bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Application Using ELECTRE and MOORA Methods in the Selection of International Airport Transfer Center (Hub) in Türkiye
Authors: Kalan Olcay , Işık Melek , Yüksel Fatma Şeyma
Published: August 2024

In today’s world, air transport has become a favored choice for enhancing the value of a national economy, driven by advancing technology, escalating volumes of national and international trade, and population growth. The proliferation of airport transfer centers, particularly within air transport, plays a pivotal role in fostering the advancement of the aviation sector. Therefore, the selection of these hubs is of great importance. This study evaluated the New Çukurova, Antalya, Sivas Nuri Demirağ, Erzurum and Muğla Airports in Türkiye for the selection of a new airport transfer center in terms of criteria such as airport costs, airport terminal and apron facilities, airport passenger transportation services, airport operating capacity, airport location, demand factors in the service region and other factors. The study employed three methods for evaluating alternative international airports: AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process), MOORA (Multi-Objective Optimization by Ratio Analysis) and ELECTRE (Elimination and Choice Translating Reality). In the initial phase, the priority ranking of criteria was established based on expert opinions. Subsequently, Antalya Airport was the most suitable airport transfer center according to the ELECTRE method, while New Çukurova Airport emerged as the preferred choice according to the MOORA method. Both airports secured top rankings in both evaluation methods.
Numerical Investigation of Low-Velocity Ice Impact on a Composite Ship Hull Using an FEM/SPH Formulation
Authors: Pavlovic Ana , Minak Giangiacomo
Published: August 2024

In cold climate regions, ships navigate through diverse ice conditions, making the varied interaction scenarios between hulls and ice critically important. It is crucial to consider the safety and integrity of the hull during an ice–hull interaction, especially in the presence of lightweight structures. Proper design and material selection can help improve the structure’s ability to withstand ice forces. Within the scope, understanding the behavior of ice and its interaction with the structure can inform the development of appropriate measures to minimize possible damage or failure. The current study focuses on the interactions occurring during the impact loading phases, which are characteristic of thin first-year ice. A sandwich structure made with carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy prepreg and PVC core was investigated. Low-velocity ice impact was modelled using the Ansys Workbench 2023 R2 and LS-DYNA R11 explicit solver. As the material model, the *MAT055 was chosen based on the literature, while ice was represented with its equation of state. The Tsai Wu criterion was adopted to identify tensile and compressive failure in the matrix and fibers. This simulation allowed us to evaluate how the composite material responds to ice impacts, considering factors such as the speed of the impact, the shape and thickness of the ice, and the properties of the composite material itself.
Dynamic Instability Investigation of the Automotive Driveshaft’s Forced Torsional Vibration Using the Asymptotic Method
Authors: Bugaru Mihai , Vasile Ovidiu
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to investigate using FOAM to analyze the dynamic instability in the APPR for ADFTV based on a dynamic model (DMADFTV). The DMADFTV considers the following aspects: AD kinematic nonuniformity (ADKN), AD geometric nonuniformity (ADGN) of inertial characteristics for the spinning movements (ICSM) of the AD elements (ADE), and the excitations induced by the gearbox–internal combustion engine modulations. The DMADFTV is considered the already-designed dynamic model developed by the first author of the ADFTV in a previous publication. This DMADFTV was used to compute the stationary frontiers of instability and the nonstationary spectral velocity amplitude (NSVA) versus nonstationary spectral amplitude (NSA) in the configuration space in transition through APPR, using the FOAM. The use of FOAM is much more versatile, from the analytical point of view, than the method of multiple scales and allows the computation of the NSA and the NSVA in the APPR. In contrast, these computations cannot be performed using the harmonic balance method. MATLAB Software R 2017 was developed based on DMADFTV and used the FOAM to compute the stationary frontiers of instability and the NSVA versus the NSA in transition through APPR for the ADFTV. The numerical results were compared with the experimental and numerical data published in the literature, finding agreements. The computation of the NSVA versus NSA in the configuration space using FOAM represents a method of detection of the chaotic manifestation of ADFTV.
Research on Stability Control System of Two-Wheel Heavy-Load Self-Balancing Vehicles in Complex Terrain
Authors: Yan Chunxiang , Li Xiying
Published: August 2024

In complex terrain, such as uneven roads or irregular terrain, two-wheeled heavy-duty self-balancing vehicles are easily affected by external interference factors, causing rollover or rendering the vehicle unable to move, which poses a greater challenge to its stability control. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a kinematic model of a two-wheeled vehicle and design a control system to study its driving stability. This paper aims to study the stability control system of a two-wheeled self-balancing vehicle under complex terrain. First, a self-balancing vehicle modeling method based on complex terrain is designed. By analyzing the motion characteristics of the self-balancing vehicle, a kinematic model suitable for complex terrain is established, which provides a basis for subsequent control algorithms. Secondly, a precise control system is designed for different terrain conditions, and parameters such as vehicle attitude, speed and acceleration are adjusted through the Proportional–Integral–Derivative (PID) control algorithm to achieve the smooth operation of the self-balancing vehicle in complex terrain. In addition, a vehicle-mounted camera is used to capture terrain images in real time, and different terrains are accurately identified through the terrain recognition algorithm based on deep learning, thereby determining the friction coefficient and effectively improving the stability of the self-balancing vehicle on complex terrain. The experimental results show that the designed control system can enable the self-balancing two-wheeled vehicle to achieve stable balance control in different terrains, and has good applicability and stability.
The Essential Role of Monte Carlo Simulations for Lung Dosimetry in Liver Radioembolization with 90Y Microspheres
Authors: d’Andrea Edoardo , Lanconelli Nico , Cremonesi Marta , Patera Vincenzo , Pacilio Massimiliano
Published: August 2024

