bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Speculative Loop Pipeline Framework with Accurate Path Modeling for High-Level Synthesis
Authors: She Yuhan , Liu Jierui , Huang Yanlong , Cheung Ray C.C. , Yan Hong
Published: November 2024

Loop pipelining is a key optimization in High-Level Synthesis (HLS), aimed at overlapping the execution of iterations. Static scheduling, dominant in commercial HLS tools, configures the pipeline based on compile-time analysis, proving conservative for designs with irregular control flow and memory access due to imbalanced recurrences.
Speculative Loop pipeline
(SLP) is a novel concept that addresses the problem by introducing the speculation and recovery mechanism at the source level to improve the throughput. Although proven promising, it has a significant gap from practical application: It requires accurate early-stage modeling of the pipeline configuration for each path, which is unable to obtain with classic HLS scheduling methods because the SLP process itself interferes with the path length. In this work, we made a step forward by proposing a practical SLP framework with accurate path modeling ability through iterative tuning. We further optimize the SLP technology by combining automatic dataflow extraction with speculative source-level transformation to further boost the performance in specific design patterns. Our framework works on the source level and is easy to be plugged into existing downstream HLS tools. Experiment results demonstrate significant performance improvements over commercial HLS tools and better resource trade-offs compared to the state-of-the-art dynamic-scheduling-based solutions.
Unlocking AutoML: Enhancing Data with Deep Learning Algorithms for Medical Imaging
Authors: Ribeiro Jesus Rui Filipe , Rodrigues Ana , Costa Carlos
Published: November 2024

Deep learning algorithms have become increasingly popular over the years, having proved their efficiency in input-output functions for distinct types of data. This technology is particularly useful in medical imaging, where complex image structures often generate disagreements between medical staff. These technologies can streamline the diagnostic process by performing automatic image analysis, which results in more accurate and reproducible diagnoses. Additionally, these technologies can enhance content retrieval systems by automatically labeling the images based on the structures they possess. Despite the benefits, the mathematical complexity of deep learning algorithms and their training optimizations can be challenging. Automated machine learning provides a solution to this challenge by offering tools that automate the development and training of these algorithms. This makes it possible for users with limited programming experience to take advantage of these powerful technologies to quickly develop and prototype analysis algorithms for their specific needs. This article presents a management platform for deep learning services on the cloud that provides a code-free experience through automated machine learning. The evaluation was done in one of the most demanding scenarios, where the service was integrated into a research pathology PACS to annotate mitotic cells in breast cancer tissue automatically. The annotations are processed by an open-source PACS archive and stored directly on the files, enhancing the image metadata and consequently content retrieval systems. The results of the developed algorithms were compared to the state-of-the-art to evaluate the competitiveness of the solution.
Environmental Life Cycle Assessment of a U.S. Hospital-based Radiology Practice
Authors: Thiel Cassandra L. , Vigil-Garcia Marta , Nande Sachin , Meijer Cecilia , Gehrels Josephine , Struk Olesya , Thornander Sophie , Pullella Denise , Omary Reed A. , Carver Diana E. , Scheel John R.
Published: November 2024

A life cycle assessment of a diagnostic radiology department’s environmental footprint identified the energy consumption from imaging equipment as more than 50% of its greenhouse gas emissions, as well as opportunities to improve its sustainability.
PiSlope: A New CT Metric for Quantifying Airway Remodeling in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Bhatt Surya P. , Nakhmani Arie , Sthanam Venkata , Kizhakke Puliyakote Abhilash , Reinhardt Joseph M. , Bodduluri Sandeep
Published: November 2024

The new CT metric PiSlope quantified the amount of remodeling along the entire visualized airway and was associated with dyspnea, quality of life, functional capacity, exacerbations, lung function decline, and mortality.
Toward Foundation Models in Radiology? Quantitative Assessment of GPT-4V’s Multimodal and Multianatomic Region Capabilities
Authors: Strotzer Quirin D. , Nieberle Felix , Kupke Laura S. , Napodano Gerardo , Muertz Anna Katharina , Meiler Stefanie , Einspieler Ingo , Rennert Janine , Strotzer Michael , Wiesinger Isabel , Wendl Christina , Stroszczynski Christian , Hamer Okka W. , Schicho Andreas
Published: November 2024

OpenAI’s GPT-4V reliably identified the imaging modality and anatomic region but could not safely detect, classify, or rule out abnormalities on single MRI, CT, and radiographic images.
In silico integrative scRNA analysis of human colonic epithelium indicates four tuft cell subtypes
Authors: Herik Aydin I. , Sinha Sarthak , Arora Rohit , Small Caleb , Dufour Antoine , Biernaskie Jeff , Cobo Eduardo R. , McKay Derek M.
Published: November 2024

