bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Characteristics of COVID-19-Related Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Case Series
Authors: Jung Raon , Oh Yun-Seo , Choi Soyoun , Park Moo-seok , Ha Hee-Jung , Kim Na Young , Wang Sohee , Seyedehmahla Hosseini , Chang Yoonkyung , Song Tae-Jin
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Although reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a rare disease, the condition may occur with COVID-19 infection. We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of RCVS through a systematic review of case reports and case series that reported on COVID-19-related RCVS. Methods: A literature search was performed in PubMed (MEDLINE), SCOPUS, and Web of Science. The search was confined to articles published between 17 November 2019 and 14 August 2024. The search terms were (“COVID-19” OR “SARS CoV-2”) AND (“RCVS” OR “Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome”). The search protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024491818). A total of twenty-four cases were included, nine case series consisting of nineteen cases and five cases from our hospital. Clinical characteristics were investigated, including risk factors, symptoms, brain and angiographic findings, treatment options, and prognoses. Results: The average age was 37.1 years, and females comprised 70.8% of the cohort. COVID-19 vaccination was administered in five cases. Vasoconstriction was most frequently noted in middle cerebral arteries (90.9%). Among the included patients, 12 (50.0%) experienced strokes as a complication of RCVS, and the mortality rate was 9.1%. Follow-up imaging findings were available for 14 of the 24 cases (58.3%). Among these, vasoconstriction was fully improved in 64.3%, partially improved in 28.6%, and aggravated in 7.1%. Conclusions: While the recovery rate of vasoconstriction on brain angiographic findings was not uncommon, our systematic review indicates a potential for a relatively poor neurological prognosis in COVID-19-related RCVS.
Endoscopic Management of Benign Pancreaticobiliary Disorders
Authors: Vedamurthy Amar , Krishnamoorthi Rajesh , Irani Shayan , Kozarek Richard
Published: January 2025

Endoscopic management of benign pancreaticobiliary disorders encompasses a range of procedures designed to address complications in gallstone disease, choledocholithiasis, and pancreatic disorders. Acute cholecystitis is typically treated with cholecystectomy or percutaneous drainage (PT-GBD), but for high-risk or future surgical candidates, alternative decompression methods, such as endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage (ETP-GBD), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD), are effective. PT-GBD is associated with significant discomfort as well as variable adverse event rates. EUS-GBD leverages lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) for direct access to the gallbladder, providing the ability to treat an inflamed GB internally. Choledocholithiasis is primarily managed with ERCP, utilizing techniques to include balloon extraction, mechanical lithotripsy, or advanced methods such as electrohydraulic or laser lithotripsy in cases of complex stones. Altered anatomy from bariatric procedures like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass may necessitate specialized approaches, including balloon-assisted ERCP or EUS-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE). Post-operative complications, including bile leaks and strictures, are managed endoscopically using sphincterotomy and stenting. Post-liver transplant anastomotic and non-anastomotic strictures often require repeated stent placements or advanced techniques like magnetic compression anastomosis in refractory cases. In chronic pancreatitis (CP), endoscopic approaches aim to relieve pain and address structural complications like pancreatic duct (PD) strictures and calculi. ERCP with sphincterotomy and stenting, along with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), achieves effective ductal clearance for PD stones. When traditional approaches are insufficient, direct visualization with peroral pancreatoscopy-assisted lithotripsy is utilized. EUS-guided interventions, such as cystgastrostomy, pancreaticogastrostomy, and celiac plexus blockade, offer alternative therapeutic options for pain management and drainage of peripancreatic fluid collections. EUS plays a diagnostic and therapeutic role in CP, with procedures tailored for high-risk patients or those with complex anatomy. As techniques evolve, endoscopic management provides minimally invasive alternatives for patients with complex benign pancreaticobiliary conditions, offering high clinical success and fewer complications.
Blood Biomarkers as a Non-Invasive Method for the Assessment of the State of the Fontan Circulation
Authors: Wittczak Andrzej , Mazurek-Kula Anna , Banach Maciej , Piotrowski Grzegorz , Bielecka-Dabrowa Agata
Published: January 2025

