bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On computational issues for stability analysis of LPV systems using parameter‐dependent Lyapunov functions and LMIs
Authors: A. Mozelli Leonardo , S. Adriano Ricardo L.
Published: March 2019

Robust stability analysis of linear systems subject to time‐varying parameters is investigated. The objective is to discuss some computational issues associated with solving stability conditions based on parameter‐dependent Lyapunov functions by means of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which are exacerbated as the quantity of time‐varying parameters increases. A new solution related to the inclusion of the time derivatives of the parameters is proposed, improving the computational cost without resulting in much conservatism. The time complexity to solve the LMIs reduces from factorial to linear. Numerical examples are provide to illustrate the advantages of the proposed methodology.
Epistemic tools for science classrooms: The continual need to accommodate and adapt
Authors: Settlage John , Southerland Sherry A.
Published: March 2019

Epistemic tool implementation in science classrooms builds on the practice turn unique to the current era of science education reform. In this essay, we consider how professional science engage with objects that serve epistemic goals. We also consider the challenge of adapting epistemic tools to a variety of science learning contexts.
Representational gesturing as an epistemic tool for the development of mechanistic explanatory models
Authors: Mathayas Nitasha , Brown David E. , Wallon Robert C. , Lindgren Robb
Published: March 2019

Constructing explanatory models, in which students learn to visualize the mechanisms of unobservable entities (e.g., molecules) to explain the working of observable phenomena (e.g., air pressure), is a key practice of science. Yet, students struggle to develop and utilize such models to articulate causal‐mechanistic explanations. In this paper, we argue that representational gesturing with the hands (i.e., gesturing that models semantic content) can support the development of explanatory models. Through case studies examining middle school students gesturing during sensemaking, we show that representational gestures can support students in at least four ways: (a) they make underlying mechanisms visible, (b) they facilitate translation of a spatial model to a verbal explanation, (c) they enable model articulation while relying less on scientific terminology, and (d) they present opportunities for students to embody causal agents. In these ways, representational gesturing can be considered an epistemic tool supporting students during sensemaking and communication. We argue that instruction should attend to students’ gestures and, as appropriate, encourage students to gesture as a means of aiding the construction and articulation of causal‐mechanistic explanations. While our study explores one form of embodied representation, we encourage the field to explore embodied expressions as epistemic tools for learning.
Unexpected Products of Benzylamine Oxidation Catalyzed by Manganese Porphyrins: Some Factors that Play a Critical Role for Imine Formation
Authors: Meireles Alexandre Moreira , da Silva Vinícius Santos , Rebouças Júlio Santos , da Silva Martins Dayse Carvalho
Published: March 2019

This work describes the oxidation of benzylamine by PhIO, catalyzed by a series of first‐row metal salts and the respective first‐, second‐, and third‐generation metalloporphyrins. Five products were identified in reactions with [MnIIITPPCl]/PhIO. In this system, two products obtained (benzaldehyde oxime andN‐benzylbenzamide) were not previously described when [MnIIITPPCl] was used as catalyst. The change in the oxidant type (PhIO, PhI(OAc)2, H2O2orm‐CPBA) modified the selectivity for the major product in the presence of [MnIIITPPCl]. For a second‐generation manganese porphyrin, the highest total yield was observed (99%), with 72% of imine product and only 1% of catalyst destruction, even in homogeneus system.
First Example of the Use of Biosourced Alkyl Levulinates as Solvents for Synthetic Chemistry: Application to the Heterogeneously Catalyzed Heck Coupling
Authors: Marcel Romane , Durillon Thibault , Djakovitch Laurent , Fache Fabienne , Rataboul Franck
Published: March 2019

Modern organic synthesis is highly demanding for environmentally friendly biosourced solvents. In this area, alkyl levulinates, that can be obtained directly from lignocellulose, represent serious candidates. This was demonstrated for the first time in this study, using Heck C−C coupling in the presence of various heterogeneous Pd‐catalysts. In most cases quantitative conversions of aryl halides were observed within short reaction time, associated with good to high isolated yields (30‐95%). In addition to be suitable solvents for this application, alkyl levulinates can be recovered and reused, offering when associated to heterogeneous catalysts facile work‐up procedure for easy obtaining of pure products.
Metal Free Synthesis of α‐Acetoxy/Hydroxymethyl Ketones from Propargylic acetates
Authors: Sadhukhan Santu , Baire Beeraiah
Published: March 2019

