bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Point cloud and BIM model registration based on genetic algorithm and ICP algorithm
Authors: Liu Chun , Guang Meijing , Yu Shanshan
Published: December 2021

With the rapid development of the construction industry, BIM technology, and 3D laser scanning technology are being used more and more widely, and there are many applications of combining BIM technology with 3D laser scanning technology, such as quality inspection, progress inspection, or digital preservation of ancient buildings. Therefore, this paper proposes a 3D point cloud and BIM model registration scheme based on genetic algorithm and ICP algorithm, firstly, the point cloud data is pre-processed by statistical denoising method for denoising and downsampling, and the BIM model data is converted to format data; then the coarse registration is performed by genetic algorithm, and the accurate registration is performed by ICP algorithm based on KD-tree, and finally, we experimentally verify the feasibility of the algorithm in this paper, and compared with the ICP algorithm, the registration efficiency and accuracy of the algorithm in this paper are greatly improved.
Research on multi-label classification method of transformer based on DBSCAN (Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise) clustering algorithm
Authors: Wang MingYu , Cheng Rui
Published: December 2021

With the improvement of the intelligent level of power grid and the enhancement of the integrated characteristics of power grid, the degree of discretization of massive data of power equipment gradually increases, which brings great challenges to the safe and stable operation of power grid. How to process and analyze data effectively has become an important research content. Transformer is an important electrical equipment, therefore it is of great significance to monitor the operation status of transformer, to construct transformer operation characteristic label system based on multi-source heterogeneous data, and to realize multi-label classification function. In this paper, a transformer multi-label classification method of transformer based on DBSCAN(Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise) clustering algorithm is proposed, which can accurately identify outliers as Noise without input of the number of clustering to be divided, realize the key feature mining of transformer state, and to realize to provide flexible information association and historical data for dispatch and control operators.
Research on Time Series Anomaly Detection: Based on Deep Learning Methods
Authors: Zhou Jiaqi
Published: December 2021

Time series anomaly detection has always been an important research direction. The early time series anomaly detection methods are mainly statistical methods and machine learning methods. With the powerful functions of deep neural network being continuously mined by researchers, the effect of deep neural network in anomaly detection task has been significantly better than the traditional methods. In view of the continuous development and application of deep neural networks such as transformer and graph neural network (GNN) in time series anomaly detection in recent years, the body of research lacks a comparative evaluation of deep learning methods in recent years. This paper studies various deep neural networks suitable for time series, which are divided into three categories according to anomaly detection methods. The evaluation is conducted on public datasets. By analyzing the evaluation criteria, this paper discusses the performance of each model, as well as the problems and development direction in the field of time series anomaly detection in the future. This study found that in the time series anomaly detection task, transformer is suitable for dealing with long-time series prediction, and studying the graph structure of time series may be the best way to deal with time series anomaly detection in the future
A NFT verification method for distributed AI system
Authors: Zhang Tong , Song Mingyan , Sui Yue , Chen Hanlin , Tan Jian
Published: December 2021

This paper proposes a method invention, namely an efficient NFT data inspection method with minimum granularity and probability comparison. The invention establishes a fast comparison method of AI model and data, that is, the direct comparison of small files priority and the maximum-minimum interval comparison. The invention takes the substantial identity inside the NFT data and the processing method of NFT data coincidence into account, so that the data content outside the token of the NFT publicly shared by the AI distributed system can also be unique on the Internet. Therefore, it can avoid the problem of incremental packaging and repeated packaging, and can successfully balance the efficiency and security of the comparison process. portions given in this document
Dynamic Analysis of Blast Furnace Sensor Data using Cross-recurrence Quantification Strategies
Authors: Sun X C , Wei B , Gao J h , Fu J C , Li Z G
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates impact degree of blast furnace related elements towards blast furnace gas (BFG) production. BFG is a by-product in the steel industry, which is one of the enterprise’s most essential energy resources. While because multiple factors affect BFG production it has characteristics of large fluctuations. Most works focus on finding a satisfactory method or improving the accuracy of existing methods to predict BFG production. There are no special studies on the factors that affect the production of BFG. Finding the elements that affect BFG production is benefit to production of BFG, which has a significance in economy. We propose a novel framework, combining cross recurrence plot (CRP) and cross recurrence quantification analysis (CRQA). Moreover, it supplies a general method to convert time series of BFG related data into high-dimensional space. This is the first analytical framework that attempts to reveal the inherent dynamic similarities of blast furnace gas-related elements. The experimental results demonstrate that this framework can realize the visualization of the time series. In addition, the results also identify the factor that has the greatest impact on blast furnace gas production by quantitative analysis.
An improved YOLO v3 algorithm for remote Sensing image target detection
Authors: Yang Fan
Published: December 2021