This study compares various methodologies for lung dosimetry in radioembolization using Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. A voxelized anthropomorphic phantom, created from a real patient’s CT scan, preserved the actual density distribution of the lungs. Lung dosimetry was evaluated for five lung-shunt (LS) cases using traditional methods: the mono-compartmental organ-level approach (MIRD), local energy deposition (LED), and convolution with voxel S-values, either with local density corrections (SVOX_L) or without (SVOX_ST). Additionally, a novel voxel S-value (VSV) kernel for lung tissue with an ICRU density of 0.296 g/cm3 was developed. Calculations were performed using either the ICRU lung density (Lung_296), the average lung density of the phantom (Lung_221), or the local density (Lung_L). The comparison revealed significant underestimations in the mean absorbed dose (AD) for the classical approaches: approximately −40% for MIRD, −27% for LED, −28% for SVOX_L, and −88% for SVOX_ST. Similarly, calculations with the lung VSV kernel showed underestimations of about −62% for Lung_296, −50% for Lung_221, and −35% for Lung_L. Given the high heterogeneity of lung tissue, traditional dosimetric methods fail to provide accurate estimates of the mean AD for the lungs. Therefore, MC dosimetry based on patient images is recommended as the preferred method for precise assessment of lung AD during radioembolization.
Settlement Foundations by Exploring the Collapse of Unsaturated Soils
Authors: Fatahizadeh Marieh , Nowamooz Hossein
Published: August 2024

Increasing extreme weather events and climate change can significantly affect soil moisture regimes, particularly soil suction, leading to additional challenges associated with unsaturated soils, including the collapse phenomenon. The collapsibility of soils poses significant engineering and geotechnical risks globally, necessitating urgent attention from engineers. This work establishes a numerical model of a shallow foundation subjected to rainfall and load using COMSOL Multiphysics. A hydromechanical model (H-M) is introduced which incorporates The Richards’ module and the Extended Basic Barcelona Model (EBBM) as a constitutive model to predict settlements in shallow foundations influenced by climate change and intense rainfall. The validation of the model is conducted through experimental tests, ensuring its accuracy. Additionally, in the practical application, the hydromechanical model is applied to anticipate the effect of infiltration on settlements of shallow foundations. The simulation results show that infiltration leads to an increase in the pressure head above the water table, decreasing soil suction, which induces additional settlement due to wetting-induced collapse. The maximum settlement happened at the corners of the footing due to increased exposure to infiltration and a greater reduction in suction. The collapse potential calculated from the numerical simulation was found to be consistent with the predictions established via analytical models, validating the accuracy of the numerical approach.
An Evidential Reasoning Assessment Method Based on Multidimensional Fault Conclusion
Authors: Gao Zhi , He Meixuan , Zhang Xinming , Gao Shuo
Published: August 2024

The running gear mechanism is a critical component of high-speed trains, essential for maintaining safety and stability. Malfunctions in the running gear can have severe consequences, making it imperative to assess its condition accurately. Such assessments provide insights into the current operational status, facilitating timely maintenance and ensuring the reliable and safe operation of high-speed trains. Traditional evidential reasoning models for assessing the health of running gear typically require the integration of multiple characteristic indicators, which are often challenging to obtain and may lack comprehensiveness. To address these challenges, this paper introduces a novel assessment model that combines evidential reasoning with multidimensional fault conclusions. This model synthesizes results from various fault diagnoses to establish a comprehensive health indicator system for the running gear. The diagnostic outcomes serve as inputs to the model, which then assesses the overall health status of the running gear system. To address potential inaccuracies in initial model parameters, the covariance matrix adaptation evolution strategy (CMA-ES) algorithm is utilized for parameter optimization. Comparative experiments with alternative methods demonstrate that the proposed model offers superior accuracy and reliability in assessing the health status of high-speed train running gear.
Analysis of the Influence of the Charging Process of an Electrical Vehicle on Voltage Distortions in the Electrical Installation
Authors: Dobrzycki Arkadiusz , Kasprzyk Leszek , Çetin Muhammed Sefa , Gençoğlu Muhsin Tunay
Published: August 2024

