bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quercetin‐Based Magnetic Porous Organic Polymers for Efficient Adsorption of Phenolic Pollutants
Authors: Zhu Qimeng , Nie Zewen , Yang Dongxin , Sun Lijun , Wang Liqiu , Gong Weitao
Published: February 2025

Phenolic wastewater poses a significant threat to public health, highlighting the urgent need for the development of effective and efficient treatment methods. Porous organic polymers, renowned for their high structural stability, large surface area, and diverse physicochemical properties, have gained widespread application in adsorption‐based technologies. Therefore, the development of novel adsorbent materials remains a crucial area of scientific research. In this study, a novel porous organic polymer adsorbent is synthesized using quercetin, derived from biomass, as the key precursor. To facilitate efficient separation and reusability, magnetic Fe3O4@SiO₂ magnetic nano‐particle nanoparticles (MNPs) are integrated into the porous matrix. The resulting magnetic organic porous adsorbents exhibited outstanding adsorption capacity for phenolic contaminants, along with excellent recoverability and reusability. Additionally, the adsorption mechanism is systematically investigated and verified through a series of characterization techniques.
An Injectable PEG/Diacerein‐Based Anti‐Inflammatory Hydrogel for Promoting Cartilage Regeneration: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Mi Jing , Meng Linghui , Wang Yutian , Zhang Huanyu , Jin Jing , Huang Jianhao , Lu Jingwei , Ying Pu , Li Lan
Published: February 2025

Cartilage defects are common joint disorders that, if left untreated, may progress to severe degenerative joint conditions. Inflammatory response plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cartilage damage. Hydrogels incorporating diacerein, an anti‐inflammatory drug used in clinical settings, can mitigate inflammation that impairs cartilage repair. It is hypothesized that the direct injection of a hydrogel scaffold combining diacerein and polydopamine into cartilage defect sites can enhance localized treatment, reduce surgical risks, and expedite recovery. Therefore, in this study, a hydrogel infused with diacerein is developed to investigate its efficacy for cartilage restoration. By crosslinking poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, four‐arm polyethylene glycol‐functionalized diacerein, hyaluronic acid, and polydopamine, an injectable hydrogel with superior properties is achieved. In vitro evaluations confirm the mechanical strength and biocompatibility of the hydrogel, and in vivo studies demonstrate its effectiveness in cartilage repair and anti‐inflammatory activity in a rat model. These findings indicate that hydrogels are promising materials for addressing cartilage defects and advancing tissue engineering and biological implantation strategies.
Linseed Oil Microencapsulation for Advanced Corrosion Protection Coatings: A Review
Authors: Che Zakaria Farasuraya , Kabeb Siti Maznah Binti , Bakar Nurul Huda Abu , Rahman Atif Ur
Published: February 2025

Corrosion poses a persistent challenge in various industries, necessitating effective protective measures for metal structures. This review not only delves into the overall realm of microencapsulation in corrosion protection but also contributes a unique perspective by extensively examining recent advancements in the microencapsulation of linseed oil. Emphasizing a novel approach, the review introduces advancements in self‐healing features, diverse microencapsulation techniques, environmentally friendly shell materials, and the critical role of capsule size and distribution. The study addresses a noticeable gap in the existing literature, aiming to contribute unique insights and solutions to the challenges faced in the field of corrosion protection.
Comparative Study of Manganese and Cobalt Oxide Doped Zinc Oxide as Photocatalyst Nanomaterials
Authors: Sures Nisallini , Aridi Mohd Radzi , Aziz Nur Aimi Syaqilah , Thivagaran Rihashni , Norapandi Nurul Fatihah , Salim Nurjannah , Abu Bakar Nurul Huda
Published: February 2025

The research extensively explores the optical, structural, and morphological characteristics of zinc oxide (ZnO) doped with manganese and cobalt nanoparticles, with a specific focus on their impact on photocatalytic activity. ZnO, known for its cost‐effectiveness and high efficiency due to a broadband gap (≈3.37 eV), is widely studied as a semiconductor photocatalyst. However, ZnO's intrinsic limitation lies in its predominant photocatalytic activity under UV light irradiation. To address this, transition metal ions (Mn and Co) are introduced to the ZnO lattice to create new energy levels in the band gap. By optimizing the dosage of the Mn‐ZnO and Co‐ZnO photocatalyst, the work presents a noteworthy impact, contributing to a significant reduction in photodegradation time (≈30 min), demonstrating the enhanced efficiency of the photocatalytic process.
Efficient Methylene Blue Dye Degradation Using ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Abroma augusta Leaf Extract
Authors: Gupta Komal , Sharma Basudha , Garg Vijay , Ahmad Ikrar
Published: February 2025

