bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-scale afforestation for ecosystem service provisioning: learning from the past to improve the future
Authors: Pérez-Silos Ignacio , Álvarez-Martínez José Manuel , Barquín José
Published: July 2021

Context

Afforestation is one of the major drivers of land cover change in the world. In spite of its multiple applications, forest generation has been fostered during the last century to achieve few specific objectives such as timber production or catchment erosion protection. However, new afforestation programs are required to meet multiple objectives such as carbon sequestration, reducing environmental risks and enhance biodiversity conservation to reach sustainability.

Objectives

Assessing the general efficiency of past large-scale afforestation programs on the provision of ecosystem services (ES) and other socio-ecological attributes. We also determined whether this efficiency depended on the type of ecosystem used for comparison.

Methods

We carried out a semi-quantitative meta-analysis from 75 studies analyzing the effects of 128 afforestation actions developed in one of the EU countries with larger areas of afforested land during the twentieth century.

Results

Spanish afforestation policy improved timber provision and carbon sequestration. However, our results show that afforestation programs did not enhance regulating ES when compared to natural land plots, but only when compared to highly degraded areas prior to restoration actions.

Conclusions

Large-scale afforestations have difficulties in assuring the provisioning of regulating ES and the conservation of biodiversity when only productivity criteria are prioritized. Our results suggest the need for an afforestation agenda that embraces more comprehensive landscape management approaches that allow reducing undesired ES trade-offs while getting multiple objectives from different ecosystems.
Genetic polymorphisms in the renin-angiotensin system and cognitive decline in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Pierzchlińska Anna , Sławek Jarosław , Mak Monika , Gawrońska-Szklarz Barbara , Białecka Monika
Published: July 2021

Background

Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) influences the central nervous system not only through its peripheral impact—the brain possesses its own local RAS. Studies showed altered RAS components in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their association with oxidative stress which may be linked to neurodegeneration and dementia. Moreover, the protective functions of RAS blockade antagonists against cognitive decline and dementia have been suggested. This study aimed to examine whether genetic variability in RAS genes correlates with cognitive decline in PD.

Methods and results

We genotyped single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in angiotensinogen (AGT: rs699, rs4762), angiotensin II receptors (AGTR1: rs5186 and AGTR2: rs5194, rs1403543) genes, as well as insertion/deletion polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE I/D) gene in 256 PD patients, divided into three groups: without cognitive decline, with mild cognitive impairment and with PD dementia. We did not find any significant differences in the frequencies of the analysed polymorphisms in any of the groups.

Conclusions

Despite no direct correlation between the investigated polymorphisms in RAS genes and cognitive decline in PD, we believe the impact of those genotypes may be indirect, affecting RAS blockade treatment.
Teen Girls’ Experiences Negotiating the Ubiquitous Dick Pic: Sexual Double Standards and the Normalization of Image Based Sexual Harassment
Authors: Ringrose Jessica , Regehr Kaitlyn , Whitehead Sophie
Published: July 2021

A range of important studies have recently explored adult women’s experiences of receiving unwanted dick pics (Amundsen, 2020). However, to date there has been limited research that has explored teen girls’ experiences of receiving unwanted penis images in depth. To address this gap we draw upon our findings from a qualitative study using focus group interviews and arts based drawing methods to explore social media image sharing practices with 144 young people aged 11–18 in seven secondary schools in England. We argue that being bombarded with unwanted dick pics on social media platforms like Snapchat normalises harassing practices as signs of desirability and popularity for girls, but suggest that being sent unsolicited dick pics from boys at school is more difficult for girls to manage or report than ignoring or blocking random older senders. We also found that due to sexual double standards girls were not able to leverage dick pics for status in the same way boys can use girls’ nudes as social currency, since girls faced the possibility of being shamed for being known recipients of dick pics. Finally we explore how some girls challenge abusive elements of toxic masculinity in the drawing sessions and our conclusion argues that unwanted dick pics should always be understood as forms of image based sexual harassment.
Degrees of riskiness, falsifiability, and truthlikeness
Authors: Vignero Leander , Wenmackers Sylvia
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we take a fresh look at three Popperian concepts: riskiness, falsifiability, and truthlikeness (or verisimilitude) of scientific hypotheses or theories. First, we make explicit the dimensions that underlie the notion of riskiness. Secondly, we examine if and how degrees of falsifiability can be defined, and how they are related to various dimensions of the concept of riskiness as well as the experimental context. Thirdly, we consider the relation of riskiness to (expected degrees of) truthlikeness. Throughout, we pay special attention to probabilistic theories and we offer a tentative, quantitative account of verisimilitude for probabilistic theories.
Role of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the prognosis and classification of muscle injuries in professional football players: correlation between imaging and return to sport time
Authors: Ossola Christian , Curti Marco , Calvi Marco , Tack Sofia , Mazzoni Stefano , Genesio Lucio , Venturini Massimo , Genovese Eugenio Annibale
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To study distractive muscle injuries applying US and MRI specific classifications and to find if any correlation exists between the results and the return to sport (RTS) time. The second purpose is to evaluate which classification has the best prognostic value and if the lesions extension correlates with the RTS time.

