bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the approximate purification of mixed strategies in games with infinite action sets
Authors: Hosoya Yuhki , Yu Chaowen
Published: March 2022

We consider a game in which the action set of each player is uncountable, and show that, from weak assumptions on the common prior, any mixed strategy has an approximately equivalent pure strategy. The assumption of this result can be further weakened if we consider the purification of a Nash equilibrium. Combined with the existence theorem for a Nash equilibrium, we derive an existence theorem for a pure strategy approximated Nash equilibrium under sufficiently weak assumptions. All of the pure strategies we derive in this paper can take a finite number of possible actions.
A DCRNN-based ensemble classifier for speech emotion recognition in Odia language
Authors: Swain Monorama , Maji Bubai , Kabisatpathy P. , Routray Aurobinda
Published: March 2022

The Odia language is an old Eastern Indo-Aryan language, spoken by 46.8 million people across India. We have designed an ensemble classifier using Deep Convolutional Recurrent Neural Network for Speech Emotion Recognition (SER). This study presents a new approach for SER tasks motivated by recent research on speech emotion recognition. Initially, we extract utterance-level log Mel-spectrograms and their first and second derivative (Static, Delta, and Delta-delta), represented as 3-D log Mel-spectrograms. We utilize deep convolutional neural networks deep convolutional neural networks to extract the deep features from 3-D log Mel-spectrograms. Then a bi-directional-gated recurrent unit network is applied to express long-term temporal dependency out of all features to produce utterance-level emotion. Finally, we use ensemble classifiers using Softmax and Support Vector Machine classifier to improve the final recognition rate. In this way, our proposed framework is trained and tested on Odia (Seven emotional states) and RAVDESS (Eight emotional states) dataset. The experimental results reveal that an ensemble classifier performs better instead of a single classifier. The accuracy levels reached are 85.31% and 77.54%, outperforming some state-of-the-art frameworks on the Odia and RAVDESS datasets.
Fully Roll-to-Roll Processed Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells via Precise Control on the Morphology of PbI2:CsI Layer
Authors: Li Hengyue , Zuo Chuantian , Angmo Dechan , Weerasinghe Hasitha , Gao Mei , Yang Junliang
Published: March 2022

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted tremendous attention as a promising alternative candidate for clean energy generation. Many attempts have been made with various deposition techniques to scale-up manufacturing. Slot-die coating is a robust and facile deposition technique that can be applied in large-area roll-to-roll (R2R) fabrication of thin film solar cells with the advantages of high material utilization, low cost and high throughput. Herein, we demonstrate the encouraging result of PSCs prepared by slot-die coating under ambient environment using a two-step sequential process whereby PbI2:CsI is slot-die coated first followed by a subsequent slot-die coating of organic cations containing solution. A porous PbI2:CsI film can promote the rapid and complete transformation into perovskite film. The crystallinity and morphology of perovskite films are significantly improved by optimizing nitrogen blowing and controlling substrate temperature. A power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.13% is achieved, which is promising for PSCs fabricated by two-step fully slot-die-coated devices. Furthermore, PSCs with a 1 cm2 area yield a champion PCE of 15.10%. Moreover, a PCE of 13.00% is obtained on a flexible substrate by the roll-to-roll (R2R) coating, which is one of the highest reported cells with all layers except for metal electrode fabricated by R2R process under ambient condition.
Foliar Spray of Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Alleviate Salinity Stress Effect on Vicia faba Plants
Authors: Mogazy Asmaa Mahmoud , Hanafy Rania Samy
Published: March 2022

Previous studies recorded positive impact of ZnO NPs on plants stressed with salinity. The current work was performed to study the effect of two different concentrations of biosynthesized ZnO NPs (50 and 100 mg L−1) on faba bean plants under salinity stress. The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized usingMenthaextract, and their shape and size were characterized using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope while diffuse reflectance spectra were measured using UV–Vis spectrophotometer. The generated ZnO NPs were spherical with a particle size 9.4 nm and had a rod form with particle size 15.2 in length and 3.5 nm in width. The response of faba been plants to the foliar spray of ZnO NPs concentrations (0, 50, and 100 mg L−1) alone and in combination with salt stress at 150 mM NaCl was studied. Salinity induced reduction in faba bean root and shoot length and dry/fresh weights, while an enhancement was recorded in response to foliar treatment with ZnO NPs at 50 and 100 mg L−1either in presence or absence of salinity stress. The highest amounts of chlorophyll a, b, carotenoids, and total pigments were recorded in plants received 50 mg L−1ZnO NPs compared to the alternative control. Secondary metabolites (phenols, flavonoids, and tannins) were accumulated in salinity-stressed plants and further accumulation in response to ZnO NPs treatment was noticed. Amino acids, proline, glycine betaine, and total soluble sugars, as well as enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant contents, increased almost onefold in salinity-stressed plants as compared to control plants while the 50 mg L−1ZnO NPs treatment resulted in higher accumulation of the previously mentioned substances. In contrast, plants oxidative stress was reduced in response to ZnO NPs treatments. The nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, zinc, and iron contents of faba bean plants were recorded under salinity stress and in response to the two applied concentrations of ZnO NPs. Faba bean plants stressed with 150 MN NaCl showed growth decline that may be attributed to osmotic stress and low water availability imposed by salinity. The treatment of stressed plants with 50 mg L−1ZnO NPs induced an enhancement in plant growth as well as an accumulation of antioxidants, osmolytes, and secondary metabolites that could help plants overcome the negative effects of salinity.
Extraction of 40Ar-39Ar Ages from a Multicomponent Mixture: A Case Study From the Tatra Mountains, Poland
Authors: Kuligiewicz Artur , Skiba Michał , Szczerba Marek , Hall Chris M. , Bakowska Dorota
Published: March 2022

