bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Er:YAG laser irrigation with different etching modes on the push-out bond strength of fiber posts to the root dentine
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Li Yingmei , Meng Qingfei , Meng Jian , Mei May Lei
Published: March 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Er:YAG laser irrigation on the push-out bond strength of fiber posts to the root dentine. Sixty extracted human mandibular first premolars were collected and decoronated. The residual roots received endodontic treatment. The treated roots were randomly divided into three groups according to different irrigation protocols: group LAI (Er:YAG laser–activated irrigation), group PUI (passive ultrasonic irrigation, positive control), and group CSI (conventional syringe irrigation, negative control) (n = 20). Each group was divided into two subgroups, either total-etching modes or self-etching modes (n = 10). After fiber post restoration, all roots were sectioned into seven 1.0-mm-thick slices. The slices received a push-out test by a universal test machine. The resin tag on the segments’ bonding interfaces was observed by scanning electron microscope. There were significant differences in the effects of the irrigation method, bonding modes, and root regions on the push-out bond strength among the groups (p < 0.05). The specimens with Er:YAG laser–activated irrigation and self-etching mode showed significantly the highest bonding strength (p < 0.001). The lengths and densities of resin tags in group PUI or group LAI with self-etching modes were longer than those in group CSI with total-etching modes. The laser-activated irrigation with self-etching modes improved the bond strength of fiber post to root dentine compared to the passive ultrasonic irrigation or conventional syringe irrigation with total or self-etching modes.
Typologies of European farmers: approaches, methods and research gaps
Authors: Bartkowski Bartosz , Schüßler Charlotte , Müller Birgit
Published: March 2022

Understanding farmers’ behaviour and their different responses to environmental change, institutional change and policy interventions is important to facilitate the understanding of the drivers of environmental degradation. Identification of behavioural types can be very useful in informing the design of targeted instruments to support transformation towards sustainable agriculture and facilitating the transferability of findings between contexts, while also pointing out limits to the generalization of behavioural patterns detected in individual studies. However, typologies of European farmers are quite scattered geographically, among contexts and disciplines. Here, we present results from a literature review of empirically derived European farmer typologies from 36 academic studies. We investigate the underlying methodologies for determining the types, the purposes of developing typologies and whether there are recurring farmer types across contexts and locations. Our results show that (i) the field is quite diverse in terms of purposes, methods and variables used to develop typologies; (ii) there is surprisingly little awareness of the broader literature; (iii) while there are recurring types, they are still diverse and difficult to compare across studies. We recommend a stronger embedding of new typologies in the existing literature and improvements in the transparency of reporting of methods and data to increase the potential for comparison, transferability and generalizability of findings. Also, we derive implications for future research and for policy, e.g. regarding the trade-off between the specificity of types and complexity-related transaction costs (due to tailoring them to different farmer types) and legitimacy issues.
Co-developing the IPCC frequently asked questions as an effective science communication tool
Authors: Connors Sarah L. , Nicolai Maike , Berger Sophie , Pidcock Rosalind , Walsh Melissa , Hawtin Nigel
Published: March 2022

In its Sixth Assessment Report Cycle (AR6), the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) aims to strengthen the communication of its products. As the only mandatory part of IPCC reports specifically targeting a lay audience, the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) provide an opportunity for broader communication of key IPCC topics. AR6 has released three Special Reports that include FAQs, varying in number and structure, as well as the approach taken to develop them. Using these Special Report FAQs, in this essay, we take stock of current efforts to co-develop IPCC FAQs and provide recommendations to strengthen the impact of these highly useful yet currently under-utilised resources. Building on evidence from a user survey, text analysis and social media statistics, we find that bringing together IPCC authors and communication specialists to jointly develop the text and graphics increases the accessibility and usefulness of the FAQs. Efforts made for informative visuals additionally increase their impact on social media. To maximise the potential and impact of the IPCC FAQs, we recommend involving communication experts from the beginning of the drafting process to share responsibility, which requires sufficient resources to be allocated to the FAQs. We also suggest developing common FAQ guidelines across Working Groups so future assessment reports can ensure all FAQs are an effective and useful tool for IPCC communication.