This study reveals the nuanced and novel landscape of human colonic tuft cells through integrative scRNA-seq analysis. Four distinct tuft cell subtypes were identified, varying markedly between healthy and individuals with IBD. We uncovered human colonic tuft cell subtypes with unexpected antimicrobial and progenitor-like gene expression signatures. These insights into tuft cell diversity offer new avenues for understanding gut health and disease pathophysiology.
N2 exchanges in hyperbaric environments: toward a model based on physiological gas transport (O2 and CO2)
Authors: Theron Michael , Blasselle Alexis , Nedellec Lisa , Ballet Pascal , Dugrenot Emmanuel , Gardette Bernard , Guerrero François , Henckes Anne , Pennec Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2024

This is the first model of inert gas transport based on the physiology of respiratory gas. It was built for O2 delivery and validated against literature data; it was then transposed to N2 exchanges. The transposition procedure was checked by transposing the N2 model to CO2 (and validated against literature data). This model opens the possibility to integrate physiological and morphological inputs in a personalized decompression procedure in SCUBA diving.
Clinical and physiological effects of high-intensity aerobic training on metabolic syndrome: understanding the individual exercise response variability
Authors: Moreno-Cabañas Alfonso , Morales-Palomo Felix , Alvarez-Jimenez Laura , Mora-Gonzalez Diego , Garcia-Camacho Eva , Martinez-Mulero Belen , Mora-Rodriguez Ricardo
Published: November 2024

Our study offers healthcare providers the expected percentage of individuals who would improve their metabolic syndrome condition after completing a standardized HIIT program (16 wk, 43 min/session, 3 days/wk). Only half of the subjects achieved indisputable improvement in their MetS z score when we accounted for biological variability and instrument errors. Detection of individuals with a positive response in MetS z score could be inferred from gains in maximal cycling power (i.e., exercise functionality).
Spectral changes in motor thalamus field potentials during movement
Authors: Klassen Bryan T. , Baker Matthew R. , Jensen Michael A. , Ojeda Valencia Gabriela , Miller Kai J.
Published: November 2024

We studied movement-associated spectral changes in human motor thalamus and observed focal increases in broadband power with movement. This biomarker may be used as a tool for intraoperative functional mapping, DBS targeting, and closed-loop device control.
A New Multiobjective A∗ Algorithm With Time Window Applied to Large Airports
Authors: Ba Bosheng , Yu Ye , Wang Ruixin , Gotteland Jean-Baptiste , Gao Yunqi
Published: November 2024

Current airport ground operations, relying on single and fixed aircraft taxiing rules, struggle to handle dynamic traffic flow changes during peak flight times at large airports. This leads to inefficient taxiing routes, prolonged taxiing times, and high fuel consumption. This paper addresses these issues by proposing a new adaptive method for dynamic taxiway routing in airport ground operations. This method aims to reduce ground taxiing time and fuel consumption while ensuring the safety of aircraft taxiing. This study proposes a multiobjective A∗ algorithm with time windows which takes into account the allocation of resources on airport taxiways and introduces factors such as turning angles, dynamic turning speeds, and dynamic characteristics of the ground operations. Experiments conducted over the 10 busiest days in the history of Tianjin Binhai International Airport demonstrate that the algorithm excels in minimizing total taxiing time, differing only by 0.5% from the optimal solution. It also optimizes multiple objectives such as fuel consumption and operates at a solving speed approximately three orders of magnitude faster than the optimal solution algorithm, enabling real‐time calculation of aircraft taxiing paths. The results of the study indicate that the proposed multiobjective A∗ algorithm with time windows can effectively provide decision support for dynamic routing in airport ground operations.
Efficacy and Safety of Jiedu Tongluo Therapy for Diabetic Kidney Disease Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Shang Xiaoling , Wu Hongliang , He Ze
Published: November 2024

Background: No comprehensive meta‐analysis has evaluated the efficacy and safety of the protective effect of Jiedu Tongluo Therapy on the kidney of DKD until now. This meta‐analysis covers this gap in knowledge.

Methods: We have conducted an extensive search of databases, including CNKI, Wanfang, PubMed, and Web of Science. The selection was based on conventional treatment, including information and education on DKD, blood glucose, hypertension control methods, and lifestyle. The control group was composed of conventional western medicine or proprietary Chinese medicine, and the experimental group was composed of Jiedu Tongluo therapy controlled trials (RCTs) between 2003 and 2023. R 4.1.0 software was used to perform statistical analysis.

Results: A total of 1871 patients from 19 RCTs were analyzed. Meta‐analysis results showed that the Jiedu Tongluo therapy was effective in improving clinical efficacy (OR = 2.47, 95% CI [1.94, 3.15], I2 = 0%), and these trials were more effective in reducing Scr (MD = −19.81, 95% CI [−27.64, −11.97], p < 0.01), BUN (MD = −0.70, 95% CI [−1.13, −0.27], p < 0.01), UAER (MD = −29.97, 95% CI [−37.33, −22.61], p < 0.01), FBG (MD = −0.85, 95% CI [−1.22, −0.47], p < 0.01), and certain medication safety (OR = 0.75, 95% CI [0.27, 2.11]).

