bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflections on the ICC Prosecutor’s Recent “Selection Decisions”
Authors: Hansen Thomas O.
Published: March 2022

Taking the starting point in an assessment of three major “selection decisions” made by the ICC Prosecutor in the situation in Mali, this article provides for a discussion of the key challenges relating to explaining how the ICC Prosecutor undertakes its “selection decisions”. First, the article explores the Prosecutor’s justifications for acting positively on Mali’s self-referral to the ICC. Second, it examines how the Prosecutor justifies that some crimes, but not others, will be subject to further investigation. Third, it provides for a discussion of how the Prosecutor selects suspects for further investigation. These three “selection decisions” are examined in light of the governing law and policies as well as the Prosecutor’s earlier practice and the scholarly debate. Some of the broader legitimacy challenges facing the Court are also discussed. In contrast to what the Prosecutor suggests, the article concludes that the Office of the Prosecutor does appear to treat self-referrals as a special category of cases where different standards apply. The article also concludes that it is doubtful that the gravity concept provides a clear framework for making “selection decisions”.
Corruption and Human Rights – Making the Connection at the United Nations
Authors: Hensgen Leonie
Published: March 2022

Since the 1990s the fight against corruption has been on everyone’s lips. The United Nations’ approach to the problem resulted in the 2005 United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), the most comprehensive instrument against corruption on the international level. In March 2013, a Panel Discussion on the Negative Impact of Corruption on the Enjoyment of Human Rights took place, convened by the Human Rights Council. What are the links between (anti-)corruption measures and human rights and why do the United Nations deal with it? Both questions are more closely interrelated than it might appear at first sight. This article will not only examine the connection and the United Nations’ involvement, but also provide new aspects for a further debate.
Playing Hide-and-Seek in the German Press
Authors: Quagliati Noemi
Published: March 2022

This paper analyzes the topic of World War I vertical camouflage—that is, camouflaging objects on the ground from observation from the air—particularly showing its presence and absence in German public discourse of the time. Together with the dazzle scheme for ships, vertical camouflage represented a strategic visual novelty of World War i. The introduction of new visualities (e.g. the airplane view) and increased visibility (through optical technologies like aerial photography) drove the armies to elaborate specific camouflage patterns, employing both naturalistic and abstract motifs. Although widespread scholarship explores camouflage in the Great War, most of the narratives focus on the evolution of horizontal camouflage from the animal world, the mutual influences of military camouflage and avant-garde art, and the role of women in camouflage workshops. Nevertheless, contrary to the interest shown in large-scale deception projects in World War ii, only a restricted number of studies explore the practice of World War i vertical camouflage outside the context of Allied use.
Who Does That?
Authors: Edmonds Radcliffe G.
Published: March 2022

This paper addresses responses to Drawing Down the Moon by Shannon Grimes, James Davila, Gregory Shaw, and Naomi Janowitz, using the cues of extraordinary efficacy, performance, social location, and ends to determine whether something is labeled magic and by whom. In each of the papers, the cue of social location appears as the most significant, even though the others each play a role as well.
Orostylis gen. nov., a new genus of Dalytyphloplanida with seven new species (Platyhelminthes: Rhabdocoela)
Authors: GOBERT STEFAN , ARMONIES WERNER , DIEZ YANDER L. , JOUK PHILIPPE , MONNENS MARLIES , REVIS NATHALIE , REYGEL PATRICK , SMITH JULIAN III , STEENKISTE NIELS VAN , ARTOIS TOM
Published: March 2022

We describe a new genus of dalytyphloplanid rhabdocoels, with seven new species. Orostylis gen. nov. has a unique combination of characters including the presence of a sclerotised stylet, an anteriorly positioned male copulatory organ with the male genital pore in the buccal cavity, and the absence of an oviduct. The ovary empties directly into the intestinal lumen. Orostylis dohae sp. nov., Orostylis asinaraensis sp. nov., Orostylis caecus sp. nov., Orostylis distortus sp. nov., Orostylis donanae sp. nov., Orostylis gallicus sp. nov., and Orostylis timucuorum sp. nov. are distinguished from each other by the structure of the sclerotised parts of the male copulatory organ. Molecular and morphological evidence place the new genus in Neodalyellida Willems et al. 2006, and similarities with other taxa are discussed.
An interesting sexually dimorphic species, Chamobates callipygis Pavlichenko, 1991 (Acari, Oribatida, Chamobatidae), with remarks on sexual dimorphism
in Ceratozetoidea
Authors: BAYARTOGTOKH BADAMDORJ , ERMILOV SERGEY G. , KHAUSTOV ALEXANDER A.
Published: March 2022

