bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achievement Prediction and Performance Assessment System for Nations in the Asian Games
Authors: Yeh Chin-Chang , Peng Hsien-Te , Lin Wen-Bin
Published: January 2024

The profound impact of deep learning technology is poised to revolutionize various industries, marking the fourth industrial revolution. Thus, we combined efficiency and productivity research (data envelopment analysis, DEA), artificial intelligence and deep learning (artificial neural networks, ANN), a system integrating DEA and ANNs, and simultaneous longitudinal research (time series) to determine comprehensive research trends and create relevant applications. We addressed mega-sports events’ performance assessment systems that predict the efficiency of nations participating in the Asian Games from 1990 to 2023 and analyzed the outcomes, applying them to practical issues of national sports policies and development. Performance assessment systems to diagnose, plan, monitor, and revise the impact of implementing measures in Asian nations represent a step forward. The PAS findings point out future research recommendations by addressing national sports policies and development issues, transforming the predictions of performance assessment systems in mega-sports events into practical management recommendations. In this way, the system for enhanced predictive analytics developed in the study can rapidly analyze large, medium, and small datasets, reveal insights that humans may overlook, and refine the likelihood of predicting future events with greater precision and accuracy.
Multi-Label Prediction-Based Fuzzy Age Difference Analysis for Social Profiling of Anonymous Social Media
Authors: Suh Jong Hwan
Published: January 2024

Age is an essential piece of demographic information for social profiling, as different social and behavioral characteristics are age-related. To acquire age information, most of the previously conducted social profiling studies have predicted age information. However, age predictions in social profiling have been very limited, because it is difficult or impossible to obtain age information from social media. Moreover, age-prediction results have rarely been used to study human dynamics. In these circumstances, this study focused on naver.com, a nationwide social media website in Korea. Although the social profiles of news commenters on naver.com can be analyzed and used, the age information is incomplete (i.e., partially open to the public) owing to anonymity and privacy protection policies. Therefore, no prior research has used naver.com for age predictions or subsequent analyses based on the predicted age information. To address this research gap, this study proposes a method that uses a machine learning approach to predict the age information of anonymous commenters on unlabeled (i.e., with age information hidden) news articles on naver.com. Furthermore, the predicted age information was fused with the section information of the collected news articles, and fuzzy differences between age groups were analyzed for topics of interest, using the proposed correlation–similarity matrix and fuzzy sets of age differences. Thus, differentiated from the previous social profiling studies, this study expands the literature on social profiling and human dynamics studies. Consequently, it revealed differences between age groups from anonymous and incomplete Korean social media that can help in understanding age differences and ease related intergenerational conflicts to help reach a sustainable South Korea.
An Iterative High-Precision Algorithm for Multi-Beam Array Stitching Method Based on Scanning Hartmann
Authors: Yan Xiangyu , Li Dahai , E Kewei , Feng Fang , Wang Tao , Xue Xun , Zhang Zekun , Lu Kai
Published: January 2024

The multi-beam array stitching test system (MASTS) based on the Hartmann principle is employed to measure the aberrations in large-aperture optical systems. As each small-aperture and ideal parallel beam traverses the optical system, it is converged into a spot at the focal plane of the optical system. The centroid position of the spot contains the information about the wavefront slope of the sub-aperture at that specific location in the optical system. Scanning the optical system with this small-aperture beam across the entire aperture of the optical system, we can yield the aberration information to be tested. To mitigate pointing errors induced by scanning motion and accurately obtain the aberration signals of the optical system, nine beams are integrated into a 3 × 3 multi-beam array system, and their directions are aligned to be identical. However, achieving complete alignment in the same direction for all nine beams is a challenging task, resulting in errors due to their pointing differences within the array. This paper introduces an iterative algorithm designed to obtain high-precision multi-beam pointing errors and to reconstruct the wavefront of the optical system under test. This enables a more accurate measurement of wavefront aberrations in the optical system to be tested. Firstly, simulation models were implemented to validate the algorithm’s feasibility. Additionally, a scanning optical measurement system with a multi-beam array was developed in our lab, and the iterative algorithm was applied to process our experimental data. The results were then compared with interferometer data, demonstrating that our algorithm is feasible for MASTS to measure aberrations in large-aperture optical systems with high accuracy.
Lip2Speech: Lightweight Multi-Speaker Speech Reconstruction with Gabor Features
Authors: Dong Zhongping , Xu Yan , Abel Andrew , Wang Dong
Published: January 2024

