bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major Bleeding in the Emergency Department: A Practical Guide for Optimal Management
Authors: Bezati Sofia , Ventoulis Ioannis , Verras Christos , Boultadakis Antonios , Bistola Vasiliki , Sbyrakis Nikolaos , Fraidakis Othon , Papadamou Georgia , Fyntanidou Barbara , Parissis John , Polyzogopoulou Effie
Published: January 2025

Major bleeding is a life-threatening condition with high morbidity and mortality. Trauma, gastrointestinal bleeding, haemoptysis, intracranial haemorrhage or other causes of bleeding represent major concerns in the Emergency Department (ED), especially when complicated by haemodynamic instability. Severity and source of bleeding, comorbidities, and prior use of anticoagulants are pivotal factors affecting both the clinical status and the patients’ differential response to haemorrhage. Thus, risk stratification is fundamental in the initial assessment of patients with bleeding. Aggressive resuscitation is the principal step for achieving haemodynamic stabilization of the patient, which will further allow appropriate interventions to be made for the definite control of bleeding. Overall management of major bleeding in the ED should follow a holistic individualized approach which includes haemodynamic stabilization, repletion of volume and blood loss, and reversal of coagulopathy and identification of the source of bleeding. The aim of the present practical guide is to provide an update on recent epidemiological data about the most common etiologies of bleeding and summarize the latest evidence regarding the bundles of care for the management of patients with major bleeding of traumatic or non-traumatic etiology in the ED.
Point-of-Care Diagnosis of Atrophic Gastritis by Serological Biomarker Test (GastroPanel® Quick Test) in Gastroscopy Referral Patients in India
Authors: Chhabra Mohinish , Kolatkar Ajit , Chawla Suresh , Joshi Aniket , Karjalainen Marika , Holopainen Heli , Hendolin Panu , Syrjänen Kari
Published: January 2025

Background: Increased demand of the serological biomarker test (GastroPanel®) in non-invasive diagnosis of gastric cancer (GC) risk conditions, i.e., atrophic gastritis (AG) and Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection, prompted the design of GastroPanel® Quick test (GPQT) (Biohit Oyj, Helsinki, Finland) for point-of-care (POC) settings. Objective: This study validated the diagnostic accuracy (DA) of GPQT in diagnosis of AG and Hp among gastroscopy referral patients. Methods: Altogether, 266 patients were enrolled among the consecutive gastroscopy referrals at the Department of Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital (Punjab, India). All patients underwent gastroscopy with biopsies (n = 249) classified using the Updated Sydney System (USS) and finger prick blood sampling for GPQT testing. Results: Biopsy-confirmed AG was found in 15.3% (38/249) of the patients. The overall agreement between the GPQT and the USS classification was 71.4% (95% CI 65.4–77.0%), with the weighted kappa (κw) of 0.823 (95% CI 0.773–0.862). In ROC analysis for moderate/severe AG of the corpus (AGC) endpoint, AUC = 0.990 (95% CI 0.979–1.000) and AUC = 0.971 (95% CI 0.948–0.995) for PGI and PGI/PGII, respectively. Hp IgG Ab test detected biopsy-confirmed Hp with AUC = 0.836 (95% CI 0.783–0.889). Conclusions: The GPQT favourably competes in accuracy with the ELISA test version (unified-GP) in diagnosis of AG and Hp in patients referred for diagnostic gastroscopy.
Exploring Hypercoagulability in Post-COVID Syndrome (PCS): An Attempt at Unraveling the Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Muys Maxim , Demulder Anne , Besse-Hammer Tatiana , Ghorra Nathalie , Rozen Laurence
Published: January 2025

