bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
What qualitative systems mapping is and what it could be: integrating and visualizing diverse knowledge of complex problems
Authors: Hanger-Kopp Susanne , Lemke Leonard Kwhang-Gil , Beier Julia 
Published: May 2024

AbstractResearchers in sustainability science deal with increasingly complex problems that cross administrative, geographical, disciplinary, and sectoral boundaries, and are characterized by high stakes and deep uncertainties. This in turn creates methodological challenges to frame, structure, and solve complex problems in science and practice. There is a long tradition in visualizing systems as diagrams, and concept and cognitive maps, but there is insufficient differentiation and comparison between these methods and no clear umbrella term has yet been established. Against this background, we systematically review three foundational methods from different academic disciplines—causal diagrams, concept mapping, and cognitive mapping. Comparing and contrasting them, we facilitate a coherent understanding of qualitative systems mapping (QSM) as an umbrella term. We then proceed to explore the evident intersections between these methods to showcase some of the inter- and transdisciplinary opportunities and challenges crystallizing in integrated QSM approaches. Finally, we share case study insights from the food–water–biodiversity nexus in Austria and elaborate on some of the methodological nuances to data integration in QSM. Overall, with this overview paper, we lay the groundwork for a systematic, transparent, and yet flexible development and application of QSM methods to support mixed-methods research design and clear case study documentation, as well as fostering effective inter- and transdisciplinary communication in sustainability science. Further research needs to explore these QSM applications in depth across alternative sustainability science contexts, particularly with respect to efficient and rigorous protocols for knowledge and data integration vis-a-vis complex problems and transdisciplinary research processes.
Machine Learning in Biomaterials, Biomechanics/Mechanobiology, and Biofabrication: State of the Art and Perspective
Authors: Wu Chi , Xu Yanan , Fang Jianguang , Li Qing 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn the past three decades, biomedical engineering has emerged as a significant and rapidly growing field across various disciplines. From an engineering perspective, biomaterials, biomechanics, and biofabrication play pivotal roles in interacting with targeted living biological systems for diverse therapeutic purposes. In this context, in silico modelling stands out as an effective and efficient alternative for investigating complex interactive responses in vivo. This paper offers a comprehensive review of the swiftly expanding field of machine learning (ML) techniques, empowering biomedical engineering to develop cutting-edge treatments for addressing healthcare challenges. The review categorically outlines different types of ML algorithms. It proceeds by first assessing their applications in biomaterials, covering such aspects as data mining/processing, digital twins, and data-driven design. Subsequently, ML approaches are scrutinised for the studies on mono-/multi-scale biomechanics and mechanobiology. Finally, the review extends to ML techniques in bioprinting and biomanufacturing, encompassing design optimisation and in situ monitoring. Furthermore, the paper presents typical ML-based applications in implantable devices, including tissue scaffolds, orthopaedic implants, and arterial stents. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are illuminated, providing insights for academia, industry, and biomedical professionals to further develop and apply ML strategies in future studies.
The vegetation around the foothills of the Hijaz Mountains, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hofland Nick , Hatim Mohamed Z. , Thomas Jacob , Janssen John A. M. , Alharti Awad S. , Alfarhan Ahmed H. , Alatar Abdulrahman A. , Schaminée Joop H. J. , El-Sheikh Mohamed A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDespite Saudi Arabia being an interesting area from a floristic perspective, its vegetation is still relatively poorly studied. This certainly applies to the Hijaz Mountains and adjacent coastal zones. We aim to describe the flora and vegetation of the foothills of the Hijaz Mountains regarding the environmental conditions. Hijaz Mountains and adjacent coastal zones, Saudi Arabia. We studied the vegetation at the Hijaz Mountains’ foothills along two transects of vegetation surveys, one along the coast and one more inland. In addition, soil samples were taken and analyzed for soil texture, pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, calcium carbonate and the concentration of the elements N, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe and Mn were determined. We calculated the data clustering tendency (Hopkins’ test analysis) and its optimal number of clusters (Elbow method). We used modified TWINSPAN to cluster the data and validated the resulting communities using the Silhouette algorithm. Seven plant communities resulted, each one dominated by a different plant species, namely: Haloxylon salicornicum, Lycium shawii, Senegalia hamulosa, Vachellia tortilis, Zygophyllum coccineum, Vachellia flavaand Stipagrostis plumosa, and were described based on their floristic composition and could be further grouped into three vegetation clusters. The communities had varying ranges of occurrence in the study area, some dominating certain sections, with latitude and altitude being the biggest distinguishing environmental variables between the communities. We present a description of the vegetation of the Hijaz Mountains foothills. Our study is considered an important basis for decision-making of nature conservation and in-depth surveys of the area.
