bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on electrostatic discharge (ESD) characteristics of ultra-thin dielectric film
Authors: WANG Ronggang , SUN Yurong , HE Liuliang , OUYANG Jiting
Published: February 2022

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) event usually destroys the electrical properties of dielectric films, resulting in product failure. In this work, the breakdown characteristic of machine mode (MM) ESD on three different nano size films of head gimble assemble are obtained experimentally. The breakdown voltage and thickness parameters show a positive proportional relationship, but they are generally very low and have large discrete characteristics (∼30%). The maximum and minimum breakdown voltages of the tested samples are 1.08 V and 0.46 V, which are far lower than the requirement of the current standard (25 V). In addition, the judgment criterion of product damage is given, and the relationship between discharge voltage polarity, initial resistance and breakdown voltage is studied. Finally, the theoretical analysis of the breakdown characteristic law has been given.
The cohomology of semi-simple Lie groups, viewed from infinity
Authors: Monod Nicolas
Published: February 2022

We prove that the real cohomology of semi-simple Lie groups admits boundary values, which are measurable cocycles on the Furstenberg boundary. This generalises known invariants such as the Maslov index on Shilov boundaries, the Euler class on projective space, or the hyperbolic ideal volume on spheres.

In rank one, this leads to an isomorphism between the cohomology of the group and of this boundary model. In higher rank, additional classes appear, which we determine completely.
Cubic Action of a Rank one Group
Authors: Grüninger Matthias
Published: February 2022

We consider a rank one group

G
=
⟨
A
,
B
⟩

G = \langle A,B \rangle

acting cubically on a module

V
V

, this means

[
V
,
A
,
A
,
A
]
=
0

[V,A,A,A] =0

but

[
V
,
G
,
G
,
G
]
≠
0

[V,G,G,G] \ne 0

. We have to distinguish whether the group
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="upper A 0 colon equals upper C Subscript upper A Baseline left-parenthesis left-bracket upper V comma upper A right-bracket right-parenthesis intersection upper C Subscript upper A Baseline left-parenthesis upper V slash upper C Subscript upper V Baseline left-parenthesis upper A right-parenthesis right-parenthesis">

A
0

:=

C
A

(
[
V
,
A
]
)
∩

C
A

(
V

/

C
V

(
A
)
)

A_0 :=C_A([V,A]) \cap C_A(V/C_V(A))

is trivial or not. We show that if

A
0

A_0

is trivial,

G
G

is a rank one group associated to a quadratic Jordan division algebra. If

A
0

A_0

is not trivial (which is always the case if

A
A

is not abelian), then

A
0

A_0

defines a subgroup

G
0

G_0

of

G
G

acting quadratically on

V
V

. We will call

G
0

G_0

the quadratic kernel of

G
G

. By a result of Timmesfeld we have

G
0

≅

S
L

2

(
J
,
R
)

G_0 \cong \mathrm {SL}_2(J,R)

for a ring

R
R

and a special quadratic Jordan division algebra

J
⊆
R

J \subseteq R

. We show that

J
J

is either a Jordan algebra contained in a commutative field or a Hermitian Jordan algebra. In the second case

G
G

is the special unitary group of a pseudo-quadratic form

π
\pi

of Witt index

1
1

, in the first case

G
G

is the rank one group for a Freudenthal triple system. These results imply that if

(
V
,
G
)

(V,G)

is a quadratic pair such that no two distinct root groups commute and

c
h
a
r

V
≠
2
,
3

\mathrm {char} V\ne 2,3

, then

G
G

is a unitary group or an exceptional algebraic group.
Open-Angle Glaucomatous Optic Neuropathy Is Related to Dips Rather Than Increases in the Mean Arterial Pressure Over 24-H
Authors: Melgarejo Jesus D , Eijgen Jan V , Maestre Gladys E , Al-Aswad Lama A , Thijs Lutgarde , Mena Luis J , Lee Joseph H , Terwilliger Joseph D , Petitto Michele , Chávez Carlos A , Brito Miguel , Calmon Gustavo , Silva Egle , Wei Dong-Mei , Cutsforth Ella , Keer Karel V , Gustavo De Moraes C , Vanassche Thomas , Janssens Stefan , Stalmans Ingeborg , Verhamme Peter , Staessen Jan A , Zhang Zhen-Yu
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Mean arterial pressure (MAP) drives ocular perfusion. Excessive 24-h MAP variability relates to glaucoma, however, whether this is due to dips or increases in the blood pressure (BP) is undocumented. We investigated the association of open-angle glaucoma (OAG) in relation to the 5 largest MAP dips/increases over 24-h, henceforth called dips/blips.

METHODS

In the Maracaibo Aging Study (MAS), 93 participants aged ≥40 y (women, 87.1%; mean age, 61.9 y) underwent baseline ophthalmological and 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring assessments. OAG was the presence of optic nerve damage and visual field defects. Statistical methods included logistic regression and the generalized R2 statistic. For replication, 48 OAG cases at the Leuven Glaucoma Clinic were matched with 48 controls recruited from Flemish population.

