bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Fluid Dynamics-Driven Comparison of Endovascular Treatment Strategies for Penetrating Aortic Ulcer
Authors: Capellini Katia , Gasparotti Emanuele , Castiglione Vincenzo , Palmieri Cataldo , Berti Sergio , Rizza Antonio , Celi Simona
Published: February 2025

Background: Penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) is an acute aortic syndrome characterized by a high rupture risk. There are several PAU-treatment procedures indicated for the management of this pathology associated with different effects on vessel morphology and hemodynamics. A deep evaluation of the different types of treatment may be helpful in decision making. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a powerful tool for detailed inspection of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this work was to implement a comparative analysis based on CFD evaluation of the effects of two type of PAU treatments. Methods: Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with a left subclavian artery (LSA) branched aortic endograft (SBSG) and a hybrid approach including TEVAR and carotid-LSA bypass were considered. Aortic anatomical models were created from computed tomography (CT) images acquired before and after PAU treatment with SBSG for three patients. Starting from these models, a new aortic geometry corresponding to the outcome of the hybrid strategy was generated. Morphological analysis and CFD simulations were carried out for all aortic models to evaluate LSA outflow for the same predefined boundary conditions. Results: Reductions in LSA diameter were found between aortic models before and after the SBSG (18.2%, 20.8%, and 12.4% for CASE 1, CASE 2, and CASE 3, respectively). The flow rate at LSA changed between pre-configuration and aortic configuration after the PAU treatments: an averaged decrement of 1.08% and 7.5% was found for SBSG and the hybrid approach, respectively. The larger increase in pressure drop between the aortic arch and the LSA extremity was shown in the hybrid approach for all cases. Conclusions: CFD simulations suggest that SBSG preserves LSA perfusion more than a hybrid strategy and has less impact on thoracic aorta hemodynamics.
Initial Experience of Noninvasive Quantification of Pulmonary Congestion Utilizing the Remote Dielectric Sensing System in Pediatric Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Okabe Mako , Imamura Teruhiko , Nishiyama Mami , Nakaoka Hideyuki , Ibuki Keijiro , Ozawa Sayaka , Hirono Keiichi
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) is a recently developed, noninvasive, electromagnetic energy-based technology designed to quantify pulmonary congestion without requiring expert techniques in adult patients with heart failure. However, its applicability in pediatric patients remains unknown. Methods: ReDS values and chest X-rays were simultaneously obtained from pediatric patients with a history of Fontan surgery at an outpatient clinic. The Congestion Severity Index (CSI) was calculated from chest X-rays to analyze its correlation with ReDS values. Results: A total of 21 pediatric patients (median age: 17 years; median height: 152.7 cm; median weight: 48.6 kg; 12 male patients) were included. ReDS values were successfully measured in all participants without any measurement failure. A mild correlation was observed between ReDS values and CSIs (r = 0.47, p = 0.030). In patients with ReDS values exceeding 35% (N = 11), a stronger correlation was noted between ReDS values and CSIs (r = 0.61, p = 0.046). In patients with ReDS values ≤ 35% (N = 10), ReDS values exhibited a wide distribution (25% to 35%) despite low CSI values. Conclusions: The ReDS system demonstrates potential as a feasible technology for the noninvasive quantification of pulmonary congestion in pediatric patients, irrespective of the severity of congestion. Notably, the ReDS system may have the potential to identify subclinical pulmonary congestion in pediatric patients with heart failure.
Acute Compartment Syndrome with Multiple Metacarpal Fractures in the Hand of a 5-Year-Old Boy: A Case Report of Successful Resolution with Delayed Primary Closure
Authors: Uquilla-Loaiza Gonzalo , Tupiza-Luna Fanny K. , Guerrero-Castillo Galo S. , Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S.
Published: February 2025

Background: acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is an orthopedic emergency characterized by pathological pressure elevation within a confined anatomical space, posing a significant challenge in pediatric patients. ACS affects children in a very limited proportion, particularly involving the upper extremities, and diagnosis is complicated by subtle manifestations compared to adults. Case Presentation: we report on the case of a 5-year-old boy who sustained a crush injury to his right hand, resulting in multiple metacarpal fractures and subsequent ACS. The patient presented with severe pain, hand deformity, and restricted mobility. Radiological evaluation confirmed displaced fractures of multiple metacarpals. Emergency surgical intervention involved six incisions to decompress the dorsal and palmar compartments, release muscles, and decompress the median nerve. Healing involved delayed primary closure monitored every 72 h, resulting in an optimal outcome without complications. Conclusions: pediatric upper extremity ACS is rare, complicating diagnosis and treatment due to limited guidelines. This case underscores the effectiveness of early surgical decompression and delayed primary closure in achieving favorable outcomes. Individualized treatment strategies tailored to anatomical considerations and ACS severity are crucial to optimize patient care in pediatric surgical settings.
Effect of Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte Count, and Platelet (HALP) Score on Survival of Patients with Metastatic Thyroid Cancer Treated with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Öztop Hikmet , Hunutlu Fazıl Çağrı , Ekizoğlu Selin İldemir , Gül Özen Öz , Cander Soner , Şahin Ahmet Bilgehan
Published: February 2025

