bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing the Overlap: Therapeutic Approaches in Patients with Concomitant Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis—A Case Series
Authors: de Felici del Giudice Maria Beatrice , Ravaglia Giorgia , Brusasco Marco , Satolli Francesca
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Psoriasis (PSO) and atopic dermatitis (AD) have traditionally been considered distinct diseases, respectively, mediated by T-helper 1 (Th1) and the T-helper 2 (Th2) immune pathway. In recent years, there has been a growing body of evidence highlighting an overlap between the two conditions, such as Asian AD, pediatric PSO, or “psoriasis dermatitis/PSOREMA”. Moreover, psoriasis dermatitis can be induced by therapeutic interventions. For instance, anti-IL-4/IL-13 monoclonal antibodies, commonly used to treat AD, can induce psoriasiform reactions by inhibiting the Th2 pathway, thereby unmasking Th1/Th17-driven PSO. Conversely, anti-TNFα and anti-IL-17 therapies, effective for PSO, may induce eczematous reactions promoting a switch toward Th2-driven inflammation. Janus Kinase Inhibitors (JAK-i) and IL-23 antagonists may represent valid therapeutic options for managing psoriasis dermatitis. JAK-i exert broader immunomodulatory effects, inhibiting both Th1 and Th2 pathways; however, they require careful monitoring due to potential adverse events. In contrast, IL-23 antagonists specifically suppress the IL-23/IL-17 axis inhibiting the p19 subunit of IL-23 and could represent a safer option for patients with psoriasis dermatitis. Materials and Methods/Results: We present a series of five cases of psoriasis dermatitis, including both patients who had the condition from the onset and those who developed it during treatment, with tailored therapeutic strategies based on individual patient profiles, comorbidities, and the specific characteristics of their overlapping disease presentation. Conclusion: JAK-i and IL-23 antagonists are both valid therapeutic options for managing psoriasis dermatitis, but with different immunomodulatory effects and safety profiles. Future research should focus on a better understanding of the immune pathway and identifying specific biomarkers of psoriasis dermatitis, to optimize therapeutic strategies.
The Effect of Rehabilitation Therapy in Children with Intervened Congenital Heart Disease: A Study Protocol of Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Hospital and Home-Based Rehabilitation
Authors: Menéndez Pardiñas Mónica , Fuertes Moure Ángeles Sara , Sanz Mengíbar José Manuel , Rueda Núñez Fernando , Cabrera Sarmiento Jorge , Martín-Vallejo Javier , Jácome Feijoó Rita , Duque-Salanova Isabel , Sánchez González Juan Luis
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Children who suffer from congenital heart defects (CHDs) have a decreased ability to perform physical exercise and consequently have a decrease in their functional capacity. The main causes of this decrease in functional capacity have been related on the one hand to residual hemodynamic defects and, at the same time, to a situation of physical deconditioning due to inactivity, as well as problems in lung function, especially the presence of restrictive patterns that influence the amount of O2 insufflated (decreased maximum VO2), consequently generating a deficient maximum O2 consumption and maximum work rate. This represents an important prognostic value, since it constitutes an independent predictor of death and hospitalization. This study aims to determine the benefits obtained regarding respiratory function, exercise capacity, and quality of life after implementing a hospital-based cardio-respiratory rehabilitation program compared to a home-based Cardio-respiratory Physical Activity Program in patients with intervened CHDs. Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of two different rehabilitation programs on respiratory function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in patients with CHDs conducted at the Child Cardiology and Congenital Heart Disease Unit of the University Hospital Complex of A Coruña (CHUAC). There will be two groups: Cardio-respiratory rehabilitation group program conducted in a face-to-face format at the hospital (n = 26) and a study group that follows a home-based Cardio-respiratory Physical Activity Program (TELEA) (n = 26). The measurement variables will be respiratory function, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), maximum expiratory flow (PEF), the Tiffeneau index (FEV1 /FVC), forced expiratory flow (FEF25%, FEF50%, FEF75%, FEF25–75%), exercise capacity (peak VO2), and the quality of life of these children and their families. Conclusions: The implementation of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs in children with CHDs is essential to improve their quality of life, exercise tolerance, and socialization. These programs optimize life expectancy and promote integration, being crucial for their physical and emotional well-being
Surgical Management of Foot Syndactyly: The State of the Art and a Treatment Algorithm Based on a Literature Review
Authors: Artioli Elena , Cargeli Alessandro , Mazzotti Antonio , Zielli Simone Ottavio , Arceri Alberto , Langone Laura , Sgubbi Federico , Di Paola Gianmarco , Faldini Cesare
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This systematic review provides an in-depth analysis of the surgical treatment of foot syndactyly, offering insights into the various options and their applications. The objective is to improve treatment standardization and optimize patient care in cases of foot syndactyly. Methods: By synthesizing the existing evidence, the authors propose a treatment algorithm to guide clinicians in decision-making, considering the type and severity of syndactyly. Results: Sixteen articles were included in the systematic review, comprising a total of 395 patients. The mean age at surgery was 6 years (range: 0.66–23 years). Clinical outcomes were assessed after a mean follow-up of 33.2 months (range: 4–82.8 months). Several surgical procedures were described in the included articles. Conclusions: Continued research efforts and collaborative initiatives are crucial to further refine our understanding of complications and enhance surgical practices in foot syndactyly procedures.
Temporal and Topographical Heterogeneities in Clinical Manifestations of Atopic Dermatitis in China
Authors: Li Zheng , Yin Huibin , Wang Yu , Wang Shangshang , Wu Yuemeng , Qiu Zhuoqiong , Yao Xu , Gu Chaoying , Li Wei
Published: January 2025