The noticeable dynamic development of electromobility poses new challenges for the energy industry and users of electric vehicles. One of these challenges is coping with the change in the way we refuel. In the case of electric vehicles, the batteries can also be charged via home electrical installations. The presence of a new, non-linear load with significant power may affect the quality parameters of electricity in this installation and therefore indirectly affect the operation of other loads. In order to investigate the possible impact of the electric vehicle charging process on these parameters, a number of measurements were carried out. This paper presents the results of observing voltage distortions in the installation as a result of the harmonics of the current supplying the AC/DC converter in the vehicle. The test results confirm the compliance of the voltage with the requirements of the standards; however, the large share of current harmonics requires the analysis of the anti-shock protections existing in the installation to ensure that they are effective when currents at higher frequencies flow. The research results may be a guide for designers and users of home electrical installations.
As Regular as Clockwork: Alexander von Humboldt, Robert de Lamanon and the Beginning of the Scientific Investigation of the Tidal Barometric Oscillation
Authors: Hamilton Kevin
Published: August 2024

The cause of the systematic daily march of barometric pressure in the tropics, notably the late morning and late evening peaks seen almost every day at all locations, was a puzzle that persisted through the nineteenth and much of the twentieth centuries. The efforts to explain the physics of the prominent 12-h solar tidal variation helped inspire some of the earliest developments in theoretical atmospheric dynamics and ultimately led in the 1960’s to a satisfactory dynamical theory for the atmospheric tides. These important theoretical developments followed the observational discoveries, which date to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, of the surprising character of the barometric daily march and of its resolution into solar and lunar period cycles. These important, if simple, discoveries emerged primarily from the efforts of European scientists to systematically study the environment in remote areas of the globe. The two key figures in initially advancing the scientific community’s understanding of the character of barometric tides were the great German polymath Alexander von Humboldt (1769–1859) and the French naturalist Robert de Lamanon (1752–1787), who each made their discoveries on their most famous and colorful scientific expeditions of their respective careers. This paper examines the history of the early observations of the barometric tide.
On a Matrix Formulation of the Sequence of Bi-Periodic Fibonacci Numbers
Authors: Rachidi Mustapha , Spreafico Elen V. P. , Catarino Paula
Published: August 2024

In this study, we investigate some new properties of the sequence of bi-periodic Fibonacci numbers with arbitrary initial conditions, through an approach that combines the matrix aspect and the fundamental Fibonacci system. Indeed, by considering the properties of the eigenvalues of their related 2×2 matrix, we provide a new approach to studying the analytic representations of these numbers. Moreover, the similarity of the associated 2×2 matrix with a companion matrix, allows us to formulate the bi-periodic Fibonacci numbers in terms of a homogeneous linear recursive sequence of the Fibonacci type. Therefore, the combinatorial aspect and other analytic representations formulas of the Binet type for the bi-periodic Fibonacci numbers are achieved. The case of bi-periodic Lucas numbers is outlined, and special cases are exposed. Finally, some illustrative examples are given.
Typical Marine Ecological Disasters in China Attributed to Marine Organisms and Their Significant Insights
Authors: Yao Lulu , He Peimin , Xia Zhangyi , Li Jiye , Liu Jinlin
Published: August 2024

Owing to global climate change or the ever-more frequent human activities in the offshore areas, it is highly probable that an imbalance in the offshore ecosystem has been induced. However, the importance of maintaining and protecting marine ecosystems’ balance cannot be overstated. In recent years, various marine disasters have occurred frequently, such as harmful algal blooms (green tides and red tides), storm surge disasters, wave disasters, sea ice disasters, and tsunami disasters. Additionally, overpopulation of certain marine organisms (particularly marine faunas) has led to marine disasters, threatening both marine ecosystems and human safety. The marine ecological disaster monitoring system in China primarily focuses on monitoring and controlling the outbreak of green tides (mainly caused by outbreaks of some Ulva species) and red tides (mainly caused by outbreaks of some diatom and dinoflagellate species). Currently, there are outbreaks of Cnidaria (Hydrozoa and Scyphozoa organisms; outbreak species are frequently referred to as jellyfish), Annelida (Urechis unicinctus Drasche, 1880), Mollusca (Philine kinglipini S. Tchang, 1934), Arthropoda (Acetes chinensis Hansen, 1919), and Echinodermata (Asteroidea organisms, Ophiuroidea organisms, and Acaudina molpadioides Semper, 1867) in China. They not only cause significant damage to marine fisheries, tourism, coastal industries, and ship navigation but also have profound impacts on marine ecosystems, especially near nuclear power plants, sea bathing beaches, and infrastructures, posing threats to human lives. Therefore, this review provides a detailed introduction to the marine organisms (especially marine fauna species) causing marine biological disasters in China, the current outbreak situations, and the biological backgrounds of these outbreaks. This review also provides an analysis of the causes of these outbreaks. Furthermore, it presents future prospects for marine biological disasters, proposing corresponding measures and advocating for enhanced resource utilization and fundamental research. It is recommended that future efforts focus on improving the monitoring of marine biological disasters and integrating them into the marine ecological disaster monitoring system. The aim of this review is to offer reference information and constructive suggestions for enhancing future monitoring, early warning systems, and prevention efforts related to marine ecological disasters in support of the healthy development and stable operation of marine ecosystems.
Mechanical Properties of Re-Entrant Hybrid Honeycomb Structures for Morphing Wings
Authors: Wang Yan , Guo Yingjie , Yang Hui
Published: August 2024