In environments characterised by noise or the absence of audio signals, visual cues, notably facial and lip movements, serve as valuable substitutes for missing or corrupted speech signals. In these scenarios, speech reconstruction can potentially generate speech from visual data. Recent advancements in this domain have predominantly relied on end-to-end deep learning models, like Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) or Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN). However, these models are encumbered by their intricate and opaque architectures, coupled with their lack of speaker independence. Consequently, achieving multi-speaker speech reconstruction without supplementary information is challenging. This research introduces an innovative Gabor-based speech reconstruction system tailored for lightweight and efficient multi-speaker speech restoration. Using our Gabor feature extraction technique, we propose two novel models: GaborCNN2Speech and GaborFea2Speech. These models employ a rapid Gabor feature extraction method to derive lowdimensional mouth region features, encompassing filtered Gabor mouth images and low-dimensional Gabor features as visual inputs. An encoded spectrogram serves as the audio target, and a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)-based model is harnessed to generate coherent speech output. Through comprehensive experiments conducted on the GRID corpus, our proposed Gabor-based models have showcased superior performance in sentence and vocabulary reconstruction when compared to traditional end-to-end CNN models. These models stand out for their lightweight design and rapid processing capabilities. Notably, the GaborFea2Speech model presented in this study achieves robust multi-speaker speech reconstruction without necessitating supplementary information, thereby marking a significant milestone in the field of speech reconstruction.
Novel Understandings of Biomineralization in Backfill Materials: A Fundamental Investigation of Coal Gangue and Fly Ash Impact on B. pasteurii to Enhance Material Properties
Authors: Guo Shijie , Fantilli Alessandro Pasquale , Yan Hao , Sun Kai , Ding Luwei
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a fundamental investigation of coal gangue and fly ash impact on B. pasteurii to enhance the properties of backfill materials. The goal is to obtain effective microbial mineralization and potential mechanical properties of coal gangue and fly ash as backfill materials and to mitigate the impact of the most common binders used in the backfill material of mines. Micro-scale mineralization was performed with B. pasteurii bacteria using microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology to clarify solid waste impact on B. pasteurii and to bind coal gangue and fly ash. Several tests were carried out to analyze the behavior of B. pasteurii, especially when it coexists with these two waste materials separately. In such cases, it was possible to observe a reduction in mineralization initiation time with respect to the natural mineralization of the MICP technology. Moreover, at the macro-scale, the new mineralized backfilling material shows good workability in the fresh state, whereas the strength at 28 days is 5.34 times higher than that obtained with non-mineralized coal gangue and fly ash.
Fixation of Posterior Malleolus in Trimalleolar Ankle Fractures: Anteroposterior Screw or Posterolateral Plate?
Authors: Ceccarini Paolo , Donantoni Marco , Milazzo Federico , Prezioso Vito , Petruccelli Rosario , Samaila Elena Manuela , Marcolli Daniele , Leigheb Massimiliano , Rinonapoli Giuseppe , Caraffa Auro
Published: January 2024

Background: The treatment of the third malleolus has evolved in recent years, and surgical treatment can be carried out with traditional percutaneous osteosynthesis using anteroposterior screws or ORIF with a posterolateral plate. Methods: Our study included 54 patients divided into two groups based on the intervention type (screw or plate). Instrumental assessments comprised pre- and post-operative X-rays and pre-operative CT scans to evaluate joint step-off. The mean follow-up duration was 1 year and 9 months. Results: Radiographic control revealed no loss of reduction or mobilization of the synthesis devices, and all patients achieved fracture healing. Articular step-off > 2 mm was observed in 21 patients (38.9%), including 4 in the plate group and 17 in the screw group, with a statistically significant likelihood of step-off presence in the latter. The mean AOFAS score was 90 points, negatively correlated with age, and lower in patients with joint step-off and a 15° reduction in ROM. Conclusions: The management of posterior malleolus fractures has changed with anatomical studies and an understanding of ankle stability through CT scans. ORIF with a posterior plate is advantageous for anatomical reduction of the tibial plafond but is disadvantageous in terms of surgical invasiveness and technical difficulty.
The Effects of the Dietary Inclusion of By-Products Obtained after the Extraction of Vitamin B2 from Fermented Soybean on the Performance and Meat Quality of Growing–Finishing Pigs
Authors: Cho Sungbo , Shi Huan , Sureshkumar Shanmugam , Kim Inho
Published: January 2024

The by-products obtained after the extraction of vitamin B2 from fermented soybean (VBP), primarily consisting of soybean meal, soybean oil, vitamin B2, and Bacillus subtilis, may serve as a cost-effective and recycled resource in animal feed. This research aimed to assess the impact of VBP on the growth performance, nutrient utilization, blood parameters, and meat quality of pigs in the growing–finishing phase. In this 16-week feeding experiment, 140 pigs of mixed breed [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire)] were used, with an initial average body weight of 26.05 ± 1.32 kg. The pigs were assigned randomly to one of four dietary groups, each consisting of five pigs, with two gilts and three barrows per pen, and a total of seven repetitions per treatment. The animals were fed different levels of by-products after vitamin B2 extraction (0, 10, 20, and 30 g/kg as the CON, VBP10, VBP20, and VBP30 dietary groups, respectively) in a three-phase feeding trial (wk. 0–4, 4–8, and 8–13). When higher levels of VBP were added as supplements, the outcomes indicated that there were no notable variations (p > 0.05) in growth performance and nutrient digestibility among the treatment groups throughout the trial. In phase II (4–8 weeks), the inclusion of VBP in the diets showed a reduction (p = 0.011; with linear and quadratic effects, p = 0.003) in serum norepinephrine concentration. The sensory evaluation of meat color was linearly improved (p = 0.043) in pigs fed with graded levels of VBP supplementation. The percentage of lean meat showed a significant improvement (p = 0.016) with the gradual levels of VBP supplementation. The addition of 30 g/kg (on an as-fed basis) of vitamin B2 by-products in the diet can simultaneously mitigate the negative impacts of acute stress without compromising growth performance and enhance the percentage of lean meat. These findings suggest that VBP could be a viable and economical alternative to corn and soybean meal and partially replace it in pig feed.
The Effects of Parameter Settings on Triggering Time and Climb Rate during Lean-Premixed Combustion Thermoacoustic Oscillations
Authors: Tao Chengfei , Sun Rongyue , Wang Yichen , Zhang Liang , Ye Jiangming , Liang Shaohua
Published: January 2024