RESULTS

In the MAS, 26 participants had OAG. OAG compared to non-OAG participants experienced longer and deeper dips (116.5 vs. 102.7 minutes; to 60.3 vs. 66.6 mm Hg; −21.0 vs. −18.0 mm Hg absolute or 0.79 vs. 0.81 relative dip compared to the preceding reading). The adjusted odds ratios associated with dip measures ranged from 2.25 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31–4.85; P = 0.009) to 3.39 (95% CI, 1.36–8.46; P = 0.008). On top of covariables and 24-MAP level/variability, the dip measures increased the model performance (P ≤ 0.025). Blips did not associate with OAG. The case–control study replicated the MAS observations.

CONCLUSIONS

Dips rather than increases in the 24-h MAP level were associated with increased risk for OAG. An ophthalmological examination combined with 24-h BP monitoring might be precautious steps required in normotensive and hypertensive patients at risk of OAG.
The Torrens System in Singapore: 75 Years from Conception to Commencement
Authors: See Alvin W -L
Published: February 2022

This article tells the story of how the Torrens system of land titles registration came to be adopted in Singapore. From conception to commencement, the entire process took over 75 years, far longer than any other law reform the country has experienced. Particular attention is paid to why the Australian model was preferred despite the significant influence of English law in colonial Singapore. Although as with anything, much of what happened could be attributed to chance, a great deal can be learned from this story, which details the socio-economic and political forces that have shaped the law into what it is, as well as the considerations that have influenced the choices regarding legal transplant.
Amnesty and the Limits of Transitional Justice in Brazil: The Case of Expelled Low-Ranking Soldiers, 1964–2014
Authors: Corrêa Marilia
Published: February 2022

This article shows the continuities of the military dictatorship and the limits of transitional justice in Brazil, arguing that the violations the military regime inflicted on certain groups persisted over three decades after democratization. Between 1964 and 1985 the military officers who took power strived to eliminate opposition to their rule from all sectors of society. Inside the armed forces, they expelled over 6,500 officers and soldiers from their ranks after accusing them of subversion. Between 1979 and 2014 the state created policies to start a democratic transition and address the civil and human rights violations perpetrated during military rule. It offered amnesty and reparations to individuals who had their political rights stripped from them after their names were published in Institutional Acts, legal instruments created by the military government to justify the political persecution of its opponents. Yet, transitional justice policies failed to address different mechanisms the dictatorship used to eliminate opposition, such as Air Force Decree 1,104, which determined that soldiers would be hired on four-year contracts. Masquerading it as a tool to regulate the organization of the Air Force, military officers used Decree 1,104 to expel soldiers whom the regime saw as politically subversives. This article shows how the transitional justice policies created in Brazil were insufficient to deal with the multiple ways the dictatorship punished its political opponents.
Risky business: males choose more receptive adults over safer subadults in a cannibalistic spider
Authors: Sentenská Lenka , Scott Catherine , Mouginot Pierick , Andrade Maydianne C B
Published: February 2022

Understanding factors affecting male mate choice can be important for tracking the dynamics of sexual selection in nature. Male brown widow spiders (Latrodectus geometricus) mate with adult as well as immature (subadult) females. Mating with adults involves costly courtship with a repertoire of signaling behaviors, and typically ends with cannibalism (“self-sacrifice” initiated by male somersault). Mating with subadults involves brief courtship with behavioral repertoire reduced to one component (vibration) and no cannibalism. We examined male mate choice as a function of risks associated with different types of mates and the cues available to courting males. Previous studies showed male preference for adults based on air-borne pheromones, but it was unclear whether that preference is maintained after males reach female’s webs. We show that males prefer adults also based on silk-borne contact cues. To determine which types of cues trigger different courtship components, we swapped adults and subadults between webs. We showed that contact with adult females’ webs triggers two courtship behaviors from the repertoire, with adult female’s bodies triggering additional behaviors. However, vibrational signals occur regardless of the web origin or female developmental stage. We conclude that males recognize subadult females as potential mates, but are more likely to invest in costly courtship behaviors and mating attempts with adults. In our experiments, subadults were less likely to mate than adults. We conclude that mating with adults could be the preferred option for males because of the higher likelihood of copulation, even at the cost of a higher risk of cannibalism.
Made-up mouths with preen oil reveal genetic and phenotypic conditions of starling nestlings
Authors: Soler Juan José , Martínez-Renau Ester , Azcárate-García Manuel , Ruiz-Castellano Cristina , Martín José , Martín-Vivaldi Manuel
Published: February 2022