With more and more in-depth research on deep learning algorithms in recent years, how to use deep learning method to detect remote sensing images is the key to improving the utilization efficiency of remote sensing data and realizing the transformation from data to knowledge. In this paper, an improved YOLO V3 algorithm is proposed to solve the problems of missed detection and false detection of the original YOLOv3 algorithm in remote sensing image target detection with different size and wide disparity in length and width ratio. first of all, K-means algorithm is used for clustering analysis of data set to obtain the position of anchor box; Secondly, the dilated convolution with expansion rate of 2 is used to replace the general convolution in the feature extraction part; Then four scales are used for prediction; Finally, the improved algorithm is applied to the recognition of bridges, harbors and airports. The results show that the detection performance of the algorithm is improved by about 2% compared with the original algorithm.
Ship Targets Detection in Remote Sensing Images Based on Improved Faster-RCNN
Authors: Liu Dawei , Gao Shujing
Published: December 2021

An improved algorithm is proposed to solve the problems of inaccurate recognition and low recall of Faster-Regions with Convolutional Neural Network (Faster-RCNN) algorithm for the detection of ship targets in remote sensing images. The algorithm is based on the Faster-RCNN network framework. Aiming at the small size and dense distribution of ship targets in remote sensing images, the feature extraction network is improved to enhance the detection ability of small targets. ResNet50 is used as the basic feature extraction network of the algorithm,and the hole residual block is introduced for multi-layer feature fusion to construct a new feature extraction network,which improves the feature extraction capability of the algorithm. The experimental results show that compared with the Faster-RCNN algorithm, this algorithm can learn more abundant target features in smaller pixel areas, thereby effectively improving the detection accuracy of ship targets.
Research on Life Loss of Generator Retainer Caused by Negative Sequence Current
Authors: Wang Yong , Deng Zhicheng , Chen Jiaying , Wang Di
Published: December 2021

With a large number of wind and solar power sources connected to the power grid, higher requirements are put forward for the power generation equipment to respond to the power grid imbalance. The safety research of generator rotor retaining ring under the impact of negative sequence current is of great significance. For 300MW turbogenerator, the two-dimensional and three-dimensional eddy current, temperature rise, stress and life of generator rotor under the impact of negative sequence current are analyzed and studied. The two-dimensional calculation models of stator and rotor are established, and the distribution of negative sequence eddy current field in rotor section is analyzed; considering the contact resistance between rotor and retaining ring and the end effect of magnetic field, a three-dimensional analysis model is established, and the calculation results of three-dimensional eddy current field, temperature field and stress field are obtained. The analysis shows that after considering the contact resistance between rotor and retaining ring and end effect, the current density at the contact between retaining ring and rotor big tooth edge is 17.6 times of the two-dimensional calculation result of rotor section, and the maximum temperature of rotor retaining ring reaches 170.36°C.
Analysis of the physicochemical process in the production of biogas from equine manure
Authors: Sanchez-Beltrán J M , Acevedo-Páez J C , Moreno Gamboa F
Published: December 2021

The present research aims to evaluate the physicochemical variables involved in the anaerobic digestion process to produce methane from manure on an agricultural farm; the farm has 2 equines that generate 12 Kg of manure per day. A manure sample was collected, and the following physicochemical parameters were determined: total solids, volatile solids, chemical oxygen demand, and pH. A tubular household biodigester was then implemented, consisting mainly of a polyethylene geomembrane that stores the organic matter and in which anaerobic digestion takes place. The performance of the biodigester was determined by the removal of organic matter quantified by volatile solids and chemical oxygen demand in the biodigester influent and digestate, of which removal of 82% of volatile solids and 74% of chemical oxygen demand was achieved. The average biogas production was 0.5 m3/day, and its lower heating value was 26,000 kJ/m3. The pH level of the biodigester was within the range of 6-7, in order to keep the methanogenic bacteria active, in charge of carrying out physicochemical process that guarantees anaerobic digestion and thus, the production of biogas.
Analysis of the ratio between the plasticity of clay and the expansion capacity by changes in humidity and temperature
Authors: Cáceres J R , Pineda-Rodríguez J R , Rojas-Suárez J P
Published: December 2021

