Dependence of X-Ray Burst Models on Nuclear Reaction Rates

X-ray bursts are thermonuclear flashes on the surface of accreting neutron stars and reliable burst models are needed to interpret observations in terms of properties of the neutron star and the binary system. We investigate the dependence of X-ray burst models on uncertainties in (p,$\gamma$), ($\alpha$,$\gamma$), and ($\alpha$,p) nuclear reaction rates using fully self-consistent burst models that account for the feedbacks between changes in nuclear energy generation and changes in astrophysical conditions. A two-step approach first identified sensitive nuclear reaction rates in a single-zone model with ignition conditions chosen to match calculations with a state-of-the-art 1D multi-zone model based on the {\Kepler} stellar evolution code. All relevant reaction rates on neutron deficient isotopes up to mass 106 were individually varied by a factor of 100 up and down. Calculations of the 84 highest impact reaction rate changes were then repeated in the 1D multi-zone model. We find a number of uncertain reaction rates that affect predictions of light curves and burst ashes significantly. The results provide insights into the nuclear processes that shape X-ray burst observables and guidance for future nuclear physics work to reduce nuclear uncertainties in X-ray burst models.Comment: 24 pages, 13 figures, 4 tables, submitte

Magnetodielectric coupling of infrared phonons in single crystal Cu2_{2}OSeO3_{3}

Reflection and transmission as a function of temperature have been measured on a single crystal of the magnetoelectric ferrimagnetic compound Cu$_{2}$OSeO$_{3}$ utilizing light spanning the far infrared to the visible portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The complex dielectric function and optical properties were obtained via Kramers-Kronig analysis and by fits to a Drude-Lortentz model. The fits of the infrared phonons show a magnetodielectric effect near the transition temperature ($T_{c}\sim 60$~K). Assignments to strong far infrared phonon modes have been made, especially those exhibiting anomalous behavior around the transition temperature

Detection of Bacteroides fragilis endotoxin in amniotic fluid by counterimmunoelectrophoresis

The ability of counter immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) to detectBacteroides fragilis endotoxin in amniotic fluid in small concentrations was evaluated. A method was developed which, in combination with ultrafiltration, permits detection ofB. fragilis endotoxin in amniotic fluid in a concentration of 40 ng/ml or more. The sensitivity threshold was reduced to 2 ng/ml by using a highly reactive IgG-fraction isolated from rabbit anti-B. fragilis IPL E 323 antiserum

Cholesterol, C-Reactive Protein, and Periodontitis: HMG-CoA-Reductase Inhibitors (Statins) as Effect Modifiers

Common risk factors of periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases fuel the debate on interrelationships between them. The aim is to prove whether statins may influence periodontal parameters by affecting either of these factors. Out of the 4,290 subjects of SHIP (Study of Health in Pomerania), we included subjects aged >30 years (219 with statins, 2937 without) and excluded edentulous. We determined periodontal measures, cholesterol fractions, and inflammation markers. Statin use and periodontal risk factors were assessed. Gingival plaque and periodontal attachment loss were associated with systemic LDL cholesterol (P < 0.001) and C-reactive protein CRP (P = 0.019) revealing interaction with statin use. When adjusted for age, sex, smoking, diabetes, education, and dental service, statins were identified as effect modifiers abolishing the relationship between attachment loss and LDL and between gingival plaque and LDL (interactions P < 0.001). No statin-related interaction was detected with increase in CRP. The interaction supports the view of inter-relationships between periodontal and systemic inflammatory mediators

Mental health in myasthenia gravis patients and its impact on caregiver burden

Psychiatric comorbidities are relevant in patients with Myasthenia gravis (MG). Also, MG patients experience a reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We aimed to quantify the impact of depression as well as self-perceived MG severity on HRQoL and caregivers' burden. In this cross-sectional study, we used a survey encompassing demographic, disease-related information, and standardized questionnaires to assess symptoms of depression, anxiety, HRQoL (MG Quality of Life scale; MG-QoL15), and caregiver burden (Burden Scale for Family Caregivers; BSFC). Data from 1399 participating patients (96%) and 1042 caregivers (65%) were eligible for further analysis. Symptoms of depression and anxiety disorder were indicated by 31% and 36% of patients. Self-reported MG severity (MG severity) and MG-QoL15 scores were strongly associated (estimated marginal means for severe versus mild MG severity = 18 95% CI [16; 21]; p <= 0.001). Adjusting for symptoms of depression decreased the estimated strength of this association (estimated marginal means for severe versus mild MG severity = 15 [13; 17]; p <= 0.001). Caregiver burden was associated to MG disease severity (estimated marginal means for severe vs. mild MG severity = 0.16 [0.13; 0,19); p <= 0.001) and also negatively influenced by symptoms of depression (estimated marginal means = 0.12 [0.09; 0.15]). Symptoms of depression and anxiety disorder in MG are frequent. Beyond MG severity, symptoms of depression have negative effects on HRQoL as well as on caregivers' burden. Diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric comorbidities should be considered an important element in MG care. Screening tools for mental health conditions should be implemented at least in specialized MG centers

Multiple-Material Topology Optimization of Compliant Mechanisms Created via Polyjet 3D Printing

Compliant mechanisms are able to transfer motion, force, and energy using a monolithic structure without discrete hinge elements. The geometric design freedoms and multi-material capability offered by the PolyJet 3D printing process enables the fabrication of compliant mechanisms with optimized topology. The inclusion of multiple materials in the topology optimization process has the potential to eliminate the narrow, weak, hinge-like sections that are often present in single-material compliant mechanisms. In this paper, the authors propose a design and fabrication process for the realization of 3-phase, multiple-material compliant mechanisms. The process is tested on a 2D compliant force inverter. Experimental and theoretical performance of the resulting 3-phase inverter is compared against a standard 2-phase design.Mechanical Engineerin