bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Community Energy and the Challenges in a State-Led Model of Service Provision in Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreslassie Mulualem G.
Published: May 2024

Community energy can drive sustainable energy transitions in Africa and beyond. However, the implementation of community energy systems is lagging because of the lack of appropriate governance frameworks. This paper aims to explore the critical challenges related to the governance and development of community energy systems in the context of state-led energy service provisions in Ethiopia and to recommend interventions to facilitate their implementation. The paper presents a systematic review of official energy policies, proclamations, and regulations documents, national and international publications, and a consultation with local energy agencies. The findings indicate huge gaps in energy governance, including technical, financial, and operational challenges. Policymakers, the research community, and operators can take action to overcome these challenges. Strong commitment from all levels of government, international development organisations, and the private sector can make a difference in Ethiopia's community energy development. Dividing responsibilities for planning and implementing community energy is one critical step towards practical community interventions that can accelerate energy access, provide more reliable and affordable energy services, and meet the growing energy demand.
Hilfe beim Wohnortwechsel: Zukunftschance für Familien?
Authors: Greber Nicolas
Published: May 2024

Der Wohnort einer Familie beeinflusst die Zukunftschancen ihrer Kinder. Der Umzug in ein Wohnviertel, wo die künftigen Einkommen der Kinder über jenen ihrer Eltern liegen, verbessert die soziale Mobilität und verringert Armut über Generationen hinweg. Warum ziehen einkommensschwache Familien trotzdem nur selten in solche Chancengebiete? Diese Studie zeigt, dass neben finanzieller Unterstützung bereits einfache Hilfeleistungen, z. B. bei der Wohnungssuche, den Wohnortwechsel in Chancengebiete deutlich erleichtern und so die Perspektiven von Kindern einkommensschwacher Familien langfristig verbessern.
Ansteckungsgefahr bei den Staatsschulden!
Authors: von Möllendorff Johannes
Published: May 2024

Heimische Banken halten oft einen beträchtlichen Anteil heimischer Staatsschulden, um ihre Ertragsquellen zu diversifizieren. Unternehmenskredite sind riskanter und werfen höhere Zinsen ab. Staatsanleihen rentieren weniger, sind aber umso sicherer. Wenn jedoch die öffentlichen Finanzen entgleisen und der Staat zum Risiko wird, stecken sich die Banken an. Wenn sie in der Krise auf ihre Staatsanleihen hohe Verluste erleiden, müssen sie von ihren Kunden höhere Zinsen verlangen und können weniger Kredite vergeben. Die Kreditklemme blockiert das Wachstum und verschärft die Krise. Es droht ein Teufelskreis zwischen überschuldeten Staaten und schwachen Banken.
Convexity restoration from hairy black hole in Einstein-Maxwell-charged scalar system in AdS
Authors: Ishii Takaaki , Nakayama Yu
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In the Einstein-Maxwell-charged scalar system with a negative cosmological constant in arbitrary dimensions higher than three, there exists a horizonless charged soliton solution, which we construct explicitly for an arbitrary mass of the scalar in perturbative series in small charge. We find that the stability of the soliton is determined by the validity of the AdS weak gravity conjecture. The existence of a stable soliton might endanger the convexity of the (free) energy as a function of the charge because the phase transition between the soliton and the extremal Reissner-Nordstrom black hole would be discontinuous. We, however, argue that the existence of the hairy black hole solution circumvents the violation of convexity. The thermodynamic properties of the hairy black hole show that the phase transition becomes continuous irrespective of whether the AdS weak gravity conjecture holds. When it holds, the phase transition occurs between the soliton and the hairy black hole, and when it is violated, the phase transition occurs between the extremal Reissner-Nordstrom black hole and the hairy black hole.
Relations between Stokes constants of unrefined and Nekrasov-Shatashvili topological strings
Authors: Gu Jie
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper we demonstrate that the Stokes constants of unrefined free energies and the Stokes constants of Nekrasov-Shatashvili free energies of topological string on a non-compact Calabi-Yau threefold are identical, possibly up to a sign, for any Borel singularity which is not associated to a compact two-cycle that intersects only with non-compact four-cycles. Since the Stokes constants of Nekrasov-Shatashvili free energies are conjectured to coincide with those of quantum periods and therefore have the interpretation of BPS invariants, our results give strong support that the Stokes constants of unrefined free energies may also be identified with BPS invariants.
Existence of Solution for a Katugampola Fractional Differential Equation Using Coincidence Degree Theory
Authors: Srivastava Satyam Narayan , Pati Smita , Graef John R. , Domoshnitsky Alexander , Padhi Seshadev
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the authors study the existence of positive solutions to the fractional boundary value problem at resonance $$\begin{aligned} -(D^{\alpha ,\rho }_{a+}x)(t)= & {} f(t,x(t),D^{\alpha -1, \rho }_{a+}x(t)), \ \ t\in (a,b), \\ x(a)= & {} 0, \ \ x(b)=\int _{a}^{b} x(t){\text {d}}A(t), \end{aligned}$$

