bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Health-Related Quality of Life in Hyperlipidemic Adults in the United States
Authors: Alwhaibi Monira
Published: January 2025

Background: Mental health issues can significantly affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of adults suffering from hyperlipidemia. Therefore, in this study, the aim was to examine how depression and anxiety are related to the HRQoL of adults with hyperlipidemia. Methods: Data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey for 2016 through 2022 were used to identify adult patients diagnosed with hyperlipidemia aged 18 or older. The RAND-12 Physical and Mental Component Summary (PCS and MCS) was used to determine HRQoL. After considering variables such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and comorbidities, linear regression was used to investigate the relationship between anxiety, depression, and HRQoL in individuals with hyperlipidemia. Results: A sample of 7984 adults with hyperlipidemia was identified; 9.0% experienced depression, 10.2% had anxiety, and 6.8% had both disorders. The HRQoL mean scores were lowest for adults with depression and anxiety compared to those with hyperlipidemia only. Results from the adjusted linear regression analysis revealed that hyperlipidemia patients with depression (MCS: β = −5.535, p-value < 0.0001), anxiety (MCS: β = −4.406, p-value < 0.0001), and both depression and anxiety (MCS: β = −8.730, p-value < 0.0001) had a significantly lower HRQoL compared to patients with hyperlipidemia only. However, in this study, it was also found that those who were physically active and employed had notably higher scores on the PCS and MCS than those who were not. Conclusions: The links between anxiety, depression, and lower HRQoL in patients with hyperlipidemia are clarified in this nationally representative study. This research also revealed the adverse effects of coexisting chronic conditions on HRQoL while emphasizing the benefits of employment and regular exercise. Importantly, these findings provide a compelling case for enhancing healthcare planning, allocating resources, and promoting lifestyle changes in adults with hyperlipidemia, underlining the importance of addressing mental health issues in this population.
Comparative Assessment of CMR-Determined Extracellular Volume Metrics in Predicting Adverse Outcomes
Authors: Mascherbauer Katharina , Kronberger Christina , Donà Carolina , Koschutnik Matthias , Dannenberg Varius , Poledniczek Michael , Lunzer Laura , Nitsche Christian , Duca Franz , Heitzinger Gregor , Halavina Kseniya , Beitzke Dietrich , Loewe Christian , Waldmann Elisabeth , Bartko Philipp E. , Mascherbauer Julia , Hengstenberg Christian , Kammerlander Andreas A.
Published: January 2025

Background: Extracellular volume (ECV) by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is associated with disease burden and clinical outcomes. Recent studies in patients with valvular heart disease (VHD) have suggested that the indexed total ECV (iECV) = ECVx(LVmass/1.05)/body surface area may supersede ECV in terms of prognostication. In this study, we aimed to compare the prognostic capability of conventional ECV and iECV in an all-comer CMR cohort. Methods: From January 2012 to 2023, ECV and iECV were measured in consecutive CMR patients. Adverse outcomes were defined as a composite of hospitalization for heart failure (HF) and/or death. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography within 3 weeks of CMR. Results: Overall, 1525 patients (44% female, mean age 65 ± 18 years) were included. The mean ECV was 29 ± 9% and the mean iECV was 21 ± 13 mL/m2. During 52 ± 36 months of follow-up, 414 (27%) events occurred. Both ECV (HR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.04–1.05, p < 0.001) and iECV (HR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.02–1.03, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with outcomes. Having been stratified for ECV and iECV tertiles, Kaplan-Meier analyses showed a significant association with event-free survival for both parameters (log-rank, p < 0.001 for both; central illustration). Regarding multivariate analysis, adjusted for age, sex, left ventricular function, and NT-proBNP, both ECV and iECV remained independently associated with the composite endpoint (ECV: HR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.20–1.44, p < 0.001; iECV: HR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.06–1.29, p = 0.002). In addition, ECV was significantly associated with aortic valve velocity (p < 0.001) pertaining to echocardiography, whereas iECV did not show an association (p = 0.41). Conclusions: Both conventional ECV and iECV provided profound prognostic information regarding the risk of HF hospitalizations and death. However, iECV, which is more complex to determine, did not add value.
Autologous and Heterologous Minor and Major Bone Regeneration with Platelet-Derived Growth Factors
Authors: Dipalma Gianna , Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Colonna Valeria , Marotti Pierluigi , Carone Claudio , Ferrante Laura , Inchingolo Francesco , Palermo Andrea , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo
Published: January 2025

