bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlations Between MR Apparent Diffusion Coefficients and PET Standard Uptake Values in Simultaneous MR-PET Imaging of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Pozaruk Andrii , Atamaniuk Vitaliy , Pawar Kamlesh , Carey Alexandra , Cheng Jeremy , Cholewa Marian , Grummet Jeremy , Chen Zhaolin , Egan Gary
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the hypothesis that 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET SUV, obtained via an advanced DL approach, correlates better with MR ADC maps than values from conventional PET-MR. Additionally, we aimed to identify the optimal SUV threshold for maximum correlation with ADC values. A cohort of 32 prostate cancer patients underwent CT and corresponding PET-MR imaging. The dataset underwent K-fold cross-validation, dividing it into four folds. In each fold, 24 patients were used for training, and 8 for validation to create DL models. ADC maps from 27 out of 32 patients were successfully aligned with T2 images for detailed analysis, revealing an inverse correlation (ρ = −0.20 to −0.51) between ADC and SUV values in prostate cancer zones. Statistically significant differences in mean SUV values were observed between PETMRI and PETDL. DL-based SUV values show a stronger correlation with ADC than conventional PET-MR values in our investigation.
Time Course of Mitochondrial Antioxidant Markers in a Preclinical Model of Severe Penetrating Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Musyaju Sudeep , Modi Hiren R. , Shear Deborah A. , Scultetus Anke H. , Pandya Jignesh D.
Published: January 2025

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results from external mechanical forces exerted on the brain, triggering secondary injuries due to cellular excitotoxicity. A key indicator of damage is mitochondrial dysfunction, which is associated with elevated free radicals and disrupted redox balance following TBI. However, the temporal changes in mitochondrial redox homeostasis after penetrating TBI (PTBI) have not been thoroughly examined. This study aimed to investigate redox alterations from 30 min to two-weeks post-injury in adult male Sprague Dawley rats that experienced either PTBI or a Sham craniectomy. Redox parameters were measured at several points: 30 min, 3 h, 6 h, 24 h, 3 d, 7 d, and 14 d post-injury. Mitochondrial samples from the injury core and perilesional areas exhibited significant elevations in protein modifications including 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) and protein carbonyl (PC) adducts (14–53%, vs. Sham). In parallel, antioxidants such as glutathione, NADPH, peroxiredoxin-3 (PRX-3), thioredoxin-2 (TRX-2), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were significantly depleted (20–80%, vs. Sham). In contrast, catalase (CAT) expression showed a significant increase (45–75%, vs. Sham). These findings indicate a notable imbalance in redox parameters over the two-week post-PTBI period suggesting that the therapeutic window to employ antioxidant therapy extends well beyond 24 h post-TBI.
Effects of Breathing Exercises on Neck Pain Management: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cefalì Antonello , Santini Davide , Lopez Giovanni , Maselli Filippo , Rossettini Giacomo , Crestani Mauro , Lullo Graziana , Young Ian , Dunning James , de Abreu Raphael Martins , Mourad Firas
Published: January 2025

Background: Given the relationship between reduced pulmonary and respiratory muscle function in neck pain, incorporating breathing exercises into neck pain management may be beneficial. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefits of breathing exercises for treating neck pain. Methods: We searched PubMed (MEDLINE), PEDro, CINAHL, Scopus, and EMBASE databases, up to the 28 of February 2024. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the impact of breathing exercises on reducing pain and disability in both persistent and recent neck pain were selected. A meta-analysis was conducted for each outcome of interest; however, if quantitative methods were not possible, a qualitative synthesis approach was used. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 Tool (version 22 August 2019). We used the GRADE approach to judge the certainty of the evidence. Results: Five studies were included. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in pain (standardized mean difference (SMD), −10.16; 95% CI: −14.82, −5.50) and disability (SMD, −0.80; 95% CI: −1.49, −0.11), in favor of breathing exercises. Qualitative synthesis for pulmonary functional parameters resulted in a statistically significant improvement for FVC, MIP, MEP, and MVV, in favor of breathing exercises. Conclusions: Breathing exercises showed significant short-term effects in reducing pain and disability for persistent neck pain. They also provided benefits for functional respiratory parameters. However, the evidence certainty is low.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Sea Level Changes in Hangzhou Bay over the Past 40 Years
Authors: Liu Ye , Hu Chengfei , Fan Lidong , Shi Yingbiao , Pan Cunhong , He Kun
Published: January 2025