The exceptional energy absorption, deformability, and tuneable Poisson’s ratio properties of negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) honeycomb biomimetic structures make them highly suitable for applications in aerospace, medical, and acoustic stealth industries. The present study proposes a re-entrant hybrid honeycomb (REHH) structure comprising a re-entrant octagonal unit cell and a re-entrant hexagonal unit cell. Theoretical models of the in-plane elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio are established based on beam theory, and these models are validated through finite element (FE) simulations and tensile experiments conducted on the REHH samples. The influence of the cell geometry parameters on the in-plane elastic behaviours is investigated. The results indicate that the NPR performance of the REHH structure exhibits superior deformation capability compared with the four-point star hybrid honeycomb (FSHH) structure. The experimental REHH structure samples exhibit significant tensile displacement capabilities in the x-direction.
Using Reinforcement Learning to Develop a Novel Gait for a Bio-Robotic California Sea Lion
Authors: Drago Anthony , Kadapa Shraman , Marcouiller Nicholas , Kwatny Harry G. , Tangorra James L.
Published: August 2024

While researchers have made notable progress in bio-inspired swimming robot development, a persistent challenge lies in creating propulsive gaits tailored to these robotic systems. The California sea lion achieves its robust swimming abilities through a careful coordination of foreflippers and body segments. In this paper, reinforcement learning (RL) was used to develop a novel sea lion foreflipper gait for a bio-robotic swimmer using a numerically modelled computational representation of the robot. This model integration enabled reinforcement learning to develop desired swimming gaits in the challenging underwater domain. The novel RL gait outperformed the characteristic sea lion foreflipper gait in the simulated underwater domain. When applied to the real-world robot, the RL constructed novel gait performed as well as or better than the characteristic sea lion gait in many factors. This work shows the potential for using complimentary bio-robotic and numerical models with reinforcement learning to enable the development of effective gaits and maneuvers for underwater swimming vehicles.
Innovation Inspired by Nature: Applications of Biomimicry in Engineering Design
Authors: Aguilar-Planet Teresa , Peralta Estela
Published: August 2024

Sustainable development is increasingly driving the trend toward the application of biomimicry as a strategy to generate environmentally friendly solutions in the design of industrial products. Nature-inspired design can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by improving efficiency and minimizing the environmental impact of each design. This research conducted an analysis of available biomimetic knowledge, highlighting the most applied tools and methodologies in each industrial sector. The primary objective was to identify sectors that have experienced greater adoption of biomimicry and those where its application is still in its early stages. Additionally, by applying the available procedures and tools to a selected case study (technologies in marine environments), the advantages and challenges of the methodologies and procedures were determined, along with potential gaps and future research directions necessary for widespread implementation of biomimetics in the industry. These results provide a comprehensive approach to biomimicry applied to more sustainable practices in product design and development.
Prediction of Clinical Outcomes in Psychotic Disorders Using Artificial Intelligence Methods: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tay Jing Ling , Htun Kyawt Kyawt , Sim Kang
Published: August 2024

Background: Psychotic disorders are major psychiatric disorders that can impact multiple domains including physical, social, and psychological functioning within individuals with these conditions. Being able to better predict the outcomes of psychotic disorders will allow clinicians to identify illness subgroups and optimize treatment strategies in a timely manner. Objective: In this scoping review, we aimed to examine the accuracy of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) methods in predicting the clinical outcomes of patients with psychotic disorders as well as determine the relevant predictors of these outcomes. Methods: This review was guided by the PRISMA Guidelines for Scoping Reviews. Seven electronic databases were searched for relevant published articles in English until 1 February 2024. Results: Thirty articles were included in this review. These studies were mainly conducted in the West (63%) and Asia (37%) and published within the last 5 years (83.3%). The clinical outcomes included symptomatic improvements, illness course, and social functioning. The machine learning models utilized data from various sources including clinical, cognitive, and biological variables such as genetic, neuroimaging measures. In terms of main machine learning models used, the most common approaches were support vector machine, random forest, logistic regression, and linear regression models. No specific machine learning approach outperformed the other approaches consistently across the studies, and an overall range of predictive accuracy was observed with an AUC from 0.58 to 0.95. Specific predictors of clinical outcomes included demographic characteristics (gender, socioeconomic status, accommodation, education, and employment); social factors (activity level and interpersonal relationships); illness features (number of relapses, duration of relapses, hospitalization rates, cognitive impairments, and negative and disorganization symptoms); treatment (prescription of first-generation antipsychotics, high antipsychotic doses, clozapine, use of electroconvulsive therapy, and presence of metabolic syndrome); and structural and functional neuroimaging abnormalities, especially involving the temporal and frontal brain regions. Conclusions: The current review highlights the potential and need to further refine AI and machine learning models in parsing out the complex interplay of specific variables that contribute to the clinical outcome prediction of psychotic disorders.
Comparative Analysis of Brain Coping Mechanisms in Small Left-Hemisphere Lesions: Incidental vs. Symptomatic Gliomas
Authors: Cargnelutti Elisa , Ius Tamara , Maieron Marta , D’Agostini Serena , Skrap Miran , Tomasino Barbara
Published: August 2024

