bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change impacts on tree crop suitability in Southeast Asia
Authors: Appelt Jonas L. , Saphangthong Thatheva , Malek Žiga , Verburg Peter H. , van Vliet Jasper
Published: August 2023

Cultivation of tree crops such as coconut, oil palm and rubber are an important source of income in Southeast Asia, both for the national economies and for the local population. Climate change has the potential to drastically affect the suitability for growing these crops, but until now the impacts thereof on existing production areas have not been considered. This study combines climate change projections with data on crop cultivation to analyze how suitability for coconut, oil palm and rubber will change under different scenarios in Southeast Asia. We find that projected increases in total precipitation and longer dry periods in the insular part of Southeast Asia will result in 127,000 ha of current coconut and 1.17 Mha of current oil palm area will no longer be highly suitable under the most severe climate scenario. Conversely, increasing temperature in the mainland part of the region will cause 97,000 ha of current rubber cultivation area to become highly suitable. Increasing temperatures will also allow for potential expansion of rubber and coconut cultivation in the northern mainland part of the region, while the potential highly suitable area for oil palm cultivation will decrease. These changes in crop suitability may result in impacts on local farmers, including fall in yields and displacement of cultivation areas. This, in turn, may add pressure to biodiversity conservation in the region since areas that become highly suitable are disproportionally located within Key Biodiversity Areas.
Study on the degradability of plastics with prodegradant additives during anaerobic and aerobic biological waste treatment processes
Authors: Zafiu Christian , Binner Erwin , Höck Lukas , Świechowski Kacper , Huber-Humer Marion
Published: August 2023

The degradability of conventional plastic packaging specimens made from PP and PET, that were produced with novel prodegradant additives, was investigated during biological waste treatment processes. The additives were merchandised to foster the degradation of commodity plastics by enzymatic or by abiotic processes. Four different plastic packaging specimens and two different additives were evaluated for their biodegradability during anaerobic and aerobic waste treatment conditions. Aerobic treatment was investigated in laboratory rotting tests, simulating conditions during composting in a plant according to the Austrian state-of-the-art, while anaerobic treatment was investigated in laboratory digestion reactors. The study shows that only the PET specimens showed a loss of mass of ca. 6.5%, during 50 days of digestion at 52 °C. None of the specimens degraded during the aerobic rotting process. None of the materials fragmented into microplastic particles of sizes > 1 mm under the investigated conditions. However, FTIR analysis revealed the oxidation in the case of PP specimens, which indicated a mediated oxidation process during composting, independent of the merchandised mechanism of predegradation. Under anaerobic conditions, the plastic specimens containing reactors produced more biogas within the first 20 days of digestion, that did not originate from an observable degradation of the plastics.
Genetic analysis of low-grade adenosquamous carcinoma of the breast progressing to high-grade metaplastic carcinoma
Authors: Kawachi Kae , Tang Xiaoyan , Kasajima Rika , Yamanaka Takashi , Shimizu Eigo , Katayama Kotoe , Yamaguchi Rui , Yokoyama Kazuaki , Yamaguchi Kiyoshi , Furukawa Yoichi , Miyano Satoru , Imoto Seiya , Yoshioka Emi , Washimi Kota , Okubo Yoichiro , Sato Shinya , Yokose Tomoyuki , Miyagi Yohei
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Low-grade adenosquamous carcinoma (LGASC) is a rare type of metaplastic carcinoma of the breast (MBC) with an indolent clinical course. A few LGASC cases with high-grade transformation have been reported; however, the genetics underlying malignant progression of LGASC remain unclear.

Methods

We performed whole-genome sequencing analysis on five MBCs from four patients, including one case with matching primary LGASC and a lymph node metastatic tumor consisting of high-grade MBC with a predominant metaplastic squamous cell carcinoma component (MSC) that progressed from LGASC and three cases of independent de novo MSC.

Results

Unlike de novo MSC, LGASC and its associated MSC showed no TP53 mutation and tended to contain fewer structural variants than de novo MSC. Both LGASC and its associated MSC harbored the common GNAS c.C2530T:p.Arg844Cys mutation, which was more frequently detected in the cancer cell fraction of MSC. MSC associated with LGASC showed additional pathogenic deletions of multiple tumor-suppressor genes, such as KMT2D and BTG1. Copy number analysis revealed potential 18q loss of heterozygosity in both LGASC and associated MSC. The frequency of SMAD4::DCC fusion due to deletions increased with progression to MSC; however, chimeric proteins were not detected. SMAD4 protein expression was already decreased at the LGASC stage due to unknown mechanisms.