Methods

A total of 26 male, professional soccer players (age 21.3 ± 5.6), diagnosed with traumatic muscle injury of the lower limbs, received ultrasound and MRI evaluation within 2 days from the trauma. Concordance between US and MRI findings was investigated. The relationships between MRI and US based injury grading scales and RTS time were evaluated. Correlation between injuries’ longitudinal extension and RTS time was also investigated.

Results

The correlation between US and MRI measurements returned a Spearman value of rs = 0.61 (p = .001). Peetrons and Mueller-Wohlfahrt grading scales correlations with RTS time were r = 0.43 (p = .02) and r = 0.83 (p =  < .001). The lesion’s extension correlation with RTS time was r = 0.63 (p < .001). The correlation between the site of the lesion and its location with the RTS time were rs = 0.2 and rs = 0.25.

Conclusions

Both US and MRI can be used as prognostic indicators along with the Peetrons (US) and the Mueller-Wohlfahrt (MRI) classifications. MRI is more precise and generates more reproducible results. The lesion craniocaudal extension must be considered as a prognostic indicator, while the injury location inside the muscle or along its major axis has doubtful significance.
Aortic Valve Calcification Score in Patients with Arterial Hypertension Environmentally Exposed to Tobacco Smoke
Authors: Gać Paweł , Martuszewski Adrian , Paluszkiewicz Patrycja , Poręba Małgorzata , Mazur Grzegorz , Poręba Rafał
Published: July 2021

The objective of our study was to determine the relationship between exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and the value of the aortic valve calcification score (AVCS) in people suffering from arterial hypertension (AH). 107 non-smokers with AH (mean age 67.16 ± 8.48 years) were qualified for the study. The degree of exposure to ETS was assessed using the Second-hand Smoke Exposure Scale (SHSES) questionnaire. Study group was divided depending on ETS exposure: A—no exposure, B—low, C—medium and D—high. AVCS was measured based on the aortic valve plane multiplanar reconstruction from the non-contrast phase of the cardiac computed tomography. The Agatston algorithm was used, in which calcifications were considered changes with a density exceeding 130 HU. The mean AVCS value in the study group of patients was 213.59 ± 304.86. The AVCS was significantly lower in subgroup A than in subgroups C and D. In subgroup A, the lack of aortic valve calcification (AVCS = 0) was observed significantly more frequently than in subgroups C and D. There was a positive correlation between the number of SHSES points and the AVCS value (r = 0.37, p < 0.05). Based on the ROC curve, the SHSES value was determined as the optimal cut-off point for the prediction of AVCS = 0, amounting to 3 points. The accuracy of SHSES < 3 as the predictor of AVCS = 0 was set at 62.18%. Hypertensive patients have an unfavourable relationship between the amount of exposure to ETS, determined on the SHSES scale, and the AVCS value.
Rehabilitation for children and adolescents after cancer: importance and implementation in Austria
Authors: Fischmeister Gustav , Riedl David , Sanio Gabriele , Bogendorfer Thomas , Holzner Bernhard , Rumpold Gerhard , Nickels Alain , Licht Thomas , Sperl Wolfgang
Published: July 2021

Until 2018 only adults had access to rehabilitation in Austria, but since then 5 centers for pediatric rehabilitation with different indications have been established with the goal of improving the health of sick children and young adults. The pediatric rehabilitation center “Leuwaldhof”, which is located south of Salzburg, is the only pediatric oncologic rehabilitation center in Austria. It offers rehabilitation and recovery for pediatric patients who suffered from malignancies, as well as for their families and siblings, but also for acute or chronic disease in metabolism or digestion. Cancer and its treatment significantly decrease the quality of life (QoL) of pediatric patients and their families. Families often have to split up during the months of chemotherapy if there are siblings in the family and very often it is the mother who stays with the sick child in the hospital. To facilitate recovery for the families in these difficult times, interdisciplinary and family-oriented inpatient rehabilitation has recently been implemented in Austria. To evaluate the improvements during the rehabilitation, the QoL of the patients and families has been routinely assessed since the opening of the center. In a specifically designed ‘life app’, patients and families complete the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL; generic score and cancer module) before and after rehabilitation on their own electronic devices. Data of 98 patients and 124 parents between June 2018 and December 2019 show significant improvements in QoL. Our goal is to support the children and their families to help them return to normal life. Our results show rehabilitation helps achieve this important goal.
An apology for conflicts between metaphysics and science in naturalized metaphysics
Authors: Jaksland Rasmus
Published: July 2021

