bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear Combinations of Projections in Type III Factors
Authors: Goldstein Stanisław , Paszkiewicz Adam
Published: September 2022

It is shown that every self-adjoint operator in a $$\sigma $$
σ
-finite von Neumann factor of type III can be written as a real linear combination of 3 projections. This is in stark contrast to factors of type $$I_\infty ,\, II_1$$

I
∞

,

I

I
1

and $$II_\infty $$

I

I
∞

, where there are always operators that require at least 4 projections in such a representation.
Cwikel’s bound reloaded
Authors: Hundertmark Dirk , Kunstmann Peer , Ried Tobias , Vugalter Semjon
Published: September 2022

There are several proofs by now for the famous Cwikel–Lieb–Rozenblum (CLR) bound, which is a semiclassical bound on the number of bound states for a Schrödinger operator, proven in the 1970s. Of the rather distinct proofs by Cwikel, Lieb, and Rozenblum, the one by Lieb gives the best constant, the one by Rozenblum does not seem to yield any reasonable estimate for the constants, and Cwikel’s proof is said to give a constant which is at least about 2 orders of magnitude off the truth. This situation did not change much during the last 40+ years. It turns out that this common belief, i.e, Cwikel’s approach yields bad constants, is not set in stone: We give a substantial refinement of Cwikel’s original approach which highlights a natural but overlooked connection of the CLR bound with bounds for maximal Fourier multipliers from harmonic analysis. Moreover, it gives an astonishingly good bound for the constant in the CLR inequality. Our proof is also quite flexible and leads to rather precise bounds for a large class of Schrödinger-type operators with generalized kinetic energies.
The joint effect of framing and defaults on choice behavior
Authors: Giuliani Felice , Cannito Loreta , Gigliotti Gilberto , Rosa Angelo , Pietroni Davide , Palumbo Riccardo
Published: September 2022

The framing effect leads people to prefer a sure alternative over a risky one (risk aversion) when alternatives are described as potential gains compared to a context-dependent reference point. The reverse (risk propensity) happens when the same alternatives are described as potential losses. The default effect is the tendency to prefer a preselected alternative over other non-preselected given options, without facilitating nor incentivizing the choice. These two effects have mainly been studied separately. Here we provided novel empirical evidence of additive effects due to the application of both framing and default within the same decision problem in a large sample size (N = 960). In the baseline condition, where no default was provided, we measured the proportion of risky choices in life-or-death and financial decisions both presented in terms of potential gains or losses following the structure of the Asian disease problem. In the sure default condition, the same layout was proposed with a flag on the sure option, whereas in the risky default condition, the flag was on the risky option. In both default conditions, we asked participants whether they wanted to change the preselected option. Overall, the comparison between these conditions revealed three distinct main effects: (i) a classic framing effect, (ii) a larger risk propensity in the life-or-death scenario than in the financial one, and (iii) a larger default effect when the flag was on the risky, rather than on the sure, option. Therefore, we conclude that default options can enhance risk propensity. Finally, individual beliefs about the source of the default significantly moderated the strength of the effect. Underlying mechanisms and practical implications are discussed considering prominent theories in this field.
Application of impedance spectroscopy and tomography to monitor calcite deposits in drainage pipes
Authors: Affortunati Sabrina , Zagar Bernhard G.
Published: September 2022

The determination of calcite deposits in drainage pipes plays an important role in tunnel construction as well as in ongoing operation. If these deposits are not detected in time, expensive maintenance work is required compared to a simple flush. If detected early, rinsing with a pressurized water jet is usually sufficient. For this reason, research is carried out on various sensor systems that allow the growth of the calcite layer to be monitored. Impedance tomography (EIT) and impedance spectroscopy (EIS) can be used as measuring methods since both allow the estimation of the layering of air, water, and calcite for the given two-dimensional pipe geometry. The solution to the estimation problem is also made easier by the fact that the materials involved, PVC, calcite, water, and air, have very different electrical conductivities and permittivities and are also known to form horizontal layers. Thus, simple electronics and signal processing schemes are possible.

This article presents a cost-effective drainage pipe monitoring solution that uses distributed impedance measurements to determine the layering and roughly estimates the thickness of layers of air, water, and calcite within these pipes. Several thousand pipe segments are required for tunnel lengths of several kilometers, which is why a very inexpensive and simple implementation of these sensors is required.
Analytische Modelluntersuchung der Wärmeentwicklung im homogenen Gewebe durch kreisrunde REPULS-Bestrahlung
Authors: Beigelbeck Roman , Toriser Walter , Paschke Fritz
Published: September 2022

In dieser Arbeit wird ein neuartiges analytisches Modell zur Untersuchung der Wärmeentwicklung an der Hautoberfläche und im darunterliegenden Gewebe durch Bestrahlung mit einem REPULS-LED-Rotlichttiefenstrahler im Rahmen einer photodynamischen Therapie vorgestellt. Es wird gezeigt, dass unter bestimmten Voraussetzungen geschlossen darstellbare Lösungen auf Basis von höheren transzendenten Funktionen möglich sind. Diese Lösungen gestatten die effiziente Abschätzung der sich einstellenden Endtemperatur und des Zeitverhaltens des Erwärmungsvorgangs. Beides sind wichtige Erkenntnisse für das Gerätedesign bezüglich einer Medizinproduktzulassung und einer Funktionsoptimierung.
Semimartingale price systems in models with transaction costs beyond efficient friction
Authors: Kühn Christoph , Molitor Alexander
Published: September 2022

A standing assumption in the literature on proportional transaction costs is efficient friction. Together with robust no free lunch with vanishing risk, it rules out strategies of infinite variation as they usually appear in frictionless markets. In this paper, we show how the models with and without transaction costs can be unified.