Clay is a cohesive material that varies in volume due to changes in humidity and temperature. Its behavior is studied with physical and geotechnical characterization of the material. The experimental analysis of the expansiveness of clays is related to plasticity, which depends on the expansive minerals it contains. The objective is to analyze the relationship between the plasticity index and the expansion capacity due to changes in humidity and temperature; various types of clay from San José de Cúcuta, Colombia, were studied. Liquid limit and plastic limit were analyzed with which the plasticity index was determined. The test tube free expansion and calcination were carried out at 1000 °C to determine the volumetric change due to humidity and temperature, respectively. The clays with plasticity index of 10% - 20% presented expansion by humidity of 5% - 10% and by calcination of 0% - 10%, which indicates low expansion; while the clay with plasticity index of 20% - 40% presented expansion by moisture of 20% - 50% and by calcination of 25% - 50%, which indicates moderately high expansion. The results show that there is a relationship between plasticity index and the expansion capacity due to changes in humidity and temperature.
Instantaneous speed as a tool for defining accessibility in the road network of Ocaña, Colombia
Authors: Cabrera Jiménez L T , Navarro Sánchez L , Gallardo Amaya R J
Published: December 2021

The application of the concept of instantaneous speed to the movement of vehicles on a city’s road network made it possible to establish average operating speeds. With the help of software based on geographic information systems, it was possible to determine the minimum travel times required by vehicles to move between two points on the network. Through the above analysis of speeds and travel times, applied to the road network of the municipality Ocaña, Colombia, it was possible to establish the time required by various types of vehicles to travel between the different points of the road network, allowing to define the level of accessibility to move between different areas of the city. The analysis required the updating, characterization, georeferencing and determination of the instantaneous speeds for each trip in the different arcs of the network and the subsequent determination of the average travel time curves in the network. The urban area of the city is covered with an average travel time of 15 minutes and the operating speeds are between 5 km/h and 31 km/h, with variations depending on the type of vehicle (bus, taxi, motorcycle).
Wear analysis in cutting tools by the technique of image processing with the application of two-dimensional matrices
Authors: Arévalo-Ruedas J H , Espinel-Blanco E , Florez-Solano E
Published: December 2021

The useful life of the tools is a very important economic factor in the metal industry, so any improvement of the tool or material that can extend the useful life of the tools is productive. Tool deterioration can cause damage, cracking and vibration to the tool, and even damage to the machine. Effective tool wear control is most important. Effective tool wear control is most important. At present, there are some tools that can obtain the necessary conditions through digital image processing, and study their lifespan according to their work cycle, as well as the types of possible relationships between the pixels of the image and the different modes of operation, allowing the extraction or isolation of the objects considered. This work analyzes the wear of the tool with the application of two-dimensional matrices with the toolbox of the MATLAB software, which allows to monitor the status of the inserts with the comparison of images in gray scales, in addition, a method of analysis based on interfaces is also being studied; through it, users can access the database that has been implemented, as well as a set of images used to verify the functions developed, determining the wear on the cutting tool.
Effect of external mechanical stimuli on human bone: a narrative review
Authors: Mancuso Megan E , Wilzman Andrew R , Murdock Kyle E , Troy Karen L
Published: December 2021

Bone is a living composite material that has the capacity to adapt and respond to both internal and external stimuli. This capacity allows bone to adapt its structure to habitual loads and repair microdamage. Although human bone evolved to adapt to normal physiologic loading (for example from gravitational and muscle forces), these same biological pathways can potentially be activated through other types of external stimuli such as pulsed electromagnetic fields, mechanical vibration, and others. This review summarizes what is currently known about how human bone adapts to various types of external stimuli. We highlight how studies on sports-specific athletes and other exercise interventions have clarified the role of mechanical loading on bone structure. We also discuss clinical scenarios, such as spinal cord injury, where mechanical loading is drastically reduced, leading to rapid bone loss and permanent alterations to bone structure. Finally, we highlight areas of emerging research and unmet clinical need.
On the present and future of American poetry
Authors: Caplan David
Published: December 2021

“On the present and future of American poetry” argues that the contemporary poets who follow Robert Lowell’s model of blending public and private history often turn against the particular hierarchies that made the Lowell name seem “significant, illustrative, American, etc.” Instead, contemporary poets have taken up the challenge of presenting a new account of American history and culture. They introduce a new set of important names of people and places. The poets of the Black Lives Matter movement, for instance, elegize African American victims of police violence. At the same time, their poems add new variations of the two characteristics of American: the perceived need for distinctiveness and its transnationalism.
1. The rise of the short story
Authors: Kahn Andrew
Published: December 2021

‘The rise of the short story’ discusses the rise of the short story from the Industrial Age, which occurred largely in the context of British and American print culture. That development traces a long arc from the establishment of the genre as a staple of 19th-century newspapers and magazines to its autonomy as a mode of literature viewed on the same level as the novel. In the 19th century, the short story catered to the taste of growing readerships for entertainment. Moreover, its brevity and easy supply appealed to editors. Ultimately, the form was shaped critically by the literary marketplace.
2. Openings
Authors: Kahn Andrew
Published: December 2021