To investigate the spatiotemporal characteristics of sea level changes in Hangzhou Bay over the past 40 years, we collected tide gauge data from six stations within the bay. Various mathematical and statistical methods, including linear regression, empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis, and wavelet analysis, were employed to reveal the long-term variation patterns and spatiotemporal characteristics of sea levels in Hangzhou Bay. The results show that the overall trend of sea levels in this area is characterized by a fluctuating rise, with the rate of rise at the top of the bay (Ganpu Station) reaching 6.74 mm/year, higher than the average rise rate of 3.5 mm/year along the coastal areas of Zhejiang Province. Since the 2010s, the rate of sea level change has accelerated. There is a significant seasonal variation in sea levels, with high values occurring in summer and autumn and low values in spring and winter. The sea level in Hangzhou Bay exhibits multi-timescale periodic changes, including astronomical tides, solar activity cycles, and seasonal cycles. It is projected that the sea level will transition from a rising cycle to a declining cycle after 2026. The rise in sea level in the open sea is the main factor contributing to the rising trend of sea levels in Hangzhou Bay. The contracted river for regulation and morphological evolution of the estuary have intensified tidal wave deformation, resulting in a significant impact on local sea level changes.
A Deep Shrinkage Network for Direction-of-Arrival Estimation with Sparse Prior
Authors: Zhou Lei , Zhou Shihong , Qi Yubo , Wu Lixin , Benezeth Yannick
Published: January 2025

Direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation of underwater multipath signals plays a indispensable role in both military and civilian underwater applications. Despite its importance, accurately estimating DOA under multipath conditions is challenging due to the proximity of paths in the spatial domain. Current methods struggle with this problem in passive detection scenarios. To address these limitations, this study proposes a deep learning (DL)-based DOA estimation framework leveraging sparse representation. First, the approach models the array covariance matrix as an undersampled linear measurement of the spatial spectrum. Then, a super-resolution deep shrinkage reconstruction network (SDSR-Net) is designed to map the sparse representation of the covariance matrix directly to the DOA. The network integrates a shrinkage module as nonlinear transformation layers, promoting sparsity and enhancing the discrimination of features. Simulations and experimental evaluations validated the effectiveness of the proposed method, showing that the DOA estimation accuracy was significantly improved and able to achieve a resolution of 0.2° in the spatial spectrum. Compared with existing methods, SDSR-Net achieved superior performance by effectively utilizing a sparsity prior, maintaining a high-resolution performance at signal-to-noise ratios higher than −10 dB. This work contributes a robust and efficient solution to DOA estimation challenges in underwater environments.
Risk-Aware Vessel Scheduling and Routing Optimization with CVaR and LSTM-MSNet Prediction
Authors: Cao Zhichao , Zhu Zhiwei , Lu Weike , Zhang Silin
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes an integrated optimization model for vessel scheduling and routing. The objective is to maximize shipping company profits while considering profit volatility using the Conditional Value-at-Risk metric to master risks from demand fluctuations. Simultaneously, the model balances the spot and contract container allocation by optimally adjusting shipping speeds so as to minimize carbon emissions. We account for vessel deployment, chartering costs, delay penalties, fuel expenses, and weather conditions to ensure the model’s compatibility with the practical transporting environment. In particular, a hybrid demand prediction model, combining long short-term memory and multi-scale network techniques, predicts spot and contract container volumes at ports, facilitating real-time allocation and more precise scheduling optimization. Two hybrid heuristics, one adaptive large-neighborhood search algorithm, and the Gurobi solver are devised and compared based on the efficiency and accuracy of solving the model. The results indicate that our optimization offers practical insights for shipping companies, enabling them to achieve a better trade-off between profits and risks, promoting a promising maritime transport career.
A DEMATEL Based Approach for Evaluating Critical Success Factors for Knowledge Management Implementation: Evidence from the Tourism Accommodation Sector
Authors: Chatzifoti Natalia , Chountalas Panos T. , Agoraki Konstantina K. , Georgakellos Dimitrios A.
Published: January 2025

The significance of knowledge management in the tourism accommodation sector is increasingly vital due to rapid market changes and intense competition. Although the value of identifying and implementing critical success factors (CSFs) for knowledge management is widely recognized in the sector, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding and practical application of these factors. This study employs the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methodology to systematically identify and analyze the interrelationships among these CSFs. The findings reveal a complex web of dependencies within this network. Specifically, leadership commitment and support is identified as the most influential CSF, acting as a fundamental element that enables the successful adoption and integration of knowledge management initiatives. Additionally, strategic alignment and a supportive organizational culture are crucial, working synergistically to ensure that knowledge management initiatives are aligned with overarching organizational goals and create an environment that encourages change and collaboration. Furthermore, the study highlights a mutually reinforcing relationship between knowledge processes, governance, and employee training. This relationship suggests that strong governance structures and clearly defined knowledge processes facilitate and improve the effectiveness of employee training programs while also creating a continuous improvement cycle where improved training further refines governance and knowledge processes. Moreover, the study highlights the integration of the ISO 30401:2018 standard as a systematic framework to support these CSFs, providing a structured approach to improve knowledge management systems. By mapping the cause-and-effect relationships among the identified CSFs, this research offers practical insights for industry professionals to effectively prioritize and address these factors.
Revaluating CUNA Places (CUltural Place of High Relevance for NAture): Rome as a Multifaced Example of Outstanding Values and Potentials
Authors: Caneva Giulia , Hosseini Zohreh , Bartoli Flavia , Capotorti Giulia , Attorre Fabio , Blasi Carlo
Published: January 2025

