIR‐II absorbing optical agents for PA imaging and PTT in living animal models. The prominent performance of NIR‐II PA imaging and NIR‐II PTT is first introduced with the use of optical agents, followed by discussion of the applications of NIR‐II PTT under the guidance of NIR‐I or NIR‐II PA imaging. At last, challenges and perspectives of NIR‐II absorbing optical agents for PA imaging and PTT are proposed.
HPLC determination of digital fingerprint and reliability of Zhusha Anshen Pills
Authors: Zhang Mengting , Lan Lili , Yu Yue , Zhang Yue , Gong Dandan , Yang Dongjuan , Zhang Yimeng , Lin ShengZhi , Sun Guoxiang
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we aimed to establish Zhusha Anshen Pills chromatogram fingerprint and evaluate it comprehensively with the of traditional Chinese medicine fingerprint evaluation system. The total information index TQ of chromatographic fingerprint was used to optimize the high‐performance liquid chromatography test conditions, and berberine was used as the reference peak to establish the high‐performance liquid chromatography digital fingerprint of Zhusha Anshen Pills. The latent information characteristics of Zhusha Anshen Pills high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint were mined by software, and the quality of samples was controlled within the limit of ±15% of the technical parameters of reference fingerprint. The systematic quantified fingerprint method, the normalized chromatographic fingerprint and the reliability evaluation were also used as multiple controls for Zhusha Anshen Pills. Whether the control of latent information characteristic parameters, systematic quantified fingerprint method or reliability control, they all showed that S1 was significantly different from other batches on the whole, but different from others on the details. Compared with other methods, systematic quantified fingerprint method classification is more clearly, accurate, simple to operate and reliability. It is a worthy quality evaluation method for traditional Chinese medicine.
Investigation of starting torque in entirely tubular submersible motor with rotor sector piece connected by weldments
Authors: Bao Xiaohua , Cheng Shuai , Li Xing
Published: September 2019

The starting performance of a large tubular submersible induction motor is affected by welding slots. To accurately calculate the starting performance of the double bar entirely tubular submersible induction motor (DBETSIM), an equivalent circuit diagram of DBETSIM is established, and the calculation formula of the starting torque of the motor under is derived. Then, the finite element analysis method and the equivalent circuit parameter method were used to calculate the starting parameters, respectively. Comparing DBETSIM with the normal tubular submersible motor, it is found that the second bar structure can improve the starting performance of the motor. Finally, the structure and material of the second bar are optimized and analyzed. It is concluded that the starting performance is improved most when the welding material is aluminum alloy with narrow and deep welding slots, which provides a reference for the design and optimization of DBETSIM. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Symptoms of prolonged grief, posttraumatic stress, and depression in recently bereaved people: symptom profiles, predictive value, and cognitive behavioural correlates
Authors: Boelen Paul A. , Lenferink Lonneke I.M.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Prior latent class analyses (LCA) have focused on people who were bereaved more than 6 months earlier. Research has yet to examine patterns and correlates of emotional responses in the first few months of bereavement. We examined whether subgroups could be identified among very recently (≤ 6 months) bereaved adults, based on their endorsement of symptoms of prolonged grief disorder (PGD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. Associations of class membership with overall disturbed grief, PTSD, and depression—assessed concurrently and at 6 months follow-up—were examined. Furthermore, we examined differences between classes regarding socio-demographics, loss-related, and cognitive behavioural variables.

Methods

PGD, PTSD, and depression self-report data from 322 Dutch individuals bereaved ≤ 6 months earlier were subjected to LCA; N = 159 completed the follow-up assessment. Correlates of class membership were examined.

Results

Three classes were identified: a low symptom class (N = 114; 35.4%), a predominantly PGD class (N = 96; 29.8%), and a high symptom class (N = 112; 34.8%). PGD, PTSD, and depression scores (assessed concurrently and at 6 months follow-up) differed significantly between classes, such that low symptom class < predominantly PGD class < high symptom class. Being a woman, younger, more recently bereaved, experiencing deaths of a partner/child and unnatural losses, plus maladaptive cognitions and avoidance behaviours were associated with membership of the pervasive symptom classes.

