bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
More or Less: Recent Advances in Lignin Accumulation and Regulation in Horticultural Crops
Authors: Wang Guang-Long , Wu Jia-Qi , Chen Yang-Yang , Xu Yu-Jie , Zhou Cheng-Ling , Hu Zhen-Zhu , Ren Xu-Qin , Xiong Ai-Sheng
Published: November 2023

Lignin is an important secondary metabolite that maintains the mechanical strength of horticultural plants and enhances their ability to respond to external environmental changes such as biotic and abiotic stresses. However, excessive accumulation of lignin can lead to lignification of horticultural products, reducing their taste quality and nutritional value. Therefore, the lignin content of horticultural products needs to be controlled at a reasonable level, and studying and regulating lignin metabolism is very meaningful work. This article focuses on the synthesis, accumulation, and regulation of lignin in horticultural crops in recent years, provides a systematic analysis of its molecular mechanism and application prospects, and sheds insights into the directions that need further research in the future. This article provides an important basis for the regulation of lignin accumulation and lignification in horticultural crops and proposes new ideas for improving the quality of horticultural crops.
Establishment of Alfalfa Intercropped under Corn in Response to Varying Rates of Prohexadione with or without Fungicide Plus Insecticide
Authors: Grabber John H. , Dias José Luiz C. S. , Renz Mark J.
Published: November 2023

Establishment of interseeded alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) under corn (Zea mays L.) silage is enhanced with foliar applications of prohexadione (PHD) followed by fungicide plus insecticide (FI), but the lowest effective rates must be determined. We evaluated stand characteristics of alfalfa interseeded into corn at Arlington, Wisconsin, USA in response to PHD applied at 0 to 0.423 kg a.e. ha−1 followed two weeks later with FI (none vs. 0.147 kg a.i. ha−1 fluxapyroxad-pyraclostrobin plus 0.018 kg a.i. ha−1 lambda-cyhalothrin). Application of PHD reduced etiolation, while FI treatment increased plant health and vigor. Following corn harvest, non-treated alfalfa stands averaged 4.2 plants m−2 and 1.2% groundcover under wet growing conditions in 2019 compared with 71.3 plants m−2 and 15.9% groundcover under normal growing conditions in 2020. Stand density in 2019 reached 130 plants m−2 but failed to plateau with combined PHD-FI treatments, while in 2020, stand density averaged 177 plants m−2 with FI regardless of the PHD rate. Alfalfa groundcover plateaued at 63% in 2019 and 71% in 2020 when 0.16 to 0.30 kg a.e. PHD ha−1 was applied prior to FI. The results indicate that FI enables excellent alfalfa establishment under normal conditions, but both PHD and FI should be applied during wet growing conditions.
Effect of Fasted Live-Weight Gain during the Cashmere Non-Growing Period on Cashmere Production Performance and Secondary Hair Follicle Activity of Cashmere Goats
Authors: Li Junxia , Xing Wenhui , Gegen Tana , Zhang Chunxiang , Ren Youshe , Yang Chunhe
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of fasted live-weight gain during the cashmere non-growing period on cashmere production performance and secondary hair follicle activity, to provide a theoretical basis for appropriate supplementary feeding of cashmere goats. Fifty Inner Mongolian cashmere goats aged 2–4 years old were randomly selected and weighed in May and September 2019, respectively. Based on fasted live-weight gain between the two weights, the experimental ewe goats were divided into two groups: 0–5.0 kg group (n = 30) and 5.0–10.0 kg group (n = 20). Skin samples and cashmere samples were collected. Results of a Pearson correlation analysis showed that fasted live-weight gain during the cashmere non-growing period had a moderate and strong positive correlation with cashmere yield (p = 0.021) and cashmere staple length (p = 0.002), respectively, but did not correlate with cashmere diameter (p = 0.254). Compared with cashmere goats with a fasted live-weight gain of 0–5.0 kg, cashmere goats with a fasted live-weight gain of 5.0–10.0 kg had a 17.10% increase in cashmere yield (p = 0.037) and an 8.09% increase in cashmere staple length (p = 0.045), but had no significant difference in cashmere diameter (p = 0.324). Results of a Pearson correlation analysis showed that there was a strong positive correlation between fasted live-weight gain and the population of active secondary hair follicles in the skin of cashmere goats (p < 0.01). Compared with cashmere goats with a fasted live-weight gain of 0–5.0 kg, cashmere goats with a fasted live-weight gain of 5.0–10.0 kg had an increase in the population of active secondary hair follicles (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the fasted live-weight gain during the cashmere non-growing period had a significant effect on secondary hair follicle activity and cashmere production performance in cashmere goats. Since fasted live-weight gain reflects nutritional level to a certain extent, this study suggests that nutritional manipulations such as supplementary feeding during cashmere non-growing periods can increase cashmere production performance. However, specific nutritional manipulations during the cashmere non-growing period need further research to increase cashmere production performance.
Correction: Fang et al. Gandouling Mitigates CuSO4-Induced Heart Injury in Rats. Animals 2022, 12, 2703
Authors: Fang Shuzhen , Yang Wenming , Zhang Kangyi , Peng Chuanyi
Published: November 2023

