bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of face swapping and data augmentation on sign language recognition
Authors: Perea-Trigo Marina , López-Ortiz Enrique J. , Soria-Morillo Luis M. , Álvarez-García Juan A. , Vegas-Olmos J. J. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis study addresses the challenge of improving communication between the deaf and hearing community by exploring different sign language recognition (SLR) techniques. Due to privacy issues and the need for validation by interpreters, creating large-scale sign language (SL) datasets can be difficult. The authors address this by presenting a new Spanish isolated sign language recognition dataset, CALSE-1000, consisting of 5000 videos representing 1000 glosses, with various signers and scenarios. The study also proposes using different computer vision techniques, such as face swapping and affine transformations, to augment the SL dataset and improve the accuracy of the model I3D trained using them. The results show that the inclusion of these augmentations during training leads to an improvement in accuracy in top-1 metrics by up to 11.7 points, top-5 by up to 8.8 points and top-10 by up to 9 points. This has great potential to improve the state of the art in other datasets and other models. Furthermore, the analysis confirms the importance of facial expressions in the model by testing with a facial omission dataset and shows how face swapping can be used to include new anonymous signers without the costly and time-consuming process of recording.
Type XII collagen is elevated in serum from patients with solid tumors: a non-invasive biomarker of activated fibroblasts
Authors: Crespo-Bravo Marina , Hettich Annika , Thorlacius-Ussing Jeppe , Cox Thomas R , Karsdal Morten A. , Willumsen Nicholas 
Published: July 2024

