bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Soil moisture–precipitation coupling over Central Europe: Interactions between surface anomalies at different scales and the dynamical implication
Authors: Baur Florian , Keil Christian , Craig George C. 
Published: October 2018

The sign of soil moisture–precipitation coupling and its scale dependence are controversial issues when examining soil–atmosphere interactions. Using the operational convection‐permitting COSMO model with 2.8 km horizontal grid spacing, the interplay of soil‐moisture heterogeneities on different scales and the role of the midtropospheric background wind are addressed by performing a series of real‐case simulations for 11 synoptically weakly and moderately forced summer precipitation events across Central Europe. The cumulative effect of soil‐moisture bias and heterogeneities on different scales is investigated, with consideration of the prevailing synoptic forcing, by explicitly perturbing soil‐moisture conditions. A soil‐moisture bias of ±25% is combined with different soil‐moisture heterogeneity length‐scales ranging from 30 to 140 km introduced by chessboard patterns.For synoptically moderately forced cases, our experiments only show a small impact of soil‐moisture perturbations on convective afternoon precipitation. Averaged over all seven synoptically weakly forced cases, however, we find (a) a positive coupling between the overall soil‐moisture bias and the domain‐averaged precipitation and (b) a negative local soil moisture–precipitation coupling. Increased precipitation over drier soils is related to an interaction between thermally induced vertical circulations and the background wind, causing a persistent updraft region at the downstream flank of the dry patches. Convective precipitation is triggered preferentially near these soil‐moisture gradients. The circulation cells are most dominant for soil‐moisture perturbations at scales between 40 and 80 km. The spatial locking of convection at soil‐moisture boundaries at these scales results in an earlier triggering of convection and an overall reduction of the day‐to‐day variability of area‐averaged precipitation.
Robotic assisted laparoscopic cerclage: A systematic review
Authors: Iavazzo Christos , Minis Evelyn Eleni , Gkegkes Ioannis D. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractIntroductionThe gold standard in the management of cervical incompetence is cerclage via vaginal approach. Minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic, have been also described.Materials and MethodsA systematic search was performed in PubMed and Scopus, searching evidence on robotic assisted laparoscopic cerclage in both pregnant and non pregnant women.ResultsSixty‐four patients were included in this study. Cervical insufficiency, failure of transvaginal cerclage, and short cervix were the most frequent indications for robotic assisted cerclage. Mean operative time was 107.3 minutes. Mean estimated blood loss was 62.8 mL. Four patients converted to laparotomy. No postoperative complications were reported. Pregnancy after robotic cerclage was reported in 59 patients with mean gestational age at delivery of 36.4 weeks. The majority of pregnant women who underwent robotic assisted cerclage gave birth to live neonates.ConclusionTill now, evidence does not show a clear advantage of robotic over laparoscopic approach, under the evaluation of the current literature. However, further comparative studies might be essential to clarify the possible role of da Vinci robot in this field; this might be quite difficult even in the near future based on the fact that only five cases per year are described in the current literature.
A technical approach to equity investing in emerging markets
Authors: Metghalchi Massoud , Hayes Linda A. , Niroomand Farhang 
Published: October 2018

AbstractTechnical analysis (TA) is used in evaluating its predictive power for the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Market Index (EMI) that reflects 23 emerging market economies’ equity indices. We conclude strong predictive power of technical analysis for the EMI. Given this predictive power of TA, we then investigate whether investors can exploit this predictive power to beat the profitability of the Buy‐and‐Hold strategy considering both risk and transaction costs. Applying Moving Average, Relative Strength Index, Moving Average Convergence Divergence, and Rate of Change trading rules to the MSCI Emerging Market Index over the period of 11/1/1988 to 5/1/2017 reveals strong empirical evidence that investors could use TA to out‐perform the Buy‐and‐Hold strategy even when considering risk and transaction costs. This research provides evidence against the Efficient Market Hypothesis for EMI.
State‐ and Regional‐Scale Patterns and Drivers of Freshwater Fish Functional Diversity in the Southeastern USA
Authors: Epstein Joshua M. , Pine William E. , Romagosa Christina M. , Scott Mark C. , Phillips Catherine T. , Marion Cathy A. , Baiser Benjamin 
Published: October 2018

