bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Food systems modelling to evaluate interventions for food and nutrition security in an African urban context
Authors: Hackbarth Tom X , May Julian D. , Magaya Sinoxolo , Verburg Peter H 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
In the context of rapidly growing African cities, a thorough understanding of the complexities of urban food systems is essential for addressing the challenges of food insecurity and undernourishment for city dwellers. Particularly in South Africa, where pre-existing inequalities drive disparities in food access and diet-related health outcomes, a comprehensive perspective including the spatial distribution of malnutrition in urban environments is required to develop effective interventions. The present study examines the essential elements of an urban food system by employing a Bayesian network as a causal framework. By integrating survey data from households and food outlets with spatial information, a food systems model was created to test policy interventions. The study demonstrates the challenges of intervening in complex urban food systems, where dietary choices are shaped by various factors, often in a spatially heterogeneous manner. Interventions do not always benefit the targeted groups and are sometimes ineffective as result of system interactions. Our study shows that Bayesian network models provide a powerful tool to effectively analyse the complex interactions within such systems, thereby enabling the identification of optimal combinations of multifactor interventions. In our case study for Worcester, South Africa, the results reveal that the largest potential for improvement of food and nutrition security lies in the informal food sector, and support for affordable and local fresh produce is a viable measure for enhancing local nutrition, though the extent of impact varies across the city.
Is there unrecognized potential in neglected livestock species in Sub-Saharan Africa? A systematic review of four selected species
Authors: Oguche Maria , Kariuki Juliet , Birner Regina , Chagunda Mizeck 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Over the recent years, Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has seen an increase in population growth, urbanization, and per capita income. As a result, there has been a corresponding increase in the demand for animal source foods. In order to meet this demand, most countries have resorted to intensifying the production of conventional livestock. However, this increase in production comes with several environmental, nutritional, gender-related and economic challenges that are a rising concern. It is therefore imperative to explore the comparative advantages and disadvantages of other livestock species, which are currently consumed in SSA but are not recognised in widely adopted policies. Herein, using a novel conceptual framework, we present a systematic review of four selected neglected species, namely, grasscutter, guinea fowl, guinea pig, and rabbit. The review was conducted following the checklist for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA), and 89 sources of literature were included. The results highlight that embracing these neglected livestock species could confer several benefits, including an enriched nutritional profile (high-quality protein, low fat, high dressing percentage), increased gross economic returns, environmental sustainability, and sustained empowerment of minority groups, especially women. Overall, this review shows the untapped nutritional and socio-economic potential of neglected livestock species, which, if incorporated into mainstream production, could improve food security and reduce unemployment in SSA.
Political Polarization, Ingroup Bias, and Helping Behavior: Do We Help Others Who Are “on the Other Political Team?”
Authors: Fitapelli Brianna , Hewett Samantha , McQuade Briana , Berg Emma , Thaler Dalia , Gay Lauren , Rodriguez Tiana , Thomas Dayna M. , Akhmadi Ferdaus , Geher Glenn 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe American social and political climate has become increasingly polarized. To explore the effects of politically based ingroup biases as they relate to intended helping of others, we designed a study in which we hypothesized that people who are extreme on the political spectrum will intend to help in-group members more so than out-group members. Using an experimental manipulation, we asked participants to choose if extremely progressive (N = 212; mean age = 22.9; 69% female), extremely conservative (N = 47; mean age = 32.8; 55% male), or neither represented their political beliefs. Participants were randomized to one of two vignettes, each depicting either a pro-blue lives matter or pro-black lives matter scenario. Results showed that, controlling for both age and gender, progressives were less likely to help out-group members compared with individuals in any other condition. Dispositional variables were also measured with dark and light triad traits. Light triad traits tended to positively predict helping intentions across conditions. Implications for understanding the psychology of helping are discussed.
Optimization of the cooperative electronic commerce model for sustainable development in the context of ecological environment conservation
Authors: Yang F. , Fang Y. , Wang Y. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study aims to explore how to optimize the cooperative electronic commerce model in a sustainable ecological environment to meet the needs of consumers while maximizing social and economic benefits. The empirical research method is adopted, which mainly includes a literature review, case analysis, and questionnaire. Firstly, through a literature review, this study introduces and analyses the concept of sustainable ecological environment and the development and optimization direction of cooperative electronic commerce model in detail, providing a theoretical basis and thought guidance for subsequent research. Secondly, this study selects several representative cooperative electronic commerce platforms for case analysis. It explores their operation mode, product characteristics, service quality, and social benefits to summarize the experience and lessons of optimizing cooperative electronic commerce model. Finally, a questionnaire is designed to sample the consumers of cooperative electronic commerce. By analysing the results of questionnaire, the following conclusions are drawn. (1) 54.3% of respondents said they had used the cooperative electronic commerce model, with agricultural products purchasing (23.5%) and community service (18.9%) using it more frequently. (2) The cognition level of sustainable development was high overall, with 62.6% believing that it was essential for the future. (3) A multiple linear regression model explored the relationship between using the cooperative electronic commerce model and sustainable development cognition. The results reveal that adopting cooperative electronic commerce model has a significant positive impact on the cognition of sustainable development, which indicates that the promotion and use of this model can promote cognition and practice of sustainable development.