According to naturalized metaphysics, metaphysics should be informed by our current best science and not rely on a priori reasoning. Consequently, naturalized metaphysics tends to dismiss metaphysicians’ attempts to quarrel with science. This paper argues that naturalized metaphysics should instead welcome such conflicts between metaphysics and science. Naturalized metaphysics is not (and should not be) eliminative of metaphysics. So, if such conflicts are driven by the immediate absence in science of an answer to a metaphysical question, then the conflict should not be dismissed, but instead be received as an occasion to do (more) naturalized metaphysics. That conflicts between metaphysics and science might be beneficial for naturalized metaphysics is exemplified by the case of non-spatial theories of quantum gravity. These theories are criticized by metaphysicians who, often following David Lewis, argue that spatial distance is an indispensable fundamental element in any coherent metaphysics due to its role as the world-making relation. The resulting conflict, however, is found to be well-motivated since the non-spatial theories of quantum gravity offer no alternative world-making relation to spatial distance. Rather than dismissing this conflict, naturalized metaphysics should therefore receive the Lewisians’ resistance as a call to search for one. How this plays out as a negotiation between the scientific theory and the metaphysical question is exemplified in the last part of the paper where entanglement is proposed as an alternative world-making relation in loop quantum gravity.
Periodic matrix difference equations and companion matrices in blocks: some applications
Authors: Benkhaldoun H. , Ben Taher R. , Rachidi M.
Published: July 2021

This study is devoted to some periodic matrix difference equations, through their associated product of companion matrices in blocks. Linear recursive sequences in the algebra of square matrices in blocks and the generalized Cayley–Hamilton theorem are considered for working out some results about the powers of matrices in blocks. Two algorithms for computing the finite product of periodic companion matrices in blocks are built. Illustrative examples and applications are considered to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Least-looping stepping-stone-based ASM approach for transportation and triangular intuitionistic fuzzy transportation problems
Authors: Das Kedar Nath , Das Rajeev , Acharjya Debi Prasanna
Published: July 2021

Transportation problem (TP) is a popular branch of Linear Programming Problem in the field of Transportation engineering. Over the years, attempts have been made in finding improved approaches to solve the TPs. Recently, in Quddoos et al. (Int J Comput Sci Eng (IJCSE) 4(7): 1271–1274, 2012), an efficient approach, namely ASM, is proposed for solving crisp TPs. However, it is found that ASM fails to provide better optimal solution in some cases. Therefore, a new and efficient ASM appoach is proposed in this paper to enhance the inherent mechanism of the existing ASM method to solve both crisp TPs and Triangular Intuitionistic Fuzzy Transportation Problems (TIFTPs). A least-looping stepping-stone method has been employed as one of the key factors to improve the solution quality, which is an improved version of the existing stepping-stone method (Roy and Hossain in, Operation research Titus Publication, 2015). Unlike stepping stone method, least-looping stepping-stone method only deals with few selected non-basic cells under some prescribed conditions and hence minimizes the computational burden. Therefore, the framework of the proposed method (namely LS-ASM) is a combination of ASM (Quddoos et al. 2012) and least-looping stepping-stone approach. To validate the performance of LS-ASM, a set of six case studies and a real-world problem (those include both crisp TPs and TIFTPs) have been solved. The statistical results obtained by LS-ASM have been well compared with the existing popular modified distribution (MODI) method and the original ASM method, as well. The statistical results confirm the superiority of the LS-ASM over other compared algorithms with a less computationl effort.
Some students plagiarism tricks, and tips for effective check
Authors: Elkhatat Ahmed M. , Elsaid Khaled , Almeer Saeed
Published: July 2021

One of the main goals of assignments in the academic environment is to assess the students’ knowledge and mastery of a specific topic, and it is crucial to ensure that the work is original and has been solely made by the students to assess their competence acquisition. Therefore, Text-Matching Software Products (TMSPs) are used by academic institutes to ensure academic integrity and address plagiarism. However, some students find ways to trick TMSPS. In this paper, files with the common tricks students do to beat TMSPS have been created and investigates with nine academic level TMPS to evaluate their effectiveness against these tricks, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each TMSP, and providing instructors with some practical tips on checking plagiarism effectively and spotting any tricks to cheat without getting noticed.
Evaluation of Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rezaei Nazanin , Sharifi Nasibeh , Fathnezhad-Kazemi Azita , Shafiei Elham
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Male sexual dysfunction is a common problem, and there are many self-report questionnaires for measuring sexual function among men; however, the Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI) is a tool that has 5 subscales, which is more complete than others. a validated self-report questionnaire, in the local language with modest expressions is required for men.

Aim

To determine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the BSFI among men.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 males. The sampling process was performed in several stages from health centers. After the accomplishment of the standard process of back-translating the questionnaire from English to Persian, its face, content, and construct validity were evaluated. The collected data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, and Pearson correlation coefficient. To determine the reliability of the instrument, the test-retest method was used with 2 weeks interval and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient method was applied to check the internal homogeneity.

Main Outcome Measures

Reliability (internal consistency and test-retest) and validity were assessed

Results

According to the research findings, confirmatory factor analysis had an acceptable fit. By modifying the measurement model and fitting the final model, the fitting indices were obtained as the following: Chi-square statistic = 21.63, NPAR = 36, P = .001 > 0.05; Tucker-Lewis index = 0.956; comparative fit indices = 0.976; Normed Fit Index = 0.952; and root mean square error of approximation = 0.068. These values indicated that the obtained model had a good fit for the data. Moreover, Cronbach's alpha and intra-cluster correlation coefficients of the whole questionnaire were calculated at 0.893 and 0.893, respectively (confidence interval between 0.811–0.950), showing the internal consistency of the items in the whole questionnaire and domain.