This study theoretically explored the effects of parameter settings on thermoacoustic oscillations with a low-order model. Three factors were explored—combustor length, inlet gas temperature and thermal power. The research findings indicate that optimizing the parameter settings can yield better thermoacoustic oscillation suppression results. The sound pressure amplitude decreased from 3.2 × 105 Pa to 2.1 × 105 Pa as the combustor length increased from 1.2 m to 6.0 m. The triggering time increased from 0.32 s to 0.91 s when the combustion chamber length increased. The climb rate declined from 23.38 × 105 Pa/s to 3.75 × 105 Pa/s when the combustor length was elongated. The sound pressure amplitude decreased from 3.44 × 105 Pa to 2.4 × 105 Pa as the gas temperature rose from 0 to 100 °C. The triggering time and climb rate variation tendency were similar when the gas temperature increased—both declined as the gas temperature rose. The sound pressure amplitude experienced a slight fluctuation when the thermal power rose. However, the triggering time decreased from 0.26 s to 0.043 s when the thermal power improved. The climb rate increased from 18.72 × 105 Pa/s to 27.65 × 105 Pa/s when the thermal power rose. The oscillation frequency presented was completely different in three cases that had different wavelengths and oscillation intensities. The triggering time and climb rate fluctuated extensively in varying conditions, and the above two factors were interrelated and contradictory to each other when thermoacoustic oscillation was excited. This study explored parameters’ effects on triggering time and climb rate, thereby providing references for constructing a model-based control system for thermoacoustic oscillation feedback control.
Fostering Resilience and Wellness: The Synergy of Mindful Eating and the Mediterranean Lifestyle
Authors: Christodoulou Efstratios , Deligiannidou Georgia-Eirini , Kontogiorgis Christos , Giaginis Constantinos , Koutelidakis Antonios E.
Published: January 2024

Increasing evidence indicates that the cultivation of mindful eating, adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle, and the development of psychological resilience may contribute to the enhancement of overall health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to explore the association between mindful eating and the Mediterranean lifestyle in relation to psychological resilience and the maintenance of a healthy weight. In the framework of a cross-sectional study, 288 individuals voluntarily took part in an online research survey conducted in Greece. Results showed that both mindful eating and the Mediterranean diet were significantly correlated (p < 0.001) with psychological resilience. Multiple regression models identified mindful eating and the Mediterranean diet as predictive factors of psychological resilience (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant (p < 0.05) intercorrelation between mindful eating, the Mediterranean diet, and psychological resilience. Following the application of multiple regression models, mindful eating and Mediterranean diet were identified as predictive factors of psychological resilience (p < 0.0001). Individuals with a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) displayed stronger adherence to mindful eating and the Mediterranean lifestyle, in contrast to those classified in the overweight and obesity BMI groups. People with higher mindful eating scores had 14% better odds of maintaining their weight loss after a weight-reducing diet than those with a lower mindful eating score (OR: 1.142, 95% CI: 1.084, 1.204, p < 0.0001). In summary, the integration of mindful eating and the Mediterranean lifestyle may represent a feasible approach to bolstering psychological resilience, overall health, and well-being.
A New Record of the Rare Crab Homolodromia robertsi Garth, 1973 (Crustacea; Decapoda; Homolodromiidae), from Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Authors: Boyko Christopher B. , Ng Peter K. L.
Published: January 2024

In the American Museum of Natural History, New York, there is an old specimen labelled as “Holodromia harrisonwilliamsi Boone, MS name” that was collected from Cocos Island in 1925. This name has never been published. An examination of the specimen shows that it is a juvenile specimen of Homolodromia robertsi Garth, 1973, a species described from Peru, which has since been reported from Chile and off the coast of Ecuador. This paper reports on the specimen Homolodromia robertsi Garth found in Costa Rica for the first time, a discovery that extends the known range of this species northwards.
Application of the Urban Climate Model PALM-4U to Investigate the Effects of the Diesel Traffic Ban on Air Quality in Stuttgart
Authors: Samad Abdul , Caballero Arciénega Ninoska Alejandra , Alabdallah Talal , Vogt Ulrich
Published: January 2024

