bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural, thermal, rheological and mechanical properties of polypropylene/graphene nanoplatelets composites: Effect of particle size and melt mixing conditions
Authors: Beuguel Quentin , Mija Alice , Vergnes Bruno , Peuvrel‐Disdier Edith
Published: December 2017

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) of various sizes were mixed with polypropylene (PP) in an internal mixer to prepare composites. The effects of mixing conditions, GNP size and concentration in composites were investigated. The composites were characterized at different scales, using electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and rheometry. It was shown that the PP/GNP composites had to be considered as non‐intercalated and non‐exfoliated microcomposites. However, the thermal, rheological and mechanical properties of the PP/GNP microcomposites were improved with respect to that of the matrix and similar to those of thermoplastic/organoclay or reduced graphene nanocomposites. In the best cases, storage modulus plateau in the glassy domain was increased by 30% and onset of degradation temperature by 40°C. Finally, in the investigated range of this study, the mixing conditions applied in the internal mixer did not affect the structural and rheological properties of the PP/GNP composites. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1937–1944, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Calcium ion‐induced self‐healing pattern of chemically crosslinked poly(acrylic acid) hydrogels
Authors: Anjum Sadiya , Gurave Pramod M , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: December 2017

Poly(acrylic acid) hydrogels crosslinked with N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide were synthesized by free radical polymerization. Polymerization conditions had a significant influence over the gel content and swelling behaviour of the hydrogels. The incorporation of calcium ions led to the origin of a self‐healing feature. The self‐healing behaviour and mechanical performance of the hydrogels were systematically investigated. The hydrogels showed good tensile strength of 1 MPa and excellent stretchable behaviour where hydrogels regained instantaneously. Hydrogel pieces joined together to become an integrated matrix as soon as two cut pieces were brought in contact. The hydrogels possessed a marked healing efficiency of 97% within 6 h at room temperature without any external intervention. The results are explained in terms of the dynamic mobility of calcium ions within the dual‐crosslinked networks of the poly(acrylic acid) hydrogels. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Dynamical behavior of magnetic polarizable microsphere using whispering gallery mode
Authors: Rubino Edoardo , Ioppolo Tindaro
Published: December 2017

In this article, analytical and experimental studies are carried out to investigate the dynamical behavior of polymer microspheres that are doped with magnetic polarizable microparticles. The effect of a static and harmonic inductive magnetic field on the elastic deformation of the microsphere is investigated. The elastic deformation that is induced by the magnetic forces (magnetostrictive effect) acting on the microsphere is measured using an optical technique that is based on the whispering gallery mode (WGM) of the microsphere. The WGMs experience a shift when the morphology of the resonator is perturbed by the elastic deformation. Therefore, the elastic deformation of the microsphere is measured by monitoring the shift of the optical resonances. For these studies, the microsphere has a radius of ∼600 µm and is fabricated by mixing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with magnetic polarizable microparticles. The microsphere is further coated with a thin layer of pure PVC that serves as a wave‐guide for the optical modes. Experiments are carried out to validate the analysis. Measurements are taken up to a frequency of 200 Hz, showing that the microspheres can be used as magnetic field sensors or as element for the fabrication of smart structures. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 598–603
Physicians' emotion regulation during communication with advanced cancer patients
Authors: De Vries A.M.M. , Gholamrezaee M.M. , Verdonck‐de Leeuw I.M. , de Roten Y. , Despland J.N. , Stiefel F. , Passchier J.
Published: December 2017

Objective

In cancer care, optimal communication between patients and their physicians is, among other things, dependent on physicians' emotion regulation, which might be related to physicians' as well as patients' characteristics. In this study, we investigated physicians' emotion regulation during communication with advanced cancer patients, in relation to physicians' (stress, training, and alexithymia) and patients' (sadness, anxiety, and alexithymia) characteristics.

Methods

In this study, 134 real‐life consultations between 24 physicians and their patients were audio‐recorded and transcribed. The consultations were coded with the “Defence Mechanisms Rating Scale—Clinician.” Physicians completed questionnaires about stress, experience, training, and alexithymia, while patients completed questionnaires about sadness, anxiety, and alexithymia. Data were analysed using linear mixed effect models.

Results

Physicians used several defence mechanisms when communicating with their patients. Overall defensive functioning was negatively related to physicians' alexithymia. The number of defence mechanisms used was positively related to physicians' stress and alexithymia as well as to patients' sadness and anxiety. Neither physicians' experience and training nor patients' alexithymia were related to the way physicians regulated their emotions.

Conclusions

This study showed that physicians' emotion regulation is related to both physician (stress and alexithymia) and patient characteristics (sadness and anxiety). The study also generated several hypotheses on how physicians' emotion regulation relates to contextual variables during health care communication in cancer care.
Occurrence of target‐site resistance to neonicotinoids in the aphid Myzus persicae in Tunisia, and its status on different host plants
Authors: Charaabi Kamel , Boukhris‐Bouhachem Sonia , Makni Mohamed , Denholm Ian
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

The R81T mutation conferring target‐site resistance to neonicotinoid insecticides in Myzus persicae was first detected in France and has since spread across much of southern Europe. In response to recent claims of control failure with neonicotinoids in Tunisia, we have used a molecular assay to investigate the presence and distribution of this target‐site mutation in samples collected from six locations and six crops attacked by M. persicae.