The bid and ask prices of a risky asset are given by càdlàg processes which are locally bounded from below and may coincide at some points. In a first step, we show that if the bid–ask model satisfies “no unbounded profit with bounded risk” for simple strategies, then there exists a semimartingale lying between the bid and ask price processes.

In a second step, under the additional assumption that the zeros of the bid–ask spread are either starting points of an excursion away from zero or inner points from the right, we show that for every bounded predictable strategy specifying the amount of risky assets, the semimartingale can be used to construct the corresponding self-financing risk-free position in a consistent way. Finally, the set of most general strategies is introduced, which also provides a new view on the frictionless case.
Long-Acting Injectable Therapy for People with HIV: Looking Ahead with Lessons from Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine
Authors: Edwards Gabriel G. , Miyashita-Ochoa Ayako , Castillo Enrico G. , Goodman-Meza David , Kalofonos Ippolytos , Landovitz Raphael J. , Leibowitz Arleen A. , Pulsipher Craig , El Sayed Ed , Shoptaw Steven , Shover Chelsea L. , Tabajonda Michelle , Yang Yvonne S. , Harawa Nina T.
Published: September 2022

Long-acting injectable antiretroviral medications are new to HIV treatment. People with HIV may benefit from a treatment option that better aligns with their preferences, but could also face new challenges and barriers. Authors from the fields of HIV, substance use treatment, and mental health collaborated on this commentary on the issues surrounding equitable implementation and uptake of LAI ART by drawing lessons from all three fields. We employ a socio-ecological framework beginning at the policy level and moving through the community, organizational, interpersonal, and patient levels. We look at extant literature on the topic as well as draw from the direct experience of our clinician-authors.
Damage assessment in single-nave churches and analysis of the most recurring mechanisms after the 2016–2017 central Italy earthquakes
Authors: Ceroni F. , Casapulla C. , Cescatti E. , Follador V. , Prota A. , da Porto F.
Published: September 2022

Assessment of churches based on empirical data at a territorial scale is a suitable tool to have an overview of the seismic behaviour of this peculiar structural typology and to evaluate their current state of vulnerability. Fragility and vulnerability curves are also aimed to perform the analysis of different seismic scenarios. The paper presents a detailed typological analysis of 633 single-nave churches, as a selected subset of the database previously examined by the authors, with the aim of evaluating more in detail the influence of some parameters, such as masonry typology, church dimensions and  presence of the bell tower, on the vulnerability of the overall church. Then, specific analyses are carried out to assess the influence played by single mechanisms on the definition of the overall damage index, with the focus of providing qualitative evaluations and explicit vulnerability and fragility curves related to the most recurring and significant collapse mechanisms. This is an original contribution of the paper in the field of the vulnerability assessment of churches, since nowadays little information is available in the literature about the damage levels related to specific mechanisms, while most attention is still focused on global damage.
Non-Human Kids of Kiddie Lit: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s The Yearling and the Cultural Construction of Animal Narratives as Children’s Literature
Authors: Włodarczyk Justyna , Wilde Julia
Published: September 2022

This paper combines the perspectives of animal studies and reception theory to trace the audience shift of narratives foregrounding interactions between adolescent boys and animals published in the US in the first half of the twentieth century. More precisely, it argues that a text’s focus on human–animal bonds can result in its “kiddification,” a term explained by Beverly Lyon Clark as trivialization that leads to dismissal. We argue that the reasons for this shift include the solidification of the boy-and-his-dog convention in the 1940s as an example of formula fiction for juveniles, combined with the simultaneous proliferation of animal movies geared towards a family audience. The case under scrutiny is Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’s novel The Yearling and its film adaptation from 1946. Despite the book’s initial success among general audiences (awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1939), with time Kinnan Rawlings’s novel became “kiddified” and then passed into oblivion, rarely discussed by critics who deem it undeserving of attention and unread by contemporary juveniles, who perhaps find the book difficult, long and tedious (Groff, Harper’s, https://harpers.org/archive/2014/01/the-lost-yearling/, 2014). Consequently, the foregrounding of affective human–animal bonds in the book resulted in its later association with children’s literature, which was amplified by the film adaptation as well as the publisher’s marketing strategies.
Non-intact Families and Children’s Educational Outcomes: Comparing Native and Migrant Pupils
Authors: Guetto Raffaele , Zanasi Francesca , Carella Maria
Published: September 2022