‘Openings’ examines the openings of short stories, which move swiftly to introduce subject, event, and motivation, using techniques of speech, viewpoint, description, situation, and timing. Awareness that closure and resolution have been built into the conception of the story from its start brings an expectation of great economy in plotting and characterization. Classic short stories of the 19th century favoured a third-person narrator in order to create the impression of a window onto life. The strategy cultivates the illusion of knowledge, reaching into the interior of characters as well as seeing their appearance. First-person narrators also pose an interesting perspective as they offer authentic psychological exploration of character.
3. Voices
Authors: Kahn Andrew
Published: December 2021

‘Voices’ evaluates the role of voices in short stories. In English fiction, from the Romantic period to the Edwardians, the voice of the storyteller often dominated. As the story form moved away from its sensational or journalistic style, the use of a performative frame became a popular device. Monologues and dialogues are soundscapes as well as content. Once discouraged by many style manuals, dialogue has become essential shorthand in creating effects of characterization, realism, and regional inflection. The performance element originally used in 19th-century tales as a frame to create atmosphere and setting, while much less used, remains available today.
4. Place
Authors: Kahn Andrew
Published: December 2021

‘Place’ focuses on the use of place in short stories. Outside of sci-fi, short stories are not in the business of creating places. Nevertheless, there are certain places that create stories: the city of St Petersburg has spawned much urban folklore. Paris is another such place, and this can be illustrated by a set of works that can be compared in how they use that city to condition the stories of their characters and plots. Enchantment and disenchantment with Paris shape stories in which the city exercises a spell, and Paris is more like a theatre set onto which drifters, dreamers, and charmers come in all ages and social classes.
6. Ironies and reversals
Authors: Kahn Andrew
Published: December 2021

‘Ironies and reversals’ explores how the tradition of ironic reversal, which is indelibly associated with Guy de Maupassant, still remains alive and well as the short story’s defining feature. Relentless irony opens in the gap between what people want and what they get. An ironic twist, a reversal, a moral or psychological settlement round off the action and provide a satisfying sense of technical completeness and the pleasure of poetic justice or an irony of fate. Sometimes even reversals can be reversed or new ironies devised at the last minute. And sometimes twists in the plot can come in the middle and even at the very beginning, only fully understood in retrospect.
8. Endings
Authors: Kahn Andrew
Published: December 2021

‘Endings’ studies the endings of short stories. Poetic justice, comic relief, or tragic fulfilment could provide a shock ending. However, while conclusiveness may often mark short story endings, it is not to be taken for granted. Stories can leave dilemmas unresolved, lapsing into what can be called a ‘leisurely enigma’: the fluidity of personality and the open-endedness of the story seem commensurate in these instances. The power of a lack of finality in an ending might be that of a plot cliffhanger or, more memorably, an implication of vast consequences that can never be told and are not even latent in the story.
2. Creation revealed
Authors: Pierrehumbert Raymond T.
Published: December 2021

‘Creation revealed’ examines key observations on planetary systems. Astronomers at first could probe the Universe only through the medium of visible light. In the early 1600s, the invention of the telescope allowed the Universe to be observed in much greater detail. With the discovery of ‘heat rays’, the seeds of infrared astronomy were planted. Meanwhile, throughout the course of the nineteenth century, one of the grandest unifications in physics was accomplished. It was discovered that the forces of electricity and magnetism were in fact different aspects of the same phenomenon: electromagnetism. Other important topics include blackbody radiation; infrared observations of young stellar objects; and the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA).
4. What are planets made of?
Authors: Pierrehumbert Raymond T.
Published: December 2021

‘What are planets made of?’ assesses what planets are made of, beginning by looking at the life cycle of stars, and the kinds of stars which populate the Universe. Although the first stars of the Universe could not have formed planetary systems, the process did not take long to get under way. The Milky Way galaxy formed not long after the Big Bang and has been building its stock of heavy elements ever since. Thus, our Solar System incorporates ingredients from a mix of myriad expired stars, most of which have been processed multiple times through short-lived stars.
5. A grand tour of exoplanets
Authors: Pierrehumbert Raymond T.
Published: December 2021

‘A grand tour of exoplanets’ explores exoplanets. Since there are far too many known exoplanets already for many of them to get familiar names such as the Solar System planets have, they are identified by a two-part naming convention. The first part of the name is the star they orbit, and the second part is a lower-case letter indicating the order in which the planet associated with that star was discovered. There are two main ways that exoplanets are found: the radial velocity (RV) technique and the transit method. Planets can be characterized by their instellation and by size or mass.
6. Planetary climate and habitability
Authors: Pierrehumbert Raymond T.
Published: December 2021

