bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
What Are We Hiding Behind the Visual Buffer Strip? Forest Aesthetics Reconsidered
Authors: Hull R. Bruce , Robertson David P. , Buhyoff Gregory J. , Kendra Angelina 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Forest aesthetics provide the public façade for forestry ethics. Current policies send a hypocritical message of citizens about the practice, intent and ethics of forestry by suggesting that foresters need to disguise the practice of forestry. Such policies imply, to an increasingly wary public, that forestry is bad for the land and that foresters cannot be trusted. We hope that the profession will discuss and negotiate an aesthetics policy that is consonant with--or part of--its Code of Ethics. We review the implications for forestry of competing aesthetic policies, and conclude that forestry should embrace an aesthetic ideal that is analogous to a gardener's work of tending a garden.
Carbon Sinks in the Kyoto Protocol: Potential Relevance for US Forests
Authors: Murray B.C. , Prisley S.P. , Birdsey R.A. , Sampson N.R. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The international agreement known as the Kyoto Protocol seeks to reduce the atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases to mitigate the threat of global climate change. It contains provisions for including carbon stock changes from forests and land-use change to meet nations' greenhouse gas commitments, but the terms under which forest-related carbon stock changes are included are open to interpretation. Critical questions include how much of the carbon currently being sequestered by US forests might qualify, and what forest management activities will be included.
Biomass Flow in Western Forests: Simulating the Effects of Fuel Reduction and Presettlement Restoration Treatments
Authors: Hollenstein K. , Graham R.L. , Shepperd W.D. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Fuel treatment silviculture and the resulting long-term flow of biomass were examined using data from selected western stands. An uneven-aged management regime with reserve trees was modeled, using a canopy closure of 40 percent for the dominant trees as a target and a harvest cutting cycle of 20 years. Fuel reduction treatments in currently overstocked stands resulted in an initial peak of removal for the first and second cutting cycles. Yields stabilized in subsequent cutting cycles. Removal of some large reserve trees was crucial for maintaining stand structure and fire resilience.
Forester Registration and Licensing: An SAF Task Force Report
Authors:   none
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Sixteen states currently have some form of voluntary or mandatory forester registration or licensing, and several other states are examining it. The SAF Task Force on Forester Licensing and Registration sought to determine what role SAF should play in these initiatives. This report outlines the components of forester licensing and registration by examining current statutes. Also discussed is SAF's Certified Forester® program and how it fits in with state-level efforts. The article concludes with some recommendations to Council on the appropriate role for SAF in forester credentialing.
Prescribed Fire and Public Support: Knowledge Gained, Attitudes Changed in Florida
Authors: Loomis J.B. , Bair L.S. , González-Cabán A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Florida residents' knowledge of and attitudes toward wild and prescribed fire were elicited before and after receiving educational information. The results indicate that Florida residents exhibit knowledge and tolerance of prescribed fire similar to respondents of past surveys. Florida residents are less tolerant of wildfire than residents in past surveys but hold similar knowledge scores concerning wildfire. Respondents became more knowledgeable and tolerant of prescribed fire after the introduction of educational information.
Perspective: Finding a Name to Fit the Owner
Authors: Finley J.C. , Jones S.B. , Reed A.S. , Jacobson M.G. , Glover G.R. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Our profession struggles with its identity. Are we timber brokers, ecosystem managers, or who knows what? How many times have we heard the familiar, “Oh, you're a forester. You sit in a fire tower, right?” We're pretty sensitive about it, but the confusion of names and misapplied meaning is not limited to professional titles. Like it or not, the names we assign to people and things convey information and generate perceptions. Names are powerful symbols, often restricting our ability to communicate and interact.…
RBSim: Geographic Simulation of Wilderness Recreation Behavior
Authors: Gimblett H.R. , Richards M.T. , Itami R.M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Simulation techniques are used to explore the complex spatial interactions between recreationists and their environment as a way to improve wildland recreation management. The Recreation Behavior Simulator (RBSim) uses rule-driven autonomous agents as surrogates for human visitors coupled with geographic information systems to represent the environment for dynamically simulating recreation behavior. Behavioral rules are derived from visitor surveys conducted in Broken Arrow Canyon, Sedona, Arizona. Model runs allow both statistical and spatial analysis to quantify and explore recreationists' movement patterns, encounters, and the influence of management actions on visitor use levels.
EMDS: Using a Logic Framework to Assess Forest Ecosystem Sustainability
Authors: Reynolds K.M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
More and more, bioregional assessments are being viewed as essential components of ecosystem management. But forestry professionals and others have identified several challenges posed by this new brand of regional-scale analysis. This article summarizes key challenges facing assessments in general, describes use of a logic-based modeling framework with an example of evaluating forest ecosystem sustainability in particular, and discusses ways in which logic-based modeling can help address the challenges of bioregional assessment.
