bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Bladder Cancer: EV-302 and Checkmate-901 Insights and Future Directions
Authors: Srinivasalu Vijay Kumar , Robbrecht Debbie
Published: July 2024

Advanced bladder cancer patients have historically failed to achieve prolonged duration of response to conventional chemotherapy and needed better first-line treatment regimens. The approval of nivolumab in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin and pembrolizumab with antibody–drug conjugate enfortumab vedotin has revolutionized the first-line treatment of advanced bladder cancer in many countries. In this review, we summarize the intricate differences between the two landmark clinical trials that led to their incorporation into the current standard of care for advanced bladder cancer. We further discuss newer novel treatment options in the second and subsequent lines of treatment on progression, like immunotherapy in combination with other agents, including fibroblast growth factors receptor inhibitors, human epidermal growth factor inhibitors, antibody–drug conjugates, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and novel antibodies. Finally, we discuss the integration of these novel therapies into current clinical practice amidst the rapidly evolving landscape of advanced bladder cancer treatment, aiming to enhance patient outcomes.
A Head-to-Head Comparison of the First-Line Treatments for Locally Advanced or Metastatic Urothelial Cancer: Is There Still a Role for Chemotherapy?
Authors: Gasperoni Lorenzo , Del Bono Luna , Ossato Andrea , Giunta Emilio Francesco , Messori Andrea , Damuzzo Vera
Published: July 2024

Background: Patients with locally advanced/metastatic urothelial cancer have been conventionally treated with platinum-based chemotherapy. Recently, numerous new treatments have been proposed to improve overall survival (OS) and reduce adverse effects, but no direct head-to-head comparisons among these agents are available. Methods: The treatments evaluated in our analyses included (a) monotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI); (b) combinations of an ICI with chemotherapy; and (c) combinations of an ICI with other drugs. Using OS as the endpoint, a series of indirect comparisons were performed to rank the most effective regimens against both chemotherapy and each other. Our analysis was based on the application of an artificial intelligence software program (IPDfromKM method) that reconstructs individual patient data from the information reported in the graphs of Kaplan–Meier curves. Results: A total of five studies published in six articles were included. In our main analysis, nivolumab plus chemotherapy showed better OS compared to chemotherapy (HR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.59–0.82), while durvalumab plus tremelimumab showed no OS benefit (HR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.82–1.11). More interestingly, enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab significantly prolonged OS compared to both chemotherapy alone (HR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.45–0.63) and nivolumab plus chemotherapy (HR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.60–0.97). Discussion and conclusion: Among new treatments for locally advanced and metastatic urothelial cancer, enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab showed the best efficacy in terms of OS. Our results support the use of this combination as a first-line treatment in this setting.
Improved Pancreatic Cancer Detection and Localization on CT Scans: A Computer-Aided Detection Model Utilizing Secondary Features
Authors: Ramaekers Mark , Viviers Christiaan , Hellström Terese , Ewals Lotte , Tasios Nick , Jacobs Igor , Nederend Joost , Sommen Fons , Luyer Misha
Published: July 2024

The early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is essential for optimal treatment of pancreatic cancer patients. We propose a tumor detection framework to improve the detection of pancreatic head tumors on CT scans. In this retrospective research study, CT images of 99 patients with pancreatic head cancer and 98 control cases from the Catharina Hospital Eindhoven were collected. A multi-stage 3D U-Net-based approach was used for PDAC detection including clinically significant secondary features such as pancreatic duct and common bile duct dilation. The developed algorithm was evaluated using a local test set comprising 59 CT scans. The model was externally validated in 28 pancreatic cancer cases of a publicly available medical decathlon dataset. The tumor detection framework achieved a sensitivity of 0.97 and a specificity of 1.00, with an area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) of 0.99, in detecting pancreatic head cancer in the local test set. In the external test set, we obtained similar results, with a sensitivity of 1.00. The model provided the tumor location with acceptable accuracy obtaining a DICE Similarity Coefficient (DSC) of 0.37. This study shows that a tumor detection framework utilizing CT scans and secondary signs of pancreatic cancer can detect pancreatic tumors with high accuracy.
Dissecting the Spatially Restricted Effects of Microenvironment-Mediated Resistance on Targeted Therapy Responses
Authors: Miti Tatiana , Desai Bina , Miroshnychenko Daria , Basanta David , Marusyk Andriy
Published: July 2024

