bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biological perspectives in geotechnics: theoretical developments
Authors: Jain Surabhi , Mishra Partha Narayan , Tiwari Satyam , Wang Yijie , Jiang Ningjun , Dash Hirak Ranjan , Chang Ilhan , Kumar Ashutosh , Das Sarat Kumar , Scheuermann Alexander , Bore Thierry 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe interaction of bio–geosphere dates to the formation of first unicellular microbes on earth. However, it is only relatively recently that the complex biological interactions are observed, characterised, and simulated for its use in the domain of geotechnical engineering. Also, many bioinspired approaches have been utilised in computational geotechnics for optimisation and data analysis process. The living phase present in the soil system hold a bearing on the majority of geochemical reactions and assist in modifying its fundamental and engineering behaviour. It necessitates revaluation and rescrutinisation of the conventional theories and formulations in geotechnical engineering, where soil has always been considered as an inert engineering material from biological perspective. To that end, this manuscript provides a critical review on biological approaches used in geotechnical engineering by highlighting the ongoing developments, achievements, and challenges to implement the processes. The review further emphasises the role of biological systems on the alteration of fundamental properties of soils and their consequences on effective stress, strength and stiffness, volume change and conduction properties of soils. Overall, the manuscript provides a basic understanding on the biological intervention in the soil system and the importance of consideration of the fourth phase in the soil system, i.e., the living phase, while describing such interventions.
How to make (mathematical) assertions with directives
Authors: Caponetto Laura , San Mauro Luca , Venturi Giorgio 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIt is prima facie uncontroversial that the justification of an assertion amounts to a collection of other (inferentially related) assertions. In this paper, we point at a class of assertions, i.e. mathematical assertions, that appear to systematically flout this principle. To justify a mathematical assertion (e.g. a theorem) is to provide a proof—and proofs are sequences of directives. The claim is backed up by linguistic data on the use of imperatives in proofs, and by a pragmatic analysis of theorems and their proofs. Proofs, we argue, are sequences of instructions whose performance inevitably gets one to truth. It follows that a felicitous theorem, i.e. a theorem that has been correctly proven, is a persuasive theorem. When it comes to mathematical assertions, there is no sharp distinction between illocutionary and perlocutionary success.
Truth and its uses: deflationism and alethic pluralism
Authors: Kaspers Tom 
Published: October 2023

AbstractDeflationists believe that the question “What is truth?” should be answered not by means of a metaphysical inquiry into the nature of truth, but by figuring out what use we make of the concept of truth, and the word ‘true’, in practice. This article accepts this methodology, and it thereby rejects pluralism about truth that is driven by ontological considerations. However, it shows that there are practical considerations for a pluralism about truth, formulated at the level of use. The theory expounded by this article states that truth is a dual-purpose tool; it can be used as a device for transferring justificatory burdens and, for select areas of discourse, it can also be used as a standard, a norm. This contrast in how truth is used introduces a bifurcation in our discourse that is reminiscent of metaphysical divides traced by more traditional versions of alethic pluralism. However, my pluralism “at the level of use” states that truth is plural solely at the level of use. It is unified at both the conceptual as well as the metaphysical level. At those levels, the theory takes its cue from deflationism. As such, this theory is offered as a midway point and as a potential way forward in the debate between deflationism and pluralism.
Implicit bias as unintentional discrimination
Authors: Asma Lieke Joske Franci 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn this paper, I argue that instead of primarily paying attention to the nature of implicit attitudes that are taken to cause implicit discrimination, we should investigate how discrimination can be implicit in itself. I propose to characterize implicit discrimination as unintentional discrimination: the person responds to facts unintentionally and often unconsciously which are, given their end, irrelevant and imply unfair treatment. The result is a unified account of implicit bias that allows for the different ways in which it can display itself and can be explained. Furthermore, the view can account for the central characteristics of implicit bias: (1) that it is, for a variety of reasons, difficult to control, (2) that we are not necessarily unconscious of implicit bias but not properly conscious either, and (3) that we can unintentionally discriminate regardless of whether we claim to care about fairness.
Evaluation of the significance of complement-related genes mutations in atypical postinfectious glomerulonephritis: a pilot study
Authors: Xu Feng , Zhang Changming , Zhang Mingchao , Zhu Xiaodong , Cheng Shuiqin , Cheng Zhen , Zeng Caihong , Jiang Song 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Postinfectious glomerulonephritis with C3-dominant glomerular deposition (C3-PIGN) involves C3-dominant glomerular deposition without immunoglobulin. Atypical C3-PIGN involves persistent hypocomplementemia. We investigated the clinical features and explored complement-related gene mutations in atypical PIGN patients.

