bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periocular Aging Across Populations and Esthetic Considerations: A Narrative Review
Authors: Tao Brendan K. , Butt Fahad R. , Dhivagaran Thanansayan , Balas Michael , Nijhawan Navdeep , Nassrallah Georges , Hussain Ahsen , Ing Edsel B.
Published: January 2025

As the face ages, the skin, fat, muscle, and fascia descend, and the underlying bone, cartilage, and teeth may lose mass. Oculofacial aging is a multifactorial process that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This review summarizes the patterns of oculofacial aging that are observed across populations, including variations in periorbital hollowing, eyelid ptosis, and skin elasticity. Evidence indicates significant variability in aging patterns between sex- and race-based subgroups. Nonetheless, there remains a paucity of research on the progression of aging in some under-studied demographic groups. Signs of oculofacial aging often become apparent to patients well before these changes reach full maturity in later years, leading many to seek early esthetic interventions. Others may present with more advanced signs of aging, motivating a diverse range of therapeutic options. We discuss minimally invasive esthetic interventions to mitigate the signs of aging, which may include botulinum toxin injections, dermal fillers, applied energy-based treatments (e.g., lasers), and emerging techniques such as micro-focused ultrasound and platelet-rich plasma therapies. We review evidence on outcomes related to patient satisfaction and quality of life following esthetic interventions for oculofacial aging. Finally, we outline ethical considerations and challenges faced with the delivery of esthetic surgery, including treatment complications and the influence of social media. This review provides a comprehensive overview of oculofacial aging patterns, its management, and important considerations for the provision of esthetic oculofacial treatment.
Assessing Attitudes and Perceptions of High-Risk, Low-Resource Communities Towards Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Public-Access Defibrillation
Authors: Hirsch Carolyn , Sachdeva Bhanvi , Roca-Dominguez Dilenny , Foster Jordan , Bryant Kellie , Gautier-Matos Nancy , Minguez Mara , Williams Olajide , Elkind Mitchell S. V. , Homma Shunichi , Lantigua Rafael , Agarwal Sachin
Published: January 2025

Background: Layperson cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) use are vital for improving survival rates after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), yet their application varies by community demographics. We evaluated the concerns and factors influencing willingness to perform CPR and use AEDs among laypersons in high-risk, low-resource communities. Methods: From April 2022 to March 2024, laypersons in Northern Manhattan’s Community District 12 completed surveys assessing their attitudes toward CPR and AED use before attending Hands-Only CPR training. Fisher’s Exact Test assessed differences in concerns and willingness to perform CPR and AED use across racial-ethnic groups and compared low-resource communities with high-resource groups consisting of non-clinical staff across eight ambulatory sites. Results: Among 669 participants from low-resource communities, 64% identified as Hispanic, 58% were under 40 years of age, and 67% were female. Significant knowledge gaps were identified: 62% had never learned CPR, and 77% were unfamiliar with AEDs. Top concerns about giving CPR included fear of incorrect performance (67%), causing harm (56%), and legal repercussions (53%). Willingness to perform CPR was most influenced by familiarity with the victim. The primary barrier to AED use was a lack of operational knowledge (66%). Non-Hispanic Black participants expressed significantly greater concerns than their Non-Hispanic White counterparts. Participants in high-resource settings (n = 309) showed higher training rates, albeit with similar apprehensions about CPR and AED use. Conclusions: Concerns regarding CPR and AED use stem from a lack of confidence and training, particularly predominant in certain racial-ethnic groups. Targeted, culturally sensitive community interventions could potentially address these barriers, enhance preparedness, and improve OHCA survival rates.
Novel Conservative Therapies in Migraine Management: The Impact of Fascia Exercises in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tekin Rabia Tuğba , Aslan Hilal , Uludağ Veysel , Gümüşyayla Şadiye , Vural Gönül
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Migraine is a complex neurological disorder often associated with autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fascia exercises on migraine symptoms and explore their potential as a novel conservative treatment approach. Methods: A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 migraine patients who were randomly assigned to a treatment group (fascia exercises) or a control group (conventional physiotherapy). Both groups underwent a six-week intervention consisting of two sessions per week. Pain intensity, migraine-related disability, sleep quality, anxiety, depression, heart rate variability (HRV), and patient satisfaction were assessed before and after the intervention using validated scales. Results: Significant improvements in pain intensity, attack frequency and duration, migraine-related disability, sleep quality, and anxiety levels were observed in both groups (p < 0.05). However, the treatment group demonstrated a more pronounced reduction in depression scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). While no significant changes in HRV parameters were detected in either group, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the treatment group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Fascia exercises represent a promising complementary therapy for migraine management, offering significant improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms. While immediate effects on HRV were not evident, the potential to modulate autonomic balance and address migraine pathophysiology warrants further exploration. These findings highlight the value of fascia exercises as a low-cost, non-invasive approach, emphasizing the need for further research to confirm their long-term clinical benefits and integration into migraine treatment protocols.
Fluorescence Cholangiography for Extrahepatic Bile Duct Visualization in Urgent Mild and Moderate Acute Cholecystitis Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Pavulans Janis , Jain Nityanand , Zeiza Kaspars , Sondore Elza , Cerpakovska Krista Brigita , Opincans Janis , Atstupens Kristaps , Plaudis Haralds
Published: January 2025

