bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equiprobable symbolization pattern entropy for time series complexity measurement
Authors: Wang Fuyi , Zhang Leo Yu
Published: August 2022

In order to effectively mine the structural features in time series and simplify the complexity of time series analysis, equiprobable symbolization pattern entropy (EPSPE) is proposed in this paper. The original time series are implemented through symbolic processing according to an equal probability distribution. Then, the sliding window technique is used to obtain a finite number of different symbolic patterns, and the pattern pairs are determined by calculating the conversion between the symbolic patterns. Next, the conversion frequency between symbolized patterns is counted to calculate the probability of the pattern pairs, thus estimating the complexity measurement of complex signals. Finally, we conduct extensive experiments based on the Logistic system under different parameters and the natural wind field. The experimental results show our EPSPE of the Logistic system increases from 5 to 7.5 as the parameters increase, which makes the distinction of periodic and complex time series with varying degrees intuitive. Meanwhile, it can more concisely reflect the structural characteristics and interrelationships between time series from the natural wind field (8.8–10 for outdoor and 7.8–8.3 for indoor). In contrast, the results of several state-of-the-art schemes are irregular and cannot distinguish the complexity of periodic time series as well as accurately predict the spatial deployment relationship of nine 2D ultrasonic anemometers.
Knowledge, individualised evidence and luck
Authors: Mortini Dario
Published: August 2022

The notion of individualised evidence holds the key to solve the puzzle of statistical evidence, but there’s still no consensus on how exactly to define it. To make progress on the problem, epistemologists have proposed various accounts of individualised evidence in terms of causal or modal anti-luck conditions on knowledge like appropriate causation (Thomson 1986), sensitivity (Enoch et al. 2012) and safety (Pritchard 2018). In this paper, I show that each of these fails as satisfactory anti-luck condition, and that such failure lends abductive support to the following conclusion: once the familiar anti-luck intuition on knowledge is extended to individualised evidence, no single causal or modal anti-luck condition on knowledge can succeed as the right anti-luck condition on individualised evidence. This conclusion casts serious doubts on the fruitfulness of the move from anti-luck conditions on knowledge to anti-luck conditions on individualised evidence. I expand on these doubts and point out further aspects where epistemology and the law come apart: epistemic anti- luck conditions on knowledge do not adequately characterise the legal notion of individualised evidence.
An epistemic network analysis of patient decision-making regarding choice of therapy
Authors: Zörgő S. , Peters G J Y. , Csajbók-Veres K. , Geröly A. , Jeney A. , Ruis A R.
Published: August 2022

Patient decision-making concerning therapy choice has been thoroughly investigated in the Push/Pull framework: factors pushing the patient away from biomedicine and those pulling them towards Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). Others have examined lay etiology as a potential factor in CAM use. We conducted semi-structured interviews with patients employing only biomedicine and those using CAM. The coded and segmented data was quantified and modelled using epistemic network analysis (ENA) to explore what effects push/pull factors and etiology had on the decision-making processes.There was a marked difference between our two subsamples concerning push factors: although both groups exhibited similar scaled relative code frequencies, the CAM network models were more interconnected, indicating that CAM users expressed dissatisfaction with a wider array of phenomena. Among pull factors, a preference for natural therapies accounted for differences between groups but did not retain a strong connection to rejecting conventional treatments. Etiology, particularly adherence to vitalism, was also a critical factor in both choice of therapy and rejection of biomedical treatments. Push factors had a crucial influence on decision-making, not as individual entities, but as a constellation of experienced phenomena. Belief in vitalism affects the patient’s explanatory model of illness, changing the interpretation of other etiological factors and illness itself. Scrutinizing individual push/pull factors or etiology does not explain therapeutic choices; it is from their interplay that decisions arise. Our unified, qualitative-andquantitative methodological approach offers novel insight into decision-making by displaying connections among codes within patient narratives.
Production of microalgal-based carbon encapsulated iron nanoparticles (ME-nFe) to remove heavy metals in wastewater
Authors: Mantovani Marco , Collina Elena , Lasagni Marina , Marazzi Francesca , Mezzanotte Valeria
Published: August 2022