AbstractUnderstanding biodiversity patterns and their drivers across large spatial scales has become a necessary component of addressing complex multiscale conservation challenges. Increasingly, functional diversity measures are being used to provide insight on the ecological integrity of ecosystems. We estimated functional diversity at two different spatial extents using data sets of contrasting sampling intensity and time duration and compared these two different approaches. For our regional‐scale analysis, we used large‐scale fish sampling data sets and identified 397 species across subbasins within the southeastern USA. For our state‐scale analysis, we used data from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Statewide Stream Assessment through which 101 species were collected from wadeable streams across South Carolina. For all fish species, we scored trophic and reproductive traits and measured trophic and reproductive functional diversity across subbasins and South Carolina streams. We assessed differences in functional diversity between level III ecoregions, quantified the influence of imperiled and invasive species on functional diversity, and modeled relationships between functional diversity and environmental variables at the state scale using Random Forest regression. At both scales, we found support for higher trophic functional diversity in high‐elevation ecoregions, while reproductive functional diversity was generally higher in low‐elevation ecoregions. The inclusion of imperiled species increased functional diversity estimates, while invasive species decreased functional diversity estimates except for reproductive functional diversity at the regional scale. Environmental variables that correlated with functional diversity at the state scale included forest cover, elevation, and conductivity. The observed spatial patterns of functional diversity, the environmental variables identified as predictors of functional diversity, and knowledge of how imperiled and invasive species influence functional diversity can be used to guide freshwater fish conservation efforts across the southeastern U.S. region. Additionally, these findings highlight the utility of data from intensive, standardized, broad‐scale aquatic surveys in addressing these and similar questions regarding freshwater diversity.
Transcriptome analysis reveals benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilizers regulate networks related to inflammation in juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio) brain
Authors: Li Zhitong , Li Wenjing , Zha Jinmiao , Chen Huihui , Martyniuk Christopher J. , Liang Xuefang 
Published: October 2018

AbstractBenzotriazole ultraviolet stabilizers (BUVSs) are widely applied ultraviolet absorbing compounds in industrial materials and personal care products. Due to their ubiquitous use and reports of bio‐accumulation in aquatic organisms, these compounds are significant environmental pollutants; however, data are limited for BUVSs toxicity. In this study, juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio) were exposed to 4 commonly used BUVSs (UV‐234, UV‐326, UV‐329, and UV‐P) at one dose of 10 or 100 μg/L for 28 days. To characterize the underlying mechanisms of different BUVSs‐induced toxicities, we performed global transcriptome sequencing (RNA‐Seq) in the brain (100 μg/L). There were 390, 575, 483, and 470 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) detected following UV‐234, UV‐326, UV‐329, and UV‐P exposure at 100 μg/L, respectively. Only 59 genes were identified as DEGs following exposure to each of the BUVSs, suggesting that these chemicals can induce unique responses in fish. Noteworthy was that there were 81 common gene networks (~10%) identified following exposure to BUVSs, many of which were related to inflammation and immune function. Uniquely regulated pathways affected by different BUVSs included those related to mitochondrial respiration, interleukin 1/brain‐damaging signaling, dopaminergic signaling, and adrenergic receptor cascades. Furthermore, quantitative PCR (qPCR) results revealed that mgst1 levels were increased in fish from the 100 μg/L UV‐329 treatment, while the expression of pck2 was significantly down‐regulated in fish from both the 10 and 100 μg/L UV‐P treatment. Transcriptomic data suggest that BUVSs can alter mitochondrial bioenergetics, alter expression of a broad range of genes in the oxidative stress response, and can induce pathways related to the immune system in zebrafish brain.
AdS5 black strings in the stu model of FI-gauged N = 2 supergravity
Authors: Azzola Matteo , Klemm Dietmar , Rabbiosi Marco 
Published: October 2018

