bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting topography-vegetation relationships at natural and human-influenced mountain treelines in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Urquiaga-Flores Erickson G. , Bader Maaike Y. , Kessler Michael
Published: December 2024

Context

The tropical Andes have a long history of human land use, which has affected vegetation patterns especially at high elevations. However, reference patterns to quantify these effects are missing due to lacking data from mountain ranges unaffected by humans.

Objectives

We compared landscape-scale patterns of forest distribution in the largest tropical Andean mountain range without high-elevation human occupancy, the Cordillera de Vilcabamba, and a nearby range with a long land-use history, the Cordillera de San Miguel, in Peru.

Methods

We quantified topographical positions (exposition, slope, wetness index) of 12.5 × 12.5-m2 pixels with and without forest cover in 100-m elevational bands and compared the study regions.

Results

In the undisturbed range (Vilcabamba), forest consistently occurred on steeper slopes than non-forest, differing little in other topographic metrics except a slight preference for the less sunny South- and West-facing slopes. In the disturbed range (San Miguel), forest showed little preference for any landscape position at elevations below 3500 m, but at higher elevations patterns were very clear: forest was more restricted to valley bottoms, as indicated consistently by higher topographic wetness and lower slope and topographic position indices, and to the less sunny South-facing slopes.

Conclusions

Land-use has a strong influence on landscape-level forest distribution in this part of the tropical Andes. Similar effects are likely in other tropical mountains, although no reference areas are available in most of them. The patterns described here can support the use of remote sensing to detect minimally disturbed tropical alpine-treeline ecotones, which should be focal points for conservation and research.
Statistical variable selection and causality in the social and behavioral sciences
Authors: Kincaid Harold
Published: December 2024

The problem of “variable selection” is a fundamental one across the sciences. In its broadest terms, this problem would be at least part of the general issue of theory selection and comparison. However, there is a more circumscribed problem that concerns primarily the choice of variables for the best fitting model, given some set of data, usually observational in nature, and specific statistical techniques, typically multiple regression. There is a deep strand in econometrics and other applied social, behavioral, and biomedical science statistics to want formal decision rules or algorithms to pick out variables. The paper examines seven such formal procedures using a simulated data set with known causal relations. The conclusion is that seven often-used procedures make systematic causal errors. Some suggestions about better alternatives conclude.
The comprehensibility continuum: a novel method for analysing comprehensibility of patient reported outcome measures
Authors: Gale Victoria , Powell Philip A. , Carlton Jill
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Evidence of comprehensibility is frequently required during the development of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs); the respondent’s interpretation of PROM items needs to align with intended meanings. Cognitive interviews are recommended for investigating PROM comprehensibility, yet guidance for analysis is lacking. Consequently, the quality and trustworthiness of cognitive interview data and analysis is threatened, as there is no clear procedure detailing how analysts can systematically, and consistently, identify evidence that respondent interpretations align/misalign with intended meanings.

Methods

This paper presents a novel, structured approach to comprehensibility analysis - the ‘Comprehensibility Continuum’ – that builds upon existing cognitive interview guidance.

Results

The Comprehensibility Continuum comprises a structured rating scale to code depth of alignment between intended item meaning and respondent interpretation and consists of five main stages: before cognitive interviews are conducted, researchers must (1) Define intended meanings of PROM items; and (2) Determine comprehensibility thresholds for both participant- and item-level. After conducting interviews, they (3) Prepare data by transcribing interviews ‘intelligent’ verbatim; (4) Code transcripts using the Comprehensibility Continuum scale in iterative sets, assigning an overall code for each item at participant-level; and (5) Compare participant-level codes across all participants to determine overall item comprehensibility, such that decisions can be made to retain, modify, or remove items.

Conclusion

Quality in qualitative data analysis is achieved through rigorous methods that are clearly described and justified. Given insufficiency in guidelines, cognitive interviewers must reflect on how best to demonstrate PROM comprehensibility systematically and consistently from interview data, and the Comprehensibility Continuum method offers a potential solution.
Narratives in European debate concerning new genomic techniques
Authors: Napiórkowski Marcin , Nowak Andrzej , Biesaga Mikołaj , Talaga Szymon , von Holstein Erika Staël
Published: December 2024

Given the complexity of agricultural problems, it is essential to develop acceptable solutions for various stakeholders with diverse knowledge, viewpoints, and preferences. However, European public opinion has become highly polarized, making constructive discussions on these issues difficult. We present the results of the narrative analysis of media debate on new genomic techniques. The study identified two primary narrative groups: ‘precaution-focused’ and ‘innovation-focused.’ The former emphasizes caution, potential risks, and the need for stringent regulation, while the latter highlights benefits, progress, and the promise of genome editing for sustainable agricultural practices. Within each group of narratives, several distinct narratives were identified. The research has revealed that despite the high polarization, the narratives shared important values and beliefs. Going beyond the dividing narratives and concentrating on common values can depolarize the debate and set the stage for new narratives, enabling constructive debate, concentrating on solving problems, and maximizing collective outcomes.
Phosphorus removal from irrigation return flow using an iron oxide filter and denitrifying pine bark bioreactor treatment train
Authors: Dekle Jack L. , Strosnider William H. J. , White Sarah A.
Published: December 2024

