bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positivstellensätze for semirings
Authors: Schmüdgen Konrad , Schötz Matthias
Published: July 2023

In this paper we develop a number of results and notions concerning Positivstellensätze for semirings (preprimes) of commutative unital real algebras. First we reduce the Archimedean Positivstellensatz for semirings to the corresponding result for quadratic modules. Various applications of the Archimedean Positivstellensatz for semirings are investigated. A general Positivstellensatz with denominators is proved for filtered algebras with semirings. As an application we derive a denominator-free Positivstellensatz for the cylindrical extension of an algebra with Archimedean semiring. A large number of illustrating examples are given.
On cohomological and formal properties of strong Kähler with torsion and astheno-Kähler metrics
Authors: Sferruzza Tommaso , Tomassini Adriano
Published: July 2023

We provide families of compact astheno-Kähler nilmanifolds and we study the behaviour of the complex blowup of such manifolds. We prove that the existence of an astheno-Kähler metric satisfying an extra differential condition is not preserved by blowup. We also study the interplay between Strong Kähler with torsion metrics and geometrically Bott–Chern metrics. We show that Fino–Parton–Salamon nilmanifolds are geometrically-Bott–Chern-formal, whereas we obtain negative results on the product of two copies of primary Kodaira surface, Inoue surface of type$$\mathcal {S}_M$$

S
M

and on the product of a Kodaira surface with an Inoue surface.
Whey and post-frying oil as substrates in the process of microbial lipids obtaining: a value-added product with nutritional benefits
Authors: Wierzchowska Katarzyna , Derewiaka Dorota , Zieniuk Bartłomiej , Nowak Dorota , Fabiszewska Agata
Published: July 2023

Yarrowia lipolytica has found many biotechnological applications. The species has a number of regulatory mechanisms to maintain cellular homeostasis, enabling biomass growth in complex media. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of Y. lipolytica yeast as a platform for the simultaneous management of several industrial by-products and the production of microbial lipids with application potential in the chemical and food industries. Batch cultures of KKP 379 strain were conducted in media with post-frying rapeseed oil (PFO) and a by-product of curd cheese production—acid whey. To evaluate the potential of Yarrowia as a nutraceutical, quantitative and qualitative analyses of microbial sterols were carried out along with an assessment of the biomass mineral composition. It was indicated that the composition and content of sterols varied depending on the phase of cell growth in batch culture. During culture in medium with 20% (v/v) whey and 50 g/L PFO, the cellular lipid content reached 39% (w/w). The highest amount of sterols per dry biomass (7.38 mg/g) and cellular lipids (21.08 mg/g) was recorded after 38 h of culture. The dominant was ergosterol 12.10 mg/g (57%). In addition, the composition of carbon and nitrogen sources in the medium affected the content of selected elements in biomass, indicating that substrate modification can be a tool for manipulating the composition of yeast cells. The results of the study showed that the selection of waste substrates is an important factor in regulation of the cellular lipid accumulation efficiency, as well as the content of certain sterols.
Seshadri stratifications and standard monomial theory
Authors: Chirivì Rocco , Fang Xin , Littelmann Peter
Published: July 2023

We introduce the notion of a Seshadri stratification on an embedded projective variety. Such a structure enables us to construct a Newton-Okounkov simplicial complex and a flat degeneration of the projective variety into a union of toric varieties. We show that the Seshadri stratification provides a geometric setup for a standard monomial theory. In this framework, Lakshmibai-Seshadri paths for Schubert varieties get a geometric interpretation as successive vanishing orders of regular functions.
Pretransplant spleen volume and outcome after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
Authors: Pohlmann Alexander , Bentgens Eva , Schülke Christoph , Kuron David , Reicherts Christian , Marx Julia , Angenendt Linus , Mikesch Jan-Henrik , Lenz Georg , Stelljes Matthias , Schliemann Christoph
Published: July 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an effective treatment modality for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Here, we investigated the predictive value of spleen volume on outcome parameters and engraftment kinetics after HSCT in a large cohort of AML patients. A total of 402 patients who received their first HSCT between January 2012 and March 2019 were included in this retrospective study. Spleen volume was correlated to clinical outcome and engraftment kinetics. Median follow-up was 33.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.9–37.4 months). Patients were subdivided based on median spleen volume of 238.0 cm3 (range 55.7–2693.5 cm3) into a small spleen volume (SSV) and a large spleen volume (LSV) group. LSV was associated with inferior overall survival (OS) after HSCT (55.7% vs. 66.6% at 2 years; P = 0.009) and higher cumulative incidence of NRM (28.8% vs. 20.2% at 2 years; P = 0.048). The adjusted hazard ratio for NRM in the LSV group was 1.55 (95% CI, 1.03–2.34). Time to neutrophil or platelet engraftment and the occurrence of acute or chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) were not significantly different between both groups. Higher spleen volume at the time of HSCT was independently linked to adverse outcomes such as inferior OS and higher cumulative incidence of NRM in AML patients after HSCT. Engraftment kinetics and GVHD were not associated with spleen volume.
Long-term outcomes of autologous platelet treatment for optic disc pit maculopathy
Authors: Gklavas Konstantinos , Athanasiou Alexandros , Neubauer Jonas , Lilou Evangelia , Pohl Lisa , Bartz-Schmidt Karl Ulrich , Dimopoulos Spyridon
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Optic disc pits (ODPs) are rare congenital cavitary abnormalities of the optic nerve head, which can lead to serous macular detachments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) combined with autologous platelet concentrate (APC) for the treatment of optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on eleven eyes of ten patients with ODP-M, who received PPV combined with APC. Nine eyes operated primary, four of which had a repeat surgery also with injection of APC and two eyes underwent a rescue surgery, after they have been operated in another eye center without APC. Morphological and functional results were the main outcome parameters, determined by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), respectively.

