bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Positive Sanctions, Incentives, and Foreign Policy
Authors: Peterson Timothy M. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Although a large literature examines the causes and consequences of punitive economic sanctions, scholars pay less attention to positive sanctions—i.e., rewards or inducements to change behaviour. Given that positive sanctions appear, at least at first glance, to hold several advantages over punishments as a foreign policy tool, this chapter explores potential explanations for the relative dominance of research on negative sanctions. An analysis of the literature suggests that, while it is possible that negative sanctions are used more commonly, it is at least as likely that research patterns follow from the fact that punishments (and threats thereof) are easier to observe. Furthermore, the study of the causes and consequences of foreign aid, while open to a positive sanctions approach, commonly proceeds using other theoretical lenses.
The Role of International Organisations and Courts, as well as International NGOs
Authors: Ziegler Andreas R. , Bagi Raphaël 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
While there was a slight increase in the national level discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity after 1968, at least in some areas, it took until the mid-1990s for this discussion to also have an impact on work being done on a global scale, particularly at the United Nations (UN). In order to influence regional and international entities, coordinated activity by NGOs and activists had also grown at the global level at this time. The contribution of civil society to the functioning of international organizations is seen as being particularly crucial in the field of human rights. As we will find out, the United Nations has many opportunities for LGBTI advocacy such as the adoption of official texts at the United Nations Human Rights Council, the work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and its other organs, along with other organizations. One of the biggest initiatives within the United Nations is certainly the adoption of the resolution appointing the ‘Independent Expert for protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity’ in 2016. International courts also play an essential role in the recognition of rights for LGBTI persons, along with the treaty bodies that play a role as significant considering that as of 2021, there are more than 1500 decisions that have been made by UN Treaty Bodies, 43 of them concerned LGBTI people. Finally, this chapter would not be complete if it failed to mention the Human Rights Council’s special procedures.
Cytogenetic Outcomes Following a Failed Cell-Free DNA Screen: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study of 35,146 Singleton Pregnancies
Authors: Bellai-Dussault Kara , Meng Lynn , Howley Heather , Reszel Jessica , Huang Tianhua , Lanes Andrea , Walker Mark C. , Okun Nan , Dougan Shelley D. , Armour Christine M. 
Published: February 2024

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023;229:168.e1–e8)
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening is a form of prenatal genetic screening for aneuploidies. This method boasts lower false-positive rates than multiple-marker screening methods and is now commonly recommended.
Metabolic basis of cardiac dysfunction in cancer patients
Authors: Figueiredo Jane C. , Bhowmick Neil Adri , Karlstaedt Anja 
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review
The relationship between metabolism and cardiovascular diseases is complex and bidirectional. Cardiac cells must adapt metabolic pathways to meet biosynthetic demands and energy requirements to maintain contractile function. During cancer, this homeostasis is challenged by the increased metabolic demands of proliferating cancer cells.

Recent findings
Tumors have a systemic metabolic impact that extends beyond the tumor microenvironment. Lipid metabolism is critical to cancer cell proliferation, metabolic adaptation, and increased cardiovascular risk. Metabolites serve as signals which provide insights for diagnosis and prognosis in cardio-oncology patients.

Summary
Metabolic processes demonstrate a complex relationship between cancer cell states and cardiovascular remodeling with potential for therapeutic interventions.
Noticeable effect of lower baseline amplitude on the predictive accuracy of intraoperative amplitude changes for postoperative vocal cord palsy: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kou Jiedong , Zhao Yishen , Han Yujia , Li Fang , Du Rui , Dionigi Gianlorenzo , Frattini Francesco , Li Jingting , Liang Nan , Sun Hui 
Published: February 2024

Background:
To explore the effect of lower baseline amplitude on its predictive accuracy of postoperative vocal cord paralysis (VCP) in monitored thyroid surgery.

Materials and Methods:
Clinical and electrophysiological data were collected during thyroid surgeries performed between November and December 2021 at XXX. Univariate/multivariate regression analysis were applied to these data to examine a possible correlation. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate predictive efficacy.