Based on materials from the leaf litter of a mixed forest in Crimea, a new diagnosis for the sexually dimorphic species, Chamobates callipygis Pavlichenko, 1991, is presented to accommodate its previously unreported females. This is the only species in Chamobatidae showing a distinct sexual dimorphism, which is expressed by the posterior porose region on the notogaster, such that males only have a large protuberance on the posterior part of notogaster bearing a pair of fused porose areas A3, and a densely striated region behind them. The specific function of this structure is not yet known, but the sexual dimorphism is presumably involved in pheromonal communication facilitating sperm transfer. Also, the males of this species have a few transverse striations in the dorsomedial part of notogaster (at level of porose areas A1 and A2). Further, we discuss all cases of sexual dimorphism in the superfamily Ceratozetoidea, and the possible function of this dimorphism.
A Cascading Bias Correction Method for Global Climate Model Simulated Multiyear Precipitation Variability
Authors: Frei Allan , Mukundan Rajith , Chen Jie , Gelda Rakesh K. , Owens Emmet M. , Gass Jordan , Ravindranath Arun
Published: March 2022

The use of global climate model (GCM) precipitation simulations typically requires corrections for precipitation biases at subgrid spatial scales, typically at daily or monthly time scales. However, over many regions GCMs underestimate the magnitudes of multiyear precipitation extremes in the observed climate, resulting in a likely underestimation of the magnitudes of multiyear precipitation extremes in future scenarios. The objective of this study is to propose a method to extract from GCMs more realistic scenarios of multiyear precipitation extremes over time horizons of decades to one century. This proposed correction method is analogous to widely used bias correction methods, except that it is applied to variability at longer time scales than previous implementations (i.e., multiyear rather than daily or monthly). A case study of precipitation over a basin from the New York City water supply system demonstrates the potential magnitude of the underestimation of multiyear precipitation using uncorrected GCM scenarios, and the potential impact of the correction on multiyear hydrological extremes. Overall, it is a practical, conceptually simple approach meant for water supply system impact studies, but can be used for any impact studies that require more realistic multiyear extreme precipitation extreme scenarios.

Significance Statement

The purpose of this study is to present a practical method to address a particular difficulty that in some regions arises in climate change impact studies: global climate models tend to underestimate the multiyear variability of precipitation over some regions, resulting in an underestimation of the magnitudes and/or intensities of prolonged droughts as well as prolonged wet periods. The method is analogous to widely used bias correction methods, except it is applied to variability at longer time scales than previous implementations (i.e., multiyear rather than daily or monthly). It is designed to provide more realistic estimates of extreme hydrological scenarios during the twenty-first century. Our particular interest is for managers of water supply systems, but the method may be of interest to others for whom multiyear precipitation extremes are critical.
Dynamics of a Standing Meander of the Subantarctic Front Diagnosed from Satellite Altimetry and Along-Stream Anomalies of Temperature and Salinity
Authors: Meijer Jan Jaap , Phillips Helen E. , Bindoff Nathaniel L. , Rintoul Stephen R. , Foppert Annie
Published: March 2022

Meanders formed where the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) interacts with topography have been identified as dynamical hot spots, characterized by enhanced eddy energy, momentum transfer, and cross-front exchange. However, few studies have used observations to diagnose the dynamics of ACC standing meanders. We use a synoptic hydrographic survey and satellite altimetry to explore the momentum and vorticity balance of a Subantarctic Front standing meander, downstream of the Southeast Indian Ridge. Along-stream anomalies of temperature in the upper ocean (150–600 m) show along-stream cooling entering the surface trough and along-stream warming entering the surface crest, while warming is observed from trough to crest in the deeper ocean (600–1500 m). Advection of relative vorticity is balanced by vortex stretching, as found in model studies of meandering currents. Meander curvature is sufficiently large that the flow is in gradient wind balance, resulting in ageostrophic horizontal divergence. This drives downwelling of cooler water along isopycnals entering the surface trough and upwelling of warmer water entering the surface crest, consistent with the observed evolution of temperature anomalies in the upper ocean. Progressive along-stream warming observed between 600 and 1500 m likely reflects cyclogenesis in the deep ocean. Vortex stretching couples the upper and lower water column, producing a low pressure at depth between surface trough and crest and cyclonic flow that carries cold water equatorward in the surface trough and warm water poleward in the surface crest (poleward heat flux). The results highlight gradient–wind balance and cyclogenesis as central to dynamics of standing meanders and their critical role in the ACC momentum and vorticity balance.

Significance Statement

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) in the Southern Ocean is a nearly zonal current that encircles Antarctica. It acts as a barrier between warmer water equatorward and colder water poleward. In a few regions where the current encounters strong topographic changes, the current meanders and opens a pathway for heat to travel across the ACC toward Antarctica. We surveyed a meander in the ACC and examined the along-stream change of temperature. In the upper ocean, temperature changes are caused by a vertical circulation, bringing cool water down when entering the surface trough (the part of the meander closest to the equator), and warm water up when exiting the surface trough and entering the surface crest. At depth, cold water is transported equatorward in the surface trough and warm water poleward in the surface crest, leading to a net transport of heat poleward. This study highlights the importance of the secondary circulation within a meander for generating cross-ACC flows and moving heat toward Antarctica.
Evaluation and Usefulness of Lightning Forecasts Made with Lightning Parameterization Schemes Coupled with the WRF Model
Authors: Vani K. Gayatri , Mohan Greeshma M. , Hazra Anupam , Pawar S. D. , Pokhrel Samir , Chaudhari Hemantkumar S. , Konwar Mahen , Saha Subodh K. , Mallick Chandrima , Das Subrata K. , Deshpande Sachin , Ghude Sachin D. , Domkawale Manoj , Rao Suryachandra A. , Nanjundiah Ravi. S. , Rajeevan M.
Published: March 2022