The response of tumors to anti-cancer therapies is defined not only by cell-intrinsic therapy sensitivities but also by local interactions with the tumor microenvironment. Fibroblasts that make tumor stroma have been shown to produce paracrine factors that can strongly reduce the sensitivity of tumor cells to many types of targeted therapies. Moreover, a high stroma/tumor ratio is generally associated with poor survival and reduced therapy responses. However, in contrast to advanced knowledge of the molecular mechanisms responsible for stroma-mediated resistance, its effect on the ability of tumors to escape therapeutic eradication remains poorly understood. To a large extent, this gap of knowledge reflects the challenge of accounting for the spatial aspects of microenvironmental resistance, especially over longer time frames. To address this problem, we integrated spatial inferences of proliferation-death dynamics from an experimental animal model of targeted therapy responses with spatial mathematical modeling. With this approach, we dissected the impact of tumor/stroma distribution, magnitude and distance of stromal effects. While all of the tested parameters affected the ability of tumor cells to resist elimination, spatial patterns of stroma distribution within tumor tissue had a particularly strong impact.
Circulating Tumor DNA Predicts Early Recurrence Following Locoregional Therapy for Oligometastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: O’Donnell Conor D. J. , Naleid Nikolas , Siripoon Teerada , Zablonski Kevin G. , Storandt Michael H. , Selfridge Jennifer E. , Hallemeier Christopher L. , Conces Madison L. , Jethwa Krishan R. , Bajor David L. , Thiels Cornelius A. , Warner Susanne G. , Starlinger Patrick P. , Atwell Thomas D. , Mitchell Jessica L. , Mahipal Amit , Jin Zhaohui
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: Local therapies offer a potentially curative approach for patients with oligometastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). An evidence-based consensus recommendation for systemic therapy following definitive locoregional therapy is lacking. Tumor-informed circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) might provide information to help guide management in this setting. (2) Methods: A multi-institutional retrospective study was conducted, including patients with CRC that underwent curative-intent locoregional therapy to an isolated site of metastatic disease, followed by tumor-informed ctDNA assessment. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank tests were used to compare disease-free survival based on ctDNA results. ctDNA test performance was compared to carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test results using McNemar’s test. (3) Results: Our study cohort consisted of 87 patients treated with locoregional interventions who underwent ctDNA testing. The initial ctDNA test post-intervention was positive in 28 patients and negative in 59 patients. The median follow-up time was 14.0 months. Detectable ctDNA post-intervention was significantly associated with early disease recurrence, with a median disease-free survival (DFS) of 6.63 months compared to 21.30 months in ctDNA-negative patients (p < 0.001). ctDNA detected a numerically higher proportion of recurrences than CEA (p < 0.097). Post-intervention systemic therapy was not associated with improved DFS (p = 0.745). (4) Conclusions: ctDNA results are prognostically important in oligometastatic CRC, and further prospective studies are urgently needed to define its role in guiding clinical decisions.
Gonadal Teratomas: A State-of-the-Art Review in Pathology
Authors: Salzillo Cecilia , Imparato Amalia , Fortarezza Francesco , Maniglio Sonia , Lucà Stefano , La Verde Marco , Serio Gabriella , Marzullo Andrea
Published: July 2024

Teratomas are neoplasms arising from germ cells and encompass tissues derived from two or more embryonic germ layers, including ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. These tumours typically localize along the midline or in paramedian positions and can manifest as gonadal (20%) or extragonadal (80%) entities. Although gonadal teratomas are uncommon, they represent the predominant type of gonadal tumour in the paediatric population. They comprise approximately 20–25% of all ovarian tumours in females and about 3–5% of all testicular tumours in males. Ovarian teratomas exhibit a higher incidence in early childhood and adolescence, whereas testicular teratomas are more prevalent during the first three months of life and between the ages of 15 and 19. While the majority of paediatric gonadal teratomas are benign, malignant or mixed variants may also arise, necessitating more aggressive therapeutic interventions.
Is Cancer Metabolism an Atavism?
Authors: Fanchon Eric , Stéphanou Angélique
Published: July 2024

The atavistic theory of cancer posits that cancer emerges and progresses through the reversion of cellular phenotypes to more ancestral types with genomic and epigenetic changes deactivating recently evolved genetic modules and activating ancient survival mechanisms. This theory aims at explaining the known cancer hallmarks and the paradox of cancer’s predictable progression despite the randomness of genetic mutations. Lineweaver and colleagues recently proposed the Serial Atavism Model (SAM), an enhanced version of the atavistic theory, which suggests that cancer progression involves multiple atavistic reversions where cells regress through evolutionary stages, losing recently evolved traits first and reactivating primitive ones later. The Warburg effect, where cancer cells upregulate glycolysis and lactate production in the presence of oxygen instead of using oxidative phosphorylation, is one of the key feature of the SAM. It is associated with the metabolism of ancient cells living on Earth before the oxygenation of the atmosphere. This review addresses the question of whether cancer metabolism can be considered as an atavistic reversion. By analyzing several known characteristics of cancer metabolism, we reach the conclusion that this version of the atavistic theory does not provide an adequate conceptual frame for cancer research. Cancer metabolism spans a whole spectrum of metabolic states which cannot be fully explained by a sequential reversion to an ancient state. Moreover, we interrogate the nature of cancer metabolism and discuss its characteristics within the framework of the SAM.
Diagnostic Value and Molecular Function of MicroRNAs in Endometrial Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kluz Natalia , Kowalczyk Emilia , Wasilewska Małgorzata , Gil-Kulik Paulina
Published: July 2024