The Fontan operation has become the primary palliative treatment for patients with a functionally univentricular heart. The population of patients with Fontan circulation is constantly growing and aging. As the number of Fontan patients surviving into adulthood increases, there is a clear need for research on how best to follow these patients and manage their complications. Monitoring blood biomarkers is a promising method for the non-invasive assessment of the Fontan circulation. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the available evidence on this topic. The following biomarkers were included: natriuretic peptides, red blood cell distribution width (RDW), cystatin C, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, von Willebrand factor, carbohydrate antigen 125, lipoproteins, hepatocyte growth factor, troponins, ST2 protein, galectin-3, adrenomedullin, endothelin-1, components of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, norepinephrine, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α, and uric acid. We did not find strong enough data to propose evidence-based recommendations. Nevertheless, significantly elevated levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP)/N-terminal prohormone of BNP (NT-proBNP) are most likely associated with the failure of the Fontan circulation. The use of the RDW is also promising. Several biomarkers appear to be useful in certain clinical presentations. Certainly, robust longitudinal, preferably multicenter, prospective studies are needed to determine the sensitivity, specificity, evidence-based cut-off values and overall predictive value of different biomarkers in monitoring Fontan physiology.
Gastrointestinal Disease in Common Variable Immunodeficiency Disorder (CVID): Histological Patterns, Diagnostic Clues and Pitfalls for the Pathologist and Gastroenterologist
Authors: Velthof Lars , Geldof Jeroen , Truyens Marie , Van Dorpe Jo , Ferdinande Liesbeth , De Vriendt Ciel , Kerre Tessa , Haerynck Filomeen , Lobatón Triana , Hoorens Anne
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Gastrointestinal diseases are a major cause of morbidity in common variable immunodeficiency disorder (CVID), clinically often mimicking other conditions including celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Hence, diagnosis of CVID remains challenging. This study aims to raise awareness and highlight histopathological clues for CVID in intestinal biopsies, emphasizing diagnostic pitfalls for the pathologist/gastroenterologist. Methods: We reviewed 63 (18 duodenal, 23 ileal, 22 colonic) biopsies and case histories from seven CVID patients, obtained over a 31-year period, with attention to active inflammation, intraepithelial lymphocytes, plasma cells, lymphoid hyperplasia, crypt/villous architecture, subepithelial collagen, apoptosis, granulomas, and infections. Clinical information of 41 pathology requests was reviewed. Results: Gastrointestinal symptoms were variable. Histological features included IBD-like (3/7), celiac disease-like (2/7), graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-like (2/7), lymphocytic sprue/colitis-like (3/7), collagenous colitis-like (2/7), and acute colitis-like (4/7) patterns, often overlapping (2/7) and/or changing over time (3/7). Lymphoid hyperplasia was seen in 3/7 patients; 1/7 had giardiasis; and 5/7 had few plasma cells, usually only in part of the gut (3/5). Clinical information of 12/41 (29%) pathology requests mentioned known/suspected CVID, despite being known in 33/41 (80%). Conclusions: Clinical/histological features of CVID in the gut are diverse, often mimicking IBD, microscopic colitis, celiac disease and/or GVHD, hence the importance of adequate clinical information. Some histological features are atypical of these established entities and may indicate CVID, as may overlapping/changing histological patterns and/or few plasma cells in part of the gut. Awareness of the heterogenous clinical presentation and histopathological indicators of CVID may improve diagnosis.
Enhanced Deep Autoencoder-Based Reinforcement Learning Model with Improved Flamingo Search Policy Selection for Attack Classification
Authors: Roy Dharani Kanta , Kalita Hemanta Kumar
Published: January 2025

Intrusion detection has been a vast-surveyed topic for many decades as network attacks are tremendously growing. This has heightened the need for security in networks as web-based communication systems are advanced nowadays. The proposed work introduces an intelligent semi-supervised intrusion detection system based on different algorithms to classify the network attacks accurately. Initially, the pre-processing is accomplished using null value dropping and standard scaler normalization. After pre-processing, an enhanced Deep Reinforcement Learning (EDRL) model is employed to extract high-level representations and learn complex patterns from data by means of interaction with the environment. The enhancement of deep reinforcement learning is made by associating a deep autoencoder (AE) and an improved flamingo search algorithm (IFSA) to approximate the Q-function and optimal policy selection. After feature representations, a support vector machine (SVM) classifier, which discriminates the input into normal and attack instances, is employed for classification. The presented model is simulated in the Python platform and evaluated using the UNSW-NB15, CICIDS2017, and NSL-KDD datasets. The overall classification accuracy is 99.6%, 99.93%, and 99.42% using UNSW-NB15, CICIDS2017, and NSL-KDD datasets, which is higher than the existing detection frameworks.
Comprehensive Analysis of Wear, Friction, and Thermal Resistance in PVDF/Nanoclay Composites Using Taguchi Methodology for Enhanced Tribological Performance
Authors: Hiremath Pavan , Shivamurthy R. C. , Kamath Giridhar B. , Naik Nithesh
Published: January 2025