Graphic abstract
CXCL10 could be a prognostic and immunological biomarker in bladder cancer
Authors: Yin Tao , Mou Shuanzhu , Zhang Haiyu , Dong Ying , Yan Bing , Huang Weisheng , Liu Yuhan , Mei Hongbing 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Introduction
As proteins that promote immune cell differentiation, chemokines have attracted great interest regarding their role in anti-tumor immune responses within the cancer environment. However, the exact role of CXCL10, a chemokine, in bladder cancer (BLCA) is still not fully elucidated.

Method
In the present study, we employed bioinformatics approaches to examine the expression pattern, prognostic value, and immune infiltration of CXCL10 in BLCA. Furthermore, we focused on examining the impact of CXCL10 on immune therapy in BLCA. Additionally, we validated the expression of CXCL10 in various BLCA cell lines using PCR techniques.

Results
We observed an upregulation of CXCL10 in BLCA tissues as well as in different cell lines. Additionally, upregulation of CXCL10 indicates a better prognosis for BLCA patients. ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms suggest that CXCL10 is closely associated with the immune microenvironment of BLCA. Through multiple immune therapy cohorts, we also identified that CXCL10 has shown promising predictive value for assessing the efficacy of immune therapy in in BLCA.

Conclusion
Our study indicates that CXCL10 has the potential to serve as a favorable prognostic factor and is strongly associated with immune infiltration in BLCA.

Graphical Abstract
Assessment of structural mechanical effects related to torsional deformations of propellers
Authors: Möhren F. , Bergmann O. , Janser F. , Braun C. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLifting propellers are of increasing interest for Advanced Air Mobility. All propellers and rotors are initially twisted beams, showing significant extension–twist coupling and centrifugal twisting. Torsional deformations severely impact aerodynamic performance. This paper presents a novel approach to assess different reasons for torsional deformations. A reduced-order model runs large parameter sweeps with algebraic formulations and numerical solution procedures. Generic beams represent three different propeller types for General Aviation, Commercial Aviation, and Advanced Air Mobility. Simulations include solid and hollow cross-sections made of aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. The investigation shows that centrifugal twisting moments depend on both the elastic and initial twist. The determination of the centrifugal twisting moment solely based on the initial twist suffers from errors exceeding 5% in some cases. The nonlinear parts of the torsional rigidity do not significantly impact the overall torsional rigidity for the investigated propeller types. The extension–twist coupling related to the initial and elastic twist in combination with tension forces significantly impacts the net cross-sectional torsional loads. While the increase in torsional stiffness due to initial twist contributes to the overall stiffness for General and Commercial Aviation propellers, its contribution to the lift propeller’s stiffness is limited. The paper closes with the presentation of approximations for each effect identified as significant. Numerical evaluations are necessary to determine each effect for inhomogeneous cross-sections made of anisotropic material.
