bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The potential of Logistics 4.0 technologies: a case study through business intelligence framing by applying the Delphi method
Authors: Vicente Joaquim Jorge , Neves Lurdes , Bernardo Inês
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The growing competitiveness and the importance of data availability for organizations have created a demand for intelligent information systems capable of analyzing data to support strategy and decision-making. Organizations are generating more and more data due to new technologies associated with Industry 4.0 and Logistics 4.0, making it essential to transform this data into relevant information to streamline decision-making processes. This paper examines the influence of these technologies on gaining a competitive advantage, specifically in a logistics company, which is scarce in the literature.

Methods

A case study was conducted in a Portuguese company using the Delphi method with 61 participants—employees who use the company’s integrated BI tool daily. The participants were presented with a questionnaire via the online platform Welphi, requiring qualitative responses to various statements based on the literature review and the results of semi-structured meetings with the company.

Results

The study aimed to identify areas where employees believe more investment/ development is needed to optimize processes and improve the use of the BI tool in the future. The results indicate that BI is a crucial technology when aligned with a company’s objectives and needs, highlighting the necessity of top management’s involvement in optimizing the BI tool. Encouraging employees to use the BI tool emerged as a significant factor, underscoring the importance of leadership in innovative projects to achieve greater competitive advantage for the company.

Discussion

This study aims to understand the importance of Business Intelligence (BI) and how its functionalities should be adapted according to a company’s strategy and objectives to optimize decision-making processes. Thereby, the discussion focused on the essential role of BI technologies in leveraging the company’s competitive advantage.
The CHIP-clinic as the catalyst of preventive medicine
Authors: Hasselbalch Hans Carl , Skov Vibe , Kjaer Lasse , Knudsen Trine Alma , Eickhardt-Dalbøge Christina Schjellerup , Ellervik Christina , Cordua Sabrina , Sørensen Anders Lindholm , Christensen Sarah Friis , Kristiansen Marie Hvelplund , Lindholt Jes Sanddal , Thomassen Mads , Kruse Torben A. , Bruun Niels Eske , Lindholm Matias Greve , Nielsen Claus Henrik , Egyed Miklos , März Winfried , Larsen Morten Kranker , Wienecke Troels
Published: October 2024

Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential (CHIP) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and is a precursor stage to the BCR-ABL negative chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). These diseases are acquired stem cell neoplasms, arising due to mutations in the hematopoietic stem cell. The most prevalent is the JAK2V617F (JAK2) mutation, which potently generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), and accordingly contributes greatly to the chronic inflammatory state and the increased risk of thrombosis in MPNs. The MPNs are largely underdiagnosed blood cancers with a long pre-diagnostic phase of several years, when the elevated blood cell counts are considered reactive to smoking, blood clots, infections or chronic inflammatory diseases. Since the JAK2 mutation as CHIP-JAK2 associates with an increased risk of CVD and an increased risk of hematological and non-hematological cancers there is an urgent need to explore and validate the JAK2 mutation as a novel risk factor for CVD and to establish CHIP-clinics, which in an interdisciplinary collaboration between experts from several disciplines, and ensure timely diagnosis of the undiagnosed MPN patient and associated comorbidities. We envisage studies of the JAK2 mutation in large CVD cohorts to deliver the “Proof of Concept” for the JAK2 mutation to be implemented as a novel, highly important risk factor for CVD. These novel preventive strategies are considered to have the potential of reducing morbidity and mortality in a large population of citizens and patients, carrying the thrombosis- and CVD-promoting JAK2 mutation.
Hamstring and lower back muscles flexibility as predictor of saddle pressures in young off-road cyclists
Authors: Vicari Domenico Savio Salvatore , Patti Antonino , Giustino Valerio , Belmonte Giacomo , Alamia Giuseppe , Gervasi Marco , Fernández Peña Eneko , Palma Antonio , Schena Federico , Bianco Antonino , Thomas Ewan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

While pedaling, cyclists rest their pelvis on the saddle, generating pressures on it. The pressures generated on the saddle are influenced by several factors. This study aimed to evaluate whether the flexibility of hamstring and lower back muscles could be considered a predictor of pressures in the anterior region (PAR) on the saddle.

Methods

For this study, 15 young off-road Italian cyclists (11m, 4f) aged 13–16 (Italian Federation categories: ES1, ES2, AL1, AL2) were recruited. Each participant was administered the V sit-and-reach (VSR) to measure the hamstring and lower back muscles flexibility. Subsequently, after performing a bike fitting, the saddle pressures during pedaling at three different intensities (100, 140, 180 W), with participants on their own bike installed on specific bike roller, were recorded. The parameters considered for statistical analysis were front pressure (%) and back pressure (%).

Results

The hamstring and lower back muscles flexibility, as result of the VSR test, was a predictor of saddle PAR at 100 W (R2 = 0.362, p = 0.018), at 140 W (R2 = 0.291, p = 0.038), and at 180 W (R2 = 0.349, p = 0.020) of pedaling intensity.

