The Creeps as a Moral Emotion

Creepiness and the emotion of the creeps have been overlooked in the moral philosophy and moral psychology literatures. We argue that the creeps is a morally significant emotion in its own right, and not simply a type of fear, disgust, or anger (though it shares features with those emotions). Reflecting on cases, we defend a novel account of the creeps as felt in response to creepy people. According to our moral insensitivity account, the creeps is fitting just when its object is agential activity that is insensitive to basic moral considerations. When, only when, and insofar as someone is disposed to such insensitivity, they are a creep. Such insensitivity, especially in extreme forms, raises doubts about creeps’ moral agency. We distinguish multiple types of insensitivity, respond to concerns that feeling the creeps is itself objectionable, and conclude with a discussion of epistemic issues relating to the creeps

Multi-mode coaxial transmon qubits for quantum computing and sensing

Superconducting circuits are well established as a viable candidate for the realisation of quantum computers. Circuits based on the transmon qubit are now ubiquitous, owing to its simple design and reduced control wiring overhead. An issue with transmon qubit-based architectures is the always-on unwanted interactions that impose limits on gate speeds and introduce errors into their operation. In addition, understanding sources of noise and decoherence is essential to the low-error operation quantum computers. This thesis describes the implementation of a multi-mode superconducting qubit in a coaxial circuit QED architecture. Constructed from three superconducting islands, connected via two Josephson junctions, the device possesses two transmon-like modes with orthogonal field symmetries. The unique polarisation of each mode allows for engineering dissipation and coupling in the system, extending functionality beyond the single-mode transmon. Experimental results on the unit-cell of the two-mode coaxial transmon are presented, demonstrating coherent control and simultaneous dispersive readout of the modes of the device. A predictive theory of charge sensitivity in a multi-mode superconducting qubit is presented, and experimental results in agreement of this theory are shown, observing sensitivity to four charge-parity configurations and two independent gate-charge offsets. The utility of a multi-mode qubit as a charge detector in spatially tracking local-charge drift of ≃ 100 µm length scales is also shown, demonstrating the use of these devices as tools in understanding charge noise in superconducting circuits. Finally, a system of a pair of coupled two-mode coaxial transmons is introduced, demonstrating a highly mode-selective coupling architecture. A suppressed quantum crosstalk of 2 kHz between protected modes of the devices is measured, along with equal single qubit gate fidelities when operated both individually and simultaneously. A first characterisation of a microwave activated conditional phase interaction between computational modes driven via ancillary transitions (AT-MAP) is presented. Whilst not shown in this work, this state-dependent two-qubit interaction can be used to generate entanglement. Combined with the low crosstalk demonstrated, this shows the multi-mode qubit architecture is a promising candidate for the construction of larger scale quantum processors with fast gates and low crosstalk-related errors

Employment Protection and Gender Dysphoria: Legal Definitions of Unequal Treatment on the Basis of Sex and Disability

Transsexuality, also known as gender dysphoria syndrome, has only recently been recognized as a legitimate medical entity that may be treated by reassignment surgery and psychological therapy. This Article traces the development of this recognition by the medical profession and outlines the social and legal issues still facing transsexuals, focusing on employment discrimination. State and federal decisions based on sex discrimination statutes have proven unsatisfactory to protect transsexuals. The authors contend that sex discrimination statutes should be interpreted to protect transsexuals and suggest two alternative approaches, based on constitutional theories and statutes designed to protect handicapped individuals, that may better serve to secure employment rights for transsexuals

Uncivil wars: does Kantian Adaptive Networks Theory provide significant indications and warning of intra-state conflict

