bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive management in a conservation breeding program: Mimicking habitat complexities facilitates reproductive success in narrow‐headed gartersnakes (Thamnophis rufipunctatus)
Authors: Blais Brian R. , Wells Stuart A. , Poynter Bradley M. , Koprowski John L. , Garner Michael M. , Allard Ruth A.
Published: January 2022

Mimicking natural parameters and complexities in zoo conservation breeding programs can facilitate natural physiological and behavioral traits, which in turn can inform more effective species reintroduction efforts. To curtail population declines of threatened narrow‐headed gartersnakes (Thamnophis rufipunctatus), the Arizona Center for Nature Conservation/Phoenix Zoo partnered with a multiagency conservation working group to develop an ex situ propagation‐for‐release program. Initially, Zoo staff followed common snake husbandry protocols of manually inducing brumation (i.e., winter dormancy). Copulation was observed during the first few years, but no births resulted. Also, some older individuals developed post‐brumation health abnormalities, prompting a strategic reassessment. To facilitate propagation and improve health, Zoo staff applied ecological knowledge of T. rufipunctatus and an adaptive management strategy to implement key parameters for success: sociality, refugia, breeding and foraging behaviors, and natural brumation. Zoo staff developed a large multisnake enclosure that mimicked natural ecological and habitat complexities including a hibernaculum to stimulate natural brumation. Gartersnakes were left mostly unimpeded to conduct natural behaviors across seasons in the enriched environment. We referenced change in body mass after ten brumation periods as a proxy for health. Under natural brumation, gartersnakes did not lose body mass, and this shift resulted in fully ex situ parturition events—the first for this imperiled species. We highlight the efficacy of adaptive management and incorporation of natural parameters and environmental complexities into conservation breeding programs. These actions can improve the health and success of animals under managed care—processes applicable to a range of taxa targeted for conservation translocations.
On optimal inequalities between three-point quadratures
Authors: Komisarski Andrzej , Wa̧sowicz Szymon
Published: January 2022

We examine the family of all (at most) three-point symmetric quadratures on $$[-1,1]$$

[
-
1
,
1
]

which are exact on polynomials of order 3 to find all possible inequalities between them in the class of 3-convex functions. Next we optimise them by using convex combinations of the quadratures considered. We find the optimal quadrature and use it to construct the adaptive method of approximate integration. An effective method to estimate the error of this method is also given. It needs a considerably fewer number of subdivisions of the interval of integration than the classical adaptive methods as well as the method developed by the second-named author in his recent paper (Wa̧sowicz in Aequ Math 94(5):887–898, 2020).
Adjuvant chemoradiotherapy in elderly patients with head and neck cancer: a monoinstitutional, two-to-one pair-matching analysis
Authors: Mayer Arnulf , Wenzel Witali , Wollschläger Daniel , Bostel Tilman , Krüger Maximilian , Matthias Christoph , Schmidberger Heinz
Published: January 2022

Purpose

About one fifth of patients with head and neck cancer are aged 70 years and older at the time of diagnosis. In these patients, risk factors (R1 status or extracapsular extension of lymph node metastases, ECE) often lead to a need for combined chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in the postoperative setting. However, there is considerable concern about the toxicity of such therapy in this age group.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of the data of 53 patients ≥ 70 years of age who underwent surgery in our hospital between 1999 and 2015 for tumors of the oral cavity, the oropharynx, the hypopharynx, or the larynx, who subsequently received adjuvant radiation therapy. Two younger patients (< 70 years) were assigned to each of the elderly patients in a matching procedure based on anatomic sublocalization and tumor stage. The total cohort was comprised of 154 patients.

Results

Univariate analyses revealed a statistically significant influence of many factors on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), including Karnofsky performance score (KPS), alcohol consumption, smoking, R status, ECE, chemotherapy, and discontinuation of RT. Younger patients had better OS and PFS compared to the elderly (p = 0.013 and 0.012, respectively). In a multivariate Cox regression, no independent influence of age on OS and PFS was found. Survival was primarily dependent on the addition of chemotherapy to radiotherapy (RT), application of the full course of RT, continued alcohol abuse, KPS, and the presence of ECE. Toxicity analysis showed a higher incidence of chronic renal failure but, generally, side effects for elderly patients were not substantially greater.

Conclusion

Performance status and behavioral risk factors but not chronological age are crucial for the prognosis of patients who require adjuvant chemoradiation.
Präzisionsmedizin in der Kinderneurologie am Beispiel der neuen Therapien
Authors: Ziegler Andreas
Published: January 2022

Hintergrund

In den letzten Jahren haben sich die Möglichkeiten der molekularen Diagnostik und Therapie seltener Erkrankungen im Kindesalter stark verbessert. Erste genmodifizierende Arzneimittel wurden inzwischen zugelassen, sie leiten eine neue Ära der Präzisionstherapie in der Kinderneurologie ein.

Ziele

Dieser Beitrag beschreibt die dynamischen Entwicklungen der Präzisionsmedizin in der Kinderneurologie im Bereich Diagnostik, Prävention und zielgerichteter Therapien.