Animal coloration results from pigments, nanostructures, or the cosmetic use of natural products, and plays a central role in social communication. The role of cosmetic coloration has traditionally been focused in scenarios of sexual selection, but it could also take place in other contexts. Here, by using spotless starlings (Sturnus unicolor) as a model system, we explore the possibility that nestlings cosmetically use their intensely yellow-colored uropygial secretion to signal their genetic and/or phenotypic quality. In agreement with the hypothetical cosmetic use of the uropygial secretion, (i) video recorded nestlings collected secretion with the bill at the age of feathering, (ii) cotton swabs turned to the color of secretion after rubbing with them nestlings’ gape, and (iii) gape and skin colorations correlated positively with that of secretion. Furthermore, we found that (iv) secretion coloration has a genetic component, and (v) associated positively with Vitamin E supplementation and (vi) with plasma carotenoid concentration, which highlights the informative value of nestling secretion. Finally, (vii) coloration of begging-related traits and of secretion of nestlings predicted parental feeding preferences. Consequently, all these results strongly suggest that the cosmetic use of colored uropygial secretion might also play a role in parent-offspring communication, complementing or amplifying information provided by the flamboyant colored gapes and skin of nestlings. The use of makeups by offspring for communication with relatives has been scarcely explored and we hope that these results will encourage further investigations in birds and other taxa with parental care.
BiTSC
2: Bayesian inference of tumor clonal tree by joint analysis of single-cell SNV and CNA data
Authors: Chen Ziwei , Gong Fuzhou , Wan Lin , Ma Liang
Published: February 2022

The rapid development of single-cell DNA sequencing (scDNA-seq) technology has greatly enhanced the resolution of tumor cell profiling, providing an unprecedented perspective in characterizing intra-tumoral heterogeneity and understanding tumor progression and metastasis. However, prominent algorithms for constructing tumor phylogeny based on scDNA-seq data usually only take single nucleotide variations (SNVs) as markers, failing to consider the effect caused by copy number alterations (CNAs). Here, we propose BiTSC$^2$, Bayesian inference of Tumor clonal Tree by joint analysis of Single-Cell SNV and CNA data. BiTSC$^2$ takes raw reads from scDNA-seq as input, accounts for the overlapping of CNA and SNV, models allelic dropout rate, sequencing errors and missing rate, as well as assigns single cells into subclones. By applying Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling, BiTSC$^2$ can simultaneously estimate the subclonal scCNA and scSNV genotype matrices, subclonal assignments and tumor subclonal evolutionary tree. In comparison with existing methods on synthetic and real tumor data, BiTSC$^2$ shows high accuracy in genotype recovery, subclonal assignment and tree reconstruction. BiTSC$^2$ also performs robustly in dealing with scDNA-seq data with low sequencing depth and variant missing rate. BiTSC$^2$ software is available at https://github.com/ucasdp/BiTSC2.
How Individualized Niches Arise: Defining Mechanisms of Niche Construction, Niche Choice, and Niche Conformance
Authors: Trappes Rose , Nematipour Behzad , Kaiser Marie I , Krohs Ulrich , van Benthem Koen J , Ernst Ulrich R , Gadau Jürgen , Korsten Peter , Kurtz Joachim , Schielzeth Holger , Schmoll Tim , Takola Elina
Published: February 2022

Organisms interact with their environments in various ways. We present a conceptual framework that distinguishes three mechanisms of organism–environment interaction. We call these NC3 mechanisms: niche construction, in which individuals make changes to the environment; niche choice, in which individuals select an environment; and niche conformance, in which individuals adjust their phenotypes in response to the environment. Each of these individual-level mechanisms affects an individual's phenotype–environment match, its fitness, and its individualized niche, defined in terms of the environmental conditions under which the individual can survive and reproduce. Our framework identifies how individuals alter the selective regimes that they and other organisms experience. It also places clear emphasis on individual differences and construes niche construction and other processes as evolved mechanisms. The NC3 mechanism framework therefore helps to integrate population-level and individual-level research.
Species delimitation, hybridization and possible apomixis in a rapid radiation of Western AustralianLeptospermum(Myrtaceae)
Authors: Binks Rachel M , Byrne Margaret
Published: February 2022

Species delimitation is challenging in rapid radiations because the typical markers of speciation are often obscured. Here, we use comprehensive sampling and genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms to assess species boundaries in a radiation of nine morphologically similar Leptospermum taxa that failed to be discriminated in previous phylogenomic analyses. Our data recovered clear separation of L. maxwellii, L. sericeum and L. inelegans as currently circumscribed. A phrase-named taxon, Leptospermum. sp. Peak Charles/Norseman, was not distinct from L. incanum, and we recommend their synonymization. Another pair, L. nitens and L. roei, were also indistinct and differ by a single morphological character that also varies in L. inelegans without taxonomic recognition. We recommend synonymization of L. nitens and L. roei and consistent treatment of this character as a non-diagnostic, variable trait. Difficulty arose in discriminating L. erubescens and L. oligandrum; we make three suggestions and recommend further morphological investigation to determine the most appropriate taxonomic outcome. As expected, hybridization was common across the complex, but, unexpectedly, many individual plants were genetically identical within, and sometimes between, populations of most species. We hypothesize that this is due to apomixis. Overall, this study demonstrates the value of population genomics in the integrative taxonomy toolbox for disentangling species in rapid radiations, while also offering insight to the evolution of this poorly known group of Australian Leptospermum.
Wasp stings and plasma exchange
Authors: Carriazo Sol , Ortiz Alberto
Published: February 2022

