bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Near‐Infrared II Fluorescence Imaging Highlights Tumor Angiogenesis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma with a VEGFR‐Targeted Probe
Authors: Chen Jiali , Li Shiying , Zhou Qi , Zhao Xingyang , Fan Zhijin , Lo Hsuan , Nie Liming 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is typically characterized by rich vascularity, with angiogenesis playing a crucial role in its growth and invasion. Molecular imaging of specific receptors in blood vessels is crucial in HCC diagnosis. In particular, in vivo imaging utilizing the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) window offers improved tissue penetration, reduced light scattering, and lower autofluorescence. Despite the great potential of the NIR‐II window, developing safe and effective probes to provide better imaging performance for HCC is urgently needed. In this study, NIR‐II imaging integrated with a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)‐targeted probe generated by combining a VEGFR‐targeted peptide with indocyanine green (ICG) is used to characterize HCC‐related angiogenesis at a resolution of 56.0 µm. For the first time, liver metabolic curves and parameters of liver function reserve (LFR) are obtained by fitting NIR‐II fluorescence signals with high spatiotemporal resolution, showing significant differences between HCC mice and controls. Moreover, unlike ICG, the targeting probe has a targeted effect on blood vessels in vivo. The tumor‐to‐normal (T/N) ratio in NIR‐II imaging reaches up to 3.30 after post‐injection of the targeting probe. The results indicate that the VEGFR‐targeted probe is a powerful tool for NIR‐II fluorescence imaging to enhance early diagnosis of HCC.
Inside the crucible: Resistance and resilience in a decade of crisis and change for English teachers in Myanmar
Authors: Wong Mary Shepard 
Published: October 2024

AbstractMyanmar has experienced more upheaval and crisis in the past decade than perhaps any of the other nations currently members of the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN). The impact of the twin crises of COVID and the February 1, 2021 military coup, on the heels of massive educational reforms in Myanmar, has created a crucible in which teachers are forging a new vision of education that is more just, inclusive, and critical. Educators, and most notably English language teachers, have joined others to claim agency in this process, demonstrating resilience during and after the COVID crisis, resistance to the military junta following the coup, and innovation in reimagining and reforming pedagogy and education. This article focuses on the English language educators of Myanmar, drawing from interviews that the author conducted in Myanmar every 2 years from 2015 to 2024. Four of the five data sets have been examined in previously published studies (Wong, 2017; Wong et al., 2019; Wong et al., 2024; Wong & Kareng, 2023). The research questions for this study are the following: (1) How did the experience of the twin crises of COVID and the 2021 coup impact English language educators in Myanmar in terms of their identity, agency, and pedagogy? (2) What can we learn about resistance and resilience in crises from the experience of these educators over the past decade? This retrospective multisite, multiyear study of “snapshots” of teachers in Myanmar before, during, and after the two major events of COVID and the coup provides valuable insights on how the crucible of crisis can lead to transformations in who we are (our identity), how we respond (our agency), and what and how we teach (our pedagogy).
Using water walks as a research method to gather data in water‐related social research
Authors: Holstead Kirsty , Grecksch Kevin , Bonner James , Major Laura , Robertson Donald 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWater walks are a research method to collect qualitative data conducted in motion with water or water‐related infrastructure. The water walk has a range of benefits and is gaining popularity, yet few resources exist for those interested in the method. There is a need to consolidate existing understanding and insights across disciplines and areas of study. This way, the water walk, its applications, and specificities are accessible to and can be critically appraised by diverse researchers and research participants. We respond by offering an entry point for those interested in using water walks in data collection and providing an inclusionary and concise examination of the research method. First, we conceptualize and position our interpretation and use of water walks and the proposed benefits. Second, we discuss the practical and ethical aspects of the method. Third, we examine four water walks from our research according to three planes of variation, including (i) who leads the walk, (ii) the mode of walking, and (iii) the approach to engaging with water during the walk. These planes of variation allow others to embrace water walks as part of a research craft that can be molded to diverse research questions and designs, always with reflection vigor and commitment to their participants at the core. We argue that researchers must take a critical approach to water walks and contextualize the method in relation to the wider socio‐political landscape within which our relationship with water, and how we (can) move around and engage with it, is shaped.This article is categorized under:
Water and Life > Methods
Human Water > Water Governance
Human Water > Value of Water
Storm Ciarán – synoptic evolution and warning strategy of the intense mid‐latitude windstorm affecting parts of Northwest Europe on 1/2 November 2023
Authors: Keates Steven , Suri Dan 
Published: October 2024