Understanding Australia’s teacher shortage: the importance of psychosocial working conditions to turnover intentions
Authors: Rahimi Mark , Arnold Ben 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Australian policymakers are currently attempting to address an ‘unprecedented teacher shortage’. Through a survey of 905 teachers in Australian government schools, this paper examines some of the key factors influencing the career intentions of teachers in Australian government schools. Drawing upon the concept of the psychosocial work environment from the field of occupational health, this analysis examines the relationship between key workplace demands, workplace resources, teachers’ experiences and attitudes towards work, teachers’ mental health outcomes, and their intentions to either remain in or leave their roles. The results reveal significant relationships between teachers’ intentions to leave their roles and challenging working conditions, adverse work experiences, as well as heightened levels of stress, burnout, and depressive symptoms. In contrast, remaining in their role was associated with factors indicative of a supportive psychosocial work environment, such as job recognition, trust in management, organisational justice, positive work experiences, and lower levels of mental health difficulties. The study underscores the urgent need to understand and assess the psychosocial work environments of teachers, and for multi-level strategies that address both protective and risk factors.
The effect of hot isostatic pressing pressure level and solution annealing cooling rate on CM247 LC nickel-based superalloy processed by laser-based powder bed fusion
Authors: Martelli P. A. , Bassini E. , Ugues D. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn the present work, CM247 LC samples produced by laser-based powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) were heat treated inside a hot isostatic pressing (HIP) furnace (HIP quench treatment) at 1260 °C for 3 h to combine the solution annealing with the elimination of defects of the additively manufactured parts. In particular, the effects of different applied pressures (50–170 MPa) and cooling rates (from 162 to 2450 °C/min) on the final densification, grain coarsening, and γ’ precipitation were studied. The results were also compared to a sample heat treated in a low-pressure furnace and gas-quenched at 195 °C/min. The study revealed that the applied pressure has a negligible effect on densification, grain coarsening, and the size and shape of γ’, which is always irregular after solution annealing, independently from the cooling rate. For this reason, first aging was subsequently applied at 1080 °C for 4 h to HIP-quenched samples, revealing that this step of treatment is effectively responsible for the final cubic shape of γ’, even if a starting irregular morphology is considered. Finally, additional samples were heat treated in an air furnace and air cooled to room temperature prior to the HIP quench; this procedure allowed assessing the solutioning effectiveness of the HIP quench with coarse precipitates typical of conventional processing (e.g., investment casting). Overall, this study underscores the efficacy of the HIP quench in enhancing microstructural attributes and mitigating defects, providing valuable insights for enhancing the properties of challenging Ni-based alloys fabricated through additive manufacturing techniques.
Parabolic trough concentrator design, characterization, and application: solar wastewater purification targeting textile industry dyes and pharmaceuticals—techno-economic study
Authors: El Golli Asma , Fendrich Murilo , Bajpai Om Prakash , Bettonte Marco , Edebali Serpil , Orlandi Michele , Miotello Antonio 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSolar energy, along with other renewable resources, has the potential to be a major contributor to solving environmental issues in the future, as illustrated by the most recent advancements in solar photocatalytic technology. Indeed, wastewater treatment using a parabolic solar collector for industrial processes is gaining ground owing to improved system performance and economic benefits. The fabricated parabolic trough collector (PTC) incorporates reflective, parabolic panels that focus solar energy onto a transparent tube positioned along the parabolic focal line, where solar-powered photochemical reactions occur. This study investigated the design, implementation, and effectiveness of a concentrated sunlight system for removing industrial dyes and emerging large-use pharmaceutical contaminants in the presence of H2O2 at a small demonstrator scale (10 L/h). A spectrophotometric assessment revealed that subjecting Remazol Brilliant Blue (RBB, 60 ppm) and ciprofloxacin (CIP, 10 ppm) to irradiation in the presence of 0.1 M H2O2 (RBB) or 0.01 M H2O2 (CIP) for 3 h resulted in a degradation rate exceeding 60% and 80%, respectively. Furthermore, the total organic content (TOC) analysis indicates a very high total removal yield for RBB. On these bases, a techno-economic analysis is produced, and economic viability is discussed. The data reveal that the annual costs for water treatment, considering investment, electricity, and catalyst expenses over a 12-month period are significantly lower for our PTC-based prototype than for a comparable artificial UV-based equipment.