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are crucial for improving the survival rates of individuals with metastatic thyroid cancer. Moreover, systemic inflammation and malnutrition are known to negatively affect metastatic thyroid cancer prognosis. Evaluating nutritional status at the start of treatment can improve survival rates. Purpose: This study investigated the correlation between the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte count, and platelet (HALP) score and prognosis of patients with metastatic thyroid cancer undergoing first-line TKI therapy. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 44 patients between January 2010 and June 2024. The primary outcomes evaluated in the study were time to treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (OS); HALP scores were categorized as low (≤29.21) and high (>29.21) based on receiver operating characteristic analysis. Results: The 1-year survival rate was significantly lower in the low HALP score group compared to the high HALP score group (50% vs. 96.3%). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that low HALP scores, elevated leukocyte counts, and lymphopenia were independent predictors of shorter TTF (HR = 0.272, p = 0.011) and OS (HR = 0.208, p = 0.028). Conclusions: The results obtained in the present study demonstrate that the HALP score has prognostic significance for patients with metastatic thyroid cancer who are undergoing first-line TKI treatment. In metastatic thyroid cancer patients, interventions focused on improving nutritional status at the start, during initiation, and throughout the TKI treatment may enhance treatment effectiveness. However, further prospective studies involving larger patient cohorts are necessary to validate our results.
Laparoendoscopic Rendezvous: An Effective and Safe Approach in the Management of Cholecysto-Choledocholithiasis in Selected Patients
Authors: Percario Rossana , Panaccio Paolo , Caldarella Maria Pia , Trappoliere Marco , Marino Maria , Farrukh Maira , Di Giacomo Carla , Di Martino Giuseppe , De Nobili Giovanni , di Renzo Raffaella Marina , Grottola Tommaso , Di Sebastiano Pierluigi , di Mola Fabio Francesco
Published: February 2025

Background: Different techniques have been proposed to manage Cholecysto-choledocholithiasis (CCL) advantageously in one stage. Among these, Laparoendoscopic Rendezvous (LERV) addresses the CCL issue with a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, with insertion of a guide wire into the common bile duct through an incision of the cystic duct, followed by the clearance of the bile duct carried out by the endoscopists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of the one-stage vs. a two-stage approach (pre-operative ERCP followed by cholecystectomy), and to compare our results with data from the current literature. Methods: All patients that underwent LERV in our facilities between January 2018 and December 2023 were evaluated. As a control group, we included patients that underwent a two-stage technique called the “sequential approach”. The primary outcome was to evaluate the efficacy in obtaining complete clearance of the common bile duct (CBD). The secondary outcomes included morbidity, mortality, operative time, conversion rate, hospital stay and CDB stone recurrence. Results: 120 patients in the LERV group were included; meanwhile, 70 patients underwent pre-operative ERCP plus cholecystectomy. A 97% bile duct clearance success rate in the LERV group and 93% in the ERCP group was observed, respectively. The median intraoperative time for the one-stage technique was 122 min (p < 0.001) and the median hospital stay was 4 days (p < 0.001). In the LERV group, an overall morbidity of 15% was reported (18/120): 15 Clavien–Dindo type 1, one type 3a and two type 3b (p < 0.001). At a median follow-up of 14 months, five patients experienced stone recurrence. In the ERCP group, we had a 93% success rate; meanwhile, we had longer hospitalization (p < 0.001), 27% post-ERCP pancreatitis (p < 0.001) and a cumulative morbidity of 30%. Conclusions: LERV offers the advantages of a being single-stage procedure and shorter hospitalization, with a lower risk of clinically relevant post-ERCP pancreatitis and failed CBD cannulation.
Therapeutic Advancements in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Yi Robin C. , Akbik Maya , Smith Logan R. , Klionsky Yael , Feldman Steven R.
Published: February 2025

Background: Within the past few years, many new therapies have emerged for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Current topical therapies—including corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, tapinarof, and roflumilast—remain the mainstay for mild disease, while oral systemic and biologic options are for moderate to severe cases. Biologics—such as Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), Interleukin 12/23 (IL-12/23), Interleukin-17 (IL-17), and Interleukin-23 (IL-23)—have revolutionized care by providing highly effective and safer alternatives. Oral small molecules, including Janus kinase (JAK) and tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitors, further expand the therapeutic options. Objectives: The goal for this review article was to examine current and latest treatments for psoriasis and PsA and discuss whether these emerging therapeutic options address the unmet needs of current treatments. Methods: The search for this review article included PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov for relevant articles and current clinical trials using keywords. Results: A wide range of novel psoriatic and PsA therapies are currently undergoing clinical trials. These include selective JAK inhibitors, TYK2 inhibitors, retinoic acid-related orphan receptor (RORγT) inhibitors, oral IL-23 receptor inhibitors, oral IL-17A inhibitors, nanobody products, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P1R) antagonists, A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) agonists, heat shock protein (HSP) 90 inhibitors, and rho-associated protein kinases (ROCK-2) inhibitors. Conclusions: These different mechanisms of action not only expand treatment options but may offer potential solutions for patients who do not achieve adequate response with existing therapies. However, the safety and contraindications of these newer agents remain an important consideration to ensure appropriate patient selection and minimize potential risks. Certain mechanisms may pose increased risks for infection, cardiovascular manifestations, malignancy, or other immune-related adverse events, necessitating careful monitoring and individualized treatment decisions. Ongoing clinical research aims to address unmet needs for patients who do not respond to previous agents to achieve sustained remission, monitor long-term safety outcomes, and assess patient preferences for delivery, including a preference for oral delivery. Oral IL-23 inhibitors hold potential due to their robust safety profiles. In contrast, oral IL-17 inhibitors and TYK-2 inhibitors are effective but may present side effects that could impact their acceptability. It is essential to balance efficacy, safety, and patient preferences to guide the selection of appropriate therapies.
Clinical and Proteomic Insights into a Cytokine Release Syndrome Triggered by Tebentafusp in a Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Patient: Case Report
Authors: Lazaro Sanchez Antonio David , Benitez Fuentes Javier David , Gil Ginés Luengo , García María Teresa García , Moreno Eduardo Feliciangeli , Zamora Pablo Conesa , Yago José Balsalobre , Mohamed Kauzar Mohamed , Arroyo Rodríguez Ana Belén
Published: February 2025

