bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A variance-aware multiobjective Louvain-like method for community detection in multiplex networks
Authors: Venturini Sara , Cristofari Andrea , Rinaldi Francesco , Tudisco Francesco
Published: November 2022

In this article, we focus on the community detection problem in multiplex networks, that is, networks with multiple layers having the same node sets and no inter-layer connections. In particular, we look for groups of nodes that can be recognized as communities consistently across the layers. To this end, we propose a new approach that generalizes the Louvain method by (a) simultaneously updating the average and variance of the modularity scores across the layers and (b) reformulating the greedy search procedure in terms of a filter-based multiobjective optimization scheme. Unlike many previous modularity maximization strategies, which rely on some form of aggregation of the various layers, our multiobjective approach aims at maximizing the individual modularities on each layer simultaneously. We report experiments on synthetic and real-world networks, showing the effectiveness and the robustness of the proposed strategies both in the informative case, where all layers show the same community structure, and in the noisy case, where some layers represent only noise.
Beyond Neutrophils for Predicting Relapse and Remission in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: El-Zimaity Hala , Shaffer Seth R , Riddell Robert H , Pai Rish K , Bernstein Charles N
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

This study examines colonic histological features in ulcerative colitis [UC] in endoscopic remission to determine which cell types and biopsy sites best predict a patient’s likelihood of remaining in remission.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart, endoscopy and histology review of 166 patients with UC in endoscopic remission followed in a single inflammatory bowel disease practice over a median of 6 years [range, 2–11 years]. Clinical remission was based on global physician assessment and colonoscopy reports, and clinical relapse on chart review. Histological features of previous injury and also number and location of plasma cells and eosinophils were assessed. We evaluated all of these features semi-quantitatively using a standard set of illustrations for the grade to maintain consistency. Multiple logistic regression and survival analyses were used to identify features associated with relapse.

Results

Clinical relapse occurred in 44 patients. Ulceration, especially in the left colon, was highly predictive of relapse. In the absence of acute inflammation of ulceration, the variables most predictive of relapse were increased plasma cells in the basal 20% of the lamina propria, and eosinophils in the left colon. The variable most predictive of persistent remission was the presence of intra-epithelial eosinophils whether in the surface epithelium or within crypts, especially in the right colon. Lamina propria eosinophils [grade > 2] throughout the colon predicted relapse.

Conclusion

In the absence of neutrophils or ulceration, left-sided plasmacytosis in the basal 20% of the lamina propria and increased lamina propria eosinophils provide the best indicators of relapse in UC in clinical and endoscopic remission.
Has the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic reversed the trends in CV mortality between 1999 and 2019 in the United States?
Authors: Kobo Ofer , Abramov Dmitry , Fudim Marat , Sharma Garima , Bang Vijay , Deshpande Ashish , Wadhera Rishi K , Mamas Mamas A
Published: November 2022

Aims

Although cardiovascular (CV) mortality increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, little is known about how these patterns varied across key subgroups, including age, sex, and race and ethnicity, as well as by specific cause of CV death.

Methods and results

The Centers for Disease Control WONDER database was used to evaluate trends in age-adjusted CV mortality between 1999 and 2020 among US adults aged 18 and older. Overall, there was a 4.6% excess CV mortality in 2020 compared to 2019, which represents an absolute excess of 62 802 deaths. The relative CV mortality increase between 2019 and 2020 was higher for adults under 55 years of age (11.9% relative increase), vs. adults aged 55–74 (7.9% increase), and adults 75 and older (2.2% increase). Hispanic adults experienced a 9.4% increase in CV mortality (7400 excess deaths) vs. 4.3% for non-Hispanic adults (56 760 excess deaths). Black adults experienced the largest % increase in CV mortality at 10.6% (15 477 excess deaths) vs. 3.5% increase (42 907 excess deaths) for White adults. Among individual causes of CV mortality, there was an increase between 2019 and 2020 of 4.3% for ischaemic heart disease (32 293 excess deaths), 15.9% for hypertensive disease (13 800 excess deaths), 4.9% for cerebrovascular disease (11 218 excess deaths), but a decline of 1.4% for heart failure mortality.

Conclusion

The first year of the COVID pandemic in the United States was associated with a reversal in prior trends of improved CV mortality. Increases in CV mortality were most pronounced among Black and Hispanic adults.
Maxillary dimensions and arch shape with palatally displaced canines
Authors: Saade Marianne , Arai Kazuhito , Motro Melih , Saade Antoine , Will Leslie A
Published: November 2022

Background/objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the effect of palatally displaced canines on maxillary dimensions and arch shape.

Methods

Occlusal and skeletal landmarks were plotted on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 156 orthodontic patients: 78 with palatally displaced canines (PDC) (27 left, 28 right, and 23 bilateral) and 78 controls using Mimics™ (Materialise, Belgium). Arch forms were created, and arch width, depth, and skeletal dimensions were measured. T-test (P < 0.05) was used to compare the groups. Geometric Morphometrics (GM) analysis was used to compare the groups and to explore the pattern of covariation between two sets of landmarks.