Conclusion

Not only LGASC but also its associated high-grade MBC may be genetically different from de novo high-grade MBC. Progression from LGASC to high-grade MBC may involve the concentration of driver mutations caused by clonal selection and inactivation of tumor-suppressor genes.
Trade, Transport Emissions and Multimarket Collusion with Border Adjustments
Authors: Sikdar Shiva
Published: August 2023

We analyze the impact of border adjustment policies on trade, pollution and welfare when firms, located in different countries, sell differentiated products in geographically-separated markets. Transportation of goods not only incurs a cost, but also generates emissions. We compare outcomes under competition and multimarket collusion. Cooperating governments can implement the first-best using appropriate border adjustments regardless of the market structure. When governments set policies non-cooperatively, the border adjustment tariffs exceed the marginal damage from emissions. While it is expected that colluding firms would reduce trade flows relative to competition, trade increases under collusion, resulting in higher welfare. This highlights the possibility of allowing firms to collude and taxing (part of) their profits, which can be redistributed to citizens or used to mitigate the effects of pollution.
Ineffective implementation of emergency reduction measures against high concentrations of particulate matter in Seoul, Republic of Korea
Authors: Ho Chang-Hoi , Kim Ka-Young
Published: August 2023

Since December 30, 2017, the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Republic of Korea, has been implementing emergency reduction measures (ERMs) restricting the operation of industrial sites, thermal power plants, and vehicles when air quality is expected to deteriorate. ERMs are implemented when the present observed concentration of particulate matter (PM) of aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and/or the predicted values for the following day exceed a threshold value. In this study, the effectiveness of ERMs was evaluated for 33 days with and 6 days without ERM implementation but where the PM2.5 concentration exceeded the threshold value, until March 15, 2021. Of the 33 days of ERM implementation, on 7 days it was executed despite the thresholds not being met. The ERM on these days might have been properly executed because the pre-notice and implementation of ERM might have reduced the local emissions of air pollutants. Our major findings are that even on days of ERM implementation, there were marginal reductions in vehicle traffic, thermal power generation, and industrial emissions. Second, the concentrations of PM2.5 and related air pollutants in Seoul were almost unchanged for most ERM implementation episodes. Third, most of the 39 (= 33 + 6) days when the air quality worsened were caused by the transboundary transport of air pollutants from China. In conclusion, it was revealed that the currently executed ERM law is insufficient for effectively reducing PM2.5. To achieve the required reductions, it is necessary to undertake stricter policies in Seoul and its neighboring regions.
Diatomaceous Biosilica Doped with Heteroepitaxially Growing Ag/AgCl/CeO2 Composite Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterisation and Antibacterial Application
Authors: Wojtczak Izabela , Brzozowska Weronika , Railean Viorica , Bekissanova Zhanar , Trykowski Grzegorz , Sprynskyy Myroslav
Published: August 2023

Modern technology's development is also towards using microorganisms as micro-factories of biomaterials with unique properties and combining the original properties of biosilica extracted from diatoms (microalgae) together with immobilised silver and cerium in nanoparticle forms allowed to obtain a modern composite material with antibacterial activity. The synthesised composites containing heteroepitaxially growing Ag/AgCl/CeO2 complex nanoparticles were studied using different types of instrumental analysis. SEM-EDX and XRD analysis allowed the qualitative and quantitative determination of the elements present and their forms in the composites. TEM permitted analysis of information about the created nanoparticles shape, size and structure specificity. The possible mechanism of nanoparticle formation was suggested. Antibacterial properties of synthesised composites were characterised using a minimum inhibitory concentration test on six selected bacterial strains. Diatomaceous biosilica containing heteroepitaxially growing silver chloride, metallic silver, and cerium (IV) oxide nanoparticles have been prepared for the first time. The proposed method for synthesising composites did not use toxic reagents, making it environmentally friendly.

Graphical Abstract
Poly(Ethylene-Co-Vinyl Acetate)–Poly(Lactic Acid)–Poly(Styrene-Co-Methyl Methacrylate) Blends: Study of Mechanical Properties Under Hydrolytic Degradation and Cytotoxic Evaluation
Authors: Mendoza-Duarte Mónica Elvira , Roacho-Pérez Jorge Alberto , Reyes Adriana G. Quiroz- , Garza-Treviño Elsa N. , Sánchez-Domínguez Celia N. , García-Casillas Perla Elvia , Vega-Rios Alejandro
Published: August 2023

The present research investigates the hydrolytic degradation of ternary blends composed of poly(ethylene-co-vinylacetate) (EVA), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and poly(styrene-co-methyl methacrylate)(poly(S-co-MMA) (SMMA) (EPS) blends at a temperature of 37 °C and pH 7.4, monitoring the changes in phosphate buffer solution for 6 months. In addition, the mechanical behavior and morphology of the blends were evaluated from the comparison with the degraded blends against probes non-hydrolytically degraded. Likewise, the hemolytic properties and the cytotoxicity of the blends were estimated to determine their safety if used in medical devices. Ternary blends with higher stiff-elongated properties were composed of 30 wt% EVA—69 wt% PLA and 1 wt% SMMA and prepared by varying the mixing time of each component. EPS samples presented less hydrolytic degradation than PLA. Blending PLA with EVA and SMMA resulted in significant mechanical stability throughout the degradation time. Biocompatibility tests reported that the interaction of EVA/PLA/SMMA films with mesenchymal stem cells showed no evidence of damage in the metabolism of the cells; thus, the films were not dangerous. Furthermore, all tested samples reported values below 5% of hemolysis; hence are classified as non and slightly hemolytic according to ASTM F756. Therefore, polymer EPS blends have potential applications in medical devices.

