bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On auto‐ and cross‐interdependence in interval field finite element analysis
Authors: Faes Matthias , Moens David
Published: December 2019

This paper discusses the concepts of auto‐ and cross‐interdependence in interval field finite element analysis. In classic interval analysis, independent intervals are used to construct hyper‐rectangular input spaces that correspond to the bounded uncertainty that is present on some model parameters. This is a direct result from the inability of modeling interdependence. Such assumption of complete independence might prove in some cases to be highly over‐conservative. A first example is the modeling of spatial uncertainty, where the interdependence is governed by allowable spatial gradients of field realizations. Secondly, interdependence can also occur in case uncertainty in several structural quantities has the same root cause (eg, the manufacturing process). Recent work by the authors introduced concepts for modeling dependence between intervals in a spatial and multivariate context. However, it is unclear how an analyst has to deal with multiple quantities that have a spatial uncertainty component and are furthermore interdependent. This paper presents an approach to link multiple interval fields using recently introduced convex hull pair constructions and inverse distance weighting interpolation. Two case studies to illustrate the new methodology are included, proving the flexibility of the methodology in the modeling of auto‐ and cross‐interdependence between multiple interval scalars and/or interval fields.
Fully biobased biodegradable poly(l‐lactide)‐b‐poly(ethylene brassylate)‐b‐poly(l‐lactide) triblock copolymers: synthesis and investigation of relationship between crystallization morphology and thermal properties
Authors: Jin Chenhao , Leng Xuefei , Zhang Manwen , Wang Yanshai , Wei Zhiyong , Li Yang
Published: December 2019

Well‐defined poly(l‐lactide‐b‐ethylene brassylate‐b‐l‐lactide) (PLLA‐b‐PEB‐b‐PLLA) triblock copolymer was synthesized by using double hydroxyl‐terminated PEBs with different molecular weights. Gel permeation chromatography and NMR characterization were employed to confirm the structure and composition of the triblock copolymers. DSC, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, TGA and polarized optical microscopy were also employed to demonstrate the relationship between the composition and properties. According to the DSC curves, the cold crystallization peak vanished gradually with decrease of the PLLA block, illustrating that the relatively smaller content of PLLA may lead to the formation of a deficient PLLA type crystal, leading to a decrease of melting enthalpy and melting temperature. Multi‐step thermal decompositions were determined by TGA, and the PEB unit exhibited much better thermal stability than the PLLA unit. Polarized optical microscopy images of all the triblock samples showed that spherulites which develop radially and with an extinction pattern in the form of a Maltese cross exhibit no ring bond. The growth rate of the spherulites of all triblock samples was investigated. The crystallization capacity of PLLA improved with incorporation of PLLA, which accords with the DSC and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction results. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The regulation of protein kinase casein kinase II by apigenin is involved in the inhibition of ultraviolet B‐induced macrophage migration inhibitory factor‐mediated hyperpigmentation
Authors: Yoshihisa Yoko , Andoh Tsugunobu , Rehman Mati Ur , Shimizu Tadamichi
Published: December 2019

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation elicits melanogenesis and pigmentation in the skin. Apigenin (4′,5,7‐trihydroxyflavone [AGN]) is a plant flavone contained in various herbs, fruits, and vegetables. We herein investigated antimelanogenic properties of AGN and the molecular mechanisms of the action of AGN. In UVB‐treated mice, AGN inhibited cutaneous hyperpigmentation and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) expression as a melanogenesis‐related key factor. In mouse keratinocytes, AGN inhibited the expression of MIF and also the related factors (e.g., stem cell factor and proteinase‐activated receptor 2) induced by MIF. In addition to ellagic acid as a casein kinase II (CK2) inhibitor, AGN suppressed CK2 enzymatic activity and UVB‐induced CK2 expression and subsequent phosphorylation of IκB and MIF expression. These results suggest that AGN inhibits UVB‐induced hyperpigmentation through the regulation of CK2‐mediated MIF expression in keratinocytes.
Tackle major changes by engaging all stakeholders, sharing roadmap to the goal
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: December 2019

Annamarie Bianco is no stranger to high‐level, high‐stress positions. Before joining Georgetown University in the position of Associate Vice President and University Registrar in 2016, she was Registrar for almost nine years at the City University of New York, where she was responsible for implementing universitywide policies and serving as a resource for 24 college registrars throughout the university system.
A Highly Stable (4, 8)‐Connected Tb‐MOF Exhibiting Efficiently Luminescent Sensing towards Nitroimidazole Antibiotics
Authors: Yang Han‐Wen , Xu Ping , Wang Xiu‐Guang , Zhao Xiao‐Jun , Yang En‐Cui
Published: December 2019

