bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some non‐parametric regression models for interval‐valued functional data
Authors: Nasirzadeh Roya , Nasirzadeh Fariba , Mohammadi Zohreh
Published: December 2021

The interval‐valued functional data belong to the category of symbolic data in which the values of each observation consist of two functions, a lower limit function and an upper limit function. This study introduces some functional non‐parametric approaches to fit a functional regression model on interval‐valued functional data. First, using kernel functions, two non‐parametric regression models are presented to predict a scalar interval‐valued response variable based on interval‐valued functional predictors. For this purpose, a local linear regression and a kernel regression estimator of the Nadaraya–Watson type are proposed. These approaches are based on two independent non‐parametric models, which may not hold in practice. Therefore, some non‐parametric methods are introduced, including bivariate functional Nadaraya–Watson, bivariate functional locally linear smoothing and another method based on bootstrap, which maintain selecting points randomly in the intervals of the proposed data. The applicability and advantages of the proposed models are investigated through simulation experiments and a real data example.
Statistics with Imprecise Probabilities—A Short Survey
Authors: Augustin Thomas
Published: December 2021

This chapter aims at surveying and highlighting in an introductory way some challenges and big opportunities a paradigmatic shift to imprecise probabilities could induce in statistical modelling. Working with an informal understanding of imprecise probabilities, we discuss the concepts of model imprecision and data imprecision as the two main types of imprecision in statistical modelling. Then we provide a short survey of some major developments, methodological questions and applications of imprecise probabilistic models under model imprecision in the context of different inference schools and summarize some recent developments in the area of data imprecision.
Grundlagen zur Sprachbildung in der Lehramtsausbildung Mathematik
Authors: Schacht Florian , Guckelsberger Susanne
Published: December 2021

Im ersten Kapitel werden zunächst Rahmenbedingungen und Grundlagen für eine universitäre Lehramtsausbildung Mathematik vorgestellt, in der Fragen fachlichen und sprachlichen Lernens systematisch aufeinander bezogen werden. Wir sprechen in diesem Zusammenhang kurz von „sprachbewusster Hochschullehre“. In Abschn. 1.1 wird die Notwendigkeit einer fachspezifischen Vorbereitung von Studierenden auf die Umsetzung von Sprachbildung im Unterricht begründet. In Abschn. 1.2 werden die theoretischen Orientierungen für das Buch dargelegt: In Abschn. 1.2.1 werden zunächst Leitideen zur Verortung von Sprache und Fach in der Lehramtsausbildung Mathematik formuliert, an denen sich die Inhalte der Lehrveranstaltungen orientieren. In Abschn. 1.2.2 werden hochschuldidaktische Design-Prinzipien begründet, die für die praktische Gestaltung der Hochschullehre zentral sind. Abschließend wird in Abschn. 1.3 ein Seminarkonzept konkretisiert und curricular verortet, das der beschriebenen Konzeption für eine sprachbewusste Hochschullehre zugrunde liegt.
$$ \mathfrak{gl} $$N Higgsed networks
Authors: Zenkevich Yegor
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We generalize the framework of Higgsed networks of intertwiners to the quantum toroidal algebra associated to Lie algebra $$ \mathfrak{gl} $$
gl
N. Using our formalism we obtain a systems of screening operators corresponding to W-algebras associated to toric strip geometries and reproduce partition functions of 3d theories on orbifolded backgrounds.
Use of halo fixation therapy for traumatic cranio-cervical instability in children: a systematic review
Authors: Banat Mohammed , Vychopen Martin , Wach Johannes , Salemdawod Abdallah , Scorzin Jasmin , Vatter Hartmut
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Traumatic cranio-cervical instability in childhood is rare and constitutes a challenge for the treating surgeon. The aim of therapy is to restore cervical stability without limiting the range of motion. The goal of this systematic review was to find out whether, over the last 10 years, halo fixation (HF) could still be considered a successful treatment option without major risks or complications.

Methods

We analyzed studies describing the use of HF in traumatic injuries of the cranio-cervical junction in children under the age of 17. Searches were performed in PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases for the years from 2010 to 2020. The general success rate, the success rate related to underlying pathologies, and complication rates were evaluated.

Results

The main indications for HF range from pre-surgical correction to postoperative fusion support. C2 is the most frequently injured vertebra in children. The overall success rate of HF was very high. Evaluation according to the underlying pathology showed that, except for atlanto-occipital dislocation, HF generates high fusion rates among different patient cohorts, mainly in C2 vertebra injuries and atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation. Only minor complications were reported, such as pin infections.

Conclusion

The current data show that, when used according to the appropriate indication, HF is an effective conservative treatment option for cranio-cervical instability, associated with only minor complications.
A nationwide survey on clinical neurophysiology education in Italian schools of specialization in neurology
Authors: Bocci Tommaso , Campiglio Laura , Silani Vincenzo , Berardelli Alfredo , Priori Alberto
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Clinical neurophysiology deals with nervous system functions assessed with electrophysiological and ultrasound-based imaging techniques. Even though the need for highly specialized neurophysiologists has increased, residency training rarely takes today’s requirements into account. This study aimed to snapshot the neurophysiological training provided by Italian specialization schools in neurology.