Diskussion

Der Paradigmenwechsel in Folge der Präzisionsmedizin beruht auf einem stärker auf das Individuum und seinen einzigartigen Eigenschaften ausgerichteten Behandlungsansatz. Zur genauen Beschreibung und Charakterisierung der betroffenen Kinder werden die modernen Methoden der genetischen und molekularen Diagnostik eingesetzt, ergänzt durch eine genaue Beschreibung des klinischen Erscheinungsbildes. Dennoch ist der Erfolg der daraus abgeleiteten, individuell besten Behandlungsstrategie oft vom Zeitpunkt der Diagnosestellung abhängig. Daher rücken zunehmend Methoden zur Krankheitsprävention, insbesondere das Neugeborenenscreening, in den Vordergrund, um den bestmöglichen Erfolg der neuartigen Therapien bereits vor Ausbruch von Krankheitssymptomen zu erreichen. Neben einer präzisen Stratifizierung der Therapien sollte in Zukunft auch ein besonderes Augenmerk auf der Berücksichtigung der individuellen Perspektive der Patienten und Erziehungsberechtigten liegen. Darüber hinaus müssen für die sinnvolle Anwendung der genmodifizierenden Therapien in Deutschland qualitätsgesicherte Rahmenbedingungen geschaffen werden.
Prävalenz, Biomechanik und Diagnostik femoraler Achs- und Torsionsfehler
Authors: Vuillemin Nicolas , Büchler Lorenz , Steppacher Simon D. , Meier Malin K.
Published: January 2022

Abweichungen der Anatomie des proximalen Femurs (Torsionspathologien, Coxa valga/vara) führen zu Veränderungen der Biomechanik des Hüftgelenks. Dies kann sich in einem femoroazetabulären Impingement (FAI), einer Mehrbelastung durch erhöhten intraartikulären Druck oder einer Fehl- oder Überbelastung der Hüftgelenkabduktoren manifestieren. Die Morphologie des Beckens, insbesondere die Version und Überdachung des Azetabulums, kann einen kompensatorischen oder verstärkenden Effekt haben und muss in die globale Beurteilung des Hüftgelenks miteinbezogen werden. Eine ausführliche klinische und radiologische Evaluation ist für eine korrekte Diagnosestellung von entscheidender Bedeutung. Die Patienten berichten meist von inguinalen, z. T. aber auch von glutealen Schmerzen. Diese sind häufig von mechanischem Charakter und können durch bestimmte Bewegungen provoziert werden. Der Bewegungsumfang der Hüfte ist beim FAI vermindert, und es zeigt sich ein positiver vorderer und/oder hinterer Impingement-Test. Torsionspathologien führen häufig zu einem veränderten Gangbild. So präsentieren sich Patienten mit erhöhter femoraler Torsion oft mit einem innenrotierten, bei verminderter Torsion mit einem außenrotierten Gangbild. Zudem zeigt sich häufig eine Abduktoreninsuffizienz. Während zur Bestimmung des Collum-Diaphysen-Winkels (CCD-Winkel) eine zentrierte Beckenübersichtsröntgenaufnahme im a.-p.-Strahlengang verwendet werden kann, sollte die Bestimmung der Torsion anhand einer Computertomographie (CT) oder Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) von Knien und Hüftgelenk erfolgen. Von entscheidender Bedeutung ist die Angabe der verwendeten Messmethode der femoralen Torsion, da große systematische Unterschiede der Torsionswerte zwischen den verschiedenen Messmethoden bestehen.
Inzidenz, Biomechanik und Diagnostik der Hüftgelenkdysplasie
Authors: Chiari Catharina , Felsing Clemens
Published: January 2022

Die Hüftdysplasie ist eine komplexe dreidimensionale Pathomorphologie des gesamten Hüftgelenks. Die mangelhafte Überdachung des Hüftkopfes führt zur Instabilität des Gelenks. Das schräg aufsteigende Dach ist Scherkräften ausgesetzt, die zu einer Überlastung der Erkerregion führen. Die Folge sind Schäden am chondrolabralen Komplex, welche die Ursache für auftretende Schmerzen sind und in weiterer Folge die Dysplasiearthrose induzieren. Die Inzidenz der Hüftdysplasie variiert nach geografischen Regionen und ethnischen Gruppen. Unterschiede in der Definition der Hüftdysplasie und ihrer Diagnose machen Literaturvergleiche schwierig. Die Biomechanik der dysplastischen Hüfte wird von der knöchernen Formgebung, aber auch von der Belastung und Muskelkräften beeinflusst. Die Behandlung sollte die Herstellung einer physiologischen Biomechanik zum Ziel haben, die in den meisten Fällen mehr eine Domäne der offenen Chirurgie als der Arthroskopie darstellt. Die Diagnosestellung der Hüftdysplasie ist herausfordernd. Eine genaue Anamnese, standardisierte klinische Tests und Röntgenaufnahmen, die durch den Chirurgen selbst beurteilt werden müssen, sind essenziell. Weiterführende Untersuchungen wie die Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) sind für die Beurteilung von Knorpel- und Labrumschäden hilfreich.
An equivariant Atiyah–Patodi–Singer index theorem for proper actions II: the K-theoretic index
Authors: Hochs Peter , Wang Bai-Ling , Wang Hang
Published: January 2022

