bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Machine Learning Approach to Well-Being in Late Childhood and Early Adolescence: The Children’s Worlds Data Case
Authors: González-Carrasco Mònica , Aciar Silvana , Casas Ferran , Oriol Xavier , Fabregat Ramon , Malo Sara 
Published: September 2024

AbstractExplaining what leads to higher or lower levels of subjective well-being (SWB) in childhood and adolescence is one of the cornerstones within this field of studies, since it can lead to the development of more focused preventive and promotion actions. Although many indicators of SWB have been identified, selecting one over the other to obtain a reasonably short list poses a challenge, given that models are particularly sensitive to the indicators considered.Two Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, one based on Extreme Gradient Boosting and Random Forest and the other on Lineal Regression, were applied to 77 indicators included in the 3rd wave of the Children’s Worlds project and then compared. ExtremeGradient Boosting outperforms the other two, while Lineal Regression outperforms Random Forest. Moreover, the Extreme Gradient Boosting algorithm was used to compare models for each of the 35 participating countries with that of the pooled sample on the basis of responses from 93,349 children and adolescents collected through a representative sampling and belonging to the 10 and 12-year-olds age groups. Large differences were detected by country with regard to the importance of these 77 indicators in explaining the scores for the five-item-version of the CWSWBS5 (Children’s Worlds Subjective Well-Being Scale). The process followed highlights the greater capacity of some ML techniques in providing models with higher explanatory power and less error, and in more clearly differentiating between the contributions of the different indicators to explain children’s and adolescents’ SWB. This finding is useful when it comes to designing shorter but more reliable questionnaires (a selection of 29 indicators were used in this case).
Lyme disease in companion animals: an updated state-of-art and current situation in Portugal
Authors: Picado Rita , Baptista Catarina Jota , Meneses André , Legatti Sabrina , Fonseca Joana , Belas Adriana 
Published: September 2024