Results:
A total of 631 nerves-at-risk (NAR) were identified in 460 patients who were divided into two groups according to postoperative development of VCP. The VCP group included a higher percentage of NAR with V1<1000 (68.2% vs. 40.7%, respectively; P=0.014) and NAR with R1<1400 (77.3% vs. 47.0%, respectively; P=0.005) compared with the non-VCP group. Multivariate regression analysis further identified V1<1000 (odds ratio (OR)=2.688, P=0.038), R1<1400 (OR=3.484, P=0.018) as independent risk factors for postoperative temporary VCP. The ROC curve showed the AUC value of V signal decline for predicting VCP was 0.87. The diagnostic efficiency of R signal decline reached as high as 0.973. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified independent risk factors for V1<1000 and these included: higher body mass index (BMI) (OR=1.072, P=0.013), hypertension (OR=1.816, P=0.015), smoking (OR=1.814, P=0.031), and male gender (OR=2.016, P=0.027).

Conclusion:
In our cohort, lower baseline amplitude was an independent risk factor for developing transient postoperative VCP. It also affected the predictive efficacy of intraoperative amplitude changes on VCP. Higher BMI, hypertension, smoking, and male gender may also be closely associated with lower initial amplitude. Thus, maintaining a higher initial amplitude is critical for patient safety during thyroid surgery.
Association Between Genital Hiatus Size 8 Weeks Postpartum and Pelvic Organ Prolapse 1 Year After the First Vaginal Delivery
Authors: Rosett Heather A. , Allshouse Amanda A. , Nygaard Ingrid E. , Hill A. Jolyn , Swenson Carolyn W. 
Published: February 2024

(Abstracted from Urogynecology 2023;29:865–871)
Pelvic organ prolapse is most common later in life but can affect women in the period following vaginal delivery. Although vaginal birth is a known risk factor for prolapse, there exists no predictor of timing of prolapse based on changes in the pelvic floor after childbirth.
The effect of opinion leadership and spirituality on recycling intention: insights from attractive, expert and religious influencers
Authors: Setiawan Gunaro , Arli Denni 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe present study investigates the impact of opinion leadership and spirituality from three types of social media influencers (SMIs) on individuals’ intentions to conduct recycling. This research is driven by the opinion leadership theory demonstrated by influencer marketing.Design/methodology/approachThis research applies a between-subject experiment to measure the impact of the proposed model. Each participant was exposed to a different influencer: an attractive influencer (Treatment 1, n = 101), an expert influencer (Treatment 2, n = 94), a religious influencer (Treatment 3, n = 99) and a control condition (Treatment 4, n = 102). An ANOVA post-hoc analysis was conducted to further assess the impact dynamics of each influencer based on different demographics such as age, income and level of education. More than 95% of the samples consist of Muslims.FindingsFindings revealed the different dynamics of the effect of opinion leadership and spirituality on the intention to recycle from utilising different types of influencers. Samples derived from a high socio-economic background and exposed to the religious influencer (Treatment 3) have a relatively higher mean score. In general, younger participants with lower incomes and levels of education have less tendency to conduct recycling.Originality/valueThis research attempts to fill the gap in the impact of influencer marketing on green behaviour adoption with the inclusion of spirituality, which has been largely ignored in this context. It offers insights from the perspective of a developing economy that has one of the largest percentages of social media users in the world and from a country that regards a relationship with God as important.
Metamorphosing traditional pedagogy: examining the transcendent influence of Alexa in catalyzing educational paradigm shifts within rural Indian communities
Authors: Darda Pooja , Gupta Om Jee , Yadav Susheel 
Published: February 2024