A robust 4,8‐connected Tb‐based metal‐organic framework (Tb‐MOF) with paddle wheel‐shaped {Tb2(COO)4} subunits extended by C3‐symmetric 3,3',3''‐[1,3,5‐benzenetriyltris(carbonylimino)]tris‐benzoate connector was hydrothermally synthesized, showing highly environmental stability, good dispersion and intense green emission in water system. Resulting critically from the well suppressed absorption towards the excitation energy, the Tb‐MOF exhibits rapid and efficient fluorescent response towards nitroimidazole antibiotics with strong quenching constants and low detection limits of 1.59 × 104 m–1 and 2.4 μM for metronidazole as well as 1.62 × 104 m–1 and 2.9 μM for dimetridazole. Moreover, the sensitive and selective identification of the Tb‐MOF has strong anti‐interference and excellent regeneration ability, which endows the promising applications of the Tb‐MOF as fluorescent sensing materials.
Light composite fermions from holography
Authors: Abt Raimond , Erdmenger Johanna , Evans Nick , Rigatos Konstantinos S.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Motivated by Beyond the Standard Model theories of composite fermions or top partners, we propose a holographic mechanism that generates light baryonic states in a strongly coupled gauge theory. The starting point are the fermionic fluctuations of massive probe branes embedded into AdS5× S5. We first consider the D3/probe D7-brane system. We derive in detail the fermionic fluctuation equations and show the supersym- metric degeneracy of the mesinos with the mesons. Here we view the fermionic mesinos as potential realizations of composite fermions or top partners. We then add higher dimension operators and study their impact on the mesino spectrum. In particular we show that the ground state mesino mass can be pushed to an arbitrarily light value by a suitable choice of the coupling of the higher dimension operator, g. No matter the value of g, the masses of higher excited states never fall below the mass of the ground state at g = 0. We also present similar results for the supersymmetric D3/D3 and D3/D5 systems.
Manifestly finite derivation of the quantum kink mass
Authors: Evslin Jarah
Published: December 2019

Abstract

In 1974 Dashen, Hasslacher and Neveu calculated the leading quantum correction to the mass of the kink in the scalar ϕ4 theory in 1+1 dimensions. The derivation relies on the identification of the perturbations about the kink as solutions of the Pöschl-Teller (PT) theory. They regularize the theory by placing it in a periodic box, although the kink is not itself periodic. They also require an ad hoc identification of plane wave and PT states which is difficult to interpret in the decompactified limit. We rederive the mass using the kink operator to recast this problem in terms of the PT Hamiltonian which we explicitly diagonalize using its exact eigenstates. We normal order from the beginning, rendering our theory finite so that no compactification is necessary. In our final expression for the kink mass, the form of the PT potential disappears, suggesting that our mass formula applies to other quantum solitons.
Light-cone sum rules for B → K π form factors and applications to rare decays
Authors: Descotes-Genon Sébastien , Khodjamirian Alexander , Virto Javier
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We derive a set of light-cone sum rules relating the hadronic form factors relevant for B → Kπℓ
+
ℓ
− decays to the B-meson light-cone distribution amplitudes (LCDAs). We obtain the sum rule relations for all B → K π form factors of (axial)vector and (pseudo)tensor b → s currents with a P -wave K π system. Our results reduce to the known light-cone sum rules for B → K

∗
form factors in the limit of a single narrow-width resonance. We update the operator-product expansion for the underlying correlation function by including a more complete set of B-meson LCDAs with higher twists, and produce numerical results for all B → K

∗
form factors in the narrow-width limit. We then use the new sum rules to estimate the effect of a non-vanishing K

∗
width in B → K

∗
transitions, and find that this effect is universal and increases the factorizable part of the rate of B → K

∗

X decays by a factor of 20%. This effect, by itself, goes in the direction of increasing the current tension in the differential B → K

∗

μμ branching fractions. We also discuss B → K π transitions outside the K

∗
window, and explain how measurements of B → K πℓℓ observables above the K

∗
region can be used to further constrain the B → K

∗
form factors.
Global Sourcing of Low-Inorganic Arsenic Rice Grain
Authors: Carey Manus , Meharg Caroline , Williams Paul , Marwa Ernest , Jiujin Xiao , Farias Júlia Gomes , De Silva P. Mangala C. S. , Signes-Pastor Antonio , Lu Ying , Nicoloso Fernando Teixeira , Savage Laurie , Campbell Katrina , Elliott Christopher , Adomako Eureka , Green Andy J. , Moreno-Jiménez Eduardo , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel Antonio , Triwardhani Eridha Ayu , Pandiangan Febbyandi Isanda , Haris Parvez I. , Lawgali Youssef F. , Sommella Alessia , Pigna Massimo , Brabet Catherine , Montet Didier , Njira Keston , Watts Michael J. , Meharg Andrew A.
Published: December 2019