AbstractLyme disease (LD) is a globally distributed zoonotic multisystemic condition caused by gram-negative spirochete bacteria of the Borrelia burgdorferi complex, transmitted through tick bites. Research on LD in domestic animals in Portugal is limited, potentially leading to underestimating its prevalence. This disease affects many species, including humans, making it a critical public health issue. In domestic animals, LD often presents subclinically or with non-specific clinical signs, complicating its diagnosis. Nevertheless, veterinarians should always consider LD in cases with a history of tick exposure and compatible clinical signs. Diagnostic confirmation can be achieved through serological and other complementary tests. Treatment involves eradicating the bacterial infection and managing clinical signs using a combination of antibiotics, analgesics, anti-inflammatories, and other medications. Effective prevention primarily relies on tick control measures. This review aims to provide an up-to-date state-of-the-art LD, particularly in Portugal.
Virtual Peer Support: Impact of Online Social Interactions Among Members of a Japanese Single Mothers’ Community
Authors: Dansu Margaret Adesewa 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis study examines how virtual spaces facilitated by NPOs are becoming catalysts for personal growth and collective strength. The primary finding indicates that social interaction among peers in an online support group tends to foster personal growth and development. This result is based on a grounded theory analysis of interview data from an online peer group and an interpretation of the data using symbolic interactionism. The study showcases how engagement in these spaces can lead to meaningful outreach and support for vulnerable populations, particularly single mothers. This research contributes to the understanding of collective behavior and its impact on individuals within a virtual group, shedding light on the dynamics of online support communities.
Minimum area of primitive broad-leaved Korean pine forest community based on biomass
Authors: Yang Huibin , Guo Qingxi 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBased on the survey data of nine primitive broad-leaved Korean pine forest plots ranging from 1 to 10.4 ha in Heilongjiang Province, this study used the moving window method and GIS technology to analyze the variation characteristics of the spatial distribution pattern of forest biomass in each plot. We explored the minimum area that can reflect the structural and functional characteristics of the primitive broad-leaved Korean pine forest, and used computer simulation random sampling method to verify the accuracy of the minimum area. The results showed that: (1) Through the analysis of the spatial distribution raster map of biomass deviation in the plots at various scales of 10 − 100 m, there is a minimum area (0.64 ha) for the critical range of biomass density variation in the primitive broad-leaved Korean pine forest. This minimum area based on biomass density can indirectly reflect the comprehensive characteristics of productivity level per unit area, structure, function, and environmental quality of the primitive broad-leaved Korean pine forest community. (2) Using computer simulation random sampling, it was found that only by sampling in a specific plot larger than or equal to the minimum area can equivalent or similar results be achieved as random sampling within the plot, indicating that the minimum area determined by the moving window method is accurate. (3) The minimum area determined in this paper is an excellent indicator reflecting the complexity of community structure, which can be used for comparing changes in community structure and function before and after external disturbances, and has a good evaluation effect. This minimum area can also be used as a basis for scientific and reasonable setting of plot size in the investigation and monitoring work of broad-leaved Korean pine forests in this region, thereby achieving the goals of improving work efficiency and saving work costs.
Tree diversity drives understory carbon storage rather than overstory carbon storage across forest types
Authors: Ullah Saif , Wu Jianping , Shah Jawad Ali , Wang Xuemei , Lyu Yueming , Guo Zhiwen , Ali Kashif , Chen Deyun , Sun Han 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAlthough numerous studies have proposed explanations for the specific and relative effects of stand structure, plant diversity, and environmental conditions on carbon (C) storage in forest ecosystems, understanding how these factors collectively affect C storage in different community layers (trees, shrubs, and herbs) and forest types (mixed, broad-leaved (E), broad-leaved (M), and coniferous forest) continues to pose challenges. To address this, we used structural equation models to quantify the influence of biotic factors (mean DBH, mean height, maximum height, stem density, and basal area) and abiotic factors (elevation and canopy openness), as well as metrics of species diversity (Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson index, and Pielou’s evenness) in various forest types. Our analysis revealed the critical roles of forest types and elevation in explaining a substantial portion of variability in C storage in the overstory layer, with a moderate influence of stand factors (mean DBH and basal area) and a slightly negative impact of tree species diversity (Shannon–Wiener index). Notably, forest height emerged as the primary predictor of C storage in the herb layer. Regression relationships further highlighted the significant contribution of tree species diversity to mean height, understory C storage, and branch biomass within the forest ecosystem. Our insights into tree species diversity, derived from structural equation modeling of C storage in the overstory, suggest that the effects of tree species diversity may be influenced by stem biomass in statistical reasoning within temperate forests. Further research should also integrate tree species diversity with tree components biomass, forest mean height, understory C, and canopy openness to understand complex relationships and maintain healthy and sustainable ecosystems in the face of global climate challenges.
A bisection method for solving distance-based clustering problems globally
Authors: Kirst Peter , Bajbar Tomáš , Merkel Mario 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIn this article, we consider distance-based clustering problems. In contrast to many approaches, we use the maximum norm instead of the more commonly used Euclidean norm to measure distances. This problem is nonsmooth and non-convex and, thus, difficult to solve to global optimality using standard approaches, which is common in cluster analysis. Therefore, we reformulate this continuous problem in light of graph-theoretical instances which enables us to construct a bisection algorithm converging to the globally minimal value of the original clustering problem by establishing valid upper and lower bounding procedures. Our numerical results indicate that our method performs well on data sets exhibiting clear cluster-pattern structure even for bigger data instances while still guaranteeing the global optimality of the computed solution. We compare our approach with the classical k-means algorithm and also discuss the limits and challenges of the proposed procedure.
Supporting Trustworthy AI Through Machine Unlearning
Authors: Hine Emmie , Novelli Claudio , Taddeo Mariarosaria , Floridi Luciano 
Published: September 2024