The air pollution situation in the German city of Stuttgart is very important, as high pollutant concentrations are measured here compared to other German cities. This is mainly due to Stuttgart’s geographical location as it is in a basin covered by hills on three sides. This leads to reduced wind speeds that inhibit pollutant dispersion. One of the main contributors to the pollutant concentrations in Stuttgart is local traffic. To improve the air quality in Stuttgart, a diesel traffic ban was introduced on 1 January 2019, and is ongoing. In this study, the urban climate model PALM-4U was applied to obtain the pollutant distribution along the federal highways B14 and B27 of Stuttgart to evaluate the impact of the diesel traffic ban on air quality. The simulations were carried out in two areas of the city, namely the city center and Kaltental Valley, with domain sizes of 3.2 km × 2 km and 3.2 km × 1.6 km, respectively, and with a grid size of 10 m for each domain. The influence of traffic emissions on the air quality of Stuttgart was studied for a typical summer day. The results showed that air pollutant concentrations were highest near federal highways B14 and B27 (e.g., NO2 concentration peaks of around 200 µg/m3). Also, a significant reduction of around four times in air pollutant concentrations was observed in the study area after the diesel traffic ban was introduced.
The Bifurcations of Completely Integrable Holonomic Systems of First-Order Differential Equations
Authors: Xu Jingbo , Liu Kangping , Cheng Xiaoliang
Published: January 2024

As an application of the Legendrian singularity theory, we classify the bifurcations of a holonomic first-order differential equation with a complete integral. The equations satisfy that the one-parameter integral diagrams are R+-simple and stable. Using this result, the parametric differential equation models in electrical power systems and engineering can be studied.
Constructing a LiPON Layer on a 3D Lithium Metal Anode as an Artificial Solid Electrolyte Interphase with Long-Term Stability
Authors: Pan Qianmu , Yu Yongkun , Zhu Yuxin , Shen Chunli , Gong Minjian , Yan Kui , Xu Xu
Published: January 2024

The problem of lithium dendrite growth has persistently hindered the advancement of lithium metal batteries. Lithium phosphorus oxynitride (LiPON), functioning as an amorphous solid electrolyte, is extensively employed as an artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) owing to its remarkable stability and mechanical strength, which is beneficial for effectively mitigating dendrite growth. Nevertheless, the significant challenge arises from the volume changes in the Li metal anode during cycling, leading to the vulnerability of LiPON due to its high rigidity, which impedes the widespread use of LiPON. To address this problem, our study introduces a lithium-boron (Li-B) alloy as the anode, featuring a 3D structure, which can be synergistic with the artificial LiPON layer during cycling, leading to a better performance. The average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of a Li || Cu half-cell reaches 95% over 120 cycles. The symmetric cells exhibit sustained operation for 950 h with a low voltage polarization of less than 20 mV under a current density of 0.5 mA/cm2 and for 410 h under 1 mA/cm2.
Stroke Lesion Segmentation and Deep Learning: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Malik Mishaim , Chong Benjamin , Fernandez Justin , Shim Vickie , Kasabov Nikola Kirilov , Wang Alan
Published: January 2024

Stroke is a medical condition that affects around 15 million people annually. Patients and their families can face severe financial and emotional challenges as it can cause motor, speech, cognitive, and emotional impairments. Stroke lesion segmentation identifies the stroke lesion visually while providing useful anatomical information. Though different computer-aided software are available for manual segmentation, state-of-the-art deep learning makes the job much easier. This review paper explores the different deep-learning-based lesion segmentation models and the impact of different pre-processing techniques on their performance. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art models and aims to guide future research and contribute to the development of more robust and effective stroke lesion segmentation models.
Sequence-Structure Analysis Unlocking the Potential Functional Application of the Local 3D Motifs of Plant-Derived Diterpene Synthases
Authors: Zhao Yalan , Liang Yupeng , Luo Gan , Li Yi , Han Xiulin , Wen Mengliang
Published: January 2024

Plant-derived diterpene synthases (PdiTPSs) play a critical role in the formation of structurally and functionally diverse diterpenoids. However, the specificity or functional-related features of PdiTPSs are not well understood. For a more profound insight, we collected, constructed, and curated 199 functionally characterized PdiTPSs and their corresponding 3D structures. The complex correlations among their sequences, domains, structures, and corresponding products were comprehensively analyzed. Ultimately, our focus narrowed to the geometric arrangement of local structures. We found that local structural alignment can rapidly localize product-specific residues that have been validated by mutagenesis experiments. Based on the 3D motifs derived from the residues around the substrate, we successfully searched diterpene synthases (diTPSs) from the predicted terpene synthases and newly characterized PdiTPSs, suggesting that the identified 3D motifs can serve as distinctive signatures in diTPSs (I and II class). Local structural analysis revealed the PdiTPSs with more conserved amino acid residues show features unique to class I and class II, whereas those with fewer conserved amino acid residues typically exhibit product diversity and specificity. These results provide an attractive method for discovering novel or functionally equivalent enzymes and probing the product specificity in cases where enzyme characterization is limited.
Transcriptional Coactivator BOB1 (OBF1, OCA-B) Modulates the Specificity of DNA Recognition by the POU-Domain Factors OCT1 and OCT2 in a Monomeric Configuration
Authors: Nazarov Igor B. , Zilov Danil S. , Gordeev Mikhail N. , Potapenko Evgenii V. , Yeremenko Nataliya , Tomilin Alexey N.
Published: January 2024

