bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overview of Peptides and Their Potential Roles in Skin Health and Beauty
Authors: Wang Leyang , Wu Zhijing , Wang Xinyu , Wang Xiaoli , Mao Jingzhuo , Yan Yan , Zhang Lu , Zhang Zhuzhen
Published: January 2025

Peptides are molecules that consist of at least two amino acids linked by peptide bonds. The difference between peptides and proteins is primarily based on size and structure. Typically, oligopeptides consist of fewer than about 10–20 amino acids, and polypeptides consist of more than 20 amino acids, whereas proteins usually are made up more than 50 amino acids and often contain multiple peptide subunits as stated in the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry rules. Beyond the nutritional properties, peptides are also structural components of hormones, enzymes, toxins, and antibiotics and play several fundamental physiological roles in the body. Since the introduction of the first commercial peptide drug, insulin, peptide‐based drugs have gained increased interest. So far, more than 80 peptide‐based drugs have reached the market for a wide range of conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and urological disorders. Meanwhile, peptides have also gained significant attention in the cosmetic industry because of their potential in boosting skin health. In this review, peptides were comprehensively summarized in the aspects of sources, function, the use of peptides in cosmetics and skin care, and indications for the delivery of cosmetic peptides.
Comprehensive Parent‐Metabolite PBPK/PD Modeling Insights Into Methotrexate Personalized Dosing Strategies in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Wang Xin , Wu Jiangfan , Ye Hongjiang , Zhao Xiaofang , Zhu Shenyin
Published: January 2025

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major public health concern, which can cause serious outcomes. Low‐dose methotrexate (MTX) is a cornerstone in RA treatment, but there is significant heterogeneity in clinical response. To evaluate underlying sources of pharmacokinetic variability and clinical response of MTX, a physiologically based pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PBPK/PD) model was developed using PK‐sim and Mobi (version 11.1). The PBPK model included metabolism and transportation by AXO1, FPGS, GGH, RFC, and MRP2, with renal and biliary excretion. We also developed various degrees of renal insufficiency populations with subsequent dosing optimizations. A total of 23 MTX plasma concentration‐time profiles were used, with 97% of predicted plasma concentrations within a two‐fold range compared to observed data. The PBPK/PD modeling and simulation demonstrated that variability in renal clearance and enzymes related to MTX are likely important drivers of PK variability and there is a quantitative relationship between MTX‐PG3 and RA treatment response. The PBPK/PD model could be used to guide improvement in MTX dose regimens for RA patients.
On Gain Scheduling Trajectory Stabilization for Nonlinear Systems: Theoretical Insights and Experimental Results
Authors: Kessler Nicolas , Fagiano Lorenzo
Published: January 2025

Steering a nonlinear system from an initial state to a desired one is a common task in control. While a nominal trajectory can be obtained rather systematically using a model, for example, via numerical optimization, heuristics, or reinforcement learning, the design of a computationally fast and reliable feedback control law that guarantees bounded deviations around the found trajectory can be much more involved. An approach that does not require high online computational power and is well‐accepted in industry is gain‐scheduling. The results presented here pertain to the boundedness guarantees and the set of safe initial conditions of gain‐scheduled control laws, based on subsequent linearizations along the reference trajectory. The approach bounds the uncertainty arising from the linearization process, builds polytopic sets of linear time‐varying systems covering the nonlinear dynamics along the trajectory, and exploits sufficient conditions for the existence of a robust polyquadratic Lyapunov function to attempt the derivation of the desired gain‐scheduled controller via the solution of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). A result to estimate an ellipsoidal set of safe initial conditions is provided too. Moreover, arbitrary scheduling strategies between the control gains are considered in the analysis, and the method can also be used to check/assess the boundedness properties obtained with an existing gain‐scheduled law. The approach is demonstrated experimentally on a small quadcopter, as well as in simulation to design a scheduled controller for a chemical reactor model and to validate an existing control law for a gantry crane model.
Mineral nitrogen availability from co‐digested biodigester products as affected by feedstock pretreatment
Authors: Ajayi‐Banji Ademola A. , Cihacek Larry , Rahman Shafiqur , Sunoj Shajahan , Igathinathane Cannayen
Published: January 2025

Digestion of animal manures with crop residues to produce methane (CH4) gas is a promising technique to generate “green” energy from agricultural wastes while producing biofertilizers. This study was conducted to understand nitrogen (N) release by biofertilizers from the products of solid‐state anaerobic digestion of untreated corn stover and stover treated with aqueous ammonia (NH4OH), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), or Ca(OH)2 plus Fe3O4 nanoparticles blended with dairy manure. Eight biofertilizer materials (feedstocks and digestates) from anaerobic digestion were incubated in the lab for 28 days and the NH4–N and NO3–N data obtained were used to predict N release for seasonal plant availability. Of the untreated and alkaline pretreated biofertilizer materials examined, only calcium hydroxide‐pretreated digestate (CaD) had greater N release (220 mg kg−1) than the untreated soil control (155 mg kg−1) after 28 days of incubation time. In addition, CaD had the most rapid N release rate (0.16 mg kg−1 day−1) and shortest lag phase time (41 days) with a predicted mineral N release of 777 mg kg−1 at 120 days. However, including Fe3O4 nanoparticles slightly suppressed N release. Thus, applying calcium hydroxide‐pretreated digestate to soil could complement N supply for crop cultivation as facilitated by the initial carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio, despite slight N immobilization when iron nanoparticles were added.
Role of Metal Oxide Interlayers in Preventing Gold Migration in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Senevirathne Chathuranganie A. M. , Song Jun Tae , Semba Dai , Saito Takato , Imaoka Kentaro , Fujita Yuki , Raju Telugu Bhim , Wang Pangpang , Yamada Sunao , Matsushima Toshinori
Published: January 2025