Graphical abstract
Revisiting the Influence of Confinement on the Pressure Drop in Fixed Beds
Authors: Falkinhoff Florencia , Pierson Jean-Lou , Gamet Lionel , Bourgoin Mickäel , Volk Romain
Published: August 2023

We study the non-turbulent pipe flow of a Newtonian fluid through a confined porous medium made of randomly arranged spherical particles in the situation where the ratio between the pipe diameter over the particle diameter (D/d) is less than 10. Using experiments and numerical simulations, we examine the relation between the flow rate and the mean pressure gradient as a function of the Reynolds number and particle size, and how it is affected by the presence of the walls. We investigate the intrinsic variability of the measurements in relation to the randomness of the particle arrangement and how such variability is linked to spatial fluctuations of pressure within the bed. We observe that as D/d decreases, the pressure gradient presents a stronger variability, particularly in relation to where measurements are taken within the pipe. The study also quantifies the difference between measuring the pressure drop at the wall versus averaging over the entire volume, finding a small difference of $$2.5\%$$

2.5
%

at most. We examine how the mean pressure gradient is affected by the lateral walls, finding that the pressure drop follows a consistent 1/Re scaling regardless of the confinement of the bed. Finally, we observe that the pressure gradient balances the force exerted on the solid spheres with a very weak contribution of the wall friction, showing that the role of confinement corresponds to a global effect on the bed arrangement which in turns affects the mean pressure gradient.
Near-optimal Multiplier-Less Broadband Noise Shaping Filters
Authors: Brachtendorf Hans Georg , Dalpiaz Christoph
Published: August 2023

Noise shaping (NS) filters reduce the quantization noise power in one or more frequency band(s) while amplifying it in other bands. Narrow-band noise shaping filters are state of the art in audio signal processing, analog-digital and digital-analog conversion, direct digital synthesis, and other applications. However, it is much more difficult to design broadband NS filters. Since NS filters are used in feedback branches, they must therefore be designed direct path free which imposes a constraint on the filter coefficients. This constraint leads to prohibitive large filter coefficients employing state of the art filter design techniques.

This paper investigates the theoretical bound for NS filters and shows results about a novel design method for broadband FIR and IIR noise shaping filters and its multiplier-less hardware implementation. The method employed is a purely numerical approximation technique and leads to filter designs close to the discussed theoretical bound. The quantization of the filter coefficients is performed by a Canonical Signed Digit (CSD) representation of the coefficients. Two alternative architectures for the implementation of the filters are discussed. The design technique and the CSD quantization are realized in a toolbox. The filters were moreover implemented in VHDL.
Difficulties on the access to innovative targeted therapies for lung cancer in Spain
Authors: Calvo Virginia , Camps Carlos , Carcereny Enric , Cobo Manuel , Dómine Manuel , García Campelo María Rosario , González Larriba José Luis , Guirado María , Hernando-Trancho Florentino , Massutí Bartomeu , Nadal Ernest , Rodríguez-Abreu Delvys , Sánchez Alfredo , Sullivan Ivana Gabriela , Provencio Mariano ,   the Spanish Lung Cancer Group (SLCG/GECP)
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Spanish Lung Cancer Group (SLCG) conducted a review to analyze the barriers to access to innovative targeted therapies for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in clinical practice in Spain.

Methods

Review all relevant content published on websites of European Commission, European Medicines Agency, and Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Products regarding the authorization and access to oncology treatments.

Results

More than 20 targeted therapies are available to treat different molecular alterations in patients with NSCLC. European Commission has approved treatments for genomic alterations involving the following genes: ALK, RET, ROS1, EGFR, BRAF, NTRK, KRAS, MET. However, the availability of these therapies in Spain is not complete, as innovative treatments are not reimbursed or funded late, with only five of these alterations currently covered by National Health System.

Conclusion

SLCG considers imperative to improve the access in Spain to innovative treatments for NSCLC to reduce inequity across European countries.
Real-world study on microsatellite instability and mismatch repair deficiency testing patterns among patients with metastatic colorectal cancer in Spain
Authors: Garcia-Carbonero Rocio , González Astorga Beatriz , Vidal Tocino Rosario , Contreras Toledo Débora , Pericay Carles , Fernández Montes Ana , Falcó Esther , González Cordero Marta , Reina Zoilo Juan José , Alonso Vicente , Rodríguez Salas Nuria , Gil-Raga Mireia , Santos Cristina , Páez David , Anton-Pascual Beatriz , Aguilar Fernando , Morales Pilar
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Clinical practice guidelines recommend that all patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) should be tested for mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H). We aimed to describe the dMMR/MSI-H testing practice in patients with mCRC in Spanish centers.

Methods

Multicenter, observational retrospective study that included patients newly diagnosed with mCRC or who progressed to a metastatic stage from early/localized stages.