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis carries an increased risk of biliovascular injuries. Fluorescence cholangiography (FC) is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying extrahepatic bile ducts (EHBD). The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of FC in delineating EHBD anatomy, both before and after dissection, based on the critical view of safety (CVS) principles. Methods: Urgently admitted patients were prospectively stratified into two groups, depending on whether they had mild or moderate acute cholecystitis, in accordance with the 2018 Tokyo guidelines. All patients were scheduled for an early laparoscopic cholecystectomy using FC and were administered a fixed dose of indocyanine green (ICG) intravenously 12 h prior to the surgical procedure. Results: A total of 108 patients—75 patients with mild acute cholecystitis and 33 patients with moderate acute cholecystitis—were included. More than four CVS steps were performed in 101 patients (93.5%). Less than four CVS steps were performed only in seven patients—three (2.5%) patients with mild acute cholecystitis and four (4%) patients with moderate acute cholecystitis. The achievement of the CVS principles and the visualization rate using FC significantly increased in both patient groups, ranging from 3% before CVS to 100% after CVS (p < 0.001). In both groups, the cystic duct was visualized in most patients after CVS and FC, followed by the common bile duct and the common hepatic duct. Conversely, even after using CVS and FC, the visualization of the confluence of the cystic and common hepatic ducts remained less likely and challenging in both groups (57.3% in mild patients vs. 33.3% in moderate patients; p = 0.022). Background liver fluorescence disturbance was observed equally in both patient groups (6–11%), but it did not reach statistical significance. The median operative time was 60 ± 25 min in patients with mild acute cholecystitis compared to 85 ± 37 min in patients suffering from moderate acute cholecystitis (p < 0.001). No postoperative complications or biliovascular injuries were observed. Conclusions: FC is a convenient, safe, and efficacious procedure for attaining CVS principles and identifying the EHBD anatomy in most patients. The procedure showed superior results in mild acute cholecystitis patients in comparison to moderate acute cholecystitis patients.
Resting-State EEG Oscillations in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Toward Mechanistic Insights and Clinical Markers
Authors: Chmiel James , Stępień-Słodkowska Marta
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a complex, progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. Several neuroimaging techniques can help reveal the pathophysiology of ALS. One of these is the electroencephalogram (EEG), a noninvasive and relatively inexpensive tool for examining electrical activity of the brain with excellent temporal precision. Methods: This mechanistic review examines the pattern of resting-state EEG activity. With a focus on publications published between January 1995 and October 2024, we carried out a comprehensive search in October 2024 across a number of databases, including PubMed/Medline, Research Gate, Google Scholar, and Cochrane. Results: The literature search yielded 17 studies included in this review. The studies varied significantly in their methodology and patient characteristics. Despite this, a common biomarker typical of ALS was found—reduced alpha power. Regarding other oscillations, the findings are less consistent and sometimes contradictory. As this is a mechanistic review, three possible explanations for this biomarker are provided. The main and most important one is increased cortical excitability. In addition, due to the limitations of the studies, recommendations for future research on this topic are outlined to enable a further and better understanding of EEG patterns in ALS. Conclusions: Most studies included in this review showed alpha power deficits in ALS patients, reflecting pathological hyperexcitability of the cerebral cortex. Future studies should address the methodological limitations identified in this review, including small sample sizes, inconsistent frequency-band definitions, and insufficient functional outcome measures, to solidify and extend current findings.
Explainable AI in Digestive Healthcare and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Authors: Mascarenhas Miguel , Mendes Francisco , Martins Miguel , Ribeiro Tiago , Afonso João , Cardoso Pedro , Ferreira João , Fonseca João , Macedo Guilherme
Published: January 2025