Development of low-cost aqueous P removal methods is imperative for water resource protection. This study assessed the contribution of an iron oxide (FeOx) filter for P sorption paired with a denitrifying pine bark bioreactor, quantifying the effect of treatment order on P removal. FeOx filters were placed upstream (order 1) or downstream (order 2) of pine bark bioreactors receiving a continuous flow of simulated irrigation return flow after constructed floating wetland treatment. The FeOx filters removed 0.095 ± 0.01 g P·m−3·d−1 and 0.21 ± 0.01 g P·m−3·d−1 in the spring and fall, respectively. P concentration was reduced from 5.08 to 3.8 mg·L−1 and from 6.72 to 4.5 mg·L−1 in the spring and fall experiments, respectively. The FeOx substrate sorbed 1.49 ± 0.08 mg P·g FeOx−1 in spring and 3.18 ± 0.2 mg P·g FeOx−1 fall experiments. P sorption varied by season due to differences in the load presented to the FeOx filters. Reclaimed FeOx substrates were viable P removal filters, especially during cooler months when the nutrient uptake capacity of constructed floating wetland plants was limited. Overall, findings indicate that FeOx filters can be used as a substrate for P sorption in conjunction with constructed floating wetlands or other plant-based treatment technologies that can be limited by seasonality.
Endoskopische und operative Therapie der gastroösophagealen Refluxkrankheit
Authors: Schoppmann Sebastian F. , Jomrich Gerd
Published: December 2024

Die gastroösophageale Refluxkrankheit (GERD) stellt nach wie vor eine klinische Herausforderung, insbesondere bei Patienten, die nicht auf eine konservative Therapie mit Protonenpumpenhemmern (PPI) ansprechen, dar. Seit Jahrzehnten stellen chirurgische Therapieoptionen wie die laparoskopische Fundoplicatio die primären Behandlungsstrategien bei nicht-PPI-sensitiven Patienten dar. Dennoch bestehen auch bei diesem Verfahren Einschränkungen in der langfristigen Wirksamkeit bzw. treten postoperative Komplikationen auf, womit die Notwendigkeit alternativer therapeutischer Optionen gegeben ist. Jüngste Fortschritte in sowohl endoskopischen als auch chirurgischen Techniken bieten vielversprechende Lösungen, um diese bisher unerfüllten Bedürfnisse anzugehen. Sie haben das Potenzial, die Symptomkontrolle zu verbessern, die Abhängigkeit von Medikamenten zu verringern und unerwünschte Nebenwirkungen zu minimieren. Neue Ansätze konzentrieren sich darauf, die normale Funktion des gastroösophagealen Übergangs wiederherzustellen, die Kompetenz des unteren Ösophagussphinkters zu erhöhen und die physiologischen Mechanismen der Refluxkontrolle zu erhalten, während das Risiko posttherapeutischer Komplikationen, wie Dysphagie und Blähungen, verringert wird. Aktuelle Daten zeigen vielversprechende Ergebnissen hinsichtlich der Symptomlinderung, der Verbesserung der Lebensqualität und der Reduktion der Säureexposition über einen längeren Zeitraum. Dennoch bleiben Herausforderungen bestehen, insbesondere bei der Entscheidung, welche individuelle Therapieoption anzubieten ist. Trotz der Verfügbarkeit neuartiger Behandlungen dienen PPI-Therapie und chirurgische Fundoplicatio weiterhin als Goldstandard. Allerdings treibt die wachsende Erkenntnis über die Einschränkungen, die mit diesen konventionellen Ansätzen verbunden sind, die Entwicklung neuer therapeutischer Strategien voran. Diese Innovationen haben das Potenzial, das Management der GERD zu verändern und eventuell hin zu einer personalisierten operativen Refluxchirurgie zu führen, indem sie weniger invasive Alternativen mit weniger Nebenwirkungen, einer besseren Standardisierung und einer einfacheren Technik anbieten.
Robust design heuristics for product costing systems: a replication and extension using an ABC cost hierarchy
Authors: Meyer Matthias , Schmidt Mark
Published: December 2024

Accurately reported product costs are essential for many managerial decisions, such as product and resource planning, pricing, product mix decisions, and cost management. Balakrishnan et al. (Manag Sci 57(3):520–541, 2011) offered valuable managerial guidance on how costing system design heuristics affect the accuracy of reported product costs. This paper tests the internal and external validity of their numerical experiments and recommendations. Our replication results show that we are able to reproduce most of the findings, thereby confirming the results’ internal validity. To test external validity and assess the robustness of their findings, we modify a key model element by implementing a resource consumption pattern that follows a four-tier Activity-Based Costing (ABC) cost hierarchy, with which we repeat the numerical experiments. Although the design heuristics are mostly robust in this modified environment, the benefits of improving the costing system design are less straightforward and less linear. For instance, single plant-wide cost drivers outperform more information-demanding costing systems with few (2–4) cost pools. Consequently, given a four-tier ABC cost hierarchy, refining the costing system incrementally can reduce accuracy, leaving costing system designers stuck in the middle. Overall, our study supports Balakrishnan et al. (2011) results’ robustness but also identifies reasons why firms may still use simple costing systems.
Celebrating 50 years of the Bílik reaction: history and present
Authors: Hricovíniová Zuzana
Published: December 2024