Arsenic in rice grain is dominated by two species: the carcinogen inorganic arsenic (the sum of arsenate and arsenite) and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA). Rice is the dominant source of inorganic arsenic into the human diet. As such, there is a need to identify sources of low-inorganic arsenic rice globally. Here we surveyed polished (white) rice across representative regions of rice production globally for arsenic speciation. In total 1180 samples were analysed from 29 distinct sampling zones, across 6 continents. For inorganic arsenic the global $$\tilde{x}$$

x
~

was 66 μg/kg, and for DMA this figure was 21 μg/kg. DMA was more variable, ranging from < 2 to 690 μg/kg, while inorganic arsenic ranged from < 2 to 399 μg/kg. It was found that inorganic arsenic dominated when grain sum of species was < 100 μg/kg, with DMA dominating at higher concentrations. There was considerable regional variance in grain arsenic speciation, particularly in DMA where temperate production regions had higher concentrations. Inorganic arsenic concentrations were relatively consistent across temperate, subtropical and northern hemisphere tropical regions. It was only in southern hemisphere tropical regions, in the eastern hemisphere that low-grain inorganic arsenic is found, namely East Africa ($$\tilde{x}$$

x
~

 < 10 μg/kg) and the Southern Indonesian islands ($$\tilde{x}$$

x
~

 < 20 μg/kg). Southern hemisphere South American rice was universally high in inorganic arsenic, the reason for which needs further exploration.
Correction to: Guidelines for the management of myocardial infarction/injury with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA): a position paper from the Dutch ACS working group
Authors: Pustjens T. F. S. , Appelman Y. , Damman P. , ten Berg J. M. , Jukema J. W. , de Winter R. J. , Agema W. R. P. , van der Wielen M. L. J. , Arslan F. , Rasoul S. , van ’t Hof A. W. J.
Published: December 2019

Correction to:

Neth Heart J 2019

10.1007/s12471-019-01344-6

The reference to the term acute coronary syndrome with normal or near-normal (non-obstructive) coronary arteries (ACSNNOCA) from Manolis et al. (2018) was inadvertently omitted to the original published article. Therefore, …
Orchestrating Mathematical Classroom Discourse About Various Solution Methods: Case Study of a Teacher’s Development
Authors: Kooloos Chris , Oolbekkink-Marchand Helma , Kaenders Rainer , Heckman Gert
Published: December 2019

Developing and orchestrating classroom discourse about students’ different solution methods is an essential yet complex task for mathematics teachers. This study reports on the first stages of classroom discourse development of one Dutch higher secondary school mathematics teacher who had no prior experience in including classroom discourse in her teaching practice. Four lessons in analytic geometry were developed iteratively, in collaboration with the teacher. The lessons consisted of students working on a mathematical problem plus classroom discourse concerning students’ different solution methods. Classroom discourse video recordings were collected and analyzed in order to develop a framework to characterize the teacher’s actions, and to describe the change in the teacher’s role in classroom discourse. The results reveal three main changes in the teacher’s role: First, the way the teacher reacted to correct or incorrect solution methods shifted from confirming or setting aside suggestions, toward making the solution methods the subject of discussion; second, the distribution of turns changed such that more students were involved in the discourse and in reacting to each other’s solution methods; third, the teacher’s actions shifted from convergent, teacher-led actions toward divergent, student-led actions. These results show that within four lessons, an important step has been taken toward establishing a discourse community.
Human-Centered Intervention Based on Tactical-Level Input in Unscheduled Takeover Scenarios for Highly-Automated Vehicles
Authors: Kamezaki Mitsuhiro , Hayashi Hiroaki , Manawadu Udara E. , Sugano Shigeki
Published: December 2019

Due to functional limitations in certain situations, the driver receives a request to intervene from automated vehicles operating level 3. Unscheduled intervention of control authority would lead to insufficient situational awareness, then this will make dangerous situations. The purpose of this study is thus to propose tactical-level input (TLI) method with a multimodal driver-vehicle interface (DVI) for the human-centered intervention. The proposed DVI system includes touchscreen, hand-gesture, and haptic interfaces that enable interaction between driver and vehicle, and TLI along with such DVI system can enhance situational awareness. We performed unscheduled takeover experiments using a driving simulator to evaluate the proposed intervention system. The experimental results indicate that TLI can reduce reaction time and driver workload, and moreover, most drivers preferred the use of TLI than manual takeover.
Adsorptive removal of chromium(VI) from aqueous solution using binary bio-polymeric beads made from bagasse
Authors: Kumar Harish , Maurya Kanhaiya Lal , Gehlaut Avneesh Kumar , Singh Deepshikha , Maken Sanjeev , Gaur Ankur , Kamsonlian Suantak
Published: December 2019

In this study, bio-polymeric gel beads were made from synthetic and laboratory-made CMC (bagasse). Calcium chloride cross-linked with sodium alginate (Na-Alg) added to CMC displayed great affinity for the removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) ions present in an aqueous solution. Activated carbon obtained from bagasse was also used for adsorptive removal of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solution. The effect of different adsorption parameters such as pH, contact time and adsorbent dosage was studied. Bio-polymeric gel beads and activated carbon were prepared and characterized by SEM, FTIR and XRD. The maximum percentage removal for synthetic and bagasse bio-polymeric gel beads reaches 94.56% and 98.42% values at a pH of 4.0 at 25 °C and for activated carbon 64.79% value at a pH of 6.0 at 25 °C. Higher degree of substitution results in an increase in the percentage removal of Cr(VI) ions due to the increase in the surface area and the binding sites of the adsorbent. Our study suggests that bio-polymeric gel beads made from laboratory-made CMC (bagasse) can be used in a more cost-effective and efficient way for the removal of harmful chromium ions.
Simulation of the natural draft for test bench measurements
Authors: Krüger Dennis , Lenz Volker , Ulbricht Tobias
Published: December 2019

