bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should the Dermatological Assessment of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Become Standard during Qualifications for Biological Treatment? A Retrospective, Single-Center Experience from a Tertiary Center
Authors: Lewandowski Konrad , Kaniewska Magdalena , Tulewicz-Marti Edyta , Głuszek-Osuch Martyna , Ciechanowicz Piotr , Walecka Irena , Rydzewska Grażyna
Published: September 2024

Background: Oncological anxiety associated with biological therapy is a particular challenge in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it has raised questions about the need for the dermatological assessment of the skin before starting biological therapy. Methods: The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of dermal lesions, including cutaneous malignancies, in IBD patients. This retrospective, single-center study evaluated 805 IBD patients who qualified for biological treatment and were subjected to a dermatological assessment. Results: Dermal lesions (DLs) were found in 15.5% (125) of IBD patients. A risk factor for DLs was higher with body mass index (OR = 1.08, 95% CI [1.02; 1.14], p = 0.007). Surprisingly, there was no effect of thiopurines between the groups with and without DLs (90.4% vs. 84.6%, MD = 0.06, 95% CI [0.01; 0.12], p = 0.118). Moreover, cutaneous malignancies were diagnosed in 9 cases (1.1%), including 4 basal cell carcinomas, 4 squamous cell carcinomas, and 1 melanoma skin cancer. Only 13.4% of patients complied with our strict policy of skin surveillance every 6–8 months. Conclusions: DLs, including cutaneous malignancies, are common in patients with IBD, making skin monitoring at the initiation of biological treatment an extremely useful tool. The lack of effect of the drugs used suggests that skin surveillance is necessary in all IBD patients. The low compliance of skin monitoring among immunosuppressed patients indicates the need for better education on the prevention of cutaneous malignancies.
Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane Foam Reinforced with Natural Henequen Fibre
Authors: Pech-Can Gloria E. , Flores-Johnson Emmanuel A. , Carrillo Jose G. , Bele Eral , Valadez-Gonzalez Alex
Published: September 2024

Polymeric foams are used in many applications, from packaging to structural applications. While polymeric foams have good mechanical performance in compression, they are brittle in tension and bending; fibre reinforcement can enhance their tension and flexural behaviour. This work reports a novel investigation of the mechanical properties of fibre-reinforced polyurethane (FRPU) foams with natural henequen fibres. Pull-out tests were performed with 10 mm fibres and various foam densities to identify the optimal density of 100 kg/m3. Thus, FRPU foams with this density and fibre contents of 1, 2 and 3 wt% were manufactured for mechanical testing. Compression tests showed an increase in the elastic modulus of the FRPU foam specimens compared to the unreinforced PU foam. The FRPU foams also exhibited higher yield stress, which was attributed to the reinforcing effect of the fibres on the cell walls. A maximum increase of 71% in the compressive yield stress was observed for the FRPU foam specimens with a fibre content of 2%. In addition, FRPU foam specimens absorbed more energy for any given strain than the unreinforced PU foam. Flexural tests showed the FRPU foams exhibited increased flexural strength compared to the unreinforced PU foam. A maximum increase of 40% in the flexural strength was observed for the FRPU foam with a fibre content of 1%. The findings reported here are significant because they suggest that FRPU foams incorporating natural henequen fibre exhibit promising potential as sustainable materials with enhanced mechanical properties.
Dark Carbon Fixation Measurements in the East Sea (Sea of Japan)
Authors: Jang Hyo-Keun , Youn Seok-Hyun , Joo Huitae , Kang Jae-Joong , Kim Kwanwoo , Park Sanghoon , Kim Jaesoon , Kim Yejin , Kim Myeongseop , Kim Sungjun , Lee Sang-Heon
Published: September 2024

The vertical distribution patterns of daily primary production and dark carbon fixation were investigated at three stations in the East/Japan Sea (hereafter East Sea), a semi-enclosed marginal sea in the northwest Pacific Ocean. Our results displayed consistent vertical patterns of daily primary production at two of the stations, while the third station exhibited a markedly different distribution pattern, highlighting localized variations in production dynamics. In contrast, dark carbon fixations displaying varying vertical patterns among the stations are not specific enough to have much meaning. Water column-integral values showed differences in the contribution of dark carbon fixation to total primary production, ranging from 4.5% to 27.1%. These variations may reflect environmental parameters such as nutrient concentrations. However, our study is limited by the lack of direct data on the microbial community structure and chemoautotrophic activities, which are crucial for a more comprehensive understanding of these patterns. Understanding the environmental drivers of dark carbon fixation is crucial for elucidating carbon cycling dynamics in the East Sea. Notably, dark carbon fixation could contribute up to one-third of primary production in the region as an additional source of newly produced organic matter, highlighting the need for further investigation into this previously overlooked process.
Improved Bathymetry Estimation Using Satellite Altimetry-Derived Gravity Anomalies and Machine Learning in the East Sea
Authors: Kim Kwang Bae , Kim Jisung , Yun Hong Sik
Published: September 2024