‘Planetary climate and habitability’ studies planetary climate, particularly the way an atmosphere affects temperature and a planet's habitability. The entire temperature profile, from the planet's centre to the tenuous outer reaches of its atmosphere (if it has one), is of importance. Real atmospheres are never completely transparent to the infrared radiation which seeks to escape to space. Gases which are good absorbers of infrared radiation act as planetary insulation. This is the greenhouse effect, and gases that are good infrared absorbers are called greenhouse gases; carbon dioxide is an important greenhouse gas for Earth.
An evaluation of parapatric distributions among ecologically similar rattlesnakes (Viperidae:Crotalus) in North American warm deserts
Authors: Meik Jesse M , Watson Jessica A , Lawing A Michelle , Streicher Jeffrey W
Published: December 2021

Parapatric distributions between ecologically similar species have the potential to reveal the effects of limiting similarity in large-scale patterns of species coexistence. We present a qualitative model that predicts three different types of parapatric boundaries between competing species pairs: gap parapatry, abrupt parapatry and narrow sympatry. Our model integrates both niche-based and neutral theory perspectives of coexistence in the context of climatic tolerances, species equivalence, contingencies of dispersal history, priority effects and a heterogeneous patchwork of optimal and suboptimal habitat. Using species distribution models, tests of niche overlap and phylogeographical data, we evaluated assumptions and conditions of this model for four species of mostly allopatric, rock-dwelling rattlesnakes (Viperidae: Crotalus) inhabiting arid mountain ranges of the Mohave–Sonoran desert system of western North America. Our model was adequate for predicting the different types of range boundaries observed across this guild of ecologically similar species. Where species distributions were separated by a steep climatic gradient without evidence of recent dispersal, we observed gap parapatry; where historical dispersal was asymmetric, we observed abrupt parapatry; and finally, where historical dispersal was symmetric, we observed narrow sympatry.
Dying under a Description? Physician-Assisted Suicide, Persons, and Solidarity
Authors: Fozard Weaver Darlene
Published: December 2021

Debates over physician-assisted suicide (PAS) comprise a small portion of broader culture wars. Their role in the culture wars obscures an under-acknowledged consensus between those who support PAS and those who oppose it. Drawing insights from personalism, this essay situates PAS within larger moral obligations of solidarity with the dying and their caregivers. The contributions of Roman Catholic personalism relocate debates over PAS and allow us to harness shared moral impulses.
Physician-Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia: Theological and Ethical Responses
Authors: Sulmasy Daniel P
Published: December 2021

Euthanasia and rational suicide were acceptable practices in some quarters in antiquity. These practices all but disappeared as Hippocratic, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim beliefs took hold in Europe and the Near East. By the late nineteenth century, however, a political movement to legalize euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (PAS) began in Europe and the United States. Initially, the path to legalization was filled with obstacles, especially in the United States. In the last few decades, however, several Western nations have legalized euthanasia, and several US jurisdictions have now legalized PAS, giving state sanction to these once forbidden practices. With increasing social and political pressure to accept PAS, Christians need to understand how to think about this issue from an explicitly Christian perspective. Independent of the question of legalization, there are significant theological and ethical questions. This special issue aims to address those concerns, including: how does the practice of PAS or euthanasia impact our attitudes toward death, and what does it mean to “die well?” Should physicians, as healers, be involved in assisting patients who wish to bring about their own death? Are these methods significantly distinguished from other ethically justified practices in end-of-life care that also lead to a person’s death? Can Christians, both as patients and practitioners, justify the use of these methods to relieve suffering in this manner as compatible with the faith? Although these questions are not new to the debate, it is increasingly important that these controversies are addressed as the practice of PAS is popularized.
Serum exosomal microRNA-144-3p: a promising biomarker for monitoring Crohn's disease
Authors: Chen Peng , Huang Shanshan , Yu Qiao , Chao Kang , Wang Ying , Zhou Gaoshi , Zhuang Xiaojun , Zeng Zhirong , Chen Minhu , Zhang Shenghong
Published: December 2021

Background

Crohn’s disease (CD) has a tendency for recurrence and requires adequate monitoring and personalized treatment. Since endoscopy is considerably invasive, serum biomarkers are required as alternatives for CD monitoring. Toward this, exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) may serve as promising candidates. In this study, we aimed to assess the role of serum exosomal microRNA-144-3p (miR-144-3p) as a biomarker for CD monitoring.

Methods

We prospectively recruited 154 patients without a history of surgery (Cohort 1) and 75 patients who were to undergo intestinal resection (Cohort 2). Serum samples were collected from Cohort 1 before colonoscopy and from Cohort 2 before surgery and during post-operative colonoscopic examination. The serum levels of exosomal miR-144-3p were measured using quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Correlations between relative exosomal miR-144-3p levels, disease activity, and disease behavior were analysed. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to assess the predictive value of exosomal miR-144-3p regarding mucosal activity and post-operative recurrence.