Conservation Biology and Forest Certification: Working Together toward Ecological Sustainability
Authors: Brown N.R. , Noss R.F. , Diamond D.D. , Myers M.N. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
We examine how forest certification can be used more effectively to produce concrete conservation results on forests that have been designated for timber production, by limiting forest fragmentation (thereby improving forest intactness over a landscape scale), and by conserving structural diversity, wildlife habitats, late successional components, natural disturbance regimes, and other components of biodiversity. We conclude that forest certification, as an integrative tool to be used in silvicultural management processes, can play an important role in promoting the sustainability of managed forests and of forestry.
Who Gets the Work? National Forest Contracting in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Moseley C. , Shankle S. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Since the decline of federal timber harvests in the Pacific Northwest, forest community organizations and the USDA Forest Service have been trying to use federal service and construction contracting to foster economic development in rural communities. This study analyzes the Forest Service silviculture and restoration contracts let during FY 1998 and 1999 in Oregon and Washington to determine who wins this contract work. The study measures the distance between national forests and contractor offices and finds that contract value, work characteristics, and geographic variables partially explain variation in distance.
Perspectives on embryo maturation and seed quality in a global climate change scenario
Authors: Escudero Viviana , Fuenzalida Marlene , Rezende Enrico L , González-Guerrero Manuel , Roschzttardtz Hannetz 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Global climate change has already brought noticeable alterations to multiple regions of our planet, including increased CO2 concentrations and changes in temperature. Several important steps of plant growth and development, such as embryogenesis, can be affected by such environmental changes; for instance, they affect how stored nutrients are used during early stages of seed germination during the transition from heterotrophic to autotrophic metabolism—a critical period for the seedling’s survival. In this article, we briefly describe relevant processes that occur during embryo maturation and account for nutrient accumulation, which are sensitive to environmental change. Most of the nutrients stored in the seed during its development—including carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, depending on the species—accumulate during the seed maturation stage. It is also known that iron, a key micronutrient for various electron transfer processes in plant cells, accumulates during embryo maturation. The existing literature indicates that climate change can not only affect the quality of the seed, in terms of total nutritional content, but also affect seed production. We discuss the potential effects of temperature and CO2 increases from an embryo-autonomous point of view, in an attempt to separate the effects on the parent plant from those on the embryo.
The EMBL-EBI Job Dispatcher sequence analysis tools framework in 2024
Authors: Madeira Fábio , Madhusoodanan Nandana , Lee Joonheung , Eusebi Alberto , Niewielska Ania , Tivey Adrian R N , Lopez Rodrigo , Butcher Sarah 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The EMBL-EBI Job Dispatcher sequence analysis tools framework (https://www.ebi.ac.uk/jdispatcher) enables the scientific community to perform a diverse range of sequence analyses using popular bioinformatics applications. Free access to the tools and required sequence datasets is provided through user-friendly web applications, as well as via RESTful and SOAP-based APIs. These are integrated into popular EMBL-EBI resources such as UniProt, InterPro, ENA and Ensembl Genomes. This paper overviews recent improvements to Job Dispatcher, including its brand new website and documentation, enhanced visualisations, improved job management, and a rising trend of user reliance on the service from low- and middle-income regions.
Ordered and disordered regions of the Origin Recognition Complex direct differential in vivo binding at distinct motif sequences
Authors: Chappleboim Michal , Naveh-Tassa Segev , Carmi Miri , Levy Yaakov , Barkai Naama 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The Origin Recognition Complex (ORC) seeds replication-fork formation by binding to DNA replication origins, which in budding yeast contain a 17bp DNA motif. High resolution structure of the ORC-DNA complex revealed two base-interacting elements: a disordered basic patch (Orc1-BP4) and an insertion helix (Orc4-IH). To define the ORC elements guiding its DNA binding in vivo, we mapped genomic locations of 38 designed ORC mutants, revealing that different ORC elements guide binding at different sites. At silencing-associated sites lacking the motif, ORC binding and activity were fully explained by a BAH domain. Within replication origins, we reveal two dominating motif variants showing differential binding modes and symmetry: a non-repetitive motif whose binding requires Orc1-BP4 and Orc4-IH, and a repetitive one where another basic patch, Orc1-BP3, can replace Orc4-IH. Disordered basic patches are therefore key for ORC-motif binding in vivo, and we discuss how these conserved, minor-groove interacting elements can guide specific ORC-DNA recognition.
CSDE1: a versatile regulator of gene expression in cancer
Authors: Ciocia Annagiulia , Mestre-Farràs Neus , Vicent-Nacht Ignacio , Guitart Tanit , Gebauer Fátima 
Published: April 2024

AbstractRNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have garnered significant attention in the field of cancer due to their ability to modulate diverse tumor traits. Once considered untargetable, RBPs have sparked renewed interest in drug development, particularly in the context of RNA-binding modulators of translation. This review focuses on one such modulator, the protein CSDE1, and its pivotal role in regulating cancer hallmarks. We discuss context-specific functions of CSDE1 in tumor development, its mechanisms of action, and highlight features that support its role as a molecular adaptor. Additionally, we discuss the regulation of CSDE1 itself and its potential value as biomarker and therapeutic target.
Predicting the risk of neurocognitive decline after brain irradiation in adult patients with a primary brain tumor
Authors: Tohidinezhad Fariba , Zegers Catharina M L , Vaassen Femke , Dijkstra Jeanette , Anten Monique , Van Elmpt Wouter , De Ruysscher Dirk , Dekker Andre , Eekers Daniëlle B P , Traverso Alberto 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Deterioration of neurocognitive function in adult patients with a primary brain tumor is the most concerning side effect of radiotherapy. This study aimed to develop and evaluate normal-tissue complication probability (NTCP) models using clinical and dose–volume measures for 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year Neurocognitive Decline (ND) postradiotherapy.

Methods
A total of 219 patients with a primary brain tumor treated with radical photon and/or proton radiotherapy (RT) between 2019 and 2022 were included. Controlled oral word association test, Hopkins verbal learning test-revised, and trail making test were used to objectively measure ND. A comprehensive set of potential clinical and dose–volume measures on several brain structures were considered for statistical modeling. Clinical, dose–volume and combined models were constructed and internally tested in terms of discrimination (area under the curve, AUC), calibration (mean absolute error, MAE), and net benefit.

Results
Fifty percent, 44.5%, and 42.7% of the patients developed ND at 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year time points, respectively. The following predictors were included in the combined model for 6-month ND: age at radiotherapy &gt; 56 years (OR = 5.71), overweight (OR = 0.49), obesity (OR = 0.35), chemotherapy (OR = 2.23), brain V20 Gy ≥ 20% (OR = 3.53), brainstem volume ≥ 26 cc (OR = 0.39), and hypothalamus volume ≥ 0.5 cc (OR = 0.4). Decision curve analysis showed that the combined models had the highest net benefits at 6-month (AUC = 0.79, MAE = 0.021), 1-year (AUC = 0.72, MAE = 0.027), and 2-year (AUC = 0.69, MAE = 0.038) time points.

