bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The prevalence, aetiologies, and clinical consequences of tricuspid regurgitation associated with severe degenerative mitral regurgitation
Authors: Margonato Davide , Morosato Michele , Rizza Vincenzo , Di Maio Silvana , Gamardella Marco , Saghir Maddalena , Bognoni Ludovica , De Lorenzo Leila , Faggi Alessandro , Ancona Francesco , Ingallina Giacomo , Belli Martina , Tavernese Annamaria , Stella Stefano , Biondi Federico , Castiglioni Alessandro , Maisano Francesco , De Bonis Michele , Agricola Eustachio 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aims
The prevalence, the aetiologies, and the clinical features of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in the context of concomitant degenerative mitral valve (MV) disease are poorly defined. This paper aims to assess the prevalence, determinants, and clinical consequences of TR in severe degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR)

Methods and results
Clinical and echocardiographic characteristics were collected among patients with severe DMR. A total of 884 patients were included in our study, 31% with ≥ moderate TR. Tricuspid valve prolapse (TVP) was the most common aetiology (487 patients, 55%), followed by atrial functional TR (AFTR, 172 patients, 19%) and ventricular functional TR (VFTR, 42 patients, 5%), while TR aetiology was classified as mixed in 183 (21%) patients. Patients with TVP were younger and had a better clinical presentation, few comorbidities, and less haemodynamically relevant TR. Patients with VFTR were characterized by older age, worse clinical presentation, and both highest comorbidity rate and prevalence of &gt;mild TR. Patients with AFTR showed an intermediate profile of clinical presentation and comorbidities and the largest tricuspid annulus (TA) diameter. MV surgery was performed in 785 (88%) patients; 132 (15%) underwent simultaneous TV intervention, more often patients with AFTR (32%). TA dilatation [odds ratio (OR) 3.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.05–6.62, P &lt; 0.001] and &gt;mild TR (OR 9.30, 95% CI 5.10–16.95, P &lt; 0.001) were independently associated with TV intervention.

Conclusion
In patients with severe DMR, TR presents with different aetiologies, clinical features, and echocardiographic phenotypes that require a comprehensive assessment at the time of DMR surgery to ensure the best management for these patients.
Lumican Is Both a Novel Risk Factor and Potential Plasma Biomarker for Vascular Aging, Capable of Promoting Vascular Smooth Cells Senescence Through Interacting With Integrin α2β1
Authors: Luo Mandi , Yan Dan , Huang Yi , Ji Tianyi , Luo Pengcheng , Yang Zhen , Gao Shangbang , Zhang Le , Zhou Yiwu , Shi Qing , Bai Yongping , Li Tao , Ruan Lei , Zhang Cuntai 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Vascular aging, a common pathogenesis of senile chronic diseases, significantly increases morbidity and mortality in older adults; its intricate cellular and molecular mechanisms necessitate further investigation. Lumican (LUM) and integrin α2β1 are profibrotic extracellular matrix proteins and vital cell regulatory receptors, respectively. However, their roles in vascular aging remain unclear. This study sought to elucidate the connection between LUM and vascular aging as well as the biological mechanism of LUM/integrin α2β1 in this process. Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, we discovered that plasma LUM was elevated in vascular aging individuals and was positively correlated with brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity. Additionally, immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses confirmed LUM upregulation in arteries of older adults and aged mice, as well as in senescent vascular smooth cells (VSMCs). Wild-type and LUM semiknockout (Lum−/+) mice, along with primary VSMCs extracted from these mice, were exposed to angiotensin II to induce a stress-induced senescence model. LUM semiknockout mitigated angiotensin II-induced arteriosclerosis, hypertension, vascular aging, and remodeling in mice. Both in vitro and in vivo studies revealed that LUM deficiency suppressed p53, p21, collagen 1, and collagen 3 upregulation and synthetic phenotype formation in VSMCs stimulated by angiotensin II. Treating VSMCs with an integrin α2β1 antagonist reversed the aforementioned changes triggered by LUM proteins. Briefly, LUM functions as a potential marker and risk factor for vascular aging and promotes pathological changes by affecting integrin α2β1 in VSMCs. This study introduces a novel molecular target for the early diagnosis and treatment of vascular aging and age-related vascular diseases.
General-Purpose AI Models as Essential Inputs in Downstream Markets: The Need for a Strict Standard Regarding Mandatory Access
Authors: Zapata Sevilla José 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
General-purpose AI models have emerged as a disruptive technology with paramount spillover economic effects across industries. The owners of such models, namely big tech enterprises, can leverage their dominance in general-purpose AI models to expand into existing or new downstream markets. However, competition law is poised to constrain this expansion effectively. Nevertheless, there is uncertainty about the legal standard when assessing a refusal to deal in the case of access to general-purpose AI models. While EU competition law judicial practice reveals an adversary tendency against big tech enterprises leveraging in downstream markets, there is a case for adopting a narrower standard regarding access to general-purpose AI models.