An important impediment to the incorporation of artificial intelligence-based tools into healthcare is their association with so-called black box medicine, a concept arising due to their complexity and the difficulties in understanding how they reach a decision. This situation may compromise the clinician’s trust in these tools, should any errors occur, and the inability to explain how decisions are reached may affect their relationship with patients. Explainable AI (XAI) aims to overcome this limitation by facilitating a better understanding of how AI models reach their conclusions for users, thereby enhancing trust in the decisions reached. This review first defined the concepts underlying XAI, establishing the tools available and how they can benefit digestive healthcare. Examples of the application of XAI in digestive healthcare were provided, and potential future uses were proposed. In addition, aspects of the regulatory frameworks that must be established and the ethical concerns that must be borne in mind during the development of these tools were discussed. Finally, we considered the challenges that this technology faces to ensure that optimal benefits are reaped, highlighting the need for more research into the use of XAI in this field.
Early Autonomic Dysfunction in Traumatic Brain Injury: An Article Review on the Impact on Multiple Organ Dysfunction
Authors: Wongsripuemtet Pattrapun , Ohnuma Tetsu , Minic Zeljka , Vavilala Monica S. , Miller Joseph B. , Laskowitz Daniel T. , Meurer William J. , Hu Xiao , Korley Frederick K. , Sheng Huaxin , Krishnamoorthy Vijay
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex condition and a leading cause of injury-related disability and death, with significant impacts on patient outcomes. Extracranial organ involvement plays a critical role in the outcome of patients following TBI. Method: This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and challenges in diagnosing patients with autonomic dysfunction after TBI. The databases used in this review include PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register, and Scopus. Results: Of 172 articles identified for screening, 98 were ultimately included in the review. Conclusion: This review summarized the current evidence on the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnosis of early autonomic dysfunction. It also emphasizes the effects of autonomic dysfunction on end-organ damage. These insights aim to guide clinicians and researchers toward improving the care for and understanding of autonomic dysfunction in TBI patients, while underscoring the need for further research in this area.
Clinical Insights and Radiological Features on Multiple Sclerosis Comorbid with Migraine
Authors: Sparaco Maddalena , Bonavita Simona
Published: January 2025

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine are neurological diseases, affecting young women. Migraine is the most prevalent type of headache in people with MS (pwMS). Objectives: The aim of this review is to describe the clinical, radiological, and therapeutic features of MS and migraine comorbidity. The clinical section focuses on the characteristics of migraine in pwMS and of MS in co-occurrence with migraine, and on the presence of other possible comorbidities. The radiological section deals with the differential diagnosis of white matter lesions and changes in connectivity patterns on brain magnetic resonanceto investigate a possible link between MS and migraine. The therapeutic section evaluates the effects of MS-disease-modifying therapies on migraine and of prophylactic migraine treatments on MS. Methods: The literature search was conducted using PubMed as an electronic database. The papers that reported relevant clinical, radiological and therapeutic findings were selected. Results: Among 1351 results retrieved, at the end of screening procedures, 34 studies were selected. Migraine can impact the perception of some symptoms and the presence of some comorbidities, particularly relevant in MS. Furthermore, migraine and MS share some radiological features, leading to diagnostic challenges, however identifying some lesion characteristics and changes in the connectivity pathway may be supportive. Medications for migraine and MS should be administered considering both the adverse events and multiple drug interactions. Conclusions: The data emerging from this review illustrate the research efforts aimed at providing valuable insights into accurate diagnosis, effective clinical management, and the definition of targeted treatment schedules that could improve the quality of life for pwMS with migraine.
Advances in Conductive Polymer-Based Flexible Electronics for Multifunctional Applications
Authors: Shahid Md. Abdus , Rahman Md. Mostafizur , Hossain Md. Tanvir , Hossain Imam , Sheikh Md. Sohan , Rahman Md. Sunjidur , Uddin Nasir , Donne Scott W. , Hoque Md. Ikram Ul
Published: January 2025

The rapid developments in conductive polymers with flexible electronics over the past years have generated noteworthy attention among researchers and entrepreneurs. Conductive polymers have the distinctive capacity to conduct electricity while still maintaining the lightweight, flexible, and versatile characteristics of polymers. They are crucial for the creation of flexible electronics or gadgets that can stretch, bend, and adapt to different surfaces have sparked momentous interest in electronics, energy storage, sensors, smart textiles, and biomedical applications. This review article offers a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in conductive polymers over the last 15 years, including a bibliometric analysis. The properties of conductive polymers are summarized. Additionally, the fabrication processes of conductive polymer-based materials are discussed, including vacuum filtering, hydrothermal synthesis, spray coating, electrospinning, in situ polymerization, and electrochemical polymerization. The techniques have been presented along with their advantages and limitations. The multifunctional applications of conductive polymers are also discussed, including their roles in energy storage and conversion (e.g., supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs)), as well as in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), organic solar cells (OSCs), conductive textiles, healthcare monitoring, and sensors. Future scope and associated challenges have also been mentioned for further development in this field.
Optimizing Recovery Strategies in Elite Speedskating: A Comparative Analysis of Different Modalities
Authors: Kowalski Tomasz , Rębiś Kinga , Malczewska-Lenczowska Jadwiga , Klusiewicz Andrzej , Starczewski Michał , Klich Sebastian , Kasiak Przemysław
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: As short-track speed skaters have to race multiple races to achieve success during competition, optimizing the recovery between efforts is a noteworthy performance determinant. Therefore, we compared three different recovery modalities (active cycling recovery, pneumatic compression boots, and isocapnic breathing protocol) in the context of perceived subjective pain and recovery variables, multiple biochemical and biomechanical indices, CMJ height and power, as well as repeated efforts on the ice track. Methods: Fifteen elite short-track speed skaters (eight males and seven females; age 18.3 ± 1.0 years, height 175.6 ± 7.5 cm, weight 73.7 ± 7.7 kg, 23.8 kg/m2, VO2max 55.5 mL·kg−1·min−1: ♂ 58 20 ± 3.6 mL·kg−1·min−1; and ♀ 53 ± 4.5 mL·kg−1·min−1) completed the study experiment and were included in the analyses. Repeated measures ANOVA with optional post hoc Bonferroni correction was used to assess the association magnitude of changes in variables across the recovery methods. Results: All the investigated protocols were associated with significant changes in multiple recovery indices observed within all the investigated protocols (p ≤ 0.05). However, for this sample, they resulted in analogous effects on subjective variables, hormonal response, creatine kinase, CMJ parameters, and on-ice performance (between-protocol effect: p ≥ 0.002). Changes in creatine kinase were generally higher in males than females (p = 0.05), which might suggest that optimal recovery protocols in short-track are gender-dependent. Conclusions: Since compression and active cycling remain gold standard recovery protocols, a similar response from isocapnic breathing suggests it may be a modality particularly useful in real-world settings.
Multi-Step Forecasting of Chlorophyll Concentration with Multi-Attention Collaborative Network
Authors: Jin Yingying , Zhang Feng , Wang Xia , Wang Lei , Chen Kuo , Chen Liangyu , Qin Yutao , Wu Ping
Published: January 2025