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are among the most advanced materials due to their ability to apply in versatile applications and have been formulated by several approaches, including green chemistry methods. Plant based green synthesis of ZnO NPs have gained tremendous attention because of their safe and non‐toxic nature. In this study, ZnO NPs have been produced using the leaf extract of Abroma augusta (also known as Ulatkambal) and have been utilized for photocatalytic degradation of Methylene blue Dye. The characterization of these NPs have been carried out using XRD, XPS, FESEM, and FTIR which shows the formation of ZnO NPs in the hexagonal wurtzite structure with the crystallite size of ≈11 nm. The FESEM images show the formation of nanoparticles in the size distribution of 2–22 nm and with the average particle of 12 nm. The optical study has been carried out using spectrophotometer and spectrofluorometer. The absorbance spectrum shows the peak at 354 nm and the band gap is calculated to be 3.5 eV. These NPs on excitation with 340 nm wavelength show two emission peaks at 374 and 442 nm. The synthesized AbA‐ZnO NPs show increased photocatalytic degradation efficiency for Methylene blue Dye (91%) as compared to ZnO synthsized in the absence of A. augusta leaf extract (42%). The present study attempts to show a novel greener protocol to improve the photodegradation process for different environmental pollutants.
Environmentally Friendly Processes for the Production of Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Jain Nidhi , Dani Kartik , Chaskar Sahil , Noor I. M. , Yahya M. Z. A. , Koul Aditya , Khatkepatil Revannath
Published: February 2025

The development of sustainable and robust methods for producing nanoparticles is a major turning point in the field of nanotechnology. Silver nanoparticles are important because of their features, which include improving the physical, chemical, and structural qualities vis‐a‐vis their bulk equivalent and the ensuing applications. The various applications of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and their green manufacturing methods are covered in this review, bearing in mind the aforementioned points. This study also emphasized that how important it is to optimize synthesis factors like temperature, pH, and concentration in order to obtain the appropriate attributes for nanoparticles. Then, the possible uses of silver nanoparticles produced through green synthesis are explored. These uses included antimicrobial coatings, medication delivery systems, and environmental cleanup. It establishes the foundation for upcoming studies and advancements in the area of green nanotechnology, fostering a more sustainable future.
Nanoscale NMOS Device Model Analysis and its Characteristics
Authors: Singh Palvinder , Sachdeva Amit , Singh Shruti , Yahya M. Z. A. , Rahman Nor Mas Mira Abd , Pal Rishi
Published: February 2025

A 90 nm NMOS MOSFET model is simulated using Silvaco Visual T‐CAD simulator. The materials used to simulate NMOS MOSFET are Al, Si, NpolySi, and SiO2. To overcome the problem of short circuits, lightly‐doped drain (LDD) implantation is applied in NMOS model. The analysis of the model is determined with T‐CAD simulator and obtained threshold voltage (Vth) 2.568 V, while keeping oxide thickness (Tox) 2.373 nm and gate length 0.09 µm. The obtained result is compared with standard ITRS road map and gets almost similar results.
Studying the Effect of AgNPs Derived from Ag‐Complex on Peroxidase Enzymes in Patients with Type2 Diabetes Caused by White Rabbits
Authors: Omar Hala Wathik , Ismail Yaseen Asra'a , Mohammed Mudher Y.
Published: February 2025

The state of oxidative stress concomitant with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is recognized as a significant factor leading to impaired glycemic control. This study is designed to elucidate the clinical benefits of employing silver and palladium nanocompounds in addressing oxidative disturbances. The investigation encompasses twenty rabbits aged between 6 to 12 months, divided into four groups, each comprising five rabbits. The first group comprises healthy rabbits, serving as the control group. The second group consists of induced diabetic rabbits left untreated, also serving as a control group. The third and fourth groups encompass induced diabetic rabbits treated with silver nanocompounds at concentrations of 10 000 micrograms/mL and 20 000 µg mL−1, respectively, relative to body weight. A singular daily dose is administered for a duration of two weeks. The study's findings demonstrated the effects of silver nanocompounds in mitigating oxidative disturbances by reducing blood glucose levels and lowering anti‐thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti‐TPO), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), and catalase (CAT) levels. These effects are dose‐dependent and significantly associated with an observable enhancement in glycemic control.
The Effect of the Resistin, Interleukin‐6 Macromolecules, and Tumor Necrosis Factor on Heart Disease
Authors: Hammad Muna Jumaah , Hussein Wasan Nazhan
Published: February 2025

This study includes measuring the concentrations of the variable's hormone ricistin, interleukin‐6 macromolecules, and tumor necrosis factor. A biochemical study is conducted on 100 blood serum samples, 70 samples of them for patients with cardiovascular diseases aged 25–70 years and 30 samples are collected for healthy people as a control group aged 25–70 years. Using enzyme linked immuno sorbent asaay (ELISA). A number of biochemical variables are measured in the blood serum of the groups in this study. Furthermore, the result of the study shows a high significant increase in the concentration of the hormone ricistin, interleukin‐6, and TNF at a probability level (0.01 ≥ p). These results in the blood of patients with cardiovascular diseases compared with the control group of healthy people.
Extraction Design of Flavonoids From Rosemary Plants for the Treatment of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Rats
Authors: Harem Suzan Jumaa , Hashim Shaker Asmaa
Published: February 2025