AbstractMachine unlearning (MU) is often analyzed in terms of how it can facilitate the “right to be forgotten.” In this commentary, we show that MU can support the OECD’s five principles for trustworthy AI, which are influencing AI development and regulation worldwide. This makes it a promising tool to translate AI principles into practice. We also argue that the implementation of MU is not without ethical risks. To address these concerns and amplify the positive impact of MU, we offer policy recommendations across six categories to encourage the research and uptake of this potentially highly influential new technology.
Beyond Anthropocentrism: The Moral and Strategic Philosophy behind Russell and Burch’s 3Rs in Animal Experimentation
Authors: Müller Nico Dario 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe 3Rs framework in animal experimentation– “replace, reduce, refine” – has been alleged to be expressive of anthropocentrism, the view that only humans are directly morally relevant. After all, the 3Rs safeguard animal welfare only as far as given human research objectives permit, effectively prioritizing human use interests over animal interests. This article acknowledges this prioritization, but argues that the characterization as anthropocentric is inaccurate. In fact, the 3Rs prioritize research purposes even more strongly than an ethical anthropocentrist would. Drawing on the writings of Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW) founder Charles W. Hume, who employed Russell and Burch, it is argued that the 3Rs originally arose from an animal-centered ethic which was however restricted by an organizational strategy aiming at the voluntary cooperation of animal researchers. Research purposes thus had to be accepted as given. While this explains why the 3Rs focus narrowly on humane method selection, not on encouraging animal-free question selection in the first place, it suggests that governments should (also) focus on the latter if they recognize animals as deserving protection for their own sake.
Cross-National Variations in Scientific Ethics: Exploring Ethical Perspectives Among Scientists in China, the US, and the UK
Authors: Di Di , Ecklund Elaine Howard 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis research explores the perspectives of academic physicists from three national contexts concerning their roles and responsibilities within the realm of science. Using a dataset comprised of 211 interviews with scientists working in China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, the study seeks to explain whether and in what manner physicists conceptualize scientific ethics within a global or national framework. The empirical findings bring to light disparities across nations in the physicists’ perceptions of what constitutes responsible mentorship and engagement in public service. These cross-national variations underscore the moral agency of physicists as they navigate the ethical standards embraced by the global scientific community vis-à-vis those that are specific to their respective national contexts. The study’s empirical insights may carry significant implications for both policymakers and ethicists, underscoring the imperative of soliciting and acknowledging the perspectives of academic scientists working and living in disparate national contexts when formulating comprehensive science ethics frameworks. Such inclusive and context-aware approaches to shaping ethics in science can contribute to the cultivation of a more robust and universally relevant ethical foundation for the scientific community.
Small Molecule-Mediated Stage-Specific Reprogramming of MSCs to Hepatocyte-Like Cells and Hepatic Tissue for Liver Injury Treatment
Authors: Gupta Santosh , Sharma Akriti , Rajakannu Muthukumarassamy , Bisevac Jovana , Rela Mohamed , Verma Rama Shanker 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Background
Derivation of hepatocytes from stem cells has been established through various protocols involving growth factor (GF) and small molecule (SM) agents, among others. However, mesenchymal stem cell-based derivation of hepatocytes still remains expensive due to the use of a cocktail of growth factors, and a long duration of differentiation is needed, thus limiting its potential clinical application.

Methods
In this study, we developed a chemically defined differentiation strategy that is exclusively based on SM and takes 14 days, while the GF-based protocol requires 23–28 days.

Results
We optimized a stage-specific differentiation protocol for the differentiation of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into functional hepatocyte-like cells (dHeps) that involved four stages, i.e., definitive endoderm (DE), hepatic competence (HC), hepatic specification (HS) and hepatic differentiation and growth. We further generated hepatic tissue using human decellularized liver extracellular matrix and compared it with hepatic tissue derived from the growth factor-based protocol at the transcriptional level. dHep, upon transplantation in a rat model of acute liver injury (ALI), was capable of ameliorating liver injury in rats and improving liver function and tissue damage compared to those in the ALI model.

Conclusions
In summary, this is the first study in which hepatocytes and hepatic tissue were derived from MSCs utilizing a stage-specific strategy by exclusively using SM as a differentiation factor.

Graphical Abstract
A Peptide Motif Covering Splice Site B in Neuroligin-1 Binds to Aβ and Acts as a Neprilysin Inhibitor
Authors: Dietz Lene T. , Põld Katrin , Györffy Balázs A. , Zharkovsky Alexander , Sørensen Jakob B. , Pankratova Stanislava , Dmytriyeva Oksana 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The most common cause of dementia among elderly people is Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The typical symptom of AD is the decline of cognitive abilities, which is caused by loss of synaptic function. Amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers play a significant role in the development of this synaptic dysfunction. Neuroligin-(NL)1 is a postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecule located in excitatory synapses and involved in the maintenance and modulation of synaptic contacts. A recent study has found that Aβ interacts with the soluble N-terminal fragment of NL1. The present study aimed to elucidate the role of NL1 in Aβ-induced neuropathology. Employing surface plasmon resonance and competitive ELISA, we confirmed the high-affinity binding of NL1 to the Aβ peptide. We also identified a sequence motif representing the NL1-binding site for the Aβ peptide and showed that a synthetic peptide modeled after this motif, termed neurolide, binds to the Aβ peptide with high affinity, comparable to the NL1-Aβ interaction. To assess the effect of neurolide in vivo, wild-type and 5XFAD mice were subcutaneously treated with this peptide for 10 weeks. We observed an increase in Aβ plaque formation in the cortex of neurolide-treated 5XFAD mice. Furthermore, we showed that neurolide reduces the activity of neprilysin, the predominant Aβ-degrading enzyme in the brain. Accordingly, we suggest that neurolide is the NL1-binding site for Aβ peptide, and acts as an inhibitor of neprilysin activity. Based on these data, we confirm the involvement of NL1 in the development of AD and suggest a mechanism for NL1-induced Aβ plaque formation.
A Systematic Review of Children’s Psychological Well-Being from a Eudaimonic Perspective: a Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Hoosen Phadiel , Savahl Shazly , Adams Sabirah , Casas Ferran 
Published: September 2024

