21st Century Research Articles

The economic costs and benefits of the European Future Combat Air System

ABSTRACT The Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a sixth-generation advanced combat aircraft, is assumed to be the largest European defence development and production programme of the 21st century and a core pillar of European cooperation in the defence sector. The 2017-initiated collaboration programme is led by Germany and France, with Spain and Belgium joining as partners, and is a who-is-who of the largest European defence companies, including Airbus Defence and Space, Thales, Safran, MBDA, and MTU. While such defence programmes have significant military, political, industrial, and economic impacts, the economic dimension in terms of economic costs and benefits is often under-represented in academic discussions. As the FCAS is still a nascent programme, only rough estimates of the total programme cost are available, and assumptions range from €100 bn to more than a trillion. With our research, we aim to contribute to the academic discussion by estimating the true economic costs and benefits of the FCAS. We use a mixed approach of data triangulation by cross-checking open source intelligence (OSINT) with expert interviews to estimate the full programme life-cycle costs. Furthermore, we estimate its economic impact on the European gross value added, employment, and tax by utilising an input – output (IO) model.

Current views and trends of nanomaterials as vectors for gene delivery since the 21st century: a bibliometric analysis.

Gene therapy is garnering increasing support due to its potential for a "once-delivered, lifelong benefit." The limitations of traditional gene delivery methods have spurred the advancement of bionanomaterials. Despite this progress, a thorough analysis of the evolution, current state, key contributors, focal studies, and future directions of nanomaterials in gene delivery remains absent. This study scrutinizes articles from the Web of Science, spanning 1 January 2 000, to 31 December 2023, employing various online tools for analysis and visualization. The 21st century has witnessed consistent growth in scholarly work in this domain globally, with notable contributions from China and the US. At the same time, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Harvard University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have emerged as the most productive institutions, with CAS's academician Weihong Tan becoming the field's leading author. While drug delivery and nanoparticles (NPs) have been central themes for two decades, the research focus has shifted from modifying NPs and ultrafine particles to exploring polymer-hybrid NPs, mRNA vaccines, immune responses, green synthesis, and CRISPR/Cas tools. This shift marks the transition from nanomaterials to bionanomaterials. The insights provided by this research offer a comprehensive overview of the field and valuable guidance for future investigations.

Heatstroke characteristics and meteorological conditions in Hefei, China: thresholds and driving factors

BackgroundDue to climate change and rapid urbanization, the frequency of heatwave events in East China has increased considerably since the 21st century, which has a considerable influence on human health, such as heatstroke. However, few studies have been conducted in this region on the relationship between heatstroke and meteorological conditions. To address this point, this study aimed to analyze the characteristics of heatstroke and their relationship with meteorological conditions in Hefei, China.MethodsThe 2008–2022 heatstroke data from Hefei Center for Disease Control and Prevention was used. The relationship between heatstroke and meteorological conditions was discussed by statistical methods, such as correlation analysis, cluster analysis and linear regression analysis.ResultsThe number of heatstroke cases fluctuated upward from 36 cases in 2008 to 1051 cases in 2022, with 71.5% of all cases for males and females accounting for 28.5%. The highest frequency of heatstroke occurrence was found to be concentrated in the middle age group (40–59 years old). According to the statistical analysis, air temperature and relative humidity were the most important meteorological factors that influenced the occurrence of heatstroke. Then a threshold system of meteorological factors for heatstroke was established by utilizing the relationship: daily average temperature (T) ≥ 30 °C & daily average relative humidity (RH) ≤ 80% and daily maximum temperature (Tmax) ≥ 35 °C & daily minimum relative humidity (RHmin) ≤ 65%. The threshold in group outbreak areas was stricter than it in high incidence areas. Furthermore, the Pacific Subtropical High (PSH) was found to be the primary climatic factor that determined the occurrence of heatstroke occurrence on a seasonal scale. In addition, significant differences in heatstroke risk were found among different groups of people. Heatstroke risk was substantially higher in males than in females due to larger opportunities for outdoor labor. The reduced physical fitness of elderly people raised the risk of heatstroke more than other age groups in extremely high temperatures.ConclusionsA meteorological threshold system had been established to forecast heatstroke occurrence in a short-term time, and a key climate driving factor of heatstroke was found for long-term heatstroke prediction in Hefei. These findings could facilitate the disease control department to take preventive and control measures to reduce the impact of heatstroke on human health and society.