Extraction of meaningful information on the timing of fault activity from clay gouges using radiometric dating methods, such as those based on the K-Ar system, can be challenging. One of the factors complicating interpretation of the radiometric dating results is the presence of multiple K-bearing components in the gouge material. In the current study, an attempt was made to develop a new interpretative method for K-Ar and 40Ar-39Ar dating, capable of handling a three-component mixture. In addition, the mineral composition of clay gouges from the Tatra Mountains (Poland), which has not been investigated before, is reported. The mineral compositions of the bulk clay gouge material and separated size fractions were determined by X-ray diffractometry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The gouge samples were composed of quartz, dioctahedral mica (as a discrete phase and as a component of mixed-layered illite-smectite), and chlorite, commonly with plagioclase and more rarely with K-feldspar, dioctahedral smectite, calcite, anatase, or trace kaolinite. One feldspar-free sample containing three mica polytypes (1Md, 1M, and 2M1) was chosen for dating with the 40Ar-39Ar method. The results of 40Ar-39Ar dating were interpreted using three concepts: Illite Age Analysis (IAA), a method based on the MODELAGE software, and a newly developed three-component concept. The age values obtained with IAA were −14 Ma ± 31 Ma and 180 ± 91 Ma for authigenic (1Md) and inherited (1M + 2M1) components, respectively. The MODELAGE-based approach returned –4 ± 40 Ma and 165 ± 62 Ma. The three-component approach returned age values of polytypes as follows: 1Md, 15 ± 37 Ma; 1M, 135 ± 57 Ma; 2M1, 121 ± 56 Ma based on the medians and the interquartile ranges of non-normal distributions of Monte Carlo-simulated age values. The results obtained indicated that the 1Md polytype was probably formed during the most recent stage of fault activity, while 1M and 2M1 polytypes are of equal age, roughly.
Assessing social structure: a data-driven approach to define associations between individuals
Authors: Tavares Sara B. , Whitehead Hal , Doniol-Valcroze Thomas
Published: March 2022

Our interpretation of animal social structures is inherently dependent on our ability to define association criteria that are biologically meaningful. However, association thresholds are often based upon generalized preconceptions of a species’ social behaviour, and the impact of using these arbitrary definitions has been largely overlooked. In this study we suggest a probability-based method for defining association thresholds using lagged identification rates on photographic records of identifiable individuals. This technique uses a simple model of emigration/immigration from photographable clusters to identify the time-dependent lag value between identifications of two individuals that corresponds to approximately 75% probability of being in close spatial proximity and likely associating. This lag value is then used as the threshold to define associations for social analyses. We applied the technique to a dataset of northern resident killer whales (Orcinus orca) in the Northeast Pacific and tested its performance against two arbitrary thresholds. The probabilistic association maximized the variation in association strengths at different levels of the social structure, in line with known social patterns in this population. Furthermore, variability in inferred social structure metrics generated by different association criteria highlighted the consequential effect of choosing arbitrary thresholds. Data-driven association thresholds are a promising approach to study populations without the need to subjectively define associations in the field, especially in societies with prominent fission–fusion dynamics. This method is applicable to any dataset of sequential identifications where it can be assumed that associated individuals will tend to be identified in close proximity.
Computer Architecture for Scientists
Authors: Chien Andrew A.
Published: March 2022

The dramatic increase in computer performance has been extraordinary, but not for all computations: it has key limits and structure. Software architects, developers, and even data scientists need to understand how exploit the fundamental structure of computer performance to harness it for future applications. Ideal for upper level undergraduates, Computer Architecture for Scientists covers four key pillars of computer performance and imparts a high-level basis for reasoning with and understanding these concepts: Small is fast – how size scaling drives performance; Implicit parallelism – how a sequential program can be executed faster with parallelism; Dynamic locality – skirting physical limits, by arranging data in a smaller space; Parallelism – increasing performance with teams of workers. These principles and models provide approachable high-level insights and quantitative modelling without distracting low-level detail. Finally, the text covers the GPU and machine-learning accelerators that have become increasingly important for mainstream applications.
Proofs and Models in Philosophical Logic
Authors: Restall Greg
Published: March 2022