Results

The unilateral PDC group showed an increased first premolar, second premolar, molar widths, and an increased molar depth. No significant difference was found in arch form. The skeletal measurements were generally larger in the PDC group, but the transverse measurements were the most significant. Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) with cross-validation allowed an accurate classification of 85.9% of the control group and 66.7% of the PDC group. The Mahalanobis distance displayed significant differences among three combinations of groups. Strong covariance was found between the second premolar and all other landmarks.

Limitations

The small sample sizes of the stratified groups precluded recognition of statistical significance.

Conclusions

Patients with unilateral PDC displayed significantly wider first, second premolar, and first molar widths, and increased first molar depths. There were no significant differences in arch form; however, GM showed significant differences between the groups and a prominent covariance function for the 2nd premolars.
Combining loop with thiazide diuretics for decompensated heart failure: the CLOROTIC trial
Authors: Trullàs Joan Carles , Morales-Rull José Luis , Casado Jesús , Carrera-Izquierdo Margarita , Sánchez-Marteles Marta , Conde-Martel Alicia , Dávila-Ramos Melitón Francisco , Llácer Pau , Salamanca-Bautista Prado , Pérez-Silvestre José , Plasín Miguel Ángel , Cerqueiro José Manuel , Gil Paloma , Formiga Francesc , Manzano Luis ,   CLOROTIC trial investigators, Morales José Luís , Solé Cristina , Carrera Margarita , León Marta , Sánchez Marta , Horna Vanesa Garcés , Conde Alicia , Meneses Marta Hernández , Dávila Melitón Fco , Carballo Carolina Hernández , Casado Jesús , Zabaleta Juan Pedro , Iborra Pau Llàcer , García Mari Carmen Moreno , Trullàs Joan Carles , Bisbe Josep , del Prado Salamanca Bautista María , Bodas Óscar Aramburu , Manzano Luís , Ruiz Raúl , Silvestre José Pérez , Plasín Miguel Ángel , González José Manuel Cerqueiro , Chivite David , Formiga Francesc , Gil Paloma , Jordana Rosa , Villalonga María , Rubio M Inmaculada Páez , Rodrigo José Mª Cepeda , Pérez-Barquero Manuel Montero , Muela Alberto , Mateos Lourdes , Grau Jordi , Armengou Arola , Herrero Almudena , López Raúl Quirós
Published: November 2022

Aims

To evaluate whether the addition of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) to intravenous furosemide is a safe and effective strategy for improving diuretic response in acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods and results

A prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, including patients with AHF randomized to receive HCTZ or placebo in addition to an intravenous furosemide regimen. The coprimary endpoints were changes in body weight and patient-reported dyspnoea 72 h after randomization. Secondary outcomes included metrics of diuretic response and mortality/rehospitalizations at 30 and 90 days. Safety outcomes (changes in renal function and/or electrolytes) were also assessed. Two hundred and thirty patients (48% women, 83 years) were randomized. Patients assigned to HCTZ were more likely to lose weight at 72 h than those assigned to placebo [−2.3 vs. −1.5 kg; adjusted estimated difference (notionally 95% confidence interval) −1.14 (−1.84 to −0.42); P = 0.002], but there were no significant differences in patient-reported dyspnoea (area under the curve for visual analogue scale: 960 vs. 720; P = 0.497). These results were similar 96 h after randomization. Patients allocated to HCTZ showed greater 24 h diuresis (1775 vs. 1400 mL; P = 0.05) and weight loss for each 40 mg of furosemide (at 72 and at 96 h) (P < 0.001). Patients assigned to HCTZ more frequently presented impaired renal function (increase in creatinine >26.5 μmoL/L or decrease in eGFR >50%; 46.5 vs. 17.2%; P < 0.001), but hypokalaemia and hypokalaemia were similar between groups. There were no differences in mortality or rehospitalizations.

Conclusion

The addition of HCTZ to loop diuretic therapy improved diuretic response in patients with AHF.
Findings from repeat ablation using high-density mapping after pulmonary vein isolation with pulsed field ablation
Authors: Tohoku Shota , Chun K R Julian , Bordignon Stefano , Chen Shaojie , Schaack David , Urbanek Lukas , Ebrahimi Ramin , Hirokami Jun , Bologna Fabrizio , Schmidt Boris
Published: November 2022

Aims

Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) can offer a novel perspective for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. We aimed to characterize the incidence of pulmonary vein (PV) reconnection, types of recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa) and lesion quality after PFA-guided PV isolation (PVI).

Methods and results

Patients undergoing second ablation for recurrent ATa following the initial PVI using the pentaspline PFA catheter were investigated. The rate of PV reconnection, the features of recurrent ATa, and the amount of isolated posterior wall (PW) surface area (ISAPW%) (ratio of the isolated- to total surface area on PW) were analyzed.

