bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Material–Lubricant Pairing and Operating Conditions That Lead to the Failure of Porous Journal Bearing Systems
Authors: Boidi Guido , Krenn Stefan , Eder Stefan J.
Published: October 2020

In this study, we perform accelerated wear tests with porous journal bearings (PJBs) on a lab test rig, providing statistically reliable results under realistic operational conditions. To this end, a custom-made tribometer consisting of 5 mechanically independent but centrally controlled units was used to test five identical bearings in parallel. The test parameters were tuned to promote enough wear under mixed lubrication by increasing the clearance gap and the radial load, while minimizing the bidirectional rotational speed. A wide range of lubricant and material combinations were evaluated, the vast majority of which performed excellently (i.e., negligible wear and low friction). Only one notable combination of a low-density iron bearing paired with a standard PAO-based lubricant failed when operating at low rotational speeds, exhibiting highly unstable frictional behavior and 10–20 times the typical wear in practical applications. An analysis of Stribeck curves, recorded periodically during the wear tests as a diagnostic tool, proved that this particular combination of materials and parameters failed to run in properly, with deteriorating tribological behavior over time. A direct relation between the total wear and the maximum temperature in the tribocontact during testing helped identify this pairing as the only one operating solely under mixed lubrication (high asperity contact), explaining the excessive wear.

Graphical Abstract
Fouling Analysis and the Recovery of Phytosterols from Orange Juice Using Regenerated Cellulose Ultrafiltration Membranes
Authors: Abd-Razak Nurul Hainiza , Zairossani M. N. , Chew Y. M. John , Bird Michael R.
Published: October 2020

This study describes the use of regenerated cellulose (RCA) membranes with molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) values of 10, 30, and 100 kDa, respectively, to separate phytosterols from orange juice for possible nutraceutical production. A desirable membrane separation rejects protein whilst transmitting phytosterols and other low molecular mass compounds such as sugars. The ultrafiltration was performed in a cross-flow membrane system with a total filtration area of 336 cm2. Total phytosterol analysis was carried out by using a Liebermann-Buchard-based method. Protein concentration was quantified by the Bradford method. The effects of three different membranes upon the rejection of total phytosterol content, proteins, sugar, and antioxidant activity were studied. Of the membranes tested, the 10-kDa membrane displayed the highest concentration of phytosterols in the permeate. The 30-kDa and 100-kDa membranes gave comparatively higher phytosterol rejection. The membrane surface roughness and corresponding pure water flux values varied as a function of MWCO such that RCA30 > RCA100 > RCA10. Membranes with rougher surfaces displayed higher fouling than those with smoother surfaces. Hydrophobicity and surface roughness both influenced filtration performance, by controlling the development of the protein-based foulant which modified membrane selectivity.
Neurobiochemical Cross-talk Between COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Azizur , Islam Kamrul , Rahman Saidur , Alamin Md
Published: October 2020

COVID-19, the global threat to humanity, shares etiological cofactors with multiple diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Understanding the common links between COVID-19 and AD would harness strategizing therapeutic approaches against both. Considering the urgency of formulating COVID-19 medication, its AD association and manifestations have been reviewed here, putting emphasis on memory and learning disruption. COVID-19 and AD share common links with respect to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors and pro-inflammatory markers such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, cytoskeleton-associated protein 4 (CKAP4), galectin-9 (GAL-9 or Gal-9), and APOE4 allele. Common etiological factors and common manifestations described in this review would aid in developing therapeutic strategies for both COVID-19 and AD and thus impact on eradicating the ongoing global threat. Thus, people suffering from COVID-19 or who have come round of it as well as people at risk of developing AD or already suffering from AD, would be benefitted.
A Pragmatic Turn in the Study of Early Executive Functions by Object Use and Gestures. A Case Study from 8 to 17 Months of Age at a Nursery School
Authors: Rodríguez Cintia , Moreno-Llanos Iván
Published: October 2020

The two first years of life are critical in the development of Executive Functions (EF). However, very little is known about their early manifestations, how they develop, how they relate to other psychological constructions or the status of other people’s influence in this early development. The study of EFs has been carried out through standardised tasks, but some authors question their ecological validity and suggest an approach involving everyday situations and the challenges that children set for themselves. In this article we first review these issues in relation to the first manifestations of EFs. We secondly present a longitudinal case study at nursery school of a child between the ages of 8 and 17 months, considering the challenges and the means he employed in order to resolve them. We found that, from 8 months of age, the child gave himself challenges in relation to the functional uses of objects and instruments. He regulated his own behavior both through object and instrument uses and private gestures. He also involved the teacher at 17 months. This finding suggests that (1) the material world is particularly important in these early manifestations of EF, (2) teachers’ interventions are essential. Implications of the findings for early years education are discussed.
The Case for a Critical Zone Science Approach to Research on Estuarine and Coastal Wetlands in the Anthropocene
Authors: Liu Min , Hou Lijun , Yang Yi , Zhou Limin , Meadows Michael E.
Published: October 2020