Thermal stress significantly impacts the durability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), as evidenced by severe degradation observed at 85 °C in this study. This degradation is attributed to gold migration through the soft 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N‐di‐4‐methoxyphenylamino)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene (spiro‐MeOTAD) hole transport layer (HTL) into the perovskite layer, driven by gold's low formation energy and diffusion barrier. To mitigate this issue, several vacuum‐evaporable hard transition metal oxides as charge extraction interlayers between the gold electrode and the HTL to suppress gold migration are investigated. PSCs incorporating MoO3, V2O5, MoO2, and ReO3 interlayers achieve a power conversion efficiency of ≈20%, comparable to PSCs without interlayers. Notably, these interlayer‐equipped PSCs exhibit enhanced thermal durability at 85 °C by effectively suppressing gold migration into the perovskite layer under elevated temperatures, with the MoO2 interlayer also improving durability at 25 °C. These findings offer a promising strategy for fabricating thermally durable PSCs, contributing to the future commercialization of photovoltaic technology.
Probabilistic operating rules for Thika Dam in Kenya
Authors: Macharia Racheal , Ndiritu John , Gathenya John M.
Published: January 2025

Thika Dam, with a storage capacity of 70,000,000 m3 at full capacity and situated at an altitude of 2041 m above sea level, supplies 84% of the total water used by Nairobi city and its surrounding areas. Since becoming operational in 1994, the dam has been providing water through the Ngethu Water Treatment Plant. Due to rapid population growth in Nairobi and neighboring towns, water demand has risen significantly, leading to the construction of the Northern Collector Tunnel (NCT 1) to augment the dam's inflows. The Kigoro Treatment Plant was also constructed to help meet demand, supplying 1.6 m3/s, while Ngethu supplies 4.8 m3/s. To ensure that the reservoir meets the demand and maintains high reliability, the operations are based on policies developed in 2018. However, the 2018 rules were developed based entirely on historical river flows and excluded the Kayuyu River, which contributes 20% of the dam's inflows. Additionally, it was assumed that all the river inflows into the system of the same exceedance probability coincide over time, which is unlikely to happen in practice. This study, therefore, aimed to develop new operating rules that do not have the above‐mentioned limitations of the current rules. The rules were developed in four steps: (i) hydrological simulation of the historical river flows for 26 years from 1997 to 2022; (ii) the stochastic generation of 101 temporary‐correlated streamflow, rainfall, and evaporation sequences using the variable length block bootstrap (VLB) model, each 1000 years long; (iii) multiple monthly short‐term (5‐year long) system simulations for different decision months and initial reservoir storage states, to obtain 505 stochastic base yields for each combination of decision month and initial storage state; (iv) the use of the base yields to formulate probabilistic operating rules that are considered more robust and more straightforward to use than the current rules.
Unbiased estimation of the OLS covariance matrix when the errors are clustered
Authors: Boot Tom , Niccodemi Gianmaria , Wansbeek Tom
Published: January 2025

When data are clustered, common practice has become to do OLS and use an estimator of the covariance matrix of the OLS estimator that comes close to unbiasedness. In this paper, we derive an estimator that is unbiased when the random-effects model holds. We do the same for two more general structures. We study the usefulness of these estimators against others by simulation, the size of the t-test being the criterion. Our findings suggest that the choice of estimator hardly matters when the regressor has the same distribution over the clusters. But when the regressor is a cluster-specific treatment variable, the choice does matter and the unbiased estimator we propose for the random-effects model shows excellent performance, even when the clusters are highly unbalanced.
Performance Evaluation of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Bars in Bridge Decks
Authors: Azad Shadi , Shafei Behrouz
Published: January 2025

Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars have been used as a viable environment-friendly alternative to the steel reinforcement in bridge decks. The GFRP bars have comparable structural performance while providing a non-corrosive option for corrosion-prone-reinforced concrete bridge decks. This study presents the results of the performance evaluation of two similar bridge decks, one reinforced with GFRP bars and the other one reinforced with steel bars. The two bridges were instrumented using several vibrating wire strain gauges to collect their long-term data over time in response to the seasonal temperature changes. The GFRP bars were also tested in the lab to extract their stress–strain behavior and compare their mechanical properties to those of the conventional steel. Finally, the two bridge decks were compared in terms of economical characteristics through a set of life-cycle cost analysis based on the initial cost, bridge deck reconstruction, and also repair and rehabilitation costs during the service life of the bridges. The study revealed no concerning difference between the structural performance of a GFRP-reinforced and a steel-reinforced bridge decks, showing that GFRP bars could be used as a viable alternative material in bridge decks.
Advancing Sustainability Through Structural Optimization: Innovations in Material Efficiency and Environmental Impact Reduction
Authors: Plevris Vagelis , Almutairi Abdulaziz , Rios Alejandro Jiménez
Published: January 2025