Aim: This review aims to explore the clinical applications, biological mechanisms, and potential benefits of concentrated growth factors (CGFs), autologous materials, and xenografts in bone regeneration, particularly in dental treatments such as alveolar ridge preservation, mandibular osteonecrosis, and peri-implantitis. Materials and Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted using databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, with keywords such as “bone regeneration” and “CGF” from 2014 to 2024. Only English-language clinical studies involving human subjects were included. A total of 10 studies were selected for qualitative analysis. Data were processed through multiple stages, including title and abstract screening and full-text evaluation. Conclusion: The findings of the reviewed studies underscore the potential of the CGF in enhancing bone regeneration through stimulating cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix mineralization. Autologous materials have also demonstrated promising results due to their biocompatibility and capacity for seamless integration with natural bone tissue. When combined with xenografts, these materials show synergistic effects in improving bone quantity and quality, which are crucial for dental implant success. Future research should focus on direct comparisons of different techniques, the optimization of protocols, and broader applications beyond dental medicine. The integration of CGFs and autologous materials into routine clinical practice represents a significant advancement in regenerative dental medicine, with the potential for improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Dermoscopy and Ultraviolet-Enhanced Fluorescence Dermoscopy (UEFD) Increase the Accuracy of Diagnosis and Are Useful in Assessing the Effectiveness of Kerion celsi Treatment
Authors: Putek Justyna , Nowicka Danuta , Jankowska-Konsur Alina
Published: January 2025

Microsporum canis, a zoophilic dermatophyte, infects the stratum corneum and keratinized tissues like hair and nails in cats and dogs, with cats serving as the primary reservoir. Most human infections arise from animal contact. We present the case of a girl aged 8 with skin scalp lesions persisting for two months. Several scalp lesions, with a maximum diameter of 4 cm, presented as erythematous plaques with superficial scaling, yellow crusts, and edematous areas with purulent exudate. Dermoscopy revealed yellow crusts on an erythematous background, along with white scales, pustules, broken hairs, and comma hairs. Ultraviolent-enhanced fluorescence dermoscopy (UEFD) showed slight celadon green fluorescence, which enhanced the diagnosis and further helped to monitor the treatment. The PCR test confirmed the presence of M. canis. Treatment included topical ciclopirox and oral terbinafine. Lesions on the scalp and noticeable hair regrowth were observed in the areas of hair loss after two months. Kerion celsi can result in severe alopecia. To prevent scarring associated with hair loss in children, early mycological diagnostics, supported by dermoscopy and UEFD, is recommended.
Credit Card Default Prediction: An Empirical Analysis on Predictive Performance Using Statistical and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Bhandary Rakshith , Ghosh Bidyut Kumar
Published: January 2025

This article compares the predictive capabilities of six models, namely, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), XGBoost, random forest (RF), and deep neural network (DNN), to predict the default behavior of credit card holders in Taiwan using data from the UCI machine learning database. The Python programming language was used for data analysis. Statistical methods were compared with machine learning algorithms using the confusion matrix measured in metric terms of prediction accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, G-mean, F1 score, ROC, and AUC. The dataset contained 30,000 credit card users’ information, with 6636 default observations and 23,364 nondefault cases. The study results found that modern machine learning methods outperformed traditional statistical methods in terms of predictive performance measured by the F1 score, G-mean, and AUC. Traditional methods like logistic regression were marginally better than linear discriminant analysis and support vector machines in terms of the predictive performance measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. In the modern machine learning methods, deep neural network was better in the predictive performance metrics when compared with XGBoost and random forest methods.
Contextual Factors Associated with Fecal Glucocorticoid Metabolites in Juvenile Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) and a Cohabitating Juvenile Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) at the Detroit Zoo
Authors: Bovee Emily , Madry Tevon , Gartland Kylen N. , Fuller Grace
Published: January 2025

Fecal glucocorticoid metabolites have been used to evaluate responses to stressors in captive adult polar (Ursus maritimus) and grizzly (Ursus arctos horribilis) bears. However, there is a lack of physiological information on juvenile bears in captivity that could help expand the current understanding of their development and welfare. To address these questions, we tracked fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs) and behavior for 15 months in two polar bear cubs born at the Detroit Zoo, one who was mother-reared (Astra) and one who was hand-reared (Laerke), and one rescued grizzly bear cub (Jeb) reared at the Zoo. To allow access to a social partner during key developmental stages, Laerke and Jeb were housed together for eight months. Daily opportunistic samples were analyzed for fecal cortisol metabolites using an enzyme immunoassay and compared against behavior, social proximity, and environmental data gathered from 15 min focal observations. Based on a combination of generalized linear mixed models and Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis tests, we found no significant variation in mean FGMs between Astra and Laerke, but both had significantly different mean FGMs compared to Jeb. We found that Laerke had higher FGM concentrations when she spent more time engaged in all-occurrence social negative behaviors and lower FGMs when engaged in social positive behaviors. For Jeb, FGMs were lower when in social proximity and higher following separation from Laerke. These data provide novel insights into the physiological states of juvenile bears during key stages and contribute to the growing body of information on polar and grizzly bear development.
Research on the Spatial Network Connection Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Chengdu–Chongqing Urban Agglomeration from the Perspective of Flow Space
Authors: Hao Yangguang , Shen Zhongwei , Ma Jiexi , Li Jiawei , Yang Mengqian
Published: January 2025

