bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processability and Material Behavior of NiTi Shape Memory Alloys Using Wire Laser-Directed Energy Deposition (WL-DED)
Authors: Dabbaghi Hediyeh , Taheri Andani Nasrin , Pourshams Mohammad , Sojoodi Mahyar , Poorganji Behrang , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: January 2025

Utilizing additive manufacturing (AM) techniques with shape memory alloys (SMAs) like NiTi shows great promise for fabricating highly flexible and functionally superior 3D metallic structures. Compared to methods relying on powder feedstocks, wire-based additive manufacturing processes provide a viable alternative, addressing challenges such as chemical composition instability, material availability, higher feedstock costs, and limitations on part size while simplifying process development. This study presented a novel approach by thoroughly assessing the printability of Ni-rich Ni55.94Ti (Wt. %) SMA using the wire laser-directed energy deposition (WL-DED) technique, addressing the existing knowledge gap regarding the laser wire-feed metal additive manufacturing of NiTi alloys. For the first time, the impact of processing parameters—specifically laser power (400–1000 W) and transverse speed (300–900 mm/min)—on single-track fabrication using NiTi wires in the WL-DED process was examined. An optimal range of process parameters was determined to achieve high-quality prints with minimal defects, such as wire dripping, stubbing, and overfilling. Building upon these findings, we printed five distinct cubes, demonstrating the feasibility of producing nearly porosity-free specimens. Notably, this study investigated the effect of energy density on the printed part density, impurity pick-up, transformation temperature, and hardness of the manufactured NiTi cubes. The results from the cube study demonstrated that varying energy densities (46.66–70 J/mm3) significantly affected the quality of the deposits. Lower to intermediate energy densities achieved high relative densities (>99%) and favorable phase transformation temperatures. In contrast, higher energy densities led to instability in melt pool shape, increased porosity, and discrepancies in phase transformation temperatures. These findings highlighted the critical role of precise parameter control in achieving functional NiTi parts and offer valuable insights for advancing AM techniques in fabricating larger high-quality NiTi components. Additionally, our research highlighted important considerations for civil engineering applications, particularly in the development of seismic dampers for energy dissipation in structures, offering a promising solution for enhancing structural performance and energy management in critical infrastructure.
Joining Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Imagery with GIS for Monitoring of Soft Cliff Linear Habitats
Authors: Jurkus Egidijus , Taminskas Julius , Povilanskas Ramūnas , Urbis Arvydas , Mėžinė Jovita , Urbis Domantas
Published: January 2025

In the coastal zone, two types of habitats—linear and areal—are distinguished. The main differences between both types are their shape and structure and the hydro- and litho-dynamic, salinity, and ecological gradients. Studying linear littoral habitats is essential for interpreting the ’coastal squeeze’ effect. The study’s main objective was to assess short-term behavior of soft cliffs as littoral linear habitats during calm season storm events in the example of the Olandų Kepurė cliff, located on a peri-urban protected seashore (Baltic Sea, Lithuania). The approach combined the surveillance of the cliff using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with the data analysis using an ArcGIS algorithm specially adjusted for linear habitats. The authors discerned two short-term behavior forms—cliff base cavities and scarp slumps. The scarp slumps are more widely spread. It is particularly noticeable at the beginning of the spring–summer period when the difference between the occurrence of both forms is 3.5 times. In contrast, cliff base cavities proliferate in spring. This phenomenon might be related to a seasonal Baltic Sea level rise. The main conclusion is that 55 m long cliff cells are optimal for analyzing short-term cliff behavior using UAV and GIS.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Prediction of the Sea-Keeping Behavior of High-Speed Unmanned Surface Vehicles Under the Coastal Intersecting Waves
Authors: Hong Xiaobin , Zheng Guihong , Cai Ruimou , Chen Yuanming , Xiao Guoquan
Published: January 2025