Reviewing inter-state warfare literature, I observe a correlation between the growth of international institutions, economic interchange, and levels of democracy, and corresponding decreases in incidents of international war. Conversely, internal conflicts comprise most conflicts in the post-1945 world, compared to inter-state conflicts. Within the larger intra-state literature, I note an underlying lineage to concepts evolving from Kant’s writings, specifically Kantian democratic peace theory (DPT) literature posited by Russett and ONeal (2001), and the informal social-juridical relationship within Metaphysics of Morals. From that pedigree, could a deeper understanding of internal political risks gained through application of Kantian DPT, interpolating Putnam’s (2002) Social Capital Theory (SCT) hold potential to provide researchers and policy makers insight into propensity for descent into conflict early enough to implement corrective actions? This investigation initially questions existence of intra-state processes performing similar ameliorating or exacerbating functions observed at inter-state level. Assessing that intra-state dynamics exhibit an elevated dependence on social factors necessitates adjustments to DPT to accommodate the adaptable nature of social constructs, leading to the designation of my theory as Kantian Adaptable Networks Theory (KANT). To test hypotheses, I start with DPT, incorporate elements of SCT, and identify a hybrid combination presenting greater explanatory power than either DPT or SCT factors alone. Fund for Peace’s Fragile State Indices (FSI) for 2005-2013 provides the dataset to conduct regression analysis to determine significance of DPT and/or SCT elements in static and time-series. Initial results indicate DPT/SCT provides explanatory value at the intra-state level with the Group Grievance factor generally presenting the most significant effect on probability of conflict. To assess resilience to intra-state conflict, I then explore brittleness of social-contract dynamics through the lens of Clausewitz’ center of gravity theory. In my exploration of applicability of KANT at the case level, I analyze FSI data for Syria and Kenya to determine resilience to shocks and ratcheted pressures, and explanation for differing outcomes. Based on the results of quantitative and case analysis, I present policy prescription considerations. Finally, I discuss additional avenues for follow-on research of issues and opportunities identified during the course of the investigation

Relationships between Posttraumatic Stress, Acculturation, and Maternal Sensitivity in Vietnamese and Hmong Mothers

The purposes of this study were to determine if posttraumatic stress (PTS), depression, and anxiety occurred in a community sample of Vietnamese and Hmong mothers and to describe relationships between PTS, depression, anxiety, acculturation and maternal sensitivity. Transition theory (Bridges, 1980), and a conceptual model of parenting in immigrant populations building on Belsky\u27s (1984) work, provided the theoretical framework (Foss, 1996). The sample was divided evenly between Vietnamese and Hmong participants. Ages ranged from 17–43 years, time lived in the United States ranged from 3–21 years, and education ranged from no formal education to completion of college. Maternal sensitivity was measured with Ainsworth\u27s Sensitivity vs. Insensitivity to the Communication of the Baby Scale; PTS, depression, and anxiety with the Vietnamese and Hmong versions of the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25), and acculturation with the Suinn-Lew Self-identity Acculturation Scale (SL-ASIA). The SL-ASIA was translated into Vietnamese and Hmong prior to data collection. All data were collected by the investigator in the home. Interpreters were used for half of the sample. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 6.1 (SPSS) was used to analyze the data, explore relationships, and perform regression analyses. Results were (a)Vietnamese mothers experience PTS, anxiety, and depression to the same degree as the general Vietnamese and Hmong population, (b)Hmong mothers experience PTS, depression and anxiety to a much greater degree than Vietnamese mothers, (c)maternal sensitivity remained very high, even when clinical levels of PTS, anxiety, or depression were present, (d) there was a trend for more depressed Vietnamese mothers to be less sensitive to their infants, but for more depressed Hmong mothers to be more sensitive to their infants, and (e)more acculturated mothers tended to be less sensitive mothers. Further analyses revealed that the number of years spent in transit from the homeland to the United States was associated with greater maternal sensitivity, especially in the Hmong group; lower maternal sensitivity was associated with a greater number of the husband\u27s family living in the United States, and having more pregnancies was strongly associated with greater depression. Recommendations for research and practice were offered

Equal access to hospital care for children with learning disabilities and their families : a mixed-methods study