This research entails a comprehensive assessment involving the measurement of prolyl glycosidase levels and calcium concentrations within a cohort of rats, which are subjected to induce myocardial infarction through subperitoneal injection of physiological solutions following an 18‐h fasting period. The experimental rats are meticulously partitioned into five distinct groups to facilitate comparative analysis. The initial group serves as the healthy control, providing a baseline reference, while the fifth group is administered the pharmaceutical agent simvastatin. The intermediary groups are administered varying concentrations of flavonoids, specifically extracted from the rosemary plant utilizing advanced high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technology. This study's design is carefully constructed to discern the impact of these interventions on prolyl glycosidase levels and calcium concentrations in the context of induced myocardial infarction. The administered substances, particularly simvastatin and the varied concentrations of rosemary‐derived flavonoids, are strategically chosen to elucidate their potential influences on the measured biochemical parameters. The utilization of advanced HPLC technology for the extraction of flavonoids from rosemary ensures precise and controlled administration of these compounds to the experimental groups. This research design allows for a nuanced exploration of the effects of simvastatin and rosemary‐derived flavonoids on prolyl glycosidase levels and calcium concentrations in the context of induced myocardial infarction. The delineation of the impact of these interventions on the measured biochemical markers contributes to a deeper understanding of potential therapeutic implications, paving the way for further investigations and potentially innovative interventions in cardiovascular health.
Eco‐Friendly Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Oxide (α‐Fe2O3) Nanoparticles Using Macromolecules from Pomegranate Peel Extract
Authors: Hasoon Rabah N. , Abd Ahmed Najem , Majeed Abdulwahhab H.
Published: February 2025

Due to environmentally benign process and a large research area, the green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles using plant extracts is a possible replacement for conventional physicochemical synthesis methods. In the present investigation, ferric nitrate (Fe(NO3)3.9H2O) and pomegranate peel extract are used to prepare iron oxide nanoparticles (α‐Fe2O3 NPs). These prepared particles are then examined using FTIR spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results of FTIR reveal distinct peaks in the (450–550 cm−1) range, which are ascribed to the vibration of Fe–O in Fe2O3. Prior to this, SEM data demonstrated the shape of iron oxide particles, which has dimensions between 22 and 43 nm and are round and irregular in size.
Molecular Docking Studies of Novel Benzimidazole Macromolecules
Authors: Alheety Nuaman F. , Aldahham Bilal J. M. , Raouafi Noureddine , Mohammed Ahmed M. , Alheety Mustafa A. , Besbes Rafaâ
Published: February 2025

Biologically active benzimidazole derivatives are successfully prepared. The produced compound 2‐hydrazinobenzimidazole (N1) and 5‐methoxy‐2‐hydrazinobenzimidazole (N2) have been synthesized via reacting aqueous hydrazine with 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole (MBI) and 5‐methoxy‐2‐mercaptobenzimidazole (MMBI), respectively. These two compounds are used to prepare the compounds N3–N11. The synthesized compounds are characterized by physical and spectroscopic techniques. Molecular docking of synthesized compounds indicates that compound N5, N10, and N11 have good antitumor properties. Furthermore, the theoretical studies prove that all the synthetic compounds in the study showed good lipophilicity, with a range of 0.132–3.739.
Benzimidazole Macromolecules from 2‐Mercaptobenzimidazole: Synthesis, Characterization, and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Alheety Nuaman F. , Mssdf Abdulrahman Khalid , Alheety Ahmed J. M. , Aldahham Bilal J M , Raouafi Noureddine , Alheety Mustafa A. , Besbes Rafaâ
Published: February 2025

The research involves the preparation of 2–hydrazinobenzoimidazole (N1) from the reaction of the compound 2‐tetrabenzoimidazole with aqueous hydrazine. A number of hydrazones (N2, N3) are prepared by the reaction of the compound (N1) with benzaldehyde derivatives. Thiazolidinone (N4) is also prepared by cyclization of the hydrazone compound (N3) using thioglycolic acid. As for the compound (N5), it is obtained from the reaction of the compound 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole with ethyl chloroacetate in the presence of alcoholic potassium hydroxide. The newly synthesized compounds show a very good interaction through the docking score compared to co‐crystalline ligand of each protein and in the same time the docking score is better than approved antibiotic in some cases. Furthermore, the study concluded that the compound N2 displayed the best and safest docking specifications out of all the compounds.
Thermodynamic Calculations of Hydrogen Storage on Ultrasound‐Assisted Synthesis of Boehmite–Graphene
Authors: Zaben Hadla A. , Zaben Tiba A. , Hamad Maysoon A. , Alheety Mustafa A.
Published: February 2025

This research include an industrial step, which is the synthesis of the inorganic–organic nanocomposite using ultrasound as a rapid and one‐step method, which is done by mixing boehmite with graphene oxide and then reacting them with the help of ultrasound with a capacity of 750 watts and a time not exceeding 10 min. The resulted product are then reacted with hydrazine hydrate to give boehmite–graphene nanocomposite. The materials are characterized using XRD, which prove the presence of boehmite and graphene without any structural change, indicating the physical decoration between them. Furthermore, the TEM measurement proves the presence of a graphene sheet with a thickness of one sheet carrying on its surface nanoboehmite particles that are no larger than 30 nm. Moreover, the composite is used to store hydrogen at four different temperatures (77–273 K). It is observed that the composite has the ability to store approximately 5.9 wt% at 77 K, which deceases with the increase in temperature until it reaches its lowest levels at 273 K with a storage value of 0.6 wt%, noting that the study is done at a pressure of 90 bar. Moreover, the thermodynamic properties of the storage process are studied, which prove that the enthalpy value is equal to 0.101788 (KJ/mol H2), and the entropy value is 5.96878 (J/mol H2. K), indicating the physical bonding of hydrogen.
Marketization as a Catalyst: Understanding the Impact of Digital Economies on Green Innovation in Mainland China
Authors: Cai Yunchen , Umair Muhammad , Adam Nawal Abdalla , Zhang Ruilian , Mirzaliev Sanjar , Chang Claudia
Published: February 2025

