bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Black tsunamis and naked singularities in AdS
Authors: Emparan Roberto , Licht David , Suzuki Ryotaku , Tomašević Marija , Way Benson
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study the evolution of the Gregory-Laflamme instability for black strings in global AdS spacetime, and investigate the CFT dual of the formation of a bulk naked singularity. Using an effective theory in the large D limit, we uncover a rich variety of dynamical behaviour, depending on the thickness of the string and on initial perturbations. These include: large inflows of horizon generators from the asymptotic boundary (a ‘black tsunami’); a pinch-off of the horizon that likely reveals a naked singularity; and competition between these two behaviours, such as a nakedly singular pinch-off that subsequently gets covered by a black tsunami. The holographic dual describes different patterns of heat flow due to the Hawking radiation of two black holes placed at the antipodes of a spherical universe. We also present a model that describes, in any D, the burst in the holographic stress-energy tensor when the signal from a bulk self-similar naked singularity reaches the boundary. The model shows that the shear components of the boundary stress diverge in finite time, while the energy density and pressures from the burst vanish.
Complex linear multiplets and local supersymmetry breaking
Authors: Farakos Fotis , Kehagias Alex , Liatsos Nikolaos
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study supersymmetry breaking from a complex linear superfield coupled to 4D N=1 supergravity. The theory has two classically decoupled vacua, one supersymmetric and one with broken and intrinsically non-linear supersymmetry. Depending on the values of the parameters the scalar potential can lead to no-scale Minkwoski or a stable de Sitter or anti-de Sitter vacuum. We also provide a dual description of the system in terms of a nilpotent chiral superfield and a standard chiral coupled to supergravity.
Emergent strings, duality and weak coupling limits for two-form fields
Authors: Lee Seung-Joo , Lerche Wolfgang , Weigand Timo
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We systematically analyse weak coupling limits for 2-form tensor fields in the presence of gravity. Such limits are significant for testing various versions of the Weak Gravity and Swampland Distance Conjectures, and more broadly, the phenomenon of emergence. The weak coupling limits for 2-forms correspond to certain infinite-distance limits in the moduli space of string compactifications, where asymptotically tensionless, solitonic strings arise. These strings are identified as weakly coupled fundamental strings in a dual frame, which makes the idea of emergence manifest. Concretely we first consider weakly coupled tensor fields in six-dimensional compactifications of F-theory, where the arising tensionless strings play the role of dual weakly coupled heterotic strings. As the main part of this work, we consider certain infinite distance limits of Type IIB strings on K3 surfaces, for which we show that the asymptotically tensionless strings describe dual fundamental Type IIB strings, again on K3 surfaces. By contrast the analogous weak coupling limits of M-theory compactifications are found to correspond to an F-theory limit where an extra dimension emerges rather than tensionless strings. We comment on extensions of our findings to four-dimensional compactifications.
PSTPIP1-LYP phosphatase interaction: structural basis and implications for autoinflammatory disorders
Authors: Manso José A. , Marcos Tamara , Ruiz-Martín Virginia , Casas Javier , Alcón Pablo , Sánchez Crespo Mariano , Bayón Yolanda , de Pereda José M. , Alonso Andrés
Published: February 2022

Mutations in the adaptor protein PSTPIP1 cause a spectrum of autoinflammatory diseases, including PAPA and PAMI; however, the mechanism underlying these diseases remains unknown. Most of these mutations lie in PSTPIP1 F-BAR domain, which binds to LYP, a protein tyrosine phosphatase associated with arthritis and lupus. To shed light on the mechanism by which these mutations generate autoinflammatory disorders, we solved the structure of the F-BAR domain of PSTPIP1 alone and bound to the C-terminal homology segment of LYP, revealing a novel mechanism of recognition of Pro-rich motifs by proteins in which a single LYP molecule binds to the PSTPIP1 F-BAR dimer. The residues R228, D246, E250, and E257 of PSTPIP1 that are mutated in immunological diseases directly interact with LYP. These findings link the disruption of the PSTPIP1/LYP interaction to these diseases, and support a critical role for LYP phosphatase in their pathogenesis.
Maybe you can turn me on: CRISPRa-based strategies for therapeutic applications
Authors: Becirovic Elvir
Published: February 2022

Since the revolutionary discovery of the CRISPR-Cas technology for programmable genome editing, its range of applications has been extended by multiple biotechnological tools that go far beyond its original function as “genetic scissors”. One of these further developments of the CRISPR-Cas system allows genes to be activated in a targeted and efficient manner. These gene-activating CRISPR-Cas modules (CRISPRa) are based on a programmable recruitment of transcription factors to specific loci and offer several key advantages that make them particularly attractive for therapeutic applications. These advantages include inter alia low off-target effects, independence of the target gene size as well as the potential to develop gene- and mutation-independent therapeutic strategies. Herein, I will give an overview on the currently available CRISPRa modules and discuss recent developments, future potentials and limitations of this approach with a focus on therapeutic applications and in vivo delivery.
Plant evolutionary ecology in mountain regions in space and time
Authors: Parisod Christian , Lavergne Sébastien , Sun Hang , Kadereit Joachim W.
Published: February 2022