This study discusses the tribological characteristics of Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF)/nanoclay composites, focusing on the effects of nanoclay content (0, 1, 2 and 3 wt.%), load, sliding speed, and sliding distance on the wear rate, friction coefficient, specific wear rate, and temperature. A Taguchi Design of Experiments technique was applied to optimize and assess these aspects. The results demonstrated that nanoclay addition considerably improved the wear resistance and frictional stability of the PVDF composites. Specifically, a nanoclay concentration of 3 wt.% gave the lowest wear rate (0.05 mg/m) with a 10 N load and 100 m sliding distance, lowering wear by roughly 23% compared to unreinforced PVDF. The friction coefficient was similarly lowered by 12% with 3 wt.% nanoclay, reaching a value of 0.38 at the highest load of 40 N. Interaction effects demonstrate that load and sliding distance are key elements impacting wear performance, with large loads and long distances virtually tripling the wear rate. ANOVA results quantify nanoclay’s contribution to a wear rate reduction of 51.29%, whereas load and sliding distance contributed 22.47% and 16.98%, respectively. Temperature increases due to frictional heating reached 10 °C under rigorous test conditions, although nanoclay treatment decreased this increase by an average of 15%. Characterization by XRD and FTIR verified the nanoclay dispersion inside the PVDF matrix, whereas the SEM images demonstrated smoother surfaces and fewer wear tracks in the nanoclay-reinforced samples. These findings illustrate the efficiency of nanoclay in increasing the wear resistance of PVDF, making these composites appropriate for high-performance applications. This research provides useful insights into enhancing PVDF/nanoclay composites, with possible uses in situations that demand endurance and thermal stability.
Biodegradable and Stimuli-Responsive Nanomaterials for Targeted Drug Delivery in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Parvin Nargish , Joo Sang Woo , Mandal Tapas K.
Published: January 2025

Autoimmune diseases present complex therapeutic challenges due to their chronic nature, systemic impact, and requirement for precise immunomodulation to avoid adverse side effects. Recent advancements in biodegradable and stimuli-responsive nanomaterials have opened new avenues for targeted drug delivery systems capable of addressing these challenges. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of state-of-the-art biodegradable nanocarriers such as polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and hydrogels engineered for targeted delivery in autoimmune therapies. These nanomaterials are designed to degrade safely in the body while releasing therapeutic agents in response to specific stimuli, including pH, temperature, redox conditions, and enzymatic activity. By achieving localized and controlled release of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents, these systems minimize systemic toxicity and enhance therapeutic efficacy. We discuss the underlying mechanisms of stimuli-responsive nanomaterials, recent applications in treating diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease, and the design considerations essential for clinical translation. Additionally, we address current challenges, including biocompatibility, scalability, and regulatory hurdles, as well as future directions for integrating advanced nanotechnology with personalized medicine in autoimmune treatment. This review highlights the transformative potential of biodegradable and stimuli-responsive nanomaterials, presenting them as a promising strategy to advance precision medicine and improve patient outcomes in autoimmune disease management.
Relative Age Effect (RAE) According to Norm Values on Anthropometric Performance and Physical Fitness in 9–11-Year-Old Children
Authors: Kryeziu Artan R. , Begu Bujar , Badau Dana , Iseni Astrit
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The main purpose of this study is to identify the relative effect of age (RAE) according to norm values on the anthropometric performance and physical fitness of children between the ages of 9 and 11 years. The data, namely the percentiles of anthropometric parameters and physical fitness, are relevant for identifying the RAE in relation to gender and the month of birth in children. Methods: For the sample in this study, 1185 young people from Kosovo were enrolled, including 626 males and 559 females aged 9–11 years. The gathered data were assessed via the EUROFIT methodology, which takes into account comparisons based on the quartile of birth and the relative age effect (RAE). Results: The results of the data show us that there are significant differences in the RAE among children born in Q2 at the age of 9 years, especially in boys, as well as significant differences in the height variable at the <0.005 significance level. Others factors did not show significant differences, for example, variables that are indicators of physical fitness. For both boys and girls born in Q1, significant differences were mainly found in the indicators of explosive strength, flexibility, static strength, speed, and agility, with a level of significance of p < 0.001, while other indicators did not show significant differences. In addition, there was a significant difference the ratio between genders at the p < 0.001 and p < 0.005 levels, mainly among those born in Q1 and Q2. Similarly, at 10 years of age, children who were born earlier in the year had better scores, although the large disparities were more noticeable between quartiles than between genders, where the significant differences were mainly in the indicators of explosive strength, speed, and strength at the p < 0.001 level, as well as static strength, agility, and speed at the p < 0.005 level. Significant differences were also found for the indicators in terms of gender. At the age of 11, significant percentiles were mainly found in the quartiles at the beginning of the year for both boys and girls, and significant differences were also found at the p < 0.001 level for RAE between quartiles and gender. Conclusions: By using these data, it will be possible to highlight how males, who have demonstrated notable advantages in anthropometric and physical fitness measures, as well as those born in the first few months of the year, exhibit a relative age effect (RAE) in accordance with gender norm values.
Teachers’ and Parents’ Assessments of Primary School Children’s Intellectual Investment as Predictors of Change in Need for Cognition
Authors: Hufer-Thamm Anke , Jürgens Rolf , Bergold Sebastian , Steinmayr Ricarda
Published: January 2025