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denotes a Riemann–Stieltjes integral of x with respect to A, where A is a function of bounded variation. Coincidence degree theory is applied to obtain existence results. This appears to be the first work in the literature to deal with a resonant fractional differential equation with a Katugampola fractional derivative. Examples are given to illustrate the application of their results.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training on Stress Urinary Incontinence in Power- and Weightlifters: a Pilot Study
Authors: Bø Kari , Lillegård Ragnhild Haug , Skaug Kristina Lindquist
Published: May 2024

Introduction and hypothesis

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined as involuntary leakage of urine on physical effort and is prevalent among power- and weightlifters. However, there is scant knowledge on treatment options for this population. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the potential outcomes and feasibility of a pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) program on SUI in nulliparous female power- and weightlifters.

Methods

This was a case-series study, including one weightlifter and two powerlifters aged 21–32 years. The participants conducted 12 weeks of PFMT at home, with weekly follow-up by a physiotherapist. Change in total score of the International Consensus of Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcome was perceived change assessed by the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) Scale and impact on sport participation. PFM strength, endurance, and resting pressure was measured using vaginal manometry. Feasibility was evaluated as adherence to training and self-efficacy (Self Efficacy Scale for Practicing Pelvic Floor Exercises).

Results

One athlete reduced their ICIQ-UI-SF score and experienced improvement in symptoms. One athlete reported no change, and one reported a worsening of symptoms. All three participants improved PFM strength and endurance, completed the testing, and 12 weeks of PFMT, but adherence varied between 40 and 80%. Participants reported a lack of time and energy and forgetting to perform the exercises, as reasons for low adherence.

Conclusion

There were varying effects of a 12-week PFMT program on SUI in three strength athletes. The results can create the basis for a future randomized controlled trial.
From hazard to risk prioritization: a case study to predict drug-induced cholestasis using physiologically based kinetic modeling
Authors: de Bruijn Véronique M. P. , Rietjens Ivonne M. C. M.
Published: May 2024

Cholestasis is characterized by hepatic accumulation of bile acids. Clinical manifestation of cholestasis only occurs in a small proportion of exposed individuals. The present study aims to develop a new approach methodology (NAM) to predict drug-induced cholestasis as a result of drug-induced hepatic bile acid efflux inhibition and the resulting bile acid accumulation. To this end, hepatic concentrations of a panel of drugs were predicted by a generic physiologically based kinetic (PBK) drug model. Their effects on hepatic bile acid efflux were incorporated in a PBK model for bile acids. The predicted bile acid accumulation was used as a measure for a drug’s cholestatic potency. The selected drugs were known to inhibit hepatic bile acid efflux in an assay with primary suspension-cultured hepatocytes and classified as common, rare, or no for cholestasis incidence. Common cholestasis drugs included were atorvastatin, chlorpromazine, cyclosporine, glimepiride, ketoconazole, and ritonavir. The cholestasis incidence of the drugs appeared not to be adequately predicted by their Ki for inhibition of hepatic bile acid efflux, but rather by the AUC of the PBK model predicted internal hepatic drug concentration at therapeutic dose level above this Ki. People with slower drug clearance, a larger bile acid pool, reduced bile salt export pump (BSEP) abundance, or given higher than therapeutic dose levels were predicted to be at higher risk to develop drug-induced cholestasis. The results provide a proof-of-principle of using a PBK-based NAM for cholestasis risk prioritization as a result of transporter inhibition and identification of individual risk factors.
Study on the mechanism of hirudin multi target delaying renal function decline in chronic kidney disease based on the “gut-kidney axis” theory
Authors: Long Chunli , Zhang Chenyun , Xie Yongxiang
Published: May 2024

The disorder of the “gut-kidney axis” exacerbates renal function decline in chronic kidney disease (CKD), and current CKD therapy is insufficient to address this issue. Hirudin has a palliative effect on the decline of renal function. However, whether hirudin can delay CKD by regulating the “intestinal renal axis” disorder remains unclear. Unilateral ureteral ligation (UUO) induced CKD rat model, and the rats were treated with bifidobacterium and hirudin for 36 days. After 14 and 36 days of modeling, kidney and colon tissues were collected for pathology, western blot (WB) assay, and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) detection. Serum samples were collected for renal function testing. Fecal samples were used for 16S rRNA sequencing and research on fecal bacterial transplantation. Lipopolysaccharide combine with adenosine 5’-triphosphate (LPS + ATP)-induced intestinal epithelial cell injury was treated with a nod-like receptor pyrin domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inhibitor and hirudin. Protein expression was detected using WB and qPCR. The kidneys and colons of the CKD rats exhibited varying degrees of lesions. Creatinine (CRE), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), N-acetyl-β-D-glucosidase (NAG) enzyme, and serum uremic toxins were elevated. The expression of claudin-1 and occludin was decreased, NLRP3 inflammatory-related proteins were increased, and the gut microbiota was disrupted. These pathological changes were more pronounced after 36 days of modeling. Meanwhile, high-dose hirudin treatment significantly improved these lesions and restored the intestinal flora to homeostasis in CKD rats. In vitro, hirudin demonstrated comparable effects to NLRP3 inhibitors by upregulating claudin-1 and occludin expression, and downregulating NLRP3 inflammatory-related proteins expression. The dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and impaired intestinal epithelial barrier function in CKD are associated with renal dysfunction in CKD. Hirudin delays the progression of CKD by regulating the disorder of the “gut-kidney axis” and inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3-ASC-caspase-1 pathway.
Technological characteristics of whole wheat bread: effects of wheat varieties, sourdough treatments and sourdough levels
Authors: Seis Subaşı Asiye , Ercan Recai
Published: May 2024