This special issue of the journal Alpine Botany brings together syntheses, macroecological and taxon-specific studies of patterns and processes of plant evolution in major mountain ranges across Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia. Apart from reflecting current conceptual and methodological perspectives in the field, it contributes to our understanding of the interplay between factors determining the evolution and distribution of plant variation across topographically complex areas, and will help to identify the components necessary for building an integrative model of the origin and distribution of diversity in mountain areas.
Multifamily groups for patients with schizophrenia: an exploratory randomised controlled trial in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Muhić M. , Janković S. , Sikira H. , Slatina Murga S. , McGrath M. , Fung C. , Priebe S. , Džubur Kulenović A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Schizophrenia has a significant and lasting impact on the quality of life of patients and their families and is a leading cause of disability globally. Family interventions can be beneficial and may be particularly appropriate in settings with limited resources. We conducted an exploratory trial testing the effectiveness of a multifamily group intervention, which draws on the traditions of psychoeducation and trialogue, for improving the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory, randomised controlled trial with patients with schizophrenia attending an outpatient clinic in Sarajevo. Our primary outcome was improved quality of life at 6-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes included objective social outcomes, psychiatric symptoms and psychiatric hospitalisation measured at 6 and 12 months. Experiences of participants were assessed in post-intervention interviews.

Results

72 patients were randomly assigned to either one of six multifamily groups or treatment as usual. Follow-up assessments were completed with 53 patients (74%) at 6 months and 55 patients (76%) at 12 months. The intervention significantly improved quality of life at 6 months (Cohen’s d = 0.78, F = 6.37, p = 0.016) and 12 months (d = 1.08, F = 17.92, p < 0.001), compared with treatment as usual. Re-hospitalisation rates at 6 months and symptom levels also improved significantly whilst changes in other secondary outcomes failed to reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

These findings suggest multifamily groups can be effective for improving the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Further research is required to assess how multifamily groups may be scaled up in similar settings with limited resources.
Decision-makers’ attitudes toward the use of care robots in welfare services
Authors: Tuisku Outi , Pekkarinen Satu , Hennala Lea , Melkas Helinä
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the attitudes of decision-makers toward the use of care robots in welfare services. We investigated their knowledge regarding the use of care robots in welfare services as well as their attitudes toward using robots in their own care and in the care of various user groups, for example, children, youths, and older people. We conducted an online survey with a range of Finnish decision-makers as respondents (N = 176). The respondents were divided into two groups: service actors (n = 104) and research and development (R&D) actors (n = 72). The respondents did not regard themselves as having much knowledge about robotics; however, the results showed that the R&D actors had more overall knowledge of the use of robots than the service actors. The R&D actors were found to be more willing to accept a robot as part of their own care as well as part of the care for various user groups. The contribution of this study is a better understanding of the views of the decision-makers who are or will be in charge of the acquisition of technological devices in welfare services.
A modified level set method for topology optimization of sparsely-filled and slender structures
Authors: Azari Nejat Ali , Held Alexander , Trekel Niklas , Seifried Robert
Published: February 2022

In structural optimization, the level set method is known as a well-established approach for shape and topology optimization. However, special care must be taken, if the design domains are sparsely-filled and slender. Using steepest descent-type level set methods, slender structure topology optimizations tend to instabilities and loss of structural cohesion. A sole step size control or a selection of more complex initial designs only help occasionally to overcome these issues and do not describe a universal solution. In this paper, instead of updating the level set function by solving a Hamilton–Jacobi partial differential equation, an adapted algorithm for the update of the level set function is utilized, which allows an efficient and stable topology optimization of slender structures. Including different adaptations, this algorithm replaces unacceptable designs by modifying both the pseudo-time step size and the Lagrange multiplier. Besides, adjustments are incorporated in the normal velocity formulation to avoid instabilities and achieve a smoother optimization convergence. Furthermore, adding filtering-like adaptation terms to the update scheme, even in case of very slender structures, the algorithm is able to perform topology optimization with an appropriate convergence speed. This procedure is applied for compliance minimization problems of slender structures. The stability of the optimization process is shown by 2D numerical examples. The solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) method is used as an alternative approach to validate the result quality of the presented method. Finally, the simple extension to 3D optimization problems is addressed, and a 3D optimization example is briefly discussed.
Validation of a nonlinear force method for large deformations in shape-morphing structures
Authors: du Pasquier Cosima , Shea Kristina
Published: February 2022