As the focus of land-sea interactions, estuarine and coastal ecosystems perform numerous vital ecological service functions, although they are highly vulnerable to various kinds of disturbance, both directly and indirectly related to human activity, that have attracted much recent attention. Critical zone science (CZS) has emerged as a valuable conceptual framework that focuses on quantitative interactions between diverse components of the environment and is able to integrate anthropogenic disturbance with a view to predicting future trajectories of change. However, coastal and estuarine environments appear to have been overlooked in CZS and are notably under-represented, indeed not explicitly represented at all, in the global network of critical zone observatories (CZOs). Even in the wider network of environmental observatories globally, estuarine and coastal wetland ecosystems are only very rarely an explicit focus. Further strengthening of integrated research in coastal and estuarine environments is required, more especially given the threats these ecosystems face due to growing population at the coast and against the background of climate change and sea level rise. The establishment of one or more CZOs, or their functional equivalents, with a strong focus on estuarine and coastal wetlands, should be urgently attended to.
Anti-snake venom and methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata: a multipronged strategy to neutralize Naja naja venom acetylcholinesterase and hyaluronidase
Authors: Nayak Akshatha Ganesh , Kumar Nitesh , Shenoy Smita , Roche Maya
Published: October 2020

The study investigates the ability of methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata (MAP) to supplement polyvalent anti-snake venom (ASV) in inhibiting neurotoxic enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and ‘spreading factor’ hyaluronidase from Naja naja (N.N) venom. AChE and hyaluronidase activity were measured in 100 or 200 µg of crude venom, respectively, and designated as ‘control’. In Test Group I, enzyme assays were performed immediately after the addition of ASV/MAP/ASV + MAP to the venom. Inhibition of AChE by ASV (100–367 µg) was 12–17%, and of hyaluronidase (22–660 µg) was 33–41%. Under the same conditions, MAP (100–400 µg) inhibited AChE and hyaluronidase to the extent of 17–33% and 17–52%, respectively. When ASV (220 µg) and MAP (100–200 µg) were added together, AChE and hyaluronidase were inhibited to a greater extent from 39–63 to 36–44%, than when either of them was used alone. In Test Group 2, the venom was incubated with ASV/MAP/ASV + MAP for 10–30 min at 37 °C prior to the assay which enhanced AChE inhibition by 6%, 82% and 18% respectively, when compared to Test Group I. Though there was no change in inhibition of hyaluronidase in the presence of ASV, MAP could further increase the extent of inhibition by 27% and ASV + MAP upto 4%. In Test Group III, venom and substrate were incubated for 90 min and hyaluronidase activity was measured after the addition of inhibitors. Here, ASV + MAP caused increased inhibition by 69% compared to ASV alone. The study confirms the ability of phytochemicals in MAP to contribute to a multipronged strategy by supplementing, thereby augmenting the efficacy of ASV.
Large potassium shifts during dialysis enhance cardiac repolarization instability
Authors: Schüttler Dominik , Schönermarck Ulf , Wenner Felix , Toepfer Marcell , Rizas Konstantinos D. , Bauer Axel , Brunner Stefan , Hamm Wolfgang
Published: October 2020

Background

Patients with end-stage kidney disease are at high risk for the development of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). This has been especially attributed to large potassium shifts during hemodialysis (HD), and malignant arrhythmias are closely linked to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of methods for risk stratification in these patients.

Methods

In the present pilot study we investigated changes of the novel ECG-based biomarker periodic repolarization dynamics (PRD) mirroring the effect of efferent sympathetic nervous activity on the ventricular myocardium in 18 patients undergoing routine hemodialysis. High-resolution ECGs were recorded throughout the dialysis and PRD values were calculated out of 30 min intervals at the start and the end of dialysis.

Results

We detected a clear correlation between the intradialytic potassium shift and the increase in PRD levels (Spearman correlation coefficient R = 0.62, p = 0.006). Patients with a potassium shift > 1 mmol/l showed significantly increased levels of PRD at the end of dialysis when compared to patients with potassium shifts ≤ 1.0 mmol/l [delta PRD 2.82 (IQR 2.13) vs. − 2.08 (IQR 3.60), p = 0.006]. Spearman analysis showed no significant correlation between PRD changes and fluid removal (R = − 0.23, p = 0.36).

Conclusions

We provide evidence that large potassium shifts during HD enhance sympathetic activity-associated repolarization instability. This could facilitate the occurrence of malignant arrhythmias, and PRD measurements might serve as a non-invasive monitoring tool in HD patients in future.
The Sense of Self-Dignity of People with Mobility Disabilities in Poland—a Survey Report
Authors: Grudziewska Ewa , Mikołajczyk Marta
Published: October 2020