Conclusion

In the first 6 months of bereavement, meaningful subgroups of bereaved people can be distinguished, which highlights the relevance of early detection of people with elevated bereavement-related distress and offering them preventive interventions that foster adaptation to loss.
Diversity of feeding strategies in loggerhead sea turtles from the Cape Verde archipelago
Authors: Cameron Sahmorie J. K. , Baltazar-Soares Miguel , Stiebens Victor A. , Reischig Thomas , Correia Sandra M. , Harrod Chris , Eizaguirre Christophe
Published: September 2019

As biodiversity worldwide is decreasing, to preserve adaptive potential, the importance of maintaining species’ genetic and trait diversities is increasing. An efficient foraging strategy is a critical trait for an organism’s fitness, as it affects its physiology and reproduction. Understanding such strategies is especially relevant for species with long feeding migrations such as sea turtles. Using carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes combined with mitochondrial sequencing, we explored the diversity of feeding strategies in genetically differentiated nesting groups of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) within the Cape Verde Archipelago. Here, we reveal a pattern where turtles from most islands use two distinct oceanic feeding strategies, including one putatively linked to a15N-enriched zone of the West African upwelling area. On the Eastern island of Boavista, an additional third strategy exists used by turtles feeding mostly neritically. Contrary to previous paradoxical assumptions, oceanic turtles, that represent the vast majority of the population, are not smaller than neritic turtles and therefore do not seem to feed in a suboptimal environment. Our results also suggest that the number of feeding strategies may correlate with demography, whereby a greater feeding strategy diversity matches demographic signs of recent expansion after a population bottleneck for turtles nesting on the island of Boavista. Overall, the feeding ecology of Cape Verde loggerhead turtles is complex and likely shaped by an interaction between environmental and population parameters. Our results stress the importance of conservation efforts to prevent loss of critical diversity in endangered species.
The safety and efficiency of performing cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections under fluoroscopic control on an ambulatory/outpatient basis
Authors: Bush Keith , Mandegaran Ramin , Robinson Elizabeth , Zavareh Ali
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections (CTFESIs) have become an increasingly utilised means of treating radicular pain over recent decades, although a number of reports have brought their safety into question. Much of this has been attributed to the use of particulate steroids and the theoretical risk of embolic complications with inadvertent intra-arterial injection. This study documents the complications encountered at our centre when performing CTFESI over a more than 10-year study period with predominant use of particulate steroid. Our procedural technique is also described. This study aims to highlight the importance of operator technique first and foremost and how, with safe and reproducible technique that confidently avoids intra-arterial injection, CTFESI can be performed safely irrespective of the choice of steroid.

Methods

All patients undergoing CTFESI between January 2008 and August 2018 at our centre were prospectively recruited to the study, documenting total number of injections/procedures per patient, presence of/description of complications and severity and type of steroid administered.

Results

Five hundred and twenty-seven patients underwent 1047 procedures (1753 individual cervical levels injected) over the study period: 1011 procedures performed with particulate steroid (triamcinolone acetonide) and 36 performed with non-particulate (dexamethasone). Only six complications were encountered, all spontaneously self-resolving without intervention and considered minor (grade 1).