Amid global environmental challenges, understanding how digital economies drive green innovation is critical, especially within China's market‐based socialist framework. This study investigates how the digital economy and marketization jointly influence ecological innovation across 31 provinces in mainland China from 2011 to 2023. By integrating panel data analysis with a theoretical framework linking digital economic growth, marketization, and green innovation, this research uncovers key dynamics shaping sustainable development. Findings reveal that advancements in the digital economy significantly promote regional green innovations, with marketization serving as a vital conduit that amplifies this effect. Moreover, marketization exhibits dual impacts, both enhancing and moderating the sustainability outcomes driven by digital growth. These insights offer theoretical contributions by clarifying the causal mechanisms among digital economies, market forces, and innovation, while practically suggesting the need for a collaborative “enterprise‐public‐government” framework and robust market‐driven innovation systems to foster green development.
Effect of Pilates Exercises on Pain, Endurance, Quality‐of‐Life, and Disability in Postmenopausal Women With Low Back Pain
Authors: Nageswari C. , Meena N. , Gupta Sachin , Thillaieaswaran B.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To determine the effect of Pilates exercises on pain, endurance, quality‐of‐life, and disability in post‐menopausal women with low back pain.

Methods

After obtaining signed written consent, 128 women in the post‐menopausal stage were randomly allocated to two groups: group ‘A’ (experimental) and group ‘B’ (control‐conventional). The participants underwent evaluations for disability using the Oswestry Disability Scale. Pain levels were recorded using a numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), while endurance was tested using the Krause Weber test. Quality of life (QOL) was evaluated using the Menopause‐Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) Questionnaire.

Results

Both the exercises Pilates (group A) and the conventional exercise (group B) showed improvement and compared to group B, group A showed significant changes in all outcome variables.

Conclusion

Pilates training proves superior to conventional physical therapy for alleviating non‐specific LBP and enhancing lumbar health in post‐menopausal women.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials Registry—India (CTRI), CTRI/2024/04/065057. Registered on 02/04/2024
Rescuing state capacity: Proceduralism, the new politicization, and public policy
Authors: Moynihan Donald P.
Published: February 2025

The administrative capacity of a government matters enormously to public policy design and implementation. But it is usually taken for granted in public policy settings, a background variable left largely unconsidered. This essay argues that the fields of public policy and public management need to more directly consider threats to state capacity. A creeping threat is a tendency towards proceduralism that layers in rules, veto points, and delay that constrains state actors from achieving critical goals. A more immediate threat for the American administrative state is a dramatic increase in the politicization of public service delivery. This new model of politicization pursued by President Trump features three key attributes: 1) a personalist infrastructure of presidential power that centers on loyalty above all other values; 2) governing by fear via conspiratorial messaging towards the public sector and threatening individual public servants; and 3) a weakening of civil service protections that blurs the traditional distinction between political appointees and civil servants and enables purges of those deemed to be disloyal.
Recent Advances in Biomedical Applications of MXene‐Integrated Electrospun Fibers: A Review
Authors: Hamzehlouy Ali , Zarei Sara , Salah Othman Razhan , Shahi Farangis , Afshar Hana , Afshar Taromi Arsia , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: February 2025

The integration of MXenes into electrospun fibers represents a significant leap forward in advancing biomedical applications. This review delves into the synergistic combination of MXenes and electrospun fibers, highlighting their multifaceted capabilities in tissue engineering, drug delivery, antimicrobial activity, cancer therapy, and biosensing. Exceptional properties of MXene, including electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, mechanical robustness, and surface tunability, offer unique advantages when incorporated into nanofibrous scaffolds. By enhancing mechanical strength, promoting cellular interactions, and enabling targeted therapeutic functions, MXene‐based electrospun fibers demonstrate immense potential in addressing critical challenges in biomedicine. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in MXene synthesis, their incorporation into electrospun matrices, and their biomedical applications, while also identifying challenges and future directions in this emerging field.
Evaluation of Intrinsic Fetal Airway Obstruction (CHAOS): Correlations Between Ultrasound, Fetoscopic, and Pathological Findings
Authors: Laporte Claire , Martinovic Jéléna , Patrier Sophie , Thierry Briac , Mediouni Imen , Saada Julien , Brasseur‐Daudruy Marie , Etienne Martin , Dumery Grégoire , Benachi Alexandra
Published: February 2025

Objective

To correlate ultrasound findings with fetoscopy and pathology data in patients with suspected congenital high airway obstruction syndrome (CHAOS) to improve prenatal diagnosis and management.