The evaluation and usefulness of lightning prediction for the Indian subcontinent are demonstrated. Implementation of the lightning parameterizations based on storm parameters, in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, with different microphysics schemes are carried out. With the availability of observed lightning measurements over Maharashtra from the lightning detection network (LDN), lightning cases have been identified during the pre-monsoon season of 2016–18. Lightning parameterization based on cloud top height defined by a reflectivity threshold factor of 20 dBZ is chosen. Initial analysis is carried out for 16 lightning events with four microphysical schemes for the usefulness in lightning prediction. Objective analysis is carried out and quantitative model performance (skill scores) is assessed based on observed data. The skills are evaluated for 10- and 50-km2 boxes from the 1-km domain. There is good POD of 0.86, 0.82, 0.85, and 0.84, and false alarm ratio (FAR) of 0.28, 0.25, 0.29, and 0.26 from WSM6, Thompson, Morrison, and WDM6, respectively. There is an overestimation in lightning flash with a spatial and temporal shift. The fractional skill score is evaluated as a function of spatial scale with neighborhoods from 25 to 250 km. These high skill scores and high degree of correlation between observations and model simulation gives us confidence to use the system for real-time operational forecast over India. The skill for 2019 and 2020 pre-monsoon are calculated to address the predictability of operational lightning prediction over India.

Significance Statement

A high-resolution model, namely, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, with multiple microphysics parameterization schemes and lightning parameterization is used here. The objective analysis is carried out for the lightning cases over India and the quantitative performance is assessed. The results highlight that there is fairly good probability of detection (POD) of 0.86, 0.82, 0.85, and 0.84 and false alarm ratio (FAR) of 0.28, 0.25, 0.29, and 0.26 from four different microphysical schemes (WSM6, Thompson, Morrison, and WDM6, respectively). These high skill scores and high degree of correlation between observations and model simulation gives us confidence to use the system for real-time operational forecast. The validation of lightning forecast system deployed over India for five pre-monsoon months in real time is carried out, which gives POD of 0.90, FAR of 0.64, hit rate of 0.57, and POFD of 0.50 for the whole Indian region.
“I Was Learning Every Step of the Way”: Student Perceptions About a New Required Foundational Master of Public Health Program Planning Course
Authors: Stolow Jeni , Lederer Alyssa
Published: March 2022

Objective:

Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine created a program planning course required for all master of public health (MPH) students to address the revised 2016 Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) foundational competencies. The objective of this study was to examine students’ feedback on this new class based on their reflective writing.

Methods:

Students across 3 class sections during 3 semesters (fall 2018, spring 2019, and fall 2019) wrote a reflection paper as a final assignment about their course experience (N = 102). We conducted a conventional qualitative content analysis of deidentified student responses to systematically examine themes in the overarching areas of what students found valuable about the course and what they would want to be improved. We calculated frequency counts of themes to further contextualize the findings.

Results:

Students found the following aspects of the course valuable: a positive perception shift toward program planning (93.1%), new transferable career skills (87.3%), the course format (77.5%), course content (69.6%), working in teams (52.0%), course assignments (47.1%), and the instructional team (31.4%). Critiques included the following: more support for course assignments (39.2%), challenges of working in teams (27.5%), aspects of the course format (25.5%), gaps in course content (19.6%), and wanting more consultations with the instructional team (5.9%). About 14% of students stated there was nothing or little they would change about the course.

Conclusion:

Overall, the course received positive feedback from students. They identified several valuable course components and areas that could be enhanced, which we have worked to improve. We offer the course as a potential model for how schools and programs of public health can meet the 2016 CEPH competencies.
Validity and Reliability of Persian Version of the 12-Item Expectations Regarding Aging Survey
Authors: Sharif Nia Hamid , She Long , Somasundram Sotheeswari , Khoshnavay Fomani Fatemeh , Kaveh Omolhoda , Hosseini Lida
Published: March 2022

Objective:The present study was designed to assess the construct validity and reliability of the Persian version of the 12-item Expectations Regarding Aging (ERA) survey among the older adult Iranian population. Methods: The Persian version of this scale was developed using translation and revision in the current study. The construct validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The reliability was assessed through internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega), composite reliability (CR), and maximal reliability (MaXR). The data compiled online was based on a sample of 400 older adults aged 65 years and older. Results: The Persian version includes 12 items loading onto three factors with 12 items explaining 46.633% of the total variance with excellent internal consistency and reliability. Conclusion: The Persian version of ERA is reliable and valid that can be used to assess the ERA concept among older adults.
Solitary Prosociality in Later Life: An Experience Sampling Study
Authors: Mann Ajit Singh , Boeder Jordan , Tse Dwight C. K. , Graham Laura , Nakamura Jeanne
Published: March 2022