Background: The lingering effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection, collectively known as post-COVID syndrome (PCS), affect a significant proportion of recovered patients, manifesting as persistent symptoms like fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and exercise intolerance. Increasing evidence suggests that endothelial dysfunction and coagulation abnormalities play a central role in PCS pathophysiology. This study investigates hypercoagulability and endothelial dysfunction in PCS through thrombin generation and the von Willebrand factor (VWF)/ADAMTS13 axis. Methods: Plasma samples from 97 PCS patients recruited since October 2020 by the clinical research unit of the Brugmann University Hospital were analyzed. A thrombin generation test was performed on a St-Genesia® analyzer (Stago) using the Thromboscreen kit; VWF antigen was determined on a CS-2500 analyzer (Siemens); and ADAMTS-13 activity was determined using an ELISA kit (Technozym®) on an ElX808 plate reader. Results: Thrombin generation testing revealed elevated thrombin production in PCS patients, particularly when thrombomodulin was included. Although most PCS patients showed normalized VWF/ADAMTS13 ratios, 11.3% exhibited elevated ratios (≥1.5), associated with advanced age. Conclusions: Patients with PCS show a consistent pattern of prolonged thrombo-inflammatory dysregulation, highlighted by elevated in vitro thrombin generation and the persistence of abnormal VWF/ADAMTS-13 ratios in a subset of patients.
A Review of Refractive Errors Post Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Injection and Laser Photocoagulation Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Wang Amy T. , Gupta Isha , Dai Shuan
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the incidence and severity of refractive errors that occur following the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) with anti-vascular growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents and laser photocoagulation. Methods: A review of the literature using three databases (PubMed, Embase, Medline) was performed using appropriate search terms, and the results of the relevant studies were compiled and extracted for descriptive analysis. Results: Sixty articles were identified. The cohorts in the studies were treated with either anti-VEGF monotherapy, laser photocoagulation, or a combination, with a high prevalence of myopia, ranging from 0 to 47.7%. Refractive errors of myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism, and anisometropia were considered in infants who received ocular interventions for ROP. Conclusions: In comparison to laser photocoagulation, anti-VEGF monotherapy appears to yield lower levels of myopia and anisometropia; however, the incidence of hypermetropia and astigmatism is variable among cohort groups treated with different anti-VEGF agents.
Assessment of Autonomic Nervous System Function in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Post-COVID-19 Syndrome Presenting with Recurrent Syncope
Authors: Milovanovic Branislav , Markovic Nikola , Petrovic Masa , Zugic Vasko , Ostojic Milijana , Rankovic-Nicic Ljiljana , Bojic Milovan
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Chronic fatigue syndrome and post-COVID-19 syndrome are associated with dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which may manifest as syncope and orthostatic intolerance. This study aimed to compare autonomic nervous system function in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome of unknown etiology and those with chronic fatigue syndrome secondary to post-COVID-19 syndrome using multiple diagnostic modalities, and to assess the prevalence and characteristics of syncope in these populations. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 440 patients examined at the Neurocardiological Laboratory of the Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases “Dedinje”. Patients were divided into three groups: chronic fatigue syndrome of unknown etiology (Group 1, n = 210), chronic fatigue syndrome secondary to post-COVID-19 syndrome (Group 2, n = 137), and healthy controls (Group 3, n = 91). Diagnostic modalities included cardiovascular reflex tests, the head-up tilt test, beat-to-beat analysis, 24 h Holter electrocardiogram monitoring, and 24 h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Statistical analyses were performed using analysis of variance, Tukey’s honestly significant difference test, and the Mann–Whitney U test. Results: Both chronic fatigue syndrome groups demonstrated significant autonomic nervous system dysfunction compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05), including reduced baroreceptor sensitivity and impaired heart rate variability parameters. Syncope prevalence was high in both chronic fatigue syndrome groups, with extreme blood pressure variability observed in 45–47% of patients during the head-up tilt test. Patients with post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome exhibited greater blood pressure increases during the head-up tilt test than those with chronic fatigue syndrome of unknown etiology (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, irrespective of etiology, exhibit significant autonomic nervous system dysfunction and a high prevalence of syncope. Post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome demonstrates distinct hemodynamic patterns, suggesting unique pathophysiological mechanisms that warrant further investigation.
Role of C-Reactive Protein as a Predictor of Early Revascularization and Mortality in Advanced Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Di Stolfo Giuseppe , Mastroianno Mario , Pacilli Michele Antonio , De Luca Giovanni , Coli Carlo Rosario , Bevere Ester Maria Lucia , Pacilli Gabriella , Potenza Domenico Rosario , Mastroianno Sandra
Published: January 2025