Conclusions

With fastidious safe technique, CTFESI can be safe, efficacious and cost-effectively administered on an outpatient basis. Predominant use of particulate steroids did not lead to any significant complications.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Recent progress in multidisciplinary treatment for patients with esophageal cancer
Authors: Watanabe Masayuki , Otake Reiko , Kozuki Ryotaro , Toihata Tasuku , Takahashi Keita , Okamura Akihiko , Imamura Yu
Published: September 2019

Esophageal cancer is one of the most aggressive gastrointestinal cancers. This review focuses on eight topics within the multidisciplinary approach for esophageal cancer. As esophagectomy is highly invasive and likely to impair quality of life, the development of less invasive strategies is expected. Endoscopic resection (ER) of early esophageal cancer is a less invasive treatment for early esophageal cancer. A recent phase II trial revealed that combined ER and chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is efficacious as an esophagus-preserving treatment for cT1bN0 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Esophagectomy and definitive CRT are equally effective for patients with clinical stage I SCC in terms of long-term outcome. For locally advanced resectable cancers, multidisciplinary treatment strategies have been established through several clinical trials of neoadjuvant or perioperative treatment. Minimally invasive esophagectomy may improve the outcomes of patients and CRT is a curative-intent alternative to esophagectomy. CRT with 50.4 Gy radiotherapy combined with salvage surgery is a promising option to preserve the esophagus. Induction chemotherapy followed by esophagectomy may improve the outcomes of patients with locally advanced unresectable tumors. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are effective for esophageal cancer, and their introduction to clinical practice is awaited.
Integrating enzyme evolution and high-throughput screening for efficient biosynthesis of l-DOPA
Authors: Zeng Weizhu , Xu Bingbing , Du Guocheng , Chen Jian , Zhou Jingwen
Published: September 2019

l-DOPA is a key pharmaceutical agent for treating Parkinson’s, and market demand has exploded due to the aging population. There are several challenges associated with the chemical synthesis of l-DOPA, including complicated operation, harsh conditions, and serious pollution. A biocatalysis route for l-DOPA production is promising, especially via a route catalyzed by tyrosine phenol lyase (TPL). In this study, using TPL derived from Erwinia herbicola (Eh-TPL), a mutant Eh-TPL was obtained by integrating enzyme evolution and high-throughput screening methods. l-DOPA production using recombinant Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) cells harbouring mutant Eh-TPL was enhanced by 36.5% in shake flasks, and the temperature range and alkali resistance of the Eh-TPL mutant were promoted. Sequence analysis revealed two mutated amino acids in the mutant (S20C and N161S), which reduced the length of a hydrogen bond and generated new hydrogen bonds. Using a fed-batch mode for whole-cell catalysis in a 5 L bioreactor, the titre of l-DOPA reached 69.1 g L−1 with high productivity of 11.52 g L−1 h−1, demonstrating the great potential of Eh-TPL variants for industrial production of l-DOPA.
Longitudinal change in physical functioning and dropout due to death among the oldest old: a comparison of three methods of analysis
Authors: Raitanen Jani , Stenholm Sari , Tiainen Kristina , Jylhä Marja , Nevalainen Jaakko
Published: September 2019

Longitudinal studies examining changes in physical functioning with advancing age among very old people are plagued by high death rates, which can lead to biased estimates. This study was conducted to analyse changes in physical functioning among the oldest old with three distinct methods which differ in how they handle dropout due to death. The sample consisted of 3992 persons aged 90 or over in the Vitality 90+ Study who were followed up on average for 2.5 years (range 0–13 years). A generalized estimating equation (GEE) with independent ‘working’ correlation, a linear mixed-effects (LME) model and a joint model consisting of longitudinal and survival submodels were used to estimate the effect of age on physical functioning over 13 years of follow-up. We observed significant age-related decline in physical functioning, which furthermore accelerated significantly with age. The average rate of decline differed markedly between the models: the GEE-based estimate for linear decline among survivors was about one-third of the average individual decline in the joint model and half the decline indicated by the LME model. In conclusion, the three methods yield substantially different views on decline in physical functioning: the GEE model may be useful for considering the effect of intervention measures on the outcome among living people, whereas the LME model is biased regarding studying outcomes associated with death. The joint model may be valuable for predicting the future characteristics of the oldest old and planning elderly care as life expectancy continues gradually to rise.
Media studies in the UK
Authors: Golding P.
Published: September 2019