In a marine environment, the concentration of chlorophyll is an important indicator of quality, which is also considered an indicator used to predict the marine ecological environment, which is further considered an important means of predicting red tide disasters. Although existing methods for predicting chlorophyll concentration have achieved encouraging performance, there are still two limitations: (i) they primarily focus on the correlation between variables while ignoring negative noise from non-predictive variables and (ii) they are unable to distinguish the impact of chlorophyll from that of non-predictive variables on chlorophyll concentration at future time points. In order to overcome these obstacles, we propose a Multi-Attention Collaborative Network (MACN)-based triangle-structured prediction system. In particular, the MACN consists of two branch networks, with one named NP-net, focusing on non-predictive variables, and the other named T-net, applied to the target variable. NP-net incorporates variable-distillation attention to eliminate the negative effects of irrelevant variables, and its outputs are used as auxiliary information for T-net. T-net works on the target variable, and both its encoder and decoder are related to NP-net to use the output of NP-net for assistance in learning and prediction. Two actual datasets are used in the experiments, which show that the MACN performs better than various kinds of state-of-the-art techniques.
Mycological Profile and Associated Factors Among Patients with Dermatophytosis in Astana, Kazakhstan
Authors: Aimoldina Alma , Smagulova Ainura , Batpenova Gulnar , Konnikov Nellie , Algazina Togzhan , Jetpisbayeva Zulfiya , Azanbayeva Dinara , Amantayev Darkhan , Kiyan Vladimir
Published: January 2025

Dermatophytosis, also known as Tinea infection, remains a significant interdisciplinary concern worldwide. This dermatophyte infection may be more serious in individuals with underlying somatic diseases, immunodeficiencies, endocrine disorders, or chronic illnesses. This study analyzed 313 patients with suspected dermatophytosis. Data were gathered through questionnaires and medical records were reviewed. Biological samples were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar, and PCR was employed to assess the genetic diversity of strains. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. The overall prevalence of dermatophytosis in the cohort was 30.4%. Among the cultured isolates, 73.7% were identified as Microsporum canis, while 26.3% were identified as Trichophyton species, including T. mentagrophytes, T. tonsurans, and T. verrucosum. Several factors were significantly associated with an increased risk of dermatophytosis, including the following: male gender (AOR = 1.97), age 1–10 years (AOR = 3.80), living in rural areas (AOR = 2.30), visiting public bathhouses (AOR = 2.32), visiting massage parlors (AOR = 1.39), contact with cats (AOR = 2.32), family history of dermatophytosis (AOR = 3.04), and sexual contact with an infected or unknown partner (AOR = 3.08). Dermatophytosis was identified in approximately one third of the patients by culture (30.4%), with the risk heightened in individuals under 10 years old (43.6%), those living in rural areas (33.3%), and those with a family history of dermatophytosis (35.7%) or close contact with cats (39.4%). The findings underscore the need for strengthened preventive measures and targeted diagnostics, particularly among high-risk groups.
Visual Gradation of Biological Soil Crust Development: A Simple and Effective Recording Method
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , He Ping , Xu Jie
Published: January 2025