Conclusions: For treating diabetic kidney disease, TCM‐based Jiedu Tongluo therapy showed optimal clinical efficacy and safety. However, further rational experiments are needed to validate the above conclusions.
Fungal Influences on Cancer Initiation, Progression, and Response to Treatment
Authors: Bilal Hazrat , Khan Muhammad Nadeen , Khan Sabir , Shafiq Muhammad , Fang Wenjie , Zeng Yuebin , Guo Yangzhong , Li Xiaohui , Zhao Bing , Lv Qiao-Li , Xu Bin
Published: November 2024

Fungal dysbiosis is increasingly recognized as a key factor in cancer, influencing tumor initiation, progression, and treatment outcomes. This review explores the role of fungi in carcinogenesis, with a focus on mechanisms such as immunomodulation, inflammation induction, tumor microenvironment remodeling, and interkingdom interactions. Fungal metabolites are involved in oncogenesis, and antifungals can interact with anticancer drugs, including eliciting potential adverse effects and influencing immune responses. Furthermore, mycobiota profiles have potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, emphasizing their clinical relevance. The interplay between fungi and cancer therapies can affect drug resistance, therapeutic efficacy, and risk of invasive fungal infections associated with targeted therapies. Finally, emerging strategies for modulating mycobiota in cancer care are promising approaches to improve patient outcomes.
Adverse Birth and Obstetric Outcomes in the Offspring of Male Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Kao Wei-Heng , Chuang Yi-Fang , Huang Yi-Wei , Chen Po-Jui , Liu Yu-Cheng , Wang Chun-Chieh , Hsu Jun-Te , Shueng Pei-Wei , Kuo Chang-Fu
Published: November 2024

Background:

The growing population of male adolescent and young adult (AYA, ages 15–40 years) cancer survivors has heightened interest in their reproductive health. However, studies have reported conflicting findings on the potential risks of cancer and its treatments on birth and obstetric outcomes.

Methods:

We used encrypted identification numbers for both fathers and mothers to link three nationwide Taiwan datasets from 2004 to 2019, identifying 3,785 births with a paternal history of AYA cancer. For comparison, we included 37,850 matched fathers without a cancer history, matched by paternal age and infant birth year. We used multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify independent associations between adverse birth outcomes (e.g., preterm labor, low birthweight, and congenital malformations) and obstetric outcomes (e.g., fetal growth restriction, threatened labor, and threatened abortion) and being born to male AYA cancer survivors.

Results:

The offspring of male AYA cancer survivors did not exhibit a significantly increased risk of adverse birth (OR = 1.0; 95% confidence interval, 0.9−1.1) or obstetric (OR = 1.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.0−1.1) outcomes compared with offspring born to cancer-free matched fathers. Furthermore, the risk of preterm labor, low birthweight, congenital malformations, fetal growth restriction, and threatened labor or miscarriage was comparable between groups.

Conclusions:

Paternal cancer history during adolescence or young adulthood does not seem to increase the risk of adverse birth or obstetric outcomes in offspring.

Impact:

This study reassures the reproductive health of this population, providing valuable insights for oncology and reproductive medicine, potentially influencing patient counseling and guidelines.
Targeting CDK7 Enhances the Antitumor Efficacy of Enzalutamide in Androgen Receptor–Positive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer by Inhibiting c-MYC–mediated Tumorigenesis
Authors: Xie Xuemei , Manai Maroua , Rampa Dileep R. , Fuson Jon A. , Nakasone Elizabeth S. , Pearson Troy , Kuntal Bharat S. , Tripathy Debu , Ueno Naoto T. , Lee Jangsoon
Published: November 2024

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Among TNBC subtypes, the luminal androgen receptor (LAR) subtype expresses high levels of androgen receptor (AR) and generally responds poorly to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. AR has been reported as a promising therapeutic target for the LAR TNBC subtype. In this study, we evaluated the preclinical antitumor efficacy of enzalutamide, an AR inhibitor, in TNBC. Enzalutamide had moderate antiproliferative activity against AR-positive (AR+) TNBC cells (IC50 > 15 μmol/L). To enhance its antitumor efficacy, we performed high-throughput kinome RNAi screening and identified the cell cycle pathway as a potential target. Inhibition of cell cycle progression using the cyclin-dependent kinase 7 inhibitor KRLS-017 showed a synergistic antiproliferative effect with enzalutamide in AR+ LAR MDA-MB-453 and SUM185 TNBC cells. Downstream target analysis revealed that the enzalutamide and KRLS-017 combination dramatically reduced c-MYC expression at both mRNA and protein levels. c-MYC knockdown significantly suppressed growth of MDA-MB-453 and SUM185 cells to a degree comparable with that of enzalutamide and KRLS-017 combination treatment, whereas c-MYC overexpression reversed the synergistic effect. An enhancement in inhibition of tumor growth and suppression of c-MYC expression was further confirmed when enzalutamide was combined with KRLS-017 in an MDA-MB-453 mouse model. Our study suggests that KRLS-017 enhances the antitumor efficacy of enzalutamide by inhibiting c-MYC–mediated tumorigenesis and presents a potential new approach for treating AR+ LAR TNBC.
Total (Immuno)Therapy: Version 2.0
Authors: Bal Susan , Costa Luciano J.
Published: November 2024

Among patients with poly-refractory myeloma, autologous chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy offers exceptional promise. With the availability of bispecific antibodies, a total immunotherapeutic strategy in combination with chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy is now feasible.