To better study the sea-keeping response behavior of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) in coastal intersecting waves, a prediction is conducted using the CFD method in this paper, in which a USV with the shape of a small-scale catamaran and designed target for high-speed navigating is considered. The CFD method is proved to be good enough at ship response prediction and can be utilized in abundant forms of towing experiment simulations, including planar motion mechanism experiments. The regular and irregular wave generation of numerical CFD can also virtualize the actual wave tank work, making it equally scientific but more efficient than the real test. This research regards the changing trend of encounter characteristics of USVs meeting two trains of waves with different inclination angles and wavelengths by monitoring wave profiles, pitch, heave, acceleration, slamming force, and pressure on specific locations of the USV hull. This paper first introduces the modeling method of intersecting waves in a virtual tank and verifies the wave profiles by comparing them with a theoretical solution. Further, the paper focuses on the sea-keeping motion of USVs and analyzes the complicated influences of encounter parameters. Eventually, this paper analyzes the changing pattern of the motion in encounter frequency and investigates the severity during the sea-keeping period through acceleration analysis.
Economic Resilience in Post-Pandemic India: Analysing Stock Volatility and Global Links Using VAR-DCC-GARCH and Wavelet Approach
Authors: Maharana Narayana , Panigrahi Ashok Kumar , Chaudhury Suman Kalyan , Uprety Minal , Barik Pratibha , Kulkarni Pushparaj
Published: January 2025

This study explores the resilience of the Indian stock market in the face of global shocks in the post-pandemic era, focusing on its volatility dynamics and interconnections with international indices. Through a combination of Vector Autoregression (VAR), DCC-GARCH, and wavelet analysis, we analysed the time-varying relationships between the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India and major global indices, including those from the U.S., Europe, Asia-Pacific, Hong Kong and Japan. Time series data of the selected indices have been collected for the period 1 January 2021 to 30 September 2024. Results reveal that while the NSE demonstrates resilience through rapid adjustments following shocks, it remains vulnerable to substantial spillover effects from markets such as the S&P 500 and European indices. Wavelet coherence analysis identifies periods of high correlation, particularly during major economic events, indicating that regional and global factors can periodically compromise market stability. Moreover, the DCC-GARCH results show a persistent but fluctuating correlation with specific markets, reflecting a connected and adaptive nature of the Indian market that is influenced by regional dynamics. This study emphasises the importance of strategic risk management. It highlights critical periods and indices that policymakers and investors should monitor closely to understand the economic resilience of the Indian financial market better. Further research could explore sector-specific impacts and the role of macroeconomic factors in shaping market responses.
Market Reaction to Earnings Announcements Under Different Volatility Regimes
Authors: Ugras Yusuf Joseph , Ritter Mark A.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the occurrence and persistence of abnormal stock returns surrounding corporate earnings announcements, particularly emphasizing how varying frequencies of financial reporting influence market behavior. Specifically, this research examines the effects of the timing and frequency of disclosures on market reactions and stock price volatility during critical earnings announcement periods. By analyzing firms within the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) from 2014 to 2024, this study evaluates the interplay between financial reporting schedules and market responses to stock prices. Furthermore, it considers the impact of peer firms’ reporting practices on the assimilation of firm-specific information into stock prices. Using econometric models, including Vector Auto Regression (VAR), Impulse Response Functions (IRFs), and Self-Exciting Threshold Autoregressive (SETAR) models, causal relationships between reporting frequency, stock price volatility, and abnormal return patterns across different volatility regimes are identified. The findings highlight that quarterly reporting practices intensify market responses and contribute to significant variations in stock price behavior in high-volatility periods. These insights provide a deeper understanding of the role of financial disclosure practices and forward-looking guidance in shaping market efficiency. This study contributes to ongoing discussions about balancing the transparency benefits of frequent reporting with its potential to amplify market volatility and sector-specific risks, offering valuable implications for policymakers, investors, and corporate managers.
Developmental Proteomics Reveals the Dynamic Expression Profile of Global Proteins of Haemaphysalis longicornis (Parthenogenesis)
Authors: Liu Min-Xuan , Xu Xiao-Pei , Meng Fan-Ming , Zhang Bing , Li Wei-Gang , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Zen Qiao-Ying , Liu Wen-Ge
Published: January 2025