Reducing energy and material consumption is a priority for the construction, aerospace, and automotive industries. Shape morphing addresses these concerns by broadening the band of functionality of a structure by adapting its shape to an external stimulus, such as pressure, or an internal stimulus, such as embedded actuation. This work outlines the development of an actuator placement optimization method for overdeterminate lattice structures with the objective of achieving predetermined large shape changes accurately. The deformation is modeled with both a linear and a nonlinear force method to determine their validity for large-shape change and their usefulness for the field of shape morphing. The linear and nonlinear methods are compared in four benchmark problems and two case studies relevant to the field of shape morphing. The nonlinear method is shown to achieve a level of accuracy $$10^2$$

10
2

to $$10^4$$

10
4

higher compared to FEM simulation, while using 23% fewer actuators and up to 77.3% less elongation of actuators, which makes it more favorable for shape-morphing applications. Two case studies for applications in aerospace and construction show that the nonlinear force method is better equipped for large shape change in overdeterminate meshed freeform target shapes and doubly curved surfaces with a high variable density. However, the nonlinear force method is less computationally efficient than the linear force method, as expected. A judicious choice of constraints can help reduce the run time.
Impact of material data in assembly delay prediction—a machine learning-based case study in machinery industry
Authors: Steinberg Fabian , Burggaef Peter , Wagner Johannes , Heinbach Benjamin
Published: February 2022

Designing customized products for customer needs is a key characteristic of machine and plant manufacturers. Their manufacturing process typically consists of a design phase followed by planning and executing a production process of components required in the subsequent assembly. Production delays can lead to a delayed start of the assembly. Predicting potentially delayed components—we call those components assembly start delayers—in early phases of the manufacturing process can support an on-time assembly. In recent research, prediction models typically include information about the orders, workstations, and the status of the manufacturing system, but information about the design of the component is not used. Since the components of machine and plant manufacturers are designed specifically for the customer needs, we assumed that material data influence the quality of a model predicting assembly start delayers. To analyze our hypothesis, we followed the established CRISP-DM method to set up 12 prediction models at an exemplary chosen machine and plant manufacturer utilizing a binary classification approach. These 12 models differentiated in the utilization of material data—including or excluding material data—and in the utilized machine learning algorithm—six algorithms per data case. Evaluating the different models revealed a positive impact of the material data on the model quality. With the achieved results, our study validates the benefit of using material data in models predicting assembly start delayers. Thus, we identified that considering data sources, which are commonly not used in prediction models, such as material data, increases the model quality.
Submodular financial markets with frictions
Authors: Chateauneuf Alain , Cornet Bernard
Published: February 2022

This paper studies arbitrage-free financial markets with bid-ask spreads whose super-hedging prices are submodular. The submodular assumption on the super-hedging price, or the supermodularity usually assumed on utility functions, is the formal expression of perfect complementarity, which dates back to Fisher, Pareto, and Edgeworth, according to Samuelson (J Econ Lit 12:1255–1289, 1974). Our main contribution provides several characterizations of financial markets with frictions that are submodular as a consequence of a more general study of submodular pricing rules. First, a market is submodular if and only if its super-hedging price is a Choquet integral and if and only if its set of risk-neutral probabilities is representable as the core of a submodular non-additive probability that is uniquely defined, called risk-neutral capacity. Second, a market is representable by its risk neutral capacity if and only if it is equivalent to a market, only composed of bid-ask event securities.
Real projective structures on Riemann surfaces and new hyper-Kähler manifolds
Authors: Heller Sebastian
Published: February 2022

The twistor space of the moduli space of solutions of Hitchin’s self-duality equations can be identified with the Deligne-Hitchin moduli space of $$\lambda $$
λ
-connections. We use real projective structures on Riemann surfaces to prove the existence of new components of real holomorphic sections of the Deligne-Hitchin moduli space. Applying the twistorial construction we show the existence of new hyper-Kähler manifolds associated to any compact Riemann surface of genus $$g\ge 2$$

g
≥
2

. These hyper-Kähler manifolds can be considered as moduli spaces of (certain) singular solutions of the self-duality equations.
Comparison between 3D SPACE FLAIR and 3D TSE FLAIR in Menière’s disease
Authors: Bernaerts Anja , Janssen Nick , Wuyts Floris L. , Blaivie Cathérine , Vanspauwen Robby , van Dinther Joost , Zarowski Andrzej , Offeciers Erwin , Deckers Filip , Casselman Jan W. , De Foer Bert
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Heavily T2-weighted 3D FLAIR (hT2w-3D-FLAIR) sequence with constant flip angle (CFA) has been reported as being more sensitive to low concentrations of gadolinium (Gd) enabling endolymphatic hydrops (EH) visualization. The purpose of this study was to compare signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio, detection rate of EH, and increased perilymphatic enhancement (PE) as well as diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing definite Menière’s disease (MD), using 3D-SPACE FLAIR versus conventional 3D-TSE FLAIR.