This study explores whether the association between living in a single-parent household and children’s educational outcomes differs by migration background through comparing natives with first- and second-generation migrant pupils from different areas of origin. While there is strong evidence of an educational gap between migrant and native pupils in Western countries—and particularly in Italy—the interaction with family structure has been under-investigated. We suggest that native children have more socioeconomic resources to lose as a consequence of parental breakups, and thus may experience more negative consequences from living in a single-parent household compared to migrant children, who tend to have poorer educational outcomes regardless of family disruptions. Moreover, for migrant children, family disruption could result from parents’ migratory project (transnationalism) rather than separation or divorce, thus not necessarily implying parental conflict and a deteriorating family environment. Empirical analyses of data from the ISTAT ‘Integration of the Second Generation’ survey (2015) show that native Italian pupils from single-parent households in lower secondary schools are more strongly penalised in terms of grades, and less likely to aspire to the most prestigious upper secondary tracks when compared to second- and, especially, first-generation children. Indeed, the latter have been found to experience virtually no negative consequences from parental absence. Contrary to expectations, we found no substantial differences in the non-intact penalty based on the reason for parental absence (transnationalism vs divorce), nor by migrants’ area of origin.
Three-Space from Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Szabados László B.
Published: September 2022

The spin geometry theorem of Penrose is extended from SU(2) to E(3) (Euclidean) invariant elementary quantum mechanical systems. Using the natural decomposition of the total angular momentum into its spin and orbital parts, the distance between the centre-of-mass lines of the elementary subsystems of a classical composite system can be recovered from their relative orbital angular momenta by E(3)-invariant classical observables. Motivated by this observation, an expression for the ‘empirical distance’ between the elementary subsystems of a composite quantum mechanical system, given in terms of E(3)-invariant quantum observables, is suggested. It is shown that, in the classical limit, this expression reproduces the a priori Euclidean distance between the subsystems, though at the quantum level it has a discrete character. ‘Empirical’ angles and 3-volume elements are also considered.
Comparing the accuracy of the new-generation intraocular lens power calculation formulae in axial myopic eyes: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Hongyu , Ye Zi , Luo Yu , Li Zhaohui
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To compare the accuracy of the new-generation intraocular lens power calculation formulae in axial myopic eyes.

Methods

Four databases, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and Cochrane library, were searched to select relevant studies published between Apr 11, 2011, and Apr 11, 2021. Axial myopic eyes were defined as an axial length more than 24.5 mm. There are 13 formulae to participate in the final comparison (SRK/T, Hoffer Q, Holladay I, Holladay II, Haigis for traditional formulae, Barrett Universal II, Olsen, T2, VRF, EVO, Kane, Hill-RBF, LSF for the new-generation formulae). The primary outcomes were the percentage of eyes with a refractive prediction error in ± 0.5D and ± 1.0D.

Results

A total of 2273 eyes in 15 studies were enrolled in the final meta-analysis. Overall, the new-generation formulae showed a relatively more accurate outcome in comparison with traditional formulae. The percentage of eyes with a predictive refraction error in ± 0.5D (± 1.0D) of Kane, EVO and LSF was higher than 80% (95%), which was only significantly different from Hoffer Q (all P < 0.05). Moreover, another two new-generation formulae, Barrett Universal II and Olsen, had higher percentages than SRK/T, Hoffer Q, Holladay I and Haigis for eyes with predictive refraction error in ± 0.5D and ± 1.0D (all P < 0.05). In ± 0.5D group, Hill-RBF was better than SRK/T (P = 0.02), and Holladay I was better than EVO (P = 0.03) and LSF (P = 0.009), and Hoffer Q had a lower percentage than EVO, Kane, Hill-RBF and LSF (P = 0.007, 0.004, 0.002, 0.03, respectively). Barrett Universal II was better than T2 (P = 0.02), and Hill-RBF was better than SRK/T (P = 0.009). No significant difference was found in other pairwise comparison.

Conclusion

The new-generation formula is more accurate in intraocular lens power calculation for axial myopic eyes in comparison with the third- or fourth-generation formula.
Differences in Art Appreciation in Autism: A Measure of Reduced Intuitive Processing
Authors: Brosnan Mark , Ashwin Chris
Published: September 2022

Art appreciation reflects an initial emotional and intuitive response to artwork evaluation, although this intuitive evaluation can be attenuated by subsequent deliberation. The Dual Process Theory of Autism proposes that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have a greater propensity to deliberate and reduced intuition compared to matched controls. Evaluations of high- and low-quality artworks were undertaken by 107 individuals with a diagnosis of ASD and 145 controls. Controls consistently evaluated high-quality artworks to be much better quality than the low-quality artworks, reflecting intuitive processing. The ASD sample showed a reduced difference in evaluations between high- versus low-quality artwork, which reflects reduced intuitive processing and greater deliberative processing and is consistent with predictions by the Dual Process Theory of Autism.
Assessing a novel second generation laryngeal mask airway using the ‘ADEPT’ approach: results from the LMA® Protector™ observational study
Authors: Ní Eochagáin A. , Athanassoglou V. , Cumberworth A. , Morris O. , Corbett S. , Jefferson H. , O’Sullivan E. P. , Pandit J. J.
Published: September 2022