PurposeAlexa’s integration in rural primary schools has improved the pedagogy and has created an engaging and objective learning environment. This study investigates the integration, with a specific focus on exploring its various aspects. The impact of Alexa’s on students' English vocabulary, comprehension and public speaking are examined. This study aims to provide insights the teachers and highlight the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in rural education.Design/methodology/approachThis content analysis study explores the use of Alexa in primary education in rural areas of India. The study focuses on the types of the questions asked by the students and examines the pedagogical implications of these interactions. By analyzing the use of Alexa in rural educational settings, this study aims to contribute to our understanding of how voice assistants are utilized as educational tools in underprivileged areas.FindingsAlexa significantly improved students' English vocabulary, comprehension and public speaking confidence. Alexa increased school enrollment and retention. Virtual voice assistants like Alexa may improve pedagogy and help India’s rural education. This study shows AI improves rural education.Research limitations/implicationsThe study only covers rural India. Self-reported data and observations may bias the study. The small sample size may underrepresent rural educational institutions in India.Originality/valueAlexa is used to study rural India’s primary education. Voice assistants in rural education are understudied. The study examines Alexa’s classroom use, student questions, and policy and teacher education implications. AI’s education transformation potential addresses UNESCO’s teacher shortage. This novel study examines how AI can improve rural education outcomes and access.
Whole‐exome sequencing identifies ADGB as a novel causative gene for male infertility in humans: from motility to fertilization
Authors: Gao Yang , Liu Liting , Tian Shixiong , Liu Chunyu , Lv Mingrong , Wu Huan , Tang Dongdong , Song Bing , Shen Qunshan , Xu Yuping , Zhou Ping , Wei Zhaolian , Zhang Feng , Cao Yunxia , He Xiaojin 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectivesIn male mice, adgb‐knockout has been reported to cause male infertility with spermatogenesis defects involving flagella and acrosome. However, this remains unclear for humans.Materials and methodsSequencing studies were conducted in a research hospital on samples from three unrelated infertile men with severe asthenoteratozoospermia from Han Chinese families. Data were collected through rigorous in silico analysis. Sanger sequencing were performed to identify pathogenic mutations. Sperm cells from patients were characterized using electron microscopy and used to verify the pathogenicity of the genetic factors through functional assays. Intracytoplasmic sperm injections (ICSI) assays were performed in ADGB‐affected males.Main resultsHerein, in a cohort of 105 Han Chinese men with idiopathic asthenoteratozoospermia, we reported the identification of bi‐allelic deleterious variants of ADGB in three infertile men from unrelated families using whole‐exome sequencing. We found one homozygous frameshift ADGB variant (NM_024694.4: c.2801_2802del:p.K934Rfs*33), one homozygous missense ADGB variant (NM_024694.4: c.C3167T:p.T1056I), and one compound heterozygous ADGB variant (NM_024694.4: c.C3167T:p.T1056I; c.C3197T:p.A1066V). These variants were rare in general population and were predicted to be damaging by multiple bioinformatics tools. Further, the spermatozoa from patients harboring ADGB variants showed multiple acrosome and flagellum malformations under light and electron microscopy. Functional assays revealed the structural defects associated with dysregulation of ADGB and multiple spermatogenesis proteins. Notably, the fertilization success via ICSI treatment in all three patients, as well as the normal expression of PLCζ but CaM deficiency in the spermatozoa, suggesting that ICSI other than in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an optimal treatment for ADGB‐deficient patients.Discussion and conclusionOur findings provide new information for the molecular diagnosis of asthenoteratozoospermia and valuable reference for personalized genetic counselling and clinical treatment for these patients. The underlying risk of IVF failure behind sperm defects was highlighted.
Patterns in the genetic structure of 49 lowland rain forest tree species co‐distributed on opposite sides of the northern Andes
Authors: Bemmels Jordan B. , Pérez Álvaro , Valencia Renato , Dick Christopher W. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe Andes are a major dispersal barrier for lowland rain forest plants and animals, yet hundreds of lowland tree species are distributed on both sides of the northern Andes, raising questions about how the Andes influenced their biogeographic histories and population genetic structure. To explore these questions, we generated standardized datasets of thousands of SNPs from paired populations of 49 tree species co‐distributed in rain forest tree communities located in Panama and Amazonian Ecuador and calculated genetic diversity (π) and absolute genetic divergence (dXY) within and between populations, respectively. We predicted (1) higher genetic diversity in the ancestral source region (east or west of the Andes) for each taxon and (2) correlation of genetic statistics with species attributes, including elevational range and life‐history strategy. We found that genetic diversity was higher in putative ancestral source regions, possibly reflecting founder events during colonization. We found little support for a relationship between genetic divergence and species attributes except that species with higher elevational range limits exhibited higher dXY, implying older divergence times. One possible explanation for this pattern is that dispersal through mountain passes declined in importance relative to dispersal via alternative lowland routes as the Andes experienced uplift. We found no difference in mean genetic diversity between populations in Central America and the Amazon. Overall, our results suggest that dispersal across the Andes has left enduring signatures in the genetic structure of widespread rain forest trees. We outline additional hypotheses to be tested with species‐specific case studies.
Reference limits for osteocalcin in infancy and early childhood: A longitudinal birth cohort study
Authors: Berggren Sara S. , Dahlgren Jovanna , Andersson Ola , Bergman Stefan , Roswall Josefine 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveThe longitudinal variations in serum levels of the hormone osteocalcin is largely unknown during infancy and early childhood. Our aim was to establish reference limits for total serum osteocalcin during specific time points from birth until 5 years of age and present those in the context of sex, breastfeeding practices and gestational age (GA).DesignBlood samples from 551 Swedish children were analysed at birth, 4, 12, 36 and 60 months of age. Total serum osteocalcin was measured using the IDS‐iSYS N‐MID Osteocalcin assay technique. Information about the mother, birth, anthropometrics and a food diary were collected.ResultsSex‐specific and age‐specific reference limits were established for the five time points. The median osteocalcin levels over time were 40.8, 90.0, 67.8, 62.2 and 80.9 μg/L for boys and 38.1, 95.5, 78.3, 73.9 and 92.6 μg/L for girls. Lower GA was associated to higher osteocalcin at birth, and ongoing breastfeeding was associated to higher osteocalcin levels.ConclusionOsteocalcin followed a wavelike pattern with low levels in the umbilical cord and a postnatal peak during the first year which then declined and rose again by the age of five. Knowledge of this wavelike pattern and association to factors as sex, breastfeeding and GA may help clinicians to interpret individual osteocalcin levels and guide in future research.
Novel variant in LRP6 associated with unusual and severe clinical presentation: Case report
Authors: Previdi Anaïk , Dubourg Christèle , Cormier Daire Valérie , Fradin Mélanie , Collet Corinne 
Published: February 2024