Background. Incidentally discovered low-grade gliomas (iLGGs) are very rare and little is still known about their associated functional imaging activation patterns, white-matter status, and plasticity potential. Recent studies shed light on several clinical factors responsible for the good clinical status observed in these patients versus those with their symptomatic counterpart (sLGGs), including small volume. Comparisons were typically carried out by comparing iLGGs with the wider and more heterogeneous sLGG group. In this study, we investigated whether iLGGs affect the brain differently from comparably small sLGGs. Method. Starting from a sample of 13 patients with iLGG, in the current comparative cross-sectional study, we identified a group of patients with sLGGs, primarily matched by lesion volume. We looked for potential differences between the two groups in language-related functional and structural parameters (the fMRI network associated with naming and white-matter fascicles). Results. The t-test did not show significant differences in the fMRI network, but these emerged when performing masking. No significant differences were observed at the white-matter level. Conclusions. Given that small volumes characterized both groups and that demographic variables were comparable, too, we hypothesized that differences between the two groups could be attributed to alternative lesion-related parameters. We discussed these findings from clinical and neurosurgical perspectives.
A Longitudinal Study of Cultural Consonance, Personal Agency, and Psychological Distress in Urban Brazil
Authors: Dressler William W. , Balieiro Mauro C. , dos Santos José Ernesto
Published: August 2024

The relationship between culture, as a set of norms that structure human social practice, and agency, as the human capacity to act, has been debated for decades. Achieving clarity in how these constructs intersect has been hampered by difficulty in measuring either one, and theory has not suggested how a model linking culture and agency might be specified. We present a model in which culture is measured as cultural consonance, or the degree to which individuals actually incorporate prototypes for behavior encoded in cultural models into their own behavior. This measurement is then integrated with a measure of individuals’ sense of personal agency. In a previous study in urban Brazil, we found that personal agency was associated with higher cultural consonance, which in turn was associated with lower psychological distress; however, those data were from a cross-sectional survey, thus limiting the causal inference. Here we present the results of a follow-up study in which a subset of respondents was re-interviewed on average four years later. These data are consistent with a model in which cultural consonance is the proximate causal influence on psychological distress, while personal agency is a distal or exogenous influence. The implications of these results for the relative roles of culture and agency as influences on subjective well-being are discussed.
Experimental Study on Bond and Force Transmission Properties of Steel Reinforcement in Non-Contact Lap Splice Encased in Calcium Sulphoaluminate Cement-Based Micro Steel Fiber Concrete
Authors: Bai Lei , Zhao Qianyi , Zhao Jun , Yin Lu , Zhao Yi
Published: August 2024

CSMSFC (Calcium Sulphoaluminate Cement-based Micro Steel Fiber Concrete) possesses the advantages of early strength, high strength, exceptional toughness, minimal shrinkage, and excellent bond performance with bars. When applied to NLSB (Non-contact Lap Splice of Bars) in prefabricated structures, CSMSFC enhances mechanical performance while preventing shrinkage cracking and reducing seismic damage. Additionally, it shortens construction periods for prefabricated structures and achieves a comprehensive improvement in seismic performance and construction efficiency. However, there is a lack of systematic testing of factors influencing the bond strength between CSMSFC and NLSB and the effect of CSMSFC on the force transfer performance between NLSB. Therefore, the axial tensile tests of NLSB were conducted on 51 non-contact lapping specimens to investigate the bond properties and force transfer mechanism between lapping bars and CSMSFC. The effects of lapping length, volume fraction of steel fibers, spacing of bars, and concrete cover thickness on the lapping characteristics were examined, and the comparison with OPMSFC (Ordinary Portland Cement-based Micro Steel Fiber Concrete) was also considered. The experimental results demonstrate that the bond strength between bars and CSMSFC increased by 36.8%, 42.3%, and 43.3% respectively, with volume fractions of steel fiber at 1.5%, 3%, and 4.5% compared to the absence of steel fiber. The bonding effect between CSMSFC and bars is similar to that of OPMSFC and bars. The bond strength between CSMSFC and the bars improved by 4.3% and 6.6% with the increases of the spacing of bars from 0 to 20 mm and the concrete cover thickness from 10 to 30 mm. Conversely, with the increases of the lapping length from 50 mm to 100 mm, 200 mm, and 300 mm, the bond strength decreased by 46.8%, 72.2%, and 82.0%, respectively. Finally, based on the force transmission mechanism of the non-contact lapping bars, a calculation model is proposed for determining the lapping length while considering the reinforcing effect of steel fiber “stirrups.” A formula is derived from the model to calculate the minimum lapping length of HRB400 bars in CSMSFC, considering the volume fraction of steel fibers, which can assist in designing the minimum lap length of NLSB in practical applications.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Improving Workplace Well-Being: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Madurga Miguel-Ángel , Gil-Lacruz Ana-Isabel , Saz-Gil Isabel , Gil-Lacruz Marta
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly increased in the field of workplace well-being. This study systematically reviews the most common applications of AI in this context, covering literature published between 2018 and 2023, and evaluates both its current and potential impact. The research involved a comprehensive search in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, following PRISMA guidelines, resulting in 31 articles that met the inclusion criteria. The qualitative synthesis reveals that AI is being utilized in areas such as mental health monitoring, emotional support, personalized well-being programs, identification of psychosocial risk factors, and training and development. This review contributes to the existing literature by offering a detailed categorization of AI applications in workplace well-being, and it highlights the practical utility of AI in enhancing employee mental health and overall well-being. The findings suggest that AI has the potential to revolutionize the management of workplace well-being, providing actionable insights for both researchers and practitioners. Recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Colocalised Genetic Associations Reveal Alternative Splicing Variants as Candidate Causal Links for Breast Cancer Risk in 10 Loci
Authors: Besouro-Duarte André , Carrasqueiro Beatriz , Sousa Sofia , Xavier Joana M. , Maia Ana-Teresa
Published: August 2024