In the original publication [...]
MethylRAD Sequencing Technology Reveals DNA Methylation Characteristics of Apostichopus japonicus of Different Ages
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Han Lingshu , Ye Qi , Wang Hao , Zhang Jinyuan , Wang Wenpei , Xiao Haoran , Wang Yongjie , Wang Luo , Ding Jun
Published: November 2023

The A. japonicus industry has expanded significantly, but no research has focused on determining the age of A. japonicus during farming. Correctly estimating the age of A. japonicus can provide a decision-making basis for the breeding process and data for the protection of A. japonicus aquatic germplasm resources. DNA methylation levels in the body wall of Apostichopus japonicus at 4 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years old were determined using MethylRAD-Seq, and differentially methylated genes were screened. A total of 441 and 966 differentially methylated genes were detected at the CCGG and CCWGG sites, respectively. Aspartate aminotransferase, succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, the histone H2AX, heat shock protein Hsp90, aminopeptidase N, cell division cycle CDC6, Ras GTPase activating protein (RasGAP), slit guidance ligand slit1, integrin-linked kinase ILK, mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase Mtor, protein kinase A Pka, and autophagy-related 3 atg3 genes may play key roles in the growth and aging process of A. japonicus. This study provides valuable information regarding age-related genes for future research, and these candidate genes can be used to create an “epigenetic clock”.
Effect of Lemon (Citrus limon, L.) Peel Powder on Oocyst Shedding, Intestinal Health, and Performance of Broilers Exposed to E. tenella Challenge
Authors: Hafeez Abdul , Ahmad Israr , Naz Shabana , Alonaizan Rasha , Al-akeel Rasha K. , Khan Rifat Ullah , Tufarelli Vincenzo
Published: November 2023

To date, no study has reported the anticoccidial effect of lemon peel powder in broilers. Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species, is the prevalent enteric parasitic disease in poultry. Although certain chemical drugs have been used for their control, concerns regarding drug residues and the development of resistance in chickens have arisen among consumers. In this study, a total of 300 Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into five groups (five equal replicates of 12 animals). The first group served as the control and did not receive any specific treatment (NC). The second group, referred to as the positive control (PC) group, was deliberately exposed to Eimeria tenella. The third group was challenged with E. tenella and also received treatment with amprolium (1 g/kg) and was designated as AT. The fourth and fifth groups were challenged with E. tenella and simultaneously supplemented with lemon peel powder at a dosage of 3 g/kg (LPP3) and 6 g/kg (LPP6). Sporulated E. tenella oocysts (5 × 104/mL bird) on day 22 of the experiment were administered to the infected broiler chickens. The results indicated that in comparison with the NC, all Eimeria-treated birds exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) lower growth performance. However, a notable improvement was observed when infected birds also received a supplement of LPP3 and LPP6 in their feed. Both LPP3 and LPP6 supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) reduced mortality, lesion scores, and oocyst per gram (OPG) of feces compared with the PC group. Additionally, the histological features of the cecum revealed that villus height, villus width, and crypt depth were partially restored under supplementation with LPP3 and LPP6 in the infected birds. Overall, the results demonstrate that Eimeria-infected birds supplemented with LPP3 and LPP6 exhibited improved growth performance, reduced OPG, lowered intestinal coccidiosis lesion scores, and enhanced intestinal histological features.
Methicillin Resistance Increased the Risk of Treatment Failure in Native Joint Septic Arthritis Caused by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Kim Jungok , Park So Yeon , Sohn Kyung Mok , Kim Bomi , Joo Eun-Jeong
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to compare clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with native joint septic arthritis (NJSA) due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in comparison to methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and identify treatment failure risk factors. We conducted a multi-center retrospective study on adult NJSA patients at three teaching hospitals in South Korea from 2005 to 2017. Among 101 patients diagnosed with S. aureus NJSA, 39 (38.6%) had MRSA strains. Compared to MSSA, patients with MRSA had a higher prevalence of nosocomial infections (17.9% vs. 1.6%; p = 0.005) and received inappropriate antibiotics within 48 h more frequently (74.4% vs. 0%; p < 0.001). In total, twenty patients (19.8%) experienced treatment failure, which encompassed five patients (5.0%) who passed away, nine (8.9%) requiring repeated surgical drainage after 30 days of antibiotic therapy, and seven (6.9%) with relapse. The MRSA group showed a higher rate of overall treatment failure (33.3% vs. 11.3%; p = 0.007) with a notably increased frequency of requiring repeated surgical interventions after 30 days of antibiotic therapy (17.9% vs. 3.2%, p = 0.026), in contrast to the MSSA group. Independent risk factors for treatment failure included Charlson comorbidity score, elevated CRP levels, and methicillin resistance. Methicillin resistance is an independent risk factor for treatment failure, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and targeted interventions in MRSA-related NJSA cases.
Prognostics of Electromechanical Actuator with Partial Time Scaling Invariant Temporal Alignment
Authors: Eid Alexandre , Clerc Guy , Mansouri Badr
Published: November 2023