Sourdough bread has gained interest with the increasing demand of consumers for more natural, delicious and healthy foods. Also, consumption of whole grain flour is increasing due to the bioactive compounds it contains. This study aimed to investigate the effects of wheat variety (Tosunbey, Kenanbey, İkizce-96, Bezostaja-1), sourdough treatment [Spontaneous fermentation (SP), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP), Fructilactobacillus sanfranciscensis (LS)] and sourdough level (0–10–20–30%) on the technological characteristics of whole wheat bread. The investigated factors had significant effects on pH, total titratable acidity, specific volume, color and textural parameters. The increasing levels of sourdough decreased the specific volume of whole wheat bread and increased the crumb hardness. The whole wheat sourdough breads produced with LP and LS had lower specific volumes due to the acidity, but were more favorable in terms of smell compared to SP. The hardness and chewiness of the bread samples significantly increased with the three days of storage, while the cohesiveness and springiness decreased. Wheat varieties with higher protein content and Zeleny sedimentation value had better performance for whole wheat sourdough bread production. The study showed that sourdough with selected lactic starters (LP and LS) could be used at 10–20% levels in whole wheat bread formulations to have acceptable technological and sensory characteristics.
The lymphocyte/monocyte ratio predicts the efficacy of isatuximab plus pomalidomide in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Shimazu Yutaka , Kanda Junya , Onda Yoshiyuki , Fuchida Shin-ichi , Ohta Kensuke , Shimura Yuji , Kosugi Satoru , Yamamura Ryosuke , Matsuda Mitsuhiro , Hanamoto Hitoshi , Adachi Yoko , Anzai Naoyuki , Hotta Masaaki , Fukushima Kentaro , Yagi Hideo , Yoshihara Satoshi , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Takakuwa Teruhito , Tanaka Hirokazu , Shibayama Hirohiko , Uoshima Nobuhiko , Hosen Naoki , Ito Tomoki , Shimazaki Chihiro , Matsumura Itaru , Kuroda Junya , Takaori-Kondo Akifumi , Hino Masayuki
Published: May 2024

Background

Isatuximab, an anti-CD38 antibody, has been widely used in treatments for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM). Despite its high efficacy, not all patients achieve a lasting therapeutic response with isatuximab.

Objective

We tried to identify biomarkers to predict the effectiveness of isatuximab by focusing on the host's immune status before treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the cases of 134 relapsed/refractory MM patients in the Kansai Myeloma Forum database who had received only a first isatuximab treatment.

Results

Among the 134 patients, an isatuximab, pomalidomide and dexamethasone (Isa-PD) regimen, isatuximab, carfilzomib and dexamethasone (Isa-KD) regimen and isatuximab and/or dexamethasone (Isa-D) regimen were used in 112, 15 and 7 patients, respectively. The median age at treatment, number of prior treatment regimens, and progression-free survival (PFS) were 71, 6, and 6.54 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that the PFS under the Isa-PD regimen was longer in patients with higher lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR ≥ 4), fewer prior treatment regimens (< 6), and no use of prior daratumumab treatment. The OS under the Isa-PD regimen was longer in patients with higher white blood cell counts (WBC counts ≥ 3000/μL) and higher LMR. The PFS under the Isa-D regimen was longer in patients with fewer prior treatment regimens in univariate analysis, but no parameters were correlated with PFS/OS under the Isa-KD regimen.

Conclusion

We found that the patients with higher LMR (≥ 4) could obtain longer PFS and OS under the Isa-PD regimen. Other cohort studies of isatuximab treatment might be necessary to substantiate our results.
Diagnosis, monitoring, and management of axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Zimba Olena , Kocyigit Burhan Fatih , Korkosz Mariusz
Published: May 2024

