bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative study of hospitalization costs of TKA inpatients before and after National Volume-based Procurement in Guangdong, China: an interrupted time-series analysis
Authors: Li Anqi , Li Gongduan , Han Dong , Fu Manru , Chang Jinghui
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aims to explore the impact of the National Volume-based Procurement Policy in Guangdong Province on hospitalization costs for total knee arthroplasty inpatients.

Methods

Interrupted time-series analysis were used to examine the expenses associated with total knee arthroplasty for inpatients at a hospital in Guangzhou between May 10, 2021, and December 26, 2023. The period was divided into two phases based on the implementation of the policy, the pre-policy phase (May 10, 2021, to April 30, 2022) and the post-policy phase (May 1, 2022, to December 26, 2023). A total of ten indicators, derived from patients’ medical records, were analyzed. Indicators included total expenses, self-financed expenses, consumables costs, miscellaneous service fees, diagnostic fees, treatment fees, rehabilitation fees, total Chinese medicine costs, western medicine costs, and the costs of blood and blood products.

Results

A total of 1,196 valid cases were included, with 290 cases before policy implementation and 906 cases after implementation. When the implementation of procurement occurred (May 1, 2022), total expenses (β2= − 28240.17, p < 0.001), consumables costs (β2= − 31302.72, p < 0.001), and self-financed expenses (β2= − 13674.56, p<0.001) showed an instantaneous decreasing trend. The mean total expenses decreased from 65,324.73 CNY per case to 34,465.57 CNY per case, representing a reduction of 30,859.16 CNY per case. Miscellaneous service fees (β2= 440.45, p < 0.05), diagnostic fees (β2=746.00, p < 0.05), rehabilitation fees (β2=207.36, p < 0.001) exhibited an instantaneous and slight increasing trend. After implementation (from May 1, 2022 to December 26, 2023), the total expenses (β3=−106.95, p<0.05), consumables costs (β3= − 65.05, p<0.05), diagnostic fees (β3= − 22.44, p < 0.05), treatment fees (β3= − 28.01, p < 0.05), total Chinese medicine costs (β3= − 9.98, p < 0.05), and blood and blood products costs (β3= − 5.88, p<0.05) continued to decrease.

Conclusion

The volume-based procurement policy in Guangdong, China has shown initial effectiveness. After it was implemented, total expenses, consumables costs, and self-financed expenses decreased. The structure of hospitalization costs also reflects the slight improvement in healthcare providers’ value and treatment planning decisions. Further attention should be given to the healthcare professionals’ labor value. The empirical analysis results provide a reference for the government further to improve the volume-based procurement for artificial joints.
Pig tongue soft robot mimicking intrinsic tongue muscle structure
Authors: Ishikawa Yuta , Nabae Hiroyuki , Gunji Megu , Endo Gen , Suzumori Koichi
Published: January 2025

Animal muscles have complex, three-dimensional structures with fibers oriented in various directions. The tongue, in particular, features a highly intricate muscular system composed of four intrinsic muscles and several types of extrinsic muscles, enabling flexible and diverse movements essential for feeding, swallowing, and speech production. Replicating these structures could lead to the development of multifunctional manipulators and advanced platforms for studying muscle-motion relationships. In this study, we developed a pig tongue soft robot that focuses on replicating the intrinsic muscles using thin McKibben artificial muscles, silicone rubber, and gel. We began by performing three-dimensional scans and sectional observations in the coronal and sagittal planes to examine the arrangement and orientation of the intrinsic muscles in the actual pig tongue. Additionally, we used the diffusible iodine-based contrast-enhanced computed tomography (Dice-CT) technique to observe the three-dimensional flow of muscle pathways. Based on these observations, we constructed a three-dimensional model and molded the pig tongue shape with silicone rubber and gel, embedding artificial muscles into the robot body. We conducted experiments to assess both the motion of the tongue robot’s tip and its stiffness during muscle contractions. The results confirmed characteristic tongue motions, such as tip extension, flexion, and lateral bending, as well as stiffness changes during actuation, suggesting the potential for this soft robot to serve as a platform for academic and engineering studies.
Forecasting US data center CO2 emissions using AI models: emissions reduction strategies and policy recommendations
Authors: Jha Rohan , Jha Rishabh , Islam Mazhar
Published: January 2025