Background: Elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels are associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes, particularly in patients with advanced peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This study aimed to assess the impact of hsCRP on clinical characteristics and long-term outcomes in a cohort of PAD patients. Methods: A total of 346 patients with advanced PAD were enrolled and stratified into two groups based on their median hsCRP level (Group 1: <0.32 mg/dL, Group 2: >0.32 mg/dL). The patients were followed for a mean of 102.70 ± 44.13 months. Their clinical characteristics, comorbidities, and long-term cardiovascular events, including myocardial and/or peripheral revascularization, ischemia, and death, were analyzed. This study evaluated two composite endpoints: major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and major adverse peripheral events (MAPEs). MACEs comprised fatal cardiovascular events, cerebral ischemia, cardiac infarction, myocardial revascularization, acute peripheral arterial occlusion, and peripheral reperfusion. MAPEs included carotid reperfusion, acute peripheral arterial occlusion, and lower limb revascularization. Results: The patients in Group 2 had a higher body mass index, waist circumference, and waist–hip ratio compared to those in Group 1 (all p < 0.05). Inflammatory markers, including fibrinogen and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, were significantly elevated in Group 2 (both p < 0.01). While the overall incidence of peripheral revascularization was similar between groups, these interventions occurred significantly earlier in Group 2 (28.24 ± 38.87 months vs. 67.04 ± 49.97 months, p = 0.004; HR: 2.015, 95% CI: 1.134–3.580, p = 0.017). The MAPEs were comparable in number, but occurred earlier in Group 2 (36.60 ± 37.35 months vs. 66.19 ± 48.18 months, p < 0.01; HR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.238–3.181, p = 0.004). Similarly, the MACEs had an earlier onset in Group 2 (40.31 ± 38.95 months vs. 55.89 ± 46.33 months, p = 0.04; HR: 1.62, 95% CI: 0.983–1.987, p = 0.062). A total of 169 deaths were recorded during the follow-up. Group 2 exhibited a significantly higher mortality rate (56% vs. 42%, p < 0.01) and an earlier trend in mortality (76.58 ± 43.53 months vs. 84.86 ± 5.18 months), although this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.22). Conclusions: Elevated hsCRP levels (>0.32 mg/dL) are associated with a worse clinical profile and earlier adverse events in patients with advanced PAD. Group 2 experienced significantly earlier peripheral revascularization, MACEs, and MAPEs. The mortality rates were also significantly higher, highlighting the prognostic value of hsCRP in this population.
Autogenous Tooth Transplantation of Canines—A Prospective Clinical Study on the Influence of Adjunctive Antibiosis and Patient-Related Risk Factors During Initial Healing
Authors: Meinzer Sebastian , Nolte Dirk , Huth Karin Christine
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This prospective clinical study investigated the efficacy of adjunctive antibiotic therapy (doxycycline) and the patient’s risk factors during initial healing of autogenous canine tooth transplantations. Methods: Sixty-seven patients (ranging from 11 to 37 years of age) treated with tooth transplantations were allocated to three parallel groups based on the tooth’s intraoperative extraoral storage time (EST 0–3, 4–6, and 7–15 min) receiving different antibiotic regimens: (1) no antibiotics; (2) intraoperative intravenous (i.v.) single-shot antibiotics; and (3) intraoperative i.v. single-shot plus postoperative oral antibiotics for five days. Initial healing was rated according to pain intensity and clinical signs of pathology over a 21-day period. The influence of the following parameters was investigated using RStudio (linear regression and partial eta squared statistics): group, sex, age, nicotine abuse, tooth apex condition, preoperative ankylosis, displacement severity, jaw location, the number of simultaneous transplantations and other interventions, preoperative orthodontic extrusion, EST, and intraoperative complications. Results: No significant influence for sex (43 females, 24 males), tooth apex condition (19 open, 48 closed), displacement severity, jaw location (51 upper, 16 lower jaw), EST (mean 4.99 min), intraoperative complications (n = 13), or antibiotic regimen on pathology signs or pain intensity were found. Six patients reported medication side effects. Preoperative ankylosis (n = 15) and unsuccessful orthodontic extrusion (n = 16) increased postoperative pain (p = 0.020, ηP2 = 0.08; p = 0.035, ηP2 = 0.07). Multiple transplants (n = 14) and interventions in multiple regions (n = 27) affected pain and pathology (p = 0.002, ηP2 = 0.14; p = 0.001, ηP2 = 0.17). Increased age and nicotine abuse (n = 6) were associated with increased pathology signs (p = 0.024, ηP2 = 0.08; p = 0.029, ηP2 = 0.07). Conclusions: The results suggest that personalized rather than routine antibiotic therapy might be sufficient for initial healing in canine tooth transplantation. Deteriorating factors include preoperative ankylosis, orthodontic extrusion, an increased number of surgical sites, age, and nicotine abuse. Clinical Significance: Routine antibiotic prevention regimes may not be mandatory for initial healing in autogenous tooth transplantation, but a nuanced antibiotic strategy tailored to each patient’s specific risk factors, which is in line with the principle of antibiotic stewardship, is needed.
Telecoaching and Migraine: Digital Approach to Physical Activity in Migraine Management. A Scoping Review
Authors: Leale Ignazio , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Torrente Angelo , Alonge Paolo , Monastero Roberto , Roccella Michele , Brighina Filippo , Giustino Valerio , Battaglia Giuseppe
Published: January 2025

Migraine is a common neurological disorder, affecting approximately 15% of the European population and is among the main causes of years lived with disability. In the context of increasing digitalisation, telecoaching (TC) is a new training modality that involves the use of digital tools to access and manage training services remotely. Given the well-documented benefits of physical activity in migraine management and the rapid expansion of digital health services following the COVID-19 pandemic, this scoping review aims to evaluate the use and feasibility of TC-based training programs in individuals with migraine. A systematic search was conducted on multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) identifying 1507 studies, of which only 3 met the inclusion criteria. These studies collectively involved 181 participants with migraine and assessed various training programs, including aerobic training, resistance training, and physical therapy. Most training programs showed statistically significant improvements in several variables, including severity, duration, asand frequency of migraine attacks. However, based on our study, there is limited evidence to suggest that TC training is beneficial for migraine patients. These findings underscore the need for further investigation, with more rigorous methodologies, higher-quality trials, and larger sample sizes to better establish the efficacy of TC training as a preventive and therapeutic approach for migraine.
Impact of Combined Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (Comb-NMES) on Glucose Signaling and Muscle Myofiber Distribution in a Patient with Acute Spinal Cord Injury and Lower Motor Neuron Lesion
Authors: Alharbi Amal , Womack Erika , Yarar-Fisher Ceren
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This case report examines the impact of a novel combined neuromuscular electrical stimulation (Comb-NMES) regimen on muscle glucose signaling, fiber type distribution, and metabolic function in a patient with acute spinal cord injury (SCI) and lower motor neuron lesions (LMNLs). Case Report: A 32-year-old male with complete T9 SCI underwent a ten-session Comb-NMES intervention targeting the quadriceps. Muscle biopsies and blood samples were analyzed pre- and post-intervention to evaluate changes in muscle fiber types, key metabolic proteins, fasting insulin, glucose, and lipid profiles. Results: The intervention led to a 74.7% and 28.2% reduction in fasting insulin and glucose, respectively. Muscle analysis showed significant increases in CaMK II, Hexokinase II, and IRS-1, indicating improved glucose metabolism. Conclusions: Comb-NMES training markedly improved metabolic control and muscle glucose metabolism in a patient with acute SCI and LMNLs. Enhanced insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization were evidenced by upregulated metabolic proteins, which suggests that Comb-NMES is a promising intervention for improving muscle and metabolic health in SCI patients with LMNLs. Further studies are needed to confirm these benefits and explore the long-term effects.
Use of Eye-Tracking Technology to Determine Differences Between Perceptual and Actual Navigational Performance
Authors: Petrović Igor , Vujičić Srđan
Published: January 2025

