bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Looking to the Future and what it Holds for Mercenaries and Private Military and Security Companies
Authors: Kinsey Christopher 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The final chapter is focused on the future and what it holds for the mercenary and military contractor. If the future of warfare is hybrid in character, where enemies engage each other below the threshold of conventional war and where plausible deniability is essential to prevent such violence escalating, then the mercenary and military contractor have bright prospects. This is because both actors are not only ideally suited to perform this type of warfare, they also act as a firewall between their sponsoring state client and the government they are working for. This has the effect of making it harder for the target state or belligerent they are acting against to prove who is responsible for the violent act against it. Moreover, hybrid war raises fundamental questions about the character of future war, questions that this chapter will address from the perspective of the market for force. Crucially for this chapter, it uses the same set of questions Martin Van Creveld uses to explain why Clausewitz’s interpretation of armed conflict is redundant. These questions include by whom war is fought; what war is fought for; and how war is fought. These questions go to the heart of the chapter’s argument, which is that with the changing character of conflict, states will increasingly seek to use mercenaries and military and security contractors into the future.
Conclusion
Authors: Kinsey Christopher 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
With the US military’s abrupt withdrawal from Afghanistan on 30 August 2021 and President Biden’s decision soon afterwards to continue with Trump’s policy of ‘America First’, thus ending two decades of ‘nation building’, a new era in international security has begun. As irregular warfare continues to spread across parts of the world, preventing insurgencies and terrorism will take on a greater urgency for states. Moreover, given the West’s military failure in Afghanistan, the need for new and more effective counterinsurgency and counterterrorist strategies is obvious. Indeed, if the West is to have any chance of winning in the future, it will need to change its approach to irregular war by combining military and non-military strategies, with the latter likely to include the use of PMSCs and mercenaries. This will require a change in attitude by Western government policymakers if they are to effectively utilize the market for force. During the present period, these policymakers have often poured scorn on private military and security operations, regarding private military and security contractors as second-class citizens when compared to state military personnel. This new epoch offers an opportunity to reset this relationship in a positive light. Importantly, establishing a relationship based on cooperation instead of obstruction may give the West enough of a strategic advantage to turn the table on organizations such as Boko Haram. However, this will only happen if PMSCs and mercenaries are allowed to come to the fore and help take the ‘war on terror’ to the enemy, instead of operating in the shadows.
The Experiment
Authors: Matthew Christopher A. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of Eratosthenes’ experiment as it is outlined in the ancient source material, and begins to investigate the possible reasons for variances in the accounts of the results that are found in the ancient texts. This chapter also examines the types of instrument (sundial) that Eratosthenes would have used in his experiment and calculations, examines their construction and configuration, and provides an overview of the importance of timekeeping and the identification of the time of the Solstices in ancient Egyptian and Greek culture and how they impacted such things as their calendars, their religious practices, and their architecture. The chapter concludes with the account of reconstructive experimentation that was undertaken with a replica of Eratosthenes’ sundial to determine the accuracy of the instrument, the ease in which it could be used to gauge to time of solar culmination on the Summer Solstice, and lead into a better understanding of how Eratosthenes could have used a sundial to determine the size of the Earth’s circumference.
Genetic welding
Authors: Cutter Asher D. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Explains the mechanisms and implications of additional CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing applications, focusing on genetically engineered CRISPR-Cas9 gene drives. Describes how gene drives can propagate themselves into the genomes of an entire species, not just a single genomic type that results from simple genetic engineering of a lab mouse or crop plant. Illustrates how modification gene drives can alter the course of evolution and how suppression gene drives can induce extinction. Provides examples from Drosophila fruit flies, Caenorhabditis nematode roundworms, and mosquitoes. Develops the idea that genetically engineered gene drives inserted into wild populations would form a new evolutionary force, termed genetic welding.
Evolutionary engineering in the flesh
Authors: Cutter Asher D. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Delves into the practicalities of evolving a new and extraordinary species. Considers what specific novel combination of features might be genetically intertwined and what founding stock to use, such as birds. Weighs the logistics and constraints of selective breeding, population size, genetic engineering with CRISPR-Cas9, and genetic welding with gene drives in terms of technical procedures and tangible complications of traits. Develops a recipe and a cost analysis in time, effort, and money. Explains how to go about engineering the evolution of extraordinary capabilities and of strategies for how to limit the impact of such “novafauna” on the rest of nature.