The Global Frameworks for Enhancing Natural and Cultural Capital, as expressed in the Charter of Rome (2014), have relevant importance in the broader context of sustainable development goals (SDGs). The intricate connection between cultural and natural heritage emerges in various documents from UNESCO, IUCN, and ICOMOS; however, the categories and methods for their assessment are not completely defined. Evolving from the concept of “mixed properties” used in the UNESCO definitions, we introduce the concept of CUNA places: cultural places of high relevance for nature. It provides a methodological tool for identifying and typifying these places based on their values, attributes, and significance. Then, we propose definitions and categories for three different CUNA typologies, comprising 16 categories, considering both tangible and intangible heritage. We also provide a preliminary application to the city of Rome, where a rich historical heritage intersects with outstanding natural values. All the typologies and categories of CUNA places are present in Rome, and further analysis could show the multifaced aspects represented here. On a broader scale, such an application offers the opportunity to enhance the heritages that could be valorized, strengthening the territorial identity, promoting sustainable development, and generating income for conservation efforts.
Identification and Prediction of Land Use Spatial Conflicts in Urban Agglomeration on the Northern Slope of Tianshan Mountains Under the Background of Urbanization
Authors: Ma Yunfei , Mamitimin Yusuyunjiang , Nuerla Ailijiang
Published: January 2025

In past decades, urbanization has entered a phase of rapid development, resulting in an intensified utilization of land resources. The finite nature of these resources has led to increased pressure on land availability, giving rise to a phenomenon known as land use conflict. This conflict is particularly evident in the frequent conversion of land categories, with urban impervious surfaces increasingly encroaching upon forests, grasslands, and agricultural land. Such encroachments trigger a series of land use conflict issues, which subsequently impact the function and structure of regional ecosystems. This paper analyzes the spatial and temporal changes in land use and land cover (LULC) within the urban agglomeration on the northern slope of Tianshan Mountain. It measures and evaluates the spatial and temporal evolution of land use conflicts in the study area from 1990 to 2020, utilizing conflict-related theories and the landscape risk evaluation model. Additionally, the paper explores the spatial and temporal dimensions of land use conflicts under three scenarios—natural development (ND), cultivation priority (CP), and ecological priority (EP)—for the years 2030 and 2050, informed by the Future Land Use Simulation (FLUS) model. The results indicate that unused land constitutes the predominant land use type, accounting for over 50% of the total area. The areas of cultivated land, water bodies, and urban land are experiencing an increasing trend, while the areas of forestland, grassland, and unused land are witnessing a decreasing trend. The level of land use spatial conflicts during the study period showed a decreasing and then increasing trend, with an overall upward trend and an increase in the average value of 0.03. In terms of the proportion of spatial units, mild and general conflicts exhibited a decreasing trend, with reductions of 4.21% and 2.95%, respectively. Conversely, the proportion of medium conflicts increased significantly, rising by 7.33%, while severe conflicts experienced a slight increase of 0.23%. Under the ND, CP, and EP scenarios, the spatial and temporal dynamics of future land use conflicts varied. However, the study area was predominantly characterized by general conflicts in both 2030 and 2050. In 2030, the proportions of spatial units experiencing general conflicts in the three scenarios are projected to be 61.20%, 60.39%, and 57.51%, respectively. In comparison, these proportions are projected to be 59.24%, 62.70%, and 56.29% in 2050, respectively. The anticipated future changes in land use spatial conflicts vary across different scenarios. Notably, the ND scenario indicates a rising conflict level in the study area over the next 30 years, with an overall increase of 0.03 in the mean value. In contrast, the changes in the index under the CP and EP scenarios are relatively stable.
Shear Instability and Localization in High-Speed Cold Spray Processes: Impact on Particle Fragmentation and Bonding Mechanisms
Authors: Msolli Sabeur
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the deformation behavior and interfacial phenomena occurring during the high-velocity impact of a copper particle into a copper substrate under various conditions using FEM. It also offers an enhanced physics-based model based on discrete dislocation dynamics simulations to depict newly observed features such as interfacial instabilities and shear localization leading to bonding and particle fragmentation. To investigate bonding mechanisms at the particle–substrate interface, additional simulations using a one-element-thickness model are conducted. These simulations focus on the deformation behavior at the interface, revealing wavy shape formation in the substrate due to disparities in strain-rate levels. Material instabilities, localized at the intersection of plane and release waves, progress hand-in-hand during the early stages of impact, suggesting shear behavior as a precursor to instabilities. The effect of shear viscosity on particle deformation and interfacial behavior is also examined, showing that increased viscosity leads to thermal material softening and enhanced deformation. Material jetting and interfacial instability are observed, particularly at higher viscosity thresholds. Additionally, the impact of drag coefficient variations on particle deformation is explored, indicating a critical role in interfacial stability and particle flattening. Finally, the occurrence of adiabatic shear instability and localization is investigated, revealing shear localization regions at the particle–substrate interface and within the particle itself responsible for particle fragmentation. To this aim, damage initiation and evolution laws are applied to identify regions of shear localization, crucial for particle–substrate bonding and mechanical interlocking. The impact velocity is shown to influence shear localization, with higher velocities resulting in increased deformation and larger localization regions.
Mechanical Properties and Strengthening Contributions of AISI 316 LN Austenitic Stainless Steel Grade
Authors: Kvackaj Tibor , Bidulská Jana , Fedoríková Alica , Bidulský Róbert
Published: January 2025