Conclusion

Higher values of the VSR could predict lower values of the pressures exerted in the front region of the saddle. The hamstring and lower back muscles flexibility may be considered a predictor of PAR on the saddle.
Effects of a novel synbiotics-enzyme complex as a replacement for antibiotics on growth performance, slaughter and meat characteristics, immune organ index, and intestinal morphology of broilers
Authors: Zhao Zihao , Liswaniso Simushi , Qin Ning , Cao Shengxiao , Wu Xin , Ma Chang , Yan Chunchi , Xu Rifu , Sun Xue
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Antibiotic use in broilers is being discouraged globally due to the challenges it poses. This study was conducted to assess the effects of supplementing broilers with a Symbiotic-Enzyme complex (SEC) containing prebiotics (mannose oligosaccharides), probiotics (Clostridium butyricum and Bacillus subtilis), and enzymes (glucose oxidase, and α-galactosidase) as an alternative to antibiotics on growth performance, carcass and meat quality traits, mortality, linear body measurements, intestinal morphology and immune organ indexes.

Method

A total of 864 mixed-sex 1-day-old arbor acres (AA+) broilers were allocated to 8 experimental groups replicated 9 times with 12 chickens per replicate. These included 6 treatment groups with SEC inclusion levels of 0.025, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10%, respectively, and two control groups: a negative control group containing a basal diet only and the positive control group (Antibiotics group) containing a basal diet and antibiotic oxytetracycline added at 0.2%. Growth performance was measured on day 21 and 42, and the mortality, carcass, meat quality traits, linear body measurements, intestinal morphology, and organ size indexes were measured on day 42.

Results

The results indicated that supplementing broilers with 0.1% SEC resulted in insignificant (P > 0.05) increases in average daily feed intake (ADFI), significant (P < 0.05) increases in the average daily gains (ADG), and significant (P < 0.05) reduction in a feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) in all the phases compared to the control and antibiotics groups. Supplementation of broilers with 0.1% SEC inclusion levels also significantly (P < 0.05) increased the body slope length, chest width, chest depth, keel length, and shank circumference. Furthermore, broilers on diets containing 0.1% SEC inclusion level also had significantly (P < 0.05) higher dressed, semi-evisceration, evisceration, and breast muscle percentages. Including SEC at 0.1% also significantly (P < 0.05) increased villus height and villus-to-crypt ratio (V/C) but reduced crypt depth in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum compared to the control groups. SEC inclusion at 0.1% significantly (P < 0.05) increased the spleen, bursal, and thymus indexes, respectively.

Conclusion

Supplementation of broilers with 0.1% SEC can be used as an antibiotic alternative because it increases the F/G, improves the carcass and meat quality, increases the body conformation, improves the small intestines' functions, and immune organ size.
Investigating the effect of immunomagnetic separation on the immunophenotype and viability of plasma cells in plasma cell disorders
Authors: Czeti Ágnes , Sashalmi Soma , Takács Ferenc , Szalóki Gábor , Kriston Csilla , Varga Gergely , Farkas Péter , Hamed Aryan , Márk Ágnes , Barna Gábor
Published: October 2024

Plasma cell enrichment plays a pivotal role in the accurate prognosis and molecular characterization of multiple myeloma. The separation is commonly carried out by positive cell selection using CD138 monoclonal antibody conjugated to magnetic beads. Optimally, during the separation procedure, the cells should neither be damaged, nor should their phenotype be significantly altered, as these changes would falsify the results if the isolated cells were subsequently used. For this reason, we investigated the expression patterns of different surface markers by flow cytometry before and after magnetic isolation using bone marrow or peripheral blood samples from 12 patients with plasma cell disorders. The selected markers are not only used as backbone markers in routine diagnostics (CD19, CD38, CD45, CD117, and CD138), but they also play an important role in cell adhesion and connection with microenvironment (CD44, CD49d, CD56, and CD81) or possibly drug resistance (CD69, CD86, and CD184), making them promising targets for myeloma research. Moreover, we examined the effects of separation on cell viability in 8 cases. The intensities of 8 out of the 12 investigated markers were slightly influenced, while CD138, CD38, CD56, and CD184 were changed significantly, however the immunophenotype of the cells was not changed. Positive markers remained positive and negative ones remained negative after the separation procedure. In addition, the number of apoptotic plasma cells was significantly reduced during separation, facilitating further examination of the cells. Our results showed that magnetic isolation can be considered as a reliable option but the immunophenotype of plasma cells should be validated after the separation if the intensities of the markers are important for further experiments.
A New Computer-Aided Diagnosis System for Breast Cancer Detection from Thermograms Using Metaheuristic Algorithms and Explainable AI
Authors: Dihmani Hanane , Bousselham Abdelmajid , Bouattane Omar
Published: October 2024