AbstractStorm Ciarán affected northern France, the Channel Islands and the United Kingdom as an intense North Atlantic depression on 1/2 November 2023, bringing damaging winds, large waves, heavy rain and an intense convective development spawning a tornado on Jersey. Amidst an extended period of stormy weather across Northwest Europe, Storm Ciarán was probably the most significant windstorm to affect the Channel Islands and northern France since the Great Storm of 1987 or Storm Lothar in 1999. Here we explore the storm’s evolution, forecasting strategies and challenges and climatological context from the perspective of Met Office operational meteorologists.
Global and regional climate in 2023
Authors: Sandford Caroline , Dunn Robert , Titchner Holly , Kendon Mike , Rayner Nick , Morice Colin , Palmer Matthew , McCarthy Mark , Kaye Neil 
Published: October 2024

Abstract2023 was the warmest year on record with a global mean temperature of 1.45 ± 0.12 degC above pre‐industrial levels, surpassing the previous record (from 2016) by 0.17 degC. The onset of El Niño in early July was accompanied by record‐breaking land and sea‐surface temperatures, with June to September all exceeding previous monthly temperature records, and July and August being the hottest months on record. Sea‐surface temperatures have attained record highs for all months since March 2023 and Antarctic sea ice reached record lows throughout the year.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of valvular surgery in high‐ and low‐ to middle‐income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Mlambo Vongai , Hyles Kelly , Wang Songnan , Lin Yihan 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundGlobal disparities in valvular surgery services exist. Cost‐effectiveness analysis (CEA) and cost‐utility analysis can be used to guide national investment decisions. This scoping review aims to synthesize economic evaluations for valvular surgery by income settings and provide recommendations.MethodsA systematic literature review identified primary CEAs or CUAs in English comparing surgical management strategies for valvular heart disease. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Business Source Complete were searched using keywords “valvular surgery,” “valve disease,” “cost‐effectiveness,” and “cost‐benefit analysis”. Articles comparing outcomes or costs only were excluded. Search results were uploaded and screened on COVIDENCE. Variables from eligible articles were charted in a spreadsheet.ResultsTwenty articles were eligible, six from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) and 14 from high‐income countries (HICs). In HICs, the top conditions were degenerative aortic valve disease (7/14) and mitral valve disease (4/14) compared to congenital (2/6) and rheumatic heart diseases (2/6) in LMICs. HICs evaluated new technologies and techniques, whereas LMICs compared different valve types or surgery versus no intervention. Most articles used published studies (12/20) or databases (7/20) to conduct their CEA and quality‐adjusted life years was the most common effectiveness measure (12/20). Comparator interventions were cost‐effective in all LMIC articles and in 8/14 for HICs.ConclusionEconomic evaluations are mostly conducted in HICs and for adult conditions. More analyses in LMICs are needed. This can be facilitated by maintaining databases, documenting costs, and implementing quality of life assessments.
Grasping AI Entanglements: Digital Feminism and Generative AI
Authors: Slotte Dufva Tomi 
Published: October 2024

AbstractCurrent machine learning models are advertised to create complex, lifelike or painterly images from diverse inputs, such as text, sketches or photos. These models can be seen as a continuation to the recent years’ developments within artificial intelligence. In this article, I aim to broaden the discussion around machine learning, art, aesthetics and ethics. How do these algorithms change the way we create and think of images? How, then, does it change our aesthetics? Furthermore, as many of these models require substantial amounts of resources, I am interested in how cost, both ecological and economic, affects our comprehension and use of these technologies. The chapter builds on digital feminism and feminist phenomenology, and moves towards deepening the discussion around artificial intelligence, creativity and the arts.
Help Me Help You: The Dilemma of Collaboration Between Expert Employees and Chatbots
Authors: Čaić Martina , Ciuchita Robert , Chiorazzo Giuseppe 
Published: October 2024