Loneliness is a risk factor for older adults, one exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although time spent alone is associated with both loneliness and greater well-being, the experience of solitude may depend on the type of activity pursued. We examined formal prosocial activity as one facilitator of positive solitary experiences. Older adults ( N = 165, Mage = 71.13, SD = 5.70) highly committed to prosocial-program work (e.g., tutoring) filled out surveys at six random times every day for a week. Using multilevel modeling, we investigated whether participating in prosocial-program activity alone was associated with greater well-being compared to other solitary activity. While prosocial-program activity did not buffer against negative affect in solitude, it promoted positive affect and relatedness when alone. To the extent that prosocial-program work can facilitate positive solitary experiences by enhancing feelings of connection, it may protect against threats to well-being posed by loneliness in later life.
Hepatic enhancement at computed tomography: is there a dependence on body weight past institutional contrast dosing limits?
Authors: Kesen Savas , Svensson Anders , Thor Daniel , Brismar Torkel B.
Published: March 2022

Background

Although described in product monographs, the maximum contrast media (CM) dose at computed tomography (CT) varies among institutions.

Purpose

To investigate whether an upper limit of 40 g of iodine in women and 50 g in men is sufficient or if there is a body weight (BW) dependence of mean hepatic enhancement (MHE) beyond those thresholds.

Material and Methods

At our institution, CM injection duration is fixed to 30 s and dosed 600 mg iodine/kg up to 40 g in women and 50 g in men. Pre- and post-contrast hepatic attenuation values (HU) were retrospectively obtained in 200 women and 200 men with glomerular filtration rate >45 mL/min undergoing 18-flurodeoxyglucose PET-CT (18F-FDG PET-CT) of which half weighed below and half above those dose thresholds using iodixanol 320 mg iodine/mL or iomeprol 400 mg iodine/mL. The correlation between BW and MHE was assessed by simple linear regression.

Results

Weight range was 41–120 kg in women and 47–137 kg in men. There was no significant relationship between MHE and BW in women receiving <40 g (r = −0.05, P = 0.63) or in men receiving <50 g (r = 0.18, P = 0.07). Above those thresholds there was an inverse relationship (r = −0.64, P<0.001 in women and r = −0.30, P<0.002 in men). There was no apparent upper limit where the dependence of hepatic MHE on BW decreased. Hepatosteatosis limited MHE.

Conclusion

Adjusting CM to BW diminishes the dependence of MHE on BW. There was no apparent upper limit for the relationship between BW and MHE in heavier patients at CM-enhanced CT.
Descriptive epidemiology of soft tissue and bone sarcomas in Lebanon
Authors: Bou Zerdan Maroun , Meouchy Paul , Abdul Halim Nour , Saghieh Said , Sbaity Eman , Haidar Rachid , Abbas Jaber , Ibrahim Amir , Khalifeh Mohamad , Assi Hazem I
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Most epidemiologic studies on soft tissue sarcomas (STS) and bone sarcomas (BS) are performed in western countries, with few in the Middle East and North Africa region. We describe the epidemiology of sarcomas in Lebanon using the medical records database at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC).

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study included patients with sarcomas registered in the database between 2015 and 2019. Their charts were reviewed for baseline characteristics, tumor biology and location, treatment modalities, recurrence, metastasis, and death.

Results

The cohort included 234 patients with STS and 99 patients with BS. Most tumors were <10 cm in size. The most common subtypes were liposarcoma for STS and osteosarcoma for BS. The most common location of STS was the thigh. The most frequent sites of STS metastasis were the lungs. Histological subtype, smoking status, and tumor size and grade were significant for progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with STS. By multivariable analysis, smoking was significantly associated with poorer PFS in STS. For BS, only tumor grade was significant for PFS.

Conclusion

The epidemiology of sarcomas at AUBMC is similar to that previously reported. Smoking history was associated with poorer survival in patients with STS.
Comparison of Random Survival Forest with Accelerated Failure Time-Weibull Model for Bridge Deck Deterioration
Authors: Lu Muyang , Ilgin Guler S.
Published: March 2022