In today’s industrial environment, effectively monitoring assets throughout their entire lifetime is essential. Prognostic and Health Management (PHM) is a powerful tool that enables users to achieve this goal. Recently, sensor-equipped actuator electrification has been introduced to capture intrinsic key system variables as time series. This data flow has opened up new possibilities for extracting essential maintenance information. To leverage the full potential of these data, we have developed a novel algorithm for time series registration, which serves as the core of a new similarity-based prognostic method in a PHM context: Partial Time Scaling Invariant Temporal Alignment for Remaining Useful Life Estimation (PARTITA-RULE). Our algorithm transforms acceleration signals into a subset of descriptors for a new actuator, creating a time series. We can extract valuable maintenance information by aligning this time series with the one already labeled from past behaviors of the same actuator’s family of heterogeneous sizes and robust scaling factors. The unique aspect of our method is that we do not need to inject prior knowledge for registration intervals at this stage. Once the unknown series is aligned with all possible candidates, we create a weighting scheme to assign a relevance score with an uncertainty measurement for each aligned pair. Finally, we compute interpolants on the Wasserstein space to obtain the asset’s Remaining Useful Life (RUL). It is important to note that a relevant result in a PHM context requires a database filled with different labeled system behaviors. To test the effectiveness of our method, we use an industrial data set of vibration signals captured on an aeronautical electric actuator. Our method shows promising Remaining Useful Life (RUL) estimation results even with incomplete time segments.
Event Knowledge Graph: A Review Based on Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Xu Shishuo , Liu Sirui , Jing Changfeng , Li Songnian
Published: November 2023

In the last decade, the event knowledge graph field has received significant attention from both academic and industry communities, leading to the proliferated publication of numerous scientific papers in diverse journals, countries, and disciplines. However, a comprehensive and systematic survey of the recent literature in this area to obtain how the development of event knowledge graph evolves over time is lacking. To address this gap, we performed scientometric analyses utilizing the CiteSpace software of version 6.2.R4 package to extract and analyze data from the Web of Science database, including information about authors, journals, countries, and keywords. We then constructed four networks, including the author co-citation network, journal co-citation network, collaborative country network, and keyword co-occurrence network. Analyzing these networks allowed us to identify core authors, research hotspots, landmark journals, and national collaborations, as well as emerging trends by assessing the central nodes and nodes with strong citation bursts. Our contribution mainly lies in providing a scientometric way to quantitatively capture the research patterns in the last decade in the event knowledge graph field. Our work provides not only a structured view of the state-of-the-art literature but also insights into future trends in the event knowledge graph field, aiding researchers in conducting further research in this area.
Deep Learning-Based Multimodal Trajectory Prediction with Traffic Light
Authors: Lee Seoyoung , Park Hyogyeong , You Yeonhwi , Yong Sungjung , Moon Il-Young
Published: November 2023

Trajectory prediction is essential for the safe driving of autonomous vehicles. With the advancement of advanced sensors and deep learning technologies, attempts have been made to reflect complex interactions. In this study, we propose a deep learning-based Multimodal Trajectory Prediction method that reflects traffic light conditions in complex urban intersection situations. Based on existing state-of-the-art research, the multi-path of multi-agents was predicted using a generative model, and the actor’s trajectory information, state, social interaction, and traffic light state, and scene context were reflected. Performance evaluation was conducted using metrics commonly used to evaluate the performance of stochastic trajectory prediction models. This study is meaningful in that trajectory prediction was performed by reflecting realistic elements of traffic lights in a complex urban environment. Future research will need to be conducted on efficient ways to reduce time and computational performance while reflecting different real-world environments.
Exploring the Relationship between Muscular Strength, Flexibility, and mSEBT Test Performance in Saudi Arabian Women
Authors: Mohammad Walaa Sayed , Alotaibi Shatha , AlSayeid Shahad , AlKhalif Njoud , AlShaibani Amjad , Elsais Walaa
Published: November 2023

Saudi females exhibit a higher susceptibility to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), particularly impacting balance, in comparison to their male counterparts. The current study was aimed at determining the association between the modified Star Excursion Balancing Test (mSEBT) score and the muscular strength and flexibility of the lower-extremity muscles among a group of young healthy Saudi females. The mSEBT assessed balance, complemented by measurements of lower-extremity muscle strength and flexibility. Statistical analysis, utilizing SPSS software (version 26.0), with a significance level of p < 0.05, unveiled valuable insights. Results indicate a moderate positive correlation between hip flexor strength and reach distance, notably in the anterior and posteromedial directions. Conversely, no statistically significant associations emerged between hip extensor, hip abductor, or knee extensor strength and reach distances across all directions. Furthermore, there were weak negative correlations between hip flexion angle (assessed via the Thomas test) and reach distances, primarily within the anterior direction. Interestingly, the sit-and-reach flexibility test demonstrated no significant correlations with reach distances. These findings underscore the role of hip flexor strength and flexibility in influencing mSEBT performance in young, healthy Saudi females. This study advocates for the incorporation of the mSEBT as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for identifying individuals with deficits in lower extremity muscle strength and flexibility.
Special Issue: “Frontier Research in Apiculture (Diagnosis and Control of Bee Diseases, Bee Products, Environmental Monitoring)”
Authors: Mutinelli Franco
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the attention paid to farmed honeybees has considerably increased based on new and different threats posed to this sector, i [...]
Vehicle Lane Change Models—A Historical Review
Authors: Liu Xinchao , Hong Liang , Lin Yier
Published: November 2023