To address the problem of lack of clinical evidence for airway devices introduced to the market, the Difficult Airway Society (UK) developed an approach (termed ADEPT; Airway Device Evaluation Project Team) to standardise the model for device evaluation. Under this framework we assessed theLMA Protector, a second generation laryngeal mask airway. A total of 111 sequential adult patients were recruited and the LMA Protector inserted after induction of general anaesthesia. Effective insertion was confirmed by resistance to further distal movement, manual ventilation, and listening for gas leakage at the mouth. The breathing circuit was connected to the airway channel and airway patency confirmed with manual test ventilation at 20 cm H20 (water) pressure for 3 s. Data was collected in relation to the time for placement, intraoperative performance and postoperative performance of the airway device. Additionally, investigators rated the ease of insertion and adequacy of lung ventilation on a 5-point scale. The median (interquartile range [range]) time taken to insertion of the device was 31 (26–40[14–780]) s with the ability to ventilate after device insertion 100 (95% CI 96.7- 100)%. Secondary endpoints included one or more manoeuvres 60.3 (95% CI 50.6—69.5)% cases requiring to assist insertion; a median ease of insertion score of 4 (2–5[3–5]), and a median adequacy of ventilation score of 5 (5–5[4–5]). However, the first time insertion rate failure was 9.9% (95% CI 5.1—17.0%). There were no episodes of patient harm recorded, particularly desaturation. The LMA Protector appears suitable for clinical use, but an accompanying article discusses our reflections on the ADEPT approach to studying airway devices from a strategic perspective.
Simulation of the Cosmic Ray Impact on the TES Detectors of SPICA/SAFARI
Authors: Stockmans T. A. , Almasi A. , Stever S. L. , Khosropanah P.
Published: September 2022

The data from the Planck and Herschel space observatories revealed that the cosmic rays at L2 orbit can have a significant impact on the performance of scientific instruments. In this paper, we present our simulation results of such impacts on SAFARI/SPICA, a far-infrared spectrometer equipped with transition-edge sensors (TESs). These TESs are fabricated on SiN membranes and suspended by long and thin SiN legs that thermally isolate them from the surrounding silicon structure (wafer). Cosmic rays that pass through this surrounding structure deposit a portion of their energy, leading to temperature fluctuations in the wafer. These temperature fluctuations are sensed by the TES detectors as an effective bath temperature and result in additional noise. To simulate the impact, we generate a 2D model of the wafer and the suspended TESs in COMSOL 5.4. This 2D model is bombarded with 128 randomly generated cosmic rays according to the observed energy distributions at L2. Subsequently, the temperature fluctuations at different points on the wafer are estimated. Our results show that these thermal fluctuations, as well as the calculated additional TES noise caused by them, depend strongly on the heat-sink design of the wafer. We study the impact of the different heat sink designs on the noise profile of the system. Later, these results are compared to the SAFARI instrument noise requirements.
On the M2–Brane Index on Noncommutative Crepant Resolutions
Authors: Cirafici Michele
Published: September 2022

On certain M-theory backgrounds which are a circle fibration over a smooth Calabi–Yau the quantum theory of M2 branes can be studied in terms of the K-theoretic Donaldson–Thomas theory on the threefold. We extend this relation to noncommutative crepant resolutions. In this case the threefold develops a singularity and classical smooth geometry is replaced by the algebra of paths of a certain quiver. K-theoretic quantities on the quiver representation moduli space can be computed via toric localization and result in certain rational functions of the toric parameters. We discuss in particular the case of the conifold and certain orbifold singularities.
The suppressive role of nanoencapsulated chia oil against DMBA-induced breast cancer through oxidative stress repression and tumor genes expression modulation in rats
Authors: El makawy Aida I. , Mabrouk Dalia M. , Mohammed Shaimaa E. , Abdel-Aziem Sekena H. , EL-Kader Heba A. Abd , Sharaf Hafiza A. , Youssef Dalia A. , Ibrahim Faten M.
Published: September 2022

Background

Chia oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a lower risk of many diseases, including cancer. Oil encapsulation is a method that holds promise for maintaining oil content while enhancing solubility and stability. The purpose of this study is to prepare nanoencapsulated Chia oil and investigate its suppressive effects on rat chemically induced breast cancer.

Methods

The oil was extracted from commercial Chia seeds and their fatty acids were analyzed using Gas Chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Sodium alginate was used as a loading agent to create the Chia oil nanocapsules. The DPPH assay was used to assess the oil nanocapsules' capacity to scavenge free radicals. Breast cancer induction was done by single dose subcutaneously administration of 80 mg/kg dimethylbenz (a) anthracene (DMBA). Models of breast cancer were given Chia oil nanocapsules orally for one month at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. Through measuring intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protein carbonyl, assessing the gene expression of tumor suppressor genes (BRCA 1 & 2, TP53), and conducting histopathological analysis, the suppressive effect of Chia oil nanocapsules was examined.