See related article by Fandrei et al., p. 38
The disability profile in primary care may depend on the type of care and pain aspects
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda de Assis da Costa , Góes Angela Baroni de , Casarotto Raquel Aparecida , Fernandes Tiótrefis Gomes , Castro Shamyr Sulyvan de , Schmitt Ana Carolina Basso
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between sociodemographic factors, musculoskeletalpain and its characteristics, and the type of primary health care received with self-reported disability.METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study, interviewing individuals selected from spontaneous demand for health care in two types of care: health center and family health unit. Disability was investigated using the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) 2.0 and characteristics of intensity, frequency, duration, number of pain sites, and regions. Measures of association between predictors and disability were performed with non-parametric statistical tests, whereas non-parametric regression models were presented for pain characteristics and for the general population.RESULTS: In total, 2.3% of family health users and 7.2% of health center users had severe levels ofdisability. Health center users had more self-reported disability than family health users (p < 0.001). Fewer years of life (p = 0.034) and lower per capita income quintile (p = 0.014) were associated with greater disability. The most intense pain and pain in the greatest number of sites increased the disability score by 1.8 (95%CI = 1.0–2.6) and 6.3 (95%CI = 0.1–12.2) points, respectively. CONCLUSION: Users who had more disabilities sought care at walk-in health centers, had lower per capita income, presented musculoskeletal pain of worse intensity, and pain in a greater number of sites.
Disruption of PCSK9 Suppresses Inflammation and Attenuates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation
Authors: Peng Zekun , Lv Shuang-Jie , Chen Hong , Rao Haojie , Guo Ziyi , Wan Qing , Yang Jianfeng , Zhang Yuze , Liu De-Pei , Chen Hou-Zao , Wang Miao
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic vascular inflammatory disease without effective medications. PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9), a serine protease from the proprotein convertase family, has recently been associated with AAA in human genome-wide association studies. However, its role in AAA is unknown.

METHODS:

Transcriptional and histological expression of PCSK9 was examined in AAA tissues and healthy controls. The impact of PCSK9 deletion and inhibition on AAA formation was assessed in mice with hyperlipidemia and Ang II (angiotensin II) overproduction. AAA lesion morphology was assessed by tissue staining. MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) activity was evaluated by gelatin zymography, and leukocyte-vessel wall interaction was monitored by intravital microscopy. RNA sequencing was used to characterize the downstream signaling of PCSK9.

RESULTS:

PCSK9 expression was upregulated and colocalized with macrophages in human and mouse AAAs.
Pcsk9
deletion attenuated AAA formation, improved survival, and decreased systemic inflammation, without altering circulating cholesterol levels.
Pcsk9
deficiency reduced aortic infiltration of macrophages and elastin degradation, without affecting vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis and proliferation. Mechanistically, PCSK9 was essential in leukocyte-endothelium adhesion and expression of proinflammatory cytokines and MMP9 by macrophages. RNA sequencing of stimulated macrophages revealed that
Pcsk9
deficiency upregulated histone deacetylase SIRT1 (sirtuin-1) and suppressed NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB) inflammatory signaling. SIRT1 inhibition attenuated the proinflammatory actions of PCSK9. Furthermore, administration of PCSK9 small interfering RNA or antibody constrained AAA formation/progression and inhibited vascular inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS:

PCSK9 critically mediates macrophage inflammation and elastin degradation, promoting AAA formation. PCSK9 inhibitors bear a promise to curtail AAA, beyond being used as cholesterol-lowering drugs.
The function of putative appeasement behaviour for access to food in African painted dogs
Authors: Ake Kanako , Kutsukake Nobuyuki
Published: November 2024

