Search Results (1,445)

Background: Advanced liver fibrosis (LF) is a major determinant of prognosis across chronic liver diseases. Current biomarkers are often etiology-specific and lack cross-cohort robustness. Shared molecular drivers across etiologies remain incompletely defined, and effective anti-fibrotic therapies are limited. Methods: We developed a multi-algorithm consensus machine-learning framework to derive a robust LF progression signature. In the training non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) cohort GSE213621 (n = 368), samples were formulated as a binary classification task (mild fibrosis, F0–F2; advanced fibrosis, F3–F4). Candidate genes were screened in parallel using Boruta, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), random forest, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). Genes selected by at least two algorithms were defined as a high-consensus pool, and genes consistently selected by all four algorithms were prioritized to construct a core signature. Model performance was evaluated by stratified cross-validation in the training cohort and externally validated in four independent cohorts of different etiologies (GSE49541, GSE84044, GSE130970, and GSE276114). Cellular sources of signature genes were characterized using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets GSE136103 (human) and GSE172492 (mouse). For therapeutic discovery, the high-consensus expression profile was queried against the Connectivity Map (CMap) to prioritize compounds predicted to reverse the fibrotic transcriptional program. Withaferin A (WFA) was selected for experimental validation in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced mouse LF model and in the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2. Bulk liver RNA-seq profiling was performed to interrogate WFA-associated molecular changes in vivo. Results: We identified a six-gene signature (CLEC4M, COL25A1, ITGBL1, NALCN, PAPPA, and PEG3) that discriminated advanced from mild fibrosis, achieving a mean AUC of 0.890 in internal cross-validation and an average AUC of 0.864 across external validation cohorts. scRNA-seq analysis revealed cell-type-specific expression with prominent enrichment in fibroblast populations. In vivo, WFA markedly attenuated CCl₄-induced fibrosis (p < 0.05) and reversed 1314 fibrosis-associated differentially expressed genes (adjusted p < 0.05), which were enriched in fatty acid metabolism and PPAR signaling, as well as extracellular matrix (ECM)–receptor interaction and focal adhesion (adjusted p < 0.05). In vitro, WFA suppressed TGF-β1-induced LX-2 activation, reducing α-SMA and Fibronectin expression (p < 0.05). Conclusions: We report a six-gene signature that robustly predicts advanced LF across etiologies, define its cellular context using single-cell atlases, and validate the anti-fibrotic activity of WFA in both in vivo and in vitro models. Bulk liver RNA-seq and cellular evidence further suggest that WFA-associated effects are linked to lipid metabolic programs, ECM remodeling, and attenuation of hepatic stellate cell activation. Full article

Background and Objectives: Accurate prediction of lip prominence changes following orthodontic treatment remains challenging because traditional profile analyses rely on isolated reference lines that do not account for combined nasal and chin morphology. The aesthetic triangle framework integrates these structures and may provide a more comprehensive evaluation of lip position. Materials and Methods: This correlative clinical study evaluated 82 orthodontic patients undergoing bimaxillary incisor repositioning. Lateral cephalograms and standardized profile photographs were obtained before and after treatment. Lip position was assessed relative to the aesthetic triangle boundaries, and dentoalveolar changes were quantified using standard incisor measurements. Lip thickness was also analyzed as a potential modulating factor. Results: Mandibular incisor inclination demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with anterior displacement of the lower lip within the aesthetic triangle (Pearson r = 0.45, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed IMPA as a significant predictor of lower lip migration (β = 0.41), explaining approximately 21% of the observed variance (R² = 0.21). In contrast, maxillary incisor inclination (U1–SN) showed weaker and statistically inconsistent associations with upper lip position. Compartment analysis revealed that approximately 32% of patients exhibited anterior migration of the lower lip from the posterior to the central aesthetic triangle compartment following treatment. These findings suggest that mandibular incisor inclination exerts a measurable influence on lower lip prominence, whereas upper lip positional changes appear to be less directly related to maxillary incisor variables. Conclusions: The aesthetic triangle provides a clinically meaningful framework for interpreting orthodontic soft-tissue changes as spatial migration rather than isolated linear measurements. Lower lip prominence responds predictably to dentoalveolar mechanics, whereas upper lip position also depends on soft tissue morphology. Full article