Results

Among 360 patients treated with PFA, 25 patients (paroxysmal AF, n = 19) with 99 PVs underwent a second procedure 6.1 ± 4.0 months after the initial procedure. The rate of PV reconnection was 9.1% (9 PVs). Patients presented with atrial tachycardia (AT) (n = 16), AF (n = 8) and typical atrial flutter (n = 1). The mechanism of all but one AT was macro-reentry. The critical isthmus was found to be linked to the initial lesion set at the left atrial (LA) PW in eight patients and linked to pre-existing substrate at the LA anterior wall in four patients. One AT had a focal origin at the septum. In three patients, AT were unmappable. Mean ISAPW% was 72.7 ± 19.0%.

Conclusion

We revealed a remarkable low reconnection rate with a large antral lesion at the PW after pentaspline PFA catheter-guided PVI. However, macro-reentrant AT with a critical isthmus at the LAPW linked to the PVI lesion set was commonly observed.
Differences in gut microbial fructoselysine degradation activity between breast-fed and formula-fed infants
Authors: van Dongen Katja C W , Ioannou Athanasia , Wesseling Sebastiaan , Beekmann Karsten , Belzer Clara
Published: November 2022

The Amadori product fructoselysine is formed upon heating of food products and is abundantly present in infant formula while being almost absent in breast milk. The human gut microbiota can degrade fructoselysine for which interindividual differences have been described for adults. The aim of this study is to compare functional differences in microbial fructoselysine degradation between breast-fed and formula-fed infants, in view of their different diets and resulting different fructoselysine exposures. First, a publicly available metagenomic dataset with metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from infant fecal samples was analyzed and showed that query genes involved in fructoselysine degradation (frlD/yhfQ) were abundantly present in multiple bacterial taxa in the fecal samples, with a higher prevalence in the formula-fed infants. Next, fecal samples collected from exclusively breast-fed and formula-fed infants were anaerobically incubated with fructoselysine. Both groups degraded fructoselysine, however the fructoselysine degradation activity was significantly higher by fecal samples from formula-fed infants. Overall, this study provides evidence that infant formula feeding, leading to increased dietary fructoselysine exposure, seems to result in an increased fructoselysine degradation activity in the gut microbiota of infants. This indicates that the infant gut microbiota adapts towards dietary fructoselysine exposure.
Effects of High Levels of Copper on the Depression-Related Memory Disorders
Authors: Liu Xuanjun , Lin Chun , Wang Shuangyan , Yu Xiaoqi , Jia Yanbin , Chen Jinglong
Published: November 2022

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric diseases worldwide. With the increase in the number of depressive episodes, cognitive dysfunction may be accelerated. Although significant findings related to the pathogenesis of depression have been reported, the precise molecular mechanisms of depression-related cognitive disorders have not yet been fully clarified. In this study, we collected serum copper levels and evaluated cognitive functions in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and healthy controls. Furthermore, we adopted a chronic restraint stress paradigm to induce depressive-like behaviors in mice, namely stress mice, and C57BL/6J mice were regarded as naive mice. We further measured the copper levels in hippocampus and dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons in stress mice and naive mice. Besides, we evaluated the changes of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor subunit 2B (GluN2B) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) levels in hippocampus, and dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons in stress mice with a copper inhibitor. The results revealed that high levels of copper and decreased memory scores exhibited a significant correlation in MDD patients. We further found that the copper inhibitor increased GluN2B and PSD95 levels in hippocampus, which could be involved in the regulation of dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons in stress mice. These results suggested that high levels of copper suppressed GluN2B and PSD95 levels in hippocampus, damaged synaptic function, and caused memory disorders in depression. Our findings provided a promising perspective for high levels of copper in patients with depression-related cognitive disorders, and copper may even be targeted for therapeutic manipulation.
Joint inversion of PP and SS precursor waveforms and Rayleigh wave phase velocities for global mantle transition zone structure
Authors: Bissig F , Khan A , Giardini D
Published: November 2022

We have compiled a new data set of global PP and SS precursor waveforms that we jointly invert in combination with fundamental-mode and higher-order Rayleigh-wave phase velocities for upper mantle and mantle transition zone (MTZ) structure. We observe clear S410S, S520S, S660S and P410P precursor arrivals, but not P660P, because of interfering phases. Traveltimes and amplitudes of precursor phases reflect a complex interplay of data and modelling factors, implying that MTZ structure is best resolved through direct inversion of waveforms. To model waveforms as accurately as possible, we account for effects arising from data processing, shallow structure, incoherent stacking, attenuation and source effects, among others. As part of the inversion, we consider two independent model parametrizations to obtain quantitative insights into the seismic and thermochemical constitution of the MTZ. These include a ‘classical’ seismic parametrization based on a layered seismic velocity structure and a thermodynamic parametrization, where seismic profiles are self-consistently built from mineral physics data. The results show lateral variations in thermal, compositional and discontinuity structure that partly correlate with tectonic setting. The mantle beneath continents and subduction zones is found to be colder in comparison to oceans and hotspots as reflected in MTZ thickness. In terms of composition, we find that subduction zones are enriched in basalt. Mid-MTZ structure shows a trend from simple sub-ocean single- to complex circum-Pacific subduction-zone-related dual-discontinuity structure—the possible signature of oceanic crustal transport to the MTZ. Statistical analysis indicates that a mechanically mixed mantle matches seismic data better than an equilibrated mantle across ∼2/3 of the globe. Finally, while a large part of the seismic data can be matched by an iso-chemical and adiabatic mantle, complexities within the MTZ are not entirely captured by this assumption.
Human Fecal Mucin Glycosylation as a New Biomarker in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Robbe Masselot Catherine , Cordier Camille , Marsac Benjamin , Nachury Maria , Léonard Renaud , Sendid Boualem
Published: November 2022