We also hope that other scientific institutions and projects that wish to summarise scientific content for diverse audiences can benefit from our lessons learned.
On the linearity and classification of $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$-linear generalized hadamard codes
Authors: Bhunia Dipak K. , Fernández-Córdoba Cristina , Villanueva Mercè
Published: March 2022

$${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$

Z

p
s

-additive codes of length n are subgroups of $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}^n$$

Z

p
s

n

, and can be seen as a generalization of linear codes over $${\mathbb {Z}}_2$$

Z
2

, $${\mathbb {Z}}_4$$

Z
4

, or $${\mathbb {Z}}_{2^s}$$

Z

2
s

in general. A $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$

Z

p
s

-linear generalized Hadamard (GH) code is a GH code over $${\mathbb {Z}}_p$$

Z
p

which is the image of a $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$

Z

p
s

-additive code by a generalized Gray map. In this paper, we generalize some known results for $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$

Z

p
s

-linear GH codes with $$p=2$$

p
=
2

to any odd prime p. First, we show some results related to the generalized Carlet’s Gray map. Then, by using an iterative construction of $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$

Z

p
s

-additive GH codes of type $$(n;t_1,\ldots , t_s)$$

(
n
;

t
1

,
…
,

t
s

)

, we show for which types the corresponding $${\mathbb {Z}}_{p^s}$$

Z

p
s

-linear GH codes of length $$p^t$$

p
t

are nonlinear over $${\mathbb {Z}}_p$$

Z
p

. For these codes, we compute the kernel and its dimension, which allow us to give a partial classification. The obtained results for $$p\ge 3$$

p
≥
3

are different from the case with $$p=2$$

p
=
2

. Finally, the exact number of non-equivalent such codes is given for an infinite number of values of s, t, and any $$p\ge 2$$

p
≥
2

; by using also the rank as an invariant in some specific cases.
A Study of Technological Intentionality in C++ and Generative Adversarial Model: Phenomenological and Postphenomenological Perspectives
Authors: Mykhailov Dmytro , Liberati Nicola
Published: March 2022

This paper aims to highlight the life of computer technologies to understand what kind of ‘technological intentionality’ is present in computers based upon the phenomenological elements constituting the objects in general. Such a study can better explain the effects of new digital technologies on our society and highlight the role of digital technologies by focusing on their activities. Even if Husserlian phenomenology rarely talks about technologies, some of its aspects can be used to address the actions performed by the digital technologies by focusing on the objects’ inner ‘life’ thanks to the analysis of passive synthesis and phenomenological horizons in the objects. These elements can be used in computer technologies to show how digital objects are ‘alive.’ This paper focuses on programs developed through high-order languages like C++ and unsupervised learning techniques like ‘Generative Adversarial Model.’ The phenomenological analysis reveals the computer’s autonomy within the programming stages. At the same time, the conceptual inquiry into the digital system’s learning ability shows the alive and changeable nature of the technological object itself.
The use of mussel-inspired polydopamine interlayer for high-efficiency surface functionalization of PET fabrics
Authors: Telli Abdurrahman , Taş Mahmut
Published: March 2022

The surface modifications of polymer materials are carried out to improve surface properties, add new functionalities and thus enlarge their application areas. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a commonly used textile fabric to achieve functional properties via surface modification techniques. However, its inert and non-reactive nature necessitates an activation process before the surface modification to create functional surfaces. Plasma treatment and chemical methods are commonly used for this aim. However, these techniques can easily damage the surface of the PET fabric and result in decreased mechanical properties. In this study, we proposed a new method to activate the surface of PET using polydopamine (PDA) interlayer, known as substrate-independent coating material, to form a better and more homogenous polyaniline (PAni) coating via an in-situ polymerization technique. The surface appearance of the samples was investigated using scanning electron microscopy, and the distribution of elements was analyzed using an energy-dispersive (EDS) detector. Thermal properties of the samples were explored using thermogravimetric analyses and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to compare the chemical structures of the coated and uncoated samples. It was found that the PDA interlayer between PAni and PET significantly reduced the sheet resistance by providing more homogenous and chemically stable PAni coatings. Moreover, the effect of the PDA and PAni coating on the optical properties was investigated, and it was found that the PDA + PAni coated fabric exhibited a maximum of 10% reflectance in the range of 400 and 700 nm while uncoated fabric showed over 90%.
Evaluating models of consent in changing health research environments
Authors: Wiertz Svenja , Boldt Joachim
Published: March 2022

While Specific Informed Consent has been the established standard for obtaining consent for medical research for many years, it does not appear suitable for large-scale biobank and health data research. Thus, alternative forms of consent have been suggested, based on a variety of ethical background assumptions. This article identifies five main ethical perspectives at stake. Even though Tiered Consent, Dynamic Consent and Meta Consent are designed to the demands of the self-determination perspective as well as the perspective of research as a public good, they are still also criticized from both perspectives. In addition, criticisms based on concerns of justice, participation and democratic deliberation, and relational concerns have been levelled at each of the models. As all of these perspectives have valid points to make, the task at hand lies in balancing these ethical perspectives. What constitutes an adequate balancing depends on contextual factors. These factors include digital infrastructure and digital literacy, data safety regulation, good scientific and clinical practice, transparent debates on ethically relevant features of research, social inequalities, anti-discrimination laws and practices, trust in health care institutions and recognition of patient preferences, and consensus on unethical research. We argue that the role of context in determining acceptable models of consent puts the ethical importance of models of consent into perspective. Since altering contextual factors can help to live up to the ethical concerns at stake in debates about models of consent, opting for such a shift of focus comes without ethical loss.
Splice-disrupt genomic variants in prostate cancer
Authors: Alanazi Ibrahim O. , Alamery Salman F. , Ebrahimie Esmaeil , Mohammadi-Dehcheshmeh Manijeh
Published: March 2022

Background

Splice-disrupt genomic variants are one of the causes of cancer-causing errors in gene expression. Little is known about splice-disrupt genomic variants.