Results

A 3.33-fold increase in serum exosomal miR-144-3p levels was recorded in patients with CD compared with those in healthy controls (P < 0.001). The exosomal miR-144-3p levels were positively correlated with the simple endoscopic score of CD (ρ = 0.547, P < 0.001) as well as the Rutgeerts score (ρ = 0.478, P < 0.001). Elevated exosomal miR-144-3p levels were correlated with the penetrating disease with high specificity (100% [95% confidence interval, 95.1%–100%]). The accuracy of exosomal miR-144-3p for identifying post-operative recurrence was higher than that of C-reactive protein (CRP) (AUC, 0.775 vs 0.639; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Serum exosomal miR-144-3p is a reliable biomarker of mucosal inflammation and penetrating CD. It may identify endoscopic CD recurrence after intestinal resection with higher accuracy than CRP testing.
Egocentric Processing: The Advantages of Person-Related Features in Consumers’ Product Decisions
Authors: Weiss Liad
Published: December 2021

This article explores the possibility that product features may resonate differently with different consumers based on how consumers classify the product in relation to their selves. Prior research has shown that relating products to a consumer’s self affects product memory, judgment, and choice. Here we identify a novel way in which the self contextualizes consumers’ product decisions: egocentric processing. We introduce a theoretical distinction between two types of product features based on relative applicability to people versus products: person-related (e.g., toughness) and product-related (e.g., durability). Seven experiments demonstrated that consumers use self-categorization cues, such as ownership or brand, to classify products in relation to the category of self. Consumers then use the category of self, to which person-related features neatly apply, to process information about in-self products. Person-related features thus gain three advantages in consumer decisions about in-self (vs. out-self) products: greater consideration, faster processing, and higher importance. We see these advantages especially when (1) similar advantages are present in self-judgment, (2) consumers are self-focused, and (3) the self-categorization cue is self-defining. Our findings both open up new ways for marketers to increase the appeal of products for specific consumer segments and demonstrate ways to identify and target these segments.
Age, growth, and sexual dimorphism of the Southern Hemisphere long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas edwardii)
Authors: Betty Emma L , Stockin Karen A , Hinton Bethany , Bollard Barbara A , Smith Adam N H , Orams Mark B , Murphy Sinéad
Published: December 2021

Knowledge of population biological parameters can contribute to assessing the resilience of a population in the face of increasing anthropogenic pressures. Southern Hemisphere long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) are susceptible to high rates of live stranding-related mortality. However, the biological parameters of this population largely are unknown. In this study, age, growth, allometry, and sexual dimorphism are described using teeth and external body measurements obtained from 515 male, 776 female, and 229 individuals of unknown sex, stranded on the New Zealand coastline between 1948 and 2017. Maximum ages of 31 and 38 years were estimated for males (n = 163) and females (n = 239), respectively. Females ranged in length from 160 to 500 cm (modal size class 400–449 cm) and males from 165 to 622 cm (modal size class 500–549 cm). Length-at-birth for both sexes was estimated at 170 cm using a logistic regression model. Growth models for both sexes indicated a preliminary rapid growth phase followed by a second phase of slower growth. For males, a two-phase growth model also indicated a moderate growth spurt around the average age at attainment of sexual maturity (ca.12–13 years). Asymptotic lengths were estimated at 570 and 438 cm for males and females, respectively. We found strong evidence of sexual size dimorphism, with males significantly larger than females for 13 of 14 external measurements. We also found sexual dimorphism with respect to shape, with males having proportionally longer pectoral fins, wider tail flukes, and taller dorsal fins, than females. Estimates of length-at-birth, maximum ages, and sexual shape dimorphism for G. m. edwardii differed from those previously reported for the North Atlantic subspecies (G. m. melas), which may indicate subspecies or population-level differences in morphology, longevity, and sociality.
The Use of Assisted Reproductive Technology to Create Posthumous Grandchildren
Authors: Cherkassky Lisa
Published: December 2021