RESULTS

The resistance allele containing R81T was present at substantial frequencies (32–55%) in aphids collected between 2014 and 2016 from northern Tunisia but was much rarer further south. It occurred in aphids collected from the aphid's primary host (peach) and four secondary crop hosts (potato, pepper, tomato and melon). Its absence in aphids from tobacco highlights complexities in the systematics of M. persicae that require further investigation.

CONCLUSION

This first report of R81T from North Africa reflects a continuing expansion of its range around the Mediterranean Basin, although it remains unrecorded elsewhere in the world. Loss of efficacy of neonicotinoids presents a serious threat to the sustainability of aphid control. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Electron‐density delocalization in many‐electron atoms confined by penetrable walls: A Hartree–Fock study
Authors: Rodriguez‐Bautista Mariano , Vargas Rubicelia , Aquino Norberto , Garza Jorge
Published: December 2017

The electronic structure of several many‐electron atoms, confined within a penetrable spherical box, was studied using the Hartree–Fock (HF) method, coupling the Roothaan's approach with a new basis set to solve the corresponding one‐electron equations. The resulting HF wave‐function was employed to evaluate the Shannon entropy,
, in configuration space. Confinements imposed by impenetrable walls induce decrements on
when the confinement radius, Rc, is reduced and the electron‐density is localized. For confinements commanded by penetrable walls,
exhibits an entirely different behavior, because when an atom starts to be confined,
delivers values less than those observed for the free system, in the same way that the results presented by impenetrable walls. However, from a confinement radius,
shows increments, and precisely in these regions, the spatial restrictions spread to the electron density. Thus, from results presented in this work, the Shannon entropy can be used as a tool to measure the electron density delocalization for many‐electron atoms, as the hydrogen atom confined in similar conditions.
Establishing a National Police Emergency Response Center: How Urgency Led to Delay
Authors: Tom Christensen , Lægreid Per , Rykkja Lise H.
Published: December 2017

This article describes and analyzes the decision‐making process related to the establishment of Norway's National Police Emergency Response Center (NPERC). Following the July 22, 2011 terrorist attacks, Norway's Inquiry Commission recommended the establishment of a NPERC at one physical site. The goal was to enhance governance capacity and contribute to crisis mitigation, prevention, preparedness, and operational crisis management. Although the main actors claimed that such a center was urgently needed, it took several years for the government to reach a final decision. The main puzzle is, why did it take so long? To answer this question, we use a structural‐instrumental perspective and a garbage‐can approach, while also focusing on the issues of shifting attention and agenda‐setting. We conclude that the decision‐making process was marked by a lack of rational calculation but also influenced by external shocks, focusing events, and windows of opportunities. This led to changing expectations, shifts in attention and opportunities for new agenda‐setting. Hence, the choices made throughout the decision‐making process can be seen as the linkage of a specific policy stream, a political stream, and a problem stream. Our main conclusion is that the sense of urgency created by the terrorist attacks led to a delay in the decision‐making process.
Master‐slave synchronization for coupled neural networks with Markovian switching topologies and stochastic perturbation
Authors: Zhou Jun , Cai Tingting , Zhou Wuneng , Tong Dongbing
Published: December 2017

In this paper, the master‐slave synchronization for coupled neural networks with Markovian jumping topology and stochastic perturbation is discussed. Based on a graph theory, the ergodic property of the Markovian chain, and the strong law of the large numbers for local martingales, several sufficient conditions are established to ensure the almost sure exponential synchronization or asymptotic synchronization in mean square for coupled neural networks with Markovian jumping topology. By the pinning control method, the chaotic synchronization between the master system and the slave systems with stochastic disturbance is achieved. The effectiveness of the results is finally illustrated by a numerical example.
Students as researchers: What and why seventh‐grade students choose to write when investigating their own research question
Authors: Bjørkvold Tuva , Blikstad‐Balas Marte
Published: December 2017

All scientists depend on both reading and writing to do their scientific work. It is of paramount importance to ensure that students have a relevant repertoire of practices they can employ when facing scientific content inside and outside the school context. The present study reports on students in seventh grade acting as researchers. Over an 8‐week collaborative research period, students posed their own research question, attempted to answer it by systematically testing hypotheses, discussing findings, presenting their conclusions, and documenting their process in a written report. Drawing on the perspectives of New Literacy Studies—which sees literacy as socially situated—we analyze the purpose of all the 21 participating students’ texts (n = 344). Video observations and interviews with students are used to contextualize the writing events. We find that the students chose to write multiple kinds of texts for a variety of purposes. Analyzing purpose and the context, three stages of socialization into scientific writing is revealed, ranging from what the students write on their own initiative, via texts written through challenges to demanding research tasks scaffolded through writing instructions given by the teacher. Further, the students emphasized the relevance of both the research experience and the writing to their future adult life.
Intensity modulation of the Shirley background of the Cr 3p spectra with photon energies around the Cr 2p edge
Authors: Herrera‐Gomez Alberto , Cabrera‐German Dagoberto , Dutoi Anthony D. , Vazquez‐Lepe Milton , Aguirre‐Tostado Servando , Pianetta Piero , Nordlund Dennis , Cortazar‐Martinez Orlando , Torres‐Ochoa Alejandro , Ceballos‐Sanchez Oscar , Gomez‐Muñoz Lizeth
Published: December 2017