Biological soil crusts are important components of dryland ecosystems, showing variations in appearance, morphology, and function across developmental stages. However, the methods for recording biocrust developmental stages have not been simplified and standardized. In this study, three developmental grades for both cyanobacterial crust and moss crust were defined based on visual indicators such as color, thickness, and moss height. A field survey was conducted across three precipitation regions in northern China, during which the developmental grades of cyanobacterial and moss crusts were visually recorded. Key biocrust developmental indicators, including shear strength, penetration resistance, coverage, chlorophyll a content, and bulk density were measured for each grade. The results showed that both cyanobacterial and moss crusts could be effectively classified into three developmental grades based on these indicators, with a 90% concordance between the measured indicators and the defined grading method. This finding validated that the method could accurately reflect biocrust developmental stages while simplifying field recordings. Developmental indicators in various grades of cyanobacterial and moss crusts showed a moderate (30% < CV < 100%) to strong (CV > 100%) variation, highlighting the importance of environmental heterogeneity at the regional scale. Moreover, the grading method proved effective across varying spatial scales, highlighting its broad applicability. However, its validation across the comprehensiveness of target objects and the geographical scope remains limited. Future research should focus on expanding the grading method to include lichen crust, refining it across diverse ecosystems, and exploring the integration of advanced technologies such as hyperspectral imaging and machine learning to automate and improve the classification process. This study provides a simple and effective grading method for visually recording the developmental stages of biological soil crusts, which is useful for ecological research and field applications.
Understanding Dialectal Variation in Contact Scenarios Through Dialectometry: Insights from Inner Asia Minor Greek
Authors: Bompolas Stavros , Melissaropoulou Dimitra
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the interplay between linguistic and extralinguistic factors in language contact scenarios, focusing on inner Asia Minor Greek (iAMGr), a dialect cluster influenced by Turkish and isolated from other Greek-speaking regions. Using dialectometric techniques, we quantified the dialect distances—encompassing both grammatical and lexical features, many of which reflect foreign interference—between nineteen iAMGr varieties. A regression analysis was then employed to evaluate the impact of geographic, demographic, and other macro-social factors on these distances. The results reveal distinct patterns. The grammatical features show a substantial divergence between communities, linked to structural borrowing and primarily influenced by the dominant group’s population size and degree of contact (low- vs. high-contact variety types). In contrast, lexical features exhibit greater convergence, primarily influenced by geography, linked to the susceptibility of lexical borrowing to casual contact. Unlike previous dialectometric studies that report a strong correlation between geographic and dialect distances, our findings suggest that geography’s influence varies by linguistic level, being more pronounced in lexical distances. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that certain dialect-specific factors previously identified in qualitative studies on iAMGr are statistically insignificant. The study concludes that, while geography remains relevant, macro-social factors often play a more critical role in language contact settings, particularly in shaping grammatical distances. These findings provide new insights into the determinants of dialect distances in such contexts.
Electroencephalographic Features of Presumed Hepatic Encephalopathy in a Pediatric Dog with a Portosystemic Shunt—A Case Report
Authors: Ștefănescu Raluca Adriana , Boghian Vasile , Solcan Gheorghe , Codreanu Mario Darius , Musteata Mihai
Published: January 2025

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in dogs is a metabolic disorder of the central nervous system that occurs secondarily to liver dysfunctions, whether due to acquired or congenital causes. A portosystemic shunt is the presence of abnormal communications between the hepatic vessels (portal and suprahepatic veins). As a result of this, the blood brought from the digestive tract through the portal vein bypasses the liver, and the unmetabolized components of the portal bloodstream enter directly into systemic circulation, causing clinical symptoms of metabolic encephalopathy (HE). A 3-month-old Bichon canine patient with a history of seizures secondarily to a portosystemic shunt (PS), confirmed through color Doppler ultrasound exam and computed tomography, was presented for evaluation. The typical electroencephalographic (EEG) traces recorded were characterized by the presence of bilateral symmetrical triphasic waves, resembling non-convulsive status epilepticus. The presence of this EEG pattern is useful in choosing the best therapeutic option in order to not accentuate the HE sings and, consequently, to decrease the mortality risk due to a prolonged status epilepticus.
Unboxing: Exploring the Challenges of Green Supply Chain Initiatives in Thailand
Authors: Faijaidee Wethaya , Jomnonkwao Sajjakaj , Jongkol Pornsiri
Published: January 2025