Lay Summary

For the first time, fecal mucins of Crohn’s disease patients were analyzed by mass spectrometry. Compared with control subjects, Crohn’s disease patients showed a significant decrease in sialylated glycans that we propose as new noninvasive tool for screening of intestinal diseases.
Liposomal amphotericin B—the present
Authors: Maertens J , Pagano L , Azoulay E , Warris A
Published: November 2022

Most invasive fungal infections are opportunistic in nature but the epidemiology is constantly changing, with new risk groups being identified. Neutropenia is a classical risk factor for fungal infections, while critically ill patients in the ICU are now increasingly at risk of yeast and mould infections. Factors to be considered when choosing antifungal treatment include the emergence of rarer fungal pathogens, the risk of resistance to azoles and echinocandins and the possibility of drug–drug interactions. Liposomal amphotericin B has retained its place in the therapeutic armamentarium based on its clinical profile: a broad spectrum of antifungal activity with a low risk of resistance, predictable pharmacokinetics with a rapid accumulation at the infection site (including biofilms), a low potential for drug–drug interactions and a low risk of acute and chronic treatment-limiting toxicities versus other formulations of amphotericin B. It is a suitable choice for the first-line empirical or pre-emptive treatment of suspected fungal infections in neutropenic haematology patients and is an excellent alternative for patients with documented fungal disease who can no longer tolerate or continue their first-line azole or echinocandin therapy, both in the haematology setting and in the ICU. Moreover, it is the first-line drug of choice for the treatment of invasive mucormycosis. Finally, liposomal amphotericin B is one of the few antifungal agents approved for use in children of all ages over 1 month and is included in paediatric-specific guidelines for the management of fungal disease.
Evaluating the Effects of Cu2+ on the Development and Reproduction of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Based on the Age-Stage, Two-Sex Life Table
Authors: Yang Yang , Qi Jingwei , Wang Zailing , Zhou Zhixiong , Zhao Changwei , Dong Xiaolin , Li Xihong , Li Chuanren
Published: November 2022

Copper (Cu2+) is a micronutrient that promotes the development and reproduction of organisms. However, with the rapid expansion of modern industry and agriculture, Cu2+ concentrations are increasing, which might have negative impacts on biological and ecological safety. Spodoptera litura is not only an intermittent outbreak pest but also can be used as a model organism to assess environmental and ecological risks. Therefore, the effects of the life history and population parameters of S. litura fed on artificial diets with different Cu2+ concentrations were analyzed using the age-stage, two-sex life table. Our results showed that not only the preadult survival rate but also the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and the finite rate of increase (λ) were significantly increased under exposure to low Cu2+ concentrations (2, 4, and 8 mg/kg). In addition, the population growth of S. litura was significantly faster, indicating that S. litura can adapt well to low concentrations and is likely to undergo outbreaks of damage. Whereas, in addition to a significant reduction in preadult survival rate, population growth rate, pupal weight, pupal length, adult body weight, and oviposition were also significantly reduced under exposure to high Cu2+ concentration (32 mg/kg). And when the concentration reached 64 mg/kg, the survival rate of adults was extremely low, suggesting a decrease in the adaptation of S. litura. These results can help to understand the population dynamics of S. litura and predict potential ecological risks.
Comparing information derived on food habits of a terrestrial carnivore between animal-borne video systems and fecal analyses methods
Authors: Tezuka Shiori , Tanaka Mii , Naganuma Tomoko , Tochigi Kahoko , Inagaki Akino , Myojo Hiroaki , Yamazaki Koji , Allen Maximilian L , Koike Shinsuke
Published: November 2022

In recent years, animal-borne video cameras have been used to identify the food habits of many species. However, the usefulness and difficulties of identifying food habits from animal-borne video cameras have not been sufficiently discussed in terrestrial mammals, especially large omnivores. The aim of this study is to compare the video analysis of foraging behavior by Asian black bears (Ursus thibetanus) acquired by camera collars with estimates from fecal analysis. We attached GPS collars equipped with video cameras to four adult Asian black bears in the Okutama mountains in central Japan from May to July 2018 and analyzed video clips for foraging behavior. Simultaneously, we collected bear feces in the same area to determine food habits. We found that using video analyses was advantageous to recognize foods, such as leaves or mammals, that were physically crushed or destroyed while bears chewed and digested foods, which are difficult to identify to species using fecal analyses. On the other hand, we found that camera collars are less likely to record food items that are infrequently or quickly ingested. Additionally, food items with a low frequency of occurrence and short foraging time per feeding were less likely to be detected when we increased the time between recorded clips. As one of the first applications of the video analysis method for bears, our study shows that video analysis can be an important method for revealing individual differences in diet. Although video analysis may have limitations for understanding the general foraging behavior of Asian black bears at the present stage, the accuracy of food habit data from camera collars can be improved by using it in combination with established techniques such as microscale behavior analyses.
glmm.hp: an R package for computing individual effect of predictors in generalized linear mixed models
Authors: Lai Jiangshan , Zou Yi , Zhang Shuang , Zhang Xiaoguang , Mao Lingfeng
Published: November 2022

Generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) have been widely used in contemporary ecology studies. However, determination of the relative importance of collinear predictors (i.e. fixed effects) to response variables is one of the challenges in GLMMs. Here, we developed a novel R package, glmm.hp, to decompose marginal R2 explained by fixed effects in GLMMs. The algorithm of glmm.hp is based on the recently proposed approach ‘average shared variance’ i.e. used for multivariate analysis. We explained the principle and demonstrated the use of this package by simulated dataset. The output of glmm.hp shows individual marginal R2s that can be used to evaluate the relative importance of predictors, which sums up to the overall marginal R2. Overall, we believe the glmm.hp package will be helpful in the interpretation of GLMM outcomes.
Fundamental Guarantees
Authors: Bellal Annyssa , Casey-Maslen Stuart
Published: November 2022

This chapter explores the fundamental guarantees of the 1977 Additional Protocols. It defines fundamental guarantees as the minimum standards of conduct and treatment below which no party to the salient armed conflict may lawfully fall concerning any persons coming within their power. While most provisions revolve around international humanitarian law (IHL), some correspond closely with fundamental human rights, especially those concerned with the protection of bodily integrity. The chapter recognises how the protection of the rights to life, freedom from torture and other ill-treatment, and security are predominant within the fundamental guarantees in the 1977 Additional Protocols. It also expounds on the prohibitions of murder, denial of the quarter, torture and other ill-treatment, non-discrimination, enslavement, collective punishment, and hostage taking.
The Protection of Women
Authors: Bellal Annyssa , Casey-Maslen Stuart
Published: November 2022

This chapter looks into the protection of women in armed conflicts being guaranteed under the 1977 Additional Protocols. It notes the risk of sexual and gender-based violence amidst an armed conflict, which triggers protection under the international humanitarian law (IHL). The United Nations has been active in its system-wide approach to tackling the issues of protecting women, peace, and security. The chapter also considers the prohibition of sexual violence against women as a serious violation of a war crime and the IHL. The International Criminal Court punishes offenders of rape, sexual slavery, and other forms of sexual violence of comparable gravity as crimes against humanity. The chapter then explains the impacts of conflict-related sexual violence, which has been regarded to last a lifetime.
The Rule of Distinction (Persons)
Authors: Bellal Annyssa , Casey-Maslen Stuart
Published: November 2022

This chapter covers the rules governing the targeting of persons under the Additional Protocols during the conduct of hostilities. It highlights the obligation of each armed conflict parties to distinguish military operations between civilians and combatants as the cardinal principal of distinction since attack could only be directed against combatants or civilians directly participating in hostilities. The International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Criminal Court appear to have conflated indiscriminate attacks with attacks directed against civilians. The chapter then explains the loss of protection from attack as a consequence of civilians’ direct participation in hostilities. The provisions in the 1977 Additional Protocol I regarding the protection of civilians and governing the loss of immunity from an attack are reflected in customary international law.
Terrorism and Acts of Terror
Authors: Bellal Annyssa , Casey-Maslen Stuart
Published: November 2022

This chapter explores the notion of terrorism in relation to armed conflict and customary and conventional international humanitarian law (IHL). It explains how all parties to an armed conflict are prohibited from threatening or perpetrating acts of violence where terrorising civilians is its primary purpose. Two 1977 Additional Protocols, the 1949 Geneva Convention IV, and customary law reflect the rules prohibiting terrorism and protecting civilians and people who are no longer a part of hostilities despite their direct involvement. The Hague Law complementing the human rights law principles of legality and precaution comes into effect when States lawfully conduct counterterrorism operations amidst an armed conflict. The chapter then recognises the lack of agreement on the parameters of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.
Application and Implementation by Armed Non-State Actors
Authors: Bellal Annyssa , Casey-Maslen Stuart
Published: November 2022

This chapter focuses on armed non-State actors (ANSAs), who are known to be the most prevalent actors operating in contemporary situations of armed violence. It explores how ANSAs’ behaviour has been regulated by international humanitarian law (IHL). Moreover, improving the respect for IHL norms has been one of the international community’s main contemporary policy concerns in protecting civilians better in armed conflicts. Several types of ANSAs have varying aims and ideologies that do not coincide with the IHL. The chapter expounds on international law addressing the issue of ANSAs around the use of force and self-defence. It recognises ANSAs remaining to be influential and powerful in geopolitics and conflicts in the future.
Recognition and Enforcement of Arbitral Awards
Authors: Blackaby Nigel , Partasides Constantine , Redfern Alan
Published: November 2022