The integration of microalgae-bacteria consortia within existing wastewater treatment plants as alternative biological treatment could be an interesting option to improve the sustainability of these facilities. However, the fate of the produced biomass is decisive to make that option economically attractive. The present study aimed to valorize the microalgae grown at a pilot scale and used for the treatment of the centrate from municipal sewage sludge, producing microalgal-based iron nanoparticles (ME-nFe), by hydrothermal carbonization. The final product had high carbon content, strong sorbent power, and reducing properties, due to the presence of zerovalent iron. Different synthesis conditions were tested, comparing iron (III) nitrate nonahydrate (Fe (NO3)3·9H2O) and ammonium iron (III) sulfate dodecahydrate (NH4 Fe (SO4)2·12 H2O) as iron sources, four different Fe/C molar ratios (0.02, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2), and three process temperatures (180, 200, 225 °C). Based on the characterization of all the prototypes, the best one (having a specific area of 110 m2g−1) was chosen and tested for the removal of selected heavy metals by Jar tests. The removal of copper, zinc, cadmium, and nickel from the treated effluent from the wastewater treatment plant was 99.6%, 97.8%, 96.4%, and 80.3%, respectively, also for very low starting concentrations (1 mg L−1). The removal of total chromium, on the contrary, was only 12.4%. Thanks to the magnetic properties, the same batch of ME-nFe was recovered and used effectively for three consecutive Jar tests.
Comparison of carbon footprint and water scarcity footprint of milk protein produced by cellular agriculture and the dairy industry
Authors: Behm Katri , Nappa Marja , Aro Nina , Welman Alan , Ledgard Stewart , Suomalainen Marjut , Hill Jeremy
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper studies the carbon footprint and water scarcity footprint (WSF) of a milk protein, beta-lactoglobulin, produced by cellular agriculture and compares this to extracted dairy protein from milk. The calculations of the microbially produced proteins were based on a model of a hypothetical industrial-scale facility. The purpose of the study is to examine the role relative to dairy of microbially produced milk proteins in meeting future demand for more sustainably produced protein of high nutritional quality.

Methods

The evaluated process considers beta-lactoglobulin production in bioreactor cultivation with filamentous fungiT. reeseiand downstream processing for product purification. The model considers four production scenarios in four different locations (New Zealand, Germany, US, and Australia) with a cradle-to-gate system boundary. The scenarios consider different sources of carbon (glucose and sucrose), different options for the fungal biomass treatment (waste or animal feed) and for the purification of the product. Allocation to biomass was avoided by considering it substituting the production of general protein feed. The carbon footprint and WSF (based on AWaRe factors) modelling is compared to calculations and actual data on extracted dairy protein production in NZ. The uncertainties of modelled process were addressed with a sensitivity analysis.

Results and discussion

The carbon footprint of microbially produced protein varied depending on the location (energy profile) and source of carbon used. The lowest carbon footprint (5.5 t CO2e/t protein) was found with sucrose-based production in NZ and the highest (17.6 t CO2e/t protein) in Australia with the glucose and chromatography step. The WSF results varied between 88–5030 m3world eq./t protein, depending on the location, type of sugar and purification method used. The avoided feed production had a bigger impact on the WSF than on the carbon footprint. Both footprints were sensitive to process parameters of final titre and protein yield from sugar. The results for milk protein were of similar magnitude, c.10 t CO2e/t protein and 290–11,300 m3world eq./t protein.

Conclusions

The environmental impacts of microbially produced milk protein were of the same magnitude as for extracted dairy protein. The main contributions were sugar and electricity production. The carbon footprints of proteins produced by cellular agriculture have potential for significant reduction when renewable energy and more sustainable carbon sources are used and combined with evolving knowledge and technology in microbial production. Similarly, the carbon footprint of milk proteins can potentially be reduced through methane reduction technologies.
Upscaling of alkaline pea protein extraction from dry milled and pre-treated peas from laboratory to pilot scale: Optimization of process parameters for higher protein yields
Authors: Schmidt Florian , Blankart Max , Wanger Janina , Scharfe Markus , Scheuerer Theresa , Hinrichs Jörg
Published: August 2022

The upscaling of pea protein extraction from laboratory scale with a centrifuge to pilot scale with a decanter centrifuge was investigated, and the pea protein extraction efficiency from dry milled and pre-treated peas was compared. Upscaling from laboratory to pilot scale is possible since starch was under the limit of detection (< 0.5%). The protein banding pattern of a sodium-dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis confirmed that albumins and globulins were extracted by alkali extraction. Protein yield increased from 59.5% to 67.1% for dry milled peas due to constant and quick discharge of dry matter in the decanter centrifuge. For pre-treated peas, the protein yield increased from 60.3% to 94.3%, which is explained by an improved cutting and improved separation in pilot scale compared to laboratory scale. The impact of acceleration, mass flow, differential speed and their respective interactions in the decanting process was determined with a design of experiments. For dry milled peas, only the mass flow exceeded the significance level. However, a mass flow of 5 kg h−1, an acceleration of 1000 g$$\times$$
×
and a differential speed of 50 min−1 led to the highest protein yield of 75.6%. The obtained protein yields for the pre-treated peas were in the range of 83 to 96% and therefore did not show significant differences in protein yield.
Synthesis and characterization of chalcone based benzoxazine-magnetite nanocomposites
Authors: Mandour Hamada S. A. , Rehab Ahmed , Elnahrawy Mohamed , Salahuddin Nehal
Published: August 2022