Invasive species related to climate change and/or globalization may be associated with novel forms of kidney disease. This is the case for wasps. Several species of Asian wasps are increasingly found in America (e.g. Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia) and Europe (e.g. yellow-legged Asian hornet, V. velutina; black shield hornet, V. bicolor; and Oriental hornet, V. orientalis). Some of these species have been associated with human deaths and acute kidney injury. The literature on wasps and acute kidney injury is scarce and mostly originates from Asia, so nephrologists outside Asia are not familiar with this health problem. In a recent issue of ckj, Liu et al. describe a simple, four-item Wasp Sting Severity Score (WSS) developed from 1131 wasp sting patients. Vespa mandarinia and V. velutina were among those causing hospitalization, although most cases were caused by the black-bellied hornet (V. basalis). Liu et al. propose that a WSS ≥3 should guide early (<24 h after stings) plasma exchange, as plasma exchange was associated with lower mortality in severely affected patients but continuous venovenous haemofiltration and haemoperfusion were not. The WSS will require external validation. This manuscript should raise awareness about the potentially fatal consequences of stings by wasp species making their way into America and Europe.
Fundoplication in children with esophageal atresia: preoperative workup and outcome
Authors: van Lennep Marinde , Chung Eric , Jiwane Ashish , Saoji Rajendra , Gorter Ramon R , Benninga Marc A , Krishnan Usha , van Wijk Michiel P
Published: February 2022

Up to 45% of esophageal atresia (EA) patients undergo fundoplication during childhood. Their esophageal dysmotility may predispose to worse fundoplication outcomes compared with patients without EA. We therefore compared fundoplication outcomes and symptoms pre- and post-fundoplication in EA patients with matched patients without EA. A retrospective review of patients with- and without EA who underwent a fundoplication was performed between 2006 and 2017. Therapeutic success was defined as complete sustained resolution of symptoms that were the reason to perform fundoplication. Fundoplication indications of 39 EA patients (49% male; median age 1.1 [0.1–17.0] yrs) and 39 non-EA patients (46% male; median age 1.3 [0.3–17.0] yrs) included respiratory symptoms, brief resolved unexplained events, typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, recurrent strictures and respiratory problems. Post-fundoplication, therapeutic success was achieved in 5 (13%) EA patients versus 29 (74%) non-EA patients (P<0.001). Despite therapeutic success, all 5 (13%) EA patients developed postoperative sustained symptoms/complications versus 12 (31%) non-EA patients. Eleven (28%) EA patients versus 3 (8%) non-EA patients did not achieve any therapeutic success (P=0.036). Remaining patients achieved partial therapeutic success. EA patients suffered significantly more often from postoperative sustained dysphagia (41% vs. 13%; P=0.039), gagging (33% vs. 23%; P<0.001) and bloating (40% vs. 17%; P=0.022). Fundoplication outcomes in EA patients are poor and EA patients are more susceptible to post-fundoplication sustained symptoms and complications compared with patients without EA. The decision to perform fundoplication in EA patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease needs to be made with caution after thorough multidisciplinary evaluation.
How to Manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients When They Withdraw Anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor [Anti-TNF] Due to Severe Anti-TNF-Induced Skin Lesions? A Multicentre Cohort Study
Authors: Cottron C , Treton X , Altwegg R , Reenaers C , Amiot A , Fumery M , Vuitton L , Peyrin-Biroulet L , Bouguen G , Dewit O , Nancey S , Caillo L , Roblin X , Beylot-Barry M , Rivière P , Laharie D
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

Optimal management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] after anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] discontinuation due to severe induced skin lesions is unclear. Our study aimed to describe dermatological and IBD evolution after anti-TNF discontinuation for this side effect.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre retrospective study including consecutive IBD patients who discontinued anti-TNF due to severe induced skin lesions. Our objectives were to determine factors associated with dermatological remission [complete disappearance of skin lesions] and with IBD relapse in patients with inactive disease at inclusion, notably the impact of an early switch to another biological agent within 3 months of anti-TNF discontinuation.

Results

Among the 181 patients [134 women, 160 Crohn’s disease] included in the 13 participating centres, dermatological remission occurred in 110 [62%] patients with a median [interquartile range, IQR] interval of 8.0 [6.8–11.0] months. Scalp location was independently associated with less remission of skin lesions (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.64 [95% CI 0.43–0.94], p = 0.02) while early switch was independently associated with a higher probability of remission of skin lesions (HR = 1.64 [95% CI 1.1–2.5], p = 0.02). Among the 148 patients with inactive IBD at inclusion, disease relapse occurred in 75 [51%] patients with a median [IQR] interval of 26.0 [23.0–39.1] months. Survival rates without IBD relapse at 1 year were 85.8% [95% CI 77.5–94.9] in the early switch group and 59.3% [95% CI 48.9–71.9] in the other group [p < 0.01].

Conclusions

Early switch to a new biological is associated with a higher probability of healing of anti-TNF-induced skin lesions and significantly reduces the risk of IBD relapse.
Rare case of Histoplasma capsulatum endocarditis in a patient with a prosthetic valve
Authors: Manning Emily M , Zorach Benjamin , Kumar Anirudh
Published: February 2022

Background

Diagnosis of fungal endocarditis can be challenging, especially among cases with negative blood culture results. Of fungal endocarditis cases, Histoplasma capsulatum constitutes an even smaller proportion with ∼58 prior cases reported. Due to the rarity of histoplasmosis endocarditis and thus limited data, there is no current diagnostic guideline for testing within culture negative infective endocarditis.