Urban Agglomerations (UAs), as the primary form of China’s new urbanization and an essential spatial unit for promoting coordinated regional development, play a crucial role in measuring the sustainable and healthy development of urban clusters through the assessment of spatial network connections among cities within the UAs. Taking the 16 prefecture-level cities of the Chengdu-Chongqing Urban Agglomeration (CCUA) as the research subject, this study constructs six types of element flow networks, including population flow, logistics, and information flow. Employing network visualization analysis, the Self-Organizing Maps (SOM) neural network machine learning models, and Quadratic Assignment Procedure (QAP) relational regression models, the research analyzes the spatial network characteristics of the CCUA from the perspective of multi-dimensional element flows and explores the influencing factors of the UA’s connectivity pattern. The results indicate that: The various element flows within the CCUA exhibit a bipolar spatial network characteristic with Chengdu and Chongqing as the poles. In the element network grouping features, a multi-centered group differentiation structure is presented, and the intensity of internal element flow varies. Based on the results of the SOM neural network machine learning model, the connectivity capabilities of cities within the CCUA are divided into five levels. Among them, Chengdu and Chongqing have the strongest comprehensive connectivity capabilities, showing a significant difference compared to other cities, and there is an imbalance in the connectivity capabilities between cities. In terms of the influencing factors of the urban connectivity pattern within the CCUA, the differences in permanent population size and urbanization rates have a significant negative impact on the information flow network, technology flow network, and capital flow network. The differences in the secondary industrial structure and public budget expenditures have a significant positive impact on the intensity of inter-city element flows, and the differences in per capita consumption expenditures have a significant negative impact, collectively influencing the formation of the spatial connectivity pattern of the CCUA. The findings of this study can provide a scientific basis for the construction and optimization of the spatial connectivity pattern of the CCUA.
Empirical Study on Emotional Perception and Restorative Effects of Suzhou Garden Landscapes: Text Mining and Statistical Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Wang Xiaomeng , Jiang Mu
Published: January 2025

Suzhou classical gardens, as a unique form of urban green space in China, not only embody rich historical and cultural heritage but also showcase distinctive natural landscapes, exerting a profound impact on modern mental health. This study employs text mining and content analysis methods to qualitatively explore online comments about Suzhou Gardens, which were collected using the Octopus Collector program to mine public reviews from the travel review platform Ctrip. These online reviews were further combined with questionnaire survey data to quantitatively analyze public preferences among different gardens and their restorative experience characteristics. We utilized the ROST CM6 software for high-frequency word extraction, semantic network analysis, and sentiment analysis to reveal the emotional perceptions of the public towards these gardens. The sentiment analysis results indicate that a majority of online comments express positive emotions, frequently mentioning words such as “tranquil”, “quiet”, and “serene”, highlighting the significant psychological comfort these spaces provide. Additionally, through one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation analysis, we found significant differences in emotional and cognitive dimensions among different gardens, which are closely related to specific spatial factors such as landscape element diversity, visual scale, and types of greenery. These findings suggest that the spatial characteristics of Suzhou Gardens play a crucial role in shaping visitors’ emotional responses. Based on these insights, we proposed a series of design recommendations aimed at enhancing the overall image and healing functions of Suzhou Gardens. The findings of this study not only enrich the theoretical framework of healing landscape design but also provide valuable insights for the practical application of these principles in modern urban green space design. The research underscores the importance of combining functionality with aesthetic elements to meet the psychological needs of contemporary society.
Bridging the Gap: Misaligned Perceptions of Urban Agriculture and Health Between Planning and Design Experts and Urban Farmers in Greater Lomé, Togo
Authors: Konou Akuto Akpedze , Zinsou-Klassou Kossiwa , De Roulet Pablo Txomin Harpo , Kemajou Mbianda Armel Firmin , Chenal Jérôme
Published: January 2025

Urban agriculture (UA) is a longstanding practice in African cities, characterized by some distinctive features. In particular, the amount of land devoted to UA in these cities exceeds that used in Western countries, presenting challenges in areas such as land tenure. Beyond land tenure, UA also intersects with significant health concerns, as it contributes to food security, nutrition, and urban environmental health. However, the literature highlights a gap: urban planners in Africa often show limited interest in the connection between UA and health, despite its significance. This article addresses this gap by bringing together perspectives from architects, urban planners, geographers, economists, and sociologists to explore the links between human health and UA. The experts’ points of view are contrasted with ideas drawn from surveys of urban farmers in Greater Lomé, Togo, and official urban planning documents. Methodologically, 11 experts were selected in Greater Lomé and interviewed virtually via Zoom 5.6.6, and their audio files were anonymized, transcribed, and manually coded. According to the experts, the impacts of UA practices on human health and the built environment in Greater Lomé are mixed. This study’s key findings reveal that urban farmers identify a variety of challenges, including health-related difficulties, while experts tend to assume different health concerns, highlighting a disconnect between the two perspectives. The authors recommend developing joint planning guides in collaboration with experts from various fields in the cities concerned, in order to recognize local knowledge and integrate the perspectives of urban farmers into UA policies.
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Ecosystem-Scale CO2 Flux Measurements
Authors: Uyekawa Jeffrey , Leland John , Bergl Darby , Liu Yujie , Richardson Andrew D. , Lucas Benjamin
Published: January 2025