Situating Reparations for Ukraine within a Broader Transitional Justice Process
Authors: Belgorodski Eric 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT∞
The principle of external coherence dictates that different measures in a transitional justice process should be coordinated so as to foster synergies and avoid gaps and tensions. This article explains what lessons on external coherence have crystallized from transitional justice scholarship and practice and explores to what extent they are transferrable to reparations efforts in the shape of international mass claim commissions, specifically the one to be established for Ukraine in response to the Russian aggression. The article illustrates how the principle of external coherence influences specific decisions in the design of this reparations scheme.
Planning and Analyzing a Low-Biomass Microbiome Study: A Data Analysis Perspective
Authors: Austin George I , Korem Tal 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
As investigations of low-biomass microbial communities have become more common, so too has the recognition of major challenges affecting these analyses. These challenges have been shown to compromise biological conclusions and have contributed to several controversies. Here, we review some of the most common and influential challenges in low-biomass microbiome research. We highlight key approaches to alleviate these potential pitfalls, combining experimental planning strategies and data analysis methods.
De novo genome assembly of a Geomyid rodent, Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae bottae)
Authors: Voss Erin R , Escalona Merly , Kozak Krzysztof M , Seligmann William , Fairbairn Colin W , Nguyen Oanh , Marimuthu Mohan P A , Conroy Chris J , Patton James L , Bowie Rauri C K , Nachman Michael W 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae) is a common and widespread subterranean rodent of the North American West. The species has been of great interest to evolutionary biologists due to the phenotypic diversity and unusual levels of variation in chromosome number and composition observed across its range. Here, we present a high-quality reference genome from a male T. b. bottae individual captured in the San Francisco Bay Area. The assembly is comprised of 2,792 scaffolds, with a scaffold N50 value of 23.6 Mb and a BUSCO completeness score of 91.0%. This genome helps fill a significant taxonomic sampling gap in rodent genome resources. With this reference genome, we envision new opportunities to investigate questions regarding the genomics of adaptation to the belowground niche. Further, we can begin to explore the impact of associated life history traits, such as limited dispersal and low population connectivity, on intraspecific genetic and phenotypic variation, genome evolution, speciation, and phylogenetic relationships across the Geomyoidea.
Genetic risk, health-associated lifestyle, and risk of early-onset total cancer and breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Yin , Lindström Sara , Kraft Peter , Liu Yuxi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Early-onset cancer (diagnosed under age 50) generally manifests as an aggressive disease phenotype. The association between healthy lifestyle and early-onset cancer and whether it varies by common genetic variants remains unclear.

Methods
We analyzed a prospective cohort of 66 308 participants who were under age 50 and free of cancer at baseline in the UK Biobank. Using Cox regression, we estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for early-onset total and breast cancer based on sex-specific composite total cancer polygenic risk scores (PRSs), a breast cancer-specific PRS, and sex-specific health-associated lifestyle scores (HLSs).

Results
In multivariable-adjusted analyses with 2-year latency, higher genetic risk (highest vs lowest tertile of PRS) was associated with significantly increased risks of early-onset total cancer in females (HR, 95% CI = 1.83, 1.49 to 2.26) and males (2.03, 1.51 to 2.73) as well as early-onset breast cancer in females (3.06, 2.20 to 4.26). An unfavorable lifestyle (highest vs lowest category of HLS) was associated with higher risk of total cancer and breast cancer in females across genetic risk categories; the association with total cancer and breast cancer was stronger in the highest genetic risk category than the lowest: HRs (95% CIs) were 1.55 (1.12 to 2.14) and 1.69 (1.11 to 2.57) in the highest genetic risk category and 1.03 (0.64 to 1.67) and 0.81 (0.36 to 1.85) in the lowest.

Conclusions
Genetic and lifestyle factors were independently associated with early-onset total and breast cancer risk. Individuals with a high genetic risk may benefit more from adopting a healthy lifestyle in preventing early-onset cancer.