The human endometrium experiences significant cyclic morphological and biochemical changes throughout the menstrual cycle to prepare for embryo implantation. These processes are meticulously regulated by ovarian steroids and various locally expressed genes, encompassing inflammatory reactions, apoptosis, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, differentiation (tissue formation), and tissue remodeling. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been recognized as crucial regulators of gene expression, with their altered expression being linked to the onset and progression of various disorders, including cancer. This review examines the expression of miRNAs in the endometrium and their potential regulatory roles under pathological conditions such as endometriosis, recurrent implantation failure and endometrial cancer. Given miRNAs’ critical role in maintaining gene expression stability, understanding the regulatory mechanisms of endometrial miRNAs and identifying their specific target genes could pave the way for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies targeting specific genes associated with these reproductive disorders.
The Prospective Association between Early Life Growth and Breast Density in Young Adult Women
Authors: Lloyd Rachel , Pirikahu Sarah , Walter Jane , Cadby Gemma , Warrington Nicole , Perera Dilukshi , Hickey Martha , Saunders Christobel , Hackmann Michael , Sampson David D. , Shepherd John , Lilge Lothar , Stone Jennifer
Published: July 2024

Breast density is a strong intermediate endpoint to investigate the association between early-life exposures and breast cancer risk. This study investigates the association between early-life growth and breast density in young adult women measured using Optical Breast Spectroscopy (OBS) and Dual X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). OBS measurements were obtained for 536 female Raine Cohort Study participants at ages 27–28, with 268 completing DXA measurements. Participants with three or more height and weight measurements from ages 8 to 22 were used to generate linear growth curves for height, weight and body mass index (BMI) using SITAR modelling. Three growth parameters (size, velocity and timing) were examined for association with breast density measures, adjusting for potential confounders. Women who reached their peak height rapidly (velocity) and later in adolescence (timing) had lower OBS-breast density. Overall, women who were taller (size) had higher OBS-breast density. For weight, women who grew quickly (velocity) and later in adolescence (timing) had higher absolute DXA-breast density. Overall, weight (size) was also inversely associated with absolute DXA-breast density, as was BMI. These findings provide new evidence that adolescent growth is associated with breast density measures in young adult women, suggesting potential mediation pathways for breast cancer risk in later life.
Breast Cancer Patient’s Outcomes after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Surgery at 5 and 10 Years for Stage II–III Disease
Authors: Falo Catalina , Azcarate Juan , Fernandez-Gonzalez Sergi , Perez Xavier , Petit Ana , Perez Héctor , Vethencourt Andrea , Vazquez Silvia , Laplana Maria , Ales Miriam , Stradella Agostina , Fullana Bartomeu , Pla Maria J. , Gumà Anna , Ortega Raul , Varela Mar , Pérez Diana , Ponton Jose Luis , Cobo Sara , Benitez Ana , Campos Miriam , Fernández Adela , Villanueva Rafael , Obadia Veronica , Recalde Sabela , Soler-Monsó Teresa , Lopez-Ojeda Ana , Martinez Evelyn , Ponce Jordi , Pernas Sonia , Gil-Gil Miguel , Garcia-Tejedor Amparo
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer offers the possibility to facilitate breast and axillary surgery; it is a test of chemosensibility in vivo with significant prognostic value and may be used to tailor adjuvant treatment according to the response. Material and Methods: A retrospective single-institution cohort of 482 stage II and III breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on anthracycline and taxans, plus antiHEr2 in Her2-positive cases, was studied. Survival was calculated at 5 and 10 years. Kaplan–Meier curves with a log-rank test were calculated for differences according to age, BRCA status, menopausal status, TNM, pathological and molecular surrogate subtype, 20% TIL cut-off, surgical procedure, response to chemotherapy and the presence of vascular invasion. Results: The pCR rate was 25.3% and was greater in HER2 (51.3%) and TNBC (31.7%) and in BRCA carriers (41.9%). The factors independently related to patient survival were pathology and molecular surrogate subtype, type of surgery, response to NACT and vascular invasion. BRCA status was a protective prognostic factor without reaching statistical significance, with an HR 0.5 (95%CI 0.1–1.4). Mastectomy presented a double risk of distant recurrence compared to breast-conservative surgery (BCS), supporting BCS as a safe option after NACT. After a mean follow-up of 126 (SD 43) months, luminal tumors presented a substantial difference in survival rates calculated at 5 or 10 years (81.2% compared to 74.7%), whereas that for TNBC was 75.3 and 73.5, respectively. The greatest difference was seen according to the response in patients with pCR, who exhibited a 10 years DDFS of 95.5% vs. 72.4% for those patients without pCR, p < 0001. This difference was especially meaningful in TNBC: the 10 years DDFS according to an RCB of 0 to 3 was 100%, 80.6%, 69% and 49.2%, respectively, p < 0001. Patients with a particularly poor prognosis were those with lobular carcinomas, with a 10 years DDFS of 42.9% vs. 79.7% for ductal carcinomas, p = 0.001, and patients with vascular invasion at the surgical specimen, with a 10 years DDFS of 59.2% vs. 83.6% for those patients without vascular invasion, p < 0.001. Remarkably, BRCA carriers presented a longer survival, with an estimated 10 years DDFS of 89.6% vs. 77.2% for non-carriers, p = 0.054. Conclusions: Long-term outcomes after neoadjuvant chemotherapy can help patients and clinicians make well-informed decisions.
Role of Lutetium Radioligand Therapy in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Książek Ignacy , Ligęza Artur , Drzymała Franciszek , Borek Adam , Miszczyk Marcin , Francuz Marcin Radosław , Matsukawa Akihiro , Yanagisawa Takafumi , Fazekas Tamás , Zapała Łukasz , Rajwa Paweł
Published: July 2024