This study uses eye-tracking technology (ETT) to investigate discrepancies between seafarers’ perceived and actual performance during simulated maritime operations. The primary objective is to explore how misperceptions regarding the use of navigational tools—such as visual observation, radar, and ECDIS—may contribute to discrepancies in situational awareness, which is critical for safe navigation. By comparing participants’ self-reported perceptions with objective data recorded by ETT, the study highlights cognitive biases that influence navigational decision-making. Data were collected from a simulation scenario involving 32 seafarers with varying levels of maritime experience. The results reveal that participants tend to overestimate their reliance on visual observation and ECDIS, while underestimating their use of radar. These discrepancies may affect decision-making processes and could contribute to an inaccurate perception of situational awareness, although further research is needed to fully establish their direct impact on actual navigational performance. Additionally, the application of ETT identifies differences in the navigational strategies between more and less experienced seafarers, offering insights that could inform the development of training programs aimed at improving situational awareness. Statistical analyses, including Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal–Wallis tests, were conducted to assess the influence of demographic factors on performance. These findings suggest that ETT can be a valuable tool for identifying perceptual biases, potentially improving decision-making and enhancing training for real-world navigational tasks.
Navigating Uncertainty: A Novel Framework for Assessing Barriers to Blockchain Adoption in Freeport Operations
Authors: Liang Xinrui , Fan Shiqi , Li Huanhuan , Jones Giles , Yang Zaili
Published: January 2025

Blockchain technology holds the potential to significantly enhance efficiency and safety in freeport operations. However, fully realising its benefits necessitates a thorough assessment of the obstacles hindering its applications, which often depends on expert opinions characterised by uncertainty and inconsistency. This issue remains inadequately addressed in the existing literature due to the limitations of currently employed methods. To address this gap, this study aims to develop a novel methodology for assessing blockchain adoption barriers in freeports. It makes methodological contributions by combining the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Bayesian Network (BN) methods to identify and quantify complex interrelationships between barriers and facilitate probabilistic predictions of barrier strength. The model is parameterised using the ranked nodes method to reduce the reliance on expert-assigned probabilities. Primary data on barriers’ causal relationships are collected from experts with interdisciplinary experience in blockchain and freeport operations, grounding the analysis in real-world insights. This study makes practical contributions by analysing the blockchain application within a new context (i.e., freeports) and presenting novel findings. Key managerial insights include identifying high investment costs as the most interactive barrier and lack of trust among stakeholders as the most essential barrier. Additionally, evaluating the overall impact of barriers enables targeted strategies for freeport policymakers.
The Development and Application of Bispecific Antibodies in B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Sun Laura , Romancik Jason T.
Published: January 2025

T-cell-engaging bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) are monoclonal antibodies that redirect the cytotoxic activity of T-cells to target malignant neoplasms. B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) is a heterogenous group of aggressive and indolent malignancies with significant therapeutic challenges due to high relapse rates and limited options for relapsed/refractory disease. BsAbs function by simultaneously binding to CD3 on endogenous T-cells and a tumor-associated antigen, creating an immunologic synapse which results in the death of the target cell. The widespread T-cell activation that occurs with BsAb administration can result in cytokine release syndrome and neurological adverse events. Mosunetuzumab, epcoritamab, and glofitamab are CD20-targeting BsAbs that have demonstrated promising single-agent activity in both indolent and aggressive B-NHL. BsAbs are now being evaluated in combination with other anti-lymphoma agents and in earlier lines of treatment, and the results of ongoing clinical trials involving these agents have the potential to reshape the treatment landscape for B-NHL. In this review, we describe the structural features, clinical data, and toxicity profile associated with the BsAbs currently used to treat B-NHL and then discuss ongoing studies and future directions for this exciting new class of therapeutic agents.
Malignant Melanoma of the Tongue: A Scoping Review
Authors: Di Guardo Antonio , Sernicola Alvise , Cantisani Carmen , Nisticò Steven Paul , Pellacani Giovanni
Published: January 2025