Data centers are poised for unprecedented growth due to a revolution in Artificial Intelligence (AI), rise in cryptocurrency mining, and increasing cloud demand for data storage. A sizable portion of the data centers’ growth will occur in the US, requiring a tremendous amount of power. Our hypothesis is that the expansion of data centers will contribute to an increase in US CO2 emissions. To estimate CO2 emissions, we applied three forecasted power demands for data centers and applied 56 NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) power mixes and policy scenario cases using 11 AI models. Among these, the linear regression model yielded the most accurate predictions with the highest R-square. We found that overall CO2 emissions in the US could increase up to 0.4–1.9% due to expansion of data centers by 2030. This increase represents ~3–14% of CO2 emissions from the US power sector by 2030. Using the state-level power mix forecasts for 2030 among increasing CO2 emission scenarios, we predict that Virginia’s power mix will maintain emissions in line with the US average, while the Texas, Illinois, and Washington’s power mix are expected to reduce emissions due to greater renewables in their power mix in 2030. However, Illinois and Washington may face challenges due to their limited power resource availability. In contrast, New York and California’s power mix may increase CO2 emissions due to higher natural gas in their power mix in 2030. The highest variability in data center CO2 emissions stems from AI-driven demand and improvements in data center efficiency and is followed by the power mix. To reduce CO2 emissions from data centers, we offer pathways such as reducing power consumption, improving power mix with renewable sources, and using hydrogen in power plants. We propose focusing on New Mexico and Colorado for data centers to minimize CO2 emissions. Finally, we highlight a set of federal policies supplemented by states to facilitate CO2 emission reductions across energy, emissions, waste, R&D, and grid infrastructure.
Contesting crisis narratives amidst climatic breakdown: Climate change, mobility, and state-centric approaches to migration
Authors: Sim-Sarka Kenna
Published: January 2025

Human mobility in the context of climate change is often identified as one of the largest future impacts of the climate crisis. It is often assumed by international institutions and national governments that climate change will drive mass migration movements across borders, leading to a prioritization of research that aims to predict future climate migration to aid border security and the creation of migration policies. This article focuses on knowledge production research concerning around climate-related mobility and how knowledge being produced upholds state-centric approaches to migration and migration management. It argues that by leaving state-centric approaches to migration unquestioned in the name of managing climate-related mobility, national governments and other institutions reproduce inequalities for those who are in the nexus of migration and climate change. This article considers alternative conceptions of mobility and climate change, including the climate mobilities paradigm and decolonial understandings of migration, and how these can shift our analytical focus to more holistic and decolonial understandings of migration.
Anatomical, functional, and blood-born predictors of severity of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome severity in French Bulldogs
Authors: Schmid Claudia , Steiner Aline R. , Spielhofer Léonie , Galfetti Meltem , Rentsch Nikki , Bogdanov Nikolay , Vogel Johannes , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Hartnack Sonja , Astakhov Georgy , Furrer Reinhard , Bogdanova Anna , Reichler Iris Margaret
Published: January 2025

Brachycephalic breeds suffer from respiratory distress known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and the multiple comorbidities associated with it. Targeted breeding toward a more BOAS-free phenotype requires accurate and least invasive detection of BOAS severity grades that are accessible and accepted by the breeders and kennel clubs. This study aimed to compare the-outcome of morphometric anatomical examination with functional tests such as exercise tests and plethysmography for the detection of BOAS severity in a group of 84 French Bulldogs. In addition, we investigated the possibility of assessing the severity of BOAS using blood parameters that were found to vary between the brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dogs in our previous study. We found the results of the trotting test to be most reliable compared to the outcome of respiratory performance assessment using plethysmography. Of all the candidate blood parameters tested, carboxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin levels were the most predictive as on-side but not self-standing indicators of BOAS severity grade. Aggravation of BOAS manifestation was associated with mild stress erythropoiesis and oxidative stress. Based on our findings, we suggest continuing to use the trotting test as the method of choice for the selection of breeding dogs; in questionable cases, a temperature increase of more than 0.4°C indicates at least grade 2. Furthermore, co-oximetry could be used as an additional test to enable assignment to one of the two BOAS grades in dispute. Among the limitations of this study are the focus on one breed and the low number of animals with severe clinical signs of BOAS in the study cohort.
Enhancing Hydraulic Efficiency of Pelton Turbines Through Computational Fluid Dynamics and Metaheuristic Optimization
Authors: Barragan Guillermo , Atarihuana Sebastian , Cando Edgar , Hidalgo Victor
Published: January 2025

In this work, the NSGA-II multi objective genetic algorithm, numerical methods, and parametric design techniques found in the Autodesk Inventor professional 2023 CAD software were combined to perform the geometrical optimization of the Pelton bucket geometry. The validation of the proposed method was carried out with numerical simulations using the OpenFOAM CFD program and taking into account the case study turbine’s operating conditions, as well as the k-SST turbulence model. The CFD simulation results and operational data from the case study turbine from the “Illuchi N°2” hydrocenter have been compared in order to validate the proposed methodology. The implementation of the NSGA-II in the design process resulted in optimized bucket geometrical parameters: bucket length, width, inlet angle, and outlet angle. These parameters not only resulted in a 2.56% increase in hydraulic efficiency, but also led to a 0.1 [kPa] reduction in the maximum pressure at the bottom of the bucket. Further research will involve testing these parameters using 3D printing methods to validate their effectiveness.
How Developments in Genebanks Could Shape Utilization Strategies for Domestic Animals
Authors: Ren Qianzi , Gong Ying , Su Peng , Liu Gang , Pu Yabin , Yu Fuqing , Ma Yuehui , Wang Zhenqing , Li Yefang , Jiang Lin
Published: January 2025