This article outlines the growth and character of media and communication studies in the UK. It sets out the history and development of the field, and explains its twin origins in both humanities and social sciences contexts. The article also presents some descriptive data about the scale and nature of teaching and research in the field in UK higher education, and explains the evolution of relevant subject associations. The public, political and professional reception of and responsse to the field are described, and the continuing debates about its value and salience examined.
Psychological and Sexual Consequences of Psoriasis Vulgaris on Patients and Their Partners
Authors: Alariny Ali Fouad , Farid Carmen Ibrahim , Elweshahi Heba Mahmoud , Abbood Sahar Salim
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Psoriasis is a chronic, multisystem, inflammatory, disfiguring disease with a high negative impact on quality of life due to comorbid psychological, organic, and sexual consequences.

Aim

To evaluate the psychopathological and sexual aspects of psoriasis vulgaris in patients and their partners compared to healthy controls.

Methods

In the current comparative cross-sectional study, the sample included 220 psoriasis vulgaris patients (110 males and 110 females), their consenting partners, and 220 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. All participants were evaluated for depression and anxiety using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and for low self-esteem using the Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Questionnaire. Sexual function was assessed in females using the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire and in males using the International Index of Erectile Function and its abbreviated 5-item version. For male patients suffering from erectile dysfunction, hormonal assessment and penile duplex ultrasound were added.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measures were frequency of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and sexual dysfunction in psoriasis vulgaris patients, partners, and controls; the domains of sexual function affected in the studied groups; and the etiology of erectile dysfunction in affected psoriatic males.

Results

Frequency of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem were significantly higher in psoriasis patients of both sexes compared with controls. Sexual dysfunction followed the same trend of being significantly higher in cases when compared to controls. Females had a significantly higher frequency of sexual dysfunction than males. Sexual dysfunction in both sexes involved multiple domains of the sexual response cycle, with depression and genital affection by psoriasis being risk factors in both sexes and disease severity being an additional risk factor in females. Erectile dysfunction was mainly psychogenic in origin in male patients.

Clinical Implications

Assessment of psychopathological and sexual comorbidities in psoriasis patients and partners should be an integral part of the management plan and should be added to the guidelines of the disease.

Strength & Limitations

This study is of sufficient power to draw solid conclusions. Assessment of the partners and determination of the sexual domains affected by the disease and nature of erectile dysfunction in males are points of novelty. The cross-sectional design is a limitation of the study.

Conclusion

Psoriatic patients of both sexes and their partners suffer from a high burden of psychopathological and sexual consequences that are related to disease distribution and severity.
Dyspareunia Related to GSM: Association of Total Vaginal Thickness via Transabdominal Ultrasound
Authors: Balica Adrian C. , Cooper Alexandria M. , McKevitt Mariah K. , Schertz Katherine , Wald-Spielman Daniella , Egan Susan , Bachmann Gloria A.
Published: September 2019

Introduction

It has previously been suggested in the literature that ultrasound measurement of total vaginal wall thickness (TVT) differs significantly between pre- and postmenopausal women, indicating that it may be a useful and noninvasive objective assessment to correlate the degree of vaginal atrophy to patient-reported symptoms.

Aim

The purpose of this cross-sectional pilot study was to determine whether TVT in postmenopausal women, as measured with transabdominal ultrasound, is associated with patient-reported dyspareunia and symptoms related to genitourinary symptomatology.

Methods

Postmenopausal women presenting for pelvic ultrasound had TVT and total mucosal thickness (TMT) measured via transabdominal ultrasound. A questionnaire also was administered assessing menopausal status, relevant medical history, and self-report of dyspareunia and other symptoms related to the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). This questionnaire was derived from the Vulvovaginal Symptom Questionnaire, which has been validated in the literature.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measures included the average TVT and TMT for postmenopausal women reporting any symptom of GSM and average TVT and TMT of women reporting no symptoms of GSM.