Epimerization reactions catalyzed by transition metals have changed the previous methods used in the synthesis of rare carbohydrates. In July 2024, we commemorated the 95th anniversary of the birth of Prof. Vojtech Bílik, the discoverer of a new reaction in the synthesis of rare carbohydrates. Over fifty years ago, many sugars were generally prepared by the Lobry de Bruyn–Alberda van Ekenstein isomerization reaction, which was the simplest method for a long period. However, this approach was not very efficient and the epimeric aldose was usually obtained in lower yield than the ketose. A new methodology introduced by Bílik in the 1970′s showed that the synthesis of epimeric aldoses mediated by the molybdenum Mo(VI) catalyst could significantly improve the preparation of rare aldoses without undesirable side reactions. Due to the simplicity and high efficiency of the reaction, the stereospecific Mo(VI)-catalyzed transformation of aldoses was used for preparative purposes and soon gained international recognition. The Mo(VI)-catalyzed epimerization reaction of aldoses was named after its discoverer, and it is the only reaction in the chemical literature of carbohydrates named after a Slovak scientist. On this anniversary, we take the opportunity to summarize the scientific achievements in this field of research.
Clinical management of indeterminate thyroid nodules needs to be revisited. New evidence for a personalized approach to the problem
Authors: Piticchio Tommaso , Wolde Sellasie S. , D’Arrigo F. , Galeano F. , Barca I. , Prinzi A. , Le Moli R. , Scappaticcio L. , Amendola S. , Guidobaldi L. , Nardone I. , Zaccaria S. , Pallotti F. , Uccioli L. , F. Frasca
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Thyroid nodules diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) as TIR3A or Class III subgroup “other types of atypia” (indeterminate thyroid nodules - ITNs), are the only ones without a unique clinical action indicated for management. This leads to multiple FNAC repetitions (FNAC-reps) and lifelong follow-up, with huge consumption of time and resources. The aims of the study were to inquire the usefulness of repeating FNAC in ITNs and perform an evaluation of a long-term follow-up of a large cohort of ITNs.

Methods

The study was conducted in two Italian high-volume tertiary centres. We selected patients who underwent the first FNAC with subsequent diagnosis of ITN in a centre involved and who then repeated it in the same institute.

Results

We included 506 patients. The FNAC-rep determined the “change in management indications” (CMIs) in 30 cases. The binomial test showed that this proportion was not significant (p 0.36). The factors related to CMIs were age (OR = 0.97; 95%CI = 0.95–0.99; p = 0.04), margins (OR = 5.6; 95%CI = 1.7–18.1; p = 0.004), and echogenicity (hypoechoic vs. isoechoic: OR = 5.2; 95%CI = 1.87–14.5; p = 0.002| hypoechoic vs. iso-anechoic: OR = 5.9; 95%CI = 1.32–26.2; p = 0.02). Follow-up of cases without CMIs showed that 20 of 476 cases required surgery. Of these, only four were malignant and all occurred within the first 8 years of observation.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that FNAC-rep is useless for the most of cases, hence it should only be considered for young adults having nodules with suspicious characteristics. Furthermore, a 10-year follow-up for ITNs is safe enough rather than a long-life follow-up.
Allergen immunotherapy in children and adolescents: current aspects 2024
Authors: Gerstlauer Michael
Published: December 2024

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a proven treatment for allergic diseases such as allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC), allergic asthma (AA) and insect sting allergy. Particularly in children and adolescents, who have a high prevalence of these diseases, AIT plays a crucial role in not only alleviating symptoms but also influencing the natural course of the disease. This article examines the use and importance of AIT in children and adolescents in Germany in the final phase of the Therapy Allergen Ordinance (TAV). The focus is on the efficacy and safety of the therapy, as well as the approval of the respective therapeutic allergens for the respective age group.
Eigenvalue variations of the Neumann Laplace operator due to perturbed boundary conditions
Authors: Nursultanov Medet , Trad William , Tzou Justin , Tzou Leo
Published: December 2024

This work considers the Neumann eigenvalue problem for the weighted Laplacian on a Riemannian manifold $$(M,g,\partial M)$$