The escalating demand for sustainable development, coupled with the urgent need to mitigate the environmental impact of construction practices, has propelled the advancement of structural optimization as a pivotal approach in engineering. This chapter delves into the transformative potential of structural optimization techniques to foster the creation of more sustainable and environment-friendly structural systems. Through the lens of innovative material efficiency, we explore how the strategic use of materials—not merely reducing their quantity but optimizing their application—can lead to structures that uphold or enhance quality, safety, and functionality, while significantly diminishing the environmental footprint of construction activities. We commence with a comprehensive overview of the current state of structural optimization methodologies, including topology, shape, and size optimization, highlighting their relevance and application in the pursuit of sustainability. Furthermore, we discuss the benefits of optimization in structural design, such as the potential to minimize material usage without compromising structural integrity, while also addressing the challenges and limitations inherent in this endeavor.
Life Cycle Analysis of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Concepts
Authors: Shakori Ramin , Chaudhuri Arnab
Published: January 2025

The offshore wind (OW) energy plays a crucial role in the transition to a clean energy future aligned with the European Union’s Green Deal and Net Zero 2050 strategy and Norway’s commitment and contribution to achieving the climate goals. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the building- and construction sector represented 39% of energy and process-related CO2 emissions in 2018—of which 11% was related to steel and concrete. This work aims to assess the environmental impact of floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) structures, comparing steel and concrete hulls through life cycle assessment (LCA). While OW offers a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, the manufacturing and transportation of FOWT structures contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We address the knowledge gap in LCA studies for FOWT structures by comparing two scenario objectives, (1) Steel hull, produced in China and shipped to Norway and and (2) Concrete hull, produced and installed near the Norwegian deployment site. We performed a literature review, and LCA study, to find CO2-equivalent emissions per ton, by breaking down the calculations in 30 FOWT units in steel versus concrete, by using material data to perform an assessment resulting in the Global Warming Potential (GWP) stated in tons of CO2e/T. The study reveals the importance of material selection and local production in reducing the environmental impact of FOWT structures, and concrete hulls exhibit significantly lower carbon footprint compared to steel hulls, with calculated emissions of 0.404 tons CO2-equivalent (CO2e) per ton of concrete and 2.76 tons CO2e per ton of steel. The study encourages further research in this area, highlighting the need for transparent data on the embodied carbon of materials and the potential benefits of incorporating recycled materials. By choosing FOWT structures with lower carbon footprints, decision-makers in the OW industry can contribute significantly to achieving the UN SDGs.
Feasibility of Utilizing Treated Domestic Wastewater (TDW) for the Production of Concrete
Authors: Beushausen Hans , Manuel Zaid , Ndawula Joanitta , Randall Dyllon
Published: January 2025

Freshwater scarcity is expected to become one of the biggest concerns globally, with the construction industry accounting for as much as 30% of global freshwater use over the life cycle of civil infrastructure today. Water management and its potential to practically alleviate water scarcity and increase the sustainability of concrete therefore need more consideration in scientific research. Existing research suggests that non-potable water such as treated domestic wastewater (TDW) could be used to produce structurally sound concrete for the construction industry. Consequently, this research study was conducted as a pilot project to assess the feasibility of utilizing treated domestic water to produce good quality and durable concrete in South Africa. Chemical analyses of the TDW samples, evaluation of the concrete setting time, slump retention and 7-day and 28-day compressive strength tests were performed in the study. While no definitive correlations of using TDW on the setting time and workability of concrete could be deduced, the majority of the recorded effects were surmised to be acceptable for the concrete industry in South Africa. In addition, while using TDW as mixing water delayed the compressive strength development of the concrete samples, the samples still attained sufficient compressive strength at 28 days to pass the stipulations of the standard. The findings of this study show that TDW produces concrete with sufficient workability, setting time, and compressive strength to be used in the local construction industry. However, quality control of the TDW is vital to ensure the consistent production of good quality concrete.
Effects of Superabsorbent Polymers and Natural Zeolite on the Properties and Pore Structure of Ultra-High-Performance Concretes
Authors: Tan Yuxiang , Shi Weizhuo , Li Bo , Chen Yung-Tsang
Published: January 2025