Here, we proposed an approach to develop magnetic chalcone based benzoxazine using different contents of magnetite nanoparticles. A chalcone containing benzoxazine was prepared from 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-phenylprop-2-en-1-one), stearyl amine and paraformaldehyde through Mannich condensation reaction in a cosolvent of ethanol/toluene (1/1)(v/v). The chemical structure of the prepared benzoxazine monomer was confirmed by FTIR and1H NMR. Both monomer and monomer mixed with different contents of magnetite were exposed to UV irradiation to induce dimerization via [2p + 2p] cycloaddition followed by thermal curing of oxazine moiety. The crystal structure of magnetite nanoparticles was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the surface morphology of the resulted materials. The average size of magnetite nanoparticles was determined by transmission electron microscope (TEM) to be 30–40 nm. The magnetization properties of these materials were measured by vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The thermal properties of thermosets were evaluated and compared with nanocomposites using TGA and DSC. The thermosets exhibited good thermal stability and improved with increasing the magnetite contents in the feed.
Construction of a breast cancer prognosis model based on alternative splicing and immune infiltration
Authors: Zhang Dongni , Lu Wenping , Zhuo Zhili , Mei Heting , Wu Xiaoqing , Cui Yongjia
Published: August 2022

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among women in the world. Alternative splicing (AS) is an important mechanism for regulating gene expression and producing proteome diversity, which is closely related to tumorigenesis. Understanding the role of AS in BC may be helpful to reveal new therapeutic targets for clinical interventions.

Methods

RNA-seq, clinical and AS data of TCGA-BRCA were downloaded from TCGA and TCGA SpliceSeq databases. AS events associated with prognosis were filtered by univariate Cox regression. The AS risk model of BC was built by Lasso regression, random forest and multivariate Cox regression. The accuracy of the AS risk model and clinicopathological factors were evaluated by time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The significant factors were used to construct the nomogram model. Tumor microenvironment analysis, immune infiltration and immune checkpoint analysis were performed to show the differences between the high and low AS risk groups. The expression differences of genes of AS events constituting the risk model in tumor tissues and normal tissues were analyzed, the genes with significant differences were screened, and their relationship with prognosis, tumor microenvironment, immune infiltration and immune checkpoint were analyzed. Finally, Pearson correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation coefficient between splicing factors (SF) and prognostic AS events in TCGA-BRCA. The results were imported into Cytoscape, and the associated network was constructed.

Results

A total of 21,232 genes had 45,421 AS events occurring in TCGA-BRCA, while 1604 AS events were found to be significantly correlated with survival. The BRCA risk model consisted of 5 AS events, (TTC39C|44853|AT*− 2.67) + (HSPBP1|52052|AP*− 4.28) + (MAZ|35942|ES*2.34) + (ANK3|11845|AP*1.18) + (ZC3HAV1|81940|AT*1.59), which were confirmed to be valuable for predicting BRCA prognosis to a certain degree, including ROC curve, survival analysis, tumor microenvironment analysis, immune infiltration and immune checkpoint analysis. Based on this, we constructed a nomogram prediction model composed of clinicopathological features and the AS risk signature. Furthermore, we found that MAZ was a core gene indicating the connection of tumor prognosis and AS events. Ultimately, a network of SF-AS regulation was established to reveal the relationship between them.

Conclusions

We constructed a nomogram model combined with clinicopathological features and AS risk score to predict the prognosis of BC. The detailed analysis of tumor microenvironment and immune infiltration in the AS risk model may further reveal the potential mechanisms of BC recurrence and development.
Clinical application of radiotherapy in patients with oligometastatic ovarian cancer: a sharp tool to prolong the interval of systemic treatment
Authors: Shen Jing , Tao Yinjie , He Lei , Guan Hui , Zhen Hongnan , Liu Zhikai , Zhang Fuquan
Published: August 2022

Background

With the advances of radiation technology, treatment of oligometastatic disease, with limited metastatic burden, have more chances to achieve long-term local control. Here we aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy (RT) in oligometastatic ovarian cancer patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis collecting 142 patients (189 lesions) with oligometastatic ovarian cancer were included in the study. All pateints received radiotherapy and the curative effect and response rate were evaluated by diagnostic imaging after 1–3 months of radiotherapy with RECIST. Endpoints were the rate of complete response (CR), chemotherapy-free interval (CFI), local control (LC) rate and overall survival (OS) rate. Toxicity was evaluated by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG). Logistic and Cox regression were used for the uni- and multivariate analysis of factors influencing survival outcomes.

Results

From 2013.1.1 to 2020.12.30, a total of 142 ovarian cancer patients (189 oligometastasis lesions) were included in the analysis. Prescribed doses to an average GTV of 3.10 cm were 1.8–8 Gy/fraction, median BED (28–115, a/b = 10 Gy), 5–28 fractions. For 179 evaluable lesions, the cases of CR, partial response (PR), stable disease (SD) and progressive disease (PD) after radiotherapy were 22,39,38 and 80 respectively. The disease control rate (DCR): CR + PR + SD was 55.31%, and the objective response rate (ORR): CR + PR was 34.08%. No patient developed grade 3 or higher side effect. The median CFI was 14 months (1–99 months), and the LC rate was 69.7%, 54.3% and 40.9% in 1 year, 2 years and 5 years respectively. GTV < 3 cm before treatment, platinum sensitivity, time from the last treatment ≥ 6 months, single lesion and BED(a/b = 10 Gy) ≥ 60 are the factors of good LC (p < 0.05). The total OS of 1 year, 2 years and 5 years were 67.1%, 52.6% and 30.3%, respectively. Single lesion (HR 0.598, 95%CI 0.405–0.884), DCR (HR 0.640, 95% CI 0.448–0.918) and ORR(HR 0.466, 95% CI 0.308–0.707) were the significant factors influencing 5-year OS.