In some group-living species that share food, interindividual disagreement on access to food is mediated by several types of negotiation, ranging from appeasing the current owner to reduce aggression and gain access to the food, to harassment where non-owners assert their presence and apply insistent pressure until owners give up their food. In some species, non-owners employ specific behaviours used in other social contexts during negotiation, which makes it challenging to discern their precise functions. The core prediction of the harassment hypothesis is that intense pressure by beggars makes owners abandon their food and leads to food monopolisation, which is not predicted by the appeasement hypothesis. In the African painted dog (Lycaon pictus), non-owners assume a low posture and produce high-pitched vocalisations — a suite of behaviours considered appeasement in non-feeding contexts. This study examined whether these behaviours, referred to collectively as putative appeasement behaviour (PAB), serve as appeasement in the context of feeding or whether they may also, or only, be used for harassment. To this end, we used behavioural experiments in captive parent–offspring or full sibling pairs. Individuals showed more frequent PAB when offered food that could not be easily shared (one vs. two bones). As aggression also only occurred under that condition, PAB seems to have a function in appeasement. However, we observed a positive effect of PAB on food monopolisation by PAB actors but not on co-feeding. Persistent PAB led to monopolisation, indicating that these behaviours serve as a form of harassment in feeding. We did not observe reciprocity between paired individuals, another possible form of food monopolisation besides appeasement and harassment. In conclusion, PAB in the African painted dog functions as both appeasement and harassment, and this highly tolerant species employs negotiation strategies in feeding.
Adverse Effects of Covid-19, Globalization and Modern Day Slavery: Towards Interdependence, Solidarity and Radical Hospitality
Authors: Longkumer Bendanglemla
Published: November 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has made a significant impact on the world: its effects are not evenly distributed. For those who are vulnerable to being categorized as victims of modern-day slavery, the socio-economic disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic affected their lives in new and profound ways. It has aggravated their vulnerabilities and exposed systemic injustices. Examples of such can be found in the ongoing struggles of migrant workers. What might be appropriate theological reflections? This article aims to explore the adverse effects of Covid-19 pandemic, and the problems underlying the nexus of globalization and slavery (in various forms). The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the vulnerable sections of the people, which is understood as modern slavery. The task of a public Christian vocation in such circumstances is one of assessing what has happened and then affirming the interdependence and interconnectedness of the human community, solidarity and radical hospitality.
Decolonising Biblical Theology: Towards Postcolonial Biblical Theology in the Public Sphere of Indonesia
Authors: Setyawan Yusak Budi
Published: November 2024

This article presents the main argument that in the Indonesian context, biblical theology should be able to play a crucial role not only in the church and academic spheres but also, and more importantly, in the wider society by overturning the hegemony of colonialism in biblical theology and developing postcolonial biblical theology in the actual context of Indonesia. In undergirding this argument, the article first puts forward the situation of biblical theology in scientific and societal discourse in general and in the Indonesian context in particular. The findings in this analysis are followed by an explanation of the importance of developing a horizon in elaborating biblical theology in the Indonesian context informed by seven distinguishing public issues in Indonesian society. Biblical theology must be encouraged to penetrate the public sphere. In elaborating on biblical theology in the Indonesian context, postcolonial studies are highly significant in connecting biblical theology and the Indonesian context.
Bonhoeffer on the Public Role of the Church – a View from the Contemporary Brazilian Political and Religious Scenario
Authors: Caldas Carlos
Published: November 2024

A religious phenomenon that has been observed by many religious researchers in the last years is the numerical growth of the Evangelical population in Brazil. The vast majority of this expression of the Christian faith is formed by Pentecostals and Neopentecostals. With this massive growth, the Evangelical presence in Brazilian society is more and more visible, especially inasmuch as Evangelicals are getting more involved in politics. This article aims to analyze the public presence of the Evangelical Brazilian church in society from the perspective of the ecclesiology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. The article presents first Bonhoeffer’s ecclesiology. Then, it presents Bonhoeffer’s understanding of the church’s role in the world. The last part of the article brings considerations on public theology and two practical points from Bonhoeffer’s theology that are of the highest importance for the Brazilian Evangelical church – preaching and the defence of human rights.
Towards Expansive Justice for Animals: Holmgren’s Permaculture for Deane-Drummond’s Animal Ethics
Authors: Bierma Troy
Published: November 2024

Celia Deane-Drummond has argued that natural law implies an expansion of social justice to protect animal needs and agency. Her argument is valid but lacks an approach for guiding ethical activity. As such, this article contributes to the concerns of public theology by drawing on resources from the ethical and design principles of David Holmgren’s permaculture. I attempt to narrow the gap in ecotheology between justice as a virtue in theory and justice as an ethical activity. I argue that permaculture practice is an exemplary way of seeking the sort of justice for animals for which Deane-Drummond has argued. As an holistic environmental practice, permaculture prompts ecotheology to consider it seriously as a context for ethical activity and for ethical reflection and, in turn, prompts questions for ecotheological reflection.
Is Pope Francis a Marxist?
Authors: Lok Peter Wing Kai
Published: November 2024

Pope Francis has been widely portrayed by the popular media as a ‘revolutionary left-wing’ Pope, owing to his open stance on same-sex relationships and his harsh criticism of capitalism. His South American background has also led the media to casually associate him with the tradition of liberation theology, whose methodology is deeply influenced by Marxism. In this article, I argue that Pope Francis’s public theology is neither a Marxist theology nor a liberation theology, as some critics have suggested. In contrast, his theology is an assemblage of the critical heritage of Catholic social thought, Franciscan theology of the poor, Argentine theology of the people, and Ignatian pastoral theology.
New Graffiti from the Church Agia Paraskevi in Geroskipou on Cyprus Preliminary Remarks
Authors: Evdokimova Alexandra A.
Published: November 2024