Results

Data from 44 postmenopausal women showed no significant association between transabdominal ultrasound-measured TVT or TMT and patient report of dyspareunia or other genitourinary symptoms. Data were stratified by individual GSM symptoms, sexual symptoms as an aggregate, and individual sexual symptoms. Neither of these subgroups showed a statistically significant difference in TVT or TMT between symptomatic and asymptomatic women.

Clinical Implications

Although no statistically significant data were derived from this study, we propose that future studies investigating the longitudinal relationship between TVT and GSM symptomatology may show an association between total vaginal thickness measurement change over time as determined by ultrasound with the presence of patient-reported dyspareunia and other GSM symptoms.

Strengths & Limitations

This study is limited by its small sample size as well as the patient population, which was restricted to postmenopausal women with a clinical indication for ultrasound. A major strength of this investigation is that it is the first study to look at the relationship between sexual pain and other GSM symptoms and TVT using transabdominal ultrasound, which is a readily available, non-invasive tool in most clinical settings.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this small pilot study, transabdominal pelvic ultrasound cannot be used at this time to objectively quantify the presence of sexual pain or other GSM symptoms; however, future studies should continue to investigate the longitudinal relationship between these 2 variables.
Beyond the Post-Sovereign State?: The Past, Present, and Future of Constitutional Pluralism
Authors: WILKINSON Michael
Published: September 2019

Constitutional pluralism is a theory for the post-sovereign European state. This only makes sense historically, emerging out of postwar European reconstruction through the repression of popular sovereignty and restraining of democracy, including through the project of European integration. It became unsettled at Maastricht and evolved from a series of irritants into a full-blown crisis in the recent decade, with sovereignty claims returning both from the bottom-up and the top-down, to the extent that we can legitimately ask whether we are now moving ‘beyond the post-sovereign state’? Constitutional pluralist literature fails to capture this in that evades material issues of democracy and political economy.
Blockchain-Based Voting in the US and EU Constitutional Orders: A Digital Technology to Secure Democratic Values?
Authors: JOHNSON Desmond
Published: September 2019

The right to vote and participate in the political process is a quintessential feature of any democratic society. Systematic risks to the integrity of US elections and passive civic participation in the EU political process present fundamental threats to the constitutional aspirations and the democratic ideals connected to “We the People” in the US and “United in Diversity” in the EU. The existence of power imbalances, social inequalities and information asymmetries in electoral and political processes illustrate that both jurisdictions are in peril and in risk of democratic backsliding. Blockchain-based voting can transform existing electoral and political processes in the digital age. This raises the question whether blockchain-based voting can be utilised as a digital tool to enhance the democratic legitimacy of US and EU electoral and political systems. Accordingly, this article aims to examine the prospects and limits of blockchain technology to secure foundational democratic norms connected to the right to vote and civic participation at the heart of contemporary constitutionalism. It contends that the decentralised, immutable, accessible, transparent, and secure processes of blockchain technology have the potential to enhance the legitimacy of the US and EU constitutional orders, since blockchain-based voting can act as a forum for enhanced civic participation, public deliberation, and democratic contestation. Nevertheless, the article concludes that a number of important steps must be taken to fully realise the potential of blockchain-based voting in a manner that combats the risks associated with the technology, strengthens public confidence in electoral and political processes and secures a balanced system of governance in the US and the EU constitutional orders.
Perturbation theory for metal pad roll instability in cylindrical reduction cells
Authors: Herreman W. , Nore C. , Guermond J.-L. , Cappanera L. , Weber N. , Horstmann G. M.
Published: September 2019

We propose a new theoretical model for metal pad roll instability in idealized cylindrical reduction cells. In addition to the usual destabilizing effects, we model viscous and Joule dissipation and some capillary effects. The resulting explicit formulas are used as theoretical benchmarks for two multiphase magnetohydrodynamic solvers, OpenFOAM and SFEMaNS. Our explicit formula for the viscous damping rate of gravity waves in cylinders with two fluid layers compares excellently to experimental measurements. We use our model to locate the viscously controlled instability threshold in cylindrical shallow reduction cells but also in Mg–Sb liquid metal batteries with decoupled interfaces.
Sheared free-surface flow over three-dimensional obstructions of finite amplitude
Authors: Akselsen Andreas H. , Ellingsen Simen Å.
Published: September 2019