BOB1, a mammalian lymphocyte-specific transcriptional coactivator of the transcription factors OCT1 and OCT2 (OCT1/2), plays important roles in normal immune responses, autoimmunity, and hematologic malignancies. The issue of a DNA sequence preference change imposed by BOB1 was raised more than two decades ago but remains unresolved. In this paper, using the EMSA–SELEX–Seq approach, we have reassessed the intrinsic ability of BOB1 to modulate the specificity of DNA recognition by OCT1 and OCT2. Our results have reaffirmed previous conclusions regarding BOB1 selectivity towards the dimer configuration of OCT1/2. However, they suggest that the monomeric configuration of these factors, assembled on the classical octamer ATGCAAAT and related motifs, are the primary targets of BOB1. Our data further specify the DNA sequence preference imposed by BOB1 and predict the probability of ternary complex formation. These results provide an additional insight into the action of BOB1—an essential immune regulator and a promising molecular target for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and hematologic malignancies.
Outcomes and Safety with Utilization of Metallic Midfoot Wedges in Foot and Ankle Orthopedic Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Talaski Grayson M. , Baumann Anthony , Sleem Bshara , Walley Kempland C. , Anastasio Albert T. , Gall Ken , Adams Samuel B.
Published: January 2024

The use of midfoot wedges for the correction of flatfeet disorders, such as progressive collapsing foot disorder, has increased greatly in recent years. However, the wedge material/composition has yet to be standardized. Metallic wedges offer advantages such as comparable elasticity to bone, reduced infection risk, and minimized osseous resorption, but a comprehensive review is lacking in the literature. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review was to organize all studies pertaining to the use of metallic wedges for flatfoot correction to better understand their efficacy and safety. This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, and articles were searched in multiple databases (PubMED, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science) until August 2023 using a defined algorithm. Inclusion criteria encompassed midfoot surgeries using metallic wedges, observational studies, and English-language full-text articles. Data extraction, article quality assessment, and statistical analyses were performed. Among 11 included articles, a total of 444 patients were assessed. The average follow-up duration was 18 months. Radiographic outcomes demonstrated that patients who received metallic wedges experienced improvements in lateral calcaneal pitch angle and Meary’s angle, with an enhancement of up to 15.9 degrees reported in the latter. Success rates indicated superior outcomes for metallic wedges (99.3%) compared to bone allograft wedges (89.9%), while complications were generally minor, including hardware pain and misplacement. Notably, there were no infection complications due to the inert nature of the metallic elements. This review summarizes the effectiveness, success rates, and safety of metallic wedges for flatfoot correction. Radiographic improvements and high success rates highlight their efficacy. Minor complications, including pain and mispositioning, were reported, but the infection risk remained low. Our results demonstrate that metallic midfoot wedges may be a viable option over allograft wedges with proper planning. Future research should prioritize long-term studies and standardized measures.
The Role of Calcium and Iron Homeostasis in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Wang Ji , Zhao Jindong , Zhao Kunying , Wu Shangpeng , Chen Xinglong , Hu Weiyan
Published: January 2024

Calcium and iron are essential elements that regulate many important processes of eukaryotic cells. Failure to maintain homeostasis of calcium and iron causes cell dysfunction or even death. PD (Parkinson’s disease) is the second most common neurological disorder in humans, for which there are currently no viable treatment options or effective strategies to cure and delay progression. Pathological hallmarks of PD, such as dopaminergic neuronal death and intracellular α-synuclein deposition, are closely involved in perturbations of iron and calcium homeostasis and accumulation. Here, we summarize the mechanisms by which Ca2+ signaling influences or promotes PD progression and the main mechanisms involved in ferroptosis in Parkinson’s disease. Understanding the mechanisms by which calcium and iron imbalances contribute to the progression of this disease is critical to developing effective treatments to combat this devastating neurological disorder.
Interleukin-11/IL-11 Receptor Promotes Glioblastoma Cell Proliferation, Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition, and Invasion
Authors: Stuart Sarah F. , Curpen Peter , Gomes Adele J. , Lan Michelle C. , Nie Shuai , Williamson Nicholas A. , Kannourakis George , Morokoff Andrew P. , Achuthan Adrian A. , Luwor Rodney B.
Published: January 2024