Methods and results

Here, pattern of splice-disrupt variants was investigated using 21,842,764 genomic variants in different types of prostate cancer. A particular attention was paid to genomic locations of splice-disrupt variants on target genes. HLA-A in prostate cancer, MSR1 in familial prostate cancer, and EGFR in both castration-resistant prostate cancer and metastatic castration-resistant had the highest allele frequencies of splice-disrupt variations. Some splice-disrupt variants, located on coding sequences of NCOR2, PTPRC, and CRP, were solely present in the advanced metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. High-risk splice-disrupt variants were identified based on computationally calculated Polymorphism Phenotyping (PolyPhen), Sorting Intolerant From Tolerant (SIFT), and Genomic Evolutionary Rate Profiling (GERP) + + scores as well as the recorded clinical significance in dbSNP database of NCBI. Functional annotation of damaging splice-disrupt variants highlighted important cancer-associated functions, including endocrine resistance, lipid metabolic process, steroid metabolic process, regulation of mitotic cell cycle, and regulation of metabolic process. This is the first study that profiles the splice-disrupt genomic variants and their target genes in prostate cancer. Literature mining based variant analysis highlighted the importance of rs1800716 variant, located on the CYP2D6 gene, involved in a range of important functions, such as RNA spicing, drug interaction, death, and urotoxicity.

Conclusions

This is the first study that profiles the splice-disrupt genomic variants and their target genes in different types of prostate cancer. Unravelling alternative splicing opens a new avenue towards the establishment of new diagnostic and prognostic markers for prostate cancer progression and metastasis.
On the nature of role shift
Authors: Aristodemo Valentina , Giustolisi Beatrice , Zorzi Giorgia , Gras Doriane , Hauser Charlotte , Sala Rita , Sánchez Amat Jordina , Donati Caterina , Cecchetto Carlo
Published: March 2022

Attitude role shift is a sign language strategy to report someone else’s utterance or thought. It has been analyzed either as a kind of demonstration or, alternatively, as a complex construction involving subordination plus a context-shifting operator. The present work reports the results of a sentence-to-picture matching task developed in three different sign languages (Italian Sign Language, French Sign Language and Catalan Sign Language) with the aim of providing experimental evidence about the nature of role shift. The task assessed the comprehension of indexical first-person pronouns in various syntactic contexts with and without role shift. We showed that constructions with role shift, which require context-shifting for the first-person pronoun, are never easier to comprehend than constructions without role shift that do not require context-shifting. In some cases, they are even more difficult. Additionally, we show that, in Italian Sign Language only, sentences in which the role shifted first-person pronoun is in object position are more difficult than sentences in which it is in subject position. We argue that this can be interpreted as an intervention effect and that this is an argument in favor of positing a context-shifting operator in the periphery of the role shift clause. Considering that the population of adult Deaf signers includes, besides native signers, a majority of individuals with a more or less severe delayed first language exposure, the second goal of this paper is to study the effects of age of exposure on comprehension of sentences with role shift. In the three languages under investigation, we found that native signers generally outperformed non-native signers in sentences with role shift and in subordinate clauses without role shift. This confirms that delayed language exposure has a lasting impact on adults’ comprehension of subordinate clauses of various degrees of complexity.
Bioaccumulation of metals by algae from acid mine drainage: a case study of Frongoch Mine (UK)
Authors: Du Tianhao , Bogush Anna , Edwards Paul , Stanley Peter , Lombardi Ana T. , Campos Luiza C.
Published: March 2022