Hydrothermal liquefaction of wet microalgal biomass for biofuels and platform chemicals: advances and future prospects
Authors: Deepika Charu , Mrinal  , Pohrmen Cheryl Bernice , Jaiswal Km Smriti , Sangmesh B. , Jaiswal Krishna Kumar , Ramasamy Arun Prasath , Jaiswal Amit K. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractRecent advances in hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) have established this biomass conversion technology as a potent tool for the effective valorization and energy densification of varied feedstocks, ranging from lignocelluloses to microalgae and organic wastes. Emphasizing its application across biomass types, this exploration delves into the evolving landscape of HTL. Microalgae, recognized as a promising feedstock, offer a rich source of biomolecules, including lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins, making them particularly attractive for biofuel production. The comprehensive review explores the biofuel products and platform chemicals obtained through HTL of microalgae, delving into biodiesel production, bio-oil composition, characteristics, and to produce high-valued by-products. Challenges and limitations, such as reactor design, scalability issues, and the impact of microalgal composition on yields, are critically analyzed. The future prospects and research directions section envision advancements in HTL technology, integration with biorefinery processes, and the exploration of hybrid approaches for enhanced biofuel production. Overall, the paper emphasizes the promising potential of HTL for wet microalgal biomass and underscores the need for continued research to overcome existing challenges and unlock further opportunities in sustainable biofuel and platform chemical production.
Topp-Leone Exponentiated Pareto Distribution: Properties and Application to Covid-19 Data
Authors: Correa Fabio M. , Odunayo Braimah J. , Sule Ibrahim , Bello Olalekan A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis paper proposes a new Topp-Leone Exponentiated Pareto (TLEtP) distribution. The new distribution family is derived by expanding the Topp Leone-G family of distributions with additional positive shape parameters. The corresponding density and distribution functions are derived and shown. Some of the derived mathematical properties of the distribution include quantile function, ordinary and incomplete moments generating function (mgf), hazard function, survival function, odd function, probability weighted moment, and distribution of order statistic. The parameters of the distribution are estimated using Maximum Likelihood method. The proposed distribution’s validity is demonstrated by fitting two sets of real data and comparing the results with two existing same-family distributions, the Topp-Leone Pareto type I(TLPI) and Pareto (P), with the Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC), respectively. The comparison of the proposed Topp-Leone Exponentiated Pareto (TLEtP) to the Topp-Leone Pareto type I(TLPI) and Pareto (P) distribution demonstrate that the TLEtP distribution offers a better fit for the data sets than the other two distributions.
Intraday residual transfer learning in minimally observed power distribution networks dynamic state estimation
Authors: Lu Junyi , Stephen Bruce , Brown Blair 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Traditionally, electricity distribution networks were designed for unidirectional power flow without the need to accommodate generation installed at the point of use. However, with the increase in Distributed Energy Resources and other Low Carbon Technologies, the role of distribution networks is changing. This shift brings challenges, including the need for intensive metering and more frequent reconfiguration to identify threats from voltage and thermal violations. Mitigating action through reconfiguration is informed by State Estimation, which is especially challenging for low voltage distribution networks where the constraints of low observability, non-linear load relationships, and highly unbalanced systems all contribute to the difficulty of producing accurate state estimates. To counter low observability, this paper proposes the application of a novel transfer learning methodology, based upon the concept of conditional online Bayesian transfer, to make forward predictions of bus pseudo-measurements. Day ahead load forecasts at a fully observed point on the network are adjusted using the intraday residuals at other points in the network to provide them with load forecasts without the need for a complete set of forecast models at all substations. These form pseudo-measurements that then inform the state estimates at future time points. This methodology is demonstrated on both a representative IEEE Test network and on an actual GB 11 kV feeder network.