Results

Three hundred patients were included in the study from May 2020 through May 2021, with a median age of 68 years, and two hundred twenty-five (75%) had stage IV disease at initial diagnosis; two hundred eighty-four patients received first-line treatment, and dMMR/MSI-H testing was performed in two hundred fifty-one (84%) patients. The results of the dMMR/MSI-H tests were available in 61 (24%) of 251 patients before the diagnosis of metastatic disease and in 191 (81%) of 236 evaluable patients for this outcome before the initiation of first-line treatment. Among the 244 patients who were tested for dMMR/MSI-H with IHC or PCR, 14 (6%) were MMR deficient. The most frequent type of first-line treatment was the combination of chemotherapy and biological agent, that was received by 71% and 50% of patients with MMR proficient and deficient tumors, respectively, followed by chemotherapy alone, received in over 20% of patients in each subgroup. Only 29% of dMMR/MSI-H tumors received first-line immunotherapy.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that a high proportion of patients with mCRC are currently tested for dMMR/MSI-H in tertiary hospitals across Spain. However, there is still room for improvement until universal testing is achieved.

Trial registration: Not applicable.
Reconsidering False Positives in Machine Learning Binary Classification Models of Suicidal Behavior
Authors: Haghish E. F. , Czajkowski Nikolai
Published: August 2023

We posit the hypothesis that False Positive cases (FP) in machine learning classification models of suicidal behavior are at risk of suicidal behavior and should not be seen as sheer classification error. We trained an XGBoost classification model using survey data from 173,663 Norwegian adolescents and compared the classification groups for several suicide-related mental health indicators, such as depression, anxiety, psychological distress, and non-suicidal self-harm. The results showed that as the classification is made at higher risk thresholds - corresponding to higher specificity levels - the severity of anxiety and depression symptoms of the FP and True Positive cases (TP) become significantly more similar. In addition, psychological distress and non-suicidal self-harm were found to be highly prevalent among the FP group, indicating that they are indeed at risk. These findings demonstrate that FP are a relevant risk group for potential suicide prevention programs and should not be dismissed. Although our findings support the hypothesis, we account for limitations that should be examined in future longitudinal studies. Furthermore, we elaborate on the rationale of the hypothesis, potential implications, and its applicability to other mental health outcomes.
Current challenges in the prevention and management of post-thrombotic syndrome—towards improved prevention
Authors: Wang Julie , Smeath Elise , Lim Hui Yin , Nandurkar Harshal , Kok Hong Kuan , Ho Prahlad
Published: August 2023

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a common and potentially debilitating complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), affecting up to 50% of DVT patients. The consequence of this chronic condition includes reduced quality of life, increased use of the healthcare system and decreased productivity. The societal impact of this condition is projected to increase, given our ageing population and increased burden of thrombotic diseases. Despite significant recent advances in our understanding of PTS, many unanswered questions remain. Currently, there are few effective and proven options for established PTS; hence, the emphasis should be on instituting effective prevention to reduce the progression to PTS. Effective anticoagulation lowers the risk of PTS, with direct oral anticoagulants appearing to outperform vitamin-K antagonists. However, the evidence for elastic compression stockings and endovascular thrombolysis or thrombectomy techniques remains unclear. Accurate identification of individuals at high risk of developing PTS may also improve the targeting of preventative interventions. This review will examine the current body of evidence regarding PTS, with a focus on preventative strategies as well as novel biomarkers.
Brief update on systemic therapies in myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Steichen Janine , Wolf Dominik
Published: August 2023

Over the past years we have gained considerable insights into the biology and consequent therapeutic options in myeloproliferative neoplasms. In this review we aim to highlight the most relevant recent developments in this field with special focus on primary as well as secondary myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera.
New taxa of Pelecinidae (Hymenoptera) from the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber of Northern Myanmar
Authors: Uchida Kei
Published: August 2023

Three specimens of Pelecinidae preserved in mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber from Northern Myanmar were examined and described. Ampluspelecinus robustus gen. et sp. nov. and Eopelecinus diminutivum sp. nov. of Pelecinidae from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber are characterized by the shape and size of their mesosoma, metasoma, and wing venation. Ampluspelecinus robustus is distinguished from other pelecinid species by its length ratio of metasomal segments, 2r-rs in the forewing forming an “X” pattern, with Rs2 extending approximately two-thirds toward the forewing apex. E. diminutivum sp. nov. is distinguished by its metasomal length ratio and swollen fore, mid, and hind femora. In addition, both female and male specimens are described from amber, which is unusual because male pelecinid wasps, both extant and extinct, are relatively rare. The male specimen is the smallest Pelenicidae wasp reported to date.
The Asymmetric five-card trick: working with variable encoding in card-based protocols
Authors: Guillen Luis
Published: August 2023