In Frongoch Mine (UK), it is unclear the distribution of metals on indigenous algae and whether these species of algae can accumulate metals. This study aimed to investigate the role of indigenous algae for metal removal from acid mine drainage and understand if metals can be adsorbed on the surface of algae or/and bioaccumulated in algae. A sequential extraction procedure was applied for algae samples collected from acid mine drainage (AMD) water to identify the forms in which metals are found in algae. Concentrations of Fe, Pb, Zn, Cu and Cd were evaluated in the algae and AMD samples were collected in June and October 2019. AMDs samples had a pH value ranging between 3.5 and 6.9 and high concentrations of Zn (351 mg/L) and Pb (4.22 mg/L) that exceeded the water quality standards (Water Framework Directive, 2015). Algae Ulothrix sp. and Oedogonium sp. were the two main species in the Frongoch AMDs. The concentrations of metals in algae ranged from 0.007 to 51 mg/g, and the bioconcentration factor of metals decreased in the following order: Fe >  > Pb >  > Cu > Cd > Zn. It was found that Zn, Cu and Cd were adsorbed onto the surface of and bioaccumulated in the algae, while Pb and Fe were mainly bioaccumulated in the algae. Indigenous algae can be considered as a biogeochemical barrier where metals are accumulating and can be used in bioremediation methods. Also, indigenous algae could be used as a bioindicator to assess water pollution at Frongoch Mine and other similar metal mines.
Why deep pockets make great borrowers: an empirical analysis of venture loans
Authors: Lehnertz Nico , Plagmann Carolin , Lutz Eva
Published: March 2022

Startups typically have no positive cash flow, little collateral to offer, and high bankruptcy rates. As a result, they seem to be poor loan candidates. However, venture loans as hybrid form financing that include a loan and a warrant are used in practice. We focus on this distinct form of venture debt and identify characteristics of startups and their financing history that are related to their probability of receiving a venture loan. We use an unbalanced panel data sample of 13,540 companies that have conducted 27,577 financing rounds. Our key finding is that venture loans are associated with strongly committed existing investors, which stimulates the requirements of venture lenders and is signaled through large invested capital amounts per investor in previous rounds. Furthermore, we find that venture loans are associated with rather mature startups and offer empirical indication that the medical, health, and life science industry with clear milestones provides good conditions for venture loans.
High-resolution CT findings of pulmonary infections in patients with hematologic malignancy: comparison between patients with or without hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Kunihiro Yoshie , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Kawano Reo , Yujiri Toshiaki , Ueda Kazuhiro , Gondo Toshikazu , Kobayashi Taiga , Matsumoto Tsuneo , Ito Katsuyoshi
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the high-resolution CT (HRCT) findings of pulmonary infections in patients with hematologic malignancy and compare them between patients with or without hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Materials and methods

A total of 128 patients with hematologic malignancy and pulmonary infection were included in this study. The diagnoses of the patients consisted of bacterial pneumonia (37 non-HSCT cases and 14 HSCT cases), pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) (29 non-HSCT cases and 11 HSCT cases), and fungal infection other than PCP (20 non-HSCT cases and 17 HSCT cases). Two chest radiologists retrospectively evaluated the HRCT criteria and compared them using chi-squared tests and a multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

According to the multiple logistic regression analysis, nodules were an indicator in HSCT patients with PCP (p = 0.025; odds ratio, 5.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–26.6). The centrilobular distribution of nodules was the most frequent (n = 4, 36%) in HSCT patients with PCP. A mosaic pattern was an indicator of PCP in both HSCT and non-HSCT patients. There were no significant differences in other infections.

Conclusion

The mosaic pattern could be an indicator of PCP in both HSCT and non-HSCT patients. Nodules with centrilobular distribution might be relatively frequent HRCT findings of PCP in HSCT patients.
Effects of manufactured nanomaterials on algae: Implications and applications
Authors: Huang Yuxiong , Gao Manyu , Wang Wenjing , Liu Ziyi , Qian Wei , Chen Ciara Chun , Zhu Xiaoshan , Cai Zhonghua
Published: March 2022

The wide application of manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs) has resulted in the inevitable release of MNMs into the aquatic environment along their life cycle. As the primary producer in aquatic ecosystems, algae play a critical role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems’ energy flow, material circulation and information transmission. Thus, thoroughly understanding the biological effects of MNMs on algae as well as the underlying mechanisms is of vital importance. We conducted a comprehensive review on both positive and negative effects of MNMs on algae and thoroughly discussed the underlying mechanisms. In general, exposure to MNMs may adversely affect algae’s gene expression, metabolites, photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation and growth rate. The major mechanisms of MNMs-induced inhibition are attributed to oxidative stress, mechanical damages, released metal ions and light-shielding effects. Meanwhile, the rational application of MNMs-algae interactions would promote valuable bioactive substances production as well as control biological and chemical pollutants. Our review could provide a better understanding of the biological effects of MNMs on algae and narrow the knowledge gaps on the underlying mechanisms. It would shed light on the investigation of environmental implications and applications of MNMs-algae interactions and meet the increasing demand for sustainable nanotechnology development.
Applying a Rasch model to the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire: item severity analysis and differential test functioning of the English and Spanish versions
Authors: Godoy-Giménez Marta , González-Rodríguez Antonio , Estévez Angeles F. , Cañadas Fernando , Sayans-Jiménez Pablo
Published: March 2022