AbstractChatbots have received increased attention in research and practice, especially in business-to-consumer (B2C) settings. The role of chatbots in business-to-business (B2B) is less explored (e.g., speed of customer service via chatbots in industrial settings). In this research, we probe the employee perspective of interacting with chatbots, focusing on collaboration and customer support. We do so through an illustrative B2B case drawing on interviews with expert customer service employees and business customers. We synthesize our findings using the People–Process–Technology (PPT) framework of organizational change. In doing so, we explore the importance of the interplay between the customer service employee and chatbot and impacts on the employees and end-customers’ experience. We uncover a double-edged sword: employees need to collaborate with chatbots to help them better help the employee, but collaborating with chatbots may negatively impact experts’ job-related sense of worth (e.g., employees feeling less competent and skilled).
Glycan diversity in ovarian cancer: Unraveling the immune interplay and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Wolters-Eisfeld Gerrit , Oliveira-Ferrer Leticia 
Published: October 2024

AbstractOvarian cancer remains a formidable challenge in oncology due to its late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. Recent research has revealed the intricate interplay between glycan diversity and the immune microenvironment within ovarian tumors, shedding new light on potential therapeutic strategies. This review seeks to investigate the complex role of glycans in ovarian cancer and their impact on the immune response. Glycans, complex sugar molecules decorating cell surfaces and secreted proteins, have emerged as key regulators of immune surveillance in ovarian cancer. Aberrant glycosylation patterns can promote immune evasion by shielding tumor cells from immune recognition, enabling disease progression. Conversely, certain glycan structures can modulate the immune response, leading to either antitumor immunity or immune tolerance. Understanding the intricate relationship between glycan diversity and immune interactions in ovarian cancer holds promise for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. Immunotherapies that target glycan-mediated immune evasion, such as glycan-based vaccines or checkpoint inhibitors, are under investigation. Additionally, glycan profiling may serve as a diagnostic tool for patient stratification and treatment selection. This review underscores the emerging importance of glycan diversity in ovarian cancer, emphasizing the potential for unraveling immune interplay and advancing tailored therapeutic prospects for this devastating disease.
Vuv/vis absorption spectroscopy of different PAHs
Authors: Maddii Fabiani Lorenzo , Reiker Tobias , Zacharias Helmut 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe present study provides new solid-phase absorption data of different Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) molecules in the Far Ultraviolet (FUV) and UV/Visible regions. Two features of interstellar extinction curves fall in this region: the FUV rise and the UV bump. Here, thin films of PAHs were prepared by means of the spin coating method onto a transparent substrate, and their solid phase absorption spectra were recorded. Spectra of isolated molecules simulated by Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) calculations were also produced for comparison. The results fit quite well with the FUV rise but not with the UV bump. Given the scarcity of FUV experimental absorption data of PAHs in the literature and especially in solid phase, these results are also interesting for reference for other studies ranging from thin films applications to interstellar medium models.
Effect of kegel pelvic floor muscle exercise on improving urinary disorder in rectum cancer patients after rectal surgery: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Shah-abadi Mehran Ebrahimi , Pak Haleh , Kazemeini Alireza , Najari Dorsa , Tafti Seyed Mohsen Ahmadi , Keramati Mohammad Reza , Keshvari Amir , Fazeli Mohammad Sadegh , Behboudi Behnam 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Postoperative urinary dysfunction poses a significant challenge for rectal cancer patients. While pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) has shown promise in other contexts, its efficacy following rectal cancer surgery remains uncertain.

Results
A clinical trial involving 79 rectal cancer patients found that initiating Kegel exercises post-surgery led to significant improvements in urinary symptoms compared to standard care. Adherence to exercises correlated with symptom reduction, with no reported adverse events. We have defined the main outcome of our study as the improvement in urinary function scores post-surgery. Effectiveness is considered as any statistically significant improvement in these scores.