This study aims to improve the accuracy of bathymetry predicted by gravity-geologic method (GGM) using the optimal machine learning model selected from machine learning techniques. In this study, several machine learning techniques were utilized to determine the optimal model from the performance of depth and gravity anomalies. In addition, a tuning density contrast calculated from satellite altimetry-derived free-air gravity anomalies (FAGAs) was applied to estimate enhanced bathymetry. By comparison with shipborne depth, the accuracy of the bathymetry estimated by using satellite altimetry-derived FAGAs and machine learning was evaluated. The findings reveal that the bathymetry predicted by the optimal machine learning using the Gaussian process regression and the GGM with a tuning density contrast can enhance the accuracy of 82.64 m, showing an improvement of 67.40% in the RMSE at shipborne depth measurements. Although the tuning density is larger than 1.67 g/cm3, bathymetry using satellite altimetry-derived FAGAs and machine learning can be effectively improved with higher accuracy.
Fungal Diversity in an Undisturbed Andean Páramo Soil in Quimsacocha (Ecuador)
Authors: Delgado-Fernández Ernesto , Nicola Lidia , Covarrubias Sergio A. , Girometta Carolina Elena , Valdez-Tenezaca Adrián
Published: September 2024

The Andean Páramo is an environment known for its high biodiversity; however, due to its remote location and difficult access, it is still relatively poorly studied. The aim of this work was to explore the fungal biodiversity of Ecuadorian Páramo soils in the undisturbed natural reserve of Quimsacocha through ITS metabarconding with an MiSeq platform. This analysis revealed the presence of 370 fungal Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs), mainly composed by Ascomycota, Mortierellomycota and Basidiomycota. The biodiversity had a great variability among the 19 samples, but the soil humidity proved to be a significant driver of diversity in the relatively dry environment of Páramo. Some of most abundant fungal genera have important relationships with plant roots. This work represents the first glimpse into the complex biodiversity of soil fungi in this understudied area, and further studies will be needed to better understand the fungal biodiversity in this region, together with the development of necessary measures of environmental protection.
Notes on the Ecology and Distribution of Species of the Genera of Bondarzewiaceae (Russulales and Basidiomycota) with an Emphasis on Amylosporus
Authors: Hussain Shah , Al-Kharousi Moza , Al-Maqbali Dua’a , Al-Owaisi Arwa A. , Velazhahan Rethinasamy , Al-Sadi Abdullah M. , Al-Yahya’ei Mohamed N.
Published: September 2024

The family Bondarzewiaceae is an important and diverse group of macrofungi associated with wood as white rotting fungi, and some species are forest tree pathogens. Currently, there are nine genera and approximately 89 species in the family, distributed in tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates. To address the phylogenetic relationships among the genera, a combined ITS-28S dataset was subjected to maximum likelihood (ML), Bayesian inference (BI), and time divergence analyses using the BEAST package. Both ML and BI analyses revealed two major clades, where one major clade consisted of Amylosporus, Stecchericium, and Wrightoporia austrosinensisa. The second major clade is composed of Bondarzewia, Heterobasidion, Gloiodon, Laurilia, Lauriliella, and Wrightoporia, indicating that these genera are phylogenetically similar. Wrightoporia austrosinensisa recovered outside of Wrightoporia, indicating that this species is phylogenetically different from the rest of the species of the genus. Similarly, time divergence analyses suggest that Bondarzewiaceae diversified around 114 million years ago (mya), possibly during the Early Cretaceous Epoch. The genus Amylosporus is well resolved within the family, with an estimated stem age of divergent around 62 mya, possibly during the Eocene Epoch. Further, the species of the genus are recovered in two sister clades. One sister clade consists of species with pileate basidiomata and generative hyphae with clamp connections, corresponding to the proposed section Amylosporus sect. Amylosporus. The other consists of species having resupinate basidiomata and generative hyphae without clamps, which is treated here as Amylosporus sect. Resupinati. We provided the key taxonomic characters, known distribution, number of species, and stem age of diversification of each section. Furthermore, we also described a new species, Amylosporus wadinaheezicus, from Oman, based on morphological characters of basidiomata and multigene sequence data of ITS, 28S, and Tef1-α. With pileate basidiomata and phylogenetic placement, the new species is classified under the proposed A. sect. Amylosporus. An identification key to the known species of Amylosporus is presented. Ecology and distribution of species of the genera in the family are discussed.
Energy-Efficient Handover Algorithm for Sustainable Mobile Networks: Balancing Connectivity and Power Consumption
Authors: Abdullah Radhwan M. , Al-Surmi Ibrahim , Qaid Gamil R. S. , Alwan Ali A.
Published: September 2024