This article deals with the issue of the dignity and sense of personal dignity of people with disabilities in Poland. According to Statistics Poland, there are over 4.5 million people with disabilities. Although their situation is the subject of analysis conducted by representatives of various scientific disciplines, as well as of social welfare workers, education professionals, health care service workers, and legislators, there are relatively few studies on their understanding and experience of dignity. The presented text includes results of research carried out with a group of 98 people with disabilities. The diagnostic survey method was applied by using a questionnaire. The research tool was the Sense of Self-Dignity Questionnaire (KPWG-3) created by Stanisława Steuden and Paweł Brudek. The obtained empirical material indicates that the surveyed women with disabilities have a higher sense of self-dignity in comparison with the men with disabilities in the scope of the dimension of the disability loss and the total result. However, the studied men with disabilities have a superior self-dignity in the relation (p< 0.001) and experience (p< 0.05) dimensions. Moreover, when taking into account the time of occurrence of the disability, that is to say “congenital disability” vs “acquired disability”, there were no statistically significant differences. In addition, the employment activity of the surveyed people with disabilities did not significantly differentiate the statistical result of the sense of self-dignity. However, there were dignificant differences based on level of education in the cognitive (p< 0.05) and experience (p< 0.001) dimensions, and in the general result (p< 0.05).
Successful Transvaginal Microwave Ablation of a Heterotopic Cervical Pregnancy. A Case Report
Authors: Schivardi Gabriella , Angileri Salvatore Alessio , Esposito Giampiero , Di Meglio Letizia , Brusati Valentina , Ierardi Anna Maria , Carrafiello Gianpaolo , Marconi Anna Maria
Published: October 2020

Heterotopic cervical pregnancy is a rare and potentially dangerous condition where the challenge is the removal of the ectopic pregnancy while preserving the intrauterine one. We present the case of an otherwise healthy 36-year-old woman with heterotopic cervical pregnancy after an IVF cycle for tubal infertility. At 6.5 weeks after a consultation with gynecologists and interventional radiologists, the patient agreed to undergo microwave ablation of the cervical pregnancy. Monthly ultrasound examination showed the persistence of non homogeneous and vascularized tissue in the cervix. Intrauterine pregnancy continued without complications until 37 weeks when a cesarean section was performed for sudden and profuse bleeding, in the presence of uterine contractions. A healthy baby girl was delivered, and the postoperative course was otherwise uncomplicated. Heterotopic cervical pregnancies are rare, and no consolidated and risk-free treatments are available at the moment. Here, we present a case of heterotopic cervical pregnancy treated successfully and without complications with microwave ablation.
Incidence and associated factors of emergence agitation after general anesthesia and surgery among pediatric patients: A prospective follow-up study
Authors: Eshetie Denberu , Getinet Habtamu , Abdissa Zewditu , Mollalign Mamaru
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Emergence agitation is one of the significant anesthetic and surgery-related complications. It is usually short-lived but causes self-injury during agitation and it led to parental anxiety. This study was aimed to assess incidence and factors associated with emergence agitation after general anesthesia and surgery among pediatric patients at University of Gondar specialized hospital.

Methods:

A prospective follow-up study conducted on 153 pediatric patients aged 2–9 years who were operated from first February to April 30, 2019. Emergence agitation was recorded by the pediatrics anesthesia emergence delirium scale. Descriptive statistics performed to determine the incidence. To identify the associated factors multi-variable binary logistic regression was held, and a p-value <0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:

Emergence agitation was experienced on eighty (52.3%) children with a mean and standard deviation of 12 ± 5.9 min of duration. Among agitated children, 8 (10%) of them developed adverse events related to agitation. Difficult parental separation behaviour (AOR = 2.688, 95% CI = 1.131–6.39), children aged 2–5 years (AOR = 2.688, 95% CI = 1.131–6.3925), isoflurane maintenance (AOR = 4.001, 95% CI = 1.733–9.234) and propofol administration after maintenance closure (AOR = 0.145, 95% CI = 0.030–0.695) were significantly associated with agitation.

Conclusion:

Being a preschool child, difficult parental separation and isoflurane maintenance were associated with emergence agitation. But propofol administration after maintenance closure was found to be protective. So, agitation should be assessed and detected in the postoperative period and efforts should apply to prevent emergence agitation.

Highlights:
Aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease: Update on medical management
Authors: White Andrew A. , Woessner Katharine , Simon Ronald
Published: October 2020

Aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is frequently diagnosed in patients with severe type 2 airway inflammation presenting with nasal polyps and severe asthma. It has been associated with a recalcitrant course with high medical and surgical requirements. The advent of recent biological and other targeted treatments show promise in the medical management of patient with AERD. The goal of complete disease control where patients no longer require recurrent surgical procedures, systemic corticosteroid exposure and may live with a stable and relatively normal quality of life is now within reach. Further work is necessary to identify biomarkers predictive of treatment response.
An Introduction to Latin American Philosophy
Authors: Nuccetelli Susana
Published: October 2020

Latin American philosophy is best understood as a type of applied philosophy devoted to issues related to the culture and politics of Latin America. This introduction provides a comprehensive overview of its central topics. It explores not only the unique insights offered by Latin American thinkers into the traditional pre-established fields of Western philosophy, but also the many 'isms' developed as a direct result of Latin American thought. Many concern matters of practical ethics and social and political philosophy, such as Lascasianism, Arielism, Bolívarism, modest and immodest feminisms, republicanism, positivism, Marxism, and liberationism. But there are also meta-philosophical 'isms' such as originalism and perspectivism. Together with clear and accessible discussions of the major issues and arguments, the book offers helpful summaries, suggestions for further reading, and a glossary of terms. It will be valuable for all readers wanting to explore the richness and diversity of Latin American philosophy.
Male warriors and worried women? Understanding gender and perceptions of security threats
Authors: Stevens Daniel , Bulmer Sarah , Banducci Susan , Vaughan-Williams Nick
Published: October 2020