Recently, card-based protocols have been extensively explored to illustrate relatively complex cryptographic concepts, such as Secure Multiparty Computations, so that even non-specialists can understand them. These protocols rely on three elements: a given alphabet with a set number of physical cards, encoding those cards, and shuffling operations. However, the execution is becoming over-complicated, as most follow the same encoding: fixed uniform disclosed encoding, which constrains other elements and decreases their expressiveness. This paper introduces the asymmetric five-card trick, a generalization of the five-card trick (a seminal work in the field of card-based cryptography) with the added feature of allowing variable encoding. To do so, we propose a pre-process called “handshake” that allows protocols to adapt operations based on players’ encoding. The protocol handshake is included as part of the protocol’s production phase in the proposed general framework, which is negotiated before its execution. Finally, this paper also introduces the notion of time and space complexity in card-based protocols to assess their production and execution’s lower bounds.
Is a non-representative convenience sample of adults good enough? Insights from an economic experiment
Authors: Ellis Sean F. , Savchenko Olesya M. , Messer Kent D.
Published: August 2023

Recruitment of representative and generalizable adult samples is a major challenge for researchers conducting economic field experiments. Limited access to representative samples or the high cost of obtaining them often leads to the recruitment of non-representative convenience samples. This research compares the findings from two field experiments involving 860 adults: one from a non-representative in-person convenience sample and one from a representative online counterpart. We find no meaningful differences in the key behaviors of interest between the two samples. These findings contribute to a growing body of literature demonstrating that non-representative convenience samples can be sufficient in certain contexts.
Between You and I: A Methodological, Mixed-method Corpus-pragmatic Approach to Hypercorrect Uses of Subject Pronouns in Object Position
Authors: Kirner-Ludwig Monika , Oberhofer Kathrin , Heiss Julia
Published: August 2023

The present paper takes a corpus-pragmatic approach to an issue traditionally situated at the interface of sociolinguistics, grammatical prescriptivism and syntax: the use of the hypercorrect structures  and  in object position and British and American English speakers’ usage of such pronoun binomials as prestige constructions. Here, we dedicate significant space to the meta-methodological level pertaining to the corpus-linguistic challenges entailed in systematically identifying relevant occurrences of coordinated noun phrases that feature at least one nominal component unambiguously case-marked. We use a self-compiled corpus of 14,165,810 words of transcribed telecinematic discourse in order to not only establish the extent of any hypercorrect usage, but also to see it in relation with unmarked and both grammatically correct and incorrect uses of the subject and object forms.
“Re-evaluating the health performance of historical buildings using WELLV1 rating system”
Authors: Raslan Hala Mohamed , Saeed Dalia Shebl
Published: August 2023

The Southeast Tunisian cave dwellings of Matmata are a well-known historical model which amazingly adapt with cultural, environmental and climatic features of its surrounding. Many studies have discussed the sustainability of these dwellings but none has thoroughly discussed its performance on light of health and wellbeing of its dwellers. The WELLV1 rating system, established in 2016, is a first of a kind certification system that solely focus on the health performance of the built environment. It gives credit to designs that enhance and promote physical and psychological health of the users. The study examines the health performance of Matmata cave dwellings in the light of WELLV1 recommendations and features. The study revealed that these subterranean historical dwellings have proven good performance in relation to daylight saturation, indoor thermal relief, solar glare control, physical activity enhancement, exterior noise reduction, biophilic design and cultural enrichment. On the other hand, they lack sufficient performance in relation to air purification, social interaction, clean water supply, and altruism encouragement. Considering the scientific background, materials and technologies available for those who designed and built these dwellings, the health-related performance of their work seems unique and impressive.
Hydro-chemometrics of the Nubian Aquifer in Sudan: an integration of groundwater quality index, multivariate statistics, and human health risk assessment
Authors: Mohammed Musaab A. A. , Eltijani Abdelrhim , Szabó Norbert P. , Szűcs Péter
Published: August 2023

This research employed the groundwater quality index (GWQI), multivariate statistical methods, and human health risk assessment model to investigate the suitability of groundwater for domestic uses in northern Khartoum state, Sudan. The groundwater samples were analyzed for eleven physiochemical parameters, including pH, EC, TDS, TH, Cl−, SO42−, NO3−, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, HCO3− and the primary investigation indicated the deviation of these parameters from World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The hydrochemical analysis revealed different groundwater facies with the dominance of Ca–Mg–HCO3 water type. Consequently, the groundwater samples were classified, based on GWQI, into three categories as 76.4% of the samples fall in the excellent water class, 17.6% are projected in the good water class, and 5.9% of groundwater samples are considered unsuitable for human consumption. The multivariate statistical methods were applied, including Pearson’s correlation analysis, principal component analyses (PCA), and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). Three principal components (PCs) explaining 86.07% of total variances are extracted. These PCs indicated that rock-water interactions and agricultural practices influence groundwater quality in the study area. Additionally, HCA is used to categorize groundwater samples based on the concentration of the physiochemical parameters. Consequently, three types of groundwater were identified as low, medium, and highly mineralized. In the final stage, the non-carcinogenic human health risk was assessed based on the concentration of NO3− using the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) models. The obtained hazard quotient for children indicated that 64.7% of groundwater samples are beyond the permissible limit (1 <), and the use of these samples may result in health consequences. Therefore, remedial measures are suggested for the sustainable use of groundwater.
Evaluation of CMIP6 historical simulations over IGAD region of Eastern Africa
Authors: Omay Paulino Omoj , Muthama Nzioka J. , Oludhe Christopher , Kinama Josiah M. , Artan Guleid , Atheru Zachary
Published: August 2023