Conclusion

The BSFI questionnaire showed a 5-factor structure similar to the original structure and the 11-item Persian version of the questionnaire of male sexual function can be considered a valid and reliable tool to assess the level of male sexual function.
The Sovereignty Cartel
Authors: Barkin J. Samuel
Published: July 2021

Sovereignty is the subject of many debates in international relations. Is it the source of state authority or a description of it? What is its history? Is it strengthening or weakening? Is it changing, and how? This book addresses these questions, but focuses on one less frequently addressed: what makes state sovereignty possible? The Sovereignty Cartel argues that sovereignty is built on state collusion – states work together to privilege sovereignty in global politics, because they benefit from sovereignty's exclusivity. This book explores this collusive behavior in international law, international political economy, international security, and migration and citizenship. In all these areas, states accord rights to other states, regardless of relative power, relative wealth, or relative position. Sovereignty, as a (changing) set of property rights for which states collude, accounts for this behavior not as anomaly (as other theories would) but instead as fundamental to the sovereign states system.
Internal Self-Determination in International Law
Authors: Senaratne Kalana
Published: July 2021

Internal self-determination is an under-explored topic in international law. It is popularly understood to be a principle of relatively recent origin, promoting democratic freedoms to populations and autonomy for minority groups within states. It has also been viewed as a principle receiving the support of Western states, in particular. In this first book-length critical study of the topic, the reader is invited to rethink the history, theory and practice of internal self-determination in a complex world. Kalana Senaratne shows that it is a principle of great, but varied, potential. Internal self-determination promises democratic freedoms and autonomy to peoples; but it also represents an idea which is not historically new, and is ultimately a principle which can be promoted for different and conflicting purposes. Written in a clear and accessible style, this book will be of interest to international lawyers, state-officials, minority groups, and students of law and politics.
Symmetry of Narayana Numbers and Rowvacuation of Root Posets
Authors: Defant Colin , Hopkins Sam
Published: July 2021

For a Weyl group W of rank r, the W-Catalan number is the number of antichains of the poset of positive roots, and the W-Narayana numbers refine the W-Catalan number by keeping track of the cardinalities of these antichains. The W-Narayana numbers are symmetric – that is, the number of antichains of cardinality k is the same as the number of cardinality

$r-k$

. However, this symmetry is far from obvious. Panyushev posed the problem of defining an involution on root poset antichains that exhibits the symmetry of the W-Narayana numbers.

Rowmotion and rowvacuation are two related operators, defined as compositions of toggles, that give a dihedral action on the set of antichains of any ranked poset. Rowmotion acting on root posets has been the subject of a significant amount of research in the recent past. We prove that for the root posets of classical types, rowvacuation is Panyushev’s desired involution.
Lordship and Sovereignty in the Territories of the English Crown: Sub-kingship and Its Implications, 1300–1600
Authors: Thornton Tim
Published: July 2021

Conventional typologies of lordship and its relationship with royal power in the territories of the English crown emphasize the precocious distinctiveness of royal power as against noble lordship, with the latter consequentially bound by an essentially restrictive territorialized model. Drawing particularly on the example of the kingship/lordship of the Isle of Man, this article considers the manifestations of sub-kingship from the fourteenth to the sixteenth centuries as a way of understanding the complexity of manifestations of sovereignty in these territories. It assesses the use of royal titles and associated ceremonial and issues such as forms of dating. Also considered are some of the practical manifestations of “sovereign” power, seen in rights associated with justice, taxation, and relations between princes, and in the capacity to exclude the intervention of others in these spheres. From the discussion emerges an understanding of royal power as more variable in its footprint and shared in many spaces by men conventionally seen as part of an undifferentiated aristocracy. The reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII have usually been seen as the final point at which centralization through the power and authority of the English monarch obliterated any remaining echoes of sub-kingship in the North Atlantic archipelago, ending once and for all the possibility of a shared space between kingship and lordship. In considering the historiography of this moment, and evidence for continuity through Henry VIII's reign, the article raises questions about lordship and its political and cultural boundaries in the late medieval and early modern periods.
Evaluation of a paediatric gluten-free food guide by children and youth with coeliac disease, their parents and health care professionals
Authors: Mager Diana R. , Cyrkot Samantha , Lirette Christine , Brill Herbert , Dowhaniuk Jenna , Mileski Heather , Basualdo-Hammond Carlota , Nasser Roseann , Assor Esther , Marcon Margaret , Turner Justine M.
Published: July 2021

