bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Nonperforming Loans: A Global Data Analysis
Authors: Salas MBelen , Lamothe Prosper , Delgado Enrique , Fernández-Miguélez Angel L. , Valcarce Lucia 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis Study Analyzes the Factors that Explain the Evolution of banks´ Nonperforming loan Ratios Worldwide. We use a Sample of 1,631 Entities from 111 Countries Grouped into the Eight Central Regions in the World, with Information Corresponding to the Period 2007–2021. Applying Panel data Methods and an Extensive set of both Specific and Macroeconomic Variables, the Results show that Nonperforming loan Ratio is Determined by a Series of Specific Factors, Regardless of where or when they Operate. These Results may be Helpful to Minimize the cost of Building Models for the Nonperforming loan Analysis in the world´s most Critical Regions.
From input–output analysis to the quantification of metabolic patterns: David Pimentel’s contribution to the analysis of complex environmental problems
Authors: Giampietro Mario 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis paper revisits David Pimentel’s work on input–output analysis of agricultural production systems with the objective of demonstrating its (continued) relevance for the analysis of complex environmental issues. It is shown that his unique accounting procedure is grounded in complexity theory and that it effectively links expected relations over primary inputs and outputs exchanged with the ecosphere and secondary inputs and outputs exchanged with the anthroposphere (including labor). New conceptual building blocks are introduced to demonstrate that Pimentel’s analysis can be extended across different hierarchical levels (crop typologies, commodity supply systems, agricultural regions, etc.) and dimensions of analysis to obtain a formal representation of the metabolic pattern of social–ecological systems. These concepts include: (i) state–pressure relation (extensive properties); (ii) flow–fund ratios (intensive properties), i.e., qualitative benchmarks to define typologies of agricultural production in relation to both the socioeconomic process (e.g., land productivity, labor productivity) and the environmental pressure exerted on the environment (e.g., water consumption, GHG emission and pesticide load per hectare); and (iii) relational analysis to scale up the analysis to higher hierarchical levels so as to acquire policy relevance. Examples of the pertinence of this formalization are illustrated using Pimentel’s original data on grain cultivation in the USA. It is concluded that Pimentel’s work has set an example for a holistic approach to complex environmental problems and has paved the way for a more general conceptualization of social–ecological systems as metabolic systems.
Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor: An Important Focal Player in Chronic Subdural Hematoma?
Authors: Jensen Thorbjørn Søren Rønn , Olsen Markus Harboe , Lelkaitis Giedrius , Kjaer Andreas , Binderup Tina , Fugleholm Kåre 
Published: January 2024

Abstract Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) development involves inflammatory, angiogenetic, and fibrinolytic mechanisms, several components of which are now unraveled through intensive research. The urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is part of the plasminogen activator system and possesses inflammatory, angiogenetic, and fibrinolytic capabilities. As a first, this study aims to identify uPAR in the hematoma fluid, hematoma membrane, dura mater, and systemic blood from patients with CSDH and, if present, to investigate if the uPAR level at the time of surgery may be a predictor for later developing recurrent CSDH. uPAR expression in the hematoma membrane and dura mater was analyzed using immunohistochemistry and presented as the H-score of the positive immunostaining. The uPAR levels in the hematoma fluid and systemic blood were determined using a multiplex antibody bead kit (Luminex). Samples were collected at the time of the first CSDH surgery, and in the case of recurrent CSDH within 90 days, the samples were again collected at reoperation. A comparison of uPAR expression between the hematoma membrane and dura mater, as well as uPAR levels in systemic blood and hematoma fluid, was performed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. We included 112 patients, 26 of whom had recurrent CSDH. The median hematoma uPAR level was 22,125 (14,845–33,237) and significantly higher than the median systemic blood level of 789 pg/L (465–2,088) (p < 0.001). Similarly, the uPAR level of the hematoma membrane was 14.3 (7.54–44.8) and significantly higher than the dural uPAR level of 0.81 (0.3–1.98) (p < 0.001). For the first time, we identified uPAR in the subdural fluid, hematoma membrane, dura mater, and systemic blood from patients with CSDH. The high expression of uPAR in the subdural fluid and hematoma membrane indicates that the mechanisms of CSDH are predominantly in the subdural fluid collection and surrounding hematoma membrane.
Enhancing English Language Proficiency and Well-being in EAL International PhD Students: The Impact of Personalised Autonomous Learning
Authors: Kim Mira , Clifton Jemma , Strutt Anneli 
Published: January 2024