Global geographical, climatic, and ecological diversity has given rise to a wealth of domestic animals, which are essential for food security and agricultural sustainability. Since the 1960s, these critical genetic resources have declined significantly due to overdevelopment, ecological degradation, and climate change, posing a serious threat to global food security. In the face of these challenges, we emphasize the critical importance of promoting indigenous livestock and poultry germplasm resources in biodiversity conservation to enhance the adaptability and resilience of agricultural systems. To promote the sustainable management and conservation of genetic resources, a multistakeholder international cooperation framework is needed. Globally, many national and international institutions have initiated a variety of conservation measures, legislation, and technical strategies. In particular, genebanks play an indispensable role in the conservation of important livestock and poultry genetic resources. These banks not only aid in maintaining biodiversity but also provide valuable genetic material for future breeding programmes and scientific research. Through systematic collection, conservation and evaluation, genebanks ensure the long-term availability and sustainable use of genetic resources and provide an important foundation for addressing global environmental change and agricultural challenges.
Comparative Evaluation of Salt Tolerance in Four Self-Rooted Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L. and Corylus americana Walter) Cultivars
Authors: Rius-Garcia Xavier , Videgain-Marco María , Casanova-Gascón José , Acuña-Rello Luis , Martín-Ramos Pablo
Published: January 2025

Rising soil salinity poses a significant challenge to hazelnut cultivation, particularly in Mediterranean regions, where the increasing use of low-quality irrigation water necessitates the identification of salt-tolerant cultivars for sustainable production. This study investigated the salt tolerance mechanisms in four hazelnut cultivars (Barcelona, Tonda di Giffoni, Tonda Gentile Romana, and Yamhill) exposed to varying NaCl concentrations (0, 25, 50, and 75 mM) over five months. This research assessed their morphological, physiological, and biochemical responses through an analysis of their growth parameters, photosynthetic efficiency, visual symptoms, and ion content. The results revealed significant genotypic variation in their salt tolerance mechanisms. Tonda di Giffoni demonstrated superior salt tolerance, maintaining a higher photosynthetic efficiency and better ion balance, particularly in K⁺/Na⁺ and Ca2⁺/Na⁺ ratios. Barcelona showed moderate tolerance at lower salinity levels but declined sharply under higher stress. Yamhill exhibited a strong survival capacity despite its poor photosynthetic performance, while Tonda Gentile Romana proved most sensitive to salinity stress. All the cultivars showed a significant biomass reduction, with their fresh and dry weights decreasing by over 80% at 75 mM NaCl. Leaf chloride concentrations dramatically increased, reaching levels 481% higher than those in the control conditions. This study identifies Tonda di Giffoni as the most suitable cultivar for moderately saline conditions and provides insights into hazelnut salt tolerance mechanisms, contributing valuable information for breeding programs and cultivation strategies in salt-affected regions.
Accelerating Deep Learning-Based Morphological Biometric Recognition with Field-Programmable Gate Arrays
Authors: Zayed Nourhan , Tawfik Nahed , Mahmoud Mervat M. A. , Fawzy Ahmed , Cho Young-Im , Abdallah Mohamed S.
Published: January 2025

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are increasingly recognized as an important and potent artificial intelligence approach, widely employed in many computer vision applications, such as facial recognition. Their importance resides in their capacity to acquire hierarchical features, which is essential for recognizing complex patterns. Nevertheless, the intricate architectural design of CNNs leads to significant computing requirements. To tackle these issues, it is essential to construct a system based on field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to speed up CNNs. FPGAs provide fast development capabilities, energy efficiency, decreased latency, and advanced reconfigurability. A facial recognition solution by leveraging deep learning and subsequently deploying it on an FPGA platform is suggested. The system detects whether a person has the necessary authorization to enter/access a place. The FPGA is responsible for processing this system with utmost security and without any internet connectivity. Various facial recognition networks are accomplished, including AlexNet, ResNet, and VGG-16 networks. The findings of the proposed method prove that the GoogLeNet network is the best fit due to its lower computational resource requirements, speed, and accuracy. The system was deployed on three hardware kits to appraise the performance of different programming approaches in terms of accuracy, latency, cost, and power consumption. The software programming on the Raspberry Pi-3B kit had a recognition accuracy of around 70–75% and relied on a stable internet connection for processing. This dependency on internet connectivity increases bandwidth consumption and fails to meet the required security criteria, contrary to ZYBO-Z7 board hardware programming. Nevertheless, the hardware/software co-design on the PYNQ-Z2 board achieved an accuracy rate of 85% to 87%. It operates independently of an internet connection, making it a standalone system and saving costs.
Use of Hazard Functions for Determining Power-Law Behaviour in Data
Authors: Bailey Joseph D.
Published: January 2025