An acid, HI promoted di‐deiodination process for the synthesis of α‐acetoxy/hydroxymethyl ketones from α′‐acetoxy‐α,α‐dihaloketones has been reported. The process is very general in terms of structural diversity of both tertiary‐ as well as secondary‐acetoxy possessing diiodoketones and found to be very efficient. The proposed mechanism involves as initial carbonyl activation by proton (acid) followed by the deiodination by Lewis base (iodide or water), for both the deiodination reactions. By extending this idea of acid activation during deiodination, further we have also developed a cascade conversion of propargylic acetates to corresponding α‐acetoxy/hydroxymethyl ketones under metal free conditions. This strategy is unique and high yielding for total four functional group transformations, i. e., propargylic acetate to diiodoketone to mono‐idodoketone to acetoxymethyl ketone to hydroxymethyl ketone.
Amyloid Self‐Assembly of hIAPP8‐20 via the Accumulation of Helical Oligomers, α‐Helix to β‐Sheet Transition, and Formation of β‐Barrel Intermediates
Authors: Sun Yunxiang , Kakinen Aleksandr , Xing Yanting , Faridi Pouya , Nandakumar Aparna , Purcell Anthony W. , Davis Thomas P. , Ke Pu Chun , Ding Feng
Published: March 2019

The self‐assembly of human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) into β‐sheet‐rich nanofibrils is associated with the pathogeny of type 2 diabetes. Soluble hIAPP is intrinsically disordered with N‐terminal residues 8–17 as α‐helices. To understand the contribution of the N‐terminal helix to the aggregation of full‐length hIAPP, here the oligomerization dynamics of the hIAPP fragment 8–20 (hIAPP8‐20) are investigated with combined computational and experimental approaches. hIAPP8‐20 forms cross‐β nanofibrils in silico from isolated helical monomers via the helical oligomers and α‐helices to β‐sheets transition, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, circular dichroism spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and reversed‐phase high performance liquid chromatography. The computational results also suggest that the critical nucleus of aggregation corresponds to hexamers, consistent with a recent mass‐spectroscopy study of hIAPP8‐20 aggregation. hIAPP8‐20 oligomers smaller than hexamers are helical and unstable, while the α‐to‐β transition starts from the hexamers. Converted β‐sheet‐rich oligomers first form β‐barrel structures as intermediates before aggregating into cross‐β nanofibrils. This study uncovers a complete picture of hIAPP8‐20 peptide oligomerization, aggregation nucleation via conformational conversion, formation of β‐barrel intermediates, and assembly of cross‐β protofibrils, thereby shedding light on the aggregation of full‐length hIAPP, a hallmark of pancreatic beta‐cell degeneration.
Peroxidase‐Like Activity of Smart Nanomaterials and Their Advanced Application in Colorimetric Glucose Biosensors
Authors: Liu Xigui , Huang Danlian , Lai Cui , Qin Lei , Zeng Guangming , Xu Piao , Li Bisheng , Yi Huan , Zhang Mingming
Published: March 2019

Diabetes is a dominating health issue with 425 million people suffering from the disease worldwide and 4 million deaths each year. To avoid further complications, the diabetic patient blood glucose level should be strictly monitored despite there being no cure for diabetes. Colorimetric biosensing has attracted significant attention because of its low cost, simplicity, and practicality. Recently, some nanomaterials have been found that possess unexpected peroxidase‐like activity, and great advances have been made in fabricating colorimetric glucose biosensors based on the peroxidase‐like activity of these nanomaterials using glucose oxidase. Compared with natural horseradish peroxidase, the nanomaterials exhibit flexibility in structure design and composition, and have easy separation and storage, high stability, simple preparation, and tunable catalytic activity. To highlight the significant progress in the field of nanomaterial‐based peroxidase‐like activity, this work discusses the various smart nanomaterials that mimic horseradish peroxidase and its mechanism and development history, and the applications in colorimetric glucose biosensors. Different approaches for tunable peroxidase‐like activity of nanomaterials are summarized, such as size, morphology, and shape; surface modification and coating; and metal doping and alloy. Finally, the conclusion and challenges facing peroxidase‐like activity of nanomaterials and future directions are discussed.
Nonaqueous Sodium‐Ion Full Cells: Status, Strategies, and Prospects
Authors: Niu Yu‐Bin , Yin Ya‐Xia , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: March 2019

With ever‐increasing efforts focused on basic research of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and growing energy demand, sodium‐ion full cells (SIFCs), as unique bridging technology between sodium‐ion half‐cells (SIHCs) and commercial batteries, have attracted more and more interest and attention. To promote the development of SIFCs in a better way, it is essential to gain a systematic and profound insight into their key issues and research status. This Review mainly focuses on the interface issues, major challenges, and recent progresses in SIFCs based on diversified electrolytes (i.e., nonaqueous liquid electrolytes, quasi‐solid‐state electrolytes, and all‐solid‐state electrolytes) and summarizes the modification strategies to improve their electrochemical performance, including interface modification, cathode/anode matching, capacity ratio, electrolyte optimization, and sodium compensation. Outlooks and perspectives on the future research directions to build better SIFCs are also provided.
Nanoparticle‐Based Nanomedicines to Promote Cancer Immunotherapy: Recent Advances and Future Directions
Authors: Liu Jianping , Zhang Run , Xu Zhi Ping
Published: March 2019

