bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A randomized phase II trial of nab-paclitaxel with or without mifepristone for advanced triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Chen Nan , Matossian Margarite , Saha Poornima , Rampurwala Murtuza , Kamaraju Salaija , Hahn Olwen , Howard Frederick M. , Fleming Gini F. , Freeman Jincong Q. , Karrison Theodore , Conzen Suzanne , Nanda Rita , Stringer-Reasor Erica M. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity may mediate chemoresistance in advanced triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Preclinical studies demonstrate that GR antagonism can augment the effect of taxanes in TNBC models. We hypothesized that pretreatment with mifepristone, a potent GR antagonist, would enhance nab-paclitaxel efficacy in advanced TNBC.

Methods
This trial was terminated early due to poor accrual. 29 of 64 planned patients were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive nab-paclitaxel with or without mifepristone; oral mifepristone 300 mg was administered the day prior and day of each dose of nab-paclitaxel. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); secondary/exploratory endpoints included response rate and correlation of response with GR expression.

Results
The addition of mifepristone to nab-paclitaxel did not improve PFS (3.0 m vs 3.0 m, p = 0.687) or overall response rate (23% vs 31.5%) compared to nab-paclitaxel alone. There was a trend towards improved overall survival in the combination group, primarily driven by one long-term responder. Increased rates of grade 3 neutropenia (46% vs 7%) and febrile neutropenia were observed in the combination arm, while other toxicities were similar in both groups. Increased GR expression was not correlated with clinical response in the combination arm.