This chapter discusses the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards. It explains the enforcement of awards under the New York Convention, the ICSID Convention, and regional conventions. Most arbitral awards are conducted voluntarily without the need for enforcement from national courts. However, voluntary enforcement could not be relied often upon as a party involved in the arbitration process will likely be unhappy with the results. To achieve the award from a refusing party, the winning party could either invoke the powers of the state or exert pressure such that it would be in the losing party’s best interest to give the award voluntarily. Moreover, the process of enforcing awards differs between countries.
Speed, Skill Retention, and End User Perceptions of iTClamp Application by Navy Corpsmen on a Manikin Model of Femoral Hemorrhage
Authors: Stuart Sean M , Bohan Megan L , Friedrich Emily E
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Tactical Combat Casualty Care guidelines recommend packing junctional wounds with gauze, applying direct pressure for 3 minutes, and then securing with an external pressure dressing. This method is time-consuming, which can be problematic in a combat environment. Alternatively, the iTClamp has documented efficacy and rapid application. However, no studies have evaluated device application by military prehospital medical providers, such as Navy corpsmen, or their user experience with the device.

Materials and Methods

Research data derived from a protocol were approved by the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth’s Institutional Review Board in compliance with all applicable federal regulations governing the protection of human subjects. Navy corpsmen with the current Tactical Combat Casualty Care certification applied the iTClamp or standard pressure dressing on a manikin model of femoral hemorrhage in a crossover study design. Each participant used both devices in a randomized fashion. Time to application was recorded, and participants completed Likert scale surveys to evaluate both devices for preference, ease of use, and physical assessment. A repeat assessment was performed 1 month later to assess skill atrophy. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare application time. Likert scale survey data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney and Wilcoxon tests to compare survey data within and between time points, respectively.

Results

The application of the iTClamp was more than twice as fast as the application of pressure dressings at both the initial and follow-up evaluations. There was no statistically significant difference in application times between the first evaluation and the 30-day assessment of either device, indicating no atrophy in skill. While 65% and 52% of the participants expressed preference in for the iTClamp in their surveys during the initial and follow-up respective visits, the difference in preference was not statistically significant for either the initial or the follow-up survey. Open-ended survey responses yielded both perceived advantages and disadvantages for each treatment option.

Conclusions

In austere or hostile environments, speed of treatment and extrication can have significant implications for the safety of both the patient and the medical providers. Hemorrhage control interventions must be both effective and easy to use for a prehospital provider to ensure its efficacy in a live battlefield situation. The iTClamp is small, simple, and fast to use, but its wide adoption in the field may be based on limitations perceived by participants, including narrow indications for use. However, based on our findings, it is reasonable to field the iTClamp depending on provider preference.
The gamma-ray bursts fundamental plane correlation as a cosmological tool
Authors: Dainotti M G , Lenart A Ł , Chraya A , Sarracino G , Nagataki S , Fraija N , Capozziello S , Bogdan M
Published: November 2022

Cosmological models and their corresponding parameters are widely debated because of the current discrepancy between the results of the Hubble constant, H0, obtained by SNe Ia, and the Planck data from the cosmic microwave background radiation. Thus, considering high redshift probes like gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) is a necessary step. However, using GRB correlations between their physical features to infer cosmological parameters is difficult because GRB luminosities span several orders of magnitude. In our work, we use a three-dimensional relation between the peak prompt luminosity, the rest-frame time at the end of the X-ray plateau, and its corresponding luminosity in X-rays: the so-called 3D Dainotti fundamental plane relation. We correct this relation by considering the selection and evolutionary effects with a reliable statistical method, obtaining a lower central value for the intrinsic scatter, σint = 0.18 ± 0.07 (47.1 per cent) compared to previous results, when we adopt a particular set of GRBs with well-defined morphological features, called the platinum sample. We have used the GRB fundamental plane relation alone with both Gaussian and uniform priors on cosmological parameters and in combination with SNe Ia and BAO measurements to infer cosmological parameters like H0, the matter density in the universe (ΩM), and the dark energy parameter w for a wCDM model. Our results are consistent with the parameters given by the Lambda cold dark matter model but with the advantage of using cosmological probes detected up to z = 5, much larger than the one observed for the furthest SNe Ia.
Extragalactic neutrino-emission induced by supermassive and stellar mass black hole mergers
Authors: Jaroschewski Ilja , Becker Tjus Julia , Biermann Peter L
Published: November 2022

The recent detections of binary stellar mass black hole mergers by the LIGO and Virgo Collaborations suggest that such mergers are common occurrences. Galaxy mergers further indicate that supermassive black holes in centres of galaxies also merge and are typically expected to have had at least one merger in their lifetime, possibly many. In the presence of a jet, these mergers are almost always accompanied by a change of the jet direction and a connected jet precession motion, leading to interactions of the jet with ambient matter and producing high-energy particles, and consequently high-energy gamma-rays and neutrinos. In this work, we investigate the possibility under which conditions such mergers could be the sources of the diffuse astrophysical neutrino flux measured by the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. The main free parameters in the calculation concern the frequency of the mergers and the fraction of energy that is transferred from the gravitationally released energy to neutrinos. We show that the merger rate for SMBBHs must lie between ∼10−7 and 10−5 Gpc−3 yr−1. The ratio of energy going to neutrinos during such mergers lies then between ∼10−6 and 3 × 10−4. For stellar mass BBH mergers, the rate needs to be ∼10–100 Gpc−3 yr−1 and the expected ratio of neutrino to GW energy lies in a comparable range as for SMBBHs, ∼2 × 10−5–10−3. These values lie in a reasonable parameter range, so that the production of neutrinos at the level of the detected neutrino flux is a realistic possibility.
H-FISTA: a hierarchical algorithm for phase retrieval with application to pulsar dynamic spectra
Authors: Osłowski Stefan , Walker Mark A
Published: November 2022