(
M
,
g
,
∂
M
)

under a singular perturbation. This perturbation involves the imposition of vanishing Dirichlet boundary conditions on a small portion of the boundary. We derive an asymptotic expansion of the perturbed eigenvalues as the Dirichlet part shrinks to a point $$x^*\in \partial M$$

x
∗

∈
∂
M

in terms of the spectral parameters of the unperturbed system. This asymptotic expansion demonstrates the impact of the geometric properties of the manifold at a specific point $$x^*$$

x
∗

. Furthermore, it becomes evident that the shape of the Dirichlet region holds significance as it impacts the first terms of the asymptotic expansion. A crucial part of this work is the construction of the singularity structure of the restricted Neumann Green’s function which may be of independent interest. We employ a fusion of layer potential techniques and pseudo-differential operators during this work.
Enhancing group interactions and story quality in primary school students: an investigation into the impact of collaborative storytelling methodologies
Authors: Filosofi Fabio , Pasqualotto Angela , Paolizzi Eleonora , Iandolo Giuseppe , Alonso-Campuzano Cristina , Venuti Paola
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of collaborative storytelling methods on group interactions and story quality in primary school students. Participants (97 students, grades 1–3) engaged in tangible digital collaborative storytelling (TDST), collaborative digital storytelling (DST), and traditional storytelling (TST). The research explored three hypotheses: (1) TDST promotes more inclusive and prosocial interactions than DST, (2) collaborative stories show higher formal and content quality than individual stories, and (3) collaboration parameters influence story quality across methodologies. Employing a cross-sectional design, the findings demonstrated significant differences in group interactions and story characteristics In our study, students engaged in tangible digital collaborative storytelling (TDST) demonstrated reduced interruptions and enhanced task focus compared to traditional methods. Collaborative stories, particularly in TDST, were concise, with fewer off-task elements and higher narrative cohesion than individual stories. Notably, a significant correlation between story cohesion and inclusive space was observed. These findings highlight the significance of integrating tangible digital tools, providing valuable insights into enhancing collaborative storytelling for positive group dynamics and improved story quality among young students. This research holds implications for educational environments and therapeutic interventions, emphasizing the role of collaborative storytelling in fostering communication and group cohesion.
3D-Printed Polymer Scaffolds for Vascularized Bone Regeneration Using Mineral and Extracellular Matrix Deposition
Authors: Madhavarapu Shreya , Lakshmikanthan Adhithi , Cipriano James , Mai Linh , Frazier Brianna , Cook-Chennault Kimberly , Kanna Anila Jennet , Franco Francisco , Freeman Joseph W.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Trauma, injury, disease, infection, congenital deformities, and non-union after a fracture can lead to significant loss of bone tissue resulting in large bone defects. If left untreated, this can lead to decreased bone strength, stability, and function as well as long-term malformations. We present a novel, pre-vascularized 3D-printed biodegradable scaffold mimicking the architecture of native bone as a bone graft alternative to promote vascularized bone regeneration.

Methods

Scaffolds with a highly porous central trabecular section surrounded by an outer cortical section modeled after the bone’s osteons were 3D printed in polylactic acid (PLA). Hydroxyapatite (HA) posts were incorporated to improve mechanical strength. A soak-freeze technique was used to introduce additional porosity to support the recruitment, proliferation, and differentiation of stem cells. Scaffolds were mineralized to provide cues for osteoconduction and osteoinduction. They were also pre-vascularized to promote the differentiation of stem cells along the vascular lineage.

Results

Compression mechanical testing showed the addition of HA posts improved mechanical strength. Using the soak-freeze technique, micropores in the range of 0–10 µm were introduced. Osteogenic differentiation capability of the scaffolds was verified in vitro through the estimation of osteocalcin (OC) produced by the cells seeded on them and by staining for alkaline phosphatase. Differentiation of stem cells along the vascular lineage within the scaffold was confirmed via the estimation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) and by staining for CD31, a marker for vascular differentiation.

Conclusion

This novel scaffold incorporated with cues necessary to promote the regeneration of bone and its vasculature shows promise as an alternative to currently used bone grafts.

Lay Summary

Significant bone loss caused by trauma, infection, or disease results in large defects that are currently treated using bone grafts—autografts (taken from the same patient), allografts and xenografts (donor tissue), or synthetic grafts. We have developed a tissue-engineered alternative that mimics the architecture of natural bone and has cues to promote both the regeneration of bone and its vasculature. These are fabricated using 3D printing (3DP) technology, providing cost-effective, customizable alternatives to conventional bone grafts.
Future Changes in the Contribution of Gulf of Mexico-Caribbean Sea Moisture Source: Impacts on Regional Precipitation Patterns
Authors: Fernandez-Alvarez José C. , Alvarez-Socorro Gleisis , Durán-Quesada Ana María , Nieto Raquel , Gimeno Luis
Published: December 2024

Central America (CA) and the eastern United States (US) is a region with a significant contribution from the Gulf of Mexico–Caribbean Sea (GM_CS) moisture source. In the context of climate change, sink patterns associated with this source may change implying significant changes in this region. Hence, this study determined future changes in the contributions to precipitation (PCs) associated with GM_CS. So, a dynamic downscaling methodology was considered using the regional climate model WRF-ARW and FLEXPART-WRF, forced with the CESM2 climate model. Specifically, a decrease in the GM_CS contribution in the CA region was projected for all seasons considered, showing a southward shift in the contribution pattern. Additionally, the sink pattern was projected to increase, but the area was projected to decrease, mainly by the end of the century, except in the autumn. In addition, for the southeastern US region, an increase in PCs in spring and autumn was projected for end-century, but a decrease in PCs by more than 40% in the summer months was projected. However, for the northeastern US, changes in PCs were amplified for both the mid- and end-century relative to the southeastern US region, with an increase projected for most periods, except for a slight decrease in the summer of 10%.
Association between frailty and adverse outcomes after cardiac resynchronization therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Xiaowang , Fang Fei
Published: December 2024

Aim

To synthesize evidence, using data from published studies, on the association of frailty with the outcomes after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).