AbstractResearch has shown that English language proficiency (ELP) plays a crucial role in the psychological well-being of international students (e.g. Li et al., Journal of International Students, 4(4), 301-313, 2014). However, few studies have reported positive correlations between their improved English skills and well-being. The present study examines how a new pedagogy called personalised autonomous (PA) model can induce a virtuous cycle in international PhD students to enhance their English language proficiency and consequently, their well-being. We collected both quantitative and qualitative data from two groups of students: those who experienced the PA model in a course entitled Personalised English Language Enhancement (PELE) and those who did not. We conducted surveys at the beginning and end of the term to compare entry and exit data. Comparison of the entry and exit survey data for PELE students showed significant improvements across almost all dependent variables including self-efficacy, well-being and a sense of belonging to the university community. In contrast, the non-PELE students did not significantly improve in any variable. In focus groups, students indicated how their improved communicative confidence sparked a virtuous cycle leading to greater well-being and a stronger sense of community. Our data strongly suggests that ELP extends beyond mere linguistic ability; it embodies a dynamic interplay between one’s language skills and their self-confidence. Diminished confidence may trigger a vicious cycle of fear of communication, unwillingness to engage, unproductive research, and estranged relationships with supervisors. Therefore, it is imperative for educators and policymakers to critically review and enhance their approaches to supporting the ELP of international PhD students.
Multi-scale investigation of microstructure and texture evolution during equal channel angular pressing of silver
Authors: Suwas Satyam , Skrotzki Werner , Scheerbaum Nils , Grosdidier Thierry , Fundenberger Jean-Jacques , Tóth Laszlo S. , Brokmeier Heinz-Günter 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA multi-scale investigation was carried out on pure silver subjected to equal channel angular pressing up to 3 passes. Microstructure and texture were examined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as diffraction of neutron and high-energy synchrotron radiation. The evolution of the deformation substructure in the material is in accordance with its low stacking fault energy followed by restoration mechanisms leading to overall microstructural refinement. The restoration mechanism sets in as early as after 3 passes. Twinning involved in the deformation process supports grain refinement through mechanisms of dynamic recrystallization involving strain-induced boundary migration contributing to a steady-state grain size. The global texture, as measured by neutron diffraction, forms through a twin-assisted deformation mechanism. The texture is found heterogeneous through thickness.
Graphical abstract
Importance of habitat area, quality and landscape context for heteropteran diversity in shrub ecotones
Authors: Klimm Fabian S. , Bräu Markus , König Sebastian , Mandery Klaus , Sommer Carolin , Zhang Jie , Krauss Jochen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Context
Habitat loss and degradation impose serious threats on biodiversity. However, not all habitats receive the attention commensurate with their ecological importance. Shrub ecotones (successional stages between grasslands and forests) can be highly species-diverse but are often restricted to small areas as prevalent management practices either promote open grassland or forest habitats, threatening the effective conservation of ecotone species.

Objectives
In this study, we assessed the importance of habitat and landscape features of shrub ecotones for the rarely studied true bugs (Heteroptera), a functionally diverse taxon that comprises highly specialized species and broad generalists.

Methods
True bugs were sampled with a beating tray in 118 spatially independent shrub ecotones in a region of 45,000 square kilometers in Germany. In addition to habitat area and landscape context, we used a hedge index to evaluate habitat quality.

