bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Forest frontiers out of control: The long-term effects of discourses, policies, and markets on conservation and development of the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Pokorny Benno , Pacheco Pablo , de Jong Wil , Entenmann Steffen Karl 
Published: October 2021

AbstractWith the Brazilian military governments of the 1960s, systematic economic development of the Amazon began. Social and environmental concerns have entered Amazonian discourses and policies only since the 1990s. Since then, reports of threats to forests and indigenous people have alternated with reports of socio-economic progress and environmental achievements. These contradictions often arise from limited thematic, sectoral, temporal, or spatial perspectives, and lead to misinterpretation. Our paper offers a comprehensive picture of discourses, policies, and socio-environmental dynamics for the entire region over the last five decades. We distinguish eight historical policy phases, each of which had little effect on near-linear dynamics of demographic growth and land-use expansion, although some policies showed the potential to change the course of development. To prevent local, national, and international actors from continuing to assert harmful interests in the region, a coherent long-term commitment and change in the collective mindset are needed.
Finding your scientific story by writing backwards
Authors: Montagnes David J. S. , Montagnes E. Ian , Yang Zhou 
Published: October 2021

AbstractTo succeed, a scientist must write well. Substantial guidance exists on writing papers that follow the classic Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion (IMRaD) structure. Here, we fill a critical gap in this pedagogical canon. We offer guidance on developing a good scientific story.This valuable—yet often poorly achieved—skill can increase the impact of a study and its likelihood of acceptance. A scientific story goes beyond presenting information. It is a cohesive narrative that engages the reader by presenting and solving a problem, with a beginning, middle, and end. To create this narrative structure, we urge writers to consider starting at the end of their study, starting with writing their main conclusions, which provide the basis of the Discussion, and then work backwards: Results → Methods → refine the Discussion → Introduction → Abstract → Title. In this brief and informal editorial, we offer guidance to a wide audience, ranging from upper-level undergraduates (who have just conducted their first research project) to senior scientists (who may benefit from re-thinking their approach to writing). To do so, we provide specific instruction, examples, and a guide to the literature on how to “write backwards”, linking scientific storytelling to the IMRaD structure.
Investigation of rarefied flow over backward-facing step in different rarefaction regimes using direct simulation Monte Carlo
Authors: Nabapure D. , Singh A. , Kalluri R.C.M. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractHypersonic aerothermodynamics for a re-entry vehicle approaching the earth’s atmosphere is critical in the exploration of space. These vehicles often encounter various flow regimes due to the density variations and have surface abnormalities. The backward-facing step (BFS) is one such simplified configuration for modeling anomalies around such space vehicles. The present work examines rarefied hypersonic flow over a BFS using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method. The purpose of this research is focused on exploring the various loads encountered by a re-entry vehicle passing through different altitudes covering different rarefaction regimes. The fluid considered was non-reacting air, with the free-stream Mach number as 25, and the Knudsen number considered ranged from 0.05-21.10. The influence of the Knudsen number on flow characteristics has been elucidated graphically in various streamwise directions. The normalised flow properties such as velocity, pressure, temperature and density showed an increasing trend with the Knudsen number due to compressibility and viscous heating effects. In all flow regimes, there was an appearance of flow recirculation. With rarefaction, the recirculation lengths decreased, whereas the boundary layer thickness showed an increase. The aerodynamic surface properties such as pressure coefficient, skin friction, and heat transfer coefficient, by and large, showed an increase with the Knudsen number. When the chemical reactions were accounted for and compared against the non-reacting flows, the velocity, pressure, and density field showed no marked variation; however, considerable variations were observed in the temperature field. Furthermore, the present study also depicts the compressibility factor contour, showing the flow regions that diverge from the ideal gas behaviour.
Spontaneous regression of advanced-stage oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lau K L , Lee C W , Tustin H , Stafford F 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundSpontaneous regression is defined as the partial or complete disappearance of a malignant tumour proven by microscopic examination in the absence of any substantial treatment. This paper presents the case of an older woman whose advanced-stage tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma was noted to have spontaneously regressed at seven months.Case reportA 66-year-old woman presented with a 4-month history of dysphagia and odynophagia in September 2020. An exophytic tumour was seen on the right tonsil; this was diagnosed radiologically and histologically as a squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsils, with tumour–node–metastasis staging of T4aN0M0. The patient received best supportive care. Seven months later, the oropharyngeal lesion had disappeared, with no treatment. Subsequent computed tomography imaging showed radiological resolution of the previously noted right-sided oropharyngeal lesion.ConclusionSeveral mechanisms of spontaneous regression are discussed. Further studies should review this case in conjunction with other reports of spontaneous tumour regressions, to elucidate underlying mechanisms.
Genetic and viability assessment of a reintroduced Eurasian otterLutra lutrapopulation on the River Ticino, Italy
Authors: Balestrieri Alessandro , Gianfranceschi Luca , Verduci Francesca , Gatti Emanuele , Boggioni Pietro , Mucci Nadia , Mengoni Chiara , Capelli Enrica , Tremolada Paolo 
Published: October 2021