Consider a proper, isometric action by a unimodular locally compact group G on a Riemannian manifold M with boundary, such that M/G is compact. Then an equivariant Dirac-type operator D on M under a suitable boundary condition has an equivariant index $${{\,\mathrm{index}\,}}_G(D)$$

index

G

(
D
)

in the K-theory of the reduced group $$C^*$$

C
∗

-algebra $$C^*_rG$$

C
r
∗

G

of G. This is a common generalisation of the Baum–Connes analytic assembly map and the (equivariant) Atiyah–Patodi–Singer index. In part I of this series, a numerical index $${{\,\mathrm{index}\,}}_g(D)$$

index

g

(
D
)

was defined for an element $$g \in G$$

g
∈
G

, in terms of a parametrix of D and a trace associated to g. An Atiyah–Patodi–Singer type index formula was obtained for this index. In this paper, we show that, under certain conditions, $$\begin{aligned} \tau _g({{\,\mathrm{index}\,}}_G(D)) = {{\,\mathrm{index}\,}}_g(D), \end{aligned}$$

τ
g

(

index

G

(
D
)

)

=

index

g

(
D
)

,

for a trace $$\tau _g$$

τ
g

defined by the orbital integral over the conjugacy class of g. This implies that the index theorem from part I yields information about the K-theoretic index $${{\,\mathrm{index}\,}}_G(D)$$

index

G

(
D
)

. It also shows that $${{\,\mathrm{index}\,}}_g(D)$$

index

g

(
D
)

is a homotopy-invariant quantity.
A heuristic approach for multiple instance learning by linear separation
Authors: Fuduli Antonio , Gaudioso Manlio , Khalaf Walaa , Vocaturo Eugenio
Published: January 2022

We present a fast heuristic approach for solving a binary multiple instance learning (MIL) problem, which consists in discriminating between two kinds of item sets: the sets are called bags and the items inside them are called instances. Assuming that only two classes of instances are allowed, a common standard hypothesis states that a bag is positive if it contains at least a positive instance and it is negative when all its instances are negative. Our approach constructs a MIL separating hyperplane by preliminary fixing the normal and reducing the learning phase to a univariate nonsmooth optimization problem, which can be quickly solved by simply exploring the kink points. Numerical results are presented on a set of test problems drawn from the literature.
Disrupted Attention to Other’s Eyes is Linked to Symptoms of ADHD in Childhood
Authors: Frick Matilda A. , Brocki Karin C. , Henriksson Linda Halldner , Kleberg Johan Lundin
Published: January 2022

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with impaired social interaction. Other’s eyes are important for understanding the social world. Here, we examined concurrent and longitudinal links between attention to other’s eyes and symptoms of ADHD and comorbid externalizing and internalizing symptoms. Eighty-two 8 to 13-year-old children (40% with ADHD) participated. The latency to a first gaze shift to and away from the eye region of human faces, when primed to look at either the eyes or the mouth, was recorded with eye tracking. Parents rated ADHD, externalizing and internalizing symptoms at the time of testing and at 2-year follow-up. The results show that longer looking at the eyes before reorienting was specifically associated with concurrent and future symptoms of inattention, even when accounting for comorbid symptoms. We conclude that the temporal microstructure of attention to other’s eyes is altered in children with symptoms of ADHD, which may contribute to social impairments.
Effective coastal adaptation needs accurate hazard assessment: a case study in Port Resolution, Tanna Island Vanuatu
Authors: Faivre Gaelle , Tomlinson Rodger , Ware Daniel , Shaeri Saeed , Hadwen Wade , Buckwell Andrew , Mackey Brendan
Published: January 2022

Developing countries face risks from coastal hazards that are being amplified by climate change. The selection of effective adaptation interventions to manage these risks requires a sufficiently accurate assessment of the coastal hazard at a given location. Yet challenges remain in terms of understanding local coastal risks given the coarseness of global wave models and the paucity of locally scaled data in most developing countries, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Vanuatu. This paper aims to examine the differences in hazard assessment and adaptation option selections arising from analyses using globally versus locally scaled data on coastal processes. As a case study, we focused on an eroding cliff face in Port Resolution on Tanna Island, Vanuatu, which is of concern to the local community and government authorities. The coastal process modeling revealed that the global wave data generated unrealistically high predictions of wave height within Port Resolution Bay. Expensive engineering adaptations designed to provide coastal protection were therefore likely to fail in preventing ongoing cliff erosion. In this case, the best adaptation solution involves changing land use to revegetate and help stabilize the cliff top. Our case study highlights the importance of accurate hazard assessment, especially in data-poor regions where the extrapolation of global datasets and models in the absence of local data can result in poor adaptation decision-making. Furthermore, the multidisciplinary approach applied here can be applied in other data-poor regions to strengthen analyses exploring the benefits of local adaptation interventions.
Let’s play! Gamification as a marketing tool to deliver a digital luxury experience
Authors: Milanesi Matilde , Guercini Simone , Runfola Andrea
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to investigate the features of gamification as a digital marketing tool to deliver a digital luxury experience. The paper employs the qualitative methodology of case study and presents a case of a multi-brand luxury company adopting gamification through the development of a game app. Four features of the gaming luxury experience are discussed: individual and collective gaming experiences, exclusiveness through rarity in luxury gaming, social networking and virtual influencing marketing mechanisms, and cross-fertilization between gaming and e-commerce. The paper expands the knowledge on gamification by highlighting its main features as a digital marketing tool for luxury companies and the benefits it can bring in terms of consumer experience, engagement, and sales. It also contributes to studies on luxury companies by discussing gamification as a means to create digital luxury experiences, particularly suitable for the new generations of consumers, such as Generation Z.
Possibility Precedes Actuality
Authors: Tahko Tuomas E.
Published: January 2022