Conclusions
While there were responders to the combination, the study was underpowered to meet the primary endpoint. Higher rates of neutropenia were observed in the combination, but overall it was well tolerated. Preclinical data in TNBC and clinical data in other malignancies support further investigation of GR modulators. Future studies should incorporate biomarkers to select patients who benefit from GR inhibition.
Mechanistic and reactional activation study of carbons destined for emerging pharmaceutical pollutant adsorption
Authors: Samghouli Nora , Bencheikh Imane , Azoulay Karima , Jansson Stina , El Hajjaji Souad 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In this review, several factors have been collected from previous studies on emerging pharmaceutical pollutant adsorption to explain and describe the mechanisms and determine the reactions involved: X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and the Boehm titration are the most used characterization techniques to determine activated carbons’ surface functional groups. Some studies have confirmed that the specific surface area and the pore structure are not more important than the functional groups present in the adsorbent surface to explain the amount of adsorption obtained and to describe correctly the interaction between the adsorbent-adsorbate. After the analysis of several studies, we concluded that to have good adsorption, it is necessary to choose the right treatment with the right activating agent to obtain the appropriate functions that will enhance the adsorption process. In addition, the functions that can react with the pharmaceutical pollutants are the oxygenated functions such as hydroxyl function, carboxylic function, and carbonyl function.
Calculation of sustainable development index and empirical analysis: the case of BRICS-T countries
Authors: Ülger Mücahit , Kasap Ahmet 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In recent years, increasing economic competition between countries has brought environmental pollution and carbon emissions. Especially in developing countries, the flexibility in the implementation of laws causes this pollution to increase even more. Taking environmentally friendly measures on a global scale while developing both economically and socially is defined as sustainable development. Sustainable development is a priority research area at the country and regional level and has become the new goal of world development. The aim of the study is to create a Sustainable Development Index for BRICS-T countries by compiling data from the OECD. The variable pool used in the applied method is quite wide and is basically divided into three groups: economic, environmental and result indicators. Additionally, another aim of the study is to examine the relationships between external debt stock, R&D expenditures and renewable energy use in the Sustainable Development Index. In the analysis conducted using the Panel ARDL method, while no relationship was found between the external debt stock and the Sustainable Development Index for BRICS-T countries, it was concluded that there was a negative relationship between R&D expenditures and the Sustainable Development Index, and a positive relationship between the use of renewable energy and the Sustainable Development Index.
Intermodal targeted energy transfer in two dimensions
Authors: Veltman Yuval , Gzal Majdi , Gendelman Oleg V. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In this paper implementation of the intermodal targeted energy transfer (IMTET) mechanism for passive mitigation of a two-dimensional asymmetric linear oscillator subjected to the external excitation is suggested. The considered model contains a planar rigid body with clearance cast in the form of asymmetric rotated elliptical hole, and a fixed internal rigid core. The planar oscillator possesses three degrees of freedom, namely, two translations and rotation. This paper addresses blast mitigation and harmonic forcing excitations by inducing rapid, broadband energy transfers from low-frequency to high-frequency structural modes. These targeted energy transfers within the modal space are driven by a non-resonant, nonlinear dynamic mechanism facilitated by vibro-impacts between the primary linear oscillator and an internal rigid barrier within the tilted elliptical clearance. To improve the blast mitigation performance, the clearance parameters are optimized using a multi-objective genetic algorithm. The results demonstrate that redistributing the blast energy from low- to high-frequency structural modes significantly reduces the amplitude of the overall structural response within an extremely fast time-scale while efficiently utilizing the intrinsic dissipative modal capacity of the structure. Additional blast energy dissipation is achieved by considering inelastic and frictional vibro-impacts. The robustness of the proposed two-dimensional IMTET mechanism has been demonstrated for a wide set of bi-axial blast excitations. Finally, the response of the same structure to harmonic excitation is investigated, particularly when the excitation frequency is close to the structure's lowest natural frequency. Although this is typically a scenario for potential resonance, the IMTET is employed as a non-resonant mechanism that can significantly reduce the energy and amplitude of the structure's oscillations. This mechanism helps to quickly dampen or mitigate the overall response, effectively preventing the excessive amplitude and energy gain that accompanies resonance.
The role of protective genetic variants in modulating epigenetic aging