This paper proposes the Unified Observation Layer Theory (UOLT), a structural framework for understanding observation not as an act of cognition, measurement, or subjectivity, but as a layered condition through which the world becomes visible. Contemporary theories across physics, philosophy, and cognitive science often treat observation as a primary explanatory principle, implicitly assuming that what is observed constitutes the world itself. Such approaches repeatedly encounter paradoxes concerning objectivity, incompleteness, and the limits of visibility. UOLT argues that these paradoxes do not arise from epistemic failure or insufficient data, but from a structural confusion between distinct layers of observation. UOLT introduces a three-layer model consisting of an Invisible Layer, a Projection Layer, and a Visible Layer. The Invisible Layer refers to structural conditions that do not appear directly within a given observational configuration, yet are presupposed by the coherence of what becomes established within it. The Projection Layer specifies the conditions under which certain structural relations become stably manifest, including selection, emphasis, and exclusion. The Visible Layer corresponds to the domain in which objects, quantities, causality, language, and time are articulated as established. By separating these layers, UOLT explains why observation can never access the totality of the world, why visibility does not imply completeness, and why similar structural paradoxes emerge across otherwise distinct domains. Importantly, UOLT does not compete with or replace existing physical or philosophical theories. Instead, it repositions them as descriptions operating within the Visible Layer, without reducing the Invisible Layer to hidden variables or metaphysical entities. Unified Observation Layer Theory offers a non-temporal, non-reductive account of observation that clarifies the structural conditions under which reality appears coherent despite being only partially visible. In doing so, it provides a framework for reconsidering objectivity, visibility, and world formation without privileging observation as an ultimate ground. This paper does not aim to propose a unified theory, but to clarify the structural conditions under which observation becomes possible. Full article

Natural ventilation remains a key strategy for improving indoor environmental quality (IEQ), lowering energy demand, and increasing resilience in low-rise residential buildings, especially in warm climates where mechanical ventilation is costly or unreliable. Classical ventilation studies are very often performed on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) or simplified thermal models, but they are computationally resource-heavy, data-dependent, or at odds with early design scenarios. Thus, this study proposes a Multi-Scale BIM-Driven Framework for Predictive Ventilation Opportunity Mapping (PVOM), presenting a geometry-based, data-light approach for investigating ventilation potential over micro-, meso-, and macro-scale spatial dimensions. Based on BIM models of two single-story residential buildings (Building A—author-developed and Building B—public reference model), the framework combines LOD 300 spatial modeling, multi-scale ventilation morphometrics, pathway prediction, and design optimization via opening repositioning, resizing, and envelope porosity adjustments. The outcomes indicate that PVOM correctly detects airflow constraints, stagnation pockets, and underperforming spaces, while simultaneously identifying geometrical areas for improvement on cross-ventilation. Performance for optimization scenarios indicated enhanced air change potential (ACH-P), cross-ventilation score (CVS), and spatial airflow continuity (SAC), thereby indicating the framework is adequate in facilitating early-stage sustainable design. This study presents a reproducible BIM-based method on natural ventilation assessment without CFD or advanced sensing systems, indicating PVOM as a scalable approach toward architects, engineers, and sustainability practitioners. BIM; natural ventilation; PVOM; ventilation morphometrics; low-rise buildings; sustainable design; performance optimization. Full article

