bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of YOLO v8 Segmentation Algorithm and Its Study in the Identification of Hazards in Plateau Pika
Authors: Han Yaosheng , Jin Yunpeng , Li Chunmei , Huang Xiangjie
Published: November 2024

Rodent infestation has become one of the important factors in grassland degradation on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, one of the hindrances to ecological and environmental protection, and a threat to the balance and development of the ecosystem in the Sanjiangyuan region. Based on the need for the scientific planning for ecological protection, this paper designs a method for detecting rodent infestation in plateau scenarios. Firstly, data were collected and annotated, and a dataset of plateau rodent distribution in the Qinghai region was constructed. The collected data include videos captured through drone-based field surveys, which were processed using OpenCV and annotated with LabelMe. The dataset is categorized into four specific types: ungobbled rat holes, gobbled rat holes, rocks, and cow dung. This categorization allows the model to effectively differentiate between rodent-related features and other environmental elements, which is crucial for the segmentation task. Secondly, the latest segmentation algorithm provided by YOLO v8 is improved to design a segmentation algorithm that can accurately detect the distribution of rodent infestation in the plateau scene. The specific improvements are as follows: firstly, the Contextual Transformer module is introduced in YOLO v8 to improve the global modeling capability; secondly, the DRConv dynamic region-aware convolution is introduced in YOLO v8 to improve the convolutional representation capability; thirdly, the attention mechanism is incorporated in the backbone of YOLO v8 to enhance the feature extraction capability of the network capability. A comparison test with the original algorithm on the plateau rodent distribution dataset showed that the new algorithm improved the detection accuracy from 77.9% to 82.74% and MIoU from 67.65% to 72.69% on the plateau rodent distribution dataset. The accuracy of the evaluation of plateau rodent damage levels has been greatly improved.
Bilateral Matching Decision Model and Calculation of High-Speed Railway Train Crew Members
Authors: Li Wen , Li Yinzhen , Xue Rui , Jiang Yuxing , Li Yu
Published: November 2024

To meet the preference demands of the crew members of high-speed railway trains while forming a crew team, and to automate the compilation of adaptable crew member schemes, a bilateral matching decision method for crew members is proposed based on complete preference order information. This method first describes the mutual selection process between the chief stewards and stewards of a high-speed railway train as a one-to-many bilateral matching decision process between the chief stewards and stewards Subsequently, by constructing a virtual train chief stewards, the original one-to-many bilateral matching relationship between the chief stewards and stewards is transformed into a one-to-one bilateral matching relationship between the virtual chief stewards for modeling. Then, a dual-objective integer programming model is established with the minimum sum of preference order values as the objective. Finally, an optimization solver is used to calculate the problem under different scales, and a genetic algorithm is designed for large-scale scenarios. The analysis results of numerical examples show that the model and algorithm of train crew members based on bilateral matching decisions can meet the actual requirements of the crew department and have good application value.
Potential Antiproliferative and Antimetastatic Effects of Artemisia eriantha: An In Vitro Study Focused on Hepatocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Pace Loretta , Ragusa Federica , Lizzi Lara , Armillotta Maria Giovanna , Massimi Mara
Published: November 2024

Artemisia eriantha is a subendemic species of the Central Apennine, valued locally for its applications in ancient and traditional medicine for its antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, digestive, and antispasmodic effects. Several of these properties are also found in other species within the same genus, including recent findings highlighting their anti-tumor actions. However, the presence of cytotoxic or anti-tumor activity has never been studied in A. eriantha. The aim of this study was thus to assess the potential anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and antimetastatic effects of this plant using in vitro models of hepatocarcinoma cells (HepG2 and Huh7 cells). Treatment with A. eriantha extract (130 μg/mL) resulted in the reduced proliferation of HepG2 and Huh7 cells, driven by the dysregulation of proteins involved in the cell cycle (such as cyclin D1, cyclin E, and p27) and the activation of the p53-p21 pathway, leading to an increase in apoptotic activity. In addition, the treatment also lowered the healing capability after scratch wounds in Huh7 cells, which are characterized by a remarkable migratory capacity, suggesting that the A. eriantha extract may also be effective in controlling the migration and spread of metastatic cells. In conclusion, A. eriantha extract 130 μg/mL appears to interfere with key factors of HepG2 and Huh7 cell proliferation and invasion and emerges as a potential new adjuvant for the prevention and/or treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Additional research is necessary to establish if the effects observed are cell-specific and to elucidate the mechanisms of action and signaling pathways underlying its effectiveness.
A Diverse Vibrio Community in Ría de Vigo (Northwestern Spain)
Authors: Huang Xiaoyun , Huang Keyi , Chen Sihan , Yin Xinglan , Pérez-Lorenzo María , Teira Eva , Fernández Emilio , Wang Xiaolei
Published: November 2024