Conclusion

For patients with oligometastatic ovarian cancer, radiotherapy has high LC, long chemotherapy-free interval, and survival benefits. Subgroup analysis shows that patients with single lesion and good local treatment results have higher overall survival rate, suggesting that active treatment is also beneficial for oligometastatic ovarian cancer patients.
Thoracoscopic mesh implantation as a definitive treatment approach for peritoneal dialysis-associated hydrothorax
Authors: Nemeth Attila , Mustafi Migdat , Friedel Godehard , Sayer Michael , Heyne Nils , Schlensak Christian , Artunc Ferruh , Steger Volker
Published: August 2022

Pleuroperitoneal leakage with the formation of hydrothorax is a rare complication of peritoneal dialysis, usually necessitating termination of peritoneal dialysis. We hypothesized that implantation of a polypropylene mesh on the diaphragm using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery might induce permanent closure of pleuroperitoneal leakage. We report a case series of n = 12 peritoneal dialysis patients with pleuroperitoneal leakage and right-sided hydrothorax who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopy with mesh implantation from 2011 to 2020. Pleuroperitoneal leakage had been confirmed before surgery by intraperitoneal administration of toluidine blue, contrast-enhanced computer tomography or glucose determination from the pleural effusion. Median time from the start of peritoneal dialysis to manifestation of pleuroperitoneal leakage was 52 days. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery revealed multiple penetration points in the tendinous part of the diaphragm in all patients, which appeared as blebs. These were closed by covering the whole diaphragm with a polypropylene mesh. In all patients, peritoneal dialysis was paused for three months and bridged by hemodialysis. After restarting peritoneal dialysis and a median follow-up time of 1.9 years, none of the patients experienced a recurrence of pleuroperitoneal leakage. This case series demonstrates that pleuroperitoneal leakage in peritoneal dialysis patients can be permanently closed using thoracoscopic mesh implantation and allows peritoneal dialysis to be continued as renal replacement therapy.

Graphical abstract
Hyper accuracy three-dimensional (HA3D™) technology for planning complex liver resections: a preliminary single center experience
Authors: Ruzzenente Andrea , Alaimo Laura , Conci Simone , De Bellis Mario , Marchese Andrea , Ciangherotti Andrea , Campagnaro Tommaso , Guglielmi Alfredo
Published: August 2022

Three-dimensional visualization technology (3DVT) has been recently introduced to achieve a precise preoperative planning of liver surgery. The aim of this observational study was to assess the accuracy of 3DVT for complex liver resections. 3DVT with hyper accuracy three-dimensional (HA3D™) technology was introduced at our institution on February 2020. Anatomical characteristics were collected from two-dimensional imaging (2DI) and 3DVT, while intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were recorded prospectively. A total of 62 patients were enrolled into the study. 3DVT was able to study tumor extension and liver anatomy, identifying at least one vascular variation in 37 patients (59.7%). Future remnant liver volume (FRLV) was measured using 2DI and 3DVT. The paired samples t test assessed positive correlation between the two methods (p < 0.001). At least one vessel was suspected to be invaded by the tumor in 8 (15.7%) 2DI cases vs 16 (31.4%) 3DVT cases, respectively. During surgery, vascular invasion was detected in 17 patients (33.3%). A total of 73 surgical procedures were proposed basing on 2DI, including 2 alternatives for 16 patients. After 3DVT, the previously planned procedure was changed in 15 cases (29.4%), due to the clearer information provided. A total of 51 patients (82%) underwent surgery. The most frequent procedure was right hepatectomy (33.3%), followed by left hepatectomy (23.5%) and left trisectionectomy (13.7%). Vascular resection and reconstruction were performed in 10 patients (19.6%) and portal vein was resected in more than half of these cases (66.7%). 3DVT leads to a more detailed and tailored approach to complex liver surgery, improving surgeons’ knowledge of liver anatomy and accuracy of liver resection.

Graphical abstract
Quick Responses of Canadian Social Scientists to COVID-19: A Case Study of the 2020 Federal COVID-19-Specific Grant Recipients
Authors: Wu Haorui , Mansour Adele
Published: August 2022

