We propose an exact filtered backprojection algorithm for inversion of the cone beam data in the case when the trajectory is composed of a distorted circle and a line segment. The length of the scan is determined by the region of interest , and it is independent of the size of the object. With few geometric restrictions on the curve, we show that we have an exact reconstruction. Numerical experiments demonstrate good image quality.

Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) is a recently discovered virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus of the virus family Paramyxoviridae. Often, the virus has been detected in urine of cats with a history of urinary disease and has a worldwide distribution. Currently, it is unclear which receptor the virus uses to enter the target cells. Furthermore, many aspects of FeMV biology in vivo, including tissue tropism, pathogenesis, and virus excretion in the natural host remain unclear. In this study we analyzed the replication of FeMV in various cell lines. Secondly, we tested if the presence of feline SLAMF1 (Signaling Lymphocytic Activation Molecule family 1/CD150, principal entry receptor for other members of the Morbillivirus genus) improved FeMV replication efficiency in vitro. Finally, to elucidate in vivo biology in cats, as a natural host for FeMV, we experimentally infected a group of cats and monitored clinical symptoms, viremia, and excretion of the virus during the course of 56 days. Our study showed that FeMV shares some features with other morbilliviruses like the use of the SLAMF1 receptor. For the first time, experimental infection of SPF cats showed that FeMV does not induce an acute clinical disease like other morbilliviruses but can induce lesions in the kidneys, including tubulointerstitial nephritis. Further investigations are needed to confirm the site and dynamics of replication of FeMV in the urinary tract and the longer-term impact of FeMV-induced lesions on the renal function. Whether FeMV infection can result in chronic kidney disease will require the monitoring of cats over a longer period.

The longstanding companionship between humans and pets, particularly cats and dogs, has evolved to the point where they are considered integral members of the family. However, despite their elevated status in our lives, the legal classi- fication of pets as objects remains prevalent in insurance law. There is a certain dichotomy between the objectification of pets and the strong animal protection system we have in Sweden, which places a particularly high value on animal welfare. Swedish law regulates animal cruelty, emphasizing both prevention and punishment. Furthermore, the Swedish Supreme Court recognizes the justifica- tion of receiving compensation exceeding an animal's economic value for its care, distinguishing pets from mere material possessions.  In Sweden, we have a high rate of insured pets, and pet insurance policies differ significantly from other types of insurance. This divergence presents challenges for consumers in comprehending the coverage provided. With the insurance comes both terms and conditions that tell you what is and isn’t cov- ered by the insurance. The insurance has certain limitations, and for the set price you get just a certain amount of coverage. In recent years, rising veterinary costs have contributed to increased pet insurance premiums, leaving consumers with questions about pricing structures. The complexity of pricing extends to veterinary clinics offering advanced care and insurance companies responsible for covering these expenses. However, the absence of legal price limitations hampers transparency and hinders consumer understanding. Customers strug- gle to ascertain veterinary costs in advance and often question the reasons be- hind specific pet insurance prices, necessitating clearer communication from insurance providers regarding coverage and significant limitations.  This study delves into the associated problems and proposes potential solu- tions. Despite improvements in clarity over the past decade, challenges persist regarding pricing and the correlation between price and coverage. The study reveals weaknesses in consumer protection within the realm of pet insurance, even though consumers typically warrant protection as contracting parties. Non-functioning contractual obligations hinder free competition in the market, despite its foundational principles in the insurance sector. According to a report by the Swedish Competition Agency, addressing the limited opportunities for consumers to switch insurance providers, given the exclusion of pre-existing conditions, would alleviate some issues. The resulting market inefficiency arises from the fact that switching companies leads to reduced coverage compared to staying with the same provider. Despite its foundational principles in the insur- ance sector, addressing the limited opportunities for consumers to switch insurance providers, given the exclusion of pre-existing conditions, would alleviate some issues, as highlighted in a report by the Swedish Competition Agency. The resulting market inefficiency arises from the fact that switching companies leads to reduced coverage compared to staying with the same provider.  Additionally, the paper explores the intricate nature of pet insurance, with its numerous distinctive features, emphasizing the need for changes in the best interests of consumers. Certain insurance companies have already begun em- bracing digitalisation, offering free veterinary consultations to alleviate the bur- den on physical animal care. However, further initiatives and legislative amendments are likely necessary to address the challenges comprehensively.

The usage of pre-border control in order to prevent migration flows outside a state’s territory is a common phenomenon. Extraterritorial migration regulation and management is a top priority within the EU today and often settled through different kinds of bilateral agreements between receiving states and third countries. The results of these agreements, that allow interception of migrant boats in the Mediterranean Sea and different kinds of push-back measures, are however deeply concerning. Due to the violations of human rights and abuses of migrants in Libya the UNHCR has underlined that the country cannot be considered a safe place for the disembarkation of these people. In light of the state responsibility to protect human life at sea and respect the prohibition of refoulement, these extraterritorial measures may constitute violations of international refugee law and human rights law. The aim of this essay is to explore the extent of the principle of non-refoulement with regard to the obligation of states to rescue people in distress at sea and deliver them to a place of safety. In particular I examine the possible ways of extra-territorial jurisdiction in the high seas to determine whether states can be held responsible for returning – or more commonly in recent years for providing financial, technical and operative support in order to return – migrants to Libya. The study shows that Italy, through its cooperation with the Libyan coastguard, may be in breach of the principle of non-refoulement despite the lack of direct and physical control over the people concerned. Further it affirms that the prohibition on refoulement may have substantial significance in the assessment of the concept “place of safety”.

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Although not universally accepted, much of the field has converged upon the Five Factor Model (FFM) of personality as constituting a comprehensive taxonomy of normal personality functioning. A weakness common to all personality inventories is excessive length, which can result in examinee fatigue, and ultimately, poor data quality. Computer adaptive testing offers a solution to the test fatigue problem by administering only the items that are informative for that examinee on a given scale. A new test based upon the FFM of normal personality administered in a computer adaptive fashion was constructed. Reliability and validity evidence were obtained, with favorable results. New approaches to the detection of intentional response distortion were explored with mixed results including some promising findings in need of cross-validation. Response latencies were able to discriminate between honest and faking subjects, but the findings were unable to clarify the issue of whether faking is an easier or more laborious cognitive process than honest answering. New directions in computer adaptive personality testing research are proposed. / Ph. D.