Methods

A single-page web-based survey comprising 13 multiple-choice categorical and interval scale questions was sent via e-mail to neurology specialization school directors. The survey addressed the programs’ structural neurophysiology organization, time dedicated to each clinical neurophysiology subspecialty, and descriptors assessing the discipline’s importance (e.g., residents who attempted residential courses, gained certifications, or awards gained).

Results

The most studied neurophysiological techniques were electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG). Most specialization schools devoted less than 3 months each to multimodal evoked potentials (EPs), ultrasound sonography (US), and intra-operative monitoring. Of the 35 specialization schools surveyed, 77.1% reported that four students, or fewer, participated in the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology Examination in Neurophysiology. Of the 35 specialization centers surveyed, 11.4% declared that the final evaluation required students to discuss a neurophysiological test.

Discussion

Our survey underlined the poorly standardized technical requirements in postgraduate neurology specialization schools, wide variability among training programs, and limited training on multi-modal evoked potentials, intraoperative monitoring, and sonography. These findings underline the need to reappraise and improve educational and training standards for clinical neurophysiology during postgraduate specialization schools in neurology with an international perspective.
Multi-constellation single-frequency ionospheric-free precise point positioning with low-cost receivers
Authors: Paziewski Jacek
Published: December 2021

We analyze the observation quality, assess the performance and identify the constraints of quadruple-constellation single-frequency ionospheric-free precise point positioning (SF-IF PPP) with low-cost receivers. It is revealed that low-cost receivers with patch antennas exhibit lower C/N0 records and a weaker elevation dependence of C/N0 than the high-grade equipment. The results demonstrate that low-cost receivers can offer code measurements with similar noise compared to high-grade receivers providing that the multipath effect is eliminated. Regarding positioning performance, it is shown how SF-IF PPP for the high-grade receiver converges approximately two times faster than for the low-cost receiver with a patch antenna. It is confirmed that an application of a survey-grade antenna instead of the patch one noticeably enhances the performance of low-cost receiver SF-IF PPP. The study also reveals that the multipath effect is a dominant factor that constrains the performance of SF-IF PPP with low-cost receivers.
Numerical model for the dynamic and seismic analysis of pile-supported structures with a meshless integral representation of the layered soil
Authors: Álamo Guillermo M. , Padrón Luis A. , Aznárez Juan J. , Maeso Orlando
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a three–dimensional linear numerical model for the dynamic and seismic analysis of pile-supported structures that allows to represent simultaneously the structures, pile foundations, soil profile and incident seismic waves and that, therefore, takes directly into account structure–pile–soil interaction. The use of advanced Green’s functions to model the dynamic behaviour of layered soils, not only leads to a very compact representation of the problem and a simplification in the preparation of the data files (no meshes are needed for the soil), but also allows to take into account arbitrarily complex soil profiles and problems with large numbers of elements. The seismic excitation is implemented as incident planar body waves (P or S) propagating through the layered soil from an infinitely–distant source and impinging on the site with any generic angle of incidence. The response of the system is evaluated in the frequency domain, and seismic results in time domain are then obtained using the frequency–domain method through the use of the Fast Fourier Transform. An application example using a pile-supported structure is presented in order to illustrate the capabilities of the model. Piles and columns are modelled through Timoshenko beam elements, and slabs, pile caps and shear walls are modelled using shell finite elements, so that the real flexibility of all elements can be rigorously taken into account. This example is also used to explore the influence of soil profile and angle of incidence on different variables of interest in earthquake engineering.
Phenomenal Holism and Cognitive Phenomenology
Authors: Fürst Martina
Published: December 2021

The cognitive phenomenology debate centers on two questions. (1) What is an apt characterization of the phenomenology of conscious thought? And (2), what role does this phenomenology play? I argue that the answers to the former question bear significantly on the answers to the latter question. In particular, I show that conservatism about cognitive phenomenology is not compatible with the view that phenomenology explains the constitution of conscious thought. I proceed as follows: To begin with, I analyze the phenomenology of our sensory experiences and argue for a weak phenomenal holism (WPH) about sensory phenomenology. Next, I explore how WPH can be integrated into the competing accounts of cognitive phenomenology. I argue that, given WPH, conservatism turns out to reduce phenomenal character to a merely concomitant phenomenon that has no explanatory power when it comes to the constitution of conscious thoughts. In contrast, liberalism is explanatorily more powerful in this respect. Finally, I propose a new version of liberalism that explains how phenomenology constitutes conscious thoughts and fits best with WPH.
CURA—An Ethics Support Instrument for Nurses in Palliative Care. Feasibility and First Perceived Outcomes
Authors: van Schaik Malene Vera , Pasman H. Roeline , Widdershoven Guy , Molewijk Bert , Metselaar Suzanne
Published: December 2021