Single room heaters are usually type tested with constant draft and are allowed under these conditions. However, the mode of operation of the user’s firing usually deviates significantly from these conditions of approval, since these are operated in most cases by natural draft and not by constant draft. Since the repeatability of natural draft is hardly given due to the changing environmental conditions, a simulation has been developed, which can simulate the natural draft with high accuracy. Thus, it is basically possible to replicate the natural draft with constant environmental conditions and to use it for test bench measurements. It is a purely physical simulation that does not require any calibration parameters. Chimney geometry and environmental boundary conditions, such as the outside temperature, can be chosen freely. In addition, the cost of the necessary hardware is very low, since the system only needs cheap thermocouples, pressure sensors, and a small USB module for data acquisition.
Relative Sizes of Age Cohorts and Labor Force Participation of Older Workers
Authors: Neumark David , Yen Maysen
Published: December 2019

We study the effects of the size of older cohorts on labor force participation and wages of older workers in the United States. We use panel data on states, treating the age structure of the population as endogenous, owing to migration. When older cohorts (50–59 or 60–69) are large relative to a young cohort (aged 16–24), the evidence fits the relative supply hypothesis. However, when older cohorts are large relative to 25- to 49-year-olds, the evidence points to a relative demand shift. Thus, we need a more nuanced view than simply whether the older cohort is large relative to the population: the cohort that they are large relative to matters.
A comparison between fly ash- and basic oxygen furnace slag-modified gold mine tailings geopolymers
Authors: Falayi Thabo
Published: December 2019

Fly ash (FA) and Basic oxygen furnace (BOF) slag were used to as additives in the geopolymerisation of gold mine tailings (GMT).The aim of the research was to determine the effects of the two additives on the strength formation and mechanism of metal immobilisation by modified GMT geopolymers. GMT, FA and BOF were mixed, respectively, and made into a paste with the addition of potassium hydroxide (KOH) before curing at various conditions. 50% replacement of GMT in the starting materials gave the highest unconfined compressive strength (UCS). The UCS for BOF-based geopolymer was 21.44 Mega Pascals (MPa), whilst the one for FA-based geopolymer was 12.98 MPa. The BOF-based geopolymer cured at lower temperature (70 °C) as compared to the FA-based geopolymer (90 °C). The optimum KOH concentration was 10 and 15 M for BOF- and FA-based geopolymers, respectively. BOF-based geopolymers resulted in the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) phases which contributed to higher strength; whereas in FA-based geopolymers, no new structures were formed. BOF-based geopolymers resulted in over 94% iron (Fe) immobilisation, whereas FA-based geopolymers had 76% Fe immobilisation. Fe immobilisation was via incorporation into the CSH or geopolymer structure, whilst other metal immobilisations were thought to be via encapsulation. 12-month static leaching tests showed that the synthesised geopolymers posed insignificant environmental pollution threat for long-term use.
Overlap graphs and de Bruijn graphs: data structures for de novogenome assembly in the big data era
Authors: Rizzi Raffaella , Beretta Stefano , Patterson Murray , Pirola Yuri , Previtali Marco , Della Vedova Gianluca , Bonizzoni Paola
Published: December 2019

Background

De novo genome assembly relies on two kinds of graphs: de Bruijn graphs and overlap graphs. Overlap graphs are the basis for the Celera assembler, while de Bruijn graphs have become the dominant technical device in the last decade. Those two kinds of graphs are collectively called assembly graphs.

Results

In this review, we discuss the most recent advances in the problem of constructing, representing and navigating assembly graphs, focusing on very large datasets. We will also explore some computational techniques, such as the Bloom filter, to compactly store graphs while keeping all functionalities intact.

Conclusions

We complete our analysis with a discussion on the algorithmic issues of assembling from long reads ( e.g., PacBio and Oxford Nanopore). Finally, we present some of the most relevant open problems in this field.
The Human Gut Microbiome’s Influence on Arsenic Toxicity
Authors: Coryell Michael , Roggenbeck Barbara A. , Walk Seth T.
Published: December 2019

Purpose of Review

Arsenic exposure is a public health concern of global proportions with a high degree of interindividual variability in pathologic outcomes. Arsenic metabolism is a key factor underlying toxicity, and the primary purpose of this review is to summarize recent discoveries concerning the influence of the human gut microbiome on the metabolism, bioavailability, and toxicity of ingested arsenic. We review and discuss the current state of knowledge along with relevant methodologies for studying these phenomena.

