bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Invasion trends: An interpretable measure of change is needed to support policy targets
Authors: McGeoch Melodie A. , Buba Yehezkel , Arlé Eduardo , Belmaker Jonathan , Clarke David A. , Jetz Walter , Li Richard , Seebens Hanno , Essl Franz , Groom Quentin , García‐Berthou Emili , Lenzner Bernd , Meyer Carsten , Vicente Joana R. , Wilson John R. U. , Winter Marten 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe Kunming‐Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) calls for a 50% reduction in rates of invasive alien species establishment by 2030. However, estimating changes in rates of introduction and establishment is far from straightforward, particularly on a national scale. Variation in survey effort over time, the absence of data on survey effort, and aspects of the invasion process itself interact in ways that make rate estimates from naive models of invasion trends inaccurate. To support progress toward robust global and national reporting against the GBF invasions target, we illustrate this problem using a combination of simulations, and global and national scale case studies. We provide recommendations and a clear set of steps that are needed for progress. These include routine collection of survey effort data as part of surveillance and monitoring protocols and working closely with researchers to develop meaningful estimates of change in biological invasions. Better awareness of this challenge and investment in developing robust approaches will be required from Parties if progress on Target 6 of the GBF is to be tracked and achieved.
The efficient generation of functional human hepatocytes from chemically induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Lv Yun , Rao Ziyan , Liu Lulu , Jia Jun , Wu Chenyang , Xu Jun , Du Yuanyuan , Liu Yinan , Liu Bei , Shi Jihang , Li Guangya , Zhao Dongyu , Deng Hongkui 
Published: October 2023

AbstractDerivation of human hepatocytes from pluripotent stem cells in vitro has important applications including cell therapy and drug discovery. However, the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into hepatocytes in vitro was not well recapitulated the development of liver. Here, we developed a differentiation protocol by mimicking the two‐stage development of hepatoblasts, which permits the efficient generation of hepatic progenitor cells from chemically induced pluripotent stem cells (hCiPSCs). Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) indicates the similarity between hepatoblasts differentiated in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, hCiPSC‐derived hepatic progenitor cells can further differentiate into hepatocytes that are similar to primary human hepatocytes with respect to gene expression and key hepatic functions. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of generating hepatic progenitor cells and hepatocytes from hCiPSCs with high efficiency and set the foundation for broad translational applications of hCiPSC‐derived hepatocytes.
Artisanal fisheries catch highlights hotspot for threatened sharks and rays in the Republic of the Congo
Authors: Doherty Philip D. , De Bruyne Godefroy , Moundzoho Baudelaire Dissondet , Dilambaka Emmanuel , Okondza Gaston Ngassiki , Atsango Benoit C. , Ngouembe Appolinaire , Akendze Tite R. , Parnell Richard J. , Cournarie Morgane , Malonga Richard , Missamou Antoine , Godley Brendan J. , Metcalfe Kristian 
Published: October 2023

AbstractGlobal catch rates of sharks and rays from artisanal fisheries are underreported, leading to a lack of data on population status. This forms a major barrier to developing effective management plans, such is the case in Central and West Africa. Over 3 years, we undertook the first systematic quantitative assessment of sharks and rays landed by an artisanal fishery in the Republic of the Congo. During 507 sampling days (mean 14 surveys per month), we recorded 73,268 individuals. These comprised 42 species, of which 81% are considered at an elevated risk of extinction. Landings were dominated by immature individuals, especially for species of conservation concern. Presence of species thought to have largely disappeared from the region such as the African wedgefish (Rhynchobatus luebberti) and smoothback angelshark (Squatina oculata) suggest Congolese waters are a potential stronghold for these species—warranting increased protection. We identified seasonality of catch within years, but not across years. Both inter‐ and intra‐annual trends varied by species, signifying annual fluctuations in catch of each species but consistent catch of all species year‐on‐year. Analysis showed increased catch between the short‐wet and the long‐wet, and the long‐dry seasons (January–February and August–September). Lowest catch was shown to occur during the short‐wet and the short‐dry seasons (October–December), which may provide an opportunity for seasonal closures or gear restrictions.
Guam's last håyun lågu tree (Serianthes nelsonii) in peril
Authors: Demeulenaere Else , Ickert‐Bond Stefanie M. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractOn the island of Guåhan (Guam) native and endemic species are an integral part of the CHamoru language, rituals, and practices. They are interconnected with their culture and honored together with the ocean, the land, and their ancestors. Presently, this spiritual connection is being jeopardized as military expansion threatens the sacred lands of Tailalo’ and Litekyan. Phylogenetic and ethnographic research, connected to the principles of environmental justice, has brought attention to the social movement to protect the last håyun lågu tree (Serianthes nelsonii) at Tailalo’. This opinion piece is a rallying cry to safeguard the last håyun lågu and to confront the U.S. National Environmental Policy Act and the U.S. Endangered Species Act, as its regulations do not mirror the island's social and cultural system and fail to incorporate Indigenous and scientific perspectives to protect Indigenous biocultural heritage.