Evaluating the feasibility and first perceived outcomes of a newly developed clinical ethics support instrument called CURA. This instrument is tailored to the needs of nurses that provide palliative care and is intended to foster both moral competences and moral resilience. This study is a descriptive cross-sectional evaluation study. Respondents consisted of nurses and nurse assistants (n = 97) following a continuing education program (course participants) and colleagues of these course participants (n = 124). Two questionnaires with five-point Likert scales were used. The feasibility questionnaire was given to all respondents, the perceived outcomes questionnaire only to the course participants. Data collection took place over a period of six months. Respondents were predominantly positive on most items of the feasibility questionnaire. The steps of CURA are clearly described (84% of course participants agreed or strongly agreed, 94% of colleagues) and easy to apply (78–87%). The perceived outcomes showed that CURA helped respondents to reflect on moral challenges (71% (strongly) agreed), in perspective taking (67%), with being aware of moral challenges (63%) and in dealing with moral distress (54%). Respondents did experience organizational barriers: only half of the respondents (strongly) agreed that they could easily find time for using CURA. CURA is a feasible instrument for nurses and nurse assistants providing palliative care. However, reported difficulties in organizing and making time for reflections with CURA indicate organizational preconditions ought to be met in order to implement CURA in daily practice. Furthermore, these results indicate that CURA helps to build moral competences and fosters moral resilience.
Indicators for Sanitation Quality in Low-Income Urban Settlements: Evidence from Kenya, Ghana, and Bangladesh
Authors: Meili Dario , Schelbert Vasco , Alam Mahbub-Ul , Antwi-Agyei Prince , Simiyu Sheillah , Adjei Kwaku Amaning , Dwumfour-Asare Bismark , Rahman Mahbubur , Lüthi Christoph , Günther Isabel
Published: December 2021

In recent years, shared facilities have contributed substantially to increased access to sanitation in urban areas. While shared sanitation is often the only viable option in densely-populated, low-income urban areas, it is currently considered a “limited" solution by the international community. In this paper, we analyze the conditions under which shared sanitation could be considered of adequate quality and propose a set of indicators associated with sanitation quality to be included in national household surveys. We conducted a survey with 3600 households and 2026 observational spot-checks of shared and individual household toilets in Kisumu (Kenya), Kumasi (Ghana), and Dhaka (Bangladesh). We develop a composite sanitation quality outcome measure based on observational data. Using regression analysis, we identify self-reported indicators that correlate with the spot-checked composite measure and are, therefore, robust with regard to reporting bias. Results show that (pour-) flush toilets are a highly informative indicator for sanitation quality compared to other toilet technologies. In contrast to previous arguments and depending on the context, sharing a toilet has a comparatively lower correlation with sanitation quality. Toilets still show good quality if shared among only 2–3 households. Toilet location and lighting, as well as the presence of a lockable door, are equally strong indicators for sanitation quality and could serve as alternative indicators. The findings suggest that the sanitation service levels defined by the WHO and UNICEF might be reconsidered to better capture the quality of sanitation facilities in low-income urban settlements.
Nitrogen dioxide component of air pollution increases pulmonary congestion assessed by lung ultrasound in patients with chronic coronary syndromes
Authors: Ciampi Quirino , Russo Antonello , D’Alise Caterina , Ballirano Anna , Villari Bruno , Mangia Cristina , Picano Eugenio ,   the Stress Echo 2030 study group of the Italian Society of Echocardiography, Cardiovascular Imaging
Published: December 2021

Pulmonary congestion is an intermediate biomarker and long-term predictor of acute decompensated heart failure.

To evaluate the effects of air pollution on pulmonary congestion assessed by lung ultrasound.

In a single-center, prospective, observational study design, we enrolled 1292 consecutive patients with chronic coronary syndromes referred for clinically indicated ABCDE-SE, with dipyridamole (n = 1207), dobutamine (n = 84), or treadmill exercise (n = 1). Pulmonary congestion was evaluated with lung ultrasound and a 4-site simplified scan. Same day values of 4 pollutants were obtained on the morning of testing (average of 6 h) from publicly available data sets of the regional authority of environmental protection. Assessment of air pollution included fine (< 2.5 µm diameter) and coarse (< 10 µm) particulate matter (PM), ozone and nitrogen dioxide (NO2).

NO2 concentration was weakly correlated with rest (r = .089; p = 0.001) and peak stress B-lines (r = .099; p < 0.001). A multivariable logistic regression analysis, NO2 values above the median (23.1 µg/m3) independently predicted stress B-lines with odds ratio = 1.480 (95% CI 1.118–1.958) together with age, hypertension, diabetes, and reduced (< 50%) ejection fraction. PM2.5 values were higher in 249 patients with compared to those without B-lines (median and IQR, 22.0 [9.1–23.5] vs 17.6 [8.6–22.2] µg/m3, p < 0.001). No other pollutant correlated with other (A-C-D-E) SE steps.