The present study investigated whether parents’ and teachers’ evaluations of children’s intellectual investment would predict a change in children’s need for cognition (NFC) over one year. An exploratory look at how teachers’ evaluations are predicted by a range of factors was also taken. N = 565 third-graders (298 girls; Mage = 8.40, SD = 0.59) and teachers (N = 39) were surveyed in 2021 and 2022. The parents (N = 452) provided the data in 2021. Longitudinal data were analyzed by means of latent change score models (LCSMs). Changes in the teachers’ evaluations and in the children’s cognitive engagement differed between the children. However, there was no effect of the parents’ or teachers’ assessments on the development of the children’s NFC. The change in the teachers’ assessment was negatively related to their initial judgment and the children’s age; it was positively related to the pupils’ fluid intelligence. The results and implications are discussed.
Design for Additive Manufacturing of Lattice Structures for Functional Integration of Thermal Management and Shock Absorption
Authors: Dalpadulo Enrico , Pollon Mattia , Vergnano Alberto , Leali Francesco
Published: January 2025

Design optimization through the integration of multiple functions into a single part is a highly effective strategy to reduce costs, simplify assembly, improve performance, and reduce weight. Additive manufacturing facilitates the production of complex structures by allowing parts consolidation, resulting in optimized designs, where multiple functions are integrated into a single component. This study presents a design for additive manufacturing method for integrating multiple lattice structures to achieve thermal management and shock absorption functions. The method follows modeling and simulation phases for dimensioning and optimizing solutions to deliver the design functions at different macro- and mesoscale levels. Hierarchical complexity was leveraged to design the two-levels structure in a single part, each delivering a specific function. Specifically, the external layer addresses energy absorption and thermal insulation, while the internal layer acts as a thermal battery by incorporating a phase change material. The design of a container carried by an unmanned aerial vehicle for the transport of healthcare and biological materials is presented. The container is shock-resistant and can maintain the content at 4 ± 2 °C for at least 1 h. As it operates passively without the need for additional energy-consuming devices, it is easy to operate and contributes to increased flight autonomy. A flight mission experiment for urgent transport of blood bags confirmed the capability of the container to preserve blood integrity. This case study demonstrates that the two-layer lattice structure design represents a highly efficient approach to multifunctional design optimization.
Direct and Indirect Protein Interactions Link FUS Aggregation to Histone Post-Translational Modification Dysregulation and Growth Suppression in an ALS/FTD Yeast Model
Authors: Bennett Seth A. , Cobos Samantha N. , Fisher Raven M. A. , Son Elizaveta , Frederic Rania , Segal Rianna , Yousuf Huda , Chan Kaitlyn , Dansu David K. , Torrente Mariana P.
Published: January 2025

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are incurable neurodegenerative disorders sharing pathological and genetic features, including mutations in the FUS gene. FUS is an RNA-binding protein that mislocalizes to the cytoplasm and aggregates in ALS/FTD. In a yeast model, FUS proteinopathy is connected to changes in the epigenome, including reductions in the levels of H3S10ph, H3K14ac, and H3K56ac. Exploiting the same model, we reveal novel connections between FUS aggregation and epigenetic dysregulation. We show that the histone-modifying enzymes Ipl1 and Rtt109—responsible for installing H3S10ph and H3K56ac—are excluded from the nucleus in the context of FUS proteinopathy. Furthermore, we found that Ipl1 colocalizes with FUS, but does not bind it directly. We identified Nop1 and Rrp5, a histone methyltransferase and rRNA biogenesis protein, respectively, as FUS binding partners involved in the growth suppression phenotype connected to FUS proteinopathy. We propose that the nuclear exclusion of Ipl1 through indirect interaction with FUS drives the dysregulation of H3S10ph as well as H3K14ac via crosstalk. We found that the knockdown of Nop1 interferes with these processes. In a parallel mechanism, Rtt109 mislocalization results in reduced levels of H3K56ac. Our results highlight the contribution of epigenetic mechanisms to ALS/FTD and identify novel targets for possible therapeutic intervention.
Event-Based Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (EVSLAM) Techniques: State of the Art and Future Directions
Authors: Shahraki Mohsen , Elamin Ahmed , El-Rabbany Ahmed
Published: January 2025

Recent advances in event-based cameras have led to significant developments in robotics, particularly in visual simultaneous localization and mapping (VSLAM) applications. This technique enables real-time camera motion estimation and simultaneous environment mapping using visual sensors on mobile platforms. Event cameras offer several distinct advantages over frame-based cameras, including a high dynamic range, high temporal resolution, low power consumption, and low latency. These attributes make event cameras highly suitable for addressing performance issues in challenging scenarios such as high-speed motion and environments with high-range illumination. This review paper delves into event-based VSLAM (EVSLAM) algorithms, leveraging the advantages inherent in event streams for localization and mapping endeavors. The exposition commences by explaining the operational principles of event cameras, providing insights into the diverse event representations applied in event data preprocessing. A crucial facet of this survey is the systematic categorization of EVSLAM research into three key parts: event preprocessing, event tracking, and sensor fusion algorithms in EVSLAM. Each category undergoes meticulous examination, offering practical insights and guidance for comprehending each approach. Moreover, we thoroughly assess state-of-the-art (SOTA) methods, emphasizing conducting the evaluation on a specific dataset for enhanced comparability. This evaluation sheds light on current challenges and outlines promising avenues for future research, emphasizing the persisting obstacles and potential advancements in this dynamically evolving domain.
Landscape Transformations (1987–2022): Analyzing Spatial Changes Driven by Mining Activities in Ayapel, Colombia
Authors: Pérez-Aristizábal Juan David , Puerta-Avilés Oscar , Jiménez-Caldera Juan , Caballero-Calvo Andrés
Published: January 2025