Long‐term effects of average calcineurin inhibitor trough levels (over time) on renal function in a prospectively followed cohort of 150 kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Ciancio Gaetano , Gaynor Jeffrey J. , Guerra Giselle , Tabbara Marina M. , Roth David , Kupin Warren , Mattiazzi Adela , Moni Lissett , Burke George W. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractMore favorable clinical outcomes with medium‐term follow‐up have been reported among kidney transplant recipients receiving maintenance therapy consisting of “reduced‐tacrolimus (TAC) dosing,” mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and low‐dose corticosteroids. However, it is not clear whether long‐term maintenance therapy with reduced‐calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) dosing still leads to reduced renal function. A prospectively followed cohort of 150 kidney transplant recipients randomized to receive TAC/sirolimus (SRL) versus TAC/MMF versus cyclosporine microemulsion (CSA)/SRL, plus low‐dose maintenance corticosteroids, now has 20 years of post‐transplant follow‐up. Average CNI trough levels over time among patients who were still alive with functioning grafts at 60, 120, and 180 months post‐transplant were determined and ranked from smallest‐to‐largest for both TAC and CSA. Stepwise linear regression was used to determine whether these ranked average trough levels were associated with the patient's estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at those times, particularly after controlling for other significant multivariable predictors. Experiencing biopsy‐proven acute rejection (BPAR) and older donor age were the two most significant multivariable predictors of poorer eGFR at 60, 120, and 180 months post‐transplant (p < 000001 and 0.000003 for older donor age at 60 and 120 months; p = 0.00008 and <0.000001 for previous BPAR at 60 and 120 months). Assignment to CSA also implied a significantly poorer eGFR (but with less magnitudes of effect) in multivariable analysis at 60 and 120 months (p = 0.01 and 0.002). Higher ranked average CNI trough levels had no association with eGFR at any timepoint in either univariable or multivariable analysis (p > 0.70). Long‐term maintenance therapy with reduced‐CNI dosing does not appear to cause reduced renal function.
Applying an artificial intelligence deep learning approach to routine dermatopathological diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Duschner Nicole , Baguer Daniel Otero , Schmidt Maximilian , Griewank Klaus Georg , Hadaschik Eva , Hetzer Sonja , Wiepjes Bettina , Le'Clerc Arrastia Jean , Jansen Philipp , Maass Peter , Schaller Jörg 
Published: October 2023

SummaryBackgroundInstitutes of dermatopathology are faced with considerable challenges including a continuously rising numbers of submitted specimens and a shortage of specialized health care practitioners. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common tumors in the fair‐skinned western population and represents a major part of samples submitted for histological evaluation. Digitalizing glass slides has enabled the application of artificial intelligence (AI)‐based procedures. To date, these methods have found only limited application in routine diagnostics. The aim of this study was to establish an AI‐based model for automated BCC detection.Patients and MethodsIn three dermatopathological centers, daily routine practice BCC cases were digitalized. The diagnosis was made both conventionally by analog microscope and digitally through an AI‐supported algorithm based on a U‐Net architecture neural network.ResultsIn routine practice, the model achieved a sensitivity of 98.23% (center 1) and a specificity of 98.51%. The model generalized successfully without additional training to samples from the other centers, achieving similarly high accuracies in BCC detection (sensitivities of 97.67% and 98.57% and specificities of 96.77% and 98.73% in centers 2 and 3, respectively). In addition, automated AI‐based basal cell carcinoma subtyping and tumor thickness measurement were established.ConclusionsAI‐based methods can detect BCC with high accuracy in a routine clinical setting and significantly support dermatopathological work.
Pakistan, China and the Structures of Debt Distress: Resisting Bretton Woods
Authors: Sial Farwa , Jafri Juvaria , Khaliq Abdul 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTPakistan has received a total of 23 loan packages from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) between 1958 and 2023, and recurrent indebtedness has hindered structural transformation. Recent crises, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, surging commodity prices, Russia's invasion of Ukraine and diplomatic tensions between the United States and China, have exacerbated Pakistan's indebtedness. This debt has geopolitical importance given the rivalry between the US and China. Multilateral support for restructuring has been complicated by Pakistan's unique alliance with China through the China‒Pakistan Economic Corridor, pivotal to the Belt and Road Initiative. This analysis of Pakistan's debt crisis explores this complexity by considering the Pakistani government's attempts to resist the IMF, particularly between 2018 and 2022, when the potential of China as an alternative source of financial support looked increasingly viable. Unlike less critical political analyses on debt, which tend to be preoccupied with endogenous governance failures and fiscal profligacy, this article focuses on the external drivers of debt. In doing so, it highlights the role of a hostile international legal system, standard‐setting arrangements, rating agencies and arbitrary charges that impose huge economic burdens and undermine financial stability, as well as the constraints embedded in the global investment and financial architecture that persistently limit Pakistan's policy space.