H. longicornis is used as an experimental animal model for the study of three-host ticks due to its special life cycle and easy maintenance in the laboratory and in its reproduction. The life cycle of H. longicornis goes through a tightly regulated life cycle to adapt to the changing host and environment, and these stages of transition are also accompanied by proteome changes in the body. Here, we used the isobaric tags for a relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) technique to systematically describe and analyze the dynamic expression of the protein and the molecular basis of the proteome of H. longicornis in seven differential developmental stages (eggs, unfed larvae, engorged larvae, unfed nymphs, engorged nymphs unfed adults, and engorged adults). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were used. In our study, A total of 2044 proteins were identified, and their expression profiles were classified at different developmental stages. In addition, it was found that tissue and organ development-related proteins and metabolism-related proteins were involved in different physiological processes throughout the life cycle through the GO and KEGG analysis of DEPs. More importantly, we found that the up-regulated proteins of engorged adult ticks were mainly related to yolk absorption, degradation, and ovarian development-related proteins. The abundance of the cuticle proteins in the unfed stages was significantly higher compared with those of the engorged ticks in the previous stages. We believe that our study has made a significant contribution to the research on H. longicornis, which is an important vector of SFTSV. In this study, we identified changes in the proteome throughout the H. longicornis development, and functional analysis highlighted the important roles of many key proteins in developmental events (ovarian development, the molting process, the development of midgut, the development and degeneration of salivary glands, etc.). The revelation of this data will provide a reference proteome for future research on tick functional proteins and candidate targets for elucidating H. longicornis development and developing new tick control strategies.
2-((Diphenylmethylene)amino)ethyl N-(Cyclohexyl)carbamate
Authors: Baxter Bailey N. , Marmande Mary Helene , Albers Alyssa M. , Gangasani Manisha R. , Le Hao N. , Molokhia Omar E. , Monteiro-Pai Juanita , Ransom Kyndall V. , Forbes David C.
Published: January 2025

Lipid-like nanoparticles (LLNPs) have been shown to be an effective encapsulation and delivery tool for therapeutic molecules. While the preclinical development of lipid nanoparticle formulations has been of paramount importance, next-generation LLNPs present an opportunity of enhanced biocompatibility. With the change in amido functionality as part of the core backbone, our target, carbamate functionality within the LLNP core scaffold, was realized upon reaction of a protected amino alcohol onto the isocyanate generated in situ via a Curtius rearrangement. The single-step assembly of carbamate functionality starting from cyclohexane carboxylic acid in the presence of diphenylphosphoryl azide (DPPA) exceeds the metrics set forth for the rapid installment and enhanced biodegradability of next-generation lipid-like nanoparticles.
Long-Term Clinical Study on Sandblasted–Acid-Etched Surface Dental Implants: 12-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Velasco-Ortega Eugenio , Pato-Mourelo Jesús , López-López Borja , Monsalve-Guil Loreto , Moreno-Muñoz Jesús , López-López José , Núñez-Márquez Enrique , Matos Garrido Nuno , Rondón-Romero José Luis , Jiménez-Guerra Álvaro , Ortiz-García Iván
Published: January 2025

Sandblasting and acid etching are common procedures used to treat implant surfaces, enhancing osseointegration and improving clinical success rates. This clinical study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of sandblasted and acid-etched implants. A total of 303 implants were placed in 114 partially and totally edentulous patients using a two-stage surgical technique and an early loading protocol (6–8 weeks). Clinical findings for implants and prosthetics were evaluated over a 12-year follow-up period. A total of 12 implants (3.9%) failed, with 3 failures occurring during the healing period before loading and 9 due to peri-implantitis. The cumulative survival rate for all implants was 96.1%. A total of 156 prostheses were placed on 300 implants, 87 single crowns, 45 partial fixed bridges, 9 full-arch fixed restorations, and 15 overdentures. The mean marginal bone loss was 1.18 mm. (SD. 0.64 mm.). Thirty-nine implants (13%) in twenty-four patients exhibited peri-implantitis. Technical complications, including prosthetic screw loosening or fracture, ceramic chipping, and acrylic fractures, were observed in 24 subjects (21.1%). Sandblasted and acid-etched surface implants placed in the maxilla and mandible reported favorable outcomes and stable tissue conditions with an early loading protocol.
Computational Study of Chalcogenide-Based Perovskite Solar Cell Using SCAPS-1D Numerical Simulator
Authors: Meyer Edson L. , Mvokwe Sinikiwe A. , Oyedeji Opeoluwa O. , Rono Nicholas , Agoro Mojeed A.
Published: January 2025