Results

The increase in ROS and PC levels brought on by DMBA was significantly decreased by the administration of Chia oil nanocapsules. In tumor tissue from rats given Chia oil nanocapsules, the mRNA expression levels of BRCA1, BRCA2, and TP53 were controlled Histopathological analysis clarified that the tissue architecture of breast tumors was improved by nanocapsules management.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the ability of Chia oil nanocapsules to inhibit cancer cells in the rat breast.
Data and its role in reducing the risk of disasters in the built environment
Authors: So Emily
Published: September 2022

In accordance with the Sendai framework, we need to protect our global neighbours
from the risk of future disasters. This short paper calls for the disaster risk reduction
(DRR) community to make investments in standardising and collecting the muchneeded
vulnerability-relevant exposure data to help quantify, and therefore reduce risk.
Looking into Death: Trauma, Memory and Human Face
Authors: Violi Patrizia
Published: September 2022

This article analyses the relationship of human faces with trauma and death, in particular focalizing on the use of snap shot and ID kinds of photos in site of memory, memorials an public art.
Does ICSI outcome in obstructive azoospermia differ according to the origin of retrieved spermatozoa or the cause of epididymal obstruction? A comparative study
Authors: Yu Xiaochen , Lu Shaoming , Yuan Mingzhen , Ma Gang , Li Xiao , Zhang Taijian , Gao Shanshan , Wei Daimin , Chen Zi-Jiang , Liu Hongbin , Zhang Haobo
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To determine whether ICSI outcomes are affected by sperm source or genital tract inflammatory status.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in all consecutive obstructive azoospermia patients who underwent testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) or percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) and ICSI between February 1, 2017, and December 31, 2020. Couples were excluded if they were diagnosed with monogenic disease, abnormal karyotype, or had female uterine malformation. The primary objective was to determine whether ICSI outcomes are affected by the use of testicular or epididymal spermatozoa, and the secondary objective was to explore the effect of granulocyte elastase on ICSI outcomes using epididymal spermatozoa.

Results

Compared with TESA, inflammatory and non-inflammatory PESA patients exhibited a better high-quality embryo rate, with significant differences among the three groups (49.43 vs. 55.39% and 56.03%; odds ratio, 6.345 and 6.631; 95% confidence interval, 0.340–12.350, and 1.712–11.550;P = 0.038 andP = 0.008, respectively). The fertilization rate, clinical pregnancy rate, live birth delivery rate, and congenital anomaly birth rate were similar in patients who underwent TESA or PESA (with or without inflammation).

Conclusions

The high-quality embryo rate in PESA patients was higher than that in TESA patients. After successful pregnancy, ICSI outcomes did not differ between patients with obstructive azoospermia who experienced TESA or PESA and those with or without genital tract inflammation.
Differentiating and Quantifying Carbonaceous (Tire, Bitumen, and Road Marking Wear) and Non-carbonaceous (Metals, Minerals, and Glass Beads) Non-exhaust Particles in Road Dust Samples from a Traffic Environment
Authors: Järlskog Ida , Jaramillo-Vogel David , Rausch Juanita , Perseguers Sébastien , Gustafsson Mats , Strömvall Ann-Margret , Andersson-Sköld Yvonne
Published: September 2022

Tires, bitumen, and road markings are important sources of traffic-derived carbonaceous wear particles and microplastic (MP) pollution. In this study, we further developed a machine-learning algorithm coupled to an automated scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) analytical approach to classify and quantify the relative number of the following subclasses contained in environmental road dust: tire wear particles (TWP), bitumen wear particles (BiWP), road markings, reflecting glass beads, metallics, minerals, and biogenic/organics. The method is non-destructive, rapid, repeatable, and enables information about the size, shape, and elemental composition of particles 2–125 µm. The results showed that the method enabled differentiation between TWP and BiWP for particles > 20 µm with satisfying results. Furthermore, the relative number concentration of the subclasses was similar in both analyzed size fractions (2–20 µm and 20–125 µm), with minerals as the most dominant subclass (2–20 µm x̄ = 78%, 20–125 µm x̄ = 74%) followed by tire and bitumen wear particles, TBiWP, (2–20 µm x̄ = 19%, 20–125 µm x̄ = 22%). Road marking wear, glass beads, and metal wear contributed to x̄ = 1%, x̄ = 0.1%, and x̄ = 1% in the 2–20-µm fraction and to x̄ = 0.5%, x̄ = 0.2%, and x̄ = 0.4% in the 20–125-µm fraction. The present results show that road dust appreciably consists of TWP and BiWP within both the coarse and the fine size fraction. The study delivers quantitative evidence of the importance of tires, bitumen, road marking, and glass beads besides minerals and metals to wear particles and MP pollution in traffic environments based on environmental (real-world) samples
Noise-resistant and scalable collective preference learning via ranked voting in swarm robotics
Authors: Shan Qihao , Mostaghim Sanaz
Published: September 2022