AbstractLow‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 6 (LRP6) is a co‐receptor of the Wnt signaling pathway, which plays an essential role in various biological activities during embryonic and postnatal development. LRP6 is exceptionally associated with rare diseases and always with autosomal dominant inheritance. Here we report a familial phenotype of high bone mass associated with skeletal anomalies and oligodontia but also persistent left superior vena cava, inguinal hernia, hepatic cysts, abnormal posterior fossa and genital malformations. Molecular analysis revealed a novel heterozygous variant, NM_002336.2: c.724T>C, p.(Trp242Arg), in affected individuals. This variant is located in the first β‐propellant motif of LRP6, to which sclerostin (SOST) and dickkopf1 (DKK1), two LRP6 co‐receptor inhibitors and various Wnt ligands bind. According to the literature and integrating data from structural analysis, this variant distorts the binding of SOST and DKK1, thus leading to overactivation of Wnt signaling pathways involved in osteoblast differentiation. This novel heterozygous variant in LRP6 underlies the role of LRP6 in skeletal and dental disorders as well as, probably, cardiac, cerebral and genital developments.
Satisfaction with continuous glucose monitoring is associated with quality of life in young people with type 1 diabetes regardless of metabolic control and treatment type
Authors: Franceschi Roberto , Pertile Riccardo , Marigliano Marco , Mozzillo Enza , Maffeis Claudio , Morotti Elisa , Di Candia Francesca , Fedi Ludovica , Iafusco Dario , Zanfardino Angela , Cauvin Vittoria , Maltoni Giulio , Zucchini Stefano , Cherubini Valentino , Tiberi Valentina , Minuto Nicola , Bassi Marta , Rabbone Ivana , Savastio Silvia , Tinti Davide , Tornese Gianluca , Schiaffini Riccardo , Passanisi Stefano , Lombardo Fortunato , Bonfanti Riccardo , Scaramuzza Andrea , Troncone Alda 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAimsWhile continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and associated technologies have positive effects on metabolic control in young people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), less is known about their impact on quality of life (QoL). Here, we quantified CGM satisfaction and QoL in young people with T1D and their parents/caregivers to establish (i) the relationship between QoL and CGM satisfaction and (ii) the impact of the treatment regimen on QoL.MethodsThis was a cross‐sectional study of children and adolescents with T1D on different treatment regimens (multiple daily injections, sensor‐augmented pumps and automated insulin delivery). QoL was assessed with the KINDL instrument, and CGM satisfaction with the CGM‐SAT questionnaire was evaluated in both youths with T1D and their parents.ResultsTwo hundred and ten consecutively enrolled youths with T1D completed the KINDL and CGM‐SAT questionnaires. The mean total KINDL score was greater than neutral in both subjects with T1D (3.99 ± 0.47) and parents (4.06 ± 0.40), and lower overall CGM‐SAT scores (i.e., higher satisfaction) were significantly associated with higher QoL in all six KINDL subscales (p < 0.05). There were no differences in KINDL scores according to delivery technology or when participants were grouped according to optimal and sub‐optimal glucose control.ConclusionsHigher satisfaction with recent CGMs was associated with better QoL in all dimensions. QoL was independent of both the insulin delivery technology and glycaemic control. CGM must be further disseminated. Attention on perceived satisfaction with CGM should be incorporated with the clinical practice to improve the well‐being of children and adolescents with T1D and their families.
Global change progressively increases foliar nitrogen–phosphorus ratios in China's subtropical forests
Authors: Lai Yuan , Tang Songbo , Lambers Hans , Hietz Peter , Tang Wenguang , Gilliam Frank S. , Lu Xiankai , Luo Xianzhen , Lin Yutong , Wang Shu , Zeng Feiyan , Wang Qi , Kuang Yuanwen 
Published: February 2024