Post-COVID recovery is faster after an infection with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Pfrommer Laura Rebecca , Diexer Sophie , Klee Bianca , Massag Janka , Gottschick Cornelia , Purschke Oliver , Binder Mascha , Frese Thomas , Girndt Matthias , Sedding Daniel , Rosendahl Jonas , Hoell Jessica I. , Moor Irene , Gekle Michael , Allwang Christine , Junne Florian , Mikolajczyk Rafael 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) poses a substantial burden to affected individuals, health care systems, and society as a whole. We examined factors associated with recovery from PCC, focusing on the vaccination status prior to infection and the virus variant.

Methods
Our analyses are based on the population-based cohort study for digital health research in Germany (DigiHero). Respondents who reported a SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-related symptoms ≥ 12 weeks post-infection were classified as having PCC. Those with ongoing PCC were followed-up in six-month intervals based on their date of infection. We used a Cox model for interval-censored data to analyze PCC recovery.

Results
Among the 4,529 respondents with PCC included in our analyses, about 26%, 19%, 36%, and 44% of those infected during dominance of the SARS-CoV-2 wildtype, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variant had recovered one year after infection, respectively. When stratifying by virus variant, vaccination was not associated with a faster recovery. Conversely, those infected with Omicron (HR = 2.20; 95%CI: 1.96–2.48) or Delta (HR = 1.69; 95%CI: 1.43–2.01) recovered faster than those infected with the SARS-CoV-2 wildtype or Alpha strain.

Conclusion
Although the recovery from PCC is faster for the newer virus variants, still a substantial fraction of those who developed PCC after an infection with the Omicron variant report prolonged persistence of symptoms.
Rare and risky: a unique case of concurrent chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and lemierre syndrome
Authors: Weber Peter , Rohn H. , Jäger J. , Dolff S. , Witzke O. , Rath P.-M. , Zettler M. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractLemierre Syndrome is a condition that appears to have been overlooked in recent decades in clinical practice, often resulting in death or long-lasting sequelae when left undetected and untreated. Typically, it occurs following an upper respiratory tract infection, often stemming from tonsillitis, leading to thrombosis of the internal jugular vein and subsequent multiple septic emboli. Here, we present a case a 46-year-old patient with the clinical presentation of pneumogenic sepsis. Remarkably, we were able to diagnose the simultaneous presence of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and Lemierre syndrome.
Insight into soft binary piecewise lambda operation: a new operation for soft sets
Authors: Sezgin Aslıhan , Yavuz Eda , Özlü Şerif 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe notion of soft set operations is one of the key concept for soft set theory as the theory has been progressing, both theoretically and practically, based on this notion. As proposing new soft set operations, deriving their algebraic properties, and studying the algebraic structure of soft sets from the perspective of soft set operations offer a comprehensive understanding of their applications as well as the appreciation of how soft set algebra can be applied to classical and nonclassical logic, in this study, a new soft set operation, called the “soft binary piecewise lambda operation" is proposed. Since one of the the main objective of abstract algebra is to analyze the properties of the operations defined on a set to classify the algebraic structures, the operation’s full properties and its distributions over other soft set operations are investigated to reveal which algebraic structures the operation forms individually, and together with other soft set operations in the collection of soft sets over the universe. It is showed that the operation forms a noncommutative semigroup and a right-left system, besides semi-rings and near-semi-rings together with certain types of soft set operations under certain conditions in the collection of soft sets over the universe. Since such in-depth analyses advance our knowledge of the applications of soft sets over a range of field, this novel operation may serve as an inspiration to create new perspectives for addressing issues related to parametric data, soft set-based cryptography, or decision-making techniques in practical settings, business, and technology.