The main goal of this contribution is to evaluate the mechanical properties, strengthening contributions and microstructure development of austenitic stainless steel AISI 316 LN with high nitrogen content in the states characterized as the initial state and the states after rolling with different thickness deformations. The initial state was represented by solution annealing (777 K/60 min). The deformation state was characterized by rolling thickness reductions carried out at ambient temperature (TA = 295 K) with deformations in the range ε ∈ (0; 50> [%]. Studies of microstructures, mechanical properties and strengthening contributions before and after rolling were carried out. The initial state after solution annealing was as follows: offset yield strength Rp0.2 = 325 MPa, elongation A5 = 49% and diameter of grain size d = 214 μm. The state after ambient rolling with thickness deformation ε = 50% was as follows: Rp0.2 = 994 MPa, A5 = 4% and d = 64 μm. The maximum contribution to strengthening after rolling processing with 50% thickness deformation was dislocations (∆ R P0.2_DS = 560 MPa) followed by twins (∆ R P0.2_DT =140 MPa).
Development of Anti-Icing and Skid-Resistant Road Surfaces Using Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) Resin-Based Composites
Authors: Eom Sung-Hyun , Jeon Hyo-Seong , Ryue Tae-Gyue , Lee Hun-Jae , Kim Hong-Gi , Abebe Tadesse Natoli
Published: January 2025

Winter road safety is significantly compromised by ice formation, leading to increased vehicular accidents due to reduced friction. Traditional anti-icing strategies, such as chemical deicers, present environmental and structural drawbacks, necessitating innovative solutions. This study evaluates methyl methacrylate (MMA)-based resin composites for anti-icing and skid-resistant applications. These composites are particularly intended for application on asphalt and concrete pavements in urban roads, highways, and other high-traffic areas prone to icing during winter. MMA composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties, including tensile strength of up to 10 MPa and compressive strength of 34 MPa under optimized formulations. These composites are specifically developed for application on asphalt and concrete pavements commonly found in urban roads, highways, and other high-traffic areas, where icing and skid resistance are critical challenges during winter conditions. Anti-icing performance was enhanced by incorporating additives like magnesium chloride hexahydrate, achieving a freezing point reduction to −12.9 °C and a heat of solution of 0.429 kJ/g. Laboratory tests revealed that increasing anti-icing additives reduced ice adhesion and melting time, with a trade-off in compressive strength, which decreased from 30 MPa (unmodified) to 16 MPa at higher additive concentrations. Skid resistance was improved through the addition of high-friction aggregates, ensuring durability under icy and wet conditions. These results highlight MMA composites as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional deicing methods, offering enhanced road safety and reduced environmental impact. Further research is recommended to optimize formulations and validate performance through field trials under varying climatic conditions.
Steel-Reinforced Polyurethane with Mineral Interlayer for Masonry Protection: Laboratory Tests
Authors: Hojdys Łukasz , Krajewski Piotr , Kwiecień Arkadiusz
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation on a steel-reinforced polyurethane (SRPU) composite system with a mineral interlayer, designed for the protection of existing structures. The composite SRPU was reinforced with unidirectional steel textile embedded in polyurethane matrix PS. In the study, SRPU was applied to a brick substrate via a layer of lime- or cement-based mortar of a thickness of 3 mm, 6 mm, or 10 mm. Single-lap shear tests (SLSTs) were carried out on specimens with and without a mortar interlayer. The reference specimens without a mineral interlayer carried higher loads than the specimens with an interlayer. An increase in the interlayer thickness reduced the shear bond strength. The stiffness of the bond under shear of the tested systems was unaffected by the presence of the mineral interlayer. The mechanical properties of the applied mortars influenced the observed failure modes. The tested SRPU system demonstrated notable efficiency in monotonic testing, outperforming previously reported results.
Investigation of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Assessing the Macroscopic Mechanical Properties of Cross-Linked Polyethylene During Thermal Aging
Authors: Li Chenying , Tan Xiao , Liu Liguo , Zhang Wei , Yang Qiming , Cao Jingying , Zhou Enci , Li Mingzhen , Song Zaixin
Published: January 2025