AmeriFlux is a network of hundreds of sites across the contiguous United States providing tower-based ecosystem-scale carbon dioxide flux measurements at 30 min temporal resolution. While geographically wide-ranging, over its existence the network has suffered from multiple issues including towers regularly ceasing operation for extended periods and a lack of standardization of measurements between sites. In this study, we use machine learning algorithms to predict CO2 flux measurements at NEON sites (a subset of Ameriflux sites), creating a model to gap-fill measurements when sites are down or replace measurements when they are incorrect. Machine learning algorithms also have the ability to generalize to new sites, potentially even those without a flux tower. We compared the performance of seven machine learning algorithms using 35 environmental drivers and site-specific variables as predictors. We found that Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) consistently produced the most accurate predictions (Root Mean Squared Error of 1.81 μmolm−2s−1, R2 of 0.86). The model showed excellent performance testing on sites that are ecologically similar to other sites (the Mid Atlantic, New England, and the Rocky Mountains), but poorer performance at sites with fewer ecological similarities to other sites in the data (Pacific Northwest, Florida, and Puerto Rico). The results show strong potential for machine learning-based models to make more skillful predictions than state-of-the-art process-based models, being able to estimate the multi-year mean carbon balance to within an error ±50 gCm−2y−1 for 29 of our 44 test sites. These results have significant implications for being able to accurately predict the carbon flux or gap-fill an extended outage at any AmeriFlux site, and for being able to quantify carbon flux in support of natural climate solutions.
Study on the Effect of CeO2 on the Performance of WC + Ni60 Laser Cladding Coating
Authors: Wu Jingquan , Zhang Jianwen , Chen Dianlong , Huang Jiang , Shi Wenqing , An Fenju , Wu Xianglin
Published: January 2025

The aim of this investigation was to examine how CeO2 powder influences the performance of WC + Ni60 composite powder. Various cladding layers of WC + Ni60, incorporating differing mass fractions of CeO2, were created on the surface of Q235 steel utilizing laser cladding technology. To analyze the microscopic structure of the resulting cladding layer, scanning electron microscopy was employed. Additionally, the abrasion and corrosion resistance properties were assessed through experimentation with a pin-and-disc friction and wear tester and an electrochemical workstation, respectively. The results of the study showed that when the mass fraction of CeO2 was 1%, the grain on the surface of the coating was refined, the carbide formation was reduced, and the uniformity of the cladding layer was the best. In terms of corrosion resistance, the coating with 1% CeO2 had a self-corrosion potential of 0.07 V and a self-corrosion current density of 1.82 × 10−5 A·cm−2, showing the best corrosion resistance, and the coating self-corrosion potential was higher than that of the coating and substrate without CeO2. In terms of abrasion resistance, coatings with 1% CeO2 had a lower coefficient of friction (0.47) and a smaller wear rate 0.034 mm3, and the wear amount was only 23.5% of that of coatings without CeO2, resulting in the best wear resistance. In conclusion, coatings containing 1% CeO2 exhibit the minimal coefficient of friction and the lowest wear rates, while simultaneously providing optimal corrosion resistance.
Study on the Influence of Bionic Structure on the Sealing Performance of Centrifugal Pump Sealing Ring
Authors: Cai Ye , Xie Zhengpu , Yang Feixiang , Yan Muhan , Mou Chengqi , Huang Zhangcheng , Jin Yuxin , Mou Jiegang , Gu Yunqing
Published: January 2025

In order to improve the sealing performance of a sealing ring in order to improve the efficiency of the centrifugal pump, based on the bionics principle, a calculation model for the bionic groove surface sealing ring structure of the centrifugal pump is established, based on the Realizable k-ε turbulence model. The external characteristics, internal flow field distribution and leakage characteristics of centrifugal pumps with different bionic groove surface structures and groove diameters are analyzed, and the influence of bionic surface structure on the sealing performance of the centrifugal pump sealing ring is studied. The results show that the bionic groove structure has a certain promoting effect on the external characteristics of the pump; a sealing ring with a circular groove structure can improve the efficiency, greatly reduce the leakage, and has better sealing performance, which are important influences on the performance and stability of the centrifugal pump. Among the three different diameters of the circular groove, the optimal groove diameter of the surface structure is 0.2 mm, where leakage is the least, volume efficiency is the largest, and sealing performance is the best.
Alkali-Activated Mineral Residues in Construction: Case Studies on Bauxite Residue and Steel Slag Pavement Tiles
Authors: Kriskova Lubica , Ducman Vilma , Loncnar Mojca , Tesovnik Anže , Žibret Gorazd , Skentzou Dimitra , Georgopoulos Christos
Published: January 2025