Bridge deck deterioration modeling is critical to infrastructure management. Deterioration modeling is traditionally done using deterministic models, stochastic models, and recently basic machine learning methods. The advanced machine learning-based survival models, such as random survival forest, have not been adapted for use in infrastructure management. This paper introduces random survival forest models for bridge deck deterioration modeling and compare their performance with a commonly used traditional stochastic model, that is, the Weibull distribution-based accelerated failure time (AFT-Weibull) model. To better adapt the random survival model for bridge deck deterioration modeling, the selection of the dependent variables is discussed between two variables: time-in-rating, and cumulative truck traffic. Inspection data from about 22,000 state-owned bridge decks in Pennsylvania are used to validate and test the performance of the models. The results suggest that cumulative truck traffic is more suitable to be selected as the dependent variable when analyzing the reliability of the bridge deck. Further, the random survival forest model outperformed the AFT-Weibull model in predictive accuracy.
Mapping of State Transportation Agencies’ Practices and Perceptions in Project Bundling
Authors: Shrestha Saurav , Shan Yongwei , Goodrum Paul M.
Published: March 2022

State transportation agencies (STAs) have been using the project bundling method primarily on bridge projects. While many studies suggest that bundling bridges can reduce project costs and expedite project delivery, more research is needed to help STAs to achieve advanced use of project bundling by understanding the current state of the practice and perceptions about project bundling among STA representatives. This paper presents the detailed findings of a survey, including the perceived benefits, challenges, and risks involved in the bundling method among STA representatives. The survey found that project bundling helps reduce individual project costs in a bundle as well as agency administrative costs and provides an individual project with the flexibility to schedule around other projects in a bundle. Project bundling was found to have a major impact on the cost and delivery time of the project. The major factors that are considered for bundling effectiveness were found to be work type, project type, and spatial proximity. The major concern that most of the STAs had during bundling was that the bundled projects may eliminate the competition from smaller contractors. However, the concerns over the bundling method were found to be less among agencies with a high-level experience of bundling. The survey also found that the majority of STAs have not quantified the impact of the project bundling yet. The results from this study suggest that further research on bundling mixed-type projects and risks associated with bundled contracts is necessary.
Differential Experiences of Sexual, Physical, and Emotional Intimate Partner Violence Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Adults
Authors: Kattari Shanna K. , Kattari Leonardo , Lacombe-Duncan Ashley , Shelton Jama , Misiolek Brayden A.
Published: March 2022

Various forms of intimate partner violence (IPV) are unfortunately common amongst adults in the United States, and these rates are devastatingly higher for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals than for the general population. However, the TGD population is not monolithic, and is diverse regarding gender, sexual orientation, age, race/ethnicity, urbanicity, and other sociodemographic categories. This study uses data from the 2018 Michigan Trans Health Survey to explore these within group differences regarding sexual, physical, and emotional forms of IPV using chi-square tests of independence and logistic regressions. Chi square tests of independence found homelessness had significant associations across all outcome variables: “ever experienced physical violence from a partner,” “ever experienced forced sex from a partner,” “ever been threatened to be outed by a partner,” and “ever had gender belittled by a partner.” Gender identity and sexual orientation had significant associations with “ever experienced forced sex from a partner,” “ever been threatened to be outed by a partner,” and “ever had gender belittled by a partner.” Urbanicity showed a significant association with “ever being threatened to be outed by a partner.” In the logistic regressions, age indicated significantly higher likelihood of IPV physical IPV with each year of age; experiences of homelessness were significantly related to likelihood for all outcomes variables. Gender and sexual orientation were also significant across the models, with differing levels of likeliness depending on identities. Findings demonstrate a need for TGD inclusive programming, and specifically programs that target TGD persons who are older, report additional genders (meaning, multiple identities and/or identities besides transfeminine, transmasculine, or nonbinary), queer sexual orientations, and who are/have experienced homelessness. Programs are needed both in the realms of intimate partner violence prevention work and social services that support survivors of violence, such as mental health clinics, rape crisis centers, and shelters.
FRF of a coupled geared system using the frequency based substructuring and condensation methods
Authors: Bouslema Marwa , Frikha Ahmed , Fakhfakh Taher , Nasri Rachid , Haddar Mohamed
Published: March 2022

Power transmission systems are complex systems and their dynamic investigation requires much more CPU and computation time. For the purpose of studying the complicated global dynamics, the reduction approach is applied to simplify the complexity of connected problem. This work details the coupling technique and the identification of dynamic compartment of transmission system, from a known dynamic response of distinct multibody subsystems. The identification of transmission system was built by joining subsystem using the Frequency Response Function (FRF). This paper discusses the Frequency Based Sub-structuring (FBS) and the condensation methods. A description of these techniques and their importance were displayed. This approach was tested on a discrete system describing a dual stage reducer using receptance coupling. A parametric study was made to determine the sensitivity of the sub-structuring method by varying different parameters. In addition, the sensibility of random perturbation of coupling stiffness on the sub-structuring method was studied. The achieved results obtained by the coupling and the condensation approach were evaluated. The impact of reducer properties on subsystem response and the effect of neighbor parameter system on condensation methods were discussed. A great correspondence is shown between the simulated coupling technique and the full system results.
Study on the Quimby-tooth rotor profile for dry screw vacuum pumps
Authors: Li Dantong , He Zhilong , Wu Weifeng , Xing Ziwen
Published: March 2022