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) often faces challenges due to its low water-to-binder ratio. In this case, cement particles will be unable to fully hydrate, resulting in a high degree of initial dimensional instability. As a promising solution, superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and natural zeolite have potential in mitigating shrinkage and achieving self-stressing properties. Despite prior research on strength, shrinkage, and hydration of UHPC, no systematic study has examined the effects of SAP and natural zeolite on porosity and pore structure. To address this gap, a holistic testing program was established in this study to investigate how these materials affect the microstructural properties of UHPC, especially porosity and pore distribution. This included compressive strength, drying shrinkage, and autogenous shrinkage. The hardened mixtures were also characterized using mercury intrusion porosimetry, while nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology was used to evaluate the pore parameters. The results show that UHPC incorporated with zeolite experiences less autogenous shrinkage than SAP due to the internal curing effect of zeolite particles. The compressive strength, however, is reduced attributed to a more porous microstructure. The outcome of this study provided valuable insights into optimizing the balance between durability and mechanical performance, paving the way for more sustainable and cost-effective applications of UHPC in modern construction practices.
Developing Eco-friendly Ultra-High-Performance Concrete by Utilizing Recycled Alternatives
Authors: Wivast Jennifer , Nyland Anette , Nia Saeed Bozorgmehr , Kioumarsi Mahdi , Shafei Behrouz
Published: January 2025

This research delves into the integration of economically sustainable materials—Portland limestone cement (PLC) and recycled glass powder (GP)—into ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) formulations. The emphasis is on mitigating UHPC’s reliance on high-cost, high content of cement, and proprietary additives, which elevate both the expense and environmental impact of infrastructure projects. By evaluating the effects of PLC and GP on the structural performance of UHPC, the study aims to provide affordable, locally sourced, and customizable options. This study investigates the enhancement of UHPC by testing six mortar mixes that contrast the use of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with the more sustainable PLC, enriched with silica fume (SF) and recycled glass powder. The introduction of glass powder notably increased UHPC’s compressive strength, and PLC mixes showed enhanced early strength and reduced shrinkage. This underscores the potential of PLC and recycled glass for making UHPC more sustainable, while highlighting their beneficial roles in enhancing structural properties, marking a stride toward more eco-friendly construction materials.
Performance of Metakaolin-Based Alkali-Activated Mortar for Underwater Placement
Authors: Hwalla Joud , Saba Mariane , Assaad Joseph , El-Hassan Hilal
Published: January 2025

This study assesses the performance of metakaolin (MK)-based alkali-activated geopolymers as potential materials for underwater applications. Mortars were formulated using gradually higher sand volumes, which resulted in binder-to-sand ratios varying from 1:3 to 1:1.85 and 1:0.8. The alkali-activated solution (AAS) was produced using sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide. The AAS was adjusted to achieve a flow of 16 and 22 ± 1 cm while the setting times, plastic viscosity, washout loss, and 28-day compressive strengths were determined. Generally, an increase in AAS content prolonged setting time, while washout loss increased with higher sand content. Mortars with lower flowability exhibited higher resistance to washout, attributed to higher viscosity and stickiness of the matrix. The compressive strengths of mortars cast in dry or underwater conditions ranged between 23.4–54.1 MPa and 12.7–28.3 MPa, respectively; the residual strengths varied from 50.5% to 75.6%, mainly depending on the AAS-to-binder ratio.
Achieving a Net Zero Built Environment: The Need to Focus on Urban Green Footprint
Authors: Biswas Wahidul K. , Ingram Gordon D. , John Michele
Published: January 2025

Urbanisation is growing rapidly with global population and economic growth. Significant action is required to find possible solutions to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new physical structures and supporting infrastructure, such as transport, water and energy networks, enabling urban planners and engineers to decarbonise the built environment to achieve a net zero emission (NZE) target by 2050. Life cycle assessment (LCA) plays a pivotal role in decarbonising the built environment as it helps identify materials, construction processes, design, and end use energy technologies significantly increasing the carbon footprint of the built environment and extending the influence of urban heat island (UHI) impacts. This paper will present a comprehensive LCA framework to calculate the GHG emissions associated with a modern central business district (CBD), including trade, commerce, and service industries, to help identify the hotspots contributing significantly to GHG emissions in a city and the possible decarbonising pathways to encourage NZE development. This framework could then be used to assess the potential for emissions management in city development and urban planning. The system boundary of the LCA will consider all stages from raw materials procurement up to the delivery of the aforementioned services. All the main urban infrastructure systems, including the transportation system, construction, energy and water supply networks and waste management systems, will be considered in the life cycle assessment process. Traffic congestion, population mobility, the urban heat island effect and landscape issues will be considered as these are also factors accelerating the increase of GHG emissions. In using this suggested LCA framework, we can then develop the green engineering solutions required to help the urban planning process develop a potential decarbonisation roadmap towards NZE targets for our cities.
Public Participation in Constitutional Reform: The Challenges of Chile’s Experiments in Expanding Citizen Involvement
Authors: Salazar Maite
Published: January 2025

Public participation is valued and viewed as a key aspect of most modern constitution-making and constitutional reform processes. In Chile, different publics played multiple roles as initiators, electors, contributors, and approvers during the constitutional-building process. The Constitutional Convention (CC) developed but struggled to implement an ambitious, multi-layered public participation framework. From the perspective of the participation process and considering the negative results, it seems that the process failed to fully connect with expectations and sentiments. This chapter identifies three aspects which contributed to this disconnect, while noting the range of participatory methods enabled by the CC under pandemic conditions and in a country with limited recent participatory experiences.
Rights of Nature in an ‘Eco-constitution’: Needs, Goals, and Hopes for a Paradigm Change in Environmental Governance
Authors: Barandiaran Javiera
Published: January 2025