Case summary

Our patient was a 58-year-old female presenting with worsening dyspnoea, hypotension, and near-syncope. In this case report, we depict the clinical presentation and diagnosis of H. capsulatum endocarditis in a female patient with a prosthetic aortic valve and negative blood cultures. We further demonstrate the rising risk of fungal endocarditis with use of external devices.

Discussion

Despite the rarity of fungal endocarditis, there has been a recent upward trend in infections given the rising use of external devices, greater number of immunocompromised patients, and rising rates of intravenous drug use. Recently, more cases of fungal endocarditis have been occurring in patients with prosthetic valves compared to native. Although H. capsulatum constitutes a smaller proportion of fungal endocarditis cases, patients with appropriate risk factors and those who have been exposed to at-risk areas such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, may benefit from further evaluation.
The Wheels of Change: Technology Adoption, Millwrights and the Persistence in Britain'S Industrialisation
Authors: Mokyr Joel , Sarid Assaf , van der Beek Karine
Published: February 2022

This paper examines the effect of the early adoption of technology on the evolution of human capital and industrialisation. We argue that mechanical skills and competence were a main determinant of the location of industry on the eve of the Industrial Revolution. It concentrates on the case of millwrights, eighteenth-century specialists in advanced carpentry and hydraulic machinery. Millwrights were a key part of the upper tail of the distribution of mechanical abilities. Their emergence was determined by the early adoption of watermills in the Middle Ages as recorded in the Domesday Book survey (1086). Their location displays considerable persistence.
Combined influence of sedentary behaviours and chronic pain on depressive symptoms in older Korean adults with hypertension
Authors: Won Mi Hwa , Son Youn-Jung
Published: February 2022

Aims

Depressive symptoms in hypertensive patients are linked to poor adherence to treatment. Sedentary behaviours and chronic pain can increase blood pressure and depressive symptoms, respectively. However, the impact of their coexistence on depressive symptoms in older adults with hypertension has not yet been investigated. This study aimed to identify the combined influence of sedentary behaviours and chronic pain on depressive symptoms in older adults with hypertension in Korea.

Methods and results

This cross-sectional study used data from the sixth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from January to December 2014. The survey adopted multistage stratified sampling by geographical region, gender, and age. For the data analysis, a total of 573 patients with hypertension aged 65 years or older were included. Approximately, 61.0% of depressed older patients had both sedentary behaviours and chronic pain compared with patients without depressive symptoms. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, compared with patients without either sedentary behaviours or chronic pain, older adults with hypertension who presented both sedentary behaviours, and chronic pain had the highest risk of depressive symptoms (odds ratio = 13.86, 95% confidence interval = 5.87–32.71; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Coexistence of sedentary behaviours and chronic pain in older hypertensive patients may lead to depressive symptoms. Evaluating both sedentary behaviours and chronic pain when assessing depressive symptoms in patients with hypertension would be beneficial in planning a patient-centred approach for controlling blood pressure. More prospective cohort studies with larger samples are required to identify the causal relationships.
Nationwide study of mortality and sudden cardiac death in young persons diagnosed with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Svane Jesper , Nielsen Jakob Lund , Stampe Niels Kjær , Feldt-Rasmussen Bo , Garcia Rodrigue , Risgaard Bjarke , Gislason Gunnar Hilmar , Winkel Bo Gregers , Lynge Thomas Hadberg , Tfelt-Hansen Jacob
Published: February 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare short- and long-term risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) among persons aged 18–49 years with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods and results

Using Danish nationwide health registries, all persons aged 18–49 years diagnosed with earlier stages of CKD or chronic kidney failure from 1 July 1995 through 2009 were identified. Non-exposed subjects matched on sex and birth-year were identified. All SCD in the Danish population aged 18–49 years in 2000–2009 have previously been identified using information from the Danish nationwide health registries, death certificates, and autopsy reports. In total, 9308 incident cases of earlier stage CKD and 1233 incident cases of chronic kidney failure were included. Among patients with earlier stage CKD, the absolute risk of SCD 1, 5, and 10 years after diagnosis was 0.14%, 0.37%, and 0.68%, respectively. Compared with age- and sex-matched subjects the corresponding relative risk (RR) was 20.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 8.4–48.8], 7.1 (95% CI 4.2–12.0), and 6.1 (95% CI 3.8–9.7), respectively. Among patients with chronic kidney failure, the absolute 1-, 5-, and 10-year risk of SCD was 0.17%, 0.56%, and 2.07%, respectively. The corresponding RR was 12.5 (95% CI 1.4–111.6), 7.9 (95% CI 2.3–27.0), and 10.1 (95% CI 4.5–22.6).