Results
Shrub ecotones in open habitats harbored a greater species richness and abundance compared to shaded ones in later seral stages, and species composition differed. Richness and abundance were positively affected by increasing habitat area and quality, whereas an increase in the proportion of semi-natural habitats within 1 km only enhanced richness. While feeding and habitat specialists were more sensitive to habitat area reduction than generalists, this was not the case for weak dispersers and carnivores.

Conclusions
Our findings emphasize the importance of large and high-quality ecotones that form a patchy mosaic of shrubs and herbaceous plants. Such ecotones can benefit both grassland species and species depending on woody plants. Conservation authorities should balance between promoting shrubs and keeping such habitats open to maximize species diversity.
Impacts of COVID-19 on Medically Assisted Live Birth Rates in the United States in 2020 and 2021
Authors: Tierney Katherine , Lazzari Ester 
Published: January 2024

AbstractInitial declines in births due to medically assisted reproduction (MAR) in December 2020 have been documented. However, the longer-term impact of COVID-19 on U.S. MAR birth rates has not yet been evaluated. Negative-binomial regression analyses were employed using counts of MAR births from the National Vital Statistics System and female population counts from the Current Population Survey as the exposure variable. Interaction terms were used to investigate whether trends varied by sociodemographic groups. The descriptive analyses showed sharp declines in the percentage of births due to MAR in December 2020 (1.05%) and January 2021 (1.08%). Multivariable negative-binomial regression showed the incident rates of MAR births were lower in December 2020 relative to all other periods with the exception of January 2021 (IRR = 0.97, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.77–1.22). Negative-binomial regression analyses with interaction terms found the decline and rebound in MAR births differed by educational attainment. Overall, however, the yearly incidence rates of MAR births in 2020 and 2021 were not different from rates from prior years (2017–2019). Thus, COVID-19 service suspension likely had a substantive effect on U.S. MAR birth rates, but this reduction quickly rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. This study extends prior research, which focused on data from 2020, and sheds further light on behavior related to MAR use and its potential demographic implications during the pandemic.
Mean arterial pressure to norepinephrine equivalent dose ratio for predicting renal replacement therapy requirement: a retrospective analysis from the MIMIC-IV
Authors: Liu Qiang , Fu Yawen , Zhang Zhuo , Li Ping , Nie Hu 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to assess the predictive value of the ratio of mean arterial pressure (MAP) to the corresponding peak rate of norepinephrine equivalent dose (NEQ) within the first day in patients with shock for the subsequent renal replacement therapy (RRT) requirement.

Methods
Patients were identified using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. The relationship was investigated using a restricted cubic spline curve, and propensity score matching(PSM) was used to eliminate differences between groups. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using logistic regression. Variable significance was assessed using extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated.

Results
Of the 5775 patients, 301 (5.2%) received RRT. The MAP/NEQ index showed a declining L-shaped relationship for RRT. After PSM, the adjusted OR per 100 mmHg/mcg/kg/min for RRT was 0.93(95% CI 0.88–0.98). The most influential factors for RRT were fluid balance, baseline creatinine, and the MAP/NEQ index. The threshold for the MAP/NEQ index predicting RRT was 161.7 mmHg/mcg/kg/min (specificity: 65.8%, sensitivity: 74.8%) with an area under the ROC curve of 75.9% (95% CI 73.1–78.8).