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have revealed numerous loci associated with breast cancer risk, yet the precise causal variants, their impact on molecular mechanisms, and the affected genes often remain elusive. We hypothesised that specific variants exert their influence by affecting cis-regulatory alternative splice elements. An analysis of splicing quantitative trait loci (sQTL) in healthy breast tissue from female individuals identified multiple variants linked to alterations in splicing ratios. Through colocalisation analysis, we pinpointed 43 variants within twelve genes that serve as candidate causal links between sQTL and GWAS findings. In silico splice analysis highlighted a potential mechanism for three genes—FDPS, SGCE, and MRPL11—where variants in proximity to or on the splice site modulate usage, resulting in alternative splice transcripts. Further in vitro/vivo studies are imperative to fully understand how these identified changes contribute to breast oncogenesis. Moreover, investigating their potential as biomarkers for breast cancer risk could enhance screening strategies and early detection methods for breast cancer.
ASCT2 Regulates Fatty Acid Metabolism to Trigger Glutamine Addiction in Basal-like Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Jia , Zhang Qian , Fu Huaizi , Han Yi , Li Xue , Zou Qianlin , Yuan Shengtao , Sun Li
Published: August 2024

As a crucial amino acid, glutamine can provide the nitrogen and carbon sources needed to support cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Interestingly, different types of breast cancer have different dependences on glutamine. This research shows that basal-like breast cancer depends on glutamine, while the other types of breast cancer may be more dependent on glucose. Glutamine transporter ASCT2 is highly expressed in various cancers and significantly promotes the growth of breast cancer. However, the key regulatory mechanism of ASCT2 in promoting basal-like breast cancer progression remains unclear. Our research demonstrates the significant change in fatty acid levels caused by ASCT2, which may be a key factor in glutamine sensitivity. This phenomenon results from the mutual activation between ASCT2-mediated glutamine transport and lipid metabolism via the nuclear receptor PPARα. ASCT2 cooperatively promoted PPARα expression, leading to the upregulation of lipid metabolism. Moreover, we also found that C118P could inhibit lipid metabolism by targeting ASCT2. More importantly, this research identifies a potential avenue of evidence for the prevention and early intervention of basal-like breast cancer by blocking the glutamine–lipid feedback loop.
Targeting Asparagine Metabolism in Well-Differentiated/Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma
Authors: Klingbeil Kyle D. , Wilde Blake R. , Graham Danielle S. , Lofftus Serena , McCaw Tyler , Matulionis Nedas , Dry Sarah M. , Crompton Joseph G. , Eilber Fritz C. , Graeber Thomas G. , Shackelford David B. , Christofk Heather R. , Kadera Brian E.
Published: August 2024

Background: mTORC1 activity is dependent on the presence of micronutrients, including Asparagine (Asn), to promote anabolic cell signaling in many cancers. We hypothesized that targeting Asn metabolism would inhibit tumor growth by reducing mTORC1 activity in well-differentiated (WD)/dedifferentiated (DD) liposarcoma (LPS). Methods: Human tumor metabolomic analysis was utilized to compare abundance of Asn in WD vs. DD LPS. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) compared relative expression among metabolic pathways upregulated in DD vs. WD LPS. Proliferation assays were performed for LPS cell lines and organoid models by using the combination treatment of electron transport chain (ETC) inhibitors with Asn-free media. 13C-Glucose-labeling metabolomics evaluated the effects of combination treatment on nucleotide synthesis. Murine xenograft models were used to assess the effects of ETC inhibition combined with PEGylated L-Asparaginase (PEG-Asnase) on tumor growth and mTORC1 signaling. Results: Asn was enriched in DD LPS compared to WD LPS. GSEA indicated that mTORC1 signaling was upregulated in DD LPS. Within available LPS cell lines and organoid models, the combination of ETC inhibition with Asn-free media resulted in reduced cell proliferation. Combination treatment inhibited nucleotide synthesis and promoted cell cycle arrest. In vivo, the combination of ETC inhibition with PEG-Asnase restricted tumor growth. Conclusions: Asn enrichment and mTORC1 upregulation are important factors contributing to WD/DD LPS tumor progression. Effective targeting strategies require limiting access to extracellular Asn and inhibition of de novo synthesis mechanisms. The combination of PEG-Asnase with ETC inhibition is an effective therapy to restrict tumor growth in WD/DD LPS.
Predictors of Clinical Hematological Toxicities under Radiotherapy in Patients with Cervical Cancer—A Risk Analysis
Authors: Marinescu Șerban Andrei , Toma Radu-Valeriu , Trifănescu Oana Gabriela , Galeș Laurenția Nicoleta , Folea Antonia Ruxandra , Sima Adrian , Bîlteanu Liviu , Anghel Rodica
Published: August 2024