Background: Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular cancer in adults; however, it remains rare. Despite its rarity, metastatic uveal melanoma poses significant treatment challenges. Tebentafusp, a T-cell receptor–bispecific molecule targeting glycoprotein 100 and CD3, has shown substantial survival benefits for HLA-A*02:01 positive patients. A notable complication associated with tebentafusp and similar immunotherapies is cytokine release syndrome (CRS), occurring in nearly 90% of tebentafusp-treated patients. Although typically mild, severe CRS (grade 3) affects around 1% of patients. The unpredictable nature of CRS complicates patient management during treatment. Methods: Monitoring cytokine levels, as key indicators of inflammation, may therefore be crucial for understanding and managing CRS. Advanced proteomic technologies enable the simultaneous measurement of multiple cytokines, providing a comprehensive view of inflammatory responses. Results: In this case, a patient with metastatic uveal melanoma developed CRS after tebentafusp treatment. A proteomic analysis tracked the cytokine changes from baseline to post-treatment, revealing significant elevations in inflammatory markers. Conclusions: These findings suggest potential strategies for more personalized CRS management in similar therapies.
VExUS Protocol Along Cardiorenal Syndrome: An Updated Review
Authors: Campos-Sáenz de Santamaría Amelia , Albines Fiestas Zoila Stany , Crespo-Aznarez Silvia , Esterellas-Sánchez Laura Karla , Sánchez-Marteles Marta , Garcés-Horna Vanesa , Josa-Laorden Claudia , Alcaine-Otín Alejandro , Gimenez-Lopez Ignacio , Rubio-Gracia Jorge
Published: February 2025

Heart failure (HF) is a major cause of hospitalization, often leading to acute kidney injury (AKI) due to venous congestion. The Venous Excess Ultrasound (VExUS) score, introduced by Beaubin-Souligny, is a bedside tool for assessing congestion severity and guiding decongestive therapy. VExUS has demonstrated prognostic value in predicting AKI, HF readmission, and mortality. Indeed, guiding decongestive therapy through the VExUS score has been shown to significantly improve the likelihood of achieving faster decongestion. Objectives: This review aims to discuss the potential role of VExUS and analyze the recent findings about its relevance in guiding decongestive therapy in patients with acute decompensated HF. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, which identified journal articles focused on VExUS and manual reviews of relevant peer-reviewed journals. Conclusions: VExUS is a promising tool for evaluating venous congestion in cardiorenal patients, thereby improving fluid and diuretic management. It provides real-time, non-invasive monitoring that enhances clinical decision-making. However, its accuracy depends on operator expertise, and further research is needed to validate its application across different patient populations.
Effect of Sequential vs. Simultaneous Dual Growth Factor Release from Structured Heparin-Poly-Electrolyte Multilayer Coatings on Peri-Implant Bone Formation and Angiogenesis in Pig Mandibles
Authors: Kauffmann Philipp , Wolfer Susanne , Behrens Christina , Schlosser Pauline , Dullin Christian , Schirmer Uwe , Liefeith Klaus , Schliephake Henning
Published: February 2025