Secular trends of physical fitness for college students in Anhui Province over the past decade

BackgroundSince the beginning of the 21st century, China’s economy has experienced rapid growth, resulting in a steady improvement in its citizens’ living standards. However, alongside the emergence of modern civilization-related health issues, the overall physical fitness of the population has been declining. In the final year of 2019, a global COVID-19 pandemic emerged and persisted for three years, causing a significant diminution in human physical well-being. This article aims to delve into the changes in the physical fitness of college students over the past decade and anticipates future trends.MethodsA total of 58,472 university students aged 16–23 from 16 prefecture-level cities in Anhui province were recruited for this study. Total ten physical fitness indicators were tested: body height, body weight, vital capacity, standing long jump, sit-and-reach, 50-m dash, 1000 m run and pull-up (for boys), and 800 m run and sit-ups (for girls).The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, LSD tests, and Pearson’s correlations.ResultsThe overall physical fitness scores of college students ranged from 68.71 (2023) to 71.13 (2019) during the last decade, with girls consistently demonstrating superior performance in physical tests. There was a statistically significant difference in physical fitness scores between the periods of 2015–2022 and 2023 (p < 0.05). When dividing the total physical fitness scores into four levels, a noteworthy downward trend was observed in the pass grade, while the other three grades exhibited an increasing trend year by year. Compared to the year of 2019, there has been a substantial decline in the physical fitness levels of college students, along with a notable uptick of “failed” candidates, in the year of 2020.In terms of individual physical fitness, boys outperformed girls in all physical testing items except for sit-and-reach, and significant differences were observed in most years for both boys and girls. Additionally, a consistent downward trend was observed in the proportion of underweight and normal weight students, while the proportion of overweight (increased by 2.1 times) and obese (increased by 4.4 times) students showed a marked upward trend from 2014 to 2023.ConclusionsIt is imperative to allocate special focus to the profound ramifications of the three-year COVIE-19 pandemic on the physical well-being of college students. In 2024, it is anticipated that the proportion of overweight and obese college students will increase, along with a continued increase in body height and vital capacity. However, there will be a notable increase in the time taken to complete the 50-meter dash and the 1000-meter/800-meter run. Conversely, a decline is forecasted for the performance in standing long jump, sit-and-reach, and pull-ups/sit-ups exercises, with an accelerating rate of deterioration. It is crucial to promptly identify the underlying reasons for the deteriorating physical fitness among college students, particularly in relation to obesity, and to implement effective measures promptly to address this issue.

Evaluation of developmental toxicity of chlorpyrifos through new approach methodologies: a systematic review.

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is an organophosphorus pesticide of concern because many in vivo animal studies have demonstrated developmental toxicity exerted by this substance; however, despite its widespread use, evidence from epidemiological studies is still limited. In this study, we have collected all the information generated in the twenty-first century on the developmental toxicity of CPF using new approach methodologies. We have critically evaluated and integrated information coming from 70 papers considering human, rodent, avian and fish models. The comparison of the collected evidence with available adverse outcome pathways allows us to conclude that adverse outcomes observed in animals, such as memory and learning impairments as well as reduction in cognitive function, could involve several mechanisms of action including inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, overactivation of glutamate receptors and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, followed by both disruption of neurotransmitter release and increase in oxidative stress and apoptosis.