Theranostics utilize ligands that chelate radionuclides and selectively bind with cancer-specific membrane antigens. In the case of prostate cancer (PCa), the state-of-the-art lutetium-177-PSMA combines the radioactive β-emitter 177Lu with Vipivotide Tetraxetan, a prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-binding ligand. Several studies have been conducted, and the therapy is not without adverse effects (e.g., xerostomia, nausea, and fatigue); however, few events are reported as severe. The available evidence supports the use of 177Lu-PSMA in selected metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients, and the treatment is considered a standard of care in several clinical scenarios. Emerging research shows promising results in the setting of hormone-sensitive prostate cancer; however, evidence from high-quality controlled trials is still missing. In this review, we discuss the available evidence for the application of 177Lu-PSMA in the management of PCa patients.
Nanoparticles in Catalysis
Authors: Modestov Alexander D. , Grinberg Vitali A.
Published: July 2024

Nanoparticles (NPs) are defined as objects with dimensions ranging from 10−9 to 10−7 m [...]
Remote Coastal Weed Infestation Management Using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Kininmonth Stuart , Spencer Kerry , Hill Amie , Sjerp Eric , Bangay Jethro
Published: July 2024

The increasing prevalence of species that are detrimental to biodiversity is a major concern, particularly for managers of national parks. To develop effective programmes for controlling weeds, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the extent and severity of infestations, as well as the contributing factors such as temperature, rainfall, and disturbance. Predicting these factors on a regional scale requires models that can incorporate a wide range of variables in a quantifiable manner, while also assisting with on-ground operations. In this study, we present two Bayesian Network models specifically designed for six significant weed species found along the southern coast of Australia. Our models are based on empirical data collected during a coastal weed survey conducted in 2015 and repeated in 2016. We applied these models to the coastal national parks in the isolated and pristine East Gippsland region. Importantly, the prediction models were developed at two different spatial scales that directly corresponded to the scale of the observations. Our findings indicate that coastal habitats, with their vulnerable environments and prevalence of open dune systems, are particularly susceptible to weed infestations. Moreover, adjacent regions also have the potential for colonization if these infestations are not effectively controlled. Climate-related factors play a role in moderating the potential for colonization, which is a significant concern for weed control efforts in the context of global climate change.
Advanced Method for Improving Marine Target Tracking Based on Multiple-Plot Processing of Radar Images
Authors: Vo Xung Ha , Nguyen Trung Kien , Nguyen Phung Bao , Duong Van Minh
Published: July 2024

Advancements in technology have led to the development of high-resolution radars that provide highly detailed images of targets over a wide field of view. These radar images can significantly improve filtering and tracking accuracy, especially in marine environments. However, traditional methods like the binary and barycentric methods are inadequate, as they do not capture critical information for tracking targets, such as direction. Therefore, in this article, a new method for improving the estimation of target characteristics to improve tracking accuracy based on the processing of high-resolution radar images is proposed. The proposed method consists of three modules. Firstly, the radar images of the target are decomposed into layers to determine local maximum regions and to estimate target characteristics such as reflected energy and area and the centroids of plots. In the second module, the plots are grouped using a fuzzy logic system. The inputs of the fuzzy logic system include the above-estimated parameters of the targets. The output is the chance that the plot is at the center of the target. The plots with the highest chances are considered target centers, and the other plots are grouped into their respective target. At the end, the true target center is recalculated. This process is called modified fuzzy C-means (FCM-M). In the last stage, the estimated target center coordinates are fed into a Kalman filter (KF) to solve filtering and tracking problems. The performance is evaluated using a measured radar dataset. The experimental results show that the proposed method performs better than traditional methods based on binary image processing. Additionally, the proposed method offers extra information about the targets, such as their direction, the energy of each reflected part, and the area, which traditional methods does not provide.
Functional Traits Affect the Contribution of Individual Species to Beta Diversity in the Tropical Karst Seasonal Rainforest of South China
Authors: Wang Yanping , Wang Bing , Li Jianxing , Lu Fang , Tao Wanglan , Li Dongxing , Guo Yili , Tang Nianwu , Li Xiankun , Xiang Wusheng
Published: July 2024