The genus Vibrio is genetically and ecologically diverse, resulting in severe economic losses in aquacultural macroalgae and animals. Studies on vibrios will contribute to the conservation of aquatic aquaculture in Ría de Vigo (Spain), which is famous for its shellfish farming activity. However, limited research focused on the diversity and distribution of Vibrio spp. in Ría de Vigo has been reported. Here, a slight increase in the abundance of Vibrio spp. was recorded from inshore to the open sea by quantitative PCR (qPCR). Vibrios were more abundant in the free-living (FL) than in the particle-associated (PA) fraction, showing that FL might be their preferential lifestyle. Photobacterium piscicola, Vibrio japonicus and Vibrio harveyi, which are serious pathogens for fish and invertebrates in mariculture, were found to be the dominant species across all samples by high-throughput sequencing and analyses and were mainly affected by stochastic processes. More colony-forming units and species of vibrios were recorded at 16 °C (18 species) than at 28 °C (6 species), and five isolates (5.05% of the total isolates) showed low 16S rRNA gene similarity (<98.65%) to the known strains. The results indicate that culture conditions closer to the in situ temperature may help to isolate more Vibrio species. Our findings may contribute to local aquatic aquaculture research, providing background information and novel insights for management and pathogen prevention in aquaculture, and more studies should focus on Ría de Vigo to acquire novel or pathogenic microbes in the future.
Serum CS/DS, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3 as Biomarkers of Cartilage Remodeling in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Winsz-Szczotka Katarzyna , Kuźnik-Trocha Kornelia , Koźma Ewa M. , Żegleń Bogusław , Gruenpeter Anna , Wisowski Grzegorz , Komosińska-Vassev Katarzyna , Olczyk Krystyna
Published: November 2024

Cartilage destruction in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is diagnosed, often too late, on basis of clinical evaluation and radiographic imaging. This case–control study investigated serum chondroitin/dermatan sulfate (CS/DS) as a potential biochemical marker of cartilage metabolism, aiming to improve early diagnosis and precision treatment for JIA. We also measured the levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) (using ELISA methods) in JIA patients (n = 55) both before and after treatment (prednisone, sulfasalazine, methotrexate, administered together), and analyzed their relationships with CS/DS levels. Untreated JIA patients [8.26 µg/mL (6.25–9.66)], especially untreated girls [8.57 µg/mL (8.13–9.78)] and patients with a polyarticular form of the disease [7.09 µg/mL (5.63–8.41)], had significantly reduced levels of serum CS/DS compared with the control [14.48 µg/mL (10.23–15.77)]. Therapy resulted in a significant increase in this parameter, but without normalization. We also found significantly lower levels of IGF-1 [66.04 ng/mL (49.45–96.80)] and IGFBP-3 [3.37 ng/mL (2.65–4.88)] in untreated patients compared with the control [96.92 ng/mL (76.04–128.59), 4.84 ng/mL (4.21–7.750), respectively]. Based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the blood concentration of CS/DS demonstrated the highest diagnostic power (AUC = 0.947) for JIA among all the tested markers. Untreated patients showed significant correlations between CS/DS and IGF-1 (r = −0.579, p = 0.0000), IGFBP-3 (r = −0.506, p = 0.0001), and C-reactive protein (r = 0.601, p = 0.0005). The observed changes in CS/DS during the course of JIA, influenced by both impairment of the IGF/IGFBP axis and inflammation, indicate the need for continued therapy to protect patients from potential disability. We suggest that CS/DS may be a useful biomarker of disease activity and could be employed to assess treatment efficacy and progress toward remission.
Critical Analysis of Cytoplasmic Progression of Inflammatory Signaling Suggests Potential Pharmacologic Targets for Wound Healing and Fibrotic Disorders
Authors: Samulevich Michael L. , Carman Liam E. , Aneskievich Brian J.
Published: November 2024