This paper summarizes three Quimby-tooth rotor profile (QRP) generation models for dry screw vacuum pumps. Seven typical profiles are generated and compared to reveal their differences in curve structure, meshing line, parameter design range, and geometrical characteristics. The analysis indicates that there still is insufficient design flexibility for the typical profiles in the application of conical rotors. Therefore, a novel rotor profile is further proposed, in this paper, by modifying an existing profile. The advantage of the novel profile is identified through a specific design case. Results show that the summarized profile generation models provide an effective means to generate typical profiles and create novel profiles. In comparison with traditional profiles, the proposed profile achieves a 2.8% reduction of the contact line length and a 1% boost of the internal compression degree for conical rotors. This paper presents effective references for profile design and optimization of dry screw vacuum pumps.

Graphic Abstract

[Formula: see text]
Shuffle the Decks: Children Are Sensitive to Incidental Nonrandom Structure in a Sequential-Choice Task
Authors: Breslav Alexander D. S. , Zucker Nancy L. , Schechter Julia C. , Majors Alesha , Bidopia Tatyana , Fuemmeler Bernard F. , Kollins Scott H. , Huettel Scott A.
Published: March 2022

As children age, they can learn increasingly complex features of environmental structure—a key prerequisite for adaptive decision-making. Yet when we tested children ( N = 304, 4–13 years old) in the Children’s Gambling Task, an age-appropriate variant of the Iowa Gambling Task, we found that age was negatively associated with performance. However, this paradoxical effect of age was found only in children who exhibited a maladaptive deplete-replenish bias, a tendency to shift choices after positive outcomes and repeat choices after negative outcomes. We found that this bias results from sensitivity to incidental nonrandom structure in the canonical, deterministic forms of these tasks—and that it would actually lead to optimal outcomes if the tasks were not deterministic. Our results illustrate that changes in decision-making across early childhood reflect, in part, increasing sensitivity to environmental structure.
Fluorometholone inhibits high glucose-induced cellular senescence in human retinal endothelial cells
Authors: Zhou Xuemei , Wang Lifeng , Zhang Zhongwei , Liu Jing , Qu Qun , Zu Yuanyuan , Shi Dejing
Published: March 2022

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common diabetic complication that severely impacts the life quality of diabetic patients. Recently, cellular senescence in human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) induced by high glucose has been linked to the pathogenesis of DR. Fluorometholone (FML) is a glucocorticoid drug applied in the treatment of inflammatory and allergic disorders of the eye. The objective of the present study is to investigate the protective function of FML on high glucose-induced cellular senescence in HRECs. The in vitro injury model was established by stimulating HRECs with 30 mm glucose. After evaluating the cytotoxicity of FML in HRECs, 0.05% and 0.1% FML were used as the optimal concentration in the entire experiment. It was found that the excessive released inflammatory factors including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in HRECs induced by high glucose were significantly suppressed by FML, accompanied by the inhibitory effects on the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tissue factor (TF). Declined telomerase activity and enhanced senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity were found in high glucose-challenged HRECs, which were dramatically alleviated by FML, accompanied by the inactivation of the p53/p21 and retinoblastoma (Rb) signaling. Interestingly, FML ameliorated high glucose-induced dephosphorylation of Akt. Lastly, the protective effects of FML against high glucose-induced cellular senescence in HRECs were abolished by the co-treatment of the PI3K/Akt signaling inhibitor LY294002, suggesting the involvement of this pathway. Taken together, these data revealed that FML-inhibited high glucose-induced cellular senescence mediated by Akt in HERCs, suggesting a novel molecular mechanism of FML.
Using infographics to reduce the negative effects of jargon on intentions to vaccinate against COVID-19
Authors: Riggs Elizabeth E. , Shulman Hillary C. , Lopez Rachel
Published: March 2022

Guided by feelings-as-information theory, this experiment ( N = 643), based in the United States, tested whether the use of jargon and infographics within messages designed to explain the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines affected behavioral intentions to vaccinate. The results revealed that the presence of jargon was associated with a difficult processing experience, message resistance, decreased perceptions of message credibility, and reduced intentions to get the COVID-19 vaccine. That said, when an infographic was integrated into the jargon message, these negative relationships went away and the presence of jargon no longer indirectly impacted intention to vaccinate. This experiment demonstrates that in contexts where jargon use exists, the use of an infographic can counteract some of the negative effects of a difficult processing experience.
Big Five Personality Factors as Predictors of Self-Rated General Physical Health
Authors: Abdel-Khalek Ahmed M. , Lester David , Dadfar Mahboubeh
Published: March 2022