The SDGs Provide Limited Evidence That Environmental Policies Are Delivering Multiple Ecological and Social Benefits
Authors: Fairbrass A. J. , O’Sullivan A. , Campbell J. , Ekins P. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming for global targets by 2030, are tracked by a monitoring framework comprising 231 environmental, social, and economic indicators. The framework provides data to assess whether, across countries, environmental policies are: (a) Addressing environmental pressures, (b) Linked to environmental improvements, and (c) Linked with social benefits delivered by healthy environments. While several studies have analyzed the implementation and impacts of the SDGs, there remains a critical research gap in assessing the linkage between environmental policies and their potential to deliver multiple ecological and social benefits. This study examines the efficacy of environmental policies and their implications for global environmental health and social wellbeing. We use a generalized linear modeling approach to test for correlations between SDG indicators. We show that some environmental policies, particularly protected areas and sustainable forest certification, are linked with environmental improvements, mainly in forest and water ecosystems. However, we find no evidence that environmental improvements are linked with positive social impacts. Finally, environmental pressures, including freshwater withdrawal, domestic material consumption, and tourism, are linked with environmental degradation. Environmental policy responses are generally increasing across countries. Despite this, the state of the environment globally continues to decline. Governments must focus on understanding why environmental policies have not been sufficient to reverse environmental decline, particularly concerning the pressures that continue to degrade the environment. To better track progress toward sustainable development, we recommend that the SDG monitoring framework is supplemented with additional indicators on the state of the environment.
Targeting CXCR4 impaired T regulatory function through PTEN in renal cancer patients
Authors: Santagata Sara , Rea Giuseppina , Bello Anna Maria , Capiluongo Anna , Napolitano Maria , Desicato Sonia , Fragale Alessandra , D’Alterio Crescenzo , Trotta Anna Maria , Ieranò Caterina , Portella Luigi , Persico Francesco , Di Napoli Marilena , Di Maro Salvatore , Feroce Florinda , Azzaro Rosa , Gabriele Lucia , Longo Nicola , Pignata Sandro , Perdonà Sisto , Scala Stefania 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Tregs trafficking is controlled by CXCR4. In Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), the effect of the new CXCR4 antagonist, R54, was explored in peripheral blood (PB)-Tregs isolated from primary RCC patients.

Methods
PB-Tregs were isolated from 77 RCC patients and 38 healthy donors (HDs). CFSE-T effector-Tregs suppression assay, IL-35, IFN-γ, IL-10, TGF-β1 secretion, and Nrp-1+Tregs frequency were evaluated. Tregs were characterised for CTLA-4, PD-1, CD40L, PTEN, CD25, TGF-β1, FOXP3, DNMT1 transcriptional profile. PTEN-pAKT signalling was evaluated in the presence of R54 and/or triciribine (TCB), an AKT inhibitor. Methylation of TSDR (Treg-Specific-Demethylated-Region) was conducted.

Results
R54 impaired PB-RCC-Tregs function, reduced Nrp-1+Tregs frequency, the release of IL-35, IL-10, and TGF-β1, while increased IFN-γ Teff-secretion. The CXCR4 ligand, CXCL12, recruited CD25+PTEN+Tregs in RCC while R54 significantly reduced it. IL-2/PMA activates Tregs reducing pAKT+Tregs while R54 increases it. The AKT inhibitor, TCB, prevented the increase in pAKT+Tregs R54-mediated. Moreover, R54 significantly reduced FOXP3-TSDR demethylation with DNMT1 and FOXP3 downregulation.

Conclusion
R54 impairs Tregs function in primary RCC patients targeting PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway, reducing TSDR demethylation and FOXP3 and DNMT1 expression. Thus, CXCR4 targeting is a strategy to inhibit Tregs activity in the RCC tumour microenvironment.