bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on bifurcation analysis and Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy sampled‐data stabilization of permanent magnet synchronous motor systems
Authors: Vadivel R. , Srinivasan Sabarathinam , Wu Yongbao , Gunasekaran Nallappan
Published: November 2021

The bifurcation, stability, and stabilization analysis of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) systems are investigated in this paper. To begin, a new class of delay‐dependent sufficient conditions are suggested with respect to the information of the membership functions, a relevant Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF), and the overall information connected with the real sampling pattern, so that the fuzzy system is ensured to be stable with a weighted dissipativity efficiency. Second, a sampled‐data control is intended to stabilize the Takagi–Sugeno (T‐S) fuzzy system with specified integral inequalities based on the obtained results. The required conditions are stated in terms of the linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) under the dissipativity output index and can be verified by MATLAB toolbox. Finally, verification examples are contributed to demonstrate the efficacy of the techniques established in this paper.
The mass‐conserving domain decomposition method for convection diffusion equations with variable coefficients
Authors: Dong Ruiqi , Zhou Zhongguo , Chen Xiangdong , Tang Huiguo , Zhang Qi
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a conserved domain decomposition method for solving convection–diffusion equations with variable coefficients is analyzed. The interface fluxes over the subdomains are firstly obtained by the explicit fluxes scheme. Secondly, the interior solutions and fluxes over each subdomains are computed by the modified upwind implicit scheme. Then, the interface fluxes are corrected by the obtained solutions. We prove rigorously that our scheme is mass conservative, unconditionally stable, and of second‐order convergence in spatial step. Numerical examples test the theoretical analysis and efficiencies. Lastly, we extend our scheme to the nonlinear convection–diffusion equations and give the error estimate.
A review of explainable and interpretable AI with applications in COVID‐19 imaging
Authors: Fuhrman Jordan D. , Gorre Naveena , Hu Qiyuan , Li Hui , El Naqa Issam , Giger Maryellen L.
Published: November 2021

The development of medical imaging artificial intelligence (AI) systems for evaluating COVID‐19 patients has demonstrated potential for improving clinical decision making and assessing patient outcomes during the recent COVID‐19 pandemic. These have been applied to many medical imaging tasks, including disease diagnosis and patient prognosis, as well as augmented other clinical measurements to better inform treatment decisions. Because these systems are used in life‐or‐death decisions, clinical implementation relies on user trust in the AI output. This has caused many developers to utilize explainability techniques in an attempt to help a user understand when an AI algorithm is likely to succeed as well as which cases may be problematic for automatic assessment, thus increasing the potential for rapid clinical translation. AI application to COVID‐19 has been marred with controversy recently. This review discusses several aspects of explainable and interpretable AI as it pertains to the evaluation of COVID‐19 disease and it can restore trust in AI application to this disease. This includes the identification of common tasks that are relevant to explainable medical imaging AI, an overview of several modern approaches for producing explainable output as appropriate for a given imaging scenario, a discussion of how to evaluate explainable AI, and recommendations for best practices in explainable/interpretable AI implementation. This review will allow developers of AI systems for COVID‐19 to quickly understand the basics of several explainable AI techniques and assist in the selection of an approach that is both appropriate and effective for a given scenario.
Effects of composition and thermal treatment on VOC‐limiting defects in single‐crystalline Cu2ZnSnSe4 solar cells
Authors: Lloyd Michael A. , Ma Xiangyu , Kuba Austin G. , McCandless Brian E. , Doty Matthew F. , Birkmire Robert
Published: November 2021

Single‐crystalline Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) solar cells with open circuit voltages reaching 500 mV are achieved through a combination of composition control and a low‐temperature thermal ordering treatment. A comparison of the device results for Cu‐poor CZTSe with Cu/Zn + Sn ratios of 0.77 and 0.86 is presented with and without the implementation of a 130°C absorber annealing treatment. An increase in bandgap energy is observed via external quantum efficiency measurements with both the decrease in Cu content and the implementation of the order anneal, the latter of which also leads to a decrease in Urbach energy. Defect characterization performed with admittance spectroscopy on devices is demonstrated as insufficient because of low‐temperature current barriers. Photoluminescence (PL) on crystal surfaces however enables a qualitative comparison of the defect landscape between crystal compositions and annealing treatments. Both a highly compensated and a lightly doped defect model are used to fit PL as a function of laser fluence to identify defects contributing to each observed recombination channel. The PL signatures attributed to the ZnSn defect become unresolvable with a decrease in Cu/Zn + Sn ratio from 0.86 to 0.77. Furthermore, a decrease in Cu–Zn disorder is observed upon the implementation of the annealing treatment through both a comparison of potential fluctuation depths and of both PL models.
Wavelength‐dependent photochemistry of 1‐phenyl‐1‐diazopropane
Authors: Tokihiro Jodie , Fitzpatrick Caralyn , Platz Matthew S.
Published: November 2021