Background/Objective: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by diverse clinical manifestations. However, variations in its clinical presentations across different ages, genders, anatomical sites, and seasons remain incompletely understood. The objective was to explore the clinical heterogeneities of AD using data from the Chinese non-selective registration system. Methods: A prospective analysis was conducted on 3829 AD patients enrolled in the Chinese Non-selective Registry for AD (CNRAD) at hospital settings from 2020 to 2022. Demographic profiles; distribution, type, and severity of the skin lesion; laboratory findings; allergic comorbidities; family history; and exacerbating factors were analyzed. Results: The male-to-female ratio was 0.92 among adolescent and adult AD patients but increased to 2.11 in elderly AD patients, highlighting an age-dependent gender difference in AD prevalence. Age groups displayed distinct anatomical preferences for lesion distribution, with reduced involvement of the cubital and popliteal fossae in adult and elderly patients. Based on skin lesion characteristics, ten clinical subtypes of AD were proposed. Elderly AD patients exhibited higher severity, compared to adolescence and adult AD patients, with male patients being more severe than females. Elderly AD patients showed a lower proportion of extrinsic type, compared to childhood AD patients. Seasonal change emerged as the most important factor triggering AD flares. Conclusions: This study provides new insights into the heterogeneities of AD clinical manifestations in the Chinese population, demonstrating their significant dependence on temporal factors, including age and season.
Clinical and Biochemical Factors Associated with Infliximab Pharmacokinetics in Paediatric Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Wang Ka Yu , Heikal Omnia Salah , van Rheenen Patrick F. , Touw Daan J. , Bourgonje Arno R. , Mian Paola
Published: January 2025

Monitoring infliximab (IFX) concentrations is crucial for optimizing IFX therapy in children with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) who show low response rates due to inadequate drug exposure. Substantial variation occurs in IFX trough concentrations in paediatric patients. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate IFX pharmacokinetics (PK) in children with IBD during both the induction phase and maintenance phases and to identify covariates associated with IFX PK. Methods: This single-centre retrospective cohort study was conducted at an academic children’s hospital. Data was extracted from paediatric IBD patients receiving IFX between January 2018 and October 2023 and included demographic-, clinical- and laboratory parameters collected from electronic health records. Linear mixed model analysis was performed to investigate associations between these parameters and IFX trough concentrations. Target attainment [≥15 μg/mL in induction or 5–10 μg/mL in maintenance phase] of the IFX dosing regimens was evaluated. Results and Conclusions: A total of 115 children (417 unique IFX concentrations) were included. Multivariate analysis revealed significant positive associations between IFX and albumin concentrations (β = 0.388, p = 0.010) and IFX concentrations with dose (β = 6.534, p < 0.001), and an inversion association between IFX concentrations and treatment phase (β = −4.922, p < 0.001). During the induction and maintenance phases, 57.2% and 30.6% of IFX concentrations were subtherapeutic, respectively. A systematic search of studies investigating factors influencing IFX concentrations was concurrently performed. Our findings were critically compared against existing literature to assess relevant clinical and biochemical determinants of IFX PK in children with IBD. Our findings highlight the need for personalized dosing strategies in pediatric IBD patients, particularly during the induction phase. By implementing therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and considering clinical and biochemical factors, clinicians can implement more personalized strategies, potentially improving treatment efficacy and reducing the risk of treatment failure or adverse effects. This approach could lead to better target attainment, potentially enhancing clinical outcomes and minimizing premature switching to other therapies.
Prevalence, Predictors and Decompressive Laparotomy in Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in Patients Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Lubnow Matthias , Koch Chiara T. , Malfertheiner Maximilian V. , Foltan Maik , Philipp Alois , Lunz Dirk , Schlitt Hans J. , Brennfleck Frank , Dietl Barbara , Hamer Okka W. , Stadlbauer Andrea , Schmid Christof , Zeman Florian , Müller Thomas , Fisser Christoph
Published: January 2025