This research aimed to investigate the potential of using alkali activation technology to valorize steel slag and bauxite residue for the production of high-performance pavement blocks. By utilizing these industrial by-products, the study seeks to reduce their environmental impact and support the development of sustainable construction materials. Lab-scale testing showed that bauxite pavers showed a decrease in mechanical strength with increasing replacement of ordinary Portland cement. Partial replacement up to 20% still exceeded 30 MPa in compressive strength. Steel slag-based pavers achieved the 30 MPa threshold required for the application with selected mix designs. Pilot-scale production-optimized formulations and standards testing, including freeze–thaw resistance, confirmed the technical viability of these products. Life cycle analysis indicated a 25–27% reduction in CO2 emissions for slag-based tiles compared to traditional concrete tiles. Moreover, using industrial residue reduced mineral resource depletion. This study examined the properties of the resulting alkali-activated binders, their ecological benefits, and their performance compared to conventional materials. Through a comprehensive analysis of these applications, our research promotes the circular economy and the advancement of sustainable construction products.
Computational Fluid Dynamics as a Digital Tool for Enhancing Safety Uptake in Advanced Manufacturing Environments Within a Safe-by-Design Strategy
Authors: Voultsou Dionysia Maria , Saliakas Stratos , Damilos Spyridon , Koumoulos Elias P.
Published: January 2025

In modern manufacturing environments, pollution management is critical as exposure to harmful substances can cause serious health issues. This study presents a two-stage computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model to estimate the distribution of pollutants in indoor production spaces. In the first stage, the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) method was used to simulate airflow and temperature. In the second stage, the Lagrangian method was applied for particle tracing. The model was applied to a theoretical acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filament 3D printing process to evaluate the factors affecting the distribution of ultrafine particles (30 nm). Key parameters such as ventilation system effects, the presence of cooling fans and the print bed, and nozzle temperatures were considered. The results show that the highest flow velocities (1.97 × 10−6 m/s to 3.38 m/s) occur near the ventilation system’s inlet and outlet, accompanied by regions of high turbulent kinetic energy (0.66 m2/s2). These conditions promote dynamic airflow, facilitating particulate removal by reducing stagnant zones prone to pollutant buildup. The effect of cooling fans and thermal sources was investigated, showing limited contribution on particle removal. These findings emphasize the importance of digital twins for better worker safety and air quality in 3D printing environments.
An Approach of Manufacturing High-Molecular-Weight CNT-Filled Epoxy Composite
Authors: Acha Florence , Scheff Talya , Diaz Armas Nathalia , Mead Joey , Johnston Stephen , Zhang Jinde
Published: January 2025

Epoxy nanocomposites are widely used in various applications because of their excellent properties. Different types of manufacturing techniques are used to produce epoxy composites based on various fillers, molecular weight, and applications required. The physical properties and chemical structure of epoxy resin help in determining the method for its manufacturing. Coatings and adhesive formulations are prepared using high- molecular-weight epoxies, whereas epoxy nanocomposites require low-molecular-weight epoxies due to ease of manufacturing. A low-molecular-weight epoxy can provide high crosslink density to the epoxy but may also cause inherent brittleness in epoxy nanocomposites. Further, the addition of CNTs may also cause more brittleness in the final product. In this work, the authors have developed a method to process composites based on high-molecular-weight epoxy reinforced with high loading of CNTs (15 wt.%). The high molecular weight will bring lots of challenges during manufacturing. In this paper, a novel manufacturing technique based on separate molding and curing conditions to produce highly concentrated CNT-filled epoxy with high-molecular-weight epoxy resin is described, achieving excellent mechanical properties, good toughness, and high electrical conductivity in an efficient, low-cost, environmentally friendly, and high-volume way. The findings demonstrated improvements in these mechanical properties compared to conventional systems. They also highlight the potential of the novel method to develop advanced composite materials which can revolutionize industrial sectors such as aerospace, automotives, and electronics where structural integrity and thermal stability are important.
Stability and Rheological Properties of the Novel Silica-Based Organogel—A Drug Carrier with High Solubilization Potential
Authors: Suwiński Grzegorz , Nowak Izabela
Published: January 2025

Dissolution of a poorly soluble active pharmacological substance in a drug carrier usually requires advanced techniques and production equipment. The use of novel carriers such as microemulsions, vesicles, or nanocarriers might entail various limitations concerning production cost, formulation stability, or active substance capacity. In this paper, we present a novel fumed silica-based organogel as a low-cost, simple preparation drug or cosmetic carrier with interesting rheological properties and high solubilization capacity. The objective of the study was to characterize the utility aspects of the new dermatological base with special emphasis on stability, rheology, and release studies. Various formulations of a silica organogel base with poorly soluble active pharmacological substances such as propolis or ibuprofen were prepared and tested. The studies of thermal stress, enforced syneresis, and long-term stability were performed along with analyses of rheological profiles of alkali-dependent sol–gel transformation and organogel release. The new drug vehicle shows high thermodynamic stability, thixotropic rheology and first-order release profile. Such properties are promising for commercial utility as a dermatologically applied base for poorly soluble substances.
Analysis of Porosity–Water/Binder Index for Prediction of Strength and Stiffness of Cemented Sands: A Comparative Study
Authors: Vergara Jesús Alberto Alcalá , López Luis Carlos Suárez , de la Rosa Yamid E. Nuñez , Calabokis Oriana Palma , Baldovino Jair de Jesús Arrieta
Published: January 2025