AbstractOn the River Ticino in northern Italy, a small number of captive Eurasian ottersLutra lutra, belonging to the European breeding programme for self-sustaining captive populations, were reintroduced in 1997, after the species had been declared locally extinct in the 1980s. We surveyed for otter signs in 2008, 2010, 2016–2017 and 2018, confirming the presence of what is probably a small population. To assess the abundance and viability of the population, we genotyped fresh spraints collected during the last two surveys, using 11 microsatellite markers, and modelled the population trend usingVortex. A minimum of six individuals were identified from 25 faecal samples. The analysis of mitochondrial DNA determined that the reintroduced otters share a transversion that is characteristic of the Asiatic subspeciesLutra lutra barang, confirming the contribution of the Asiatic subspecies to the genetic pool of the captive-bred founder population. Population size was consistent with the release of three pairs of otters and all models implied that the number of founders was too small to ensure the long-term survival of the population. Stochastic factors are therefore likely to threaten the success of this reintroduction.
Conspiracy beliefs prospectively predict health behavior and well-being during a pandemic
Authors: van Prooijen Jan-Willem , Etienne Tom W. , Kutiyski Yordan , Krouwel André P. M. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundConspiracy beliefs are associated with detrimental health attitudes during the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. Most prior research on these issues was cross-sectional, however, and restricted to attitudes or behavioral intentions. The current research was designed to examine to what extent conspiracy beliefs predict health behavior and well-being over a longer period of time.MethodsIn this preregistered multi-wave study on a large Dutch research panel (weighted to provide nationally representative population estimates), we examined if conspiracy beliefs early in the pandemic (April 2020) would predict a range of concrete health and well-being outcomes eight months later (December 2020; N = 5745).ResultsThe results revealed that Covid-19 conspiracy beliefs prospectively predicted a decreased likelihood of getting tested for corona; if tested, an increased likelihood of the test coming out positive; and, an increased likelihood of having violated corona regulations, deteriorated economic outcomes (job loss; reduced income), experiences of social rejection, and decreased overall well-being. Most of these effects generalized to a broader susceptibility to conspiracy theories (i.e. conspiracy mentality).ConclusionsThese findings suggest that conspiracy beliefs are associated with a myriad of negative life outcomes in the long run. Conspiracy beliefs predict how well people have coped with the pandemic over a period of eight months, as reflected in their health behavior, and their economic and social well-being.
Use of alginate hydrogel to improve long-term 3D culture of spermatogonial stem cells: stemness gene expression and structural features
Authors: Hemadi Masoud , Assadollahi Vahideh , Saki Ghasem , Pirnia Afshin , Alasvand Masoud , Zendehdel Abolfazl , Gholami Mohammadreza 
Published: October 2021