A recent landmark petition in Scotland from a grieving mother seeking to create her own grandchild using the frozen sperm of her deceased transgender daughter has prompted debate on the creation of posthumous grandchildren. This is an unusual use of assisted reproductive technology, and it raises complicated legal and ethical questions. This article undertakes a comprehensive look at the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 (as amended) and whether it can assist grieving parents wishing to create their own biological grandchildren. It will also examine the common law on retrieval and possession of gametes in the specific context of parents, and will highlight the ethical complexities that arise for parents in particular. It will be concluded that the use of assisted reproductive technology for the purposes of creating a grandchild is not currently supported in the UK without the consent of the deceased gamete provider, and any court orders authorising this practice without such consent could be in contravention of the 1990 Act.
Convection-enhanced delivery for high-grade glioma
Authors: Kang Jennifer H , Desjardins Annick
Published: December 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common adult primary malignant brain tumor and is associated with a dire prognosis. Despite multi-modality therapies of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, its 5-year survival rate is 6.8%. The presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one factor that has made GBM difficult to treat. Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is a modality that bypasses the BBB, which allows the intracranial delivery of therapies that would not otherwise cross the BBB and avoids systemic toxicities. This review will summarize prior and ongoing studies and highlights practical considerations related to clinical care to aid providers caring for a high-grade glioma patient being treated with CED. Although not the main scope of this paper, this review also touches upon relevant technical considerations of using CED, an area still under much development.
The twin-beginnings of COVID-19 in Asia and Europe—one prevails quickly
Authors: Ruan Yongsen , Wen Haijun , Hou Mei , He Ziwen , Lu Xuemei , Xue Yongbiao , He Xionglei , Zhang Ya-Ping , Wu Chung-I
Published: December 2021

In the spread of SARS-CoV-2, there have been multiple waves of replacement between strains, each of which having a distinct set of mutations. The first wave is a group of four mutations (C241T, C3037T, C14408T and A23403G [this being the amino acid change D614G]; all designated 0 to 1 below). This DG (D614G) group, fixed at the start of the pandemic, is the foundation of all subsequent waves of strains. Curiously, the DG group is absent in early Asian samples but present (and likely common) in Europe from the beginning. European data show that the high fitness of DG1111 requires the synergistic effect of all four mutations. However, the European strains would have had no time to evolve the four DG mutations (0 to 1), had they come directly from the early Asian DG0000 strain. Very likely, the European DG1111 strain had acquired the highly adaptive DG mutations in pre-pandemic Europe and had been spreading in parallel with the Asian strains. Two recent reports further support this twin-beginning interpretation. There was a period of two-way spread between Asia and Europe but, by May 2020, the European strains had supplanted the Asian strains globally. This large-scale replacement of one set of mutations for another has since been replayed many times as COVID-19 progresses.
Challenging the Gender Gap in Political Interest
Authors: Tormos Raül , Verge Tània
Published: December 2021

Embedding randomized experiments in representative surveys of the Catalan population, this article shows that the survey instrument commonly used to measure citizens’ interest in politics is far from gender-neutral. By implicitly associating the political to male-oriented issues and male-dominated actors and domains, it artificially amplifies the gender gap, particularly by depressing women’s reported interest. The first experiment captures respondents’ interest through both the standard question about general political interest and a battery of specific political issues, randomizing question order. In the second experiment, an additional text helps reformulate the standard question by prompting respondents to think about politics in broader terms, randomizing the presentation of male-oriented and female-oriented political issues to test the effect of cognitive accessibility and recency. By expanding the conceptualization of the political, the priming applied in our experiments completely closes the gender gap, thereby casting doubt on the validity of the traditional survey instrument.
A Framework for Assessing Accountability in Collaborative Governance: A Process-Based Approach
Authors: Lee Seulki , Ospina Sonia M
Published: December 2021

Despite the complexities involved around the accountability mechanisms of collaborative governance, little is known about how to assess accountability at the network level and disentangle possible accountability deficits. This study first explicates the nature of collaborative governance accountability in contrast to accountability in traditional public administration and market-based governance. The analysis shows how collaborative governance accountability is distinctive: (a) accountability relationships shift from bilateral to multilateral; (b) horizontal as well as vertical accountability relationships are involved; (c) not only formal standards but also informal norms are used; and (d) accountability challenges move from control/audit issues to trust-building and paradox management issues. We then propose a framework for accountability in collaborative governance, drawing its dimensions from the process-based accountability research. Our framework builds on three dimensions of collaborative accountability—information, discussion, and consequences—and elaborates on their components and indicators. Based on the framework, questions to guide future research are provided, focusing on tensions and paradoxes that can arise in each process dimension as primary accountability challenges in collaborative contexts.
Centering the Everett Interpretation
Authors: Wilhelm Isaac
Published: December 2021

I propose an account of probability in the Everett interpretation of quantum mechanics. According to the account, probabilities are objective chances of centered propositions. As I show, the account solves a number of problems concerning the role of probability in the Everett interpretation. It also challenges an implicit assumption, concerning the aim and scope of fundamental physical theories, that is made throughout the philosophy of physics literature.
Policy Regulation of Precarious Work Schedules and Bottom-Up Enforcement: An Evaluation of State Reporting Pay Policies
Authors: Finnigan Ryan , Hunter Savannah
Published: December 2021