There are currently no universal evidence-based nutrition guidelines that address the gluten-free (GF) diet for children/youth (4–18 years). A GF food guide was created to help children/youth with coeliac disease (CD) and their families navigate the complexities of following a GF diet. Guide formation was based on pre-guide stakeholder consultations and an evaluation of nutrient intake and dietary patterns. The study objective was to conduct an evaluation on guide content, layout, feasibility and dissemination strategies from end-stakeholder users (children/youth with CD, parents/caregivers and health care professionals). This is a cross-sectional study using a multi-method approach of virtual focus groups and an online survey to conduct stakeholder evaluations. Stakeholders included children/youth (4–18 years), their parents/caregivers in the coeliac community (n 273) and health care professionals (n 80) with both paediatric and CD experience from across Canada. Thematic analysis was performed on focus group responses and open-ended survey questions until thematic saturation was achieved. χ2 and Fisher’s exact statistical analyses were performed on demographic and close-ended survey questions. Stakeholders positively perceived the guide for content, layout, feasibility, ethnicity and usability. Stakeholders found the material visually appealing and engaging with belief that it could effectively be used in multi-ethnic community and clinical-based settings. Guide revisions were made in response to stakeholder consultations to improve food selection (e.g. child-friendly foods), language (e.g. clarity) and layout (e.g. organisation). The evaluation by end-stakeholders provided practical and patient-focused feedback on the guide to enable successful uptake in community and clinical-based settings.
Eurosphere or Anglosphere? Canadian Public Opinion on Brexit and the Future of Transatlantic Relations
Authors: Hurrelmann Achim , Mérand Frédéric , White Stephen E.
Published: July 2021

Close relations with Europe, especially but not only with the United Kingdom, have long been a consensual tenet of Canadian foreign policy, which has supported European integration since the 1970s. The UK's withdrawal from the European Union threatens to upset this consensus. While Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has consistently cast Brexit in a negative light, Conservative leaders Andrew Scheer and Erin O'Toole have commented positively on the UK's leaving the EU. Did their polarized views resonate in the population? To answer this question, this article analyzes the results of an original survey of voting-age Canadians. Findings show a strong degree of correspondence between positions expressed in party discourse and preferences in the Canadian population. This raises the possibility that the difference between two models of transatlantic relations, which we call Eurosphere and Anglosphere, could emerge as a new fault line in Canadian foreign policy.
Sidon against Beirut: Space, Control, and the Limits of Sectarianism within the Jewish Community of Modern Lebanon
Authors: Schlaepfer Aline
Published: July 2021

When the State of Greater Lebanon was established in 1920, the Jewish Community Council of Beirut was officially recognized as the central administrative body within Lebanon, and although smaller communities such as Sidon and Tripoli also had their own councils they were consequently made subject to the authority of Beirut. In this context of political overhaul, I argue that some Jewish actors made use “from below” of political opportunities provided by sectarianism “from above”—or national sectarianism—to garner control over all Jewish political structures in Lebanon. But by examining in particular activities in and around the Israelite Community Council in Sidon (al-Majlis al-Milli al-Isra'ili bi-Sayda), I show how and why these attempts to practice new forms of sectarianism were met with resistance, despite connections that tied Lebanon's Jews together administratively in one community.
Efficacy of middle-ear packing in success of type 1 tympanoplasty: a prospective randomised study
Authors: Sahoo S R , Tripathi J , Kumari S , Rastogi S
Published: July 2021

Objective

A prospective randomised study was undertaken to compare the results of type 1 tympanoplasty with and without middle-ear packing with gelfoam.

Method

Eighty patients undergoing type 1 tympanoplasty were randomised into two groups according to packing in the middle ear: with gelfoam and without gelfoam. The data in terms of graft uptake rate, hearing gain and subjective improvement were analysed at one and three months.

Results

The graft uptake rate between both groups did not show a statistically significant difference. There was conductive hearing loss in the gelfoam group in the early post-operative period. Subjectively, patients were more comfortable with respect to heaviness and hearing gain than in the non-gelfoam group.

Conclusion

Gelfoam use in middle-ear packing is not an essential step and causes more discomfort in patients during the early post-operative period. It should be a surgeon's choice to use it when and where it is necessary.
Estimating forest antelope population densities using distance sampling with camera traps
Authors: Amin Rajan , Klair Hannah , Wacher Tim , Ndjassi Constant , Fowler Andrew , Olson David , Bruce Tom
Published: July 2021

Traditional transect survey methods for forest antelopes often underestimate density for common species and do not provide sufficient data for rarer species. The use of camera trapping as a survey tool for medium and large terrestrial mammals has become increasingly common, especially in forest habitats. Here, we applied the distance sampling method to images generated from camera-trap surveys in Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon, and used an estimate of the proportion of time animals are active to correct for negative bias in the density estimates from the 24-hour camera-trap survey datasets. We also used multiple covariate distance sampling with body weight as a covariate to estimate detection probabilities and densities of rarer species. These methods provide an effective tool for monitoring the status of individual species or a community of forest antelope species, information urgently needed for conservation planning and action.
Positive Egalitarianism Reconsidered
Authors: Arrhenius Gustaf , Mosquera Julia
Published: July 2021