Gold mining is an activity that has developed in Colombia due to the great availability of mineral resources geographically distributed throughout the territory. The extraction techniques used are linked to the domain of illegality and to armed actors who have generated notable landscape impacts. This study, focused on the Municipality of Ayapel, Colombia, identifies the landscape units and analyzes the changes in land use and cover resulting from gold mining between the years 1987, 2002, and 2022, applying the CORINE Land Cover methodology, an adapted legend for Colombia, using Landsat satellite images. For this, the recognition of the physical geographical characteristics of the area was carried out in order to group homogeneous landscape units through a cartographic overlay of various layers of information, considering variables such as topography, geomorphology, and lithology. This research identifies a total of 16 landscape units, 8 of which were intervened in 1987, mainly associated with denudational hills. However, in 2022, 13 landscape units were intervened, with a considerable increase in the affected area. Particularly noteworthy is the occupation of landscape units associated with alluvial valleys, with an average of more than 30% of their total area. This demonstrates that they are the most attractive and vulnerable areas for mining exploitation, as they are the zones with the greatest potential for hosting mineral deposits. This impact has worsened over the last decade due to the introduction of other extraction techniques with machinery (dredges, dragon boats, backhoes, and bulldozers) that generate higher productive and economic yields but, at the same time, cause deep environmental liabilities due to the lack of administrative controls. The changes in extraction techniques, the increase in the international price of the commodity, and the absence of government attention have been the breeding ground that has driven gold mining activity.
How Do Changes in Grassland Phenology and Its Responses to Extreme Climatic Events in Central Asia?
Authors: Wang Xinwei , Li Jianhao , Zheng Jianghua , Liu Liang , Yu Xiaojing , Tian Ruikang , Xing Mengxiang
Published: January 2025

Extreme climate events have become more frequent under global warming, significantly affecting vegetation phenology and carbon cycles in Central Asia. However, the mediating effects of intensity of compound drought and heat events (CDHEs) and compound moisture and heat events (CMHEs) on grassland phenology and their trends in the relative contributions to grassland phenology over time have remained unclear. Based on the calculation results of grassland phenology and compound events (CEs), this study used trend analysis, partial least squares regression structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), and ridge regression analysis to investigate the mediating effect and the temporal trend in relative contribution of CEs to grassland phenology in Central Asia, and the magnitude of sensitivity of grassland phenology to CEs. This study revealed that the start of season (SOS) was advanced by 0.4 d·a−1, end of season (EOS) was delayed by 0.5 d·a−1, and length of season (LOS) extended by 0.8 d·a−1 in 1982–2022. The duration of the CDHEs (0−37 days) was greater than that of the CMHEs (0−9 days) in Central Asia. The direct effects of CDHEs and CMHEs on grassland phenology were generally negative, except for the direct positive effect of CDHEs on LOS. The indirect effects of temperature and precipitation on grassland phenology through CDHEs and CMHEs were greater than their direct effects on phenology. The relative contribution of CDHEs to grassland phenology was consistently greater than that of CMHEs, and both the relative contribution curves showed a significant upward trend. The sensitivity of grassland phenology to CDHEs was higher than its sensitivity to CMHEs at 0.79 (SOS), 1.18 (EOS), and 0.72 (LOS). Our results emphasize the mediating effects of CDHEs and CMHEs on grassland phenology. Under the influence of CDHEs and CMHEs, the LOS will further lengthen in the future.
The Historical and Theoretical Rationale for Ecological Protection and Restoration: Experiences from China
Authors: Han Xiaotong , Bian Zhengfu , Yu Haochen , Lei Shaogang , Zhao Yibo , Guo Yingjie
Published: January 2025

This study aims to elucidate the historical justification for protection and restoration efforts in China while also examining the theoretical underpinnings of ecological conservation and restoration. Utilizing a literature review method, logical reasoning method, and inductive summarizing method, the historical and theoretical frameworks of territorial spatial ecological conservation and restoration are elucidated, leading to the following conclusions: (1) The ecological protection and restoration of national land space represents an advanced form of land remediation; however, they differ in terms of objects, principles, goals, and measures. (2) Territorial space ecological protection and restoration is historically unavoidable due to the current phase of societal development, driven by the natural environment and the necessity to establish an ecological civilization. (3) To implement territorial spatial ecological protection and restoration effectively and rationally, it is essential to comprehend its systematicity, territoriality, dynamics, and scientificity. By clarifying its historical and theoretical rationale, we can achieve a deeper understanding of its current relevance. This can effectively inform practical efforts in territorial spatial ecological protection and restoration.
Advances in the Study of Heartwood Formation in Trees
Authors: Yang Shuqi , Qin Fangcuo , Wang Shengkun , Li Xiang , Zhou Yunqing , Meng Sen
Published: January 2025