Advances in the early detection of breast cancer and treatment improvements have significantly increased survival rates. Traditional screening methods, including mammography, MRI, ultrasound, and biopsies, while effective, often come with high costs and risks. Recently, thermal imaging has gained attention due to its minimal risks compared to mammography, although it is not widely adopted as a primary detection tool since it depends on identifying skin temperature changes and lesions. The advent of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) has enhanced the effectiveness of breast cancer detection and diagnosis using this technology. In this study, a novel interpretable computer aided diagnosis (CAD) system for breast cancer detection is proposed, leveraging Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) throughout its various phases. To achieve these goals, we proposed a new multi-objective optimization approach named the Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm (HPSO) and Hybrid Spider Monkey Optimization algorithm (HSMO). These algorithms simultaneously combined the continuous and binary representations of PSO and SMO to effectively manage trade-offs between accuracy, feature selection, and hyperparameter tuning. We evaluated several CAD models and investigated the impact of handcrafted methods such as Local Binary Patterns (LBP), Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG), Gabor Filters, and Edge Detection. We further shed light on the effect of feature selection and optimization on feature attribution and model decision-making processes using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) framework, with a particular emphasis on cancer classification using the DMR-IR dataset. The results of our experiments demonstrate in all trials that the performance of the model is improved. With HSMO, our models achieved an accuracy of 98.27% and F1-score of 98.15% while selecting only 25.78% of the HOG features. This approach not only boosts the performance of CAD models but also ensures comprehensive interpretability. This method emerges as a promising and transparent tool for early breast cancer diagnosis.
Optimized Accelerated Over-Relaxation Method for Robust Signal Detection: A Metaheuristic Approach
Authors: Irshad Muhammad Nauman , Khoso Imran Ali , Aslam Muhammad Muzamil , Silapunt Rardchawadee
Published: October 2024

Massive MIMO technology is recognized as a key enabler for beyond 5G (B5G) and next-generation wireless networks. By utilizing large-scale antenna arrays at the base station (BS), it significantly improves both system capacity and energy efficiency. Despite these advantages, the deployment of a high number of antennas at the BS presents considerable challenges, particularly in the design of signal detectors that can operate with low computational complexity. While the minimum mean square error (MMSE) detector offers optimal performance in these large-scale systems, it suffers from the computational burden that makes its practical implementation challenging. To mitigate this, various iterative methods and their improved versions have been introduced. However, these iterative methods often converge slowly and are less accurate. To address these challenges, this study introduces an improved variant of traditional accelerated over-relaxation (AOR), called optimized AOR (OAOR). AOR is an over-relaxation method, and its performance is highly dependent on its relaxation parameters. To find the optimal parameters, we have developed an innovative approach that integrates a nature-inspired meta-heuristic algorithm known as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). Specifically, we introduce a novel variant of PSO that improves upon basic PSO by enhancing the cognitive coefficients to optimize the relaxation parameters for OAOR. These key modifications to the standard PSO improve its ability to explore various solutions efficiently and help to find the optimal parameters more quickly for signal detection. It facilitates the OAOR with faster convergence towards the optimal solution by reducing the error rate, resulting in high detection accuracy and simultaneously decreasing computational complexity from O(K3) to O(K2) making it suitable for modern wireless communication systems. We conduct extensive simulations across various configurations of massive MIMO systems. The results indicate that our proposed method achieves better performance compared to existing techniques. This improvement is particularly evident in terms of both computational complexity and error rate.
The Experiences and Views of Employees on Hybrid Ways of Working
Authors: Hanzis Anastasia , Hallo Leonie
Published: October 2024

The contemporary post-COVID-19 corporate environment of instant response and hybrid work settings motivates employees to learn to adjust their expectations. This new corporate working model incorporates flex locations and flex schedules by working at home 1–2 days per week and staying connected for non-urgent requests, even outside business hours. This work setting empowers employees to prioritize work accordingly and to accommodate the fluid schedules of their coworkers. As a result, this new hybrid workplace requires leaders and their teams to face new challenges in terms of communication, coordination, and team connection to remain effective. This research examines the experiences of employees in an SME that applied a hybrid work policy following the post-pandemic crisis, bringing additional complexity to their modern work system. This study investigates employees’ views on the changing work environment as important evidence for HR management to incorporate into future organizational practices. To understand the various principles at play and provide more granular results, this paper includes a business case study (N = 25) where semi-structured interviews were used to identify the views and concerns of employees regarding hybrid work settings. The scope of this case study was to collect empirical data regarding this new agile way of working while understanding participant thinking. The findings suggest that while there are clear benefits in terms of efficiency and flexibility in hybrid work settings, there are also challenges related to social interactions and non-verbal clues. This study enhances conceptual and empirical understanding and supports contemporary research on the future of work.
Clinical Outcome of Multicentric Lymphoma Treated with Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisolone (CHOP) in Small Breed Dogs
Authors: Kim Tae-Hee , Song Woo-Jin , Ryu Min-Ok , Kim Hyun-Tae , Nam Aryung , Youn Hwa-Young
Published: October 2024