The background in X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data originates, partially, from inelastically scattered photoelectrons. In fact, the current theoretical methods for calculating the background intensity are based on electron energy losses. However, a critical part of the experimental signal, which is known as the Shirley background, cannot be described within the current formalisms. This suggests that the Shirley electrons are not associated with energy losses of photoelectrons and must originate from a different photoexcitation phenomenon with a cross section of its own. We propose a mechanism based on core channeling as the physical origin of the Shirley signal.
A functional supervised learning approach to the study of blood pressure data
Authors: Papayiannis Georgios I. , Giakoumakis Emmanuel A. , Manios Efstathios D. , Moulopoulos Spyros D. , Stamatelopoulos Kimon S. , Toumanidis Savvas T. , Zakopoulos Nikolaos A. , Yannacopoulos Athanasios N.
Published: December 2017

In this work, a functional supervised learning scheme is proposed for the classification of subjects into normotensive and hypertensive groups, using solely the 24‐hour blood pressure data, relying on the concepts of Fréchet mean and Fréchet variance for appropriate deformable functional models for the blood pressure data. The schemes are trained on real clinical data, and their performance was assessed and found to be very satisfactory.
Dancing with the stars: Benefits of a star employee’s temporary absence for organizational performance
Authors: Chen John S. , Garg Pranav
Published: December 2017

Research Summary: While research has focused primarily on stars as individual contributors, we examine organizational situations where stars must work closely with non‐stars. We argue that, in such situations, building teamwork around a star is an exercise in learning under complexity. In response, organizations prioritize interactions involving the star to simplify learning. This simplification, however, creates organizational myopia. We claim that a star’s temporary absence helps the organization overcome myopia by triggering a search for new routines. When he returns, the organization may combine these new routines with pre‐absence routines to improve teamwork and performance. We exploit injuries to star players in the National Basketball Association as an exogenous shock and find that on average, teams perform better after a star’s return than before his absence.

Managerial Summary: This study examines the effect of the temporary absence of a star employee on organizational performance. We find evidence that a star employee’s temporary absence helps the organization overcome an over‐reliance on the star and improve teamwork. Improved teamwork, in turn, enables the organization to perform better upon the star’s return than it did prior to his absence. This result suggests that organizations might want to revisit the tendency to view stars as too valuable to lose, even for a short time. In particular, organizations may want to pull stars from ongoing projects and encourage them to attend professional development programs. A star’s temporary absence and return from such a program improves not only the star’s skills but also the organization’s teamwork.
The courage to choose! Primogeniture and leadership succession in family firms
Authors: Calabrò Andrea , Minichilli Alessandro , Amore Mario Daniele , Brogi Marina
Published: December 2017

Research Summary: Building on a unique data set with information on the nuclear structure of entrepreneurial families, we integrate leadership succession into a socioemotional wealth (SEW) logic to test the antecedents and consequences of primogeniture vis‐à‐vis second‐ or subsequent‐born selection in family firm succession. Our findings suggest that appointing a family firstborn sibling is more likely when there is a high degree of SEW endowment and the family firm has pre‐succession performance below aspiration levels. Next, we find that appointing a second‐ or subsequent‐born sibling has a positive and significant effect on post‐succession firm profitability, particularly when the firm is in its second generation or later.

Managerial Summary: What drives succession choices in family firms? What are the performance implications of each succession choice? These are questions of vital relevance for every business owner. Focusing on the pool of potential family heirs at the time of succession, our study adds to the debate on the drivers of succession choices by suggesting that having a family intensive governance structure fosters primogeniture as the main succession logic, even when the family firm is experiencing lower profitability. Our study informs business owners on the implications of different succession policies, suggesting that family firms that have the courage to disregard primogeniture and choose more wisely the family successor are also the ones experiencing higher post‐succession performance.
Chiral Plasmonic Hydrogen Sensors
Authors: Matuschek Marcus , Singh Dhruv Pratap , Jeong Hyeon‐Ho , Nesterov Maxim , Weiss Thomas , Fischer Peer , Neubrech Frank , Liu Na
Published: December 2017