When shallow water flows over uneven bathymetry, the water surface is modulated. This type of problem has been revisited numerous times since it was first studied by Lord Kelvin in 1886. Our study analytically examines currents whose unperturbed velocity profile$U(z)$follows a power law $z^{q}$, flowing over a three-dimensional uneven bed. This particular form of $U$, which can model a miscellany of realistic flows, allows explicit analytical solutions. Arbitrary bed shapes can readily be imposed via Fourier’s theorem provided their steepness is moderate. Three-dimensional vorticity–bathymetry interaction effects are evident when the flow makes an oblique angle with a sinusoidally corrugated bed. Streamlines are found to twist and the fluid particle drift is redirected away from the direction of the unperturbed current. Furthermore, a perturbation technique is developed which satisfies the bottom boundary condition to arbitrary order also for large-amplitude obstructions which penetrate well into the current profile. This introduces higher-order harmonics of the bathymetry amplitude. States of resonance for first- and higher-order harmonics are readily calculated. Although the method is theoretically restricted to bathymetries of moderate inclination, a wide variety of steeper obstructions are satisfactorily represented by the method, even provoking occurrences of recirculation. All expressions are analytically explicit and sequential fast Fourier transformations ensure quick and easy computation for arbitrary three-dimensional bathymetries. A method for separating near and far fields ensures computational convergence under the appropriate radiation condition.
Subgrid-scale structure and fluxes of turbulence underneath a surface wave
Authors: Chen Kuanyu , Wan Minping , Wang Lian-Ping , Chen Shiyi
Published: September 2019

In this study, the behaviours of subgrid-scale (SGS) turbulence are investigated with direct numerical simulations when an isotropic turbulence is brought to interact with imposed rapid waves. A partition of the velocity field is used to decompose the SGS stress into three parts, namely, the turbulent part$\unicode[STIX]{x1D749}^{T}$, the wave-induced part$\unicode[STIX]{x1D749}^{W}$and the cross-interaction part$\unicode[STIX]{x1D749}^{C}$. Under strong wave straining,$\unicode[STIX]{x1D749}^{T}$is found to follow the Kolmogorov scaling$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{c}^{2/3}$, where$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{c}$is the filter width. Based on the linear Airy wave theory,$\unicode[STIX]{x1D749}^{W}$and the filtered strain-rate tensor due to the wave motion,$\tilde{\unicode[STIX]{x1D64E}}^{W}$, are found to have different phases, posing a difficulty in applying the usual eddy-viscosity model. On the other hand,$\unicode[STIX]{x1D749}^{T}$and the filtered strain-rate tensor due to the turbulent motion,$\tilde{\unicode[STIX]{x1D64E}}^{T}$, are only weakly wave-phase-dependent and could be well related by an eddy-viscosity model. The linear wave theory is also used to describe the vertical distributions of SGS statistics driven by the wave-induced motion. The predictions are in good agreement with the direct numerical simulation results. The budget equation for the turbulent SGS kinetic energy shows that the transport terms related to turbulence are important near the free surface and they compensate the imbalance between the energy flux and the SGS energy dissipation.
The ‘Pedagogy of discomfort’: A qualitative exploration of non-indigenous student learning in a First Peoples health course
Authors: Mills Kyly , Creedy Debra
Published: September 2019