Successful skin wound healing is dependent on an interplay between epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts as they react to local extracellular factors (DAMPs, PAMPs, cytokines, etc.) surveyed from that environment by numerous membrane receptors (e.g., TLRs, cytokine receptors, etc.). In turn, those receptors are the start of a cytoplasmic signaling pathway where balance is key to effective healing and, as needed, cell and matrix regeneration. When directed through NF-κB, these signaling routes lead to transient responses to the benefit of initiating immune cell recruitment, cell replication, local chemokine and cytokine production, and matrix protein synthesis. The converse can also occur, where ongoing canonical NF-κB activation leads to chronic, hyper-responsive states. Here, we assess three key players, TAK1, TNFAIP3, and TNIP1, in cytoplasmic regulation of NF-κB activation, which, because of their distinctive and yet inter-related functions, either promote or limit that activation. Their balanced function is integral to successful wound healing, given their significant control over the expression of inflammation-, fibrosis-, and matrix remodeling-associated genes. Intriguingly, these three proteins have also been emphasized in dysregulated NF-κB signaling central to systemic sclerosis (SSc). Notably, diffuse SSc shares some tissue features similar to an excessive inflammatory/fibrotic wound response without eventual resolution. Taking a cue from certain instances of aberrant wound healing and SSc having some shared aspects, e.g., chronic inflammation and fibrosis, this review looks for the first time, to our knowledge, at what those pathologies might have in common regarding the cytoplasmic progression of NF-κB-mediated signaling. Additionally, while TAK1, TNFAIP3, and TNIP1 are often investigated and reported on individually, we propose them here as three proteins whose consequences of function are very highly interconnected at the signaling focus of NF-κB. We thus highlight the emerging promise for the eventual clinical benefit derived from an improved understanding of these integral signal progression modulators. Depending on the protein, its indirect or direct pharmacological regulation has been reported. Current findings support further intensive studies of these points in NF-κB regulation both for their basic function in healthy cells as well as with the goal of targeting them for translational benefit in multiple cutaneous wound healing situations, whether stemming from acute injury or a dysregulated inflammatory/fibrotic response.
Tumor Protein D53 (TPD53): Involvement in Malignant Transformation of Low-Malignant Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Watanabe Masataka , Mukudai Yoshiki , Kindaichi Nodoka , Nara Maki , Yamada Konomi , Abe Yuzo , Houri Asami , Shimane Toshikazu , Shirota Tatsuo
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The tumor protein D52 (TPD52) family includes TPD52, TPD53, TPD54, and TPD55. The balance between TPD52 and TPD54 expression plays an important role in high-malignant oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. However, the relationship between TPD53 and OSCC cells (particularly low-malignant OSCC cells) remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the role of TPD53 in the malignant transformation of low-malignant OSCC cells. Methods: Temporal changes in the expression of TPD52 family members at the protein and mRNA levels in OSCC cells and normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) were examined. Results: The mRNA expression of TPD53 increased in HSC-3 and HSC-4 cells in a time-dependent manner. Similar results for protein expression were observed. The effects of TPD53 on anchorage-dependent and anchorage-independent proliferation, cell cycle, invasion and migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activities in HSC-3 and HSC-4 cells were assayed. Finally, using the HSC-3-xenograft-nude-mice model, these effects were examined in vivo. Overexpression of TPD53 increased cell viability and the percentage of cells in the S phase. Furthermore, overexpression of TPD53 increased cell invasion, migration, and MMP activities, regardless of its effect on EMT. Notably, these effects were more pronounced in HSC-3 than in HSC-4 cells. Overexpression of TPD53 enhanced tumor formation and growth in mouse xenografts, corroborating the results of in vitro experiments. Conclusions: The present study revealed novel and important functions of TPD53 in the proliferation and invasion of low-malignant OSCC cells.
Echinacoside Alleviates Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Nrf2/HMOX1 Pathway
Authors: Yan Yiming , Yang Ningxi , Qin Fanglin , Hao Yarong
Published: November 2024

Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation, and echinacoside (ECH) has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects across multiple conditions, it has demonstrated hepatoprotective effects. Ferroptosis represents a novel mechanism of cell demise, differing from apoptosis and autophagy. Emerging research indicates that ferroptosis in hepatocytes plays a role in the development of alcoholic liver disease. This study aimed to reveal the effect and potential mechanism of ECH on MASLD. Methods: The effect of ECH on the viability, lipid deposition, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial of OA/PA-treated HepG2 cells were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, JC-1 and immunofluorescence assay. Meanwhile, the mechanism of ECH was assessed using transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence analysis. Moreover, db/db mice, a spontaneous type 2 diabetes mode, were intragastrically administered ECH by 300 mg/kg or an equivalent volume of saline. Body weight, lipids, and liver function were measured. liver pathology was performed. The mechanism of ECH in vivo was analyzed using Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis in db/db mice. Results: ECH attenuated lipid deposition, lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis induced by OA/PA in HepG2 cells. Mitochondrial morphology and function in HepG2 cells were also preserved by ECH. In db/db mice model of MASLD, ECH markedly ameliorated liver hepatocellular ballooning, inflammatory cell infiltration in the portal area, and fibrous tissue proliferation. ECH also increased the expression of Nrf2, HMOX-1, SLC7A11, and GPX4, and decreased the expression of ACSL4 in liver tissues. Mechanically, ECH repressed ferroptosis by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Conclusions: Our research revealed that ECH has the capability to modulate ferroptosis via the Nrf2-HMOX1pathway, consequently mitigating the progression of MASLD. This suggests that ECH has a potential role in the treatment of MASLD.
AMBWO: An Augmented Multi-Strategy Beluga Whale Optimization for Numerical Optimization Problems
Authors: You Guoping , Lu Zengtong , Qiu Zhipeng , Cheng Hao
Published: November 2024