Methods
We enrolled atypical C3-PIGN patients and collected data regarding the clinical presentation and pathological characteristics and follow-up data. We measured the levels of complement associated antibodies and performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) to detect mutations in complement-related genes.

Results
The analysis included six atypical C3-PIGN patients. All patients were antistreptolysin-O (ASO) positive. All patients had varying degrees of hematuria, and four patients had proteinuria. None of the patients were positive for complement-related antibodies. All patients possessed mutations of genes related to the complement pathway, including alternative complement pathway genes—CFI, CFH, CFHR3, CFHR5; the lectin pathway gene—MASP2; and the common complement pathway gene—C8A. The rare variant of CFHR3 has been reported in C3 glomerulonephritis. During 56–73 months of follow-up, the levels of urine markers in three patients recovered within 6 months, and the remaining patients had abnormal urine test results over 12 months. Patients who received glucocorticoid therapy recovered faster.

Conclusions
Our study suggested that complement-related gene mutations may be an important cause of persistent hypocomplementemia in atypical C3-PIGN patients. In addition to variations in alternate pathway-related genes, we also found variations in lectin pathway-related genes, especially MASP2 genes. Although the overall prognosis was good, atypical C3-PIGN patients exhibited a longer period for recovery. Our results suggested that atypical C3-PIGN patients should receive more medical attention and need testing for mutations in complement-related genes.
Life cycle assessment of a marine biorefinery producing protein, bioactives and polymeric packaging material
Authors: Amponsah Lorraine , Chuck Christopher , Parsons Sophie 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Algal research has been dominated by the use of marine biomass (mainly microalgae) as feedstock in the production of second-generation biofuels, albeit with limited economic success. A promising alternative strategy is the valorisation of seaweed (macroalgae), with the cascaded extraction of its high-value components, as well as lower-value components further downstream, under the ‘biorefinery concept’. The goal of this study was to assess the environmental performance of one such marine biorefinery situated in the UK.

Methods
Attributional life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted on a hypothetical marine biorefinery coproducing fucoidan, laminarin, protein and alginate/cellulose packaging material (target product), from cultivated Saccharina latissima. The functional unit was the production of 1 kg of packaging material. A total of 6 scenarios were modelled, varying in coproduct management methodology (system expansion, mass allocation or economic allocation) and applied energy mix (standard or green energy). Sensitivity analysis was also conducted, evaluating the systems response to changes in allocation methodology; product market value; biomass composition and transport mode and distance. LCA calculations were performed using OpenLCA (version 1.10.3) software, with background processes modelled using the imported Ecoinvent 3.6 database. Environmental impacts were quantified under ReCiPe methodology at the midpoint level, from the ‘Heirarchist’ (H) perspective.

Results and discussion
The overall global warming impacts ranged from 1.2 to 4.52 kg CO2 eq/kg biopolymer, with the application of economic allocation; 3.58 to 7.06 kg CO2eq/kg with mass allocation and 14.19 to 41.52 kg CO2eq/kg with system expansion — the lower limit representing the instance where green electricity is used and the upper where standard electricity is employed. While implementing the green energy mix resulted in a 67% reduction in global warming impacts, it also incurred a 2–9 fold increase in overall impacts in the categories of terrestrial acidification, human non-carcinogenic toxicity, land-use and terrestrial ecotoxicity. Economic allocation resulted in burden shifting most favourable to the packaging material pathway.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates that the road to environmental optimisation in marine biorefineries is fraught with trade-offs. From the perspective of LCA — and by extension, the eco-design process that LCA is used to inform — when evaluating such product systems, it serves to strike a balance between performance across a broad spectrum of environmental impact categories, along with having consideration for the nature of energy systems incorporated and LCA methodological elements.