This paper is inspired by and develops on E. J. Lowe’s work, who writes in his book The Possibility of Metaphysics that ‘metaphysical possibility is an inescapable determinant of actuality’ (1998: 9). Metaphysics deals with possibilities – metaphysical possibilities – but is not able to determine what is actual without the help of empirical research. Accordingly, a delimitation of the space of possibilities is required. The resulting – controversial – picture is that we generally need to know whether something is possible before we can know whether it is actual. In order to appreciate this picture, we need to understand Lowe’s slogan: ‘essence precedes existence’ (Lowe 2008: 40). This slogan has both an ontological and an epistemic reading. The ontological reading is related to the now familiar idea that essence grounds modality, as popularised by Kit Fine. The epistemic reading suggests that we can know the essence of some entity before we know whether or not that entity exists. However, this idea is often met with puzzlement and Lowe himself sadly passed away before he had a chance to clarify this framework. I will present the framework as I understand it, develop it on my own terms, and put forward a qualified defence of it. I will also illustrate how the framework can be put to use with a case study concerning the discovery of transuranic elements.
Ciencia y secularización en Las fuerzas extrañas, de Leopoldo Lugones
Authors: Martínez José María
Published: January 2022

Taking as reference the literary criticism from the English-speaking world, this essay attempts to explain the correlations between science and secularization as shown in Las fuerzas extrañas, a collection of short stories by Argentinian modernista author Leopoldo Lugones. By analyzing the intertextual connections between Lugones’ book and The Secret Doctrine, the ambitious theosophical treatise authored by Helena P. Blavatsky, and using also the concept of “scientific paradigm” proposed by Thomas Kuhn, the conclusion is reached that Lugones is both, a firm opponent of the materialistic scientific positivism of the nineteenth century, and a proponent of a new syncretic spiritualism that simultaneously coincides with and distances from the Christian Weltanschauung.
Bilevel optimization for joint scheduling of production and energy systems
Authors: Leenders Ludger , Hagedorn Dörthe Franzisca , Djelassi Hatim , Bardow André , Mitsos Alexander
Published: January 2022

Energy-intensive production sites are often supplied with energy by on-site energy systems. Commonly, the scheduling of the systems is performed sequentially, starting with the scheduling of the production system. Often, the on-site energy system is operated by a different company than the production system. In consequence, the production and the energy system schedule their operation towards misaligned objectives leading in general to suboptimal schedules for both systems. To reflect the independent optimization with misaligned objectives, the scheduling problem of the production system can be formulated as a bilevel problem. We formulate the bilevel problem with mixed-integer decision variables in the upper and the lower level, and propose an algorithm to solve this bilevel problem based on the deterministic and global algorithm by Djelassi, Glass and Mitsos (J Glob Optim 75:341–392, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10898-019-00764-3) for bilevel problems with coupling equality constraints. The algorithm works by discretizing the independent lower-level variables. In the scheduling problem considered herein, the only coupling equality constraints are energy balances in the lower level. Since an intuitive distinction is missing between dependent and independent variables, we specialize the algorithm and add a procedure to identify independent variables to be discretized. Thereby, we preserve convergence guarantees. The performance of the algorithm is demonstrated in two case studies. In the case studies, the production system favors different technologies for the energy supply than the energy system. By solving the bilevel problem, the production system identifies an energy demand, which leads to minimal cost. Additionally, we demonstrate the benefits of solving the bilevel problem instead of solving the common integrated or sequential problem.
Transcriptome Profile of a Long-Juvenile Soybean Genotype Huaxia-3 Under Short and Long Photoperiod
Authors: Sapey Enoch , Jiang Bingjun , Liu Luping , Yuan Shan , Wu Tingting , Ibrahim Seifeldin Elrayah , Sun Shi , Yue Yanlei , Han Tianfu
Published: January 2022