P-08 OLD ETIOLOGY, NEW CHALLENGES: MANAGING WATERHOUSE FRIDERICHSEN SYNDROME IN A PEDIATRIC PATIENT WITH SIGNIFICANT COMORBIDITIES

Abstract Introduction Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome (WFS) is a rare but life-threatening condition characterized by bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, typically precipitated by severe systemic infection. This syndrome can lead to chronic primary adrenal insufficiency, a condition that poses significant management challenges, particularly when accompanied by major comorbidities. Clinical Case We report the case of a young boy who developed Neisseria meningitidis type B meningitis at 3 months of age, followed by purpura fulminans, septic shock and coma, necessitating orotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. Acute phase management included fluid resuscitation, antibiotics, osmotic diuretics, immunoglobulins, antipyretics and plasma. During hospitalization, the development of progressive generalized skin hyperpigmentation raised the suspicion of adrenal insufficiency, confirmed by cortisol (4.60 µg/dL) and ACTH (330 pg/mL) levels. Glucocorticoid replacement therapy was initiated, with a favorable recovery and no neurological deficits at discharge. Several months later, the patient began experiencing recurrent seizures, subsequently diagnosed as focal generalized epilepsy. Treatment with valproic acid was initiated, with the dosage gradually increased due to inadequate seizure control and lack of responsiveness to initial therapy. Despite appropriate glucocorticoid replacement therapy, the patient experiences nausea, vomiting, and apathy for several hours following each epileptic episode. Further complicating the clinical picture, the patient associates generalized epi-metaphyseal dysplasia, limb-length discrepancy and other skeletal deformities (Figure). Given these clinical features, genetic testing was performed using a panel of genes associated with skeletal dysplasia. This revealed a heterozygous variant in the TCIRG1 gene (c.907+4A&amp;gt;T), associated with autosomal recessive osteopetrosis. However, since both alleles must be mutated for the condition to manifest, the patient is considered a healthy carrier, which does not account for the observed phenotype. Subsequent genetic testing for Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome revealed no pathological findings, leaving the etiology of the skeletal dysplasia currently unexplained, highlighting the complexity of the case. Conclusion In 21st century, when most cases of adrenal insufficiency are of autoimmune etiology, we are facing a rare cause of adrenal insufficiency with potentially fatal prognosis in a 3 month-old infant. While the therapeutic approach of WFS is difficult, the added neuropsychiatric complications further challenges the management of chronic adrenal insufficiency, especially in the absence of established guidelines for glucocorticoid dose adjustments in epileptic patients. Complex cases require enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration and further research to develop evidence-based guidelines for managing adrenal insufficiency with comorbid neurological conditions.Figure 1:Generalized lesional hyperpigmentationThe image shows an infant patient recovering from an episode of meningitis, complicated by disseminated purpura and adrenal insufficiency. These conditions have caused darkening of the skin and hyperpigmentation of healing purpuric lesions.

DemoGravity: World Population and Trade in the 21st Century

ABSTRACTThe availability and composition of labor is fundamental for the structure of international trade. Key in this respect is the so‐called demographic dividend, which is the potential economic growth stemming from low dependency ratios. We use the gravity model to link long‐run changes of the demographic dividend to geographical changes in world trade for the 21st century. All our scenarios point towards the same conclusion: compared to the current situation, North America and Europe will no longer be the center of global trade in 2100 due to their aging populations. In contrast, South Asia and Sub‐Saharan Africa will experience a substantial increase in their share of world trade, while the impact of the demographic drag facing China will be most pronounced after 2050; its share in world trade will decline significantly. Overall, our results point towards the under‐studied, yet important role of past and future demographic developments in generating demographic dividends that shape world trade.

Review of Kanach, S., &amp;amp; Nelson, P. (Eds.). (2024). Meta-Xenakis: New Perspectives on Iannis Xenakis’s Life, Work, and Legacies. Open Book Publishers. https://books.openbookpublishers.com/10.11647/obp.0390.pdf

This book arose out of international collaborations arranged for the occasion of the centenary year of Iannis Xenakis in 2022. Its remarkable breadth mirrors and examines the interests and international influence of the composer, one of the leading figures of the European post-war avant-garde, and a significant initiator of what have since become defining fields in twenty-first century aesthetics and musical thought. The relationship of Xenakis’s style and technique to mathematics, semiotics, architecture, computer design and the fledgling field of AI are all addressed, together with the impact that these factors in his philosophy and output have had on a range of international movements in music, technology and the arts.