1‐Phenyl‐1‐diazopropane (PDP) was photolyzed in acetonitrile/methanol mixtures using either 520‐nm light or 350‐nm light. The main photoproducts were 1‐methoxypropylbenzene and E,Z‐1‐phenylpropene. With 520‐nm light, a plot of (1‐methoxypropylbenzene)/(E,Z‐1‐phenylpropene) versus methanol concentration was linear. These results are consistent with the visible light induced fragmentation of PDP to dinitrogen and closed shell singlet (S0) ethyl, phenylcarbene (1EPC) which partitions between 1,2 hydrogen migration to form alkene, and reaction with methanol to form ether. The same plot generated with 350‐nm light significantly deviates from linearity. It is proposed that 350‐nm light generates the carbene in a vibrationally excited, open shell S1 excited state (1EPC*). This state rearranges to E,Z‐1‐phenylpropenes in competition with relaxation to ground state 1EPC over a few tens of ps. As a result, methanol cannot completely suppress alkene formation upon photolysis of PDP with 350‐nm light. The carbene excited state is a “non‐trappable carbene” route to alkenes.
Conductivity of diblock copolymer system filled with conducting nano‐particles: Effect of copolymer morphology
Authors: Chervanyov A.I.
Published: November 2021

We explore the effect of temperature‐induced morphological changes in insulating diblock copolymer system (DBC) filled with conductive fillers on the conductivity of this composite. By making use of the developed method that relies on the consistent phase‐field model of DBC, Monte‐Carlo simulations of the filler distribution in DBC, and resistor network model, we quantitatively relate the morphology of filled DBC and its conductivity. In particular, we demonstrate that the order–disorder transition between the random and ordered microphases of DBC causes the conductor‐insulator transition in the network of conductive fillers immersed in this system. The order–order transition between the ordered lamellae and cylindrical microphases of DBC is found to co‐occur with a jump in the composite conductivity caused by restructuring of the conductive filler network.
Silencing of the BtTPS genes by transgenic plant‐mediated RNAi to control Bemisia tabaciMED
Authors: Gong Cheng , Yang Zezhong , Hu Yuan , Wu Qingjun , Wang Shaoli , Guo Zhaojiang , Zhang Youjun
Published: November 2021

Background

Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is a typical pest that causes severe damage to hundreds of agricultural crops. The trehalose‐6‐phosphate synthase (TPS) genes, as the key genes in the insect trehalose synthesis pathway, are important for insect growth and development. The whitefly TPS genes may be a main reason for the severe damage and may represent potential targets for the control of whiteflies.

Results

In this study, we identified and cloned three TPS genes from B. tabaci MED and found that the BtTPS1 and BtTPS2 genes showed higher expression levels than the BtTPS3 gene. Then, RNA interference (RNAi) of BtTPS1 and BtTPS2 resulted in significant mortality and influenced the expression of related genes involved in energy metabolism and chitin biosynthesis in whitefly adults. Finally, the transgenic tobacco plants showed a significant effect on B. tabaci, and knockdown of BtTPS1 or BtTPS2 led to retarded growth and low hatchability in whitefly nymphs, and caused 90% mortality and decreased the fecundity in whitefly adults. Additionally, the transgenic tobacco with combinatorial RNAi of BtTPS1 and BtTPS2 showed a better efficacy against whiteflies than individual silencing.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that silencing of the BtTPS genes can compromise the growth and development of whiteflies, offering not only a new option for whitefly control but also a secure and environmentally friendly management strategy.
A penalization approach to random‐effects meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yipeng , Lin Lifeng , Thompson Christopher G. , Chu Haitao
Published: November 2021

Systematic reviews and meta‐analyses are principal tools to synthesize evidence from multiple independent sources in many research fields. The assessment of heterogeneity among collected studies is a critical step when performing a meta‐analysis, given its influence on model selection and conclusions about treatment effects. A common‐effect (CE) model is conventionally used when the studies are deemed homogeneous, while a random‐effects (RE) model is used for heterogeneous studies. However, both models have limitations. For example, the CE model produces excessively conservative confidence intervals with low coverage probabilities when the collected studies have heterogeneous treatment effects. The RE model, on the other hand, assigns higher weights to small studies compared to the CE model. In the presence of small‐study effects or publication bias, the over‐weighted small studies from a RE model can lead to substantially biased overall treatment effect estimates. In addition, outlying studies may exaggerate between‐study heterogeneity. This article introduces penalization methods as a compromise between the CE and RE models. The proposed methods are motivated by the penalized likelihood approach, which is widely used in the current literature to control model complexity and reduce variances of parameter estimates. We compare the existing and proposed methods with simulated data and several case studies to illustrate the benefits of the penalization methods.
Flexible Wearables for Plants
Authors: Qu Chun‐Chun , Sun Xu‐Yang , Sun Wen‐Xiu , Cao Ling‐Xiao , Wang Xi‐Qing , He Zhi‐Zhu
Published: November 2021