Artificial sand cementation improves stability, stiffness, and mechanical strength, making it a critical process in geotechnical applications. This study analyzes the capability of the porosity–water/binding agent index (ηCw/Biv) to predict cemented sands’ unconfined compressive strength (qu) and stiffness (Go). Four Colombian sands, i.e., Luruaco, Medellín, Lorica, and Bogotá (stabilized with Portland cement), and were compared with three Brazilian sands: i.e., Osorio, Porto Alegre, and Rio Pardo were evaluated, stabilized with combinations of carbide lime and glass powder, using varying binder contents and a curing period of seven days subjected to ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) tests and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests. The results indicate that incorporating water content into the index significantly enhances predictive accuracy, achieving R2 values above 0.94 for Colombian sands and considerably better fits for Brazilian sands than the traditional porosity/binder index. This new alternative provides an appropriate parameter for representing the small-strain stiffness and unconfined compressive strength of artificially cemented sands stabilized with various types of binders. Furthermore, the new index proved to be more effective in predicting the behavior of uniform and loose-graded sands, such as those from Bogotá and Lorica, which rely more heavily on binder volume and water content to achieve greater strength and stiffness. Lastly, the predictive model, validated against experimental results, achieved reliability indices (R2) of 0.9791 for stiffness and 0.9799 for strength prediction.
Equation for Calculation of Critical Current Density Using the Bean’s Model with Self-Consistent Magnetic Units to Prevent Unit Conversion Errors
Authors: Polichetti Massimiliano , Galluzzi Armando , Kumar Rohit , Goyal Amit
Published: January 2025

This study analyzes the calculation of the critical current density Jc,mag by means of Bean’s critical state model, using the equation formulated by Gyorgy et al. and other similar equations derived from it reported in the literature. While estimations of Jc,mag using Bean’s model are widely performed, improper use of different equations with different magnetic units and pre-factors leads to confusion and to significant errors in the reported values of Jc,mag. In this work, a SINGLE general equation is proposed for the calculation of Jc,mag for a rectangular parallelepiped sample in perpendicular field using Bean’s critical state model, underlying how the simple conversion of magnetic units can lead to a Jc,mag in the desired units, without the need to introduce any other correction or use other specific equations depending on the units of Jc,mag. In this equation, the numerical pre-factor is dimensionless, independent of the unit system used. A comparison between the expression reported in the literature is done, showing how they can lead to different results depending on the used units, and that these results can be at least one order of magnitude different from the correct results obtained with the general equation proposed in this work. This resolves all ambiguities and aligns with the correct dimensional analysis, eliminates discrepancies in the calculated Jc,mag, and will avoid further propagation of errors in the literature.
State of the Art in Automated Operational Modal Identification: Algorithms, Applications, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Mostafaei Hasan , Ghamami Mahdi
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive review of automated modal identification techniques, focusing on various established and emerging methods, particularly Stochastic Subspace Identification (SSI). Automated modal identification plays a crucial role in structural health monitoring (SHM) by extracting key modal parameters such as natural frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes from vibration data. To address the limitations of traditional manual methods, several approaches have been developed to automate this process. Among these, SSI stands out as one of the most effective time-domain methods due to its robustness in handling noisy environments and closely spaced modes. This review examines SSI-based algorithms, covering essential components such as system identification, noise mode elimination, stabilization diagram interpretation, and clustering techniques for mode identification. Advanced SSI implementations that incorporate real-time recursive estimation, adaptive stabilization criteria, and automated mode selection are also discussed. Additionally, the review covers frequency-domain methods like Frequency Domain Decomposition (FDD) and Enhanced Frequency Domain Decomposition (EFDD), highlighting their application in spectral analysis and modal parameter extraction. Techniques based on machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and artificial intelligence (AI) are explored for their ability to automate feature extraction, classification, and decision making in large-scale SHM systems. This review concludes by highlighting the current challenges, such as computational demands and data management, and proposing future directions for research in automated modal analysis to support resilient, sustainable infrastructure.
Multi-Sided Delayed Impulsive Feedback Method for Controlling Chaos and Reducing Loss Ratio in Switched Arrival System with Switching Time Greater than 0
Authors: Chen Ming , Zhu Xueshuai
Published: January 2025