Investigating adsorption properties of CO2 and CH4 in subbituminous coals from Mamu and Nsukka formations: a molecular simulation approach
Authors: Fagorite Victor Inumidun , Ikechukwu Uzochukwu Nelson , Oluwasola Henry Olumayowa , Onyekuru Samuel Okechukwu , Enenebeaku Conrad Kenechukwu , Ohia Nnemeka Princewill , Agbasi Okechukwu Ebuka , Oguzie Emeka Emmanuel 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe study aimed to investigate the adsorption properties of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in subbituminous coals from the Mamu and Nsukka formations, focusing on the CO2-Enhanced Coalbed Methane (ECBM) method. Proximate, ultimate, and FT-IR analyses determined the quality, age, and functional categories of these coals, confirming their subbituminous nature. Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, a unique amorphous subbituminous coal model was developed to study adsorption phenomena. Isosteric heat and adsorption isotherms for pure CO2 and CH4 were analyzed, alongside Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations to assess CO2 adsorption selectivity in a binary CO2 and CH4 mixture. Results showed that CO2 required more isosteric heat than CH4 in single-component scenarios and demonstrated stronger electrostatic interactions with heteroatom groups in the coal model, explaining its higher adsorption preference. In binary adsorption experiments, CO2 exhibited a higher affinity under specific conditions, particularly influenced by pressure variations. At lower pressures, CO2 selectivity decreased rapidly with increasing temperature, while at higher pressures, the influence of temperature diminished. These findings have established a theoretical and practical basis for optimizing CO2-ECBM extraction in Nigeria, highlighting the preferential adsorption of CO2 over CH4 in subbituminous coals from the Mamu and Nsukka formations under varying pressure and temperature conditions. Implementing CO2-ECBM extraction and storage in Nigeria could boost economic viability and help achieve net-zero goals, using insights from this study to guide policy development.
Graphical Abstract
Manufacturing carbon nanotube transistors using lift-off process: limitations and prospects
Authors: Gao Xilong , Si Jia , Zhang Zhiyong 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCarbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNT FETs) are regarded as promising candidates for next-generation energy-efficient computing systems. While research has employed the lift-off process to demonstrate the performance of CNT FETs, this method now poses challenges for enhancing individual FET performance and is not suitable for scalable fabrication. In this paper, we summarize the limitations of the lift-off process and point out that future advancements in manufacturing techniques should prioritize the development of etching processes.
Millennial-scale paleoclimate changes recorded in Holocene ferromanganese crusts with oscillatory micro-bands: insights from mineralogical and chemical variations in hydrogenetic ferromanganese crusts of the Magellan Seamounts
Authors: Lee Seungyeol , Xu Huifang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This study investigates the hydrogenetic ferromanganese crust (HFMC) from the Magellan Seamounts in the northwest Pacific Ocean, focusing on its mineralogy, crystal chemistry, and paleoclimatic records. Given that ferromanganese is composed of poorly crystalline MnOx phases, such as vernadite, structural determination using conventional X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods is challenging and has very limited effectiveness. Therefore, synchrotron-based pair-distribution function (PDF) analysis of total X-ray scattering and high-resolution electron microscopy techniques were employed to characterize the structures and compositions of HFMC. The results from the synchrotron XRD and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveal that the studied HFMC consists primarily of poorly crystalline Fe-bearing vernadite. The chemical analysis of the HFMC layers indicates that the rare-earth elements (REE) and P were preferentially adsorbed on the Fe-rich vernadite, whereas platinum-group elements (PGE), Co, and Ni were enriched in the Mn-rich vernadite. The top layers of the HFMC display fine-scale compositional variations (cycle of ~1600 y) that signify millennial-scale paleoclimate oscillations during the Middle-Late Pleistocene and Holocene periods linked to the glacial termination event that occurred ~126,000 y ago. This millennial-scale oscillation correlates with sea-level variations influenced by the expansion and contraction of ice sheets, offering a crucial signal for understanding the paleoclimatic interpretation throughout the glacial periods. To fully decipher the fine-scale paleoclimate signals and assist in forecasting future climatic conditions, a more extensive examination of ferromanganese crusts from diverse depths, sources, and locations is necessitated.