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic condition predominantly affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. This article provides an in-depth overview of the current approaches to diagnosing, monitoring, and managing axSpA, including insights into developing terminology and diagnostic difficulties. A substantial portion of the debate focuses on the challenging diagnostic procedure, noting the difficulty of detecting axSpA early, particularly before the appearance of radiologic structural changes. Despite normal laboratory parameters, more than half of axSpA patients experience symptoms. X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are essential for evaluating structural damage and inflammation. MRI can be beneficial when there is no visible structural damage on X-ray as it can help unravel bone marrow edema (BME) as a sign of ongoing inflammation. The management covers both non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches. Lifestyle modifications, physical activity, and patient education are essential components of the management. Pharmacological therapy, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs), are explored, emphasizing individualized treatment. To effectively manage axSpA, a comprehensive and well-coordinated approach is necessary, emphasizing the significance of a multidisciplinary team. Telehealth applications play a growing role in axSpA management, notably in reducing diagnostic delays and facilitating remote monitoring. In conclusion, this article underlines diagnostic complexities and emphasizes the changing strategy of axSpA treatment. The nuanced understanding offered here is designed to guide clinicians, researchers, and healthcare providers toward a more comprehensive approach to axSpA diagnosis and care.
Unfolding polyhedra via tabu search
Authors: Zawallich Lars
Published: May 2024

Folding a discrete geometry from a flat sheet of material is one way to construct a 3D object. A typical creation pipeline first designs the 3D object, unfolds it, prints and cuts the unfold pattern from a 2D material, and then refolds the object. Within this work we focus on the unfold part of this pipeline. Most current unfolding approaches segment the input, which has structural downsides for the refolded result. Therefore, we are aiming to unfold the input into a single-patched pattern. Our algorithm applies tabu search to the topic of unfolding. We show empirically that our algorithm is faster and more reliable than other methods unfolding into single-patched unfold patterns. Moreover, our algorithm can handle any sort of flat polygon as faces, while comparable methods are bound to triangles.
Presence of herpesviruses, parvoviruses, and polyomaviruses in sinonasal lymphoma
Authors: Jauhiainen Maria K. , Mohanraj Ushanandini , Perdomo Maria F. , Hagström Jaana , Haglund Caj , Mäkitie Antti A. , Söderlund-Venermo Maria , Sinkkonen Saku T.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Sinonasal lymphoma (SL) is a rare lymphatic neoplasm of the nasal cavities, paranasal sinuses and nasopharynx. Whereas some risk factors for SL subtypes have been identified, their aetiology is unknown. Along with other predisposing factors, the viral association of lymphomas, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Burkitt and Hodgkin lymphomas, is well-established. Modern molecular biology techniques have enabled the discovery of novel human viruses, exemplified by the protoparvovirus cutavirus (CuV), associated with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. These findings, and the anatomical location of the sinonasal tract with its rich microbiome and infectious agents, justify in-depth studies among SL.

Methods

We analysed the presence of 20 viruses of Orthoherpesviridae, Parvoviridae, and Polyomaviridae by qPCR in 24 SL tumours. We performed RNAscope in situ hybridisation (RISH) to localize the viruses. Parvovirus-specific IgG was analysed by enzyme immunoassay and targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) was applied to detect CuV in plasma.

Results

We detected viral DNA in 15/24 (63%) tumours; nine of EBV, six of human herpesvirus (HHV) -7, four each of HHV-6B and parvovirus B19, two of cytomegalovirus, and one each of CuV and Merkel-cell polyomavirus. We found tumours with up to four viruses per tumour, and localized CuV and EBV DNAs by RISH. Two of the ten plasma samples exhibited CuV IgG, and one plasma sample demonstrated CuV viremia by NGS.

Conclusion

Viruses were frequent findings in SL. The EBV detection rate was high in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and co-detections with other viruses were prevalent.
DNA choreography: correlating mobility and organization of DNA across different resolutions from loops to chromosomes
Authors: Pabba Maruthi K. , Meyer Janis , Celikay Kerem , Schermelleh Lothar , Rohr Karl , Cardoso M. Cristina
Published: May 2024

The dynamics of DNA in the cell nucleus plays a role in cellular processes and fates but the interplay of DNA mobility with the hierarchical levels of DNA organization is still underexplored. Here, we made use of DNA replication to directly label genomic DNA in an unbiased genome-wide manner. This was followed by live-cell time-lapse microscopy of the labeled DNA combining imaging at different resolutions levels simultaneously and allowing one to trace DNA motion across organization levels within the same cells. Quantification of the labeled DNA segments at different microscopic resolution levels revealed sizes comparable to the ones reported for DNA loops using 3D super-resolution microscopy, topologically associated domains (TAD) using 3D widefield microscopy, and also entire chromosomes. By employing advanced chromatin tracking and image registration, we discovered that DNA exhibited higher mobility at the individual loop level compared to the TAD level and even less at the chromosome level. Additionally, our findings indicate that chromatin movement, regardless of the resolution, slowed down during the S phase of the cell cycle compared to the G1/G2 phases. Furthermore, we found that a fraction of DNA loops and TADs exhibited directed movement with the majority depicting constrained movement. Our data also indicated spatial mobility differences with DNA loops and TADs at the nuclear periphery and the nuclear interior exhibiting lower velocity and radius of gyration than the intermediate locations. On the basis of these insights, we propose that there is a link between DNA mobility and its organizational structure including spatial distribution, which impacts cellular processes.
Physical work environment in an activity-based flex office: a longitudinal case study
Authors: Wahlström Viktoria , Öhrn Maria , Harder Mette , Eskilsson Therese , Fjellman-Wiklund Anncristine , Pettersson-Strömbäck Anita
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate and explore Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management, office ergonomics, and musculoskeletal symptoms in a group of office workers relocating from cell offices to activity-based flex offices (AFOs).