In the era of pervasive mobile and heterogeneous networks, maintaining seamless connectivity during handover events while minimizing energy consumption is paramount. Traditional handover mechanisms prioritize metrics such as signal strength, user mobility, and network load, often neglecting the critical aspect of energy consumption. This study presents a novel approach to handover decision-making in mobile networks by incorporating energy-related metrics, such as battery level, energy consumption rate, and environmental context, to make informed handover decisions that balance connectivity quality and energy efficiency. Unlike traditional methods that primarily focus on signal strength and network load, our approach addresses the critical need for energy efficiency, particularly in high-mobility scenarios. This innovative framework not only enhances connectivity but also significantly improves power consumption management, offering a more sustainable solution for modern mobile networks. Through extensive simulations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed solution in reducing energy usage without compromising network performance. The results reveal significant improvements in energy savings for mobile devices, especially under high-mobility scenarios and varying network conditions. By prioritizing energy-efficient handovers, our approach not only extends the battery life of mobile devices but also contributes to the overall sustainability of mobile networks. This paper underscores the importance of incorporating energy metrics into handover decisions and sets the stage for future research in energy-aware network management.
Digital Governance and Urban Government Service Spaces: Understanding Resident Interaction and Perception in Chinese Cities
Authors: Li Luhua , Lin Xiaohong , Yang Xiaoting , Luo Zhiwei , Wang Min
Published: September 2024

With the rapid development of smart cities and the swift transition toward digital governance, optimizing urban spatial governance through digital technology remains underexplored in the Global South, particularly from the perspective of resident perception and interaction. Digitization of government services is a key area of interest in digital governance research; this study investigates the impact of government self-service systems on the spatial perception and behavior of residents in Guangzhou and Foshan, China. Through a mixed-method approach, combining questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews and analyzing them using a structural equation model, the findings reveal that government self-service systems significantly influence residents’ spatial behavior and perception. These systems enhance the efficiency of administrative processes, increase convenience, and lead to temporal-spatial compression, thereby reshaping residents’ physical interactions with urban spaces. The findings provide practical insights for policymakers to enhance urban governance by integrating digital technologies to improve residents’ interaction with government services. These insights can guide the development of more efficient, resident-centered digital governance frameworks, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how digital technology transforms urban spatial governance, highlighting the critical interplay between individuals, technology, and the urban environment. The study likewise provides examples of the ongoing digital transformation of public services in countries of the Global South that are lagging behind in the area of digital governance.
Quantifying the Cumulative Effects of Large-Scale Reclamation on Coastal Wetland Degradation
Authors: Cui Linlin , Li Guosheng , Zhao Miao , Zhang Zhihui
Published: September 2024

Considering the importance of coastal wetlands as key land resources and the ecological degradation caused by large-scale and multi-stage reclamation, as well as the significant synergistic and superimposed effects of reclamation on wetland degradation in temporal and spatial dimensions, it is vital to conduct in-depth research on the impact mechanisms and cumulative effects of reclamation on wetland degradation. However, the existing methods for evaluating these cumulative effects still have some shortcomings in characterizing the spatiotemporal scale. Consequently, it is urgent to introduce or develop a cumulative effect evaluation method based on remote sensing. Taking the Jiangsu coastal wetland as a typical case study area, the present study constructed a cumulative effect evaluation method based on calculus theory combined with landscape succession modeling and statistical analysis. This method was then used to quantitatively analyze the impacts and cumulative effects of reclamation on wetland degradation in the Jiangsu coastal region from 1980 to 2024. The results show that degradation of the Jiangsu coastal wetlands over the last 45 years covered 2931.54 km2, accounting for 46.92% of the area in 1980. This degradation primarily reflects a shift from natural wetland to constructed wetland. In addition, the reclaimed area of 2119.61 km2 is mainly used for aquaculture and agricultural cultivation. The reclamation rate of Jiangsu showed insignificant fluctuations and significant spatial differences. The reclamation rate of the north counties and cities presented a downward trend, while that of the south counties and cities presented an upward trend. Reclamation has a significant impact on wetland degradation, with a contribution rate of 50.62%. The cumulative effect in the study area reached its maximum value in 2015, except for Nantong City. This study provides a new perspective for quantitatively analyzing the impacts and cumulative effects of coastal wetland reclamation and provides guidance for the effective management and sustainable utilization of coastal wetland resources.
Tourist Walking Trails in Italy and Argentina: Navigating Political Recognition and Socio-Territorial Innovation
Authors: Coscarello Mario , Manella Gabriele
Published: September 2024

Tourism is often considered the world’s biggest industry, as it contributes approximately 10% of the global GDP. Despite this economic impact, tourism also includes important critical issues like territorial inequalities, diminishment of local engagement, and has high environmental and cultural impacts. This study investigates the rise of “walking trail tourism”, a niche sector where the respect for local communities and the environmental sustainability are particularly important. The focus is on Italy and Argentina: two countries with very different political, tourism, and biophysical backgrounds, but with the common recent development of walking trails and forms of social innovation. This study explores three main questions: the trends in walking trail tourism, the role of these trails in fostering local social innovation, and the influence of national policies in this domain. The study combines historical-statistical analysis, political–legislative review, and interviews with experts in order to assess all these aspects. Findings reveal significant social innovation trends within walking trail tourism but also challenges in territorial coordination and the establishment of national governance. Italy and Argentina are both characterized by an opposite situation regarding walking trails: there are several local initiatives but a lack of national guidelines in the former, and some good national policies but few bottom-up initiatives in the latter.
Ecological Status Assessment of Permafrost-Affected Soils in the Nadym Region, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District, Russian Arctic
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Nizamutdinov Timur , Pechkin Aleksander , Morgun Eugeniya , Li Gensheng , Wu Xiaodong , Yang Sizhong , Abakumov Evgeny
Published: September 2024