In a community, due to the different characteristics of each species, their contributions to community beta diversity may vary. Quantifying the contribution of each species to overall beta diversity (SCBD) is essential for explaining the patterns of beta diversity. However, there is currently limited research linking SCBD with species functional traits, and how species functional traits influence SCBD remains unclear. This study is based on tree census data, species functional traits, and environmental variables from a 15 ha permanent monitoring plot in a tropical karst rainforest in south China. By calculating species-specific SCBD based on abundance and presence–absence data, as well as functional distinctiveness and species ecological niche characteristics (niche position and niche width), we applied structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze how functional traits, distinctiveness, and niche characteristics jointly influence SCBD. The results revealed that SCBD based on abundance is positively correlated with occupancy and abundance, whereas SCBD based on presence–absence data exhibits a hump-shaped relationship with occupancy and abundance. Species ecological niche characteristics directly influence SCBD, with species occupying central ecological niches having a negative effect on SCBD and niche width having a positive effect. Functional traits and functional distinctiveness indirectly impact SCBD through their influence on species ecological niche characteristics. SEM models based on the presence–absence data provide higher explanatory power. In summary, in the seasonal rainforest communities of northern tropical karst regions in China, the combined effects of species’ functional traits, functional distinctiveness, and ecological niche characteristics determine SCBD. This not only contributes to a deeper understanding of how species traits influence β-diversity, making SCBD a more applicable tool for biodiversity conservation, but also allows for the development of more effective biodiversity protection strategies by elucidating the link between SCBD and ecosystem multifunctionality.
Analysis of Long-Term Vegetation Trends and Their Climatic Driving Factors in Equatorial Africa
Authors: Nooni Isaac Kwesi , Ogou Faustin Katchele , Prempeh Nana Agyemang , Saidou Chaibou Abdoul Aziz , Hagan Daniel Fiifi Tawiah , Jin Zhongfang , Lu Jiao
Published: July 2024

Understanding vegetation seasonality and its driving mechanisms improves decision-making in the management of ecological systems in a warming global climate. Using multiple statistical methods (i.e., trend analysis, abrupt changes, and partial correlation analysis), this study analyzed the spatiotemporal variations in the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in the Equatorial Africa (EQA) region and their responses to climate factors from 1982 to 2021. The NDVI values declined at a rate of 0.00023 year−1, while the precipitation (P) and mean temperature (TMEAN) values increased at rates of 0.22 mm year−1 and 0.22 °C year−1, respectively. The mean minimum temperature (TMIN) had a higher rate of 0.2 °C year−1 than the mean maximum temperature (TMAX) at 0.02 °C year−1. An abrupt change analysis showed that the TMAX, P, and NDVI breakpoints occurred in 2000, 2002, and 2009, respectively; TMEAN and TMIN breakpoints occurred in 2001. The NDVI trends declined in forest and cropland areas but increased in shrubland and grassland areas. The summer NDVI trends declined for all vegetation types and were reversed in the winter season. The NDVI positively correlated with the P (r = 0.50) and TMEAN (r = 0.60). All seasonal analyses varied across four seasons. A temporal analysis was conducted using partial correlation analysis (PCR), and the results revealed that TMIN had a greater impact on the NDVI (PCR = −0.45), followed by the TMAX (PCR = 0.31) and then the P (PCR = −0.19). The annual trend showed that areas with significant greening were consistent with stronger wetter and weaker warming trends. Both precipitation and temperature showed a positive relationship with vegetation in semi-arid and arid regions but a negative relationship with humid regions. Our findings improve our insight into scientific knowledge on ecological conservation.
Disturbance Effect of Highway Construction on Vegetation in Hexi Corridor, North-Western China
Authors: Han Zhenhua , Zhang Luqing , Zhang Fenxiang , Zhou Jian , Wang Song
Published: July 2024

The ecological environment of the Hexi Corridor in China is fragile owing to its unique geographical conditions. Since the 21st century, the construction of highway projects in the Hexi Corridor has increased with the implementation of China’s western development policy. The impact of highway construction on vegetation along roads is uncertain and requires attention. In this study, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was obtained based on remote sensing data, and the correlations between the vegetation index, climate changes, and highway construction from 2000 to 2019 were analyzed. The results showed that the NDVI of the Hexi Corridor showed a significant increasing trend, and the spatial difference was obvious, which was largely controlled by climatic conditions. Generally, the vegetation index was negatively correlated with temperature, but positively correlated with precipitation, and the correlation between the NDVI and precipitation was greater than that of temperature. The impact of highways on vegetation is a long-term process. In the eastern region of the Hexi Corridor, where the ecological environment is better, highway construction promoted vegetation development. However, in the western region with high desertification, the damage caused by highway construction to vegetation was serious, and the recovery rate of degraded vegetation was slow after the completion of highway construction. Although the vegetation development in the Hexi Corridor was mainly affected by precipitation, in the western region, highway construction was the main factor controlling vegetation disturbance within a certain range on both sides, and its contribution to vegetation disturbance reached 60%. The research results can improve understanding of the disturbance effect of highway construction on vegetation in arid areas.
Individual Tree Identification and Segmentation in Pinus spp. Stands through Portable LiDAR
Authors: Solares-Canal Ana , Alonso Laura , Picos Juan , Armesto Julia
Published: July 2024