Inspection by the department of health, safety, and ethics
Authors: Cutter Asher D. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Deliberates the ethical and political considerations of introducing new species through genetic welding and genetic engineering with CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. Scrutinizes notions of playing god and the ethical obligations humans may have to other animals and to all of nature. Discusses the naturalistic fallacy, status quo bias, and fears of unintended consequences, considering both Eurocentric and Indigenous perspectives. Examines potential ecological risks and ecological benefits to intervening in nature, the opportunity costs to not intervening, and biodiversity as an insurance policy for ecosystem services. Explores the basis of animal intelligence, with examples from whales, worms, and crows. Considers some of the complexities of genetically modified organisms, Cartagena protocols, bioterrorism, capitalist profiteers, and trophy hunting as they intersect with biodiversity and wilderness.
Breakdown and Renewal, 1945–52
Authors: Baylis John , Eames Anthony 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
With victory in World War II came a re-evaluation of the special level of nuclear cooperation that had led to the world’s first atomic bomb. No longer a secret, the American and British public were now participants in debates about the atomic age, which created new dynamics for trust in the relationship. The cancellation of the lend-lease agreement, a less personal relationship between the president and prime minister, and disagreements over geopolitical issues around the world foreshadowed the passage of the McMahon Act in 1946. The McMahon Act fractured the fragile nuclear partnership and left in doubt whether the emergent special relationship would serve as a cornerstone of the post-war world order. However, ambiguity, in the form of the Truman–Attlee Understandings, would rescue the relationship from further deterioration.
An Introduction to Narrative Generators
Authors: Pérez y Pérez Rafael , Sharples Mike 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
This book describes how computer programs can generate narratives and how studies of computational narrative can illuminate how humans tell stories. It is designed for readers with little or no background in computer science but who are interested in understanding the core processes underlying AI systems. We refer to this phenomenon as the AI knowledge gap. This book contributes to filling the AI knowledge gap in the field of automatic narrative generation and to enhancing the dissemination of information about automatic storytelling. The book introduces the most relevant techniques employed over the past 60 years for the development of computer models for narrative generation, avoiding, as much as possible, the use of technical language. The techniques studied are narrative templates, problem-solving, planning, author engagement and reflection, and statistical methods such as deep neural networks. Throughout the book, we offer introductions to relevant concepts related to automatic storytelling, followed by descriptions of well-known computer programs that illustrate how such concepts are employed. The book compares ways that researchers have characterized the automatic generation of narratives and covers the core properties that distinguish this area of knowledge. In the final chapter, we reflect on some of the implications for society from the development of automatic narrative generator systems.
The power to narrate
Authors: Pérez Rafael Pérez y , Sharples Mike 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
This chapter highlights the relevant role of narratives for the development of our cognitive and social skills. Then, it discusses how computer models can contribute to the understanding of narrative generation. Next, we explain why we wrote a book about automatic narrative generation. We discuss that it is hard to find material designed for readers with no background in computer science but who, nevertheless, are interested in understanding the core processes underlying these systems. We refer to this phenomenon as the AI knowledge gap. We also discuss the dissemination of misinformation related to automatic storytelling. Finally, we describe the core features of this book and how it is organized.
Endless ways to use computers to study narrative generation (part 2)
Authors: Pérez Rafael Pérez y , Sharples Mike 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Continuing with the analysis of Chapter 12, here we explore how the knowledge generated in other fields, specifically narratology and studies on human daydreaming, shape the design of CURVESHIP and DAYDREAMER, two programs for narrative generation. We also consider SLANT, a system that integrates the core features of three narrative generators. We provide useful information to understand better the motivations behind the systems, how the generation process works in each case, and the type of outputs they produce. We end with some reflections about how computers offer endless ways to approach the study of narrative generation.
Patient education and counselling of fertility preservation for transgender and gender diverse people: A scoping review
Authors: Stanley Joshua R , Ratnapalan Savithiri 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Objectives
To examine patient education, counselling practices, decision aids, and education resources related to fertility preservation for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth and young adults.