Conclusion
Early initiation of Kegel exercises shows promise in alleviating postoperative urinary dysfunction in rectal cancer patients. Further research is needed to optimize postoperative care protocols and enhance patient outcomes.
Analysis of virulence factors in extracellular vesicles secreted by Naegleria fowleri
Authors: Rodríguez-Mera Itzel Berenice , Rojas-Hernández Saúl , Barrón-Graciano Karla Alejandra , Carrasco-Yépez María Maricela 
Published: October 2024

AbstractNaegleria fowleri is the etiological agent of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rapidly progressive acute and fulminant infection that affects the central nervous system, particularly of children and young adults, which has a mortality rate greater than 95%, and its symptomatologic similarity with other meningitis caused by virus or bacteria makes it difficult to make a quick and timely diagnosis that prevents the progression of the infection. It is necessary to know the antigenic determinants as well as the pathogenicity mechanisms of this amoeba to implement strategies that allow for better antiamoebic therapeutic and diagnostic targets that directly impact the health sector. Therefore, the aim of this work was to analyze some virulence factors as part of extracellular vesicle (EV) cargo secreted by N. fowleri. The EV secretion to the extracellular medium was evaluated in trophozoites fixed and incubated with anti-N. fowleri antibody while molecular identification of EV cargo was performed by SDS-PAGE, Western blot, and RT-PCR. Our results showed that N. fowleri secretes a wide variety of vesicle sizes ranging from 0.2 to > 2 μm, and these EVs were recognized by antibodies anti-Naegleropore B, anti-19 kDa polypeptide band, anti-membrane protein Mp2CL5, anti-protease cathepsin B, and anti-actin. Furthermore, these vesicles were localized in the trophozoites cytoplasm or secreted into the extracellular medium. Specifically in relation to small vesicles, our purified exosomes were recognized by CD63 and Hsp70 markers, along with the previously mentioned proteins. RT-PCR analysis was made through the isolation of EVs from N. fowleri trophozoite culture by concentration, filtration, and ultracentrifugation. Interestingly, we obtained PCR products for Nfa1, NPB, Mp2CL5, and CatB genes as part of exosomes cargo. This suggests that the molecules identified in this work could play an important role in communication as well as in infectious processes caused by this amoeba. Therefore, the study and characterization of the pathogenicity mechanisms, as well as the virulence factors released by N. fowleri remains a key point to provide valuable information for the development of therapeutic treatments, vaccine design, or biomarkers for a timely diagnosis against infections caused by protozoa.
First successful in-situ LA-ICPMS U–Pb dating of recrystallized, metamorphic sulfate constraints deformation phases on western Crete, Greece
Authors: Ring Uwe , Albert Richard , Beranoaguirre Aratz , Fassoulas Charalampos , Gerdes Axel 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWe report three U–Pb sulfate ages from the recently identified Intra-PQ Thrust within the Phyllite–Quartzite (PQ) Nappe of the Ionian high-pressure belt of the external Hellenides in the eastern Mediterranean. Crosscutting relations show that a distinct pressure-solution laminae/microlithon fabric is the oldest deformation structure. Two analyses of sulfate minerals that are part of this structure yielded indistinguishable dates, with a weighted average of 20.03 ± 5.96 Ma. The crosscutting fabric with alteration halos of the sulfate provided a date of 9.37 ± 4.64 Ma. The initial 207Pb/206Pb ratios are ~ 0.40 and thus distinctively lower than the terrestrial model lead isotope ratio of 0.84 for the calculated ages. This can only be explained if the dated sulfate precipitated from a fluid enriched in radiogenic 206Pb, probably sourced by the surrounding country rock through (partial) dissolution of older U-rich minerals. The dates of ~ 20 Ma agree with recently reported fault-gouge ages of 26–21 Ma from the Intra-PQ Thrust. The study demonstrates, for the first time, the possibility of dating sulfate minerals in metamorphosed rocks applying the U–Pb system.
Graphical abstract
Drivers of nest site selection and breeding success in an Alpine ground-nesting songbird