The Accuracy of model simulations is critical for climate change and its socio-economic impact. This study evaluated23 Global climate models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6). The main objective was to identify the top 10 best performance models in capturing patterns of rainfall for the 1981–2014 period over the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region of Eastern Africa. The total rainfall, annual cycle, continuous, categorical and Volumatic statistical metrics, scatter plots, Cumulative Distribution Function (CDF), and colored code portrait were used to assess the patterns of total rainfall. Results indicate that most CMIP6 models generally capture the characteristics of the observed climatology pattern of total rainfall, bimodal and unimodal rainfall regimes. The majority of models over Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) in Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Sudan scored the lowest skills, highest bias, and over-estimated rainfall, and lower skills over June–September (JJAS) compared to March–May (MAM) and October-December (OND). Quantitatively, a high percent of bias exceeding 80% scored over ASALs, a high correlation coefficient ranging between 0.6 and 0.7 across Ethiopia’s highlands, and a 5–40 as the lowest Root Mean Squared Error scored over the majority of the region. In addition, 21 out of 23 CMIP6 over-estimated rainfall over most parts of the region. The ACCESS-ESM1-5 and MIROC6 are the most over-estimated models as opposed to CNRM-CM6-1HR as the most model under-estimated rainfall, highest bias, and RMSE values. The regional and sub-national analysis showed it is inconclusive to select best-performed models based on individual metrics and sub-national analysis. Out of 23 models, the INM-CM5-0, HadGEM3-GC31-MM, CMCC-CM2-HR4, IPSL-CM6A-LR, KACE-1-0-G, EC-Earth3, NorESM2-MM, GFDL-ESM4, TaiESM1, and KIOST-ESM are the best 10 performance models over IGAD region. These findings highlight the importance of selecting the best performance models for mapping present and future hotspots and extreme rainfall events over the IGAD region of Eastern Africa.
Small and medium enterprises and sustainable business models: Exploring enabling factors for adoption
Authors: Troise Ciro , Santoro Gabriele , Jones Paul , Bresciani Stefano
Published: August 2023

An increasing number of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are focusing on sustainable development and on embracing sustainable business models (SBMs). Despite the growing interest of academics and practitioners in SBMs, and the benefits for stakeholders, there is limited knowledge regarding the factors enabling SME transition toward SBMs, leading them to integrate sustainable principles in their BMs. This study explores the enabling factors for SBM adoption by SMEs and provides an improved understanding of this recent phenomenon. Understanding what factors enable adoption of SBMs is crucial for both SMEs and policymakers. The research uses an inductive qualitative research design approach focused on multiple case studies. The findings reveal that both internal and external factors play a key role in enabling SME transition toward SBM adoption. The internal factors that emerged include openness, change of mindset, problemistic search, social exchange, and resource valorization, while external factors included markets change, technological innovation, stakeholders’ influences, policy and institutions.
Surge-type glaciers in Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland): distribution, temporal patterns and climatic controls
Authors: Lovell Harold , Carrivick Jonathan L. , King Owen , Sutherland Jenna L. , Yde Jacob C. , Boston Clare M. , Małecki Jakub
Published: August 2023

We present the first systematic inventory of surge-type glaciers for the whole of Greenland compiled from published datasets and multitemporal satellite images and digital elevation models. The inventory allows us to define the spatial and climatic distribution of surge-type glaciers and to analyse the timing of surges from 1985 to 2019. We identified 274 surge-type glaciers, an increase of 37% compared to previous work. Mapping surge-type glacier distribution by temperature and precipitation variables derived from ERA5-Land reanalysis data shows that the west and east clusters occur in well-defined climatic envelopes. Analysis of the timing of surge active phases during the periods ~1985 to 2000 (T1) and ~2000 to 2019 (T2) suggests that overall surge activity is similar in T1 and T2, but there appears to be a reduction in surging in the west cluster in T2. Our climate analysis shows a coincident increase in mean annual and mean winter air temperature between T1 and T2. We suggest that as glaciers thin under current warming, some surge-type glaciers in the west cluster may be being prevented from surging due to (1) their inability to build-up sufficient mass and (2) a switch from a polythermal to a largely cold-based thermal regime.
Characterising the ice sheet surface in Northeast Greenland using Sentinel-1 SAR data
Authors: Shu Qingying , Killick Rebecca , Leeson Amber , Nemeth Christopher , Fettweis Xavier , Hogg Anna , Leslie David
Published: August 2023