Lane changing is a complex operation that has a significant impact on traffic safety. The accurate identification and assessment of potential risks in the driving environment before lane changing is crucial for the safe and smooth completion of a lane change. In this paper, the research status of vehicle lane change models is reviewed. Firstly, various factors affecting lane change models are analyzed. Different drivers will be affected by vehicle dynamic parameters, vehicle driving states, and driver characteristics under various road environments. Secondly, the vehicle lane change models are divided into four types: the empirical model of lane changing, the physical model of lane changing, the cognitive model of lane changing, and the mixed model of lane changing. The advantages and disadvantages of different types of lane change models are analyzed, and the key problems to be solved by different lane change models are expounded, respectively, from the aspects of input variables and reasoning algorithms. Finally, according to the advantages and disadvantages of different lane change models, a future research direction is proposed.
Lightweight You Only Look Once v8: An Upgraded You Only Look Once v8 Algorithm for Small Object Identification in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Images
Authors: Huangfu Zhongmin , Li Shuqing
Published: November 2023

In order to solve the problems of high leakage rate, high false detection rate, low detection success rate and large model volume of small targets in the traditional target detection algorithm for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) aerial images, a lightweight You Only Look Once (YOLO) v8 algorithm model Lightweight (LW)-YOLO v8 is proposed. By increasing the channel attention mechanism Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) module, this method can adaptively improves the model’s ability to extract features from small targets; at the same time, the lightweight convolution technology is introduced into the Conv module, where the ordinary convolution is replaced by the GSConv module, which can effectively reduce the model computational volume; on the basis of the GSConv module, a single aggregation module VoV-GSCSPC is designed to optimize the model structure in order to achieve a higher computational cost-effectiveness. The experimental results show that the LW-YOLO v8 model’s mAP@0.5 metrics on the VisDrone2019 dataset are more favorable than those on the YOLO v8n model, improving by 3.8 percentage points, and the computational amount is reduced to 7.2 GFLOPs. The LW-YOLO v8 model proposed in this work can effectively accomplish the task of detecting small targets in aerial images from UAV at a lower cost.
Merging Spatio-Temporal Objects and Business Processes: Land Reform Process Case Study
Authors: Zaki Chamseddine , Claramunt Christophe , Nasser Abbass , Bahmad Semar
Published: November 2023

Although significant progress has been achieved in the development of spatio-temporal models that capture real-world phenomena, more interaction between phenomenon-based and business-based modeling approaches is still required. This represents a much-needed step forward in balancing the management and scientific aspects of many urban applications. The main goal of this paper is to provide an integrated modeling framework that combines MADS (Modeling of Application Data with Spatio-temporal Features), a specific conceptual spatiotemporal model that successfully represents geographical data, with BPMN (Business Process Model Notation), which models and determines how business processes interact with geographic objects. The integration of MADS and BPMN guarantees clarity, extensibility, and autonomy between data and management operations, as it portrays spatio-temporal abstractions on a conceptual level. This integration offers a unique opportunity to accurately represent, understand, and explain the rationale behind the changes occurring in space and time. The approach has been implemented within a PostgreSQL/PostGIS database management system. A case study implementation shows the practical applicability and potential of this modeling approach.
Exotic Particle Dynamics Using Novel Hermitian Spin Matrices
Authors: Ganesan Timothy
Published: November 2023

In this work, an analogue to the Pauli spin matrices is presented and investigated. The proposed Hermitian spin matrices exhibit four symmetries for spin-1/n particles. The spin projection operators are derived, and the electrodynamics for hypothetical spin-1/2 fermions are explored using the proposed spin matrices. The fermionic quantum Heisenberg model is constructed using the proposed spin matrices, and comparative studies against simulation results using the Pauli spin matrices are conducted. Further analysis of the key findings as well as discussions on extending the proposed spin matrix framework to describe hypothetical bosonic systems (spin-1 particles) are provided.
Vertical Slot Fishways: Incremental Knowledge to Define the Best Solution
Authors: Branco Paulo , Mascarenhas Ana Margarida , Duarte Gonçalo , Romão Filipe , Quaresma Ana , Amaral Susana Dias , Ferreira Maria Teresa , Pinheiro António N. , Santos José Maria
Published: November 2023