Results

The mean duration of visual loss before surgery was 4.7 ± 3.89 months (range 0–12 months). The mean BCVA increased significantly from 0.82 ± 0.33 logMAR (range 0.4–1.3) preoperatively to 0.51 ± 0.36 logMAR (range 0–1.2) at the last examination (p = 0.0022). A significant morphological improvement was also noticed with decrease of the mean foveal thickness from 935.82 ± 248.48 µm (range 559–1400 µm) preoperatively to 226.45 ± 76.09 µm (range 110–344 µm) at the final examination (p < 0.0001). The patients were followed-up for a mean 65.36 ± 48.81 months (range 1–144 months). Two eyes developed postoperatively a retinal detachment. Cataract surgery was performed in 5 eyes during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that PPV with APC can improve functional and morphological outcomes, both as a primary and a rescue therapy, without any recurrence over a long follow-up period. To the best of our knowledge, this was the longest observation period regarding the use of APC in treatment of ODP-M.
Toward metacognition: subject-aware contrastive deep fusion representation learning for EEG analysis
Authors: Briden Michael , Norouzi Narges
Published: July 2023

We propose a subject-aware contrastive learning deep fusion neural network framework for effectively classifying subjects’ confidence levels in the perception of visual stimuli. The framework, called WaveFusion, is composed of lightweight convolutional neural networks for per-lead time–frequency analysis and an attention network for integrating the lightweight modalities for final prediction. To facilitate the training of WaveFusion, we incorporate a subject-aware contrastive learning approach by taking advantage of the heterogeneity within a multi-subject electroencephalogram dataset to boost representation learning and classification accuracy. The WaveFusion framework demonstrates high accuracy in classifying confidence levels by achieving a classification accuracy of 95.7% while also identifying influential brain regions.
A risk prognostic model for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma basing on cuproptosis and ferroptosis
Authors: Li Jianan , Liu Jixuan , Li Jixian , Feng Alei , Nie Yuanliu , Yang Zhe , Zhang Wentao
Published: July 2023

Background

Cuproptosis, a form of copper-dependent programmed cell death recently presented by Tsvetkov et al., have been identified as a potential therapeutic target for refractory cancers and ferroptosis, a well-known form describing iron-dependent cell death. However, whether the crossing of cuproptosis-related genes and ferroptosis-related genes can introduce some new idea, thus being used as a novel clinical and therapeutic predictor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unknown.

Methods

We collected ESCC patient data from the Gene Expression Omnibus and the Cancer Genome Atlas databases and used Gene Set Variation Analysis to score each sample based on cuproptosis and ferroptosis. We then performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis to identify cuproptosis and ferroptosis-related genes (CFRGs) and construct a ferroptosis and cuproptosis-related risk prognostic model, which we validated using a test group. We also investigated the relationship between the risk score and other molecular features, such as signaling pathways, immune infiltration, and mutation status.

Results

Four CFRGs (MIDN, C15orf65, COMTD1 and RAP2B) were identified to construct our risk prognostic model. Patients were classified into low- and high-risk groups based on our risk prognostic model and the low-risk group showed significantly higher survival possibilities (P < 0.001). We used the “GO”, “cibersort” and “ESTIMATE” methods to the above-mentioned genes to estimate the relationship among the risk score, correlated pathways, immune infiltration, and tumor purity.

Conclusion

We constructed a prognostic model using four CFRGs and demonstrated its potential clinical and therapeutic guidance value for ESCC patients.
How competition between overlapping generations can influence optimal egg-laying strategies in annual social insects
Authors: Johansson Jacob , Arce Andres N. , Gill Richard J.
Published: July 2023