Background: Floating barbed threads are commonly used for minimally invasive midface lifting and rely on mobile subcutaneous tissue for support, which may limit stability. Fixation is primarily achieved by barb engagement within the subcutaneous fat and fibrous septa of the retinacula cutis. Objectives: To describe an anatomically guided modification of the APTOS Excellence Visage Soft (PLLA/PCL) thread technique, positioning the terminal segment posterior to the zygomatic retaining ligament line with the aim to enhancing mechanical stability. This technical report presents the anatomical rationale, procedural steps, and illustrative clinical cases demonstrating feasibility. Methods: The modified technique uses a single-entry point at the superior zygomatic margin, with five threads per hemiface. After linear insertion, the cannula is rotated laterally and inferiorly to position the terminal barbs posterior to the zygomatic retaining ligament line, thereby transferring tensile load toward a more fixed anatomical structure. Representative cases were documented and are presented. Results: Illustrative cases showed immediate midface elevation with improved malar projection and softening of the nasolabial and mentolabial folds. Standardized 3D imaging and vector analysis demonstrated a superolateral pattern of soft tissue displacement along the intended vectors, consistent with the proposed fixed-anchorage concept. The procedure was well tolerated, with only mild and transient local effects observed. One illustrative case included photographic follow-up at 12 months, in which preservation of midface contour and malar projection was visually appreciable. Conclusions: Redirecting the terminal thread segment posterior to the zygomatic retaining ligament line is a feasible modification that may contribute to improved vector stability by engaging a fixed fascial structure. Observations—including one case with 12-month follow-up—support the anatomical plausibility of the approach, although controlled studies with objective endpoints are necessary to confirm long-term efficacy and reproducibility. Full article

Background: This retrospective study assessed long-term survival outcomes of severely periodontally compromised mandibular incisors (≥50% bone loss) following initial periodontal treatment and a structured recall protocol. Methods: Ninety-three patients with ≥50% bone loss in all mandibular incisors were treated in a private practice over a 32-year period by the same periodontist. Following initial treatment, patients were assigned 6- or 12-month recall intervals based on response and motivation. The baseline was set after subgingival debridement (visit 3). Last follow-up visit (LFV) in this study was defined as follows: the last control visit of the patients done by the periodontist. ‘Survival’ was divided into 3 groups: complete survival (CS), all incisors were still present, and partial survival (PS), one or two incisor(s) were lost. Total failure (TF) involved instances in which all incisors were lost. Effective survival was monitored when an extracted tooth was repositioned and stabilized with a splint, ensuring preservation of function. Only 9.7% of patients needed a mandibular incisal splint. For reasons of consistency the CPITN was used. Statistical analysis was performed in R. The significance level was set at α = 0.05. Event-free patients can be considered as uninformative censoring, all with the same probability of risk, as they all were still in follow-up at the time of informed consent approval. Results: A total of 93 patients were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 17.7 years. At the last visit, 79.6% of patients retained all incisors, with an effective survival rate of 89.2%. Regarding the survival probability over time, after 15 years, it is 91% (95% CI: 0.86–0.98), and after 20 years, it is 78% (95% CI: 0.69–0.90). The effective survival probability over time after 15 years was 95% (95% CI: 0.91–1.0), and after 20 years, it was 89% (95% CI: 0.81–0.98). Compliance significantly influenced survival (p = 0.007), whereas the number of occluding units did not (p = 0.226). The total amount of teeth lost during the entire follow-up period showed a statistically significant difference compared to survival (p < 0.001). The general periodontal health of the patient population presented a shift from CPITN 3 to the 0–2 group. Conclusions: Severely compromised mandibular incisors demonstrate high long-term survival rates with appropriate therapy. After 20 years the survival probability was 78%, and the effective survival probability, 89%, underscoring the critical role of lifelong periodontal care. Mandibular incisor preservation over long-term follow-up is highly achievable. Full article

This article examines the governance of Global Value Chains (GVCs) through the lens of economic competence based on a systematic literature review of 32 selected studies. The findings show that economic competence functions as a governance-contingent construct whose effects vary across hierarchical, captive, relational, and modular governance structures. Rather than directly determining upgrading outcomes, competence dimensions operate through governance repositioning and shifts in dependence asymmetries within value chains. The review identifies recurring mechanisms—such as substitutability reduction, coordination cost mitigation, and institutional alignment—that explain how competence and governance interact. The analysis further demonstrates that economic competence is multidimensional, encompassing innovation-oriented, market-oriented, decision-making, relational, and systemic components. These dimensions operate differently depending on coordination complexity and power distribution within the chain. By advancing a contingency-based framework, the study refines GVC governance theory through a micro-foundational explanation of upgrading dynamics. From a managerial perspective, the framework offers a structured tool for aligning competence development strategies with specific governance configurations, supporting informed capability investments and improved strategic positioning. Overall, the study contributes by systematically integrating competence theory with governance typologies and power asymmetries, providing a coherent analytical model for future empirical research. Full article