This Element is an introduction to recent work proofs and models in philosophical logic, with a focus on the semantic paradoxes the sorites paradox. It introduces and motivates different proof systems and different kinds of models for a range of logics, including classical logic, intuitionistic logic, a range of three-valued and four-valued logics, and substructural logics. It also compares and contrasts the different approaches to substructural treatments of the paradox, showing how the structural rules of contraction, cut and identity feature in paradoxical derivations. It then introduces model theoretic treatments of the paradoxes, including a simple fixed-point model construction which generates three-valued models for theories of truth, which can provide models for a range of different non-classical logics. The Element closes with a discussion of the relationship between proofs and models, arguing that both have their place in the philosophers' and logicians' toolkits.
Call first, pay later: stimulating debtors to contact their creditors improves debt collection in the context of financial scarcity
Authors: Dewies Malte , Schop-Etman Astrid , Merkelbach Inge , Rohde Kirsten I. M. , Denktaş Semiha
Published: March 2022

Debtors were stimulated to contact their creditors to negotiate a repayment plan. Contacting creditors was important because debtors were unlikely to repay the debt immediately and upon contacting, debtors could agree on a repayment plan to repay the debt in the long run. Using insights from scarcity theory and nudging techniques, a standard debt repayment letter was adapted and both letters were compared. Experimental results (N = 3,330) provide support for the use of nudging techniques as more debtors agreed on a repayment plan and response rates increased. The results underline the importance of stimulating debtors to contact their creditors.
Capillary flow of evaporating liquid solutions in open rectangular microchannels
Authors: Kolliopoulos Panayiotis , Jochem Krystopher S. , Francis Lorraine F. , Kumar Satish
Published: March 2022

Capillary flow of liquids plays a key role in many applications including lab-on-a-chip devices, heat pipes and printed electronics manufacturing. Open rectangular microchannels often appear in these applications, with the lack of a top resulting in a complex free-surface morphology and evaporation. In this work we develop a theoretical model based on lubrication theory and kinetically limited evaporation to examine capillary flow of evaporating liquid solutions in open rectangular microchannels connected to circular reservoirs. The model accounts for the complex free-surface morphology, solvent evaporation, Marangoni flows due to gradients in solute concentration and temperature and finite-size reservoir effects. Significant differences are predicted in flow behaviour between pure liquids and liquid solutions due to solvent evaporation and solute transport. Marangoni flows are found to promote more uniform solute deposition patterns after solvent evaporation. Model predictions of meniscus position evolution are in good agreement with prior capillary-flow experiments of aqueous poly(vinyl alcohol) solutions in the presence of evaporation. The model reveals that the principal mechanism through which evaporation influences the meniscus position in the experiments is the increase in viscosity with solute concentration.
Reflectionless wave propagation on shallow water with variable bathymetry and current. Part 2
Authors: Churilov Semyon M. , Stepanyants Yury A.
Published: March 2022

We show that in the linear approximation there are three classes of reflectionless wave propagation on a surface of shallow water in the channel with spatially varying depth, width and current speed. Two of these classes have been described in our previous paper (Churilov & Stepanyants, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 931, 2022, A15), and the third one was discovered recently and is described here. The general analysis of the problem shows that, within the approach used in both of our papers, these three classes apparently exhaust all possible cases of exact solutions of the problem considered. We show that the reflectionless flow can be global for certain conditions, i.e. it can exist on the entire

$x$

-axis. There are also reflectionless flows which exist only on limited intervals of the

$x$

-axis.
A trickle-down model of organizational embodiment and the impact of supervisor neuroticism
Authors: Rice Darryl B. , Mchiri Ali , Massey MaQueba
Published: March 2022

The majority of supervisor organizational embodiment (SOE) research has focused on its role as an important boundary condition in the context of leadership and management studies. In a multi-source field study, we seek to extend this research stream by examining an antecedent and outcome of SOE. Specifically, we leverage social cognitive theory to develop and test a trickle-down model of organizational embodiment across three organizational levels (i.e., upper-level managers, middle-level supervisors, and lower-level employees). Subsequently, we propose and demonstrate that manager organizational embodiment (MOE) trickles down and positively impacts SOE. In turn, SOE trickles down and positively impacts employee organizational embodiment. Furthermore, supervisor neuroticism strengthens the relationship between MOE and SOE when supervisor neuroticism is relatively high compared to relatively low. The findings provide evidence for a trickle-down model of organizational embodiment. Theoretical contributions, practical implications, and future research are discussed.
ON RESTRICTIONS OF ULTRAFILTERS FROM GENERIC EXTENSIONS TO GROUND MODELS
Authors: GITIK MOTI , KAPLAN EYAL
Published: March 2022

Let P be a forcing notion and
$G\subseteq P$
its generic subset. Suppose that we have in
$V[G]$
a
$\kappa{-}$
complete ultrafilter1,2W over
$\kappa $
. Set
$U=W\cap V$
.
Bayesian occupancy modelling of benthic Crustacea and the recovery of the European spiny lobster, Palinurus elephas
Authors: Jackson A.C.
Published: March 2022