Methods

This retrospective study included 29 definite MD patients who underwent a 4-h delayed intravenous (IV) Gd-enhanced 3D-TSE FLAIR and 3D-SPACE FLAIR MRI between February 2019 and February 2020. MR images were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed twice by 2 experienced head and neck radiologists. Qualitative assessment included grading of cochlear and vestibular EH and visual comparison of PE. Quantitative assessment of PE was performed by placing a region of interest (ROI) and ratio calculation in the basal turn of the cochlea and the brainstem.

Results

The intra- and inter-reader reliability for grading of EH and PE was excellent (0.7 < kappa < 0.9) for 3D-SPACE FLAIR and exceeded the values for 3D-TSE FLAIR (0.5 < kappa < 0.9) The combination of EH and visual assessment of PE has the highest diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing definite MD on 3D-SPACE FLAIR with a sensitivity of 0.91 and a specificity of 0.98 resulting in a sensitivity raise of 6% compared to 3D-TSE FLAIR.

Conclusion

Four-hour delayed IV Gd-enhanced 3D-SPACE FLAIR sequence has a higher sensitivity and reproducibility than 3D-TSE FLAIR for the visualization of EH and increased PE in definite MD patients.
Analysis of a Two-Fluid Taylor–Couette Flow with One Non-Newtonian Fluid
Authors: Lienstromberg Christina , Pernas-Castaño Tania , Velázquez Juan J. L.
Published: February 2022

We study the dynamic behaviour of two viscous fluid films confined between two concentric cylinders rotating at a small relative velocity. It is assumed that the fluids are immiscible and that the volume of the outer fluid film is large compared to the volume of the inner one. Moreover, while the outer fluid is considered to have constant viscosity, the rheological behaviour of the inner thin film is determined by a strain-dependent power-law. Starting from a Navier–Stokes system, we formally derive evolution equations for the interface separating the two fluids. Two competing effects drive the dynamics of the interface, namely the surface tension and the shear stresses induced by the rotation of the cylinders. When the two effects are comparable, the solutions behave, for large times, as in the Newtonian regime. We also study the regime in which the surface tension effects dominate the stresses induced by the rotation of the cylinders. In this case, we prove local existence of positive weak solutions both for shear-thinning and shear-thickening fluids. In the latter case, we show that interfaces which are initially close to a circle converge to a circle in finite time and keep that shape for later times.
How might magnetic secular variation impact avian philopatry?
Authors: Wynn Joe , Padget Oliver , Morford Joe , Jaggers Paris , Davies Katrina , Borsier Emma , Guilford Tim
Published: February 2022

A tendency to return to the natal/breeding site, ‘philopatry’, is widespread amongst migratory birds. It has been suggested that a magnetic ‘map’ could underpin such movements, though it is unclear how a magnetic map might be impacted by gradual drift in the Earth’s magnetic field (‘secular variation’). Here, using the International Geomagnetic Reference Field, we quantified how secular variation translates to movement in the implied positions at which combinations of different magnetic cues (inclination, declination and intensity) intersect, noting that the magnitude of such movements is determined by the magnitude of the movements of each of the two isolines, and the angle between their movement vectors. We propose that magnetic parameters varying in a near-parallel arrangement are unlikely to be used as a bi-coordinate map during philopatry, but that birds could use near-orthogonal magnetic gradient cues as a bi-coordinate map if augmented with navigation using more local cues. We further suggest that uni-coordinate magnetic information could also provide a philopatry mechanism that is substantially less impacted by secular variation than a bi-coordinate ‘map’. We propose that between-year shifts in the position of magnetic coordinates might provide a priori predictions for changes in the breeding sites of migratory birds.
Probabilistic forecasts of near-term climate change: verification for temperature and precipitation changes from years 1971–2000 to 2011–2020
Authors: Räisänen Jouni
Published: February 2022

In year 2006, Räisänen and Ruokolainen proposed a resampling ensemble technique for probabilistic forecasts of near-term climate change. Here, the resulting forecasts of temperature and precipitation change from years 1971–2000 to 2011–2020 are verified. The forecasts of temperature change are found to be encouraginly reliable, with just 9% and 10% of the local annual and monthly mean changes falling outside the 5–95% forecast range. The verification statistics for temperature change represent a large improvement over the statistics for a surrogate no-forced-change forecast, and they are largely insensitive to the observational data used. The improvement for precipitation changes is much smaller, to a large extent due to the much lower signal-to-noise ratio of precipitation than temperature changes. In addition, uncertainty in observations is a major complication in verification of precipitation changes. For the main source of precipitation data chosen in the study, 20% and 15% of the local annual and monthly mean precipitation changes fall outside the 5–95% forecast range.
Risk of extracolonic second primary cancers following a primary colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Robertson Dylan , Ng Shu Kay , Baade Peter D. , Lam Alfred K.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to assess the global risk of extracolonic secondary primary cancers (SPCs) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

Studies of SPC in patients with CRC were included if they reported the standardised incidence ratio (SIR) for extracolonic SPCs in patients with CRC compared with the general population. Pooled summary estimates were calculated using a random-effects model.