The switched arrival system is a typical hybrid system that is commonly used to simulate industrial control systems. The corresponding mathematical model and switching time are described. In order to be closer to the actual industrial control systems, the switching time is changed from 0 to greater than 0. In this case, the system not only generates chaos but also system losses. For this purpose, firstly, the causes of system losses are analyzed. Secondly, the Poincare section is selected to define the control target—periodic orbits. And then, the delayed impulsive feedback method is improved for the system at a switching time greater than 0, and extended to each boundary in order to enhance the control effect. This not only controls chaos in the system but also reduces the loss ratio and detects periodic orbits. Finally, numerical simulations of the system orbits and loss ratio with and without implementing control are compared. The possible intervals for the optimal control coefficient under the same initial conditions are detected. Period-1 orbits are detected at switching times greater than 0, and the stability of system operation is verified.
Analytical Solution for Steady-State Seepage Field of Foundation Pit During Water Curtain Leakage
Authors: Yu Jun , Zhang Weijie , Li Dongkai
Published: January 2025

In recent years, with the increasing difficulty of foundation pit projects, the frequency of leakage accidents has also increased. In order to ensure that the excavation of foundation pits is carried out smoothly, water-stop curtains are generally used to protect the foundation pit. Once leakage occurs in the water-stop curtain, it will inevitably delay the schedule, cause significant harm, and even jeopardize life. Therefore, this paper analyses and investigates the two-steady-state seepage field of the foundation pit when the permeable anisotropic soil layer suspends the leakage of the water curtain. To calculate head distribution solutions, the soil layer surrounding the curtain was divided into five regular regions, and the superposition method and method of separating variables were used. These results were then combined with the continuity conditions between the regions to obtain the explicit analytical solutions of the seepage flow field around the pit. Calculations were compared using finite element software and other references, and the results were in good agreement, verifying the correctness of the analytical solution. Parameter analysis showed that the location and width of vertical leakage cracks have limited influence on the head distribution of the foundation pit and water pressure around the water curtain, but significant influence on the seepage flow at the leakage location.
Mitochondrial Ribosomal Proteins and Cancer
Authors: Wu Huiyi , Zhu Xiaowei , Zhou Huilin , Sha Min , Ye Jun , Yu Hong
Published: January 2025

Mitochondria play key roles in maintaining cell life and cell function, and their dysfunction can lead to cell damage. Mitochondrial ribosomal proteins (MRPs) are encoded by nuclear genes and are assembled within the mitochondria. MRPs are pivotal components of the mitochondrial ribosomes, which are responsible for translating 13 mitochondrial DNA-encoded proteins essential for the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Recent studies have underscored the importance of MRPs in cancer biology, revealing their altered expression patterns in various types of cancer and their potential as both prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Herein, we review the current knowledge regarding the multiple functions of MRPs in maintaining the structure of the mitochondrial ribosome and apoptosis, their implications for cancer susceptibility and progression, and the innovative strategies being developed to target MRPs and mitoribosome biogenesis in cancer therapy. This comprehensive overview aims to provide insights into the role of MRPs in cancer biology and highlight promising strategies for future precision oncology.
Reducing Hospital Readmissions in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients: Current Treatments and Preventive Strategies
Authors: Di Chiara Claudia , Sartori Giulia , Fantin Alberto , Castaldo Nadia , Crisafulli Ernesto
Published: January 2025

COPD is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, so it represents a significant public health challenge. Over the years, new effective therapies have been proposed. However, the burden of COPD is still conditioned by frequent acute events defined as exacerbations (exacerbation of COPD-ECOPD), which have a significant impact not only on the patient’s quality of life but also on the progression of the disease, morbidity, and mortality. Related to the severity of the condition, ECOPD may require hospital admission and often repeatedly more admissions (readmission). The phenomenon of readmissions is a significant problem, contributing substantially to the utilisation of healthcare resources and the economic burden of COPD. Related contributing factors are still poorly understood, and managing the patients readmitted to the hospital with ECOPD may be challenging. Hospital readmissions should be optimally managed, including supporting and preventive strategies. Although early readmissions (30 days from discharge) are a marker of the quality of the patient’s care, we need to consider COPD patients globally. It is not sufficient to address just the acute events, so multidimensional management is necessary, able to follow the patient over time to identify, by a personalised approach, the correct treatment during and post hospitalisation and intercept any factor affecting the natural history of the disease, comprising the risk of hospital readmissions. In the context of the literature concerning respiratory medicine, particularly COPD patients, our narrative review analyses recent evidence regarding the current management of COPD hospital readmissions, aiming to propose preventive strategies helpful in clinical practice. The proposed strategies can potentially improve clinical outcomes and reduce healthcare costs when effectively implemented in practice.
Circular Economy Applied to Sludge Minimization: The STAR Project
Authors: Collivignarelli Maria Cristina , Bellazzi Stefano , Abbà Alessandro
Published: January 2025