A pulsar dynamic spectrum is an inline digital hologram of the interstellar medium; it encodes information on the propagation paths by which signals have travelled from source to telescope. To decode the hologram, it is necessary to ‘retrieve’ the phases of the wavefield from intensity measurements, which directly gauge only the field modulus, by imposing additional constraints on the model. We present a new method for phase retrieval in the context of pulsar spectroscopy. Our method makes use of the Fast Iterative Shrinkage Thresholding Algorithm (FISTA) to obtain sparse models of the wavefield in a hierarchical approach with progressively increasing depth. Once the tail of the noise distribution is reached the hierarchy terminates with a final, unregularized optimization. The result is a fully dense model of the complex wavefield that permits the discovery of faint signals by appropriate averaging. We illustrate the performance of our method on synthetic test cases and on real data. Our algorithm, which we call H-FISTA, is implemented in the python programming language and is freely available.
Plasma lensing near the eclipses of the Black Widow pulsar B1957+20
Authors: Lin F X , Main R A , Jow D , Li D Z , Pen U-L , van Kerkwijk M H
Published: November 2022

Recently, several eclipsing millisecond pulsars have been shown to experience strong and apparent weak lensing from the outflow of their ionized companions. Lensing can be a powerful probe of the ionized plasma, with the strongest lenses potentially resolving emission regions of pulsars. Understanding lensing in the ‘laboratory-like’ conditions of an eclipsing pulsar may be analogously applied to fast radio bursts, many of which reside in dense, magnetized environments. We examined variable dispersion measure (DM), absorption, scattering, and flux density in the original Black Widow pulsar PSR B1957+20 through an eclipse at the Arecibo Observatory at $327\, {\rm MHz}$. We discovered clear evidence of the two regimes of lensing, strong, and apparent weak. We show that the flux density variations in the apparently weak lensing regime can be modelled directly from variations of DM, using geometric optics. The mean effective velocities in the ingress, $(954\pm 99)\, {\rm km\, s^{-1}}$, and egress $(604\pm 47)\, {\rm km\, s^{-1}}$ cannot be explained by orbital motions alone, but are consistent with significant outflow velocity of material from the companion. We also show that geometric optics can predict when and where the lensing regime-change between weak and strong occurs, and argue that the apparent weak lensing is due to averaging many images. Our framework can be applied in any source with variable electron columns, measuring their relative velocities and distances. In other eclipsing pulsars, this provides a unique opportunity to measure companion outflow velocity, predict regions of weak and strong lensing, and in principle independently constrain orbital inclinations.
The evolution of the galaxy UV luminosity function at redshifts z ≃ 8 – 15 from deep JWST and ground-based near-infrared imaging
Authors: Donnan C T , McLeod D J , Dunlop J S , McLure R J , Carnall A C , Begley R , Cullen F , Hamadouche M L , Bowler R A A , Magee D , McCracken H J , Milvang-Jensen B , Moneti A , Targett T
Published: November 2022

We reduce and analyse the available JWST ERO and ERS NIRCam imaging (SMACS0723, GLASS, CEERS) in combination with the latest deep ground-based near-infrared imaging in the COSMOS field (provided by UltraVISTA DR5) to produce a new measurement of the evolving galaxy UV luminosity function (LF) over the redshift range z = 8 − 15. This yields a new estimate of the evolution of UV luminosity density (ρUV), and hence cosmic star formation rate density (ρSFR) out to within <300 Myr of the Big Bang. Our results confirm that the high-redshift LF is best described by a double power law (rather than a Schechter) function up to z ∼ 10, and that the LF and the resulting derived ρUV (and thus ρSFR), continues to decline gradually and steadily up to z ∼ 15 (as anticipated from previous studies which analysed the pre-existing data in a consistent manner to this study). We provide details of the 61 high-redshift galaxy candidates, 47 of which are new, that have enabled this new analysis. Our sample contains 6 galaxies at z ≥ 12, one of which appears to set a new redshift record as an apparently robust galaxy candidate at z ≃ 16.4, the properties of which we therefore consider in detail. The advances presented here emphasize the importance of achieving high dynamic range in studies of early galaxy evolution, and re-affirm the enormous potential of forthcoming larger JWST programmes to transform our understanding of the young Universe.
Newly discovered Ca ii absorbers in the early Universe: statistics, element abundances, and dust
Authors: Fang Hannah , Xia Iona , Ge Jian , Willis Kevin , Zhao Yinan
Published: November 2022