According topositive egalitarianism, not only do relations of inequality have negative value, as negative egalitarians claim, but relations of equality also have positive value. The egalitarian value of a population is a function of both pairwise relations of inequality (negative) and pairwise relations of equality (positive). Positive andnegative egalitarianismdiverge, especially in different-number cases. Hence, an investigation of positive egalitarianism might shed new light on the vexed topic of population ethics and our duties to future generations. We shall here, in light of some recent criticism, further develop the idea of giving positive value to equal relations.
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension secondary to Behçet’s disease: an extremely rare pediatric case
Authors: Mahdavi Mohammad , Asadian Sanaz , Rezaeian Nahid , Asl Fallah Sahar , Shahzadi Hossein , Toloueitabar Yaser
Published: July 2021

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension is an uncommon condition in the children. It almost always accompanies a hypercoagulable state. We described a rare case of Behçet’s disease presenting with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and initially misdiagnosed as coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia.
Pericardiocentesis in children: 20-year experience at a tertiary children’s hospital
Authors: Herron Christopher , Forbes Thomas J. , Kobayashi Daisuke
Published: July 2021

Background:

Pericardiocentesis is the invasive percutaneous procedure for acute and chronic excessive accumulation of pericardial fluid. There is a paucity of data on the effectiveness and safety of pericardiocentesis in children.

Objectives:

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of pericardiocentesis and factors associated with acute procedural failure and adverse events.

Methods:

This was a single-centered retrospective study to describe all the children aged ≤20 years who underwent pericardiocentesis. Data on demographics, etiologies of pericardial effusion, and repeat intervention at follow-up were collected.

Results:

A total of 127 patients underwent 153 pericardiocentesis. The median age was 6.5 years (1 day–20 years) with weight of 17 kg (0.5–125). Most common etiology was post-pericardiotomy syndrome (n = 56, 44%), followed by infectious (12%), malignant (10%), and iatrogenic (9%). Pericardiocentesis was performed more commonly in the catheterisation laboratory (n = 86, 59%). Concurrent pericardial drain placement was performed in 67 patients (53%). Acute procedural success was 92% (141/153). Repeat intervention was performed in 33 patients (22%). The incidence of adverse events was 4.6% (7/153): hemopericardium requiring emergent surgery (n = 2); hemopericardium with hypotension (n = 2); seizure with anesthesia induction (n = 1); and right ventricle puncture with needle (n = 2). Pericardiocentesis at the bedside had a higher rate of acute procedural failure than that in the catheterisation lab (17 versus 1%, p < 0.01). No identifiable risk factors were associated with adverse events.

Conclusions:

Pericardiocentesis was life-saving in children with its high effectiveness and safety even in urgent situations. Although initial pericardiocentesis was effective, one of five patients required re-intervention for recurrent pericardial effusion.
Atrial septoplasty through internal jugular venous access in an infant with transposition of great arteries: technical challenges and solutions
Authors: Relan Jay , Arvind Balaji , Ramakrishnan Sivasubramanian
Published: July 2021

We describe a 3-month-old infant with transposition of great arteries and restrictive foramen ovale who presented with severe cyanosis. Child had a large thrombus causing near-total occlusion of the inferior caval vein. An emergency atrial septoplasty was performed via internal jugular venous access. The case emphasises the technical challenges faced while performing this procedure through jugular approach and plausible solutions to overcome these challenges.
Aspirin resistance in infants with shunt-dependent congenital heart disease
Authors: Koh Wonshill , Rodts Megan , Nebbia Ashley , Sawyer Jaclyn , Henry Brandon , Cooper David S.
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Patients with cyanotic heart disease are at an increased risk of developing thrombosis. Aspirin has been the mainstay of prophylactic anticoagulation for shunt-dependent patients with several reports of prevalent aspirin resistance, especially in neonates. We investigate the incidence of aspirin resistance and its relationship to thrombotic events and mortality in a cohort of infants with shunt-dependent physiology.

Methods:

Aspirin resistance was assessed using the VerifyNow™ test on infants with single-ventricle physiology following shunt-dependent palliation operations. In-hospital thrombotic events and mortality data were collected. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of aspirin resistance on in-hospital thrombotic events and mortality risk.

Results:

Forty-nine patients were included with 41 of these patients being neonates. Six patients (12%) were aspirin resistant. A birth weight < 2500 grams was a significant factor associated with aspirin resistance (p = 0.04). Following a dose increase or additional dose administration, all patients with initial aspirin resistance had a normal aspirin response. There was no statistically significant difference between aspirin resistance and non-resistance groups with respect to thrombotic events. However, a statistically significant incidence of in-hospital mortality in the presence of thrombotic events was observed amongst aspirin-resistant patients (p = 0.04) in this study.