Background To our knowledge, there has yet to be a comprehensive review of how well hospital services are meeting the needs of children and young people (hereafter referred to as children) with learning disability and their families. The extent to which their experiences differ from those of parents of children without learning disability is not known. The views and experiences of children with learning disability are almost non-existent in the literature. Aims To identify the cross-organisational, organisational and individual factors in NHS hospitals that facilitate and prevent children with learning disability and their families receiving equal access to high-quality care and services, and to develop guidance for NHS trusts. Design A four-phase transformative, mixed-methods case study design comparing the experiences of children with and children without learning disability, their parents and health-care staff. Methods Phase 1 comprised interviews with senior managers (n = 65), content analysis of hospital documents and a staff survey (n = 2261) across 24 hospitals in England, including all specialist children’s hospitals. Phases 2–4 involved seven of these hospitals. Phase 2 involved (a) interviews and photography with children and their parents (n = 63), alongside a parent hospital diary and record of safety concerns; (c) hospital staff interviews (n = 98) and community staff survey (n = 429); and (d) retrospective mapping of hospital activity. During phase 3, children (n = 803) and parents (n = 812) completed satisfaction surveys. Phase 4 involved seeking consultation on the findings. Data analysis A model for mixed-methods data analysis and synthesis was used. Qualitative data were managed and analysed thematically, supported with NVivo (QSR International, Warrington, UK). Quantitative data were analysed using parametric and non-parametric descriptive statistics. Results Nationally, there is considerable uncertainty within hospitals and variation between hospitals in terms of the policies, systems and practices in place specifically for children with learning disability. Staff are struggling to individualise care and are being let down by an inadequate system. Attitudes and assumptions can have a lasting impact on parents and children. The findings serve as a useful guide to trusts about how best to meet the Learning Disability Improvement standards that have been set. Conclusions Safety issues and quality of care affect all children in acute hospitals and their parents, but the impact on children with learning disability and their parents is much greater. Individualising care is key. Our findings suggest that staff may need to undertake training and gain experience to build their skills and knowledge about children with learning disability generally, as well as generate knowledge about the individual child through proactively working in partnership with parents before their child’s admission. The findings also suggest that we may need to address the impact of children’s hospitalisation on parents’ health and well-being. Future work The greatest need is for the development and validation of an instrument for the assessment and management of risk in children with learning disability in hospital. Limitations We cannot say with certainty that the sites selected are representative of all services caring for children with learning disability. Study registration The study has been registered on the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network portfolio as 20461 (phase 1) and 31336 (phases 2–4). Funding This project was funded by the NIHR Health and Social Care Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health and Social Care Delivery Research; Vol. 10, No. 13. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information

Law and economics united in diversity : minimalism, fairness, and consumer welfare in EU antitrust and consumer law

Defence date: 17 September 2018Examining Board: Professor Stefan Grundmann, European University Institute (Supervisor); Professor Miguel Poiares Maduro, European University Institute; Professor Daniel Markovits, Yale Law School; Professor Simon Deakin, University of CambridgeThis dissertation proposes a form of collaboration between legal and economic research called Minimalist Law-and-Economics. This approach acknowledges the core commitments of both disciplines and promotes a division of labour based on their comparative advantages. While lawyers expect an analysis that is grounded in legal reasons and respectful of the fairness and wrongfulness theses, economists expect efficient market relations, analysed from an ‘ex-ante’ perspective respectful of epistemological and normative minimalism. The collaboration proposed in this dissertation improves the lawyers’ understanding of market relations and thus enhances their ability to regulate them effectively. Conversely, economists can strengthen the empirical foundations of their research by considering legal reasons as evidence. This is attractive for value choices especially, since their justification is not central to economists’ expertise. To support Minimalist Law-and-Economics, this dissertation warrants three claims: 1) the economic claim holds that consumer welfare is a maxim and used in market efficiency analysis in alternative to total welfare; 2) the translation claim holds that with consumer welfare rather than total welfare as the maxim and, it is possible to offer a plausible economic account of fair market relations; and 3) the doctrinal claim holds that the efficiency hypothesis, which has consumer welfare as maxim and, explains the reasons given in EU antitrust and consumer law better than the traditional efficiency hypothesis based on total welfare. The dissertation is divided into three parts. Part I clarifies the conditions for collaboration considered by Minimalist Law-and-Economics. Part II builds the theory that warrants the economic and translation claims. To do this, it gives an account of market relations that are compatible with the fairness and wrongfulness theses and the ‘ex-ante’ perspective. Part III narrows the focus to EU antitrust and consumer law in order to warrant the doctrinal claim and to show how the analysis of legal reasons can be epistemologically and normatively minimalist. United in diversity, economic and legal research may well have a brighter future