Higher concentration of NO2 is associated with more pulmonary congestion mirrored by B-lines at lung ultrasound. Local inflammation mediated by NO2 well within legally allowed limits may increase the permeability of the alveolar-capillary barrier and therefore pulmonary congestion in susceptible subjects.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT030.49995.
Exergy-aided environmental life cycle assessment of propylene oxide production
Authors: Ghannadzadeh Ali , Tarighaleslami Amir Hossein
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Propylene oxide (PO) is one of the useful chemicals that is predicted to experience a compound annual growth rate of 3.9% from 2020 through 2027. The environmental burdens of the current PO production process and its corresponding utility system including power generation system need to be determined quantitatively as a response to increasing demands for its environmentally sustainable production process in the energy transition period from fossil fuels towards renewable energy resources.

Methods

A new methodology is proposed to study the PO production process called exergy-aided environmental life cycle assessment (EELCA), using the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s database known as life cycle inventory (LCI) database. EELCA is dedicated to LCA studies of processes in the energy transition period and is aided by Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) as a tool for discernibility analysis which brings another dimension to the EELCA because MCS was often used to assess uncertainty in LCA studies. EELCA impact categories are classified into two classes: (i) emission-dependent impact categories addressed by ReCiPe and (ii) resource-dependent impact categories covered by cumulative exergy demand (CExD). The alternative energy like bioenergy is evaluated through the stepwise scenarios assisted by MCS, which are employed in openLCA with 10,000 iterations.

Results and discussion

The cumulative exergy depletion of the base scenario is 6.1898 MJ (CExD). The human health and ecosystem impacts are 3.65E-06 DALY and 1.58E-08 species.yr, respectively. Human health-total (2.7E-4 DALY) is the most important category, where the power generation system by residual fuel oil (33.19%) is on top of the list. By analysing statistically discernible scenarios using EELCA, it has been proven that natural gas is not a proper choice for energy mix in the energy transition period. This is because natural gas-based scenarios present more burden compared to residual fuel oil-based scenarios especially regarding human toxicity, freshwater ecotoxicity, marine ecotoxicity, terrestrial acidification, and particulate matter formation. This study shows that the reduction in environmental impacts without changes in the production process technology is feasible through implementing bioenergy scenarios.

Conclusions

Having applied successfully EELCA, this study shows that PO production in the present configuration is not sustainable at all. The statistically discernible scenarios regarding energy mix selection help to enhance sustainability of the PO production process. Moreover, by examining the application of CExD along with LCA analysis, it is proved that by using the concept of CExD, we were able to represent the environmental impacts of the entire system with one figure, which tremendously facilitates the calculations in MCS.
Impact of Saturation of Fatty Acids of Phosphatidylcholine and Oil Phase on Properties of β-Lactoglobulin at the Oil/Water Interface
Authors: Heiden-Hecht Theresia , Drusch Stephan
Published: December 2021

Oil in water emulsions are commonly stabilized by emulsifying constituents like proteins and/or low molecular weight emulsifiers. The emulsifying constituents can compete or coexist at the interface. Interfacial properties thus depend on molecular structure of the emulsifying constituents and the oil phase and the resulting molecular interactions. The present study systematically analyzed the impact of fatty acid saturation of triacylglycerides and phosphatidylcholine on the interfacial properties of a β-lactoglobulin-stabilized interface. The long-term adsorption behaviour and the viscoelasticity of β-lactoglobulin-films were analyzed with or without addition of phosphatidylcholine via drop tensiometry and dilatational rheology. Results from the present study showed that increasing similarity in fatty acid saturation and thus interaction of phosphatidylcholine and oil phase increased the interfacial tension for the phosphatidylcholine alone or in combination with β-lactoglobulin. The characteristics and stability of interfacial films with β-lactoglobulin-phosphatidylcholine are further affected by interfacial adsorption during changes in interfacial area and crystallization events of low molecular weight emulsifiers. This knowledge gives guidance for improving physical stability of protein-based emulsions in foods and related areas.

Graphic abstract
Statistical influence of travelling distance on home advantage over 57 years in the men’s German first soccer division
Authors: Beckmann Nils
Published: December 2021

A statistical analysis is presented that investigates the dependence of team cities’ geographical distances on the effect of home advantage (HA) for 57 years of the men’s German first soccer division (“Bundesliga”), including 17,376 matches (seasons starting from 1964 to 2020). The data shows that the HA can clearly be evidenced in the past and present (statistical p‑value < 0.01) and that it also exists for negligible distances (p < 0.01). The HA and the influence of distance on the HA both significantly decreased gradually over the last decades (p < 0.01). For the first and only time, the HA reversed into an away advantage (AA) for the season 2019/2020 (p < 0.01). The influence of distance on HA has been significant (p < 0.01) in the past (before about 1990) and contributed roughly by about half, compared to a situation without HA or AA. It increases with distance and saturates at around 100 km. Such saturation behaviour is in line with results from higher divisions of other countries with similar travelling distances such as Italy, Turkey and England. However, the distance-dependent contribution to HA has been approximately halved and reduced to an insignificant amount today. Furthermore, the temporal HA reduction is significantly larger for large distances compared to short distances (p < 0.01). Reporting and quantifying a reduction (p < 0.01) of the distance-dependent contribution to HA over a time span of 57 years is novel.
Searching for the Divine in Plato and Aristotle
Authors: Ward Julie K.
Published: December 2021