Determining the ‘best-fitting’ distribution for data is an important problem in data analysis. Specifically, observing how the distribution of data changes as values below (or above) a threshold are omitted from analyses can be of use in various applications, from animal movement to the modelling of natural phenomena. Such truncated distributions, known as hazard functions, are widely studied and well understood in survival analysis, although rarely widely used in data analysis. Here, by considering the hazard and reverse-hazard functions, we demonstrate a qualitative assessment of the ‘best-fit’ distribution of data. Specifically, we highlight the potential advantages of this method when determining whether power-law behaviour may or may not be present in data. Finally, we demonstrate this approach using some real-world datasets.
Integrated Assessment of Productive, Environmental, and Social Performances of Adopting Low-Protein Diets Technology for Laying Hens
Authors: Li Dongsheng , Zhang Xiaoying , Zhao Zhiyang , Wang Siqi , Wang Jing , Wang Hongliang
Published: January 2025

China, the world’s largest egg producer, faces challenges of protein feed shortages and nitrogen pollution from manure. Low-protein diets (LPDs) offer potential solutions, but their adoption by small-scale farmers is uncertain. This study used surveys, meta-analysis, life-cycle assessment, and life-cost analysis to address these gaps. A field survey in Quzhou County (a typical representative of small- and medium-scale farmers in China’s egg farming industry) found that 84% of egg farmers were unfamiliar with LPDs and believed higher protein levels were better. On average, pre-laying and late-laying diets exceeded national LPD recommendations by 0.3% and 0.5% crude protein (CP), respectively. The main barriers to LPD adoption were perceived low quality, lack of veterinary recommendations, and limited technical support. A meta-analysis of 30 studies (published before July 2024) showed that reducing CP by less than 1% did not compromise productivity. Local LPD demonstrations and training improved farmer confidence. Results indicated a 10% reduction in the nitrogen footprint and a 115% increase in earnings for LPD-demonstration farmers. The study suggests a coupled pathway integrating research and technology diffusion, highlighting the need for collaboration among scientists, feed companies, and technical experts to overcome misconceptions and promote LPD adoption. This integrated framework offers valuable insights for sustainable agricultural development in China and other resource-limited countries.
Fleece-Lined Whelping Pools Associated with Reduced Incidence of Canine Hip Dysplasia in a Guide Dog Program
Authors: Feng Lynna C. , Philippine Alexandra , Ball-Conley Elizabeth , Byosiere Sarah-Elizabeth
Published: January 2025

Using genetic selection, Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) has reduced the incidence rate of canine hip dysplasia (CHD). However, given that CHD is polygenic and multifactorial, environmental factors may impact the expression of this developmental condition. The objective of this original, correlational research was to investigate the relationship between the substrate in the whelping pool used from birth to 3 weeks of age and CHD diagnosis. This retrospective study included 5649 dogs (Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador–Golden Retriever crosses) at GDB. A total of 2785 dogs were whelped between 1 July 2012 and 28 November 2015, when the whelping pools were lined with newspaper, and 2864 dogs were whelped between 5 March 2016 and 29 December 2019, when the whelping pools were lined with fleece. Bayesian regression modeling of the CHD diagnoses and PennHIP distraction index scores identified that dogs in the fleece group had a lower risk for CHD diagnosis but similar PennHIP scores compared to the newspaper group. Golden Retrievers had the highest risk of CHD diagnosis and PennHIP scores, followed by Labrador–Golden Retriever crosses and finally Labrador Retrievers, with the lowest risk of CHD diagnosis and PennHIP scores. No sex differences were identified for CHD diagnosis, but males had lower PennHIP scores than females. These results provide correlational evidence that housing-related environmental factors during the first three weeks of development—specifically, the substrate in the whelping pool—are associated with lifelong orthopedic health.
Targeting CD44 and EpCAM with Antibody Dye Conjugates for the Photoimmunotherapy of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wolf Isis , Schultze-Seemann Susanne , Gratzke Christian , Wolf Philipp
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Photoimmunotherapy (PIT) is an innovative approach for the targeted therapy of cancer. In PIT, photosensitizer dyes are conjugated to tumor-specific antibodies for targeted delivery into cancer cells. Upon irradiation with visible light, the photosensitizer dye is activated and induces cancer-specific cell death. In the present article, we describe the PIT of prostate cancer (PC) as a therapeutic option for the targeted treatment of localized prostate cancer. Methods: We conjugated the silicon phthalocyanine dye WB692-CB2 to recombinant cysteine-modified anti-CD44 and anti-EpCAM antibodies via a maleimide linker and tested the antibody dye conjugates for PIT on PC cells and prostate cancer stem cell (PCSC)-like cells. Results: The anti-CD44 and anti-EpCAM antibody dye conjugates showed specific binding and high cytotoxicity against PC and PCSC-like cells following irradiation with red light. Combined treatment with both conjugates led to enhanced cytotoxic effects. Conclusions: PIT with our dye WB692-CB2 can serve as an effective focal therapy against prostate cancer, preserving the prostate gland and minimizing side effects. It can be employed during radical prostatectomy (RP) to treat residual tumor cells or lymph node metastases in areas where further surgical intervention is not feasible. Utilizing multiple conjugates against antigens expressed on differentiated PC and PCSC-like cells, such as CD44 and EpCAM, could be an effective method to eradicate residual cancer cells in heterogeneous tumors. This approach could reduce the risk of local recurrence after RP and thus increase the therapeutic outcome of PC patients.
Plasma Concentrations of Benzylpenicillin and Cloxacillin in Infective Endocarditis—With Special Reference to Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions
Authors: Hägglund Malin , Snygg-Martin Ulrika , Olaison Lars , Stofkoper Michael , Larsson Bert Ove , Brink Magnus
Published: January 2025

