Critical Risk Research Articles

Evaluation and ranking of solutions to mitigate Industry 4.0 adoption risks in manufacturing: a hybrid spherical fuzzy FUCOM- MABAC approach

ABSTRACT Manufacturing industries are under increased pressure to implement more sustainable practices to safeguard the environment and advance the welfare of humanity due to evolving ecological conditions. Industry 4.0 technologies are essential for transforming conventional manufacturing into sustainable practices by integrating Cyber-Physical Systems. Nevertheless, the manufacturing sector in developing countries has been notably slow to implement Industry 4.0, primarily due to the numerous associated risks. Specifically in the context of developing nations, the existing literature demonstrates a substantial gap in research that addresses these Industry 4.0 risks. Therefore, it is imperative to assess the potential risks linked with the adoption of Industry 4.0 and to examine viable alternatives or solutions. This paper attempts to identify and prioritize the most effective solutions for mitigating the risks associated with adopting Industry 4.0 in manufacturing industries in developing countries. Thirty-seven risks and eighteen solutions related to Industry 4.0 adoption have been considered for proposing the framework based on the Spherical fuzzy full consistency method (SF-FUCOM) and Spherical fuzzy multi-attributive border approximation area comparison (SF-MABAC) methods. The results emphasized several critical risks, including economic, social, environmental, technological, operational, and strategic, that are associated with adopting Industry 4.0. The proposed framework is a valuable reference aid for researchers, policymakers, and decision-makers, as it eases the implementation of Industry 4.0 in manufacturing. The present study also provides a clear path for developing nations to implement Industry 4.0 and assists them in prioritizing critical factors that are pertinent to their manufacturing industries.

Critical risks in an industry chain-based global lithium supply networks: Static structure and dynamic propagation

Critical risks in an industry chain-based global lithium supply networks: Static structure and dynamic propagation

Rat-to-human PBPK model of U-47700: Unveiling pharmacokinetic risks of a synthetic opioid through interspecies extrapolation.

Rat-to-human PBPK model of U-47700: Unveiling pharmacokinetic risks of a synthetic opioid through interspecies extrapolation.

Identifying critical control points for colostrum contamination in first milking colostrum from Scottish dairy herds.

Excessive bacterial contamination (≥100,000 colony forming units [CFU]/ml total bacteria count (TBC) and ≥ 10,000 CFU/ml total coliform count [TCC]) reduces the quality of colostrum and subsequent absorption of IgG across neonatal enterocytes, leading to failure to transfer of passive immunity (FTPI). Furthermore, the presence of pathogenic bacteria can cause disease in their own right. The objectives of the study were to identify critical control points and farm risk factors to minimise colostrum contamination from Scottish dairy herds. Eleven farms in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, were enrolled and first milking colostrum was sampled at sequential control points throughout the harvest, storage and feeding process. Farmers also completed a questionnaire at enrolment detailing colostrum management practices to identify risk factors for high bacterial contamination. Samples then underwent testing to estimate TBC, TCC and Brix % (measure of total solids estimating IgG concentration). Samples collected directly from cows' teats had a lower median TBC (4000 CFU/ml, IQR = 15,000 CFU/ml) and TCC (1850, CFU/ml, IQR = 3775 CFU/ml) than those collected from storage buckets (median TBC = 101,000 CFU/ml, IQR = 930,000 CFU/ml and median TCC = 12,000, IQR = 108,000 CFU/ml) and feeding equipment (median TBC = 410,000 CFU/ml, IQR 3230,000 CFU/ml; median TCC = 40,000, IQR = 375,000 CFU/ml). Linear regression models revealed higher bacterial contamination was associated with a larger number of buckets used between harvest and storage of colostrum; smaller size of containers used to store colostrum, method of colostrum storage (freezing), and method of teat cleaning (wet wipe). Mean teat, storage bucket and feeder Brix (%) values were 23.1 %, 22 % and 23.1 % respectively. A one-way repeated ANOVA showed no difference in Brix % between source type (F = 2(3168), p = 0.1). Brix % was negatively associated with increasing time from calving to colostrum harvest.

NR1D1 mitigates IL-17a-induced small airway remodeling in biomass smoke-induced COPD.

NR1D1 mitigates IL-17a-induced small airway remodeling in biomass smoke-induced COPD.

Apigenin prevents hypertensive vascular remodeling by regulating the TP53 pathway.

Apigenin prevents hypertensive vascular remodeling by regulating the TP53 pathway.