Background: The increasing global focus on sustainability has made Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) a critical strategy for businesses to balance environmental responsibility with operational efficiency. Despite its benefits, GSCM adoption in developing countries faces significant challenges. This study addresses the gap by investigating these barriers within the Thai context, providing actionable insights for policymakers and businesses. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a survey of 480 business owners, executives, and supply chain employees, and expert analysis using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM). The ISM technique was used to determine the relationships and hierarchy among key barriers to GSCM implementation. Results: The findings reveal that weak legal frameworks, insufficient supplier engagement, and a lack of social responsibility are the most significant barriers. Secondary factors, such as low consumer demand and minimal competitive pressure, exacerbate these challenges. The ISM analysis highlighted the cascading effects of foundational barriers on other dimensions of GSCM adoption. Conclusions: Strengthening environmental regulations, promoting supplier collaboration, and embedding sustainability in corporate culture are key to overcoming GSCM barriers to sustainably enhance Thailand’s competitiveness.
Antibacterial Properties of PMMA/ZnO(NanoAg) Coatings for Dental Implant Abutments
Authors: Rehner (Costache) Ana Maria Gianina , Tudorache Dana-Ionela , Bîrcă Alexandra Cătălina , Nicoară Adrian Ionuț , Niculescu Adelina-Gabriela , Holban Alina Maria , Hudiță Ariana , Bîclesanu Florentina Cornelia , Balaure Paul Cătălin , Pangică Anna Maria , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Croitoru George-Alexandru
Published: January 2025

Infections continue to pose significant challenges in dentistry, necessitating the development of innovative solutions that can effectively address these issues. This study focuses on creating coatings made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) enriched with zinc oxide–silver composite nanoparticles, layered to Ti6Al4V–titanium alloy substrates. The application of these materials aims to create a solution for the abutments utilized in complete dental implant systems, representing the area most susceptible to bacterial infections. The nanoparticles were synthesized using a hydrothermal method, optimized through specific temperature and pressure parameters to achieve effective morphologies and sizes that enhance antibacterial efficacy. The layers were applied to the titanium substrate using the spin coating technique, chosen for its advantages and compatibility with the materials involved. Comprehensive analyses were conducted on the antimicrobial powders, including X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, the PMMA-based coatings incorporating antimicrobial nanoparticles were evaluated to ensure uniformity and homogeneity across the titanium alloy surface by IR mapping and SBF immersion–SEM analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the samples was demonstrated with impressive results against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans, as assessed through biofilm modulation studies. The biocompatibility of the samples was validated through in vitro cell-based assays, which demonstrated excellent compatibility between PMMA-based coatings and human preosteoblasts, confirming their potential suitability for future use in dental implants.
Chemically Modified Pineapple Leaf Fibre as a Filler of Polyurethane-Based Composites
Authors: Szatkowski Piotr , Twaróg Rafał , Sowińska Karolina , Pielichowska Kinga
Published: January 2025

Pineapple leaf fibres represent a biodegradable raw material sourced from renewable resources whose use contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and limiting the amount of waste generated. Their potential applications can effectively decrease the industry’s dependence on plastics and support sustainable development, which should accompany the production of modern materials. In this study, polyurethane-based composites reinforced with various types of natural cellulose fillers were developed and investigated. Microcrystalline cellulose and unmodified and chemically modified pineapple leaf fibres were used as reinforcements. The mechanical and thermal properties of the produced materials were determined and compared. The results of the tests indicated that both microcrystalline cellulose and pineapple leaf fibres contributed to a reduction in the mechanical properties of polyurethane. A varying impact of fillers on the Young’s modulus of the biocomposites was observed. The presence of natural modifiers influenced an increase in the melting temperature of the composite compared to the pure polyurethane. Integration of natural pineapple fibres into composite represents a step toward a more sustainable future, combining economic benefits with environmental care. The mechanical characteristics of composite materials were enhanced by modified fibres, compared to their unmodified counterparts. This improvement comes from the unique structural properties of the modified fibres. When polyurethane (PU) is used as the matrix material, it effectively fills the interfibrillar voids, creating a more cohesive bond between the components.
A Study on the Effect of Nickel-Plated Graphite Content on the Microstructure and Properties of AlZn/Nickel-Plated Graphite Composite Cold Spray Coatings
Authors: Zhou Linggang , Zheng Zecheng , Wang Qin , Wu Fangfang , Hong Jing , Xie Shengyi , Ni Hongwei , Feng Qiang , Zhou Mengxuan , Li Mengzhao , Zhang Guodong , Pan Chunxu
Published: January 2025

Aluminum and its alloys are widely used in the busbar structures of electrolytic aluminum production. However, they are prone to corrosion and wear damage during use, leading to a decline in current-transmission efficiency and potentially causing safety issues. To repair damaged aluminum busbars, this paper explores the feasibility of using cold spraying technology for surface restoration. Using 6063 aluminum alloy as the substrate, AlZn/nickel-plated graphite composite coatings were applied through cold spraying. The effects of different nickel-plated graphite contents on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the coatings were studied. Annealing treatments (200 °C, 300 °C, 400 °C) were further used to improve the coating’s density and performance. The results show that with an increase in the nickel-plated graphite content, the porosity of the coating gradually increases, while the coating’s density and bond strength improve. Additionally, the annealing treatment significantly enhanced the uniformity and hardness of the coating. Moreover, the cold-sprayed coatings exhibited excellent corrosion resistance, especially in the annealed coatings, which showed superior microstructural stability and lower corrosion current density. This study provides a new technological approach for the repair of aluminum busbars and offers an in-depth discussion on the application of cold spraying technology in the surface restoration of aluminum-based composite materials.
SO2 Removal from Flue Gas by Char-Supported Fe-Zn-Cu Sorbent
Authors: Li Yueying , Na Chuan , Dou Jinxiao , Yu Jianglong
Published: January 2025