The present study investigates the relationship between the near-infrared (NIR) spectral characteristics of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation materials and their macroscopic properties, with the aim of establishing a reference framework for non-destructive material aging analysis. Accelerated thermal aging tests were conducted on samples of XLPE cables. These samples underwent Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elongation at break (EAB), and tensile strength (TS) tests. The temporal variation curves of the carbonyl index (CI), EAB, and TS were obtained at aging temperatures of 105 °C, 135 °C, 155 °C, and 180 °C. Additionally, NIR spectroscopy was performed on the aged XLPE samples, producing absorbance curves corresponding to different aging times at these temperatures. The absorption peaks of ‘C-H (-CH2-)’ (1730 nm/1764 nm) were analyzed to determine their temporal variation patterns. Finally, a correlation analysis was conducted between the NIR results and those of the FTIR, EAB, and TS tests, revealing numerical relationships between NIR characteristic peaks and FTIR, EAB, and TS data. These quantified correlations demonstrate that NIR can effectively represent macroscopic mechanical properties, thereby simplifying the procedures for monitoring material aging and providing valuable results without requiring destructive testing. Results indicate that there is a certain feasibility in replacing traditional cable aging tests with NIR.
Research and Mechanism Design Analysis of Leg Lifting Device Based on Human Body Stretching
Authors: Gu Ruijie , Gao Jiameng , Zhao Shuaifeng , Xing Hao
Published: January 2025

Leg stretching devices are one of the main instruments used to improve human function. To solve the limitations of existing leg stretching products, such as single function and low degree of coincidence, a leg stretching device satisfying ergonomics was studied in this paper. Firstly, the Box–Behnken Design (BBD) response surface methodology was applied to establish a regression model for leg force. Secondly, a motion analysis was conducted on the leg lifting mechanism using analytical methods, and the model data were coupled by Creo Parametric and Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical System (ADAMS) 2019 software to develop the kinematic model. Then, the motion characteristics during the whole process were studied, and the motion parameter curves were obtained. Next, ABAQUS 2022 software was employed to create the finite element simulation model of the leg lifting device, and key component strength was also analyzed. Finally, a prototype of the device was made and experimentally validated with leg lifting. The results show that in the case of different heights and weights, the lifting angle of the human leg has a significant effect on the force state during the leg lifting process. When the leg is lifted 0–30°, the force on the leg is small. As the leg lifting angle increases, the force on the leg also increases. In the process of leg lifting, the angular velocity and angular acceleration of the leg lifting mechanism change more gently, and there is no obvious mutation. The maximum stress of the driving rod is 102.5 MPa, the maximum stress of the lifting rod is 88.12 MPa, and the maximum stress of the leg placing plate is 40.5 MPa, all of which meet the strength requirements and provide a reference for the research of the human leg stretching device.
Gaussian Process Regression with Soft Equality Constraints
Authors: Kochan Didem , Yang Xiu
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a novel Gaussian process (GP) regression framework that probabilistically enforces physical constraints, with a particular focus on equality conditions. The GP model is trained using the quantum-inspired Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (QHMC) algorithm, which efficiently samples from a wide range of distributions by allowing a particle’s mass matrix to vary according to a probability distribution. By integrating QHMC into the GP regression with probabilistic handling of the constraints, this approach balances the computational cost and accuracy in the resulting GP model, as the probabilistic nature of the method contributes to shorter execution times compared with existing GP-based approaches. Additionally, we introduce an adaptive learning algorithm to optimize the selection of constraint locations to further enhance the flexibility of the method. We demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of our algorithm on synthetic examples, including 2-dimensional and 10-dimensional GP models under noisy conditions, as well as a practical application involving the reconstruction of a sparsely observed steady-state heat transport problem. The proposed approach reduces the posterior variance in the resulting model, achieving stable and accurate sampling results across all test cases while maintaining computational efficiency.
Modeling the Reaction Process for the Synthesis of Ethyl Chrysanthemate from Ethyl Diazoacetate in a Micro-Flow Platform
Authors: Xin Dawei , Lu Yangcheng
Published: January 2025

Ethyl diazoacetate can react with 2,5-dimethyl-2,4-hexadiene to yield ethyl chrysanthemumate, an important raw material for synthesizing various pesticides. In conventional conditions, this cyclopropanation process suffers from low efficiency and yield due to ethyl diazoacetate. This demands more understanding of the catalytic process from the mechanism and modeling to find a solution. In this work, we set up a micro-flow platform to carefully study the kinetic characteristics of the cyclopropanation reaction of ethyl diazoacetate catalyzed by a complex of copper stearate and phenylhydrazine. Through a reasonable simplification of the reaction network, we established a reaction kinetic model with good prediction capacity within a wide range of operating conditions. It provides a basis for guiding the development of efficient conversion processes and condition optimization.
Modeling Shapes of Coarse Particles for DEM Simulations Using Polyhedral Meta-Particles
Authors: Costa Felipe de A. , Barrios Gabriel K. P. , Fidalgo Alan P. , Tino Alan A. Arruda , Tavares Luís Marcelo
Published: January 2025