Methods
A scoping review was conducted using a comprehensive literature search (Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed Medline, OVID Embase, Ovid PsychoINFO, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) conducted from 1806 to October 21, 2022. Inclusion criteria involved abstracts and articles on patient education, counselling, decision aids or education resources regarding fertility preservation for TGD youth and adults.

Results
Of 1,228 identified articles and abstracts, only six articles met inclusion criteria. Three key themes were identified: (1) patient education and counselling practices (n = 4), with majority of patients receiving fertility preservation counselling at their respective centres; (2) decision aids and strategies for clinicians on fertility preservation for TGD individuals (n = 2) and; (3) patient education resources (n = 1). There was a paucity of literature on decision aids and patient education resources.

Conclusions
This study highlights the need to further develop and evaluate decision aids for healthcare providers and patient education resources, including eLearning modules, around fertility preservation for TGD individuals.
Bacterioferritin nanocage structures uncover the biomineralization process in ferritins
Authors: Jobichen Chacko , Ying Chong Tan , Rattinam Rajesh , Basak Sandip , Srinivasan Mahalashmi , Choong Yeu Khai , Pandey Kannu Priya , Ngoc Tran Bich , Shi Jian , Angayarkanni Jayaraman , Sivaraman J 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Iron is an essential element involved in various metabolic processes. The ferritin family of proteins forms nanocage assembly and is involved in iron oxidation, storage, and mineralization. Although several structures of human ferritins and bacterioferritins have been solved, there is still no complete structure that shows both the trapped Fe-biomineral cluster and the nanocage. Furthermore, whereas the mechanism of iron trafficking has been explained using various approaches, structural details on the biomineralization process (i.e. the formation of the mineral itself) are generally lacking. Here, we report the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of apoform and biomineral bound form (holoforms) of the Streptomyces coelicolor bacterioferritin (ScBfr) nanocage and the subunit crystal structure. The holoforms show different stages of Fe-biomineral accumulation inside the nanocage, in which the connections exist in two of the fourfold channels of the nanocage between the C-terminal of the ScBfr monomers and the Fe-biomineral cluster. The mutation and truncation of the bacterioferritin residues involved in these connections significantly reduced the iron and phosphate binding in comparison with those of the wild type and together explain the underlying mechanism. Collectively, our results represent a prototype for the bacterioferritin nanocage, which reveals insight into its biomineralization and the potential channel for bacterioferritin-associated iron trafficking.
Making Sense of Open Government: A Conceptual Framework and Ideas for Future Research
Authors: Gil-Garcia J Ramon , Gasco-Hernandez Mila , Pardo Theresa A 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
In the last decade, open government has been considered a powerful tool for administrative reform and governance transformation, particularly through transparency improvements and citizen engagement strategies. Although extensive research has been conducted on open government during this period, most studies highlight its links to information access and transparency and do not explicitly analyze other components related to citizen engagement, such as participation and collaboration with the public or the role of information technologies as an important enabler of open government. Similarly, studies focused on open government have failed to clearly identify and explain several of its potential results, such as improved government performance, greater accountability, and enhanced legitimacy and trust in government—all themes studied in Public Administration for decades. The streams of research on open government’s components and results have generally developed in isolation from one another, each considering a limited number of variables, with relatively few attempts to systematically connect them. As an effort to begin addressing this gap, this article proposes an open government framework that integrates multiple concepts related to open government and categorizes them as either constitutive components or potential results. The article also suggests a few propositions that illustrate how the framework could be used to envision future studies.
How Do Humans Create and Sustain Viable Communities? A Review Essay
Authors: Marcus George E 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
In a very lucid account, Efrén Pérez and Margit Tavits’s Voicing Politics: How Language Shapes Public Opinion reports empirical studies demonstrating that language is an important foundation in nation-building. Their research makes excellent use the considerable percentage of Estonians who are proficient in Estonian and Russian, prominent languages spoken in Estonia; the two languages differ in how they characterize gender, how they characterize the future, and how they characterize ethnicity. Pérez and Tavits make use of experiments and survey modes of investigation. And across both modes and across many opinions, they find repeated, hence reliable, and modest “nudges” due to the language bilingual speakers are randomly assigned to use. I expand the focus to consider how language is but one of the important means by which the human species is able to generate very different social forms. Some societies—or better, polities—are more rigid, reliant on past practices to survive; some are more fluid and open to new possibilities. Each has proven vulnerable. I argue that the diversity of sociability enhances the likelihood of the survival of the species by having some better able to address the challenges of the moment—a better strategy than a fixed single solution.
A More Conservative Approach in the Surgical Management of Pediatric Physeal Ankle Fractures Should be Preferred: Mid to Long-term Functional Outcomes of Three Different Surgical Techniques for Salter-Harris Type II and Triplane Distal Tibial Fractures
Authors: Onay Tolga , Çelen Zekeriya Ersin , Bayhan Mazlum , Kandemir İbrahim , Kiliç Nazim Canberk , Kayaalp Mahmut Enes 
Published: July 2023