Conclusions
The proposed NTCP models use easy-to-obtain predictors to identify patients at high risk of ND after brain RT. These models can potentially provide a base for RT-related decisions and post-therapy neurocognitive rehabilitation interventions.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Inhaled Nicotine Salt and Free-Base Using an E-cigarette: A Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Christen Samuel E , Hermann Laura , Bekka Elias , Vonwyl Celina , Hammann Felix , van der Velpen Vera , Eap Chin B , Benowitz Neal L , Haschke Manuel , Liakoni Evangelia 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Popular “pod-style” e-cigarettes commonly use nicotine salt-based e-liquids that cause less irritation when inhaled and can deliver higher nicotine concentrations than free-base nicotine. This study investigated the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of different nicotine formulations (salt vs. free-base) and concentrations that might influence systemic nicotine absorption and appeal of e-cigarettes.

Aims and Methods
In this randomized, double-blind, within-subject crossover study, 20 non-nicotine-naïve participants were switched among three e-liquids (free-base nicotine 20 mg/mL, nicotine salt 20 mg/mL, nicotine salt 40 mg/mL) using a refillable pod system and a standardized vaping protocol (one puff every 30 seconds, 10 puffs total). Serum nicotine concentrations and vital signs were assessed over 180 minutes; direct effects, craving, satisfaction, withdrawal, and respiratory symptoms were measured using questionnaires. CYP2A6 genotypes and the nicotine metabolite ratio were also assessed.

Results
Eleven (55%) participants were male and the median age was 23.5 years (range 18–67). All three formulations differed significantly in peak serum nicotine concentration (baseline adjusted Cmax, median (range): 12.0 ng/mL (1.6–27.3), 5.4 ng/mL (1.9–18.7), and 3.0 ng/mL (1.3–8.8) for nicotine salt 40 mg/mL, nicotine salt 20 mg/mL and free-base 20 mg/mL, respectively). All groups reached Cmax 2.0–2.5 minutes (median) after their last puff. Differences in subjective effects were not statistically significant. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions
Free-base 20 mg/mL formulations achieved lower blood nicotine concentrations than nicotine salt 20 mg/mL, while 40 mg/mL nicotine salt yielded concentrations similar to cigarette smoking. The findings can inform regulatory policy regarding e-liquids and their potential use in smoking cessation.

Implications
Nicotine salt formulations inhaled by an e-cigarette led to higher nicotine delivery compared to nicotine-free-base formulations with the same nicotine concentration. These findings should be considered in future regulatory discussions. The 40 mg/mL nicotine salt formulation showed similar nicotine delivery as combustible cigarettes, albeit at concentrations over the maximum limit for e-liquids allowed in the European Union. Nicotine delivery resembling combustible cigarettes might be beneficial for smokers willing to quit to adequately alleviate withdrawal symptoms. However, increased nicotine delivery can also pose a public health risk, raising concerns about abuse liability, especially among youth and nonsmokers.
A direct comparison in diagnostic performance of CDUS, FDG-PET/CT and MRI in patients suspected of giant cell arteritis
Authors: van Nieuwland Marieke , Colin Edgar M , Vermeer Marloes , Wagenaar Nils R L , Vijlbrief Onno D , van Zandwijk Jordy K , Slart Riemer H J A , Koffijberg Hendrik , Jebbink Erik Groot , van der Geest Kornelis S M , Brouwer Elisabeth , Boumans Dennis , Alves Celina 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study directly compares the diagnostic performance of colour duplex ultrasound (CDUS), fluor-18-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients suspected of giant cell arteritis (GCA).

Methods
Patients with suspected GCA were included in a nested-case control pilot study. CDUS, whole body FDG-PET/CT and cranial MRI were performed within 5 working days after initial clinical evaluation. Clinical diagnosis after six months follow-up by experienced rheumatologists in the field of GCA, blinded for imaging, was used as reference standard. Diagnostic performance of the imaging modalities was determined. Stratification for GCA subtype was performed and imaging results were evaluated in different risk stratification groups.

Results
In total, 23 patients with GCA and 19 patients suspected of but not diagnosed with GCA were included. Sensitivity was 69.6% (95%CI 50.4%–88.8%) for CDUS, 52.2% (95%CI 31.4%–73.0%) for FDG-PET/CT and 56.5% (95%CI 35.8%–77.2%) for MRI. Specificity was 100% for CDUS, FDG-PET/CT and MRI. FDG-PET/CT was negative for GCA in all isolated cranial GCA patients (n = 8), while MRI was negative in all isolated extracranial GCA patients (n = 4). In four GCA patients with false-negative (n = 2; intermediate and high risk) or inconclusive (n = 2; low and intermediate risk) CDUS results, further imaging confirmed diagnosis.