Permafrost-affected regions in the Russian Arctic are a critical study area for studying the sources of metal elements (MEs) in soils originating from geological/pedogenic processes or from anthropogenic sources via atmospheric transport. In the Nadym region of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District, we investigated the contents of soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), and MEs across different soil types and horizons, explored the source apportionment of MEs, and assessed local ecological risks of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). The results showed that (1) the contents of SOC and TN in Histic Cryosols (8.59% and 0.27%) were significantly higher than in Plaggic Podzols (Arenic, Gelic, and Turbic) (2.28% and 0.15%) and in Ekranic Technosols (Umbric) (1.32% and 0.09%); (2) the concentrations of MEs in the Nadym region were lower than in other Arctic regions; (3) the primary sources of MEs were identified as geological processes (36%), atmospheric transport (23%), agricultural activities (21%), and transportation (20%); and (4) the permafrost-affected soils in the Nadym region exhibited low ecological risks from PTEs. These results underscore the critical role of geological and anthropogenic factors in shaping soil conditions and highlight the relatively low ecological risk from PTEs, providing a valuable benchmark for future environmental assessments and policy development in Yamal permafrost regions.
Construction of Wetland Ecological Security Pattern in Wuhan Metropolitan Core Area Considering Wetland Ecological Risk
Authors: Han Pingyang , Hu Haozhi , Jiang Mengting , Wang Min
Published: September 2024

Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Preserving the ecological security of wetlands is critically important for regional environmental protection and sustainable development. However, in the core area of the Wuhan metropolitan circle, which is rapidly urbanizing, its wetlands are more susceptible to external natural environmental risks, such as changes in temperature and rainfall, as well as risks to human activity, such as social and economic activities, urban expansion, land use changes, and population growth. Meanwhile, the internal vulnerability of wetlands in terms of their spatial extent, structure, and functions also exacerbates ecological risks. These factors collectively influence the formation and development of wetland ecological risks. This study aims to comprehensively assess wetland ecological risks in the core area of the Wuhan metropolitan circle by combining external hazards and internal vulnerabilities and to construct and optimize the wetlands’ ecological security pattern. We used the MSPA method to identify potential ecological sources. Additionally, the MCR model was employed to integrate ecological risk assessment results into the resistance surface, identify potential ecological corridors and nodes, construct the wetland ecological security pattern for the urban circle, and propose specific optimization strategies. In total, 31 primary and 106 secondary ecological sources were selected, along with 20 primary and 42 secondary ecological nodes. Furthermore, 10 major ecological corridors were constructed. Considering the landscape characteristics of the wetlands in the core area of the Wuhan metropolitan circle, the southern Yangtze River region will center around the Liangzi Lake group to establish a crucial corridor network, promoting overall wetland restoration and connectivity. Meanwhile, the northern Yangtze River region will form a chain-like distribution along the river, creating diverse ecosystems. This study provides a theoretical foundation for constructing and optimizing the ecological security pattern of wetlands, laying a solid groundwork for promoting regional wetland conservation and sustainable development.
Study on Optimization of Land Use Structure in Fujian Province Based on Low-Carbon Perspective
Authors: Zhan Qingming , Yu Haijie
Published: September 2024

Carbon peaking and carbon neutrality strategies are pivotal in addressing climate change. Optimizing land use structure is a fundamental approach to achieving low-carbon development within a given territory. This study focuses on Fujian Province as the research subject, predicting carbon emissions for the next decade by analyzing the correlation between land use types and carbon emissions using the gray model. This analysis is based on land use panel data spanning from 2007 to 2021. The study applies the FLUS-Markov model to simulate Fujian’s land use in 2030. A multi-objective optimization model is developed from a low-carbon perspective, integrating carbon emissions, economic, and ecological factors. The study explores land use under three scenarios: natural development scenario (NS), low carbon scenario (LCS), and comprehensive scenario (CS). Findings highlight the relationship between land use-related carbon emissions, urbanization, and relevant policies in Fujian. The FLUS-Markov simulations suggest that under the NS scenario, carbon emissions in 2030 will reach 77.829 million tons, an increase of 11.013 million tons from 2020. In contrast, the LCS demonstrates that optimizing land use structures can effectively balance carbon reduction, economic growth, and ecological preservation. Under the CS, 2030 emissions could be reduced by 7.2854 million tons while maintaining economic and ecological benefits. Despite variations in construction land expansion across these scenarios, all follow a “one belt, one core” development pattern. The study concludes with policy recommendations, including industrial layout optimization and clean energy promotion. These findings support the alignment of land use optimization with Fujian’s future development needs, offering guidance for land-use planning and policies focused on low-carbon objectives.
A Study on Historical Big Data Analysis of Surface Ecological Damage in the Coal Mining Area of Lvliang City Based on Two Mining Modes
Authors: Li Quanzhi , Hu Zhenqi , Zhang Fan , Guo Yanwen , Liang Yusheng
Published: September 2024