In this article, a chiral plasmonic hydrogen‐sensing platform using palladium‐based nanohelices is demonstrated. Such 3D chiral nanostructures fabricated by nanoglancing angle deposition exhibit strong circular dichroism both experimentally and theoretically. The chiroptical properties of the palladium nanohelices are altered upon hydrogen uptake and sensitively depend on the hydrogen concentration. Such properties are well suited for remote and spark‐free hydrogen sensing in the flammable range. Hysteresis is reduced, when an increasing amount of gold is utilized in the palladium‐gold hybrid helices. As a result, the linearity of the circular dichroism in response to hydrogen is significantly improved. The chiral plasmonic sensor scheme is of potential interest for hydrogen‐sensing applications, where good linearity and high sensitivity are required.
Facile Syntheses of pure Uranium(III) Halides: UF3, UCl3, UBr3, and UI3
Authors: Rudel Stefan S. , Deubner H. Lars , Scheibe Benjamin , Conrad Matthias , Kraus Florian
Published: December 2017

Herein we describe a convenient lab scale synthesis for pure and solvent‐free binary uranium(III) halides UCl3, UBr3, and UI3. This is achieved by the reduction of the respective uranium(IV) halides with elemental silicon in borosilicate ampoules at moderate temperature. The silicon tetrahalides SiX4 formed as a side product are utilized for the removal of excess starting material via a chemical vapor transport reaction. The syntheses introduced herein avoid the need for pure metallic uranium and are based on uranium(IV) halides synthesized from UO2 and the respective aluminum halides and purified by chemical vapor transport. These uranium(III) halides are obtained in single crystalline form. A similar reaction yields UF3 as a microcrystalline powder. However, no beneficial transport reaction occurs with this halide. Also, a higher temperature has to be applied and steel ampoules have to be used. The identities and purity of the products were checked by powder X‐ray diffraction as well as IR spectroscopy. The synthesis of UI3 enabled its crystal structure determination on single crystals for the first time. UI3 crystallizes in the PuBr3 structure type with space group type Cmcm and a = 4.3208(9), b = 13.923(3), c = 9.923(2) Å, V = 596.9(2) Å3, and Z = 4 at T = 100 K.
Perceived control of anxiety as a moderator in the relationship between anxiety sensitivity and problematic alcohol use among adolescents
Authors: Kearns Nathan T. , Villarreal Deyaun , Cloutier Renee M. , Baxley Catherine , Carey Caitlyn , Blumenthal Heidemarie
Published: December 2017

The current study examined perceived control over anxiety as a moderator in the relationship between AS and (1) alcohol use frequency and (2) binge drinking frequency among 80 community‐recruited adolescents (Mage = 15.40; 40% female). Eighty‐five percent of adolescents reported consuming an alcohol beverage, while 39.5% reported binge drinking. Results indicated significant interactions between AS and perceived control. More specifically, when perceived control was low, higher anxiety sensitivity was related to increased frequency of alcohol use days, but not with binge drinking days. Alternatively, when perceived control over anxiety was high, elevated anxiety sensitivity was associated with a decreased in binge drinking days, but not with alcohol use days. Findings suggest that influence of perceived control over anxiety may be another important, malleable factor that should be considered in future etiological and intervention‐oriented work targeting anxiety sensitivity and alcohol misuse among adolescence.
Towards certification of computational fluid dynamics as numerical experiments for rotorcraft applications
Authors: Smith M.J. , Jacobson K.E. , Afman J.-P.
Published: December 2017

Virtual Engineering (VE), also known as Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), is necessary in both current operational engineering qualifications and to help reduce the costs of future vertical lift design and analysis. As computational power continues to provide increasing capability to the rotorcraft engineering community to perform simulations in both real time and off line, it is imperative that the community develop verification and validation protocols and processes to certify these methods so that they can be reliably used to help reduce engineering cost and schedule. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has become a major Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) tool in the fixed wing and vertical lift communities, but it has not been developed to the point where it is accepted as a replacement for testing in certification of new or existing systems or vehicles. Since the rise of modern CFD in the 1980s, the promise of CFD’s capabilities has been met or exceeded, but its role in certification arguably remains less prominent than projected. The ability to implement transformative technologies further drives the need for CFD in design. To meet CFD’s role in certification, several goals must be met to provide a true “numerical experiment” from which accuracies (error estimates), sensitivities, and consistent application results can be extracted. This paper discusses the progress and direction towards developing CFD strategies for certification.
A semi-infinite hydraulic fracture with leak-off driven by a power-law fluid
Authors: Dontsov E. V. , Kresse O.
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the problem of a semi-infinite hydraulic fracture that propagates steadily in a permeable formation. The fracturing fluid rheology is assumed to follow a power-law behaviour, while the leak-off is modelled by Carter’s model. A non-singular formulation is employed to effectively analyse the problem and to construct a numerical solution. The problem under consideration features three limiting analytic solutions that are associated with dominance of either toughness, leak-off or viscosity. Transitions between all the limiting cases are analysed and the boundaries of applicability of all these limiting solutions are quantified. These bounds allow us to determine the regions in the parametric space, in which these limiting solutions can be used. The problem of a semi-infinite fracture, which is considered in this study, provides the solution for the tip region of a hydraulic fracture and can be used in hydraulic fracturing simulators to facilitate solving the moving fracture boundary problem. To cater for such applications, for which rapid evaluation of the solution is necessary, the last part of this paper constructs an approximate closed form solution for the problem and evaluates its accuracy against the numerical solution inside the parametric space.
TILTING CHAINS OF NEGATIVE CURVES ON RATIONAL SURFACES
Authors: HILLE LUTZ , PLOOG DAVID
Published: December 2017