The broad autism phenotype (BAP) represents the elevated but nonclinical levels of autism-related expressions expanding them beyond the disorder threshold towards the general population and it is assessed worldwide using the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire. In this study, we applied a Rasch item response approach to the Spanish and the English BAPQ versions. This approach allows us to test the proper functioning of each version, estimate which BAP behaviours are more likeable at different levels of severity, and study whether BAPQ item’s severities and orders could be considered equivalent between both versions. A Spanish community sample of 970 participants and an English of 533 ones completed either the Spanish or the English version of the BAPQ. The results revealed a lack of unidimensionality of the Pragmatic Language subscale in both tests and the Rigid subscale in the English version. Both Aloof subscale versions and the Spanish Rigid demonstrated adequate properties but with several items showing differential functioning in the case of Aloof. We conclude by highlighting the necessity of BAP measurements paralleling the current autism spectrum disorder structure, following the severity-dimensional conceptualization (behaviours are continuously distributed according to their severity), and suitable for being adapted to different languages.
Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Guided by End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide—a Porcine Model
Authors: Ölander Carl-Henrik , Vikholm Per , Lindblom Rickard , Schiller Petter , Hellgren Laila
Published: March 2022

Extracorporeal membrane cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for selected cases and end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) could be used to guide initiation of ECPR. Ventricular fibrillation was induced in 12 pigs and CPR was performed until ETCO2 fell below 10 mmHg; then, ECPR was performed. Animals were divided into group short (GShort) and group long (GLong), according to time of CPR. Carotid blood flow was higher (p = 0.02) and mean arterial blood pressure lower in GLong during CPR (p < 0.05). B-Lactate was lower and pH higher in GShort (p < 0.01). In microdialysis lactate-pyruvate ratio, glycerol and glutamate increased in both groups during CPR, but considerably in GLong (p < 0.01). No difference could be seen in histopathology of the brain or kidney post-ECPR. No apparent histological differences of tissue damage in brains or levels of S100B in plasma were detected between groups. This might suggest that ETCO2 could be used as a marker for brain injury following ECPR.

Graphical abstract
Management of risks substances and sustainable development
Authors: Ostad-Ali-Askari Kaveh
Published: March 2022

Sustainable improvement is related to several key variables that count as solid and secure positions. Currently, the group of hazardous substances and inappropriate soils has created one of the most important issues of insecurity against masculinity. Consequently, unsafe substances and hazardous products have been unusually monitored by various countries. Although the safe evacuation of hazardous wastes has consistently remained an issue, the increase in collections and overall estimates of the oppressive situation created in inapplicable periods and the progress of our data and thinking about the contrasting effects of dangerously bad backgrounds on anthropological well-being and conditions has predetermined that the unsafe overflow group will continue during the period of the highest protection programs at the present time. In order to conduct this research, the management of hazardous substances and unsafe goods that are considered as wasteful waste will be properly portrayed in this research.
Single-row exclusion nets: an alternative pest control method with no detectable impact on breeding bird assemblages in orchards bordered by hedgerows
Authors: Bouvier Jean-Charles , Boivin Thomas , Lavigne Claire
Published: March 2022

Agricultural intensification has led to dramatic declines in bird populations. In particular, the acknowledged role of synthetic pesticides on direct bird intoxication or food resource depletion urges us to seek alternative crop protection methods. Pest exclusion netting systems have recently gained popularity among fruit growers as an efficient means of reducing pest attacks, allowing their transition to organic farming. Single-row exclusion nets, which only cover fruit trees and leave uncovered both the inter-row grassy strips and the hedges, are increasingly being used in apple orchards of Southern Europe. However, net-induced effects on wildlife remain unknown. This study is the first to assess the impacts of single-row exclusion nets on breeding bird communities. We hypothesized that the exclusion net effects would be weaker than those associated with synthetic pesticide use, except for bird species that forage in the tree canopy. We monitored breeding bird abundance, and species richness in 46 commercial apple orchards managed using integrated pest management (IPM) or organic standards with or without exclusion nets. We counted 705 birds belonging to 32 different species. Total bird abundance, the number of observed species, and the Chao1 estimate of species richness were influenced by orchard management strategy. Breeding bird assemblages in organic orchards were as numerous and diverse in both the presence and absence of exclusion nets. In contrast, both bird abundance and species richness were significantly decreased in IPM orchards. The abundance and species richness of bird assemblages and the abundance of a few individual species also increased with the number of hedgerows bordering the orchards. Our results demonstrate that single-row netting systems for organic farming represent an effective pest control strategy with no significant impact on bird communities and highlight the importance of hedgerows along the orchards’ edges.
A conjugate gradient-assisted multi-objective evolutionary algorithm for fluence map optimization in radiotherapy treatment
Authors: Cao Ruifen , Si Langchun , Li Xuesong , Guang Yaopei , Wang Chao , Tian Ye , Pei Xi , Zhang Xingyi
Published: March 2022

Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is one of the most applied techniques for cancer radiotherapy treatment. The fluence map optimization is an essential part of IMRT plan designing, which has a significant impact on the radiotherapy treatment effect. In fact, the treatment planing of IMRT is an inverse multi-objective optimization problem. Existing approaches of solving the fluence map optimization problem (FMOP) obtain a satisfied treatment plan via trying different coupling weights, the optimization process needs to be conducted many times and the coupling weight setting is completely based on the experience of a radiation physicist. For fast obtaining diverse high-quality radiotherapy plans, this paper formulates the FMOP into a three-objective optimization problem, and proposes a conjugate gradient-assisted multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (CG-MOEA) to solve it. The proposed algorithm does not need to set the coupling weights and can produce the diverse radiotherapy plans within a single run. Moreover, the convergence speed is further accelerated by an adaptive local search strategy based on the conjugate-gradient method. Compared with five state-of-the-art multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs), the proposed CG-MOEA can obtain the best hypervolume (HV) values and dose–volume histogram (DVH) performance on five clinical cases in cancer radiotherapy. Moreover, the proposed algorithm not only obtains the more optimal solution than traditional method used to solve the FMOP, but also can find diverse Pareto solution set which can be provided to radiation physicist to select the best treatment plan. The proposed algorithm outperforms dose-volume histogram state-of-the-art multi-objective evolutionary algorithms and traditional method for FMOP on five clinical cases in cancer radiotherapy.
Topological approach to generate new rough set models
Authors: Al-shami Tareq M.
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we introduce a topological method to produce new rough set models. This method is based on the idea of “somewhat open sets” which is one of the celebrated generalizations of open sets. We first generate some topologies from the different types of$$N_\rho $$Nρ-neighborhoods. Then, we define new types of rough approximations and accuracy measures with respect to somewhat open and somewhat closed sets. We study their main properties and prove that the accuracy and roughness measures preserve the monotonic property. One of the unique properties of these approximations is the possibility of comparing between them. We also compare our approach with the previous ones, and show that it is more accurate than those induced from open,$$\alpha $$α-open, and semi-open sets. Moreover, we examine the effectiveness of the followed method in a problem of Dengue fever. Finally, we discuss the strengths and limitations of our approach and propose some future work.
Hidden Resources: The Messy Way to Resilience
Authors: Lisi Sabrina
Published: March 2022

All individuals have similar psychological needs like experiencing self-efficacy, pleasure, or attachment (Epstein, 1993; Grawe, 2006). The way to get those needs met, however, is sometimes messy, especially when vulnerability is high. While the concept of hidden resilience has been introduced two decades ago (Ungar, 2002), hidden resources or more precisely hidden affordances of resources within hidden resilience seem to be rather unexplored. Conceptualising hidden resources allows to extent and strengthen the social ecological perspective of resilience, wherein factors and processes of resilience are conceived as contextually dependent. Hidden affordances (Gaver, 1991; Gibson, 1979) of resources can be understood as the nonconventional behavioural patterns used on the path facilitating (hidden) resilience, hence, a resource is equipped with different qualities that are compatible with and relevant for the individual’s psychological needs. Vulnerable children might be securing resources, helping them to stay healthy, by being angry, even aggressive. Various studies (Kassis et al., 2018; Sroufe et al., 2010; Ungar, 2002; Ungar et al., 2013) are in line with a view, indicating that resilience processes are rarely linear or ideal, in the sense that only the pure self-beneficial or socially accepted resources are navigated to. By acknowledging messy resilience processes, we sharpen the view towards hidden resilience and hidden (affordances of) resources which allows us to take off our conventionally tinted resilience-glasses and recognize various resilient ways of life. The conclusion opens the field of vision regarding successful adaptation to adverse situations and provides added value for educational sciences and therapeutic areas.
EU Criminal Law and Persons with Disabilities: Reflections on “Vulnerability” and the Influence of the CRPD
Authors: Waddington Lisa
Published: March 2022

This essay examines how EU criminal law, which regulates certain aspects of criminal procedural law of the twenty-seven EU member states, addresses the situation of persons with disabilities who come into contact with the criminal justice system. EU law on victims and on suspects and accused persons (partially) addresses disability through the prism of “vulnerability.” This essay argues that associating persons with disabilities with “vulnerability” can be stigmatizing. Moreover, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which requires that persons with disabilities have effective access to justice and receive appropriate accommodations, does not link these rights to a prior recognition of “vulnerability.” Even though the EU is a party to the CRPD, the 2013 Recommendation from the European Commission on Procedural Safeguards for Vulnerable Persons Suspected or Accused in Criminal Proceedings, frames disability in terms of “vulnerability.” In contrast, parts of the EU Victims’ Rights Directive address the situation of individuals with disabilities without using the language of vulnerability.
Leveraging antimicrobial stewardship programs in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency
Authors: Joerger Torsten A. , Bio Laura L. , Puckett Lauren M. , Schwenk Hayden T.
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has strained antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) but offered new opportunities. This review summarizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ASPs, review the contributions ASPs have made in the pandemic response, and highlight the potential role of ASPs in future pandemics.
Maritime Delimitation in the Indian Ocean (Som. v. Kenya) (I.C.J.)
Authors: Gaver Craig D.
Published: March 2022