The j allele delays flowering and enhances yield of long juvenile (LJ) soybean under short day (SD) condition. However, the underlying mechanism of j in flowering pathway of soybean is not fully known. The objective of the study is to profile the transcriptome of Huaxia-3 (HX3), a typical long juvenile soybean variety with a loss of function allele (j) for the J gene. This helps to identify the genes implicated in delayed flowering in the long juvenile soybean variety and the pathways involved. Phenotypic analysis revealed HX3-delayed flowering and matured later than the transgenic line with the functional J gene under SD. RNA-Seq analysis was conducted to compare the transcriptome of HX3 relative to the one overexpressing J gene under SD and long day (LD). A total of 674,800,494 clean reads were generated, of which 626,517,161 (93%) were uniquely mapped to the soybean reference genome. A total of 31 and 2311 genes were differentially expressed in the HX3 under SD and LD conditions respectively. The circadian rhythm pathway was the most significantly enriched pathway in the HX3 under SD condition. The GmELF3a (Glyma.04G050200) and FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) genes such as GmFT2a (Glyma.16G150700) and GmFT5a (Glyma.16G044100) were downregulated, whiles GmFT4 (Glyma.08G363100) was upregulated in the HX3 under SD. Under LD FT homologs, GmFT4 (Glyma.08G363100) was downregulated and GmFT1a (Glyma.18G299000) was upregulated. Our study suggests that these FT homologs may be involved in delayed flowering of LJ soybean under SD.
Can EQ-5D-3L utility values of low back pain patients be validly predicted by the Oswestry Disability Index for use in cost-effectiveness analyses?
Authors: Pellekooren Sylvia , Ben Ângela J. , Bosmans Judith E. , Ostelo Raymond W. J. G. , van Tulder Maurits W. , Maas Esther T. , Huygen Frank J. P. M. , Oosterhuis Teddy , Apeldoorn Adri T. , van Hooff Miranda L. , van Dongen Johanna M.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To assess whether regression modeling can be used to predict EQ-5D-3L utility values from the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) in low back pain (LBP) patients for use in cost-effectiveness analysis.

Methods

EQ-5D-3L utility values of LBP patients were estimated using their ODI scores as independent variables using regression analyses, while adjusting for case-mix variables. Six different models were estimated: (1) Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression, with total ODI score, (2) OLS, with ODI item scores as continuous variables, (3) OLS, with ODI item scores as ordinal variables, (4) Tobit model, with total ODI score, (5) Tobit model, with ODI item scores as continuous variables, and (6) Tobit model, with ODI item scores as ordinal variables. The models’ performance was assessed using explained variance (R2) and root mean squared error (RMSE). The potential impact of using predicted instead of observed EQ-5D-3L utility values on cost-effectiveness outcomes was evaluated in two empirical cost-effectiveness analysis.

Results

Complete individual patient data of 18,692 low back pain patients were analyzed. All models had a more or less similarR2(range 45–52%) and RMSE (range 0.21–0.22). The two best performing models produced similar probabilities of cost-effectiveness for a range of willingness-to-pay (WTP) values compared to those based on the observed EQ-5D-3L values. For example, the difference in probabilities ranged from 2 to 5% at a WTP of 50,000 €/QALY gained.

Conclusion

Results suggest that the ODI can be validly used to predict low back pain patients’ EQ-5D-3L utility values and QALYs for use in cost-effectiveness analyses.
What is Inclusive Development? Introducing the Multidimensional Inclusiveness Index
Authors: Dörffel Christoph , Schuhmann Sebastian
Published: January 2022

Despite decreasing global poverty, feelings of increasing inequalities drive growing dissatisfaction with development outcomes. Inclusive development benefiting larger parts of societies will be perceived as more legitimate. Yet, there is neither a thorough agreement on what constitutes inclusive development nor a convenient measurement tool. The purpose of this paper is to address both these shortcomings in the literature. We derive a notion of inclusive development that is human-based and acknowledges all factors important for well-being. With the introduction of the Multidimensional Inclusiveness Index (MDI), we address the conceptual drawbacks of prominent approaches like the Human Development Index (HDI), Inequality-Adjusted Human Development Index and Inclusive Development Index (IDI) and extend the available data sample (by 50% compared to the HDI). The MDI consists of two subindices—one on development equity and development achievements each—and is calculated in three versions for up to 171 countries for the years 1960–2018. By applying principal component analysis, we rely on the structure of the underlying data for the aggregation of the 14 variables into the subindices. The subindices are aggregated by geometric mean. We show that regional development patterns are captured and major political events reflected in MDI country trends. Despite correlations resulting from data similarities, the MDI provides new insights when compared to HDI, IDI and gross domestic product . All three MDI versions display increasing global averages over time. These positive trends are largely driven by improvements in the achievements dimension. Despite optimistic trends in recent years, equity considerations deserve a stronger emphasis in development concepts.
Structural Diversity of Organic Contaminants in a meso-scaled River System
Authors: Schwanen Christina A. , Schwarzbauer Jan
Published: January 2022

Due to intensive anthropogenic usage, a complex mixture of inorganic and organic contaminants entered and still enters freshwater systems, released by various activities and emission sources. However, because of the highly dynamic nature of rivers, the individual occurrence, fate, and behavior, especially of organic contaminants, are highly complex and not fully understood. Here, a GC/MS non-target screening was applied to identify and determine the chemical diversity in the aqueous phase of the meso-scaled Rur river and to categorize indicative and relevant contaminants according to their load profiles for a distinct emission characteristic. Besides very well-known or widespread lipophilic to semi-polar contaminants, also so far unknown or only sporadically identified substances have been detected. In particular, wastewater treatment plants and the paper industry have been identified as major emission sources. Additionally, temporal variations in organic contamination were investigated over three sampling campaigns (2004, 2015, and 2020). Within this timespan, the overall composition of the contamination in the Rur has changed slightly, but nevertheless, the high chemical diversity remained. A detailed consideration such as that undertaken in this study is necessary as the occurrence of substances in a river system depends on many different factors. For a holistic assessment of environmental behavior, not only the sampling locations and associated development of emission profiles must be considered but also temporal variations and mitigation measures. Such a multi-parameter scenario provides an important basis for the mitigation and reduction of organic pollutants in our environment.
Different micro/nano-scale patterns of surface materials influence osteoclastogenesis and actin structure
Authors: Akasaka Tsukasa , Tamai Miho , Yoshimura Yoshitaka , Ushijima Natsumi , Numamoto Shinichiro , Yokoyama Atsuro , Miyaji Hirofumi , Takata Ryo , Yamagata Shuichi , Sato Yoshiaki , Nakanishi Ko , Yoshida Yasuhiro
Published: January 2022