Lymphoma is one of the most common malignant tumors in dogs. Combination chemotherapy with vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisolone (CHOP) is the most effective treatment for multicentric lymphoma. Previous studies have evaluated the response of large dogs to CHOP treatment and identified prognostic factors; however, studies on small dogs are lacking. In this study, we investigated the outcomes and prognostic factors for small dogs with multicentric lymphoma treated with CHOP. The responses of patients to CHOP treatment were assessed, and 54.3% were evaluated as being in complete remission (CR), 31.4% in partial remission (PR), and 14.3% in no remission (NR). The overall response rate was 85.7%. The median survival times for CR, PR, and NR patients were 683 days (85–1496 days), 241 days (15–777 days), and 119 days (61–308 days), respectively. Among the CR patients, survival was longer under the following conditions: age under 10 years (p = 0.011), no cardiovascular heart disease (p = 0.046), and no history of hospitalization due to side effects from chemotherapy (p = 0.002). These results might help clinicians build treatment plans for multicentric lymphoma in small breed dogs.
Identification and Counting of Pirapitinga Piaractus brachypomus Fingerlings Fish Using Machine Learning
Authors: Souza Alene Santos , Costa Adriano Carvalho , França Heyde Francielle do Carmo , Nuvunga Joel Jorge , Ferreira de Melo Gidélia Araújo , Lima Lessandro do Carmo , Kretschmer Vitória de Vasconcelos , de Oliveira Débora Ázara , Horn Liege Dauny , Rezende Isabel Rodrigues de , Fernandes Marília Parreira , Reis Neto Rafael Vilhena , Freitas Rilke Tadeu Fonseca de , Oliveira Rodrigo Fortunato de , Viadanna Pedro Henrique , Vitorino Brenno Muller , Minafra Cibele Silva
Published: October 2024

Identifying and counting fish are crucial for managing stocking, harvesting, and marketing of farmed fish. Researchers have used convolutional networks for these tasks and explored various approaches to enhance network learning. Batch normalization is one technique that improves network stability and accuracy. This study aimed to evaluate machine learning for identifying and counting pirapitinga Piaractus brachypomus fry with different batch sizes. The researchers used one thousand photographic images of Pirapitinga fingerlings, labeled with bounding boxes. They trained the adapted convolutional network model with batch normalization layers added at the end of each convolution block. They set the training to one hundred and fifty epochs and tested batch sizes of 5, 10, and 20. Furthermore, they measured network performance using precision, recall, and mAP@0.5. Models with smaller batch sizes performed less effectively. The training with a batch size of 20 achieved the best performance, with a precision of 96.74%, recall of 95.48%, mAP@0.5 of 97.08%, and accuracy of 98%. This indicates that larger batch sizes improve accuracy in detecting and counting pirapitinga fry across different fish densities.
Experimental Study on Hydrogen Embrittlement-Enhanced Ultrasonic Machining of Inconel 718 Small Hole
Authors: Li Sisi , Wen Shanshan , Qiao Jiaping , Feng Ming
Published: October 2024

Small-hole components of Inconel 718 are widely used in aerospace engineering, medical devices, and other fields. Limited by material properties, its machining efficiency seriously restricts its wide application. The objective of this study is to investigate a novel machining technique for Inconel 718 that integrates ultrasonic machining (UM) and hydrogen embrittlement (HE) treatment. Accordingly, the technique is designated as hydrogen embrittlement-enhanced ultrasonic machining (HEUM). Prior to machining, a stress layer is formed on the surface of the workpiece. To ascertain the fundamental characteristics of Inconel 718, the influences of ultrasonic amplitude, HE time, and HE voltage on the specific material removal rate and surface roughness in the presence of HE were empirically examined. To investigate the material removal process for HEUM, the nanoscratch test and nanoindenter were also conducted with HE samples. Further, the subsurface for HEUAG samples were obtained with SEM. The specific material removal rate under experimental conditions of 10 min and 5 V HE increased by 27.4%. Finally, HEUM is proposed to be used for a 1 mm through-hole with Ra 0.318 μm. A precision hole with a diameter as small as 0.5 mm has been manufactured.
Greece 2023: Crazy Summer or New Normal—Lessons Not Learned
Authors: Matzarakis Andreas , Nastos Panagiotis
Published: October 2024

The year 2023 in Greece started with a mild winter and spring [...]
Drought Hazards and Hydrological Variations in the South Hebei Plain of China over the Past 500 Years
Authors: Yang Guifang , Yao Changhong
Published: October 2024