On October 12, 2021, the International Court of Justice (ICJ, or the Court) delivered its judgment in Maritime Delimitation in the Indian Ocean (Somalia v. Kenya). The Court established a single maritime boundary between the two states, delimiting the territorial sea, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf, including the continental shelf beyond 200 miles.
Continuous Action toward Justice
Authors: Hutchinson Darren Lenard
Published: March 2022

Conservative activists and politicians have condemned critical race theory and have supported measures to prohibit teaching the subject in public schools. The anti-critical race theory movement is part of broader social movement activity inspired by the 2020 presidential election. Many conservatives view Donald Trump's defeat as a victory for antiracism. In response, they have portrayed the election as a product of fraud, enacted laws that will make it more difficult for people of color to vote, endorsed measures that would chill antiracist political activism, and banned instruction related to contemporary antiracist theory. These practices have been employed historically in response to antiracism. This history should guide social justice advocates as they analyze the meaning of countermovement activity and build strategies of resistance.
Rethinking Sanctuary: The Origins of Non-Cooperation Policies in Social Welfare Agencies
Authors: Fox Cybelle
Published: March 2022

Too often, scholarship on immigration conflates sanctuary ordinances with the non-cooperation policies, often embedded in these ordinances, which limit cooperation between local officials and federal immigration authorities. In this article, I disentangle the two by tracing the rise of non-cooperation policies in health and welfare agencies since the New Deal. Doing so challenges assumptions about the origins, targets, consequences, and significance of early sanctuary policies. It reveals that non-cooperation was federal policy between 1935 and the early 1970s, when local, state, and federal officials began to experiment with cooperation. When the consequences of such practices became clear, welfare and health officials were forced to reaffirm non-cooperation just before the sanctuary movement burst onto the scene. This research clarifies why scholars see early sanctuary ordinances as largely symbolic: because many local, state, and federal officials had largely abandoned cooperation in practice. It also challenges the widespread assumption that non-cooperation fundamentally represents local resistance to federal power. Instead, I demonstrate the key role played by the federal government in the rise of non-cooperation in health and welfare agencies. Lastly, this research reaffirms the significance of the fragmented nature of federal institutions for promoting immigrant rights.
NETWORK ANALYSIS OF HOUSING PRICE COMOVEMENTS OF A HUNDRED CHINESE CITIES
Authors: Xu Xiaojie , Zhang Yun
Published: March 2022

Housing price comovements are an important issue in economics. This study focuses on monthly housing prices of 99 major cities in China for the years 2010–2019 by using correlation-based hierarchical analysis and synchronisation analysis, through which one could determine interactions and interdependence among the prices, heterogeneous patterns in price synchronisations and their changing paths over time. Empirical results show that the degree of comovements is slightly lower after March 2017 but no persistent drop is found. Several groups of cities are identified, each of which has its members showing relatively strong but volatile price synchronisations. Certain cities show potential of serving as price leaders within a group. Results here could be useful to policy analysis regarding housing price comovements.
KURZARBEIT/SHORT TIME WORKING: EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS FROM THE COVID-INDUCED DOWNTURN
Authors: Casey Bernard H. , Mayhew Ken
Published: March 2022

Following the covid-induced lockdowns, many commented on the role the German model of Kurzarbeit could play in reducing unemployment. Other countries emulated the model. Looking at the experiences of Germany, the UK, Sweden and the USA, the article analyses the strengths and weaknesses of short-time working (STW) schemes. It asks whether STW has been well designed to have optimal short and longer run impact. It is quite effective as a short-term palliative, but in longer downturns, its weaknesses come to the fore. It is by no means clear that the UK needs a permanent replacement for the furlough.
THE SAHM RULE AND PREDICTING THE GREAT RECESSION ACROSS OECD COUNTRIES
Authors: Blanchflower David G. , Bryson Alex
Published: March 2022

We examine the start date of the Great Recession across OECD countries. The Sahm Rule identifies the start of recession in the US to the beginning of 2008 but in most other OECD countries it identifies the start after that identified by two successive falls in quarterly GDP. We establish our own rule for predicting recession using the fear of unemployment series to predict recession. We show a 10-point rise in the series compared to its previous 12 month low predicted the onset of the Great Recession in both the United States and Europe.
Quantity and variety of fruit and vegetable intake in midlife and cognitive impairment in late life: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sheng Li-Ting , Jiang Yi-Wen , Alperet Derrick Johnston , Feng Lei , Pan An , Koh Woon-Puay
Published: March 2022