AbstractUnderstanding the tumor microenvironment (TME) and extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial in cancer research due to their impact on tumor progression. Collagens, major ECM components, regulate cell signaling and behavior. Of the 28 reported collagens, type XII collagen is known to be vital for ECM organization. Over-produced by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), its upregulation correlates with poor survival in various cancers. This study aimed to develop an ELISA for quantifying circulating type XII collagen as a cancer biomarker. A specific ELISA targeting the C-terminal of type XII collagen was developed and used to analyze serum samples from cancer patients (n = 203) and healthy controls (n = 33). Additionally, type XII collagen expression was assessed in CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) from different tissues, both under TGF-β stimulated and non-stimulated conditions. The nordicPRO-C12 ELISA demonstrated robustness and specificity for type XII collagen. PRO-C12 levels were significantly elevated in patients with various cancers compared to healthy controls and effectively distinguished between cancer patients and controls. Findings were validated using gene expression data. Furthermore, Western blot analysis revealed increased type XII collagen expression in both CAFs and NFs upon TGF-β1 stimulation, suggesting a potential role of TGF-β1 in modulating the expression of type XII collagen in cancerous and normal tissue microenvironments. This study unveils a promising avenue for harnessing PRO-C12 as a non-invasive serum biomarker, enabling the quantification of type XII collagen fragments in cancer patients. Further investigations are warranted to explore the potential of PRO-C12 across different cancer types and disease stages, shedding light on its multifaceted role in cancer development.
Relationship between perceived learner control and student engagement in various study activities in a blended course in higher education
Authors: Wang Linyuan , de Vetten Arjen , Admiraal Wilfried , van der Rijst Roeland 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In this study, we investigated the relationship between perceived learner control and student engagement in a blended course. Data were collected from 110 s-year bachelor students through weekly questionnaires to gather information about how they perceived their learner control and engagement in various study activities, including reading literature, watching knowledge clips, doing assignments, attending workgroups, and attending lectures. Most students perceived the knowledge clips and workgroups positively because of their clear structure and interactive elements, respectively. In addition, perceived learner control, behavioral engagement, and emotional engagement varied across different activities, whereas cognitive engagement had a similar moderate score across the activities. No significant positive relationships were found between students' perceived learner control and engagement. However, negative relationships between perceived learner control and cognitive and behavioral engagement were found for reading literature, and a negative relationship between perceived learner control and cognitive engagement was identified for attending lectures. We conclude that, in general, perceived learner control is not a significant factor for student engagement in blended learning. However, for particular activities, student engagement may increase as their perceived learner control decreases. The results extend the understanding of the relationship between perceived learner and student engagement, which varied at an activity level. Additionally, the findings suggest that teachers could consider enhancing student engagement by assigning different levels of learner control to students based on their needs.
Mercury concentrations in Seaside Sparrows and Marsh Rice Rats differ across the Mississippi River Estuary
Authors: Bonisoli-Alquati Andrea , Jackson Allyson K. , Eagles-Smith Collin A. , Moyo Sydney , Pérez-Umphrey Anna A. , Polito Michael J. , Snider Allison M. , Williams S. Tyler , Woltmann Stefan , Stouffer Philip C. , Taylor Sabrina S. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMercury (Hg) concentrations and their associated toxicological effects in terrestrial ecosystems of the Gulf of Mexico are largely unknown. Compounding this uncertainty, a large input of organic matter from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill may have altered Hg cycling and bioaccumulation dynamics. To test this idea, we quantified blood concentrations of total mercury (THg) in Seaside Sparrows (Ammospiza maritima) and Marsh Rice Rats (Oryzomys palustris) in marshes west and east of the Mississippi River in 2015 and 2016. We also tested for a difference in THg concentrations between oiled and non-oiled sites. To address the potential confounding effect of diet variation on Hg transfer, we used stable nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) isotope values as proxies of trophic position and the source of primary production, respectively. Our results revealed that five to six years after the spill, THg concentrations were not higher in sites oiled by the spill compared to non-oiled sites. In both species, THg was higher at sites east of the Mississippi River compared to control and oiled sites, located west. In Seaside Sparrows but not in Marsh Rice Rats, THg increased with δ15N values, suggesting Hg trophic biomagnification. Overall, even in sites with the most elevated THg, concentrations were generally low. In Seaside Sparrows, THg concentrations were also lower than previously reported in this and other closely related passerines, with only 7% of tested birds exceeding the lowest observed effect concentration associated with toxic effects across bird species (0.2 µg/g ww). The factors associated with geographic heterogeneity in Hg exposure remain uncertain. Clarification could inform risk assessment and future restoration and management actions in a region facing vast anthropogenic changes.
Endoscopic indicators in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis undergoing duodenal resections – a nationwide Danish cohort study with long-term follow-up
Authors: Karstensen JG , Wewer MD , Bülow S. , Hansen TVO , Højen H. , Jelsig AM , Kuhlmann TP , Burisch J. , Pommergaard HC 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackground: Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) predisposes individuals to duodenal adenomas. This study describes the histopathological features of endoscopic and surgical specimens from the duodenum, as well as genotype-phenotype associations. Methods: All known FAP patients were included from the Danish Polyposis Register. FAP patients were defined as having more than 100 cumulative colorectal adenomas and/or having a known germline pathogenic variant in the APC gene. Endoscopic procedures, histopathology, and genetics were evaluated. Results: Of 500 FAP patients, 70.6% underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at least once. Of these, 59.2% presented with detectable duodenal adenomas. The most severe morphology was tubular in 62.7% patients, tubulovillous in 25.4%, and villous in 12.0%, while the most severe dysplasia was low-grade in 67.5% patients, high-grade in 25.4%, and 6.7% had adenocarcinoma. In 6.2% of FAP patients, duodenal resection was recommended, including 29% with duodenal adenocarcinoma. The risk of duodenal surgery was 1.31 per 1,000 person-years (median age: 53 years). The predominant reason for surgery was extensive polyposis (67.7%). Of the patients who underwent duodenal resection, a median of six (IQR: 4–8) EGDs were performed within five years prior to surgery, but 67.6% and 83.9% never underwent a duodenal polypectomy or endoscopic mucosa resection, respectively. Of note, seventeen of 500 patients (3.4%) developed duodenal adenocarcinoma, of which 47% were advanced at diagnosis. Genetic evaluations revealed various pathogenic variants in the APC gene, with no strong genotype-phenotype association. Conclusions: The prevalence of duodenal adenomas and cancer in FAP warrants vigilant endoscopic surveillance. Nevertheless, the need for duodenal surgery persists and should together with endoscopic practice be monitored in national registers.
The Potential of Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Analyse the Impact of Construction Industry on the Carbon Footprint
Authors: Mésároš Peter , Smetanková Jana , Behúnová Annamária , Krajníková Katarína 
Published: July 2024