Clinical, environmental, genetic, and genomic profile of patients with rapid progression to metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).

e17053 Background: Patients (pts) with metastatic hormone sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) that develop rapid progression to castration resistance following initiation of systemic therapy frequently have inferior outcomes. However, the clinical, environmental, and genetic drivers of disease in this population have not been well characterized. Methods: This multisite pilot study evaluated pts with mHSPC who progressed within 14 months of initiation of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) ± docetaxel or androgen receptor targeted therapy. Data were collected to define clinical, environmental, and genetic profiles, including exome and transcriptome sequencing xE. Standard descriptive statistics were used. Results: 22 men with progressive metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) were enrolled, median age at enrollment was 66 (range 52-80 years), median PSA at original diagnosis was 82 (range 5-3,648 ng/mL), 55% had a Gleason score 9-10, and 73% had de novo high volume mHSPC. The most frequent metastatic sites were bone (86%) and lymph nodes (59%). 41% received local therapy, the most common systemic therapy was ADT + docetaxel (50%). The Clinical data including biochemical exposures were similar to prior studies evaluating pts of all ages. 9% of pts served in the U.S. Armed Forces and all denied Agent Orange exposure, 86% reported a family history of cancer (ex. breast and colon cancer), 27% had family history of PCa. Median PFS from study enrollment was 15.8 months. Genetic data is available for 19 pts. Clinically significant (CS) germline mutations were found in 10.5% (N=2) (ATM (N=1), BRCA2 (N=1). The most common CS somatic mutations were TP53 (42%), NY-ESO-1 (21%), PTEN, ERBB2 and AR (each 16%). Among pts with TP53 mutations, co-occurring mutations in PTEN were identified in 57%, making this the most common co-mutation. CS somatic mutations were identified in 51 genes. The most common somatic mutations regardless of CS were TP53 (42%), PTEN and TTN (26% each) and ERBB3 and NY-ESO-1 (21% each). Conclusions: This cohort study focused on the clinical and genetic factors associated with early progression to mCRPC despite intensive therapy for mHSPC. Enrolled pts had evidence of aggressive disease at the time of diagnosis (ex. de novo mHSPC, high Gleason score and PSA), however there were no clear indicators of increased risk based on personal exposures or family history. Rates of CS germline and somatic mutations were similar to published data, although full interpretation of these findings is limited by the small patient numbers enrolled in the trial. No clear signal was identified in this analysis of the clinical, environmental and genetic contributors of disease in this pt population, thus further work is needed to identify underlying critical risk factors.

Impact of high body mass index on functionally aligned image-based robotic total knee arthroplasty: Comparable functional outcomes but higher mechanical failures.

Impact of high body mass index on functionally aligned image-based robotic total knee arthroplasty: Comparable functional outcomes but higher mechanical failures.

Endometrium-Free Closure Technique During Cesarean Delivery for Reducing the Risk of Niche Formation and Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorders.

To examine the prevalence and severity of postcesarean residual niche, evaluated using saline infusion sonohysterography, in an expanded cohort of women with one prior cesarean delivery and to assess the effect of uterine closure technique on the risk of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders. This secondary analysis includes 70 patients who underwent saline infusion sonohysterography after one prior cesarean delivery. Patients were grouped according to hysterotomy closure technique: two-layer endometrium-free closure (technique A), and two- or one-layer routine closures (technique B). Niche dimensions and residual myometrial thickness were measured. The primary outcome was clinically significant niche (depth larger than 2 mm), a risk factor for PAS. Groups were compared using χ 2 , unpaired t test, Kruskal-Wallis, and logistic regression with significance at P <.05. There were 33 patients in the technique A group and 37 patients in the technique B group. Technique A was associated with smaller niche dimensions ( P =.018 for width, .005 for depth, and .002 for length), and exhibited thicker residual myometrial thickness (8.5 mm vs 5.5 mm, P =.041) and a lower incidence of clinically significant niches. The odds of having a clinically significant niche were 27 times higher in the technique B group (adjusted odds ratio 27.1, 95% CI, 4.35-168.81, P <.001). Uterine closure techniques are associated with the development and size of postcesarean residual niches, which are critical risk factors for PAS disorders. Use of an endometrium-free closure technique during primary cesarean delivery is associated with a reduced risk of future niche formation and PAS complications.

Predicting blood pressure without a cuff using a unique multi-modal wearable device and machine learning algorithm.

Predicting blood pressure without a cuff using a unique multi-modal wearable device and machine learning algorithm.