Swarm robotics studies how to use large groups of cooperating robots to perform designated tasks. Given the need for scalability, individual members of the swarm usually have only limited sensory capabilities, which can be unreliable in noisy situations. One way to address this shortcoming is via collective decision-making, and utilizing peer-to-peer local interactions to enhance the behavioral performances of the whole swarm of intelligent agents. In this paper, we address a collective preference learning scenario, where agents seek to rank a series of given sites according to a preference order. We have proposed and tested a novel ranked voting-based strategy to perform the designated task. We use two variants of a belief fusion-based strategy as benchmarks. We compare the considered algorithms in terms of accuracy and precision of decisions as well as the convergence time. We have tested the considered algorithms in various noise levels, evidence rates, and swarm sizes. We have concluded that the proposed ranked voting approach is significantly cheaper and more accurate, at the cost of less precision and longer convergence time. It is especially advantageous compared to the benchmark when facing high noise or large swarm size.
Temporal increase in the extent of Sardinian pine formations
Authors: Calvia G. , Bonari G. , Angiolini C. , Farris E. , Fenu G. , Bacchetta G.
Published: September 2022

Temporal changes in the distribution range of plant communities and habitats should be considered for optimal conservation. However, this information is often lacking. In this research, we investigated the changes in the spatial distribution pattern of the plant communities characterised by the presence of three Mediterranean pines considered native or putative native to Sardinia (Italy), namely Pinus halepensis, P. pinaster, and P. pinea. We analysed historical and current aerial photographs to prepare maps of the past and current distribution of natural pine formations, complemented with the aid of pine-related toponymy maps and interviews with local people. We calculated how the surface of natural pine formations varied across time, and found a high rate of recovery during the last decades. This rate is doubled when compared to the average extent of other Sardinian woody formations in the same period. Among the three pine species, the area of P. halepensis and P. pinaster formations increased the most. We also found that about 90% of pine formations fall within protected areas. More than 128 ha of natural pine formations are included in the priority habitat 2270, while those included in habitat 9540 cover 1100 ha. Our study provides a complete survey of the distribution of natural Sardinian pine formations, along with the quantification of their increase in the last decades, thus highlighting the importance of diachronic analyses for monitoring spatial changes in plant communities. We suggest considering the trends in the extent of vegetation formations and habitats for conservation purposes.
Regional gap in students’ performance at the quantiles
Authors: Furno Marilena
Published: September 2022

The average math score in Italy sizably improved in 2009. The quantile regression analysis shows that the determinants of the improvement are related to school resources. The decomposition at the quantiles shows that school characteristics are relevant in the north-center regions. In the south are relevant both covariates and coefficients. The coefficient component is unexplained by the model and is linked to changes in students' attitude, to a more favorable disciplinary climate. The southern regions gap decreases but does not disappear. The improved southern students’ attitude toward school, if supported by improvements in school characteristics, could further reduce the regional gap.
Volumetric Pouch Study After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Ali Reda F. , Tolba Mohamed , Ismail Khalid , Ismail Taha , Lamey Ahmed , Balbaa Mostafa F.
Published: September 2022

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is considerably utilized as a bariatric method for treating morbid obesity through the reduction of stomach volume. The present study attempted to assess the volumetric changes of the gastric reservoir 1 year after LSG using multi-slice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) as well as to verify their association with weight loss. The current study is a prospective study of 40 consecutive morbid obese patients managed with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. All patients were referred to abdominal MSCT besides volumetric measurement of the gastric pouch 1 month and 12 months postoperatively after the LSG. There were statistically substantial differences throughout the whole period of follow-up (p value ≤ 0.05) regarding the ratio of excess weight loss, weight loss, and decreased BMI, in addition to the ratio of excess body mass index loss (% EBMIL) after LSG. Substantial elevation of the overall volume of the gastric reservoir (82.9 SD11 and 171.6 SD23.6 ml at 1 and 12 months, respectively) was observed. However, the current findings did not demonstrate any significant association (r = 0.131, p = 0.491) between excess weight loss percentage and the increase in gastric reservoir volume 1 year postoperatively. Sleeve dilatation is a common finding following sleeve gastrectomy (SG) even after conducting a narrow gastric pouch, yet dilatation was not correlated with insufficient weight loss after 1 year postoperatively. Trial registration number: NCT04880902.
The Greek sovereign debt crisis as an important chapter in the history of the European Monetary Union: empirical evidence and some thoughts on implications for investors and financial risk managers
Authors: Tholl Johannes , Schwarzbach Christoph
Published: September 2022

After the burst of the US real estate price bubble in 2008, the events in Greece played, at least for some time, a unique role on the path towards the European sovereign debt crisis. We examine this issue empirically and then discuss some relevant questions for policymakers, regulators, fixed income investors, and financial risk managers. Our findings should be of interest when modeling risk premia determined in the market for sovereign bonds issued by countries that have introduced the Euro. Given the exposure of the European insurance industry to these fixed-income securities, the results are important for asset managers and financial risk managers that are working in this segment of the financial services industry.
A Functional Model for Studying Common Trends Across Trial Time in Eye Tracking Experiments
Authors: Dong Mingfei , Telesca Donatello , Sugar Catherine , Shic Frederick , Naples Adam , Johnson Scott P. , Li Beibin , Atyabi Adham , Xie Minhang , Webb Sara J. , Jeste Shafali , Faja Susan , Levin April R. , Dawson Geraldine , McPartland James C. , Şentürk Damla ,   the Autism Biomarkers Consortium for Clinical Trials
Published: September 2022