To scholars of ancient philosophy, theoria denotes abstract thinking, with both Plato and Aristotle employing the term to signify philosophical contemplation. Yet it is surprising for some to find an earlier, traditional meaning referring to travel to festivals and shrines. In an attempt to dissolve the problem of equivocal reference, Julie Ward's book seeks to illuminate the nature of traditional theoria as ancient festival-attendance as well as the philosophical account developed in Plato and Aristotle. First, she examines the traditional use referring to periodic festivals, including their complex social and political arrangements, then she considers the subsequent use by Plato and Aristotle. Broadly speaking, she discerns a common thread running throughout both uses: namely, the notion of having a visual experience of the sacred or divine. Thus her book aims to illuminate the nature of philosophical theoria described by Plato and Aristotle in light of traditional, festival theoria.
Migrating Memories
Authors: Koranyi James
Published: December 2021

Romanian Germans, mainly from the Banat and Transylvania, have occupied a place at the very heart of major events in Europe in the twentieth century yet their history is largely unknown. This east-central European minority negotiated their standing in a difficult new European order after 1918, changing from uneasy supporters of Romania, to zealous Nazis, tepid Communists, and conciliatory Europeans. Migrating Memories is the first comprehensive study in English of Romanian Germans and follows their stories as they move across borders and between regimes, revealing a very European experience of migration, minorities, and memories in modern Europe. After 1945, Romanian Germans struggled to make sense of their lives during the Cold War at a time when the community began to fracture and fragment. The Revolutions of 1989 seemed to mark the end of the German community in Romania, but instead Romanian Germans repositioned themselves as transnational European bridge-builders, staking out new claims in a fast-changing world.
Performance and Modernity
Authors: Walker Julia A.
Published: December 2021

How do ideas take shape? How do concepts emerge into form? This book argues that they take shape quite literally in the human body, often appearing on stage in new styles of performance. Focusing on the historical period of modernity, Performance and Modernity: Enacting Change on the Globalizing Stage demonstrates how the unforeseen impact of economic, industrial, political, social, and psychological change was registered in bodily metaphors that took shape on stage. In new styles of performance-acting, dance, music, pageantry, avant-garde provocations, film, video and networked media-this book finds fresh evidence for how modernity has been understood and lived, both by stage actors, who, in modelling new habits, gave emerging experiences an epistemological shape, and by their audiences, who, in borrowing the strategies performers enacted, learned to adapt to a modernizing world.
Genotypic variation in cardinal temperatures and thermal time for germination and seedling emergence of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan [L.] Millsp.)
Authors: Mahendraraj Sabampillai , Collins Marisa , Chauhan Yash , Mellor Vincent , Rachaputi Rao C. N.
Published: December 2021

In this study, we define the cardinal temperatures and thermal time for germination and emergence of pigeonpea genotypes. Seeds of six genotypes were subjected to constant temperatures ranging between 5 and 50°C in petri dishes with filter paper (germination) and with media (emergence) were placed in a thermal gradient plate. A nonlinear bent-stick model fitted to the rate of development to germination and emergence resulted in parameters predicting cardinal temperatures including base (Tb), optimum (To), maximum (Tm), and thermal time. Estimated Tb for 50% germination and emergence were 8.4 and 10.8°C, respectively, with no significant differences between genotypes. Optimum temperatures were 33.8 and 37.9°C for germination and emergence, respectively, with genotypes differing significantly. Thermal time for 50% germination and emergence varied significantly among genotypes. The results suggest that genotypic responses to the temperature are typical for their tropical origin and hence their suitability for cropping in summer dominant rainfall regions insubtropical Australia.
Experimental investigation of aerofoil tonal noise at low Mach number
Authors: Jaiswal Prateek , Pasco Yann , Yakhina Gyuzel , Moreau Stéphane
Published: December 2021

This paper presents an experimental investigation of aerofoil tones emitted by a controlled-diffusion aerofoil at low Mach number (