Malignant melanoma of the tongue is a rare and highly aggressive neoplasm, constituting less than 2% of oral melanomas. Due to its rarity and atypical clinical presentation, diagnosis and management pose significant challenges. This study provides a scoping review of research on melanoma of the tongue to determine the available data on the epidemiology, clinical features, histopathological characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcomes of this malignancy. Our literature search identified papers published from 1941 to 2024, and 47 individual cases were analyzed. The mean age at diagnosis was 58.6 years, with a male predominance (58.1%). Lesions were most frequently located on the body and lateral borders of the tongue. A high percentage (38.5%) presented with distant metastases at diagnosis, commonly involving the lungs and brain. Histopathological examination highlighted spindle cell morphology in many cases, with immunohistochemical markers such as HMB-45 and S-100 proving essential for diagnosis. Wide local excision with or without neck dissection was the primary treatment, though recurrence rates remained high (20.5%). Despite aggressive management, overall outcomes were poor, reflecting the melanoma’s advanced stage at diagnosis in most cases. This scoping review underscores the need for heightened clinical suspicion, particularly for pigmented or ulcerative lesions of the tongue. Early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and further research into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying tongue melanoma are crucial to improve outcomes for this rare and aggressive disease.
Low-Foaming/Aeration and Low-Traction Electric Drivetrain Fluid (EDF) Solutions for High-Speed E-Mobility
Authors: Ma Philip , Mosher Donna , Steele Chad
Published: January 2025

The use of electrically driven drivetrains is increasing for passenger cars and light-, medium-, and heavy-duty trucks. Off-the-shelf automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) are still being used as electric drivetrain fluids (EDFs). EDFs are trending toward lower viscosity for better energy efficiency and better heat transfer capacity, while satisfying all the other challenging requirements, such as gear/bearing scuffing/wear protection, oxidative stability, copper corrosion, and coating/seal material compatibility. In this paper, we will highlight the importance of low foaming, low aeration, and low traction coefficient which are critical for the performance of the EDF during high-speed applications, measured using metrics such as energy efficiency, heat transfer capacity, and longer oil drain interval.
Intelligent Analysis and Optimization of Lubrication Status Factor Based on Dynamically Loaded Roll Gap in Cold Strip Rolling
Authors: Jin Shuren , Li Xu , Wang Pengfei , Luan Feng , Chen Fangsheng , Zhang Dianhua , Zhang Haidong
Published: January 2025

Lubrication is a critical process in cold strip rolling, and the accurate characterization of lubrication characteristics is an essential factor affecting the strip quality. The roll bending and tilting roll in the flatness actuators change the loaded roll gap profile and affect the lubrication characteristics by flatness dynamic correction, thus the mismatch between the actual and setting values of the lubrication status factor. Firstly, the flatness deviation correction model of roll bending and tilting roll based on the key information of the rolling process is established according to the high-order flatness target. Secondly, the characterization of the instantaneous oil film thickness in the work zone based on the loaded roll gap profile is derived from Reynolds’ equation. Finally, the explicit characterization method of the lubrication status factor in the rolling force model of the final stand is established with the work roll bending, tilting roll, and instantaneous oil film thickness of the work zone as variables, relying on the UCM five-stand, six-roll tandem cold rolling mill. The statistical evaluation and application results show that the mentioned optimization method can improve the setting accuracy of the rolling force by about 60% and the after-rolling gauge accuracy by about 50%.
Correction: Rico-Molina et al. (E)-1-(Benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-5,6,6-trimethylhept-4-en-3-one. Molbank 2024, 2024, M1938
Authors: Rico-Molina Mario , Altarejos Joaquín , Salido Sofía
Published: January 2025

In the original publication [...]
Deterioration Effects and Microscopic Mechanisms of Solidified/Stabilized Red Mud by CGFPA Binders Under Freeze–Thaw Cycles
Authors: Yan Lijun , Yang Junjie , Wu Yalei , Li Fengmin
Published: January 2025

Red mud is a kind of solid waste in the production process of the aluminum industry. The long-term stockpiling of red mud not only occupies a large amount of land but also causes environmental pollution. In order to improve the strength, reduce the alkalinity and toxicity of red mud, and study its durability under freeze–thaw cycles, CGFPA binders, whose components were calcium carbide residue, ground granulated blast furnace slag, fly ash, phosphogypsum, and graphene, were adopted to solidify/stabilize red mud in this paper. The effects and the mechanism of freeze–thaw cycling on the unconfined compressive strength, pH value, and toxic leaching of the solidified/stabilized red mud was investigated. The micro-mechanism was analyzed by XRD, SEM-EDS, and FT-IR. The results of the study showed that the mass, unconfined compressive strength, and pH of the solidified/stabilized red mud decreased gradually with an increase in the number of freeze–thaw cycles, while the leaching concentration of pollutants increased gradually. The rate of loss of unconfined compressive strength satisfies an exponential function with the number of cycles, and the logarithm of pollutant concentration satisfies a linear relationship with the number of cycles. The cumulative loss of mass was 6.7%, 5.4%, 3.6%, and 3.3%, and the cumulative loss of unconfined compressive strength was 50.6%, 47.5%, 32.2%, and 25.3%, and the pH value was reduced to 9.42, 9.54, 9.80, and 9.92, respectively, after 10 freeze–thaw cycles at binder mixing ratios of 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%, while the leaching concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cr, Ni, As, Pb, and Cd increased from 7.4 μg/L, 87.2 μg/L, 5.2 μg/L, 7.0 μg/L, 6.9 μg/L, 3.7 μg/L, and 0.7 μg/L to 17.5 μg/L, 123.5 μg/L, 10.2 μg/L, 15.7 μg/L, 11.4 μg/L, 5.6 μg/L, and 4.9 μg/L, respectively, under the condition of a 30% incorporation ratio. The gelling products generated by the hydration reaction of the binders were mainly C-S-H, C-A-S-H, C-A-H, AFm, etc. Under the action of freeze–thaw cycles, the lattice-like structure of the solidified/stabilized red mud was damaged, resulting in a decrease in its unconfined compressive strength and an increase in pollutant leaching concentration. The research results can provide a theoretical basis for the use of red mud in permafrost regions.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of 3D-Printed Continuous Bamboo Fiber-Reinforced PE Composites
Authors: Qiao Haiyu , Li Qian , Chen Yani , Liu Yayun , Jiang Ning , Wang Chuanyang
Published: January 2025