Beluga whale optimization (BWO) is a swarm-based metaheuristic algorithm inspired by the group behavior of beluga whales. BWO suffers from drawbacks such as an insufficient exploration capability and the tendency to fall into local optima. To address these shortcomings, this paper proposes augmented multi-strategy beluga optimization (AMBWO). The adaptive population learning strategy is proposed to improve the global exploration capability of BWO. The introduction of the roulette equilibrium selection strategy allows BWO to have more reference points to choose among during the exploitation phase, which enhances the flexibility of the algorithm. In addition, the adaptive avoidance strategy improves the algorithm’s ability to escape from local optima and enriches the population quality. In order to validate the performance of the proposed AMBWO, extensive evaluation comparisons with other state-of-the-art improved algorithms were conducted on the CEC2017 and CEC2022 test sets. Statistical tests, convergence analysis, and stability analysis show that the AMBWO exhibits a superior overall performance. Finally, the applicability and superiority of the AMBWO was further verified by several engineering optimization problems.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction as a Biomarker of Illness State in Bipolar Disorder: A Critical Review
Authors: Giménez-Palomo Anna , Andreu Helena , de Juan Oscar , Olivier Luis , Ochandiano Iñaki , Ilzarbe Lidia , Valentí Marc , Stoppa Aldo , Llach Cristian-Daniel , Pacenza Giulio , Andreazza Ana Cristina , Berk Michael , Vieta Eduard , Pacchiarotti Isabella
Published: November 2024

Mitochondria are organelles involved in different cellular functions, especially energy production. A relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and mood disorders, especially bipolar disorder (BD), has been reported in the scientific literature, which suggests altered energy production and higher levels of oxidative stress compared to healthy controls. Specifically, in BD, the hypothesis of a biphasic pattern of energy availability has been postulated according to mood states. Current evidence highlights the presence of mitochondrial dysfunction in BD and variations between the manic, depressive, and euthymic phases. These findings need to be confirmed in future studies to identify biomarkers that may lead to individualized management of patients with BD and also to identify profiles with a higher risk of presenting an unfavorable course of illness, which would enable the design of preventive and therapeutic strategies in determined subpopulations of patients with BD. The limitations of this review include the non-systematic methodology, variety of mitochondrial-related functions associated with BD, heterogeneous study designs, preliminary evidence for specific findings, and limited recommendations regarding the use of mitochondrial modulators in BD.
Peripheral Mechanisms Underlying Bacillus Calmette–Guerin-Induced Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS)
Authors: Elmasri Meera , Clark Aaron , Grundy Luke
Published: November 2024

Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) accounts for approximately 70–75% of all bladder cancer cases. The standard treatment for high-risk NMIBC involves transurethral tumour resection followed by intravesical Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) immunotherapy. While BCG immunotherapy is both safe and effective, it frequently leads to the development of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as urinary urgency, frequency, dysuria, and pelvic discomfort. These symptoms can significantly diminish patients’ quality of life and may result in the discontinuation of BCG treatment, adversely affecting oncological outcomes. Despite the considerable clinical impact of BCG-induced LUTS, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, hindering the implementation or development of effective treatments. This review provides novel insights into the potential mechanisms underlying BCG-induced LUTS, focusing on the integrated roles of afferent and efferent nerves in both normal and pathological bladder sensation and function. Specifically, this review examines how the body’s response to BCG—through the development of inflammation, increased urothelial permeability, and altered urothelial signalling—might contribute to LUTS development. Drawing from known mechanisms in other common urological disorders and data from successful clinical trials involving NMIBC patients, this review summarises evidence supporting the likely changes in both sensory nerve signalling and bladder muscle function in the development of BCG-induced LUTS. However, further research is required to understand the intricate mechanisms underlying the development of BCG-induced LUTS and identify why some patients are more likely to experience BCG intolerance. Addressing these knowledge gaps could have profound implications for patients’ quality of life, treatment adherence, and overall outcomes in NMIBC care.
Effects of Language Proficiency on Selective Attention Patterns at Segmenting Boundaries in English Audio Sentences
Authors: Mei Yunhao , Chen Fei , Chen Xiaoxiang
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Normative perceptual segmentation facilitates event perception, comprehension, and memory. Given that native English listeners’ normative perceptual segmentation of English speech streams coexists with a highly selective attention pattern at segmentation boundaries, it is significant to test whether Chinese learners of English have a different attention pattern at boundaries, thereby checking whether they perform a normative segmentation. Methods: Thirty Chinese learners of English with relatively higher language proficiency (CLH) and 26 with relatively lower language proficiency (CLL) listened to a series of English audio sentences. Meanwhile, they were asked to press the key whenever a phonetic probe “ba” occurred. Response time to “ba” reflects the attention where “ba” is located at segmentation boundaries. Results: The results revealed that, (1) relative to native English listeners’ highly selective attention pattern, the CLH group showed a relatively selective attention pattern, while the CLL group displayed a non-selective attention pattern. (2) Both the CLH group and natives had better recognition memory than the CLL group. (3) Both the CLH group and natives’ attention at segmentation boundaries was not correlated with their memory for sentences, while the CLL group’s attention at boundaries was correlated with memory. Conclusions: These findings suggest that (1) Chinese learners of English did not perform a normative segmentation, which shows the effect of English proficiency on perceptual segmentation; (2) English proficiency has a superior effect on memory for sentences, while perceptual segmentation would come next to support memory by providing structure for memory construction if English proficiency is not high; (3) a comparison of attention patterns between Chinese learners and natives can provide a reference for potential intervention to rectify non-natives, thereby improving their perception of English speech streams.
Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents and Young Adults: The Role of Defeat, Entrapment, and Depressive Symptoms—From a Systematic Review to a Tentative Theoretical Model
Authors: Huertes-del Arco Ana , Izquierdo-Sotorrío Eva , Carrasco Miguel A. , Caro-Cañizares Irene , Holgado-Tello Francisco Pablo
Published: November 2024