The proposed constitution included Rights of Nature (RoN) provisions, building on Ecuador’s 2008 Constitution and experiences found in over 30 countries worldwide. Had the constitution been approved, Chile would have become the third country with national RoN. This chapter argues that RoN are an idea whose time has come, with a long history and wide-ranging philosophical foundations in Indigenous and Western thought. In Chile, RoN drew on these varied traditions to integrate RoN into what activists, lawyers, and CC members called the Eco-constitution. This sought to lay the foundations for state responsibility for environmental stewardship, expand access to environmental justice, and make environmental rights transversal.
A review of the influence of sand properties on parts manufactured by rapid sand casting through additive manufacturing
Authors: Oguntuyi Samson Dare , Nyembwe Kasongo , Shongwe Mxolisi Brendon , Kabasele Jonathan , Mojisola Tajudeen
Published: January 2025

Sand casting remains widely utilized in both small- and large-scale production due to its simplicity, especially for small parts manufacturing. Recent innovations, such as rapid sand mold and core creation through additive processes, have significantly reduced lead times compared to traditional pattern-making methods, which often require weeks or months. However, products from rapid sand casting frequently exhibit defects, including poor surface finishes and inconsistent mechanical properties. This review critically examines key sand properties such as size and shape distribution, chemical composition, surface area, packing density, flowability, microstructure, and thermal behavior that influence the quality of rapid sand casting. Understanding, addressing, and optimizing these properties are essential for enhancing casting efficiency and improving product quality. Moreover, future research will explore cutting-edge technological advancements to enhance these properties and meet the growing demands of modern industry.
Associated Cardiac and Extracardiac Anomalies in Patients with Abnormal Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery
Authors: Bambul Heck Pinar , Ziermann Franziska , Simmelbauer Andreas , von Stumm Maria , Bozyer Hazer Ercan , Ewert Peter , Hager Alfred
Published: January 2025

Anomalous origin of coronary arteries from the pulmonary artery (ACAPA) are rare but clinically significant condition with high mortality if left untreated. Even more rarely, ACAPA is associated with other congenital heart defects. From 1974 to 2024, 120 patients with anomalous coronary arteries connected to the pulmonary artery were retrospectively analyzed. Medical records including surgical operative notes and angiography protocols were screened for any other cardiac and extracardiac defects. Anomalous left coronary artery connected to the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) was present in 103 patients, anomalous right coronary artery connected to the pulmonary artery (ARCAPA) in 6, anomalous circumflex coronary artery connected to the pulmonary artery (ACXPA) in 7, anomalous left anterior descending coronary artery connected to the pulmonary artery (ALADPA) in 2, and anomalous single coronary artery connected to the pulmonary artery (ASCAPA) in 2 patients. Anomalous origin of the coronary artery from the pulmonary arteries was associated with other congenital heart defects in 16 patients (13%) and with extracardiac anomalies in 10 patients (8%). Most associated cardiac anomalies were left-sided obstructive defects or shunt-lesions. Patients with ACAPA and associated cardiac defects had poorer perioperative survival. A precise diagnosis of coronary anatomy is crucial for preoperative planning and the success of the surgery of patients with congenital heart defects. In particular, for patients with a challenging postoperative course, an anomalous coronary artery originating from the pulmonary artery should be considered.
Development and validation of the nomogram of high fascial compartment pressure with pilon fracture
Authors: Hu Xin , Wang Peiyuan , Li Chengsi , Liu Lin , Wang Xin , Jin Lin , Zhao Kuo , Wang Ling , Hou Zhiyong
Published: January 2025

Purpose

High Fascial Compartment Pressure (HCP) is one of the most common complications in ankle fractures. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of HCP in pilon fracture and analyze the risk factors of HCP in order to closely monitor its further development into Acute Compartment Syndrome. A nomogram is constructed and validated to predict HCP in patients with pilon fracture.

Methods

We collected information on 1,863 patients with pilon fracture in the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University Hospital from January 2019 to March 2024. Patients with HCP were assigned to the HCP group and those without HCP to the non-HCP group. The inpatient medical record system was inquired for data collection, including demographics, comorbidities, injury types, and laboratory biomarkers. Variables with a significance level of P < 0.05 in the univariate analysis were included in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The backward stepwise regression method was applied to identify independent risk factors associated with HCP. The selected predictors were then entered into R software for further analysis, and Nomogram construction.

Results

The rate of HCP was 11.57%. Several predictors of HCP were found, including Body Mass Index (BMI) (p<0.001), Deep Vein Thrombosis (p < 0.001), occurrence of Fracture Blister (FB) (p < 0.001), use of Dehydrating Agent (p < 0.001), duration of limb immobilization (p < 0.001),and Systemic Immune-inflammation Index (SII) (p < 0.001). In addition, BMI (p < 0.001, OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.35 to 1.71), DVT (p < 0.001, OR 4.35, 95% CI 2.51 to 7.52), duration of limb immobilization (p < 0.01, OR 1.66, 95%CI 1.25 to 2.20) and SII (p < 0.01, OR 1.00, 95%CI 1.00 to 1.00) were correlated with increased HCP risk. Meanwhile, FB (p < 0.001, OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.39) and Dehydrating Agent (p < 0.001, OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.19) were associated with decreased HCP risk. The nomogram was established based on six predictors independently related to HCP.