Differences between women and men in perceptions of security threats are firmly established in public opinion research, with the ‘male warrior’ and the ‘worried woman’ two well-documented stereotypes. Yet, we argue in this article, the differences are not as well understood as such labels, or the search for explanations, imply. One reason for this is the lack of dialogue between public opinion research and feminist security studies. In bringing the two fields into conversation by analysing mixed methods research data gathered in Britain, we suggest that while the extent of the gender gap in opinions of security is overstated, the gaps that do exist are more complex than previously allowed: men and women define ‘security’ in slightly different ways; women tend to identify more security threats than men not necessarily because theyfeelmore threatened but due to a greater capacity to consider security from perspectives beyond their own; women are more confident about the government's ability to deal with security threats in the future but not simply because of greater faith in government than men. This complexity implies a need to revisit assumptions, methods, and analytical approaches in order to develop the field of gender and security further.
THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL LANDSCAPE OF THE NEOLITHIC PERIOD IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS OF THE ZAGROS MOUNTAINS: NEW EVIDENCE FROM THE SAR POL-E ZAHĀB REGION, IRAN-IRAQ BORDERLAND
Authors: Alibaigi Sajjad , Salimiyan Abdoljabar
Published: October 2020

A recent survey in the western foothills of the Zagros Mountains has located five new Neolithic sites. We present here the occupational features and finds of this period in the Sar Pol-e Zahāb region, along with an interpretation of their distribution and associated settlement patterns. Our research indicates that the visible distribution of Neolithic sites is highly influenced by geomorphological factors. All sites are located on natural outcrops or on the edge of alluvial plains. Many others have certainly been buried beneath layers of later sedimentation. All of the sites identified by our survey are small and of modest elevation, with cultural remains, particularly ceramics, similar to Neolithic sites such as Guran and Sarāb in the central Zagros region and Jarmo and Tamarkhan in Mesopotamia. Based on the ceramic evidence and the location of the region, between the central Zagros mountains on the east and Mesopotamia on the west, we suggest that this vast area maintained an integrated ceramic tradition, which suggests an overall cultural homogeneity of these areas during the seventh and early sixth millennia B.C. In other words, these recent discoveries indicate that similarities in Neolithic material culture in the Māhidasht, Kermanshāh and Hulailan plains with material culture of regions in Mesopotamia are not accidental or random but indicative of a large coherent zone with unique ceramic and cultural traditions (the patterned ceramic tradition of Sarāb-Jarmo), extending from Iraqi Kurdistan east into the central Zagros range. Regarding the lack of eighth and seventh millennium B.C. sites in the northern reaches of the Iranian part of the Zagros range, we may consider the pathway of Sar Pol-e Zahāb a primary route for transporting obsidian to upland areas of the central Zagros. This also suggests a lasting network of cross-regional communications, since archaeological discoveries prove this pathway was the main node connecting these two cultural regions for a long period of time.
Neglect, Marginalization, and Abuse: Hate Crime Legislation and Practice in the Labyrinth of Identity Politics, Minority Protection, and Penal Populism
Authors: Pap Andras L.
Published: October 2020

Using Hungary as a case study and focusing on legislative policies and the practical application of hate crime legislation, this article shows the various ways legal policy can become misguided in the labyrinth of identity politics, minority protection, and penal populism. The first mistake states can make, the author argues, is not to adopt hate crime legislation. The second error arguably pertains to conceptualizing hate crimes as an identity protection but not a minority-protection mechanism and instrument. The third fallacy the author identifies concerns legislative and practical policies that conceptualize victims based on self-identification and not on the perpetrator’s (or the wider community’s) potential perception and classification. The fourth flaw concerns the abuse of the concept of hate crime when it is applied in interethnic conflicts wherein members of minority communities are perpetrators and the victims are members of the majority communities. The fifth is institutional discrimination through the systematic underpolicing of hate crimes.
DHA from microalgae Schizochytrium spp. (Thraustochytriaceae) modifies the inflammatory response and gonadal lipid profile in domestic cats
Authors: Scheibel Suellen , de Oliveira Carlos Antônio Lopes , de Alvarenga Boyd Marianne , Pereira Layne Carolina , Rodrigues Darilha Mariana , Barion Mariana Regina Lingiardi , Carbonera Fabiana , Visentainer Jesuí Virgílio , Huppes Rafael Ricardo , Ribeiro Leonir Bueno , Vasconcellos Ricardo Souza
Published: October 2020