Cancer immunotherapy is a promising cancer terminator by directing the patient's own immune system in the fight against this challenging disorder. Despite the monumental therapeutic potential of several immunotherapy strategies in clinical applications, the efficacious responses of a wide range of immunotherapeutic agents are limited in virtue of their inadequate accumulation in the tumor tissue and fatal side effects. In the last decades, increasing evidences disclose that nanotechnology acts as an appealing solution to address these technical barriers via conferring rational physicochemical properties to nanomaterials. In this Review, an imperative emphasis will be drawn from the current understanding of the effect of a nanosystem's structure characteristics (e.g., size, shape, surface charge, elasticity) and its chemical modification on its transport and biodistribution behavior. Subsequently, rapid‐moving advances of nanoparticle‐based cancer immunotherapies are summarized from traditional vaccine strategies to recent novel approaches, including delivery of immunotherapeutics (such as whole cancer cell vaccines, immune checkpoint blockade, and immunogenic cell death) and engineered immune cells, to regulate tumor microenvironment and activate cellular immunity. The future prospects may involve in the rational combination of a few immunotherapies for more efficient cancer inhibition and elimination.
Process maturity models: Classification by application sectors and validities studies
Authors: Lee Donghun , Gu Ja‐Whan , Jung Ho‐Won
Published: March 2019

A variety of maturity models have been developed and evolved as a tool for assessments/benchmarking and continuous improvements for the past two decades. The rapidly increasing number of maturity models led to problems in locating proper maturity models and identifying model validities. To identify maturity models and their validities as well as a classification of models across industrial sectors, a mapping study was applied to initially retrieved 2381 articles on maturity models published in peer‐reviewed journals between 1993 and June 2015. We identified 194 maturity models from 285 articles using a set of quality assessment steps. Among those maturity models, besides the five partially validated ones, this study also identified 26 maturity models that were empirically tested on the basis of tested hypotheses and associated validity types, such as predictive validity and unidimensionality. Additionally, despite the wide presence of maturity models in most application sectors, validated models were observed only in five sectors, eg, IT, industrials, and general. Practitioners and researchers as well as standard organizations can utilize our results to find out maturity models meeting their needs, to identify their validities, and/or to seek research opportunities.
Design and control of variable field permanent magnet motors
Authors: Matsui Nobuyuki
Published: March 2019

This is a survey paper focusing on permanent magnet motors with variable field capability. The synchronous motors, which have been applied to somewhat limited fields, have garnered attention as attractive electric drives. Due to a connection with rare‐earth magnet and power electronics‐based flexible control, current permanent magnet synchronous motors have achieved the best position in terms of high power and torque densities, high efficiency and flexible control capability. In order to satisfy the diverse demands of users, a motor is requested to ensure high‐efficiency operation at multiple operating points on the speed–torque plane. It is well recognized that maximum efficiency is attained under the condition that the copper loss is equal to the fixed loss, mainly composed of iron loss, at a given operating point. This is why permanent magnet synchronous motors should have the capability of adjusting the field excitation, similar to the direct current shunt motors. In this paper, recent trends of research and development of variable field permanent magnet motors are overviewed from the standpoint of design and control. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Men and perinatal depression
Authors: Madsen Svend Aage
Published: March 2019

Depression as a result of becoming a parent is increasingly recognised in men and not solely as a disease affecting women. However, as the author discusses, signs and symptoms of perinatal depression in men can differ from those seen in women. Therefore, a modified approach is needed, not least in the tools used to identify the condition.
Post‐prostatectomy urinary incontinence
Authors: Gimson Eliza , Majidian Daniel , Mukhammadaminov Anvarjon , Taylor Claire , Malde Sachin , Sahai Arun
Published: March 2019

Post‐prostatectomy incontinence is an increasing problem that can have a devastating impact on men's lives. In this article the authors consider some of the options for management and discuss the efficacy as well as advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches to management that are currently available.
Orthopedic trauma surgeon in Sierra Leone: how to keep one’s head over water
Authors: Wichlas Florian , Tsitsilonis Serafim , Guanti Michela Delli , Strada Gino , Deininger Christian
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Developing a guideline for orthopedic trauma surgeons working in civilian trauma hospitals in low-income countries.

Methods

This is a retrospective data analysis in a non-governmental organizational trauma hospital in Sierra Leone, Africa. Trauma victims (282), with 349 fractures, were admitted to the hospital 10/2015–01/2016. The incidence of open and closed fractures and the use of implants were evaluated.

Results

The most common fractures were open and closed tibial shaft fractures and closed femoral shaft fractures in adults, and closed supracondylar humerus fractures in children. The most used implants were external fixators, K-wires, and intramedullary nails. External fixators were used for open fractures, K-wires for closed fractures in children, hand and foot, and nails for closed fractures of the lower extremity in adults. Plates were used the least and mostly for fractures of the upper extremity, the proximal tibia and malleolar region in adults. The complication rate was 5.67%.