Diet-induced inflammation and its association with sarcopenia in an Iranian population: a case-control study

BackgroundDietary intake, as one of the critical lifestyle risk factors, plays a crucial role in the risk of sarcopenia, potentially due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and the Dietary Inflammatory Score (DIS) with sarcopenia in an Iranian population.MethodsIn the present study, 80 participants with sarcopenia were included in the case group, and 80 non-sarcopenia participants were included in the control group, matched by gender. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS) guidelines. Additionally, dietary data obtained from a food frequency questionnaire were used to calculate participants’ DIS and DII scores. The association between the DII and DIS and the odds ratio of sarcopenia was assessed by logistic regression in both crude and adjusted models.ResultsIn the crude model, the odds of sarcopenia were significantly higher for each unit increase in DIS and DII scores (DIS: odds ratio (OR) = 1.221, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.128–1.322; DII: OR = 1.271, 95% CI: 1.041–1.553). After adjusting for age, energy, and protein intake, higher odds of sarcopenia were observed for each unit increase in DIS score (OR = 1.129, 95% CI: 1.004–1.268). Similarly, higher odds of sarcopenia were seen for each unit increase in DII score after adjusting for potential confounders (OR = 1.269, 95% CI: 1.032–1.561).ConclusionsIn conclusion, this study found that greater adherence to the DII and DIS was associated with higher odds of sarcopenia in older adults.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

Integrated cloud-based supply chain ecosystem: Connecting stakeholders through real-time data visibility and collaborative analytics

This scholarly article examines the transformative impact of cloud technologies on supply chain systems integration. It explores how cloud computing has revolutionized traditional supply chain management by enabling enhanced real-time visibility, standardized communication protocols, and cross-organizational collaboration. The article analyzes the scalability and cost benefits of cloud-based supply chains, demonstrating significant advantages in resource utilization, infrastructure costs, and return on investment compared to on-premises alternatives. Advanced analytics capabilities, including multi-echelon inventory optimization, predictive forecasting, machine learning applications, and data-driven decision-making frameworks, are thoroughly examined, highlighting their role in improving operational efficiency. The article also addresses critical security, compliance, and risk management considerations in cloud-based supply chains, exploring cybersecurity frameworks, regulatory compliance across jurisdictions, risk mitigation strategies, and data sovereignty challenges. Finally, it identifies emerging technologies complementing cloud-based supply chains and provides strategic recommendations for organizations implementing these systems, while highlighting research gaps and opportunities for further investigation in this rapidly evolving field.

Trends and driving factors of age-related hearing loss and severity over 30 years: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundAge-related hearing loss (AHL) is a modifiable risk factor for chronic disability and cognitive decline in adults over 60 years globally. Despite its preventable nature, long-term trends (1992-2021) in AHL burden and its demographic, socioeconomic, occupational noise exposures, and geographic drivers remain underexplored, limiting targeted intervention strategies.MethodsThis observational study analyzed age-standardized prevalence and years lived with disability (YLDs) for AHL among adults aged ≥60 years using the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 (1992-2021). Data were stratified by sex, age, region, and nation, with demographic decomposition to isolate population aging effects and Bayesian spatiotemporal regression to quantify modifiable drivers (e.g., occupational noise). Temporal trends were evaluated by calculating annual average percentage change (AAPC) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsFrom 1992 to 2021, AHL-related prevalence and YLDs showed an upward trend globally (AAPC prevalence = 0.14 [95% CI: 0.13, 0.14]; AAPC YLDs = 0.17 [95% CI: 0.15, 0.20]). There was a downward trend in the YLDs of AHL from 1992 to 1995 (AAPC YLDs = -0.08 [95% CI: -0.19, 0.04]). Regionally, while most regions showed an increasing trend in AHL prevalence, 1990-2019, some regions still showed a decreasing trend (AAPC Western sub-Saharan Africa = -0,22 [95% CI: -0.37, -0.08]). In 2021, in the countries with middle socio-demographic index (SDI) levels, the older the population, the higher the prevalence and YLDs of AHL. Furthermore, the burden of AHL varies by age and sex and has unique temporal and spatial features. Notably, higher SDI levels correlated with reduced occupational noise-attributable burdens, while adults aged 70-74 years exhibited the highest occupational noise-driven YLDs.ConclusionThe global burden of AHL continues to rise, which is a growing problem for countries with medium SDI levels. Occupational noise exposure emerges as a critical modifiable risk factor, particularly in rapidly industrializing economies, highlighting the urgent need to prioritize workplace hearing protection programs and targeted noise control policies tailored to regional contexts. These interventions are especially vital for older men in low-resource settings and medically underserved countries to mitigate preventable disability and address health inequities.