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are regarded as extremely efficient and have significant potential for upcoming photovoltaic technologies due to their excellent optoelectronic properties. However, a few obstacles, which include the instability and high costs of production of lead-based PSCs, hinder their commercialization. In this study, the performance of a solar cell with a configuration of FTO/CdS/BaZrS3/HTL/Ir was optimized by varying the thickness of the perovskite layer, the hole transport layer, the temperature, the electron transport layer (ETL)’s defect density, the absorber defect density, the energy band, and the work function for back contact. Various hole transport layers (HTLs), including Cu2O, CuSCN, P3HT, and PEDOT:PSS, were assessed to select the best materials that would achieve high performance and stability in PSC devices. At optimal levels, PEDOT:PSS reached a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.50%, while P3HT, CuSCN, and Cu2O exhibited a PCE of 5.81, 10.73, and 9.80%, respectively. The high performance exhibited by PEDOT:PSS was attributed to better band alignment between the absorber and the PEDOT:PSS, and, thus, a low recombination of photogenerated charges. The other photovoltaic parameters for the best device were a short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 23.46 mA cm−2, an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 8.86 (V), and a fill factor (FF) of 8.90%. This study highlights the potential of chalcogenide-based PSCs as an efficient and stable alternative to traditional lead-based solar cells, with successful optimization paving the way for future research on eco-friendly materials and scalable production methods.
Shape-Persistent Tetraphenylethylene Macrocycle: Highly Efficient Synthesis and Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Liu Peixin , Zheng Yuexuan , Liu Zejiang , Yang Zhiyao , Lu Ziying , Ai Xiongrui , Ye Zecong , Yang Cheng , Li Xiaowei , Yuan Lihua
Published: January 2025

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) is an emerging field with significant applications in molecular electronics, optical materials, and chiroptical sensing. Achieving efficient CPL emission in organic systems remains a major challenge, particularly in the development of materials with high fluorescence quantum yields (ΦF) and large luminescence dissymmetry factors (glum). Herein, we report the efficient synthesis of shape-persistent tetraphenylethylene macrocycles and investigate its potential as a CPL material. Chiral side chains were introduced to induce chiroptical properties. The macrocycles and their properties were characterized using NMR, MALDI-TOF MS, FT-IR, TGA, DSC, UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM, fluorescence spectroscopy, ECD, and CPL. A significant fluorescence enhancement was observed upon aggregation, demonstrating a typical aggregation-induced emission (AIE) behavior. Moreover, one of the macrocycles in the solid state displayed distinct CPL emission with a high glum of 2 × 10−2 and a ΦF value reaching 60%, and exhibited aggregation-induced circularly polarized luminescence (AICPL). These findings highlight the advantage of using a macrocycle with a noncollapsible backbone for the design of organic systems with CPL property, offering promising applications in chiroptical materials.
Sequential Confidence Intervals for Comparing Two Proportions with Applications in A/B Testing
Authors: Hu Jun , Zheng Lijia , Alanazi Ibtihal
Published: January 2025

This article addresses the use of fixed-width confidence intervals (FWCIs) for comparing two independent Bernoulli populations in A/B testing scenarios. Two sequential estimation procedures are proposed: one for estimating the difference in log probabilities of success and the other for log odds ratios. Both methods showcase great efficiency, as established via theoretical analysis and Monte Carlo simulations. The practical utility of these methods is demonstrated through two real-world applications: analyzing retention rates in mobile game Cookie Cats and evaluating the effectiveness of online advertising.
Linearized Harmonic Balance Method for Seeking the Periodic Vibrations of Second- and Third-Order Nonlinear Oscillators
Authors: Liu Chein-Shan , Kuo Chung-Lun , Chang Chih-Wen
Published: January 2025