The present study aimed to evaluate the inflammatory response, oxidative status and fatty acid deposition in reproductive tissues of cats supplemented with the dried microalgae Schizochytrium spp. (Thraustochytriaceae) as a DHA source. Thirty-seven cats (males, n 21; females, n 16; 11·5 (sd 0·5) months of age) were divided by sex into five groups. Treatment diets contained algae biomass at 4·0, 8·0, 12·0 or 16·0 g/kg replacing poultry fat (n-6 source). Cats were fed the respective diet for 62 d and neutered on day 58. Blood samples were collected at the beginning of the experiment (day 1), before neutering (day 58) and 4 d after surgery (day 62) for analysis of inflammation and oxidative markers. Acute-phase protein levels were altered (P < 0·01) in the postoperative period, without any treatment effect (P > 0·05). PGE2 concentrations after surgery were reduced linearly (R2 0·8706; P = 0·002) with microalgal inclusion. Blood platelet count was reduced (P = 0·001) after the surgery regardless treatment, but it was higher in the DHA group compared with control (P < 0·001). The DHA deposition (testicles, R2 0·846; ovaries, R2 0·869) and the n-6:n-3 ratio (testicles, R2 0·859; ovaries, R2 0·955) in gonads had a pattern which fitted a quadratic model. DHA from Schizochytrium spp. modifies PGE2 response after the surgery in cats. The physiological roles of the DHA in the reproduction of cats were not investigated, but its gonadal deposition after supplementation was observed.
Applying camera traps to detect and monitor introduced mammals on oceanic islands
Authors: Lamelas-López Lucas , Salgado Iván
Published: October 2020

The introduction of mammal predators has been a major cause of species extinctions on oceanic islands. Eradication is only possible or cost-effective at early stages of invasion, before introduced species become abundant and widespread. Although prevention, early detection and rapid response are the best management strategies, most oceanic islands lack systems for detecting, responding to and monitoring introduced species. Wildlife managers require reliable information on introduced species to guide, assess and adjust management actions. Thus, a large-scale and long-term monitoring programme is needed to evaluate the management of introduced species and the protection of native wildlife. Here, we evaluate camera trapping as a survey technique for detecting and monitoring introduced small and medium-sized terrestrial mammals on an oceanic island, Terceira (Azores). Producing an inventory of introduced mammals on this island required a sampling effort of 465 camera-trap days and cost EUR 2,133. We estimated abundance and population trends by using photographic capture rates as a population index. We also used presence/absence data from camera-trap surveys to calculate detection probability, estimated occupancy rate and the sampling effort needed to determine species absence. Although camera trapping requires large initial funding, this is offset by the relatively low effort for fieldwork. Our findings demonstrate that camera trapping is an efficient survey technique for detecting and monitoring introduced species on oceanic islands. We conclude by proposing guidelines for designing monitoring programmes for introduced species.
Efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation on cognitive functioning in brain disorders: a meta-analysis
Authors: Begemann Marieke J. , Brand Bodyl A. , Ćurčić-Blake Branislava , Aleman André , Sommer Iris E.
Published: October 2020

Background

Cognition is commonly affected in brain disorders. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) may have procognitive effects, with high tolerability. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in improving cognition, in schizophrenia, depression, dementia, Parkinson's disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis.

Methods

A PRISMA systematic search was conducted for randomized controlled trials. Hedges'gwas used to quantify effect sizes (ES) for changes in cognition after TMS/tDCSv.sham. As different cognitive functions may have unequal susceptibility to TMS/tDCS, we separately evaluated the effects on: attention/vigilance, working memory, executive functioning, processing speed, verbal fluency, verbal learning, and social cognition.

Results

We included 82 studies (n= 2784). For working memory, both TMS (ES = 0.17,p= 0.015) and tDCS (ES = 0.17,p= 0.021) showed small but significant effects. Age positively moderated the effect of TMS. TDCS was superior to sham for attention/vigilance (ES = 0.20,p= 0.020). These significant effects did not differ across the type of brain disorder. Results were not significant for the other five cognitive domains.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that both TMS and tDCS elicit a small trans-diagnostic effect on working memory, tDCS also improved attention/vigilance across diagnoses. Effects on the other domains were not significant. Observed ES were small, yet even slight cognitive improvements may facilitate daily functioning. While NIBS can be a well-tolerated treatment, its effects appear domain specific and should be applied only for realistic indications (i.e. to induce a small improvement in working memory or attention).
Relationships in late life from a personal communities approach: perspectives of older people in Chile
Authors: Torrejon Maria-Jose , Martin-Matthews Anne
Published: October 2020

Although the literature on social capital, social support and social networks uses the concept of emotional support, studies rarely recognise nuances of the emotional relationships in late life. Using a personal communities framework, we examine the subjective meaning of family and friendship ties that form the network of emotionally close relationships of a cohort of Chilean people between 60 and 74 years of age. Chile is an interesting case to investigate personal communities, as the country is facing both a rapid process of population ageing and the consequences of abrupt socio-cultural changes triggered by a military government. We conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews using personal communities diagrams that enabled study participants to reflect on what and how different types of personal ties were important to them. Data analysis included thematic analysis of interview transcripts and classification of identified personal communities using Pahl and Spencer's typology. The personal communities framework proved useful in capturing the composition of older people's networks of close relationships and in reflecting the diverse ways different ties are relevant in late life. We further developed a complementary typology based on the distinction between ‘clustered’ and ‘hierarchical’ personal communities. This complementary typology adds a cultural dimension to understand better emotional closeness in late life in a context of rapid socio-cultural changes affecting levels of social trust.
Forward and backward transfer of sentence processing cues in English and Mandarin Chinese: A call for approximate replication of Liu, Bates, and Li (1992) and Su (2001)
Authors: Skalicky Stephen , Chen Victoria
Published: October 2020