Methods

The analysis was based on qualitative interview data with 77 employees and longitudinal questionnaire data from 152 employees.

Results

Results indicate that there was a need to clarify roles and processes related to the management of OHS. Self-rated sit comfort, working posture, and availability of daylight deteriorated and symptoms in neck and shoulders increased after the relocation and seemed to be influenced by many factors, such as difficulties adjusting the workstations, the availability of suitable workplaces, and age, sex, and individual needs.

Conclusion.

Research on the long-term effects of physical work environments and management of (OHS) issues after implementing activity-based flex offices is sparse. This study demonstrates the importance of planning and organising OHS issue management when implementing an AFO, and to carefully implement office ergonomics among office workers.
Release of Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae from live intermediate hosts under stress
Authors: Šipková Anna , Anettová Lucia , Izquierdo-Rodriguez Elena , Velič Vivienne , Modrý David
Published: May 2024

The metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis causes eosinophilic meningitis in a variety of homeothermic hosts including humans. Third-stage infectious larvae develop in gastropods as intermediate hosts. Humans are usually infected by intentional or incidental ingestion of an infected mollusk or paratenic host (poikilothermic vertebrates and invertebrates). The infection may also hypothetically occur through ingestion of food or water contaminated by third-stage larvae spontaneously released from gastropods. Larvae are thought to be released in greater numbers from the intermediate host exposed to stress. This study aimed to compare larval release from stressed with unstressed gastropods. Experimentally infected Limax maximus and Lissachatina fulica were exposed to a stress stimulus (shaking on an orbital shaker). The mucus was collected before and after the stress and examined microscopically and by qPCR for the presence of A. cantonensis larvae and their DNA. In the case of L. maximus, no larvae were detected microscopically in the mucus, but qPCR analysis confirmed the presence of A. cantonensis DNA in all experimental replicates, without clear differences between stressed and non-stressed individuals. In contrast, individual larvae of A. cantonensis were found in mucus from Li. fulica after stress exposure, which also reflects an increased number of DNA-positive mucus samples after stress. Stress stimuli of intensity similar to the transport or handling of mollusks can stimulate the release of larvae from highly infected intermediate hosts. However, these larvae are released in small numbers. The exact number of larvae required to trigger neuroangiostrongyliasis is unknown. Therefore, caution is essential when interacting with potential intermediate hosts in regions where A. cantonensis is endemic.
Biochar is colonized by select arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural soils
Authors: Neuberger Patrick , Romero Carlos , Kim Keunbae , Hao Xiying , A. McAllister Tim , Ngo Skyler , Li Chunli , Gorzelak Monika A.
Published: May 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonize biochar in soils, yet the processes governing their colonization and growth in biochar are not well characterized. Biochar amendment improves soil health by increasing soil carbon, decreasing bulk density, and improving soil water retention, all of which can increase yield and alleviate environmental stress on crops. Biochar is often applied with nutrient addition, impacting mycorrhizal communities. To understand how mycorrhizas explore soils containing biochar, we buried packets of non-activated biochar in root exclusion mesh bags in contrasting agricultural soils. In this greenhouse experiment, with quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) as the host plant, we tested impacts of mineral nutrient (as manure and fertilizer) and biochar addition on mycorrhizal colonization of biochar. Paraglomus appeared to dominate the biochar packets, and the community of AMF found in the biochar was a subset (12 of 18) of the virtual taxa detected in soil communities. We saw differences in AMF community composition between soils with different edaphic properties, and while nutrient addition shifted those communities, the shifts were inconsistent between soil types and did not significantly influence the observation that Paraglomus appeared to selectively colonize biochar. This observation may reflect differences in AMF traits, with Paraglomus previously identified only in soils (not in roots) pointing to predominately soil exploratory traits. Conversely, the absence of some AMF from the biochar implies either a reduced tendency to explore soils or an ability to avoid recalcitrant nutrient sources. Our results point to a selective colonization of biochar in agricultural soils.
Kybernetik dritter Ordnung? Entwicklung einer phänomenologisch angesetzten Theoriebildung und ihre Relevanz für die systemtherapeutische Praxis und Lehre
Authors: Niel-Dolzer Evelyn
Published: May 2024