Background: Current antibiotic regimens for infective endocarditis (IE) are effective but pose a high risk of delayed hypersensitivity reactions (DHR). Dose adjustments guided by therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) could mitigate these risks while maintaining treatment efficacy. This study aimed to investigate the plasma concentration of benzylpenicillin and cloxacillin in patients with IE and explore associations between antibiotic concentrations and DHR. Methods: Plasma concentrations of benzylpenicillin and cloxacillin were measured as centre (midpoint concentrations between consecutive doses) and trough values during the first and third weeks of treatment in patients with IE. Patient characteristics and outcomes, including DHR, were documented. Results: A total of 55 patients were included, with 37 patients (67%) receiving benzylpenicillin and 18 (33%) receiving cloxacillin. The 90-day mortality rate was 3%. Both centre and trough concentration exhibited substantial interpatient variation for the two antibiotics, while intra-patient variability between weeks 1 and 3 remained low for most patients. Kidney function could explain, at best, 54% of the variation, and a multiple regression model including kidney function, body mass index, age, and albumin explained up to 68% of the variation for benzylpenicillin. There was no relation between high plasma concentration and the prevalence of DHR; conversely, we observed a tendency of low plasma concentrations in these patients. Conclusions: This study revealed significant interindividual variation in plasma concentrations for both studied penicillins. TDM might be useful in situations where concentrations are hard to predict, such as severe obesity or kidney failure. Additionally, we found no indication that high plasma concentrations are related to the prevalence of DHR.
Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes: From Pathophysiology to Lifestyle Modifications
Authors: Caturano Alfredo , Rocco Maria , Tagliaferri Giuseppina , Piacevole Alessia , Nilo Davide , Di Lorenzo Giovanni , Iadicicco Ilaria , Donnarumma Mariarosaria , Galiero Raffaele , Acierno Carlo , Sardu Celestino , Russo Vincenzo , Vetrano Erica , Conte Caterina , Marfella Raffaele , Rinaldi Luca , Sasso Ferdinando Carlo
Published: January 2025

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among diabetic patients. A central pathophysiological mechanism linking T2DM to cardiovascular complications is oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the body’s antioxidant defenses. Hyperglycemia in T2DM promotes oxidative stress through various pathways, including the formation of advanced glycation end products, the activation of protein kinase C, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the polyol pathway. These processes enhance ROS generation, leading to endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and the exacerbation of cardiovascular damage. Additionally, oxidative stress disrupts nitric oxide signaling, impairing vasodilation and promoting vasoconstriction, which contributes to vascular complications. This review explores the molecular mechanisms by which oxidative stress contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in T2DM. It also examines the potential of lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and physical activity, in reducing oxidative stress and mitigating cardiovascular risks in this high-risk population. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to improve cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients.
Molecular, Physical, and Technical Performance Response After a Competitive Match in Male Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Modesti Alessandra , Militello Rosamaria , Tanturli Alice , Santi Alice , Gulisano Massimo , Petri Cristian , Pengue Luca , Pellegrino Alessio , Modesti Pietro Amedeo , Luti Simone
Published: January 2025

Background: Male professional soccer players frequently compete in multiple matches weekly, and each match significantly impacts their homeostasis, health, and performance. This study evaluates players response at 48 h post-match by combining biological and GPS data. Investigating biochemical and performance metrics offers insights into the physical demands of high-intensity exercise, essential for optimizing performance, recovery, and overall athlete health. Methods: The study involved an Italian “Serie A” team, and we assessed players’ effort during a single match using GPS data and compared it to “Serie A” averages. Additionally, we evaluated oxidative stress and metabolism 48 h after the match. Results: At 48 h post-match, there were no signs of oxidative stress and changes in salivary IgA levels, but total antioxidant potential was significantly low. Moreover, increased plasma metabolites linked to energy production were also observed. Conclusions: The results indicate that 48 h after a match in “Serie A”, well-trained athletes showed no oxidative stress, to the detriment of the antioxidant potential, along with increased metabolites crucial for energy production. Combining GPS and metabolic analysis enhances player performance, informs tactical decisions, and supports team success, fostering data-driven approaches in soccer.
Recent Advances, Research Trends, and Clinical Relevance of Hyaluronic Acid Applied to Wound Healing and Regeneration
Authors: Huerta-Ángeles Gloria , Mixcoha Edgar
Published: January 2025