The surface topography of a material can influence osteoclast activity. However, the surface structural factors that promote osteoclast activity have not yet been investigated in detail. Therefore, we investigated osteoclastogenesis by testing various defined patterns with different dimensions and shapes. The systematic patterns, made of a cyclo-olefin polymer, were prepared at a micron-, submicron-, and nano-scale with a groove, hole, or pillar shape with a 1:1 pitch ratio. RAW264.7 cells were cultured on these patterns in the presence of the receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). Osteoclast formation was induced in the order: pillar > groove ≥ hole. The two-dimensional factors also indicated that submicron-sized patterns strongly induced osteoclast formation. The optimal pillar dimension for osteoclast formation was 500 nm in diameter and 2 µm in height. Furthermore, we observed two types of characteristic actin structure, i.e., belt-like structures with small hollow circles and isolated ring-like structures, which formed on or around the pillars depending on size and height. Furthermore, resorption pits were observed mainly on the top of calcium phosphate-coated pillars. Thus, osteoclasts prefer convex shapes, such as pillars for differentiation and resorption. Our results indicate that osteoclastogenesis can be controlled by designing surfaces with specific morphologies.
Traction power substation balance and losses estimation in AC railways using a power transfer device through Monte Carlo analysis
Authors: Morais Vítor A. , Martins António P.
Published: January 2022

The high dynamic power requirements present in modern railway transportation systems raise research challenges for an optimal operation of railway electrification. This paper presents a Monte Carlo analysis on the application of a power transfer device installed in the neutral zone and exchanging active power between two sections. The main analyzed parameters are the active power balance in the two neighbor traction power substations and the system power losses. A simulation framework is presented to comprise the desired analysis and a universe of randomly distributed scenarios are tested to evaluate the effectiveness of the power transfer device system. The results show that the density of trains and the relative branch length of a traction power substation should be considered in the evaluation phase of the best place to install a power transfer device, towards the reduction of the operational power losses, while maintaining the two substations balanced in terms of active power.
A survey of the application of graph-based approaches in stock market analysis and prediction
Authors: Saha Suman , Gao Junbin , Gerlach Richard
Published: January 2022

Graph-based approaches are revolutionizing the analysis of different real-life systems, and the stock market is no exception. Individual stocks and stock market indices are connected, and interesting patterns appear when the stock market is considered as a graph. Researchers are analyzing the stock market using graph-based approaches in recent years, and there is a need to survey those works from multiple perspectives. We discuss the existing graph-based works from five perspectives: (i) stock market graph formulation, (ii) stock market graph filtering, (iii) stock market graph clustering, (iv) stock movement prediction, and (v) portfolio optimization. This study contains a concise description of major techniques and algorithms relevant to graph-based approaches for the stock market.
Response of the Equatorial Atlantic Cold Tongue to Stratospheric Aerosol Geoengineering
Authors: Pomalegni Y. W. , Da-Allada C. Y. , Sohou Z. , Baloïtcha E. , Alamou E. A. , Awo F. M. , Bonou F. , Biao I. , Obada E. , Zandagba J. E. , Tilmes S. , Irvine P. J.
Published: January 2022

By increasing Earth-atmosphere system albedo, Stratospheric Aerosol Geoengineering (SAG) using sulfur dioxide is an artificial potential means, with the goal to mitigate the global warming effects. In this study, we used the simulations from Geoengineering Large Ensemble project realized under the climate change scenario of Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5), to investigate the potential impact of SAG on the Sea Surface Temperature (SST) in Equatorial Atlantic Cold Tongue (EACT) and the physical processes driving these changes. Results reveal that in the EACT region, under RCP8.5, SST warms significantly (compared to present‐day climate) with a maximum of 1.7 °C in July, and this increase in SST is mainly due to the local processes related to the weakening of vertical mixing at the base of the mixed layer. This reduction of the vertical mixing is associated to the diminution of the vertical shear from July to April and to the increase of ocean stratification from May to June. However, under SAG, SST decreases significantly throughout the year (compared to present‐day climate) with a maximum cooling of − 0.4 °C in the cold tongue period (May–June). This SST cooling is mainly associated with the non-local processes related to intensification of the westerly equatorial Atlantic wind stress. Finally, results show that the use of SAG to offset all global warming under RCP8.5 results in a slight over compensation of SST in the EACT region.
Psychological research involving Indigenous people: Australia and Aotearoa (New Zealand)
Authors: Tindle Richard , Raciti Maria , Moustafa Ahmed A.
Published: January 2022