Heartwood, serving as the central constituent of the xylem, plays a crucial role in the growth, development, and resilience of trees. The process of heartwood formation constitutes a complex biological phenomenon influenced by various factors. A thorough examination of the mechanisms underpinning heartwood formation not only enhances our understanding of the growth and developmental paradigms regulating trees but also provides essential theoretical support and practical insights for the timber industry, forestry management, and ecological conservation. This paper offers an overview of the foundational processes involved in heartwood formation in plants. Furthermore, it presents a comprehensive review of the latest research advancements in this domain, covering five key aspects: metabolism, hormonal regulation, transcriptional regulation, cell biology, and environmental influences. This review serves as a valuable basis for future research endeavors in related academic fields.
Autonomous Van and Robot Last-Mile Logistics Platform: A Reference Architecture and Proof of Concept Implementation
Authors: Guerreiro Augusto Marc , Maas Julian , Kosch Martin , Henke Manuel , Küster Tobias , Straube Frank , Albayrak Sahin
Published: January 2025

Background: With urban logistics facing challenges such as high delivery volumes and driver shortages, autonomous driving emerges as a promising solution. However, the integration of autonomous vans and robots into existing fulfillment processes and platforms remains largely unexplored. Method: This paper addresses this gap by developing and piloting a comprehensive blueprint architecture tailored for autonomous mobility in urban last-mile delivery. The proposed framework integrates autonomous vehicle operations, data processing, and stakeholder collaboration. Results: Through initial implementation and piloting, we demonstrate the practical applicability and advantages of this architecture. Conclusions: This study contributes to the understanding of essential data, services, and tools, providing a valuable guideline for Logistics Service Providers aiming to implement autonomous last-mile delivery solutions.
Wear Resistance of B4C-TiB2 Ceramic Composite
Authors: Švec Pavol
Published: January 2025

The effects of microstructure and mechanical properties on the wear resistance of B4C-TiB2 ceramic composite were studied. The composite was hot pressed from a B4C-TiO2 precursor at a temperature range of 1800 and 1850 °C. Both the relative density and amount of TiB2 secondary phase of the B4C-TiB2 composite increased with the amount of TiO2 sintering additive in B4C-TiO2 precursor. The hardness of the composite increased with a secondary phase portion up to 29.8 vol.% TiB2. However, the positive effect of TiB2 secondary phase on the fracture toughness of B4C-TiB2 composite was measured in the complete experimental range, with the highest average attained value of 7.51 MPa·m1/2. The wear resistance of B4C-TiB2 composite increased with both the hardness and fracture toughness. The best wear resistance was achieved with the composite with a higher hardness value of 29.74 GPa. This sample consisted of 29.8 vol.% TiB2 secondary phase and reached a fracture toughness value of 6.91 MPa·m1/2. The fracture-induced mechanical wear of B4C-TiB2 composite was the main wear mechanism during the pin-on-disc wear test. Transgranular fracture with pullout of the surface and micro-crack formation in the direction perpendicular to the wear direction was observed on the worn surfaces.
Bilayer TiO2/Mo-BiVO4 Photoelectrocatalysts for Ibuprofen Degradation
Authors: Pylarinou Martha , Sakellis Elias , Gardelis Spiros , Psycharis Vassilis , Kostakis Marios G. , Thomaidis Nikolaos S. , Likodimos Vlassis
Published: January 2025

Heterojunction formation between BiVO4 nanomaterials and benchmark semiconductor photocatalysts has been keenly pursued as a promising approach to improve charge transport and charge separation via interfacial electron transfer for the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of recalcitrant pharmaceutical pollutants. In this work, a heterostructured TiO2/Mo-BiVO4 bilayer photoanode was fabricated by the deposition of a mesoporous TiO2 overlayer using the benchmark P25 titania catalyst on top of Mo-doped BiVO4 inverse opal films as the supporting layer, which intrinsically absorbs visible light below 490 nm, while offering improved charge transport. A porous P25/Mo-BiVO4 bilayer structure was produced from the densification of the inverse opal underlayer after post-thermal annealing, which was evaluated on photocurrent generation in aqueous electrolyte and the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of the refractory anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen under back-side illumination by visible and UV–Vis light. Significantly enhanced photoelectrochemical performance on both photocurrent density and pharmaceutical degradation was achieved for the bilayer structure with respect to the additive effect of the constituent layers, which was related to the improved light harvesting arising from the backscattering by the mesoporous TiO2 layer in combination with the favorable charge transfer at the TiO2/Mo-BiVO4 interface.
Performance Evaluation of Stabilized Soils with Selected Common Waste Materials of Rice Husk Ash, Steel Slag and Iron Tailing Powder
Authors: Cai Degou , Ouyang Mingzhe , Bao Xinyu , Zhang Qianli , Bi Zongqi , Yan Hongye , Li Shimin , Shi Yuefeng
Published: January 2025