Hyaluronan (HA) is a ubiquitous macromolecule in the human body with remarkable structure and function. HA presents a key role in several biological processes in mammals. The synthesis/catabolism of HA is critical in several pathologies and has been used as a marker for the prognosis of cancers. Among its physiological roles, HA is used for wound healing applications. This review reports many of the latest developments of hyaluronan and its derivatives in research, preclinical, and published clinical trials for wound healing. An adequate physico-chemical characterization and identification of selected physico-chemical properties of the prepared material are mandatory. Moreover, cytotoxicity and evaluation of biological effects in vitro using standardized protocols are required as preclinical. Finally, to choose adequate in vivo models for testing efficacy is requested. Unfortunately, the biological role of HA is still not well understood. Therefore, an overview of several HA-based products is provided and discussed. Several ways of HA chemical modification were evaluated. Finally, this review focuses on products containing HA, novel developments, gaps, and limitations of the current state of the art.
Research on the Seismic Response Law of Complete Morphology of Butted Well Salt Cavern for Large-Scale Underground Energy Storage
Authors: Li Haitao , Zheng Dewen , Li Kang , Wanyan Qiqi , Ran Lina , Kou Yanxia , Bai Song , Wu Jianan , Jia Jianchao , Wen Yunfei , Wang Yuanqing , Xing Hongyan , Zhu Kuoyuan , Deng Jingen
Published: January 2025

The conversion of abandoned butted well salt cavities into underground storage facilities holds immense significance for safeguarding energy security and improving the ecological environment. A significant barrier to the reconstruction of these old cavities is the limited comprehension of their complete morphology, caused by residue coverage. The three-dimensional seismic techniques excel in identifying complex geological structures but have a limited understanding of underground old salt cavity morphology, thus the seismic forward simulation method is utilized to study their seismic response patterns. Based on 3D seismic data, well logging data, and measured cavity shape parameters from the Yexian salt mine region in Henan Province, China, a geological model and observation system were established. The seismic response characteristics of the butted well salt cavern model, encompassing five distinct morphological attributes such as cavity spacing, cavity diameter, cavity height, sediment height, and horizontal connection channel height, were thoroughly investigated. The findings show that the cavity roof exhibits a distinctive “two peaks sandwiching a strong valley” feature, with the positions of the valley and roof remaining aligned and serving as a reliable indicator for identifying the cavity’s top surface. The width of the roof waveform exhibits an exponential amplification effect relative to the cavern width. The residue’s top surface presents an “upward-opening arc” wave peak with a downward shift that diminishes as the residue’s height increases. This peak forms a circular feature with the cavity roof reflection waveform, and the residue’s top surface is always located in the upper half of this circular waveform. The horizontal connection channel’s top and bottom surfaces exhibit contrasting reflection patterns, with the top position aligning with the reflection trough and the bottom reflection waveform shifting downward as the channel height increases. The brine cavern, residue, and bottom of the salt cavern mainly exhibit chaotic reflections. There are distinct identification characteristics on the cavity top, residue top, and connecting channel top in forward simulation. The research findings provide valuable guidance for identifying the morphology of the underground real butted well salt cavity based on 3D seismic data and accelerating the construction of underground energy storage facilities.
A K-Dimensional Tree–Iterative Closest Point Algorithm for Overbreak and Underbreak Assessment of Mountain Tunnels
Authors: Han Zhao , Xie Xiongyao , Tang Genji , Li Peifeng , Li Shouren
Published: January 2025

With the increasing scale of mountain tunnel construction, the control of tunnelling quality is becoming a major concern. The efficient and accurate assessment of overbreak and underbreak is vital to the evaluation and optimization of tunnelling quality, but remains a challenge. Thus, this paper proposes an assessment method for overbreak and underbreak based on the K-dimensional (KD) tree and Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm. Firstly, point clouds are acquired using laser scanning during tunnelling and 3D modeling is performed. Secondly, the as-designed 3D models are converted into point clouds and registered with the acquired as-built point clouds using the improved ICP algorithm with KD tree searching. Thirdly, through registration, the deviation between the as-designed and as-built point clouds is calculated, providing an assessment of overbreak and underbreak during tunnelling. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is validated by data from an ultra-long mountain tunnel. Compared with other methods, the merits of the proposed method include the following: (a) detailed and comprehensive data can be acquired efficiently and (b) a promising assessment accuracy (over 90%) can be obtained.
Temporary Pacing Simulator: A Training Tool for Clinicians
Authors: Cretu Ioana , Tindale Alexander , Abbod Maysam , Balachandran Wamadeva , Khir Ashraf W. , Meng Hongying
Published: January 2025