Particles of selected materials, namely granulite quarry rock and itabirite iron ore, have been characterized regarding their shapes using reconstruction from 2D images and 3D laser scanning. Different levels of simplifications of particle geometry were initially proposed, with optimal fit-for-purpose shapes represented by polyhedral meta-particles containing 41 to 90 faces. From the distribution of aspect ratios, a total of 16 groups of shapes have been created. Preliminary validation of the shapes modeled was carried out by comparing bulk density measurements from simulations and experiments for granulite, resulting in very good agreement between the two. Further validation was then carried out by comparison of experiments for a gneiss rock and another itabirite sample to simulations, with good agreement between both. This database provides suitable representation of ore/rock shapes for DEM simulations in the software Rocky.
Potential Push-Pull Carbon Superbases Based on Methyl Substitution of Rare Tautomers of Imines
Authors: Raczyńska Ewa Daniela , Gal Jean-François , Maria Pierre-Charles
Published: January 2025

Push-pull imines with strong electron donor group(s) display exceptional basicity in the gas phase. Most of them do not exhibit prototropic tautomerism, and gas-phase acid-base equilibria have been already well described and reviewed. Some questions remain for tautomeric systems, particularly for their uncommon forms. As shown by quantum-chemical calculations, some often-neglected tautomers display higher basicity than the thermodynamically favored forms. However, their participation in tautomeric mixtures being in equilibrium is negligible, and their basicity can be impossible to measure in the gas phase by the equilibrium method. During this work, we examined the gas-phase proton basicity for some acyclic and cyclic push-pull organic bases containing the tautomeric amidine or guanidine group. By quantum-chemical calculations, we confirmed the existence of very low amounts of rare tautomeric forms, in particular, those bearing a methylidene (=CH2) group. We also demonstrated that the alkyl derivatives of rare tautomers, being free of prototropy, can be good candidates as very strong push-pull C bases, i.e., bases protonated on the =CH2 group.
Purification of Biodiesel Polluted by Copper Using an Activated Carbon Prepared from Spent Coffee Grounds: Adsorption Property Tailoring, Batch and Packed-Bed Studies
Authors: Cárdenas-Piñeros Daniel Eduardo , Reynel-Ávila Hilda Elizabeth , Díaz-Muñoz Lizbeth Liliana , Bonilla-Petriciolet Adrián , Durán-Valle Carlos Javier , Adame-Pereira Marta
Published: January 2025

Biodiesel produced via oil transesterification often contains metallic impurities, such as copper, which affects its quality and engine performance. This study explores the use of activated carbon prepared from spent coffee grounds to remove copper from biodiesel. Activated carbon samples were prepared via biomass pyrolysis and chemical activation with KOH and HNO3. The optimal conditions for copper adsorption were determined using a Taguchi L9 design. Maximum adsorption capacities were 13.4 and 17.3 mg/g at 30 and 40 °C, respectively, in batch adsorbers. In packed-bed columns, the axial dispersion reduced the adsorption efficiency obtaining bed adsorption capacities from 1.9 to 5.1 mg/g under tested experimental conditions. Adsorbent characterization and adsorption modeling indicated that copper removal was driven by multi-cationic interactions, where carboxylic groups from carbon surface acted as key active sites. The new adsorbent outperformed commercial bone char, making it a cost-effective alternative to improve biodiesel production contributing to the energy matrix diversification.
Potential Use of Marine Plants as a Source of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Ribas-Taberner Maria del Mar , Mir-Rossello Pere Miquel , Gil Lorenzo , Sureda Antoni , Capó Xavier
Published: January 2025

The search for bioactive natural compounds, traditionally focused on terrestrial environments, has increasingly expanded to the seas and oceans, opening new frontiers for exploration. Among the diverse organisms inhabiting these ecosystems, marine phanerogams have emerged as a promising source of health-promoting bioactive compounds. This review highlights the distinctive chemical diversity of seagrasses including species such as Posidonia oceanica, Zostera marina, and Cymodocea nodosa, among others, and focusses on the growing interest in natural therapies as alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals. Compounds such as polysaccharides or secondary metabolites such as polyphenol and flavonoids produced by marine plants exhibit a broad range of beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic qualities. This review describes how these compounds can mitigate inflammation, promote skin health, and combat oxidative stress. Moreover, certain marine extracts have demonstrated potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and improve metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes. The manuscript also discusses the potential of marine plant extracts in the development of novel therapeutic agents to address various illnesses, including infections, chronic diseases, and metabolic disorders. It emphasizes the need for further research to fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying the activity of these bioactive compounds and their potential therapeutic applications. In summary, this study highlights marine plants as a valuable reservoir for identifying organic molecules, paving the way for innovative advancements in medical and healthcare interventions.
An In-Plane Heterostructure Ni3N/MoSe2 Loaded on Nitrogen-Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide Enhances the Catalyst Performance for Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Qadir Abrar , Guo Peng-Peng , Su Yong-Zhi , Yang Kun-Zu , Liu Xin , Wei Ping-Jie , Liu Jin-Gang
Published: January 2025