Gerotherapeutics: aging mechanism–based pharmaceutical and behavioral interventions to reduce cancer racial and ethnic disparities
Authors: Mandelblatt Jeanne S , Antoni Michael H , Bethea Traci N , Cole Steve , Hudson Barry I , Penedo Frank J , Ramirez Amelie G , Rebeck G William , Sarkar Swarnavo , Schwartz Ann G , Sloan Erica K , Zheng Yun-Ling , Carroll Judith E , Sedrak Mina S 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The central premise of this article is that a portion of the established relationships between social determinants of health and racial and ethnic disparities in cancer morbidity and mortality is mediated through differences in rates of biological aging processes. We further posit that using knowledge about aging could enable discovery and testing of new mechanism-based pharmaceutical and behavioral interventions (“gerotherapeutics”) to differentially improve the health of cancer survivors from minority populations and reduce cancer disparities. These hypotheses are based on evidence that lifelong differences in adverse social determinants of health contribute to disparities in rates of biological aging (“social determinants of aging”), with individuals from minoritized groups experiencing accelerated aging (ie, a steeper slope or trajectory of biological aging over time relative to chronological age) more often than individuals from nonminoritized groups. Acceleration of biological aging can increase the risk, age of onset, aggressiveness, and stage of many adult cancers. There are also documented negative feedback loops whereby the cellular damage caused by cancer and its therapies act as drivers of additional biological aging. Together, these dynamic intersectional forces can contribute to differences in cancer outcomes between survivors from minoritized vs nonminoritized populations. We highlight key targetable biological aging mechanisms with potential applications to reducing cancer disparities and discuss methodological considerations for preclinical and clinical testing of the impact of gerotherapeutics on cancer outcomes in minoritized populations. Ultimately, the promise of reducing cancer disparities will require broad societal policy changes that address the structural causes of accelerated biological aging and ensure equitable access to all new cancer control paradigms.
Clinical significance and potential mechanism of AEBP1 in glioblastoma
Authors: Wang Chengcheng , Han Huan , Cheng Fang , Wang Hao , Wang Junlong , Lv Chong , Jiang Shibin , Peng Yan , Zhao Xiaoling 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Glioblastomas (GBM), the most common primary brain tumor, lack accurate prognostic markers and have a poor prognosis. Our study was designed to identify effective biomarkers for GBM prognosis analysis and development of precise treatments. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between GBM patients and controls were analyzed from the Xena database and GEPIA. Based on the screened DEGs, univariate COX and LASSO regression analysis were performed to identify the most relevant genes associated with GBM prognosis. Genes highly expressed in GBM patients were selected to construct receiver operating characteristic analysis and enrichment analysis was constructed on groups of high and low expression of adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1). CIBERSORT, ssGSEA and ESTIMATE were used to perform immune infiltration analysis. About 3297 DEGs were identified using data from Xena database; 8 prognostic genes were identified. AEBP1, which plays a role in neuronal differentiation and development, was positively correlated in GBMs with immune infiltration; its high expression in cancer patients is associated with short overall survival and advanced tumor staging. This study suggests that AEBP1 could serve as a prognostic marker for GBMs and that patients with high expression may have a better response to immunotherapy.
Introduction
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This introductory chapter is a brief overview on the history and functions of the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG). It describes the Convention’s four main parts and also indicates two fundamental differences from the Hague Conventions: rules governing the formation of the contract and those governing substantive sales law are brought together in one Convention. This avoids repetition and overlaps and makes it easier to clarify questions of detail, such as the necessity for statements to reach the other party. The CISG is also a ‘self-executing’ Convention, whereas the Hague Conventions were each drawn up as an annex to an international treaty and had to be brought into force. This chapter also outlines conflicting interests, though it reveals that the CISG can as a whole be viewed as a success and forward-looking.
Definition of ‘writing’
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter concerns Article 13. Article 13 ensures the autonomous interpretation of the term ‘writing’. Therefore the Article applies to all situations in which a requirement of writing applies in connection with a contract covered by the Convention. Consequently a notice under Article 21(2) may be sent by telex or telegram. Both forms would usually also fulfil a writing requirement under Article 29(2) or any other stipulated writing requirement. Moreover, Article 13 also determines the meaning of writing in Articles 12, 96 of the Convention. Furthermore, this outdated provision constitutes the clumsy attempt of the Vienna Conference to adjust the Convention to (at that time) new forms of communication. A permanent function of the provision is only developable, if it provides material concerning the openness of the Convention toward technological development, especially within the scope of Article 7.
Introduction to Articles 14–24 CISG: General questions regarding the formation of the contract
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter covers Part II of the Sales Convention (Articles 14–24). These govern the formation of international sales contracts. Articles 14–24 lay down contract formation rules in accordance with ‘traditional theory’, using ‘offer’ and ‘acceptance’ as the elements through which agreement between the parties is reached. In relying on the traditional offer-acceptance mechanism, Articles 14–24 therefore employ legal tools that should be familiar to almost every lawyer. As far as Part II occasionally also uses innovative approaches, those are limited to certain details. Under the Sales Convention’s contract formation rules, the parties’ mere consent suffices to make their sales agreement binding. In contrast to some domestic laws, the conclusion of a CISG contract is neither subject to any form requirements (Article 11) nor does it presuppose any additional indicia of seriousness.