High-frequency drought hazards have presented persistent challenges for environmental management and sustainable development in the South Hebei Plain, China. In this paper, the assessment of meteorological droughts in the South Hebei Plain was conducted using a multifaceted approach to ensure a comprehensive analysis. Our results demonstrated that distinct timescale cycles, ranging from centennial–semicentennial to interdecadal variations, can be identified over the past few centuries. These cycles aligned with patterns observed in the middle Yangtze basin and corresponded to regional climatic conditions. The drought cycles in the South Hebei Plain showed significant correlations with variations in the monsoon climate, sunspot activity, global changes, and human disturbances. Changes in the frequency, duration, and intensity of droughts have notably impacted hydrological variations. Extreme droughts, in particular, have heightened concerns about their effects on river systems, potentially increasing the risk of channel migration. This study enhanced our understanding of meteorological hazard patterns in the South Hebei Plain and provided valuable insights into different stages of drought management. It thus can offer lessons for improving drought preparedness and resilience and for formulating adaptive measures to mitigate future droughts and promote regional sustainability.
Grouping Behaviour and Anti-Predator Responses in the Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris
Authors: van Niekerk Johann H. , Forcina Giovanni , Megía-Palma Rodrigo
Published: October 2024

Little is known about landbird group dynamics in response to predation. Here, we describe the interactions between the Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris) and its predators regarding the survival advantages grouping behaviour may provide. Livestream webcam observations were conducted in Madikwe Game Reserve (South Africa) from August 2020 to August 2021. Emphasis was placed on predator–prey interaction and its effect on group size and structure in a spatial framework. We hypothesise that while grouping is crucial for a number of daily activities in this highly social species, it might turn into a higher predatory pressure. We found, indeed, that the probability of attacks by black-backed jackals (Lupulella mesomelas) significantly increased with guineafowl group size, unlike what happened with raptors. Moreover, when attacked by jackals, the birds responded by standing close to each other. These results suggest, in line with the proposed hypothesis, that a trade-off occurs between the defensive function of grouping in this galliform and the probability of jackal attack that increases as a function of prey group size. Nevertheless, we argue that Helmeted Guineafowl cooperative social groups also play a role as a defensive strategy against predators, with the many-eyes and dilution effects likely compensating for the higher predatory pressure.
Diagnostic Efficacy of Five Different Imaging Modalities in the Assessment of Women Recalled at Breast Screening—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Akwo Judith , Hadadi Ibrahim , Ekpo Ernest
Published: October 2024

There are variations in the assessment pathways for women recalled at screening, and the imaging assessment pathway with the best diagnostic outcome is poorly understood. This paper examines the efficacy of five imaging modalities for the assessment of screen-recalled breast lesions. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) strategy was employed to identify studies that assessed the efficacy of imaging modalities in the assessment of lesions recalled at screening from the following eight databases: Medline, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, CINAHL, and Global Health. Search terms included “Breast assessment” AND “Diagnostic Workup” OR “Mammography” AND “Digital Breast tomosynthesis” AND “contrast enhanced mammography and Magnetic Resonance imaging” AND “breast ultrasound”. Studies that examined the performance of digital mammography (DM), digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), handheld ultrasound (HHUS), contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in screen-recalled lesions were reviewed. Meta-analyses of these studies were conducted using the MetaDisc 2.0 software package. Results: Fifty-four studies met the inclusion criteria and examined between one and three imaging modalities. Pooled results of each imaging modality demonstrated that CEM has the highest sensitivity (95; 95% CI: 90–97) followed by MRI (93; 95% CI: 88–96), DBT (91; 95% CI: 87–94), HHUS (90; 95% CI: 86–93), and DM (85; 95% CI: 78–90). The DBT demonstrated the highest specificity (85; 95% CI: 75–91) followed by DM (77; 95% CI: 66–85), CEM (73; 95% CI: 63–81), MRI (69; 95% CI: 55–81), and HHUS (65; 95% CI: 46–80). Conclusions: The CEM, MRI, DBT, and HHUS demonstrate excellent performance in correctly identifying and classifying cancer lesions referred for diagnostic work-up, but HHUS, MRI, and CEM have a more limited ability to discriminate benign lesions than DBT and DM.
Tolerance of Oncogene-Induced Replication Stress: A Fuel for Genomic Instability
Authors: Igarashi Taichi , Yano Kimiyoshi , Endo Syoju , Shiotani Bunsyo
Published: October 2024

Activation of oncogenes disturbs a wide variety of cellular processes and induces physiological dysregulation of DNA replication, widely referred to as replication stress (RS). Oncogene-induced RS can cause replication forks to stall or collapse, thereby leading to DNA damage. While the DNA damage response (DDR) can provoke an anti-tumor barrier to prevent the development of cancer, a small subset of cells triggers replication stress tolerance (RST), allowing precancerous cells to survive, thereby promoting clonal expansion and genomic instability (GIN). Genomic instability (GIN) is a hallmark of cancer, driving genetic alterations ranging from nucleotide changes to aneuploidy. These alterations increase the probability of oncogenic events and create a heterogeneous cell population with an enhanced ability to evolve. This review explores how major oncogenes such as RAS, cyclin E, and MYC induce RS through diverse mechanisms. Additionally, we delve into the strategies employed by normal and cancer cells to tolerate RS and promote GIN. Understanding the intricate relationship between oncogene activation, RS, and GIN is crucial to better understand how cancer cells emerge and to develop potential cancer therapies that target these vulnerabilities.
Adverse Events of Radioligand Therapy in Patients with Progressive Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: The Biggest Eastern European Prospective Study
Authors: Durma Adam Daniel , Saracyn Marek , Kołodziej Maciej , Jóźwik-Plebanek Katarzyna , Brodowska-Kania Dorota , Dmochowska Beata , Mróz Adrianna , Kos-Kudła Beata , Kamiński Grzegorz
Published: October 2024