Functional electrical stimulation during walking in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy: A randomized cross‐over trial
Authors: Moll Irene , Marcellis Rik G. J. , Fleuren Sabine M. , Coenen Marcel L. P. , Senden Rachel H. J. , Willems Paul J. B. , Speth Lucianne A. W. M. , Witlox M. Adhiambo , Meijer Kenneth , Vermeulen R. Jeroen 
Published: October 2023

AbstractAimTo study if functional electrical stimulation (FES) of the peroneal nerve, which activates dorsiflexion, can improve body functions, activities, and participation and could be an effective alternative treatment in individuals with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (CP).MethodA randomized cross‐over trial was performed in 25 children with unilateral spastic CP (classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I and II) aged 4 to 18 years (median age at inclusion 9 years 8 months, interquartile range = 7 years–13 years 8 months), 15 patients were male. The study consisted of two 12‐week blocks of treatment, that is, conventional treatment (ankle foot orthosis [AFO] or adapted shoes) and FES, separated by a 6‐week washout period. Outcome measures included the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS), the Cerebral Palsy Quality of Life questionnaire, and a three‐dimensional gait analysis.ResultsEighteen patients completed the trial. The proportion of GAS goals achieved was not significantly higher in the FES versus the conventional treatment phase (goal 1 p = 0.065; goal 2 p = 1.00). When walking while stimulated with FES, ankle dorsiflexion during mid‐swing decreased over time (p = 0.006, average decrease of 4.8° with FES), with a preserved increased ankle range of motion compared to conventional treatment (p < 0.001, mean range of motion with FES +10.1° compared to AFO). No changes were found in the standard physical examination or regarding satisfaction with orthoses and feelings about the ability to dress yourself. In four patients, FES therapy failed; in 12 patients FES therapy continued after the trial.InterpretationFES is not significantly worse than AFO; however, patient selection is critical, and a testing period and thorough follow‐up are needed.
Construction and validation of a nomogram for predicting diabetes remission at 3 months after bariatric surgery in patients with obesity combined with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yuan Kaisheng , Wu Bing , Zeng Ruiqi , Zhou Fuqing , Hu Ruixiang , Wang Cunchuan 
Published: October 2023

AbstractAimBariatric metabolic surgery (BMS) is a proven treatment option for patients with both obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there is a lack of comprehensive reporting on the short‐term remission rates of diabetes, and the existing data are inadequate. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the factors that may contribute to diabetes remission (DR) in patients with obesity and T2DM, 3 months after undergoing BMS. Furthermore, our objective was to develop a risk‐predicting model using a nomogram.MethodsIn total, 389 patients with obesity and T2DM, who had complete preoperative information and underwent either laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery between January 2014 and May 2023, were screened in the Chinese Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Database. The patients were randomly divided into a training set (n = 272) and a validation set (n = 117) in a 7:3 ratio. Potential factors for DR were analysed through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses and then modelled using a nomogram. The model's performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves and the area under the curve (AUC). Calibration plots were used to assess prediction accuracy and decision curve analyses were conducted to evaluate the clinical usefulness of the model.ResultsGlycated haemoglobin, triglycerides, duration of diabetes, insulin requirement and hypercholesterolaemia were identified as independent factors influencing DR. We have incorporated these five indicators into a nomogram, which has shown good efficacy in both the training cohort (AUC = 0.930) and validation cohort (AUC = 0.838). The calibration plots indicated that the model fits well in both the training and the validation cohorts, and decision curve analyses showed that the model had good clinical applicability.ConclusionThe prediction model developed in this study holds predictive value for short‐term DR following BMS in patients with obesity and T2DM.