Annual social insects are an integral functional group of organisms, particularly in temperate environments. An emblematic part of their annual cycle is the social phase, during which the colony-founding queen rears workers that later assist her in rearing sexual progeny (gynes and drones). In many annual social insects, such as species of bees, wasps, and other groups, developing larvae are provisioned gradually as they develop (progressive provisioning) leading to multiple larval generations being reared simultaneously. We present a model for how the queen in such cases should optimize her egg-laying rate throughout the social phase depending on number-size trade-offs, colony age-structure, and energy balance. Complementing previous theory on optimal allocation between workers vs. sexuals in annual social insects and on temporal egg-laying patterns in solitary insects, we elucidate how resource competition among overlapping larval generations can influence optimal egg-laying strategies. With model parameters informed by knowledge of a common bumblebee species, the optimal egg-laying schedule consists of two temporally separated early broods followed by a more continuous rearing phase, matching empirical observations. However, eggs should initially be laid continuously at a gradually increasing rate when resources are scarce or mortality risks high and in cases where larvae are fully supplied with resources at the egg-laying stage (mass-provisioning). These factors, alongside sexual:worker body size ratios, further determine the overall trend in egg-laying rates over the colony cycle. Our analysis provides an inroad to study and mechanistically understand variation in colony development strategies within and across species of annual social insects.
Evaluation and selection of a rational test method for heavy metal leaching in terms of environmental and economic factors
Authors: Król Anna , Jurczyk-Bunkowska Magdalena , Mizerna Kamila
Published: July 2023

The paper presents a specific model used to assess and select the method of heavy metal leaching from waste materials. A recommendation for the rational selection of the leaching method was made, taking into account the crucial parameters affecting the leaching process derived from the authors' research experience. The assessment models were supplemented with characteristics relating to the cost and time required to perform the tests. An approach was developed that links the weights of the assessment criteria with the degree of environmental risk from a particular heavy metal and waste type. Using multiple-criteria decision analysis, four models were developed for the assessment and selection of a test method for the leaching of heavy metals from waste. The difference is in the way the weights of the assessment criteria depend on the potential threat of the waste to the environment. A key element of the proposed approach is assigning the weights of the criterion to the toxicity of the heavy metal, the type of waste, and their management method. The results obtained prove that the current practice of only employing the batch leaching test is inappropriate. The choice of method should be justified in terms of environmental safety as well as time- and cost-effectiveness. The results of the paper show that the proposed model can be used in practice and be a recommendation for choosing the method of leaching heavy metals from waste and their further treatment, following the principles of sustainable waste management.
Einsatzmöglichkeiten digitaler Tools in der postoperativen Schmerztherapie
Authors: Aulenkamp Jana L. , Mosch Lina , Meyer-Frießem Christine H. , Malewicz-Oeck Nathalie M.
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund

In letzter Zeit finden zunehmend digitale Tools wie Smartphone-basierte Applikationen und der Einsatz künstlicher Intelligenz Einzug in die Schmerzmedizin. Dies könnte im postoperativen Schmerzmanagement neue Therapieansätze ermöglichen. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über verschiedene digitale Tools und deren Einsatzmöglichkeiten in der postoperativen Schmerztherapie.

Material und Methoden

Es wurde eine orientierende Literaturrecherche in den Datenbanken MEDLINE und Web of Science durchgeführt und eine gezielte Auswahl von Publikationen getroffen, um eine strukturierte Darstellung verschiedener aktueller Einsatzmöglichkeiten vorzunehmen und auf Basis neuester Erkenntnisse zu diskutieren.

Ergebnisse

Heute gehören zu den Einsatzmöglichkeiten digitaler Tools – wenn auch meist nur mit Modellcharakter – die Schmerzdokumentation und -erfassung, das Selbstmanagement sowie die Edukation der Patient:innen, die Schmerzprädiktion, Entscheidungsunterstützung für das Fachpersonal sowie die supportive Schmerztherapie, beispielsweise in Form von virtueller Realität und Videos. Dies bietet Vorteile wie individualisierte Behandlungskonzepte, das Adressieren bestimmter Patient:innengruppen, Reduktion von Schmerzen und Analgetika sowie das Potenzial der Frühwarnung oder -erkennung von postoperativen Schmerzen. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden ebenso die Herausforderungen der technischen Umsetzung und angemessenen Schulung der Nutzer:innen thematisiert.

Schlussfolgerung

Der Einsatz digitaler Tools, wenngleich bisher eher punktuell und modellhaft im klinischen Alltag integriert, verspricht zukünftig eine innovative, personalisierte postoperative Schmerztherapie. Künftige Studien und Projekte sollten dazu beitragen, die vielversprechenden Forschungsansätze in den klinischen Alltag zu integrieren.
An effective quantum artificial rabbits optimizer for energy management in microgrid considering demand response
Authors: Alamir Nehmedo , Kamel Salah , Hassan Mohamed H. , Abdelkader Sobhy M.
Published: July 2023