Previous research has shown significant associations between self-rated health and personality. However, these results are inconsistent. This study explored whether the Big Five (BF) personality factors would predict self-rated general physical health. A volunteer convenience sample (601 men; 720 women) of undergraduates at Alexandria University responded to a single item of Self-Rated Physical Health (SRPH) and the Arabic Big Five Personality Inventory (ABFPI). Men obtained significantly higher mean scores than did women for SRPH, Extraversion, Openness, and Conscientiousness; whereas women had a significantly higher mean score than did men for Neuroticism. SRPH was significantly correlated with all the BF scores except for Agreeableness in women. A principal components analysis extracted two components and labeled “Adjustment” and “Healthy extraversion versus neuroticism”. Predictors of SRPH were Openness and low Neuroticism and for men Conscientiousness and low Neuroticism for women. The present results replicate some previous findings and support the role of personality for predicting subjective physical health.
Development of a Radiotherapy Localisation Computed Tomography-Based Radiomic Model for Predicting Survival in Patients With Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Treated With Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy Following Induction Chemotherapy
Authors: Li Xiaoyue , Chen Han , Zhao Feipeng , Zheng Yun , Pang Haowen , Xiang Li
Published: March 2022

Background

Our purpose is to develop a model combining radiomic features of radiotherapy localisation computed tomography and clinical characteristics that can be used to estimate overall survival in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy following induction chemotherapy.

Methods

We recruited 145 patients with pathologically confirmed nasopharyngeal carcinoma between February 2012 and April 2015. In total, 851 radiomic features were extracted from radiotherapy localisation computed tomography images for the gross tumour volume of the nasopharynx and the gross tumour volume of neck metastatic lymph nodes. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm was applied to select radiomics features, build the model and calculate the Rad-score. The patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups based on their Rad-scores. A nomogram for estimating overall survival based on both radiomic and clinical features was generated using multivariate Cox regression hazard models. Prediction reliability was evaluated using Harrell’s concordance index.

Results

In total, seven radiomic features and one clinical characteristic were extracted for survival analysis, and the combination of radiomic and clinical features was a better predictor of overall survival (concordance index = .849 [confidence interval: .782-.916]) than radiomic features (concordance index = .793 [confidence interval: .697-.890]) or clinical characteristics (concordance index = .661 [confidence interval: .673-.849]) alone.

Conclusion

Our results show that a nomogram combining radiomic features of radiotherapy localisation computed tomography and clinical characteristics can predict overall survival in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy following induction chemotherapy more effectively than radiomic features or clinical characteristics alone.
Posthuman Creativities: Pluralist Ecologies and the Question of How
Authors: Harris Daniel X. , Rousell David
Published: March 2022

This editorial lays the groundwork and context for this special issue addressing a range of posthuman ecological approaches to the study and theorization of creativity, and its potential to transform understandings of 21st-century learning events and environments, including cities, schools, museums, parklands, digital environments, wild places, and more. Importantly, this collection establishes an ethics and politics of posthumanism as it intersects with creativity, including attention to the necessity and ethics of the ways in which Indigenous knowing and knowledge creation are changing and expanding traditional academic framings of arts-based research, creativity, and posthuman scholarship.
Exploring parental perceptions of psychosocial screening in paediatric emergency departments
Authors: Virk Punit , Atwal Amanbir , Wright Bruce , Doan Quynh
Published: March 2022

Objective: To explore parental perceptions of psychosocial screening in the paediatric emergency department and identify post-screening barriers to accessing mental health care. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study during the 30-day follow-up period of a larger prospective cohort study. Eligible youth and their accompanying parent/guardian first completed psychosocial self/proxy-screening using the MyHEARTSMAP tool and then received a standardized clinical mental health assessment. If the MyHEARTSMAP assessment provided youth with mental health resources recommendations, their parents were invited to a follow-up session. Thirty  days (±5 days) after their ED visit, parents participated in a virtual interview to reflect and share their attitudes, perceptions and thoughts around the screening and mental health care-seeking process. Results: Of the 171 participants who received resource recommendations during their ED visit, 124 parents (72.5%; 95% CI 65.2–79.1%) completed the follow-up interview. Most parents endorsed positive perceptions of the screening process, describing it as an ‘eye-opening’ process that ‘sparked conversation’. Most participants (74.2%; 95% CI 65.6–81.6) agreed with the resource recommendations they received. In terms of resources-seeking, only 41 participants (33.1%; 95% CI 24.9–42.1) attempted to access recommended supports. Families generally felt identified concerns were mild and ‘not serious enough’ to warrant resource-seeking, though many expressed an intention to seek care if concerns escalated. Conclusion: Perceptions of psychosocial screening in the ED were favourable and encouraging among participating parents of youth screened positive for psychosocial issues. Despite positive attitudes, only a fraction of the families invited to follow-up attempted to access care. Mental health may be perceived as low priority for many families, signifying the need for improved education and awareness building on the importance of early intervention.
Violence and bordering on the margins of the State: A view from South Africa and the southern border of Spain
Authors: Super Gail , Ballesteros-Pena Ana
Published: March 2022