Results

A total of 7,716,750 patients with CRC from 13 retrospective cohort studies that reported extracolonic SPC incidence were included. The overall risk of several SPCs was significantly higher in patients with CRC compared with the general population, including cancers of the urinary bladder (pooled SIR 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–1.33; p = 0.003), female genital tract (1.88, 1.07–3.31; p = 0.03), kidney (1.50, 1.19–1.89; p = 0.0007), thorax (lung, bronchus and mediastinum) (1.16, 1.01–1.32; p = 0.03), small intestine (4.26, 2.58–7.01; p < 0.0001), stomach (1.22, 1.07–1.39; p = 0.003), and thyroid (1.40, 1.28–1.53; p < 0.0001), as well as melanoma (1.28, 1.01–1.62; p = 0.04). There was also a decreased risk of developing cancer of the gall bladder (0.75, 0.60–0.94; p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Patients with CRC had a significantly increased risk of extracolonic SPCs compared with the general population. These findings highlight the need to develop research strategies for the management of second primary cancer in patients with CRC.
Accounting for arterial and capillary blood gases for calculation of cerebral blood flow in preterm infants
Authors: Brodkorb Silke , Sidorenko Irina , Turova Varvara , Rieger-Fackeldey Esther , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Kovtanyuk Andrey , Lampe Renée
Published: February 2022

One of the most feared neurological complications of premature birth is intraventricular hemorrhage, frequently triggered by fluctuations in cerebral blood flow (CBF). Although several techniques for CBF measurement have been developed, they are not part of clinical routine in neonatal intensive care. A promising tool for monitoring of CBF is its numerical assessment using standard clinical parameters such as mean arterial pressure, carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2) and oxygen partial pressure (pO2). A standard blood gas analysis is performed on arterial blood. In neonates, capillary blood is widely used for analysis of blood gas parameters. The purpose of this study was the assessment of differences between arterial and capillary analysis of blood gases and adjustment of the mathematical model for CBF calculation to capillary values. The statistical analysis of pCO2 and pO2 values collected from 254 preterm infants with a gestational age of 23–30 weeks revealed no significant differences between arterial and capillary pCO2 and significantly lower values for capillary pO2. The estimated mean differences between arterial and capillary pO2 of 15.15 mmHg (2.02 kPa) resulted in a significantly higher CBF calculated for capillary pO2 compared to CBF calculated for arterial pO2. Two methods for correction of capillary pO2 were proposed and compared, one based on the mean difference and another one based on a regression model.

Conclusion: Capillary blood gas analysis with correction for pO2 as proposed in the present work is an acceptable alternative to arterial sampling for the assessment of CBF.

What is Known:• Arterial blood analysis is the gold standard in clinical practice. However, capillary blood is widely used for estimating blood gas parameters.• There is no significant difference between the arterial and capillary pCO2values, but the capillary pO2differs significantly from the arterial one.

What is New:• The lower capillary pO2values yield significantly higher values of calculated CBF compared to CBF computed from arterial pO2measurements.• Two correction methods for the adjustment of capillary pO2 to arterial pO2that made the difference in the calculated CBF insignificant have been proposed.
Forecasting eruptions from long-quiescent volcanoes
Authors: Kilburn Christopher R. J. , Bell Andrew F.
Published: February 2022

Forecasts of eruption are uncertain. The uncertainty is amplified when volcanoes reawaken after several generations in repose, because direct evidence of previous behaviour is rarely available. It fosters scepticism about warnings of volcanic activity and may compromise the success of emergency procedures. The quality of forecasts has improved over the past 50 years, owing mainly to a growing sophistication in statistical analyses of unrest. Physics-based analyses have yet to achieve the same level of maturity. Their application has been delayed by a view that volcanoes are too complex to share patterns of behaviour that can be described in a deterministic manner. This view is being increasingly challenged and an emerging line of inquiry is to understand how forecasts can be further improved by integrating statistical approaches with new constraints on possible outcomes from physics-based criteria. The introduction of deterministic reasoning yields rational explanations of why forecasts are not perfect and, as a result, offers new opportunities for increasing public confidence in warnings of eruption.
Overcoming therapeutic nihilism. Breaking bad news of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—a patient-centred perspective in rare diseases
Authors: Maksymowicz Stanisław , Libura Maria , Malarkiewicz Paulina
Published: February 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, incurable, and fatal neurodegenerative disease with median survival time from onset to death ranging from 20 to 48 months. Breaking bad news about ALS diagnosis is a challenging task for physicians and a life-changing experience for patients. Several protocols for delivering difficult information are available, including SPIKES and EMPATHY. Our goal was to assess to what extent these guidelines are followed in Polish ALS patients’ experience as well as to identify any other patients’ preferences not addressed by the guidelines. Participants of our study were recruited via a neurology clinic. Twenty-four patients with confirmed ALS diagnosis were interviewed using in-depth interview and a self-constructed questionnaire: 9 females, 15 males in age ranging from 30–39 to 60–69. The analysis showed a pattern of shortcomings and fundamental violations of available protocols reported by ALS patients. Patients also had to deal with therapeutic nihilism, as they were perceived as “hopeless cases”; unlike in oncological setting, their end-of-life needs were not accommodated by some standard schemes. As a conclusion, we recommend using extended breaking bad news protocols with special emphasis on preparing a treatment plan, giving the patient hope and sense of purpose, offering psychological support and counselling directed to patients and caregivers, and providing the patient with meaningful information about the disease, social support, treatment options, and referral to appropriate health care centres.
Economic Recovery in the Age of COVID-19
Authors: Cuerpo Carlos
Published: February 2022