The aim of the present study was to test the sequential and simultaneous release of rhBMP2 and rhVEGF165 from poly-l-lysine-heparin (PLL-Hep) poly-electrolyte multilayer (PEM) coating on titanium surfaces for their ability to enhance peri-implant bone formation and CD31 expression around disc-shaped titanium implants (5 × 7 mm) in mini-pig mandibles. Bare titanium surfaces loaded with respective growth factor combinations served as controls. Ten different surface conditions were tested exhibiting early VEGF release, early BMP release, simultaneous VEGF and BMP release, and sole VEGF/BMP release, respectively. The implants were inserted press-fit into 5 mm trephine cavities at the lower border of the mandibles of mini-pigs and left to heal for 4 and 13 weeks. After 4 weeks, there was no significant difference in peri-implant bone formation, bone–implant contact nor CD31 expression between the different surface conditions. After 13 weeks, bone formation was significantly higher in the zone of 100 μm next to implant surfaces releasing either BMP alone or with an early release of BMP2. Expression of CD31 has significantly decreased from 4 to 13 weeks with significantly higher values in the group of implants with early release of BMP2. The results indicate that the range of released growth factors is limited to a distance of approximately 100 μm and that the sequence of early release of BMP2 followed by VEGF165 promotes peri-implant bone formation and peri-implant angiogenesis, which is in contrast to the current understanding of the temporal patterns of growth factor release for enhancement of bone formation.
Multi-View and Multi-Type Feature Fusion Rotor Biofouling Recognition Method for Tidal Stream Turbine
Authors: Xu Haoran , Yang Dingding , Wang Tianzhen , Benbouzid Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Power generation is affected and structural instability may occur when biofouling attaches to the rotor of tidal stream turbines (TSTs). Image signals are used to identify biofouling for biofouling recognition, thus achieving on-demand maintenance, optimizing power generation efficiency, and minimizing maintenance costs. However, image signals are sensitive to background interferences, and underwater targets blend with the water background, making it difficult to extract target features. Changes in water turbidity can affect the effectiveness of image signal biofouling recognition, which can lead to reduced recognition accuracy. In order to solve these problems, a multi-view and multi-type feature fusion (MVTFF) method is proposed to recognize rotor biofouling on TSTs for applications in TST operation and maintenance. (1) Key boundary and semantic information are captured to solve the problem of background feature interference by comparing and fusing the extracted multi-view features. (2) The local geometric description and dependency are obtained by integrating contour features into multi-view features to address the issue of the target mixing with water. The mIoU, mPA, Precision, and Recall of the experimental results show that the method achieves superior recognition performance on TST datasets with different turbidity levels.
Modeling Bottom Dissolved Oxygen on the East China Sea Shelf Using Interpretable Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Chengqing , Meng Qicheng , Ma Xiao , Liu Anqi , Zhou Feng
Published: February 2025

Monitoring bottom dissolved oxygen (DO) is crucial for understanding hypoxia, a threat to marine ecosystems and fisheries. However, traditional observations are limited in spatiotemporal coverage, while numerical models consume tremendous computing resources. This study develops an interpretable machine learning framework to simulate the bottom DO distribution on the East China Sea (ECS) shelf and explore its potential driving mechanisms. By integrating remote sensing, in situ observations, and numerical model outputs, the framework generates high-resolution (4 km) DO estimates from 1998 to 2024. Validation against independent datasets confirms the improved accuracy and spatial resolution, with an RMSE below 1 mg/L. The results reveal a persistent decline in DO, strongly linked to rising sea surface temperature (SST), underscoring the role of surface warming in bottom water deoxygenation. Model interpretability further identifies the SST and bathymetry as key factors. This framework provides a robust tool for assessing bottom DO trends, hypoxia, and their ecological impacts, supporting future monitoring and management of the ECS shelf.
Mooring Failure Analysis of Semisubmersible Floating Offshore Wind Turbines Considering Mooring Redundancy at Each Azimuth Angle
Authors: Hao Shuai , Zhang Xuning , Yu Yang , Wang Bin , Bo Xingdao
Published: February 2025

Semisubmersible floating structures are becoming the predominant understructure type for floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) worldwide. As FOWTs are erected far away from land and in deep seas, they inevitably suffer violent and complicated sea conditions, including extreme waves and winds. Mooring lines are the representative flexible members of the whole structure and are likely to incur damage due to years of impact, corrosion, or fatigue. To improve mooring redundancy at each azimuth angle around a wind turbine, a group of mooring lines are configured in the same direction instead of just one mooring line. This study focuses on the mooring failure problems that would probably occur in a realistic redundant mooring system of a semisubmersible FOWT, and the worst residual mooring layout is considered. An FOWT numerical model with a 3 × 3 mooring system is established in terms of 3D potential flow and BEM (blade element momentum) theories, and aero-hydro floating-body mooring coupled analyses are performed to discuss the subsequent time histories of dynamic responses after different types of mooring failure. As under extreme failure conditions, the final horizontal offsets of the structure and the layout of the residual mooring system are evaluated under still water, design, and extreme environmental conditions. The results show that the transient tension in up-wave mooring lines can reach more than 12,000 kN under extreme environmental conditions, inducing further failure of the whole chain group. Then, a deflection angle of 60° may occur on the residual laid chain, which may bring about dangerous anchor dragging.
Impact of Ocean Sound Speed Horizontal Gradient on Global Navigation Satellite System–Acoustic Precise Seafloor Positioning
Authors: Liu Yang , Shi Tianjie , Liu Yanxiong , Wang Shengli , Chen Guanxu , Li Menghao , Tang Qiuhua , Feng Yikai
Published: February 2025