The excellent stretchability and biocompatibility of flexible sensors have inspired an emerging field of plant wearables, which enable intimate contact with the plants to continuously monitor the growth status and localized microclimate in real‐time. Plant flexible wearables provide a promising platform for the development of plant phenotype and the construction of intelligent agriculture via monitoring and regulating the critical physiological parameters and microclimate of plants. Here, the emerging applications of plant flexible wearables together with their pros and cons from four aspects, including physiological indicators, surrounding environment, crop quality, and active control of growth, are highlighted. Self‐powered energy supply systems and signal transmission mechanisms are also elucidated. Furthermore, the future opportunities and challenges of plant wearables are discussed in detail.
Savalan: Multi objective and homogeneous method for software modules clustering
Authors: Arasteh Bahman , Fatolahzadeh Ahmad , Kiani Farzad
Published: November 2021

Reverse engineering is used for extracting and understanding software architecture models from source code when the source code is the only available software product. Software module clustering is a reverse engineering method which decomposes software modules into several clusters (subsystems) by using module dependency graph. Finding the best clusters for the modules of software is a multi‐objective and NP‐hard problem; maximizing the cohesion among the modules, minimizing the coupling among different clusters, and maximizing the software modularization quality are considered as the main objectives of software module clustering. Some of these objectives, such as cohesion and coupling, are in contradiction with each other. Simultaneous improvement of all clustering objectives (cohesion, coupling, modularization quality, size, and number of clusters) is the main goal of this study. In this paper, by capitalizing on multi objective genetic algorithm and a new combination of objective functions, we proposed a homogeneous method, namely, Savalan, for clustering software modules. The proposed method generates high‐quality clusters with strong cohesion within clusters and weak connections between clusters for the input source code. The results of conducted experiments on the 14 benchmark programs indicate that simultaneous improvement of all clustering objectives is the main merit of this method. According to the experimental results, the proposed algorithm was able to outperform the previous multi objective methods.
Assessment of the metal contamination index in groundwater of the quaternary of the Middle Kert Basin, north‐eastern Morocco
Authors: Hicham Gueddari , Mustapha Akodad , Mourad Baghour , Abdelmajid Moumen , Ali Skalli , Yassine El Yousfi , Hanane Ait Hmeid , Mohamed Chahban , Ghizlane Azizi , Abderahmane Rahhou , Ismail Ahmed , Zahid Muhammad
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study is to highlight the quality of groundwater, with a special focus on the level of heavy metal contamination. To know the extent of this contamination, the protection and proper management of the groundwater resource is indispensable. The present work is in line with the metallic assessment of the water quality of the Oued Kert basin (Mediterranean area, Driouch province, eastern Morocco) by collecting 46 samples following ISO 5665 standard and tested pH, TDS, EC. Samples were analyzed for Heavy Metals with ICP‐MS and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (Pb, Cu, Hg, Al, Fe, Zn, Cr, Cd, and Ni) to detect heavy metal content. The interpretation of the analytical data, about the phenomena responsible for mineralization, was done using the hydro‐chemical classification, resulting from the integrated HPI approach, in addition to the statistical analysis of the data by the analysis of the main PCA components. The majority of the samples were found to be within limits, except for Fe, at some sampling locations, which is above the desirable limit, that is, 300 μg/L according to the Moroccan Drinking Water Standard. This indicates natural and anthropic effects. It shows that the groundwater to the northwest of the study area is probably affected by the leaching of heavy metals from the previous Mhajer mine.
Colin Kirkby Peace
Authors: Rossdale Peter , Hunt Michael , Ricketts Sidney , Digby Nick Wingfield , Greet Tim
Published: November 2021

An innovative and enthusiastic equine veterinary surgeon who was also passionately involved with the sport of modern pentathlon in both Britain and Canada.
Unreconciled effects of salinity on draining and wetting functions in unsaturated soils
Authors: Huber David P. , Butters Greg L. , Garcia Luis A.
Published: November 2021

In a sequence of one‐step outflow–inflow experiments, this study examines the effects of salinity on soil hydraulic properties with the goal of developing a better understanding of how to predict salinity's impacts on soils. The results of this study are compared with estimates obtained using the Hydrus‐1D model for soil water and solute transport. The model assumes a decline in hydraulic conductivity (K), caused by solution chemistry, is constant over the entire hydraulic conductivity function [K(θ)] and equal to a constant reduction factor established at saturation. In contrast with the model assumptions, the results of this study show an increase in the solution chemistry's effect on K with decreasing soil moisture (θ). These findings demonstrate that current models that exclude solution chemistry, or models that assume a constant K reduction for the entire K(θ) function, may be overestimating drainage, recharge, or bare soil evaporation. This research used undisturbed soil cores and simulated irrigation water with decreasing electrical conductivity (EC) from 20 to 0.25 dS m–1 and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) held constant. Changes in K(θ) were observed only after dropping below an EC of 1.5 dS m–1, which is consistent with past studies. At reduced soil water contents, however, K(θ) decreased by up to five orders of magnitude relative to native soils. A second experiment was conducted that increased the SAR from 4 to ≥20, held EC constant at 0.65 dS m–1, and displayed only moderate reductions in K(θ), although K was reduced proportionally more at reduced soil water contents. Therefore, based on the observed results, an integrated K(EC,θ) and K(SAR,θ) model is needed to better predict salinity effects on soil hydraulic properties and is increasingly important as freshwater resources decline.
Basic Income in the United States, 1940–1972: How the ‘fiscal revolution’ Reshaped Social Policy
Authors: Zamora Vargas Daniel
Published: November 2021