The management of biological sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) poses a significant environmental challenge due to increasing sludge production and the presence of emerging pollutants. This study investigates an innovative solution by integrating a thermophilic aerobic membrane reactor (TAMR) into the sludge treatment line of a medium-size WWTP, aiming to minimize biological sludge output while enhancing resource recovery. The study involved a six-month monitoring of an industrial-scale TAMR system, assessing the reduction in volatile solids (VSs) in thickened sludge and evaluating the compatibility of TAMR residues with conventional activated sludge (CAS) systems. The TAMR unit, which achieved up to a 90% reduction in VSs, was combined with traditional CAS processes, forming the STAR (Sludge Treatment and Advanced Recycling) configuration. This configuration reduced sludge output to just 10% of conventional levels while enabling the recirculation of nutrient-rich liquid effluents. Both batch and continuous respirometric tests demonstrated the biological treatability of TAMR residues, highlighting their potential reuse as external carbon sources and their positive impact on CAS system performance. The findings suggest that integrating mesophilic and thermophilic systems can significantly improve sludge management efficiency, lowering both operating costs and environmental impacts.
Docosahexaenoic and Eicosapentaenoic Acid Supplementation Could Attenuate Negative Effects of Maternal Metabolic Syndrome on Liver Lipid Metabolism and Liver Betacellulin Expression in Male and Female Rat Offspring
Authors: Mašek Tomislav , Roškarić Petra , Sertić Sunčica , Starčević Kristina
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study investigated the effects of maternal metabolic syndrome during pregnancy on hepatic fatty acid metabolism and betacellulin expression in rat offspring. A rat model of maternal metabolic syndrome was created with a high-fructose diet (15% fructose in drinking water for six months). Methods: The females with metabolic syndrome were divided into the CON group, the HF group, which received fructose in drinking water, and the HF-DHA group, which received fructose in water and increased amounts of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) in the diet (2.5% fish oil in the diet). The male and female offspring were killed at birth and their liver tissue was analyzed for the fatty acid profile and expression of Δ-9-desaturase and betacellulin. Results: When the rat offspring were exposed in utero to maternal fatty acids altered by the high-fructose diet, this resulted in a similarly altered fatty acid profile in the liver, with the most significant changes being Δ-9 desaturation and a dramatic increase in monounsaturated fatty acids. The offspring also showed an overexpression of hepatic betacellulin. Supplementation with DHA and EPA increased the DHA content and normalized the fatty acid composition of oleic acid, saturated fatty acids, linoleic acid and n3-docosapentaenoic acid in the offspring of mothers on a high-fructose diet. In addition, the DHA/EPA supplementation of fructose-fed mothers normalized hepatic Δ-9-desaturase and betacellulin overexpression in the offspring, suggesting that DHA/EPA supplementation affects not only the fatty acid content but also the liver function. Conclusions: The changes observed in this study suggest that DHA/EPA supplementation may modulate the effects of maternal programming on disorders of the lipid metabolism in the offspring.
Lipidomic and Instrumental Evaluation of a Melatonin-Based In & Out Strategy Versus Topical Treatment in Skin Aging: A Randomized Prospective Trial
Authors: Colombo Francesca , Alfano Stefano , Milani Massimo
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel “In & Out” strategy, combining topical and oral melatonin supplementation, in managing skin aging compared to topical treatment alone. A randomized, prospective study was conducted on 39 healthy females aged 55–69 years. Participants were divided into two groups: one received both the topical formula and oral melatonin supplementation (Group A), while the other received a topical melatonin-based formula (Group B). Clinical evaluations included lipidomic analysis, skin moisturization, and wrinkle depth analysis at baseline and after 84 days. The addition of oral melatonin supplementation to the topical regimen led to improvements in the skin’s lipid profile and moisturization levels. These findings suggest that combining topical and oral melatonin may provide a more comprehensive approach to managing skin aging by addressing both local and systemic factors. Background/Objectives: With age, the endogenous antioxidant capacity of the skin decreases, including melatonin (Mel) synthesis. Skin aging is also associated with alterations in epidermal lipids, particularly a reduction in triglycerides and ceramides, which are essential for maintaining skin structure and hydration. The administration of exogenous melatonin could, therefore, be an effective anti-aging strategy. While some data suggest that melatonin may positively influence the lipid profile, specific data on its effects on skin aging are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-aging effects of an “In & Out” regimen consisting of a Mel-based cream and dietary supplement in comparison with topical treatment alone, focusing on clinical and lipidomic changes involved in skin homeostasis. Results: A statistically significant variation was observed in both groups compared to baseline (T0) in terms of moisturization (+23.6% in Group A, +18.3% in Group B) and wrinkle depth (−18.5% in Group A, −9.4% in Group B, p < 0.05). Both groups showed improvements in the lipid content of the skin, which typically decreases with age. The “In & Out” strategy resulted in a statistically significant increase in triacylglycerols and ceramides, key lipids that exhibit water-holding properties. Conclusions: The “In & Out” melatonin-based regimen demonstrated greater efficacy in clinical improvement and positive lipid profile modifications compared to topical treatment alone, highlighting its potential as a comprehensive anti-aging strategy.