Recent Findings

Bacteria in the human gut can biochemically transform arsenic-containing compounds (arsenicals). Recent publications utilizing culture-based approaches combined with analytical biochemistry and molecular genetics have helped identify several arsenical transformations by bacteria that are at least possible in the human gut and are likely to mediate arsenic toxicity to the host. Other studies that directly incubate stool samples in vitro also demonstrate the gut microbiome’s potential to alter arsenic speciation and bioavailability. In vivo disruption or elimination of the microbiome has been shown to influence toxicity and body burden of arsenic through altered excretion and biotransformation of arsenicals. Currently, few clinical or epidemiological studies have investigated relationships between the gut microbiome and arsenic-related health outcomes in humans, although current evidence provides strong rationale for this research in the future.

The human gut microbiome can metabolize arsenic and influence arsenical oxidation state, methylation status, thiolation status, bioavailability, and excretion. We discuss the strength of current evidence and propose that the microbiome be considered in future epidemiologic and toxicologic studies of human arsenic exposure.
Fluid–structure interaction of flexible submerged vegetation stems and kinetic turbine blades
Authors: Wang Mingyang , Avital Eldad J. , Bai Xin , Ji Chunning , Xu Dong , Williams John J. R. , Munjiza Antonio
Published: December 2019

A fluid–structure interaction (FSI) methodology is presented for simulating elastic bodies embedded and/or encapsulating viscous incompressible fluid. The fluid solver is based on finite volume and the large eddy simulation approach to account for turbulent flow. The structural dynamic solver is based on the combined finite element method–discrete element method (FEM-DEM). The two solvers are tied up using an immersed boundary method (IBM) iterative algorithm to improve information transfer between the two solvers. The FSI solver is applied to submerged vegetation stems and blades of small-scale horizontal axis kinetic turbines. Both bodies are slender and of cylinder-like shape. While the stem mostly experiences a dominant drag force, the blade experiences a dominant lift force. Following verification cases of a single-stem deformation and a spinning Magnus blade in laminar flows, vegetation flexible stems and flexible rotor blades are analysed, while they are embedded in turbulent flow. It is shown that the single stem’s flexibility has higher effect on the flow as compared to the rigid stem than when in a dense vegetation patch. Making a marine kinetic turbine rotor flexible has the potential of significantly reducing the power production due to undesired twisting and bending of the blades. These studies point to the importance of FSI in flow problems where there is a noticeable deflection of a cylinder-shaped body and the capability of coupling FEM-DEM with flow solver through IBM.
Micronutrients in support to the one carbon cycle for the modulation of blood fasting homocysteine in PCOS women
Authors: Schiuma N. , Costantino A. , Bartolotti T. , Dattilo M. , Bini V. , Aglietti M. C. , Renga M. , Favilli A. , Falorni A. , Gerli S.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Fasting blood homocysteine is increased in PCOS women and is involved in several of its co-morbidities including cardiovascular disease and infertility. Corrective interventions based on the administration of supra-physiologic doses of folic acid work to a low extent. We aimed to test an alternative approach.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, parallel group, open label, controlled versus no treatment clinical study. PCOS women aged > 18, free from systemic diseases and from pharmacological treatments were randomized with a 2:1 ratio for treatment with activated micronutrients in support to the carbon cycle (Impryl, Parthenogen, Switzerland—n = 22) or no treatment (n = 10) and followed-up for 3 months. Fasting blood homocysteine, AMH, testosterone, SHBGs, and the resulting FTI were tested before and at the end of the follow-up.

Results

The mean baseline fasting blood homocysteine was above the normal limit of 12 μMol/L and inversely correlated with SHBG. AMH was also increased, whereas testosterone, SHBG, and FTI were within the normal limit. The treatment achieved a significant reduction of homocysteine, that did not change in the control group, independently of the starting value. The treatment also caused an increase of AMH and a decrease of SHBGs only in the subgroup with a normal homocysteine at baseline.

Conclusions

In PCOS ladies, blood homocysteine is increased and inversely correlated with the SHBGs. Physiologic amounts of activated micronutrients in support to the carbon cycle achieve a reduction virtually in all exposed patients. Whether this is of clinical benefit remains to be established.
The Role of Parent Phase Compliance on the Fatigue Lifetime of Ni–Ti
Authors: Bonsignore Craig , Shamini Ali , Duerig Tom
Published: December 2019

It has been previously suggested that the fatigue lifetime of superelastic Ni–Ti might be improved if the R-phase were the parent to martensite rather than austenite. This body of work tests that hypothesis in two separate side-by-side fatigue tests both carefully constructed to match the superelastic properties in the two study arms. Both experiments show the R-phase parent to be more durable than the more commonly considered austenitic parent phase. The first experiment considers straight wire specimens fabricated from standard purity material, in a tension–tension fatigue test to 107 cycles, at mean strain ranging of 0.5–5.8% and strain amplitudes of 0.15–0.45%. The second experiment considers formed wire specimens in bending fatigue, more representative of realistic medical components, with a maximum mean strain of 1.2%, and maximum strain amplitudes ranging from 0.72 to 1.64%. Compared with the austenitic parent material, the R-phase material tolerated 0.1–0.3% higher strain amplitudes.
Kilonovae
Authors: Metzger Brian D.
Published: December 2019