The Competition Model has served as a functional explanation of cross-linguistic influence and transfer for more than 30 years. A large number of studies have used the Competition Model to frame investigations of sentence processing strategies in different types of bilingual and multilingual speakers. Among the different bilingual speakers investigated, Mandarin Chinese and English bilinguals represent a clear testing ground for the claims of the Competition Model. This is because of purportedly stark contrasts in sentence processing strategies between the two languages. Previous studies investigating sentence processing strategies of English L2 and Mandarin L2 bilinguals suggests forward transfer of L1 cues to the L2, moderated by L2 proficiency. In this paper, we argue for replication of two of these studies, namely Liu, Bates, and Li (1992) and Su (2001). These studies continue to be cited today as evidence of differences between English and Mandarin sentence processing strategies which is in turn taken as support for the predictions of the Competition Model. However, both studies presented methodological limitations in terms of measures of proficiency, participant and stimuli selection, and the statistical analysis. We suggest approximate replication of both of these studies and provide suggestions for how such replications might be conducted.
Relativistic cavity, possibilities, and advantages
Authors: Mirzanejhad Saeed , Sohbatzadeh Farshad , Shams Fatemeh
Published: October 2020

The relativistic mirror (RM) is an interesting subject which introduced in the nonlinear regime of the laser–plasma interaction. Reflection of counter-propagating probe pulse from relativistic flying mirror has some excellent features, such as frequency up-shifting and compressing by a factor of 4γ2. In the high-intensity laser–plasma interaction, sometimes a sequence of RMs creates. For example, electron density cusps generate in the nonlinear laser wakefield generation or flying electron sheaths create in the blown-out regime of the laser foil interaction. Under these circumstances, the second counter-propagated seed (probe) pulse can be reflected back and forth between two or more successive RMs. This structure may be used as a relativistic cavity (RECA). Amplification and threshold conditions for the gain medium and pumping rate in the RECA are obtained, and it is shown that amplification can be started from background simultaneous emission (without seed pulse). A new feature of RECA is it's bidirectional (two frequencies) characteristic. Thereupon, the gain process can be implemented on the two different transitions in this bidirectional gain structure. In the RECA, driver pulse may be assembled as a pumping operation, and background plasma medium with high degree ionized substances is a good candidate for gain medium in the UV or X-ray regions. In this paper, we propose a new all-optical cavity for the generation of the ultrashort laser pulse in the UV or X-ray regions.
The latent structure of the adult attachment interview: Large sample evidence from the collaboration on attachment transmission synthesis
Authors: Raby K. Lee , Verhage Marije L. , Fearon R. M. Pasco , Fraley R. Chris , Roisman Glenn I. , van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Schuengel Carlo , Madigan Sheri , Oosterman Mirjam , Bakermans-Kranenburg Marian J. , Bernier Annie , Ensink Karin , Hautamäki Airi , Mangelsdorf Sarah , Priddis Lynn E. , Wong Maria S. ,   The Collaboration on Attachment Transmission Synthesis
Published: October 2020

The Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) is a widely used measure in developmental science that assesses adults’ current states of mind regarding early attachment-related experiences with their primary caregivers. The standard system for coding the AAI recommends classifying individuals categorically as having an autonomous, dismissing, preoccupied, or unresolved attachment state of mind. However, previous factor and taxometric analyses suggest that: (a) adults’ attachment states of mind are captured by two weakly correlated factors reflecting adults’ dismissing and preoccupied states of mind and (b) individual differences on these factors are continuously rather than categorically distributed. The current study revisited these suggestions about the latent structure of AAI scales by leveraging individual participant data from 40 studies (N = 3,218), with a particular focus on the controversial observation from prior factor analytic work that indicators of preoccupied states of mind and indicators of unresolved states of mind about loss and trauma loaded on a common factor. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that: (a) a 2-factor model with weakly correlated dismissing and preoccupied factors and (b) a 3-factor model that further distinguished unresolved from preoccupied states of mind were both compatible with the data. The preoccupied and unresolved factors in the 3-factor model were highly correlated. Taxometric analyses suggested that individual differences in dismissing, preoccupied, and unresolved states of mind were more consistent with a continuous than a categorical model. The importance of additional tests of predictive validity of the various models is emphasized.
Independent dominating sets in graphs of girth five
Authors: Harutyunyan Ararat , Horn Paul , Verstraete Jacques
Published: October 2020

Let
$\gamma(G)$
and
$${\gamma _ \circ }(G)$$
denote the sizes of a smallest dominating set and smallest independent dominating set in a graph G, respectively. One of the first results in probabilistic combinatorics is that if G is an n-vertex graph of minimum degree at least d, then$$\begin{equation}\gamma(G) \leq \frac{n}{d}(\log d + 1).\end{equation}$$

In this paper the main result is that if G is any n-vertex d-regular graph of girth at least five, then$$\begin{equation}\gamma_(G) \leq \frac{n}{d}(\log d + c)\end{equation}$$for some constant c independent of d. This result is sharp in the sense that as
$d \rightarrow \infty$
, almost all d-regular n-vertex graphs G of girth at least five have$$\begin{equation}\gamma_(G) \sim \frac{n}{d}\log d.\end{equation}$$