Mit Ludwik Flecks Konzept des Denkstils wird ein Vorschlag unterbreitet, Theoriebestände innerhalb eines zersplitterten Binnendiskurses hinsichtlich ihrer klinischen Nützlichkeit explizit(er) herauszuarbeiten. Anhand einer konkreten Entwicklung in der Lehranstalt für Systemische Familientherapie wird gezeigt, wie der Wechsel von einem konstruktivistisch zu einem phänomenologisch fundierten Bezugsrahmen eine Alternative zur Polarisierung von Subjekttheorien und Theorien sozialer Systeme darstellt: Aus der Perspektive der Intersubjektivität lässt sich psychisches Erleben systemtheoretisch fundiert konzeptualisieren, theoriegeleitet beobachten und in der Ausbildung vermitteln. Anschlüsse und Beteiligung an schulenübergreifenden Diskursen als Anspruch an eine zeitgemäße Ausbildung werden sichtbar gemacht.
Implementation and optimization of Burg’s method for real-time packet loss concealment in networked music performance applications
Authors: Sacchetto Matteo , Rottondi Cristina , Bianco Andrea
Published: May 2024

In networked music performance (NMP) applications, which entail real-time audio streaming over the Internet, strict latency requirements are needed to ensure a realistic interaction between geographically dispersed musicians. Thus, NMP applications typically leverage uncompressed audio and unreliable transport protocols to avoid unnecessary processing and re-transmission delays. Given that no guarantee on packet delivery is offered, NMP applications must deal with late/lost audio packets to mitigate the impact of the resulting audio artifacts on the quality of the playback audio stream. This paper explores an audio packet loss concealment (PLC) technique based on autoregressive (AR) models. In particular, it investigates the algorithmic implementation of Burg’s method and the parameters configuration that offers the best trade-off between prediction error and computational time requirements. The purpose is to find the most suitable solution capable of running on a Raspberry Pi 4B within the real-time audio boundaries imposed by NMP applications. Additionally, we analyze the computational time required to fit the model and predict future samples by considering six implementations and various compilation flags. Results confirm that AR models can predict future audio samples more accurately than traditional PLC approaches, which consist of filling audio gaps with silence or repeating the last received audio segment. Furthermore, results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed solution in meeting the strict latency requirements when deployed on a Raspberry Pi 4B.
Replicating outdoor environments using VR and ambisonics: a methodology for accurate audio-visual recording, processing and reproduction
Authors: Georgiou Fotis , Kawai Claudia , Schäffer Beat , Pieren Reto
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces a methodology tailored to capture, post-process, and replicate audio-visual data of outdoor environments (urban or natural) for VR experiments carried out within a controlled laboratory environment. The methodology consists of 360$$^\circ$$

∘

video and higher order ambisonic (HOA) field recordings and subsequent calibrated spatial sound reproduction with a spherical loudspeaker array and video played back via a head-mounted display using a game engine and a graphical user interface for a perceptual experimental questionnaire. Attention was given to the equalisation and calibration of the ambisonic microphone and to the design of different ambisonic decoders. A listening experiment was conducted to evaluate four different decoders (one 2D first-order ambisonic decoder and three 3D third-order decoders) by asking participants to rate the relative (perceived) realism of recorded outdoor soundscapes reproduced with these decoders. The results showed that the third-order decoders were ranked as more realistic.
The role of household labour for sustainable intensification in smallholder systems: a case study in cocoa farming systems
Authors: Tennhardt Lina M. , Lazzarini Gianna A. , Schader Christian , Martin Kagimu , Lambin Eric F.
Published: May 2024

Sustainable agricultural intensification aims at increasing yields on existing agricultural land without negative environmental impacts. Managing pests and diseases contributes to increasing yields. Without synthetic pesticides, this management is labour intensive. Smallholder farming systems heavily rely on manual and household labour, which will be affected by future demographic changes. Knowledge on how these changes will affect sustainable intensification is limited. Based on a case study of Ugandan cocoa farms, we tested the impact of increased household labour availability on pest and disease management (PDM) practices and pesticide use. We made use of a unique quasi-experimental design, in which household labour increased during the national COVID-19 lockdowns as children did not attend school and family members returned from cities. Our interview data from 2019 to 2021 showed that household labour availability increased on average by 0.8 (±2.5) household members and 16% of labour days per hectare. Using different regression models complemented with qualitative insights, we found that the uptake of alternative PDM practices significantly reduced pesticide quantities and expenditures. The implementation of alternative PDM practices was only weakly influenced by household labour availability and increased with farmer training and trust in alternative practices. These results imply that alternative PDM practices are an important pillar for production with little or without synthetic pesticides and their adoption requires support and incentives, especially on labour or resource-constrained farms.
Feasibility of 3 Tesla MRI for the assessment of mid-palatal suture maturation: a retrospective pilot study
Authors: Willershausen Ines , Kopp Markus , Scholz Michael , Ströbel Armin , Seidel Corinna Lesley , Paulsen Friedrich , Uder Michael , Gölz Lina , May Matthias Stefan
Published: May 2024