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading global cause of death, impacting nations worldwide. Despite medical advancements, managing patients who require temporary pacing (TP) after cardiac surgery remains challenging. TP devices are essential for stabilizing patients with unstable arrhythmias or post-surgical complications but demand manual adjustments and precise clinician management, unlike permanent pacemakers. There is an urgent need for improved TP training and standardisation, hindered by a lack of formal guidelines and adequate protocols. Existing simulators often omit crucial haemodynamic parameters and complex clinical scenarios, limiting their effectiveness. This paper introduces an advanced Temporary Cardiac Pacing Simulator (TCPS) that provides comprehensive physiological signals and complex scenarios for realistic training. It simulates various pacing modes—atrial, ventricular, and dual-chamber—while modeling pacing failures and haemodynamic changes. Sophisticated algorithms replicate clinical responses, offering real-time feedback and dynamic visualizations to enhance learning. Additionally, an innovative feature optimises atrioventricular (AV) delay settings, crucial for improving patient outcomes in both acute and postoperative care.
Quadrature-Phase-Locked-Loop-Based Back-Electromotive Force Observer for Sensorless Brushless DC Motor Drive Control in Solar-Powered Electric Vehicles
Authors: Saha Biswajit , Sen Aryadip , Singh Bhim , Mahtani Kumar , Sánchez-Fernández José A.
Published: January 2025

This work presents a sensorless brushless DC motor (BLDCM) drive control, optimized for solar photovoltaic (PV)- and battery-fed light electric vehicles (LEVs). A back-electromotive force (EMF) observer integrated with an enhanced quadrature-phase-locked-loop (QPLL) structure is proposed for accurate rotor position estimation, addressing limitations of existing control methods at low speeds and under dynamic conditions. The study replaces the conventional arc-tangent technique with a QPLL-based approach, eliminating low-pass filters to enhance system adaptability and reduce delays. The experimental results demonstrate a significant reduction in commutation error, with a nearly flat value at 0 degrees during steady-state and less than 8 degrees under dynamic conditions. Furthermore, the performance of a modified single-ended primary-inductor converter (SEPIC) for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in solar-powered LEVs is verified, minimizing current ripple and ensuring smooth motor operation. The system also incorporates a regenerative braking mechanism, extending the vehicle’s range by efficiently recovering kinetic energy through the battery with 30.60% efficiency. The improved performance of the proposed method and system over conventional approaches contributes to the advancement of efficient and sustainable solar-powered BLDC motor-based EV technologies.
New Steroid–Alkaloid Bioconjugates as Potential Bioactive Compounds: Synthesis, Spectroscopic and In Silico Study
Authors: Koenig Hanna , Babijczuk Karolina , Ostrowski Kamil , Nowak Damian , Pospieszny Tomasz , Jasiewicz Beata
Published: January 2025

The search for new biologically active compounds with prospective pharmaceutical applications has motivated the investigation of alternative synthesis pathways. One such approach involves the development of compounds with established biological activity as lead compounds. The focus on compounds of natural origin is gaining prominence, with steroids and alkaloids representing notable examples. Our research aimed to synthesize novel steroid–alkaloid bioconjugates with potential biological activity. The structure of all new compounds was determined using spectroscopic methods. The final heats of formation (HOF) for all bioconjugates were also calculated. In silico methods demonstrated that most obtained compounds, especially caffeine derivatives, exhibited potential biological activity. These compounds act as cholesterol antagonists, analeptics, antihypercholesterolemic, and respiratory analeptic compounds. The molecular docking results for the 1HWK and 6RZ4 protein domains indicate that the selected bioconjugates exhibit affinities comparable to or lower than those of atorvastatin (−9.6 kcal/mol), the reference ligand in cholesterol-lowering. Conversely, the affinities of the selected bioconjugates are higher than those of caffeine (−6.2 kcal/mol), which is used as the reference ligand for analeptic drugs.
Theory of Faults (ToF): Numerical Quality Management in Complex Systems
Authors: Yonat Niv , Shohet Igal M.
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this manuscript is to provide general system theory concepts and practical tools for management under complexity. Built environments and infrastructure are produced, operated, and maintained by information systems; they are also integral components of information systems themselves. These systems are self-organized and teleonomic. The complexity inherent in built environments and infrastructure systems poses a challenge to research, hindering forecasting and the implementation of managerial tools. The use of faults, which are complex systems’ responses to penetrating risk, provide us with databases of and windows into complex systems. This manuscript presents an explicatory theory (ToF), develops it mathematically, expands it through numerical experiments, validates it by case studies, and relates it to practice by expert contributions. A statistical analysis provides a phase parameter, descriptive statistics elucidate trending and emergent behaviors, digital signal processing expounds the effects of signals on information overload, and a directed-network analysis portray morphology, entropy, and time effects. The novelty of ToF is in the application of complexity theory to construction to produce data analysis tools and a managerial framework.
A Data-Intelligence-Driven Digital Twin Framework for Improving Sustainability in Logistics
Authors: Abdullahi Ibrahim , Larijani Hadi , Liarokapis Dimitrios , Paterson James , Jones David , Murray Stewart
Published: January 2025