Solving the energy management (EM) problem in microgrids with the incorporation of demand response programs helps in achieving technical and economic advantages and enhancing the load curve characteristics. The EM problem, with its large number of constraints, is considered as a nonlinear optimization problem. Artificial rabbits optimization has an exceptional performance, however there is no single algorithm can solve all engineering problem. So, this paper proposes a modified version of artificial rabbits optimization algorithm, called QARO, by quantum mechanics based on Monte Carlo method to determine the optimal scheduling for MG resources effectively. The main objective is minimization of the daily operating cost with the maximization of MG operator (MGO) benefit. The operating cost includes the conventional diesel generator operating cost and the cost of power transactions with the grid. The performance of the proposed algorithm is assessed using different standard benchmark test functions. A ranking order for the test function based on the average value and Tied rank technique, Wilcoxon's rank test based on median value, and Anova Kruskal–Wallis test showed that QARO achieved best results on the most functions and outperforms all other compared technique. The obtained results of the proposed QARO are compared with those obtained by employing well-known and newly-developed algorithms. Moreover, the proposed QARO is used to solve two case studies of day-ahead EM problem in MG, then the obtained results are also compared with other well-known optimization techniques, the results demonstrate the effectiveness of QARO in reducing the operating cost and maximization the MGO benefit.
Challenges and solutions to cancer-related financial toxicity according to Australian health professionals: qualitative results from a national survey
Authors: McLoone Jordana , Chan Raymond J. , Varlow Megan , Whittaker Kate , Lindsay Daniel , Thamm Carla , Leigh Lillian , Muir Laura , Mackay Gillian , Karikios Deme J. , Hunt Lee , Hobbs Kim , Goldsbury David E. , Nabukalu Doreen , Gordon Louisa G.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To qualitatively explore Australian
healthcare professionals’ perspectives on how to improve the care and management of cancer-related financial toxicity, including relevant practices, services, and unmet needs.

Methods

We invited healthcare professionals (HCP) who currently provide care to people with cancer within their role to complete an online survey, which was distributed via the networks of Australian clinical oncology professional associations/organisations. The survey was developed by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia’s Financial Toxicity Working Group and contained 12 open-ended items which we analysed using descriptive content analysis and NVivo software.

Results

HCPs (n = 277) believed that identifying and addressing financial concerns within routine cancer care was important and most believed this to be the responsibility of all HCP involved in the patient’s care. However, financial toxicity was viewed as a “blind spot” within a medical model of healthcare, with a lack of services, resources, and training identified as barriers to care. Social workers reported assessment and advocacy were part of their role, but many reported lacking formal training and understanding of financial complexities/laws. HCPs reported positive attitudes towards transparent discussions of costs and actioning cost-reduction strategies within their control, but feelings of helplessness when they perceived no solution was available.

Conclusion

Identifying financial needs and providing transparent information about cancer-related costs was viewed as a cross-disciplinary responsibility, however, a lack of training and services limited the provision of support. Increased cancer-specific financial counselling and advocacy, via dedicated roles or developing HCPs’ skills, is urgently needed within the healthcare system.
Period-2 Thermoacoustics in a Swirl-Stabilised Partially Premixed Flame Computed Using Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Kumar Ankit D. , Massey James C. , Stöhr Michael , Meier Wolfgang , Swaminathan Nedunchezhian
Published: July 2023

A partially premixed swirl-stabilised flame under thermoacoustically unstable conditions is studied using large eddy simulation with an unstrained flamelet model for the filtered reaction rate. The simulation results agree well with measured statistics of velocity, temperature and mixture fraction. Two thermoacoustic modes at approximately 300 and 590 Hz are excited for the case studied. The second mode pressure amplitude is comparable to that of the first mode. However, the second mode of heat release rate fluctuations is not as significant as for the pressure which results in a 2:1 frequency locking behaviour. The analysis offers insights into the physical mechanism involved in the excitation of the two modes and the 2:1 frequency locking behaviour. The index based on the Rayleigh Criterion in frequency domain is analysed to understand the coupling between the heat release rate and pressure fluctuations. It is observed that there is a nonlinear interaction between the two modes resulting in energy exchange across the two modes. The conventional Rayleigh Index has limitations in explaining the observed dynamics and therefore, a modified Rayleigh Index is defined to understand the effects of nonlinear mode interactions on thermoacoustic characteristics. A mode shape analysis using LES and acoustic-modelling reveals that the first mode may be a Helmholtz mode with internal damping that is excited by an acoustic source, and the second mode has the characteristic shape of a chamber mode.
AGRI-SLAM: a real-time stereo visual SLAM for agricultural environment
Authors: Islam Rafiqul , Habibullah Habibullah , Hossain Tagor
Published: July 2023

In this research, we proposed a stereo visual simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) system that efficiently works in agricultural scenarios without compromising the performance and accuracy in contrast to the other state-of-the-art methods. The proposed system is equipped with an image enhancement technique for the ORB point and LSD line features recovery, which enables it to work in broader scenarios and gives extensive spatial information from the low-light and hazy agricultural environment. Firstly, the method has been tested on the standard dataset, i.e., KITTI and EuRoC, to validate the localisation accuracy by comparing it with the other state-of-the-art methods, namely VINS-SLAM, PL-SLAM, and ORB-SLAM2. The experimental results evidence that the proposed method obtains superior localisation and mapping accuracy than the other visual SLAM methods. Secondly, the proposed method is tested on the ROSARIO dataset, our low-light agricultural dataset, and O-HAZE dataset to validate the performance in agricultural environments. In such cases, while other methods fail to operate in such complex agricultural environments, our method successfully operates with high localisation and mapping accuracy.
Professionalization and Professionalism: Quality Improvement in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC)
Authors: Irvine Susan , Lunn Jo , Sumsion Jennifer , Jansen Elena , Sullivan Victoria , Thorpe Karen
Published: July 2023