Abstract To improve healthcare practices and increase cultural safety when working with First Peoples, it is essential that students engage with challenging discourses that critically engage their social, political, personal, professional and historical positioning. Such engagement may provoke emotional responses in students. However, little is known about the nature of non-indigenous students’ emotional engagement when learning First Peoples health content that integrates cultural safety principles. The pedagogy of discomfort is a process of self-examination that requires students to critically engage their ideological assumptions and may be useful in examining the emotional dimension that occurs when learning this content. Eighty-two non-indigenous health students gave permission for their critical reflective essays, submitted as an assessment requirement of a First Peoples health course to be analysed. Elements of the pedagogy of discomfort informed the analytical and theoretical framework. The emotional engagement by students was captured in the following overarching themes: Acknowledging preconceived ideas; Uncomfortable emotions; Fragile identities; Spectating and Witnessing. Findings highlight how students' emotional engagement may contribute to changes in perspective and frames of reference, transpiring to a ‘call to action’ that challenges systems of differential privilege. While many students expressed discomfort when learning about key cultural safety concepts, the extent of transformative potential varied.
Cécile Morette and the Les Houches summer school for theoretical physics; or, how Girl Scouts, the 1944 Caen bombing and a marriage proposal helped rebuild French physics (1951–1972)
Authors: VERSCHUEREN PIERRE
Published: September 2019

The aftermath of the Second World War represented a major turning point in the history of French and European physical sciences. The physicist's profession was profoundly restructured, and in this transition the role of internationalism changed tremendously. Transnational circulation became a major part of research training. This article examines the conditions of possibility for this transformation, by focusing on the case of the summer school for theoretical physics created in 1951 by the young Cécile Morette (1922–2017), just in front of Mont Blanc, at Les Houches. First I show that ultimately it was only thanks to extremely specific and intertwined social positions and dispositions, in terms of class and gender (derived from her socialization as an expecteddame de la bourgeoisie), and through the interactions between such social attributes and a dramatic life event, that Morette managed to gather a network diverse, powerful and transnational enough to create this institution. Then, following the first years of this school, I show how it became an international model, paving the way to new articulations between the local, the national and the global scales, even beyond the Cold War oppositions.
Physical activity and Baltic Sea diet are interactively related to higher life satisfaction in community-living older Finnish women: OSTPRE-FPS study
Authors: Isanejad Masoud , Koivumaa-Honkanen Heli , Ruiz de Santiago Diana , Honkanen Risto , Rikkonen Toni , Sirola Joonas , Kröger Heikki , Erkkilä Arja T.
Published: September 2019

A healthful diet and sufficient physical activity (PA) are related to several health outcomes. However, there is a paucity of data on the association of PA and dietary pattern with life satisfaction (LS) in the older adults aged ≥65. The present study investigated the independent and combined association of PA and Baltic Sea diet (BSD) score with LS in older Finnish women. Subjects were 554 women aged 65–72 years from the Osteoporosis Risk Factor and Prevention – Fracture Prevention Study. Women reported the hours and type of PA and lifestyle factors via questionnaires and dietary intake using the 3-d food record. Adequate PA was considered according to WHO recommendation: PA = 0, 0 < PA < 2·5 and ≥2·5 h/week. BSD score was categorised as <13 or ≥13 based on the median score. LS was self-reported using LS scale with four items on current ‘interest’, ‘happiness in life’, ‘ease of living’ and ‘feelings of loneliness’ (range: 4–20, lower score representing higher satisfaction). After adjusting for the confounders, PA was statistically significantly associated with lower LS score (β coefficient = −0·207, P = 0·001), where women with PA ≥ 2·5 h/week had the lowest LS score followed by women with 0 < PA < 2·5 and PA = 0 (Pfor trend = 0·020). Association between BSD and LS was NS. Only among women with BSD score ≥ 13, but not BSD < 13, PA ≥ 2·5 h/week was statistically significantly associated with lower LS score (mean = 9·3), followed by 0 < PA < 2·5 (mean = 9·9) and PA = 0 groups (mean = 11·8) (Pfor trend = 0·033). In conclusion, adequate PA according to WHO recommendation independently and in combination with higher BSD score may be associated with higher LS in older women.
A HISTORICAL EXAMINATION OF VICARIOUS LIABILITY: A “VERITABLE UPAS TREE”?
Authors: Swain Warren
Published: September 2019