The maxilla occupies a key position in dentofacial orthopaedics, since its transversal development can be directly influenced by orthodontic therapy. The maturation stages of the mid-palatal suture, which are obtained from cone-beam computed tomography images (CBCT), present an addition to clinical decision-making in transversal discrepancies of the upper jaw. In an endeavour to reduce ionizing radiation in adolescents and young adults, who are particularly susceptible to long term stochastic irradiation effects, we investigated the feasibility of 3 Tesla (3T) MRI in detecting the maturation stages of the mid-palatal suture. A collective of 30 patients aged 24–93 years with routine neck MRI at 3T, underwent an additional three-dimensional isotropic T1 weighted study sequence of the midface. Image evaluation was performed on axial, multi-planar formatted reconstructions of the dataset aligned to the midline axis of the palate, and curved reconstructions aligned to the concavity of the palate. Inverted images helped to achieve an image impression similar to the well-known CBCT appearance. All datasets were reviewed by three readers and mid-palatal maturation was scored twice according to Angelieri et al. Intra- and inter-rater agreement were evaluated to measure the robustness of the images for clinical evaluation. 3T MRI deemed reliable for the assessment of mid-palatal suture maturation and hence for the appraisal of the hard palate and its adjacent sutures. The data of this pilot study display the feasibility of non-ionizing cross-sectional MRI for the determination of sutural maturation stages. These findings underline the potential of MRI for orthodontic treatment planning, further contributing to the avoidance of unnecessary radiation doses.
The death of the Empress Elisabeth of Austria and Queen of Hungary—retold and reassessed with reconstruction of her autopsy
Authors: Sedivy Roland
Published: May 2024

In this publication 125 years after the violent death of the famous Empress Elisabeth (1837–1898) of Austria, known as Sisi, a modern evaluation as well as valuation will be presented. The day after her assassination by the young anarchist Luigi Lucheni using a file, a partial autopsy was performed to find out the exact cause of death—a pericardial tamponade. The complete translation of the autopsy report is part of this article, the intention being to avoid unclear wording and translation errors, which have often caused some confusion in the past. A pictorial illustration of the puncture canal will provide clarity through medical facts as to how Empress Elisabeth’s death came about by correct pathological and anatomical description and, thus, counteract former interpretations.
Landscape matrix and substrate jointly shape the trait composition of true bug (Heteroptera) communities in drainage ditches
Authors: Šeat Jelena , Torma Attila , Bátori Zoltán , Popović Miloš , Tölgyesi Csaba
Published: May 2024

Drainage ditches play a key role in the conservation of fragmented landscapes by providing refuge sites and secondary habitats for many terrestrial and aquatic organisms across various taxa. Species richness of ditches can exceed that of adjacent natural habitats, but here, we looked further and assessed the role of drainage ditches in shaping the community structure of true bugs aiming to better estimate ditches’ conservation value from the point of their species and trait composition. We tested the effects of the ditch substrate (saline, sandy or fen), landscape matrix (agrarian or grassland) and vegetation (species richness of all plants and invasive plants, and abundance of woody plants) on the true bug communities of 60 drainage ditches in the lowland of East-Central Europe. We found that substrate and landscape matrix contributed the most in determining true bug communities. Based on species composition, different substrates and landscape matrix types had distinct communities, but the trait composition showed differentiation according to the landscape matrix in saline habitats only. The trait composition in true bug communities was more diverse in grassland ditches than in agrarian ones, which hosted more habitat generalists associated with invasive vegetation. We concluded that a pronounced gradient in habitat stress, originating in substrate salinity and aridity, causes the differentiation of the true bug communities based on their trait composition. Additionally, intense habitat stress increases the number of habitat specialists and the conservation value of a drainage ditch.
Surveillance capitalism and the surveillance state: a comparative institutional analysis
Authors: Alshamy Yahya , Coyne Christopher J. , Hall Abigail R. , Owens Matthew A.
Published: May 2024

What is the connection between mass surveillance and institutions of individual agency, freedom, and self-governance? Recent literature on “surveillance capitalism” argues that, over the past two decades, the capitalist Big Tech companies have commodified personal data for profit. This commodification goes beyond gathering information to improve the products provided by the collecting organization directly and entails using data to predict what people will do, the sale of that data, and its use to modify the behaviors of unknowing consumers. According to critics, this erodes individual dignity and freedom while also threatening democracy. This paper offers an alternative framing of surveillance and data collection based on comparative institutional analysis. While data collection and attempts at persuasion are present in private and government settings, the welfare effects vary due to institutional differences. We leverage the comparative institutional framework to analyze the differences between private data collection (“surveillance capitalism”) and government data collection (the “surveillance state”). Our analysis sheds light on how data collection in the private, for-profit sector has different welfare consequences from those in the surveillance state.
“Can I have it non-personalised?” An Empirical Investigation of Consumer Willingness to Share Data for Personalized Services and Ads
Authors: Leszczynska M. , Baltag D.
Published: May 2024