River artificial fragmentation is arguably the most imperilling threat for freshwater-dependent fish species. Fish need to be able to freely move along river networks as not only spawning grounds but also refuge and feeding areas may be spatially and temporally separated. This incapacity of free displacement may result in genetic depletion of some populations, density reduction and even community changes, which may in turn affect how meta-community balances are regulated, potentially resulting in functional resilience reduction and ecosystem processes’ malfunction. Fishways are the most common and widely used method to improve connectivity for fish species. These structures allow fish to negotiate full barriers, thus reducing their connectivity impairment. Among all technical fishway types, vertical slot fishways (VSF) are considered to be the best solution, as they remain operational even with fluctuating water discharges and allow fish to negotiate each cross-wall at their desired depth. In the present study, we collected both published and original data on fish experiments within VSF, to address two questions, (1) What variables affect fish passage during experimental fishway studies? and (2) What is the best VSF configuration? We used Bayesian Generalized Mixed Models accounting for random effects of non-controlled factors, limiting inherent data dependencies, that may influence the model outcome. Results highlight that fish size, regardless of the species, is a good predictor of fishway negotiation success. Generally, multiple slot fishways with one orifice proved to be the best solution. Future work should be focused on small-sized fish to further improve the design of holistic fishways.
Non-Invasive Systems Application in Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation
Authors: Popa Livia Livinț , Chira Diana , Strilciuc Ștefan , Mureșanu Dafin F.
Published: November 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern, often leading to long-lasting impairments in cognitive, motor and sensory functions. The rapid development of non-invasive systems has revolutionized the field of TBI rehabilitation by offering modern and effective interventions. This narrative review explores the application of non-invasive technologies, including electroencephalography (EEG), quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG), brain–computer interface (BCI), eye tracking, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in assessing TBI consequences, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), low-level laser therapy (LLLT), neurofeedback, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternative current stimulation (tACS) and virtual reality (VR) as therapeutic approaches for TBI rehabilitation. In pursuit of advancing TBI rehabilitation, this narrative review highlights the promising potential of non-invasive technologies. We emphasize the need for future research and clinical trials to elucidate their mechanisms of action, refine treatment protocols, and ensure their widespread adoption in TBI rehabilitation settings.
Research of Heat Tolerance and Moisture Conditions of New Worked-Out Face Structures with Complete Gap Spacings
Authors: Zhangabay Nurlan , Bonopera Marco , Baidilla Islambek , Utelbayeva Akmaral , Tursunkululy Timur
Published: November 2023

In this work, two new face structures of the open-air protection fence were investigated, where a method was proposed for analyzing the condensation of water vapor in the protection fence to search for a condensation zone. Another method for calculating the amount of condensed vapor in a multiwall protection fence with closed gap spacings was proposed. The analytical results illustrated that the magnitude of the range of temperature variations of the worked-out structures with gap spacings and without heat-reflecting screens was 7.14% lower, while the existence of heat-reflective screens reduced this value to 27.14%. The investigation of the water vapor transmission magnitude demonstrated that the steam permeability strength of the interior side and retaining walls of the developed buildings amounts to the standard one, while the usage of a locked air space with a thermo-reflective panel allows the movement of the appropriate condensing region over the external face of the fencing. Mass analysis of the precipitated vapor during the heating time of 1 m2 of the retaining wall showed that in face structures in closed gap spacings with heat-reflective screens, the mass of the precipitated vapor was 24.8% greater relative to that of the face without heat-reflective screens. Moreover, the examination of the absence of distillation in the oxygenated gap spacing proved that, in the gap spacing in the considered face structures, the condensate does not fall out such that there is no aggregation of humidity according to the annual balance. Furthermore, the drying time of the face structure with heat-reflecting screens was 17.9% longer than that of the traditional one. The research results can complement the works performed earlier by the authors, as well as be applied in the engineering and construction of buildings to save thermal power, considering the climatic features of the development region.
Industrialized Construction and Sustainability: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Sotorrío Ortega Guillermo , Cobo Escamilla Alfonso , Tenorio Ríos José Antonio
Published: November 2023

The industrialized model of construction is gaining more and more prominence in the specialized literature and in discussion forums wherein the different economic, social, and environmental advantages it offers compared with the traditional model are shown. The greater control over all processes results in savings in materials, less waste, less traveling to the construction site, and optimized energy consumption. Furthermore, this construction model often involves a higher quality finish and complex construction details of better quality. All these aspects make industrialized construction an interesting model from the perspective of sustainability. This study aims to investigate the relationship between industrialized construction and sustainability, and the benefits associated with it. A systematic review of the literature was performed based on research published between 2000 and 2022. The methodology followed consisted of searching for different combinations of keywords. Then, a quantitative and qualitative analysis was conducted to see the total number of publications and study aspects, such as their temporal and geographical evolution, and the subject areas they dealt with. After this analysis, our discussion and conclusions revealed some of the gaps existing in the research studies conducted in order to propose possible lines of research for the future.
Regulation of EZH2 Expression by INPP4B in Normal Prostate and Primary Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhang Manqi , Ceyhan Yasemin , Mei Shenglin , Hirz Taghreed , Sykes David B. , Agoulnik Irina U.
Published: November 2023