Acceptance and its effectiveness
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter takes a look at Article 18. Under the Sales Convention’s contract conclusion regime, sales contracts are generally formed through two corresponding party declarations, ‘offer’ and ‘acceptance’. Article 18 is the introductory provision on acceptances and addresses two important aspects of this essential building block for contract formations. In particular, Article 18 governs two separate, but related matters: indication of offeree’s assent to an offer and effectiveness of an acceptance. The Article furthermore provides an overview of three types of acceptance: expressly declared acceptance, which must reach the offeror; impliedly declared acceptance, the expression of which must reach the offeror; and implied acceptance, which becomes effective with the conduct expressing acceptance.
Handing over of documents by seller
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter focuses on Article 34 which tackles the responsibility of sellers in terms of handing over documents. It notes the requirements of time, place and form of handing over documents along with the consequences of the seller's breach of contract. Under the Convention, the seller is not required to deliver documents relating to the goods to the buyer. However, it will be an obligation if it pertains to the parties' contract. Depending on the forum State's rules on international civil procedure, the place where the documents must be handed over may impact jurisdiction. The chapter also tackles the burden of proof for non-conformity of documents.
Incoterms and the CISG
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter discusses the commercial importance of Incoterms and the CISG. Incoterms are the world’s predominant set of short-hand trade terms for the sale of goods such as bulk and container transport. The Incoterms attempt a universal interpretation of the most widely used trade terms for worldwide application. The chapter also covers the legal nature of Incoterms as standardized contract terms and CISG contracts. The Incoterms use four different categories of trade terms: E, F, C, and D type terms. From E to D types, the obligations and costs gradually increase on the seller. Questions of Incoterm’s validity fall outside the CISG and will be determined by the otherwise applicable law.
Buyer’s right to avoid contract
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter expounds on the buyer’s right to avoid a contract. Article 49 covers the preconditions for the buyer’s right to avoid the contract in the event of the seller’s breach of contract. Avoidance of the contract results in the extinction of both parties’ obligations and in restitution of whatever has already been paid or supplied under the contract. Moreover, time limits are intended to clarify the fate of the contract and the mutual obligations of the parties. Avoidance of the contract under Article 49 assumes the seller failed to perform their obligations and breached its subsequent contract. The chapter also notes the requirements of the declaration of avoidance of the contract.
General obligations of the buyer
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter focuses on the general obligations of the buyer: to pay the purchase price and to take delivery of the goods. It discusses the determination of the purchase price and the applicable currency. Then it tackles the means of payment: open account, cash payment, or credit transfer; acceptance of a draft; documentary collection and documentary credits. The chapter likewise covers the place and time of payment, the interest of the due purchase price, partial payments, and imputation of payments, among others. Furthermore, it zooms in on the buyer’s obligation to provide security if he or she fails to duly pay the purchase price. Aside from securing the payment by implementing a documentary credit arrangement, the buyer may be required to provide additional security, usually by getting his or her banks to issue a payment guarantee or a standby letter of credit. In discussing the buyer’s obligation to take delivery of the goods, the chapter looks at supplying parts of the material necessary for the manufacture or production of the goods, specifications of the goods, incoterms, and duty to cooperate and inform. Moreover, it lays down the seller’s remedies in case of breach of contract by the buyer.
Buyer’s obligation to comply with governmental and banking procedures
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter emphasizes that the buyer’s obligation to pay the price entails taking steps and complying with formalities as may be required under the contract and any laws and regulations to enable payment to be made. It tackles compliance with governmental procedures as well as with banking procedures. The chapter also looks at the seller’s remedies for breach of contract by the buyer, and the situations wherein buyers are exempted from liability. It concludes with a brief discussion on the burden of proof: the seller has the burden of proof that the buyer was under an obligation associated with the payment and that he, in fact, breached this obligation.
Place of payment
Authors: Schwenzer Ingeborg , Schroeter Ulrich G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This chapter focuses on the place of payment. It sets out a three-tier approach: the parties may contractually provide for the applicable place of payment, either by express agreement or by implicit agreement; if the parties have neither expressly nor impliedly agreed on the place of payment, the buyer must pay the purchase price at the place where the handing over of the goods or documents against payment takes place; if neither the parties have agreed on a place of payment nor the payment takes place against handing over of the goods or documents, the buyer has to pay the purchase price at the seller’s place of business. The chapter tackles contracts involving the carriage of goods and contracts involving goods stored in a third-party warehouse. The discussion also covers the place of payment of sums other than the purchase price.