Coal mining inevitably causes damage to the surface ecological environment. In response to the characteristics of multiple factors, wide scope, and long time series of surface ecological environment damage in coal mining subsidence areas, how to integrate multiple data sources and monitoring methods to achieve monitoring and trend analysis of ecological damage throughout the entire mining cycle still needs to be studied. In addition, the 110 mining method provides an innovative method for underground coal mining to reduce its surface ecological damage, but the differences in surface damage between the two mining modes and the effectiveness of the 110 method in realizing surface ecological damage-reducing mining still need to be studied in depth. Therefore, this study takes the surface ecological damage in the mining area of Lvliang City, a typical resource city in Shanxi Province, China, as the object. It establishes a four-in-one “Satellite–UAV–Ground–Underground” information monitoring method, proposes a historical big data evolution analysis method, constructs three spatial scales of historical big databases, clarifies the current situation and development trend of damage in coal mining areas in Lvliang City and explores the differences in surface ecological environment damage characteristics in coal mining areas based on the 121 and 110 mining methods. The results show that: (1) The existing coal mining subsidence area in Lvliang City is as high as 92,191.47 hectares, and it is expected to continue to increase to 130,739.55 hectares in the future 2035, with a growth rate of 41.812%, which realizes the goals of mapping the current situation, retracing the history and predicting the future of the ecological damage of the surface in Lvliang City. (2) The surface NDVI of the 110 working face is restored to the average level of the mining area faster than that of the 121 working face. The surface crack width, step displacement, length, distribution density, and surface settlement height of the 110 working face are all smaller than those of the 121 working face. It has been verified that the unique top-cutting and swelling filling effect of the 110 methods can effectively reduce the ecological damage caused by coal mining subsidence. And its widespread application can effectively realize the ecological environmental protection of the coal mine area and contribute to the high-quality development of the coal industry in Lvliang City.
Urban Greening Management Arrangements between Municipalities and Citizens for Effective Climate Adaptation Pathways: Four Case Studies from The Netherlands
Authors: Romero-Muñoz Sara , Sánchez-Chaparro Teresa , Muñoz Sanz Víctor , Tillie Nico
Published: September 2024

The transition towards nature-based cities has increasingly become a central focus in political–environmental agendas and urban design practices, aiming to enhance climate adaptation, urban biodiversity, spatial equilibrium, and social well-being as part of the ongoing socio-ecological urban transition process. Climate adaptation in cities is a complex problem and one of the main collective challenges for society, but the relationships between city managers and citizens as to urban green care still face many challenges. Parks design guided by technical-expert and globalised criteria; inflexibility from bureaucratic inertia; and citizens’ demands to participate in the urban green transition, sometimes without the necessary knowledge or time, are some of the challenges that require further research. In this study, we examine four long-lasting approaches to green-space management in four cities in the Netherlands, ranging from municipality-driven to community-driven management forms, and encompassing diverse spatial configurations of greenery within the urban fabric. Utilising the theoretical lens of the Social–Ecological Systems Framework, we employ a multiple-case-study approach and ethnographic fieldwork analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the norms, collective-choice rules, and social conventions embodied in each urban green management arrangement. The purpose of this research is applied, that is, to provide urban managers and decision-makers with a deeper understanding of drivers to promote effective collaborative management approaches, focusing on specific organisational rules that may contribute to more sustained planning and maintenance pathways for urban green spaces, regardless of changes in political leadership or significant external funding sources. The results of the investigated cases show that long-lasting collaborative management of forests and parks has established a set of collective-choice rules for resource transfer between municipalities and citizens, including non-monetary resources (such as pruning-training courses or guided tours that attract tourists and researchers). Additionally, these arrangements have been favoured by the existence of legal norms that enable co-ownership of the land, and monitoring and sanctioning mechanisms that offer a slightly different interpretation from the evidence identified so far in the scientific literature on collective resource management and organisational studies.
The Clay Minerals in the Soils of the Gypseous Belt of Barbastro, NE Spain
Authors: Herrero Juan , Jiménez-Ballesta Raimundo , Castañeda Carmen
Published: September 2024

This article examines the clay mineralogy of twelve representative soils developed from gypsum-rich parent materials on several geomorphic positions. These soils were classified as Haploxerept, plus one profile as Humixerept and another as Xerorthent. The clay mineralogy, determined by X-ray diffraction, showed quite a similar clay composition in all profiles, with mica, chlorite, and smectite, from most to less abundant. Mica and chlorite are deemed inherited, while smectite—appearing in minor proportions—could result from both transformation and/or neoformation, because the leaching of bases by free drainage does not favor the transformation of mica to smectite. Therefore, the differences in clay mineralogy appeared to be lithogenic rather than pedogenic. These compositional data are an advance in the basic knowledge of the studied soils.
Evaluation of Biocomposite Cements for Bone Defect Repair in Rat Models
Authors: Ardelean Alina Ioana , Mârza Sorin Marian , Marica Raluca , Dragomir Mădălina Florina , Rusu-Moldovan Alina Oana , Moldovan Mărioara , Pașca Paula Maria , Oana Liviu
Published: September 2024