The phosphatases INPP4B and PTEN are tumor suppressors that are lost in nearly half of advanced metastatic cancers. The loss of PTEN in prostate epithelium initially leads to an upregulation of several tumor suppressors that slow the progression of prostate cancer in mouse models. We tested whether the loss of INPP4B elicits a similar compensatory response in prostate tissue and whether this response is distinct from the one caused by the loss of PTEN. Knockdown of INPP4B but not PTEN in human prostate cancer cell lines caused a decrease in EZH2 expression. In Inpp4b−/− mouse prostate epithelium, EZH2 levels were decreased, as were methylation levels of histone H3. In contrast, Ezh2 levels were increased in the prostates of Pten−/− male mice. Contrary to PTEN, there was a positive correlation between INPP4B and EZH2 expression in normal human prostates and early-stage prostate tumors. Analysis of single-cell transcriptomic data demonstrated that a subset of EZH2-positive cells expresses INPP4B or PTEN, but rarely both, consistent with their opposing correlation with EZH2 expression. Unlike PTEN, INPP4B did not affect the levels of SMAD4 protein expression or Pml mRNA expression. Like PTEN, p53 protein expression and phosphorylation of Akt in Inpp4b−/− murine prostates were elevated. Taken together, the loss of INPP4B in the prostate leads to overlapping and distinct changes in tumor suppressor and oncogenic downstream signaling.
Time Trends in the Treatment and Survival of 5036 Uveal Melanoma Patients in The Netherlands over a 30-Year Period
Authors: Tong Thaïs M. L. , Bastiaannet Esther , Speetjens Frank M. , Blank Christian U. , Luyten Gregorius P. M. , Jager Martine J. , Marinkovic Marina , Vu T. H. Khanh , Rasch Coen R. N. , Creutzberg Carien L. , Beenakker Jan-Willem M. , Hartgrink Henk H. , Bosch Jacobus J. J. , Kiliç Emine , Naus Nicole C. , Yavuzyigitoglu Serdar , van Rij Caroline M. , Burgmans Mark C. , Kapiteijn Ellen H. W.
Published: November 2023

Background: Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare intraocular tumor with a dismal prognosis once metastasized. This study provides a nationwide overview and time trends of patients diagnosed with primary UM in the Netherlands between 1989 and 2019. Methods: A retrospective population-based cohort study based on patients with primary UM from the database of the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR), linked with the national population registry Statistics Netherlands on inhabitants’ cause of death. Two time periods (1989–2004, 2005–2019) were compared with descriptive statistics. Kaplan–Meier and (multivariate) Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess changes over time for overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Results: In total, 5036 patients were analyzed with a median age of 64.0 years at the time of diagnosis. The number of patients increased over time. In the first (1989–2004) and second (2005–2019) period, 32% versus 54% of the patients received radiotherapy (p < 0.001). The median FU time was 13.4 years. The median OS of the first and second periods was 9.5 (95% CI 8.7–10.3) versus 11.3 years (95% CI 10.3–12.3; p < 0.001). The median CSS was 30.0 years (95% CI NA) in the first period and not reached in the second period (p = 0.008). In multivariate analysis (MVA), female gender (HR 0.85; 95% CI 0.79–0.92, p < 0.001) and radiotherapy treatment (HR 0.73; 95% CI 0.64–0.83, p < 0.001) were associated with better OS. Radiotherapy treatment (HR 0.74; 95% CI 0.61–0.90, p = 0.002) was also associated with better CSS. The period of diagnosis was not associated with OS or CSS. Conclusions: In this study of patients with primary UM, there was a shift to the diagnosis of smaller tumors, possibly due to stage migration. There was also an increase in eye-preserving treatments over time. OS and CSS were modestly improved in the second time period; however, the time period was not associated with OS or CSS in multivariate analyses.
Novel Photo(electro)catalysts for Energy and Environmental Applications
Authors: Zong Shichao , Guan Xiangjiu
Published: November 2023

Photo(electro)catalysis is regarded as one of the most promising approaches to addressing energy and environmental issues and thus achieving the sustainable development of human society; as such, various catalytic materials have been developed in recent decades [...]
Anticancer Effects of 6-Gingerol through Downregulating Iron Transport and PD-L1 Expression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Kang Dong Young , Park Sanghyeon , Song Kyoung Seob , Bae Se Won , Lee Jeong-Sang , Jang Kyoung-Jin , Park Yeong-Min
Published: November 2023