Eleven new graffiti found by us in the eleventh-century church Agia Paraskevi in Geroskipou on Cyprus in 2015 are published in this article for the first time. Analysis of spelling and paleography, as well as linguistic commentary, is also presented for each of these inscriptions. Most of the graffiti are the funerary inscriptions using the formula ἐκοιµήθη ὁ δουλος του θ(ε)ου name + date in their structure. The date, 1092, can be read only in the fifth graffito; therefore, the preliminary dating of all the graffiti complex is the 11th century. The orthography peculiarities of this graffiti complex are: υ instead of οι, η and η used twice in the verb ἐκοιµήθη, also, we have twice met υ instead of οι. Reading diphthong οι as [ü] is traditional for this period. A sequential use of η instead of ι is found in many nouns, which is probably the orthographic tendency in this region. The next names appear in the analyzed monuments: George three times, Theodora, Marcos twice, and Leo. The graffiti are written with the majuscule letters; σ and ε are lunar.
Causation Puzzles in International Climate Litigation
Authors: Nollkaemper André
Published: November 2024

The multiplicity of causes of climate change makes it difficult to establish causal connections between individual States’ greenhouse gas emissions and harmful effects of climate change. Several States and companies have invoked this causation puzzle as a defence against claims that they would be responsible for harmful effects. However, in recent opinions and judgments, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, the European Court of Human Rights, and national courts have shown that this causation puzzle does not necessarily preclude a determination of the responsibility of States contributing to climate change. This paper examines how courts have (partially) solved puzzles of cause-effect relations by relying on normative standards based on the imperative to prevent global risks of climate harm. It also articulates possible solutions to the main causation puzzle that courts have not yet cracked: allocating compensation for climate change harm.
The Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction: A Critical Assessment
Authors: Andreone Gemma
Published: November 2024

The Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction is a complex treaty aiming to fill the gaps left by the UNCLOS in regulating marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. In view of the multifaceted nature the Agreement, this contribution proposes an early stage critical analysis of certain choices made by the Intergovernmental Conference. An assessment of cross-sectional and general issues and of some specific provisions contained in Part III calls for a reflection on whether, and in which manner, the BBNJ Agreement can be considered an environmental treaty, or a treaty possessing a hybrid nature and employing an innovative approach compared to the UNCLOS.
The Scrutiny of States’ Climate Change Action under WTO Law and International Investment Agreements
Authors: de Stefano Carlo
Published: November 2024

The urgency of the fight against climate change is significantly shaping also international economic law. It is herein investigated how international climate change treaties, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) of 9 May 1992 and the Paris Agreement of 12 December 2015 may be successfully integrated with the World Trade Organization (WTO) covered agreements and international investment agreements (IIAs). While the international trade and investment regimes were originally designed primarily for the vindication of economic concerns, they can already provide sufficient legal avenues for the affirmation of States’ climate commitments and efforts, such as the reliance on general exceptions applicable to environmental matters. In particular, trade and investment treaties must be interpreted pursuant to systemic integration as required by Article 31(3)(c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT). As a result, multilateral treaties addressing climate change do constitute a hermeneutic basis against which adjudicators may assess the respect or the breach of economic and commercial treaties under international law. Within this framework, unilateral climate change action by States (or by the European Union) that furthers the “ambition cycle” set forth by the Paris Agreement may withstand the scrutiny of the WTO Dispute Settlement System (DSS) and international investment tribunals but for a finding of discriminatory, arbitrary, unreasonable, selective or protectionist application.
Obey or Disobey: National Courts and International Law in the Thought of Conforti
Authors: Rossi Pierfrancesco
Published: November 2024

The subject of the application of international law by national courts was central – arguably the most central – to the scholarly work of Benedetto Conforti. The defining feature of his views on this matter was the dialectical opposition between the poles of obedience and disobedience. In fact, Conforti called upon national courts to take up a dual role: key enforcers of international law, but also defenders of national fundamental values against international law. This paper reflects on the complexity of Conforti’s thought and on its relation with scholarship and case law. The analysis is articulated around the themes of the past, the present and the future: respectively, the roots of his ideas and their connection with previous scholars, his writings’ influence on judicial practice, and the legacy of his thought.
The Italian Nazi Crimes Reparations Fund and Judicial Protection: Navigating the Drawbacks of Judicial Responses to Mass Crimes
Authors: Bufalini Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Reparations for mass crimes and systematic human rights violations are inherently complex endeavours and can be approached through various means. At the domestic level, a fundamental distinction can be made between judicial and administrative remedies, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. The present contribution focuses on the “Nazi Crimes Reparations Fund” established by the Italian government to provide redress to Italian victims or victims of crimes committed on Italian territory by the Third Reich during the period between 1 September 1939 and 8 May 1945. This Fund has a peculiar relationship with judicial proceedings. On one hand, eligibility to receive compensation through the Fund is contingent upon victims obtaining or intending to obtain a final judgment against Germany based on a claim filed by 31 December 2023. On the other hand, the Italian Decree-Law establishing the Fund precludes any continuation or institution of enforcement proceedings stemming from judgments that condemn Germany to award compensation to WWII victims of Nazi crimes. In practice, a judgment awarding compensation entitles victims to access the Fund, which is intended to be the sole means of execution. The main purpose of the present paper is to reflect on the nature of this legislative measure, especially concerning its relationship with – or rather, dependence on – judicial proceedings. The paper highlights how judicial remedies for mass human rights violations may raise concerns about both financial sustainability for the State and equality among victims.
The WTO of the Future: Keeping the WTO Digitally Relevant through the JSI on E-Commerce
Authors: Liao Qiu Xu Martin
Published: November 2024