Continuous fibers with outstanding mechanical performance due to the continuous enhancement effect, show wide application in aerospace, automobile, and construction. There has been great success in developing continuous synthetic fiber-reinforced composites, such as carbon fibers or glass fibers; however, most of which are nonrenewable, have a high processing cost, and energy consumption. Bio-sourced materials with high reinforced effects are attractive alternatives to achieve a low-carbon footprint. In this study, continuous bamboo fiber-reinforced polyethylene (CBF/PE) composites were prepared via a facile two-step method featuring alkali treatment followed by 3D printing. Alkali treatment as a key processing step increases surface area and surface wetting, which promote the formation of mechanical riveting among bamboo fibers and matrix. The obtained treated CBF (T-CBF) also shows improved mechanical properties, which enables a superior reinforcement effect. 3D printing, as a fast and local heating method, could melt the outer layer PE tube and impregnate molten plastics into fibers under pressure and heating. The resulting T-CBF/PE composite fibers can achieve a tensile strength of up to 15.6 MPa, while the matrix PE itself has a tensile strength of around 7.7 MPa. Additionally, the fracture morphology of printed bulks from composite fibers shows the alkali-treated fibers–PE interface is denser and could transfer more load. The printed bulks using T-CBF/PE shows increased tensile strength and Young’s modulus, with 77%- and 1.76-times improvement compared to pure PE. Finally, the effect of printing paraments on mechanical properties were analyzed. Therefore, this research presents a potential avenue for fabricating continuous natural fiber-reinforced composites.
Analysis of Grain Size and Distribution in Fe-B-C Alloy Using Optical Microscopy and Image Analysis
Authors: Křivánková Lenka , Chotěborský Rostislav , Černilová Barbora , Linda Miloslav
Published: January 2025

The size and morphology of the grains of a material and their distribution have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of the material (and their further application). Based on the data obtained from image analysis, it is possible to modify the microstructure of materials. Within the formation of a eutectic, borides occur along the austenite grain boundary. The cell size can be managed by technological process (forming) or by adding chemical elements. In this paper, a method of measuring the cell size of a hypoeutectic Fe-B-C alloy across the entire examined cross-section of the sample was researched by creating a mosaic from individual frames. Sample preparation allowing clear grain boundary visibility was essential. It was observed that the most effective results were achieved with quenched microstructures etched using Klemm I color etchant. A Zeiss optic microscope with AxioVision software (AxioVision SE64 Rel. 4.9.1.) was used for image acquisition, and mosaics were created using MosaiX software. This study revealed that, before further processing, images must be segmented to address color inconsistencies using average grayscale values. This preprocessing step enabled precise cell size analysis through an algorithm implemented in Scilab. The developed methodology was used to create sample maps for determining the grain size and its distribution in the Fe-B alloy. This automated approach provides a comprehensive dataset, enabling detailed analysis of both individual images and the entire sample. Manual grain size measurements were performed for verification, and statistical analysis demonstrated a close correspondence between the results. The results confirmed a significant impact of the added alloying elements on microstructural homogeneity in hypoeutectic Fe-B-C alloys. Homogeneity decreases with the addition of alloying elements such as chromium and vanadium, while tungsten contributes to a more stable grain size. A low gradient value shows small grain size changes from the core to the edge in the cross-section. Furthermore, the results show that higher amounts of chromium increase the average grain size values. The results demonstrate that automated methods allow for comprehensive analysis of the entire sample, enabling precise determination of grain size and other properties across the entire object rather than only on subjectively selected areas. This approach effectively eliminates the influence of human error, ensuring more reliable and consistent data.
An Upper Bound for the Eternal Roman Domination Number
Authors: Brewster Richard , MacGillivray Gary , Williams Ethan
Published: January 2025

Imagine using mobile guards to defend the vertices of a graph G from a sequence of attacks subject to the conditions that after each attack: (i) each guard either remains in place or moves to an adjacent vertex; (ii) the configuration of guards forms a Roman-dominating set; and (iii) there is at least one guard on each attacked vertex. We show that it is always possible to defend the vertices of a tree with n vertices using at most 5n6 guards and that this bound is tight.
Construction of Uniform Designs over a Domain with Linear Constraints
Authors: Yang Luojing , Yang Xiaoping , Zhou Yongdao
Published: January 2025