Authors: Bejaoui Yosra , Srour Luma , Qannan Abeer , Oshima Junko , Saad Chadi , Horvath Steve , Mbarek Hamdi , El Hajj Nady 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Several progeroid syndromes’ causative mutations have been linked to epigenetic age acceleration as measured via several epigenetic clocks. At the same time, several protective variants have also been discovered that can reduce the risk of developing certain age-related disorders. However, the impact of these protective variants on epigenetic aging has not been well elucidated. Our research, which involved screening over 14,669 healthy individuals enrolled in the Qatar BioBank (QBB) and sequenced by the Qatar Genome Project (QGP), identified individuals carrying protective variants against age-related disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and atherosclerosis. In this study, we measured methylation levels in blood DNA using the EPIC v2 arrays. In addition, epigenetic age was calculated using various epigenetic clocks. Our analysis revealed that the APOE*E2 protective variant reduces the rate of GrimAge epigenetic aging when compared to individuals with the APOE4 AD risk allele. Furthermore, our differential DNA methylation analysis discovered the association of the PCSK9 protective variant with specific biological processes related to immune function and the cardiovascular system. In conclusion, APOE*E2 protective variants have a positive impact on epigenetic aging, while PCSK9 protective variants have a significant effect on DNA methylation signatures. Further studies are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms by which protective variants influence epigenetic aging, particularly the role of APOE*E2 protective variants in biological aging. Furthermore, additional research is required to fully uncover the processes that might enable specific targeted therapies to mimic the effects of beneficial mutations, such as LOF variants in PCSK9, in reducing the risk of geriatric disorders.
How cities source their food: spatial interactions in West African urban food supply
Authors: Karg Hanna , Bellwood-Howard Imogen , Ramankutty Navin 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In West Africa, increasing rural–urban flows of food, driven by growing urban populations, require functional, efficient links between cities and production areas. However, underlying mechanisms of urban food sourcing in West Africa are poorly understood. This study deepens understanding of spatial interactions between cities and production areas by examining the effects of settlement size, geographical distance, and agricultural suitability on food inflows to four West African cities. The analysis was informed by theoretical spatial models and data on food flows, road network, agricultural suitability, and settlements. Results showed that food travelled further from larger supplying settlements, and towards the two larger destination cities. This supports the idea of a hierarchical system, where food provisioning area and upstream supply chain length increase with settlement size. Overall, towns with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants, often representing aggregation centres, were among the major suppliers to the cities. Complementary agricultural suitability between origin and destination shaped food flow direction and length, but poor road access and international borders impeded trade. Spatial models did not fully explain food flows: they were also influenced by historical factors shaping certain settlements’ importance as sources. Study cities were supplied by a diversity of more and less concentrated food sources, representing production sites or aggregating markets, which should theoretically support food supply resilience. Improvements to storage and road infrastructure, and removing trade barriers, could improve food supply to cities, and producer and trader livelihoods. Emerging research on urban food systems governance could support understanding of how best to do this.
The role of the comprehensive complication index in the prediction of tumor-related death in transplanted patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lai Quirino , Melandro Fabio , Vitale Alessandro , Ghinolfi Davide , Coubeau Laurent , Pravisani Riccardo , Nowak Greg , Mocchegiani Federico , Vivarelli Marco , Rossi Massimo , Ericzon Bo-Göran , Baccarani Umberto , De Simone Paolo , Cillo Umberto , Lerut Jan 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is the primary treatment for selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, HCC-related mortality post-LT remains a significant concern, with up to 10% of cases reported in international series. Identifying risk factors for adverse clinical outcomes is essential. We hypothesized that post-LT HCC-related mortality rates are higher in patients with a high (≥ 42) Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) calculated at discharge. This study aims to compare post-LT HCC-related mortality rates between two groups of patients with high versus low CCI following LT for HCC. This study included data from seven collaborative European centers. A cohort of 1121 HCC patients transplanted between 2005 and 2019, surviving more than six months post-LT, was analyzed retrospectively. Patients were divided into two groups based on the CCI at discharge: Low-CCI Group (n = 942, 84.0%) and High-CCI Group (n = 179, 16.0%). An inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) approach was applied for analysis. In the post-IPTW cohort, four multivariable logistic regression models with mixed effects identified independent risk factors for HCC-related death, overall death, recurrence, and early recurrence. A CCI score of ≥ 42 emerged as an independent risk factor across all models. Specifically, CCI ≥ 42 was associated with increased odds of HCC-related death (OR = 3.35; P < 0.0001), overall death (OR = 2.63; P < 0.0001), overall recurrence (OR = 2.09; P = 0.001), and early recurrence (OR = 1.88; P = 0.02). A CCI score at discharge should be considered a critical factor for recurrence and HCC-related mortality risk. Incorporating CCI into standard post-LT predictive models may enhance prognostic accuracy for adverse HCC outcomes.
Dry Needling in Sports and Sport Recovery: A Systematic Review with an Evidence Gap Map
Authors: Kużdżał Adrian , Trybulski Robert , Muracki Jarosław , Klich Sebastian , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Kawczyński Adam 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Dry needling is an increasingly popular technique used in sports and regenerative medicine contexts. However, there is no comprehensive overview of investigations of dry needling in sports and sport recovery.