We introduce the notion of exact tilting objects, which are partial tilting objects
$T$
inducing an equivalence between the abelian category generated by
$T$
and the category of modules over the endomorphism algebra of 
$T$
. Given a chain of sufficiently negative rational curves on a rational surface, we construct an exceptional sequence whose universal extension is an exact tilting object. For a chain of
$(-2)$
-curves, we obtain an equivalence with modules over a well-known algebra.
Attention bias modification augments cognitive–behavioral group therapy for social anxiety disorder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lazarov Amit , Marom Sofi , Yahalom Naomi , Pine Daniel S. , Hermesh Haggai , Bar-Haim Yair
Published: December 2017

Background

Cognitive–behavioral group therapy (CBGT) is a first-line treatment for social anxiety disorder (SAD). However, since many patients remain symptomatic post-treatment, there is a need for augmenting procedures. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) examined the potential augmentation effect of attention bias modification (ABM) for CBGT.

Methods

Fifty patients with SAD from three therapy groups were randomized to receive an 18-week standard CBGT with either ABM designed to shift attention away from threat (CBGT + ABM), or a placebo protocol not designed to modify threat-related attention (CBGT + placebo). Therapy groups took place in a large mental health center. Clinician and self-report measures of social anxiety and depression were acquired pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 3-month follow-up. Attention bias was assessed at pre- and post-treatment.

Results

Patients randomized to the CBGT + ABM group, relative to those randomized to the CBGT + placebo group, showed greater reductions in clinician-rated SAD symptoms post-treatment, with effects maintained at 3-month follow-up. Group differences were not evident for self-report or attention-bias measures, with similar reductions in both groups. Finally, reduction in attention bias did not mediate the association between group and reduction in Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale Structured Interview (LSAS) scores.

Conclusions

This is the first RCT to examine the possible augmenting effect of ABM added to group-based cognitive–behavioral therapy for adult SAD. Training patients’ attention away from threat might augment the treatment response to standard CBGT in SAD, a possibility that could be further evaluated in large-scale RCTs.
Composing the Context: Considerations on materially mediated electronic musicianship
Authors: Lähdeoja Otso
Published: December 2017

A range of material objects can be transformed into sound emitters by the induction of audio-rate vibration with structure-borne sound drivers. The resulting acoustically activated physical objects offer the possibility to extend the compositional gesture towards the material environment, providing a literal re-reading of Schaeffer’s objet sonore concept. Engaging sound in physical objects ties the creative gesture to its surroundings, grounding the approach in an inherently situated dimension. This article examines the compositional strategies emerging from diffusing sound via physical objects, such as sound spatialisation, audiovisual sculpture and audiotactility in concert setting, illustrated by four case studies of recent aural artwork. On the basis of the case studies, the aesthetic implications of materially mediated aural art are discussed, in relation with the ideal of purity represented by the high-fidelity loudspeaker. While the technological development of the loudspeaker aims for a perfect reproduction of an idealised and autonomous sound, materially mediated sound diffusion merges sound and matter into an agglomerate where the sound can no longer be perceived as an autonomous entity, but rather in relation to its material source. Engaging electronic musicianship in materiality gives rise to a hybrid setting at the interface of the digital, the material and the human, where the context – the environment of sound-emitting objects – becomes an object of composition.
TIME ALLOCATION, THE DYNAMICS OF INTERACTION, AND TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION
Authors: Gomes Orlando
Published: December 2017

Inspired by recent literature that approaches the dissemination of knowledge from a social interaction perspective, the article explores the dynamics of a prototypical optimal control growth problem structured upon the following features: (i) the model economy is populated by a large number of rational agents; (ii) each agent allocates time, optimally, among production and social interaction; (iii) knowledge spreads through the contact with others; (iv) the propagation of ideas follows two steps—in a first stage, interaction promotes the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and, in a second stage, it works as a catalyst for the successful implementation of the theory to practical productive uses; (v) interaction contributes not only to the diffusion of a given state of technical knowledge—it fosters, as well, the growth of ideas and techniques. The model allows for the endogenous determination of optimal trajectories concerning the allocation of time and the intensity of interaction; moreover, a long-term endogenous growth rate for the economy is derived, with optimal growth being essentially driven by the state of techniques and by the forces that shape the human interaction process.
Spirituality and religious coping are related to cancer-bereaved siblings’ long-term grief
Authors: Lövgren Malin , Sveen Josefin , Steineck Gunnar , Wallin Alexandra Eilegård , Eilertsen Mary-Elizabeth B. , Kreicbergs Ulrika
Published: December 2017

Objective

Many bereaved siblings have still not come to terms with their grief many years after the loss, but few studies have focused on what can help. The aims of this study were to identify cancer-bereaved adolescents’ and young adults’ ways of coping with grief after loss of a sibling, and examine whether these ways of coping were related to their experience of having worked through their grief.