Precarious work schedules, including last-minute cuts to workers’ shifts, undermine well-being for millions of workers and their families in the United States. Drawing on dispute resolution theories and prior research on complaint-driven enforcement of labor regulations, this study evaluates whether and how labor regulations can moderate this precarity. In eight states and Washington, DC, “reporting pay” policies require employers to pay workers for some portion of their shift if they report to work but the employer ends their shift much earlier than scheduled. To evaluate these policies, we fielded an original survey of hourly workers measuring self-reported and actual policy coverage, the frequency of shift cuts, and receipt of reporting pay following shift cuts. We find evidence for only partial compliance with reporting pay policies, at best. We next examine the role of workers’ information about these policies in the enforcement process. Extremely few workers covered by reporting pay policies accurately identified the presence of the state policy. However, a survey experiment demonstrates that providing information about reporting pay policies significantly increases recommendations that a hypothetical worker should push for compensation for a shift cut, either with the manager directly or through external enforcement by the state. We conclude with discussion of bottom-up enforcement for labor regulations and possibilities for improvement.
Patterns of Perceived Hostility and Identity Concealment among Self-Identified Atheists
Authors: Frost Jacqui , Scheitle Christopher P , Ecklund Elaine Howard
Published: December 2021

Researchers have produced important findings regarding the types of stigma associated with nonreligion, particularly atheism. However, while numerous studies analyze who is more or less likely to identify as an atheist given that stigma, less is known about how self-identified atheists manage the stigma associated with their identity. This study uses new survey data from a nationally representative sample of US adults, with an oversample of individuals identifying as atheists, to examine the predictors of and connections between atheists’ perceptions of hostility toward their identities and whether they conceal those identities. Contrary to our expectations, we find no association between atheists’ perceived hostility toward their identity and concealment of that identity. We do find, however, that atheists in some social locations report higher levels of identity concealment, particularly those who identify as women, those who identify as Republican, those who live in the South, and those who were raised in a religion or still attend religious services. Our findings suggest that atheists who feel like social or institutional outsiders are more likely to conceal their identity. Our findings also suggest that affirming an atheist identity may buffer some of the negative effects of atheist stigma. These findings have implications for how researchers understand the context-specific nature of religious discrimination, as well as implications for research on stigma management and the ways that the shifting religious and political landscape in the United States shapes the expression of atheist identities.
The Impact of Synchronized Cochlear Implant Sampling and Stimulation on Free-Field Spatial Hearing Outcomes: Comparing the ciPDA Research Processor to Clinical Processors
Authors: Dennison Stephen R. , Jones Heath G. , Kan Alan , Litovsky Ruth Y.
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

Bilateral cochlear implant (BiCI) listeners use independent processors in each ear. This independence and lack of shared hardware prevents control of the timing of sampling and stimulation across ears, which precludes the development of bilaterally-coordinated signal processing strategies. As a result, these devices potentially reduce access to binaural cues and introduce disruptive artifacts. For example, measurements from two clinical processors demonstrate that independently-running processors introduce interaural incoherence. These issues are typically avoided in the laboratory by using research processors with bilaterally-synchronized hardware. However, these research processors do not typically run in real-time and are difficult to take out into the real-world due to their benchtop nature. Hence, the question of whether just applying hardware synchronization to reduce bilateral stimulation artifacts (and thereby potentially improve functional spatial hearing performance) has been difficult to answer. The CI personal digital assistant (ciPDA) research processor, which uses one clock to drive two processors, presented an opportunity to examine whether synchronization of hardware can have an impact on spatial hearing performance.

Design:

Free-field sound localization and spatial release from masking (SRM) were assessed in 10 BiCI listeners using both their clinical processors and the synchronized ciPDA processor. For sound localization, localization accuracy was compared within-subject for the two processor types. For SRM, speech reception thresholds were compared for spatially separated and co-located configurations, and the amount of unmasking was compared for synchronized and unsynchronized hardware. There were no deliberate changes of the sound processing strategy on the ciPDA to restore or improve binaural cues.

Results:

There was no significant difference in localization accuracy between unsynchronized and synchronized hardware (p = 0.62). Speech reception thresholds were higher with the ciPDA. In addition, although five of eight participants demonstrated improved SRM with synchronized hardware, there was no significant difference in the amount of unmasking due to spatial separation between synchronized and unsynchronized hardware (p = 0.21).

Conclusions:

Using processors with synchronized hardware did not yield an improvement in sound localization or SRM for all individuals, suggesting that mere synchronization of hardware is not sufficient for improving spatial hearing outcomes. Further work is needed to improve sound coding strategies to facilitate access to spatial hearing cues. This study provides a benchmark for spatial hearing performance with real-time, bilaterally-synchronized research processors.