The coalescence of double neutron star (NS–NS) and black hole (BH)–NS binaries are prime sources of gravitational waves (GW) for Advanced LIGO/Virgo and future ground-based detectors. Neutron-rich matter released from such events undergoes rapid neutron capture (r-process) nucleosynthesis as it decompresses into space, enriching our universe with rare heavy elements like gold and platinum. Radioactive decay of these unstable nuclei powers a rapidly evolving, approximately isotropic thermal transient known as a “kilonova”, which probes the physical conditions during the merger and its aftermath. Here I review the history and physics of kilonovae, leading to the current paradigm of day-timescale emission at optical wavelengths from lanthanide-free components of the ejecta, followed by week-long emission with a spectral peak in the near-infrared (NIR). These theoretical predictions, as compiled in the original version of this review, were largely confirmed by the transient optical/NIR counterpart discovered to the first NS–NS merger, GW170817, discovered by LIGO/Virgo. Using a simple light curve model to illustrate the essential physical processes and their application to GW170817, I then introduce important variations about the standard picture which may be observable in future mergers. These include $$\sim $$
∼
hour-long UV precursor emission, powered by the decay of free neutrons in the outermost ejecta layers or shock-heating of the ejecta by a delayed ultra-relativistic outflow; and enhancement of the luminosity from a long-lived central engine, such as an accreting BH or millisecond magnetar. Joint GW and kilonova observations of GW170817 and future events provide a new avenue to constrain the astrophysical origin of the r-process elements and the equation of state of dense nuclear matter.
‘We Are Not As Bad as you Think we Are’: Dealing with Diversity and Self-Exclusion in a Youth Football Club
Authors: Awuh Harrison Esam , Spijkers Floor
Published: December 2019

Few studies have considered the capacity of place to facilitate or inhibit supportive responses to diversity. In this paper, we explore this capacity of place through an ethnographic case study of responses to diversity in a football club based in Antwerp, Belgium. Over a three year period we assessed the effects of three separate placed-based initiatives by the football club to promote inclusion of native Belgians in a football club that has become predominantly composed of people with migrant backgrounds. This paper demonstrates that initiatives which were based in places with normative values which promote diversity, acceptance and mutual respect delivered more positive outcomes for inclusion of native Belgians than in places without such norms and values.
Comprehensive Analysis and Optimization of Dynamic Vibration-Absorbing Structures for Electric Vehicles Driven by In-Wheel Motors
Authors: Qin Yechen , Wang Zhenfeng , Yuan Kang , Zhang Yubiao
Published: December 2019

Distributed-drive electric vehicles (EVs) replace internal combustion engine with multiple motors, and the novel configuration results in new dynamic-related issues. This paper studies the coupling effects between the parameters and responses of dynamic vibration-absorbing structures (DVAS) for EVs driven by in-wheel motors (IWM). Firstly, a DVAS-based quarter suspension model is developed for distributed-drive EVs, from which nine parameters and five responses are selected for the coupling effect analysis. A two-stage global sensitivity analysis is then utilized to investigate the effect of each parameter on the responses. The control of the system is then converted into a multiobjective optimization problem with the defined system parameters being the optimization variables, and three dynamic limitations regarding both motor and suspension subsystems are taken as the constraints. A particle swarm optimization approach is then used to either improve ride comfort or mitigate IWM vibration, and two optimized parameter sets for these two objects are provided at last. Simulation results provide in-depth conclusions for the coupling effects between parameters and responses, as well as a guideline on how to design system parameters for contradictory objectives. It can be concluded that either passenger comfort or motor lifespan can be reduced up to 36% and 15% by properly changing the IWM suspension system parameters.
How Is the Sexual Function of Premenopausal Chinese Women Without Hyperlipidemia?
Authors: Xiang Yali , Tang Yuxin , Li Jiaqun , Li Dongjie
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Most premenopausal women in China have normal lipid profiles while the sexual function among them was scarcely demonstrated.

Aim

To find out the characteristics of the sexual function in premenopausal Chinese women without hyperlipidemia using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Golombok Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS).

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed to find out the characteristics of sexual function in premenopausal Chinese women without hyperlipidemia. Between January 2019 and March 2019, we recruited 216 women, 25–49 years of age. Data from questionnaires and health checkups were collected and analyzed.

Main Outcome Measure

We report the prevalence of and factors related to female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in premenopausal Chinese women without hyperlipidemia in accordance with the FSFI and the GRISS.

Results

The prevalence of FSD in our study was 46.2%. The mean age was 38.07 ± 6.94 years. More highly educated women suffered from FSD than those in the control group (61.1% vs 35.2%, P < .05). Binge eating was significantly different between the groups (P = .023). Multiple logistic regression analyses demonstrated that total cholesterol level was positively associated with low desire (OR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.10–4.13; P = .025) and so was the low-density lipoprotein level (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.03–4.62; P = .0.041). The high-density lipoprotein level was inversely associated with infrequency (OR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.06–0.59; P = .004). More women with FSD had orgasm disorder than those in the control group, for 83.3% vs 35.2% in the FSFI (P < .001), 88.9% vs 54.3% in the GRISS (P < .001), respectively. Dissatisfaction remained the most common issue for the control group in both the FSFI and the GRISS (90.50% and 58.10%, respectively).