Method

This nationwide survey of 174 cancer-bereaved siblings (73% participation rate) is based on one open-ended question about coping with grief (“What has helped you to cope with your grief after your sibling's death?”) and one closed-ended question about siblings’ long-term grief (“Do you think you have worked through your grief over your sibling's death?”). The open-ended question was analyzed with content analysis; descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test were used to examine the relation between type of coping and siblings’ long-term grief.

Result

The siblings described four ways of coping: (1) thinking of their dead brother/sister and feeling and expressing their grief; (2) distracting or occupying themselves; (3) engaging in spiritual and religious beliefs/activities; and (4) waiting for time to pass. One of these categories of coping with grief, namely, engaging in spiritual and religious beliefs and activities, was associated with siblings’ experience of having worked through their grief two to nine years after the loss (p= 0.016).

Significance of results

Those siblings who had used spirituality, religious beliefs, and activities to cope were more likely to have worked through their grief than those who had not.
Aspects of the History of Twin Research: Statistical Congresses in the 19th Century and Hellin's Law
Authors: Fellman Johan
Published: December 2017

In the 19th century, a series of international statistical congresses began that were important for population studies, including twin research. The introduction of common rules for the national demographic registers enabled scientists to contribute to the genesis of statistical research. The congress in St. Petersburg in 1872, in particular, focused on the movements of the population, and how they should be registered. Among the facts to be recorded were in multiple births, the sex and number of children born alive or still-born, whether legitimate or illegitimate, and the age of the mother at the date of the births. During the history of twin research, Hellin's law has played a central role because it is an approximately correct association between the rates of multiple maternities. It has been mathematically proven that Hellin's law does not hold as a general rule. Analyses show divergences from the law that are difficult to explain and/or eliminate. Varying improvements of this law have been proposed. The majority of all studies of Hellin's law are based on empirical rates of multiple maternities, ignoring random errors. Such studies can never confirm the law, but only identify errors with respect to Hellin's law that are too large to be characterized as random. It is of particular interest to note and explain why the rates of higher multiple maternities are sometimes too high or too low when Hellin's law is used as a benchmark. Studies have shown that there were investigators before Hellin who have contributed substantially to Hellin's law. In this article, we re-examine some old data sets and contributions in which Hellin's law has been evaluated and also analyze recent data.
Donald W. Forsyth Receives 2017 Maurice Ewing Medal
Authors:   AGU
Published: December 2017

Donald W. Forsyth was awarded the 2017 Maurice Ewing Medal at the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting Honors Ceremony, held on 13 December 2017 in New Orleans, La. The medal is for “significant original contributions to the ocean sciences.”
Restore State Department Science Capacity, Expert Urges
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: December 2017

Former State Department science adviser highlights value of science diplomacy and raises concerns about the department’s direction.
Fate of nitrogen in overlying water with biochar addition to sediment in planted ditches
Authors: Cheng Qianding , Cheng Hongguang , Lu Lu , Pu Xiao , Wu Zhenzhen , Sun Haixu
Published: December 2017

Fate of nitrogen in overlying water with or without biochar addition to sediment in planted or unplanted ditch microcosms.
Fucoidan inhibits amyloid-β-induced toxicity in transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans by reducing the accumulation of amyloid-β and decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Wang Xuelian , Yi Kaixuan , Zhao Yan
Published: December 2017

Fucoidan treatment effectively alleviates the paralyzed phenotype induced by the accumulation of Abeta in a transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) Alzheimer's disease (AD) model.
A superhydrophilic cement-coated mesh: an acid, alkali, and organic reagent-free material for oil/water separation
Authors: Song Jinlong , Li Shude , Zhao Changlin , Lu Yao , Zhao Danyang , Sun Jing , Roy Tamal , Carmalt Claire J. , Deng Xu , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: December 2017

Environmentally-friendly, low-cost, and easy superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic cement-coated meshes were developed to separate oil/water mixtures.
Large diffusion anisotropy and orientation sorting of phosphorene nanoflakes under a temperature gradient
Authors: Cheng Yuan , Zhang Gang , Zhang Yingyan , Chang Tienchong , Pei Qing-Xiang , Cai Yongqing , Zhang Yong-Wei
Published: December 2017

We perform molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the motion of phosphorene nanoflakes on a large graphene substrate under a thermal gradient.
Graphene template-induced growth of single-crystalline gold nanobelts with high structural tunability
Authors: Xin Wenbo , De Rosa Igor M. , Ye Peiyi , Severino Joseph , Li Chao , Yin Xunqian , Goorsky Mark S. , Carlson Larry , Yang Jenn-Ming
Published: December 2017

It is the first time to realize the direct growth of Au nanobelts on multilayer graphene with high structural tunability using one-pot synthesis strategy.
Hemocompatible poly(lactic acid) membranes prepared by immobilizing carboxylated graphene oxide via mussel-inspired method for hemodialysis
Authors: Ma Lankun , Huang Lilan , Zhang Yuzhong , Zhao Lizhi , Xin Qingping , Ye Hui , Li Hong
Published: December 2017