The recent revival for ‘Basic Income’ both in the United States and Europe has been the object of a considerable literature. However, vastly concentrated on philosophical, sociological or technical issues, the history of ‘UBI’ itself, has yet rarely been the object of serious scholarly attention. Aside from a few exceptions, the reason for its ‘success’ have not been extensively examined. Beyond decontextualized accounts we’ll explain the reasons of the stark dissemination of the proposal beginning in the early sixties in the United States. In that perspective, we’ll argue that the rising fascination for basic income was part of a wider transformation of the Keynesian paradigm and categories that had shaped the social and economic thought of the post-war order.
JT gravity limit of Liouville CFT and matrix model
Authors: Suzuki Kenta , Takayanagi Tadashi
Published: November 2021

Abstract

In this paper we study a connection between Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) gravity on two-dimensional anti de-Sitter spaces and a semiclassical limit of c < 1 two-dimensional string theory. The world-sheet theory of the latter consists of a space-like Liouville CFT coupled to a non-rational CFT defined by a time-like Liouville CFT. We show that their actions, disk partition functions and annulus amplitudes perfectly agree with each other, where the presence of boundary terms plays a crucial role. We also reproduce the boundary Schwarzian theory from the Liouville theory description. Then, we identify a matrix model dual of our two-dimensional string theory with a specific time-dependent background in c = 1 matrix quantum mechanics. Finally, we also explain the corresponding relation for the two-dimensional de-Sitter JT gravity.
On the order of the QCD chiral phase transition for different numbers of quark flavours
Authors: Cuteri Francesca , Philipsen Owe , Sciarra Alessandro
Published: November 2021

Abstract

The nature of the QCD chiral phase transition in the limit of vanishing quark masses has remained elusive for a long time, since it cannot be simulated directly on the lattice and is strongly cutoff-dependent. We report on a comprehensive ongoing study using unimproved staggered fermions withNf∈ [2, 8] mass-degenerate flavours onNτ∈ {4,6,8} lattices, in which we locate the chiral critical surface separating regions with first-order transitions from crossover regions in the bare parameter space of the lattice theory. Employing the fact that it terminates in a tricritical line, this surface can be extrapolated to the chiral limit using tricritical scaling with known exponents. Knowing the order of the transitions in the lattice parameter space, conclusions for approaching the continuum chiral limit in the proper order can be drawn. While a narrow first-order region cannot be ruled out, we find initial evidence consistent with a second-order chiral transition in all massless theories withNf≤ 6, and possibly up to the onset of the conformal window at 9 ≲$$ {N}_{\mathrm{f}}^{\ast } $$Nf∗≲ 12. A reanalysis of already published$$ \mathcal{O} $$O(a)-improvedNf= 3 Wilson data onNτ∈ [4,12] is also consistent with tricritical scaling, and the associated change from first to second-order on the way to the continuum chiral limit. We discuss a modified Columbia plot and a phase diagram for many-flavour QCD that reflect these possible features.
On a remarkable geometric-mechanical synergism based on a novel linear eigenvalue problem
Authors: Kalliauer Johannes , Malendowski Michał , Mang Herbert A.
Published: November 2021

The vertices of two specific eigenvectors, obtained from a novel linear eigenvalue problem, describe two curves on the surface of an N-dimensional unit hypersphere. N denotes the number of degrees of freedom in the framework of structural analysis by the Finite Element Method. The radii of curvature of these two curves are 0 and 1. They correlate with pure stretching and pure bending, respectively, of structures. The two coefficient matrices of the eigenvalue problem are the tangent stiffness matrix at the load level considered and the one at the onset of loading. The goals of this paper are to report on the numerical verification of the aforesaid geometric-mechanical synergism and to summarize current attempts of its extension to combinations of stretching and bending of structures.
Engineered magnetic oxides nanoparticles as efficient sorbents for wastewater remediation: a review
Authors: Abdel Maksoud M. I. A. , Fahim Ramy Amer , Bedir Ahmed G. , Osman Ahmed I. , Abouelela Marwa Mohamed , El-Sayyad Gharieb S. , Elkodous M. Abd , Mahmoud Amira S. , Rabee Maisara M. , Al-Muhtaseb Ala’a H. , Rooney David W.
Published: November 2021

The rapid urbanization and industrialization is causing worldwide water pollution, calling for advanced cleaning methods. For instance, pollutant adsorption on magnetic oxides is efficient and very practical due to the easy separation from solutions by an magnetic field. Here we review the synthesis and performance of magnetic oxides such as iron oxides, spinel ferrites, and perovskite oxides for water remediation. We present structural, optical, and magnetic properties. Magnetic oxides are also promising photocatalysts for the degradation of organic pollutants. Antimicrobial activities and adsorption of heavy metals and radionucleides are also discussed.
Reflections on kernelizing and computing unrooted agreement forests
Authors: van Wersch Rim , Kelk Steven , Linz Simone , Stamoulis Georgios
Published: November 2021