Eye tracking (ET) experiments commonly record the continuous trajectory of a subject’s gaze on a two-dimensional screen throughout repeated presentations of stimuli (referred to as trials). Even though the continuous path of gaze is recorded during each trial, commonly derived outcomes for analysis collapse the data into simple summaries, such as looking times in regions of interest, latency to looking at stimuli, number of stimuli viewed, number of fixations, or fixation length. In order to retain information in trial time, we utilize functional data analysis (FDA) for the first time in literature in the analysis of ET data. More specifically, novel functional outcomes for ET data, referred to as viewing profiles, are introduced that capture the common gazing trends across trial time which are lost in traditional data summaries. Mean and variation of the proposed functional outcomes across subjects are then modeled using functional principal component analysis. Applications to data from a visual exploration paradigm conducted by the Autism Biomarkers Consortium for Clinical Trials showcase the novel insights gained from the proposed FDA approach, including significant group differences between children diagnosed with autism and their typically developing peers in their consistency of looking at faces early on in trial time.
Being Informed or Getting the Product?
Authors: Wrabel Andrea , Kupfer Alexander , Zimmermann Steffen
Published: September 2022

Scarcity cues, which are increasingly implemented on e-commerce platforms, are known to impair cognitive processes and influence consumers’ decision-making by increasing perceived product value and purchase intention. Another feature present on e-commerce platforms are online consumer reviews (OCRs) which have become one of the most important information sources on e-commerce platforms in the last two decades. Nevertheless, little is known about how the presence of scarcity cues affects consumers’ processing of textual review information. Consequently, it is unclear whether OCRs can counteract the effects of scarcity or whether OCRs are neglected due to scarcity cues. To address this gap, this study examines the effects of limited-quantity scarcity cues on online purchase decisions when participants have the possibility to evaluate textual review information. The results of the experimental study indicate that scarcity lowers participants’ processing of textual review information. This in turn increases perceived product value and has considerable negative consequences for the final purchase decision if the scarcity cue is displayed next to a low-quality product. The study’s findings provide relevant insights and implications for e-commerce platforms and policymakers alike. In particular, it highlights that e-commerce platforms can easily (ab)use scarcity cues to reduce consumers’ processing of textual review information in order to increase the demand for low-quality products. Consequently, policymakers should be aware of this mechanism and consider potential countermeasures to protect consumers.
Digital technology in physical education: a systematic review of research from 2009 to 2020
Authors: Jastrow Florian , Greve Steffen , Thumel Mareike , Diekhoff Henrike , Süßenbach Jessica
Published: September 2022

Digital media is currently one of the defining topics in discussions about schools and teaching. In this context, there has been a wide range of research in physical education (PE) in areas such as health, gamification, and wearable technologies. This raises the question of the goals pursued by empirical studies regarding the use of digital media in PE. The present systematic review provides an overview of the state of research in English and German on the use of digital media in PE. To this end, the included studies were those published between 2009 and 2020 in journals or edited volumes or as dissertations. They were found in relevant databases, selected based on criterion-guided screening, and transferred to the synthesis. Overall, this systematic review presents the possibilities and limitations of digital media in PE and highlights the goals regarding the use of digital media in PE that are pursued by empirical studies in the categories of physical, cognitive, social, affective, and school framework conditions. While benefits from the usage of digital media in PE—such as in terms of motivation or improving sport-specific motor capabilities and skills—were identified, barriers regarding the preparation of PE teachers were also found. More specifically, the benefits of using digital media to achieve PE-related goals were in the foreground in many of the selected studies. However, only a few specifically addressed learning via media, including topics such as data protection and the effect that viewing images has on students’ self-concepts.
A comparison of in-house and shared RapidPlan models for prostate radiation therapy planning
Authors: Claridge Mackonis E. , Sykes J. , Hardcastle N. , Espinoza A. , Brown A. , Perez G. , Evans B. , Sheehan H. , Haworth A.
Published: September 2022

Knowledge-based planning (KBP) can increase plan quality, consistency and efficiency. In this study, we assess the success of a using a publicly available KBP model compared with developing an in-house model for prostate cancer radiotherapy using a single, commercially available treatment planning system based on the ability of the model to achieve the centre’s planning goals. Two radiation oncology centres each created a prostate cancer KBP model using the Eclipse RapidPlan software. These two models and a third publicly-available, shared model were tested at three centres in a retrospective planning study. The publicly-available model achieved lower rectum doses than the other two models. However, the planning-target-volume (PTV) doses did not meet the local planning goals and the model could not be adjusted to correct this. As a result, the plans most likely to satisfy local planning goals and requirements were created using an in-house model. For centres without an existing in-house model, a model created by another centre with similar planning goals was found to be preferred. Variations in local planning practices including contouring, treatment technique and planning goals can influence the relative performance of KBP. The value of publicly available KBP models could be enhanced through standardisation of planning goals and contouring guidelines, providing information related to the planning goals used to create the model and increased flexibility to allow local adaptation of the KBP model.
Prader–Willi Syndrome in Adults: An Update On Nutritional Treatment and Pharmacological Approach
Authors: Barrea Luigi , Vetrani Claudia , Fintini Danilo , de Alteriis Giulia , Panfili Filippo Maria , Bocchini Sarah , Verde Ludovica , Colao Annamaria , Savastano Silvia , Muscogiuri Giovanna
Published: September 2022

Purpose of Review

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare and complex genetic disorder with multiple effects on the metabolic, endocrine, and neurological systems, as well as behavioral and intellectual difficulties. Despite advances in understanding the genetic basis of obesity in PWS, there are conflicting data on its management. Therefore, the present manuscript aims to provide an update on the nutritional treatment and pharmacological approach in adult patients with PWS.