Background: Critically ill patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) have several risk factors to suffer from abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). Little is known about this subgroup. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and associated factors for ACS in patients requiring ECMO to assess the effect of decompressive laparotomy (DL) and the impact on mortality. Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed adult patients requiring ECMO in four intensive care units at the University Medical Center Regensburg between 01/2010 and 06/2020. Patients with clinically suspected ACS were screened by measuring intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) with the trans-bladder technique. ACS was defined as IAP > 20 mmHg and survival was defined as successful discharge from hospital. Results: The prevalence of ACS in non-ECMO ICU patients was 0.8% (291/36,795) and 2.9% (47/1643) in ECMO patients. In the subgroup of resuscitated ECMO patients, ACS was present in 4.2% (32/766). Procalcitonin was associated with ACS. ECMO patients with ACS receiving DL were significantly more ill compared to those without DL (SOFA score at ICU admission 18 [15; 20], vs. 16 [13; 17], p = 0.048). DL decreased IAP and significantly improved ventilation; vasopressor and lactate stabilized within 24 hours. Survival was comparable between the DL and the non-DL groups (11% [1/9] vs. 14% [1/7], p = 1.000). Conclusions: ECMO patients are at high risk of developing ACS, even more so for resuscitated patients. This and high procalcitonin may be taken into consideration when screening for ACS. Decompressive laparotomy did improve respiratory compliance and stabilized hemodynamic parameters with low rates of complication. Even though patients that received DL were significantly more ill, the mortality rates were not higher.
Parent–Child Interaction Therapy for Disruptive Behavior: A Systematic Review of Effectiveness in Different Settings
Authors: Calderone Andrea , Piccolo Adriana , Latella Desirèe , De Luca Rosaria , Corallo Francesco , Quartarone Angelo , Militi Angela , Cucinotta Francesca , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: January 2025

Background: Parent–child interaction therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based intervention for children with behavioral problems. This systematic review assesses the efficacy of PCIT in reducing disruptive behavior problems (DBPs) by analyzing outcomes across diverse populations and settings. Methods: Studies were identified through an online search of the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases, with a search period ranging from 2014 to 2024. This review was registered on Open OSF (n) TVFQ5. Results: Research studies demonstrate that PCIT is effective across a variety of DBP conditions, showing significant reductions in child behavioral problems and parenting stress. PCIT’s adaptability, effectiveness, and potential for widespread use have been validated in both specialized and community settings, including diverse and high-risk populations. Conclusions: This systematic review highlights PCIT’s overall effectiveness in reducing disruptive behaviors and improving parent–child relationships across diverse settings and populations. It emphasizes the need for further research into its long-term efficacy, adaptability in multicultural contexts, and potential integration with technology for enhanced dissemination and effectiveness.
Seizure Detection Devices
Authors: Baumgartner Christoph , Baumgartner Jakob , Lang Clemens , Lisy Tamara , Koren Johannes P.
Published: January 2025

Goals of automated detection of epileptic seizures using wearable devices include objective documentation of seizures, prevention of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) and seizure-related injuries, obviating both the unpredictability of seizures and potential social embarrassment, and finally to develop seizure-triggered on-demand therapies. Automated seizure detection devices are based on the analysis of EEG signals (scalp-EEG, subcutaneous EEG and intracranial EEG), of motor manifestations of seizures (surface EMG, accelerometry), and of physiologic autonomic changes caused by seizures (heart and respiration rate, oxygen saturation, sweat secretion, body temperature). While the detection of generalized tonic-clonic and of focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures can be achieved with high sensitivity and low false alarm rates, the detection of focal seizures is still suboptimal, especially in the everyday ambulatory setting. Multimodal seizure detection devices in general provide better performance than devices based on single measurement parameters. Long-term use of seizure detection devices in home environments helps to improve the accuracy of seizure diaries and to reduce seizure-related injuries, while evidence for prevention of SUDEP is still lacking. Automated seizure detection devices are generally well accepted by patients and caregivers.
Contrast Sensitivity and Stereopsis Outcomes Following LASIK Presbyopia Correction Based on the Corneal Aberration Modulation or Corneal Multifocality Induction Methods: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wierzbowska Joanna , Pniakowska Zofia , Roszkowska Anna M.
Published: January 2025