In this article, we discuss the current state of psychological research with Indigenous peoples, with a specific focus on research including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia and the Māori people of Aotearoa (New Zealand). We identify how the mental health of Indigenous people is often significantly poorer than non-Indigenous people and could be contributing to the increased prevalence of comorbidity between mental health and substance abuse. However, we also show that there are concerns about the reliability of these data and that comparing Indigenous to non-Indigenous data is contested and often unreliable. The gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people is discussed within the context of competencies required for psychologists within Australia and Aotearoa (New Zealand), concerning their relevant National Psychology Boards accreditation standards, and core competencies for clinicians. Finally, we show that there is a paucity of research measuring the effectiveness of Western developed psychotherapies with Indigenous people, question their relevance and note the conspicuous silence around Indigenous psychological knowledge. In conclusion, we show that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are lagging in most health statistics compared to Maori people and other Indigenous peoples which may reflect different experiences of colonisation in each country. However, these statistics also show that progress is possible to help Indigenous people, globally, to achieve their mental health goals.
The Road Not Taken: Comparative International Judicial Dissent
Authors: Dunoff Jeffrey L. , Pollack Mark A.
Published: January 2022

This Article analyzes long-standing disagreements over dissent's effect on judicial legitimacy, independence, and legal doctrine by undertaking the first comparative study of dissent practices across three leading tribunals, the International Court of Justice, the European Court of Human Rights, and the European Court of Justice. Surprisingly, we find that each of the central claims in debates over dissent at international courts is mistaken. We find that the presence of dissents has little systematic impact on legitimacy; the key factor instead is patterns of dissent that suggest bias among international judges. We find that the effects of dissent on judicial independence are mediated by a third factor, namely the length and renewability of judicial terms of office. Finally, we find that dissents promote law development, but little evidence that today's dissents form the basis for future majority rulings. We then outline a research agenda to examine the impact of dissent at the larger universe of international courts.
Consensus and Diversity in the World Trade Organization: A Queer Perspective
Authors: O'Hara Claerwen
Published: January 2022

When the World Trade Organization (WTO) was established in 1995, it was seen as representative of a new era in international law, which claimed to be more functional and cooperative than the Cold War years. Fast forward to 2022, most commentators proclaim that the WTO is in “crisis.” For over two decades, its membership has struggled to reach decisions and, in 2019, the WTO was “dejudicialized” by the United States blocking consensus on appointments to the Appellate Body. In seeking to understand what went wrong, some commentators have focused on the operation of the WTO's consensus procedure and, in particular, the way it can afford states a veto power. In this essay, I take a different approach by considering how the discursive effects of consensus decision making have played into some of the problems facing the WTO today. Inspired by Gibson-Graham's work on “queering the economy,” I do so by unmooring queer theory from its base of gender and sexuality and applying queer insights to a discourse analysis of statements made in relation to the Uruguay Round of multilateral trade negotiations, which lasted from 1986 until 1993 and culminated in the agreement to establish the WTO. I show how the use of consensus decision making served to cultivate an intolerance of economic difference by giving rise to discourses of worldwide sameness and agreement. Finally, I consider what a queerer approach to trade-related decision making might look like.
Evaluation of healthcare-associated infection rates in patients with hematologic malignancies and stem cell transplantation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic
Authors: Bobbitt Laura J. , Satyanarayana Gowri , Van Metre Baum Laura , Nebhan Caroline A. , Kassim Adetola A. , Gatwood Katie S.
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To evaluate whether rates of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) changed during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in malignant hematology and stem cell transplant patients.

Design:

A retrospective, cohort study.

Patients:

The study included malignant hematology and stem cell transplant patients admitted between March 1, 2019, through July 31, 2019, and March 1, 2020, through July 31, 2020.

Methods:

Rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), central-line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), central-line–associated mucosal barrier injury infections (CLAMBIs), and Clostridioides difficile infections (CDIs) during the pandemic were compared to those in a control cohort. Secondary outcomes included the rate of non–COVID-19 respiratory viruses.

Results:

The rate of CAUTIs per 1,000 hospital days was 0.435 before the pandemic and 0.532 during the pandemic (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.224; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.0314–47.72; P = .899). The rate of CLABSIs was 0.435 before the pandemic and 1.064 during the pandemic (IRR, 2.447; 95% CI, 0.186–72.18; P = .516). The rate of CLAMBIs was 2.61 before the pandemic and 1.064 during the pandemic (IRR 0.408, 95% CI 0.057–1.927; P = .284). The rate of CDIs was 2.61 before the pandemic and 1.579 during the pandemic (IRR, 0.612; 95% CI, 0.125–2.457; P = .512). Non–COVID-19 respiratory virus cases decreased significantly from 12 (30.8%) to 2 cases (8.3%) (P = 0.014).