Background: Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are neoplastic tumors developing in every part of the body, mainly in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas. Their treatment involves the surgical removal of the tumor and its metastasis, long-acting somatostatin analogs, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radioligand therapy (RLT). Materials and Methods: A total of 127 patients with progressive neuroendocrine neoplasms underwent RLT—4 courses, administered every 10 weeks—with the use of 7.4 GBq [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE or tandem therapy with 1.85 GBq [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE and 1.85 GBq [90Y]Y-DOTA-TATE. Assessment of short- and long-term complications, as well as the calculation of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were performed. Results: RLT caused a statistically but not clinically significant decrease in blood morphology parameters during both short- and long-term observations. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) significantly decreased only in a long-term observation after RLT; however, it was clinically acceptable. Computed predictions of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) indicated that five years post-RLT, there is a 74% chance of patients surviving, with only a 58.5% likelihood of disease progression. Conclusions: Computed predictions of PFS and OS confirmed treatment efficiency and good patient survival. RLT should be considered a safe and reliable line of treatment for patients with progressive NENs as it causes only a low number of low-grade adverse events.
A National Study of the Rate of Benign Pathology After Partial Nephrectomy for T1 Renal Cell Carcinoma: Should We Be Satisfied?
Authors: van den Brink Luna , Debelle Tess , Gietelink Lieke , Graafland Niels , Ruiter Annebeth , Bex Axel , Beerlage Harrie P. , van Moorselaar R. Jeroen A. , Lagerveld Brunolf , Zondervan Patricia
Published: October 2024

Objectives: To determine the rate of benign pathology in cT1 tumors following partial nephrectomy in the Netherlands, thereby evaluating the rate of overtreatment. Methods: Data were collected from a nationwide database containing histopathology of resected renal tissue from 2014 to 2022. Patients who underwent partial nephrectomy for suspected RCC staged T1a-b were extracted for analysis. Data are shown in percentages, and multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine predictive factors for benign pathology. Results: 3409 cases were analyzed, of which 403 (12%) were benign and 3006 (88%) malignant. Subtype analysis showed 2126 (62%) cases of clear-cell RCC, followed by 604 (18%) of papillary RCC and 344 (10%) oncocytomas. Mean age was 63 years among patients with malignant pathology versus 65 years for patients with benign lesions (p < 0.001). Mean tumor size was 3.2 cm for malignant pathology and 2.9 cm for benign (p < 0.001). The rates of benign and malignant pathology did not change between 2014 and 2022 (p = 0.377). Multivariable regression showed age ≥ 65 years (65–79 years [OR 1.881, p = 0.002], ≥ 80 years [OR 3.642, p < 0.001]) and tumor size (OR 0.793, p < 0.001) as predictors for benign pathology. The main limitation of this study is that we do not know the biopsy rate of our cohort. Conclusion: This study reports a low rate of 12% benign pathology after partial nephrectomy in the Netherlands. It remains debatable whether these rates are acceptable, or if renal tumor biopsies should be utilized more frequently to reduce overtreatment.
The Added Value of Controlling Nutritional Status (Conut) Score for Preoperative Counselling on Significant Early Loss of Renal Function After Radical Nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Boltri Matteo , Traunero Fabio , Ongaro Luca , Migliozzi Francesca , Vianello Fabio , Lenardon Oliviero , Visalli Francesco , Buttazzi Lorenzo , Maruzzi Daniele , Trombetta Carlo , Simonato Alchiede , Pavan Nicola , Claps Francesco
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives: We aimed at evaluating the impact of Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score on clinically significant decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in patients with non-metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) undergoing radical nephrectomy (RN). Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed a multi-institutional cohort of 140 patients with ccRCC who underwent RN between 2016 and 2018 at three Urological Centers. The CONUT score was calculated with an algorithm including serum albumin, total lymphocyte count, and cholesterol. Clinical and pathologic features were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and a Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables. To define the independent predictors of clinically significant eGFR decline, univariable (UVA) and multivariable (MVA) binomial logistic regression analyses were performed in order to assess the Odds Ratio (OR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs). Results: The optimal cut-off value to discriminate between a low and high CONUT score was assessed by calculating the ROC curve. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.67 (95%CI 0.59–0.78) with the most appropriate cut-off value at 2 points. Overall, 46 patients (32.9%) had a high CONUT score (>2). Statistically significant variables associated with eGFR decline at 24 months were age ≥ 70 (OR 2.01; 95%CI 1.17–3.09; p 0.05), stage II–III chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR 6.05; 95%CI 1.79–28.3; p 0.001), and a high CONUT score (OR 3.98; 95%CI 1.58–10.4; p 0.004). Conclusions: The CONUT score is a low-time-consuming, cost-effective, and promising tool able to preoperatively screen patients at risk of developing CKD after a RN.
Difenoconazole Induced Damage of Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells via ER Stress and Inflammatory Response
Authors: Na Myoung-Jun , Lee Won-Young , Park Hyun-Jung
Published: October 2024