Conclusion

Surgeons in low-income country trauma hospitals should treat conservatively on outpatient basis only, to reduce the amount of stationary patients. Open fractures should be treated with external fixators, and closed fractures in children, hand and foot, with K-wires. Closed fractures in adults of the lower extremity should be nailed, and closed fractures in adults of the upper extremity can be treated with plates.
Using mobile virtual reality to enhance medical comprehension and satisfaction in patients and their families
Authors: Palanica Adam , Docktor Michael J. , Lee Andrew , Fossat Yan
Published: March 2019

Patients are typically debriefed by their healthcare provider after any medical procedure or surgery to discuss their findings and any next steps involving medication or treatment instructions. However, without any medical or scientific background knowledge, it can feel overwhelming and esoteric for a patient to listen to a physician describe a complex operation. Instead, providing patients with engaging visuals and a virtual reality (VR) simulation of their individual clinical findings could lead to more effective transfer of medical knowledge and comprehension of treatment information. A newly developed VR technology is described, called HealthVoyager, which is designed to help facilitate this knowledge transfer between physicians and patients. The platform represents a customizable, VR software system utilizing a smartphone or tablet computer to portray personalized surgical or procedural findings as well as representations of normal anatomy. The use of such technology for eliciting medical understanding and patient satisfaction can have many practical and clinical applications for a variety of disease states and patient populations.
Origin of Luminescent Centers and Edge States in Low-Dimensional Lead Halide Perovskites: Controversies, Challenges and Instructive Approaches
Authors: Bao Jiming , Hadjiev Viktor G.
Published: March 2019

With only a few deep-level defect states having a high formation energy and dominance of shallow carrier non-trapping defects, the defect-tolerant electronic and optical properties of lead halide perovskites have made them appealing materials for high-efficiency, low-cost, solar cells and light-emitting devices. As such, recent observations of apparently deep-level and highly luminescent states in low-dimensional perovskites have attracted enormous attention as well as intensive debates. The observed green emission in 2D CsPb2Br5 and 0D Cs4PbBr6 poses an enigma over whether it is originated from intrinsic point defects or simply from highly luminescent CsPbBr3 nanocrystals embedded in the otherwise transparent wide band gap semiconductors. The nature of deep-level edge emission in 2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites is also not well understood. In this mini review, the experimental evidences that support the opposing interpretations are analyzed, and challenges and root causes for the controversy are discussed. Shortcomings in the current density functional theory approaches to modeling of properties and intrinsic point defects in lead halide perovskites are also noted. Selected experimental approaches are suggested to better correlate property with structure of a material and help resolve the controversies. Understanding and identification of the origin of luminescent centers will help design and engineer perovskites for wide device applications.
Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Diagnostic Tool in the Assessment of Tumour Angiogenesis in Urinary Bladder Cancer
Authors: Hassanien Omar Ahmad , Abouelkheir Rasha T. , Abou El-Ghar Mohamed Ibrahim , Badawy Manal Ezzat , El Gamal Samir Abdel-hakim , El-Hamid Mohamed Abd
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The aim of study is to assess the role of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) and correlation with tumour angiogenesis in evaluation of urinary bladder cancer.

Material and Methods

The study included 81 patients with recent presumed diagnosis of bladder tumour or who came for follow up after management of histopathologically proven bladder cancer. All had DCE-MRI with time–signal intensity curve. The radiologic results then correlated with the histopathologic results using both haematoxylin and eosin stain and immuno-histochemical staining for localization and evaluation of CD34 immunoreactivity as a detector for the microvessel density (MVD) and tumour angiogenesis.

Results

Seventy-one cases were pathologically proven to be malignant: 41 cases (58%) showed type III time–signal intensity curve (descending); 22 cases (31%) showed type II (plateau); and 8 cases (11%) showed type I (ascending) curve. The sensitivity of DCE-MRI in stage T1 bladder tumour was 80%; in stage T2, it was (90.9%); and in stage T3, it was (96.9%). Overall accuracy of DCE-MRI in tumour staging was 89.5% and P = .001 (significant). Values more than the cutoff value = 76.13 MVD are cystitis with sensitivity (90%), specificity (91%), and P value is .001, which is statistically highly significant.

Conclusion

There is a strong positive association between DCE-MRI (staging and washout slope of the time–signal intensity curve) with histopathologic grade, tumour stage, and MVD in bladder cancer. So, DCE-MRI can be used as reliable technique in preoperative predictions of tumour behavior and affect the planning of antiangiogenetic therapy.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of Cervical Spine Intraspinal Extradural Synovial Cysts
Authors: Mak Davina , Vidoni Alessandro , James Steven , Choksey Munchi , Beale David , Botchu Rajesh
Published: March 2019

Spinal synovial cysts are relatively uncommon and are most frequently found in the lumbar spine and rarely in the cervical spine. Intraspinal extradural cervical synovial cysts can occur and potentially cause cord/nerve root compression with symptoms of myelopathy/radiculopathy; however, most are asymptomatic and incidental findings. We conducted a literature review and present, to our knowledge, the largest imaging case series and describe the magnetic resonance imaging features of cervical synovial cysts.
Price Determinants of Performance-Tested Bulls over Time
Authors: Boyer Christopher N. , Campbell Kelsey , Griffith Andrew P. , DeLong Karen L. , Rhinehart Justin , Kirkpatrick David
Published: March 2019