Iron homeostasis is considered a key factor in human metabolism, and abrogation in the system could create adverse effects, including cancer. Moreover, 6-gingerol is a widely used bioactive phenolic compound with anticancer activity, and studies on its exact mechanisms on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells are still undergoing. This study aimed to find the mechanism of cell death induction by 6-gingerol in NSCLC cells. Western blotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry were used for molecular signaling studies, and invasion and tumorsphere formation assay were also used with comet assay for cellular processes. Our results show that 6-gingerol inhibited cancer cell proliferation and induced DNA damage response, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in NSCLC cells, and cell death induction was found to be the mitochondrial-dependent intrinsic apoptosis pathway. The role of iron homeostasis in the cell death induction of 6-gingerol was also investigated, and iron metabolism played a vital role in the anticancer ability of 6-gingerol by downregulating EGFR/JAK2/STAT5b signaling or upregulating p53 and downregulating PD-L1 expression. Also, 6-gingerol induced miR-34a and miR-200c expression, which may indicate regulation of PD-L1 expression by 6-gingerol. These results suggest that 6-gingerol could be a candidate drug against NSCLC cells and that 6-gingerol could play a vital role in cancer immunotherapy.
Differential Expression of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs between Ovaries and Testes in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Hou Mingxi , Wang Qi , Zhang Jin , Zhao Ran , Cao Yiming , Yu Shuangting , Wang Kaikuo , Chen Yingjie , Ma Ziyao , Sun Xiaoqing , Zhang Yan , Li Jiongtang
Published: November 2023

Female common carp grow faster than male individuals, implying that rearing females could be more profitable in aquaculture. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) serve as versatile regulators with multiple functions in diverse biological processes. However, the roles of ncRNAs in the sex differentiation of common carp are less studied. In this study, we investigated the expression profiles of ncRNAs, including miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, in the gonads to comprehend the roles of ncRNAs in sex differentiation in common carp. A substantial number of differentially expressed (DE) ncRNAs in ovaries and testes were identified. Some miRNAs, notably miR-205, miR-214, and miR-460-5p, might modulate hormone synthesis and thus maintain sex. A novel miRNA, novel_158, was predicted to suppress the expression of foxl3. DE lncRNAs were associated with oocyte meiosis, GnRH signaling pathways, and steroid biosynthesis, while DE circRNA target genes were enriched in the WNT signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway. We also analyzed ncRNA-mRNA interactions to shed light on the crosstalk between competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), which is the critical mechanism by which lncRNAs and circRNAs function. Some lncRNAs and circRNAs may be able to competitively bind novel_313, a new miRNA, and thus regulate hsd17β3. Our research will provide a valuable resource for understanding the genetic basis of gonadal differentiation and development in common carp.
Graded Minimal Surface Structures with High Specific Strength for Broadband Sound Absorption Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Zhang Mingkang , Liu Chang , Deng Mingjian , Li Yuhao , Li Jinwei , Wang Di
Published: November 2023

In this research, a design method for triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures with a high specific strength for broadband sound absorption is proposed. The graded TPMS structures are controlled by linear, quadratic, and sine functions. Homogeneous TPMSs and graded TPMSs were manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) with AlSi7Mg powder, and acoustic impedance tube, compression, and digital image correlation (DIC) tests were applied to obtain the sound absorption and compression properties. The sound absorption coefficient of a homogeneous gyroid increases as the height and offset thickness of the surface increase, and it increases as element size decreases. The sound absorption peak shifts to low frequencies as the height of the structure increases. The average sound absorption coefficient at 1/3 octave from 500 to 6300 Hz of the graded TPMS with a porosity from 60.51 to 77.59% (surface of incident sound wave to rigid backing) is superior to that of the graded TPMS with a porosity from 77.59 to 60.51%, but the latter has a broadband sound absorption coefficient. The compression and DIC results of graded TPMS also show excellent mechanical properties and energy absorption characteristics.
Real-Time Network Video Data Streaming in Digital Medicine
Authors: Vincze Miklos , Molnar Bela , Kozlovszky Miklos
Published: November 2023

Today, the use of digital medicine is becoming more and more common in medicine. With the use of digital medicine, health data can be shared, processed, and visualized using computer algorithms. One of the problems currently facing digital medicine is the rapid transmission of large amounts of data and their appropriate visualization, even in 3D. Advances in technology offer the possibility to use new image processing, networking, and visualization solutions for the evaluation of medical samples. Because of the resolution of the samples, it is not uncommon that it takes a long time for them to be analyzed, processed, and shared. This is no different for 3D visualization. In order to be able to display digitalized medical samples in 3D at high resolution, a computer with computing power that is not necessarily available to doctors and researchers is needed. COVID-19 has shown that everyday work must continue even when there is a physical distance between the participants. Real-time network streaming can provide a solution to this, by creating a 3D environment that can be shared between doctors/researchers in which the sample being examined can be visualized. In order for this 3D environment to be available to everyone, it must also be usable on devices that do not have high computing capacity. Our goal was to design a general-purpose solution that would allow users to visualize large amounts of medical imaging data in 3D, regardless of the computational capacity of the device they are using. With the solution presented in this paper, our goal was to create a 3D environment for physicians and researchers to collaboratively evaluate 3D medical samples in an interdisciplinary way.
Growth, Structure, Spectroscopy, and Laser Operation of a “Mixed” Yb:(Y,Lu)3Al5O12 Garnet Crystal
Authors: Slimi Sami , Loiko Pavel , Pan Mingyan , Lehoux Pauline , Jambunathan Venkatesan , Smrz Martin , Mocek Tomas , Wang Yicheng , Chen Weidong , Petrov Valentin , Solé Rosa Maria , Aguiló Magdalena , Díaz Francesc , Camy Patrice , Mateos Xavier
Published: November 2023