Cancer is increasingly recognized as a systems-level disorder characterized not only by genetic alterations but also by persistent dysregulation of stress-adaptive signaling networks integrating inflammation, metabolism, immune modulation, and cellular plasticity. Within this framework, reactive oxygen species (ROS) function as flux-dependent regulators of signaling fidelity rather than merely cytotoxic byproducts. Therapeutic strategies centered on single high-affinity targets or indiscriminate antioxidant suppression often fail to achieve durable responses in redox-heterogeneous and inflammation-driven malignancies. Multi-component herbal formulations represent chemically diverse systems capable of distributed pharmacodynamic modulation across interconnected signaling nodes and heterogeneous pharmacokinetic exposure profiles arising from multi-constituent absorption kinetics. Ojeoksan (Wu Ji San), a classical East Asian multi-herbal decoction, has accumulated experimental and clinical evidence demonstrating regulatory effects on inflammatory mediators, metabolic homeostasis, mitochondrial stress responses, and immune signaling pathways. Rather than inducing abrupt pathway inhibition, OJS appears to exert graded, parallel modulation across multiple redox-sensitive axes. Here, we reinterpret OJS within a flux-based pharmacological framework, conceptualizing it as a distributed redox-buffering architecture rather than a direct cytotoxic agent. By integrating Korean and Chinese research traditions with systems-level redox modeling and electrochemical perspectives, we propose that multi-component formulations may enhance pharmacodynamic robustness through controlled modulation of ROS amplitude and multi-node buffering while temporally distributing pharmacodynamic signals through multi-component pharmacokinetic synchronization. From a formulation science standpoint, such distributed electrochemical diversity may expand therapeutic tolerance windows and mitigate compensatory pathway escape in chronic inflammatory and therapy-resistant cancers. This perspective supports repositioning multi-herbal formulations as network-aligned pharmacological systems compatible with modern molecular pharmacology formulation-level design principles and rational combination therapy strategies. Full article

Introduction: Large language models (LLMs) are increasingly employed as cognitive aids in research and professional inquiry, yet their fluent outputs are frequently regarded as authoritative knowledge. We contend that this practice signifies a fundamental epistemic misalignment. Methods/Approach: Building on Peirce’s theory of inquiry, Sellars’ concept of the space of reasons, Stanovich’s tripartite model of cognition, and knowledge-building theory, we develop a conceptual framework for analyzing epistemic agency in human–LLM collaboration. Results/Argument: We demonstrate that LLM outputs fail to satisfy the conditions for knowledge because they lack reflective regulation, resistance to revision, and normative commitment. While LLMs display strong autonomous and algorithmic abilities (e.g., pattern recognition and hypothesis development), reflective control remains a distinctly human function. This asymmetry supports a principled division of epistemic labour and motivates the concept of the Knowledge-Building Partner (KBP): an AI system designed to support inquiry without claiming epistemic authority. Discussion/Implications: We identify prompt-, system-, and model-level design requirements and introduce a triangulated framework for operationalizing epistemic agency through explainable AI, discourse analysis, and rational-thinking measures. These contributions collectively reposition LLM limitations as epistemic design challenges rather than technical issues. Full article

Vitamin D signaling via the vitamin D receptor (VDR) regulates calcium–phosphate homeostasis and extensive gene programs controlling cell proliferation, differentiation, immune tone, and metabolism. However, systemic use of the natural agonist 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ (calcitriol) for extraskeletal indications is limited by dose-limiting hypercalcemia. This review summarizes VDR biology and the structural basis of ligand action, emphasizing how ligand-induced repositioning of helix 12 and altered coregulator recruitment can be exploited to engineer selective VDR modulators. We highlight medicinal chemistry strategies spanning secosteroidal analogs with side-chain or ring modifications and emerging non-seco scaffolds and discuss clinically established agents (e.g., calcipotriol and paricalcitol) alongside experimental “super-agonists”, partial agonists, and antagonists designed to widen the therapeutic window. Finally, we discuss current evidence for VDR targeting across cancer, metabolic disease, fibrosis, and immune-inflammatory disorders, including mechanisms of resistance such as dysregulated vitamin D metabolism and epigenetic repression. Structural and epigenomic insights are positioning next-generation VDR ligands as tissue- and pathway-biased therapeutics that may enable safer, mechanism-guided translation beyond bone and mineral indications. Full article