Forest inventories are essential for sustainable forest management. In inventories at the tree level, all the information is linked to individuals: species, diameter, height, or spatial distribution, for example. Currently, the implementation of Portable LiDAR (PLS) is being studied, aiming to digitalize forest environments and increase the reliability of forest observations. Performing automatic individual tree identification (ITD) and segmentation (ITS) is essential for the operational implementation of PLS in forestry. Multiple algorithms have been developed for performing these tasks in LiDAR point clouds. Their performance varies according to the LiDAR system and the characteristics of the stand. In this study, the performance of several ITD and ITS algorithms is analyzed in very high-density PLS point clouds in Pinus species stands with a varying presence of understory, shrubs, and branches. The results showed that ITD methods based on finding trunks are more suitable for tree identification in regular stands with no understory. In the ITS process, the methods evaluated are highly conditioned by the presence of understory and branches. The results of this comparison help to identify the most suitable algorithm to be applied to these types of stands, and hence, they might enhance the operability of PLS systems.
The Impact of Artificial Afforestation on the Soil Microbial Community and Function in Desertified Areas of NW China
Authors: Li Yan , Jiang Lamei , Yuan Hongfei , Li Eryang , Yang Xiaodong
Published: July 2024

Afforestation is a widely used method of controlling desertification globally as it significantly impacts the soil quality, microbial community structure, and function. Investigating the effects of various artificial vegetation restoration models on soil microbial communities is crucial in understanding the mechanisms involved in combating desertification. However, research on this topic in arid, desertified regions is limited. In this study, we collected soil samples from two types of artificial forests (single species and mixed species) and bare desert soils in desertified areas of Northwest China to explore the impact of afforestation on soil nutrients, the microbial community composition, network relationships, and carbohydrate degradation abilities using metagenomic sequencing techniques. Our findings indicate that afforestation significantly enhances the soil moisture, total carbon, available phosphorus, and total nitrogen levels. The soil under mixed-species forests exhibited significantly higher levels of total carbon, total phosphorus, available phosphorus, and total nitrogen than that under single-species forests. Following afforestation, the populations of Pseudomonadota, Acidobacteriota, and Cyanobacteria increased significantly, whereas Actinomycetota decreased markedly. In single-species forests, Pseudomonadota and Bacillota were enriched, whereas Chloroflexota, Planctomycetota, and Acidobacteriota were more prevalent in mixed-species plantations. Afforestation increases the complexity and stability of microbial community networks. Afforestation enhances microbial metabolic activity, particularly increasing the abundance of carbon degradation functional genes in forest soils compared to bare desert soils. Mixed-species plantations outperform single-species forests in enhancing carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and the biodegradation and metabolism of xenobiotics. The abundance of functional genes associated with the degradation of starch, cellulose, hemicellulose, chitin, and pectin in mixed-species forests was significantly greater than in single-species plantations. Our study shows that mixed-species afforestation effectively improves the soil quality, enhances the stability of soil microbial communities, and bolsters the carbon cycle in arid regions prone to desertification. The reciprocal relationship between microorganisms and plants may serve as an intrinsic mechanism by which mixed-species afforestation more effectively controls desertification.
Digital Transformation in the Construction Sector: Blockchain, BIM and SSI for a More Sustainable and Transparent System
Authors: Cocco Luisanna , Tonelli Roberto
Published: July 2024

This article presents a model built for deep digitalization in the construction industry and for making building information modeling achieve a greater level of transparency, verifiability and effectiveness for the benefit of all stakeholders. Thanks to blockchain and the self-sovereign identity paradigm, the model guarantees data integrity and transaction reliability, enabling the generation of more efficient and productive businesses. The model includes a decentralized application for notarization of the information flow in building information modeling processes; the application is implemented and tested on a local blockchain. The proposed model represents a so-called digital twin and is, hence, a huge system that manages all the information flow associated with a building throughout its life cycle, returning to individuals the control of their own data. In this model, all stakeholders operate based on so-called decentralized identifiers and DID documents, which store on-chain the fingerprints of the information flow in a common data environment.
Experiments on a Mine System Subjected to Ascensional Airflow Fire and Countermeasures for Mine Fire Control
Authors: Zhang Mingqian , Li Zongxiang
Published: July 2024

The disorder and disaster evolution characteristics of ascensional airflow fires in mine ventilation systems has been the focus of mine fire research. In this work, through repeated experiments, the variation characteristics of the temperature and air volume in the main and side branches of an ascensional airflow fire were obtained under different ventilation capacities. Using the TF1M(3D) software to solve the problems of mine physical ventilation and combined with the analysis of an example, the variation in the ascensional airflow fire and the process of disordered airflow in the ventilation system in an entire area mine were described in detail. Fire combustion served as the power source for uncontrolled energy release, and its fire pressure interacted with the thermal resistance of the mine ventilation, directly causing airflow disorder. As the fire intensified, the ascensional airflow fire caused the airflow in the side branch to decrease, stagnate, or reverse. Improving the fan supply capacity can not only help reduce the increase in the ventilation thermal resistance of the side branch but also help avoid the airflow reversal of the side branch. From the regular variation characteristics, the theoretical results were found to be in good agreement with the experimental results.
Strategic Synergies: Unveiling the Interplay of Game Theory and Cultural Dynamics in a Globalized World
Authors: Wang Yufei , Morkūnas Mangirdas , Wei Jinzhao
Published: July 2024