There is limited evidence on fruit and vegetable intake in relation to cognitive function. This study aimed to evaluate the associations of quantity and variety in fruit and vegetable intake in midlife with cognitive impairment in late life. We used data from 16 737 participants of the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a population-based cohort study. The participants provided dietary data at recruitment at median age of 52·5 (range: 45–74) years and also participated in the third follow-up interview 20 years later at median age of 72·2 (range: 61–96) years. Quantity and variety of fruits and vegetables consumed at baseline were measured using a validated FFQ. Cognitive impairment at the third follow-up was defined using a Singapore-modified version of Mini-Mental State Examination. About 14·3 % participants had cognitive impairment. In multivariable logistic regression models, comparing extreme quartiles for intake of fruits and vegetables combined, the OR (95 % CI) associated with cognitive impairment was 0·83 (95 % CI: 0·73, 0·95; P-trend = 0·006) for quantity and 0·76 (95 % CI: 0·67, 0·87; P-trend< 0·001) for variety scores. Independently, those with increased variety of fruit intake or higher quantity of vegetable intake also had significantly 22 % and 15 % reduced odds of cognitive impairment, respectively. Finally, compared with those with low intake for both quantity and variety, those with both high quantity and variety for fruits and vegetables had 23 % reduction in odds of cognitive impairment. In conclusion, increase in quantity and variety of fruits and vegetables in midlife may reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in late life.
Contesting Market Democracy: Possibilities and Contradictions of the Candlelight Protests
Authors: Williams Michelle
Published: March 2022

This commentary provides a critical discussion of the three essays in this forum and reflects on the similarities and differences between the crises of democracy under globalized neoliberal capitalism in South Korea and South Africa.
The Politics of Time: The Sewŏl Ferry Disaster and the Disaster of Democracy
Authors: Park Hyun Ok
Published: March 2022

The vanishing critique of capitalism within the Sewŏl movement for truth finding has revealed the bare face of the current democratic order and its rule of law. This article presents the Sewŏl movement as the bellwether, in a synchronic sense, of the Candlelight Protests that have become a modality of direct action in South Korea. I seek to contribute to our understanding of the life politics that has become a key marker of struggles against the state-capital network since the 2000s. I ascribe the antinomies of truth finding and mourning and of massacre and accident in the Sewŏl movement to the democratic collective unconscious that regards the 1987 moment in South Korea as an irrevocable rupture from dictatorship to democracy. The Sewŏl movement illuminates how the axes of organization and spontaneity and of reformism and revolution in the Candlelight Protest movement are not so much binaries, or oppositions, as hieroglyphic signs of the democratic unconscious and its excesses that contest the temporalizations of the capitalist present.
Robust Lyapunov-based motion control of a redundant upper limb cable-driven rehabilitation robot
Authors: Seyfi Niloufar Sadat , Keymasi Khalaji Ali
Published: March 2022

This research presents an upper limb cable-driven rehabilitating robot with one degree of redundancy to improve the movements of the injured. A spatial trajectory is planned through the joint limit avoidance approach to apply the limits of the joint angles, which is a new method for trajectory planning of joints with an allowed definite interval. Firstly, a Lyapunov-based control is applied to the robot with taking uncertainty and disturbances into consideration. To derive the best responses of the system with considering uncertainty and disturbances, a novel robust tracking controller, namely a computed-torque-like with independent-joint compensation, is introduced. The mentioned new robust controller has not been applied to any cable robot which is the novelty of this paper to derive a superior output and the robustness of the given approach. Stability analysis of both controllers is demonstrated and the outputs of the controllers are compared for an exact three-dimensional motion planning and desirable cable forces. Eventually, the proposed novel controller revealed a better function in the presence of uncertainties and disturbances with about 28.21% improvement in tracking errors and 69.22% improvement in the required cable forces as control inputs, which is a considerable figure.
QUASI-ISOMETRIC EMBEDDINGS INAPPROXIMABLE BY ANOSOV REPRESENTATIONS
Authors: Tsouvalas Konstantinos
Published: March 2022

We construct examples of quasi-isometric embeddings of word hyperbolic groups into
$\mathsf {SL}(d,\mathbb {R})$
for
$d \geq 4$
which are not limits of Anosov representations into
$\mathsf {SL}(d,\mathbb {R})$
. As a consequence, we conclude that an analogue of the density theorem for
$\mathsf {PSL}(2,\mathbb {C})$
does not hold for
$\mathsf {SL}(d,\mathbb {R})$
when
$d \geq 4$
.