AbstractConstruction is an important sector of human activity that significantly impacts the environment. The impact of this sector can be analysed from different perspectives, such as consumption of natural resources, waste generation, energy intensity, and environmental change. The sector is increasingly promoting using renewable materials, energy-efficient practices, and planning those respects ecological processes and biodiversity. Against this background, it is important to take coordinated action across the sector and move to net-zero carbon standards through immediate action to raise awareness, implement innovation, and improve carbon management and reporting processes. Tools supporting the reduction of the adverse impacts of construction activities include artificial intelligence tools. The construction industry has long been considered a conservative and traditional industry but is now experiencing a technological revolution. Gradually, artificial intelligence (AI) principles and tools are beginning to be integrated into the various lifecycle processes of construction projects. This paper analyses the AI tools used to analyse carbon footprinting in the construction sector in terms of selected functionalities. The results of the research will form the basis for the development of a strategic plan for the development of AI within the research activities at the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Košice.
CT imaging analysis differentiating papillary renal neoplasm with reverse polarity from papillary renal cell carcinoma: combined with a radiomics model
Authors: Lee Hyo Jeong , Kim Taek Min , Cho Jeong Yeon , Moon Min Hoan , Moon Kyung Chul , Kim Sang Youn 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To assess the computed tomography (CT) findings of papillary renal neoplasm with reverse polarity (PRNRP) and develop a radiomics-based model to distinguish PRNRPs from papillary renal cell carcinomas (PRCCs).

Materials and methods
We analyzed 31 PRNRPs and 68 PRCCs using preoperative kidney CT. We evaluated CT features that could discriminate PRNRPs from PRCCs. A radiomics signature was constructed using features selected through a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm. A radiomics-based model incorporating a radiomics signature and subjective CT parameters using multivariate logistic regression was developed. The diagnostic performance of the CT parameters, radiomics model, and their combination was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC).

Results
Most of PRNRPs had a round shape (93.5%), well-defined margin (100%), and persistent enhancement (77.4%). Compared with PRCC, PRNRPs exhibited distinct CT features including small size (16.7 vs. 37.7 mm, P < 0.001), heterogeneity (64.5 vs. 32.4%, P = 0.004), enhancing dot sign (16.1 vs. 1.5%, P = 0.001), and high attenuation in pre-contrast CT (44.2 vs. 35.5 HU, P = 0.003). Multivariate analysis revealed smaller mass size (odds ratio [OR]: 0.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9–1.0, P = 0.013), heterogeneity (OR: 8.8; 95% CI 1.9–41.4, P = 0.006), and higher attenuation in pre-contrast CT (OR: 1.1; 95% CI 1.0–1.2, P = 0.011) as significant independent factors for identifying PRNRPs. The diagnostic performance of the combination model was excellent (AUC: 0.923).