COVID-19 prompted an abundance of independent and collaborative quick response disaster research (QRDR) initiatives globally. The 2020 federal COVID-19-driven granting opportunities initiated the first official QRDR effort in Canadian history, engaging social scientists to rapidly address the pandemic-related societal influences. This study aims to portray the landscape of this nascent social science QRDR workforce through the first round of federal COVID-19-specific grant recipients. A case study approach was employed to analyze 337 social science projects with 1119 associated researchers, examining the demographic structure of these COVID-19-driven social science researchers and their research projects’ characteristics. Accordingly, the findings are presented through the following two streams: (1) From a researcher perspective, this case study describes researcher typology, geographic location, primary discipline, and educational background, highlighting the diverse characteristics of social sciences researchers, and uneven research development across Canada. (2) From a research project perspective, this case study identifies and synthesizes research project subjects, themes, collaborations, and Canadian distinctions, emphasizing the need for galvanizing cooperation and focusing on uniquely Canadian contexts. The case study illustrates challenges associated with data curation that pose barriers to developing a nuanced understanding of the Canadian social science community COVID-19 research landscape. Consequently, the case study develops three recommendations to improve QRDR development in Canada: promoting information transparency, dissemination, and updates; improving hazards and disaster research workforce evaluation; and enhancing multi-stakeholder cooperation.
Recent studies on the light-induced phenomena in condensed matter systems and related numerical tools
Authors: Shin Dongbin
Published: August 2022

Recent studies of light–matter interaction reveal that light can significantly manipulate materials’ properties. For example, recent experiments demonstrated light-induced phenomena such as light-enhanced superconductivity, ferroelectricity, topological phase transition, and light-driven quantum transport in condensed matter systems. With these experimental observations, various theoretical studies tried to provide possible microscopic mechanisms such as nonlinear phonon interaction, displacive excitation of coherent phonon, and Floquet engineering. These comprehensive experimental and theoretical studies suggested the possibility of light-controlled devices as an application. This review summarizes recently reported light-induced phenomena and related microscopic mechanisms. In addition, the numerical tools for the simulation of light-induced dynamics are introduced.
Overcoming Perovskite Corrosion and De-Doping Through Chemical Binding of Halogen Bonds Toward Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ren Guanhua , Han Wenbin , Zhang Qiang , Li Zhuowei , Deng Yanyu , Liu Chunyu , Guo Wenbin
Published: August 2022

4-tert-butylpyridine (TBP) is an indispensable additive for the hole transport layer in highly efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs), while it can induce corrosion decomposition of perovskites and de-doping effect of spiro-OMeTAD, which present huge challenge for the stability of PSCs. Herein, halogen bonds provided by 1,4-diiodotetrafluorobenzene (1,4-DITFB) are employed to bond with TBP, simultaneously preventing perovskite decomposition and eliminating de-doping effect of oxidized spiro-OMeTAD. Various characterizations have proved strong chemical interaction forms between 1,4-DITFB and TBP. With the incorporation of halogen bonds, perovskite film can maintain initial morphology, crystal structure, and light absorbance; meanwhile, the spiro-OMeTAD film shows a relatively stable conductivity with good charge transport property. Accordingly, the device with TBP complex exhibits significantly enhanced stability in N2 atmosphere or humidity environment. Furthermore, a champion power conversion efficiency of 23.03% is obtained since perovskite is no longer damaged by TBP during device preparation. This strategy overcomes the shortcomings of TBP in n-i-p PSCs community and enhances the application potential of spiro-OMeTAD in fabricating efficient and stable PSCs.
A Computational Intelligence Hybrid Algorithm Based on Population Evolutionary and Neural Network Learning for the Crude Oil Spot Price Prediction
Authors: Chen Zhen-Yao
Published: August 2022

This research attempts to reinforce the cultivating expression of radial basis function neural network (RBFnet) through computational intelligence (CI) and swarm intelligence (SI) learning methods. Consequently, the artificial immune system (AIS) and ant colony optimization (ACO) approaches are utilized to cultivate RBFnet for function approximation issue. The proposed hybridization of AIS and ACO approaches optimization (HIAO) algorithm combines the complementarity of exploitation and exploration to realize problem solving. It allows the solution domain having the advantages of intensification and diversification, which further avoids the situation of immature convergence. In addition, the empirical achievements have confirmed that the HIAO algorithm not only obtained the best accurate function approximation for theoretically standard nonlinear problems, it can be further applied on the instance solving for practical crude oil spot price prediction.
Current Techniques for the Objective Measures of Erectile Hardness
Authors: Rohrer Gabrielle E. , Premo Hayley , Lentz Aaron C.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

One of the most discussed topics in the urology provider's office is that of the male penile erection. Moreover, this is also a frequent basis for consultation by primary care practitioners. As such, it is essential that urologists are familiar with the various means by which the male erection may be evaluated.

Objectives

This article describes several techniques presently available that may serve to objectively quantify the rigidity and hardness of the male erection. These techniques are meant to bolster information gathered from the patient interview and physical examination to better guide patient management.

Methods

An extensive literature review was performed examining publications in PubMed on this subject, including corresponding contextual literature.

Results

While validated patient questionnaires have been routinely employed, the urologist has many additional means available to uncover the extent of the patient's pathology. Many of these tools are noninvasive techniques that involve virtually no risk to the patient and take advantage of pre-existing physiologic properties of the phallus and its blood supply to estimate corresponding tissue stiffness. Specifically, Virtual Touch Tissue Quantification which precisely quantifies axial and radial rigidity, can provide continuous data on how these forces change over time, thus providing a promising comprehensive assessment.