Method

This study included five consecutive patients suspected of having CHAOS. Prenatal ultrasound was performed to identify key features such as bilateral hyperechoic lungs, eversion of the diaphragm, and visible airways. Fetoscopy was conducted in three patients to assess the vocal cords and upper airways. Pathological analysis was also used to confirm the diagnosis.

Results

All five patients showed bilateral hyperechoic lungs, eversion of the diaphragm, and visible airways on ultrasound. An obstructive block was seen in all cases and the vocal cords were not visualized in three cases, abnormal in one case and not mentioned in one case. Fetoscopy confirmed vocal cord fusion or absence and complete laryngeal atresia in three patients. All pregnancies were terminated; therefore, medium‐term complications of fetoscopy could not be assessed.

Conclusion

Accurate prenatal ultrasound imaging is essential for diagnosing CHAOS and determining prognosis. While ultrasound is the first‐line test to assess the condition and guide management, fetoscopy should only be proposed when ultrasound findings are inconclusive. The diagnostic and therapeutic value of fetoscopy is limited to cases with nonvisible vocal cords and obstructive laryngeal block.
“My School Could Have Done More”: Black Students' Reflections of Educators' Interventions on Peer Discrimination
Authors: Baker Blair A. , Lawson Tamara K. , Hill Heather
Published: February 2025

Black students in K‐12 settings are facing heightened rates of discrimination from their peers. Although discrimination may primarily be racial in nature, other aspects of students' racialized experience (e.g., wealth status, gender, nationality, etc.) are often targeted as well. Despite rising issues of peer discrimination toward Black students and their intersecting identities, few works have investigated how school personnel distinguish such discrimination and/or deploy intervention practices as a response. This study interviewed Black (n = 15) and Biracial/ethnic (n = 2) high school graduates (ages 18–21) about their experiences with peer discrimination, educators' approaches to such discrimination, and participants' insight on preferred intervention approaches. An intersectional framework and the Transformative Social Emotional Learning framework were used to phenomenologically analyze the data. Results indicate that participants experienced intersectional discrimination from high‐school peers, and school personnel rarely intervened on peer discrimination in a culturally responsive manner. However, participants' preferred intervention responses mirrored more actionable, culturally responsive intervention approaches to peer discrimination.
Outcomes and Recommendations From Telehealth Asthma Clinics in Underserved Schools
Authors: Sweenie Rachel , Guilbert Theresa W. , Lusebrink Rebecca , Mullen Lisa , George Alisha S. , Ramsey Rachelle R.
Published: February 2025

Background and Objective

Individuals from historically marginalized populations face structural and social determinants of health that create barriers to receiving specialty asthma care. School‐based specialist care delivered via telehealth offers a potential solution for children with uncontrolled asthma. This study evaluated the reach, implementation, and effectiveness of school‐based telehealth asthma clinics led by pediatric pulmonologists in historically marginalized neighborhoods.

Methods

Patients completed at least one visit with an asthma specialist via telehealth, including assessments of asthma control, lung function, exacerbations, and healthcare utilization. Descriptive analyses and means comparison tests of electronic health record data were conducted to examine outcomes.

Results

Asthma specialists provided telehealth care for 54 patients (Mage = 12.23, SD = 3.71) between May 2019 and May 2023. The clinics reached a high percentage of individuals from historically marginalized populations (90.7% Black or African American, 92.6% public insurance) who had not previously received specialty asthma care (51.9%). Twenty‐three patients (42.6%) were seen more than once in the school‐based telehealth asthma clinics (M = 3.43 visits, SD = 1.53). Asthma control significantly improved for those patients, t(19) = 2.61, p = 0.017, Cohen's d = 0.58, with 30% improving from poorly controlled to well‐controlled. Exacerbations and healthcare utilization decreased.

Conclusions

Specialist‐delivered, school‐based telehealth asthma clinics effectively reached patients from historically marginalized backgrounds and improved clinical outcomes. This school‐based telehealth model can be applied across settings to reach patients who might not otherwise have access to specialty care.
Recent innovations in machine learning for skin cancer lesion analysis and classification: A comprehensive analysis of computer‐aided diagnosis
Authors: Zareen Syeda Shamaila , Hossain Md Shamim , Wang Junsong , Kang Yan
Published: February 2025