Methods

The systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases was done to identify observational studies (cohort/case–control/cross-sectional) that used an objective method for frailty assessment and had presented adjusted effect sizes. STATA version 15.0 was used to conduct analysis, which was based on random effects model.

Results

Fifteen studies were included. Frailty was found to be associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio (OR) 6.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.48, 8.85). The effect of frailty on the response to CRT was not statistically significant (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.19, 1.59). The pooled effect size indicated that frailty was associated with somewhat bigger but not statistically significant increase in the risk of complications (OR 1.70, 95% CI 0.93, 3.12). The risks of mortality and decompensated heart failure on long-term follow up were higher in frail patients (Hazard ratio (HR) 1.75, 95% CI 1.40, 2.17 and HR 3.03, 95% CI 1.33, 6.90, respectively) compared to patients without frailty. The risk of readmission was higher in frail patients, however, it did not achieve statistical significance (HR 2.63, 95% CI 0.89, 7.75).

Conclusion

Frail CRT patients could be at higher risks of mortality, decompensated heart failure, and may have potentially higher rates of complications. Integrating frailty assessment into pre-CRT evaluation and customizing interventions for frail patients might be an essential steps towards enhancing outcomes in this population.
Endoskopische und chirurgische Behandlung intestinaler Stenosen im Zusammenhang mit chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankungen
Authors: Pfister Tabea , Zbinden Jonas , Misselwitz Benjamin , Burri Emanuel , Rieder Florian , Brügger Lukas , Wiest Reiner
Published: December 2024

Der Morbus Crohn (MC), eine chronisch-entzündliche Darmerkrankung (CED), ist durch eine übergreifende transmurale Entzündung des Gastrointestinaltrakts gekennzeichnet, die zu entzündlichen und fibrotischen Stenosen führen kann. Bei etwa 20 % der Patient:innen mit einem MC werden innerhalb von 10 Jahren nach Diagnosestellung Stenosen beobachtet. Mithilfe der MR-Enteroklyse, welche neben der Abdomensonographie die Diagnostik der Wahl darstellt, kann eine CED-assoziierte Stenose optimal bezüglich Anatomie und assoziierter Komplikationen beurteilt werden. Bei rund 40–80 % dieser Patient:innen ist eine chirurgische Behandlung (Resektion oder Strikturoplastik) innerhalb von 10 Jahren nach der Diagnosestellung erforderlich. Daher ist eine frühzeitige und anhaltende interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit zwischen Gastroenterologie, interventioneller Endoskopie, Radiologie und Viszeralchirurgie von entscheidender Bedeutung bei der Behandlung von CED-assoziierten Stenosen. Die endoskopische Ballondilatation (EBD) zeigt bei Stenosen mit hierfür günstigen Voraussetzungen (z. B. kurzstreckig, d. h. < 5 cm, isoliert und/oder postoperativ = Anastomosenstenose ohne assoziierte Komplikationen, wie z. B. Abszess, Fistel oder Malignität) gute Ergebnisse in Bezug auf Sicherheit, kurz- und langfristige Wirksamkeit und Patient:innenzufriedenheit. Mithilfe dieser endoskopischen Intervention kann in solchen Fällen eine Operation verzögert oder verhindert werden. Schliesslich ist eine individuelle Herangehensweise je nach Krankheitsaktivität, Stenosenanatomie und -merkmalen sowie Patient:innenwunsch in enger interdisziplinärer Abstimmung und gemeinsamer Betreuung durch Gastroenterologie, interventionelle Endoskopie, Radiologie und Viszeralchirurgie essenziell für die bestmögliche Betreuung dieser Patient:innen.
Artificial intelligence, digital colonialism, and the implications for Africa’s future development
Authors: Salami Aishat Oyenike
Published: December 2024

In the mid to late 19th century, much of Africa was under colonial rule, with the colonisers exercising power over the labour and territory of Africa. However, as much as Africa has predominantly gained independence from traditional colonial rule, another form of colonial rule still dominates the African landscape. This similitude of these different forms of colonialism is found in the power dominance exhibited by Western technological corporations, just like the traditional colonialists. In this digital age, digital colonialism manifests in Africa through the control and ownership of critical digital infrastructure by foreign entities, leading to unequal data flow and asymmetrical power dynamics. This usually occurs under the guise of foreign corporations providing technological assistance to the continent.