SummaryThe quality and quantity of a spermatogonial stem-cell (SSC) culture can be measured in less time using a 3D culture in a scaffold. The present study investigated stemness gene expression and the morphological and structural characterization of SSCs encapsulated in alginate. SSCs were harvested from BALB/c neonatal mice testes through two-step mechanical and enzymatic digestion. The spermatogonial populations were separated using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) using an anti-Thy1 antibody and c-Kit. The SSCs then were encapsulated in alginate hydrogel. After 2 months of SSC culturing, the alginate microbeads were extracted and stained to evaluate their histological properties. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to determine the stemness gene expression. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to evaluate the SSC morphology, density and scaffold structure. The results showed that encapsulated SSCs had decreased expression of Oct4, Sox2 and Nanos2 genes, but the expression of Nanog, Bcl6b and Plzf genes was not significantly altered. Histological examination showed that SSCs with pale nuclei and numerous nucleolus formed colonies. SEM evaluation revealed that the alginate scaffold structure preserved the SSC morphology and density for more than 60 days. Cultivation of SSCs on alginate hydrogel can affect Oct4, Sox2 and Nanos2 expression.
Motor and visuomotor function in 10-year-old children with congenital heart disease: association with behaviour
Authors: Teixeira Joana , Caflisch Jon , Chaouch Aziz , Beck Ingrid , Feldmann Maria , Polentarutti Susanne , Balmer Christian , Latal Beatrice 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackground:Children with CHD are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental impairments. There is little information on long-term motor function and its association with behaviour.Aims:To assess motor function and behaviour in a cohort of 10-year-old children with CHD after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.Methods:Motor performance and movement quality were examined in 129 children with CHD using the Zurich Neuromotor Assessment providing four timed and one qualitative component, and a total timed motor score was created based on the four timed components. The Beery Test of Visual–Motor Integration and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire were administered.Results:All Zurich Neuromotor Assessment motor tasks were below normative values (all p ≤ 0.001), and the prevalence of poor motor performance (≤10th percentile) ranged from 22.2% to 61.3% in the different components. Visuomotor integration and motor coordination were poorer compared to norms (all p ≤ 0.001). 14% of all analysed children had motor therapy at the age of 10 years. Children with a total motor score ≤10th percentile showed more internalising (p = 0.002) and externalising (p = 0.028) behavioural problems.Conclusions:School-aged children with CHD show impairments in a variety of motor domains which are related to behavioural problems. Our findings emphasise that motor problems can persist into school-age and require detailed assessment and support.
Adenosine reverses life-threatening persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate refractory to triple vasodilator therapy
Authors: Genet Lucie , De Luca Daniele 
Published: October 2021

AbstractPersistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate can cause acute and life-threatening hypoxia, but preterm neonates are not suitable candidate to extra-corporeal life support. We report the unique case of an extremely preterm neonates with life-threatening persistent pulmonary hypertension refractory to triple vasodilator therapy (nitric oxide, iloprost, and bosentan), which has been successfully treated with the addition of adenosine continuous infusion.
Cardiac resynchronisation therapy in a pace-dependent infant with tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Sus Ioana , Suteu Carmen , Dobreanu Dan 
Published: October 2021

AbstractWe present the case of a 5-month-old infant with tetralogy of Fallot and congenital atrio-ventricular block that developed severe left ventricular dysfunction during apical left ventricular pacing, in which cardiac resynchronisation therapy was used as an emergency procedure due to persistent low cardiac output syndrome.
Global libertarianism: how much public morality does international human rights law allow?
Authors: Heinze Eric 
Published: October 2021