Economic recovery post-COVID-19 will be structured around answering a number of fundamental questions. It is necessary to take stock of the extent of the recovery and of the transformation our economies have experienced in the last year and a half.
Towards New Fiscal Rules in the Euro Area?
Authors: Mathieu Catherine , Sterdyniak Henri
Published: February 2022

Faced with the impossibility of reaching a political agreement to review the fiscal treaties, the Commission could limit itself to applying the current rules with flexibility, which would maintain an ambiguous situation: much ado about nothing.
A Golden Rule for Social Investments: How to Do It
Authors: Alcidi Cinzia , Corti Francesco , Gros Daniel
Published: February 2022

The idea of a golden rule has recently been relaunched in the framework of the debate on the European Green Deal.
Advertising Benefits from Ethical Artificial Intelligence Algorithmic Purchase Decision Pathways
Authors: Rodgers Waymond , Nguyen Tam
Published: February 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) has dramatically changed the way organizations communicate, understand, and interact with their potential consumers. In the context of this trend, the ethical considerations of advertising when applying AI should be the core question for marketers. This paper discusses six dominant algorithmic purchase decision pathways that align with ethical philosophies for online customers when buying a product/goods. The six ethical positions include: ethical egoism, deontology (i.e., rule-based), relativist, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, and ethics of care (i.e., stakeholders’ perspective). Furthermore, this paper launches an “intelligent advertising” AI theme by examining its present and future as well as identifying the key phases of intelligent advertising. Several research questions are offered to guide future research on intelligent advertising to benefit ethical AI decision-making. Finally, several areas that can be widely applied to ethical intelligent advertising are suggested for future research.
Artificial Intelligence and Declined Guilt: Retailing Morality Comparison Between Human and AI
Authors: Giroux Marilyn , Kim Jungkeun , Lee Jacob C. , Park Jongwon
Published: February 2022

Several technological developments, such as self-service technologies and artificial intelligence (AI), are disrupting the retailing industry by changing consumption and purchase habits and the overall retail experience. Although AI represents extraordinary opportunities for businesses, companies must avoid the dangers and risks associated with the adoption of such systems. Integrating perspectives from emerging research on AI, morality of machines, and norm activation, we examine how individuals morally behave toward AI agents and self-service machines. Across three studies, we demonstrate that consumers’ moral concerns and behaviors differ when interacting with technologies versus humans. We show that moral intention (intention to report an error) is less likely to emerge for AI checkout and self-checkout machines compared with human checkout. In addition, moral intention decreases as people consider the machine less humanlike. We further document that the decline in morality is caused by less guilt displayed toward new technologies. The non-human nature of the interaction evokes a decreased feeling of guilt and ultimately reduces moral behavior. These findings offer insights into how technological developments influence consumer behaviors and provide guidance for businesses and retailers in understanding moral intentions related to the different types of interactions in a shopping environment.
Fibroblast-Conditioned Media Enhance the Yield of Microglia Isolated from Mixed Glial Cultures
Authors: Hu Jian , Wang Peng , Wang Zhengyi , Xu Yuyun , Peng Wenshuo , Chen Xiongjian , Fang Yani , Zhu Liyun , Wang Dongxue , Wang Xue , Lin Li , Ruan Lixin
Published: February 2022