Conclusions

Our investigation has shown that, compared with tibial diaphyseal fractures, pilon fractures are more prone to HCP because of their high energy injury characteristics. This research also shows BMI, DVT, occurrence of FB, use of Dehydrating Agent, duration of limb immobilization, and SII are independent risk factors for HCP in patients with pilon fracture. We have also devised a nomogram grounded in these identified predictors. In particular, this study found for the first time that SII is an independent risk factor for HCP, which provides a basis for clinical and basic science research on fascial immunology in the future.
Histological prediction and choice of the best resection strategy in front of a colorectal lesion > 2 cm: prospective comparison of endoscopic characterization, non-targeted and targeted biopsies
Authors: Lafeuille Pierre , Daire Emilien , Rivory Jérôme , Rostain Florian , Saurin Jean-Christophe , Lambin Thomas , Moll Frédéric , Subtil Fabien , Fenouil Tanguy , Jacques Jérémie , Pioche Mathieu
Published: January 2025

Background

Accurate endoscopic characterization of colorectal lesions is essential to predict histology and select the best treatment strategy but remains very difficult. Instead of the recommended endoscopic characterization, many gastroenterologists routinely perform biopsies of the lesion to propose endoscopic resection with or without R0 intent. The aim of this study was to determine which of endoscopic characterization or biopsies, either targeted (TB) or non-targeted (NTB), is the most effective to determine the best treatment strategy for colorectal neoplasia > 2 cm.

Methods

We prospectively assessed the best strategy between endoscopic characterization and targeted or non-targeted biopsies, so that the proposed resection technique offered a level of quality of tumor resection adapted to the definitive histology of the lesion on R0-resected specimen.

Results

84 patients with 88 lesions were included. “Adequate treatment” was proposed by endoscopic characterization in 52.3 to 70.5% of cases, “under treatment” in 2.3 to 9.1% and “over treatment” in 20.5 to 45.5%. Two severe events were recorded. “Adequate treatment” was proposed by TB and NTB in respectively 72.7 and 69.3% of cases, “under treatment” in respectively 27.3 and 30.7% and no case of “over treatment” was reported. TB and NTB were ineffective to evaluate the depth of invasion in the submucosa and to differentiate superficial invasive from deep invasive adenocarcinomas.

Conclusions

Biopsies-based strategies are unable to predict depth of cancer invasion and could be associated with a risk of under treatment of large colorectal lesions in near a third of the cases compared to only around 5% with endoscopic characterization. Endoscopic characterization could lead to over treatment, but mainly by endoscopic submucosal dissection with low morbidity. Characterization with the CONECCT classification could decrease the risk of under treatment and avoid surgeries for non-malignant colorectal lesions. Other endoscopic criteria should be determined to better characterize colorectal lesions and to improve the best adapted treatment for each lesion.

Graphical abstract
An integrated decision-making process for risk analysis of decentralized finance
Authors: Kirişci Murat
Published: January 2025

Decentralized finance is upending the financial system through innovative, open, and interoperable financial solutions. Decentralized finance is a rapidly emerging field based on distributed ledger technology. Decentralized banking protocols are witnessing a perfect storm in terms of growth. However, because these financial innovations pose specific risks to consumers, creators, regulators, and other stakeholders, this emerging subject demands careful investigation. The current study tries to categorize and rate the risks connected with decentralized finance. The current study seeks to identify the multiple risks associated with decentralized finance through a thorough literature analysis. Data gathered from specialists in prior research were incorporated into the study used for empirical analysis. As MCDM techniques, IVFF-based DEMATEL, AHP, and TOPSIS are first used, and then the IVFF-ARAS method and sensitivity analysis are used for performance evaluation and verification. The findings of this study have several ramifications for legislators, businesspeople, technologists, and practitioners. These stakeholders can concentrate on these weaknesses in the future and provide longer-lasting solutions.
SOPA: a framework for sustainability-oriented process analysis and re-design in business process management
Authors: Klessascheck Finn , Weber Ingo , Pufahl Luise
Published: January 2025