Conclusions
Sensitivity of CDUS was highest, while specificity was excellent in all imaging modalities. Nevertheless, confidence intervals of all imaging modalities were overlapping. Following EULAR recommendations, CDUS can be used as a first test to diagnose GCA. With insufficient evidence for GCA, further testing considering GCA subtype is warranted.
Short-term effectiveness of guselkumab in psoriatic arthritis patients and axial involvement: results from a real-life multicentre cohort
Authors: Ruscitti Piero , Pantano Ilenia , Cataldi Giulia , Gentile Martina , Arrigoni Francesco , Riccio Luca , Marrone Sabrina , Mauro Daniele , Ursini Francesco , Esposito Maria , Barile Antonio , Fargnoli Maria Concetta , Giacomelli Roberto , Ciccia Francesco , Cipriani Paola 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the short-term effectiveness of guselkumab in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and suggestive features of axial involvement in a prospective ‘real-life’ multicentre cohort.

Methods
Between June 2022 and June 2023, PsA patients with axial involvement were evaluated if treated at least for 4 months with guselkumab. The effectiveness was evaluated by BASDAI, ASDAS, DAPSA, and achievement of BASDAI ≤ 4, also exploiting predictive factors. In a group of patients, MRI findings on sacroiliac joints were assessed before and after guselkumab administration.

Results
Sixty-seven patients with PsA and suggestive features of axial involvement (age 53.4 ± 11.2 years, male sex 26.9%) were treated with guselkumab. After 4 months, a significant reduction of BASDAI, ASDAS, and DAPSA was observed. A ΔBASDAI of −2.11 ± 0.43 was estimated assessing the mean difference values before and after guselkumab administration and 52.2% of patients reached a BASDAI ≤ 4. In 27 patients, MRI findings on sacroiliac joints were assessed before and after guselkumab administration. A reduction of 0.80 or larger in the sacroiliac joint lesion score was observed in the majority of patients (70.3%) based on MRI improvements, paralleling with the clinical response. No life-threatening side effects were recorded; 17.9% of patients reported minor adverse events mainly injection site reactions.

Conclusions
The short-term effectiveness of guselkumab in patients with PsA and suggestive features of axial involvement were shown. Although further studies are needed, our multicentre ‘real-life’ study may suggest the clinical usability of guselkumab in this context.
Modulating the mesenchymal stromal cell microenvironment alters exosome RNA content and ligament healing capacity
Authors: Chamberlain Connie S , Prabahar Archana , Kink John A , Mueller Erika , Li Yiyao , Yopp Stephanie , Capitini Christian M , Hematti Peiman , Murphy William L , Vanderby Ray , Jiang Peng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Although mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) based therapies hold promise in regenerative medicine, their clinical application remains challenging due to issues such as immunocompatibility. MSC-derived exosomes are a promising off-the-shelf therapy for promoting wound healing in a cell-free manner. However, the potential to customize the content of MSC-exosomes, and understanding how such modifications influence exosome effects on tissue regeneration remain underexplored. In this study, we used an in vitro system to compare the priming of human MSCs by 2 inflammatory inducers TNF-α and CRX-527 (a highly potent synthetic TLR4 agonist that can be used as a vaccine adjuvant or to induce anti-tumor immunity) on exosome molecular cargo, as well as on an in vivo rat ligament injury model to validate exosome potency. Different microenvironmental stimuli used to prime MSCs in vitro affected their exosomal microRNAs and mRNAs, influencing ligament healing. Exosomes derived from untreated MSCs significantly enhance the mechanical properties of healing ligaments, in contrast to those obtained from MSCs primed with inflammation-inducers, which not only fail to provide any improvement but also potentially deteriorate the mechanical properties. Additionally, a link was identified between altered exosomal microRNA levels and expression changes in microRNA targets in ligaments. These findings elucidate the nuanced interplay between MSCs, their exosomes, and tissue regeneration.