Non-noble metal electrocatalysts for the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) that are both highly active and low-cost are essential for the widespread use of fuel cells. Herein, a simple two-step method for creating an in-plane heterostructure of Ni3N/MoSe2 loaded on N-doped reduced graphene oxide (Ni3N/MoSe2@N-rGO) as an effective electrocatalyst for the HOR is described. The process involves hydrothermal treatment of the Ni and Mo precursors with N-doped reduced graphene oxide, followed by the annealing with urea. The Ni3N/MoSe2@N-rGO catalyst exhibits high activities for the HOR, with current densities of 2.15 and 3.06 mA cm−2 at 0.5 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in H2-saturated 0.1 M KOH and 0.1 M HClO4 electrolytes, respectively, which is comparable to a commercial 20% Pt/C catalyst under similar experimental conditions. Furthermore, the catalyst demonstrates excellent durability, maintaining its performance during accelerated degradation tests for 5000 cycles. This work offers a practical framework for the designing and preparing of non-precious metal electrocatalysts for the HOR in fuel cells.
Effects of Trace Elements on Endocrine Function and Pathogenesis of Thyroid Diseases—A Literature Review
Authors: Bryliński Łukasz , Kostelecka Katarzyna , Woliński Filip , Komar Olga , Miłosz Agata , Michalczyk Justyna , Biłogras Jan , Machrowska Anna , Karpiński Robert , Maciejewski Marcin , Maciejewski Ryszard , Garruti Gabriella , Flieger Jolanta , Baj Jacek
Published: January 2025

The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ whose hormones enable the proper functioning of the organism. The normal function of this organ is influenced by internal and external factors. One of the external factors is trace elements. Trace elements in appropriate concentrations are necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid. Fe, Cu, Mn, I, Zn, and Se are part of the enzymes involved in oxidative stress reduction, while Cd, Hg, and Pb can increase ROS production. Cu and Fe are necessary for the correct TPO synthesis. An imbalance in the concentration of trace elements such as Fe, Cu, Co, I, Mn, Zn, Ag, Cd, Hg, Pb, and Se in thyroid cells can lead to thyroid diseases such as Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, and postpartum thyroiditis. Lack of adequate Fe levels may lead to hypothyroidism and cancer development. The thyroid gland’s ability to absorb I is reversibly reduced by Co. Adequate levels of I are required for correct thyroid function; both deficiency and excess can predispose to the development of thyroid disorders. High concentrations of Mn may lead to hypothyroidism. Furthermore, Mn may cause cancer development and progression. Insufficient Zn supplementation causes hypothyroidism and thyroid nodule development. Cd affecting molecular mechanisms may also lead to thyroid disorders. Hg accumulating in the thyroid may interfere with hormone secretion and stimulate cancer cell proliferation. A higher risk of thyroid nodules, cancer, autoimmune thyroiditis, and hypothyroidism were linked to elevated Pb levels. Se deficiency disrupts thyroid cell function and may lead to several thyroid disorders. On the other hand, some of the trace elements may be useful in the treatment of thyroid diseases. Therefore, the effects of trace elements on the thyroid require further research.
Mapping the Scientific Research on Nutrition and Mental Health: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Hiltensperger Ramona , Neher Jennifer , Böhm Lea , Mueller-Stierlin Annabel
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The connection between nutrition and mental health has become a point of growing interest. In response, nutritional psychiatry research has emerged as a field dedicated to understanding these interactions. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to map the growth and trends in this area, providing insights into its evolving scope and key research contributions. Methods: A literature search was conducted within the Web of Science Core Collection. Data analysis was performed using the result analysis and citation report options of Web of Science as well as the visualization software VOSviewer (Version 1.6.20). Results: A total of 31,556 articles on nutrition and mental health were published from 2000 to 2024 across various WoS categories, mainly in “Psychiatry”, “Public, Environmental & Occupational Health”, and “Nutrition & Dietetics”. The most prolific research groups are based in North America. Recent publications mainly cover seven clusters: (1) public health and social factors, (2) interventions and biological mechanisms, (3) the health of the elderly, (4) nutrition-related illnesses, (5) lifestyle behavior, (6) observational studies, and (7) pregnancy and the postpartum period. Conclusions: In view of the increasing research activities and growing allocation of resources in nutritional psychiatry research, it is important to define research priorities in close collaboration with service users and stakeholders. Research should be approached in a holistic manner through multidisciplinary research consortia to ensure comprehensive and impactful outcomes.
Optimizing Reactive Compensation for Enhanced Voltage Stability in Renewable-Integrated Stochastic Distribution Networks
Authors: Guo Yiguo , Fu Yimu , Li Jingxuan , Chen Jiajia
Published: January 2025