Glioblastoma is highly proliferative and invasive. However, the regulatory cytokine networks that promote glioblastoma cell proliferation and invasion into other areas of the brain are not fully defined. In the present study, we define a critical role for the IL-11/IL-11Rα signalling axis in glioblastoma proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and invasion. We identified enhanced IL-11/IL-11Rα expression correlated with reduced overall survival in glioblastoma patients using TCGA datasets. Proteomic analysis of glioblastoma cell lines overexpressing IL-11Rα displayed a proteome that favoured enhanced proliferation and invasion. These cells also displayed greater proliferation and migration, while the knockdown of IL-11Rα reversed these tumourigenic characteristics. In addition, these IL-11Rα overexpressing cells displayed enhanced invasion in transwell invasion assays and in 3D spheroid invasion assays, while knockdown of IL-11Rα resulted in reduced invasion. Furthermore, IL-11Rα-overexpressing cells displayed a more mesenchymal-like phenotype compared to parental cells and expressed greater levels of the mesenchymal marker Vimentin. Overall, our study identified that the IL-11/IL-11Rα pathway promotes glioblastoma cell proliferation, EMT, and invasion.
Simulation of Water Flow Path Length (WFPL) and Water Film Depth (WFD) for Wide Expressway Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Cheng Zhenggang , Liang Zhiyong , Li Xuhua , Ren Xiaowei , Hu Tao , Yu Huayang
Published: January 2024

This paper simulates actual rainfall conditions and raindrops flowing to form a water flow path (WFP) on the pavement surface of the wide expressway. Then, the different linear combination conditions, including longitudinal slope (LS), transverse slope (superelevation, TS), gradual change rate of TS, and pavement width (PW), were simulated and analyzed. The results show that (1) the influence of each linear index on the maximum water film path length (WFPLmax) and maximum water flow depth (WFDmax) differs (according to the absolute values of Beta, LS has the greatest influence on WFPLmax, and PW has the greatest influence on the WFDmax for both straight-line and circular-curve sections); (2) when the design value of LS is between 1.1% and 4%, the WFDmax can be effectively reduced by lowering the value of LS; (3) in the case of a high design value of LS, it can be considered to increase the TS of the pavement arch from 2% to 2.5% to effectively reduce the WFPLmax, and the wider PW, the better the reducing effect; (4) while widening the expressway, adjusting the TS from 2% to 2.5% can effectively offset the increasing effect of PW on the WFDmax. This research aims to fill the research gap in the simulation of runoff characteristics of wide expressway asphalt pavements and to improve the alignment design of expressways from the drainage perspective for the improvement of driving safety.
Experimental Evaluation of Precast Concrete Walls with High-Tension Bolted Vertical Joints for Enhanced Ductile Behavior
Authors: Moon Kyo Young , Kim Sung Jig , Lee Kihak
Published: January 2024

This paper presents an experimental program investigating the seismic performance of Precast Concrete (PC) walls incorporating a novel vertical joint featuring high-tension bolts. The proposed joint aims to enhance both the constructability and ductile behavior of PC walls while eliminating defects due to bolt exposure associated with conventional dry joints. To evaluate the shear performance of the joints, three specimens were constructed: a cast-in-place concrete wall, a PC wall with the conventional wet joint, and a PC wall with the proposed joint. Direct shear tests revealed a substantial improvement in the ductile behavior of the proposed vertical joint, demonstrating gradual and controlled failure, even at high strains. Static cyclic loading tests further assessed the seismic performance of two PC walls: one with the conventional wet joint and the other with the high-tension bolted vertical joint. The PC wall with the proposed joint exhibited a substantial 20% increase in ultimate displacement compared to the control specimen, along with demonstrably improved crack control and reduced damage. Therefore, it is concluded that although the strength and stiffness decreased due to its design characteristics, the proposed vertical joint could mitigate damage and improve the ductility capacity of the PC wall.
Improved Bond Stress-Slip Relationships for Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Polymer-Strengthened Masonry Triplets
Authors: Hashemi Seyyed Motasam , Ayoub Ashraf
Published: January 2024

Carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) emerges as a viable solution for reinforcing unreinforced masonry (URM) walls subjected to shear loads. While masonry structures are straightforward to construct, the complexity of the construction materials, especially in terms of their mechanical properties, poses challenges for numerical studies of their structural behaviour. Walls, being fundamental components in masonry construction, play a crucial role in transferring both horizontal and vertical lateral forces. This study investigates the enhancement of masonry wall behaviour through the reinforcement of CFRP. CFRP reinforcement increases ductility and strength, reducing the risk of failure under shear conditions. Additionally, CFRP composites present a practical solution to strengthening masonry structures compared to traditional reinforcement. However, brick, mortar, and CFRP have not been thoroughly investigated. Experimental tests on the bond behaviour of different configurations of CFRP-retrofitted masonry triplets have not been performed before and are therefore presented in this paper. Triplet specimens, comprising three bricks and two mortar joints, both with and without CFRP strengthening, were subjected to bond testing. The study affirms that masonry triplets strengthened with CFRP under shear loads exhibit strength levels at least four to six times greater than those without CFRP. The experimental work was carried out with eight different CFRP configurations on triplet masonry, and each test was repeated four times. Further, the bond stress-slip relationship in the case of masonry triplets with and without CFRP was predicted with new mathematical equations based on the conducted test results. These equations were included in the commercial finite element software ANSYS and used to conduct simulations of CFRP-reinforced masonry triplets. The numerical results indicate good agreement between the finite element model and the test results. The outcome of this research improves the current knowledge on the use of CFRP to reinforce masonry walls with brick and mortar, which will contribute to the understanding of the effect of CFRP on masonry structures.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Organizational Justice and Project Performance: A Systematic Literature and Science Mapping Review
Authors: Zhang Xinran , Antwi-Afari Maxwell , Zhang Yongcheng , Xing Xuejiao
Published: January 2024