There is ever-greater need for information about changing marine biodiversity, but such information is sparse at large spatial or temporal scales. Records about distributions of species collected by volunteers can fill gaps in knowledge that cannot yet be addressed by more structured sampling. Bayesian occupancy models show great promise for estimating trends in occurrence of species through time. This study uses the Sparta occupancy model with records from the Seasearch programme from coastal waters of Britain and Ireland during the period 2000–2020, focussing on three species of Crustacea (Cancer pagurus, Homarus gammarus and Palinurus elephas). Populations of P. elephas crashed in the 1970s, but now appear to be re-establishing in south-west England. The Sparta model provides evidence about recovery that is more robust than anecdotal reports or simple counts of records. Estimates of occupancy are made at different spatial scales and compared among species and areas. Trends in occupancy are compared qualitatively with patterns in fisheries landings data. Occupancy by P. elephas has increased drastically since 2014, a pattern not seen in the other two species. For each species, occupancy varied among areas and in some areas, patterns in estimates of occupancy were similar to trends in landings from fisheries. Citizen science records are increasingly recognized to have value which has not yet been fully exploited. Greater use should be made of the Seasearch dataset in order to provide population trends for benthic marine taxa. Such analyses will broaden our understanding of and taxonomic coverage of changes in biodiversity.
Surveys of the Angolan coast uncover the largest olive ridley sea turtle nesting population in the Atlantic and the largest non-arribada population globally
Authors: Morais Miguel , Tiwari Manjula
Published: March 2022

Knowledge of the abundance and distribution of species is important for designing and prioritizing conservation and management activities. Despite numerous existing studies on the distribution and status of sea turtles, we still lack knowledge about certain populations, especially in Angola, which is considered to be the southernmost range of nesting sea turtles in the eastern Atlantic. This study provides an overview of the status, size and distribution of the olive ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys olivacea population nesting along the coast of Angola, and its relevance in the context of other olive ridley turtle nesting populations in the Atlantic. Aerial and ground surveys were conducted along 1,410 km of Angolan coastline and daily beach monitoring over 53.9 km of seven permanent study sites at a range of latitudes during 2011–2020. Angola hosts the largest olive ridley turtle nesting population in the Atlantic, and the largest non-arribada population globally. Although the population appeared relatively stable, the pressures from various threats on land (e.g. consumption of turtles and eggs) and at sea (captures in fishing gear) necessitate the development of a comprehensive management plan, improved and strengthened legislation and law enforcement, and a cohesive approach to conserving all sea turtle species in Angola.
‘Consubstantiality’ as a philosophical-theological problem: Victorinus’ hylomorphic model of God and his ‘correction’ by Augustine
Authors: Byers Sarah
Published: March 2022

This article expands our knowledge of the historical-philosophical process by which the dominant metaphysical account of the Christian God became ascendant. It demonstrates that Marius Victorinus proposed a peculiar model of ‘consubstantiality’ that utilised a notion of ‘existence’ indebted to the Aristotelian concept of ‘prime matter’. Victorinus employed this to argue that God is a unity composed of Father and Son. The article critically evaluates this model. It then argues that Augustine noticed one of the model's philosophical liabilities but did not publicly name Victorinus when he rejected it, thereby exemplifying the New Testament practice of private ‘rebuke’ (ἐλέγχɛιν).
Lost in Categorisation? Employment Subsidies – Bringing the Beneficiaries Back In
Authors: ROBERTSHAW DAVID KEITH
Published: March 2022

Employment subsidies are important active labour market policy (ALMP) tools, suited to a variety of labour market challenges. This paper engages with recent ALMP categorisation debates by appraising Cronert’s (2019) recent typology of employment subsidies. It uses empirical material to assess the typology’s explanatory power and produce insights to inform further typological development. The illustrative case of the British ‘Wage Incentive’ (2012-2014) is used to assess the typology’s analytical purchase. Cronert’s typology helpfully identifies key distinctions in the distributional profiles of employment subsidies, but further understanding of the category is impeded by the practice of defining them as demand-side interventions. The paper argues for a reappraisal of their supply-side characteristics, maintaining that the (potential) worker should be included in the analysis, and that employment subsidies’ relationship with training and job creation should be acknowledged. It proposes a redefinition of employment subsidies reflecting their real-world use, and suggests a framework for further exploring varieties of employment subsidy design from the perspective of beneficiaries.
Can't nobody tell me nothin’: ‘Old Town Road’, resisting musical norms, and queer remix reproduction
Authors: Stanfill Mel
Published: March 2022

‘Old Town Road’, a genre-defying song fuelled by proliferating remixes, is a key site to unravel the position of remixes in contemporary popular music and culture. In this article, I examine mainstream press discourse about ‘Old Town Road’, finding that Lil Nas X's use of remixes to boost the song's popularity was generally seen as smart, while the racial politics of genre were contested but still powerful. Ultimately, the popular conversation around the song showed a sense that one key possibility of remixes is to resist the ways that genres normatively operate as straight lines of descent from musical forebears, instead engaging in a queer kind of reproduction, a joyful excess of proliferating versions.
The transcatheter aortic valve implantation: an assessment of the generalizability of the economic evidences following a systematic review
Authors: Ruggeri Matteo , Donatella Mandolini , Federica Campisi , Salvatore Danese , Costanza Santori , Marta Chiappetta , Paolo Roazzi , Marco Marchetti
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Scientific literature debates on the economic affordability of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in order to give a useful support to decision makers aiming at establishing a reimbursement scheme for TAVI. For this reason, it is important to assess the quality and the generalizability of the existing economic evidences.