‘Remembering’ the Early 1940s Greek Famine: Fiction and Collective Memory, 1950–2019

The memory of the early-1940s Greek famine has rarely been researched. A narrative attributing full responsibility to the Axis occupying forces, mostly Germans, and focusing almost exclusively on the 1941–2 ordeal of Athens was shaped by 1950. This became the official collective (cultural) memory and remained largely unchanged until the early twenty-first century. The financial crisis that Greece experienced since 2009 further enhanced this memory, bringing the focus exclusively on the German responsibility. This article interrogates the adult fiction works that dealt with this famine in the period 1950–2019, exploring whether these reflect the official collective memory and its changes. Furthermore, it explores how fiction has dealt with two aspects of the famine that are not included in the official collective memory: the black market and famine prostitution. The selected fiction works are utilised as ‘archives’ of the collective memory that prevailed at the time of their writing.

From cytogenetics to cytogenomics: a new era in the diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities in domestic animals.

Identification of chromosomal abnormalities is an important issue in animal breeding and veterinary medicine. Routine cytogenetic diagnosis of domestic animals began in the 1960s with the aim of identifying carriers of centric fusion between chromosome 1 and 29 in cattle. In the 1970s, chromosome banding techniques were introduced, and in the 1980s, the first cytogenomic techniques, based on the development of locus- and chromosome-specific probes, were used. Since the beginning of the twenty-first century, molecular techniques (such as polymorphism of microsatellite markers, droplet digital PCR, SNP microarrays, and whole genome sequencing) have begun to be widely used in animal breeding. This review is focused on the cytogenomic diagnosis of chromosome abnormalities in cattle, horses, pigs, dogs, and cats. We show that these approaches are very useful in large-population screening studies of the prevalence of aneuploidies (mainly of sex chromosomes) and structural rearrangements (centric fusions and reciprocal translocations).

Actigraphy as a modern method of disease diagnostics

Medicine of the 21st century has an extensive arsenal of means for diagnosing diseases. High-tech equipment is able to detect pathologies without clinical manifestations during the latent stage of disease development. Actigraphy is portable device based on accelerometer, used for tracking sleep parameters, and also, well established as a tool for tracking circadian rhythms of a person. Actigraphy is not an alternative to the use of polysomnography, however, it has advantages in ease of use, cost, and size of the device, in addition to allowing long-term continuous recording of night and daytime sleep over several days or weeks in the patient's home sleep environment. In addition to its primary function, the study of sleep characteristics, actigraphy is widely used as a method for detecting and monitoring diseases, including cognitive impairment, psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular pathologies, and respiratory diseases. In this review, we have compiled current information on the use of actigraphy as a tool for disease diagnosis. The described results allow us to summarize the useful characteristics of such a diagnostic tool and shed light on the application of this progressive and reliable method in medicine.

Enhancing High School Mathematics Learning Through Moodle Feature Development

The development of information and communication technology in the 21st century spurs the need for digital learning systems to improve the quality of education. This research aims to develop a Learning Management System (LMS) Moodle with additional features that support mathematics learning at the high school level. The research method used in this research is the research and development (R&amp;D) method, with the model used being the Four-D Model or adapted into a 4-D model. Based on the research results, the features developed include typing mathematical formulas using MathType by Wiris, graph visualization, and GeoGebra-based simulations. The results of the trial show that this additional feature increases the effectiveness of mathematics learning and the efficiency of students' learning time. Developing an LMS with interactive features supports a more dynamic and meaningful learning process.

Inquiry-based learning in Bangladesh: insights into middle and high school students’ experiences and 21st century skill development

Educators worldwide are using a variety of approaches to develop students’ 21st century skills, better known as the 4Cs: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. As part of a larger QUAN-QUAL mixed method study, this paper describes urban Bangladeshi students, teachers, and site coordinators’ thoughts about the influence of a six-month inquiry-based learning (IBL) science project on middle and high students’ 4C skill development. We analyzed survey data from 109 students and 20 teachers, interview data from site coordinators, and Zoom transcripts to identify areas of growth. Students reported that the project fostered the development of communication and collaboration skills. We also noted gains in critical thinking and creativity skills. Nonparametric statistics confirmed that grade levels have a statistically significant effect on the 4C skills development. However, curriculum type (British vs. National) did not have a considerable influence, showing that teachers can use IBL projects to develop 4C skills regardless of curriculum variations. This study highlights the benefits of providing teachers with professional development that targets design and implementation of IBL to foster 4C skills development across content areas and educational settings.