By drawing references from the African continent, this article examines the manifestations of digital colonialism and the factors that aid its occurrence on the continent. It further explores the manifestations of digital colonialism in technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) while analysing the occurrence of data exploitation on the continent and the need for African ownership in cultivating the digital future of the African continent. The paper also recognises the benefits linked to the use of AI and makes a cautious approach toward the deployment of AI tools in Africa. It then concludes by recommending the implementation of laws, regulations, and policies that guarantee the inclusiveness, transparency, and ethical values of new technologies, with strategies toward achieving a decolonised digital future on the African continent.
MAN2B1 in immune system-related diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and cancers: functions beyond α-mannosidosis
Authors: Han Yuwen , Zhou Yuanshuai , Pan Jinlin , Sun Minxuan , Yang Jiao
Published: December 2024

Glycosylation modifications of proteins and glycan hydrolysis are critical for protein function in biological processes. Aberrations in glycosylation enzymes are linked to lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs), immune interactions, congenital disorders and tumour progression. Mannosidase alpha class 2B member 1 (MAN2B1) is a lysosomal hydrolase from the α-mannosidase family. Dysfunction of MAN2B1 has been implicated as causative factors in mannosidosis, a lysosomal storage disorder characterised by cognitive impairment, hearing loss and immune system and skeletal anomalies. Despite decades of research, its role in pathogenic infections, autoimmune conditions, cancers and neurodegenerative pathologies is highly ambiguous. Future studies are required to shed more light on the intricate functioning of MAN2B1. To this end, we review the biological functions, expression patterns, enzymatic roles and potential implications of MAN2B1 across various cell types and disease contexts. Additionally, the novel insights presented in this review may aid in understanding the role of MAN2B1 in immune cells, thereby paving the way for targeted therapeutic interventions in immune-related disorders.
Self-generated magnetic field in three-dimensional ablative Rayleigh–Taylor instability
Authors: Zhang Dehua , Jiang Xian , Tao Tao , Li Jun , Yan Rui , Sun Dejun , Zheng Jian
Published: December 2024

The self-generated magnetic field in three-dimensional (3-D) single-mode ablative Rayleigh–Taylor instability (ARTI) relevant to the acceleration phase of a direct-drive inertial confinement fusion (ICF) implosion is investigated. It is found that stronger magnetic fields up to a few thousand teslas can be generated by 3-D ARTI rather than by its two-dimensional (2-D) counterpart. The Nernst effects significantly alter the magnetic field convection and amplify the magnetic fields. The magnetic field of thousands of teslas yields the Hall parameter of the order of unity, leading to profound magnetized heat flux modification. While the magnetic field significantly accelerates the bubble growth in the short-wavelength 2-D modes through modifying the heat fluxes, the magnetic field mostly accelerates the spike growth but has little influence on the bubble growth in 3-D ARTI. The accelerated growth of spikes in 3-D ARTI is expected to enhance material mixing and degrade ICF implosion performance. This work is focused on a regime relevant to direct-drive ICF parameters at the National Ignition Facility, and it also covers a range of key parameters that are relevant to other ICF designs and hydrodynamic/astrophysical scenarios.
Studying Fascism transculturally: Italian scholarship in the international arena
Authors: Bartolini Guido
Published: December 2024

In 2005, Enzo Traverso argued that a very problematic trend was affecting German memory culture and scholarship about Nazism. Echoing an alarm raised earlier by Timothy Mason, the scholar contended that at least since the 1980s there had been a progressive ‘disparition de la notion de “fascism” du champ historiographique’ (disappearance of the concept of ‘fascism’ from historiography) (p.94). The phenomenon observed by Traverso has found concrete materialisation in the EU's politics of memory developed throughout the twenty-first century. As Filippo Focardi argues in his work Nel cantiere della memoria (2020), the EU memory discourse has been shaped around a totalitarian paradigm centred on the memorialisation of Nazi and Communist crimes, in which the notion of a general form of fascism finds little space, and Italian Fascism only exists as a marginal epiphenomenon. This situation has begun to change in recent years as the growing success of far-right movements across the globe has brought international attention to the concept of fascism. Many Italian scholars, who have never ceased to study fascism, are now directing their efforts towards the international arena to contribute to a discussion that seems to have acquired particular significance for the understanding of our time.
Party Positioning Under Populist State Leaders
Authors: Garz Marcel , Singh Tanmay
Published: December 2024

The implications of rising parliamentary representation of populist parties have been thoroughly studied but little is known about the impact of populist state leaders on party positions. In this article, we study mainstream parties' strategic responses when a populist takes over as the leader of a nation. We use content-analytical data and large language modelling to measure positions expressed in manifestos from parties from 51 democracies between 1989 and 2018. Employing methods for causal inference from observational data, we find that right-wing populist state leaders induce mainstream parties to differentiate their positions on multiculturalism, possibly leading to polarization of the party system. Under left-wing populist leaders, mainstream parties adopt more homogenous or differentiated positions, depending on the policy category and other contextual factors. Parties are generally more responsive in emerging than advanced countries and in presidential than parliamentary systems.
The efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation for allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xi , Yan Min , Deng Qicheng , Yang Ling
Published: December 2024

Objective

This systematic review aims to synthesise findings from randomised, controlled trials and assess the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation in treating allergic rhinitis.