Uniform design is a powerful and robust experimental methodology that is particularly advantageous for multidimensional numerical integration and high-level experiments. As its applications expand across diverse disciplines, the theoretical foundation of uniform design continues to evolve. In real-world scenarios, experimental factors are often subject to one or more linear constraints, which pose challenges in constructing efficient designs within constrained high-dimensional experimental spaces. These challenges typically require sophisticated algorithms, which may compromise uniformity and robustness. Addressing these constraints is critical for reducing costs, improving model accuracy, and identifying global optima in optimization problems. However, existing research primarily focuses on unconstrained or minimally constrained hypercubes, leaving a gap in constructing designs tailored to arbitrary linear constraints. This study bridges this gap by extending the inverse Rosenblatt transformation framework to develop innovative methods for constructing uniform designs over arbitrary hyperplanes and hyperspheres within unit hypercubes. Explicit construction formulas for these constrained domains are derived, offering simplified calculations for practitioners and providing a practical solution applicable to a wide range of experimental scenarios. Numerical simulations demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of these methods, setting a new benchmark for uniform design in constrained experimental regions.
Acoustic Emission During Rubber-like Deformation in Ni51Fe18Ga27Co4 Single Crystalline Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Daróczi Lajos , Kamel Sarah M. , Tóth László Z. , Panchenko Elena Yu. , Chumljakov Yuri I. , Beke Dezső L.
Published: January 2025

Acoustic emission, AE, belonging to a rubber-like deformation in a martensitic state after the stabilization aging of the stress-induced martensite (SIM aging) of Ni51Fe18Ga27Co4 single crystals in compression, were investigated. AE activity in the plateau regions of the stress–strain loop is due to a massive reorientation from the variants produced by SIM aging to the variants preferred by the compressive stress (perpendicular to the stress used in SIM aging) and vice versa. For unloading, the large AE activity just at the knee point of the stress–stain curve is attributed to the difficulty of the re-nucleation of the SIM aging-stabilized martensite variant. The amplitude, peak energy, and area of signals can be described by power-like distributions and the characteristic exponents are in good agreement with data obtained in other alloys. Power law cross-correlations between the energy, E, and amplitude, A, as well as between the area, S, and the amplitude, A, were also analyzed. It was found that the exponents are given by 3−φ as well as 2−φ, respectively, with φ≅0.7. Normalized universal temporal shapes of avalanches (i.e., the UA  versus tA1−φ plots, where U is the detected voltage) for a fixed area scale very well together. The tail of the normalized temporal shape decays more slowly than the theoretical prediction, which can be attributed to an intrinsic absorption of AE signals and/or to the overlap of sub-avalanches.
High Q GaN/SiC-Based SAW Resonators for Humidity Sensor Applications
Authors: Vasilache Dan , Nastase Claudia , Boldeiu George , Nedelcu Monica , Parvulescu Catalin , Dinescu Adrian , Muller Alexandru
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the simulation and experimental results for high-frequency surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors for humidity detection. The SAW structures with a wavelength of 680 nm are fabricated on GaN/SiC and presented two resonance frequencies: ~6.66 GHz for the Rayleigh propagation mode and ~8 GHz for the Sezawa mode. A SiO2 thin layer (~50 nm thick) was employed for the functionalization of the SAW. Relative humidity characterization was performed in the range of 20–90%. The SAW sensors achieved high values of humidity sensitivity for both adsorption and desorption. The Sezawa mode showed about 2.5 times higher humidity sensitivity than the Rayleigh mode: 17.2 KHz/%RH versus 6.17 KHz/%RH for adsorption and 8.88 KHz/%RH versus 3.79 KHz/%RH for desorption.
Numerical Simulation of Turbulent Fountains with Negative Buoyancy
Authors: Khan Muhammad Ahsan , Addona Fabio , Chiapponi Luca , Merli Nicolò , Archetti Renata
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the flow dynamics of a turbulent fountain with negative buoyancy using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model, developed using OpenFOAM® and calibrated against laboratory experiments. The simulations effectively replicate the geometry and buoyancy fluxes of the fountain, showing a fairly good agreement between the numerical and experimental velocity fields. These simulations are then used to investigate momentum and buoyancy fluxes for various source fluid densities. We find a dominant out-upward momentum transfer in the body of the fountain, while it is mainly out-downward below the inlet section. Furthermore, the vertical flux is almost twice the radial flux, while the tangential components are negligible on the inner side of the fountain. For small density differences between the fountain and the surrounding environment, we find a greater diffusion of the source fluid, while both the vertical and radial salt fluxes increase with increasing density of the fountain. The data generated serve as a significant resource for the development of future CFD models.
Functionalized Optical Microcavities for Sensing Applications
Authors: Granizo Evelyn , Samokhvalov Pavel , Nabiev Igor
Published: January 2025