Difenoconazole (DIF) is a fungicide used to control various fungi. It is absorbed on the surface of different plants and contributes significantly to increased crop production. However, DIF is reported to exhibit toxicity to fungi and to aquatic plants, fish, and mammals, including humans, causing adverse effects. However, research on the impact of DIF on the mammary epithelial cells of herbivorous bovines is limited. DIF-induced damage and accumulation in the mammary glands can have direct and indirect effects on humans. Therefore, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of DIF toxicity in MAC-T cells. The current study revealed that DIF reduces cell viability and proliferation while triggering apoptotic cell death through the upregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins, including cleaved caspase 3 and Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX), and the downregulation of leukemia type 2 (BCL-2). DIF also induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by increasing the expression of genes or proteins of Bip/GRP78, protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductase 1 Alpha (ERO1-Lα). We demonstrated that DIF induces mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in MAC-T cells by activating ER stress pathways. This cellular damage resulted in a significant increase in the expression of inflammatory response genes and proteins, including cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFB3), CCAAT enhancer binding protein delta (CEBPD), and iNOS, in DIF-treated groups. In addition, spheroid formation by MAC-T cells was suppressed by DIF treatment. Our findings suggest that DIF exposure in dairy cows may harm mammary gland function and health and may indirectly affect human consumption of milk.
Effect of Solution Annealing on Microstructure, Tensile and Corrosion Properties of SDSS Deposited by Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Salvetr Pavel , Msallamová Šárka , Brázda Michal
Published: October 2024

The super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) powder SAF2507 was deposited using directed energy deposition. In the as-built state, the microstructure consists of a nearly balanced ferrite–austenite ratio, with an austenite content of 47 vol.%, in contrast to the SDSS processed by the powder bed method, which produces a very low austenite content. This work investigated the differences in the microstructure, mechanical and corrosion properties of the “high-austenite” as-built state and the solution-annealed (SA) state (at 1100 °C for 60 min, followed by quenching in water). In the SA state, an increase in austenite content to 55 vol.% was observed. In addition, the partitioning of alloying elements into austenite and ferrite also occurred, the austenite grains coarsened and a ferrite grain size reduction was found. Microstructural changes were evident in the development of the mechanical properties. The increase in austenite content was accompanied by an increase in the elongation, and conversely, both the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength decreased. No secondary phases, such as carbides or sigma phase, were observed in either state. Both the as-built and solution-annealed samples exhibited a passivation zone in model seawater at 70 °C, but at the same time, the corrosion current density (icorr) of the as-built state was five times higher.
Oncological Outcomes of Open Versus Minimally Invasive Surgery for Ductal Adenocarcinomas of Pancreatic Head: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Giani Alessandro , Mazzola Michele , Paterno Michele , Zironda Andrea , Calcagno Pietro , Zuppi Emma , De Martini Paolo , Ferrari Giovanni
Published: October 2024

Background: Minimally invasive pancreatic resections (MIPRs) have been shown to be safe and feasible, but there is still a lack of high-level evidence on oncological outcomes for cephalic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The aim of this study was to compare the oncological outcomes of patients undergoing MIPR and open pancreatic resection (OPR) for pancreatic head cancer in a single high-volume center. Methods: Data from a prospectively collected database of patients who underwent radical-intent surgery for resectable and borderline resectable PDAC of the head at our institution between January 2013 and May 2023 were retrieved and analyzed, comparing the surgical and oncological outcomes of MIPR and OPR, using a propensity score matching analysis. Results: In the study period, 220 patients were selected. After matching, a total of 81 MIPRs and 81 OPRs were compared. No difference was found regarding R0 rate (OPR 83.9% vs. MIPR 74.1%, p = 0.122). Median overall survival (24 and 31 months for the OPR and MIPR groups, respectively; log rank p = 0.665) and disease-free survival (12 and 21 months for the OPR and MIPR groups, respectively; log rank p = 0.118) did not differ between the groups. The MIPR group was associated with a greater number of harvested lymph nodes (22 vs. 16, p = 0.0008), longer operative time (565 vs. 420 min, p < 0.0001), and shorter length of stay (12 vs. 18 days; p = 0.0001). No differences between the groups were found regarding all other postoperative and pathological outcomes. Conclusions: Regarding oncological outcomes, MIPR appeared to be comparable to OPR for treating patients with PDAC of the head. Despite an increased operative time, MIPR was associated with a greater number of LNs harvested and a shorter length of stay.
Factors Associated with Multimodal Care Practices for Cancer Cachexia among Pharmacists
Authors: Okamura Satomi , Amano Koji , Koshimoto Saori , Arakawa Sayaka , Ishiki Hiroto , Satomi Eriko , Morita Tatsuya , Takeuchi Takashi , Mori Naoharu , Yamada Tomomi
Published: October 2024