Evaluating the Impact of Urban Encroachment and Land Cover Changes on World Cultural Heritage Site Taxila: A Spatio-Temporal Analysis from 1990 to 2024

Rapid global urbanization during the late 20th and early 21st centuries has induced substantial land cover changes, posing significant threats to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites. In this study, we investigated the spatio-temporal change in urban development in response to land use transformations in the world cultural heritage site (CHS) of Taxila, Pakistan, to check the possible threats faced by the site. Land transfer matrices were used to assess the land cover change (LCC) between 1990 and 2024. Support vector machine and Getis–Ord Gi techniques were employed for LCC classification and spatial pattern interpretation, respectively, which were later evaluated by the high spatial resolution imagery of KH-9 (Keyhole-9), Google Earth Pro and Gaofen-2. The results indicate a significant increase in built-up area from 23.68 km2 to 78.5 km2, accompanied by a substantial rise in bare land from 8.56 km2 to 26.5 km2 between 1990 and 2024, which is quite irregular. LCC transformations were notable, with 13.1 km2 of cropland and 44.8 km2 vegetation being converted into 4.4 km2 of built-up area and 14.5 km2 into bare land during the 1990 to 2024 period. Getis–Ord Gi analysis observed a high Z-score value and showed low to high clustering patterns in the proximity of the Sarakhola and Bhir Mound sites from 1990 to 2024. Furthermore, high spatial resolution imagery indicates the loss of the core zone of the Sarakhola site from 0.0168 to 0.0032 km2 from 2004 to 2024, which was the major threat to its outstanding universal venue (OUV) status. The findings of the current study indicate that the CHS under study is facing an alarming situation for conservation due to rapid urban development and encroachment. Therefore, local government should strictly implement the heritage law and revisit their policies to promote conservation efforts to maintain the authenticity and integrity of this world CHS.

The Effect of Loose Part-Based Steam Learning on Improving Fine Motor Skills in Children Aged 5-6 Years

In the current era, science and technology (IPTEK) is growing and developing. In facing the 21st century, humans must have 4C skills. Developing the 4C skills can be done through a learning process that contains STEAM based on Loose Parts. However, the reality is that there are still early childhood education institutions that apply classical learning, so they are considered less than optimal in providing stimulation of 4C skills for children from an early age. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview in the form of a description of the implementation of STEAM learning based on the Loose Part. For children aged 5-6 years at Pembina Wotu State Kindergarten. This study uses quantitative research. The data collection technique consists of observation, interviews, and documentation. The data validity technique uses data source triangulation and method triangulation. Data analysis techniques consist of data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results of this study show that the implementation of Loose Part-based STEAM learning for children aged 5-6 years at Pembina Wotu State Kindergarten is well organized.

Priority Health Professions Education Research in 21st Century

Introduction: Health professions education is fast transforming due to the implementation of competency-based curriculum, the far-reaching effects of the COVID pandemic, and the wider use of newer methods and technology. Objective: To review the research priority in health professional education. Methods: An opinion from health professional educators and a review of articles pertaining to research priorities and future trends in health professional education was carried out in Pub Med and Google Scholar and priority areas were identified. Results: Emerging priority areas included 1) Context of Population Health Needs 2) Bridging the Gap: Health Equity and Social Determinants 3) Competency-driven curriculum needs 4) Capacity Building (Training Health Educators) 5) Integrating Cultural Competence and communication skills 6) Innovative methods and technological advances 7) Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT. Conclusion: In the future educational research is likely to move to incorporate technology advances, capacity building to address various competencies and collaborative practice.