To solve the nonlinear vibration problems of second- and third-order nonlinear oscillators, a modified harmonic balance method (HBM) is developed in this paper. In the linearized technique, we decompose the nonlinear terms of the governing equation on two sides via a constant weight factor; then, they are linearized with respect to a fundamental periodic function satisfying the specified initial conditions. The periodicity of nonlinear oscillation is reflected in the Mathieu-type ordinary differential equation (ODE) with periodic forcing terms appeared on the right-hand side. In each iteration of the linearized harmonic balance method (LHBM), we simply solve a small-size linear system to determine the Fourier coefficients and the vibration frequency. Because the algebraic manipulations required for the LHBM are quite saving, it converges fast with a few iterations. For the Duffing oscillator, a frequency–amplitude formula is derived in closed form, which improves the accuracy of frequency by about three orders compared to that obtained by the Hamiltonian-based frequency–amplitude formula. To reduce the computational cost of analytically solving the third-order nonlinear jerk equations, the LHBM invoking a linearization technique results in the Mathieu-type ODE again, of which the harmonic balance equations are easily deduced and solved. The LHBM can achieve quite accurate periodic solutions, whose accuracy is assessed by using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta numerical integration method. The optimal value of weight factor is chosen such that the absolute error of the periodic solution is minimized.
Genotype-Structured Modeling of Variant Emergence and Its Impact on Virus Infection
Authors: Bouchnita Anass
Published: January 2025

Variant emergence continues to pose a threat to global public health, despite the large-scale campaigns of immunization worldwide. In this paper, we present a genotype-structured model of viral infectious and evolutionary dynamics. We calibrate the model using the available estimates for SARS-CoV-2 infection parameters and use it to study the conditions leading to the emergence of immune escaping variants. In particular, we show that the emergence of highly replicating or immune escaping variants could extend the duration of the infection, while the emergence of variants that are both highly replicating and immune escaping could provoke a rebound of the infection. Then, we show that the high frequency of mutation increases the chances of variant emergence, which promotes virus persistence. Further, simulations suggest that weak neutralization by antibodies could exert a selective pressure that favors the development of aggressive variants. These results can help public health officials identify and isolate the patients from where new variants emerge, which would make genomic surveillance efforts more efficient.
Machine Learning vs. Econometric Models to Forecast Inflation Rate in Romania? The Role of Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Simionescu Mihaela
Published: January 2025

Given the high inflationary pressure in Romania, the aim of this paper is to demonstrate the potential of autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models incorporating sentiment analysis to provide better inflation forecasts compared to machine learning (ML) techniques. Sentiment analysis based on National Bank of Romania reports on quarterly inflation may provide valuable inputs for econometric models. The ARDL model, utilizing inflation and sentiment index data from the previous period, outperformed the proposed seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model and the ML techniques (support vector machine and artificial neural networks). The forecasts based on the ARDL model predicted correctly all the changes in inflation, while accuracy measures (mean error, mean absolute error, root squared mean error) in the short-run 2023: Q1–2024: Q3 indicated the most accurate predictions. The more accurate forecasts are essential for national banks, companies, policymakers, and households.
Modeling the Tripodal Mobile Market Using Response Functions Instead of Payoff Maximization
Authors: Ali Aynur , Ilchev Atanas , Ivanova Vanya , Kulina Hristina , Yaneva Polina , Zlatanov Boyan
Published: January 2025

We investigate the dynamics of tripodal markets using the response functions, which is a continuation of recent research in the field. Instead of investigating the optimization problem of finding the levels of production that maximize the payoff functions of the participants in an oligopolistic market, based on the available statistical data on market presence, we construct a model of the reaction of the participants. This approach allows, in the absence of information about the cost functions of producers and the demand and utility functions of consumers, to construct a model that is statistically reliable and answers the questions about the levels at which the market has reached equilibrium and whether it is sustainable. On the other hand, any external impact, such as changes in the regulations or the behavior of small market participants, is implicitly included in the response functions. The additional analysis confirms that there are no dependencies, even of a nonlinear type, in the constructed models that are not included. Stability and equilibrium are investigated in the proposed models. The statistical performance measurements for the constructed models are calculated, and their credibility is tested. The models demonstrate high statistical performance and adequacy.
Mathematical Modelling and Optimisation of Operating Parameters for Enhanced Energy Generation in Gas Turbine Power Plant with Intercooler
Authors: Onokwai Anthony O. , Akuru Udochukwu B. , Desai Dawood A.
Published: January 2025