Pharmacists’ roles in cachexia care are unclear. This study aimed to clarify the knowledge and practice of cachexia care and identify factors related to the practice of cachexia care among pharmacists. Information on the knowledge and practice of cachexia care was obtained. Components of practicing multimodal care were evaluated. Participants were categorized into two groups according to practicing multimodal care levels. Comparisons were made between the groups, and multiple regression analysis was employed. Of the 451 pharmacists, 243 responded. They were categorized into the Practicing group (n = 119) and Not practicing group (n = 124). Significant differences were observed for the number of advanced cancer patients/month, frequency of caring for them, and involvement in training programs on cachexia. The Practicing group had significantly better knowledge about cachexia. The Practicing group used guidelines, items, and symptoms more frequently to detect cachexia. The Practicing group tended to detect cachexia and initiate interventions in earlier phases and in patients with a better status. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the most significant factor was the regular provision of care (odds ratio, 2.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–3.92). The regular provision of care was associated with the practice of multimodal care.
Variation in the Biomass of Phragmites australis Across Community Types in the Aquatic Habitats of the Middle Volga Valley
Authors: Papchenkov Vladimir , Čížková Hana
Published: October 2024

Species composition and biomass are key indicators of vegetation performance. While Phragmites australis is extensively studied worldwide, data on its communities and biomass in natural habitats are limited in the European part of the Russian Federation. This study examines P. australis-dominated communities and their biomass in wetlands along the Middle Volga River. P. australis was either the dominant or co-dominant species in seven community types. Their seasonal maximum aboveground biomass correlated with plant projective cover, being highest in Schoenoplecteto lacustris-Phragmitetum australis (mean 1.7 kg m−2), with nearly 100% cover, and lowest (0.5 kg m−2) in Spirodelo-Phragmitetum australis, with 50% cover. Compared with communities dominated by Glyceria maxima, Schoenoplectus lacustris, and Typha latifolia, those of P. australis had the highest seasonal maximum aboveground biomass in running waters (mean 1.32 kg m−2) but the lowest in standing waters of the Kuibyshev Reservoir (mean 0.70 kg m−2), likely reflecting nutrient availability. A similar pattern was observed for the dominant species alone. The mean belowground biomass of P. australis was 1.9 kg m−2, with a belowground/aboveground ratio of 1.5. Similar values were found for S. lacustris and T. latifolia. The community types and biomass values align with those found in other European regions with warm temperate climates.
Dragonfly Functional Diversity in Dinaric Karst Tufa-Depositing Lotic Habitats in a Biodiversity Hotspot
Authors: Vilenica Marina , Mičetić Stanković Vlatka , Kučinić Mladen
Published: October 2024

Functional diversity is a key component of biodiversity that reflects various dimensions of ecosystem functioning and the roles organisms play within communities and ecosystems. It is widely used to understand how ecological processes influence biotic assemblages. With an aim to increase our knowledge about dragonfly ecological requirements in tufa-depositing karst habitats, we assessed functional diversity of their assemblages, various life history traits (e.g., stream zonation preference, substrate preference, reproduction type), and relationship between functional diversity and physico-chemical water properties in three types of karst lotic habitats (springs, streams, and tufa barriers) in a biodiversity hotspot in the western Balkan Peninsula. Dragonfly functional diversity was mainly characterized by traits typical for lotic rheophile species with medium dispersal capacity. Among the investigated habitats, tufa barriers, characterized by higher (micro)habitat heterogeneity, higher water velocity, as well as lower conductivity and concentration of nitrates, can be considered as dragonfly functional diversity hotspots. Functional diversity and most of the life history traits were comparable among different substrate types in the studied habitats, indicating higher importance of habitat type in shaping dragonfly functional diversity patterns in karst lotic habitats. Our results should be considered in the management and conservation activities of vulnerable karst freshwater ecosystems and their dragonfly assemblages.
A Generalized Deep Reinforcement Learning Model for Distribution Network Reconfiguration with Power Flow-Based Action-Space Sampling
Authors: Gholizadeh Nastaran , Musilek Petr
Published: October 2024

Distribution network reconfiguration (DNR) is used by utilities to enhance power system performance in various ways, such as reducing line losses. Conventional DNR algorithms rely on accurate values of network parameters and lack scalability and optimality. To tackle these issues, a new data-driven algorithm based on reinforcement learning is developed for DNR in this paper. The proposed algorithm comprises two main parts. The first part, named action-space sampling, aims at analyzing the network structure, finding all feasible reconfiguration actions, and reducing the size of the action space to only the most optimal actions. In the second part, deep Q-learning (DQN) and dueling DQN methods are used to train an agent to take the best switching actions according to the switch states and loads of the system. The results show that both DQN and dueling DQN are effective in reducing system losses through grid reconfiguration. The proposed methods have faster execution time compared to the conventional methods and are more scalable.