Conclusion

Quantification of the erection allows for the patient and provider to assess response to therapy, aids the surgeon in choice of appropriate procedure, and guides effective patient counseling regarding expectation management.
A Review of Undergraduate Student Disclosures of Sexual Violence
Authors: Sears-Greer Mackenzie A. , Friehart Bridget K. , Meston Cindy M.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Sexual violence (SV) has been a prevalent issue on college campuses for decades. Researchers, universities, and legislators have tried to understand and prevent it. Despite these efforts, 25% of female and 6% of male undergraduate students will experience a nonconsensual sexual experience (NSE) as a student. An immense amount of research has been conducted on the prevalence, effects, resources for, and outcomes of SV over the last few decades.

Objectives

The current paper aims to compile and summarize the extant literature on undergraduate student disclosures of sexual violence. The objective is to provide a comprehensive review of the research.

Methods

A literature search was performed using the terms sexual violence, NSE, undergraduate students, informal and formal reporting, and disclosure.

Results

Disclosure patterns and outcomes for survivors vary widely based on individual factors including type of disclosure source (ie, informal or formal reporting), disclosure recipient response, previous history of NSEs, and personal identity (ie, gender identity, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity). Though there are many formal resources (ie, police, Title IX), the majority of survivors report to informal sources (ie, family or friends). In addition to researching survivors’ experiences and rates of disclosures, research also evaluates how disclosure recipients perceive their response to a survivor's disclosure, their likelihood of receiving a disclosure based on their own individual identities, and how the disclosure impacts the recipient and their relationship with the survivor.

Conclusion

The individualized response and decision to report SV has made prevention and the creation of effective resources difficult. As there are so many individual factors to consider when evaluating how or whether a NSE will be disclosed, future research should consider these individual differences and use them to create more effective reporting sources and resources.
Lay People´s Myths Regarding Pedophilia and Child Sexual Abuse: A Systematic Review
Authors: Glina Flavia , Carvalho Joana , Barroso Ricardo , Cardoso Daniel
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The term “paedophilia erotica” was first coined in 1886 by the psychiatrist Krafft-Ebing and it was considered a “psycho-sexual perversion.” It was at the beginning of the twentieth century that the term “pedophilia” was adopted and it started to appear in medical dictionaries. Sexual abuse is legally defined as the engagement in sexual contact with a person below a specified age or who is incapable of giving consent. Both, pedophilia and child sexual abuse (CSA) are worldwide phenomena requiring deep scientific knowledge in order to improve prevention strategies. Individuals’ misconceptions of pedophilia and CSA may legitimize sexual violence, which can influence prevention strategies and policies.

Objectives

This review aimed to summarize existing research to help answer the question: “What are laypeople´s myths regarding pedophilia and CSA?”

Methods

This systematic review followed the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses to identify as many relevant articles as possible. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCOhost databases for articles published before January 2022. Sixty-one articles were included in the current review.

Results

Overall, findings revealed a significant number of myths regarding pedophilia and CSA, organized into the following categories: (i) blame diffusion, (ii) denial of abusiveness, (iii) restrictive stereotypes, (iv) victim age and consequences, (v) social stigma, (vi) punitive attitudes, and (vii) treatment.

Conclusion

Findings suggested that laypeople's perceptions should be taken into account when devising prevention policies. Additionally, perceptions should also be a target of prevention since there is evidence of social stigma and prejudice involving individuals with pedophilia. Such phenomena can contribute to social, emotional, and cognitive problems, among said individuals as well as causing these individuals to exhibit a higher risk for abusive behavior and less help-seeking.
Boy Actors in Early Modern England
Authors: McCarthy Harry R.
Published: August 2022

Boy Actors in Early Modern England: Skill and Stagecraft in the Theatre provides a new approach to the study of early modern boy actors, offering a historical re-appraisal of these performers' physical skills in order to reassess their wide-reaching contribution to early modern theatrical culture. Ranging across drama performed from the 1580s to the 1630s by all-boy and adult companies alike, the book argues that the exuberant physicality fostered in boy performers across the early modern repertory shaped not only their own performances, but how and why plays were written for them in the first place. Harry R. McCarthy's ground-breaking approach to boy performance draws on detailed analysis of a wide range of plays, thorough interrogation of the cultural contexts in which they were written and performed, and present-day practice-based research, offering a critical reimagining of this important and unique facet of early modern theatrical culture.
Coercive Brain-Reading in Criminal Justice
Authors: Ligthart Sjors
Published: August 2022

Emerging neurotechnology offers increasingly individualised brain information, enabling researchers to identify mental states and content. When accurate and valid, these brain-reading technologies also provide data that could be useful in criminal legal procedures, such as memory detection with EEG and the prediction of recidivism with fMRI. Yet, unlike in medicine, individuals involved in criminal cases will often be reluctant to undergo brain-reading procedures. This raises the question of whether coercive brain-reading could be permissible in criminal law. Coercive Brain-Reading in Criminal Justice examines this question in view of European human rights: the prohibition of ill-treatment, the right to privacy, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and the privilege against self-incrimination. The book argues that, at present, the established framework of human rights does not exclude coercive brain-reading. It does, however, delimit the permissible use of forensic brain-reading without valid consent. This cautionary, cutting-edge book lays a crucial foundation for understanding the future of criminal legal proceedings in a world of ever-advancing neurotechnology.
Liberal Freedom
Authors: MacGilvray Eric
Published: August 2022