Furthermore, if G is a disjoint union of
${n}/{(2d)}$
complete bipartite graphs
$K_{d,d}$
, then
${\gamma_\circ}(G) = \frac{n}{2}$
. We also prove that there are n-vertex graphs G of minimum degree d and whose maximum degree grows not much faster than d log d such that
${\gamma_\circ}(G) \sim {n}/{2}$
as
$d \rightarrow \infty$
. Therefore both the girth and regularity conditions are required for the main result.
Graphene-based microwave coaxial antenna for microwave ablation: thermal analysis
Authors: Uzman Burak , Yilmaz Adem , Acikgoz Hulusi , Mittra Raj
Published: October 2020

In this study, the problem of backward heating in microwave ablation technique is examined and an electromagnetic solution based on the use of high impedance graphene material is presented for its mitigation. In this context, a one-atom-thick graphene layer is added on the coaxial double slot antenna. In addition to the electromagnetic behavior, thermal effects caused by the graphene-covered antenna are emphasized. The graphene's conductivity being highly dependent on its chemical potential and the relaxation time, a parametric study is performed to determine a range of tolerances within which the graphene-coated antenna outperform a typical graphene-free antenna. The range of values is found to be 0 < μc < 0.5 eV and τ < 0.4 ps, for the chemical potential and the relaxation time, respectively. The backward heating problem being prevented, the ablation region is ensured to be spherical around the tip of the antenna. Effects of the graphene layer to the heat dissipation in the tissue, the necrotic tissue ratio (damage to the cancerous tissue of the caused by electromagnetic energy), and the treatment time using the coaxial double slot antenna were examined. The results show that the heat dissipation is concentrated around the slots (region of cancerous tissue) and a higher necrotic tissue ratio can be achieved with a graphene-covered double slot antenna in a shorter time.
Longitudinal associations between adolescents’ trajectory membership of depressive symptoms and suicidality in young adulthood: a 10-year cohort of Chinese Wenchuan earthquake survivors
Authors: Chen Xiao-Yan , Zhou Ya , Shi Xuliang , Ma Zijuan , Fan Fang
Published: October 2020

Aims

Previous studies regarding associations between depressive symptoms and suicidality (suicidal ideation, plans and attempts) have usually employed a variable-centred approach, without considering the individual variance in time-varying changes of depressive symptoms. Through 10-year follow-up of a large cohort of Chinese adolescents exposed to the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, this study examined whether individual variance in depressive symptoms during the early phases post-earthquake could generate different suicidality outcomes in young adulthood.

Methods

A total of 1357 Chinese adolescents exposed to the Wenchuan earthquake were surveyed on depressive symptoms and other variables at 6, 18 and 30 months post-earthquake. In total, 799 participants responded to the 10-year follow-up and completed an online survey covering suicidality and other variables. The analytic sample was 744 participants who had valid data on depressive symptoms and suicidality. Data were analysed using logistic regressions.

Results

Prevalence estimates of past-year suicidal ideation, suicide plans and suicide attempts measured at 10 years post-earthquake were found to be 10.8%, 7.3% and 3.0%, respectively. Five trajectories of depressive symptoms were classified: resistance (54.4%), chronicity (13.3%), recovery (10.4%), delayed dysfunction (12.0%) and relapsing/remitting (10.0%). After controlling for covariates, whole-sample regressions revealed only the relapsing/remitting depressive trajectory remained significantly predictive of suicidality. Moreover, males not females in the chronic group were more likely to have suicide plans.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the importance of detecting disaster survivors with different trajectories of mental status and providing with them individualised and effective mental health services, to decrease their risk of suicidality in the future.
How does the Leader’s Centrality affect Team Performance Assessment? Testing the Role of Leader’s Satisfaction
Authors: Alves Marta Pereira , Dimas Isabel Dórdio , Lourenço Paulo Renato
Published: October 2020

The study aims to test how the association between leader’s centrality (outdegree and betweenness) in the group network, considering both workflow and friendship ties between leader and members, and the perception of team performance is mediated by the leader’s satisfaction with the team. The research included a total of 74 formal leaders of organizational teams from several organizations. Total, direct and indirect effects were calculated through the estimation of an OLS regression-based mediation model, controlling for team size. Results revealed that only leader’s outdegree and betweenness centrality in the team friendship network positively predicted the leader’s perception of team performance. In contrast to the predictions, a significant negative indirect effect of outdegree centrality of the leader within the team workflow network on the evaluation of group performance through leader’s satisfaction was observed. Also, both leader´s outdegree and betweenness centrality levels in the friendship network were shown to have a positive effect on leader’s assessment of team performance through leader’s satisfaction with the team. Overall, findings point to the negative effects of leader’s centrality in the workflow team network and the positive effects of leader’s centrality in the friendship team network on his/her attitudes toward the team. The effects of the more or less central position of the leader within each of the group networks are discussed.
Herbicide safener increases weed-management tools for control of annual grasses in wheat
Authors: Raiyemo Damilola A. , Price William J. , Rauch Traci A. , Campbell Joan M. , Xiao Fangming , Ma Rong , Gross Rachel , Prather Timothy S.
Published: October 2020