Phylogenetic trees are leaf-labelled trees used to model the evolution of species. Here we explore the practical impact of kernelization (i.e. data reduction) on the NP-hard problem of computing the TBR distance between two unrooted binary phylogenetic trees. This problem is better-known in the literature as the maximum agreement forest problem, where the goal is to partition the two trees into a minimum number of common, non-overlapping subtrees. We have implemented two well-known reduction rules, the subtree and chain reduction, and five more recent, theoretically stronger reduction rules, and compare the reduction achieved with and without the stronger rules. We find that the new rules yield smaller reduced instances and thus have clear practical added value. In many cases they also cause the TBR distance to decrease in a controlled fashion, which can further facilitate solving the problem in practice. Next, we compare the achieved reduction to the known worst-case theoretical bounds of$$15k-9$$15k-9and$$11k-9$$11k-9respectively, on the number of leaves of the two reduced trees, wherekis the TBR distance, observing in both cases a far larger reduction in practice. As a by-product of our experimental framework we obtain a number of new insights into the actual computation of TBR distance. We find, for example, that very strong lower bounds on TBR distance can be obtained efficiently by randomly sampling certain carefully constructed partitions of the leaf labels, and identify instances which seem particularly challenging to solve exactly. The reduction rules have been implemented within our new solverTubrowhich combines kernelization with an Integer Linear Programming (ILP) approach. Tubro also incorporates a number of additional features, such as a cluster reduction and a practical upper-bounding heuristic, and it can leverage combinatorial insights emerging from the proofs of correctness of the reduction rules to simplify the ILP.
When Evaluative Adjectives Prevent Contradiction in a Debate
Authors: Herman Thierry , Liberatore Diane
Published: November 2021

This paper argues that some words are so highly charged with meaning by a community that they may prevent a discussion during which each participant is on an equal footing. These words are indeed either unanimously accepted or rejected. The presence of these adjectival groups pushes the antagonist to find rhetorical strategies to circumvent them. The main idea we want to develop is that some propositions are not easily debatable in context because of some specific value-bearing words (VBWs), and one of the goals of this paper is to build a methodological tool for finding and classifying these VBWs (with a focus on evaluative adjectives). Our study echoes the importance of “cultural keywords” (as reported by Wierzbicka, Understanding cultures through their key words: English, Russian, Polish, German, and Japanese, 1997) in argument (as reported by Rigotti & Rocci, Argumentation in practice, 2005), but is rather based on a German approach developed by (as reported by Dieckmann, Sprache in der Politik: Einführung in die Pragmatik und Semantik der politischen, 1975), (as reported by Strauss and Zifonun, Der politische Wortschatz, 1986), and (as reported by Girnth, Sprache und Sprachverwendung in der Politik: Eine Einführung in die linguistische Analyse öffentlich-politischer Kommunikation, 2015) about “Miranda” and “Anti-Miranda” words that is expanded and refined here. In particular, our study tries to understand why some statements, fueled by appreciative (Tseronis, 2014) or evaluative adjectives, have such rhetorical effects on a pragmatic level in the particular context of a vote on the Swiss popular initiative called “for more affordable housing”. This context is fruitful since two parties offer reasons for two opposing policy claims: namely, to accept or to reject an initiative. When one party uses arguments containing such universally unassailable adjectival groups to defend a “yes” vote (in our example, pleading for more affordable housing rents), the opposing party cannot use a symmetrical antonym while pleading for the “no” vote. The methodological tool that is proposed here could shed light on the use of certain rhetorical and referential strategies in conflicting policy proposition contexts.
Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Spanish Children and Adolescents: An Exploration of Comorbidity from the Network Perspective
Authors: Sánchez Hernández Milagros Ocalin , Carrasco Miguel A. , Holgado-Tello Francisco Pablo
Published: November 2021

The combination of depression and anxiety is among the most prevalent comorbidities of disorders leading to substantial functional impairment in children and adolescents. The network perspective offers a new paradigm for understanding and measuring psychological constructs and their comorbidity. The present study aims to apply network analysis to explore the comorbidity between depression and anxiety symptoms. Specifically, the study examines bridge symptoms, comorbidity, and shortest pathway networks and estimates the impact of the symptoms in the network’s connectivity and structure. The findings show that “feeling lonely” and “feeling unloved” are identified as the most central bridge symptoms. The shortest path network suggests that the role of a mixed anxiety-depressive symptomatology, and specific and non-specific symptoms of clinical criteria, such as “worries,” “feels depressed,” “fears school,” and “talks about suicide” could serve as a warning for comorbidity.
The cost of a divided America: an experimental study into destructive behavior
Authors: Mill Wladislaw , Morgan John
Published: November 2021

Does political polarization lead to dysfunctional behavior? To study this question, we investigate the attitudes of supporters of Donald Trump and of Hillary Clinton towards each other and how these attitudes affect spiteful behavior. We find that both Trump and Clinton supporters display less positive attitudes towards the opposing supporters compared to coinciding supporters. More importantly, we show that significantly more wealth is destroyed if the opponent is an opposing voter. This effect is mainly driven by Clinton voters. This provides the first experimental evidence that political polarization leads to destructive behavior.
Optimum distance flag codes from spreads via perfect matchings in graphs
Authors: Alonso-González Clementa , Navarro-Pérez Miguel Ángel , Soler-Escrivà Xaro
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we study flag codes on the vector space $${{\mathbb {F}}}_q^n$$