Microglia are the main immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and comprise various model systems used to investigate inflammatory mechanisms in CNS disorders. Currently, shaking and mild trypsinization are widely used microglial culture methods; however, the problems with culturing microglia include low yield and a time-consuming process. In this study, we replaced normal culture media (NM) with media containing 25% fibroblast-conditioned media (F-CM) to culture mixed glia and compared microglia obtained by these two methods. We found that F-CM significantly improved the yield and purity of microglia and reduced the total culture time of mixed glia. The microglia obtained from the F-CM group showed longer ramified morphology than those from the NM group, but no difference was observed in cell size. Microglia from the two groups had similar phagocytic function and baseline phenotype markers. Both methods yielded microglia were responsive to various stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and interleukin-4 (IL-4). The current results suggest that F-CM affect the growth of primary microglia in mixed glia culture. This method can produce a high yield of primary microglia within a short time and may be a convenient method for researchers to investigate inflammatory mechanisms and some CNS disorders.
Achieving energy justice in Malawi: from key challenges to policy recommendations
Authors: McCauley Darren , Grant Rebecca , Mwathunga Evance
Published: February 2022

Addressing energy provision and access in Sub-Saharan Africa is a key global challenge. Drawing on interviews with key stakeholders, this paper applies an energy justice framework in overviewing energy realities and policies in Malawi, where electricity access remains among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa. The use of woodfuel remains high for meeting cooking, heating, and lighting needs leading to indoor air pollution, with serious health consequences, and widespread deforestation. Responses to these dual challenges, a lack of electricity access and ongoing woodfuel use, must be rooted in notions of equity, fairness, and justice. Application of energy justice theorising provides insights into how policy stakeholders are responding to complex and interconnected issues of energy generation and access in low-income settings. Overall, a just response to these energy challenges is possible, but only if it is built on local inclusive governance with fairer and effective systems of investment.
The 45-month therapy outcomes of permanent seed implantation and radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer patients
Authors: Li Chao , Zhang Mengdong , Wang Jianwen , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: February 2022

Objective To compare the efficacy and safety-related outcomes after radical prostatectomy (RP) and permanent seed implantation (PI) using iodine-125 seeds in patients with prostate cancer. Method A retrospective analysis of 196 patients with biopsy-confirmed prostate cancer (T2-T3) was performed in this study. Forty-five patients who underwent PI using iodine-125 seeds combined with endocrine therapy or androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) were compared with 151 patients who underwent RP combined with endocrine therapy or adjuvant ADT. The efficacy and safety outcomes were compared using Kaplan–Meier curves and t-tests. Results Between the RP and PI treatment modalities, no significant difference (P > 0.05) in biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS) was observed using Kaplan–Meier curves, regardless of the combination of adjuvant treatment modalities. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed (P > 0.05) with respect to PSA fluctuations, albumin, leukocyte count, urinary and rectal symptoms, erectile function or quality of life (QoL) between the two therapy methods. However, significant differences in the maximum flow rate, average length of hospital stay and indwelling catheter time were observed between the two groups (P < 0.001). Conclusion Iodine-125 seed implantation significantly shortened the average length of hospital stay and indwelling catheter time compared with RP, and the haemoglobin level was significantly higher in the PI group than in the RP group; however, the maximum urine flow rate was lower after of PI than after RP. These two methods showed similar BRFS rates among prostate cancer patients.
Constitutional overperformance: an empirical study of de facto protection of rights with no de jure equivalents
Authors: Metelska-Szaniawska Katarzyna , Lewczuk Anna
Published: February 2022

In this paper we aim to contribute to the debate on successful enforcement of constitutional rules and its determinants by extending the focus to the phenomenon of constitutional overperformance, which arises when countries that do not include certain de jure rights in their constitutions, nevertheless de facto observe them. Firstly, we provide evidence that constitutional overperformance is a common phenomenon around the globe and it demonstrates high variation. Secondly, we identify factors which contribute to it. In particular, more constitutional overperformance is found in countries with older and less comprehensive constitutions, a high degree of democratization and a more robust civil society, plagued by less political conflict. Spatial interdependence effects are also identified confirming the diffusion of constitutional overperformance between countries. We base the conclusions on an empirical study conducted for a global sample of more than 100 countries.
A Non-relativistic Approach to Relativistic Quantum Mechanics: The Case of the Harmonic Oscillator
Authors: Poveda Luis A. , Grave de Peralta Luis , Pittman Jacob , Poirier Bill
Published: February 2022

A recently proposed approach to relativistic quantum mechanics (Grave de Peralta, Poveda, Poirier in Eur J Phys 42:055404, 2021) is applied to the problem of a particle in a quadratic potential. The methods, both exact and approximate, allow one to obtain eigenstate energy levels and wavefunctions, using conventional numerical eigensolvers applied to Schrödinger-like equations. Results are obtained over a nine-order-of-magnitude variation of system parameters, ranging from the non-relativistic to the ultrarelativistic limits. Various trends are analyzed and discussed—some of which might have been easily predicted, others which may be a bit more surprising.
Reduced fertilization constitutes an important prezygotic reproductive barrier between two sibling species of the hybridizing Brachionus calyciflorus species complex
Authors: Zhang Wei , Declerck Steven A. J.
Published: February 2022