This literature review focuses on cultural-related studies and game theory. First of all, it analyzes how social dynamics and strategic interactions can be shaped by different cultural environments. Secondly, it examines how cultural norms can affect strategic decision making and how game theory could predict cooperations and conflicts. Overall, this study aims to highlight the applicability of game theory in the modeling of cultural transformation and its interaction with behavioral economics. Moreover, this study also attempts to underscore the significance of game theory and cultural diversity in communication methods, plus the process of policy formulation. In addition to the above topics, the robustness of cross-cultural social norms, the economic study of different cultural heritage, and the cultural effects of tourism under game theory are also focal points of this study. Finally, this review delves into how game theory can represent social interactions, emphasizing the need to incorporate extensive cultural knowledge in order to enhance the efficacy of game-theoretic model’s applications.
Optimizing the Deployment of an Aerial Base Station and the Phase-Shift of a Ground Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface for Wireless Communication Systems Using Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Kabore Wendenda Nathanael , Juang Rong-Terng , Lin Hsin-Piao , Tesfaw Belayneh Abebe , Tarekegn Getaneh Berie
Published: July 2024

In wireless networks, drone base stations (DBSs) offer significant benefits in terms of Quality of Service (QoS) improvement due to their line-of-sight (LoS) transmission capabilities and adaptability. However, LoS links can suffer degradation in complex propagation environments, especially in urban areas with dense structures like buildings. As a promising technology to enhance the wireless communication networks, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) have emerged in various Internet of Things (IoT) applications by adjusting the amplitude and phase of reflected signals, thereby improving signal strength and network efficiency. This study aims to propose a novel approach to enhance communication coverage and throughput for mobile ground users by intelligently leveraging signal reflection from DBSs using ground-based RIS. We employ Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) to optimize both the DBS location and RIS phase-shifts. Numerical results demonstrate significant improvements in system performance, including communication quality and network throughput, validating the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Experimental Study of Avalanche Damage Protection Methods for Main Steel Gas Pipelines
Authors: Zhangabay Nurlan , Ibraimova Ulzhan , Tursunkululy Timur , Buganova Svetlana , Moldagaliev Arman , Duissenbekov Bolat
Published: July 2024

This paper conducted an experimental study of reduced models of a main gas pipeline for avalanche damage considering operational conditions. Two options were considered as a method of avalanche damage prevention: single steel rings at the crack edges and steel winding with a winding pitch of 0.25 m. For the tension force, 5% of the steel wire breaking force was taken, which was equal to 1 mm. The ambient environment was simulated by a climatic chamber, where two options of temperature loads were considered: +20 °C and −10 °C. It was found that reinforcement with single rings of pipeline models under conditions of positive (+20 °C) and negative (−10 °C) temperatures showed that the crack opening width in the ring direction decreased 1.63 times and 1.9 times, accordingly. The crack length (longitudinal direction) decreased 2.18 times and 2.45 times, accordingly. The reinforcement of the pipeline models with prestressed wire winding on the crack propagation under conditions of positive (+20 °C) and negative (−10 °C) temperatures showed that the width of the crack opening in the ring direction decreased 1.5 times and 1.46 times, accordingly. The crack length (longitudinal direction) decreased 1.4 times and 1.44 times accordingly, which is a positive moment in addressing the issue of the localisation and stoppage of a crack fracture in main gas pipelines. Simultaneously, the analysis of the prestressed pipelines model test results on crack fracture propagation showed that single rings are more effective, which decreased the crack opening width by 1.1 times and the crack length up to 1.5. Therefore, the experimental results obtained positively complement the available methods of crack localisation in main gas pipelines, which can be used by engineers and research communities when designing or reinforcing existing operating main steel gas pipelines.
Antifungal Hybrid Graphene–Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides Aerogels with an Ionic Liquid Additive as Innovative Absorbers for Preventive Conservation of Cultural Heritage
Authors: Gorgolis George , Kotsidi Maria , Messina Elena , Mazzurco Miritana Valentina , Di Carlo Gabriella , Nhuch Elsa Lesaria , Martins Leal Schrekker Clarissa , Cuty Jeniffer Alves , Schrekker Henri Stephan , Paterakis George , Androulidakis Charalampos , Koutroumanis Nikos , Galiotis Costas
Published: July 2024

The use and integration of novel materials are increasingly becoming vital tools in the field of preventive conservation of cultural heritage. Chemical factors, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), but also environmental factors such as high relative humidity, can lead to degradation, oxidation, yellowing, and fading of the works of art. To prevent these phenomena, highly porous materials have been developed for the absorption of VOCs and for controlling the relative humidity. In this work, graphene and transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) were combined to create three-dimensional aerogels that absorb certain harmful substances. More specifically, the addition of the TMDs molybdenum disulfide and tungsten disulfide in such macrostructures led to the selective absorption of ammonia. Moreover, the addition of the ionic liquid 1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride promoted higher rates of VOCs absorption and anti-fungal activity against the fungus Aspergillus niger. These two-dimensional materials outperform benchmark porous absorbers in the absorption of all the examined VOCs, such as ammonia, formic acid, acetic acid, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde. Consequently, they can be used by museums, galleries, or even storage places for the perpetual protection of works of art.
The Influence of Hybridization of Epoxy–Glass Laminates Modified with Metal Oxides and Graphite Particles
Authors: Drenda Cezary , Nosal Przemysław , Badura Kamil , Bazan Patrycja
Published: July 2024