AbstractInternational human rights specialists and libertarian philosophers have rarely pursued meaningful exchanges, but this paper probes some of their common ground. In recent years, leading international monitoring bodies have developed a principle described here as the ‘Libertarian Principle of Human Rights’ (LPHR). It runs as follows:Governments cannot legitimately recite public morals as a sufficient justification to limit individual human rights. That principle might seem obvious in many societies today, but throughout history, including the history of liberalism, any notion that certain individual interests must trump religious or customary beliefs has stood as the rare exception. The seemingly Western and secular suggestion of a libertarian principle inherent within human rights may seem at odds with the view that human rights ought to reflect diverse cultural traditions; however, LPHR underscores an anti-authoritarianism, which, it is argued, must form part of any serious conception of human rights. LPHR can be substantiated even for highly controversial rights, such as LGBTQ+ rights, suggesting that it appliesa fortiorito more settled rights.
Tectonic Deformation and Volatile Loss in the Formation of Noctis Labyrinthus, Mars
Authors: Kling Corbin L. , Byrne Paul K. , Atkins Rachel M. , Wegmann Karl W. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractNoctis Labyrinthus is a little‐studied and structurally complex area situated between the Tharsis Rise and Valles Marineris on Mars. Noctis Labyrinthus is dissected by normal faults that form horst and graben, pit craters situated inside the graben, and large troughs that cross‐cut both graben and pit craters. Mass wasting, periglacial, and some erosive fluvial features are observed at the bases of the troughs, suggesting that the troughs hosted liquid and perhaps even ice at some point in the past. We mapped and analyzed these structural and morphological features in Noctis Labyrinthus to establish the region's formational history. Fault throw profiles, combined with morphometric data from pit craters, were used to assess how the pit craters relate to the much larger troughs in the region and whether those troughs were formed by extensional tectonic deformation alone. This comparative analysis suggests that some pit craters grew deeper than the amount of throw accommodated by their bounding faults. We hypothesize that layers with subsurface volatiles (such as ground ice) were intersected and exposed by the larger Noctis Labyrinthus pit craters, enabling sublimation that further promoted mass wasting and the growth and coalescence of pits and graben into the large troughs. Under this scenario, subsurface volatiles played an important role in forming this structurally complex region, and may still be present there.
Extended Water Level Trends at Long‐Record Tide Gauges Via Moving Window Averaging and Implications for Future Coastal Flooding
Authors: Devlin Adam T. , Pan Jiayi , Lin Hui 
Published: October 2021

AbstractQuantifying the nature and patterns of sea level rise (SLR) is a critical challenge for the sustainability and resilience of coastal zones. Studies of SLR typically consider time‐averaged mean sea level (MSL) trends, however, coastal flooding is more sensitive to extended water level (EWL), which includes time‐variable components such as tides and seasonal variability. Here, we describe a new way to determine long‐term trends of peak extended water levels (PEWL) considering combined monthly averaged MSL and tidal range and their changes in linear rates and variability, which are compared to trends in mean extended water levels (MEWL) over moving 20‐year time windows at long‐period tide gauges over two epochs: century‐scale, and half‐century‐scale. Results show that a majority of locations exhibit different PEWL trends than MEWL trends in both epochs, and this difference has intensified in the past 50 years. There are strong regional coherencies observed: positive PEWL trends along western boundaries of basins (US Atlantic Coast, Japan, and Australia), and negative PEWL trends in most of Europe and the US Pacific Coast. Strong correlations to the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation are also observed at many locations. Significant contributions from changes in tidal range and/or variability highlights the importance of considering multiple components of the water level spectrum beyond MSL. Our results are further analyzed in the context of IPCC projections to demonstrate that increased rates of PEWL may have additional implications for future flood levels at locations which have large projected increases in SLR.
Stratospheric Adiabatic Mixing Rates Derived From the Vertical Gradient of Age of Air
Authors: Linz Marianna , Plumb R. Alan , Gupta Aman , Gerber Edwin P. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe circulation of the stratosphere transports important trace gases, including ozone, and can be thought of as having a fast horizontal mixing component and a slow meridional overturning component. Measuring the strength of the circulation directly is not possible, and so it must be inferred from tracer measurements. Long‐lived trace gases can be related to the idealized tracer age of air, which describes how long an air parcel has been in the stratosphere. In this paper, we derive a quantitative relationship between the vertical gradient of age and the horizontal mixing between the tropics and the extratropics using a “leaky pipe” framework in isentropic coordinates. Mixing rates of air into and out of the tropics are related to the vertical gradient of age in the tropics and in the extratropics, respectively. The derivation is repeated with the hemispheres separated so that the vertical structure of the mixing in the two hemispheres can be compared directly. These theories are applied to output from an idealized model of the stratosphere and from a realistic chemistry‐climate model to test our assumptions and calculate the mixing rates in the models. We then perform a quantitative comparison of the mixing rates in the Northern and Southern hemispheres along with an examination of where such a separation is valid. Finally, we perform a very preliminary calculation of mixing efficiency with satellite data to demonstrate the use of the mixing metric to compare mixing in models and data.
Development of prefrontal cortex
Authors: Kolk Sharon M. , Rakic Pasko 
Published: October 2021