AbstractUnderstanding children’s psychological well-being (PWB) from a eudaimonic perspective is crucial given its impact on children’s overall well-being and quality of life. This perspective denotes PWB as the realisation of one’s true potential and attaining meaningful goals that lead to personal growth and fulfilment. Despite the recent increasing interest in children’s PWB, there is limited literature in this area. This may be due to the abstract nature of eudaimonic concepts, which are challenging to operationalise and measure, leading to less empirical attention. Using a systematic review, we synthesised existing empirical studies on children’s PWB from a eudaimonic perspective. We identified 32 quantitative articles, which presented in four different categories, namely validation studies, predictors and correlates of PWB, descriptive studies, and intervention studies. Most studies used Ryff’s (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 57, 1069–1081, 1989) theoretical model of PWB and her PWB Scale, and were conducted in high-income countries. Future research should prioritise conducting studies in diverse socio-economic and cultural contexts to ensure a comprehensive understanding of children’s PWB. By expanding geographic and socio-economic representation, and including longitudinal studies, we can develop more effective and inclusive interventions and policies that cater to the needs of children globally.
Bedeutung von Mikroorganismen für die Endlagerung radioaktiver Abfälle
Authors: Mitzscherling Julia , Wagner Dirk 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Deep geological repositories are the international consensus solution for safely isolating high-level nuclear waste from the biosphere. In Germany, among others Opalinus Clay is under consideration to serve as stable host rock environment. Although physical and chemical characteristics of clays suppress microbial growth, Opalinus Clay harbors diverse microbial communities that can be relevant for the safety of a repository.
Gestresste Mitochondrien: zwischen Zellschutz und Zelltod
Authors: Fieler Hanna , Jae Lucas T. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of aging and important human diseases. Mitochondrial defects disturb protein import and lead to cytosolic accumulation of mitochondrial precursor proteins, disrupting cellular homeostasis. In human cells, this activates an integrated stress response to halt translation, and a heat shock response to counteract protein misfolding and aggregation. The interplay between these responses is critical for cellular fate in the face of mitochondrial perturbation.
Unter Kontrolle – wie ORMDL-Proteine den Sphingolipidhaushalt steuern
Authors: Schomisch Niklas , Schmidt Oliver 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Sphingolipids are essential components of eukaryotic cell membranes. They typically increase the rigidity of membranes and stabilize membrane-embedded proteins. Yet, they also function as signaling molecules, and some biosynthetic intermediates are toxic at high concentrations, necessitating a tight control of cellular sphingolipid synthesis. We will discuss evolutionarily common regulatory principles, which – upon failure – can lead to devastating neurodegenerative disease in humans.
Mikrobielle Zersetzungsgemeinschaften von Bauholz
Authors: Schrader Lauritz , Trautner Jochen , Tebbe Christoph C. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The susceptibility of timber to microbial degradation is a major challenge for its long-term outdoor usage. It is important to know which microorganisms are responsible for wood degradation and which environmental factors influence the species composition in order to make adjustments for extending their service life in the future.
Hin zu effizienter biokatalytischer Oxyfunktionalisierung von Steroiden
Authors: Bertelmann Carolin , Bühler Bruno 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Biocatalytic steroid hydroxylation processes are highly relevant for the pharmaceutical industry but are still limited by low specific activities and stabilities. For testosterone hydroxylation, high activities were achieved with recombinant Escherichia coli containing a highly active CYP450-BM3 variant and outer membrane porins. Enzyme instability and substrate mass transfer were identified as further limitations, for which biocatalyst and reaction engineering strategies are discussed.
Mikrobiologisches Gedächtnis: NGS-Untersuchungen in der Archäologie
Authors: Köhler J. Michael , Ehrhardt Linda , Cao Jialan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Whereas the DNA of humans has been in focus of archaeological research since some decades, the composition of soil bacterial communities attracts interest as an additional information source, recently. It can be exploited by NGS and can report about the change of soil by human impacts in the past and hints to formerly activities as prehistoric settlements, livestock breeding, craft, and ancient mining. Here, the potential of NGS of soil bacteria for archaeological research is illustrated by typical examples.