Background. Modern laser vision correction for presbyopia treatment involves non-linear aspheric corneal ablation with the controlled induction of spherical aberration modulation to extend the depth of focus or corneal multifocality induction methods with or without micro-monovision in the non-dominant eye to provide continuous clear vision across distances. Anisometropia and the new higher-order aberrations pattern may be potential risk factors for postoperative stereopsis and contrast sensitivity (CS) deterioration. Purpose. The objective of this systematic review was to assess articles published until 2023 in which CS and/or stereopsis were reported following LASIK presbyopia treatment. Methods. We searched the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram. The inclusion criteria specified original papers evaluating the outcomes of laser presbyopia correction as well as the pre- and postoperative assessment of stereopsis and/or CS. The Quality Assessment Tool was applied to assess the risk of bias. Results. We identified 13 studies, including 856 presbyopes (1712 eyes), with preoperative refractive errors from −11.13 D to +5.75 D, with the follow-up range between 3 and 30 months. Either contrast sensitivity improvement or no change following Presbyond® Laser Blended Vision and PresbyMAX® Hybrid was found in the reviewed articles. Some authors reported a significant CS reduction after symmetrical PresbyLASIK, wavefront-guided LASIK and aspheric monovision LASIK. Several studies assessing the effect of Presbyond® LBV on stereopsis showed conflicting results, with the near stereopsis being reduced, unchanged or increased. A significant decrease in stereopsis was reported after aspheric monovision LASIK. Conclusions. The Presbyond® Laser Blended Vision is a safe procedure in terms of the preservation of contrast sensitivity for presbyopia treatment. More studies are needed to elucidate the impact of aspheric corneal ablation methods or other methods inducing corneal multifocality with or without micro-monovision on stereopsis and contrast sensitivity.
Performance of ChatGPT in Pediatric Audiology as Rated by Students and Experts
Authors: Ratuszniak Anna , Gos Elzbieta , Lorens Artur , Skarzynski Piotr Henryk , Skarzynski Henryk , Jedrzejczak W. Wiktor
Published: January 2025

Background: Despite the growing popularity of artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems such as ChatGPT, there is still little evidence of their effectiveness in audiology, particularly in pediatric audiology. The present study aimed to verify the performance of ChatGPT in this field, as assessed by both students and professionals, and to compare its Polish and English versions. Methods: ChatGPT was presented with 20 questions, which were posed twice, first in Polish and then in English. A group of 20 students and 16 professionals in the field of audiology and otolaryngology rated the answers on a Likert scale of 1 to 5 in terms of correctness, relevance, completeness, and linguistic accuracy. Both groups were also asked to assess the usefulness of ChatGPT as a source of information for patients, in educational settings for students, and in professional work. Results: Both students and professionals generally rated ChatGPT’s responses to be satisfactory. For most of the questions, ChatGPT’s responses were rated somewhat higher by the students than the professionals, although statistically significant differences were only evident for completeness and linguistic accuracy. Those who rated ChatGPT’s responses more highly also rated its usefulness more highly. Conclusions: ChatGPT can possibly be used for quick information retrieval, especially by non-experts, but it lacks the depth and reliability required by professionals. The different ratings given by students and professionals, and its language dependency, indicate it works best as a supplementary tool, not as a replacement for verifiable sources, particularly in a healthcare setting.
The Influence of Structural Design on the Hydrodynamics of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Platforms
Authors: Dhar Nilotpal , Lloyd Charlie J. , Walker John , Dorrell Robert M.
Published: January 2025

Floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) platforms are subject to a wide range of hydrodynamic loading and dynamic movement, making hydrodynamic force evaluation difficult. Amongst various floating platforms, submersible platforms are structurally complex, with multiple members held together by cross-braces. The influence of these members on hydrodynamic loading is poorly understood. An investigation of the effect of these members on loads is essential to optimise the design of FOWT platforms, mooring systems, and protective coatings, leading to a reduction in construction and maintenance costs. This paper numerically investigates the effect of structural members on the forces acting on a static semi-submersible platform in a unidirectional current flow of Reynolds number (Re) ranging from 2000 to 200,000, based on structural diameter and tidal velocity. The OC4 semi-submersible is chosen as the baseline platform. For each Re, this study is divided into three stages, such that in each stage, the number of members increased. These stages are as follows: (1) a finite cylinder (FC), (2) a finite cylinder with a heave plate (FCHP), (3) three cylinders with heave plates (TCHP) in an equilateral triangle arrangement, and (4) the OC4 semi-sub. The drag coefficient (C¯d) increases with increasing structural members and weakly varies with increasing Re. However, the viscous drag coefficient (C¯f) decreases with increasing Re, and a reverse trend is seen in the case of the pressure drag coefficient (C¯p), with pressure drag dominating over friction drag. Further, the contribution of individual members is observed to vary with Re. The contribution of cylinders towards C¯d is higher than heave plates, showing that contributions directly depend on the aspect ratio of members. In the case of TCHP and OC4, the contribution of the rear members is higher than that of the leading members due to the strong wake effect of the former. Also, the braces and pontoons of OC4 have contributed substantially towards total C¯d, unlike the central cylinder, which has experienced low drag due to the wake effect of the front cylinder and heave plate. Also, flow visualisation has shown vortex cores, and recirculating flows in the near wake of the cylinders and under the heave plates. Recirculation zones under the heave plates lead to vertical pressure on the structures. This vertical pressure increases with the number of structural members and the vertical pressure coefficient (C¯v), varying with Re due to three-dimensionality in the wake. Further, this pressure varies across the bottom surfaces of structures. Analyses of the streamwise pressure coefficient have shown it is highest on the front surfaces of cylinders. The highest friction is on the top and sides of the heave plates, and there is considerable friction on the sides of the cylinder.
The Call to Shift from the Narrow Legalistic to the Broader Moral and Legal Stakeholder Model in Indonesian State-Owned Enterprises: Its Implications and Challenges
Authors: Rissy Yafet Yosafet Wilben
Published: January 2025