Internationally, professionalization has become a key policy strategy targeting quality improvement in early childhood education and care (ECEC), utilizing top-down managerial strategies including implementation of quality standards and increased workforce qualifications. Set against this backdrop, this study explored educators’ accounts of their professional status and professionalism in their work. Data were collected from a representative sample of Australian educators (n = 98) participating in a national ECEC workforce study. Educator accounts were inductively and deductively coded, while statistical analysis examined association of codes with educator personal and professional characteristics. Educators overwhelmingly named their work as a profession, with three categories of explanation: purpose (educating children), qualification, and public opinions. However, analysis of educator accounts of their work practices, drawing on Moss’s (2006) understandings of the ECEC workforce, found that less than half of the educators presented their roles as other than technical or nurturing/laboring. Degree qualified teachers were more likely than less qualified educators to define professionalization in terms of purpose and professionalism in terms of autonomous decisions based on expert knowledge. Policy or practice: The study provides grassroots perspectives on professionalization and professionalism in ECEC and draws attention to three areas of misalignment between current policy and educators’ views and practices that require attention.
Connecting the Concepts of Frugality and Inclusion to Appraise Business Practices in Systems of Food Provisioning: A Kenyan Case Study
Authors: Vellema Sietze , Schouten Greetje , Knorringa Peter
Published: July 2023

Small and medium size business enterprises (SMEs) are the linchpin in systems of food provisioning in sub-Saharan Africa. These businesses occupy the middle of the agri-food chain and face a food security conundrum: they must ensure that smallholder producers of limited means can operate under fair terms while low-income consumers are supplied with affordable and nutritious food. This task becomes even more challenging when resources are scarce. This paper explores how resource-constrained SMEs arrange the terms on which both farmers and consumers are included in agri-food chains. To this end, it combines the concept of inclusion with that of frugality. We use the case of a Kenyan SME to demonstrate how a focus on frugality can advance our understanding of how business practices create thriving business relationships with smallholders while simultaneously ensuring access to affordable food for consumers. We additionally identify what conditions for inclusion emerge from this type of dynamic business practices. Our perspective departs from assessing induced organisational interventions, such as contract farming or cooperatives, which deliberately shorten the agri-food chain, thereby overlooking the skilful practices being employed by business actors in the middle of the chain.
Towards A Standardized Aerial Platform: ICUAS’22 Firefighting Competition
Authors: Markovic Lovro , Petric Frano , Ivanovic Antun , Goricanec Jurica , Car Marko , Orsag Matko , Bogdan Stjepan
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platform used for the competition held at the International Conference for Unmanned Aircraft Systems 2022 (ICUAS’22). The envisioned scenario in the competition is delivering an extinguishing ball to a fire with a UAV. Driven on that thought, the qualifying round of the competition is organized in a realistic simulation environment. The competitors are required to navigate through a cluttered environment into a free space, where they perform a search for the target and deliver the ball as close as possible to that target. The competition finals were organized as a part of the conference, with the same goal as in the simulation qualifiers. The UAVs used for the competition are prepared and provided by the organizers. A detailed description of the UAV software and hardware is outlined in the paper as a step towards standardizing aerial research platform.
Religious Discrimination Toward Other Religious Groups by Descendants of Religiously Heterogamous Versus Homogamous Parents
Authors: Leite Ângela , Dias Paulo
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to develop a model that explains personal attitudes toward religious groups and the role of parental religious heterogamy and homogamy. The sample included 32,595 participants from 26 countries around the world and was obtained from the International Social Survey Programme. Participants whose parents were religiously homogamous presented higher well-being, better health perception, and higher religiosity than participants whose parents were religiously heterogamous. Having had parental heterogamy or homogamy is a moderator of the relationship between religious practice and attitudes toward religious groups, with this relationship being stronger among participants who had parental homogamy. Religious variables are directly related to heterogamy/homogamy and indirectly related to well-being and personal attitude toward religious groups through parents’ religious heterogamy/homogamy. Religious variables are related to personal attitudes toward religious groups through patents’ religious heterogamy/homogamy and well-being. Participants whose parents are religiously heterogamous present a more negative attitude toward Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and Jews, and participants whose parents are religiously homogamous present a more negative attitude toward atheists or nonbelievers. In the context of globalization and the merging of cultures, these results open new research questions and may support religious, spiritual, and clinical practitioners in their approach to religious discrimination.
Nice, but not smart? Attributional backlash from displaying prosocial behavior in the classroom
Authors: Streck Hannah , Kessels Ursula
Published: July 2023