F
q
n

, being q a prime power and $${{\mathbb {F}}}_q$$

F
q

the finite field of q elements. More precisely, we focus on flag codes that attain the maximum possible distance (optimum distance flag codes) and can be obtained from a spread of $${{\mathbb {F}}}_q^n$$

F
q
n

. We characterize the set of admissible type vectors for this family of flag codes and also provide a construction of them based on well-known results about perfect matchings in graphs. This construction attains both the maximum distance for its type vector and the largest possible cardinality for that distance.
Simulation-based layout optimization for multi-station assembly lines
Authors: Leiber Daria , Eickholt David , Vuong Anh-Tu , Reinhart Gunther
Published: November 2021

This article presents a novel approach for the automated 3D-layout planning of multi-station assembly lines. The planning method is based on a comprehensive model of the used production resources, including their geometry, kinematic properties, and general characteristics. Different resource types can be included in the planning system. A genetic algorithm generates and optimizes possible layouts for a line. The optimization aims to minimize the line’s area and the costs for assembling the line while simultaneously optimizing the resources’ positioning to perform their tasks. The line’s cycle time is considered as a boundary condition. For the evaluation of different layout alternatives, a multi-body simulation is performed. A parameter study is used to set the algorithm’s parameters. Afterward, the algorithm is applied to three increasingly complex examples to validate and evaluate its functionality. The approach is promising for industrial applications as it allows the integration of various resource types and individualization of the optimization function.
Strategies to Enhance Retention in a Cohort Study Among Adults of Turkish Descent Living in Berlin
Authors: Dornquast Christina , Reinhold Thomas , Solak Saliha , Durak Melike , Becher Heiko , Riens Burgi , Icke Katja , Danquah Ina , Willich Stefan N. , Keil Thomas , Krist Lilian
Published: November 2021

Retention is important for statistical power and external validity in long-term cohort studies. The aims of our study were to evaluate different retention strategies within a cohort study of adults of Turkish descent in Berlin, Germany, and to compare participants and non-participants. In 2011–2012, a population-based study was conducted among adults of Turkish descent to primarily examine recruitment strategies. 6 years later, the participants were re-contacted and invited to complete a self-report questionnaire regarding their health status, health care utilization, and satisfaction with medical services. The retention strategy comprised letters in both German and Turkish, phone calls, and home visits (by bilingual staff). We calculated the response rate and retention rate, using definitions of the American Association for Public Opinion Research, as well as the relative retention rate for each level of contact. Associations of baseline recruitment strategy, sociodemographic, migration-related and health-related factors with retention were investigated by logistic regression analysis. Of 557 persons contacted, 249 (44.7%) completed the questionnaire. This was 50.1% of those whose contact information was available. The relative retention rate was lowest for phone calls (8.9%) and highest for home visits (18.4%). Participants were more often non-smokers and German citizens than non-participants. For all remaining factors, no association with retention was found. In this study, among adults of Turkish descent, the retention rate increased considerably with every additional level of contact. Implementation of comprehensive retention strategies provided by culturally matched study personnel may lead to higher validity and statistical power in studies on migrant health issues.
The Indirect Relationship Between Spiritual Experiences and Subjective Wellbeing Through Hope? A Sample of Chilean Students
Authors: Wnuk Marcin
Published: November 2021

Spirituality and religiousness are important factors for adolescents wellbeing. Little is known about the mechanisms underlying the positive relationship between spirituality as well as religiousness and subjective wellbeing. This study aimed to verify, whether, in a sample of Chilean students, religiousness is indirectly related to hope through spiritual experiences, and whether spiritual experiences are indirectly related to subjective wellbeing via hope. The sample consisted of 177 Chilean students and the following measures were applied: the Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale, the Herth Hope Index, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, and one item measuring the frequencies of prayer and Mass attendance. According to obtained results religiousness was indirectly, positively related to hope through spiritual experiences. In turn spiritual experiences were indirectly, positively related to subjective wellbeing through hope. Conducted research confirmed the beneficial role of religious practices, spiritual experiences, and hope for Chilean students' subjective wellbeing and the presence of mechanisms underlying the relationships between religiousness as well as spirituality and subjective wellbeing.
Antipsychotics increase steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in the rat brainstem
Authors: Bogus Katarzyna , Żarczyńska Małgorzata , Pałasz Artur , Suszka-Świtek Aleksandra , Worthington John J. , Krzystanek Marek , Żarczyński Piotr
Published: November 2021

Background

Neurosteroids are involved in several important brain functions and have recently been considered novel players in the mechanic actions of neuropsychiatric drugs. There are no reports of murine studies focusing on the effect of chronic neurosteroid treatment in parallel with antipsychotics on key steroidogenic enzyme expression and we therefore focused on steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in the brainstem of rats chronically treated with olanzapine and haloperidol.