AbstractGlobally increased nitrogen (N) to phosphorus (P) ratios (N/P) affect the structure and functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, but few studies have addressed the variation of foliar N/P over time in subtropical forests. Foliar N/P indicates N versus P limitation in terrestrial ecosystems. Quantifying long‐term dynamics of foliar N/P and their potential drivers is crucial for predicting nutrient status and functioning in forest ecosystems under global change. We detected temporal trends of foliar N/P, quantitatively estimated their potential drivers and their interaction between plant types (evergreen vs. deciduous and trees vs. shrubs), using 1811 herbarium specimens of 12 widely distributed species collected during 1920–2010 across China's subtropical forests. We found significant decreases in foliar P concentrations (23.1%) and increases in foliar N/P (21.2%). Foliar N/P increased more in evergreen species (22.9%) than in deciduous species (16.9%). Changes in atmospheric CO2 concentrations (), atmospheric N deposition and mean annual temperature (MAT) dominantly contributed to the increased foliar N/P of evergreen species, while , MAT, and vapor pressure deficit, to that of deciduous species. Under future Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios, increasing MAT and would continuously increase more foliar N/P in deciduous species than in evergreen species, with more 12.9%, 17.7%, and 19.4% versus 6.1%, 7.9%, and 8.9% of magnitudes under the scenarios of SSP1‐2.6, SSP3‐7.0, and SSP5‐8.5, respectively. The results suggest that global change has intensified and will progressively aggravate N–P imbalance, further altering community composition and ecosystem functioning of subtropical forests.