Suicide stands as one of the leading causes of non-accidental death among adolescents and young adults. The Integrated Motivational–Volitional Model (IMV) of suicidal behavior identifies feelings of defeat and entrapment as pivotal factors in the complex dynamics underlying suicidal behaviors. Additionally, depressive symptomatology plays a crucial role in the development of these behaviors. The aim of this work was to provide a systematic review of the scientific literature on the association of three risk factors—entrapment, defeat, and depressive symptomatology—with suicidal ideation in the adolescent and young adult population and to test a tentative theoretical model. The databases used were PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest. Primary studies were selected that examined the role of entrapment, defeat, and depressive symptomatology in suicidal ideation among adolescents and young adults (ages 10–35). Additionally, a model based on structural equation modeling was analyzed to assess the relationships between entrapment, defeat, and depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation. Eleven studies met the established inclusion criteria. The results showed defeat and entrapment to be associated with depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation, regardless of the country studied. Additionally, the model indicates that entrapment and defeat lead to depressive symptomatology, which in turn contributes to the occurrence of suicidal ideation. These findings suggest that defeat and entrapment could be universal factors in explaining suicidal behavior in adolescents and young adults. Consequently, the results of this work may contribute to the development of strategies for preventing suicidal ideation in this population.
Adaptation of Concrete Model to 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Kabantsev Oleg
Published: November 2024

This study presents the results of adapting an existing mathematical model of concrete, originally based on the isotropic properties of traditional cast concrete, to the conditions of 3D printing technology using layer-by-layer horizontal extrusion. The adaptation of the mathematical model is grounded in experimental investigations of the deformation and failure processes of 3DCP concrete samples under various loading schemes. These experiments take into account the structure of the concrete and compare the results with the loading behavior of samples produced using traditional concreting methods. The research findings reveal that the mechanical properties of 3DCP concrete exhibit pronounced anisotropy, determined by the layered structure of the material within the construction. Concrete in structures produced via horizontal layer-by-layer extrusion is a piecewise-homogeneous, layered orthotropic material with differing mechanical properties along mutually orthogonal axes. The experiments demonstrate that under compression and tension perpendicular to the extrusion layers, the behavior of the concrete can be described using mathematical expressions similar to those for traditional concrete, albeit with adjusted key constants reflecting the actual properties. Conversely, under tensile loading parallel to the extrusion layers, the stress–strain relationship can be approximated as a straight line from the onset of loading to failure, with the limit corresponding to the adhesion strength (Radh). In this regime, failure occurs in a brittle manner. The specific deformation and failure mechanisms of 3DCP concrete under tensile loading parallel to the extrusion layers represent a critical distinction from traditional cast concrete. This characteristic prevents the direct application of existing calculation methods to justify the strength and reliability of 3DCP concrete structures.
Study on the Bearing Characteristics and the Influence of Pile Characteristics of Rotary Drilling Screw-Shaped Pile
Authors: Zhang Sifeng , Xing Yang , Xin Gongfeng , Chen Guodong , Long Guanxu , Ma Pengfei , Han Jianyong
Published: November 2024

Due to the advantages of high bearing capacity, small settlement of pile body, and high material utilization rate, rotary drilling thread special-shaped pile (RDTSSP) has been applied in pile foundation engineering at home and abroad. Through the field static load test, the bearing characteristics of the single pile of the rotary drilling screw pile are tested and analyzed. Based on the field-measured data, the stress characteristics of the rotary drilling screw pile are analyzed by FLAC3D6.0 finite difference software, and the pile characteristics affecting the vertical bearing capacity of the rotary drilling screw-shaped pile are studied. The impact of various pile factors, including length, diameter, and the ratio of pile body to screw modulus, as well as the presence of an enlarged bottom, the elastic modulus of the pile, and the ratio of the pile body to soil elastic modulus, on the load-bearing capacity of rotary drilling thread special-shaped pile (RDTSSP) is examined. The results show that with the increase in pile length, the bearing capacity of the screw-shaped pile increases gradually, but when it increases to a certain value, the increased bearing capacity per unit volume decreases gradually. The increase in pile diameter will lead to a decrease in bearing capacity per unit volume, so the smaller pile diameter should be selected in the design to make full use of the material properties. The bottom expansion has little effect on the bearing capacity, but with the increase in the inner diameter of the bottom expansion, the bearing capacity increases gradually, while the bearing capacity per unit volume decreases and the material utilization rate decreases. Enhancing the modulus of a pile modestly boosts its load-bearing capacity, whereas augmenting the elastic modulus ratio between the pile and the surrounding soil substantially amplifies this capacity. The innovation of this study is to propose a new type of rotary drilling thread-shaped pile, which has significant economic and social benefits in engineering applications.
Graphene Xerogel for Drug Release
Authors: Kalyva Kyriaki , Michalarou Katerina , Maruf Moch Izzul Haq Al , Georgakilas Vasilios I.
Published: November 2024