AbstractWe analytically construct asymptotically AdS5black string solutions starting from the four-dimensional domain wall black hole of [1]. It is shown that its uplift gives a black string ind= 5 minimal gauged supergravity, with momentum along the string. Applying instead the residual symmetries ofN= 2,d= 4 Fayet-Iliopoulos-gauged super-gravity discovered in [2] to the domain wall seed leads, after uplifting, to a dyonic black string that interpolates between AdS5and AdS3× H2at the horizon. A Kaluza-Klein reduction of the latter along an angular Killing directionϕfollowed by a duality transformation yields, after going back to five dimensions, a black string with both momentum along the string and rotation alongϕ. This is the first instance of using solution-generating techniques in gauged supergravity to add rotation to a given seed. These solutions all have constant scalar fields. As was shown in [3], the construction of supersymmetric static magnetic black strings in the FI-gauged stu model amounts to solving the SO(2, 1) spinning top equations, which descend from an inhomogeneous version of the Nahm equations. We are able to solve these in a particular case, which leads to a generalization of the Maldacena-Nuñez solution.
A method to estimate mean lying rates and their full distribution
Authors: Garbarino Ellen , Slonim Robert , Villeval Marie Claire 
Published: October 2018

AbstractStudying the likelihood that individuals cheat requires a valid statistical measure of dishonesty. We develop an easy empirical method to measure and compare lying behavior within and across studies to correct for sampling errors. This method estimates the full distribution of lying when agents privately observe the outcome of a random process (e.g., die roll) and can misreport what they observed. It provides a precise estimate of the mean and confidence interval (offering lower and upper bounds on the proportion of people lying) over the full distribution, allowing for a vast range of statistical inferences not generally available with the existing methods.
On the effectiveness of elected male and female leaders and team coordination
Authors: Reuben Ernesto , Timko Krisztina 
Published: October 2018

AbstractWe study the effect on coordination in a minimum-effort game of a leader’s gender depending on whether the leader is democratically elected or is randomly selected. Leaders use non-binding messages to try to convince followers to coordinate on the Pareto-efficient equilibrium. We find that teams with elected leaders coordinate on higher effort levels. Initially, the benefits of being elected are captured solely by male leaders. However, this gender difference disappears with repeated interaction because unsuccessful male leaders are reelected more often than unsuccessful female leaders.
Form-finding with robotics: Rapid and flexible fabrication of glass fiber reinforced concrete panels using thermoformed molds
Authors: Chen Yutong , Koh Jing Lin , Tian Xia , Goh Yi Qian , Dritsas Stylianos 
Published: October 2018

Abstract
We present a process that revisits form-finding within digital media, namely parametric design and robotic fabrication. It is inspired by classical architectural and engineering experiments producing minimal surfaces and tensile structures by physical simulation of materials and natural forces. Fabrication is based on thermoforming, where thin sheets of amorphous PET are heat-treated and while in malleable state, where the material behaves like stretchable membrane, an industrial robot imprints a shape and sheets are rapidly cooled down assuming their final form. Key aspects of the approach include: (a) Speed: as each sheet is formed within seconds; (b) Flexibility, as a wide-range of shapes are produced without fabrication of unique dies; and (c) Resilience, as unlike traditional form-finding processes where the derived forms are ephemeral, the objects produced here are robust, they may be used directly or employed in subsequent fabrication processes. The produced sheets are used here as molds for glass-reinforced concrete casting offering excellent surface quality and the ability to create geometry unlike any conventional fabrication techniques. We present the design and development of the process and a proof-of-concept artwork produced.
Highlights A form-finding process that fuses digital and physical computation. Industrial robotics as the forcing system for form-finding material experiments. From delicate physical experimental prototypes to reproducible precise artifacts. Hybrid thermoforming and glass reinforced concrete casting digital and analog fabrication. Presentation of experimental large-scale artwork as demonstration of process.
Self-Reported Vaginal Laxity—Prevalence, Impact, and Associated Symptoms in Women Attending a Urogynecology Clinic
Authors: Campbell Patrick , Krychman Michael , Gray Thomas , Vickers Holly , Money-Taylor John , Li Weiguang , Radley Stephen 
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Introduction
Vaginal laxity is increasingly recognized as an important condition, although little is known regarding its prevalence and associated symptoms.