Background:
Pediatric physeal ankle fractures carry a high risk of complications. This study aimed to (1) investigate the effect of anatomic reduction of the physis on mid to long-term functional outcomes in Salter-Harris type II and triplane distal tibial physeal fractures (DTPFs) and (2) compare the outcomes of 3 different surgical techniques applied in these fractures.

Methods:
The database of a single level-I trauma center was retrospectively reviewed for DTPFs between 2012 and 2022. A total of 39 eligible patients with operative Salter-Harris type II and triplane fractures between 2012 and 2022 were included. Surgical treatment methods were closed reduction-percutaneous fixation (CR-PF), open reduction-screw fixation, or open reduction-plate fixation. Patients were further divided into subgroups for fractures reduced anatomically (<1 mm) or nonanatomically (1 to 3 mm). The primary outcome measures were the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Score, ankle range of motion, presence of premature physeal closure and angular deformities, and Takakura ankle osteoarthritis grade.

Results:
A total of 39 patients were included, with an average age of 12.9 ± 2.2 years. The mean follow-up time was 68.9±38.0 months. The CR-PF group had higher postoperative fracture displacement (P = 0.011). American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores were excellent in all groups, statistically similar between surgical techniques, and similar between anatomic and nonanatomic reduction groups. The CR-PF group (P =0.030) and nonanatomic reduction (P = 0.030) provided a significantly lower ankle osteoarthritis rate. All 4 patients with premature physeal closure were observed in patients treated with open techniques.

Conclusions:
CR-PF for the treatment of DTPFs should be preferred in suitable cases as it is less invasive and provides satisfactory mid to long-term functional outcomes without increasing complications compared with anatomic reduction and open techniques.

Level of Evidence:
Level III.
Efficacy and safety of triple therapy containing berberine, amoxicillin, and vonoprazan for Helicobacter pylori initial treatment: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Shasha , Shen Weina , Liu Yuhuan , Dong Qiang , Shi Yongquan 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Background:
With the development of traditional Chinese medicine research, berberine has shown good efficacy and safety in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of triple therapy containing berberine, amoxicillin, and vonoprazan for the initial treatment of H. pylori.

Methods:
This study was a single-center, open-label, parallel, randomized controlled clinical trial. Patients with H. pylori infection were randomly (1:1:1) assigned to receive berberine triple therapy (berberine 500 mg, amoxicillin 1000 mg, vonoprazan 20 mg, A group), vonoprazan quadruple therapy (vonoprazan 20 mg, amoxicillin 1000 mg, clarithromycin 500 mg, colloidal bismuth tartrate 220 mg, B group), or rabeprazole quadruple therapy (rabeprazole 10 mg, amoxicillin 1000 mg, clarithromycin 500 mg, colloidal bismuth tartrate 220 mg, C group). The drugs were taken twice daily for 14 days. The main outcome was the H. pylori eradication rate. The secondary outcomes were symptom improvement rate, patient compliance, and incidence of adverse events. Furthermore, factors affecting the eradication rate of H. pylori were further analyzed.

Results:
A total of 300 H. pylori-infected patients were included in this study, and 263 patients completed the study. An intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis showed that the eradication rates of H. pylori in berberine triple therapy, vonoprazan quadruple therapy, and rabeprazole quadruple therapy were 70.0% (70/100), 77.0% (77/100), and 69.0% (69/100), respectively. The per-protocol (PP) analysis showed that the eradication rates of H. pylori in these three groups were 81.4% (70/86), 86.5% (77/89), and 78.4% (69/88), respectively. Both ITT analysis and PP analysis showed that the H. pylori eradication rate did not significantly differ among the three groups (P >0.05). In addition, the symptom improvement rate, overall adverse reaction rate, and patient compliance were similar among the three groups (P >0.05).

Conclusions:
The efficacy of berberine triple therapy for H. pylori initial treatment was comparable to that of vonoprazan quadruple therapy and rabeprazole quadruple therapy, and it was well tolerated. It could be used as one choice of H. pylori initial treatment.