Methods and results

Studies were carried out on adult, male Sprague–Dawley rats which were divided into 3 groups: control and experimental animals treated with olanzapine or haloperidol. Total mRNA was isolated from homogenized brainstem samples for RealTime-PCR to estimate gene expression of related aromatase, 3β-HSD and P450scc. Long-term treatment with the selected antipsychotics was reflected in the modulation of steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in the examined brainstem region; with both olanzapine and haloperidol increasing aromatase, 3β-HSD and P450scc gene expression.

Conclusions

The present findings shed new light on the pharmacology of antipsychotics and suggest the existence of possible regulatory interplay between neuroleptic action and steroidogenesis at the level of brainstem neuronal centres.
Sustainability considerations in remediation, retrofit, and seismic upgrading of historic masonry structures
Authors: Corradi Marco , Mustafaraj Enea , Speranzini Emanuela
Published: November 2021

This paper addresses the problem of sustainability in remediation, retrofit, and seismic upgrading of historic masonry structures. Different rehabilitation techniques and some successful applications throughout the Balkans and Italy are described, with particular emphasis to the shear reinforcement of wall panels. The selected techniques aim at improving the seismic performance, preserving the structures for future generations, having the least impact in altering the architectural and heritage values, as well as being sustainable, in terms of reduced carbon dioxide emissions, reversibility, and low energy consumption. The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT), natural fibers, and fiber-reinforced Polymers (FRP) jacketing with natural lime coatings are discussed. The paper concludes by summarizing key successes of the proposed rehabilitation solutions in conservation engineering and suggests areas in which these could be used with great advantage.
A Through-Process Experimental Approach to Enable Optimization of Cold Sprayed Al 7075 Consolidation Performance
Authors: Tsaknopoulos Kyle , Sousa Bryer , Massar Christopher , Grubbs Jack , Siopis Mathew , Cote Danielle
Published: November 2021

This work employs an example of a through process experiment systematic approach to study the relationship among powder properties, cold spray (CS) processing parameters, and consolidated specimen behavior through a combined effort of characterization methods and computational models. This process will allow for the systematic isolation of variables that can affect powder and CS deposit properties. In this study, Al 7075 powder was used as feedstock to produce a CS coating using industry-standard processing parameters. Techniques such as SEM, EDS, XRD, nanoindentation, and tensile testing were used to characterize the properties of both the feedstock powder and CS deposits. In addition, computational thermodynamic modeling was used to guide the interpretation of microstructural features of the powder and CS specimen. Finally, an additive yield strength model was employed to quantify the strengthening components introduced through the CS process.
Improving bounds on probabilistic affine tests to estimate the nonlinearity of Boolean functions
Authors: Sălăgean Ana , Stănică Pantelimon
Published: November 2021

In this paper we want to estimate the nonlinearity of Boolean functions, by probabilistic methods, when it is computationally very expensive, or perhaps not feasible to compute the full Walsh transform (which is the case for almost all functions in a larger number of variables, say more than 30). Firstly, we significantly improve upon the bounds of Zhang and Zheng (1999) on the probabilities of failure of affinity tests based on nonhomomorphicity, in particular, we prove a new lower bound that we have previously conjectured. This new lower bound generalizes the one of Bellare et al. (IEEE Trans. Inf. Theory 42(6), 1781–1795 1996) to nonhomomorphicity tests of arbitrary order. Secondly, we prove bounds on the probability of failure of a proposed affinity test that uses the BLR linearity test. All these bounds are expressed in terms of the function’s nonlinearity, and we exploit that to provide probabilistic methods for estimating the nonlinearity based upon these affinity tests. We analyze our estimates and conclude that they have reasonably good accuracy, particularly so when the nonlinearity is low.
Vulnerability pathways to mental health outcomes in children and parents during COVID-19
Authors: Rizeq Jala , Korczak Daphne J. , Cost Katherine Tombeau , Anagnostou Evdokia , Charach Alice , Monga Suneeta , Birken Catherine S. , Kelley Elizabeth , Nicolson Rob ,   Spit for Science, Burton Christie L. , Crosbie Jennifer
Published: November 2021

We examined pathways from pre-existing psychosocial and economic vulnerability to mental health difficulties and stress in families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from two time points from a multi-cohort study initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic were used. Parents of children 6–18 years completed questionnaires on pre-COVID-19 socioeconomic and demographic factors in addition to material deprivation and stress due to COVID-19 restrictions, mental health, and family functioning. Youth 10 years and older also completed their own measures of mental health and stress. Using structural equation modelling, pathways from pre-existing vulnerability to material deprivation and stress due to COVID-19 restrictions, mental health, and family functioning, including reciprocal pathways, were estimated. Pre-existing psychosocial and economic vulnerability predicted higher material deprivation due to COVID-19 restrictions which in turn was associated with parent and child stress due to restrictions and mental health difficulties. The reciprocal effects between increased child and parent stress and greater mental health difficulties at Time 1 and 2 were significant. Reciprocal effects between parent and child mental health were also significant. Finally, family functioning at Time 2 was negatively impacted by child and parent mental health and stress due to COVID-19 restrictions at Time 1. Psychosocial and economic vulnerability is a risk factor for material deprivation during COVID-19, increasing the risk of mental health difficulties and stress, and their reciprocal effects over time within families. Implications for prevention policy and parent and child mental health services are discussed.
Predicting employee telecommuting preferences and job outcomes amid COVID-19 pandemic: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Bakaç Cafer , Zyberaj Jetmir , Barela James C.
Published: November 2021