Methods

A thorough search was conducted across PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang, Chinese Scientific Journal, and Chinese Biomedical Literature databases from their inception until October 2023. The primary outcome measure was the total effective rate, with secondary outcomes including adverse events.

Results

This review included 15 randomised, controlled trials involving 1430 patients. The pooled analysis revealed a statistically significant effect on the total effective rate (odds ratio = 3.27, 95 per cent confidence interval = 2.37 to ~4.51). However, no statistical significance was observed in adverse events (odds ratio = 1.18, 95 per cent confidence interval = 0.67 to ~2.08).

Conclusions

Based on the analytical results, radiofrequency ablation emerges as an efficacious and safe treatment modality for allergic rhinitis. Given the constraints posed by a limited sample size, it is imperative that forthcoming clinical trials adhere rigorously to the gold standard of randomised, controlled trials for the purpose of corroborating these conclusions.
A novel kinematic modeling method for (1+n) type parallel mechanism: applied to obtain the position and posture space simultaneously
Authors: He Yufan , Fang Hairong , Jin Zhengxian , Zhang Chong
Published: December 2024

In this study, a novel kinematic modeling method of parallel mechanism is proposed. It can obtain position and posture space simultaneously in a single model. Compared with the traditional method only based on inverse kinematics, the novel method can significantly improve computational performance. The original evaluation metric
$\mathfrak{R}$
is proposed to evaluate the performance of the two modeling methods. Three groups of experiments with different calculation times are carried out for the classical PPU-3RUS parallel mechanism, and the new RS-3UPRU parallel mechanism after the effectiveness and wide applicability of the novel modeling method is proved. The calculation time and output rate are recorded, respectively, and then the respective
$\mathfrak{R}$
values are obtained by weighting. The results show that the novel modeling method has better performance.
Old-growth grasslands of Central Anatolia (Türkiye) require better conservation and management
Authors: Tavşanoğlu Çağatay , Bernardi Rafael
Published: December 2024

The grasslands of Central Anatolia in Türkiye, including the steppes and forest-steppes, are often mischaracterized as degraded ecosystems due to long-standing human activities, particularly agriculture and domestic grazing. However, palaeoecological evidence and recent research suggest that these grasslands are ancient, biodiversity-rich systems that have persisted through various climatic changes and disturbance regimes. This manuscript challenges the conventional view that Central Anatolian grasslands are secondary and degraded, arguing instead that they represent old-growth ecosystems that coexisted with forests as alternative biome states throughout history. We emphasize the need to re-evaluate current land management practices, particularly afforestation efforts, which may undermine the resilience of these ecosystems to climate change. By recognizing the ecological value of these old-growth grasslands and adopting a comprehensive conservation strategy, the conservation and restoration of these vital ecosystems can be improved, ensuring their resilience and biodiversity in the face of future environmental challenges.
Synthetic G-jet-structures in modal homotopy type theory
Authors: Cherubini Felix
Published: December 2024

This article constructs the moduli stack of torsion-free
$G$
-jet-structures in homotopy type theory with one monadic modality. This yields a construction of this moduli stack for any
$\infty$
-topos equipped with any stable factorization systems.

In the intended applications of this theory, the factorization systems are given by the deRham-Stack construction. Homotopy type theory allows a formulation of this abstract theory with surprisingly low complexity. This is witnessed by the accompanying formalization of large parts of this work.
Desmin-related cardiomyopathy in a young woman presented with an infra-Hisian atrioventricular block
Authors: Cabral Margarida , Ruivo Catarina , Martins Hélia
Published: December 2024

A 17-year-old woman was admitted due to a complete atrioventricular block. Comprehensive analytic and imaging studies were conducted to determine the aetiology. Cardiac magnetic ressonance imaging revealed concentric hypertrophy of the left ventricle and diffuse intramural late enhancement gadolinium. Genetic testing identified a heterozygous pathogenic variant in the desmin gene. To manage atrioventricular block, a dual-chamber pacemaker was implanted. During follow-up, no spontaneous ventricular activity was detected.
Pensions and protestants: or why everything in retirement can’t be optimized
Authors: Milevsky Moshe Arye , Velazquez Marcos
Published: December 2024

A common narrative among insurance actuaries and business economists is that national or regional pension systems can be finetuned, optimized, and improved simply by tinkering with demographic and financial parameters; all within the context of the “right” mathematical model. Indeed, recent papers in the actuarial literature have offered technical fixes around savings rates, retirement ages, decumulation strategies as well as more refined mortality and interest rate models. But alas, not everything in the world of pensions and retirement can be optimized, in particular as it relates to the history, background culture, or religion of the underlying population.