This article aims to elaborate on the narrow legalistic stakeholder model and the need to apply a new revised moral and legal stakeholder model in Indonesian state-owned enterprises (SOEs) with its implications and challenges. Studies on the narrow legalistic stakeholder model in Indonesian SOEs are still uncommon, despite the rising awareness of the model. This study expects to initiate discourse on the ideal stakeholder model in the industry. This study combined doctrinal and empirical legal research methods. The SOE laws and the Minister of SOEs’ regulations were examined aside from the investigation of empirical data on the accusation of SOEs breaching their obligations to their legitimate stakeholders as indicated in court decisions and mass media publications. This study shows that the Minister of SOEs’ Regulation on Implementing Corporate Governance Implementation has promoted a narrow legalistic approach to the stakeholder model. As a result, only those who have a written contract with SOEs can be considered as the legitimate direct stakeholders. This approach has led to the expropriation of other indirect legitimate stakeholders of the SOEs. This study can be used to revise the narrow legalistic stakeholder model and to strengthen research on the stakeholder model in SOEs and corporate governance.
Assessing Urban Agriculture’s Potential for Biodiversity Conservation, Carbon Sequestration, and Community Development: A Comparative Study of Residents’ Perceptions in Three Western Romanian Cities
Authors: Gavrilaș Simona , Brînzan Oana , Tigan Eugenia , Blaga Radu Lucian , Iancu Tiberiu
Published: January 2025

Urban agriculture is increasingly recognized as a strategy for enhancing sustainability and well-being in urban areas, mainly through circular economy principles. This study investigates residents’ perspectives from three major cities in western Romania—Arad, Timișoara, and Oradea—on the implementation and benefits of urban agriculture. The main goal was to identify differences in opinions regarding urban agriculture’s potential to improve biodiversity conservation, enhance carbon dioxide retention, and reduce synthetic compound usage. The research also explored community development through circular economy practices and tools local authorities could use to promote urban agriculture. A survey of 573 respondents utilized variance analysis and the Tukey test to reveal significant opinion differences among residents. The findings showed notable variations in views on biodiversity conservation and community development benefits but no significant differences in opinions on carbon dioxide capture or synthetic chemical use. Residents of Timișoara and Oradea expressed more favorable views on urban agriculture than those in Arad. Participants emphasized the importance of free land allocation and sustainable practices for successful urban agriculture implementation. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and contributes to the understanding of urban sustainability and the role of urban agriculture in supporting circular economy principles.
Synergizing TQM, JIT, and Green Supply Chain Practices: Strategic Insights for Enhanced Environmental Performance
Authors: Rashid Aamir , Rasheed Rizwana , Amirah Noor Aina
Published: January 2025

Background: This study examined the role of total quality management, just-in-time, and green supply chain management practices to improve environmental performance. Methods: Data from 207 manufacturing industry respondents from a developing economy were tested through a quantitative method using PLS-SEM with the help of SmartPLS to validate the measurement model. Results: The results show that just-in-time significantly impacts total quality management and green supply chain management practices. Similarly, total quality management significantly affects environmental performance. However, just-in-time insignificantly affects the environment. Likewise, total quality management is insignificant and negatively affects green supply chain practices. Conclusions: This research provides practical insight to practitioners for understanding and implementing practices in their supply chain networks. These findings support the strategic use of just-in-time and total quality management to promote green supply chain practices as a core skill to improve environmental performance. The findings are also helpful for supply chain practitioners, policymakers, and industrialists. This research enriches the literature in the supply chain.
Smart Machine Vision System to Improve Decision-Making on the Assembly Line
Authors: Silva Carlos Americo de Souza , Paladini Edson Pacheco
Published: January 2025

Technological advances in the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) are increasing the number of components inserted on the surface. This has led the electronics industry to seek improvements in their inspection processes, often making it necessary to increase the level of automation on the production line. The use of machine vision for quality inspection within manufacturing processes has increasingly supported decision making in the approval or rejection of products outside of the established quality standards. This study proposes a hybrid smart-vision inspection system with a machine vision concept and vision sensor equipment to verify 24 components and eight screw threads. The goal of this study is to increase automated inspection reliability and reduce non-conformity rates in the manufacturing process on the assembly line of automotive products using machine vision. The system uses a camera to collect real-time images of the assembly fixtures, which are connected to a CMOS color vision sensor. The method is highly accurate in complex industry environments and exhibits specific feasibility and effectiveness. The results indicate high performance in the failure mode defined during this study, obtaining the best inspection performance through a strategy using Vision Builder for automated inspection. This approach reduced the action priority by improving the failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) method.
Bi-Partitioned Feature-Weighted K-Means Clustering for Detecting Insurance Fraud Claim Patterns
Authors: Combert Francis Kwaku , Xie Shengkun , Lawniczak Anna T.
Published: January 2025