The global primary health concern of skin cancer emphasizes the need for quick and accurate diagnosis to improve patient outcomes. Although, it might be challenging to evaluate the possible risk of a skin spot merely by looking at it and feeling it. This review article offers a thorough overview of current breakthroughs in machine learning (ML) and computer‐aided diagnostics (CAD) for the aim of analysis and classification of skin cancer lesions over the past 6 years. This paper carefully reviews the whole diagnostic process: data preparation, lesion segmentation, feature extraction, feature selection, and final classification. Analyzed are many publicly accessible datasets and creative ideas including deep learning (DL) and ML integrated with computer vision, together with their impact on increasing diagnosis accuracy. Given the variety and complexity of skin lesions, even with enormous progress, there are still major obstacles. This review rigorously assesses current methods, notes areas of great challenge, and provides recommendations to direct the next research targeted at improving early detection strategies and CAD systems.
Material Properties of Paperboard With Biodegradable and Nonbiodegradable Coatings Affected by Storage Conditions and Contact With Selected Food Products
Authors: Lindstad Agnete Jordhøy , Hansen Anlaug Ådland , Li Kloce Dongfang , Pettersen Marit Kvalvåg
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of paperboard with biodegradable and nonbiodegradable coatings as alternatives to conventional plastics under realistic storage conditions and in contact with moist and fatty foods. Paperboard with biodegradable (PLA/PBAT) and nonbiodegradable (PET and PE) coatings in contact with mayonnaise, cream cheese and butter were stored under refrigerated conditions (4°C/85%RH) for 1, 3, 6 and 9 weeks. To evaluate the impact on functional properties, tensile strength, puncture resistance, water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) and thickness were measured before and after storage. The mechanical properties of coated paperboards were significantly affected by storage conditions and food contact. Moisture from humid air led to swelling of the cellulose fibres that caused structural changes and weakening. Paperboard with the biodegradable coating was more prone to weakening by food contact than by refrigerated storage alone, with mayonnaise having the greatest effect. For paperboard with the nonbiodegradable coatings, the impact of different foods was less pronounced. These materials generally experienced similar or less weakening from food contact than refrigerated storage alone, highlighting the effectiveness of the coating layers as barrier between moist and fatty foods and the cellulose fibres. These findings emphasise the need to test functional properties after storage under realistic conditions in contact with relevant food products for extended periods, when considering the feasibility of replacing plastic packaging with fibre‐based alternatives.
Mechanical Design and Redundant Motion Planning of a Hydraulic Quadruped Mobile Manipulator for Enlarging Operational Workspace
Authors: Liu Song , Chai Hui , Song Rui , Li Yibin , Gang Xianyue , Zhang Qin , Li Yueyang , Fu Peng , Yang Zhiyuan
Published: February 2025

The quadruped mobile manipulator (QMM) combines the environmental adaptability of a quadruped robot and the operation capabilities of a robotic arm. The design of the hydraulic QMM with an emphasis on large operational workspace considerations is reported, covering both mechanical design and motion planning aspects. A joint optimization method for determining the structural parameters under two operating conditions is introduced to balance the motion range and force output efficiency, reducing the cylinder drive force by compared with before optimization. Furthermore, this paper proposes a redundant motion planning method for the QMM, based on null‐space projection and task feasibility assessment to expand the operational workspace. Through coordinated leg–arm motion, the robot's reachable workspace increases by . Physical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and the field capabilities of the QMM.
MXene‐Integrated Composites for Biomedical Applications: Synthesis, Cancer Diagnosis, and Emerging Frontiers
Authors: Saxena Aryan , Tyagi Akshayat , Vats Sushipra , Gupta Ishita , Gupta Akhil , Kaur Raminder , Tiwary Saurabh Kr , Elzatahry Ahmed A. , Singh Maninderjeet , Karim Alamgir
Published: February 2025

MXenes, a novel class of two‐dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, carbonitrides, and nitrides, have gained significant attention in biomedicine. They are synthesized via two main approaches: top‐down etching of MAX (here, M represents an early transition metal, A represents an element belonging to the A‐group, and X represents N or C) phase precursors and bottom‐up chemical reduction of metal oxides. While the MAX phase method requires high temperatures, influencing morphology and posing safety concerns, alternative non‐MAX synthesis routes are emerging. Due to their unique physical and chemical properties, MXene‐based composites hold great promise in regenerative medicine, biosensing, and cancer therapy. However, challenges related to their stability, controlled drug release, and biodegradability remain. This review explores advancements in MXene synthesis, emphasizing non‐MAX phase fabrication and biomedical applications. Notably, MXene‐based composites have shown remarkable potential in cancer treatment, particularly in photothermal and photodynamic therapy. Their mechanisms, advantages, and limitations are discussed, along with future prospects and challenges in clinical translation. The development of MXene composites offers new avenues for innovative cancer therapies, paving the way for improved treatment strategies.
A phylogenetically informed generic reclassification of the hemionitid ferns (Pteridaceae: Cheilanthoideae)
Authors: Schuettpelz Eric , Windham Michael D. , Prado Jefferson , Hooper Elisabeth A. , Yatskievych George , Huiet Layne , Picard Kathryn T. , Pryer Kathleen M.
Published: February 2025