Methods

The first step was to run a literature search according to a predefined population, intervention, comparator, and outcome on the cost and effectiveness of the TAVI procedure in comparison to medical therapy and traditional surgery. Second, a manual search was carried out on the Web sites of the main HTA agencies. Third, the checklist developed by Augustovski et al. was applied in order to assess the quality and the generalizability of the articles resulting from the selection process.

Results

Overall, 106 articles were obtained. Of these, sixty-five articles were excluded since the title was not consistent with the objective. Further selection took place after abstract and full-text reading. In the end, thirty-one documents were included for the review. According to the checklist, none of the articles was considered generalizable and only one was considered transferable which compares the TAVI procedure with Medical Management in inoperable patients.

Conclusions

Despite the overall quality of the selected studies was considered good, there is still a lack of evidence on whether evidences generated in different contexts can be considered generalizable. Further research on resource consumption and preferences is needed in order to provide decision makers with more robust evidences.
Early Dialogues for Pharmaceutical Products in European Network for Health Technology Assessment Joint Action 3: What Was Done and Where to Go in the Future
Authors: Galbraith Margaret , Guilhaume Chantal , Bélorgey Chantal
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The aim of this article is to describe the process, results, and experiences of European Network for Health Technology Assessment (EUnetHTA) Joint Action 3’s (JA3) Early Dialogue (ED) activities and to highlight opportunities for improving the processes.

Methods

A descriptive analysis of the steps of the EUnetHTA ED process and evaluation of the data from the EDs conducted by EU health technology assessment (HTA) bodies, published guidelines, and documents, as well as internal statistics.

Results

In JA3, an Early Dialogues Working Party (EDWP) was established, responsible for developing and improving processes and providing advice to pharmaceutical companies, supported by the ED Secretariat. From June 2017 to May 2021, 113 requests for pharmaceutical EDs were received and 38 conducted. The process was continuously optimized, and different approaches for involving patients were tested. Finally, a centralized procedure was chosen with the key documents produced by two responsible agencies and reviewed by the EDWP. Patient involvement was primarily done by interviewing a national patient representative to obtain general feedback on the disease and the planned study design.

Conclusions

During JA3, EDs were established as an efficient, successful product. Pharmaceutical companies benefited not only from the positions of the individual agencies for the national HTA, but also from the recommendations that were common to all HTA authorities. In addition, regarding the European HTA Regulation, it will be important to conduct Joint Scientific Consultations with a view toward future Joint Clinical Assessments and to further develop processes aligned with the high demand for consultation.
Produced, but not ‘productive’: Mandarin-speaking pre-schoolers’ challenges acquiring L2 English plural morphology
Authors: XU RATTANASONE Nan , DEMUTH Katherine
Published: March 2022

It is often assumed that pre-schoolers learn a second language (L2) with ease, even for structures that are absent in their L1, such as Mandarin-speaking pre-schoolers learning L2 English grammatical inflections (e.g., ducks, horses). However, while the results from Study 1 showed that such learners can imitate plural words (age = 3;5, N = 20), Studies 2 and 3 showed that they cannot yet generate or comprehend plural morphology (Study 2: age = 4;8, N = 20; Study 3: age = 4;1, N = 20), raising questions about when this is achieved. These findings have important implications for school readiness, as well as for identifying those at risk of developmental language disorders.
A 17-year-old boy with chest pain and transient ventricular wall thickening
Authors: Dakik Habib A.
Published: March 2022

We describe the case of a 17-year-old boy who developed acute myopericarditis associated with transient ventricular wall thickening. This is a unique teaching case illustrating that acute myocarditis can be associated with significant oedema, secondary to inflammation, causing marked wall thickening that is apparent on echocardiography. This oedema resolves completely with anti-inflammatory drug treatment.
Prolonged QT and Torsades de Pointes in a child with late-onset post-operative complete heart block
Authors: Sisko Sezen Gulumser , Caran Bahar , Kafali Hasan C. , Ergul Yakup
Published: March 2022

A young child presented with syncope attacks. Late-onset post-operative complete atrioventricular block and Torsades de Pointes were diagnosed. She was treated with surgical epicardial pacemaker implantation. This report is the description of Torsades de Pointes due to late-onset post-operative complete atrioventricular block followed by R on T phenomenon in a child.
Reactive Answer Set Programming
Authors: BRODA KRYSIA , SADRI FARIBA , BUTLER STEPHEN
Published: March 2022