Conclusion

Persons with earlier stage CKD and chronic kidney failure had increased risk of SCD compared with the background population with a 6- to 20-fold increased risk of SCD. These findings underline the importance of early cardiovascular risk monitoring and assessment in persons with CKD.
Downward continuation of marine seismic reflection data: an undervalued tool to improve velocity models
Authors: Jimenez-Tejero C E , Ranero Cesar R , Sallares Valenti , Gras Claudia
Published: February 2022

The purpose of marine seismic experiments is to provide information of the structure and physical properties of the subsurface. The P-wave velocity distribution is the most commonly modelled property, usually by inversion of arrival times or waveform attributes. In wide-angle seismic reflection/refraction (WAS) experiments, arrival times of seismic phases identified in data recorded by ocean bottom seismometers (OBS) are used to image relatively deep structures. Most WAS experiments have relatively low redundancy and produce robust velocity models of limited resolution. The shallow subsurface is also commonly studied with multichannel seismic (MCS) data recorded by towed streamers, a technique that is highly complementary to WAS. In this case, the recording of refractions as first arrivals is limited primarily by the streamer length and by features like water depth and the velocity structure and, in general, most refractions are masked by reflections and noise. However, MCS data of variable quality are available in many regions where no other data exist and previous work has shown that these data can also be used to retrieve velocity models through traveltime and full waveform inversion provided that first arrival information is properly extracted from the record sections. The most widely used tool to extract refractions as first arrivals from MCS recordings is the so-called downward continuation technique, which is designed for redatuming streamer field data to the seafloor. In this new virtual configuration, the early refractions transform to seismic phases that are becoming visible as first arrivals from nearly zero offset, facilitating their identification and use in traveltime tomography. However, there is limited literature, let alone available codes, to be used with the available MCS data sets. This work presents a user-friendly open source HPC software for redatuming 2-D streamer field data to the sea bottom for any seafloor relief. The main ingredient is the acoustic wave equation used backwards in time, allowing first the redatuming of the receivers and then the redatuming of the sources. Assessment tools are provided to evaluate the information available after redatuming for specific data acquisition configurations. Also, we present a step-by-step analysis that defines the most important features that influence the quality of the virtual, redatumed recordings.
Coverage of iron and folic acid supplementation in India: progress under the Anemia Mukt Bharat strategy 2017–20
Authors: Joe William ,   Rinju, Patel Narendra , Alambusha Ruby , Kulkarni Bharati , Yadav Kapil , Sethi Vani
Published: February 2022

High prevalence of anaemia is a severe public health problem in India. In 2018, India launched the Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) strategy that focuses on six beneficiary groups for coverage, six institutional mechanisms for health system strengthening and six programmatic interventions to accelerate reductions in anaemia prevalence. This paper uses the Health Management Information System data (2017–18 to 2019–20) to examine gains in IFA coverage across Indian states. A coverage-based AMB index is computed to review performance across states. After the launch of AMB strategy, the Iron and Folic Acid (IFA) supplementation coverage between 2017–18 and 2019–20 has increased for all beneficiary groups [pregnant women from 78% to 90%; lactating mothers from 34% to 49%; school going adolescent girls (boys) from 23% to 40% (21% to 42%); out-of-school adolescent girls from 6% to 23%; children 5–9 years from 8% to 3% and children 6–59 months from 7% to 15%]. Coverage was relatively low for target groups being served through a multi-departmental convergence mechanism (health and other departments such as education department for schools or women and child development department for Anganwadi centres) than compared to those served by health department alone. However, no major gender disparities are noted in the coverage of IFA supplementation among school-going girls and boys. Bulk of the variations in coverage is attributable to state-specific differences. Training and sensitization workshops for state and district officials are found to be associated with increased coverage across beneficiary groups. The paper argues that despite following international best practices in the field, it is important to harness synergy in programme implementation across line departments to eliminate coverage inefficiencies.
Youth on the Frontlines: Preventing Human Rights Abuses in Violent Contexts, A Case Study of LUCHA in the DR of Congo
Authors: Cirhigiri Christian
Published: February 2022

ABSTRACT∞

Increasingly, transitional justice (TJ) mechanisms are implemented in contexts of ongoing violence where youth are often perceived as victims or perpetrators of human rights violations. This reductionist conceptualization of youth is problematic for understanding the diverse identities of youth in contexts where large-scale human rights violations occur. It also obscures the positive roles of youth as non-State actors in advancing human rights accountability and preventing the recurrence of specific human rights violations. This article explores how youth participation in LUCHA—a countrywide youth movement born from Goma (North Kivu) that advocates for greater political and civic involvement of Congolese—influences youth understandings of justice and contributes to the non-recurrence of specific human rights violations. Using collective participation as a conceptual lens and semi-structured interviews and focus groups conducted in 2015 and 2021 with LUCHA activists, the article contends that overemphasizing State actors eclipses non-State actors’ roles—including youth-led peace and justice initiatives in areas where State actors are inexistent or have weakened legitimacy. The article’s central claim is that ignoring the nexus between youth participation and justice understandings, particularly in contexts of ongoing violence, limits TJ’s full potential to unfold in these contexts. By zooming in on the TJ pillar of Guarantees of Non Recurrence (GoNR), the article is an invitation to further interrogate youth’s roles in TJ contexts and expand the field’s toolkit to accommodate their unique contributions.
Spectrum of the Neumann–Poincaré Operator and Optimal Estimates for Transmission Problems in the Presence of Two Circular Inclusions
Authors: Ji Yong-Gwan , Kang Hyeonbae
Published: February 2022