Identifying Early-Stage Risks to High-Speed Rail: A Case Study of the Sydney–Newcastle Corridor, Australia

High-Speed Rail (HSR) has long been proposed as a transformative infrastructure project for Australia; yet, despite multiple feasibility studies and significant government expenditure, it remains unrealized. This study investigates the key barriers preventing HSR implementation. To achieve this, a novel mixed-methods approach that triangulates a comprehensive literature review, in-depth expert interviews, and broad stakeholder survey was employed. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to quantify the relative importance of the identified barriers. Simultaneously, qualitative insights were gathered through interviews with industry leaders, government officials, and infrastructure experts. This dual approach provided a comprehensive understanding of the challenges. The findings highlight the importance of external factors. These include political uncertainty, financial constraints, and systemic logistical challenges, which go beyond technical feasibility. Based on these insights, this research identifies critical early-stage risks and contributes to a re-evaluation of HSR not solely as a transport solution but also as a vital tool for regional development. Refining cost and time estimation methodologies using reference class forecasting, fostering proactive political engagement to secure bipartisan support, enhancing private sector collaboration through early contractor involvement and risk-sharing mechanisms, and developing a national upskilling framework to address workforce shortages were also key findings. The study has garnered industry recognition and support, with experts acknowledging its contribution to the ongoing discourse on HSR implementation in Australia.

Why, how and in whom should we measure levels of lipoprotein(a): A review of the latest evidence and clinical implications.

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined, causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). Despite robust evidence from epidemiological and genetic studies, Lp(a) remains underrecognised in clinical practice due to challenges in measurement, lack of guideline familiarity and limited therapeutic options. In this narrative review, we summarise the pathophysiological mechanisms linking Lp(a) to atherogenesis, thrombosis and inflammation, emphasising its unique structural features and causal role in cardiovascular disease. We discuss assay methodologies and make the case for a single lifetime measurement given the genetic stability of Lp(a). We review guideline-based indications for testing, highlighting high-risk populations such as those with premature ASCVD, a family history of cardiovascular disease and individuals of African or South Asian ancestry. We additionally outline clinical strategies to reduce ASCVD risk in individuals with elevated Lp(a), including lifestyle optimisation, statin therapy, PCSK9 inhibitors, and aspirin in select populations. Emerging targeted therapies, including antisense oligonucleotides and siRNA-based agents, demonstrate up to 90% Lp(a) reduction and are currently being evaluated in large-scale cardiovascular outcomes trials. As precision medicine advances, Lp(a) represents both a critical risk factor and a promising therapeutic target. Broader implementation of Lp(a) testing, particularly in high-risk individuals, will help improve ASCVD prevention efforts.

Secure and Trustworthy Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) Optimization: A Zero-Trust and Federated Learning Framework for 6G Networks

The Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) paradigm promises unprecedented flexibility and cost efficiency for 6G networks but introduces critical security risks due to its disaggregated, AI-driven architecture. This paper proposes a secure optimization framework integrating zero-trust principles and privacy-preserving Federated Learning (FL) to address vulnerabilities in O-RAN’s RAN Intelligent Controllers (RICs) and xApps/rApps. We first establish a novel threat model targeting O-RAN’s optimization processes, highlighting risks such as adversarial Machine Learning (ML) attacks on resource allocation models and compromised third-party applications. To mitigate these, we design a Zero-Trust Architecture (ZTA) enforcing continuous authentication and micro-segmentation for RIC components, coupled with an FL framework that enables collaborative ML training across operators without exposing raw network data. A differential privacy mechanism is applied to global model updates to prevent inference attacks. We validate our framework using the DAWN Dataset (5G/6G traffic traces with slicing configurations) and the OpenRAN Gym Dataset (O-RAN-compliant resource utilization metrics) to simulate energy efficiency optimization under adversarial conditions. A dynamic DU sleep scheduling case study demonstrates 32% energy savings with &lt;5% latency degradation, even when data poisoning attacks compromise 15% of the FL participants. Comparative analysis shows that our ZTA reduces unauthorized RIC access attempts by 89% compared to conventional O-RAN security baselines. This work bridges the gap between performance optimization and trustworthiness in next-generation O-RAN, offering actionable insights for 6G standardization.

The Study of Merger and Acquisitions: Performance and Value Creation

ABSTRACT This research paper explores the dynamics of risk management and value generation in mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A), highlighting how important these factors are to the outcome of a transaction. The study investigates how strategic, financial, and operational synergies contribute to long-term value development while identifying critical risks that could compromise transaction outcomes. It does this by combining theoretical frameworks with empirical data. The thesis demonstrates best practices in target selection, due diligence, integration planning, and post-merger performance monitoring using case studies and industry data. Particular focus is placed on cross-border M&amp;A activities, especially in emerging markets where cultural integration and regulatory complexity present additional difficulties. The results imply that for long-term growth and the improvement of shareholder value, a systematic, comprehensive strategy to M&amp;A is necessary, striking a balance between vigorous value pursuits and strong risk mitigation. By providing practical advice for investors, financial advisors, and corporate strategists involved in M&amp;A, this study adds to the scholarly and professional conversation. Keywords: Mergers and Acquisitions, Value Creation, Risk Management, Strategic Alignment, Post-Merger Integration,.