The roughly 500 species of cheilanthoid ferns exhibit a diversity of morphological adaptations to xeric environments. However, most of these traits have evolved independently multiple times, impeding past efforts to establish a natural classification for the group. Considerable progress has been made over the past three decades resolving most of the major lineages, with the notable exception of the hemionitids, the largest and most widely distributed clade. The nearly 350 hemionitid species can be found in dry regions across the globe and account for two‐thirds of cheilanthoid diversity. While some of the 17 genera commonly attributed to this group are easily recognized and demonstrably monophyletic, others have been shown to be clearly non‐monophyletic. Here, we explore phylogenetic relationships among hemionitid species using a dataset that greatly expands on earlier studies. We carefully consider generic lines and propose a phylogenetically informed classification that better aligns with morphology, geography, and evolutionary history. Based on our analyses and morphological investigations, we propose the recognition of 22 monophyletic hemionitid genera. Nine of our generic circumscriptions are consistent with those of most other recent studies. Two other genera are expanded relative to these studies, while two are more narrowly defined. Two generic names are resurrected herein and seven genera are newly described to accommodate divergent clades. In all, 106 new species‐level (plus 9 subspecific) combinations are made.
Research Challenges and Opportunities of Utility‐Scale Hybrid Power Plants
Authors: Das Kaushik , Hansen Anca D. , Leon Juan Pablo Murcia , Zhu Rujie , Gupta Megha , Pérez‐Rúa Juan‐Andrés , Long Qian , Pombo Daniel V. , Barlas Athanasios , Gocmen Tuhfe , Sogachev Andrey , Koivisto Matti , Cutululis Nicolaos A. , Sørensen Poul E.
Published: February 2025

Hybrid power plants (HPPs) combining multiple generation and/or storage sources behind a single connection point are becoming popular due to their capability to provide additional value for both plant owners and power systems compared to individual technology renewable power plants. However, the research on HPPs is still in nascent stage. This article comprehensively overviews utility‐scale HPPs (power plants ranging from hundreds of MW to GW scale). It primarily addresses HPPs that combine renewable sources such as wind and solar (PV technology) with electrical energy storage (ESS), all connected behind a single grid connection and operated as a unified power plant by a single operator. This article covers various aspects such as HPPs' potential benefits, research challenges, and opportunities related to their design, operation, and development, from both societal and HPP owners' perspectives. It briefly discusses the advantages of HPPs compared to individual renewable technology‐based power plants highlighting the potential added values of HPPs for owners, system operators, and society, while ensuring compliance with grid code requirements at the point of common coupling. The main focus is on identifying and clustering the research challenges associated with design and operation of HPPs. Topics such as energy management systems, sizing and siting, electrical design and control, uncertainties and forecasting, grid emulation and advanced testing, and multi‐energy system integration are elaborated and reviewed. This article demonstrates that significant research is urgently needed to enhance renewable generation flexibility and improve grid services. Addressing these challenges will accelerate the development and deployment of HPPs.
For Life: Differences in Perinatal Health Between the Offspring of Immigrant and Spanish-Born Mothers
Authors: Juárez Sol P. , Dello Iacono Chiara
Published: February 2025

Birthweight has been extensively used to construct perinatal indicators for identifying and monitoring newborns at risk. These indicators include measures such as low birthweight (<2500 grams irrespective of gestational age) and being small for gestational age (e.g., birthweight below the tenth percentile for a given gestational age). Determinants of adverse health at birth encompass biological and behavioral factors, often exhibiting a social pattern, with the highest prevalence observed in families of low socioeconomic status. Given the strong link between health and social outcomes throughout the life course, perinatal health is considered a vital dimension for examining how inequalities are (re)produced in society. Although immigrants are categorized as a socially vulnerable group experiencing multiple disadvantages, such as racism and discrimination, international evidence indicates that the offspring of foreign-born (immigrant) mothers often experience similar or even better perinatal health outcomes than their counterparts in the receiving country, which supports the healthy immigrant paradox. In this chapter, we conduct a narrative synthesis of the literature based on a systematic search using two electronic databases (PubMed and Web of Sciences) to identify quantitative studies published in peer-reviewed journals before March 2023. These studies were written in English or Spanish and include the birthweight outcomes of the offspring of immigrant women residing in Spain, with comparison groups consisting of the offspring of Spanish-born women. Using the vote-counting method, we assessed 28 studies that met our inclusion criteria. The findings of our review generally confirm the perinatal health advantage of small children among the offspring of most immigrant-origin mothers in Spain, except for those of African and Asian descent, compared with children of Spanish-born women. However, mothers from most immigrant origins exhibited higher risks than Spanish-born ones of delivering children with macrosomia (high birthweight), which challenges the interpretation of immigrants’ health advantage.
Quinolone Resistance Genes qnr, aac(6′)-Ib-cr, oqxAB, and qepA in Environmental Escherichia coli: Insights into Their Genetic Contexts from Comparative Genomics
Authors: Gomi Ryota , Adachi Fumie
Published: February 2025