Members of the WTO have long regarded e-commerce as an issue of lesser priority. Though seeking to tackle e-commerce issues since 1998 with a Work Programme, progress on enacting WTO law on the matter has remained largely stagnant. To combat two decades of relative inaction, the Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce was introduced in 2017. Now, within a decade, the JSI has drafted and released a finalised agreement which is now looked towards being integrated into the WTO legal framework. This article explores the history of the JSI, why it has been successful, and how it has overcome previous indifference of the WTO on e-commerce issues from the 1998 Work Programme. It will also highlight how the JSI does and should do to remain significant in today’s legal landscape where many plurilateral trade agreements concurrently emerge in tackling e-commerce issues.
Damascius and the First-Principle Aporia in Neoplatonism
Authors: Deng Xiangling
Published: November 2024

The first-principle aporia in Neoplatonism concerns how the first principle of everything can be both transcendent (beyond everything) and non-transcendent (in a causal relationship with its products). According to Damascius, earlier Neoplatonists attribute these two contradictory characteristics to the One. Damascius argues that the One is insufficient as the ultimate principle because it still relates to beings by being their cause. He posits the Ineffable above the One as the ultimate principle, which, in its absolute transcendence, can no longer be called a principle. Thus, the One is merely what can be called a principle, whereas the Ineffable is the ultimate principle, even though this notion is no longer applicable to it. Damascius separates the absolute transcendence and the causality of the first principle, assigning these to the Ineffable and the One, respectively. However, his “double principle doctrine” introduces difficulties for both the One and for the Ineffable, leaving neither adequate as the first principle.
When Being an Expert May Not Be Enough: Understanding the Experiences of Special Education Professionals Parenting Children with Disabilities
Authors: Batz Ruby , Blanchard Sheresa Boone
Published: November 2024

How do special education-related professionals parenting children with disabilities experience the special education system? This qualitative exploratory study delves into the experiences of 25 mother-educators who are special education-related professionals navigating the special education system for their children with disabilities. Through thematic analysis, our findings elucidate how the special education system perpetuates inequitable practices. The study describes four central themes: (1) the nuanced role of mother-educators’ expertise, (2) the capacity and willingness of school staff to serve children with disabilities, (3) the inherent inequalities within the special education system, and (4) the role of advocacy. Most of these mother-educators could occasionally leverage social, cultural, and economic capital to advocate and secure services for their children. However, despite their ability to leverage such resources and extensive knowledge about their children and the special education system, these mother-educators encountered numerous challenges in advocating for and securing services for their children. We discuss the implications of our findings for federal mandates on family engagement and caution against the deficit-based nature of special education. Furthermore, we propose recommendations for fostering more equitable approaches within the system. This study underscores the need for systemic changes to ensure that all children with disabilities receive the support and services they deserve.
‘What’s at stake?’ An exploration on the merits and drawbacks of the Welcome Corps Program, a private sponsorship of refugees
Authors: Cureton Ashley , Tonui Betty C , Lima Cross Fernanda , Gonzalez-Benson Odessa
Published: November 2024

To address the decline in US refugee admissions, the Biden Administration launched ‘Welcome Corps’, a program that encourages Americans to welcome refugees arriving through the US Refugee Admissions Program. This article includes a historical overview of private sponsorship models in the United States and globally. In addition to an overview of the initiative, potential benefits include more US citizens to sponsor refugees and family sponsorships. Potential challenges include resettlement workers feeling overwhelmed with program oversight and a decline in government aid. Recommendations focus on ways to make Welcome Corps more efficient for policymakers, social workers, and community advocates.
Elaboration and study of the fatigue behavior of a multifunctional composite material with embedded copper insert: The effect of thickness and electrical voltage
Authors: Bachir Bey Imene , Si Ahmed Fatiha , Mansour Samir
Published: November 2024

The behavior of multifunctional composite material with an embedded copper foil strip under cyclic loading was investigated. Materials able to bare charge as well as conduct electricity are crucial in various applications in high-tech industries. The effects of applied stress, voltage levels and the dimensions of the insert on the material response were analyzed. Two types of composites were prepared: one with a 0.1 mm thick copper (GFC0.1) and another with a thickness of 0.05 mm (GFC0.05). Both materials were subjected to tensile and fatigue tests. The results revealed that the dimensions of the insert had an impact on the Maximum Tensile Resistance (MTR). The examination of the fatigue-damaged composite gave important insights about the evolution of the de-bonding area of the interface copper/composite under different loading conditions. Fatigue test results allow the plotting of fatigue curves and establishing the fatigue equation specific to each material under each voltage level (U = 5, 9, and 12 ± 0.3 V). These results also showed that when tested at the same voltage, there is one stress level for which both GFC0.1 and GFC0.05 have the same fatigue resistance; above this stress value, GFC0.1 has a better resistance, and below it, GFC0.05 will be the one resisting better. Epoxy resin was chemically dissolved to restore the damaged copper Nicked-eye inspection along with scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations revealed interesting facts about the metallic insert behaviors, including the nature of the rupture and the effect of the voltage on the fractured surface aspect.
ScRNA-Seq Analysis of Tongue Tissues in Chronic Hyperplastic Candidiasis
Authors: Zhou P. , Xie Y. , Meng Y. , Chen Y. , Xu Z. , Hua H. , Zhang X.
Published: November 2024