Repairing or reconstructing significant bone defects is typically challenging. In the present study, two composite cements were used as scaffolds in a sub-critical femoral defect in rats. A control group and two experimental batches were used to compare the outcomes. This research aimed to investigate the osteogenic potential and toxicological tolerance of the bioproducts through histopathology and computed tomography imaging analysis at 14, 28, 56, and 90 days post-implantation. The biomaterials used in the investigation consisted of a 65% bioactive salinized inorganic filler and a 25% weight organic matrix. The organic part of the biomaterial was composed of Bis-GMA (bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate), UDMA (urethane dimethacrylate), HEMA (2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate), and TEGDMA (triethylene glycol dimethacrylate), while the inorganic filler was composed of silica, barium glass, hydroxyapatite, and fluor aluminosilicate glass. The first findings of this research are encouraging, revealing that there is a slight difference between the groups treated with biomaterials, but it might be an effective approach for managing bone abnormalities. Material C1 exhibited a faster bone defect healing time compared to material C2, where bone fractures occurred in some individuals. It is unclear if the fractures were caused by the presence of the biomaterial C2 or whether additional variables were to blame. By the end of the research, the mice appeared to tolerate the biomaterials without exhibiting any inflammatory or rejection responses.
Mediastinal Metastasis Isolated in Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Psomiadou Victoria , Fotiou Alexandros , Iavazzo Christos
Published: September 2024

Background: Isolated mediastinal metastases from ovarian carcinoma are considered exceptional. Since such metastases are considered advanced stage disease, systemic therapy is the indicated therapeutic approach; however, some articles report that surgical excision is also feasible. Methods: We reviewed the English-language literature to detect cases of isolated mediastinal ovarian cancer metastases and present the management applied as well as their outcomes. Results: From 1998 to 2022, 15 such cases have been reported, with 4 of those cases being primary ovarian cancer presentation and 11 being ovarian cancer recurrence. The histology of the tumor was serious in all of the cases. Regarding the management of cancer, various methods were applied. In total, 11 of the patients underwent a surgical resection of the mediastinal metastasis, 2 received systemic therapy, 1 received a combination of palliative chemotherapy and radiation and the last patient was treated with laser debulking and radiotherapy. The mean reported follow-up was 11 months. Conclusions: Solitary mediastinal metastasis from ovarian cancer is very rare; physicians should pay close attention when routinely evaluating thoracic scans from patients with ovarian malignancy as well as individualizing the management in such patients, since surgical resection can also be performed. However, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn from the small number of case reports available.
A Treatment Algorithm for Free Vascularized Bone Reconstruction in Rare Large Osseous Defects Involving the Wrist
Authors: Thiel Johannes Tobias , Bamberg Maximilian , Daigeler Adrien , Fontana Johann , Hoffmann Sebastian , Illg Claudius , Kolbenschlag Jonas , Steiner Dominik , Lauer Henrik
Published: September 2024

Large bone defects of the distal radius and/or carpus following tumor resection, trauma, or infection are extremely rare. There are few case reports and series in the literature on the reconstruction approaches required in such cases. Therefore, large studies cannot be used to guide the therapeutic decisions of reconstructive plastic and hand surgeons. The objective of this study is to propose a treatment algorithm to predict the functional outcome and quality of life for the different techniques of free vascularized bone reconstruction in the interval between the distal radius, the carpus, and/or the proximal metacarpal. The algorithm was developed based on our own case studies and the few treatment approaches described in the literature. It can be applied to rare cases of massive bone defects in the wrist. The flowchart enables surgeons to develop an individualized reconstruction concept for various intervals of bone defects in the area of the distal radius and proximal metacarpal bones. Ultimately, the treatment algorithm aims to maximize future quality of life (QoL) and function of the distal upper extremity in rare cases of massive wrist-bone defects.
The Role of POCUS and Monitoring Systems during Emergency Pericardial Effusion in the NICU
Authors: Cîrstoveanu Cătălin , Bratu Alexandra , Filip Cristina , Bizubac Mihaela
Published: September 2024