Global Navigation Satellite System–Acoustic ranging (GNSS-A) technology can achieve centimeter-level seafloor positioning. However, the horizontal gradient of ocean sound speed limits the seafloor positioning accuracy of GNSS-A. This paper evaluates the impact of ocean sound speed horizontal gradients on GNSS-A seafloor positioning utilizing Bayesian estimation. Publicly available GNSS-A datasets from 2012 to 2021 were processed using strategies with and without estimating sound speed horizontal gradients. The comparison of results demonstrates that the ocean sound speed horizontal gradient has a significant impact on horizontal positioning but a smaller impact on vertical positioning. The mean root mean square (RMS) of horizontal positioning differences for both strategies is 0.12 m, with a maximum of 0.19 m. The mean RMS of vertical positioning differences is 0.014 m, with a maximum of 0.021 m. The mean RMS of station velocity differences is 0.004 m/a and 0.008 m/a in the east and the north components, respectively, with a maximum RMS of 0.01 m/a in the horizontal component. The vertical station velocity differences for both strategies are relatively small, with a mean RMS of 0.002 m/a and a maximum RMS of 0.003 m/a. The mean RMS difference in sound speed correction for both strategies is 0.01 m/s. The sound speed horizontal gradient is larger in the shallow portion than in the deep portion. In the shallow portion, the mean RMS is 0.052 m/s/km and 0.072 m/s/km in the east and north component, respectively. In the deep portion, the mean RMS is 0.023 m/s/km and 0.024 m/s/km in the east and north components, respectively. The sound speed horizontal gradient varies significantly at different locations due to the marine environment discrepancies, which require refined GNSS-A processing to improve seafloor positioning accuracy.
A Hybrid Meta-Heuristic Approach for Solving Single-Vessel Quay Crane Scheduling with Double-Cycling
Authors: Eldemir Fahrettin , Taner Mustafa Egemen
Published: February 2025

The escalating global demand for containerized cargo has intensified pressure on container terminals, which serve as vital nodes in maritime logistics. This study aims to enhance operational efficiency in non-automated container terminals by examining two meta-heuristic approaches—Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) and a hybrid Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure (GRASP)—Genetic Algorithm (GA)—for quay crane scheduling. Their performance is benchmarked across various problem scales, with process completion time serving as the primary metric. Based on these findings, the most effective approach is integrated into a newly developed Decision Support System (DSS) to streamline practical implementation. Statistical analyses confirm the robustness of both methods, underscoring how meta-heuristics combined with a DSS can optimize quay crane utilization, bolster maritime logistics, and ultimately boost terminal productivity.
Unveiling Luxury Consumption Intention in Scarcity: The Role of Locus of Control and Economic Mobility Perceptions
Authors: Liu Yuejun , Wu Banggang , Deng Xiaoyu
Published: February 2025

Perceived scarcity can significantly shape consumer behavior, particularly regarding luxury consumption during economic downturns. This study examines how perceived scarcity influences the preference for luxury goods and assesses the mediating role of perceived control in this relationship. Employing a multi-method approach that combines questionnaire surveys and bias adjustment techniques, this research captures the complex interplay between scarcity cues, perceived control, and consumption behaviors. The findings indicate that when consumers experience scarcity, they are more inclined to seek out luxury goods as a means to restore a sense of psychological balance. Perceived control emerges as a key mediating factor, helping explain why scarcity leads to a heightened interest in luxury products. This mediation suggests that consumers turn to luxury items not solely due to external constraints, but also as a way to reassert control over their circumstances. By integrating compensatory control theory and considering variations in locus of control and perceived economic mobility, this study provides a nuanced understanding of the psychological mechanisms underpinning luxury consumption in resource-constrained contexts. These insights advance theoretical perspectives on scarcity effects and offer practical implications for marketers and policymakers aiming to engage consumers responsibly and effectively in challenging economic environments.
Natural Resource Management in Depopulated Regions of Serbia—Birth of Rural Brownfields or Final Abandonment
Authors: Joksimović Marko
Published: February 2025

Numerous research studies have long established the causes and consequences of the depopulation of certain regions in Europe, but it seems that there are no systematic approaches to implementing the policy of managing abandoned areas. Following years of demographic decline in settlements, the 2022 census revealed depopulated clusters in Serbia—regions with 20 or fewer residents or even no inhabitants at all. The areas of depopulated settlements are growing territorially from the south towards the north. This paper adopts a broader interpretation of brownfield land, defining it as any previously used land that is no longer employed for commercial purposes, serving as the theoretical foundation. Although they seem economically hopeless, some depopulated clusters have become the subject of research for the exploitation of mineral resources such as gold, copper, zinc, uranium, lithium and coal. The main problem is that depopulated clusters have acquired an ecological stability that would be disrupted by the opening of mines and massive construction. The changes in land use were analyzed using time series data and a formal database of natural resources from these communities. The primary methodological framework was based on the correlation between population size, utilized areas, and the ecological stability coefficient. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the proportion of arable land within a spatial unit and its depopulation rate while also examining how arable land and mineral resources could influence the potential revitalization of rural wastelands in Serbia’s depopulated areas. The primary findings indicate a significant correlation between population decline and changes in the natural environment of abandoned clusters, as well as the significant potential of clusters as rural brownfields. While it is natural to continue with ecological and green space projects, the current liberal and centralized mining management policy can create major problems for the remaining population.
An Improved Soil Moisture Downscaling Method Based on Soil Properties and Geographical Divisions over the Loess Plateau
Authors: Han Lei , Miao Zheyuan , Liu Zhao , Kang Hongliang , Zhang Han , Gan Shaoan , Ren Yuxuan , Hu Guiming
Published: February 2025