Logic Production System (LPS) is a logic-based framework for modelling reactive behaviour. Based on abductive logic programming, it combines reactive rules with logic programs, a database and a causal theory that specifies transitions between the states of the database. This paper proposes a systematic mapping of the Kernel of this framework (called KELPS) into an answer set program (ASP). For this purpose a new variant of KELPS with finite models, calledn-distance KELPS, is introduced. A formal definition of the mapping from thisn-distance KELPS to ASP is given and proven sound and complete. The Answer Set Programming paradigm allows to capture additional behaviours to the basic reactivity of KELPS, in particular proactive, pre-emptive and prospective behaviours. These are all discussed and illustrated with examples. Then a hybrid framework is proposed that integrates KELPS and ASP, allowing to combine the strengths of both paradigms.
Cultural factors affecting Chinese migrants’ perceptions and responses to cancer pain and its pharmacological management: A convergent mixed-method study
Authors: Xu Xiangfeng , Luckett Tim , Lovell Melanie , Phillips Jane L.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Studies identified barriers of pain reporting and use of analgesics impeding Chinese cancer patients to achieve optimal pain relief. No research has yet explored these issues in Chinese migrants, where cultural differences may exacerbate the barriers.

Objectives

To explore cultural factors influencing Chinese migrants’ perspectives to cancer pain and its pharmacological management.

Method

Informed by Leininger's Cultural Care Theory, focus groups and a short version of Barrier Questionnaire-Taiwan (S-BQT) were conducted in Mandarin or Cantonese, with 24 Chinese migrants receiving ambulatory cancer and/or palliative care services in Sydney, Australia. Integrated thematic analysis, descriptive statistics, and meta-inference were adopted for data analysis and integration.

Results

Participants suffered uncontrolled cancer pain negatively affecting their physical and psychosocial well-being. Most experienced moderate to severe pain, but only a third used opioids. Most adopted non-pharmacological approaches and half used Traditional Chinese Medicine. Participants scored a mean S-BQT of 3.28 (standard deviation ± 0.89). Three themes and seven sub-themes contributed to higher barriers of pharmacological pain management: (1) Philosophical health beliefs (cancer pain are self-provoked and body can self-heal); (2) Cultural values and beliefs (cancer pain is inevitable, and Chinese people express pain differently to local people); and (3) Conflicting views on the use of opioids (culture-related negative medication beliefs, Western biomedical model-related opioid fears, and opioids extend life for people with terminal cancer pain).

Conclusions

Chinese migrants’ responses to cancer pain and attitudes towards opioids are complex. Culturally congruent strategies are needed to overcome culture-related barriers and improve quality of cancer pain care in this population.
Maternal intake of fructose or artificial sweetener during pregnancy and lactation has persistent effects on metabolic and reproductive health of dams post-weaning
Authors: Bridge-Comer Pania E. , Vickers Mark H. , Morton-Jones Jacob , Spada Ana , Rong Jing , Reynolds Clare M.
Published: March 2022

As rates of obesity, diabetes, and related comorbidities have increased, the consumption of artificial sweeteners (ASs) as sugar substitutes has also risen in popularity as they are perceived as a healthier alternative to sugar sweetened products. However, there is conflicting evidence regarding the impact of AS intake on metabolic and reproductive health. Glucose intolerance during pregnancy due to intake of sugar sweetened foods can result in an increased risk for the development of type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy. However, limited information exists on the impact of AS intake during pregnancy and lactation on the mother’s health in later life. We hypothesised both AS and fructose would impair metabolic health post-partum (PP) following maternal consumption during pregnancy and lactation. Female C57Bl/6 mice received a standard control diet ad libitum with either water (CD), fructose (Fr; 34.7 mm intake), or AS (AS;12.5 mm Acesulfame-K) throughout pregnancy and lactation. Post-weaning, AS and Fr dams were fed the CD diet for the remainder of the experiment. Oral glucose tolerance tests were undertaken 8 weeks PP and dams were humanely killed at 9 weeks PP, with adipose tissue and ovaries collected for analysis. Experimental diets did not influence maternal bodyweight. At 8 weeks PP, increased glucose intolerance was evident in both AS and Fr dams. Adipocyte size was significantly increased in both the AS and Fr groups PP. Further, in the ovary, AS increased expression of genes associated with follicular development and ovulation. Therefore, ASs may not represent beneficial substitutes to fructose during pregnancy, with the potential to increase the risk of T2DM in later life in mothers.
“You’re Not from around Here”: Regional Naming and Life Outcomes
Authors: Beaudin Alex , Kristian Elizabeth , Warren John Robert , Helgertz Jonas
Published: March 2022

We examine the socioeconomic consequences of discrimination against people of Southern origins during the US Great Migration of the first half of the twentieth century. We ask whether people living in the American North and Midwest in 1940 fared worse with respect to education, occupation, and income if they were perceived to be of Southern origins. We also assess variation in these effects across racial groups and across actual region of origin groups. Using linked data from the 1920 and 1940 US censuses, we compare the life outcomes of about half a million pairs of brothers who differed with respect to the regional origin implied by their first names. For both Whites and Blacks, we find statistically significant associations between outcomes and the regional origin implied by names; regardless of where they were born, men living in the North or Midwest in 1940 did worse if their names implied Southern origins. However, these associations are entirely confounded by family-specific cultural, socioeconomic, and other factors that shaped both family naming practices and life outcomes. This finding—that regional discrimination in the early-twentieth-century United States did not happen based on names—contrasts sharply with findings from research in more recent years that uses names as proxies for people’s risk of exposure to various forms of discrimination. Whereas names are a basis for discrimination in modern times, they were not a basis for regional discrimination in an era in which people had more immediate and direct evidence about regional origins.
The Occupational Performance Assessment–Response Distortion (OPerA-RD) Scale
Authors: Williams Kevin M.
Published: March 2022