We estimate the values of bull phenotypic traits, performance measurements, and expected progeny differences (EPDs) over time using bull sale data from an auction in Tennessee from 2006 to 2016. Moreover, we determine how a state partial-cost reimbursement program for bulls with certain EPDs affects bull sale price. Purebred seed stock producers in this region should focus on selling large, fast-growing, mature bulls that produce lighter calves for reduced calving stress. The state cost-share payment did not significantly increase bull prices in most years, meaning this payment was retained by cow-calf producers in most years.
Expenditures on Malevolent Magico-Religious Powers: Empirical Evidence from Benin
Authors: Lang Alison , LeMay-Boucher Philippe , Tomavo Charlemagne Codjo
Published: March 2019

This study investigates household expenditures on magico-religious powers in Southern Benin, with a novel focus on malevolent powers. Of 126 households, 18 percent reported expenditures on malevolent powers within the previous thirteen years. Investment in such powers for malevolent purposes was found to be significantly less frequent than for cure or protection. In line with existing literature, the following factors were found to be positively correlated with investment in malevolent powers: (1) living with a partner; (2) jealousy of economic success; (3) conflict within a social circle. Expenditures on powers for cure and protection are positively correlated with expenditures on malevolent uses.
A simple intervention to reduce your chance of missing an acute aortic dissection
Authors: Ohle Robert , Mc Isaac Sarah , Perry Jeffrey J.
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a time sensitive, difficult to diagnose, aortic emergency. We sought to explore the quality of history taking in AAD and assess its impact on misdiagnosis.

Methods

We studied a retrospective cohort of patients >18 years old who presented to two tertiary care emergency departments from January 1st 2004 – December 31st 2012 and were diagnosed with an acute aortic dissection (AAD) on CT, MRI or TEE. Trained reviewers’ extracted data using a standardized data collection form. The definitions of 5 pain characteristics – character, onset, duration, quality, and radiation were defined a priori.

Results

Data were collected for 194 cases of acute aortic dissection with a mean age of 65(SD 14.1) and 66.7% male, 34(17.6%) missed on initial presentation. Only 20(14.8%) patients were asked all 5 questions. The most common initial incorrect diagnosis were acute coronary syndrome (16, 47%), pulmonary embolism (5, 14.7%) and stroke (4, 11.7%). If <2 questions were asked 1 in 5 cases were missed, 4 times greater than if >2 were asked (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Clinicians should ask and document the character, onset, duration, radiation and severity of pain in any patient presenting with chest, abdominal or flank pain. A focused history still remains the keystone to reducing misdiagnosis.
Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus Settings on Voice Quality, Intensity, and Prosody in Parkinson’s Disease: Preliminary Evidence for Speech Optimization
Authors: Abeyesekera Anita , Adams Scott , Mancinelli Cynthia , Knowles Thea , Gilmore Greydon , Delrobaei Mehdi , Jog Mandar
Published: March 2019

Objective: To systematically evaluate how different deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN-DBS) amplitude, frequency, and pulse-width electrical parameter settings impact speech intensity, voice quality, and prosody of speech in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: Ten individuals with PD receiving bilateral STN-DBS treatments were seen for three baseline and five treatment visits. The five treatment visits involved an examination of the standard clinical settings as well as manipulation of different combinations of frequency (low, mid, and high), pulse width (low, mid, and high), and voltage (low, mid, and high) of stimulation. Measures of speech intensity, jitter, shimmer, harmonics–noise ratio, semitone standard deviation, and listener ratings of voice quality and prosody were obtained for each STN-DBS manipulation. Results: The combinations of lower frequency, lower pulse width, and higher voltage settings were associated with improved speech outcomes compared to the current standard clinical settings. In addition, decreased total electrical energy delivered to the STN appears to be associated with speech improvements. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary evidence that STN-DBS may be optimized for Parkinson-related problems with voice quality, speech intensity, and prosody of speech.
The -transformation with a hole at 0
Authors: KALLE CHARLENE , KONG DERONG , LANGEVELD NIELS , LI WENXIA
Published: March 2019