Soil stabilization technology has been applied for a long time in the infrastructure construction field. Currently, the use of waste materials as stabilizer is growing in attention, because it promises to develop green and high-performance soil stabilization efficiency. In this work, three common waste materials, including rice husk ash (RHA), steel slag (SS) and iron tailing (IT) powder, were selected and synergistically utilized with cement to prepare stabilized soil. The mechanical strength, hydration degree and microstructure of the stabilized soil samples were tested. The experimental results showed that the mechanical strengths of the samples were improved as the cement content increased. To be specific, RHA-blended samples exhibited the lowest strengths compared with those incorporating SS and IT, indicating the poor effect of RHA on stimulating strength improvement. Moreover, SS and IT showed a much more significant effect on enhancing the mechanical strength for the stabilized soil samples, and the strength increasing rates can reach up to 60% compared to the reference batch. In addition, microstructural analysis results further verified the benefits of cement and waste materials on improving the performance of stabilized soil samples, as the hydration reaction and pore structure were proven to be improved with the aid of waste materials. This work gives insights into environmentally friendly road construction with high utilization of selected common wastes.
Stability and Rheological Properties of Grouts with Waste Glass Powder as Cement Replacement: Influences of Content and Alkali Activator
Authors: Li Liuxi , Deng Chao , Zhou Yi , Tan Qundong , Yan Wenqin , Zhou Dequan , Zhou Yi
Published: January 2025

Effective recycling and utilization of waste glass is a critical issue that urgently needs to be addressed. This study aims to explore the feasibility of using ground waste glass powder (particle size ≤ 75 μm) as a supplementary cementitious material to partially replace cement in the preparation of low-carbon and environmentally friendly grouting materials. The research systematically evaluates the impact of waste glass powder (WGP) on the fresh properties (particularly the stability and rheological characteristics) of cement-based grouting materials under various conditions, including WGP content (0–40%), the addition of NaOH activator (Na2O content of 4%) or not, and water–solid ratio (w/s = 0.5, 0.65, 0.8, 1.0). The results indicate that, in the absence of activator, the addition of WGP generally increases the amount of free liquid exudation in the grout, reducing its stability; however, under low w/s ratios, appropriate amounts of WGP can enhance stability. When the w/s ratio is high and the WGP content is large, the grout stability decreases significantly. The addition of NaOH activator (Na2O content of 4%) significantly reduces free liquid exudation, enhancing the stability of the grout, especially when the w/s ratio is less than 1.0. Furthermore, the Herschel–Bulkley Model was experimentally validated to accurately describe the rheological behavior of waste glass–cement slurries, with all R2 values exceeding 0.99. WGP and alkaline activator have significant effects on the rheological properties of the grout. Although they do not change its flow pattern, they significantly affect shear stress and viscosity. The viscosity of the slurry is influenced by the combined effects of w/s ratio, WGP content, and alkaline activator, with complex interactions among the three. The application of these research findings in the field of grouting engineering not only contributes to significantly reducing glass waste but also promotes the production of sustainable cement-based composites, lowering carbon dioxide emissions by reducing cement usage, and thereby alleviating environmental burdens.
Interlaminar Fracture Toughness Analysis for Reliability Improvement of Wind Turbine Blade Spar Elements Based on Pultruded Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Plate Manufacturing Method
Authors: Kim Hakgeun , Jang Yunjung , Lee Sejin , Choi Chanwoong , Kang Kiweon
Published: January 2025

The key structural components of a wind turbine blade, such as the skin, spar cap, and shear web, are fabricated from fiber-reinforced composite materials. The spar, predominantly manufactured via resin infusion—a process of resin injection and curing in carbon fibers—is prone to initial defects, such as pores, wrinkles, and delamination. This study suggests employing the pultrusion technique for spar production to consistently obtain a uniform cross-section and augment the reliability of both the manufacturing process and the design. In this context, this study introduces carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP/CFRP) and glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP/CFRP) test specimens, which mimic the bonding structure of the spar cap, utilizing pultruded CFRP in accordance with ASTM standards to analyze the delamination traits of the spar. Delamination tests—covering Mode I (double cantilever beam), Mode II (end-notched flexure), and mixed mode (mixed-mode bending)—were performed to gauge displacement, load, and crack growth length. Through this crack growth mechanism, the interlaminar fracture toughness derived was examined, and the stiffness and strength changes compared to CFRP based on the existing prepreg manufacturing method were analyzed. In addition, the interlaminar fracture toughness for GFRP, which is a material in contact with the spar structure, was analyzed, and through this, it was confirmed that the crack behavior has less deviation compared to a single CFRP material depending on the stiffness difference between the materials when joining dissimilar materials. This means that the higher the elasticity of the high-stiffness material, the higher the initial crack resistance, but the crack growth behavior shows non-uniform characteristics thereafter. This comparison provides information for predicting interlaminar delamination damage within the interior and bonding area of the spar and skin and provides insight for securing the reliability of the design life.
A Study on the Effect of Plastic Strain on Magnetic Phenomenology and Microstructure
Authors: Hasičić Mehrija , Angelopoulos Spyridon , Ktena Aphrodite , Hristoforou Evangelos
Published: January 2025