In this study, the mechanisms of SO2 adsorption on lignite char and char-supported Fe-Zn-Cu sorbent (FZC sorbent) were investigated. The FZC sorbent was prepared by the impregnation of metal components on raw coal followed by steam gasification. Flue gas desulfurization experiments were carried out on a fixed-bed reactor at 100–300 °C by using simulated flue gas containing SO2/O2/H2O balanced by N2. The flue gas composition was monitored by using an online flue gas analyzer. The solid samples before and after desulfurization were analyzed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric Analysis–Mass Spectroscopy (TG-MS), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The experimental results showed that both lignite char and the FZC sorbent can effectively adsorb SO2 under the present experimental conditions. The presence of O2 and H2O in the flue gas promoted the adsorption of SO2 on the FZC sorbent. The SO2 adsorption capacity of the FZC sorbent increased with the increase in the temperature up to 250 °C. When the temperature was further increased to 300 °C, the SO2 adsorption capacity of the sorbents decreased rapidly. Under optimum experimental conditions with a space velocity of 1500 h−1, a desulfurization temperature of 250 °C, and 5% (vol) O2 and 10% (vol) H2O in the flue gas, the sorbents exhibited the longest breakthrough time of 280 min and breakthrough SO2 adsorption capacity of about 2200 mg (SO2) per gram sorbent.
Evaluation of Concrete Structural Cracking Behavior Induced by Early Drying Shrinkage
Authors: Zhang Mengxi , Lu Chuntian , Min Qiaolin , Wang Xinyue , He Yinpeng , Deng Genhua , Wang Yixin
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the early drying shrinkage coefficients of different hydraulic cement mortars are calibrated through laboratory experiments for moderate-heat Portland cement (MHPC) and low-heat Portland cement (LHPC). By developing an improved mesoscale modeling approach, a 3D highly detailed simulation of concrete was generated, which incorporates the phases of mortar, aggregates, and interfacial transition zone (ITZ). The simulation result is in good agreement with the concrete early drying shrinkage experiment, exhibiting an error of less than 4.99% after 28 days. Subsequently, the mesoscale model is employed to explain the influence of the ambient humidity, cement type, and aggregate volume ratio on the early drying shrinkage performance of concrete. The results show that the early drying shrinkage coefficient of the LHPC is approximately 82% of the MHPC. Additionally, the depth of ambient humidity influence is about 15 mm from the concrete surface after 28 days. The early drying shrinkage can be controlled by increasing ambient humidity via the LHPC or raising the aggregate volume ratio. The mass-loss rate of concrete decreases as the ambient humidity or aggregate volume ratio increases during the process of drying shrinkage. Furthermore, the results quantify the influence patterns of various factors on drying shrinkage, thereby facilitating their application in assessing the cracking time induced by early drying shrinkage in roller-compacted concrete (RCC) dams. This provides theoretical guidance for crack prevention in concrete structures and aids in developing strategies for the construction of crack-free dams.
The Effect of Alumina-Rich Spinel Exsolution on the Mechanical Property of Calcium Aluminate Cement-Bonded Corundum Castables
Authors: Hou Qiqi , Zhang Zhongzhuang , Zhao Yaning , Ye Kaiwei , Tian Jiajia , Mu Yuandong , He Jian , Ye Guotian
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effect of the exsolution behavior of alumina-rich spinel on the formation and distribution of CA6 (CaAl12O19) in corundum castables bonded with calcium aluminate cement. In this study, alumina-rich spinel is substituted for tabular corundum in the same proportions and grain size. The matrices after curing were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The phase composition and microstructure of the matrices containing alumina-rich spinel were analyzed after firing at 1600 °C. These results showed that the addition of alumina-rich spinel significantly improved the mechanical strength of the castables. This improvement was attributed to the alumina produced by spinel exsolution during firing at 1600 °C, which reacted in situ with CA2 (CaAl4O7) to form CA6. CA6 connects the different particles and forms an interspersed interlocking structure within the spinel. The CA6-MA interspersed interlocking structure replaces part of the CA6-Al2O3 structure and significantly improves the mechanical strength of the castables.
The Influence of Mg Doping in α-Al2O3 Crystals Investigated with First-Principles Calculations and Experiment
Authors: Zeng Yan , Fan Haijun , Guo Haibo , Tang Kaiyong , Wang Zungang , Zhang Siyuan , Zhou Mo , Fu Li , Feng He
Published: January 2025