Annual grass weeds reduce profits of wheat farmers in the Pacific Northwest. The very-long-chain fatty acid elongase (VLCFA)-inhibiting herbicides S-metolachlor and dimethenamid-P could expand options for control of annual grasses but are not registered in wheat, because of crop injury. We evaluated a safener, fluxofenim, applied to wheat seed for protection of 19 soft white winter wheat varieties from S-metolachlor, dimethenamid-P, and pyroxasulfone herbicides; investigated the response of six varieties (UI Sparrow, LWW 15-72223, UI Magic CL+, Brundage 96, UI Castle CL+, and UI Palouse CL+) to incremental doses of fluxofenim; established the fluxofenim dose required to optimally protect the varieties from VLCFA-inhibiting herbicides; and assessed the impact of fluxofenim dose on glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in three wheat varieties (UI Sparrow, Brundage 96, and UI Castle CL+). Fluxofenim increased the biomass of four varieties treated with S-metolachlor or dimethenamid-P herbicides and one variety treated with pyroxasulfone. Three varieties showed tolerance to the herbicides regardless of the fluxofenim treatment. Estimated fluxofenim doses resulting in 10% biomass reduction of wheat ranged from 0.55 to 1.23 g ai kg−1 seed. Fluxofenim doses resulting in 90% increased biomass after treatment with S-metolachlor, dimethenamid-P, and pyroxasulfone ranged from 0.07 to 0.55, 0.09 to 0.73, and 0.30 to 1.03 g ai kg−1 seed, respectively. Fluxofenim at 0.36 g ai kg−1 seed increased GST activity in UI Castle CL+, UI Sparrow, and Brundage 96 by 58%, 30%, and 38%, respectively. These results suggest fluxofenim would not damage wheat seedlings up to three times the rate labeled for sorghum, and fluxofenim protects soft white winter wheat varieties from S-metolachlor, dimethenamid-P, or pyroxasulfone injury at the herbicide rates evaluated.
Beziehungsarbeit in der ambulanten Kinderkrankenpflege – Eine phänomenologische Untersuchung des Spannungsfeldes von Nähe und Distanz
Authors: Petersen Julia
Published: October 2020

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Die ambulante Kinderkrankenpflege betreut schwerstkranke Kinder im Umfeld ihrer Familien. Über die Herausforderungen, vor die Pflegende durch ihre professionelle Rolle einerseits und die intime Arbeit inmitten der Familie andererseits im Hinblick auf die Beziehungsgestaltung gestellt sind, ist noch wenig bekannt. Ziel: Die Studie fragt nach dem Erleben des Spannungsfeldes von Nähe und Distanz von Pflegenden in der ambulanten Kinderkrankenpflege. Methode: Es wurden neun narrative Interviews mit Pflegenden aus der ambulanten Kinderkrankenpflege geführt, die mit dem Ansatz der interpretierenden Phänomenologie nach Spichiger und Prakke ausgewertet wurden. Ergebnisse: Die Hauptthemen „Ambulante Kinderkrankenpflege als spezielles pflegerisches Setting“, „Adaption in das Familiensystem“, „Nähe und Distanz als Professionalitätskriterium“, „Nähe und Distanz als ständige Gratwanderung“, „Umgang mit belastenden Situationen“ und „Zeitfaktor als wesentliche Komponente der Beziehungsgestaltung“ konnten identifiziert werden, um das Phänomen zu beschreiben. Schlussfolgerungen: Eine Sensibilisierung der Pflegenden für die Spezifika dieses Praxisbereichs während der Ausbildung sowie bei Eintritt in einen ambulanten Kinderpflegedienst kann helfen, sie auf ihren Einsatz vorzubereiten. Den Pflegenden muss Raum für Reflexion über ihre berufliche Rolle gegeben werden. Eine klare Vorstellung dieser Rolle in Zusammenhang mit Aufgaben- und Verantwortungszuständigkeiten scheint hilfreich. Womöglich stellt das Begriffspaar „Nähe und Distanz“ nicht die treffenden Pole der Beziehungsgestaltung zwischen Pflegenden und Pflegebedürftigen dar.
Calibrating Simple Climate Models to Individual Earth System Models: Lessons Learned From Calibrating Hector
Authors: Dorheim Kalyn , Link Robert , Hartin Corinne , Kravitz Ben , Snyder Abigail
Published: October 2020

Simple climate models (SCMs) are computationally efficient and capable of emulating global mean output of more complex Earth system models (ESMs). In doing so, SCMs can play a critical role in climate research as stand‐ins for the computationally more expensive models, especially in studies involving low, spatial, and/or temporal resolution, providing more computationally efficient sources of climate data. Here we use Hector v2.5.0 to emulate the multiforcing historical and RCP scenario output for 31 concentration and seven emission‐driven ESMs. When calibrating Hector, sufficient calibration data must be used to constrain the model; otherwise, climate and/or carbon parameters affecting physical processes may be able to trade off with one another, allowing for solutions to use physically unreasonable fitted parameter values as well as limiting the application of the SCM as an emulator. We also present a novel methodology that uses the ESM range as a calibration data, which can be adopted when faced with missing variable output from a specific model.
Jellies Transfer a Significant Amount of Carbon to the Deep Ocean
Authors: Fritts Rachel
Published: October 2020

Jellyfish and sea salps aren’t getting the credit they deserve for their role in ocean carbon cycling, according to a new study.