By adopting a systematic literature and science mapping review, this paper aims to explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on organizational justice and project performance. A total of 47 bibliographic records from the Scopus database were analyzed. The results revealed the annual publication trends of research articles and relevant peer-reviewed journals in the studied domain. It was found that while AI technology has made significant progress in several fields, its application areas in project management and organizational justice are still relatively low. Moreover, it objectively discussed the co-occurrence analysis of keywords, co-authors, countries/regions, and documents in the fields, revealing the current research topics. The main research topics include the (1) AI’s influence on organizational justice, decision analysis, and digital transformation, (2) fostering organizational justice and AI’s role in enhancing project performance, and (3) improving organizational performance approaches. Furthermore, this paper proposed research gaps and future research directions, including (1) advancing business intelligence strategies, (2) unlocking AI technology potential on organizational justice and project performance, (3) the adaption of cultural, diversity, environmental, and social factors, (4) the impact of AI on complex and challenging leadership styles, and (5) developing a comprehensive understanding of the agile framework. The findings of this paper could contribute to a better understanding of how AI shapes project/construction management and organizational justice, providing practical solutions for innovative development for researchers and policymakers.
Galactosylceramide Upregulates the Expression of the BCL2 Gene and Downregulates the Expression of TNFRSF1B and TNFRSF9 Genes, Acting as an Anti-Apoptotic Molecule in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Suchanski Jaroslaw , Reza Safoura , Urbaniak Anna , Woldanska Weronika , Kocbach Bartlomiej , Ugorski Maciej
Published: January 2024

Galactosylceramide (GalCer) increases the resistance of breast cancer cells to doxorubicin, paclitaxel, and cisplatin by acting as an anti-apoptotic molecule. GalCer was found to specifically downregulate the levels of the pro-apoptotic TNFRSF1B and TNFRSF9 genes and upregulate the levels of the anti-apoptotic BCL2 gene, suggesting that this glycosphingolipid regulates their expression at the transcriptional level. Consistent with this hypothesis, MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 breast cancer cells with high levels of GalCer showed lower activity of the TNFRSF1B and TNFRSF9 promoters than cells lacking GalCer. In contrast, the activity of the BCL2 promoter was higher in MCF7 cells overproducing GalCer than in MCF7 cells without GalCer. However, no difference in BCL2 promoter activity was observed between MDA-MB-231 cells with high and no GalCer content. Instead, we found that high levels of GalCer increased the stability of Bcl-2 mRNA. Subsequent studies showed that breast cancer cells with high levels of GalCer are characterized by significantly lower expression of P53. Importantly, inhibition of P53 expression by siRNA in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells lacking GalCer resulted in decreased expression and promoter activity of the TNFRS1B and TNFRSF9 genes. On the other hand, increased expression and promoter activity of the BCL2 gene was found in such MCF7 cells, and increased stability of Bcl-2 transcripts was observed in such MDA-MB-231 cells. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that the regulatory protein that simultaneously increases the expression of the TNFRSF1B and TNFRSF9 genes and decreases the expression of the BCL2 gene and the stability of Bcl-2 transcripts is most likely P53, the expression of which is GalCer dependent.
MUC1 Drives the Progression and Chemoresistance of Clear Cell Renal Carcinomas
Authors: Bourdon Emma , Swierczewski Thomas , Goujon Marine , Boukrout Nihad , Fellah Sandy , Van der Hauwaert Cynthia , Larrue Romain , Lefebvre Bruno , Van Seuningen Isabelle , Cauffiez Christelle , Pottier Nicolas , Perrais Michaël
Published: January 2024

While the transmembrane glycoprotein mucin 1 (MUC1) is clustered at the apical borders of normal epithelial cells, with transformation and loss of polarity, MUC1 is found at high levels in the cytosol and is uniformly distributed over the entire surface of carcinoma cells, where it can promote tumor progression and adversely affects the response to therapy. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the main histotype of kidney cancer, is typically highly resistant to conventional and targeted therapies for reasons that remain largely unknown. In this context, we investigated whether MUC1 also plays a pivotal role in the cellular and molecular events driving ccRCC progression and chemoresistance. We showed, using loss- and gain-of-function approaches in ccRCC-derived cell lines, that MUC1 not only influences tumor progression but also induces a multi-drug-resistant profile reminiscent of the activation of ABC drug efflux transporters. Overall, our results suggest that targeting MUC1 may represent a novel therapeutic approach to limit ccRCC progression and improve drug sensitivity.
ID2 Promotes Lineage Transition of Prostate Cancer through FGFR and JAK-STAT Signaling
Authors: Zhang Jinxiong , Chen Zhihao , Mao Yongxin , He Yijun , Wu Xin , Wu Jianhong , Sheng Lu
Published: January 2024