Given the continuous global degradation of the Earth’s ecosystem due to unsustainable human activity, it is increasingly important for enterprises to evaluate the effects they have on the environment. Consequently, assessing the impact of business processes on sustainability is becoming an important consideration in the discipline of Business Process Management (BPM). However, existing practical approaches that aim at a sustainability-oriented analysis of business processes provide only a limited perspective on the environmental impact caused. Further, they provide no clear and practically applicable mechanism for sustainability-driven process analysis and re-design. Following a design science methodology, we here propose and study SOPA, a framework for sustainability-oriented process analysis and re-design. SOPA extends the BPM life cycle by use of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for sustainability analysis in combination with Activity-based Costing (ABC). We evaluate SOPA and its usefulness with a case study, by means of an implementation to support the approach, thereby also illustrating the practical applicability of this work.
A comprehensive survey on impact of applying various technologies on the internet of medical things
Authors: El-deep Shorouk E. , Abohany Amr A. , Sallam Karam M. , El-Mageed Amr A. Abd
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the transformative impact of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) on healthcare. By integrating medical equipment and sensors with the internet, IoMT enables real-time monitoring of patient health, remote patient care, and individualized treatment plans. IoMT significantly improves several healthcare domains, including managing chronic diseases, patient safety, and drug adherence, resulting in better patient outcomes and reduced expenses. Technologies like blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cloud computing further boost IoMT’s capabilities in healthcare. Blockchain enhances data security and interoperability, AI analyzes massive volumes of health data to find patterns and make predictions, and cloud computing offers scalable and cost-effective data processing and storage. Therefore, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the Internet of Things (IoT) and IoMT-based edge-intelligent smart healthcare, focusing on publications published between 2018 and 2024. The review addresses numerous studies on IoT, IoMT, AI, edge and cloud computing, security, Deep Learning, and blockchain. The obstacles facing IoMT are also covered in this paper, including interoperability issues, regulatory compliance, and privacy and data security concerns. Finally, recommendations for further studies are provided.
Oral cell lysates reduce osteoclastogenesis in murine bone marrow cultures
Authors: Panahipour Layla , Abbasabadi Azarakhsh Oladzad , Shao Feng , Gruber Reinhard
Published: January 2025

Mechanical and thermal cell damage can occur due to invasive procedures related to drilling, the insertion of dental implants, and periodontal treatments. Necrotic cells release the content of their cytoplasm and membrane fragments, thereby signaling the need for repair, which includes bone resorption by osteoclasts and inflammation. Here we screened lysates from human gingival fibroblasts, HSC2 and TR146 oral squamous carcinoma cell lines, as well as murine IDG-SW3 osteocytic and RAW264.7 macrophage cell lines for their potential to modulate in vitro osteoclastogenesis in murine bone marrow cultures. We also tested the impact of necrotic lysates on modulating the expression of inflammatory cues in murine ST2 bone marrow stromal cells. We report here that independent of human or murine origin, all cell lysates significantly reduced in vitro osteoclastogenesis in bone marrow cultures, as indicated by the expression of the osteoclast marker genes cathepsin K and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase and the respective histochemical staining in multinucleated cells. We also found that lysates from HSC2 and TR146 cells significantly pushed the expression of CCL2, CCL5, CXCL1, IL1, and IL6 in ST2 cells. These findings suggest that oral cell lysates reduce in vitro osteoclastogenesis, but only damaged oral squamous carcinoma cells can force murine stromal cells to produce an inflammatory environment.
2-ethylhexylamine additive boosts the transport properties of PVA-based polymer electrolyte for quasi-solid-state magnesium batteries
Authors: Ibrahim S. Y. , Abouelhassan S. , Sheha E.
Published: January 2025

Magnesium-sulfur (Mg-S) batteries offer excellent energy density, safety, and a cost-effective energy storage system. Realizing Mg-S batteries requires bypassing significant challenges like electrolyte compatibility with electrophilic sulfur and Mg metal and polysulfide shuttling. The present work probes the role of 2-ethylhexylamine (EHA) in modifying the physiochemical properties of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), silicon dioxide (SiO2), and magnesium triflate (MgTIF). The introduction of EHA increases the conductivity to approximately 10−7 S/cm at room temperature, reduces the magnesium stripping/plating overpotential, and improves the interfacial electrode/electrolyte kinetics; further, the optimum concentration (y = 3000 μl) of PVST_yEHA shows a high ionic transference number $$({t}_{{mg}^{2+}}=0.88)$$

(

t

mg

2
+

=
0.88
)

(where PVST is an abbreviation for compound composed of (PVA, SiO2, MgTIF)), there is minimal overpotential over 100 h. Based on optimum concentration (y = 3000 μl), the Mg-S battery exhibits a high initial discharge-specific capacity in the first cycle up to 1837 mAhg−1, and over six cycles, it maintained a reversible capacity of 376 mAhg−1. The present article attempts to overcome some obstacles that prohibit the realization of Mg-S batteries.
Striving Towards National Lower-Risk Gambling Guidelines: An Empirical Investigation Among a Sample of Swedish Gamblers
Authors: Dowling Nicki A. , Wennberg Peter , Wall Håkan , Molander Olof
Published: January 2025