Status and prospects of research on new rural communities in China based on CiteSpace analysis

ABSTRACT New rural communities, as a model of rural residence, play a crucial role in rural development. This study utilizes the CNKI database and employs keyword analysis in CiteSpace to examine research on new rural communities in the 21st century. Findings reveal that: (1) The current research focuses on the necessity and promotion of national policies, identifying deficiencies in the policy system and improving. It also examines community planning systems, construction mode classifications, and performance evaluation methods, as well as governance models, stakeholders, and challenges. These areas are interconnected over time. (2) Time can be divided into three phases: the first phase, research focused on single elements such as health care, political construction, education, etc. with slow progress. The second stage, diversified explorations began, and policy research and practical reflection were coupled and developed. The third stage emphasizes more on the concern for humans, and the emphasis of the research is expanded from the material level to spiritual. (3) Present research has yielded significant outcomes, transitioning from empirical studies to profound theoretical analyzes. However, challenges persist, such as the absence of a comprehensive theoretical framework and methodological innovation. Future research should emphasize systematic exploration of policies, prioritize localized construction models, and drive research methodology innovation.

Research on the Integration Path of Primary School Chinese Language Big Unit Teaching and Interdisciplinary Integration Towards 21st Century Skills

With the development of society and educational progress, the cultivation of 21st-century skills is increasingly valued in primary education. This study aims to explore the pathways for integrating 21st-century skills into large unit teaching of primary Chinese language education and interdisciplinary integration. Through in-depth analysis of 21st-century skills and combining the concept of large unit education, this study has designed a teaching model for integrating 21st-century skills into large unit teaching of primary Chinese language education and interdisciplinary integration. Through in-depth investigation and analysis of practical cases, this study finds that this integration pathway can effectively enhance students critical thinking, creativity, cooperation, and communication skills. This study employs methods such as literature review, case studies, and action research, not only providing primary Chinese language teachers with a set of practical teaching strategies but also offering educational policymakers references for reforming primary Chinese language teaching, aiming to change their fear of large unit teaching, stimulate their enthusiasm for teaching research, encourage them to boldly explore and actively practice.

Development Trajectories of Two Industrial Regions in the EU Due to Different Transformation Paths—The Silesian Voivodeship in Poland and North Rhine–Westphalia in Germany

This article compares the socio-economic development of the two industrial EU regions, the Silesian Voivodeship Poland and the Düsseldorf District in North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany, in the last 20 years of the 21st century. The Ninth Cohesion Report, the EU Regional Competitiveness Index 2.0, and the two concepts of the regional development trap and just transition in the EU were used. It investigated whether the applied EU regional policy, cohesion policy, had the expected effect of strengthening sustainable growth in the regions. This article aims to compare development trajectories, identify development traps and barriers, consider the just transition in the analyzed regions, and provide recommendations for regional policy. Those heavily industrialized regions must respond to the demographic challenges of labor shortages and an aging population. In the case of the Silesia region, the indicated course of action includes labor activation of women and migration management. For both regions, improving productivity is the key. The vital economic challenges include: for the Silesian Voivodeship—strengthening innovation; for the Düsseldorf region—maintaining innovation momentum and increasing resilience. Developing skills that meet industries’ needs is essential. Regarding social cohesion, the Silesia region should focus on equality measures. On the other hand, the Düsseldorf region should strengthen social protection against poverty.

Religion, Culture, and Peace: The Social Doctrine of Benedict XVI

This article situates the papacy of Benedict XVI at the crossroads of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, focusing on theological, cultural, and political developments. It brings out his subtle critique of modernity, his opposition to relativism, and his appeal for a renewed dialogue between Christianity and Enlightenment rationality. It is his sense of faith and reason that, in mutual purifying, forms his support of the public role of religion in peacemaking and moral order. Through moments like the Regensburg Address and his inter-religious dialogues, Benedict XVI emerges as a defender of the place of religion in society while rejecting both religious fundamentalism and secularist reductionism. The paper also examines how Benedict grounded human rights in natural law, thereby differentiating those from other fundamental rights emanating from more contemporary sociopolitical claims. The article places his papacy within the larger frame of Catholic social doctrine, focusing on the role of the Church in promoting peace through cultural and interreligious dialogue, particularly with Islam.