AbstractDuring evolution, the cerebral cortex advances by increasing in surface and the introduction of new cytoarchitectonic areas among which the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is considered to be the substrate of highest cognitive functions. Although neurons of the PFC are generated before birth, the differentiation of its neurons and development of synaptic connections in humans extend to the 3rd decade of life. During this period, synapses as well as neurotransmitter systems including their receptors and transporters, are initially overproduced followed by selective elimination. Advanced methods applied to human and animal models, enable investigation of the cellular mechanisms and role of specific genes, non-coding regulatory elements and signaling molecules in control of prefrontal neuronal production and phenotypic fate, as well as neuronal migration to establish layering of the PFC. Likewise, various genetic approaches in combination with functional assays and immunohistochemical and imaging methods reveal roles of neurotransmitter systems during maturation of the PFC. Disruption, or even a slight slowing of the rate of neuronal production, migration and synaptogenesis by genetic or environmental factors, can induce gross as well as subtle changes that eventually can lead to cognitive impairment. An understanding of the development and evolution of the PFC provide insight into the pathogenesis and treatment of congenital neuropsychiatric diseases as well as idiopathic developmental disorders that cause intellectual disabilities.
A new prognostic score for predicting survival in patients treated with robotic stereotactic radiotherapy for brain metastases
Authors: Stankiewicz Magdalena , Tomasik Bartlomiej , Blamek Slawomir 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe study aimed to analyze potential prognostic factors in patients treated with robotic radiosurgery for brain metastases irrespective of primary tumor location and create a simple prognostic score that can be used without a full diagnostic workup. A retrospective analysis of 142 patients with 1–9 brain metastases treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (1–4 fractions) was performed. Volumes of all lesions were calculated using linear dimensions of the tumors (CC, LR, AP) and 4/3*π*(CC/2)*(LR/2)*(AP/2) formula. Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used to analyze survival. Variables significantly associated with overall survival in univariate analysis were included in Cox multivariate analysis. The validity of the model was tested with the bootstrap method. Variables from the final model were used to construct a new prognostic index by assigning points according to the impact of a specific variable on overall survival. In the multivariate analysis, four factors: Karnofsky Performance Status (p = 0.000068), number of brain metastases (p = 0.019), volume of the largest lesion (p = 0.0037), and presence of extracerebral metastases (p = 0.0017), were independent predictors of survival. Total scores ranged from 0 to 12 points, and patients were divided into four groups based on median survival of each subgroup: 0–1 points—18.8 months, 2–3 points—16.9 months, 4–5 points—5.6 months, and ≥ 6 points—4.9 months (p < 0.001). The new prognostic index is simple to calculate. It has a strong prognostic value in a heterogeneous population of patients with a various number of brain metastases, but its value requires confirmation in another cohort.