We investigate the field concentration for conductivity equations in the presence of closely located circular inclusions by exploiting the spectral nature residing behind the phenomenon of the field concentration. This approach enables us not only to recover the existing results with new insights but also to produce significant new results. We recover known optimal estimates for the derivatives of the solution when the conductivities of the inclusions have the same relative signs, which show with optimal rates of blow-up that if the conductivity of both inclusions is either 0 or $\infty $, then derivatives (including the gradient) become arbitrarily large as the distance between two inclusions tends to 0. We obtain as new results optimal estimates for the derivatives of solution when the relative conductivities of inclusions have different signs. Estimates obtained show that the gradient of the solution is bounded regardless of the distance between inclusions, but the 2nd and higher derivatives may blow up as the distance tends to zero if one of conductivities is $0$ and the other is $\infty $. We also show by examples that the estimates obtained are optimal.
On Dynamical Cancellation
Authors: Bell Jason P , Matsuzawa Yohsuke , Satriano Matthew
Published: February 2022

Let $X$ be a projective variety and let $f$ be a dominant endomorphism of $X$, both of which are defined over a number field $K$. We consider a question of the 2nd author, Meng, Shibata, and Zhang, who asks whether the tower of $K$-points $Y(K)\subseteq (f^{-1}(Y))(K)\subseteq (f^{-2}(Y))(K)\subseteq \cdots $ eventually stabilizes, where $Y\subset X$ is a subvariety invariant under $f$. We show this question has an affirmative answer when the map $f$ is étale. We also look at a related problem of showing that there is some integer $s_0$, depending only on $X$ and $K$, such that whenever $x, y \in X(K)$ have the property that $f^{s}(x) = f^{s}(y)$ for some $s \geqslant 0$, we necessarily have $f^{s_{0}}(x) = f^{s_{0}}(y)$. We prove this holds for étale morphisms of projective varieties, as well as self-morphisms of smooth projective curves. We also prove a more general cancellation theorem for polynomial maps on ${\mathbb {P}}^1$ where we allow for composition by multiple different maps $f_1,\dots ,f_r$.
Inclusion of sire by herd interaction effect in the genomic evaluation for weaning weight of American Angus
Authors: Jang Sungbong , Lourenco Daniela , Miller Stephen
Published: February 2022

A spurious negative genetic correlation between direct and maternal effects of weaning weight (WW) in beef cattle has historically been problematic for researchers and industry. Previous research has suggested the covariance between sires and herds may be contributing to this relationship. The objective of this study was to estimate the variance components (VC) for WW in American Angus with and without sire by herd (S×H) interaction effect when genomic information is used or not. Five subsets of ~100k animals for each subset were used. When genomic information was included, genotypes were added for 15,637 animals. Five replicates were performed. Four different models were tested, namely, M1: without S×H interaction effect and with covariance between direct and maternal effect (σam) ≠ 0; M2: with S×H interaction effect and σam ≠ 0; M3: without S×H interaction effect and with σam = 0; M4: with S×H interaction effect and σam = 0. VC were estimated using the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) and single-step genomic REML (ssGREML) with the average information algorithm. Breeding values were computed using single-step genomic BLUP for the models above and one additional model, which had the covariance zeroed after the estimation of VC (M5). The ability of each model to predict future breeding values was investigated with the linear regression method. Under REML, when the S×H interaction effect was added to the model, both direct and maternal genetic variances were greatly reduced, and the negative covariance became positive (i.e., when moving from M1 to M2). Similar patterns were observed under ssGREML, but with less reduction in the direct and maternal genetic variances and still a negative covariance. Models with the S×H interaction effect (M2 and M4) had a better fit according to the Akaike information criteria. Breeding values from those models were more accurate and had less bias than the other three models. The rankings and breeding values of artificial insemination sires (N = 1,977) greatly changed when the S×H interaction effect was fit in the model. Although the S×H interaction effect accounted for 3% to 5% of the total phenotypic variance and improved the model fit, this change in the evaluation model will cause severe reranking among animals.
When Being a Good Samaritan is Not Good Enough: Church Sanctuary and Privileged Responsibility
Authors: Dronkers Pieter
Published: February 2022

Interventions by states, civil society organizations, and individual citizens to support asylum seekers are often seen and justified as acts of rescue. The rescue frame suggests that any action that improves the precarious situation of refugees is a positive achievement. Commendable as it is to take responsibility for people in need, to use a rescue logic to assess support for refugees is problematic on three levels. Politically, measures that bring positive outcomes for individual asylum seekers can at the same time enable the continuation of an unjust status quo that is to the disadvantage of many others. At the level of civil society, the rescue logic makes it easier for civil society organizations to temper the intensity of their engagement with refugees with the argument that it would be unfair to expect that this support would come at the expense of their own interests, political status, or internal cohesion. Finally, by taking responsibility for asylum seekers, citizens might simultaneously reinforce their privileged position, and thus strengthen citizenship regimes that sustain the very exclusion of refugees they seek to protest. Based on the care ethical work of Marcia Morgan, an approach to refugee care is developed that goes beyond Good Samaritanism and privileged responsibility. Through aesthetic care, democratic listening, and political imagination, citizens and refugees can jointly develop acts of contestation that not only bring tactical gains, but also actually contribute to political transformation.
Exploring Chinese lexical differences based on synergetic-linguistic model
Authors: Lin Nankai , Zhu Yiying , Jiang Shengyi , Cai Xiaonan , Zhang Yusha
Published: February 2022