We report discoveries of 165 new quasar Ca ii absorbers from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Data Releases 7 and 12. Our ca ii rest-frame equivalent width distribution supports the weak and strong subpopulations, split at ${W}^{\lambda 3934}_{0}=0.7$ Å. Comparison of both populations’ dust depletion shows clear consistency for weak absorber association with halo-type gas in the Milky Way (MW), while strong absorbers have environments consistent with halo and disc-type gas. We probed our high-redshift Ca ii absorbers for 2175 Å dust bumps, discovering 12 2175 Å dust absorbers (2DAs). This clearly shows that some Ca ii absorbers follow the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) extinction law rather than the Small Magellanic Cloud extinction law. About 33 per cent of our strong Ca ii absorbers exhibit the 2175 Å dust bump, while only 6 per cent of weak Ca ii absorbers show this bump. 2DA detection further supports the theory that strong Ca ii absorbers are associated with disc components and are dustier than the weak population. Comparing average Ca ii absorber dust depletion patterns to that of Damped Ly α absorbers (DLAs), Mg ii absorbers, and 2DAs shows that Ca ii absorbers generally have environments with more dust than DLAs and Mg ii absorbers, but less dust than 2DAs. Comparing 2175 Å dust bump strengths from different samples and also the MW and LMC, the bump strength appears to grow stronger as the redshift decreases, indicating dust growth and the global chemical enrichment of galaxies in the Universe over time.
WALLABY Pilot Survey: H i gas kinematics of galaxy pairs in cluster environment
Authors: Kim Shin-Jeong , Oh Se-Heon , Wang Jing , Staveley-Smith Lister , Koribalski Bärbel S , Kim Minsu , Park Hye-Jin , Kim Shinna , Spekkens Kristine , Westmeier Tobias , Wong O Ivy , Meurer Gerhardt R , Kamphuis. Peter , Catinella Barbara , McQuinn Kristen B W , Bigiel Frank , Holwerda Benne W , Rhee Jonghwan , Lee-Waddell Karen , Deg Nathan , Verdes-Montenegro Lourdes , For Bi-Qing , Madrid Juan P , Dénes Helga , Elagali Ahmed
Published: November 2022

We examine the H i gas kinematics of galaxy pairs in two clusters and a group using Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) WALLABY pilot survey observations. We compare the H i properties of galaxy pair candidates in the Hydra I and Norma clusters, and the NGC 4636 group, with those of non-paired control galaxies selected in the same fields. We perform H i profile decomposition of the sample galaxies using a tool, baygaud, which allows us to deblend a line-of-sight velocity profile with an optimal number of Gaussian components. We construct H i superprofiles of the sample galaxies via stacking of their line profiles after aligning the central velocities. We fit a double Gaussian model to the superprofiles and classify them as kinematically narrow and broad components with respect to their velocity dispersions. Additionally, we investigate the gravitational instability of H i gas discs of the sample galaxies using Toomre Q parameters and H i morphological disturbances. We investigate the effect of the cluster environment on the H i properties of galaxy pairs by dividing the cluster environment into three subcluster regions (i.e. outskirts, infalling, and central regions). We find that the denser cluster environment (i.e. infalling and central regions) is likely to impact the H i gas properties of galaxies in a way of decreasing the amplitude of the kinematically narrow H i gas ($M_{\rm {narrow}}^{\rm {H\, \small {\rm I}}}$/$M_{\rm {total}}^{\rm {H\, \small {\rm I}}}$), and increasing the Toomre Q values of the infalling and central galaxies. This tendency is likely to be more enhanced for galaxy pairs in the cluster environment.
Hyper-runaway and hypervelocity white dwarf candidates inGaiaData Release 3: Possible remnants from Ia/Iax supernova explosions or dynamical encounters
Authors: Igoshev Andrei P , Perets Hagai , Hallakoun Na’ama
Published: November 2022

Type Ia and other peculiar supernovae (SNe) are thought to originate from the thermonuclear explosions of white dwarfs (WDs). Some of the proposed channels involve the ejection of a partly exploded WD (e.g. Iax SN remnant) or the companion of an exploding WD at extremely high velocities (>400 km s−1). Characterization of such hyper-runaway/hypervelocity (HVS) WDs might therefore shed light on the physics and origins of SNe. Here we analyse the Gaia DR3 data to search for HVS WDs candidates and peculiar sub-main-sequence (sub-MS) objects. We retrieve the previously identified HVSs and find 46 new HVS candidates. Among these we identify two new unbound WDs and two new unbound sub-MS candidates. The remaining stars are hyper-runaway WDs and hyper-runaway sub-MS stars. The numbers and properties of the HVS WD and sub-MS candidates suggest that extreme velocity ejections (>1000 km s−1) can accompany at most a small fraction of type Ia SNe, disfavouring a significant contribution of the D6-scenario to the origin of Ia SNe. The rate of HVS ejections following the hybrid WD reverse-detonation channel could be consistent with the identified HVSs. The numbers of lower-velocity HVS WDs could be consistent with type Iax SNe origin and/or contribution from dynamical encounters. We also searched for HVS WDs related to known SN remnants but identified only one such candidate.