Conclusion:

Low birth weight was associated with a higher incidence of aspirin resistance. Inadequate initial dosing appears to be the primary reason for aspirin resistance. The presence of both thrombotic events and aspirin resistance was associated with significantly higher in-hospital mortality indicating that these patients warrant closer monitoring.
Asset–liability modelling in the quantum era
Authors: Berry T. , Sharpe J.
Published: July 2021

This paper introduces and demonstrates the use of quantum computers for asset–liability management (ALM). A summary of historical and current practices in ALM used by actuaries is given showing how the challenges have previously been met. We give an insight into what ALM may be like in the immediate future demonstrating how quantum computers can be used for ALM. A quantum algorithm for optimising ALM calculations is presented and tested using a quantum computer. We conclude that the discovery of the strange world of quantum mechanics has the potential to create investment management efficiencies. This in turn may lead to lower capital requirements for shareholders and lower premiums and higher insured retirement incomes for policyholders.
Wissensstände und Einstellungen von Altenpflegeauszubildenden zum Thema Alterssexualität
Authors: Misamer Melanie , Warneck Juliana , Meyer-Rötz Sinja Henrike , Belz Michael , Wiltfang Jens , Signerski-Krieger Jörg
Published: July 2021

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Alterssexualität wird in der professionellen Altenpflege häufig tabuisiert. Pflegebedürftige Menschen höheren Lebensalters haben jedoch den Wunsch, Sexualität aktiv zu leben, was im Alltag – z. B. in Pflegeheimen – häufig nur eingeschränkt möglich ist. Fragestellung / Ziel: Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist es, Wissensstände und Einstellungen von Altenpflegeauszubildenden im Querschnitt abzubilden, und mögliche Unterschiede zwischen Ausbildungsjahren zu analysieren. Methoden: Es wurde eine Querschnittstudie mit schriftlicher standardisierter Befragung von 420 teilnehmenden Altenpflegeauszubildenden zu drei Forschungsfragestellungen durchgeführt: (1) Thematisierung von Alterssexualität im Unterricht, (2) sexuelle Aufgeklärtheit (subjektiv vs. objektiv), (3) Wissensstand und Einstellung zu Sexualassistenz. Unterschiede zwischen den Ausbildungsjahren und Subgruppen wurden statistisch analysiert (Kruskal-Wallis- und Chi-Quadrat-Tests). Ergebnisse: Die Thematisierung der Alterssexualität nahm mit ansteigendem Ausbildungsjahr zu. 15,1 % der Teilnehmenden gaben an, sie sei ausschließlich negativ im Unterricht behandelt worden. Bei Fragen zur objektiven Aufgeklärtheit vertraten 15,7 % die Meinung, häufige Masturbation sei psychisch schädlich, 9,3 % definierten Homosexualität als Krankheit. Unterschiede zwischen den Ausbildungsjahren konnten in diesen Variablen nicht festgestellt werden. Die Bekanntheit von Sexualassistenz nahm mit ansteigendem Ausbildungsjahr stetig zu. Schlussfolgerungen: Vor dem Hintergrund der berichteten Ergebnisse erscheint eine verstärkte Thematisierung der Alterssexualität im Rahmen eines angepassten Curriculums in der Altenpflegeausbildung sinnvoll, um eine Tabuisierung abzubauen, und den allgemeinen Wissensstand zu verbessern.
Multivariate Flood Frequency Analysis in Large River Basins Considering Tributary Impacts and Flood Types
Authors: Fischer S. , Schumann A. H.
Published: July 2021

In contrast to the basic assumption of a homogeneous population underlying common approaches to flood frequency analysis, flood events often arise from different runoff‐generating processes. In many large river basins, the diversity of these processes within tributary basins and the superposition of their flood waves increase the complexity of statistical flood modeling. Under these circumstances, the allocation of the most effective flood protection measures requires a spatially explicit analysis of flood‐generating processes and the determination of the probability of downstream flood scenarios. For large basins, flood scenarios are often derived using individual historical floods along with model‐based simulations. We, instead, performed hydrograph‐based flood‐type classification and volume‐based runoff analyses for the Upper Danube River to estimate the contributions of subbasins to floods at downstream locations. Using this information, we generated long synthetic samples of peak‐volume‐pairs to apply a multivariate statistical flood‐frequency model that yields a conditional probability of a flood peak given the peaks in tributary stations. The results show that only certain combinations of flood types may result in extreme peaks downstream of confluences. They also highlight the need to distinguish runoff‐generation mechanisms for the larger floods from ones that drive smaller, more frequent events. Through an example with the Rhine River, we demonstrate how the statistical model can be generalized for complex river networks featuring several tributary confluences. Finally, design floods for different scenarios of flood‐type combinations and assigned probabilities are derived, an approach that can be used to possible climate impacts to flood frequency.
Reliability Assessment of Machine Learning Models in Hydrological Predictions Through Metamorphic Testing
Authors: Yang Yang , Chui Ting Fong May
Published: July 2021