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis (CHC) is a rare but severe subtype of oral candidiasis distinguished by its potential malignant transformation and suboptimal response to antifungal therapies. However, the cells and mechanisms that play key roles in this process remain unclear. Therefore, we performed the first single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of CHC-affected tongue tissues to reveal the microenvironmental changes and immunological etiology of CHC. First, the features of CHC lesions manifesting as thickening and hardening nodular lesions, including their pathological and microbiological characteristics, were elucidated. Then, a comprehensive cellular atlas and distinct immune landscape in CHC compared with healthy tissues were characterized using scRNA-seq, highlighting significant modifications in the cell number and functionality of fibroblasts and T/NK cells. Importantly, the central role of fibroblasts in cell-cell interactions in CHC was hinted, and possible ligand-receptor pairs mainly associated with inflammation and carcinogenesis were identified. Moreover, it was revealed that significant functional activation of fibroblasts, related to the activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathways and increased expression of collagen I, matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1), and MMP2, could be a hallmark of CHC, correlating with CHC’s clinical characteristics of tongue hardening and intense inflammation. Notably, there is sequencing evidence of the recruitment of CD8+Tex cells and activation of PD-1 and TIGIT immune checkpoint pathways. Moreover, cDC_LAMP3 cells exhibited high CD274 expression, suggesting immune exhaustion and an increased susceptibility to carcinogenesis. This pioneering study provides valuable insights into CHC pathogenesis and immune responses, enhancing our understanding of potential therapeutic strategies.
Comparison of Implant Precision with Robots, Navigation, or Static Guides
Authors: Shi J.-Y. , Wu X.-Y. , Lv X.-L. , Liu M. , Fu X.-J. , Liu B.-L. , Lai H.-C. , Tonetti M.S.
Published: November 2024

Precise surgical positioning according to a digital plan is important for aesthetic and biologically stable dental implant restorations. This randomized controlled trial compared implant placement assisted by robotic surgery (RS), dynamic navigation (DN), or 3-dimensional printed static guide (SG). An overall 45 patients with a missing tooth in the premolar/molar region were randomly assigned to 1 of the 3 groups. Implant positional accuracy (primary outcome), early wound healing, soft tissue microcirculation, patient-reported outcome measures, and surgeon preference were measured by calibrated blind examiners. One adverse event occurred in DN and RS. In RS ( n = 15), the global platform, apex deviation, and angular deviations (mean ± SD) were 1.1 ± 0.4 mm, 1.5 ± 0.6 mm, and 4.7° ± 2.5°, respectively. Similarly, deviations were 1.3 ± 0.6 mm, 1.9 ± 0.9 mm, and 5.5° ± 3.5° in the DN group ( n = 14) and 1.1 ± 0.6 mm, 2.0 ± 1.2 mm, and 6.2° ± 4.0° in the SG group ( n = 13). Significantly smaller differential deviations (mesial-distal) at the platform and apex levels were found in the RS group than the SG group ( P < 0.05). Surgery was significantly shorter with a SG ( P < 0.001), and this was associated with better postoperative recovery at 3 d. The surgeon assessed DN as providing easier access to reach the surgical site. No significant differences were found upon comparing soft tissue microcirculation and oxygen saturation immediately, 1 h, or 7 d after surgery. Patient-reported outcomes were comparable in the 3 groups, except that patients in the SG group reported better oral health–related quality of life 3 d after surgery. It can be concluded that RS showed near-zero 3-dimensional systematic error in implant position, while DN and SG demonstrated a centrifugal error pattern. All 3 guided approaches had uneventful wound healing and acceptable patient-reported outcomes. The 3 groups had specific cost-benefit profiles. After additional technical developments, future trials with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods should be performed to analyze the cost-effectiveness of different guided surgical approaches.
Women in Dental Clinical and Translational Research
Authors: Vieira A.R. , Martinez Gonzalez K.G. , DaSilva A.F. , Winham S.J. , Pardi V.
Published: November 2024

This article presents a summary of the third American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research Meeting within a Meeting, which was held during the 2024 annual meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana. Speakers were challenged to reflect on how women are differentially affected by health and societal issues by factors that go beyond biology. The goal was to promote current research on women’s issues that are relevant to dental, oral, and craniofacial scientists.