Central venous catheterization is, now, one of the most routinely used procedures in the NICUs, helping during the care of very sick infants. Pericardial effusion is a very rare but severe complication, with a high mortality. The cases described are part of an ongoing retrospective study where the use of central catheters inserted in our surgical NICU, and its complications is being analyzed. 16 cases over 13 years are presented in this article, varying in severity from mild, self-resolving cases that were discovered during routine cardiac POCUS to cases with important hemodynamic impact associated with cardiac tamponade and cardiac arrest. Due to immediate intervention, only one of the cases led to catheter-related mortality and that was under particular conditions. Our aim is to highlight the severity of this complication, the importance of early intervention, and the impact of a highly technologized unit and widely available cardiac POCUS.
Relationship of Non-Invasive Arterial Stiffness Parameters with 10-Year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk Score in Post-COVID-19 Patients—The Results of a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Loboda Danuta , Sarecka-Hujar Beata , Nowacka-Chmielewska Marta , Szoltysek-Boldys Izabela , Zielinska-Danch Wioleta , Gibinski Michal , Wilczek Jacek , Gardas Rafal , Grabowski Mateusz , Lejawa Mateusz , Malecki Andrzej , Golba Krzysztof S.
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the relationship of non-invasive arterial stiffness parameters with an individual 10-year risk of fatal and non-fatal atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events in the cohort post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The study group included 203 convalescents aged 60.0 (55.0–63.0) and 115 (56.7%) women. The ASCVD risk was assessed as low to moderate to very high based on medical history (for 62 participants with pre-existing ASCVD/diabetes/chronic kidney disease in the entire cohort) or calculated in percentages using the Systemic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 (SCORE2) algorithm based on age, sex, smoking status, systolic blood pressure (BP), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (for 141 healthy participants). The stiffness index (SI) and reflection index (RI) measured by photoplethysmography, as well as pulse pressure (PP), calculated as the difference between systolic and diastolic BP, were markers of arterial stiffness. Stiffness parameters increased significantly with the increase in ASCVD risk in the entire cohort. In 30 (14.8%) patients in the low- to moderate-risk group, the median SI was 8.07 m/s (7.10–8.73), RI 51.40% (39.40–65.60), and PP 45.50 mmHg (40.00–57.00); in 111 (54.7%) patients in the high-risk group, the median SI was 8.70 m/s (7.40–10.03), RI 57.20% (43.65–68.40), and PP 54.00 mmHg (46.00–60.75); and in 62 (30.5%) patients in the very-high-risk group, the median was SI 9.27 m/s (7.57–10.44), RI 59.00% (50.40–72.40), and PP 60.00 mmHg (51.00–67.00). In healthy participants, the SI ≤ 9.0 m/s (sensitivity of 92.31%, area under the curve [AUC] 0.686, p < 0.001) based on the receiver operating characteristics was the most sensitive variable for discriminating low to moderate risk, and PP > 56.0 mmHg (sensitivity of 74.36%, AUC 0.736, p < 0.001) was used for discriminating very high risk. In multivariate logistic regression, younger age, female sex, PP ≤ 50 mmHg, SI ≤ 9.0 m/s, and triglycerides < 150 mg/dL had the best relationship with low to moderate SCORE2 risk. In turn, older age, currently smoking, PP > 56.0 mmHg, RI > 68.6%, and diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg were related to very high SCORE2 risk. In conclusion, arterial stiffness is significantly related to ASCVD risk in post-COVID-19 patients and can be helpful as a single risk marker in everyday practice. Cut-off points for arterial stiffness parameters determined based on SCORE2 may help make individual decisions about implementing lifestyle changes or pharmacological treatment of ASCVD risk factors
Microstructure, Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Cu40Zn-Ti3AlC2 Composites by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Peng Fangdian , Zhou Shidong , Yang Tao , Wu Liwei , Wu Jianbo , Ying Puyou , Zhang Ping , Lin Changhong , Fu Yabo , Tu Zhibiao , Wang Tianle , Zhang Xin , Myshkin Nikolai , Levchenko Vladimir
Published: September 2024

The exploration of unleaded free-cutting Cu40Zn brass with excellent mechanical and tribological properties has always drawn the attention of researchers. Due to its attractive properties combining metals and ceramics, Ti3AlC2 was added to Cu40Zn brass using high-energy milling and hot-pressing sintering. The effects of Ti3AlC2 on the microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of Cu40Zn-Ti3AlC2 composites were studied. The results showed that Ti3AlC2 could suppress the formation of ZnO by adsorbing oxygen impurity and promote the formation of the β phase by releasing the β-forming element Al to the substrate. The hardness and wear resistance of Cu40Zn-Ti3AlC2 composites increased with increasing Ti3AlC2 content from 0 to 5 wt.%. The proper Ti3AlC2 additive was beneficial to both the strength and plasticity of the composites. The underlying mechanisms were discussed.
Estimation of the Structure of Hydrophobic Surfaces Using the Cassie–Baxter Equation
Authors: Myronyuk Oleksiy , Vanagas Egidijus , Rodin Aleksej M. , Wesolowski Miroslaw
Published: September 2024