Carboxylated graphene oxide modified PLA membrane via mussel-inspired method exhibited excellent hemocompatibility and dialysis performance.
The chemical redox modulated switch-on fluorescence of carbon dots for probing alkaline phosphatase and its application in an immunoassay
Authors: Song Pei , Liu Qian , Zhang Ying , Liu Wei , Meng Meng , Yin Yongmei , Xi Rimo
Published: December 2017

The chemical redox modulated switch-on fluorescence of carbon dots for detecting ALP and human IgG.
Facile construction of dual-targeting delivery system by using lipid capped polymer nanoparticles for anti-glioma therapy
Authors: Wang Shengfeng , Zhao Chuantong , Liu Peng , Wang Zhe , Ding Jinsong , Zhou Wenhu
Published: December 2017

A facile and reliable platform to construct dual targeting nanoparticles for glioma treatment, and the targeting efficiency was demonstrated.
Study on the corrosion behavior of steel Q315NS heat-affected zone in a HCl solution using electrochemical noise
Authors: Zhang S. Q. , Zhao H. Y. , Shu F. Y. , Wang G. D. , Liu B. , Xu B. S.
Published: December 2017

Uniform corrosion occurred on CGHAZ of Q315NS owing to coarse GB while pitting occurs on BM after metastable pitting.
Biomimetic silica deposition promoted by sub-5 μm complexes of dicarboxylic acids/polyethyleneimine microballs: a new approach to tuning silica structures using messenger-like dicarboxylic acids
Authors: Soma Daiki , Jin Ren-Hua
Published: December 2017

Acid–base complexes prepared from sub-5 μm polyethyleneimine microballs and dicarboxylic acids promoted silica deposition to give silica microballs with different morphological surface structures which were controlled by the structures of the acids.
Synthesis of Cu2(Zn1−xCox)SnS4 nanocrystals and formation of polycrystalline thin films from their aqueous dispersions
Authors: Pinto Alexandre H. , Shin Seung Wook , Sharma Aastha , Penn R. Lee , Aydil Eray S.
Published: December 2017

Cu2(Zn1−xCox)SnS4 nanocrystals were synthesized using a microwave solvothermal method. The influence of Co incorporation in the annealed thin films formation was analyzed.
Rational design of hybrid porous nanotubes with robust structure of ultrafine Li4Ti5O12 nanoparticles embedded in bamboo-like CNTs for superior lithium ion storage
Authors: Tang Yakun , Liu Lang , Zhao Hongyang , Kong Lingbing , Guo Zaiping , Gao Shasha , Che Yuanyuan , Wang Lei , Jia Dianzeng
Published: December 2017

Robust hybrid porous bamboo-like CNTs, with ultrafine Li4Ti5O12 nanoparticles homogeneously embedded, which exhibit superior electrochemical performance.
3D printing of high performance cyanate ester thermoset polymers
Authors: Chandrasekaran Swetha , Duoss Eric B. , Worsley Marcus A. , Lewicki James P.
Published: December 2017

We report 3D printing of a ‘pure’ thermal cure cyanate ester for the fabrication of robust 3D printed structures through the formulation, tailoring and post processing of a custom ‘ink’ for Direct Ink Writing.
In situ electrochromic efficiency of a nickel oxide thin film: origin of electrochemical process and electrochromic degradation
Authors: Liu Qirong , Chen Qianqian , Zhang Qianqian , Xiao Yu , Zhong Xiaolan , Dong Guobo , Delplancke-Ogletree Marie-Paule , Terryn Herman , Baert Kitty , Reniers François , Diao Xungang
Published: December 2017

Schematically deciphering the electrochemical mechanism of the electrochromic NiOx thin film based on the Li+-ion electrolytes.
Highly washable e-textile prepared by ultrasonic nanosoldering of carbon nanotubes onto polymer fibers
Authors: Du Donghe , Tang Zhenghua , Ouyang Jianyong
Published: December 2017

Polymer fibers combined with CNTs by ultrasonic nanosoldering can be used as machine-washable wearable sensors.
Identification of a second binding site on the TRIM25 B30.2 domain
Authors: D'Cruz Akshay A. , Kershaw Nadia J. , Hayman Thomas J. , Linossi Edmond M. , Chiang Jessica J. , Wang May K. , Dagley Laura F. , Kolesnik Tatiana B. , Zhang Jian-Guo , Masters Seth L. , Griffin Michael D.W. , Gack Michaela U. , Murphy James M. , Nicola Nicos A. , Babon Jeffrey J. , Nicholson Sandra E.
Published: December 2017

The retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) receptor recognizes short 5′-di- and triphosphate base-paired viral RNA and is a critical mediator of the innate immune response against viruses such as influenza A, Ebola, HIV and hepatitis C. This response is reported to require an orchestrated interaction with the tripartite motif 25 (TRIM25) B30.2 protein-interaction domain. Here, we present a novel second RIG-I-binding interface on the TRIM25 B30.2 domain that interacts with CARD1 and CARD2 (caspase activation and recruitment domains) of RIG-I and is revealed by the removal of an N-terminal α-helix that mimics dimerization of the full-length protein. Further characterization of the TRIM25 coiled-coil and B30.2 regions indicated that the B30.2 domains move freely on a flexible tether, facilitating RIG-I CARD recruitment. The identification of a dual binding mode for the TRIM25 B30.2 domain is a first for the SPRY/B30.2 domain family and may be a feature of other SPRY/B30.2 family members.
InSAR imaging based on L1 regularisation joint reconstruction via complex approximated message passing
Authors: Wu Chenyang , Wei Zhonghao , Bi Hui , Zhang Bingchen , Lin Yun , Hong Wen
Published: December 2017