Graphical Abstract
Does analysts’ industrial concentration affect the quality of their forecasts?
Authors: He Guanming , Sun Yun , Li April Zhichao 
Published: October 2023

AbstractWe examine the association between financial analysts’ industrial concentration and the quality of their earnings forecasts. We find that analysts’ forecast quality, measured by forecast accuracy, forecast informativeness, and forecast timeliness, is positively associated with analysts’ industrial concentration on firm coverage, suggesting that allocation of effort and resources to the concentrated industries helps promote the quality of earnings forecasts. We also find that the positive relation of analysts’ industrial concentration with forecast accuracy and informativeness (forecast timeliness) is more (less) pronounced for firms faced with fiercer industrial product market competition, higher firm-specific risk, and/or higher information opacity. Overall, our results highlight the importance of analysts’ industrial concentration in contributing to the quality of their earnings forecasts.
Sharing rivals, sending weapons: Rivalry and cooperation in the international arms trade, 1920–1939
Authors: Mehrl Marius , Seussler Daniel , Thurner Paul W. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractStates must navigate the structure of the international system in their relations with other states. One crucial component of this structure are rivalries as they indicate latent threat to states. Rivalries should thus influence how states behave within the given system, but also how they seek to shape and restructure it. Focusing on arms transfers, we clarify how the systemic structure implied by rivalries drives states’ efforts to engage in security cooperation with other states. Intuitively, a rivalry with another country should diminish an exporter’s propensity to transfer weapons there. But what is more, we argue that rivalries outside of this focal dyad matter as a potential importer’s enmity towards other countries will reveal information about its security interests to the exporter. Specifically, sharing rivalries with the same set of countries will signal to the exporter that there is a congruence in security interests and thus facilitate security cooperation. This security cooperation should take the form of arms transfers, at least if exporters value buck-passing and fear entrapment. We test our expectations using original data on Major Conventional Weapons transfers in the Interwar years, a period where this condition likely holds, and inferential network analysis models. Sharing rivals increases two countries’ probability to trade arms whereas a rivalry between countries exhibits no effect. This research contributes to our understanding of security cooperation, the arms trade, and networked international relations.
Long-term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy as a Revisional Procedure Following Adjustable Gastric Banding: Variations in Outcomes Based on Indication
Authors: Wickremasinghe Anagi , Leang Yit , Johari Yazmin , Chana Prem , Alderuccio Megan , Shaw Kalai , Laurie Cheryl , Nottle Peter , Brown Wendy , Burton Paul 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Significant controversy exists regarding the indications and outcomes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) conversions to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

Aim
To comprehensively determine the long-term outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy as a revisional procedure after LAGB across a range of measures and determine predictors of outcomes.

Methods
Six hundred revision LSG (RLSG) and 1200 controls (primary LSG (PLSG)) were included. Patient demographics, complications, follow-up, and patient-completed questionnaires were collected.

Results
RLSG vs controls; females 87% vs 78.8%, age 45 ± 19.4 vs 40.6 ± 10.6 years, p = 0.561; baseline weight 119.7 ± 26.2 vs 120.6 ± 26.5 kg p = 0.961). Follow-up was 87% vs 89.3%. Weight loss in RLSG at 5 years, 22.9% vs 29.6% TBWL, p = 0.001, 10 years: 19.5% vs 27% TBWL, p = 0.001. RLSG had more complications (4.8 vs 2.0% RR 2.4, p = 0.001), re-admissions (4.3 vs 2.4% RR 1.8, p = 0.012), staple line leaks (2.5 vs 0.9%, p = 0.003). Eroded bands and baseline weight were independent predictors of complications after RLSG. Long-term re-operation rate was 7.3% for RLSG compared to 3.2% in controls. Severe oesophageal dysmotility predicted poor weight loss. RLSG reported lower quality of life scores (SF-12 physical component scores 75.9 vs 88%, p = 0.001), satisfaction (69 vs 93%, p = 0.001) and more frequent regurgitation (58% vs 42%, p = 0.034).