Background: Cervical cancer ranks third in frequency among female cancers globally and causes high mortality worldwide. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy improves the overall survival in cervical cancer patients by 6% but it can cause significant acute and late toxicities affecting patient quality of life. Whole pelvis radiotherapy doses of 10–20 Gy can lead to myelosuppression and to subsequent hematological toxicities since pelvic bones contain half of bone marrow tissue. Methods: A total of 69 patients with IB-IVB-staged cervical cancer have been included in this retrospective cohort study. We analyzed clinical adverse events and changes in blood cell counts (hemoglobin, neutrophils, leukocytes, and platelets) during radiation or chemoradiotherapy received at the Oncological Institute of Bucharest from 2018 to 2021. Results: Decreases in hemoglobin levels of over 2.30 g/dL during treatment were associated with BMI > 23.2 kg/m2 (OR = 8.68, 95%CI = [1.01, 75.01]), age over 53 years (OR = 4.60 95%CI = [1.10, 19.22]), with conformational 3D irradiation (OR = 4.78, 95%CI = [1.31, 17.40]) and with total EQD2 of over 66.1 Gy (OR = 3.67, 95%CI = [1.02, 13.14]). The hemoglobin decrease rate of 0.07 g/dL/day was related to 95% isodose volume (OR = 18.00). Neutropenia is associated frequently with gastrointestinal side effects and with the bowel and rectal V45 isodoses (OR = 16.5 and OR = 18.0, respectively). Associations of total external and internal radiation dose with the time durations calculated from the initiation of treatment to the onset of hematological adverse reactions were also obtained. The maximum drop in leukocytes was observed before day 35 from the RT initiation in patients who underwent treatment with 3D conformal radiotherapy (OR = 4.44, 95%CI = [1.25, 15.82]). Neutrophil levels under 2.2 × 103/μL and thrombocyte levels under 131 × 103/μL during the follow-up period were associated with a total planned dose of 54 Gy to the pelvic region volume (OR = 6.82 and OR = 6.67, respectively). Conclusions: This study shows the existence of clinical and blood predictors of hematological adverse reactions in cervical cancer patients. Thus, patients who are in a precarious clinical situation, with low hematological values (but not yet abnormal), should be monitored during days 29–35 after the initiation of RT, especially if they are obese or over 53 years of age.
Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue Using an Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Polyoxometalate as a Dual-Action Catalyst for Oxidation and Reduction
Authors: Chen Lu , Cui Haowen , Jiang Feng , Kong Lingyan , Fei Baoli , Mei Xiang
Published: August 2024

An organic–inorganic hybrid polyoxometalate (POM) CoPMoV [PMoVI8VIV4VV2O42][Co(Phen)2(H2O)]2[TEA]2•H3O•3H2O (Phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, TEA = triethylamine) prepared by hydrothermal synthesis was explored as a heterogeneous catalysts to remove methylene blue (MB) through Fenton-like reaction and catalytic reduction. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed to characterize CoPMoV. The MB removal rates for the Fenton-like reaction and the catalytic reduction were 91.6% (120 min) and 97.5% (2 min), respectively, under optimum conditions. CoPMoV demonstrated excellent stability and recyclability in the Fenton-like reaction and catalytic reduction, which was confirmed by 5 cycle tests. Plausible mechanisms for MB degradation and reduction have also been proposed. Benefiting from the excellent redox properties of cobalt and [PMoVI8VIV4VV2O42]5− anion, CoPMoV could act as a Fenton-like and reductive catalyst for the removal of MB. This study provides a green and facile strategy to design POM-based organic–inorganic material for dye wastewater treatment via oxidation and reduction.
Direct Spectroscopic Comparison of CO Adsorption over CuOx Prepared In Situ
Authors: Zhang Yanmin , Liu Yu , Zhao Rui , Lu Bin , Wang Xuan , Qiu Hengshan
Published: August 2024

Copper-based catalysts are widely applied in catalytic CO conversion. Despite their importance in determining catalytic performance, the interaction of CO with different copper states has often been the subject of debate. Herein, we discuss the preparation of four different CuOx states (namely, fully oxidized and reduced (O-573 and R-573, respectively) and 800 and 1000 K annealed (A-800 and A-1000, respectively)) through in situ treatments, comparing CO adsorption behaviors with vacuum-transmission IR spectroscopy. CO only weakly adsorbed on the A-1000 and R-573 surfaces, whereas it led to the creation of trace amounts of surface oxygen vacancies over the O-573 surface, providing adsorption sites for the subsequent CO. Meanwhile, the produced CO2 re-adsorbed on the catalyst to form carbonate species. The reduction process was notably promoted over A-800 due to the presence of abundant surface oxygen vacancies, demonstrating the key role of Cuδ+ in oxygen vacancies, rather than merely its chemical state, in dominating the interaction of CO with CuOx.
Surface Thermodynamic Properties of Styrene–Divinylbenzene Copolymer Modified by Supramolecular Structure of Melamine Using Inverse Gas Chromatography
Authors: Hamieh Tayssir , Gus'kov Vladimir Yu
Published: August 2024