Background: Upper-limb performance in handball depends on accurate shoulder sensorimotor control under high loads and fatigue. This study examined between-cohort differences associated with concentric versus eccentric exercise-induced fatigue in shoulder proprioception, kinesthesia, functional stability, and isometric force output in professional male handball players. Methods: This was a retrospective, quasi-experimental (non-randomized) between-cohort comparison of two previously collected cohorts who completed either a concentric (n = 46) or eccentric (n = 33) fatigue protocol, with pre- and post-fatigue assessments of joint repositioning sense (absolute angular error, AAE), threshold to detection of passive movement (TTDPM), Y Balance Test Upper Quarter (YBT-UQ), and the Athletic Shoulder (ASH) test. Results: Fatigue significantly increased AAE across all tested angles (Time: all p < 0.001), with a contraction-specific effect at end-range internal rotation (IR45°), where AAE increased more after concentric than eccentric fatigue (Time × Fatigue Type: p = 0.017; Δ = +1.34° (+61.8%) vs. +0.20° (+7.4%)). TTDPM increased after fatigue (p = 0.001) with no interaction (p = 0.968). YBT-UQ performance decreased after fatigue for all dominant-limb outcomes and for non-dominant inferolateral, superolateral, and composite scores (all p ≤ 0.018), but not for non-dominant anteromedial reach (p = 0.986); no Time × Fatigue Type interactions were detected for YBT-UQ outcomes (all p > 0.05). ASH force output decreased across all positions and both limbs (all p ≤ 0.002), with the dominant-limb Y position showing a greater decline following eccentric fatigue (Time × Fatigue Type: p = 0.030; e.g., ASH Y dominant Δ = −0.49 (−4.6%) vs. −1.43 N·kg⁻¹ (−13.3%)). Conclusions: Exercise-induced fatigue impairs shoulder sensorimotor function and upper-limb performance in handball. Contraction-mode differences were small and task-specific in this between-cohort comparison, emerging primarily at end-range proprioception and selected isometric strength positions. These findings may inform the design of training programs that emphasize fatigue-resistant sensorimotor control and end-range strength, while causal inferences regarding contraction mode are not warranted given the non-randomized design. Full article

Entrepreneurship is widely promoted as a pathway to refugee self-reliance, yet the conditions under which entrepreneurial livelihoods unfold, and the forms of labor they generate, remain underexamined. This study investigates how displacement and patriarchal household relations shape refugee women’s entrepreneurship, asking when survival-oriented enterprise produces labor vulnerability rather than alleviating it. Drawing on in-depth qualitative research with Syrian refugee women entrepreneurs in Lebanon, the study reveals that entrepreneurship emerges primarily as a survival response to exclusion and precarity rather than an opportunity-driven choice. As a result, entrepreneurial activity becomes embedded within informal, relationally governed arrangements that intensify dependency and constrain exit, while women’s labor is regulated through overlapping household expectations, kinship obligations, and gendered moral economies that reproduce unprotected, difficult-to-exit work. The study shows that entrepreneurship and labor vulnerability may be co-constituted, repositions households as institutions of labor governance, and bridges entrepreneurship and forced labor scholarship by demonstrating how constrained labor emerges within self-employment through relational governance and survival imperatives. These findings challenge policy approaches that treat entrepreneurship as a stand-alone solution to refugee labor exclusion, revealing how market-based inclusion may normalize precarity instead. Full article