At the stage of current studies, the synergetic-linguistic model is mainly used for the validation of individual languages, lacking application to the measurement of linguistic differences. In addition, the structure of the model is largely fixed and the pattern is relatively simple. We have innovatively proposed a lexical differences analysis framework and conducted a comparative study between Vietnamese Chinese (VC) and Mandarin Chinese. The framework, based on the synergetic-linguistic model, shows great effectiveness of lexical synergetic system modification and the reasonability of determining the similarity threshold. The comparative results demonstrate distinct differences that lay between VC and Mandarin Chinese through difference measurement.
The authorship of Wily Beguiled
Authors: Ilsemann Hartmut
Published: February 2022

The authorship of the anonymous Elizabethan comedy Wily Beguiled could be established with the combined methodologies of the R Stylo program suite on the basis of 110 well-attributed and single-authored reference texts (see Appendix A) and was compared with the findings of the relevant secondary literature using a set of distinctive parameters. The greatest plausibility applied to Rhodes’s and Maxwell’s assumption that an earlier text like that of 1601/02 was reworked by John Marston and Thomas Dekker in the War of the Theatres. Rolling Delta, Rolling Classify, and the General Imposters method were able to find convincing evidence that the earlier text must have been composed by John Lyly who had probably drawn on the early university play Wylie Beguylie (1566/7).
Discontinuing Antidepressant Medications
Authors: Fava Giovanni
Published: February 2022

The clinical problems that may ensue when antidepressant medications are discontinued have been neglected by the scientific literature. Patients experiencing the anguish and mental pain of withdrawal syndromes have not received appropriate medical attention and have been forced to refer themselves to websites, groups, and associations, which have the recognized merit of providing support but cannot offer the medical competence that is required. This book attempts to fill this gap. The aim of this single-author book is to provide updated information that may help professionals in determining whether discontinuation of antidepressant drugs is feasible (is it appropriate for the individual patient? what are the counter-indications of stopping? what are the counter-indications of continuing?) and how it can be performed (the different options that are available). Discontinuing antidepressants is a highly technical challenge, that requires specific strategies and information that is not likely to be available to the prescribing physician. The author analyzes each clinical step with the help of the available literature and his clinical experience, based on hundreds of personal cases. The book provides case illustrations and clinical examples throughout, emphasizing the role of clinical judgment.
The Many Meanings of Mortal Time
Authors: McQuellon Richard P. , Cowan Michael A.
Published: February 2022

The term mortal time is introduced and defined. It is used to mean the experience of people confronting their prospects when diagnosed with cancer. It does not refer to a particular period but, rather, the unique psychological experience of encountering death. It is Kairos time—that is, the ancient Greek word meaning the time of decisions. Patients and their caregivers encounter the possibility of death as they do other life events—through the looking glass of their own personal story and life experience. The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can shatter a person’s basic assumptions about life and set in motion both adaptive and maladaptive coping. Coping strategies can help a patient make meaning and manage the practical realities of the life-threatening illness of cancer. Although few people welcome the prospect of reflecting about mortality, all people have opportunities to make deep meaning out of the encounter. Entry into mortal time is disturbing and often engenders preoccupation with the prospect of dying. Almost everyone experiences a shocking sense of loss as well as inevitable changes that accompany life-threatening illness. An encounter with mortal time is both a challenge and an invitation to self-discovery and, ultimately, hope in living each moment of life.
Hope from Conversation
Authors: McQuellon Richard P. , Cowan Michael A.
Published: February 2022

One vital source of hope for people diagnosed with cancer is conversation with a companion caregiver. Unfortunately, some people encounter “gloom and doom” even from caregivers with good intentions. Professionals especially, and even family members, can be so wary of giving “false hope” that they may inadvertently sew doubt and anxiety. There is no such thing as false hope, only false narratives that are unlikely to be lived out in light of the facts. Hope is eternal, and realistic hope changes over time. An important source of hope is healing conversation. The elements of healing conversation are listening carefully and responding accurately, compassionately, and thoughtfully. This approach is animated by empathy, which is both a skill and a quality. Talking “about” mortal time—that is, talking about one’s own mortality—and talking ‘in” mortal time each call for conversational skill. Finding the right words, phrases, and sensitive empathic tone in these conversations is key. “Everyday conversation” about topics other than cancer is important because people are more than their diagnosis. It takes both discipline and spontaneity to find useful phrases in mortal time, such as “hold steady, we can do this,” and avoid platitudes that may offend, such as “God doesn’t give you anything you can’t handle.” Many people are unwilling to engage or unskilled in this type of conversation. Sometimes avoidance of mortality is useful and not necessarily evidence of denial but, rather, functional in that it helps the patient go about the business of daily living.