As the contradiction between vegetation growth and soil moisture (SM) demand in arid zones gradually expands, accurately obtaining SM data is crucial for ecological construction. Remote sensing products limit small-scale studies due to the low resolution, and the emergence of downscaling solves this problem. This study proposes an improved semi-physical SM downscaling method. The effects of environmental factors on SM in different geographical zones (Windy Sand Hills, Flood Plains, Loess Yuan, Hilly Loess, Earth-rock Hills and Rocky Mountain) were analyzed using Random Forests. Vegetation and topographic factors were incorporated into the traditional downscaling algorithm based on the Mualem–van Genuchten model by setting weights, yielding 250 m resolution SM data for the Loess Plateau. This study found the following: (1) The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was the most important environmental factor in all divisions except the Flood Plain, and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was second only to the NDVI in the overall importance evaluation, both of which positively influenced SM. (2) SM variability increased and then decreased when SM was below 0.4 cm3/cm3, but showed a quadratic growth trend when exceeding this threshold. The Rocky Mountain division exhibited the highest variability under the same SM. (3) Validation showed that the improved algorithm, based on geographic divisions to analyze factors importance and interpolation of coarse-scale SM and variability, had the highest accuracy, with an average R of 0.753 and an average ubRMSE of 0.042 cm3/cm3. The improved algorithm produced higher resolution, more accurate SM data, and offered insights for downscaling studies in arid regions, meeting the region’s high-resolution SM needs.
Exploring the Drivers of Ecosystem Service Changes from a Spatio-Temporal Perspective in Vulnerable Nanling Mountainous Areas in SE China
Authors: Huang Lingyue , Yuan Lichen , Li Meiyun , Xia Yongyan , Che Tingting , Liu Jianyi , Luo Ziling , Yuan Jiangang
Published: February 2025

Mountains support many kinds of ecosystem services (ESs) for human beings, emphasizing the need to understand the characteristics and drivers of ES changes in mountainous regions. In this study, Nanling, the most significant mountains of southern China, was selected as a case study. Utilizing the GlobeLand30 dataset, we employed InVEST, Geodetector and MGWR to identify the spatio-temporal characteristics and drivers of ES changes, investigate trade-offs and synergies between ESs, and examine the relationship between ESs and the landscape ecological risk index (LERI) to provide a new perspective for ecosystem management in vulnerable mountain regions. The results showed that carbon storage (CS) and habitat quality (HQ) slightly decreased, while the water yield (WY) increased slightly. Soil conservation (SC) significantly decreased, but the total ES (TES) slightly increased. All ES bundles demonstrated a synergistic relationship, but most of the synergies exhibited a decreasing trend. The ESs in the study area were mainly affected by climate factors, and anthropogenic factors also had a significant impact on ESs. LERI exhibited a negative correlation with the provision of ESs and demonstrated a high explanatory power for ES changes, especially for CS, HQ and TES, suggesting that areas with more stable landscape patterns are likely to harbor greater levels of ESs. The results provide insights into the analysis of the characteristics of ES change in vulnerable mountainous areas, also providing the practical implications for introducing LERI as a driver for ES change.
Experimental Research on the Effect of Thermophysical Characteristics of Cutting Fluid on Cutting Performance During Turning Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Zhou Xiaorong , He Lin , Yuan Sen , Deng Jing , Su Zebin , Yang Jingdou , Du Feilong
Published: February 2025

Cutting fluid has been widely used to enhance the heat dissipation of cutting systems. However, whether cutting fluid can fully play its role is closely correlated with its thermophysical characteristics, such as viscosity, surface tension, etc. In this work, to study the effect of the thermophysical characteristics of cutting fluid on cutting performance, three green vegetable oils (semi-synthetic fluid (L1), rapeseed oil (L2), canola oil (L3)) were selected as cutting fluids of the MQL system, and differences in cutting performance were compared and analyzed under varied lubrication environments. Firstly, the thermophysical characteristics of the vegetable oils were determined by experimental methods. Afterwards, parameters, including tool wear, cutting force, and temperature, as well as the quality of machined workpieces, were selected to evaluate cutting performance, and essential reasons for the difference in cutting performance under varied lubrication environments were clarified. The results demonstrated that the cutting force, cutting temperature, and tool wear produced in the three MQL environments were lower than those in the dry cutting environment, while only the L1 and L2 MQL environments exhibited higher machined surface quality than the dry cutting environment. Moreover, obvious differences in cutting performance under the three MQL environments were also observed due to the different thermophysical characteristics of the three vegetable oils. The best cutting performance was achieved when L2 was used as the MQL cutting fluid. The efforts of this study will give an important reference for the choosing of green cutting fluid in the cutting process of difficult-to-cut materials and be of great significance for accelerating the development of green processing.
Analytical and Experimental Research of Lubrication Load-Bearing Characteristics of Microtextured Meshing Interface
Authors: Wang Xigui , Ruan Jiafu , Wang Yongmei , Zou Weiqiang
Published: February 2025