Functionalized optical microcavities constitute an emerging highly sensitive and highly selective sensing technology. By combining optical microcavities with novel materials, microcavity sensors offer exceptional precision, unlocking considerable potential for medical diagnostics, physical and chemical analyses, and environmental monitoring. The high capabilities of functionalized microcavities enable subwavelength light detection and manipulation, facilitating the precise detection of analytes. Furthermore, recent advancements in miniaturization have paved the way for their integration into portable platforms. For leveraging the potential of microcavity sensors, it is crucial to address challenges related to the need for increasing cost-effectiveness, enhancing selectivity and sensitivity, enabling real-time measurements, and improving fabrication techniques. New strategies include the use of advanced materials, the optimization of signal processing, hybrid design approaches, and the employment of artificial intelligence. This review outlines the key strategies toward enhancing the performance of optical microcavities, highlights their broad applicability across various fields, and discusses the challenges that should be overcome to unlock their full potential.
Feasibility and Tolerability of Daily Microgreen Consumption in Healthy Middle-Aged/Older Adults: A Randomized, Open-Label, Controlled Crossover Trial
Authors: Lee Sylvia Y. , Michell Kiri A. , Butler Michelle M. , Smith Brayden T. , Woolf Emily K. , Holmes Sydney C. , Grabos Lauren E. , Vazquez Allegra R. , Isweiri Hanan , Bunning Marisa , Uchanski Mark E. , Rao Sangeeta , Newman Steven E. , Weir Tiffany L. , Johnson Sarah A.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Microgreens are rich in nutrients and phytochemicals that can support healthy aging, including attenuation of cardiovascular disease risk. The nutrient and phytochemical contents of red beet (i.e., bull’s blood’ beet, Beta vulgaris) and red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var capitate) microgreens, as well as existing preclinical evidence suggest their cardioprotective effects, but the feasibility, gastrointestinal tolerability, and human health effects of daily microgreen consumption are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and gastrointestinal tolerability of 2 weeks of daily microgreen consumption in healthy middle-aged/older (MA/O) adults. A secondary aim was to characterize potential health effects. Methods: Healthy MA/O adults (initial n = 26) were randomized to consume either 2 cups of ‘bull’s blood’ beet or red cabbage microgreens daily for 2 weeks in a crossover design, with each treatment period separated by 2 weeks. Feasibility was determined through participant retention and intervention compliance (i.e., total doses consumed divided by 14 days), while gastrointestinal tolerability was determined by a gastrointestinal health questionnaire and bowel movement log. Impacts of microgreen consumption on brachial and aortic hemodynamic parameters, and gut microbiota composition were evaluated. Results: Daily consumption for 2 weeks of ‘bull’s blood’ beet and red cabbage microgreens was found to be feasible as indicated by high participant retention (final n = 24) and overall treatment compliance of 95.6%. Gastrointestinal symptom severity was not impacted overall, though an improvement in gastrointestinal inflammation-associated symptom severity scores following the red cabbage microgreen intervention (p = 0.047) was observed. There were no changes in bowel movement quality, hemodynamic parameters, or on alpha or beta diversity of the gut microbiota. Conclusions: Daily consumption of ‘bull’s blood’ beet and red cabbage microgreens is feasible and tolerable in healthy MA/O adults. Future studies designed to evaluate their health impacts are needed.
A Fast Rearrangement Method for Defect-Free Atom Arrays
Authors: Zhang Yuqing , Zhang Zeyan , Zhang Guoqing , Zhang Zhehua , Chen Yanpu , Li Yuqing , Liu Wenliang , Wu Jizhou , Sovkov Vladimir , Ma Jie
Published: January 2025

Defect-free atom arrays provide new possibilities for exploring exotic quantum phenomena and realizing quantum computing. However, quickly and efficiently preparing defect-free atom arrays poses challenges. This paper proposes an innovative parallel rearrangement method, namely the parallel compression filling algorithm (PCFA), wherein multiple movable optical tweezers operate simultaneously. By limiting the shape of the initial loading, the method reduces movement complexity. The simulation comparisons show that this algorithm is more efficient in preparing defect-free atom arrays and can also be applied to the generation of other periodic structure arrays. The simulation results show that, in most cases, preparing a defect-free array of 400 atoms requires no more than 30 steps.
Assembling Carbon Nanotube and Graphene in Chitosan/Sodium Alginate Hydrogels for Ion Removal Applications
Authors: Paryav Sajad , Rajabifar Nariman , Rostami Amir , Abbasi Mohsen , Akrami Mohammad
Published: January 2025

Hydrogels have emerged as a promising material for the removal of heavy metal ions from contaminated water owing to their high water absorption capacity and biocompatibility. Despite notable advancements in improving the adsorptive capacity of hydrogels, the demand for a more efficient structure persists. Here, we explore the ion adsorption performance of crosslinked hydrogels based on chitosan and sodium alginate with various ratios of carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene platelets (GNP). This study highlights the adsorption of chromium ions and the thermal stability of hydrogels for pure, single-particle, and hybrid nanocomposites. The results depict a uniform microstructure attained when CNT, GNP, or both are implemented into the hydrogel due to the strong interaction of functional moieties. The incorporation of CNT and GNP manipulates the crystalline structure of the hydrogels, lowering their crystallinity by around 28% and 13%, respectively. The synergistic effect of CNT and GNP in hybrid hydrogels raises the decomposition temperature by 16%, indicating a favorable interplay interaction between nanoparticles and polymers. Calculations of the adsorption capacity accentuate such a mutual effect between CNT and GNP in various loads of ion capture from aqueous solutions. Kinetic models fitted to the hydrogel nanocomposites reveal that the pseudo-second-order model aligns better with the experimental data in comparison to the pseudo-first-order and intraparticle diffusion models, addressing the adsorption mechanisms while capturing chromium ions.