We seem to be losing the ability to talk to each other about – and despite – our political differences. The liberal tradition, with its emphasis on open-mindedness, toleration, and inclusion, is ideally suited to respond to this challenge. Yet liberalism is often seen today as a barrier to constructive dialogue: narrowly focused on individual rights, indifferent to the communal sources of human well-being, and deeply implicated in structures of economic and social domination. This book provides a novel defense of liberalism that weaves together a commitment to republican self-government, an emphasis on the value of unregulated choice, and an appreciation of how hard it is to strike a balance between them. By treating freedom rather than justice as the central liberal value this important book, critical to the times, provides an indispensable resource for constructive dialogue in a time of political polarization.
Application of Telerehabilitation for Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmadi Marzaleh Milad , Peyravi Mahmoudreza , Azhdari Negar , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz , Sarpourian Fatemeh
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

The use of telerehabilitation in different disciplines, particularly in the rehabilitation of older adults, has grown significantly across the world. In the wake of the coronavirus disease 2919 (COVID-19) outbreak, a chance has arisen to improve the user experience and to draw attention to the advantages of using this service. The current research aimed to evaluate the investigations that used telerehabilitation to assist elderly people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

Systematic searches of papers published between September 1, 2019, and December 1, 2021, were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and ProQuest databases. The author narrowed down the list of articles by using search terms. Ultimately, publications from the COVID-19 period were studied for their perspectives on the use of telerehabilitation among the elderly population. The whole process was supervised by 2 investigators at the same time.

Results:

In total, 2529 articles were included in the first search. Five articles were chosen for further assessment based on the careful consideration of their titles, abstracts, and full texts. Cross-sectional, feasibility, case, and interventional studies comprised 20%, 20%, 20%, and 40% of the papers, respectively. The studies were carried out in Brazil, the United States, Germany, Japan, and South Korea and involved using telerehabilitation for elderly individuals, identification of crucial manifestations and impairments, improving physical function in this population, and ensuring their happiness.

Conclusions:

Using a digital strategy for rehabilitation should be regarded as a means of overcoming the field’s obstacles. As a result, legislators and rehabilitation groups should consider the use of telerehabilitation for the elderly population during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Growth and yield performance of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) crop under anthracnose stress in dryland crop-livestock farming system
Authors: Atumo Tessema Tesfaye , Mengesha Getachew Gudero
Published: August 2022

Dual-purpose sorghum response to anthracnose disease, growth, and yield was undertaken in Derashe and Arba Minch trial sites during March–June 2018 and 2019. Five sorghum varieties and Rara (local check) were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Variety Chelenko exhibited the tallest main crop plant height (430 cm) while Dishkara was the tallest (196.65 cm) at ratoon crop harvesting. Rara had a higher tiller number (main = 6.73, ratoon = 9.73) among the varieties. Dishkara and Chelenko varieties produced 50 and 10% more dry biomass yield (DBY) than the overall mean DBY, while Konoda produced 40% less. Although the anthracnose infestation was highest on the varieties Konoda (percentage severity index [PSI] = 20.37%) and NTJ_2 (PSI = 32.19%), they produced significantly (p < .001) higher grain yield (3.89 t/ha) than others. Under anthracnose pressure, Chelenko and Dishkara varieties are suggested for dry matter yield while NTJ_2 for grain yield production in the study area and similar agroecology.
Mitigating healthcare staffing shortages: Should healthcare workers with severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) household exposures work?
Authors: Blanchard Ana C. , Lamarre Valérie , Lamarche Josée , Audy Nathalie , Quach Caroline
Published: August 2022

In a tertiary-care, pediatric healthcare center in Québec, Canada, healthcare workers who reported a household exposure to confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases were allowed to work. On repeated testing, 15% became severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)–positive by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), with no nosocomial transmission. Being asymptomatic and receiving a booster dose >7 days prior to exposure was protective against becoming SARS-CoV-2–positive by PCR.
Influence of submerged flexible vegetation on turbulence in an open-channel flow
Authors: Wang Jianyu , He Guojian , Dey Subhasish , Fang Hongwei
Published: August 2022