A single crystal of ytterbium-doped “mixed” yttrium–lutetium aluminum garnet with a stoichiometric composition of (Y0.601Lu0.233Yb0.166)3Al5O12 was grown by the Czochralski method and its structure, vibronic, spectroscopic, and laser properties were studied. The stimulated-emission cross-section for Yb3+ ions was maximized to 2.53 × 10−20 cm2 at 1031 nm. The emission bandwidth was ~8 nm, and the reabsorption-free luminescence lifetime of the 2F5/2 state was 1.063 ms. Pumped at 941 nm, the Yb laser generated a maximum output power of 1.04 W at 1.03 and 1.05 μm with a high slope efficiency of 76.4% and a laser threshold of 76 mW. A continuous wavelength tuning over a range of 51.6 nm (1026.4–1078.0 nm) was also achieved. Power scaling was achieved using a 969 nm diode-pumped microchip cavity. A maximum output power of ~9 W was obtained at 1.05 μm with a slope efficiency of 76% and an almost circular laser beam profile.
Agreement between Accelerometer-Assessed and Self-Reported Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Female Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Biskup Malgorzata , Macek Pawel , Terek-Derszniak Malgorzata , Zak Marek , Krol Halina , Falana Krzysztof , Gozdz Stanislaw
Published: November 2023

An accurate quantitative assessment of physical activity and sedentary lifestyles enables a better understanding of their relationship with the health records of cancer survivors. The objective of this study was to compare the subjective and objective methods of physical activity measurement in female breast cancer survivors. Materials and methods: In total, 135 female breast cancer survivors at the Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland, were included in this study. A shortened version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to subjectively assess the participants’ physical activity (PA), and an ActiGraph GT3X-BT accelerometer was used for an objective assessment. In total, 75% of the studied women did not report any vigorous PA, irrespective of the measurement method. The average values of moderate PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) measured with IPAQ compared with the accelerometer were sevenfold and tenfold higher, respectively. Conversely, the sedentary behavior values measured with the accelerometer were almost three times higher than those measured with IPAQ. The PA and sedentary behavior measurements were significantly different. Irrespective of PA intensity, the accelerometer-based measurements produced significantly lower results than IPAQ, while higher results were observed for sedentary behavior. The measurement differences between these two methods increased as the average differences grew. Regardless of the measurement method, a negative association was observed between moderate PA with general adiposity and adipose tissue distribution, whereas sedentary behavior demonstrated an opposite trend. This indicates the detrimental role of obesity in limiting PA.
A Comparative Evaluation of HbA1c Measurement Methods and Their Implications for Diabetes Management
Authors: Yun Hyeokjun , Park Joo won , Kim Jae Kyung
Published: November 2023

In this study, we assessed the correlations between hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) measurements obtained using three different diagnostic methods, namely reversed-phase cation-exchange chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and lateral flow immunoassay (LIFA) with an AnyLab F instrument. HbA1c levels measured with the AnyLab F instrument and those measured with the HA8190V, HA8180, and D100 instruments were strongly correlated. High R-square values and low p-values indicated significant and reliable correlations, supporting the clinical interchangeability of these methods. Notably, demographic and clinical analyses revealed uniform HbA1c levels across age groups, suggesting minimal age-related variations in HbA1c levels in the cohort. This finding has implications for diabetes management strategies across different age groups, emphasizing the versatility of the AnyLab F instrument. Overall an average HbA1c level of 7.857% among diabetes mellitus-diagnosed participants suggests moderately elevated HbA1c levels, underscoring the need for improved diabetes management. Younger individuals exhibited lower HbA1c levels, potentially owing to heightened awareness and treatment plan adherence. Conversely, older adults had higher HbA1c levels, likely influenced by age-related changes and comorbidities. Larger sample sizes and a comprehensive evaluation of various measurement principles are needed to strengthen the findings herein. Additionally, exploring additional biomarkers and assessing LIFA performance in larger sample sets will advance the clinical utility of HbA1c measurements.
Digital Learning Transformation in Higher Education: International Cases of University Efforts to Evaluate and Improve Blended Teaching Readiness
Authors: Graham Charles R. , Danaa Ganbat , Purevsuren Tserenchimed , Martínez Adriana , Spricigo Cinthia Bittencourt , Camilotti Barbara Maria , Batsukh Tserenkhand
Published: November 2023

The global pandemic of 2019 brought heightened awareness to institutions of higher education of the need to engage in a digital transformation that extends beyond university business operations to the pedagogy of the classroom. This paper is a case study that explores three international cases of universities in Colombia, Brazil, and Mongolia that are at different stages along the path of a digital pedagogical transformation. This article tells each story, including (1) what is driving the local need to engage in digital transformation, (2) what the major challenges and barriers are to achieving a transformation, and (3) what efforts are being made to help each university to move along the path towards adoption and change. It concludes with discussing three major themes that emerged from the case studies: (1) the role of local policy in shaping digital transformation, (2) the importance of developing human capacity with technology, and (3) the potential for digital transformation to bring hope.