This article examines expulsions in and around the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla and in informal settlements in former black townships in South Africa. These violent bordering processes expose the violent injustices that constitute the boundaries of lawful (liberal) law, and the violence that sovereigns use to secure territories. Drawing on Walter Benjamin we make three main theoretical arguments. First, that the bordering processes in our case studies are instances of law (and State) preserving violence. Second, that absence and responsibilization are central techniques for invisibilizing the role of violence in preserving law, and that abdication of jurisdiction is key to the exercise of state sovereignty. Third, that when the State preserves itself through sharing its monopoly over violence the fictitious distinction between law and violence collapses. We use the term ‘borderline lawful violence’ to highlight the precarious nature of the boundary between lawful and unlawful violence.
Narrating the pandemic: COVID-19, China and blame allocation strategies in Western European popular press
Authors: Pietrzak-Franger Monika , Lange Alina , Söregi Rebecca
Published: March 2022

Blaming the emergence and spread of COVID-19 on various social groups has been a central theme in narrating the pandemic. In such narratives, China has often emerged as a convenient scapegoat. However, systematic research into transcultural and culture-specific strategies of stigmatisation in the context of the corona pandemic is still scarce. With the help of a cultural studies perspective and multimodal analysis, we contribute to this effort by tracing the blame allocation strategies of the online platforms of three Western European newspapers – Daily Mail (the United Kingdom), Bild (Germany) and Neue Kronen Zeitung (Austria). We argue that, in their early accounts of the COVID-19 pandemic, all three newspapers perpetuated narratives of the pandemic outbreak that were then skilfully choreographed to support narratives of invasion that register anxieties over China’s potential rise to world dominance. While the strategies the venues apply show striking similarities, occasional differences account for the respective countries’ differing relations with and attitudes to China.
Unlocking SSM/V Success: Welcoming Student Service Members and Veterans and Supporting SSM/V Experiences
Authors: Hodges Thomas J. , Gomes Kimberly D. , Foral Geno C. , Collette Tyler L. , Moore Brian A.
Published: March 2022

Helping student service members and veterans (SSM/Vs) earn a college degree is central to supporting them post-service. Yet, this generation of SSM/Vs faces challenges in higher education, including problems adapting, poor health, and administrative constraints, contributing to worsened academic outcomes and a sense of isolation on campus. This monograph synthesizes research on the challenges facing SSM/Vs. It also frames common aspects of successful programs aiding SSM/Vs as three areas for intervention: how administrators and faculty can create a welcoming campus for SSM/Vs; ways universities can create support systems for SSM/V social, health, and academic success; and engaging community partnerships to enable these efforts. Whether SSM/Vs overcome their challenges and unlock their strengths is contingent on opportunities provided within the school itself, and by its faculty, administrators, students, and community. Central to these efforts should be the goal of inclusivity enhancement, community building, and reduction of health-related dysfunction among SSM/Vs.
Clinical Safety and Treatment of Severe Aggression: Behavioral-Pharmacological Intervention Evaluation in a Young Adult With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Scibelli Jaime , Scibelli Frederick , Luiselli James K. , Hrdina Julia , Anglin Kelly , Orchanian Silva
Published: March 2022

This case study concerned clinical safety and behavioral-pharmacological intervention with an 18-year-old man who had autism spectrum disorder and high-frequency aggression toward care providers at a specialized school. A multicomponent behavior support plan included antecedent, differential reinforcement, environmental modification, and physical management procedures subsequently combined with psychotropic medication (aripiprazole). Clinical safety components emphasized comprehensive care provider training, continuous supervision, function-based treatment, and prevention-focused strategies. The behavioral-pharmacological intervention eliminated implementation of aggression-contingent physical restraint and was associated with increased transition compliance during the school day. Throughout the 7.5 months duration of the study, there were no injuries to the participant or other students and a single injury was sustained by one care provider. Intervention effects were long-standing, and care providers rated their training, implementation fidelity, and therapeutic outcome favorably.
Influence of maintenance methods on temperature and thermal stress of utility tunnel at early-age
Authors: Shao Jingjing , Wen Xiaodong , Xia Lu , Feng Lei , Hong Jiawei , Gao Xiaojian
Published: March 2022

In order to reduce and control the generation and development of early cracks in the concrete utility tunnel, ABAQUS finite element software was used to model the temperature field and thermal stress of early-age concrete of a thin-walled box structure. For the accuracy of simulation, the hydration heat of cementitious materials was tested by TAM air method, and the actual working conditions were used. Different curing methods were modeled, such as formwork type, formwork removal time, and curing time. Simulation results showed that steel formwork shall be selected for construction in summer, and the recommended formwork removal time was 3 days, which was better to resist temperature induced cracks. Moreover, the sooner the formwork was removed, the smaller temperature difference between concrete surface and center, but it would bring difficulties to the cooling rate control. Also, higher temperature occurred at bottom plate, especially in the junction area between bottom plate and partition wall. The maximum thermal stress was found at the junction between top plate and partition. Last but not lease, attention should be paid to the occurrence of peak temperature in 26 h, temperature difference control for 26–50 h, and cooling rate control during 2–5 days.