Previous studies have reported the occurrence of transferable quinolone resistance determinants in environmental Escherichia coli. However, little is known about their vectors and genetic contexts. To gain insights into these genetic characteristics, we analyzed the complete genomes of 53 environmental E. coli isolates containing one or more transferable quinolone resistance determinants, including 20 sequenced in this study and 33 sourced from RefSeq. The studied genomes carried the following transferable quinolone resistance determinants alone or in combination: aac(6′)-Ib-cr, oqxAB, qepA1, qnrA1, qnrB4, qnrB7, qnrB19, qnrD1, qnrS1, and qnrS2, with qnrS1 being predominant. These resistance genes were detected on plasmids of diverse replicon types; however, aac(6′)-Ib-cr, qnrS1, and qnrS2 were also detected on the chromosome. The genetic contexts surrounding these genes included not only those found in clinical isolates but also novel contexts, such as qnrD1 embedded within a composite transposon-like structure bounded by Tn3-derived inverted-repeat miniature elements (TIMEs). This study provides deep insights into mobile genetic elements associated with transferable quinolone resistance determinants, highlighting the importance of genomic surveillance of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in the environment.
Enhancing OCR in historical documents with complex layouts through machine learning
Authors: Fleischhacker David , Kern Roman , Göderle Wolfgang
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the challenge of processing and extracting information from large quantities of printed serial sources from the 19th century, which have been largely untapped due to the inadequacies of existing extraction techniques. We focus on the Habsburg Central Europe’s Hof- und Staatsschematismus, a comprehensive record published between 1702 and 1918 that documents the Habsburg civil service’s hierarchy and the evolution of its central administration over two centuries. Our approach sees the significant investment into machine learning-driven layout detection prior to the OCR-process. We generated synthetic data mimicking the Hof- und Staatsschematismus style for initial training of a Faster R-CNN model, followed by fine-tuning the model with a smaller dataset of manually annotated historical documents. Subsequently, we optimised Tesseract-OCR for our document style to enhance the combined structure extraction and OCR process. Our evaluation demonstrates significant improvements in OCR performance metrics (WER and CER), with the combined structure detection and fine-tuned OCR process showing a decrease in error rates of 15.68 percentage points for CER and 19.95 percentage points for WER. These findings underscore the potential of ML techniques in facilitating the extraction and analysis of historical documents.
Functional disability in the Health and Retirement Study: a semi-Markov multi-state analysis
Authors: De Giovanni Domenico , Menzietti Massimiliano , Pirra Marco , Viviano Fabio
Published: February 2025

We propose a direct non-parametric estimation framework for multi-state disability models that does not rely on the Markov assumption. In this context, “direct” denotes a method that does not necessitate the initial estimation of transition intensities. Previous research has demonstrated evidence of non-Markovian properties in disability dynamics, and a number of studies have employed semi-Markov models for Long-Term-Care products. We test the non-Markov assumption on an up-to-date American dataset that includes more than 200,000 records, finding insights on the non-Markovian character of disability. We then focus on transition probabilities, showing the impact of our assumption on these crucial metrics for actuaries. In addition, we investigate the influence of health conditions on all the transitions analyzed.
Molecular analysis confirms Agama picticauda invasion on Western Indian Ocean islands
Authors: Roesch Markus A. , Webster Kathleen C. , Huet Nicolas , Hawlitschek Oliver , Mohamed Youssouf , Sauroy-Toucouère Sohan , Wagner Philipp , Schmitz Andreas
Published: February 2025

The Western Indian Ocean biodiversity hotspot hosts a remarkable array of endemic species, but invasive alien species increasingly threaten its unique ecosystems. Lizards of the West African Agama agama species group are successful colonizers, with recent introductions to Grande Comore (Comoros Archipelago) and Reunion Island. Systematic revisions within the native range of the A. agama species group have left many of the introduced populations without clear identity. We used molecular methods to determine the identities of the Agama species introduced to Grande Comore and Reunion Island, define their respective likely origin, and assess body size characteristics for each island population. We identified Agama picticauda as the species present on both islands with likely origins in two distinct Western African regions. Agamas from Reunion Island had longer and wider heads with greater body weight than Grande Comore individuals. Sexual size dimorphism on both islands was driven by weight, with males being heavier than females. We provide foundations for further research on the ecology and impacts of A. picticauda on Western Indian Ocean islands and to aid in the development of targeted management strategies for controlling this invasive reptile.
Why and When Do Historical Brand Transgressions Matter?
Authors: Pecot Fabien , Lunardo Renaud , Chaney Damien , Eugene Y Chan
Published: February 2025

While many brands face the after-effects of historical transgressions, prior research provides little insight into these issues. Against this backdrop, this research presents five experiments providing convergent evidence for a lingering negative effect of historical brand transgressions (HBTs) on present brand evaluation, an effect that is due to a detrimental effect of HBTs on perceptions of brand warmth. Studies 1 and 2 establish the main effect and mediation. Studies 3–5 examine mitigating effects. Study 3 checks if high institutional pressure can serve as an excuse strategy that buffers the negative effects of a transgression. Studies 4 and 5 test the mitigating effect of different response styles (recognition, apology, and/or compensation). Together, these results contribute to the business ethics and marketing literature by defining the concept of HBT and showing why it harms a current brand’s evaluation and how brands can mitigate its negative effects.
Social media effects on multi-generational diffusion of information technology products
Authors: Li Yinxing , Terui Nobuhiko
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a multi-generational model that captures the pre- and post-launch effects of social media on product diffusion. Post-launch effects appear in the adoption rate function as covariates, and pre-launch effects are embedded in hierarchical models as diffusion parameters that are connected to successive generations. The model reveals how social media accelerates and decelerates the diffusion of multi-generation products in the pre-launch and post-launch phases. Unlike previous multi-generational diffusion models, this model forecasts sales of new-generation products before launch. We employ the latent topics in social media as social media valence, and the empirical results show that the social media effects accelerate sales in the pre-launch period, and their effects decrease with varying patterns in the post-launch period.