In this two-study research using latent profile analysis (LPA), we investigated intra-individual combinations of conscientiousness, autonomy, self-regulation, and extraversion. Based on these combinations, we designed profiles and explored telecommuting preferences and job outcomes of employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Study 1, we recruited 199 participants (77 females, ages ranging from 18 to 65). Results of this study revealed three profiles. One profile scored high on all of the variables and displayed preferences for working on-site more than the other profiles. Additionally, this profile showed higher work engagement, job satisfaction, and perceived productivity than the other two profiles. To validate these findings, we conducted a second study with a sample of 492 participants (169 females; age ranged from 18 to 65). The results yielded five profiles, one scoring high on all of the variables. Similar to Study 1, this profile exhibited higher work engagement, job satisfaction, and perceived productivity than the other four profiles. Individuals in this profile preferred to work on-site compared to individuals in other profiles. Our findings add to the research demonstrating the importance of personality characteristics for telecommuting preferences and work-related outcomes.
Evaluation of the Quick Wee method of inducing faster clean catch urine collection in pre-continent infants: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Branagan Aoife , Canty Niofa , O’Halloran Evanne , Madden Marian , O’Neill Michael Brendan
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The acquisition of non-contaminated urine samples in pre-continent infants remains a challenge. The Quick Wee method uses bladder stimulation to induce voiding. A previous randomized trial showed a higher rate of voiding within 5 minutes using this method. We evaluated this method in an Irish hospital providing secondary care.

Methods

A non-blinded, randomized, controlled trial was carried out. Eligible infants were between 1 and 12 months of age, who required urine sampling as part of clinical care. Participants were randomly allocated to receive the intervention (Quick Wee Method—supra-pubic stimulation with cold saline) or the control (usual care—clean catch with no bladder stimulation) for 5 min. Primary outcome was voiding of urine within 5 min.

Results

A total of 140 infants were included in this study (73 in intervention group; 67 in control group). Baseline characteristics were similar. 25% in the intervention group passed urine in the 5-min trial period compared with 18% in the control group [P = 0.4, absolute difference 7% (95% confidence interval: − 7% to + 20%)].

Conclusion

The Quick Wee method is a simple and inexpensive intervention that did not show a statistically significant increase in urine samples obtained in pre-continent infants.
Rediscovering the largest kiln site in the middle Yangtze River Valley: insights into Qingbai and grey-greenish ware production at Husi kiln site based on bulk chemical analysis
Authors: Li Zihan , Doherty Chris , Hein Anke
Published: November 2021

This paper presents new data from the Husi kiln site, Hubei Province, China, where the unusual size calls into question the primacy of Jingdezhen in porcelain production in medieval China. With its over 180 kilns, the site rivals Jingdezhen in size, yet it has found no mention in textual accounts. The wares produced at Husi include Qingbai and grey-greenish ware of the Tang and the Song periods (seventh to thirteenth century AD). This paper presents compositional data obtained using LA-ICP-MS on samples from five kilns at Husi, comparing them with published data from other kilns. The data set Husi apart, thus allowing for fingerprinting its wares. Based on bulk chemical analysis, the paper furthermore explores the idea that Husi combined elements of southern and northern technologies, thus connecting these two ceramic traditions that previously had been seen as being entirely separate. Some key elements of the early Qingbai ware glaze from Husi resemble wares from Jingdezhen, suggesting a connection between the two sites; however, the glaze recipes for later wares found at Husi differ, indicating that its customer base and marketing strategy changed over time. Furthermore, the iron content of the grey-greenish ware from Husi is extraordinarily high, indicating a unique glaze recipe and production technology independent from Jingdezhen.
The Humility of the Eternal Son
Authors: McCormack Bruce Lindley
Published: November 2021

The Chalcedonian Definition of 451 never completely resolved one of the critical issues at the heart of Christianity: the unity of the 'person' of Christ. In this eagerly-awaited volume - the result of deep and sustained reflection - distinguished theologian Bruce Lindley McCormack examines the reasons for this philosophical and theological failure. His book serves as a critical history that traces modern attempts at resolution of this problem, from the nineteenth-century Lutheran emphasis on Kenoticism (or the 'self-emptying' of the Son in order to be receptive to the will of the Father) to post-Barthian efforts that evade the issue by collapsing the second person of the Trinity into the human Jesus - thereby rejecting altogether the logic of the classical 'two-natures' Christology. McCormack shows how New Testament Christologies both limit and authorize ontological reflection, and in so doing offers a distinctively Reformed version of Kenoticism. Proposing a new and bold divine ontology, with a convincing basis in Christology, he persuasively argues that the unity of the 'person' is in fact guaranteed by the Son's act of taking into his 'being' the lived existence of Jesus.