Conclusion
RLSG provides long-term weight loss, although peri-operative complications are significantly elevated compared to PLSG. Longer-term re-operation rates are elevated compared to PLSG. Four variables predicted worse outcomes: eroded band, multiple prior bands, severe oesophageal dysmotility and elevated baseline weight.

Graphical Abstract
Association Between Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Hematoma Progression After Cerebral Contusion
Authors: Zhang Huajun , Duan Xiaochun , Zhang Yimiao , Zhuang Guoquan , Cao Demao , Meng Wei , Yan Muyang , Qi Wentao 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
The objective of this research was to examine the impact of the monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) on the advancement of hematoma after cerebral contusion.

Methods
The clinical information and laboratory test findings of people with cerebral contusion were retrospectively analyzed. Using the tertiles of MLR, the study participants were categorized into three groups, enabling the evaluation of the correlation between MLR and the advancement of hematoma after cerebral contusion.

Results
Among the cohort of patients showing progression, MLR levels were significantly higher compared with the nonprogress group (P < 0.001). The high MLR group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with hematoma progression compared with the medium and low MLR groups. However, the medium MLR group had a lower proportion of patients with hematoma progression compared with the low MLR group. High MLR levels were independently linked to a higher risk of hematoma progression (Odds Ratio 3.546, 95% Confidence Interval 1.187–10.597, P = 0.024). By incorporating factors such as Glasgow Coma Scale score on admission, anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, white blood cell count, and MLR into the model, the predictive performance of the model significantly improved (area under the curve 0.754).