The surface thermodynamic properties of polymers and copolymers modified by supramolecular structures are used in several industrial processes, such as selective adsorption, paints, coatings, colloids, and adhesion applications. Background: Inverse gas chromatography at infinite dilution was proved to be the best technique to determine the surface properties of solid surfaces by studying the adsorption of some model polar and non-polar organic molecules adsorbed on solid surfaces at different temperatures. Methods: The retention volume of adsorbed solvents is a valuable parameter that was used to obtain the London dispersive and polar free energies and the London dispersive surface energy of styrene–divinylbenzene copolymer modified by supramolecular structure of melamine using both the Hamieh thermal model and our new methodology consisting of the separation of the two polar molecules and the dispersive free energy of their interaction. This led to the determination of the polar acid and base surface energy, and the Lewis acid–base constants of the various solid materials. Results: Following our new methodology, all surface energetic properties of styrene–divinylbenzene copolymer modified by melamine at different percentages were determined as a function of temperature. Conclusions: It was observed that the styrene–divinylbenzene copolymer exhibited the highest London dispersive surface energy, which decreased when the melamine percentage increased. All materials presented higher Lewis basicity and this Lewis basicity increased with the percentage of melamine.
Genome-Wide Mapping of Consanguineous Families Confirms Previously Implicated Gene Loci and Suggests New Loci in Specific Language Impairment (SLI)
Authors: Yousaf Adnan , Hafeez Huma , Basra Muhammad Asim Raza , Rice Mabel L. , Raza Muhammad Hashim , Shabbir Muhammad Imran
Published: August 2024

Specific language impairment (SLI) is a developmental disorder with substantial genetic contributions. A genome-wide linkage analysis and homozygosity mapping were performed in five consanguineous families from Pakistan. The highest LOD scores of 2.49 at 12p11.22-q11.21 in family PKSLI-31 and 1.92 at 6p in family PKSLI-20 were observed. Homozygosity mapping showed a loss of heterozygosity on 1q25.3-q32.2 and 2q36.3-q37.3 in PKSLI-20. A loss of heterozygosity mapped, in PKSLI-31 and PKSLI-34 flanks, NFXL1 and CNTNAP2, which are genes previously identified in SLI. Our findings report novel SLI loci and corroborate previously reported SLI loci, indicating the utility of a family-based approach.
A Simple MRI Score Predicts Pathological General Movements in Very Preterm Infants with Brain Injury—Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Dewan Monia Vanessa , Weber Pia Deborah , Felderhoff-Mueser Ursula , Huening Britta Maria , Dathe Anne-Kathrin
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Very preterm infants are at increased risk of brain injury and impaired brain development. The Total Abnormality Score and biometric parameters, such as biparietal width, interhemispheric distance and transcerebellar diameter, are simple measures to evaluate brain injury, development and growth using cerebral magnetic resonance imaging data at term-equivalent age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the Total Abnormality Score and biometric parameters with general movements in very preterm infants with brain injury. Methods: This single-center retrospective cohort study included 70 very preterm infants (≤32 weeks’ gestation and/or <1500 g birth weight) born between January 2017 and June 2021 in a level-three neonatal intensive care unit with brain injury—identified using cerebral magnetic resonance imaging data at term-equivalent age. General movements analysis was carried out at corrected age of 8–16 weeks. Binary logistic regression and Spearman correlation were used to examine the associations between the Total Abnormality Score and biometric parameters with general movements. Results: There was a significant association between the Total Abnormality Score and the absence of fidgety movements [OR: 1.19, 95% CI = 1.38–1.03] as well as a significant association between the transcerebellar diameter and fidgety movements (Spearman ρ = −0.269, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Among very preterm infants with brain injury, the Total Abnormality Score can be used to predict the absence of fidgety movements and may be an easily accessible tool for identifying high-risk very preterm infants and planning early interventions accordingly.
Effects of Pterostilbene on Cardiovascular Health and Disease
Authors: Tian Rui , Miao Lingchao , Cheang Wai-San
Published: August 2024

Pterostilbene is a phenolic compound commonly found in blueberries, peanuts, grapes, and other plants. It is a dimethoxy derivative of resveratrol. In recent years, it has gained significant attention due to its remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In addition, its high bioavailability and low toxicity in many species has contributed to its promising research prospects. Cardiovascular disease is closely related to pathological processes such as inflammation and oxidative stress, which aligns well with the treatment applications of pterostilbene. As a result, numerous studies have investigated the effects of pterostilbene on cardiovascular health and disease. This paper summarizes the current research on pterostilbene, with a specific focus on its potential therapeutic role in treating cardiovascular disease.