The influence of Mg doping in α-Al2O3 crystals is investigated in this article by first-principles calculations and formation energies, density of states, and computed absorption spectra. Three models related to Mg2+ substituting for Al3+ doping structures were constructed, as well as spinel structure models with varying aluminum-magnesium ratios. The formation energy calculations confirmed the rationality of the MgAlVO model, which means that Mg substitutional doping incorporating oxygen vacancies is most likely to form in crystals. The combined action of magnesium and oxygen vacancies introduced new defect energy levels in the bandgap. The calculated absorption spectra of the MgAlVO and Mg-rich spinel structures exhibited various color centers. The experimental absorption spectra and thermoluminescence characteristics of α-Al2O3:Mg and alumina-magnesium (Al-Mg) spinel crystal samples were tested. The thermoluminescence peak of the Al-Mg spinel was significantly stronger than that of the α-Al2O3:Mg crystal. The consistency between the model-calculated absorption spectra and the experimental results confirmed the theoretical predictions. Based on the experimental and computational results, the influence of Mg2+ substitutional doping in α-Al2O3 and the impact of the locally Mg-rich spinel on the optical and radiation performance of α-Al2O3:Mg crystals are elucidated.
Design Guidelines for Fractional Order Cascade Control in DC Motors: A Computational Analysis on Pairing Speed and Current Loop Orders Using Oustaloup’s Recursive Method
Authors: Haro-Larrode Marta , Gomez-Jarreta Alvaro
Published: January 2025

Nested, or cascade speed and torque control has been widely used for DC motors over recent decades. Simultaneously, fractional-order control schemes have emerged, offering additional degrees of control. However, adopting fractional-order controllers, particularly in cascade schemes, does not inherently guarantee better performance. Poorly paired fractional exponents for inner and outer PI controllers can worsen the DC motor’s behavior and controllability. Finding appropriate combinations of fractional exponents is therefore crucial to minimize experimental costs and achieve better dynamic response compared to integer-order cascade control. Additionally, mitigating adverse couplings between speed and current loops remains an underexplored area in fractional-order control design. This paper develops a computational model for fractional-order cascade control of DC motor speed (external) and current (internal) loops to derive appropriate combinations of internal and external fractional orders. Key metrics such as overshoot, rise time, and peak current values during speed and torque changes are analyzed, along with coupled variables like speed drop during torque steps and peak torque during speed steps. The proposed maps guide the selection of effective combinations, enabling readers to deduce robust or adaptive designs depending on specific performance needs. The methodology employs Oustaloup’s recursive approximation to model fractional-order elements, with MATLAB–SIMULINK simulations validating the proposed criteria.
Recent Advances of Colossal Magnetoresistance in Versatile La-Ca-Mn-O Material-Based Films
Authors: Boora Navjyoti , Ahmad Rafiq , Rahman Shafaque , Dung Nguyen Quoc , Ahmad Akil , Alshammari Mohammed B. , Lee Byeong-Il
Published: January 2025

Hole-doped manganese oxides exhibit a gigantic negative magnetoresistance, referred to as colossal magnetoresistance (CMR), owing to the interplay between double-exchange (DE) ferromagnetic metal and charge-ordered antiferromagnetic insulator/semiconductor phases. Magnetoresistive manganites display a sharp resistivity drop at the metal–insulator transition temperature (TMI). CMR effects in perovskite manganites, specifically La0.67Ca0.33MnO3 (La-Ca-Mn-O or LCMO), have been extensively investigated. This review paper provides a comprehensive introduction to the crystallographic structure, as well as the electronic and magnetic properties, of LCMO films. Furthermore, we delve into a detailed discussion of the effects of epitaxial strain induced by different substrates on LCMO films. Additionally, we review the early findings and diverse applications of LCMO thin films. Finally, we outline potential challenges and prospects for achieving superior LCMO film properties.
Game-Theory-Based Multi-Objective Optimization for Enhancing Environmental and Social Life Cycle Assessment in Steel–Concrete Composite Bridges
Authors: Martínez-Muñoz David , Martí Jose V. , Yepes Víctor
Published: January 2025

The design of bridges must balance sustainability and construction simplicity. A game-theory-based optimization method was applied in this research to find a sustainable steel–concrete composite bridge design. The sustainability was evaluated through cost and environmental and social impact using the Life Cycle Assessment method. The optimization process considered four criteria simultaneously, using a discrete version of the SCA algorithm and a transfer function for discretization. The preferred solutions were selected using the Minkowski distances approach. Results showed a decrease in slab reinforcement and an increase in the amount of steel in the cross-section, leading to only an 8.2‰ increase in cost compared to similar studies. Regarding the cross-section, the geometry obtained considers cells in the upper and lower parts of the webs to improve the bending resistance. The proposed method allows for the simultaneous optimization of multiple criteria and provides a sustainable yet simple bridge design solution.