Aim
To report the prevalence of self-reported vaginal laxity in women attending a urogynecology clinic and investigate its association with pelvic floor symptoms and female sexual dysfunction.

Method
Data were analyzed from 2,621 women who completed the electronic Personal Assessment Questionnaire-Pelvic Floor (ePAQ-PF).

Main Outcome Measure
Response data from ePAQ-PF questionairre.

Results
Vaginal laxity was self-reported by 38% of women and significantly associated with parity, symptoms of prolapse, stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, reduced vaginal sensation during intercourse, and worse general sex life (P &lt; .0005).

Clinical Implications
Clinicians should be aware that vaginal laxity is prevalent and has an associated influence and impact on sexual function.

Strength & Limitations
The main strength of this study is the analysis of prospectively collected data from a large cohort of women using a validated questionnaire. The main limitation is lack of objective data to measure pelvic organ prolapse.

Conclusion
Vaginal laxity is a highly prevalent condition that impacts significantly on a woman’s sexual health and quality of life.
Prevalence of Female Sexual Function Difficulties and Sexual Pain Assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index: A Systematic Review
Authors: Koops Thula U. , Briken Peer 
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Introduction
Sexual difficulties, and sexual pain in particular, represent a global health issue for women, and their prevalence has been shown to differ across countries.

Aim
To review the existing literature on the prevalence of female sexual difficulties and sexual pain worldwide measured by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Methods
We conducted a systematic literature review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Included were peer-reviewed publications indicating prevalence rates of female sexual difficulties based on the FSFI and cutoff values. Studies with samples limited to a certain age group or health condition were excluded.

Main Outcome Measure
The outcome measure includes cutoff values and prevalence rates for sexual difficulties and sexual pain, as well as sample characteristics.

Results
22 studies conducted in 11 countries were included. These examined samples from the community, patient records, health care staff, or the Internet. Various prevalence cutoff values were applied. Prevalence rates of overall sexual difficulties ranged between 5.5% and 77%. For sexual pain, rates from 3% to 95.5% were found. A comparison between countries was restricted due to differences in sample size, sample type, and applied cutoffs. Representative community samples using comparable cutoffs found that 5.8–63.3% of women experience general sexual difficulty and 6–31.6% experience sexual pain.

Clinical Implications
Sexual difficulties and sexual pain are prevalent in all examined countries, and despite restrictions to interpretability, the large prevalence rates point to the necessity of further clinical research.

Strength & Limitations
Many studies had to be excluded because of missing data. The comparison of studies is descriptive, and not all regions worldwide are represented. Nevertheless, results of the review were useful to derive recommendations for reporting of future studies using the FSFI.

Conclusion
This review is the first comparison of prevalence studies based on the FSFI. It reflects the extent of available research and limitations in comparability.
Effects of Density‐Driven Flows on the Long‐Term Morphodynamic Evolution of Funnel‐Shaped Estuaries
Authors: Olabarrieta Maitane , Geyer W. Rockwell , Coco Giovanni , Friedrichs Carl T. , Cao Zhendong 
Published: October 2018