This study examined the impact of hybridization on the mechanical properties of glass–epoxy laminates by incorporating metal oxides and graphite particles into the resin matrix. Basic mechanical tests were conducted, followed by accelerated thermal aging tests. Results showed an increase in bending strength ranging from 12% to almost 30% depending on the used additive. Static tensile tests indicated a 10% increase in strength for materials modified with flake graphite. Accelerated aging tests resulted in a 20% decrease in elastic modulus and 10% decrease in tensile strength. Additives did not improve tensile strength but increased stiffness by 30% for laminates with flake graphite. Fatigue and conductivity tests were also performed, revealing enhanced thermal conductivity and reduced impedance in materials modified with graphite flakes. The study suggests that additives can enhance the mechanical properties of glass–epoxy laminates, making them suitable for applications in automotive and aerospace industries.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Multilayered Ti-Based Bulk Metallic Glass Composites Containing Various Thicknesses of Ti-Rich Laminates
Authors: Lin Shifeng , Zhang Lei , Lin Rushan , Zhu Zhengwang , Zhang Haifeng
Published: July 2024

In order to optimize the balance between strength and toughness, a series of multilayered Ti-based bulk metallic glass composites (BMGCs) with varying thicknesses of Ti-rich layers were successfully fabricated. The findings reveal that with an increase in the thickness of the Ti-rich layers, both the flexural yield strength and ultimate strength decreased from 2066 MPa and 2717 MPa to 668 MPa and 1163 MPa, respectively. Conversely, there was a noticeable increase in flexural strain. The fracture toughness of these multilayered Ti-based BMGCs decreased as the thickness of the Ti-rich layers increased; nevertheless, it stabilized at approximately 80 MPa·m1/2 when the thickness reached 100 μm. It was observed that a shift in the dominant deformation mode may be accountable for this phenomenon. These noteworthy characteristics suggest that adjusting the thickness of Ti-rich layers in multilayered BMGCs can effectively optimize mechanical performance, shedding light on the manufacturing of novel BMGCs with high performance.
Application of Engineered Nanomaterials as Nanocatalysts in Catalytic Ozonation: A Review
Authors: Cardoso Rita M. F. , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C. G. , Pinto da Silva Luís
Published: July 2024

Given the growing scarcity of water and the continuous increase in emerging pollutants detected in water bodies, there is an imperative need to develop new, more effective, and sustainable treatments for wastewater. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are considered a competitive technology for water treatment. Specifically, ozonation has received notable attention as a promising approach for degrading organic pollutants in wastewater. However, different groups of pollutants are hardly degradable via single ozonation. With continuous development, it has been shown that using engineered nanomaterials as nanocatalysts in catalytic ozonation can increase efficiency by turning this process into a low-selective AOP for pollutant degradation. Nanocatalysts promote ozone decomposition and form active free radicals responsible for increasing the degradation and mineralization of pollutants. This work reviews the performances of different nanomaterials as homogeneous and heterogeneous nanocatalysts in catalytic ozonation. This review focuses on applying metal- and carbon-based engineered nanomaterials as nanocatalysts in catalytic ozonation and on identifying the main future directions for using this type of AOP toward wastewater treatment.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Gelatin–Chitosan Biofilms Incorporating Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and 5-Fluorouracil for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kaliyaperumal Viswanathan , Rajasekaran Srilekha , Kanniah Rajkumar , Gopal Dhinakaraj , Ayyakannu Sundaram Ganeshraja , Kumar Alagarsamy Santhana Krishna
Published: July 2024

In this study, a novel multifunctional biofilm was fabricated using a straightforward casting process. The biofilm comprised gelatin, chitosan, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles, and polyvinyl alcohol plasticized with glycerol. The 5-FU-conjugated nanoparticles were synthesized via a single-step co-precipitation process, offering a unique approach. Characterization confirmed successful drug conjugation, revealing bar-shaped nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 90 to 100 nm. Drug release kinetics followed the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, indicating controlled release behavior. Maximum swelling ratio studies of the gelatin–chitosan film showed pH-dependent characteristics, highlighting its versatility. Comprehensive analysis using SEM, FT-IR, Raman, and EDX spectra confirmed the presence of gelatin, chitosan, and 5-FU/ZnO nanoparticles within the biofilms. These biofilms exhibited non-cytotoxicity to human fibroblasts and significant anticancer activity against skin cancer cells, demonstrating their potential for biomedical applications. This versatility positions the 5-FU/ZnO-loaded sheets as promising candidates for localized topical patches in skin and oral cancer treatment, underscoring their practicality and adaptability for therapeutic applications.