$0.05$

), moderate Reynolds number based on the chord length (

$1.4 \times 10^{5}$

) and moderate incidence (

$5^{\circ }$

angle of attack). Wall-pressure measurements have been performed along the suction side of the aerofoil to reveal the acoustic source mechanisms. In particular, a feedback loop is found to extend from the aerofoil trailing edge to the regions near the leading edge where the flow encounters a mean favourable pressure gradient, and consists of acoustic disturbances travelling upstream. Simultaneous wall-pressure, velocity and far-field acoustic measurements have been performed to identify the boundary-layer instability responsible for tonal noise generation. Causality correlation between far-field acoustic pressure and wall-normal velocity fluctuations has been performed, which reveals the presence of a Kelvin–Helmholtz-type modal shape within the velocity disturbance field. Tomographic particle image velocimetry measurements have been performed to understand the three-dimensional aspects of this flow instability. These measurements confirm the presence of large two-dimensional rollers that undergo three-dimensional breakdown just upstream of the trailing edge. Finally, modal decomposition of the flow has been carried out using proper orthogonal decomposition, which demonstrates that the normal modes are responsible for aerofoil tonal noise. The higher normal modes are found to undergo regular modulations in the spanwise direction. Based on the observed modal shape, an explanation of aerofoil tonal noise amplitude reduction is given, which has been previously reported in modular or serrated trailing-edge aerofoils.
Persistence Despite Change: The Academic Gender Gap in Australian Law Schools
Authors: Melville Angela , Barrow Amy
Published: December 2021

Prior research has shown that while women have entered the legal profession in increasing numbers, the profession continues to privilege the norms, beliefs, and cultural practices of men. However, one aspect of the legal profession that has largely been overlooked, especially in Australia, is legal academia. This oversight is significant as legal academia provides the gateway into the legal profession. Women now make up approximately half of universities’ academic staff, are increasingly completing doctorate qualifications, and are moving into senior positions within academia. On the surface, these changes may suggest that women are now fully integrated into academia and that the academic gender gap has now resolved. We argue, however, that numerical inclusion does not necessarily challenge the male normative structures that underlie legal academia. This article draws on analysis of the biographies of seven hundred legal academics in Australian law schools and investigates differences between male and female legal academics in terms of level of appointment, academic qualifications and professional experience, research productivity, research interests, and mobility. It shows that while the gender gap has closed in some areas, the feminization of legal academia is a myth and female academics continue to face gendered barriers.
Effects of dietary vitamin D3 supplementation on the growth performance, tissue Ca and P concentrations, antioxidant capacity, immune response and lipid metabolism in Litopenaeus vannamei larvae
Authors: Dai Tianmeng , Jiao Lefei , Tao Xinyue , Lu Jingjing , Jin Min , Sun Peng , Zhou Qicun
Published: December 2021

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary vitamin D3 supplementation on the growth performance, tissue Ca and P concentrations, antioxidant capacity, immune response and lipid metabolism in Litopenaeus vannamei larvae. A total of 720 shrimp (initial weight 0·50 ± 0·01 g) were randomly distributed into six treatments, each of which had three duplicates of forty shrimp per duplicate. Six isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets were formulated to contain graded vitamin D3 (0·18, 0·23, 0·27, 0·48, 0·57 and 0·98 mg/kg of vitamin D3, measured) supplementation levels. The results revealed that L. vannamei fed diet containing 0·48 mg/kg of vitamin D3 achieved the best growth performance. Compared with the control group, supplementing 0·48 mg/kg of vitamin D3 significantly increased (P < 0·05) the activities of catalase, total antioxidative capacity, alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase in serum and hepatopancreas. Expression levels of antioxidant and immune-related genes were synchronously increased (P < 0·05). Carapace P and Ca concentrations were increased (P < 0·05) with the increased vitamin D3 supplementation levels. Further analysis of lipid metabolism-related genes expression showed that shrimp fed 0·48 mg of vitamin D3 per kg diet showed the highest value in the expression of lipid synthesis-related genes, while shrimp fed 0·98 mg of vitamin D3 per kg diet showed the highest value in the expression of lipolysis-related genes. In conclusion, the results of present study indicated that dietary supplementation of 0·48 mg/kg of vitamin D3 could increase Ca and P concentrations, improve antioxidant capacity and immune response, and influence lipid metabolism in L. vannamei.
Seaweed and microalgae as major actors of blue biotechnology to achieve plant stimulation and pest and pathogen biocontrol – a review of the latest advances and future prospects
Authors: Berthon Jean-Yves , Michel Thibault , Wauquier Aurélie , Joly Pierre , Gerbore Jonathan , Filaire Edith
Published: December 2021

Modern agriculture needs proper solutions to face the current trend of pesticides and fertilizers reduction. One of the available leverages to support this transition is the use of bioproducts that are more environmentally friendly and less hazardous for human health. Among them, blue biotechnology and more precisely seaweed and microalgae gain interest every year in the scientific community. In agriculture, seaweeds (Macroalgae) have been used in the production of plant biostimulants while microalgae still remain unexploited. Microalgae are widely described as renewable sources of biofuels, bioingredients and biologically active compounds, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), carotenoids, phycobiliproteins, sterols, vitamins and polysaccharides, which attract considerable interest in both scientific and industrial communities. They affect agricultural crops for enhancement of plant growth, seedling growth. They can also improve nutrient incorporation, fruit setting, resistance properties against pests and diseases, improving stress management (drought, salinity and temperature). The present review aimed at the interest of blue biotechnology in agronomy, with a specific focus on microalgae, their biological activities and their possible application in agriculture as a potentially sustainable alternative for enhanced crop performance, nutrient uptake and resilience to environmental stress. This review does not only present a comprehensive study of microalgae as plant biostimulants but also as biofertilizers, with a particular emphasis on future challenges these solutions will have to deal with, microalgae being able to synthesize secondary metabolites with potential biopesticidal action.
Understanding the sex inequality in childlessness: an approach using Swedish register data
Authors: Chudnovskaya Margarita , Ueda Peter
Published: December 2021