The present work aspires to contribute to the discussion on the relationship between macroscopic measurements and microstructure, helping establish a methodology that will allow the quantitative assessment of the effect of strain on magnetic properties in the plastic deformation regime. In particular, we study the effect of strain on the magnetization process as a result of varying the anisotropy profile at the grain level. Results on micromagnetic calculations of hysteresis loops for various configurations of magnetic anisotropy are shown and discussed against the interplay between the energy terms involved in the calculations, namely anisotropy, demagnetizing, and exchange. The results are in line with previously obtained results using vector Preisach modeling with the Stoner–Wohlfarth model acting both as a switching and rotation mechanism. The hysteresis loop phenomenology is consistent with the emergence of a hard phase in the form of a boundary around soft grains which is assumed to be the result of the onset of compressive stresses in the plastic region. Future research will be oriented toward the study of the effect of the secondary peak in differential permeability, which is observed experimentally in the plastic deformation region, and its dependence on the angle of misalignment between the hard boundary and the soft grain.
An Introduction to i-Commutative Rings
Authors: Saad Muhammad , Aburawash Usama A. , El-Sayed Ahmed M. A. , Nabil Nour
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we introduce a new class of rings, called i-commutative rings, by extending the concept of commutative-like rings using idempotent elements. In particular, we study rings with the property that, whenever ab+cd is a nontrivial idempotent, then ba+dc is idempotent. We explore the basic properties of these rings and their relations with other rings. Moreover, we provide some examples using matrices and describe the structure of the idempotent elements in these rings.
Out-of-Sample Predictability of the Equity Risk Premium
Authors: de Almeida Daniel , Fuertes Ana-Maria , Hotta Luiz Koodi
Published: January 2025

A large set of macroeconomic variables have been suggested as equity risk premium predictors in the literature. Acknowledging the different predictability of the equity premium in expansions and recessions, this paper proposes an approach that combines equity premium forecasts from two-state regression models using an agreement technical indicator as the observable state variable. A comprehensive out-of-sample forecast evaluation exercise based on statistical and economic loss functions demonstrates the superiority of the proposed approach versus combined forecasts from linear models or Markov switching models and forecasts from machine learning methods such as random forests and gradient boosting. The parsimonious state-dependent aspect of risk premium forecasts delivers large improvements in forecast accuracy. The results are robust to sub-period analyses and different investors’ risk aversion levels.
A Mathematical Approach to the Buckling Problem of Axially Loaded Laminated Nanocomposite Cylindrical Shells in Various Environments
Authors: Sofiyev Abdullah H. , Avey Mahmure , Aslanova Nigar M.
Published: January 2025

In this study, the solution of the buckling problem of axially loaded laminated cylindrical shells consisting of functionally graded (FG) nanocomposites in elastic and thermal environments is presented within extended first-order shear deformation theory (FOST) for the first time. The effective material properties and thermal expansion coefficients of nanocomposites in the layers are computed using the extended rule of mixture method and molecular dynamics simulation techniques. The governing relations and equations for laminated cylindrical shells consisting of FG nanocomposites on the two-parameter elastic foundation and in thermal environments are mathematically modeled and solved to find the expression for the axial buckling load. The numerical results of the current analytical approach agree well with the existing literature results obtained using a different methodology. Finally, some new results and interpretations are provided by investigating the influences of different parameters such as elastic foundations, thermal environments, FG nanocomposite models, shear stress, and stacking sequences on the axial buckling load.
Novel Insights into the Nobilamide Family from a Deep-Sea Bacillus: Chemical Diversity, Biosynthesis and Antimicrobial Activity Towards Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Casella Vincenza , Della Sala Gerardo , Scarpato Silvia , Buonocore Carmine , Ragozzino Costanza , Tedesco Pietro , Coppola Daniela , Vitale Giovanni Andrea , de Pascale Donatella , Palma Esposito Fortunato
Published: January 2025

With rising concerns about antimicrobial resistance, the identification of new lead compounds to target multidrug-resistant bacteria is essential. This study employed a fast miniaturized screening to simultaneously cultivate and evaluate about 300 marine strains for biosurfactant and antibacterial activities, leading to the selection of the deep-sea Bacillus halotolerans BCP32. The integration of tandem mass spectrometry molecular networking and bioassay-guided fractionation unveiled this strain as a prolific factory of surfactins and nobilamides. Particularly, 84 nobilamide congeners were identified in the bacterial exometabolome, 71 of them being novel metabolites. Among these, four major compounds were isolated, including the known TL-119 and nobilamide I, as well as the two new nobilamides T1 and S1. TL-119 and nobilamide S1 exhibited potent antibiotic activity against various multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus strains and other Gram-positive pathogens, including the foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. Finally, in silico analysis of Bacillus halotolerans BCP32 genome revealed nobilamide biosynthesis to be directed by a previously unknown heptamodular nonribosomal peptide synthetase.