This paper documents a statistically significant relationship between a region’s pension plan “health status” and the fraction of the region’s population identifying as Protestant Christians (PC). We begin the analysis at the national level using a well-known pension quality index and then obtain similar results for the actuarial funded status of U.S. state pension plans.

Overall, this work is within the sphere of recent literature that indicates historical religious beliefs, values, and culture matter for financial economic outcomes; a factor which obviously can’t be optimized within a mathematical Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) equation. In other words, some things in retirement are truly beyond control.
An Evaluation of Antarctic Ice Core Nitrate Records as a Proxy for Solar Activity
Authors: Laluraj C. M. , Waliur Rahaman , Meloth Thamban
Published: December 2024

Nitrate (NO3−) deposition in polar ice sheets archives valuable information on past solar activity. However, interpretation of Antarctic ice core NO3− records as a proxy for past solar activity remains challenging due to multiple sources and processes controlling NO3− variability in ice core records. Here, we present a new high‐resolution ice core NO3− record (1905–2005 CE) from coastal Dronning Maud Land, East Antarctica, to investigate the solar signal and other forcing factors/processes in controlling ice core NO3− variability. Our record exhibits significant periodicity in the range of 8–12 years frequency band during 1940–2005 CE, apparently identified as the signal of ∼11 year sunspot cycle; however, such signal was not detected in the previous interval during 1905–1940 CE. To address the discontinuous and/or obscured signals in the present ice core record and inconsistency among various Antarctica ice core records, we extended our investigations to 10 ice core NO3− records from various regions of Antarctica. Analysis of seven records for the common interval from 1738 to 1990 CE reveals dominant periodicities of 8–12 years, indicating solar forcing as a primary driver, followed by precipitation modulated by El Niño‐Southern Oscillation and Pacific Decadal Oscillation. Further, our investigation reveals that the solar signal extracted from multiple records becomes undetectable when mean annual hemispheric sunspot numbers larger than 140, suggesting this is a threshold limit for detecting the solar signal. These findings will improve our present understanding of ice core NO3− records as a proxy for past solar activity.
Assessing GFDL‐ESM4.1 Climate Responses to a Stratospheric Aerosol Injection Strategy Intended to Avoid Overshoot 2.0°C Warming
Authors: Zhang Shipeng , Naik Vaishali , Paynter David , Tilmes Simone , John Jasmin
Published: December 2024

In this work, we apply the GFDL Earth System Model (GFDL‐ESM4.1) to explore the climate responses to a stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) scenario that aims to restrict global warming to 2.0°C above pre‐industrial levels (1850–1900) under the CMIP6 overshoot scenario (SSP5‐34‐OS). Simulations of this SAI scenario with the CESM Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (CESM2‐WACCM6) showed nearly unchanged interhemispheric and pole‐to‐Equator surface temperature gradients relative to present‐day conditions around 2020, and reduced global impacts, such as heatwaves, sea ice melting, and shifting precipitation patterns (Tilmes et al., 2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/esd‐11‐579‐2020). However, model structural uncertainties can lead to varying climate projections under the same forcing. Implementing identical stratospheric aerosol radiative properties in GFDL‐ESM4.1, which has a much lower Effective Climate Sensitivity compared to CESM2‐WACCM6, resulted in a decrease in global‐mean surface temperature by more than 1.5°C and a corresponding reduction in precipitation responses. Two major reasons contribute to the different temperature response between the two models: first, GFDL‐ESM4.1 has less warming in the SSP534‐OS scenario; second, GFDL‐ESM4.1 has shown more pronounced cooling in response to the same stratospheric AOD perturbation. Notably, the Southern Hemisphere experiences substantial cooling compared to the Northern Hemisphere, accompanied by a northward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Furthermore, our analysis reveals that spatially heterogeneous forcing within the SAI scenario results in diverse climate feedback parameters in the GFDL‐ESM4.1 model, through varying surface warming/cooling patterns. This research highlights the importance of considering model structural uncertainties and forcing spatial patterns for a comprehensive evaluation of future scenarios and geoengineering strategies.
Electron‐Induced Radiolysis of Water Ice and the Buildup of Oxygen
Authors: Tinner Chantal , Galli André , Bär Fiona , Pommerol Antoine , Rubin Martin , Vorburger Audrey , Wurz Peter
Published: December 2024

Irradiation by energetic ions, electrons, and UV photons induces sputtering and chemical processes (radiolysis) in the surfaces of icy moons, comets, and icy grains. Laboratory experiments, both of ideal surfaces and of more complex and realistic analog samples, are crucial to understand the interaction of surfaces of icy moons and comets with their space environment. This study shows the first results of mass spectrometry measurements from porous water ice regolith samples irradiated with electrons as a representative analogy to water‐ice rich surfaces in the solar system. Previous studies have shown that most electron‐induced O radiolysis products leave the ice as and and that can be trapped under certain conditions in the irradiated ice. Our new laboratory experiments confirm these findings. Moreover, they quantify residence times and saturation levels of in originally pure water ice. O may also be released from the water ice by irradiation, but the quantification of the released O is more difficult and the total amount is sensitive to the electron flux and energy.