Brachionus calyciflorusis a species complex consisting of four recently described species. Although several lines of evidence support their species status, hybridization between two of the sibling speciesB. calycifloruss.s. andB. elevatushas been inferred from both field and laboratory studies. In this study, we tested for the existence of prezygotic barriers between these species by performing two types of cross-fertilization experiments. In a ‘mate competition’ experiment we exposed mictic females to equal numbers of conspecific and allospecific males and demonstrate that intraspecific fertilizations occur at much higher frequencies than interspecific fertilizations, providing evidence for a strong prezygotic reproductive barrier. This result was consistent across numerous combinations of parental genotypes. In addition, by creating interspecific combinations of mictic females and males in a ‘no choice’ experiment, we found that interspecific fertilization success is independent of fertilization direction while it does seem to depend on maternal genotype. Our results demonstrate the existence of a strong prezygotic barrier that may play an important role in the maintenance of species boundaries. Yet, the observation of hybrids also shows a potential for gene flow between the species through hybridization.
The challenges of entering the metaverse: An experiment on the effect of extended reality on workload
Authors: Xi Nannan , Chen Juan , Gama Filipe , Riar Marc , Hamari Juho
Published: February 2022

Information technologies exist to enable us to either do things we have not done before or do familiar things more efficiently. Metaverse (i.e. extended reality: XR) enables novel forms of engrossing telepresence, but it also may make mundate tasks more effortless. Such technologies increasingly facilitate our work, education, healthcare, consumption and entertainment; however, at the same time, metaverse bring a host of challenges. Therefore, we pose the question whether XR technologies, specifically Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), either increase or decrease the difficulties of carrying out everyday tasks. In the current study we conducted a 2 (AR: with vs. without) × 2 (VR: with vs. without) between-subject experiment where participants faced a shopping-related task (including navigating, movement, hand-interaction, information processing, information searching, storing, decision making, and simple calculation) to examine a proposed series of hypotheses. The NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) was used to measure subjective workload when using an XR-mediated information system including six sub-dimensions of frustration, performance, effort, physical, mental, and temporal demand. The findings indicate that AR was significantly associated with overall workload, especially mental demand and effort, while VR had no significant effect on any workload sub-dimensions. There was a significant interaction effect between AR and VR on physical demand, effort, and overall workload. The results imply that the resources and cost of operating XR-mediated realities are different and higher than physical reality.
The moderating role of gender in the association between quality of social relationships and sleep
Authors: Mousavi Zahra , Tran Mai-Lan , Borelli Jessica L. , Dent Amy L. , Kuhlman Kate R.
Published: February 2022

To determine whether the association between perceived social support or strain in close relationships and sleep outcomes varies by gender. Participants were selected from the Biomarker projects of either the MIDUS II or MIDUS Refresher study if they were in a married-or married-like relationship and shared a bed with their partner (N = 989). A subsample also participated in a seven-day sleep study (n = 282). Perceived social support and strain from partner, family, and friends were examined by self-report questionnaires. We used the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, sleep daily diary, and actigraphy to measure both subjective and objective sleep. Social support and strain were both associated with sleep outcomes. Specifically, higher social support was associated with fewer daily reports of light sleep and feeling more rested in the morning, while higher social strain was associated with higher clinical sleep disturbance. For women, but not men, social support was significantly associated with lower daily sleep disturbance while perceived social strain was significantly associated with higher daily sleep disturbance, lighter sleep, feeling less rested in the morning, lower sleep efficiency, and longer sleep onset latency. Mainly among women, social support and strain are associated with an important transdiagnostic health outcome–sleep–which may have implications for a wide range of health disparities. Interpersonal stressors may increase health risks differently for women compared to men and one mechanism that may link social relationships to long-term health outcomes is sleep.
Death, Immortality, and Meaning in Life: Precis and Further Reflections
Authors: Fischer John Martin
Published: February 2022

I offer an overview of the book,Death, Immortality, and Meaning in Life, summarizing the main issues, arguments, and conclusions (Fischer 2020). I also present some new ideas and further developments of the material in the book. A big part of this essay is drawing connections between the specific issues treated in the book and those in other areas of philosophy, and in particular, the theory of agency and moral responsibility. I highlight some striking similarities of both structure and content between the death/meaning in life literature and the free will/moral responsibility literature.
External Ellipsoidal Approximations for Set Evolution Equations
Authors: Duda Steven , Gehrig Edeltraud , Lorenz Thomas
Published: February 2022

In many applications, uncertainty and imprecision in control systems require the focus on reachable sets instead of single state vectors. Then, closed-loop controls also refer to these attainable sets leading to a class of set evolution problems. We suggest sufficient conditions for its well-posedness and for approximating their solutions by intersections of finitely many time-dependent ellipsoids characterized by solutions to a system of ordinary differential equations.