The weighted K-means clustering algorithm is widely recognized for its ability to assign varying importance to features in clustering tasks. This paper introduces an enhanced version of the algorithm, incorporating a bi-partitioning strategy to segregate feature sets, thus improving its adaptability to high-dimensional and heterogeneous datasets. The proposed bi-partition weighted K-means (BPW K-means) clustering approach is tailored to address challenges in identifying patterns within datasets with distinct feature subspaces, such as those in insurance claim fraud detection. Experimental evaluations on real-world insurance datasets highlight significant improvements in both clustering accuracy and interpretability compared to the classical K-means, achieving an accuracy of approximately 91%, representing an improvement of about 38% over the classical K-means algorithm. Moreover, the method’s ability to uncover meaningful fraud-related clusters underscores its potential as a robust tool for fraud detection. Beyond insurance, the proposed framework applies to diverse domains where data heterogeneity demands refined clustering solutions. The application of the BPW K-means method to multiple real-world datasets highlights its clear superiority over the classical K-means algorithm.
On Data-Enriched Logistic Regression
Authors: Zheng Cheng , Dasgupta Sayan , Xie Yuxiang , Haris Asad , Chen Ying-Qing
Published: January 2025

Biomedical researchers typically investigate the effects of specific exposures on disease risks within a well-defined population. The gold standard for such studies is to design a trial with an appropriately sampled cohort. However, due to the high cost of such trials, the collected sample sizes are often limited, making it difficult to accurately estimate the effects of certain exposures. In this paper, we discuss how to leverage the information from external “big data” (datasets with significantly larger sample sizes) to improve the estimation accuracy at the risk of introducing a small amount of bias. We propose a family of weighted estimators to balance bias increase and variance reduction when incorporating the big data. We establish a connection between our proposed estimator and the well-known penalized regression estimators. We derive optimal weights using both second-order and higher-order asymptotic expansions. Through extensive simulation studies, we demonstrate that the improvement in mean square error (MSE) for the regression coefficient can be substantial even with finite sample sizes, and our weighted method outperformed existing approaches such as penalized regression and James–Stein estimator. Additionally, we provide a theoretical guarantee that the proposed estimators will never yield an asymptotic MSE larger than the maximum likelihood estimator using small data only in general. Finally, we apply our proposed methods to the Asia Cohort Consortium China cohort data to estimate the relationships between age, BMI, smoking, alcohol use, and mortality.
Marine-Derived Polysaccharides and Their Potential Health Benefits in Nutraceutical Applications
Authors: Carrasqueira Joana , Bernardino Susana , Bernardino Raul , Afonso Clélia
Published: January 2025

Marine-derived polysaccharides have sparked immense interest in the nutraceutical industry as they possess a wide range of bioactivities which are highlighted in this review. These include antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, gut microbiota regulator, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity. Algae, marine invertebrates, vertebrates, and microorganisms are the main sources of marine polysaccharides, such as alginate, fucoidan, laminarin, carrageenan, chitosan, glycosaminoglycans, and exopolysaccharides. The structure and functional groups of these compounds influence their bioactive properties. Moreover, the functional properties of polysaccharides, such as gelling, thickening, and stabilising capabilities, are also crucial in product development, where they can serve as gluten substitutes in bakery goods and stabilisers in icings, sauces, and yoghurts. The potential of commercial products under development, such as marine polysaccharide supplements, is discussed, along with already commercialised products in the nutraceutical market. This review emphasises the enormous potential of marine-derived polysaccharides as bioactive compounds with health benefits and commercial value.
Vitamins and Celiac Disease: Beyond Vitamin D
Authors: Scarampi Matteo , Mengoli Caterina , Miceli Emanuela , Di Stefano Michele
Published: January 2025

Celiac disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the small bowel caused, in genetically predisposed subjects, by the ingestion of gluten and characterised by a broad clinical polymorphism, ranging from patients with an asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic disease. The clinical presentation ranges from the presence of minor, apparently unrelated symptoms or first-degree kinship with known patients to severe intestinal malabsorption and all its clinical consequences and complications. Even if a large body of research improved our understanding of the molecular basis of celiac disease pathophysiology, enhancing the identification of new targets for future new treatments, an accurate gluten-free diet remains the mainstay of the therapy for this condition, restoring a normal absorptive mucosa. It is very rare, nowadays, to deal with patients with severe malabsorption syndrome secondary to celiac disease. Consequently, physicians are currently less prone to search for nutritional deficiencies in celiac disease. To pinpoint the possibility of both a disease-related and a diet-induced vitamin deficiency, we reviewed the literature on vitamin deficiency in this condition and reported the impact both in untreated and treated patients with celiac disease. A gluten-free diet must be tailored for each patient to meet nutritional targets: the pre-existence or diet-induced intake inadequacies should be carefully considered for an effective management of celiac disease.
Investigation of Machining Characteristics and Parameter Optimization for Laser-Assisted Milling of CF/PEEK Composites
Authors: Wang Qijia , Fu Li , Wang Minghai , Xiao Kang , Wang Xuezhi
Published: January 2025