Background: Phenothiazine derivatives bearing trifluoromethyl substituents have attracted increasing interest as multifunctional scaffolds in drug repositioning strategies, particularly in cancer and infectious diseases. Structural modification of classical phenothiazines by incorporation of a quinoline moiety has previously been shown to enhance biological activity. Objectives: The present study aimed to develop an efficient synthesis of 8-trifluoromethylquinobenzothiazines and to evaluate the anticancer and antibacterial potential of their N-substituted analogues inspired by triflupromazine, trifluoperazine, and fluphenazine. Methods: 6H-8-Trifluoromethylquinobenzothiazine was synthesized by cyclization of 2-amino-4-trifluoromethylbenzenethiol and 3-bromo-2-chloroquinoline. The resulting quinobenzothiazine, unsubstituted at the nitrogen atom, was subjected to N-alkylation reactions to afford eleven new 6-dialkylaminoalkyl derivatives. Structural elucidation was performed using NMR and HRMS techniques. Anticancer activity was evaluated by MTT assay against human breast (MDA-MB-231), pancreatic (Mia-PaCa-2), and lung (A-549) carcinoma cell lines, as well as normal HaCaT keratinocytes. Antibacterial activity was assessed by MIC/MBC determination against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative reference strains and clinical isolates. Results: Among the synthesized compounds, derivatives 8 and 12 exhibited the most favorable anticancer profiles, showing micromolar cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ ≈ 4–10 µM) against lung and pancreatic cancer cells combined with moderate selectivity toward cancer cells over normal keratinocytes. Compound 6 displayed lower cytotoxic potency but a notably high selectivity index due to minimal toxicity toward normal cells. In antibacterial assays, compound 3 exhibited activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolate, with MIC values ranging from 7.8 to 15.6 µg/mL. The corresponding MBC values were equal to or twofold higher than the MICs (MBC/MIC = 1–2), fulfilling commonly accepted criteria for bactericidal activity (MBC/MIC ≤ 4). OD-based growth kinetics confirmed concentration-dependent inhibition of S. aureus growth. Conclusions: The obtained results identify 8-trifluoromethylquinobenzothiazines as a promising class of multifunctional compounds. Selected derivatives combine anticancer activity with acceptable selectivity or display potent antibacterial effects against clinically relevant Gram-positive pathogens. Full article

While typical benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) presents with reproducible patterns of nystagmus and vertigo during positional testing, atypical variants often deviate from typical patterns, making diagnosis more complex. Recognizing atypical BPPV is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate management. This study aims to describe the clinical spectrum of atypical BPPV, differentiate it from central positional vertigo, and provide practical diagnostic guidance for clinicians. A narrative review was conducted to explore the clinical spectrum of atypical BPPV. Findings indicate that it may present with vertigo without nystagmus, conflicting torsional components in bilateral cases, or persistent symptoms despite repositioning maneuvers. Canal switch and pseudo-spontaneous nystagmus have also been described. Although these variants may mimic central etiologies, the absence of consistent neurological signs supports a peripheral mechanism. Diagnosis relies on detailed assessment of nystagmus characteristics—such as latency, /duration, and direction—as well as the exclusion of red flags, like direction-changing nystagmus without head movement, vomiting, or non-positional ocular motor abnormalities. Atypical BPPV remains a diagnostic challenge and requires careful bedside assessment and clinical testing. Understanding these variants is essential for timely and appropriate treatment. When doubt persists and resolution with treatment does not occur, neuroimaging should be considered to exclude central pathology. Full article

This paper examines the organizational competitiveness and strategic transformation of an elite professional football entity in the Greek Super League during the period 2018–2020, using Panathinaikos as a case study within a comparative framework including Olympiacos, AEK, and PAOK. This period marked a phase of enforced reorientation for Panathinaikos due to UEFA sanctions for overdue debts and the club’s exclusion from European competitions, which resulted in extensive squad renewal and increased reliance on academy-developed players. The aim of the study is to identify the factors shaping Panathinaikos’ strategic position, diagnose the causes of its lagging performance, and suggest directions for strategic repositioning. To this end, a multi-criteria framework based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is employed, integrating qualitative assessments, expert judgements, and quantitative performance indicators through pairwise comparisons, weight calculations, and consistency checks. The analysis is based on a conceptually original model that defines the Football Organization as an integrated system composed of two interdependent subsystems: the Football Club and the Football Team (competitive subsystem). This approach highlights that league standings do not always reflect overall performance dynamics, as they are influenced by both organizational and on-field factors. The findings indicate that Panathinaikos is lagging behind in key areas and that a structural discontinuity between the Club and the Team limits strategic coherence and the ability to create a sustainable competitive advantage. The study concludes with proposals for restructuring and strategic repositioning, while the proposed model functions as a transferable decision-support tool for assessing organizational competitiveness, with broader applicability to complex organizational systems beyond professional football. Full article