Conclusions

FSD is frequent in premenopausal Chinese women without hyperlipidemia. Dissatisfaction as the common problem influenced over half of them and orgasm disorder is a severe sexual issue for women with FSD.

Xiang Y, Tang Y, Li J, et al. How Is the Sexual Function of Premenopausal Chinese Women Without Hyperlipidemia. J Sex Med 2019;8:65–75.
The Symbol of the Motherland in the Legitimation and Delegitimation of Power in Contemporary Russia
Authors: Riabov Oleg
Published: December 2019

The article dwells upon the use of the symbol of the “Motherland” in the legitimation and delegitimation of power. The Motherland symbolizes the matters that are essential for legitimacy-seeking: the unity of Russia, its territory and sacredness of its borders, the most important events of its history, the “authentic Russianness,” and multi-ethnic peace in the country. The author argues that the Motherland serves as an important factor of the legitimation of power in contemporary Russia, which allows the authorities to have high popularity both in domestic and foreign policies. This symbol is also actively exploited by the opposition; one mode of the delegitimation of power through using the symbol of Motherland (the “populist” mode) implies the symbolic struggle for possessing this symbol, or for the right to speak on behalf of the Motherland, while another one (the “liberal” mode) implies the desacralization of the “Motherland” and deconstruction of the practices of employing the symbol by the authorities.
Simultaneity and the refusal to choose: The semiotics of Serbian youth identity on Facebook
Authors: George Rachel
Published: December 2019

Although the importance of linguistic simultaneity has long been recognized (Woolard 1998), the concept is underexamined in recent analyses of language use in globalized, digital contexts such as social media. Drawing from an analysis of everyday Facebook posts from youth in Belgrade, Serbia, the article proposes that recognizing four types of simultaneity—of linguistic features, indexical operations, effects, and scale—is key for making sense of social media utterances in political and historical context. On Facebook, Serbian youth mix languages and writing systems in complex ways, adhering to dominant ideologies of language and identity in some ways and flouting them in others. Using the Serbian case as a springboard, along with the four types of simultaneity proposed, I suggest a framework for analyzing language and identity on social media. (Serbia, indexicality, simultaneity, social media, superdiversity, bivalency, youth)*
Dynamics and sources of response variability and its coordination in visual cortex
Authors: Hoseini Mahmood S. , Wright Nathaniel C. , Xia Ji , Clawson Wesley , Shew Woodrow , Wessel Ralf
Published: December 2019

The trial-to-trial response variability in sensory cortices and the extent to which this variability can be coordinated among cortical units have strong implications for cortical signal processing. Yet, little is known about the relative contributions and dynamics of defined sources to the cortical response variability and their correlations across cortical units. To fill this knowledge gap, here we obtained and analyzed multisite local field potential (LFP) recordings from visual cortex of turtles in response to repeated naturalistic movie clips and decomposed cortical across-trial LFP response variability into three defined sources, namely, input, network, and local fluctuations. We found that input fluctuations dominate cortical response variability immediately following stimulus onset, whereas network fluctuations dominate the response variability in the steady state during continued visual stimulation. Concurrently, we found that the network fluctuations dominate the correlations of the variability during the ongoing and steady-state epochs, but not immediately following stimulus onset. Furthermore, simulations of various model networks indicated that (i) synaptic time constants, leading to oscillatory activity, and (ii) synaptic clustering and synaptic depression, leading to spatially constrained pockets of coherent activity, are both essential features of cortical circuits to mediate the observed relative contributions and dynamics of input, network, and local fluctuations to the cortical LFP response variability and their correlations across recording sites. In conclusion, these results show how a mélange of multiscale thalamocortical circuit features mediate a complex stimulus-modulated cortical activity that, when naively related to the visual stimulus alone, appears disguised as high and coordinated across-trial response variability.
Anomalous origin of left pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta: echocardiography assessment
Authors: Atmani Samir , Bendris Imane
Published: December 2019

Anomalous origin of one pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta is a rare cardiac anomaly in which the pulmonary artery abnormally arises from the ascending aorta. Physiologically, most patients develop signs of cardiac failure due to high flow to both lungs. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate, with this rare anomaly, the accurate place of the echocardiography to establish diagnosis especially in the systemic or supra-systemic pulmonary hypertension.
Spontaneous closure of muscular ventricular septal defect by growth of right ventricular muscle bundles: a rare mechanism
Authors: Charaf Eddine Ahmad , Kadiu Gilda , Sanil Yamuna
Published: December 2019

We present a case of an 18-year-old male with large anterior muscular ventricular septal defect. Assessment by echocardiography showed that the defect has completely closed by the growth of muscle bundles that formed a pouch-like structure on the right ventricular side. This unusual mechanism of closure has been reported in one prior case report. In our report, we present images obtained by three-dimensional echocardiography.
Food democracy, health disparities and the New York City trans fat policy
Authors: Johnson Kimberly E
Published: December 2019

Objective:

To investigate food democracy and health disparities in the New York City (NYC) trans fat policy process.