Conclusions
The MAP/NEQ index served as an alternative predictor of RRT necessity based on the NEQ for adult patients who received at least one vasopressor over 6 h within the first 24 h of intensive care unit(ICU) admission. Dynamic modulation of the MAP/NEQ index by the synergistic use of various low-dose vasopressors targeting urine output may be beneficial for exploring individualized optimization of MAP.
The impact and safety of encapsulated nanomaterials as a new alternative against carbapenem resistant bacteria. a systematic review
Authors: Abdallah Omnia M. , Shebl Heba R. , Abdelsalam Eman , Mehrez Shereen I. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe emergence of multi drug resistant bacterial infections has caused a critical problem with implication on hospitalization and mortality rates. This systematic review aims to review the combined antimicrobial effect of nanoparticles attached to the traditionally used antibiotics, to overcome the antibiotic resistance crisis. In this systematic search we focused on preclinical studies that have used animal models, to test and evaluate the effect of nanomaterials added to antibiotics against gram negative bacteria with carbapenem resistance. Where, this newly formed structure has led to significant decrease in bacterial load in animal model serum. Furthermore, by evaluating nanomaterial cytotoxicity and inflammatory markers, promising results were established, where low toxicity indices were presented, supporting the ability of this new pathway to be used as an alternative to abused antibiotics. Our research collected the various data and showed encouraging preclinical one for using nanomaterials with antibiotics. This undeniable route should be considered, due to its ability to contribute to the treatment of multi drug resistant bacterial infections. These findings provide base for future studies and reinforce the need for more evaluation and testing on the safety of nanomaterials against bacterial infections.
The impact of clean energy demonstration province policies on carbon intensity in Chinese counties based on the multi-phase PSM-DID method
Authors: Chen Lei , Liu Cunjing , Li Zhezhou , Wu Difan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBased on China’s empirical data from 2000 to 2020 of 1875 county-level administrative units, combined with the multi-phase by the propensity score matching and difference-in-difference (PSM-DID) model, this paper studies the impact of clean energy demonstration province policies on the carbon intensity of pilot counties, and its further impact on carbon emissions and economic development level. The results showed that 1. from a county-level perspective, although the economic development level of the pilot areas of clean energy demonstration provinces has improved as the carbon emissions have also increased, what is more, the carbon intensity has also significantly improved in this process; 2. there is no time lag in the impact of policies on the carbon intensity of counties, and the impact effects gradually increase over time along with strong regional heterogeneity; 3. the clean energy demonstration policy has weakened the technological level of the county and reduced the proportion of industrial-added value to GDP, thereby increasing the carbon intensity of the county through these intermediaries.
What Counts as Cheating? Deducibility, Imagination, and the Mary Case
Authors: Kind Amy 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn The Matter of Consciousness, in the course of his extended discussion and defense of Frank Jackson’s famous knowledge argument, Torin Alter dismisses some objections on the grounds that they are cases of cheating. Though some opponents of the knowledge argument offer various scenarios in which Mary might come to know what seeing red is like while still in the room, Alter argues that the proposed scenarios are irrelevant. In his view, the Mary case is offered to defend the claim that phenomenal facts cannot be a priori deduced from physical facts. Thus, a proposed scenario constitutes an objection to the knowledge argument only if it presents a case in which Mary’s learning inside the room comes about via a priori deduction from physical facts. Call this the deducibility standard. In what follows, I’ll explore a series of relevant cases in an effort to clarify this standard. Doing so enables us to better understand how cheating should be assessed in this context and thereby also to get clearer on the argumentative dialectic surrounding the Mary case.
When Vegas Comes to Wall Street: Associations Between Stock Price Volatility and Trading Frequency Amongst Gamblers
Authors: Weiss-Cohen Leonardo , Newall Philip , Bart Yakov , Zloteanu Mircea , Peacey Mike , Ayton Peter , Clacher Iain 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBoth gambling and trading involve risk-taking in exchange for potential financial gains. In particular, speculative high-risk high-frequency trading closely resembles disordered gambling behaviour by attracting the same individuals who tend to be overconfident, sensation-seekers, and attracted to quick large potential payoffs. We build on these studies via an incentivised experiment, in which we examine how manipulated levels of market volatility affected trading frequency. Gamblers (N=604) were screened based on the existence of household investments and recruited across the four categories of the Problem Gambling Severity Index. The volatility of stocks was manipulated between-participants (high vs. low). Participants traded fictitious stocks and were provided bonuses based on the results of their trading activity (M=US$4.77, range=[0, 16.99]). Participants traded more often in the high-volatility market, and this finding remained robust after controlling for financial literacy, overconfidence, age, and gender. Many investors trade more frequently than personal finance guides advise, and these results suggest that individuals are more likely to commit this error in more volatile markets. Exploratory analyses suggest that the effect of the volatility manipulation was strongest amongst gamblers who were at low-risk of experiencing gambling harms. As they might be otherwise considered low-risk, these individuals could be overlooked by protective gambling interventions yet nonetheless suffer unmitigated financial harms due to unchecked excessive trading.
Doxycycline-Loaded Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles with a Pectin Coat Can Ameliorate Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammation Via Enhancing AMPK
Authors: Morsy Suzan Awad AbdelGhany , Fathelbab Mona Hassan , El-Sayed Norhan S. , El-Habashy Salma E. , Aly Rania G. , Harby Sahar A. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Neuroinflammation occurs in response to different injurious triggers to limit their hazardous effects. However, failure to stop this process can end in multiple neurological diseases. Doxycycline (DX) is a tetracycline, with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The current study tested the effects of free DX, DX-loaded calcium phosphate (DX@CaP), and pectin-coated DX@CaP (Pec/DX@CaP) nanoparticles on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation in mice and to identify the role of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in this effect. The present study was conducted on 48 mice, divided into 6 groups, eight mice each. Group 1 (normal control), Group 2 (blank nanoparticles-treated), Group 3 (LPS (untreated)), Groups 4, 5, and 6 received LPS, then Group 4 received free DX, Group 5 received DX-loaded calcium phosphate nanoparticles (DX@CaP), and Group 6 received DX-loaded calcium phosphate nanoparticles with a pectin coat (Pec/DX@CaP). At the end of the experimentation period, behavioral tests were carried out. Then, mice were sacrificed, and brain tissue was extracted and used for histological examination, and assessment of interleukin-6 positive cells in different brain areas, in addition to biochemical measurement of SOD activity, TLR-4, AMPK and Nrf2. LPS can induce prominent neuroinflammation. Treatment with (Pec/DX@CaP) can reverse most behavioral, histopathological, and biochemical changes caused by LPS. The findings of the current study suggest that (Pec/DX@CaP) exerts a significant reverse of LPS-induced neuroinflammation by enhancing SOD activity, AMPK, and Nrf2 expression, in addition to suppression of TLR-4.