Several countries, including Canada and Australia, have developed public health-based lower-risk gambling limits to differentiate lower-risk from higher-risk gambling. This study aimed to identify a preliminary set of lower-risk gambling limits (gambling frequency, duration, expenditure, expenditure as a proportion of personal net income, and diversity), and investigate if gambling types are linked to additional harms, in a Swedish context. The study involved secondary analyses of two online survey studies using the Gambling Disorder Identification Test (GDIT). Receiver operating curve analyses were conducted in relation to both + 1 and + 2 gambling-related harms in a sample of 705 past-year gamblers. Potential lower-risk limits ranges identified were: gambling frequency of “2–3 times a week” to “4 or more times a week” (8–16 times monthly); gambling duration of 6 to 15 h per month; gambling expenditure of 2,000 SEK (approximately $USD190) per month; gambling expenditure as a proportion of personal net income of 5%; and gambling diversity of only one problematic gambling type. Gambling on slots and sports betting were associated with gambling-related harms. The lower-risk limits in the current study were higher than in previous studies, which may be explained by the large proportion of support- or treatment-seeking gamblers with high rates of problem gambling and problematic online gambling in the study sample. An international consensus-based framework on gambling consumption is warranted, with lower-risk limits validated in future empirical studies using larger datasets collected from the Swedish general population.
Angelica gigas Nakai (Korean Dang-gui) Root Alcoholic Extracts in Health Promotion and Disease Therapy – active Phytochemicals and In Vivo Molecular Targets
Authors: Lü Junxuan , Jiang Cheng , Drabick Joseph J. , Joshi Monika , Perimbeti Stuthi
Published: January 2025

Angelica
gigas Nakai (AGN) root is a medicinal herbal widely used in traditional medicine in Korea. AGN root ethanolic extracts have been marketed as dietary supplements in the United States for memory health and pain management. We have recently reviewed the pharmacokinetics (PK) and first-pass hepatic metabolism of ingested AGN supplements in humans for the signature pyranocoumarins decursin (D, C

max
1x), decursinol angelate (DA, C

max
 ~ 10x) and their common botanical precursor and hepatic metabolite decursinol (DOH, C

max
 ~ 1000x). Here we update in vivo medicinal activities of AGN and/or its pyranocoumarins and furanocoumarin nodakenin in cancer, pain, memory loss, cerebral ischemia reperfusion stroke, metabolic syndrome and vascular endothelial dysfunctions, anxiety, sleep disorder, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Given their polypharmacology nature, the pertinent mechanisms of action are likely misrepresented by many cell culture studies that did not consider the drug metabolism knowledge. We report here Rho-associated protein kinases (ROCK1/2) as novel targets for DA and DOH. Combining with published inhibitory activity of DOH on acetylcholinesterase, agonist activity of DOH and antagonist/degrader activity of DA/D on androgen and estrogen receptors, D/DA promoting activity for glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)- gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibitory axis and inhibition of glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), we postulate their contributions to neuro-cognitive, metabolic, oncologic, vascular and other beneficial bioactivities of AGN extracts. A clinical trial is being planned for an AGN extract to manage side effects of androgen deprivation therapy in prostate cancer patients.
Molecular detection of the zoonotic trematode Centrocestus formosanus (Nishigori, 1924) (Opisthorchiida, Heterophyidae) in Central Europe
Authors: Šmiga Ľubomír , Šmigová Júlia , Berrilli Federica , Papajová Ingrid , Lazár Peter , Guadano-Procesi Isabel
Published: January 2025

In our study, fancy southern platyfish Xiphophorus maculatus (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae) were examined due to breathing disorders and mortality. Fish came from Vietnam farm and were redistributed by international wholesaler. In fish, loss of appetite and gasping near the water surface was observed. Gill tissue showed small white spots, caused by metacercariae and areas of clearing surrounding the cysts. Primary branchial filaments were hyperplastic, necrotic, significantly deformed and shortened. Samples were fixed in 98% alcohol for molecular analyses. The identity of C. formosanus (Opisthorchiida: Heterophyidae) was confirmed by molecular methods (GenBank accession number OP808358). In this study, we present the first report of C. formosanus in Central Europe. Uncontrolled transport of fish can lead to health and economic concerns, including the transmission of zoonotic pathogens to non-native ecosystems.
Optimized Removal of Cr (VI) and Ni (II) From Wastewater Using Corncob-Derived Activated Carbon
Authors: Kamel Moatasem , Bastaweesy Ali M. , Hefny Rasha A.
Published: January 2025

This research explores the potential of activated carbon (AC), produced from corncobs, for eliminating dissolved hexavalent chromium and divalent nickel. SEM analysis revealed a rough, textured surface on the corncob-derived activated carbon with well-defined pores and crevices, indicating the successful formation of activated carbon. We employed X-ray diffraction to confirm the presence of crystalline graphite within the carbon structure, suggesting effective alignment of carbon atoms. Utilizing Design of Experiments (DOE), we optimized adsorption conditions for enhanced removal efficiency. Our findings reveal that under optimized conditions, the activated carbon achieved a maximum removal of 99.2% for Chromium (VI) at 105 min, pH 2, temperature of 37°C, an initial chromium concentration of 37.2 ppm, and an AC dosage of 0.289 g. Similarly, Nickel (II) removal reached 98.7% at pH 12, temperature of 40°C, a starting concentration of 31 ppm, and an adsorbent amount of 0.94 g. The adsorption kinetics of both metals followed a pseudo-second-order mechanism, suggesting chemisorption as the controlling mechanism. The adsorption data was best described by the Langmuir isotherm, indicating a monolayer coverage of metal ions on the adsorbent surface. These results demonstrate the potential of corncob-derived AC as a promising waste material for removing heavy metal from wastewater.