In most countries, men are more likely to be childless than women. Understanding how this inequality arises is important given the significance of parenthood for individuals’ lives. The objective of this study was to explore how three prominent explanations for sex inequalities in childlessness relate to the Sex Gap in Childlessness (SGC) in Sweden. The three explanations examined were sex ratio imbalance (more men than women), mismeasurement of fatherhood (inequalities in registration) and partnership differences (inequality in multi-partner fertility). Administrative register data for cohorts born in 1945–1974 were used. The population was restricted to men and women who were born in Sweden or arrived prior to the age of 15, and all registered childbearing partnerships were examined. To explore the possible significance of the three explanations, counter-factual standardization was used. Of the three explanations examined, the population sex ratio had the largest positive impact on the SGC, while multi-partner fertility had a negative impact. The results show that inequalities in the sex ratio can explain about 20–34% of the SGC depending on cohort. Inequalities in registration of fathers explain about 9–24% of the SGC depending on cohort. Finally, results show that women are slightly more likely to have multiple partners, and that this behaviour has a substantial minimizing effect on the SGC (minimizing it by 6–65%). To the authors’ knowledge this was the first paper to estimate the scope of the impacts of these three mechanisms on the SGC. Differences in multi-partner fertility have in many instances been used as an explanation for men’s higher childlessness. This study shows that women have slightly more childbearing partners than men, and that this actually leads to a smaller SGC in the studied population.
Lactose-free Dulce de leche: compositional characterization, browning and texture profile
Authors: Pinto Caroline Barroso dos Anjos , Renhe Isis Rodrigues Toledo , Viana Carolina Carvalho Ramos , Perrone Ítalo Tuler , Oliveira Luiz Fernando Cappa de , Stephani Rodrigo
Published: December 2021

Our objective was to elaborate lactose-free Dulce de leche (DL) and evaluate the influence of the hydrolysis of this sugar on the attributes of the products. Fluid milk used was divided into two portions and, in one of them, enzymatic hydrolysis of lactose was carried through. Next, the homogenization of milk was performed at 20 MPa. Four different treatments were studied. The final products were evaluated in relation to their composition and physico-chemical characteristics. The main results show that the homogenized lactose-free DL obtained a higher concentration of free 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) (133.77 ± 3.42 μmol l−1). Consequently, browning was more intense due to Maillard Reaction. Texture parameters were higher (1611.00 ± 598.78 g hardness and 19.52 ± 2.46 g gumminess) when compared to the homogenized traditional product (28.45 ± 1.16 μmol l−1 free HMF, 437.17 ± 279.3 g hardness, and 406.20 ± 311.69 g gumminess). Lactose-free products are in high demand by consumers; however, the results of this work highlight the challenges to properly control the browning and the texture parameters of DL.
The Endangered giant nuthatch Sitta magna: population size, habitat availability and the implications for its conservation in Thailand
Authors: Khamcha Daphawan , Angkaew Rongrong , Pierce Andrew J. , Gale George A.
Published: December 2021

Available habitat and hence the global population of the Endangered giant nuthatch Sitta magna, restricted to lower montane habitats of south-western China, eastern Myanmar and northern Thailand, remains poorly quantified. Thailand is the only portion of the species’ range for which there is a population estimate. To obtain a more precise estimate of the Thai population and clarify the extent and characteristics of suitable habitat remaining, we conducted 335 point-count surveys at 67 points across eight localities during November 2019–February 2020. We estimated abundance and identified preferred habitat characteristics using N-mixture models, and created suitable habitat maps based on data from surveys and remote sensing. Our estimate for Thailand was 578 (95% CI 391–854) individuals based on a density of 3.7 (95% CI 2.5–5.5) individuals/km2 in 156 km2 of suitable habitat. The giant nuthatch prefers dry forest with a large amount of mature native or planted pine Pinus kesiya and with a large tree basal area and an open canopy. Our estimate of suitable habitat remaining was less than previously reported and thus the population has probably decreased, although most of this habitat is within protected areas. Habitats for the species in Thailand have a stronger level of protection than in Myanmar and China, although habitat in China remains unquantified. We recommend further research in Myanmar and China, which may hold the majority of available habitat for the giant nuthatch. For long-term management, detailed study of the association of the giant nuthatch with pine plantations is required.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on depression in community-dwelling older adults: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Oh Dae Jong , Yang Hee Won , Suh Seung Wan , Byun Seonjeong , Kim Tae Hui , Kwak Kyung Phil , Kim Bong Jo , Kim Shin Gyeom , Kim Jeong Lan , Moon Seok Woo , Park Joon Hyuk , Ryu Seung-Ho , Lee Dong Woo , Lee Seok Bum , Lee Jung Jae , Jhoo Jin Hyeong , Bae Jong Bin , Han Ji Won , Kim Ki Woong
Published: December 2021

Background

There are growing concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of older adults. We examined the effect of the pandemic on the risk of depression in older adults.