Carbon fiber/polyether ether ketone (CF/PEEK) is widely used in aerospace, transportation, and other high-end industries for its light weight, high strength, and recyclability. However, its inherently brittle–ductile two-phase structure presents challenges in processing CF/PEEK. This paper introduces a laser-assisted milling method, wherein four types of CF/PEEK unidirectional plates (0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°) are milled under varying laser powers and spindle speeds. The results are compared with conventional milling (CM) techniques, based on cutting forces, temperatures, surface roughness, and damage defects. The cutting force, temperature, and surface quality were optimal at a fiber direction of 0° and were least favorable at 90° under identical machining conditions. When the fiber direction was 90°, the milling temperatures at 400 W and 500 W laser power decreased by 19.8% and 7.9%, respectively, while the average values of Fx and Fy decreased by 20.5% and 9.55%, compared to conventional milling. Furthermore, the laser-assisted milling method significantly reduces surface defects and improves surface roughness. In CF/PEEK composites, brittle fracture is the primary material removal mechanism, with damage characteristics such as fiber fracture, fiber pullout, and fiber/matrix debonding. The optimal parameter combination is a 0° fiber orientation, 400 W laser power, and a spindle speed of 4000 rpm. This study provides theoretical and technical support for the high-quality processing of CF/PEEK composites.
Three New Multifunctional Supramolecular Compounds Based on Keggin-Type Polyoxoanions and 3,5-di(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)benzoic Acid: Syntheses, Structures, and Properties
Authors: Lv Yanxin , Lu Yang , Yu Xingyuan , Yu Liying , Qu Xiaoshu , Yang Yanyan , Jin Hua , Wei Qingling , Li Xuemei , Yu Xiao-Yang
Published: January 2025

Three new inorganic-organic hybrid compounds, (H3DIBA)2·SiMo12O40·H2O (1), (H3DIBA)2·SiW12O40·H2O (2), and [(H2DIBA)(H3DIBA)]·PMo12O40·2H2O (3) (HDIBA = 3,5-di(1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzoic acid) were synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The structures were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, powder X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. These three compounds are all 3D supramolecular structures formed by Keggin-type polyoxometalate anions and HDIBA through intermolecular weak interactions, which have been studied via Hirshfeld surface analysis. The electrochemistry properties of 1 and 3 have been studied, including cyclic voltammetric behaviors and electrocatalytic properties. The study on the removal of organic dye pollutants in water showed that compounds 1 and 3 had an adsorption effect on cationic dye RhB, and the adsorption process conforms to the Langmuir isotherm model. Compound 2 can photocatalytically degrade cationic organic dyes RhB, MB, and CV, and the photocatalytic mechanism study indicates that h+ plays a major role in the photocatalytic process.
Impact of Cooking Techniques on the Dietary Fiber Profile in Selected Cruciferous Vegetables
Authors: Nowak Karolina , Rohn Sascha , Halagarda Michał
Published: January 2025

Cruciferous vegetables of the plant order Brassicales are an attractive dietary component and a valuable source of fiber. However, the nutritional–physiological properties are different when comparing soluble and insoluble fibers. Another significant impact is the transformation of fibers by different influencing factors during food preparation. Cruciferous vegetables, especially, are dominantly processed to soften the matrix. As a result, during cooking, the polysaccharides are dissolved, swelled, or degraded to a certain extent, influencing the composition and the nutritional–physiological properties. The aim of the present study was to analyze the impact of different cooking procedures on changes in the dietary fiber content profile of three different plants: white cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis), broccoli (B. oleracea L. var. italica), and Brussels sprouts (B. oleracea L. var. gemmifera). The sample material was subjected to direct (“in the water”) and steam cooking. The dietary fiber content and the content of its fractions were determined using an enzymatic analysis method. The results of the research show that the cooking process had a significant influence on the content of dietary fiber fractions in cruciferous vegetables. The concentration of insoluble dietary fiber decreased, whereas the content of soluble dietary fiber increased. When considering the average influence of each process, both steam cooking and direct cooking had a similar impact on changes in the concentrations of dietary fiber fractions. It can therefore be concluded that, when considering dietary fiber content, both processes can be equally well chosen as a thermal treatment for cruciferous vegetables.
Optimization of Green Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Carotenoids and Tocopherol from Tomato Waste Using NADESs
Authors: Badea Georgiana Ileana , Gatea Florentina , Litescu-Filipescu Simona Carmen , Alecu Andreia , Chira Ana , Damian Celina Maria , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to extract the lipophilic fraction from one of the largest source of waste in the industrial sector, namely, the tomato residue from processing the fruit. In order to make this process more environmentally sustainable, this study used a green extraction protocol employing natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) combined with a less energy-consuming technology, the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method, to simultaneously recover carotenoids and tocopherol from dried powder tomato waste. Two NADESs, one hydrophilic and one hydrophobic, were prepared and compared to support high extraction efficiency and increase the stability of the extracted compounds. The optimal extraction parameters were identified as choline chloride:1,3-butanediol (1:5)-based NADES, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:20 (w/v), time of extraction 12 min, temperature 65 °C, radiation frequency 37 Hz, and an ultrasound power level of 70%. The extraction process was intensified and resulted in extracts rich in lycopene (215.13 ± 4.31 μg/g DW), β-carotene (206.95 ± 3.27 μg/g DW), and tocopherol (130.86 ± 8.97 μg/g DW) content, with the highest antioxidant capacity 93.84 ± 0.18 mM Trolox equivalent. Incorporating NADESs for the extraction of bioactive compounds offers numerous benefits, such as improved sustainability, enhanced extraction efficiency, better protection of sensitive compounds, and reduced environmental impact. These advantages make NADESs a promising alternative to traditional organic solvents, especially in industries that require natural, green, and efficient extraction processes for valuable bioactive molecules.
Applications of MOF-Based Nanocomposites in Heat Exchangers: Innovations, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Nadeem Talha Bin , Imran Muhammad , Tandis Emad
Published: January 2025