Development and Validation of Predictive Models for Anastomotic Leakage in TaTME Rectal Surgery

Abstract Background Anastomotic insufficiency remains a devastating complication in colorectal surgery. Aims This study sought to develop a statistical model to predict the occurence of anastomotic insufficiency and support preoperative planning, helping to mitigate risks. Methods Data from the international prospective TaTME registry were analyzed. Random Forest and logistic regression models were developed to estimate the probability of anastomotic insufficiency, taking into account demographics and clinical variables. Results A total of 2,262 patients from the registry were analysed and split in a training and test datased. Significant predictors identified by the models included BMI, age, tumor height, and hospital. The Random Forest model emphasized weight as a significant variable, while the logistic regression model highlighted gender as an important predictor. In both models, tumor height and hospital were independent predictors of anastomotic insufficiency. Logistic regression emerged as the superior model, exhibiting a higher predictive accuracy of 65% when compared to Random Forest. Conclusion This study successfully identified several critical preoperative risk factors for anastomotic insufficiency in colorectal surgery, including BMI, age, tumor height, and hospital-specific variability. The logistic regression model demonstrated better predictive power, making it a valuable tool for assisting surgeons in preoperative risk assessment.

АНАЛІЗ ДОМІНУЮЧИХ ФАКТОРІВ ЕКОЛОГІЧНИХ РИЗИКІВ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ ТА ЇХ ВПЛИВ НА ФІНАНСОВИЙ СТАН

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the key environmental risk factors associated with the operation of oil and gas enterprises. It identifies the complex, interrelated nature of these risks and emphasizes that their mutual interaction and cumulative effect significantly influence the financial sustainability and overall stability of such enterprises. Particular attention is given to how these environmental risks evolve within the context of modern production processes and how they affect various organizational and technical aspects of industrial operations. To better understand and manage these risks, the authors have conducted a detailed study of the dominant environmental factors, which led to the development of a coordinate matrix outlining the probabilities and potential consequences of hazardous events. This matrix serves as the foundation for creating logical functions that help structure and facilitate the internal exchange of information, promoting a unified perception of environmental threats among company personnel and enhancing risk awareness at all levels of management. Furthermore, the article proposes a structured classification system for dominant environmental risks in oil and gas operations, grounded in the ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) principle. This classification reflects the balance between acceptable risk levels and the practicality of implementing preventive measures, taking into account both material and intangible cost-effectiveness. Through the application of this methodology, the authors were able to identify and prioritize the most critical risk factors from a broad set of environmental threats typical for the oil and gas sector. Among these, the following were highlighted as particularly significant: personnel errors leading to violation of technological parameters, inadequate reliability of energy supply and automation systems, unpredictability of well behavior during initial operations, risk of spontaneous ignition of industrial equipment, and substandard lightning protection systems. By establishing a clear classification and prioritization approach, the proposed framework not only enhances decision-making transparency but also serves as a practical tool for knowledge sharing among industry professionals. This approach supports more effective environmental risk management by ensuring consistent evaluation criteria and communication standards across different operational units. Ultimately, the article contributes to the development of a more resilient environmental risk culture in oil and gas enterprises, aiming for greater sustainability and operational safety.

Steroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension in Children: A Review on Risk Factors.

Steroid-induced ocular hypertension is poorly understood in children, despite its frequent occurrence. Significant knowledge voids exist in steroid responsiveness, especially in the pediatric population. Therefore, highlighting the most critical risk factors in pediatric patients can help ophthalmologists identify who is at increased risk of developing a high steroid response. A manual search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar in search of relevant articles on the steroid-induced glaucoma subtopic. Key risk factors for high steroid response include glaucoma family history, previous glaucoma diagnosis, young age, steroid type, administration route, and diseases such as vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and uveitis. Clinically, it presents similarly to primary glaucoma, except for steroid usage history. Steroid cessation or reduction can normalize intraocular pressure (IOP) levels; however, in some cases, pressure-lowering drugs are necessary for treatment. Topical ocular steroids are frequently used by pediatricians and ophthalmologists alike. Understanding the importance of risk factors allows for a timely diagnosis of steroid response and adequate treatment before glaucomatous vision loss can occur.