Methods

We analyzed data from the prospective cohort study of Korean older adults, which has been followed every 2 years. Among the 2308 participants who completed both the third and the fourth follow-up assessments, 58.4% completed their fourth follow-up before the outbreak of COVID-19 and the rest completed it during the pandemic. We conducted face-to-face diagnostic interviews using Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and used Geriatric Depression Scale. We performed generalized estimating equations and logistic regression analyses.

Results

The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased depressive symptoms in older adults [b (standard error) = 0.42 (0.20), p = 0.040] and a doubling of the risk for incident depressive disorder even in euthymic older adults without a history of depression (odds ratio = 2.44, 95% confidence interval 1.18–5.02, p = 0.016). Less social activities, which was associated with the risk of depressive disorder before the pandemic, was not associated with the risk of depressive disorder during the pandemic. However, less family gatherings, which was not associated with the risk of depressive disorder before the pandemic, was associated with the doubled risk of depressive disorder during the pandemic.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influences the risk of late-life depression in the community. Older adults with a lack of family gatherings may be particularly vulnerable.
Effects of free-flight activities on wildlife: a poorly understood issue in conservation
Authors: Tobajas Jorge , Guil Francisco , Margalida Antoni
Published: December 2021

Recreational activities may have negative effects on wildlife, but there are very few studies specifically on the effects of free-flight activities (i.e., hang-gliders, paragliders and their powered derivatives) on wildlife. We review the existing scientific studies on this issue in order to identify the gaps in knowledge at the taxonomic-group level in order to develop guidelines to minimize the impacts of recreational free-flight on wildlife. We found that studies mainly concerned the effects on four ungulate species (chamois, red deer, roe deer and Alpine ibex) and, to a lesser extent, on raptors such as the golden eagle and two vulture species (bearded vulture and cinereous vulture). The studies have generally been carried out in high mountain areas (e.g., the European Alps). Data show that free-flight activities create disturbances and have negative effects on wildlife, resulting in increased energy expenditure, reduction of feeding time, abandonment of feeding areas, reduced breeding output, loss of body condition, increased predation risk and harm from flight accidents. However, the lack of studies on many species and areas, along with the small number of long-term studies, prevents proper assessment of the current situation regarding the impact of this activity on wildlife. We provide recommendations to improve the regulation of this activity.
Nomogram prediction of severe risk in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Tang Wei , Yao Run , Zheng Fang , Huang Yaxiong , Zhou Guoqiang , Chen Ruochan , Li Ning
Published: December 2021

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) elicits a range of different responses in patients and can manifest into mild to very severe cases in different individuals, depending on many factors. We aimed to establish a prediction model of severe risk in COVID-19 patients, to help clinicians achieve early prevention, intervention and aid them in choosing effective therapeutic strategy. We selected confirmed COVID-19 patients who were admitted to First Hospital of Changsha city between 29 January and 15 February 2020 and collected their clinical data. Multivariate logical regression was used to identify the factors associated with severe risk. These factors were incorporated into the nomogram to establish the model. The ROC curve, calibration plot and decision curve were used to assess the performance of the model. A total of 228 patients were enrolled and 33 (14.47%) patients developed severe pneumonia. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that shortness of breath, fatigue, creatine kinase, lymphocytes and h CRP were independent factors for severe risk in COVID-19 patients. Incorporating age, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and these factors, the nomogram achieved good concordance indexes of 0.89 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.832–0.949] and well-fitted calibration plot curves (Hosmer–Lemeshow test: P = 0.97). The model provided superior net benefit when clinical decision thresholds were between 15% and 85% predicted risk. Using the model, clinicians can intervene early, improve therapeutic effects and reduce the severity of COVID-19, thus ensuring more targeted and efficient use of medical resources.
Race, homelessness and inner-city policy in 1980s Britain
Authors: Child Phil
Published: December 2021

This article utilizes an organizational history of the Birmingham-based Handsworth Single Homeless Action Group (HSHAG) to explore black youth homelessness and inner-city policy in 1980s Britain. It draws upon under-used charity archives to intervene in recent debates, considering the part played by the voluntary sector within the Thatcher administrations’ inner-city policies and what targeted funding of this kind reveals about the remaking of the welfare state in these years. First, it introduces HSHAG, setting out the context of inner-city funding programmes, before questioning how sustainable this might have been for voluntary organizations engaged in supporting the homeless population. Secondly, it examines the effects of housing privatization and unemployment on HSHAG's attempts to advise homeless black individuals and assert their rights as citizens to state support. Together, it exposes the role of the voluntary sector in welfare state restructuring and considers how this change made the task of homelessness organizations Herculean.