Vicarious liability was, and it remains, curiously unsatisfactory. After a period of stability from the Middle Ages into the early modern period in the late seventeenth into the early eighteenth century, the existing law of vicarious liability began to be challenged. The mid-nineteenth century saw another reappraisal coinciding with the rise of notions of fault. The period that follows, from the late nineteenth century until after the Second World War period has not attracted much comment. One key debate in this period and earlier which provides a useful lens to examine the doctrine was whether vicarious liability should be properly characterised as a master's or servant's tort theory. The history of the doctrine during this period goes some way to explaining why the modern law remains incoherent.
Autistic spectrum disorder symptoms in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a meta-analytical review
Authors: Hollingdale Jack , Woodhouse Emma , Young Susan , Fridman Adie , Mandy Will
Published: September 2019

Background

Research identifies highly variable prevalence estimates for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), particularly between community and clinical samples, warranting quantitative meta-analyses to investigate the true prevalence of ASD in children and adolescents with ADHD.

Methods

Studies were identified through a systematic literature search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE and Web of Science through January 2018. Twenty-two publications met inclusion criteria (totalN= 61 985). Two random effects meta-analyses were conducted: (1) to identify the proportion of children and adolescents with ADHD that met criteria for ASD; and (2) to compare the severity of dimensionally-measured ASD symptomology in children and adolescents with and without ADHD.

Results

The overall pooled effect for children and adolescents with ADHD who met threshold for ASD was 21%. There was no significant difference between community samples (19%) and clinical samples (24%) or between US studiesv.those from other countries. Children and adolescents with ADHD had substantially more dimensionally-measured ASD traits compared with those who did not have ADHD (d= 1.23).

Conclusion

The findings provide further evidence that ADHD and ASD are associated in nature. Clinical and research implications are discussed.
The association of striatal volume and positive schizotypy in healthy subjects: intelligence as a moderating factor
Authors: Meller Tina , Ettinger Ulrich , Grant Phillip , Nenadić Igor
Published: September 2019

Background

Schizotypy, a putative schizophrenia endophenotype, has been associated with brain-structural variations partly overlapping with those in psychotic disorders. Variations in precuneus structure have been repeatedly reported, whereas the involvement of fronto-striatal networks – as in schizophrenia – is less clear. While shared genetic architecture is thought to increase vulnerability to environmental insults, beneficial factors like general intelligence might buffer their effect.

Methods

To further investigate the role of fronto-striatal networks in schizotypy, we examined the relationship of voxel- and surface-based brain morphometry and a measure of schizotypal traits (Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, with subscores Cognitive-Perceptual, Interpersonal, Disorganised) in 115 healthy participants [54 female, mean age (s.d.) = 27.57(8.02)]. We tested intelligence (MWT-B) as a potential moderator.

Results

We found a positive association of SPQ Cognitive-Perceptual with putamen volume (p = 0.040, FWE peak level-corrected), moderated by intelligence: with increasing IQ, the correlation of SPQ Cognitive-Perceptual and striatal volume decreased (p = 0.022). SPQ Disorganised was positively correlated with precentral volume (p = 0.013, FWE peak level-corrected). In an exploratory analysis (p < 0.001, uncorrected), SPQ total score was positively associated with gyrification in the precuneus and postcentral gyrus, and SPQ Disorganised was negatively associated with gyrification in the inferior frontal gyrus.

Conclusions

Our findings support the role of fronto-striatal networks for schizotypal features in healthy individuals, and suggest that these are influenced by buffering factors like intelligence. We conclude that protective factors, like general cognitive capacity, might attenuate the psychosis risk associated with schizotypy. These results endorse the idea of a continuous nature of schizotypy, mirroring similar findings in schizophrenia.