Graphical Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 and its Multifaceted Impact on Bone Health: Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Harris Alexander , Creecy Amy , Awosanya Olatundun D. , McCune Thomas , Ozanne Marie V. , Toepp Angela J. , Kacena Melissa A. , Qiao Xian 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
SARS-CoV-2 infection, the culprit of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been associated with significant long-term effects on various organ systems, including bone health. This review explores the current understanding of the impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection on bone health and its potential long-term consequences.

Recent Findings
As part of the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, bone health changes are affected by COVID-19 both directly and indirectly, with multiple potential mechanisms and risk factors involved. In vitro and preclinical studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 may directly infect bone marrow cells, leading to alterations in bone structure and osteoclast numbers. The virus can also trigger a robust inflammatory response, often referred to as a "cytokine storm", which can stimulate osteoclast activity and contribute to bone loss. Clinical evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may lead to hypocalcemia, altered bone turnover markers, and a high prevalence of vertebral fractures. Furthermore, disease severity has been correlated with a decrease in bone mineral density. Indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 on bone health, mediated through muscle weakness, mechanical unloading, nutritional deficiencies, and corticosteroid use, also contribute to the long-term consequences. The interplay of concurrent conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and kidney dysfunction with SARS-CoV-2 infection further complicates the disease's impact on bone health.

Summary
SARS-CoV-2 infection directly and indirectly affects bone health, leading to potential long-term consequences. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.