According to attributional theory, when the application of effort leads to success we praise the achievement. Effort and ability, however, are seen as compensatory and thus, paradoxically, being praised can lead to attributions of low ability. Our study investigates whether praise, not for academic performance, but for social classroom behavior, would also incur attributional backlash. We examined whether prosociality relates to attributions of high effort and low ability, mediated by expected teacher praise and happiness. In adolescence, prosocial behavior is displayed more by females and aligns with femininity. We conducted an experimental vignette study with 324 German ninth graders to examine whether prosocial students experience a denigration of achievement via expected teacher reaction. Multilevel modelling showed that compared to nondescript students, prosocial students were judged to receive good grades as a result of effort and less due to ability, but this was not related to expected teacher reactions. Prosocial students were also judged to be more likeable and popular. Examination of gender-related outcomes showed that prosocial students were believed to be more feminine, but also more masculine than the nondescript student. Female prosocial targets were thought to be more typical, but not as occurring more frequently than their male counterparts. The results are discussed in reference to the paradox of praise. The limitations and implications of the research are discussed, particularly regarding female students’ achievements.
Top-Down or Bottom-Up? The Reciprocal Longitudinal Relationship Between Athlete’s Domain-General Gratitude and Sport-Specific Gratitude: A Latent Difference Score Analysis
Authors: Chen Lung Hung , Chang Yen-Ping , Ye Yun-Ci
Published: July 2023

For athletes, gratitude has received substantial attention because it promotes their optimal functioning both in the sport domain specifically and in everyday life generally. The literature has, however, been equivocal as to whether it is domain-general gratitude—from the top-down perspective—or domain-specific gratitude—from the bottom-up perspective—that comes first and directs the other. Clarifying the relationship is important for designing more precise interventions. In this regard, we conducted a three-year, six-wave prospective study for youth athletes to examine the dynamic relationship between domain-general and sport-specific gratitude. Our latent difference score analysis indicated that a reciprocal model between the two levels of gratitude was superior to other, nonreciprocal models, suggesting that athletes who had higher domain-general gratitude would increase in sport-specific gratitude, which in turn contributed to increased domain-general gratitude across the six time points over the three-year period. Our study contributes to gratitude theories by uncovering the potential directional relationship for various levels of gratitude.
Social Cohesion in International Comparison: A Review of Key Measures and Findings
Authors: Delhey Jan , Dragolov Georgi , Boehnke Klaus
Published: July 2023

Although social integration has always been a central sociological issue, there has never been a consensus how to approach the topic empirically. In the new millennium, social cohesion has emerged as a lead concept for measuring how integrated societies are—not the least, because many observers see the social fabric of modern-day societies in deep crisis. Consequently, scholars and think tanks have intensified their efforts to chart how strong the social glue of contemporary societies is, as well as which conditions strengthen or weaken it. The main goal of our article is to provide an overview of measures of social cohesion that have been specifically designed for cross-national comparisons. To this end, we compare selected measures with respect to what they measure, how, and for what purpose. We then highlight key empirical insights gained by these measures, touching upon the issues of levels, regimes, as well as determinants and outcomes of social cohesion. The review concludes that one of the measures, the Bertelsmann Social Cohesion Radar, stands out in terms of conceptual clarity, methodological sophistication, and richness of empirical findings.
Institutional Objection to Voluntary Assisted Dying in Victoria, Australia: An Analysis of Publicly Available Policies
Authors: Close Eliana , Willmott Lindy , Keogh Louise , White Ben P.
Published: July 2023

Background

Victoria was the first Australian state to legalize voluntary assisted dying (elsewhere known as physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia). Some institutions indicated they would not participate in voluntary assisted dying. The Victorian government issued policy approaches for institutions to consider

Objective

To describe and analyse publicly available policy documents articulating an institutional objection to voluntary assisted dying in Victoria.

Methods

Policies were identified using a range of strategies, and those disclosing and discussing the nature of an institutional objection were thematically analysed using the framework method.

Results

The study identified fifteen policies from nine policymakers and developed four themes: (1) extent of refusal to participate in VAD, (2) justification for refusal to provide VAD, (3) responding to requests for VAD, and (4) appeals to state-sanctioned regulatory mechanisms. While institutional objections were stated clearly, there was very little practical detail in most documents to enable patients to effectively navigate objections in practice.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that despite having clear governance pathways developed by centralized bodies (namely, the Victorian government and Catholic Health Australia), many institutions’ public-facing policies do not reflect this guidance. Since VAD is contentious, laws governing institutional objection could provide greater clarity and regulatory force than policies alone to better balance the interests of patients and non-participating institutions.
An infinite family of 0-APN monomials with two parameters
Authors: Kaleyski Nikolay , Nesheim Kjetil , Stănică Pantelimon
Published: July 2023

We consider an infinite family of exponents e(l, k) with two parameters, l and k, and derive sufficient conditions for e(l, k) to be 0-APN over $${\mathbb F}_{2^n}$$