This Letter presents an interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) imaging method based on L1 regularisation joint reconstruction model via complex approximated message passing (CAMP). The proposed method enables to ensure the preservation of background information via CAMP and interferometric phase difference information among multiple channels via L1 regularisation joint reconstruction model. Compared with conventional matched filtering results, the proposed method can improve the performance of interferometric phase noise reduction and the continuity of interference fringes, which has broad application prospect in InSAR imaging. Experiments carried out on real data confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method with improved performance.
Improved analysis of orthogonal matching pursuit in general perturbations
Authors: Zhang Xiaobo , Xu Wenbo , Tian Yun , Lin Jiaru
Published: December 2017

Previous research on orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) algorithm mainly focuses on the recovery performance of a sparse signal given an acquired model . A general perturbation model in addition to the above acquired model exists, where is the measurement perturbation. For this general perturbation model, the new restricted isometry constant of OMP algorithm is shown.
Optimal power dispatch of a centralised electric vehicle battery charging station with renewables
Authors: (Jason) Li Wenjin , Tan Xiaoqi , Sun Bo , Tsang Danny H. K.
Published: December 2017

Historically, transportation electrification has been largely hindered by the limited battery capacity and the long charging time. Battery swapping has emerged as one promising technology to mitigate these problems. A centralised battery charging station (BCS) is responsible for charging depleted batteries (DBs) and providing fully‐charged batteries (FBs) for multiple geographically‐distributed battery swapping stations (BSSs) so that they can carry out battery swapping services. Facilitated by the recent advancement in sensor and communication technologies, one salient advantage of this centralised approach lies in its convenience to better utilise dual energy sources (i.e. the traditional power grid and local renewable energy generators). This is achieved via optimising the charging processes of a large number of DBs. In this study, the authors propose an optimisation framework for a centralised BCS to minimise the energy cost from the dual energy sources to satisfy the FB demands from multiple BSSs. Particularly, the power dispatch problem in the day‐ahead and real‐time electricity markets is formulated as a two‐stage stochastic optimisation through consideration of the intermittent renewable energy. Numerical simulations show that the proposed optimised power dispatch is capable of achieving cost saving of 76% compared with the benchmark, subject to the limited information available in day‐ahead.
Bi‐level planning model for optimal allocation of WT–PV–ESS in distribution networks
Authors: Liu Yuan , Yang Jun , Zhu Xu , Wang Yang , He Bo , Zhu Jie , Chen Yanxia
Published: December 2017

Study on how renewable power generation (RPG) can be used efficiently and effectively in distribution networks is open and ongoing. Here, a bi‐level model is proposed to optimise the allocation of photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), and energy storage system (ESS) in distribution networks. At the upper level, genetic algorithm (GA) is used to optimise the capacity of PV and WT in each bus by minimising the cost of investment and maintenance (I&M), power purchase, and power losses, considering the constraints of the RPG penetration limit, power flow equation, voltage limits, and feeder capacity limits. At the lower level, an operation strategy of ESS is proposed first to smooth the power flow. Based on this operation strategy of ESS, the capacity estimation of ESS is completed with regard to the load power data. Then an optimisation model designed by exhaustive search is utilised for sitting the ESS in distribution network, with objectives of minimising the cost of I&M and power electronics in ESS. The proposed bi‐level model for optimal allocation of WT–PV–ESS is verified under a 33‐node test feeder. Also, the numerical results show that the proposed bi‐level model enables a power utility to identify the optimal location and size of PV–WT–ESS for a clear reduction on power purchase and power losses after the PV and WT's access and a benefit on load shaving after the connection of ESS.
Stator current vector control strategy of doubly fed induction generator using proportional–resonant regulators
Authors: Li Qing , Cheng Peng , Hao Xiangjun , Zhang Jinping
Published: December 2017

This study proposes the stator current vector control (VC) strategy of the doubly fed induction generator. It is implemented in the stator stationary reference frame without the phase‐lock loop. As a result, the phase‐locked loop is removed with a simplified structure. Then, in the stator stationary reference frame, the commanded stator current values are calculated on the basis of the instantaneous power theory. By this means, the calculations of the stator current references are irrelevant to the generator parameters. It can greatly reduce the parameter dependency of the control system. Since the currents, the voltages, and the flux linkages are ac signals, the control system would operate on the ac quantities. Then, for zero steady errors, proportional–resonant controllers, tuned at the nominal frequency, are employed to regulate the stator currents to track their commanded values. Finally, the simulation results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed stator current VC strategy.