AbstractSubtidal flows driven by density gradients affect the tide‐averaged sediment transport in estuaries and, therefore, can influence their long‐term morphodynamic evolution. The three‐dimensional Coupled Ocean‐Atmosphere‐Wave‐Sediment Transport modeling system is applied to numerically analyze the effects of baroclinicity and Earth's rotation on the long‐term morphodynamic evolution of idealized funnel‐shaped estuaries. The morphodynamic evolution in all the analyzed cases reproduced structures identified in many tide‐dominated estuaries: a meandering region in the fluvial‐tidal transition zone, a tidal maximum area close to the head, and a turbidity maxima region in the brackish zone. As the morphology of the estuaries evolved, the tidal propagation (including its asymmetry), the salinity gradient, and the strength of subtidal flows changed, which reflects the strong bathymetric control of these systems. The comparison with barotropic simulations showed that the three‐dimensional structure of the flow (induced by density gradients) has leading order effects on the morphodynamic evolution. Density gradient‐driven subtidal flows (1) promote near‐bed flood dominance and, consequently, the import of sediment into the estuary, (2) accelerate the morphodynamic evolution of the upper/middle estuary, (3) promote a more concave shape of the upper estuary and reduce the ebb‐tidal delta volume, and (4) produce an asymmetric bathymetry and inhibit the formation of alternate bars that would form under barotropic conditions. This latter effect is the consequence of the combined effect of Earth's rotation and baroclinicity.
Theoretical Considerations on Factors Confounding the Interpretation of the Oceanic Carbon Export Ratio
Authors: Li Zuchuan , Cassar Nicolas 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe fraction of primary production exported out of the surface ocean, known as the export ratio (ef ratio), is often used to assess how various factors, including temperature, primary production, phytoplankton size, and community structure, affect the export efficiency of an ecosystem. To investigate possible causes for reported discrepancies in the dominant factors influencing the export efficiency, we develop a metabolism‐based mechanistic model of the ef ratio. Consistent with earlier studies, we find based on theoretical considerations that the ef ratio is a negative function of temperature. We show that the ef ratio depends on the optical depth, defined as the physical depth times the light attenuation coefficient. As a result, varying light attenuation may confound the interpretation of ef ratio when measured at a fixed depth (e.g., 100 m) or at the base of the mixed layer. Finally, we decompose the contribution of individual factors on the seasonality of the ef ratio. Our results show that at high latitudes, the ef ratio at the base of mixed layer is strongly influenced by mixed layer depth and surface irradiation on seasonal time scales. Future studies should report the ef ratio at the base of the euphotic layer or account for the effect of varying light attenuation if measured at a different depth. Overall, our modeling study highlights the large number of factors confounding the interpretation of field observations of the ef ratio.
Elemental Systematics in MORB Glasses From the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Yang Shuying , Humayun Munir , Salters Vincent J. M. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractIn this study, a data set of 60 elements in 319 mid‐oceanic ridge basalt (MORB) glasses representing 144 chemically distinct lava flows from the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge was acquired by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Our new data are comparable in terms of the number of elements analyzed to several recent MORB data sets, albeit limited in geographic coverage to the North Mid‐Atlantic Ridge. This extensive data set was used to examine the elemental systematics of depleted (D)‐, normal (N)‐, and enriched (E)‐MORBs. We show that elemental ratios sensitive to fluid transport in subduction zones (e.g., Th/U, Nb/U, Ba/Th, and Ba/La) are constant and similar to their primitive mantle values in N‐ and E‐MORBs, but depleted in accordance with their compatibility in D‐MORBs. The absence of evidence for subduction zone processing indicates the need to reassess the relation between MORB enrichment and recycled materials. Additionally, we reexamined the ratios of chalcophile and siderophile elements to lithophile elements of comparable compatibility, which are important in assessing planetary accretion, core formation, crust‐mantle differentiation, and hydrothermal ore formation processes. MORBs show significant negative anomalies of As, Tl, Pb, and Bi, but not of Sb, relative to lithophile elements of similar compatibility, which cannot be accounted for by melt depletion alone. The depletions of As, Tl, Pb, and Bi in MORB are complementary to significant enrichments observed in the continental crust, indicating that they have been transferred to the continental crust via fluid mobility in arcs or obduction of seafloor hydrothermal ores.