Conclusion
Smaller tumor size, heterogeneity, and higher attenuation in pre-contrast CT were more closely associated with PRNRPs than with PRCCs. Though the retrospective design, small sample size, and single-center data of this study may affect the generalizability of the findings, combining subjective CT features with a radiomics model is beneficial for distinguishing PRNRPs from PRCCs.
Effect of Deformation on the Magnetic Properties of CrMnFeCoNi and CrMnFeCoNi-CN High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Torres-Mejía L. G. , Parra-Vargas C. A. , Lentz J. , Weber S. , Mujica-Roncery L. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe magnetic behavior of two high-entropy alloys, CrMnFeCoNi and CrMnFeCoNi-CN, was investigated under varying degrees of deformation through uniaxial tensile tests. Microstructural, morphological, and crystalline structural analyses using XRD and SEM revealed a uniform and stable austenitic structure in all samples, with no presence of α’-martensite or ε-martensite phases. The main deformation mechanisms identified were twinning and slip dislocation for the CrMnFeCoNi-CN alloy, and slip dislocation for the CrMnFeCoNi alloy at room temperature. The alloys exhibited low magnetic moments attributed to magnetically frustrated configurations. At temperatures below 70 K, distinct magnetic states were observed ranging from paramagnetic to ferrimagnetic and spin-glass-like behavior. Antiferromagnetic interactions were confirmed by a negative paramagnetic Curie temperature for both alloys. The magnetization of the CrMnFeCoNi alloy increased with deformation, reflected in effective magnetic moments varying from 1.81 (0 pct) to 2.60 (20 pct) μB, while for the CrMnFeCoNi-CN alloy remained stable around 2.39 to 2.48 μB. The magnetization of the CrMnFeCoNi-CN alloy was found to be higher than that of the CrMnFeCoNi alloy, suggesting that the presence of C and N as alloying elements can enhance magnetization to some extent.
Honesty in Human Subject Research
Authors: Um Sungwoo 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn this paper, I discuss the ethical issues related to deception in human subject research in terms of honesty. First, I introduce the background and suggest the conception of honesty that understands it as involving respect for the right not to be deceived (RND). Next, I examine several ways to address the ethical issues of deceptive elements in the human subject research and show why they fail to adequately meet the demand of honesty. I focus on how to make an honest research plan and examine after participation and before participation phases in turn. Then I conclude by suggesting possible strategies to minimize dishonesty in human subject research.
Resting-State Functional MRI Approaches to Parkinsonisms and Related Dementia
Authors: Piramide Noemi , De Micco Rosa , Siciliano Mattia , Silvestro Marcello , Tessitore Alessandro 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose of the Review
In this review, we attempt to summarize the most updated studies that applied resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) in the field of Parkinsonisms and related dementia.

Recent Findings
Over the past decades, increasing interest has emerged on investigating the presence and pathophysiology of cognitive symptoms in Parkinsonisms and their possible role as predictive biomarkers of neurodegenerative brain processes. In recent years, evidence has been provided, applying mainly three methodological approaches (i.e. seed-based, network-based and graph-analysis) on rs-fMRI data, with promising results.

Summary
Neural correlates of cognitive impairment and dementia have been detected in patients with Parkinsonisms along the diseases course. Interestingly, early functional connectivity signatures were proposed to track and predict future progression of neurodegenerative processes. However, longitudinal studies are still sparce and further investigations are needed to overcome this knowledge gap.
Are Cities Doing the Same? Local Policies on Immigrant Integration in Catalonia Since the Great Recession
Authors: Casademont Falguera Xavier , Carrera Fossas Eduard , Prieto Flores Òscar , Feu Gelis Jordi 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis article analyzes the extent to which the councils of five Catalan cities have modified their integration policies. The structural transformations of contemporary societies have had a great impact on city councils and local integration policies, especially from the point of view of planning and policy orientation. The article studies the policies developed in five Catalan cities in the last four mandates, specifically between 2007 and 2023, based on in-depth interviews and analysis of political and technical documentation. Although the strategies used in the five cities analyzed are not identical, the results show that during these years there has been a tendency to limit the approval of plans for the integration of immigrants, although this does not mean that the councils do not have explicit political priorities and objectives. The cities also tend to speak less specifically about integration and, on the contrary, resort to two different orientations: some councils design and implement policies related to security, mediation, and community work in neighborhoods, while others tend to broaden the focus of their policies, opting for more holistic approaches focused on multiple forms of diversity, intersectionality, and anti-racism.
Gene expression and protein localization of Cl− transporters, Slc26a6 and Cftr, in the gill ionocytes of rainbow trout
Authors: Kikuchi Taisei , Inokuchi Mayu , Hayakawa Akihiro , Adachi Umi , Ido Atsushi , Otani Maki , Suetake Hiroaki , Watanabe Soichi 
Published: July 2024