The excellent lubrication and load-bearing synergistic modulation of the meshing interface has been well recognized, as the microtextured tooth surface seems to be a punished area in deep-sea gear thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication (TEHL). This is mainly because of the traditional perception of the anti-scuffing load-bearing capacity (ASLBC) and the similarity of the interfacial microelement configurations. Microtextured contact can be applied to the meshing interface to adjust the time-varying TEHL characteristics and enhance the meshing load-bearing performance. In this study, the analytical homogeneous equivalent micro-hydrodynamic contact multiscale parameters are determined, and the dispersed micro-flow real distribution area of the texturing interface is indicated, revealing the TEHL friction characteristics of the rolling–sliding line contact microelement, which is regarded as a bridge connecting the micro-dynamic pressure discrete contact friction behavior and the TEHL textured interface meshed-gear load-bearing. The contact model mentioned theoretically predicts the evolutionary time-varying characteristics of the micro-thermoelastic lubrication behavior of the textured contact interface under hydrodynamic conditions and demonstrates that the microtextured configuration parameters of the molecular scale meshing interface are the most influential structural parameters for the load-bearing problem of the homogeneous flow pressure film layer between the gear pair tooth surfaces, especially for deep-sea gear meshing load-bearing reliability under limited lubrication space.
Evolution Mechanism of Multi-Precipitation Regulates Mechanical Properties and High-Temperature Strength in Medium-Alloy Structural Steel
Authors: Sheng Junjie , Deng Yahui , Cao Xin , Wang Yangxin , Hu Chundong , Dong Han
Published: February 2025

Precipitation strengthening is one of the fundamental factors occurring at high temperatures in medium-alloy structural steels, which offer greater durability under service conditions. This research employed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) via carbon replicas combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze carbide evolution and its influence on both mechanical properties and high-temperature strength. During the tempering process, ε-carbides precipitate at 200 °C and subsequently transform into M3C at 400 °C and coarser M7C3 at 600 °C. Coarser carbides (M7C3 and M3C) and metastable carbides (ε-carbides) are not sufficient to make steel strong at high temperatures. Moreover, nucleating and growing at interfaces, rod-shaped M3C diminishes the toughness of the steel. Under tempering at 600 °C, a substantial amount of nanoscale M2C carbides precipitate. This improvement not only elevate the material’s toughness but also leads to an enhancement of yield strength (from 1237 ± 12 MPa to 1340 ± 8 MPa) along with a rise in high-temperature strength (from 388 ± 8 MPa to 421 ± 4 MPa). Combined with high toughness, nanoscale M2C with high thermal stability promoted both yield strength at room temperature and high-temperature strength. The type and size of carbides serve as key determinants for yield strength while being decisive parameters for high-temperature strength.
Enhanced Thermal Conductivity and Dielectric Performance of CMZBS–Glass–Ceramic Composites with AlN Whisker Incorporation for LTCC Applications
Authors: Xue Tiange , Su Xinqing , Yu Shixiang , Meng Meng , Xu Xinya , Xin Jinqi , Ran Jinjin
Published: February 2025

In this work, a small amount of AlN whiskers (ranging from 2 wt.% to 8 wt.%) was incorporated into CaO-MgO-ZnO-B2O3-SiO2 (CMZBS)–glass/Al2O3 composites so as to obtain glass-ceramics with a thermally conductive network through sintering between 700 °C and 1000 °C. Special attention was given to the densification behavior, dielectric properties, and thermal conductivity of CMZBS/Al2O3/AlN–glass–ceramic composites with varying AlN whisker contents. According to the results, composites with desirable thermal, mechanical, and dielectrical properties were successfully fabricated. Notably, the composites containing 6 wt.% AlN whiskers, sintered at 800 °C, exhibited the most optimal comprehensive properties (dielectric constant of 7.06, dielectric loss of 383 × 10−5, thermal expansion coefficient of 6.40·10−6/K, flexural strength of 180 MPa, and thermal conductivity of 5.17 W/(m·K)). Given these attributes, this CMZBS/Al2O3/AlN composite holds great potential for applications in LTCC (low-temperature co-fired ceramic).
Deformation Control of Adjustable-Ring-Mode (ARM) Laser Welding for Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Tang Jinglong , Hu Minglie , Su Jie , Guo Qijun , Wang Xiaohua , Luo Zhen
Published: February 2025

In the domain of new energy vehicles, the control of welding deformation in aluminum alloy battery systems poses substantial challenges. The existing methodologies for diminishing welding deformation, such as laser segmented skip welding, alteration of welding path sequences, numerical simulation prediction, and post-weld heat treatment, still possess room for further optimization when applied to intricate welding structures. In this research, a novel adjustable-ring-mode laser in conjunction with the oscillation welding technique was employed to explore the impacts of fiber core diameter, laser light field brightness distribution, and process parameters on weld formation. The regulation of welding deformation was achieved through optimizing the welding process and adjusting the welding path. The results indicate that when the fiber core diameter is 50/150 µm and the light field brightness distribution is H, the weld size exhibits the highest stability. Under the conditions of process parameters p = 5300 W, v = 5.4 m/min, A = 1.6 mm, f = 120 Hz, and θ = 40°, and with the spot position located at the bottom of the side of the upper substrate, the optimal weld formation is obtained. After optimizing the welding path, the maximum Z-direction deformation of the weld is 1.403 mm, representing a reduction of 1.702 mm compared to the previous value. This work is capable of providing novel theoretical guidance and technical insights for the control of welding deformation in thin aluminum alloy plates.
Magnetocaloric Properties and Microstructures of HoB2 and Nb-Substituted HoB2
Authors: Shahbazi Mahboobeh , Dehghan Manshadi Ali , Shinde Kiran , Mackinnon Ian D. R.
Published: February 2025