Authors: Rime Yann , Korner Pius , Helm Barbara , Müller Thomas , Amrhein Valentin , Liechti Felix , Meier Christoph M. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBirds breeding in high-Alpine habitats must select a suitable breeding site and achieve successful reproduction within a restricted time. During four breeding seasons, we monitored nest sites of the Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe), a high-Alpine long-distance migrant. We investigated how ecological factors predicted the selection of a site for nesting within the home range, using conditional logistic regression. Birds preferred south-exposed productive pastures on gentle slopes, interspersed with non-vegetated ground and human-made rockpiles. The direct vicinity of conspecific nests was avoided, as were shrubby or north-exposed areas. We investigated if habitat also influenced breeding success. We analysed the impact of environmental factors on breeding success, which was primarily driven by predation. The probability of the brood fledging successfully decreased on north-exposed slopes or on areas with low coverage of non-vegetated ground. The vicinity of conspecific nests did not have a clear effect. Further, we describe how breeding success varied within and between years. Within years, replacement broods had a higher breeding success. The apparent absence of variation in breeding success between years and a delay of the breeding period in the year with late spring onset suggest a high level of tolerance with respect to inter-annual variation of meteorological conditions. Since the preferred habitat is still widely available in the Alps and given the negative population trends in Western Europe, the Alpine range might serve as a refuge for the Northern Wheatear, as long as low-intensity management and heterogenous habitats are maintained.
A survey of recent approaches to form understanding in scanned documents
Authors: Abdallah Abdelrahman , Eberharter Daniel , Pfister Zoe , Jatowt Adam 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis paper presents a comprehensive survey of over 100 research works on the topic of form understanding in the context of scanned documents. We delve into recent advancements and breakthroughs in the field, with particular focus on transformer-based models, which have been shown to improve performance in form understanding tasks by up to 25% in accuracy compared to traditional methods. Our research methodology involves an in-depth analysis of popular documents and trends over the last decade, including 15 state-of-the-art models and 10 benchmark datasets. By examining these works, we offer novel insights into the evolution of this domain. Specifically, we highlight how transformers have revolutionized form-understanding techniques by enhancing the ability to process noisy scanned documents with significant improvements in OCR accuracy. Furthermore, we present an overview of the most relevant datasets, such as FUNSD, CORD, and SROIE, which serve as benchmarks for evaluating the performance of the models. By comparing the capabilities of these models and reporting an average improvement of 10–15% in key form extraction tasks, we aim to provide researchers and practitioners with useful guidance in selecting the most suitable solutions for their form understanding applications.
Observed Aspects of Mate Value and Sociosexuality Account for Mate Preferences: Data from a Large, Representative Study from Czechia
Authors: Csajbók Zsófia , Štěrbová Zuzana , Jonason Peter K. , Jelínková Lucie , Binter Jakub , Havlíček Jan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
While there is substantial research on what people want in their romantic and sexual partners, much of this work focuses on WEIRD, youthful samples, fails to consider the role of undesirable characteristics (i.e., things people do not want in partners) at all, or in conjunction with desirable characteristics (i.e., things people do want in partners), and may be overly reliant on psychometric approaches to pivotal variables in mating psychology like mate value and sociosexuality. In a nationally representative (online) sample of 2280 people from Czechia (aged between 18 and 50 years old), we examined linear and quadratic age, education, and self-perceived mate value (desirability) effects on the desired levels in mate choice of eight undesirable and seven desirable characteristics in men and women in relation to ostensible metrics of mate value. Self-perceived mate value alone explained little variance (men 1%, women 2%), while all mate value and mating strategy indicators together explained little variance of mate preferences and aversions (men 3%, women 5%). Desirable characteristics were better explained by mate value than undesirable ones. Our results are in line with evolutionary predictions suggesting that women are more demanding. Also, more qualities to offer correlate with more expectations in a partner.