For $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\in (1,2]$ the $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$-transformation $T_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}:[0,1)\rightarrow [0,1)$ is defined by $T_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}(x)=\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}x\hspace{0.6em}({\rm mod}\hspace{0.2em}1)$. For $t\in [0,1)$ let $K_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}(t)$ be the survivor set of $T_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$ with hole $(0,t)$ given by $$\begin{eqnarray}K_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}(t):=\{x\in [0,1):T_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}^{n}(x)\not \in (0,t)\text{ for all }n\geq 0\}.\end{eqnarray}$$ In this paper we characterize the bifurcation set $E_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$ of all parameters $t\in [0,1)$ for which the set-valued function $t\mapsto K_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}(t)$ is not locally constant. We show that $E_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$ is a Lebesgue null set of full Hausdorff dimension for all $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\in (1,2)$. We prove that for Lebesgue almost every $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\in (1,2)$ the bifurcation set $E_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$ contains infinitely many isolated points and infinitely many accumulation points arbitrarily close to zero. On the other hand, we show that the set of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\in (1,2)$ for which $E_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$ contains no isolated points has zero Hausdorff dimension. These results contrast with the situation for $E_{2}$, the bifurcation set of the doubling map. Finally, we give for each $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\in (1,2)$ a lower and an upper bound for the value $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$ such that the Hausdorff dimension of $K_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}(t)$ is positive if and only if $t<\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}$. We show that $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}}\leq 1-(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD})$ for all $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\in (1,2)$.
2-chains and square roots of Thompson’s group
Authors: KOBERDA THOMAS , LODHA YASH
Published: March 2019

We study 2-generated subgroups$\langle f,g\rangle <\operatorname{Homeo}^{+}(I)$such that$\langle f^{2},g^{2}\rangle$is isomorphic to Thompson’s group$F$, and such that the supports of$f$and$g$form a chain of two intervals. We show that this class contains uncountably many isomorphism types. These include examples with non-abelian free subgroups, examples which do not admit faithful actions by$C^{2}$diffeomorphisms on 1-manifolds, examples which do not admit faithful actions by$PL$homeomorphisms on an interval, and examples which are not finitely presented. We thus answer questions due to Brin. We also show that many relatively uncomplicated groups of homeomorphisms can have very complicated square roots, thus establishing the behavior of square roots of$F$as part of a general phenomenon among subgroups of$\operatorname{Homeo}^{+}(I)$.
Automorphisms of the shift: Lyapunov exponents, entropy, and the dimension representation
Authors: SCHMIEDING SCOTT
Published: March 2019

Let $(X_{A},\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}_{A})$ be a shift of finite type and $\text{Aut}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}_{A})$ its corresponding automorphism group. Associated to $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}\in \text{Aut}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}_{A})$ are certain Lyapunov exponents $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}^{-}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}),\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}^{+}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D719})$, which describe asymptotic behavior of the sequence of coding ranges of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}^{n}$. We give lower bounds on $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}^{-}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}),\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}^{+}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D719})$ in terms of the spectral radius of the corresponding action of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}$ on the dimension group associated to $(X_{A},\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}_{A})$. We also give lower bounds on the topological entropy $h_{\text{top}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D719})$ in terms of a distinguished part of the spectrum of the action of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}$ on the dimension group, but show that, in general, $h_{\text{top}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D719})$ is not bounded below by the logarithm of the spectral radius of the action of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}$ on the dimension group.
Through the eyes of students: the satisfaction of remote Indigenous boarding students’ with a transition support service in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Redman-MacLaren Michelle , Benveniste Tessa , McCalman Janya , Rutherford Katrina , Britton Amelia , Langham Erika , Stewart Richard , Saunders Pat , Kinchin Irina , Bainbridge Roxanne
Published: March 2019

Abstract
More than 4000 Indigenous Australian students enrol and take up a placement at boarding school each year. While reasons for attending boarding school vary, the impetus for many remote and very remote-dwelling students is restricted secondary educational opportunities in their home communities. A large multi-site study is being undertaken across Queensland to understand the conditions required for these students to be resilient while studying away from home. This paper reports on levels of student satisfaction with Queensland Department of Education's Transition Support Service (TSS) that provide assistance to remote-dwelling Indigenous students in the transition to boarding schools. A survey instrument administered to students included 22 close-ended questions to elicit levels of student satisfaction with TSS. Data were collected electronically using SurveyMonkey™ and analysed in SPSS v24. Descriptive statistics were calculated for variables assessing service support, student perceptions and experiences. A total of 294 primary, secondary and re-engaging students across 21 sites responded. Nearly all primary students (97%) anticipated that TSS would assist their move to boarding school. All secondary students identified that TSS had assisted their transition to boarding school. All re-engaging students agreed that TSS support had increased their capacity to cope when things go wrong. Lower scores related to students’ ability to access TSS when needed. Very high levels of satisfaction with TSS were countered by constraints of distance between TSS and students, and resources available to support the work of TSS. Findings point to the need for equitable provision of transition services in Queensland that emphasise the importance of relationship between service provider and student, and can inform the design of similar transition services across Australia.
Examination of sustainability goals: A comparative study of U.S. and Indian firms
Authors: Palmer Timothy B. , Phadke Suniti , Nair Malini V. , Flanagan David J.
Published: March 2019