Objectives
The objectives were to perform a systematic review of dry needling in sports athletes with an evidence gap map, to identify current gaps in the literature, and to provide stakeholders with direction for future research.

Methods
Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines were followed. Studies on healthy and injured athletes receiving dry needling were included. Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched, data were synthesized narratively, key data were summarized quantitatively, and an evidence gap map was created.

Results
The authors incorporated 24 studies into the current study, encompassing 580 athletes, predominantly involving talent/developmental and highly trained/national-level athletes across 13 sports. Most studies used passive or placebo controls, with 37.5% incorporating active controls. Interventions focused mainly on the lower limbs (58.3%). Around 69% of studies reported pain perception outcomes, while six examined muscular strength, activity, and range of motion. While results varied, dry needling generally showed a more positive effect on pain than on athletic performance.

Conclusions
Dry needling studies seem to describe general effectiveness and safety for reducing pain and muscle stiffness in a wide variety of body regions. However, further research is needed on underrepresented populations such as elite, world-class, and Paralympic athletes, as well as expanding investigations into long-term effects and a broader range of muscle groups, particularly the hamstrings. The results may be valuable for medical professionals, sports medicine specialists, and researchers.

Registration
OSF project no.: osf.io osf.io/h3yeq.
Failure mechanisms of electronic detonators subjected to high impact loading in rock drilling and blasting
Authors: Leng Zhendong , Fan Yong , Lu Wenbo , Gao Qidong , Yang Guangdong 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In rock drilling and blasting, the misfire of electronic detonators will not only affect the rock fragmentation result but also bring serious potential safety hazards to engineering construction. An accurate and comprehensive understanding of the failure mechanisms of electronic detonators subjected to impact loading is of great significance to the reliability design and field safety use of electronic detonators. The spatial distribution characteristics and failure modes of misfired electronic detonators under different application scenarios are statistically analysed. The results show that under high impact loads, electronic detonators will experience failure phenomena such as rupture of the fuse head, fracture of the bridge wire, falling off of the solder joint, chip module damage and insufficient initiation energy after deformation. The lack of impact resistance is the primary cause of misfire of electronic detonators. Combined with the underwater impact resistance test and the impact load test in the adjacent blasthole on site, the formulas of the impact failure probability of the electronic detonator under different stress‒strength distribution curves are deduced. The test and evaluation method of the impact resistance of electronic detonators based on stress‒strength interference theory is proposed. Furthermore, the impact failure model of electronic detonators considering the strength degradation effect under repeated random loads is established. On this basis, the failure mechanism of electronic detonators under different application environments, such as open-pit blasting and underground blasting, is revealed, which provides scientific theory and methods for the reliability analysis, design and type selection of electronic detonators in rock drilling and blasting.
Allelopathic activity of coriander (coriandrum sativum L.)
Authors: Pannacci Euro , Monni Vittorio , Contini Giulia , Bravi Elisabetta , Tei Francesco 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In recent years there has been increased interest about the allelopathic effects of plant extracts used as bioherbicides, in order to manage weeds with a decreasing use of herbicides. An interesting crop, from an allelopathic point of view, is coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), a medicinal plant member of Apiaceae family. The aim of this study was to evaluate the allelopathic activity of coriander against a possible succeeding crop, like wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and against some weeds, like Lolium multiflorum Lam., Sinapis alba L. and Amaranthus retroflexus L., ubiquitous in the Mediterranean agroecosystems. In Petri dish bioassays, seeds of above-mentioned species were treated with 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 17.5, 25% w/v concentrations of aqueous extracts from leaves, stems and roots of coriander at flowering and maturity growth stage. The ranking among different extracts based on their allelopathic effects was: leaves extract > stems extract > roots extract. The allelopathic activity of coriander at maturity stage decreased with respect to that at flowering stage. Total polyphenols, flavonoids and phenolic acids were involved in the allelopathic activity of coriander. The aqueous extracts from aerial biomass of coriander inhibited the seed germination of weeds, but not that of T. aestivum. This research has provided interesting scientific insights into the allelopathic activity of coriander in weed management, however, other aspects need to be further investigated.
Estimation of rock strength parameters from petrological contents using tree-based machine learning techniques
Authors: Hussain Javid , Fu Xiaodong , Chen Jian , Ali Nafees , Iqbal Sayed Muhammad , Hussain Wakeel , Hussain Altaf , Saleem Ahmed 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The demand for construction materials in Pakistan has experienced a significant increase, particularly due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, which necessitates substantial amounts of resilient resources for infrastructure development. Parameters of rock strength, including uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), Young’s modulus (E), and Poisson’s ratio (ν), are critical attributes of rock materials vital for applications such as rock slope stability assessment, tunnel construction, and foundation design. Conventionally, the measurement of UCS, E, and ν in laboratory settings resource-intensive, requiring considerable time and financial investment. This study proposes to provide a comprehensive assessment framework using an adaptive boosting machine (AdaBoost), extreme gradient boosting machine (XGBoost), and category gradient boosting machine (CatBoost), to indirectly estimate UCS, E, and ν through streamlined mineralogical analyses. The performance of the boosting trees was analyzed using Taylor diagrams and a suite of five regression metrics: coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), variance accounted for (VAF), and the A-20 index. The results indicate that the proposed boosting trees robust predictive capabilities for the constructed database. Notably, AdaBoost demonstrated the highest efficacy in predicting the strength of carbonate rock, achieving R2 values of 0.98, 0.99, and 0.97, with the lowest RMSE values of 0.3164, 0.63, and 0.18, for UCS, E, and ν, respectively. Moreover, variable importance analysis highlighted that the presence of micrite and calcite has a significant impact on predicting UCS, E, and ν of carbonate rock. Furthermore, the AdaBoost model was validated using an independent dataset, which corroborated its predictive reliability. In conclusion, the proposed models present a highly effective methodology for the indirect prediction of essential mechanical properties of carbonate rocks, offering substantial time and cost efficiencies compared to traditional laboratory techniques.
Efficient and accurate road crack detection technology based on YOLOv8-ES
Authors: Zeng Kaili , Fan Rui , Tang Xiaoyu 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Road damage detection is an important aspect of road maintenance. Traditional manual inspections are laborious and imprecise. With the rise of deep learning technology, pavement detection methods employing deep neural networks give an efficient and accurate solution. However, due to background diversity, limited resolution, and fracture similarity, it is tough to detect road cracks with high accuracy. In this study, we offer a unique, efficient and accurate road crack damage detection, namely YOLOv8-ES. We present a novel dynamic convolutional layer(EDCM) that successfully increases the feature extraction capabilities for small fractures. At the same time, we also present a new attention mechanism (SGAM). It can effectively retain crucial information and increase the network feature extraction capacity. The Wise-IoU technique contains a dynamic, non-monotonic focusing mechanism designed to return to the goal-bounding box more precisely, especially for low-quality samples. We validate our method on both RDD2022 and VOC2007 datasets. The experimental results suggest that YOLOv8-ES performs well. This unique approach provides great support for the development of intelligent road maintenance systems and is projected to achieve further advances in future applications.