Abstract. The ubiquity and consequences of job performance evaluations necessitate accurate responding. This paper describes two studies designed to develop (Study 1) and provide initial validation (Study 2) for a new measure specifically designed to assist in this context: the Occupational Performance Assessment–Response Distortion (OPerA-RD) scale. This 20-item scale is contextualized to the workplace and was developed by identifying items that could detect over- and under-reporting of job performance by self- or other-report in four independent faking samples. Initial validation of the OPerA-RD was supported by expected differences between within-group faking and control conditions in subsequent samples, specifically over- and under-reporting of job performance by self- or other-reports. Implications for research and applied settings are discussed.
Non‐Gaussian Detection Using Machine Learning With Data Assimilation Applications
Authors: Goodliff Michael R. , Fletcher Steven J. , Kliewer Anton J. , Jones Andrew S. , Forsythe John M.
Published: March 2022

In most data assimilation and numerical weather prediction systems, the Gaussian assumption is prevalent for the behavior of the random variables/errors that are involved. At the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere theory has been developed for different forms of variational data assimilation schemes that enables the Gaussian assumption to be relaxed. For certain variable types, a lognormally distributed random variable can be combined in a mixed Gaussian‐lognormal distribution to better capture the interactions of the errors of different distributions. However, assuming that a distribution can change in time, then developing techniques to know when to switch between different versions of the data assimilation schemes becomes very important. By dynamically changing the formulation of the data assimilation system we are able to assimilate observations in a way that reflects the flow‐dependent variability of their distribution.

In this paper, we present results with a machine learning technique (the support vector machine) to switch between data assimilation methods based on the detection of a change in the Lorenz 1963 model's z component's probability distribution. Given the machine learning technique's detection/prediction of a change in the distribution, then either a Gaussian or a mixed Gaussian‐lognormal 3DVar based cost function is used to minimize the errors in this period of time. It is shown that switching from a Gaussian 3DVar to a lognormal 3DVar at lognormally distributed parts of the attractor improves the data assimilation analysis error compared to using one distribution type for the entire attractor.
Standing Alfvén Waves Within Equatorial Plasma Bubbles
Authors: Ghadjari Hossein , Knudsen David , Skone Susan
Published: March 2022

Plasma depletions in the disturbed equatorial ionosphere are known to be associated with magnetic fluctuations and Alfvén waves. Here, using data from the Swarm B satellite's vector field magnetometer and electric fields instrument at an altitude of ∼500 km, we present evidence of standing Alfvén modes trapped within strong density depletions. Fourier transforms of electric (δE) and magnetic (δB) perturbations reveal harmonic structure with anticorrelated peaks and relative phase shifts approaching ±90°, in agreement with a simple model of standing waves sampled from a moving spacecraft. The mode frequencies allow us to estimate the field‐aligned length of the bubbles, which we find to be in the range of 110–200 km. This value is much smaller than the overall field line length mapped to the two E‐region footprints, indicating that the waves we observe do not couple to the lower ionosphere.
MAVEN Observations of the Kelvin‐Helmholtz Instability Developing at the Ionopause of Mars
Authors: Wang Xing , Xu Xiaojun , Ye Yudong , Wang Jing , Wang Ming , Zhou Zilu , Chang Qing , Xu Qi , Xu Jiaying , Luo Lei , He Peishan , Cheng Shaoguan
Published: March 2022

Using the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN measurements, we observed a wave train of vortices in different developing phases of the Kelvin‐Helmholtz (K‐H) instability at the ionopause above the Martian northern hemisphere during 09:35:00–09:55:00 Universal Time on 24 March 2017. Based on the sawtooth‐like oscillations in the magnetic fields associated with the quasi‐periodic fluctuations in the ion densities, velocities, and total pressure, we identified three fully and two partially developed vortices. The wavelength of the K‐H waves is ∼2 Martian radii and the period is ∼2 min. The magnetic topologies associated with the vortices are observed to change from draped in the magnetosheath to open in the transition region and finally to closed approaching the ionosphere. Significant ion loss caused by the K‐H instability is observed. The total oxygen loss rate is estimated to be ∼1025 s−1, which is comparable to the global ion loss as previously estimated.
Socio-demographic and lifestyle factors associated with hypertension in Nigeria: results from a country-wide survey
Authors: Adeke Azuka S. , Chori Babangida S. , Neupane Dinesh , Sharman James E. , Odili Augustine N.
Published: March 2022