F

2
n

. These conditions allow us to generate, for each choice of l and k, an infinite list of dimensions n where $$x^{e(l,k)}$$

x

e
(
l
,
k
)

is 0-APN much more efficiently than in general. We observe that the Gold and Inverse exponents, as well as the inverses of the Gold exponents can be expressed in the form e(l, k) for suitable l and k. We characterize all cases in which e(l, k) can be cyclotomic equivalent to a representative from the Gold, Kasami, Welch, Niho, and Inverse families of exponents. We characterize when e(l, k) can lie in the same cyclotomic coset as the Dobbertin exponent (without considering inverses) and provide computational data showing that the Dobbertin inverse is never equivalent to e(l, k). We computationally test the APN-ness of e(l, k) for small values of l and k over $${\mathbb F}_{2^n}$$

F

2
n

for $$n \le 100$$

n
≤
100

, and sketch the limits to which such tests can be performed using currently available technology. We conclude that there are no APN monomials among the tested functions, outside of the known classes.
Exact methods for discrete $${\varGamma }$$-robust interdiction problems with an application to the bilevel knapsack problem
Authors: Beck Yasmine , Ljubić Ivana , Schmidt Martin
Published: July 2023

Developing solution methods for discrete bilevel problems is known to be a challenging task—even if all parameters of the problem are exactly known. Many real-world applications of bilevel optimization, however, involve data uncertainty. We study discrete min-max problems with a follower who faces uncertainties regarding the parameters of the lower-level problem. Adopting a $$\varGamma $$
Γ
-robust approach, we present an extended formulation and a multi-follower formulation to model this type of problem. For both settings, we provide a generic branch-and-cut framework. Specifically, we investigate interdiction problems with a monotone $$\varGamma $$
Γ
-robust follower and we derive problem-tailored cuts, which extend existing techniques that have been proposed for the deterministic case. For the $$\varGamma $$
Γ
-robust knapsack interdiction problem, we computationally evaluate and compare the performance of the proposed algorithms for both modeling approaches.
Characterization and algorithm for bivariate multi-unit assignment valuations
Authors: Otsuka Takafumi , Shioura Akiyoshi
Published: July 2023

A multi-unit assignment valuation is a function represented by a weighted bipartite graph. In this paper, we provide a characterization of such a function in terms of maximizer sets of perturbed functions. We then present an algorithm that checks whether a given bivariate function is a multi-unit assignment valuation, and if the answer is “yes,” computes a weighted bipartite graph representing the function.
From Abstinence to Deviance: Sexual Stereotypes Associated With Transgender and Nonbinary Individuals
Authors: Anzani Annalisa , Siboni Laura , Lindley Louis , Paz Galupo M. , Prunas Antonio
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Stereotypes around sex and gender have played an important role in shaping experiences of discrimination and social injustice for trans individuals. In addition, trans identities have been historically associated with sexual deviance and pathology in the psychomedical literature. In the present study, we investigated stereotypes associated with trans people’s sexuality.

Methods

We recruited 297 transmasculine and nonbinary individuals for an online study. In an open-ended question, participants were asked to describe stereotypes they have encountered regarding the sex lives of trans people they felt were inaccurate.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed four overarching themes: (1) deviance; (2) discomfort with trans sexuality as stigmatizing; (3) stereotypes based on gender; and (4) absence of stereotyping.

Conclusion

Results highlight the ways trans sexuality is exoticized. Findings also underscore that sexual stereotyping of trans individuals is, at times, based on assigned sex and, at other times, based on gender identity.

Policy Implications

Stereotypes, particularly those related to sexuality, may seem harmless, but they can have far-reaching consequences on interpersonal relationships and societal systems. Challenging stereotypes in policies and social environments is crucial for promoting inclusivity and community welfare.
High burden of RSV and influenza in patients presenting with suspected pneumonia in the emergency room of a German tertiary hospital in fall of 2022
Authors: Ettemeyer Marlene , Florey Maria , Tanida Konstantin , Jochum Johannes , Schulze-Sturm Ulf , Lütgehetmann Marc , Baehr Michael , Addo Marylyn M. , Schmiedel Stefan , Rohde Holger , Koch Till
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Bacterial pneumonia, a major cause of respiratory tract infections (RTI), can be challenging to diagnose and to treat adequately, especially when seasonal viral pathogens co-circulate. The aim of this study was to give a real-world snapshot of the burden of respiratory disease and treatment choices in the emergency department (ED) of a tertiary care hospital in Germany in the fall of 2022.

Methods

Anonymized analysis of a quality control initiative that prospectively documented all patients presenting to our ED with symptoms suggestive of RTI from Nov 7th to Dec 18th, 2022.