Over half of the recent mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet, and its associated contribution to global sea level rise, can be attributed to increased surface meltwater runoff, with the remainder a result of dynamical processes such as calving and ice discharge. It is therefore important to quantify the distribution of melting on the ice sheet if we are to adequately understand past ice sheet change and make predictions for the future. In this article, we present a novel semi-empirical approach for characterising ice sheet surface conditions using high-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) backscatter data from the Sentinel-1 satellite. We apply a state-space model to nine sites within North-East Greenland to identify changes in SAR backscatter, and we attribute these to different surface types with reference to optical satellite imagery and meteorological data. A set of decision-making rules for labelling ice sheet melting states are determined based on this analysis and subsequently applied to previously unseen sites. We show that our method performs well in (1) recognising some of the ice sheet surface types such as snow and dark ice and (2) determining whether the surface is melting or not melting. Sentinel-1 SAR data are of high spatial resolution; thus, in developing a method to identify the state of the surface from these data, we improve our capability to understand the variation of ice sheet melting across time and space.
Spatial integration and hierarchy in Old-World wine markets: The role of the 2013 CAP reform
Authors: Rokopanos Andreas , Bersimis Fragiskos , Schamel Guenter , Lallos Christos
Published: August 2023

We explore the impact of the 2013 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform on spatial price co-movements between the main European Union (EU) wine producer markets (i.e., Spain, France, and Italy). We consider monthly prices from January 2005 to January 2020 and R-Vine copula models, splitting the time period considered in December 2012 to track the changes in (1) the degree of integration, (2) the central markets, and (3) the potential asymmetries after the 2013 CAP reform. The results indicate an increasing overall price dependence from one sub-period to another, with Spain succeeding Italy as the central EU market. We also show asymmetry between Italy and France in the upper tail before 2013 and between Spain and France in the lower tail after 2013.
Batroxobin can improve the efficacy of combination therapy for profound sudden sensorineural hearing loss greater than but not less than 100 dB HL
Authors: Jiang Li Zhu , Zuo Wen Qi
Published: August 2023

Objective

To investigate the effects of combination therapy with and without batroxobin, and the frequency of batroxobin use on the prognosis of profound sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Methods

Hearing recovery in the batroxobin group (231 patients) and non-batroxobin group (56 patients) was compared. The correlation between the number of times batroxobin was used and hearing recovery was analysed.

Results

The decrease in hearing threshold and overall improvement rate in the batroxobin group with hearing loss exceeding 100 dB HL was significantly higher than that in the non-batroxobin group. There was no linear correlation between the number of times batroxobin was used and the overall improvement rate. Using batroxobin two to three times achieved a therapeutic effectiveness plateau.

Conclusion

Batroxobin can improve the efficacy of combination therapy for profound sudden sensorineural hearing loss exceeding 100 dB HL, and using batroxobin two to three times yields the maximum overall improvement rate.
Otolaryngology contribution to the care of patients following non-fatal strangulation in the settings of alleged sexual assault
Authors: Linton Stefan , Mani Navin , Majeed-Ariss Rabiya , Reza Nouraei S A , White Catherine
Published: August 2023

Background

Non-fatal strangulation as a consequence of a sexual assault attack or domestic violence represents serious bodily harm. Otolaryngologists have an important role in documenting physical findings and managing airway symptoms. This study aimed to describe our otolaryngology department's experience managing patients referred from the sexual assault referral centre who suffered non-fatal strangulation.

Method

A retrospective analysis of patients suffering non-fatal strangulation referred to the Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Otolaryngology Department from Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2019 was carried out.

Results

A total of 86 patients were referred from Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre. Of these patients, 56 were given telephone advice and the remaining 30 were seen by the on-call otolaryngology team. In addition, 20 out of 30 (66.6 per cent) patients underwent fibre-optic nasal endoscopy. Common presenting symptoms were neck pain (81.4 per cent), dyspnoea (80.2 per cent) and dizziness (72.1 per cent). Five patients had identifiable laryngeal injury on endoscopy.

Conclusion

Meticulous documentation is recommended when managing patients who suffer non-fatal strangulation because medical records may be used as evidence in criminal investigations.
Unit Levies after the Batavian Revolt and the Conquest of Northern Britannia
Authors: Kreiner Jared
Published: August 2023

In the Early Flavian Period over 30 military units were created or transferred for service in Britannia. Paul Holder maintained that these units arrived with Petillius Cerialis for Vespasian's expansionist plans and connected several new levies to the Batavian Revolt. Considering recent scholarship on Roman responses to revolts and Flavian geopolitics, however, this viewpoint requires revision. The author maintains that these units were transferred throughout the 70s c.e. as opportunities developed organically in Britannia. These newly levied units were not created in response to the Batavian Revolt, but due to the extraordinary and complex circumstances within Rome's northern frontiers after the post-Neronian civil wars. This article concludes with updated histories for the auxiliary units involved.
Water Governance and Regional Development in Xi's China
Authors: Zhou Wang , Tsai Wen-Hsuan
Published: August 2023

The governance of China under Xi Jinping functions mainly through leading groups. Using the case of water governance, this article examines the interaction between these groups at three levels: the top-level design group, the riverine macroregion groups and the implementation groups. This governance model is designed to avoid nomenklatura failure, restrict fiscal federalism and reduce the agency problem between the centre and local leaders. For the purpose of water governance, China has been divided into five blocs based on river basins, which we call riverine macroregions. Using this approach, the Chinese Communist Party is combining water governance with regional development and enhancing local governments’ collective implementation of central policy.
The Medico-Legalization of Sex in the Nineteenth-Century United States
Authors: Sudai Maayan
Published: August 2023