We report on the arc melt syntheses of HoB2 and Nb-substituted HoB2 polycrystalline ingots and their magnetocaloric and microstructural properties. XRD data and microstructural analysis reveal that a nominal 10% Nb addition during synthesis results in changes to unit cell parameters and grain morphology. Interpretation of the refined cell parameters using Vegard’s law shows that Nb substitutes into HoB2 with stoichiometry Ho0.93Nb0.07B2. Arc-melted products are polycrystalline bulk samples containing minor phases such as Ho2O3, Ho, and HoB4. Nb substitution results in a smaller grain size (~sub-micron) and a higher Curie temperature, TC, compared to HoB2. With a 10 T applied field, the maximum magnetic entropy, ΔSM, for HoB2 and for Ho0.93Nb0.07B2, is 46.8 Jkg−1K−1 and 38.2 Jkg−1K−1 at 18 K and 21 K, respectively. Both samples show second-order phase transitions. Despite high totals of minor phases (e.g., ~10 wt.% and ~25 wt.%), the calculated relative cooling powers are greater than 1300 Jkg−1 and 600 Jkg−1 at 10 T and 5 T, respectively. The magnetocaloric properties of both samples are consistent with Holmium boride compounds prepared via alternative methods.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Corrosion Behavior in Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.2Cr Alloy with Minor Yttrium Addition
Authors: Yao Ting , Xiao Daihong , Yan Yingjie , Liu Wensheng
Published: February 2025

This study systematically investigated the effects of the addition of the rare earth element yttrium (Y) on the microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of as-extruded Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.20Cr (wt.%) alloy through comprehensive characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile testing, corrosion analysis, and electron microscopy. Microstructural characterization demonstrated that the incorporation of yttrium resulted in significant refinement of secondary phase particles within the as-extruded alloy matrix. Moreover, quantitative analysis revealed a substantial increase in low-angle grain boundary (LAGB) density, dislocation density, and the formation of subgrain structures. Notably, the volume fraction of η′ strengthening precipitates showed a marked increase, accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the width of precipitate-free zones (PFZs) along grain boundaries. Following the T74 aging treatment, the alloy with 0.1 wt.% yttrium addition exhibited a remarkable improvement in intergranular corrosion resistance, with the maximum corrosion depth reduced to 107.8 μm. However, it should be noted that the exfoliation corrosion resistance exhibited an inverse correlation with increasing yttrium content, suggesting a concentration-dependent behavior in corrosion performance.
In Situ Growth of Enamel-like Apatite Coating for Marble Protection
Authors: Zhou Yihang , Li Wenfei , Wang Yue , Wang Kai
Published: February 2025

Outdoor stone relics, including inscriptions, statues, temple grottoes, etc., are continuously subjected to natural weathering and air pollutants. Those made of marbles and other carbonate rocks are particularly vulnerable to acid rains, which can be protected by acid-resistant coatings. A novel method to prepare enamel-like hydroxyapatite coating on marble surfaces is presented in this paper and analyzed using optical microscopy, a scanning electronic microscope, grazing incident X-ray diffraction, and nano-indentation. The described coating is composed of tightly arranged hydroxyapatite nanorods, perpendicular to the marble substrate, with a thickness of 3–5 μm. Not only does the coating exhibit high acid resistance, it also has considerably higher elastic modulus and hardness compared to that synthesized by the well-known diammonium phosphate (DAP) method owing to the wellarranged microstructure. Consequently, the enamel-like hydroxyapatite coating would probably be more effective and durable for marble protection than the existing calcium phosphate coating.
Novel Approach for Robust Control of Axial Piston Pump
Authors: Slavov Tsonyo , Mitov Alexander , Kralev Jordan
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to designing novel multivariable robust μ-control of an open-circuit axial piston pump. In contrast with classical solutions of displacement volume control, in our case, the hydro-mechanical controller (by pressure, flow rate, or power) is replaced by an electro-hydraulic proportional valve which receives a control signal from an industrial microcontroller. The valve is used as the actuator of the pump swash plate. The pump swash plate swivel angle determines the displacement volume and the flow rate of the pump. The μ-controller design is performed on the basis of a one-input, two-output model with multiplicative output uncertainty. This model is estimated and validated from experimental data at various loads by multivariable identification. The designed control system achieves robust stability and robust performance for the wide working mode of an axial piston pump. To conduct this experimental study, the authors have developed a laboratory test bench, enabling a real-time function of the control system via USB/CAN communication. The designed controller is implemented in a rapid prototyping system, and real-time experiments are performed. They show the advantages of μ-control and confirm the possibility of its implementation in the case of the real-time control of an axial piston pump.