Considerable attention has focused on tactics firms use when building their sustainability platforms. Less is known, however, about how sustainability goal setting varies globally, especially in developing economies. Accordingly, we examined sustainability goals of 21 of the 50 largest Indian firms and compared them with similar data from a published study that examined 22 of the 50 largest U.S. firms. In total, 679 sustainability goals were analyzed using a triple bottom line framework. We found U.S. firms set more sustainability goals than Indian firms. Firms from both samples set similar numbers of people goals but U.S. firms set more diversity goals. Indian firms were more inclined to set economic and community development goals. We also detected differences across the samples in planet goals associated with emissions and water. Especially significant, Indian firms were much more likely than U.S. firms to specify profit goals. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Metaphorical framing in political discourse through words vs. concepts: a meta-analysis
Authors: BRUGMAN BRITTA C. , BURGERS CHRISTIAN , VIS BARBARA
Published: March 2019

abstract

Conceptual metaphor theory and other important theories in metaphor research are often experimentally tested by studying the effects of metaphorical frames on individuals’ reasoning. Metaphorical frames can be identified by at least two levels of analysis: words vs. concepts. Previous overviews of metaphorical-framing effects have mostly focused on metaphorical framing through words (metaphorical-words frames) rather than through concepts (metaphorical-concepts frames). This means that these overviews included only experimental studies that looked at variations in individual words instead of at the broader logic of messages. For this reason, we conducted a meta-analysis (k= 91,N= 34,783) to compare the persuasive impact of both types of metaphorical frames. Given that patterns of metaphor usage differ across discourse domains, and that effects may differ across modalities and discourse domains, we focused on one mode of presentation and one discourse domain only: verbal metaphorical framing in political discourse. Results showed that, compared to non-metaphorical frames, both metaphorical-words and metaphorical-concepts frames positively influenced beliefs and attitudes. Yet, these effects were larger for metaphorical-concepts frames. We therefore argue that future research should more explicitly describe and justify which level of analysis is chosen to examine the nature and effects of metaphorical framing.
Breeding for organic dairy farming: what types of cows are needed?
Authors: Rodríguez-Bermúdez Ruth , Miranda Marta , Baudracco Javier , Fouz Ramiro , Pereira Victor , López-Alonso Marta
Published: March 2019

Organic farming is believed by many to be an environmentally friendly production system that promotes the use of local forage while strongly limiting the input of chemicals, including allopathic treatments. As organic dairy farming has grown, farmers have realised that many available conventional breeds of cow are not well adapted to the new situations and that more ‘robust’ cows, able to function well in the constraining organic environment, are needed to yield acceptable longevity and productivity. In this review paper, the current breed diversity in organic dairy farming is analysed with the aim of identifying the types of cow that would best fulfil organic breeding goals. Unlike the conventional sector, organic dairy farming is very heterogeneous and no single type of cow can adapt well to all scenarios. There are advantages and disadvantages to the use of existing breeds (rustic Holstein-Friesian, other rustic breeds and crosses), and strong genotype × environment interactions demand different strategies for very diverse situations. Organic dairy farms producing milk for systems that recompense milk volume would benefit from using higher milk yielding cows, and rustic Holstein-Friesian cows may be the best option in such cases. Although most Holstein-Friesian cows are currently selected for use in conventional systems, this situation could be reversed by the implementation of an organic merit index that includes organic breeding goals. Farms producing milk either for systems that recompense milk solids or for transformation into dairy products would benefit from using breeds other than Holstein-Friesian or their crosses. Organic farmers who focus on rural tourism, farm schools or other businesses in which marketing strategies must be taken into account could benefit from using local breeds (when possible) or other rustic breeds that are highly valued by consumers.
Surgeons’ preferences and anxiety levels in paediatric adenotonsillectomy: European perspective
Authors: Kilavuz A E , Bayram A A
Published: March 2019

Objective

This study assessed the preferences of surgeons regarding surgical modalities used for adenotonsillectomy, and determined anxiety levels related to the adenotonsillectomy procedure.

Methods

A 10-question survey created by the authors was administered to 413 ENT specialists attending the 4th Congress of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, held in October 2017 in Barcelona, Spain.

Results

Cold knife dissection was the preferred surgical modality for both adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy. Most participants reported encountering one to five patients with post-tonsillectomy bleeding throughout their entire career. The mean anxiety levels during surgery and the 10-day post-operative period were 3.39 ± 2.14 and 4.18 ± 2.63, respectively (p < 0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between anxiety level and surgeon's experience (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Cold dissection is still the preferred surgical modality for adenotonsillectomy, while both suture ligation and electrocautery are used for haemostasis. Paediatric adenotonsillectomy is likely to generate anxiety in ENT surgeons, and the possibility of secondary post-tonsillectomy bleeding increases the anxiety levels of surgeons in the post-operative period.
Age-related differences in affective control and its association with mental health difficulties
Authors: Schweizer Susanne , Parker Jenna , Leung Jovita T. , Griffin Cait , Blakemore Sarah-Jayne
Published: March 2019