In this study, we present a three-dimensional numerical model for the interaction of flow with submerged flexible vegetation, based on a large-eddy simulation and the immersed boundary method. The model innovatively realises the interaction between the flow and highly flexible vegetation with clustered leaves. Besides being a three-dimensional model of motion with full degrees of freedom, this study improves the consideration of the motion of the vegetation in all directions, and in addition the energy and momentum transfer in the spanwise direction. Furthermore, we perform a flume experiment for the flow with submerged flexible vegetation, the results of which are used to validate the simulation effects of the numerical model. It is found that the numerical model can effectively simulate the velocity profiles and the movement of vegetation induced by the flow. Using the model to analyse the flow–vegetation interaction, we find that the movement of vegetation is closely related to the flow velocity. As the flow velocity increases, both the offset angle and the vegetation swaying amplitude increase. Compared to vertical rigid vegetation, the tilting of flexible vegetation does not significantly change the velocity difference and the magnitude of the turbulent kinetic energy between the inside and the outside of the vegetation canopy, but it does weaken the disturbance to flow, thus reducing the resistance to flow. However, the swaying of vegetation dose significantly increase the velocity difference between the inside and the outside of the canopy. It forms Kelvin–Helmholtz hairpin vortices intensifying the turbulence production, and enhancing the disturbance and resistance to flow.
Surprising identities for the greedy independent set on Cayley trees
Authors: Contat Alice
Published: August 2022

We prove a surprising symmetry between the law of the size
$G_n$
of the greedy independent set on a uniform Cayley tree
$ \mathcal{T}_n$
of size n and that of its complement. We show that
$G_n$
has the same law as the number of vertices at even height in
$ \mathcal{T}_n$
rooted at a uniform vertex. This enables us to compute the exact law of
$G_n$
. We also give a Markovian construction of the greedy independent set, which highlights the symmetry of
$G_n$
and whose proof uses a new Markovian exploration of rooted Cayley trees that is of independent interest.
One, two, three: portable sample size in agricultural research
Authors: Piepho Hans-Peter , Gabriel Doreen , Hartung Jens , Büchse Andreas , Grosse Meike , Kurz Sabine , Laidig Friedrich , Michel Volker , Proctor Iain , Sedlmeier Jan Erik , Toppel Kathrin , Wittenburg Dörte
Published: August 2022

Determination of sample size (the number of replications) is a key step in the design of an observational study or randomized experiment. Statistical procedures for this purpose are readily available. Their treatment in textbooks is often somewhat marginal, however, and frequently the focus is on just one particular method of inference (significance test, confidence interval). Here, we provide a unified review of approaches and explain their close interrelationships, emphasizing that all approaches rely on the standard error of the quantity of interest, most often a pairwise difference of two means. The focus is on methods that are easy to compute, even without a computer. Our main recommendation based on standard errors is summarized as what we call the 1-2-3 rule for a difference of two treatment means.
Microsporidian diversity in the aquatic isopodAsellus aquaticus
Authors: Grabner Daniel , Doliwa Annemie , Sworobowicz Lidia , Wysocka Anna , Weigand Alexander , Grabowski Michał , Mamos Tomasz , Sures Bernd
Published: August 2022

We conducted a molecular survey on microsporidian diversity in different lineages (operational taxonomic units = OTUs) ofAsellus aquaticusfrom 30 sites throughout Europe. Host body length was determined, and DNA was extracted from host tissue excluding the intestine and amplified by microsporidian-specific primers. In total, 247A. aquaticusspecimens were analysed from which 26.7% were PCR-positive for microsporidians, with significantly more infections in larger individuals. Prevalence ranged between 10 and 90%. At 9 sites, no microsporidians were detected. A significant relationship was found between the frequency of infected individuals and habitat type, as well as host OTU. The lowest proportion of infected individuals was detected in spring-habitats (8.7%,n= 46) and the highest in ponds (37.7%,n= 53). Proportion of infected individuals among host OTUs A, D and J was 31.7, 21.7 and 32.1%, respectively. No infections were detected in OTU F. Our results are, however, accompanied by a partially low sample size, as only a minimum of 5 individuals was available at a few locations. Overall, 17 different microsporidian molecular taxonomic units (MICMOTUs) were distinguished with 5 abundant isolates (found in 4–17 host individuals) while the remaining 12 MICMOTUs were “rare” and found only in 1–3 host individuals. No obvious spatio-genetic pattern could be observed. The MICMOTUs predominantly belonged to Nosematida and Enterocytozoonida. The present study shows that microsporidians inA. aquaticusare abundant and diverse but do not show obvious patterns related to host genetic lineages or geography.
Psychotic experiences in the general population, a review; definition, risk factors, outcomes and interventions
Authors: Staines Lorna , Healy Colm , Coughlan Helen , Clarke Mary , Kelleher Ian , Cotter David , Cannon Mary
Published: August 2022

Psychotic experiences (PE) are common in the general population, in particular in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood. PE have been shown to be associated with an increased risk for later psychotic disorders, mental disorders, and poorer functioning. Recent findings have highlighted the relevance of PE to many fields of healthcare, including treatment response in clinical services for anxiety & depression treatment, healthcare costs and service use. Despite PE relevance to many areas of mental health, and healthcare research, there remains a gap of information between PE researchers and experts in other fields. With this review, we aim to bridge this gap by providing a broad overview of the current state of PE research, and future directions. This narrative review aims to provide an broad overview of the literature on psychotic experiences, under the following headings: (1) Definition and Measurement of PE; (2) Risk Factors for PE; (3) PE and Health; (4) PE and Psychosocial Functioning; (5) Interventions for PE, (6) Future Directions.