The reliability of the machine learning model prediction for a given input can be assessed by comparing it against the actual output. However, in hydrological studies, machine learning models are often adopted to predict future or unknown events, where the actual outputs are unavailable. The prediction accuracy of a model, which measures its average performance across an observed data set, may not be relevant for a specific input. This study presents a method based on metamorphic testing (MT), adopted from software engineering, to assess the prediction reliability where the actual outputs are unknown. In this method, the predictions for a group of related inputs are considered consistent only if the input and output follow certain relations that are deduced from the properties of the system being modeled. For instance, the predicted runoff volume should increase in a rainfall‐runoff model as the rainfall magnitude of an input increases. In this study, the MT‐based method was applied to assess the predictions made by various machine learning models that were trained to predict the magnitude of flood events in Germany. Surprisingly, the prediction accuracy of a model and its ability to provide consistent predictions were found to be uncorrelated. This study further investigated the factors influencing the assessment result of a given input, such as its similarity to observed data. Overall, this research shows that MT is an effective and simple method for detecting inconsistent model predictions and is recommended when a model is employed to making predictions under new conditions.
The Seasonal Cycle of Significant Wave Height in the Ocean: Local Versus Remote Forcing
Authors: Colosi Luke V. , Villas Bôas Ana B. , Gille Sarah T.
Published: July 2021

Significant wave height (SWH) stems from a combination of locally generated “wind‐sea” and remotely generated “swell” waves. In the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, wave heights typically undergo a sinusoidal annual cycle, with larger SWH in winter in response to seasonal changes in high‐latitude storm patterns that generate equatorward propagating swell. However, some locations deviate from this hemispheric‐scale seasonal pattern in SWH. For example, in the California coastal region, local wind events occur in boreal spring and summer, leading to a wind speed (WSP) annual cycle with a distinct maximum in boreal spring and a corresponding local response in SWH. Here ocean regions with a WSP annual cycle reaching a maximum in late spring, summer, or early fall are designated as seasonal wind anomaly regions (SWARs). Intra‐annual variability of surface gravity waves is analyzed globally using two decades of satellite‐derived SWH and WSP data. The phasing of the WSP annual cycle is used as a metric to identify SWARs. Global maps of probability of swell based on wave age confirm that during the spring and summer months, locally forced waves are statistically more likely in SWARs than in surrounding regions. The magnitude of the deviation in the SWH annual cycle is determined by the exposure to swell and characteristics of the wave field within the region. Local winds have a more identifiable impact on Northern Hemisphere SWARs than on Southern Hemisphere SWARs due to the larger seasonality of Northern Hemisphere winds.
Decrease post-transplant relapse using donor-derived expanded NK-cells
Authors: Ciurea Stefan O. , Kongtim Piyanuch , Soebbing Doris , Trikha Prashant , Behbehani Gregory , Rondon Gabriela , Olson Amanda , Bashir Qaiser , Gulbis Alison M. , Indreshpal Kaur , Rezvani Katayoun , Shpall Elizabeth J. , Bassett Roland , Cao Kai , Martin Andrew St , Devine Steven , Horowitz Mary , Pasquini Marcelo , Lee Dean A. , Champlin Richard E.
Published: July 2021

In this phase I/II clinical trial, we investigated the safety and efficacy of high doses of mb-IL21 ex vivo expanded donor-derived NK cells to decrease relapse in 25 patients with myeloid malignancies receiving haploidentical stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). Three doses of donor NK cells (1 × 105–1 × 108 cells/kg/dose) were administered on days −2, +7, and +28. Results were compared with an independent contemporaneously treated case-matched cohort of 160 patients from the CIBMTR database.

After a median follow-up of 24 months, the 2-year relapse rate was 4% vs. 38% (p = 0.014), and disease-free survival (DFS) was 66% vs. 44% (p = 0.1) in the cases and controls, respectively. Only one relapse occurred in the study group, in a patient with the high level of donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSA) presented before transplantation. The 2-year relapse and DFS in patients without DSA was 0% vs. 40% and 72% vs. 44%, respectively with HR for DFS in controls of 2.64 (p = 0.029). NK cells in recipient blood were increased at day +30 in a dose-dependent manner compared with historical controls, and had a proliferating, mature, highly cytotoxic, NKG2C+/KIR+ phenotype.

Administration of donor-derived expanded NK cells after haploidentical transplantation was safe, associated with NK cell-dominant immune reconstitution early post-transplant, preserved T-cell reconstitution, and improved relapse and DFS. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT01904136 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01904136).
Heterogeneous effects of genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease on the phenome
Authors: Wu Hei Man , Goate Alison M. , O’Reilly Paul F.
Published: July 2021

Here we report how four major forms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) genetic risk—APOE-ε4, APOE-ε2, polygenic risk and familial risk—are associated with 273 traits in ~500,000 individuals in the UK Biobank. The traits cover blood biochemistry and cell traits, metabolic and general health, psychosocial health, and cognitive function. The difference in the profile of traits associated with the different forms of AD risk is striking and may contribute to heterogenous presentation of the disease. However, we also identify traits significantly associated with multiple forms of AD genetic risk, as well as traits showing significant changes across ages in those at high risk of AD, which may point to their potential roles in AD etiology. Finally, we highlight how survivor effects, in particular those relating to shared risks of cardiovascular disease and AD, can generate associations that may mislead interpretation in epidemiological AD studies. The UK Biobank provides a unique opportunity to powerfully compare the effects of different forms of AD genetic risk on the phenome in the same cohort.