Molecular mechanisms controlling the interaction between Botrytis Cinerea and its host tomato

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum ) are produced in all major vegetable growing areas in the world. These plants are exposed to many biotic and abiotic stresses that lead to big losses in yield and high cost of production. The fungus Botrytis cinerea is a major necrotrophic pathogen that preferentially attacks fruits (grapes, strawberries, tomatoes) and flowers, upon which it produces a gray rot. It is also capable of attacking stems, leaves and seeds. Plant immune responses are triggered by pattern recognition receptors that detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or by plant disease resistance (R) proteins which recognize matching pathogen avirulence proteins. These recognitions lead to the accumulation of two secondary messengers, salicylic acid (SA) or jasmonic acid (JA), major players in the regulation of signalling networks that are involved in induced defence responses against pathogens. SA acts through the activity of the transcription coactivator NPR1 (nonexpressor of pathogenesis- related (PR) genes), one of the well-known regulators of plant immunity. NPR1 interacts with several TGAs transcription factors which bind to the promoter of the SA-dependent genes including the defence gene PR1 and activates its expression. Some other plant defence responses are controlled by mechanisms dependent on jasmonic acid (JA) that leads to expression of for example defensin gene (PDF1 ) in Arabidopsis thaliana or proteinase inhibitors I and II in tomatoes. SA is required to combat biotrophic pathogens which need live tissues to infect and spread in their hosts; however the JA pathway is essential to destroy necrotrophic pathogens which need dead tissues to cause their disease. SA can antagonise JA and vice versa. The objectives of my thesis were to study whether B. cinerea is able to manipulate the antagonism between SA and JA to cause disease development in tomatoes and the molecular mechanism behind this manipulation if it exists. I have found that B. cinerea manipulates the antagonism between SA and JA to cause its disease development. Indeed, B. cinerea produces an exopolysaccharide called [béta]-(1,3)(1,6)-D-glucan which acts as an inducer of SA. In turn, the SA pathway antagonises the JA signalling pathway, thereby allowing the fungus to develop its disease in tomatoes. Plants compromised in SA accumulation are significantly less susceptible to B. cinerea than the wild type plants. I also showed that the JA-signalling pathway required for tomato resistance against B. cinerea is mediated by the systemin elicitor (The polypeptide systemin is a known elicitor of JA signalling in tomato). I did further studies to dissect the molecular mechanism behind this strategy used by B. cinerea to develop its disease in tomato. I found that NPR1 and TGA1.a are required for disease development caused by this fungus. I also showed that the two JA-dependent defense genes, proteinase inhibitors I and II are important for resistance of tomato against B. cinerea and their expression is negatively regulated by NPR1 and TGA1.a. Finally I have evidence that SA-enhanced susceptibility of tomato to B. cinerea occurs through NPR1 and TGA1.a. Interestingly, I found that Alternaria solani, another necrotrophic pathogen infecting several species including tomatoes uses this strategy to develop its disease in tomato. These data highlight how necrotrophs manipulate SA signalling pathway to promote their disease in the tomato. Thus this study should increase our knowledge in the plant-microbe interaction area