Results

243 patients were followed at the time of their ED attendance. Clinical, laboratory and radiographic examination was performed in 92% of patients (224/243). Microbiological work-up to identify causative pathogens including blood cultures, sputum or urine-antigen tests were performed in 55% of patients (n = 134). Detection of viral pathogens increased during the study period from 7 to 31 cases per week, while bacterial pneumonias, respiratory tract infections without detection of a viral pathogen and non-infectious etiologies remained stable. A high burden of bacterial and viral co-infections became apparent (16%, 38/243), and co-administration of antibiotic and antiviral treatments was observed (14%, n = 35/243). 17% of patients (41/243) received antibiotic coverage without a diagnosis of a bacterial etiology.

Conclusion

During the fall of 2022, the burden of RTI caused by detectable viral pathogens increased unusually early. Rapid and unexpected changes in pathogen distribution highlight the need for targeted diagnostics to improve the quality of RTI management in the ED.
Semi-infinite interval equilibrium problems: optimality conditions and existence results
Authors: Ruiz-Garzón Gabriel , Osuna-Gómez Rafaela , Rufián-Lizana Antonio , Beato-Moreno Antonio
Published: July 2023

This paper aims to obtain new Karush–Kuhn–Tucker optimality conditions for solutions to semi-infinite interval equilibrium problems with interval-valued objective functions. The Karush–Kuhn–Tucker conditions for the semi-infinite interval programming problem are particular cases of those found in this paper for constrained equilibrium problem. We illustrate this with some examples. In addition, we obtain solutions to the interval equilibrium problem in the unconstrained case. The results presented in this paper extend the corresponding results in the literature.
Effects of the Inclusion of Ce and Ni Species on Ti for Modification of K10-Clay by Sol-Gel and their Use as Catalysts in the Liquid-Phase Esterification Systems
Authors: Rangel-Porras G. , Quiroga-Almaguer A. , Ramírez-Hernández A. , Bachiller-Baeza B. , Pfeiffer-Perea H. , Rangel-Rivera P.
Published: July 2023

The modification of montmorillonite with metallic species affects directly its crystalline structure, texture, porosity, and surface. The interaction of the metallic molecules with the clay matrix, derived from the modification pathway and the characteristics of the adsorbate, modifies the physicochemical properties of montmorillonite, enabling the creation of materials with varied characteristics to be used both as catalysts and adsorbents. Small amounts of metallic species can confer various structural and physicochemical characteristics on the same montmorillonite matrix, depending on the metal incorporated. The objective of the present study was to create an acid-base catalyst based on montmorillonite K10 (K10 Mnt), modified with Ti, Ce, and Ni, for the catalytic esterification of acetic acid and penta-1-ol. K10-Mnt was modified using particles of Ti and of Ti modified with Ce and Ni. The effect of the inclusion of Ti and modified Ti species on the transformation of the physicochemical properties of the K10 Mnt and their contributions to the catalytic esterification syntheses were investigated. Samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy coupled to an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy system (SEM-EDS), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), physisorption of N2 at 77 K (BET and BJH), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA-DTGA). Finally, the original and modified K10 Mnt samples were tested for their catalytic esterification of acetic acid and penta-1-ol in the liquid phase.
Experiencing respect elongates the orienting response: a pilot study
Authors: Kondoh Sotaro , Fujimura Tomomi , Nakatani Hironori , Muto Sera , Nonaka Yulri , Okanoya Kazuo
Published: July 2023

Respect is an emotion that promotes self-improvement, often experienced when recognizing superior traits in others. The present study aimed to investigate one of its action tendencies. Since previous studies have suggested that respected persons are role models, we hypothesized that respect prolongs the orienting response of paying attention to the persons and examined the related phasic decrease in heart rate (HR). We presented a stimulus (an episode followed by a photograph) about each participant's parents, teachers, affectively respected persons (other than parents and teachers), and the unknown persons as a control. Participants read the episode, looked at the photo, and rated the extent of experiencing respect. As a result, we found that the averaged HR across conditions declined during stimulus presentation but that the change scores of HRs from the minimum value increased only in the control condition: the HRs of the other conditions (parents, teachers, and affectively respected persons) did not recover. Furthermore, we confirmed a significant correlation between respect ratings and the reduction in HRs by performing a partial correlation analysis that controlled for familiarity with the persons. As a pilot study, these results suggest that respect elongates the orienting response.
The Language of Gender-Based Separatism
Authors: Koller Veronika , Krendel Alexandra , Aiston Jessica
Published: July 2023

This Element shows how two social movements, lesbian separatism and Men Going Their Own Way (MGTOW), reflect the changing and complex (anti-)feminist ideologies of their time. The authors outline the historical and political background of those discourses and how they are influencing contemporary gender relations. The materials analysed comprise ten manifestos, which are examined with a combination of data-led discourse analysis and theory-led argumentation analysis. The manifestos are similar in that both sets of authors construct homogenous in-groups and out-groups as well as dichotomies between them. There are some differences though in how this is linguistically realised and who is classified as an out-group. Both groups cast social actors in particular roles and establish ethical norms, but strategic planning and utopias are more prominent among lesbian separatists. Freedom, advantage and authority are central in each group's argumentation, but lesbian separatists also stress humanitarianism while MGTOW focus on financial matters.