The rising field of medical jurisprudence in common law from late eighteenth century has led to a rearrangement of authority and epistemic power between lay and expert witnesses, in favor of the latter. Although the law had long relied on testimony from members of the community to establish the legal fact of a person's sex, the legal procedure of fact-making started to rely instead on the opinions of doctors, surgeons, and medical practitioners. This article closely reads medical jurisprudence books, U.S. case law, and U.S. newspapers from the nineteenth century to describe this expansion of medical experts’ authority to establish the legal fact of sex in vague cases. The article describes the spread of medico-legal technics of sex classification in three arenas of U.S. law: the law of marriage and divorce, cross-dressing, and defamation. The practice of legal sex classification was thus absorbed into medical expertise, and the meaning of sex in the law transformed from a socio-physical construct to a medical one. The mid-nineteenth-century decline of medical jurisprudence subsequently pushed the practice of sex classification outside the realm of law and into the jurisdiction of the medical profession, thus leaving sex classification mainly to doctors.
Differentiating primary sarcomeric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from Noonan syndrome: can the electrocardiogram be of use?
Authors: Hauptmeijer Robert W. L. , Lippert Lea , ten Cate Floris E. A. Udink , Fejzic Zina , Leenders Erika , Wolf Cordula M. , Draaisma Jos M. T.
Published: August 2023

Noonan syndrome is a multi-system genetic disorder and patients may suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Previous studies have identified electrocardiographic features that may support a diagnosis of Noonan syndrome. In this two-centre retrospective study, we analysed typical Noonan syndrome-related electrocardiographic features in 30 patients with Noonan syndrome with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and compared these with the electrocardiographic features in 15 children with sarcomeric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Typical Noonan syndrome-related electrocardiographic features are a negative aVF, small left precordial R-waves, large right precordial S-waves, and abnormal Q-wave. We also analysed electrocardiographic features of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: ST-segment abnormalities and T-wave abnormalities. A negative aVF was seen in 83% of patients with Noonan syndrome-related hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in contrast to 27% of patients with primary sarcomeric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (p < 0.001). An extreme QRS axis in the north-west was seen only in patients with Noonan syndrome-related hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This QRS axis deviation is likely to be determined by the Noonan syndrome-related hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and not by the type of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. There were no differences between the two groups in the frequency of large right precordial S-waves and small R-waves in the left precordial leads V5 and V6. However, an abnormal R/S ratio was more often seen in patients with Noonan syndrome-related hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (p < 0.001). Pathologic Q-waves were seen statistically more frequently in patients with sarcomeric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (p = 0.009). The occurrence of ST-segment and T-wave pathology did not statistically differ between the two groups. Electrography can be of use in differentiating sarcomeric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from Noonan syndrome-related hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Cross-language semantic and orthographic parafoveal processing by bilingual L1 German–L2 English readers
Authors: Fernandez Leigh B. , Scheepers Christoph , Allen Shanley E. M.
Published: August 2023

In a recent study, Fernandez et al. (2021) investigated parafoveal processing in L1 English and L1 German–L2 English readers using the gaze contingent boundary paradigm (Rayner, 1975). Unexpectedly, L2 readers derived an interference from a non-cognate translation parafoveal mask (arrow vs. pfeil), but derived a benefit from a German orthographic parafoveal mask (arrow vs. pfexk) when reading in English. The authors argued that bilingual readers incurred a switching cost from the complete German word, and derived a benefit by keeping both lexicons active from the partial German word. In this registered report, we further test this finding with L1 German–L2 English participants using improved items, but with the sentences presented in German. We were able to replicate the non-cognate translation interference but not the orthographic facilitation. Follow up comparisons showed that all parafoveal masks evoked similar inhibition, suggesting that bilingual readers do not process non-cognate semantic or orthographic information parafoveally.
The neural basis of Number and Person phi-features processing: An fMRI study in highly proficient bilinguals
Authors: Meykadeh Simin , Golfam Arsalan , Batouli Seyed Amir Hossein , Sommer Werner
Published: August 2023

No studies have investigated the neural correlates of Number and Person agreement processing in bilinguals. Because a previous fMRI study showed difference in L1 and L2 morphosyntactic processing of L1 Turkish–L2 Persian bilinguals, it was of interest whether this difference can be specifically attributed to Number or Person processing. Therefore, we reanalyzed these data at the whole-brain level, revealing a selective response for Number Violations in the pars opercularis (PO), whereas Number and Person Violations activated the posterior superior temporal gyrus (pSTG). These results support the decomposition of agreement projections and their neuroanatomical substrates in bilinguals and confirm the involvement of systematically different feature-checking and feature-mapping mechanisms in Number and Person agreement but shared mechanisms between L1 and L2. Moreover, at variance with previous reports, Number Violations evoked more effects than Person Violations in pSTG, suggesting qualitatively different processing underlying R-expression and pronominal controllers.