By functionalizing reduced graphene oxide with polydopamine, the production of a two-dimensional hydrophilicplatform with hydrophobic areas, suitable for the stabilization and slow and controlled release of hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, was realized. The functionalized graphene was first enriched with different organic drug molecules, either hydrophilic, such as doxorubicin, or hydrophobic, such as curcumin or quercetin, and then incorporated into a xerogel of chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol. The graphene substrate stabilizes the xerogel in water and effectively controls the release of doxorubicin for more than three weeks. The release of curcumin and quercetin in the aqueous environment was equally successful but at different rates. The drug-loaded xerogels also worked effectively after their incorporation into a hemostatic cotton gauze.
Oncogenic RAS in Cancers from the DNA Replication Stress and Senescence Perspective
Authors: Técher Hervé , Kemiha Samira , Aobuli Xieraili , Kolinjivadi Arun Mouli
Published: November 2024

Rat Sarcoma (RAS)-driven cancers have been one of the main foci in the field of cancer science for over four decades. Despite significant improvement in understanding the biology of RAS oncogene, the method to target RAS-mutated cancers is still unclear. In recent years, the role for RAS beyond its hyperproliferation has been extensively documented. In this review, we systematically address and dwell on the details of the mechanisms of RAS oncogene-mediated alteration in the DNA replication and DNA damage response (DDR) pathways, focusing on lung cancers. We further extend this molecular connection towards cytosolic DNA accumulation, innate immune activation and senescence in RAS-addicted cancers. At the end, we briefly speculate on the potential strategies for targeting RAS mutated lung cancers, considering various approaches targeting DNA replication, DNA repair and the cGAS-STING pro-inflammatory pathway. These new lines of therapy, especially when used in combinations, may enhance treatment efficacy and overcome the challenges associated with these mutations.
Quality Improvement Intervention Decreases Pain and Adverse Events Due to Heel Lances in Infants
Authors: Noergaard Betty , Olesen Helle Brems , Toennesen Ulla List , Fenger-Gron Jesper , Kofoed Poul-Erik
Published: November 2024

Background: Studies have investigated ways to reduce infants’ pain during heel lancing, but research on preventing adverse events is scarce. This study investigated whether or not the number of infants with normal comfort (>8 and ≤14), distress (≤4), and pain (≤4) scores increased and whether or not the number of adverse events (blue and/or edematous heels and improperly placed incisions) decreased during and after heel lancing following an intervention. Methods: A pre- and post-quality improvement intervention including 189 and 186 heel lances, respectively, in infants (postmenstrual age ≥ 28 + 0 to ≤ 43 + 6 weeks) was conducted in May to July 2020 and April to July 2022. The intervention comprised five initiatives: skin-to-skin contact, comforting, sucrose/breastfeeding, warming cold heels, and ergonomics for staff. ComfortNeo score, along with distress and pain scores assessed the infants’ pain and discomfort before, during, and after heel lancing. Adverse events were assessed visually. Results: Post-intervention, there was a significant increase in the number of infants with normal pain and distress scores during (86% to 95%, p = 0.01, and 82% to 93%, p = 0.01, respectively) and after (95% to 99%, p = 0.04, and 90% to 99%, p < 0.01, respectively) heel lancing compared to the pre-intervention. A non-significant reduction in the number of adverse events was observed (41 to 30, p = 0.17). Conclusions: Cost-free procedural changes can decrease pain, discomfort, and adverse events in infants undergoing heel lancing. Painful procedures should be evaluated and optimized. Staff and parents should collaborate to manage pain and adverse events.
Crystallographic and Thermal Studies of the Polymorphs of Tetraoxa[4]arene with Meta-Phenylene Linkers
Authors: Ishida Yuki , Kawasaki Tadashi , Hori Akiko
Published: November 2024