Conclusions
Our study suggests that MLR may serve as a potential indicator for predicting the progression of hematoma after cerebral contusion. Further research is necessary to investigate the underlying pathological and physiological mechanisms that contribute to the association between MLR and the progression of hematoma after cerebral contusion and to explore its clinical implications.
Shapley-based risk rankings: some theoretical considerations
Authors: Hiller Tobias 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn this note, we enhance the analysis done by Auer and Hiller (Int J Finance Econ 24(2):884–889, 2019; Manag Decis Econ 42(4):876–884, 2021). Whereas their articles uses several simulation settings to illustrate that cooperative game theory may have the potential to solve the low-risk puzzle, we calculate for the three-asset case the conditions for partial ranking corrections between assets. Hence, our note could be interpreted as theoretical counterpart to Auer and Hiller (Int J Finance Econ 24(2):884–889, 2019; Manag Decis Econ 42(4):876–884, 2021).
Tailoring porous organic polymers with enhanced capacity, thermal stability and surface area for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) elimination from water environment
Authors: Elboughdiri Noureddine , Amari Abdelfattah , Harharah Hamed N. , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Sammen Saad Sh. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractPerfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a perfluoroalkyl substance, has engendered alarm over its presence in water sources due to its intrinsic toxicity. Hence, there is a pressing need to identify efficacious adsorbents capable of removing PFAS derivatives from water. To achieve this, batch adsorption studies under various circumstances were employed to tune amorphous polymer networks regarding their morphological configuration, heat durability, surface area and capacity to adsorb PFOS in water. A facile, one-pot nucleophilic substitution reaction was employed to synthesize amorphous polymer networks using triazine derivatives as building units for monomers. Notably, POP-3 exhibited a superlative adsorption capacity, with a removal efficiency of 97.8%, compared to 90.3% for POP-7. POP-7 exhibited a higher specific surface area (SBET) of 232 m2 g−1 compared to POP-3 with a surface area of 5.2 m2 g−1. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of electrostatic forces in PFOS adsorption, with pH being a significant element, as seen by changes in the PFOS sorption process by both polymeric networks under neutral, basic and acidic environments. The optimal pH value for the PFOS removal process using both polymers was found to be 4. Also, POP-7 exhibited a better thermal stability performance (300 °C) compared to POP-3 (190 °C). Finally, these findings indicate the ease with which amorphous polymeric frameworks may be synthesized as robust and effective adsorbents for the elimination of PFOS from waterbodies.
Laparoscopic approach in the management of diaphragmatic eventration in adults: gastrointestinal surgical perspective
Authors: El-Magd El-Sayed Abou , Elgeidie Ahmed , abbas Amr , Elmahdy Youssif , LotfyAbulazm Ibrahem , Hamed Hosam 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe current literature is poor with studies handling the role of laparoscopy in managing diaphragmatic eventration (DE). Herein, we describe our experience regarding the role of laparoscopy in managing DE patients presenting mainly with gastrointestinal symptoms. We retrospectively reviewed the data of 20 patients who underwent laparoscopic diaphragmatic plication between January 2010 and December 2018. Postoperative outcomes and quality of life were assessed. Most DEs were left sided (95%). Laparoscopic diaphragmatic plication was possible in all patients, along with correcting all associated gastrointestinal and diaphragmatic problems. The former included gastric volvulus (60%), reflux esophagitis (25%), cholelithiasis (5%), and pyloric obstruction (5%), while the latter included diaphragmatic and hiatus hernia (10% and 15%, respectively).The average operative time was 142 min. All patients had a regular (reviewer #1) postoperative course except for one who developed hydro-pneumothorax. At a median follow-up of 48 months, midterm outcomes were satisfactory, with an improvement (reviewer #1) in gastrointestinal symptoms. Three patients (reviewer #1) developed radiological recurrence without significant clinical symptoms. Patient’s quality of life, including all parameters, significantly improved after the laparoscopic procedure compared to the preoperative values. Laparoscopic approach is safe and effective for managing adult diaphragmatic eventration (reviewer #1).
High-plex spatial transcriptomic profiling reveals distinct immune components and the HLA class I/DNMT3A/CD8 modulatory axis in mismatch repair-deficient endometrial cancer
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Tang Baijie , Fu Jing , Zhu Xuan , Xie Wenlong , Wang Nan , Ding Zhiyong , Song Zhentao , Yang Yue , Xu Gang , Xiao Xue 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Tumors bearing mismatch repair deficiency (MMRd) are characterized by a high load of neoantigens and are believed to trigger immunogenic reactions upon immune checkpoint blockade treatment such as anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. However, the mechanisms are still ill-defined, as multiple cancers with MMRd exhibit variable responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). In endometrial cancer (EC), a distinct tumor microenvironment (TME) exists that may correspond to treatment-related efficacies. We aimed to characterize EC patients with aberrant MMR pathways to identify molecular subtypes predisposed to respond to ICI therapies.

Methods
We applied digital spatial profiling, a high-plex spatial transcriptomic approach covering over 1,800 genes, to obtain a highly resolved TME landscape in 45 MMRd-EC patients. We cross-validated multiple biomarkers identified using immunohistochemistry and multiplexed immunofluorescence using in-study and independent cohorts totaling 123 MMRd-EC patients and validated our findings using external TCGA data from microsatellite instability endometrial cancer (MSI-EC) patients.

Results
High-plex spatial profiling identified a 14-gene signature in the MMRd tumor-enriched regions stratifying tumors into “hot”, “intermediate” and “cold” groups according to their distinct immune profiles, a finding highly consistent with the corresponding CD8 + T-cell infiltration status. Our validation studies further corroborated an existing coregulatory network involving HLA class I and DNMT3A potentially bridged through dynamic crosstalk incorporating CCL5.

Conclusion
Our study confirmed the heterogeneous TME status within MMRd-ECs and showed that these ECs can be stratified based on potential biomarkers such as HLA class I, DNMT3A and CD8 in pathological settings for improved ICI therapeutic efficacy in this subset of patients.