The rapid expansion of renewable energy sources and the increasing electrical load demand are complicating the operational dynamics of power grids, leading to significant voltage fluctuations and elevated line losses. To address these challenges, we propose an information gap decision-theory-based robust optimization method for the siting and operation of reactive compensation equipment, utilizing static var generators (SVGs) to mitigate voltage fluctuations and reduce losses. Our approach begins by projecting the scale of renewable energy integration and load growth, establishing scenarios with varying renewable-to-load growth ratios. We then develop a multi-objective optimization model that incorporates voltage–loss sensitivity, accounting for the uncertainties in renewable energy production. A case study demonstrates that our method reduces grid voltage fluctuations and losses by 29.53% and 7.75%, respectively, compared to non-intervention scenarios, highlighting its effectiveness in stabilizing distribution networks.
Real-Time Temperature Prediction Model for Online Continuous Casting Control Using Simplified Boundary Condition Computing Method
Authors: Guo Shengrong , Sharif Johan Mohamad
Published: January 2025

Numerical process modeling of continuous casting is increasingly applied to optimize production practices for higher product quality guarantees, in which real-time temperature prediction is the key factor that makes it possible to observe and optimize the solidification behavior of the continuous casting process. For offline simulations, the completeness of boundary conditions and accuracy of calculation are core concerns; as for online control, the stability of the model calculation and the correctness are equally important. This study demonstrates a process tracking and online control model of continuous casting based on IoT technology and proposes a simplified calculation method for secondary cooling boundary conditions. The proposed method calculates a comprehensive heat transfer coefficient based on offline simulated parameters and computes the total heat flux of a secondary cooling zone. The experimental results show that the temperature field calculated by this method is stable, and the difference between the actual measured temperature is within an acceptable range of 15 °C. The proposed method no longer requires an online model to consider four types of heat transfer boundary conditions, improving the versatility of the online model. The smoother surface temperature curve is beneficial for dynamic control of secondary cooling water. It can be an alternative method for implementing a more conducive online continuous casting model.
The Effectiveness and Predictability of BioHPP (Biocompatible High-Performance Polymer) Superstructures in Toronto-Branemark Implant-Prosthetic Rehabilitations: A Case Report
Authors: Speroni Stefano , Antonelli Luca , Coccoluto Luca , Giuffrè Marco , Sarnelli Francesco , Tura Tommaso , Gherlone Enrico
Published: January 2025

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical performance of BioHPP® (Biocompatible High-Performance Polymer) superstructures in full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitations following the Toronto-Branemark protocol, focusing on biomechanical and biological outcomes. Methods: A 70-year-old edentulous male patient underwent full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitation using BioHPP® superstructures fabricated through a CAD-CAM workflow. Radiological and clinical evaluations were conducted to plan implant placement and assess outcomes after one-year of follow-up. The primary endpoints included prosthetic stability, peri-implant bone resorption, and patient-reported satisfaction. Results: The BioHPP® superstructure demonstrated effective stress distribution, leading to minimal peri-implant bone resorption and improved implant stability. Clinical evaluations showed excellent prosthetic fit and functionality, with no complications during the observation period. Radiological analyses confirmed the absence of prosthetic misfits, while patient-reported outcomes indicated high levels of comfort and aesthetic satisfaction. Conclusions: BioHPP® superstructures offer a promising alternative to traditional materials for full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitations, providing significant biomechanical and aesthetic advantages. These findings suggest that BioHPP® may enhance clinical outcomes, though further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up periods is required to validate its long-term reliability.
Advancing Seabed Bedform Mapping in the Kuźnica Deep: Leveraging Multibeam Echosounders and Machine Learning for Enhanced Underwater Landscape Analysis
Authors: Janowski Łukasz
Published: January 2025

The ocean, covering 71% of Earth’s surface, remains largely unexplored due to the challenges of the marine environment. This study focuses on the Kuźnica Deep in the Baltic Sea, aiming to develop an automatic seabed mapping methodology using multibeam echosounders (MBESs) and machine learning. The research integrates various scientific fields to enhance understanding of the Kuźnica Deep’s underwater landscape, addressing sediment composition, backscatter intensity, and geomorphometric features. Advances in remote sensing, particularly, object-based image analysis (OBIA) and machine learning, have significantly improved geospatial data analysis for underwater landscapes. The study highlights the importance of using a reduced set of relevant features for training models, as identified by the Boruta algorithm, to improve accuracy and robustness. Key geomorphometric features were crucial for seafloor composition mapping, while textural features were less significant. The study found that models with fewer, carefully selected features performed better, reducing overfitting and computational complexity. The findings support hydrographic, ecological, and geological research by providing reliable seabed composition maps and enhancing decision-making and hypothesis generation.