The three isomers of the tetraoxa[4]arene derivative, C24H16O4, which consist of two m-phenylenes and two phenylenes (meta 1, para 2, ortho 3), represent not only intriguing fundamental structures that induce molecular recognition toward non-porous adaptive crystals, but also attractive candidates for crystallographic polymorphism. In this study, we crystallized isomers 2 and 3, in comparison to isomer 1, in order to understand their stable orientations and the corresponding intermolecular interactions in the crystalline state. For example, m-phenylene derivative 1 exhibits polymorphism with both prismatic and block-shaped crystals. Therefore, we prepared p-phenylene derivative 2 and o-phenylene derivative 3, and their structures were fully characterized by SC-XRD, revealing two polymorphs of derivative 2, namely prismatic crystal 2-I and block-shaped crystal 2-II, along with changes to the crystal lattice parameters (2-Ia, 2-Ib, and 2-Ic) based on temperature dependence. In all of its crystal forms, derivative 2 adopts an O-shaped planar structure, where the p-phenylene units face each other. This suggests that the packing mode during the early stages of crystallization, rather than due to any remarkable changes in the molecular structure, directly affects the bulk crystal morphology. On the other hand, derivative 3 adopts a U-shaped vent structure and, to the best of our knowledge, does not form polymorphs. The Platon and Hirshfeld surface analyses indicated that the contributions to the crystal packing were C···C (av. 37.3% for 2-Ia, av. 38.2% for 2-II, and 18.7% for 3), C···H/H···C (av. 37.3% for 2-Ia, av. 38.2% for 2-II, and 18.7% for 3), and O···H/H···O (av. 17.8% for 2-Ia, av. 19.6% for 2-II, and 19.4% for 3), highlighting significant intermolecular CH···π interactions and pseudo-hydrogen bonding forms for derivative 2 and π···π interactions for derivative 3.
The Melt–Crystal Interface in the Production of Monocrystalline Sapphire via Heat Exchanger Method—Numerical Simulation Aspects
Authors: Eßl Werner , Reiss Georg , Trasca Raluca Andreea , Sistaninia Masoud , Raninger Peter , Lohrasbi Sina
Published: November 2024

In this work, selected numerical simulation aspects are analyzed in terms of their effect on predictions of the m-c interface. The fixed-grid enthalpy porosity phase change model, which is highly attractive in the field of modeling sapphire crystallization processes, is examined for its sensitivity to the mushy zone parameter as well as the grid resolution. A further focus is set to the simulation of thermal transport including internal radiation in the crystal and the melt via the finite volume method. Depending on the purpose of the investigation, different requirements on the angular resolutions are relevant. While most of the m-c interface as well as the temperature distribution remain practically unchanged at reasonable resolutions, a high sensitivity of the m-c interface in the near-wall region is demonstrated. This sensitivity is also observed in terms of radiative transport and, hence, the total heat transfer.
Brain Metastases in Gynaecologic Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study Evaluating Treatment Outcomes, Prognostic Factors, and Overall Survival
Authors: Cooke Carly M. , Babadagli M. Ege , Wilson Hillary , Nair Vimoj J. , Lupe Krystine , Malone Shawn , Burgess Laura , Faught Wylam , Samant Rajiv , Le Tien
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: The objectives of this study were to assess survival of patients with a diagnosis of brain metastases secondary to gynaecologic malignancy and the impact of clinicopathological factors on prognosis in this population. (2) Methods: A retrospective cohort of patients with gynaecologic cancers diagnosed with brain metastases treated with radiation at a tertiary care centre from 1 January 2004 until 30 September 2023 was studied. Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used to evaluate survival, and cox regression was used to identify significant predictive factors of survival. (3) Results: In total, 103 patients were included in this study. Median age at diagnosis of brain metastases was 59 (range 30–94). Median survival time following diagnosis of brain metastases was 3.6 months (range 0.4–183.8). Survival was significantly longer for patients treated with surgery combined with radiation compared to radiation alone and with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) compared to whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT). Cox regression revealed that primary ovarian malignancy, extracranial disease at diagnosis, and ≥3 brain metastases were associated with poorer prognosis, and complete response to prior treatment was associated with more favourable prognosis. (4) Conclusions: Data from this study will assist in providing evidence-based prognostic information to patients with gynaecologic malignancy diagnosed with brain metastases.
Severity Classification of Parkinson’s Disease via Synthesis of Energy Skeleton Images from Videos Produced in Uncontrolled Environments
Authors: Ben Hadj-Alouane Nejib , Dhoot Arav , Turki-Hadj Alouane Monia , Pangracious Vinod
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Parkinson’s Disease is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions worldwide, primarily marked by motor and non-motor symptoms due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons. Despite the absence of a cure, current treatments focus on symptom management, often relying on pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions. Early diagnosis remains a critical challenge, particularly in underserved areas, as existing diagnostic protocols lack standardization and accessibility. This paper proposes a novel framework for the diagnosis and severity classification of PD using video data captured in uncontrolled environments. Methods: Leveraging deep learning techniques, our approach synthesizes Skeleton Energy Images (SEIs) from gait sequences and employs three advanced models—a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), a Residual Network (ResNet), and a Vision Transformer (ViT)—to analyze these images. Our methodology allows for the accurate detection of PD and differentiation of its severity without requiring specialized equipment or professional oversight. The dataset used consists of labeled videos capturing the early stages of the disease, facilitating the potential for timely intervention. Results: The four models performed very accurately during the training phase. In fact, an accuracy higher than 99% was achieved by the ViT and ResNet models. Moreover, a lesser accuracy of 90% was achieved by the CNN five-layer model. During the test phase, only the best-performing models from the training experiments were tested. The ResNet-18 model has achieved a 100% accuracy. However, the ViT and the CNN five-layer models have achieved, respectively, 99.96% and 96.40% test accuracy. Conclusions: The results demonstrate high accuracy, highlighting the framework’s capabilities, and in particular the effectiveness of the workflow used for generating the SEI images. Given the nature of the dataset used, the proposed framework stands to function as a cost-effective and accessible tool for early PD detection in various healthcare settings. This study contributes to the advancement of mobile health technologies, aiming to enhance early diagnosis and monitoring of Parkinson’s Disease.
A Case Series Evaluation of Group Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Children with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Harrington Chloe , Hronis Anastasia
Published: November 2024