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference in HAIs among inpatient malignant hematology and stem cell transplant patients during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to those of a control cohort. Rates of infection were low among both cohorts. Rates of community-acquired respiratory viruses decreased significantly during the pandemic among this population.
High vaccine effectiveness against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and severe disease among residents and staff of long-term care facilities in Norway, November 2020–June 2021
Authors: Starrfelt Jostein , Danielsen Anders Skyrud , Kacelnik Oliver , Wang Børseth Anita , Seppälä Elina , Meijerink Hinta
Published: January 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes high morbidity and mortality in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against infection was 81.5% and 81.4% among fully vaccinated residents and staff in LTCFs. The vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19-associated death was 93.1% among residents, and no hospitalizations occurred among fully vaccinated staff.
Public and Private Enforcement in European Union Food Law
Authors: Purnhagen Kai P. , Molitorisová Alexandra
Published: January 2022

What type of enforcement is the most effective to punish violations of food law or to prevent them from occurring in the first place? This article examines the question of which mix of private and public enforcement exists in European Union (EU) food law and whether this mix corresponds to the recommendations of existing social science research. Based on this research, we contend that EU-determined enforcement mechanisms differ in effectiveness across Member States. New technologies have the potential to stimulate a novel mix of public and private enforcement tools at the EU and national levels.
Circle packings, kissing reflection groups and critically fixed anti-rational maps
Authors: Lodge Russell , Luo Yusheng , Mukherjee Sabyasachi
Published: January 2022

In this article, we establish an explicit correspondence between kissing reflection groups and critically fixed anti-rational maps. The correspondence, which is expressed using simple planar graphs, has several dynamical consequences. As an application of this correspondence, we give complete answers to geometric mating problems for critically fixed anti-rational maps.
A note on the Screaming Toes game
Authors: Tavaré Simon
Published: January 2022

We investigate properties of random mappings whose core is composed of derangements as opposed to permutations. Such mappings arise as the natural framework for studying the Screaming Toes game described, for example, by Peter Cameron. This mapping differs from the classical case primarily in the behaviour of the small components, and a number of explicit results are provided to illustrate these differences.
The origins of the Cold War in Southeast Asia: Pre-Second World War Siamese cooperation with foreign powers against communism
Authors: Barthel Alexandre , Wongsurawat Wasana
Published: January 2022

The origins of the Cold War in Southeast Asia are most often located in the immediate aftermath of the Second World War, in the late 1940s. Historians sometimes trace its origins to Japan's expansionist phase in the 1930s, which accelerated the decline of the European and American colonial order in this part of Asia. However, the necessity of the fight against communism appeared very clearly in the minds of the leaders of the major colonial powers well before the 1930s. Focused on the case of Siam, this article aims to show that the origins of the Cold War in Southeast Asia dated back to as early as the 1920s with the emergence of international cooperation in the fight against communism and the Thai elite's manipulation of imperialist powers to further their own political agenda and support their dominance in the domestic political arena. The Cold War in Southeast Asia was not only about the postwar fight against the spread of communism, but also closely intertwined with the decolonisation and nation-building efforts of every country in the region — including of the so-called un-colonised Thailand.
Chukchansi Yokuts
Authors: Adisasmito-Smith Niken , Guekguezian Peter , Wyatt Holly
Published: January 2022

Chukchansi belongs to the Yokuts language family (ISO 639 code: yok) ancestrally spoken in the San Joaquin valley of Central California and in the adjacent foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The headquarters of the Chukchansi tribe is located in Coarsegold and many members of the tribe live in and around Madera and Fresno counties. As shown in the map in Figure 1, there are three major territories of the Yokuts: Northern Valley Yokuts, Foothill Yokuts, and Southern Valley Yokuts. While the territory of the Chukchansi is in the foothills area, the dialect is linguistically Northern Valley (Whistler & Golla 1986), as shown in Figure 2. Yawelmani, a Yokuts language that has been a subject of extensive linguistic research (e.g. Newman 1944, Archangeli 1983, Weigel 2005), is a dialect of the Southern Valley Yokuts. It is unclear to what extent Yokuts varieties are mutually intelligible. Yokuts is often considered to be a part of a larger Penutian language family (e.g. Dixon & Kroeber 1913, Sapir 1921, DeLancey & Golla 1997). While the status of Penutian as a macro-family is disputed, Yokuts is very likely related to the Miwok and Costanoan language families of California (Callaghan 1997).
Can the constitution be saved?
Authors: Leftow Brian
Published: January 2022

I reply to William Hasker's ‘The Trinity as Social and Constitutional’, continuing our debate over the use of the metaphysical concept of constitution to explicate the Christian doctrine of the Trinity.
Errors or identity markers? A survey study on the use of and attitudes towards finlandisms and fennicisms in Finland Swedish
Authors: Strandberg Janine A.E. , Gooskens Charlotte , Schüppert Anja
Published: January 2022

This study examines the use of and attitudes towards finlandisms and fennicisms in Finland Swedish. Finlandisms are words or structures typical of the Swedish variety spoken in Finland, while fennicisms are a category of finlandisms for which the source language is Finnish. Fennicisms are often discussed in context of Finnish influence and consequent Finland Swedish language loss, suggesting that the use of these features in Swedish is stigmatised. The study analyses survey responses from 126 Finland Swedish individuals in order to investigate the use of and perceptions regarding fennicisms. The responses indicate that although finlandisms and, in particular, fennicisms are often seen as erroneous, they can also be used to indicate a uniquely Finland Swedish linguistic identity. Additionally, responses regarding fennicisms provide examples of previously overlooked Finnish loanwords, while also indicating that loanwords with origins in other languages are often misidentified as stemming from Finnish. The implications of these findings are discussed.