Modular oversight methodology: a framework to aid ethical alignment of algorithmic creations
Authors: Kyriakou Kyriakos , Otterbacher Jahna 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Evaluating the algorithmic behavior of interactive systems is complex and time-consuming. Developers increasingly recognize the importance of accountability for their algorithmic creations’ unanticipated behavior and resulting implications. To mitigate this phenomenon, developers not only need to concentrate on the observable inaccuracies that can be measured quantitatively but also the more subjective outcomes that can perpetuate social bias, which are challenging to identify. We require a new approach that involves humans in scrutinizing algorithmic behavior. It leverages a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to support an ethical, value-aligned design and a system’s lifecycle, informed by users’ perception and values. To date, the literature lacks an agreed-upon framework for such an approach. Consequently, we propose an oversight framework, Modular Oversight Methodology (MOM), which aids developers in assessing the behavior of their systems by involving a carefully crowdsourced society-in-the-loop. The framework facilitates the development and execution of an oversight process and can be tweaked according to the domain and application of use. Through such an oversight process, developers can assess the human perception of the algorithmic behavior under inspection, and extract valuable insights that will aid in assessing its implications. We present the MOM framework, as a first step toward tailoring more robust, domain-specific solutions to exercise human oversight over algorithms, as a means for software developers to keep the generated output of their solutions fair and trustworthy.
Truck driver relative pay and motor carrier safety performance
Authors: Ryley Walter T. , Belzer Michael H. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) has recently incorporated driver pay into its guidelines on the promotion of safe and decent work in road transport. ILO guideline 73 states that ‘the remuneration of … CMV [commercial motor vehicle] drivers should be sustainable and take into consideration the attractiveness and sustainability of the industry’. In the spirit of this, we explore the relationship between truck drivers’ relative income and intrastate motor carrier safety performance. We utilise the United States (US) Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage data for heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver median annual incomes and the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey estimates of median household incomes to construct county level relative income ratios for truck drivers. This information is merged with public safety data to analyse the relationship between truck drivers’ relative pay and motor carrier safety performance. We find that, all else constant, carriers located in counties where driver earnings are relatively high tend to experience fewer crashes. This provides evidence that safety performance is better when driver pay is more attractive in the truck driver labour market and, consequently, validates the ILO’s assertion under guideline 73.
The Fulfilment Service Provider in Product Safety and Liability: A Silver Bullet for the Enhancement of Safety and Compensation in E-Commerce, or a Leap of Faith?
Authors: Veldt Gitta 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The European legislator has included the fulfilment service provider (FSP) in European product safety legislation as a new responsible economic operator (EO) in e-commerce for instances where no other EO is based in the European Union. As a matter of coherency, this adjusted personal scope of product safety law will likely be mirrored in a revised product liability directive. This article explores to what extent the aims and expectations of European legislator with respect to these legal changes (law in the books) align with the perceptions of FSPs and legal advisors in the field (law in action). This is done by means of a legal analysis of the goals and envisioned effects of these changes as well as a semi-structured interview study on how FSPs and legal advisors in the field perceive this new role, responsibility, and liability. The findings provide indications that product safety law currently in force might not (yet) lead to the desired effects. The findings also make us question the extent to which victim compensation is actually improved by the proposed adjustment of the personal scope of the product liability directive.
Mental health plans and policies across the WHO European region
Authors: Guerrero Zoe , Kågström Anna , Aliev Akmal , Tomášková Hana , Yon Yongjie , Lazeri Ledia , Reinap Marge , Redlich Cassie , Tijerino Inestroza Ana Maria , Maurer Jason , Winkler Petr 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Evidence is scarce in terms of tracking the progress of implementation of mental healthcare plans and policies (MHPPs) in Europe, we aimed to map and analyze the content of MHPPs across the WHO European region.
We collected data from the WHO Mental Health Atlas 2011, 2017 and 2020 to map the development of MHPPs in the region. We contacted 53 key informants from each country in the European region to triangulate the data from WHO Mental Health Atlases and to obtain access to the national mental health plans and policies. We analyzed the content of MHPPs against the four major objectives of the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan, and we also focused on the specificity and measurability of their targets.
The number and proportion of countries which have their own MHPPs has increased from 30 (52%) to 43 (91%) between 2011 and 2020. MHPPs are generally in line with the WHO policy, aiming to strengthen care in the community, expand mental health promotion and illness prevention activities, improve quality of care, increase intersectoral collaboration, build workforce and system capacity, and improve adherence to human rights. However, specific, and measurable targets as well as a description of concrete steps, responsibilities and funding sources are mostly missing. They often contain very little information systems, evidence and research, and mostly lack information on evaluating the implementation of MHPPs.
Progress has been made in terms of the development of MHPPs in the WHO Europe. However, MHPPs are often lacking operationalization and appropriate data collection for evaluation. This is then reflected in missing evaluation plans, which in turn leads to lessons not being learned. To enhance the potential for knowledge generation and demonstration of impact, MHPPs should be more specific and contain measurable targets with allocated responsibilities and funding as well as evaluation plans.