Background: Mental illnesses are pervasive amongst children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID), particularly anxiety disorders. To date, there has been limited research on the use of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as a potential treatment for this population. Fearless Me! © is an adapted CBT program specifically designed to treat anxiety in children and adolescents with mild to moderate ID. Method: Three children, aged between ten and sixteen, participated in group delivery of the Fearless Me! © program. Measures of anxiety were completed pre- and post-treatment by both the children and the parents. Results: For one child, a significant reduction in anxiety was observed, whilst another child showed significant improvement in emotional competence. Conclusions: This case series highlights the need for additional research into the utility of the adapted CBT program, Fearless Me! © to reduce anxiety in children and adolescents with ID.
Multi-Phase Trajectory Planning for Wind Energy Harvesting in Air-Launched UAV Swarm Rendezvous and Formation Flight
Authors: Wang Xiangsheng , Ma Tielin , Zhang Ligang , Qiao Nanxuan , Xue Pu , Fu Jingcheng
Published: November 2024

Small air-launched unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face challenges in range and endurance due to their compact size and lightweight design. To address these issues, this paper introduces a multi-phase wind energy harvesting trajectory planning method designed to optimize the onboard electrical energy consumption during rendezvous and formation flight of air-launched fixed-wing swarms. This method strategically manages gravitational potential energy from air-launch deployments and harvests wind energy that aligns with the UAV’s flight speed. We integrate wind energy harvesting strategies for single vehicles with the spatial–temporal coordination of the swarm system. Considering the wind effects into the trajectory planning allows UAVs to enhance their operational capabilities and extend mission duration without changes on the vehicle design. The trajectory planning method is formalized as an optimal control problem (OCP) that ensures spatial–temporal coordination, inter-vehicle collision avoidance, and incorporates a 3-degree of freedom kinematic model of UAVs, extending wind energy harvesting trajectory optimization from an individual UAV to swarm-level applications. The cost function is formulized to comprehensively evaluate electrical energy consumption, endurance, and range. Simulation results demonstrate significant energy savings in both low- and high-altitude mission scenarios. Efficient wind energy utilization can double the maximum formation rendezvous distance and even allow for rendezvous without electrical power consumption when the phase durations are extended reasonably. The subsequent formation flight phase exhibits a maximum endurance increase of 58%. This reduction in electrical energy consumption directly extends the range and endurance of air-launched swarm, thereby enhancing the mission capabilities of the swarm in subsequent flight.
Educational Impacts on Robotic Engineering Students of an International Online Project-Based Learning Course
Authors: Navarro Arcas Abel R. , Llorca Schenk Juan M. , Jara Carlos A. , Sentana Gadea Irene
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the impact of a voluntary international online course in industrial design, which applied a Project-Based Learning approach, on the acquisition of competencies among second-year students in the Robotic Engineering program at the University of Alicante (UA). The course, which included participants from two other European universities, aimed to enhance both generic and specific competencies. This study measured the acquisition of nine generic and four specific competencies through two types of analysis: qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative analysis involved a survey assessing students’ self-perceived competency gains, while the quantitative analysis consisted of a written objective test that evaluated the acquisition of specific competencies. The results were compared between 43 students who did not participate in the course and 22 who did. The survey responses indicated that, for 10 out of 13 competencies, students reported an improvement in skills as a result of the course. Additionally, the average test score for participants was 77.2%, significantly higher than the 37.7% score for non-participants. These findings suggest a strong correlation between course participation and competency development, highlighting the potential benefits of international online courses in enhancing student learning outcomes in robotic engineering.
Quantitative Evaluation of Macao’s Education Policy: A PMC Index Modeling Approach Incorporating Text Mining
Authors: Cai Rongjiang , Wang Xi , Zhang Tao
Published: November 2024

The education policy of the Macao Special Administrative Region is a driving factor in the investment of educational resources and the construction of a comprehensive education system. At the same time, the Macao Special Administrative Region Government closely integrates its education policy with the overall national development strategy, focuses on the training of teachers with a strong sense of national responsibility, and attaches importance to the needs of young people in national education, information technology education, and vocational education. Taking the policy addresses of the Macau Special Administrative Region over the past 25 years as the research sample, this study pioneered the use of policy modeling consistency index modeling combined with text mining to construct an evaluation system featuring the development of education policies. This approach provides a more in-depth quantitative analysis of the evolution and effectiveness of specific education policies. The results show that the MSAR has made significant progress in strengthening educational resources and aligning educational goals with national priorities. However, there is still room for improvement in areas such as information technology and vocational training. Based on this, the study recommends that these areas be targeted for strengthening, providing a reference basis for the future formulation or adjustment of existing education policies.