Anthropometric measures, predicted visceral adipose tissue and biomarkers of chronic inflammation
Authors: Millar Seán R. , Perry Ivan J. , Phillips Catherine M. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundEvidence has linked low‐grade systemic inflammation and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) with development of chronic conditions. Cytokines and select proteins released by VAT may promote a low‐grade inflammatory response. A number of equations have been developed to estimate VAT levels. In this study, we compared predicted VAT equation relationships with biomarkers of inflammation.MethodsThis was a cross‐sectional study of 2038 men and women aged 46–73 years. Correlation and linear regression analyses were performed to examine inflammatory biomarker relationships with four commonly assessed anthropometric measures and 10 predicted VAT equations.ResultsCompared with anthropometric measures, predicted VAT equations were found to explain a greater proportion of variance in CRP (R2 = .075, p = .001), IL‐6 (R2 = .060, p = .001), TNF‐α (R2 = .017, p = .005), resistin (R2 = .011, p = .012), monocyte (R2 = .027, p = .001), eosinophil (R2 = .012, p = .01) and basophil (R2 = .015, p = .002) levels in males, and a greater variance in concentrations of C3 (R2 = .175, p = .001), IL‐6 (R2 = .090, p = .001), TNF‐α (R2 = .036, p = .001), adiponectin (R2 = .121, p = .001), the adiponectin‐to‐leptin ratio (R2 = .444, p = .001), resistin (R2 = .025, p = .001), white blood cell count (R2 = .057, p = .001), neutrophils (R2 = .061, p = .001) and lymphocytes (R2 = .020, p = .001) in females.ConclusionEquations for assessing VAT levels might be useful to characterise metabolic health. Further studies that examine predicted VAT relationships with disease and mortality outcomes are warranted.
The effect of the simulated aging by thermocycling on the elastic modulus of ethylene‐vinyl acetate brands and stress/strain development during an impact: An in vitro and 3D‐FEA analysis
Authors: Costa Paulo Victor de Moura , Firmiano Tainah Costa , Borges Gilberto Antônio , Dantas Rodrigo Pereira , Veríssimo Crisnicaw 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackground/AimMouthguards are used to prevent dental trauma and orofacial injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) aging by thermocycling on elastic modulus, stress, strain and shock absorption ability of different ethylene‐vinyl acetate brands used for mouthguards.MethodsThirty EVA samples with a dimension of 70 × 10 × 3 mm were obtained from four commercial brands (Bioart®, Erkodent®, Polyshok® and Proform®). Fifteen samples were submitted to 10,000 cycles (5°C–55°C) in a thermocycling machine with an immersion time of 30 s and a transfer time of 5 s. The samples were submitted to a uniaxial tensile test in a universal testing machine to calculate the elastic modulus. Data were statistically evaluated by two‐way ANOVA and Holm‐Sidak test. A three‐dimensional model of the anterior maxilla was created using Rhinoceros 5.0. A 3 mm custom‐fitted mouthguard was simulated. The three‐dimensional volumetric mesh was generated using the Patran software (MSC Software) with isoparametrics, 4‐noded tetrahedral elements and exported to Marc/Mentat (MSC Software) as element number 134. A non‐linear dynamic impact analysis was performed in which a rigid object struck the central incisor at a speed of 5 m/s. The stresses were evaluated by the modified von Mises criteria and the strains were also recorded.ResultsStatistically significant differences were observed for elastic modulus values (p < .001). Mean and standard deviation values (MPa) without thermocycling were: Bioart (34.5 ± 0.9), Erkodent (15.0 ± 0.4), Polyshok (17.3 ± 0.4), Proform: (20.6 ± 0.8); and with thermocycling: Bioart (25.4 ± 0.8), Erkodent (10.7 ± 0.5), Polyshok (13.3 ± 0.6), Proform (13.1 ± 0.6). The thermocycling process reduced stress and strain levels regardless of the mouthguard materials. Shock absorption ability calculated based on the strain values was increased with thermocycling process.ConclusionThe thermocycling process, regardless of the commercial brand, reduced the stress/strain and increased the shock absorption ability of mouthguards.
Displaced universities in Ukraine: Challenges and optimal development models
Authors: Orzhel Olena , Trofymenko Mykola , Porkuian Olha , Drach Iryna , Halhash Ruslan , Stoyka Andriy 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe article investigates two cases of displaced universities facing challenges after a new phase of Russia's aggression against Ukraine in February 2022. We analyse prospects for displaced universities. Also, we identify models suitable for developing and reinventing universities, aligning their activities with wartime needs and allowing them to play a transformative role during post‐war recovery. Four modern university models were investigated: (1) a traditional university model where the dominating social missions are (I) teaching and learning, and (II) research; (2) a civic university model where the mission to serve society and community engagement (a third social mission; III) is equally as important as the first and second missions; (3) an open university allowing for open access for diverse groups of learners to personal and professional development. We also analyse a European Universities model (4). The fourth model aims at pooling resources and boosting cooperation between several universities and non‐academic institutions. The purpose of the fourth model is to enhance excellence in education, research and innovation in specific subject areas. It also facilitates internationalisation and community service at the local, national and global levels. The civic university was identified as the optimum model for advancing the development of displaced universities. Similarly, a combination of features from the models analysed can be an appropriate solution to ensure a sustainable development of displaced universities during wartime and post‐war recovery. Based on research findings we formulate policy recommendations on the following topics: a review of the missions and strategies of displaced universities, and the launch of the Programme in Support of Displaced Universities. Also, the recommendation to develop crisis management plans at the national and institutional levels to ensure multilevel readiness for future emergencies is discussed.