The effect of extreme water repellency, called the lotus effect, is caused by the formation of a Cassie–Baxter state in which only a small portion of the wetting liquid droplet is in contact with the surface. The rest of the bottom of the droplet is in contact with air pockets. Instrumental methods are often used to determine the textural features that cause this effect—scanning electron and atomic force microscopies, profilometry, etc. However, this result provides only an accurate texture model, not the actual information about the part of the surface that is wetted by the liquid. Here, we show a practical method for estimating the surface fraction of texture that has contact with liquid in a Cassie–Baxter wetting state. The method is performed using a set of ethanol–water mixtures to determine the contact angle of the textured and chemically equivalent flat surfaces of AlSI 304 steel, 7500 aluminum, and siloxane elastomer. We showed that the system of Cassie–Baxter equations can be solved graphically by the wetting diagrams introduced in this paper, returning a value for the texture surface fraction in contact with a liquid. We anticipate that the demonstrated method will be useful for a direct evaluation of the ability of textures to repel liquids, particularly superhydrophobic and superoleophobic materials, slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces, etc.
A Template Method Leads to Precisely Synthesize SiO2@Fe3O4 Nanoparticles at the Hundred-Nanometer Scale
Authors: Zhang Jinying , Wang Xinye , Yang Jiaxing , Zhang Yexiaotong
Published: September 2024

Constructing photonic crystals with core-shell structured nanoparticles is an important means for applications such as secure communication, anti-counterfeiting marking, and structural color camouflage. Nonetheless, the precise synthesis technology for core-shell structured nanoparticles at the hundred-nanometer scale faces significant challenges. This paper proposes a controlled synthesis method for core-shell structured nanoparticles using a template method. By using 100 nm diameter silica nanospheres as templates and coating them with a ferroferric oxide shell layer, SiO2@Fe3O4 core-shell structured nanoparticles with regular morphology and good uniformity can be obtained. The study experimentally investigated the effects of feed amount, modifiers, temperature, and feed order on the coating effect, systematically optimizing the preparation process. Centrifugal driving technology was used to achieve structural colors in the visible wavelength range. Additionally, the method successfully created well-defined and uniform core-shell structured nanoparticles using 200 nm diameter silica nanospheres as templates, demonstrating that this controllable synthesis method can effectively produce core-shell structured nanoparticles over a wide range of particle sizes. The template method proposed in this paper can significantly improve morphological regularity and size uniformity while effectively reducing the preparation cost of core-shell structured nanoparticles.
Adsorption Properties and Mechanisms of Methylene Blue by Modified Sphagnum Moss Bio-Based Adsorbents
Authors: Ren Junpeng , Zhang Shijiang , Wang Yu , Yang Hengxiu
Published: September 2024

The abundant pore structure and carbon composition of sphagnum peat moss render it a bio-based adsorbent for efficient methylene blue removal from wastewater. By utilizing sphagnum moss sourced from Guizhou, China, as raw material, a cost-effective and highly efficient bio-based adsorbent material was prepared through chemical modification. The structure and performance of the modified sphagnum moss were characterized using SEM, EDS, FTIR, and TGA techniques. Batch adsorption experiments explored the effects of contact time, adsorbent dosage, pH, initial dye concentration, and temperature on adsorption performance. Kinetics, isotherm models, and thermodynamics elucidated the adsorption behavior and mechanism. The modified sphagnum moss exhibited increased surface roughness and uniform surface modification, enhancing active site availability for improved adsorption. Experimental data aligned well with the Freundlich isotherm model and pseudo-second-order kinetic model, indicating efficient adsorption. The study elucidated the adsorption mechanism, laying a foundation for effective methylene blue removal. The utilization of modified sphagnum moss demonstrates significant potential in effectively removing MB from contaminated solutions due to its robust adsorption capability and efficient reusability.
Epoxy Composites with Post-Production Gray Cast-Iron Powders
Authors: Cieślak Robert , Figiel Paweł , Kwiatkowski Konrad , Dobrowolski Damian , Urbaniak Magdalena , Biedunkiewicz Anna
Published: September 2024

Processing of cast-iron castings by machining is associated with a large amount of post-production waste in the form of cast-iron chips, which constitute up to about 5% of the weight of the entire casting. In the case of serial production, this generates large amounts of post-production waste, constituting a constantly growing scale of environmental problems. The aim of this research was to develop a simple and cheap method of utilizing post-production waste of gray cast-iron chips from the machining process for the production of small structural elements of water supply fittings. The analysis of the state of knowledge indicates that the simplest method of managing waste chips is to use them as a starting material in the process of manufacturing polymer composites. The most frequently chosen material for the matrix of polymer composites reinforced with metal powders is epoxy resin. The epoxy composite was produced by the vacuum-assisted casting method. This paper presents the results of tests of morphological, mechanical, and corrosion properties of epoxy composites filled with grey cast-iron powder with a grain size below 0.075 mm and a mass content in the composite of 65%. The composite cured at 130 °C for 90 min had the best mechanical properties. The sample cured at 130 °C for 90 min was observed to have the optimum effect, with a tensile strength of 28.35 MPa, a flexural strength of 55.4 MPa, and a compressive strength of 53.8 MPa. All tested composites were characterized by very good thermal resistance and, in comparison to gray cast iron, over 2.5 times lower weight and an over three times lower corrosion rate in the tap water environment.