As supply chains evolve toward the adoption of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), vast amounts of data are collected by different systems across the manufacturing, logistics and transportation value chain. John G Russell (Transport) is a UK-based company involved in multiple lines of business in the supply chain. As the company adopts the utilization of data intelligence as a way to collect, process and utilize data for insights, this presents an opportunity for applying artificial intelligence (AI) approaches such as reinforcement learning (RL), to identify trends, and offer recommendations for improving the sustainability and efficiency of its logistics. Preliminary results show that we can achieve up to a 20–30% reduction in carbon emissions from the fleet of a segment of the transport business lines of the Russell Group. This paper presents a holistic framework for achieving sustainable supply chains, reducing costs as well as achieving operational efficiency using a supply chain digital twin.
The Icing Characteristics of Post Insulators in a Natural Icing Environment
Authors: Zhang Zhijin , Tu Jiahui , Zhang Yuanpeng , Jiang Xingliang , Zhu Zhenbing
Published: January 2025

Icing significantly reduces the electrical performance of insulators, and grid failures caused by insulator icing are common. Currently, most research on the flashover characteristics of insulators under icing conditions focuses on artificially iced suspension insulators, with limited studies on post insulators under natural icing conditions. The shed spacing of post insulators is smaller, making them more prone to bridging by icicles in the same icing environment, which exacerbates insulation problems. Therefore, investigating the icing characteristics of post insulators is crucial. In this study, natural icing growth was observed on seven different types of post insulators at the Xuefeng Mountain Energy Equipment Safety National Observation and Research Station. The icing morphology and characteristics of these insulators were examined. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) the icing type and morphology of post insulators are influenced by meteorological conditions, with more severe icing observed on the windward side. (2) The icing mass and icicle length of the insulator increase nonlinearly with icing time. Specifically, during the glaze icing period from 0 to 8 h, the ice mass on the Type V composite post insulator was 3.89 times greater than that during the 13-to-18 h period. (3) Within the same icing cycle, the icing growth rate on composite post insulators is faster than on porcelain post insulators. (4) Compared to suspension insulators, the sheds of post insulators are more easily bridged by icicles. Notably, when the sheds of post insulators are bridged by icicles, the length of icicles on suspension insulators is only half of the gap size.
Atmospheric Black Carbon Evaluation in Two Sites of San Luis Potosí City During the Years 2018–2020
Authors: Barrera Valter , Guerrero Cristian , Galindo Guadalupe , Salcedo Dara , Ruiz Andrés , Contreras Carlos
Published: January 2025

Nevertheless, there is a lot to know about air pollutants in Mexico’s largest cities, like San Luis Potosi City, which is one of the 12 most crowded cities and is expected to grow in the next years; however, there is little information about air pollutant levels mainly particulate matter in their regulated size fractions (PM10 or PM2.5), and its main component of the Organic fraction: Black Carbon (BC), which is especially important because of its chemical properties and their effects on human health, air pollution, and climate change. This work presents a one-year BC monitoring in the northern part of the city (2018–2019) and another one-year BC monitoring in the southern area (2019–2020) during the health contingency situation due to the SARX-CoV-2 virus to obtain direct equivalent black carbon (eBC) concentrations and their main fractions related to fossil fuel and biomass burning using aethalometer AE-33, as well as other air pollutants concentrations measured at the same periods by the governmental local monitoring network (SEGAM). At the North, BC mass annual average concentration was (1.11 µg m−3), divided into seasonal stations, the cold season was the highest with (1.44 µg m−3), followed by the dry season (1.23 µg m−3), rainy season (0.94 µg m−3) and finally warm dry season (0.83 µg m−3). In the south, BC annual average concentration was (1.96 µg m−3); divided into seasons, the highest was the dry season with (2.73 µg m−3), followed by the cold season (2.37 µg m−3), dry warm season (1.61 µg m−3) and the rainy season (1.28 µg m−3). One of the main findings was the dominance of annual mean concentrations of BC originating from fossil fuels (BCff) on the north site in the city was 0.97 and on the south site (BCff) was 0.91 due to some forest fires during the monitoring period. This study presented information from two zones of a growing city in Mexico to generate new air pollutant indicators to have a better understanding of pollutant interactions in the city, to decrease the emission precursor sources, and reduce the health risks in the population.
Effects of Climate Change on Malaria Risk to Human Health: A Review
Authors: Megersa Dereba Muleta , Luo Xiao-San
Published: January 2025

Malaria, a severe vector-borne disease, affects billions of people globally and claims over half a million lives annually. Climate change can impact lifespan and the development of vectors. There is a gap in organized, multidisciplined research on climate change’s impact on malaria incidence and transmission. This review assesses and summarizes research on the effects of change in climate on human health, specifically on malaria. Results suggest that higher temperatures accelerate larval development, promote reproduction, enhance blood feed frequency, increase digestion, shorten vector life cycles, and lower mortality rates. Rainfall provides aquatic stages, extends mosquitoes’ lifespans, and increases cases. Mosquito activity increases with high humidity, which facilitates malaria transmission. Flooding can lead to increased inhabitation development, vector population growth, and habitat diversion, increasing breeding sites and the number of cases. Droughts can increase vector range by creating new breeding grounds. Strong storms wash Anopheles’ eggs and reproduction habitat. It limits reproduction and affects disease outbreaks. The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) indirectly alter malaria transmission. The study recommends strengthening collaboration between policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to reduce malaria risks. It also suggests strengthening control mechanisms and improved early warnings.