Design:

Texts from semi-structured interviews, public testimony and comments on the policy were analysed using categorization and thematic coding. A priori content analysis for themes of food democracy was followed by open, axial and selective coding for sub-themes on health disparities. Data and method triangulation and respondent validation were used to establish data dependability, trustworthiness and representativeness.

Setting:

NYC.

Participants:

Interviews from a purposive, snowballed sample of thirty-three participants included restaurateurs, scientists, health and consumer advocates, consumers and policy makers. Additionally, 261 pages of transcript from public testimony of fifty-three participants and a purposive sample of public comments on the policy from a pool of 2157 were analysed.

Results:

Principles of food democracy involving inclusive citizenship, access to information, collaborative participation and focus on collective good were well represented in the data. Additionally, sub-themes linked to health disparities included: government responsibility for fairer access to healthier foods; recognition that people made choices based on circumstances; concern for vulnerable groups; and outrage with a food industry viewed as unconcerned for public health.

Conclusions:

Principles of food democracy present in the successful process of adoption of the 2006 NYC trans fat policy addressed nutrition-related health. Food democracy is a contemporary food system and policy approach with potential for public health benefits in reducing nutrition-related health disparities.
When Conflicts Do Not Overspill: The Case of Jordan
Authors: Nesser Petter , Gråtrud Henrik
Published: December 2019

How can vulnerable states adjacent to countries embroiled in civil war avoid conflict contagion? Jordan has all the classic attributes highlighted in the literature as creating vulnerabilities susceptible to spillover. It adjoins Syria and Iraq where jihadists have operated freely. It has a weak economy, refugees pouring in from adjacent conflicts and is home to hundreds—if not thousands—of jihadists. Moreover, jihadists consider the Jordanian regime to be traitors—who conspire with the enemies of Islam—and they want to replace it with an Islamic state. However, as we show, very few jihadist attacks have happened in Jordan. We test three hypotheses for the limited spillover. Our analysis suggests a state policy that we dub “calibrated repression” is the most significant explanation. This means that Jordan protects against spillover by repressing jihadist attempts at infiltrating the kingdom and clamping down on local terrorist cells linked to the Islamic State while keeping other domestic jihadist elements in check through co-optation. The regime restrains the use of force against less acute threats and displays some leniency towards radicals when the situation allows. Our findings speak to the broader literature on spillover and offer insights into the understudied topic of mechanisms limiting spillover in high-risk environments.
Childhood adversity and clinical and psychosocial outcomes in psychosis
Authors: Turner S. , Harvey C. , Hayes L. , Castle D. , Galletly C. , Sweeney S. , Shah S. , Keogh L. , Spittal M. J.
Published: December 2019

Aims

Associations between childhood abuse and various psychotic illnesses in adulthood are commonly reported. We aim to examine associations between several reported childhood adverse events (sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect and interpersonal loss) among adults with diagnosed psychotic disorders and clinical and psychosocial outcomes.

Methods

Within a large epidemiological study, the 2010 Australian National Survey of Psychosis (Survey of High Impact Psychosis, SHIP), we used logistic regression to model childhood adverse events (any and specific types) on 18 clinical and psychosocial outcomes.

Results

Eighty percent of SHIP participants (1466/1825) reported experiencing adverse events in childhood (sexual abuse, other types of abuse and interpersonal loss). Participants reporting any form of childhood adversity had higher odds for 12/18 outcomes we examined. Significant associations were observed with all psychosocial outcomes (social dysfunction, victimisation, offending and homelessness within the previous 12 months, and definite psychosocial stressor within 12 months of illness onset), with the strongest association for homelessness (odds ratio (OR) = 2.82). Common across all adverse event types was an association with lifetime depression, anxiety and a definite psychosocial stressor within 12 months of illness onset. When adverse event types were non-hierarchically coded, sexual abuse was associated with 11/18 outcomes, other types of abuse 13/18 and, interpersonal loss occurring in the absence of other forms of abuse was associated with fewer of the clinical and psychosocial outcomes, 4/18. When adverse events types were coded hierarchically (to isolate the effect of interpersonal loss in the absence of abuse), interpersonal loss was associated with lower odds of self-reproach (OR = 0.70), negative syndrome (OR = 0.75) and victimisation (OR = 0.82).

Conclusions

Adverse childhood experiences among people with psychosis are common, as are subsequent psychosocial stressors. Mental health professionals should routinely enquire about all types of adversities in this group and provide effective service responses. Childhood abuse, including sexual abuse, may contribute to subsequent adversity, poor psychosocial functioning and complex needs among people with psychosis. Longitudinal research to better understand these relationships is needed, as are studies which evaluate the effectiveness of preventative interventions in high-risk groups.