The use of androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) has led to an increase in the proportion of AR-null prostate cancer, including neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) and double-negative prostate cancer (DNPC), but the mechanism underlying this lineage transition has not been elucidated. We found that ID2 expression was increased in AR-null prostate cancer. In vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that ID2 promotes PCa malignancy and can confer resistance to enzalutamide in PCa cells. We generated an ID2 UP50 signature, which is capable of determining resistance to enzalutamide and is valuable for predicting patient prognosis. Functional experiments showed that ID2 could activate stemness-associated JAK/STAT and FGFR signaling while inhibiting the AR signaling pathway. Our study indicates a potentially strong association between ID2 and the acquisition of a stem-like phenotype in adenocarcinoma cells, leading to resistance to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and next-generation ARPIs in prostate cancer.
The Impact of Nanomedicine on Soft Tissue Sarcoma Treated by Radiotherapy and/or Hyperthermia: A Review
Authors: Zachou Maria-Eleni , Kouloulias Vassilis , Chalkia Marina , Efstathopoulos Efstathios , Platoni Kalliopi
Published: January 2024

This article presents a comprehensive review of nanoparticle-assisted treatment approaches for soft tissue sarcoma (STS). STS, a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal-origin tumors with aggressive behavior and low overall survival rates, necessitates the exploration of innovative therapeutic interventions. In contrast to conventional treatments like surgery, radiotherapy (RT), hyperthermia (HT), and chemotherapy, nanomedicine offers promising advancements in STS management. This review focuses on recent research in nanoparticle applications, including their role in enhancing RT and HT efficacy through improved drug delivery systems, novel radiosensitizers, and imaging agents. Reviewing the current state of nanoparticle-assisted therapies, this paper sheds light on their potential to revolutionize soft tissue sarcoma treatment and improve patient therapy outcomes.
The Emerging Role of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures in Breast Cancer: A Narrative Review
Authors: Narvaez Dana , Nadal Jorge , Nervo Adrian , Costanzo María Victoria , Paletta Claudio , Petracci Fernando E. , Rivero Sergio , Ostinelli Alexis , Freile Berenice , Enrico Diego , Pombo Maria Teresa , Amat Mora , Aguirre Edgar Danilo , Chacon Matias , Waisberg Federico
Published: January 2024

This narrative review aims to clarify the role of tertiary lymphoid structures in breast cancer. We examine their development, composition, and prognostic value, and current ways of recognizing them. A comprehensive literature review was performed using the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and EMBASE databases. A significant area of interest in breast cancer research involves targeting immune checkpoint molecules, particularly in the triple-negative subtype, where treatment options remain limited. However, existing biomarkers have limitations in accurately predicting treatment response. In this context, tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) emerge as a prognostic biomarker and also as a promising predictive marker for response. TLSs are ectopic lymphoid formations or neo-organogenesis that can develop after prolonged exposure to inflammatory signals mediated by chemokines and cytokines. Their presence is inversely correlated with estrogen receptor (ER) and/or progesterone receptor (PR) expression, but positively associated with a higher pathologic complete response rate and improved overall survival. In certain scenarios, TLS-positive tumors were associated with improved outcomes regardless of the presence of PDL-1 (programmed cell death ligand 1) expression or TILs (tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes).
Emerging Lipid Targets in Glioblastoma
Authors: Darwish Ammar , Pammer Milán , Gallyas Ferenc , Vígh László , Balogi Zsolt , Juhász Kata
Published: January 2024

GBM accounts for most of the fatal brain cancer cases, making it one of the deadliest tumor types. GBM is characterized by severe progression and poor prognosis with a short survival upon conventional chemo- and radiotherapy. In order to improve therapeutic efficiency, considerable efforts have been made to target various features of GBM. One of the targetable features of GBM is the rewired lipid metabolism that contributes to the tumor’s aggressive growth and penetration into the surrounding brain tissue. Lipid reprogramming allows GBM to acquire survival, proliferation, and invasion benefits as well as supportive modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Several attempts have been made to find novel therapeutic approaches by exploiting the lipid metabolic reprogramming in GBM. In recent studies, various components of de novo lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, lipid uptake, and prostaglandin synthesis have been considered promising targets in GBM. Emerging data also suggest a significant role hence therapeutic potential of the endocannabinoid metabolic pathway in GBM. Here we review the lipid-related GBM characteristics in detail and highlight specific targets with their potential therapeutic use in novel antitumor approaches.