AbstractEuryhaline fishes acclimate to various osmotic environments by changing the direction of water and ion transport between body fluids and environmental waters. Ionocytes in the gills are one of the most important cells for the active ion transport. This study aimed to identify the molecules responsible for apical Cl− transport in rainbow trout ionocytes. Tissue distribution and time-course changes after seawater transfer were analyzed for mRNA expression of slc26a6, cftr1, and cftr2. slc26a6 was specifically expressed in the freshwater gills and decreased after seawater transfer. Both cftr genes were expressed in the gills and higher in seawater; however, the magnitude of expression increase after seawater transfer was greater in cftr1 than in cftr2. These results suggest that Cftr1 is mainly functioned in hypo-osmoregulation and that Cftr2 may also be involved in ion transport under freshwater conditions, such as acid–base regulation. Slc26a6 was localized at the apical membrane of Nkcc1-negative ionocytes only in freshwater-acclimated trout. Apical Cftr1 localization was also identified in most of ionocytes in seawater-acclimated fish. These results indicate that Slc26a6 in freshwater and Cftr1 in seawater contribute to osmoregulatory Cl− transport across the apical membrane of ionocytes in rainbow trout.
Knowledge mapping of exosomes in prostate cancer from 2003 to 2022: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Li Yingjie , Ma Lin , Chen Hualin , Jin Zhaoheng , Yang Wenjie , Qiao Yi , Ji Zhigang , Liu Guanghua 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Prostate cancer (PCa) is highly prevalent among males worldwide. The investigation of exosomes in PCa has emerged as a dynamic and important research area. To visually depict the prominent research areas and evolutionary patterns of exosomes in PCa, we performed a comprehensive analysis via bibliometric methods.

Methods
Studies were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. CiteSpace, VOSviewers, and the R package “bibliometrix” were employed to analyze the relationships and collaborations among countries/regions, organizations, authors, journals, references, and keywords.

Results
Over the past 20 years (2003–2022), 995 literatures on exosomes in PCa have been collected. The findings indicate a consistent upward trend in annual publications with the United States being the leading contributor. Cancers is widely recognized as the most prominent journal in this area. In total, 5936 authors have contributed to these publications, with Alicia Llorente being the most prolific. The primary keywords associated with research hotspots include “liquid biopsy”, “identification”, “growth”, “microRNAs”, and “tumor-derived exosomes”.

Conclusion
Our analysis reveals that investigating the intrinsic mechanisms of exosomes in PCa pathogenesis and exploring the potential of exosomes as biomarkers of PCa constitute the principal focal points in this domain of research.
An axiom system for absolute plane geometry in terms of collinearity and congruence
Authors: Augat Carsten , Hähl Hermann 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe present an axiom system in terms of collinearity and congruence for plane geometry independent of assumptions about parallels. The line reflections and motions of corresponding geometries are studied, and it is shown that the axiom system characterizes the non-elliptic metric planes in the sense of Bachmann with midpoints. If the hyperbolic axiom is added, we show that the familiar algebraic models of hyperbolic planes result.
LDTR: Transformer-based lane detection with anchor-chain representation
Authors: Yang Zhongyu , Shen Chen , Shao Wei , Xing Tengfei , Hu Runbo , Xu Pengfei , Chai Hua , Xue Ruini 
Published: July 2024

AbstractDespite recent advances in lane detection methods, scenarios with limited- or no-visual-clue of lanes due to factors such as lighting conditions and occlusion remain challenging and crucial for automated driving. Moreover, current lane representations require complex post-processing and struggle with specific instances. Inspired by the DETR architecture, we propose LDTR, a transformer-based model to address these issues. Lanes are modeled with a novel anchor-chain, regarding a lane as a whole from the beginning, which enables LDTR to handle special lanes inherently. To enhance lane instance perception, LDTR incorporates a novel multi-referenced deformable attention module to distribute attention around the object. Additionally, LDTR incorporates two line IoU algorithms to improve convergence efficiency and employs a Gaussian heatmap auxiliary branch to enhance model representation capability during training. To evaluate lane detection models, we rely on Fréchet distance, parameterized Fl-score, and additional synthetic metrics. Experimental results demonstrate that LDTR achieves state-of-the-art performance on well-known datasets.