Difficulties in regulating affect are core characteristics of a wide range of mental health conditions and are associated with deficits in cognitive control, particularly in affective contexts, affective control. The current study explored how affective control relates to mental health over the course of adolescence. We developed an Affective Control Task, which was administered to young adolescents (11–14 years; n = 29); mid-adolescents (15–18 years; n = 31), and adults (22–30 years; n = 31). The task required individuals to sort cards according to continuously changing rules: color, number, or item type. There was a neutral condition in which items were shapes, and an affective condition, in which items were emotional facial expressions. Better affective control was associated with fewer mental health difficulties (p < .001, R2 = .15). Affective control partially accounted for the association between age group and mental health problems, z = 2.61, p = .009, Akaike information criterion = 484, with the association being strongest in young adolescents, r (27) = −.44, p = .018. Affective control further accounted for variance in the association between self-reported (but not experimental) emotion regulation and mental health (z = −3.44, p < .001, Akaike information criterion = 440). Poor affective control, especially in young adolescents, is associated with more mental health problems and higher levels of emotion regulation difficulties. Improving affective control therefore may constitute a promising target for prevention.
Disentangling genes, attachment, and environment: A systematic review of the developmental psychopathology literature on gene–environment interactions and attachment
Authors: Golds Lisa , de Kruiff Karina , MacBeth Angus
Published: March 2019

The role of genetics in relation to attachment is of continued interest to developmental psychology. Recent research has attempted to disentangle genetic main effects, environmental effects, and gene and environment (G × E) interactions in the development of attachment security/insecurity and disorganization. We systematically reviewed associations between gene markers and attachment, including G × E interactions, identifying 27 eligible studies. Inconsistent results emerged for associations between both gene effects and G × E interactions on attachment organization. Where G × E interactions used attachment as the environmental factor in the interaction, we observed more consistent results for differential susceptibility of G × E interactions on offspring behavior. Small sample size and heterogeneity in measurement of environmental factors impacted on comparability of studies. From these results, we propose that the future of research into the role of genetic effects in attachment lies in further exploration of G × E interactions, particularly where attachment acts as an environmental factor impacting on other child developmental outcomes emerging from the caregiving environment, consistent with differential susceptibility approaches to developmental psychopathology. In addition, from a methodological perspective, establishing the role of gene markers in such models will require a shift toward contemporary genomics, including genome-wide analysis (including novel genes and chromosomal loci), and epigenetic individual variations.
The fragility of community security in Damascus and its environs
Authors: Abdin Yassar
Published: March 2019

The organizational errors of Syrian urban planning have been a major cause of the escalation of the Syrian crisis and its continuation. Syrian cities, including Damascus and its environs, have suffered from the fragility of social security, which is manifested in the form of cohesive human groups in closed communities, influenced by religion, culture, family, class, place of origin of the population, occupation, etc. This article examines the fragility of security during the crisis of 2011–18, with the aim of clarifying the impact of the organizational problems and the processing delay that has generated social security fragility because these closed communities are looking for their own security and safety outside the control of local administrations. The article proposes that the inherent fragility of security in Damascus and its environs should be associated with poverty, organizational errors and slums as a model for the fragility of all Syrian cities.
Tolerance of southern highbush and rabbiteye blueberry cultivars to saflufenacil
Authors: Aldridge Ryan B. , Jennings Katherine M. , Chaudhari Sushila , Monks David W. , Everman Wesley J. , Mehra Lucky K.
Published: March 2019

Greenhouse and field studies were conducted to determine tolerance of blueberry to saflufenacil. Greenhouse studies included five saflufenacil rates (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 g ai ha−1) and three southern highbush blueberry cultivars (‘Legacy’, ‘New Hanover’, and ‘O’Neal’) and one rabbiteye blueberry cultivar (‘Columbus’). Saflufenacil treatments were soil applied into each pot when blueberry plants were approximately 30-cm tall. Visible injury (purpling/reddening of foliage and leaf abscission) ranged from 3% to 12%, 3% to 42%, 0% to 43%, and 0% to 29% with saflufenacil from 50 to 400 g ha−1 in Columbus, Legacy, New Hanover, and O’Neal, respectively, at 28 d after treatment. Regardless of injury, plant growth (change in height), soil plant analysis development, and whole-plant dry biomass of all cultivars did not differ among saflufenacil rates. Field studies were conducted in Burgaw, NC, to determine the tolerance of nonbearing (<3-yr-old and not mature enough to produce fruit) and bearing (>3-yr-old and mature enough to produce fruit) southern highbush blueberry (‘Duke’) to saflufenacil application at pre-budbreak or during the vegetative growth stage. Treatments included three rates of saflufenacil (50, 100, and 200 g ha−1), glyphosate (870 g ae ha−1), glufosinate (1096 g ai ha−1), glyphosate (870 g ha−1) + saflufenacil (50 g ha−1), glufosinate (1096 g ha−1) + saflufenacil (50 g ha−1), and hexazinone (1,120 g ai ha−1), applied POST-directed to the soil surface beneath blueberry plants in a 76-cm band on both sides of the blueberry planting row. The maximum injury from treatments containing saflufenacil was ≤11% in both nonbearing and bearing blueberry. No negative effects on plant growth or fruit yield were observed from any treatments. Results from both greenhouse and field studies suggest that saflufenacil applied at 50 (1X commercial use rate) and 100 g ha−1 is safe to use in blueberry.