Recent Findings

The management of obesity in patients with PWS is challenging and requires the cooperation of an experienced multidisciplinary team, including the nutritionist. An adequate clinical evaluation including nutritional and biochemical parameters should be performed to tailor the best therapeutic strategy. Both lifestyle and pharmacological interventions may represent useful strategies to prevent the high rate of morbidity and mortality related to PWS. The use of bariatric surgery is still controversial.

Although it is imperative to adopt an obesity prevention strategy in childhood, there is promising evidence for the treatment of obesity in adulthood with current obesity medications in conjunction with lifestyle interventions
Chained structure of directed graphs with applications to social and transportation networks
Authors: Concas Anna , Fenu Caterina , Reichel Lothar , Rodriguez Giuseppe , Zhang Yunzi
Published: September 2022

The need to determine the structure of a graph arises in many applications. This paper studies directed graphs and defines the notions of $$\ell$$
ℓ
-chained and $$\{\ell ,k\}$$

{
ℓ
,
k
}

-chained directed graphs. These notions reveal structural properties of directed graphs that shed light on how the nodes of the graph are connected. Applications include city planning, information transmission, and disease propagation. We also discuss the notion of in-center and out-center vertices of a directed graph, which are vertices at the center of the graph. Computed examples provide illustrations, among which is the investigation of a bus network for a city.
Implizite Theorien von Eltern und deren Zusammenhänge mit elterlichem lernbezogenen Verhalten sowie den impliziten Theorien und dem Lern- und Leistungsverhalten ihrer Kinder: Ein Literaturüberblick
Authors: Matthes Benjamin , Stöger Heidrun
Published: September 2022

Während implizite Theorien (auch bekannt als Mindsets) von Lernenden sowie deren Zusammenhänge mit Lern- und Leistungsverhalten sehr umfassend untersucht wurden, gibt es nur wenige Studien zu impliziten Theorien von Eltern und deren Zusammenhängen mit elterlichem lernbezogenen Verhalten sowie den impliziten Theorien und dem Lern- und Leistungsverhalten ihrer Kinder. Zudem ist wenig über die genauen Wirkmechanismen bekannt sowie über die Bedingungen, unter denen elterliche implizite Theorien elterliches Verhalten vorhersagen. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen systematischen Überblick über Studien zu diesen Themen. Hierfür wurde in verschiedenen Datenbanken eine systematische Literaturrecherche nach relevanten Artikeln aus Fachzeitschriften durchgeführt, die zwischen 1990 und 2021 veröffentlicht worden waren. Bei dieser Recherche konnten insgesamt 11 passende Artikel identifiziert werden, deren Befunde gegliedert nach den untersuchten Bereichen dargestellt werden. Neben Befunden zu elterlichen impliziten Theorien und ihren Zusammenhängen mit deren lernbezogenem Verhalten sowie den impliziten Theorien und dem Lern- und Leistungsverhalten ihrer Kinder werden vermittelnde Mechanismen diskutiert und es wird thematisiert, unter welchen Rahmenbedingungen implizite Theorien von Eltern besonders relevant erscheinen. Basierend darauf werden Forschungslücken aufgezeigt und theoretische und praktische Implikationen herausgearbeitet.
Neighbourhood Conditions and Quality of Life Among Local and Immigrant Population in Norway
Authors: Alvarez Ana Llopis , Müller-Eie Daniela
Published: September 2022

This paper explores the relationship between the quality of life and neighbourhood characteristics among immigrant and local population in Storhaug (Stavanger) and Grünerløkka (Oslo), two Norwegian neighbourhoods. The neighbourhood conditions have been analysed and inhabitants have been interviewed to collect objective and subjective data. Several dimensions have been considered, e.g., physical, environmental, mobility and psychological, with different indicators defining them. Objective data related to the physical layout, green spaces, transport system or environmental aspects are studied and complemented with the subjective information such as the satisfaction of the participants with these aspects. The data collection thus includes geographic, personal and qualitative data, and is analysed with the help of geographic and statistical analysis. Differences between the population groups and between the case study neighbourhoods are determined, being possible to conclude that specific neighbourhood conditions influence participants’ quality of life in these Norwegian minor settings. The local participants in this study are the ones taking more advantage of the physical, environmental and mobility dimensions at their residential area and reporting higher perceived quality of life. The results presented can provide relevant information for the effective and efficient planning and development of residential environments.