With the rising prevalence of hypertension, especially in Africa, understanding the dynamics of socio-demographic and lifestyle factors is key in managing hypertension. To address existing gaps in evidence of these factors, this study was carried out. A cross-sectional survey using a modified WHO STEPS questionnaire was conducted among 3782 adult Nigerians selected from an urban and a rural community in one state in each of the six Nigerian regions. Among participants, 56.3% were women, 65.8% were married, 52.5% resided in rural areas, and 33.9% had tertiary education. Mean ages (SD) were 53.1 ± 13.6 years and 39.2 ± 15.0 years among hypertensive persons and their normotensive counterparts respectively. On lifestyle, 30.7% had low physical activity, 4.1% consumed tobacco currently, and 35.4% consumed alcohol currently. In comparison to unmarried status, being married (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.41–2.50) or widowed (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.05–2.36) was significantly associated with hypertension, compared with never married. Compared with no formal education, primary (OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.12–1.85), secondary (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.04–1.81), and tertiary education (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.57–2.60) were associated with hypertension. Low physical activity (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.05–1.42), alcohol consumption, (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.02–1.37), and unemployment status (OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.07–1.88) were also associated with hypertension. Our study indicates an association of socio-demographic and lifestyle factors with hypertension, hence, there is a need for counselling, health education and policy formulation and implementation targeting these factors to prevent and control hypertension.
Light people: Professor Perry Shum spoke about fiber-enabled industries
Authors: Dong Yongkang , Guo Chenzi
Published: March 2022

Editorial

Fiber technologies have fundamentally reshaped the way we see, the way we sense, the way we communicate, and the way we live. They were so well developed that in some industries such as telecommunication, they were even taken for granted. For that, Light: Science & Applications invited Professor Perry Shum, a pioneer in fiber technologies and their industrialization, to speak about what chances fiber technologies can bring to industries.
Transcriptome and chromatin alterations in social fear indicate association of MEG3 with successful extinction of fear
Authors: Royer Melanie , Pai Balagopal , Menon Rohit , Bludau Anna , Gryksa Katharina , Perry Rotem Ben-Tov , Ulitsky Igor , Meister Gunter , Neumann Inga D.
Published: March 2022

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by a persistent fear and avoidance of social situations, but available treatment options are rather unspecific. Using an established mouse social fear conditioning (SFC) paradigm, we profiled gene expression and chromatin alterations after the acquisition and extinction of social fear within the septum, a brain region important for social fear and social behaviors. Here, we particularly focused on the successful versus unsuccessful outcome of social fear extinction training, which corresponds to treatment responsive versus resistant patients in the clinics. Validation of coding and non-coding RNAs revealed specific isoforms of the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Meg3 regulated, depending on the success of social fear extinction. Moreover, PI3K/AKT was differentially activated with extinction success in SFC-mice. In vivo knockdown of specific Meg3 isoforms increased baseline activity of PI3K/AKT signaling, and mildly delayed social fear extinction. Using ATAC-Seq and CUT&RUN, we found alterations in the chromatin structure of specific genes, which might be direct targets of lncRNA Meg3.
T cells expressing CD5/CD7 bispecific chimeric antigen receptors with fully human heavy-chain-only domains mitigate tumor antigen escape
Authors: Dai Zhenyu , Mu Wei , Zhao Ya , Cheng Jiali , Lin Haolong , Ouyang Kedong , Jia Xiangyin , Liu Jianwei , Wei Qiaoe , Wang Meng , Liu Chaohong , Tan Taochao , Zhou Jianfeng
Published: March 2022

Bispecific chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies have shown promising results in clinical trials for advanced B-cell malignancies. However, it is challenging to broaden the success of bispecific CAR-T therapies to treat refractory/relapse (r/r) T-cell leukemia/lymphoma because targeting multiple T-cell-expressing antigens leads to exacerbated CAR-T cell fratricide and potential safety concerns. Fully human heavy chain variable (FHVH) antibodies that specifically target CD5 or CD7 were screened and constructed to CD5/CD7 bispecific CARs. A truncated Epidermal growth factor receptor were integrated into CAR constructs to address safety concerns. To tackle the fratricidal issue of CAR-T cells targeting T-cell-pan marker(s), CRISPR/Cas9-based CD5 and CD7 genes knockout were performed before lentiviral transduction of bispecific CARs. Functional comparison between different bispecific CAR structures: tandem CARs and dual CAR were performed in vitro and in vivo to determine the optimal construct suitable for addressing T-cell malignancy antigen escape in clinical setting. Knockout of CD5 and CD7 prevents fratricide of CD5/CD7 bispecific CAR-T cells, and FHVH-derived CD5/CD7 bispecific CAR-T cells demonstrate potent antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo. The fratricide-resistant FHVH-derived CD5/CD7 bispecific CAR-T cells have potent antitumor activity against T-cell malignancies, and tandem CARs are more effective than dual CAR in preventing tumor escape in heterogeneous leukemic cells. The meaningful clinical efficacy and safety of tandem CD5/CD7 CAR-T cells deserve to be explored urgently.