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential to revolutionize heat exchanger performance, thanks to their high surface area, tunable porosity, and exceptional adsorption capabilities. This review focuses on the integration of MOFs into heat exchangers to enhance heat transfer efficiency, improve moisture management, and reduce energy consumption in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and related systems. Recent studies demonstrate that MOF-based coatings can outperform traditional materials like silica gel, achieving superior water adsorption and desorption rates, which is crucial for applications in air conditioning and dehumidification. Innovations in synthesis techniques, such as microwave-assisted and surface functionalization methods, have enabled more cost-effective and scalable production of MOFs, while also enhancing their thermal stability and mechanical strength. However, challenges related to the high costs of MOF synthesis, stability under industrial conditions, and large-scale integration remain significant barriers. Future developments in hybrid nanocomposites and collaborative efforts between academia and industry will be key to advancing the practical adoption of MOFs in heat exchanger technologies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of current advancements, challenges, and opportunities, with the goal of guiding future research toward more sustainable and efficient thermal management solutions.
Integrating 3D Polarimetric Ground Penetrating Radar and Augmented Reality for Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Inspection
Authors: Forster Samuel J. I. , Conniffe Daniel , Peyton Anthony J. , Podd Frank J. W. , Davidson Nigel , Elliott Joshua B.
Published: January 2025

Radar polarimetric imaging for non-destructive testing is a powerful and flexible tool that can be used to enhance the detection of internal structures. In this study, reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) is measured using a polarimetric system in three different acquisition modes—two downward-looking and one sideways-looking configurations, each at a different height. Each acquisition mode is compared and new polarisation states are created using the principle of polarisation synthesis. Images of the internal structures are created using a 3D imaging algorithm, which are used for the analysis. The comparison between acquisition modes demonstrates that using a higher lift-off and polarisation synthesis could offer more flexible operation in the field, allowing the use of handheld detectors and drone-based systems for inaccessible areas. Additionally, the sideways-looking data captured both horizontal and vertical reinforcement and were detected within a single polarisation channel; this configuration also has reduced clutter from the air–concrete boundary, providing a viable option for single polarisation systems.
Neurophysiological Markers of Adaptation and Compensation Following Lower Limb Amputation: An Analysis of EEG Oscillations and Clinical Predictors from the DEFINE Cohort Study
Authors: Lacerda Guilherme J. M. , Costa Valton , Camargo Lucas , Battistella Linamara R. , Imamura Marta , Fregni Felipe
Published: January 2025

Background: Neuroplasticity, involving cortical and subcortical reorganization, plays a critical role in the adaptation and compensation process post-amputation. However, underlying neurophysiological changes remain unclear, particularly in brain oscillations. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analysis that includes baseline data from 48 individuals with lower limb amputation from our DEFINE Cohort Study project. EEG data were collected using a 64-channel system during a 5-min resting-state period. Preprocessed data were analyzed for delta and alpha oscillations across frontal, central, and parietal regions. Logistic regression models examined associations between EEG oscillations and clinical variables, including cognition (MoCA), functional independence (FIM), and phantom limb sensations (PLS). Results: The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed distinct patterns of association between EEG oscillations and clinical variables. Delta oscillations were inversely associated with cognitive scores (OR: 0.69; p = 0.048), while higher delta power was related to the absence of PLS (OR: 58.55; p < 0.01). Frontal alpha power was positively linked to cognitive function (OR: 1.55; p = 0.02) but negatively associated with functional independence (OR: 0.75; p = 0.04). Conclusions: These findings suggest that lower frequencies, such as delta oscillations, play a role as potential compensatory brain rhythms. In contrast, alpha oscillations may reflect a more adapted pattern of brain reorganization after amputation.