European regulators, courts, and scholars are currently debating the legality of data processing for personalization purposes. Should businesses require separate consent for processing user data for personalized advertising, especially when offering free services reliant on such ads for revenue? Or is general consent for the contract enough, given personalized advertising’s role in fulfilling contractual obligations? This study investigates whether these legal distinctions reflect differences in people’s willingness to share data with businesses for personalization. Are consumers less willing to share their data for personalized advertising than for personalized services that they clearly contracted for? Does that change if the service is offered for free? Drawing from both the privacy calculus and privacy as contextual integrity theory, the hypothesis posits that individuals would be more inclined to share their data when it is used to personalize the services offered by businesses (e.g., music or news recommendations) rather than for personalized advertising, yet this difference will be smaller when services are offered for free. Using three vignette experiments involving music, shopping, and news services (N = 3,436), the study demonstrates that, contrary to predictions, most individuals are hesitant to share their data for personalization, regardless of whether it’s for advertisements or contracted services. This absence of distinction persists across both paid and free services. The findings strongly support the claim that if the law considers people’s reluctance to share personal data, both personalized advertising and personalized contracted services should require separate consent to data processing from consumers.
Epistemic Hypocrisy and Standing to Blame
Authors: Piovarchy Adam
Published: May 2024

This paper considers the possibility that ‘epistemic hypocrisy’ could be relevant to our blaming practices. It argues that agents who culpably violate an epistemic norm can lack the standing to blame other agents who culpably violate similar norms. After disentangling our criticism of epistemic hypocrites from various other fitting responses, and the different ways some norms can bear on the legitimacy of our blame, I argue that a commitment account of standing to blame allows us to understand our objections to epistemic hypocrisy. Agents lack the epistemic standing to blame when they are not sufficiently committed to the epistemic norms they are blaming others for violating. This not only gives us a convincing account of epistemic standing to blame, it leaves us with a unified account of moral and epistemic standing.
Direct embryonic biopsy with transcervical embryoscopy is an effective method for karyotyping and morphology assessment in miscarriages
Authors: Calis Pinar , Akcay Bengisu , Bozdag Gurkan , Erdem Mehmet , Erdem Ahmet , Yirmibes Meral , Tug Esra , Karcaaltincaba Deniz
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to compare the validity of transcervical embryoscopy method with standard uterine evacuation method in detecting more accurate karyotypes in miscarriages below tenth week of pregnancy. Additionally, the frequency and distribution of fetal morphological abnormality were evaluated.

Methods

A prospective study was carried out at the Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Patients with missed abortions between sixth and tenth gestational weeks were included in the study group, and fetal morphological examination and direct embryonic biopsy were performed by transcervical embryoscopy. The control group consisted of patients who experienced miscarriage and genetic material obtained from routine uterine evacuation between February and October 2023.

Result

A total of 60 patients in the study group and 189 patients in the control group were evaluated. The median ages, previous miscarriage numbers, median gravida numbers, and median gestational weeks were comparable between groups. Chromosomal abnormality was detected in 24 (42.8%) and 52 embryos (29.9%) in the study and control groups, respectively (p = 0.004). Culture failure rates were 6.6% (n = 4) and 7.9% (n = 15) in the study and control groups, respectively. In the study group, 12 embryos had a morphological abnormality in which 6 of them had normal karyotype.

Conclusion

Direct embryonic biopsy with transcervical embryoscopy is an effective method to exclude maternal decidual cell contamination and placental mosaicism in miscarriages for karyotype analysis. In addition, detecting anomalies in morphology might contribute our understanding in the process of miscarriages which arises independent from structural/numerical chromosomal abnormalities.
Examining teachers' relational noticing: promoting equity through positive interactions in mathematics education
Authors: Mendez Jose Angel , van Es Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2024

How teachers attend to and interpret positive relational interactions shapes how they enact instructional practices for equity. We draw on frameworks from equitable mathematics instruction, relational interactions, and teacher noticing to conceptualize mathematics teachers’ relational noticing. Using noticing interview and classroom observation data from a research collaborative between secondary mathematics teachers and university-based teacher educators, we document the range and diversity of ten teachers’ relational noticing. We use this analysis to examine how teachers’ relational noticing supports enacting equitable instructional practices. Our findings indicate five themes of teachers’ relational noticing that are informed by their personal histories, understanding of dominant narratives of mathematics education, and their local sociopolitical school context. Additionally, teachers enacted a range of practices for creating positive relational interactions, with attending to student thinking being the most enacted practice. Our findings suggest that mathematics teachers’ relational noticing can support the three axes of equitable instruction.
Development of EBV Related Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma in Deficiency of Adenosine Deaminase 2 with Uncontrolled EBV Infection
Authors: Gardner Logan S. , Vaughan Lachlin , Avery Danielle T. , Meyts Isabelle , Ma Cindy S. , Tangye Stuart G. , Varikatt Winny , Lin Ming-Wei
Published: May 2024

Deficiency of Adenosine Deaminase 2 (DADA2) patients presenting with primary immunodeficiency are at risk of uncontrolled EBV infection and secondary malignancies including EBV-related lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD). This paper describes the first case of EBV related diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a patient with DADA2 and uncontrolled EBV infection. Consideration should be given to monitoring for EBV viraemia and to preventative EBV specific therapy in DADA2 and patients with at risk primary immunodeficiencies. A type I interferon (IFN) gene signature is associated with DADA2 though its association with immune dysregulation is unclear.