This study developed an optimal model for gas turbine power plants (GTPPs) with intercoolers, focusing on the challenges related to power output, thermal efficiency and specific fuel consumption. The study combined response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD) with advanced metaheuristic algorithms, including ANFIS, ANFIS PSO and ANFIS GA, to model nonlinear interactions of key parameters, including the pressure ratio, ambient temperature, turbine inlet temperature and the effectiveness of the intercooler. Optimal values of thermal efficiency (47.8%), power output (165 MW) and specific fuel consumption (0.16 kg/kWh) were attained under conditions of a pressure ratio of 25, an ambient temperature 293 K, a turbine inlet temperature of 1550 K and 95% intercooler effectiveness. The RSM, being the initial model, was able to predict but lacked precision when compared with the nonlinear influences that were modelled by ANFIS PSO and ANFIS GA, with power output, thermal efficiency and specific fuel consumption (sfc) having corresponding R2 values of 0.979, 0.987 and 0.972. The study demonstrated the potential of extending metaheuristic algorithms to provide sustainable solutions to energy system problems and reduced emissions through gas turbine power plant (GTPP) optimisation.
Special Issue: “Optimization Algorithms: Theory and Applications”
Authors: Werner Frank
Published: January 2025

This Special Issue of the journal Mathematics was dedicated to compiling new results in the area of optimization algorithms, and both theoretical works and practical applications have been searched [...]
Efficient Image Inpainting for Handwritten Text Removal Using CycleGAN Framework
Authors: Maiti Somanka , Nath Panuganti Shabari , Bhatnagar Gaurav , Wu Jonathan
Published: January 2025

With the recent rise in the development of deep learning techniques, image inpainting—the process of restoring missing or corrupted regions in images—has witnessed significant advancements. Although state-of-the-art models are effective, they often fail to inpaint complex missing areas, especially when handwritten occlusions are present in the image. To address this issue, an image inpainting model based on a residual CycleGAN is proposed. The generator takes as input the image occluded by handwritten missing patches and generates a restored image, which the discriminator then compares with the original ground truth image to determine whether it is real or fake. An adversarial trade-off between the generator and discriminator motivates the model to improve its training and produce a superior reconstructed image. Extensive experiments and analyses confirm that the proposed method generates inpainted images with superior visual quality and outperforms state-of-the-art deep learning approaches.
Role of Absorbable Polysaccharide Hemostatic Powder in the Prevention of Complications After Axillary Lymph Node Dissection in Breast Cancer Patients: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Parisi Simona , Lucido Francesco Saverio , Fisone Francesca , Ruggiero Roberto , Tolone Salvatore , Iovino Francesco , Santoriello Antonio , Mongardini Federico Maria , Paolicelli Maddalena , Docimo Ludovico , Gambardella Claudio
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Although breast surgery has undergone a drastic de-escalation in recent decades, axillary dissection is still indicated in some selected cases. Unfortunately, in 3–85% of cases, complications such as seroma formation occur, highlighting the need for more accurate hemostasis systems. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of absorbable polysaccharide hemostatic such as HaemocerTM in preventing postoperative seroma. Materials and Methods: Patients referred to two surgery centers for a diagnosed breast cancer and candidates for axillary lymph node dissection were retrospectively evaluated and included in Group A (treated with HaemocerTM) and B (control group). The primary endpoints were the drain output after 48 h, the daily amount just before the removal, and the duration of axillary drainage placement. Secondary endpoints included the presence of seroma at the ultrasound (US) follow-up, significant blood loss, hematoma, the duration of surgery, and postsurgical complications. Results: The drain output within 48 h was 196 ± 93 vs. 286 ± 38 mL in Groups A and B, respectively (p = 0.013). The daily output before the removal was 40 ± 7 mL in Group A and 47 ± 2 mL in Group B (p = 0.049). The duration of axillary drainage placement was shorter in the experimental group (7 ± 3 days) compared to the control group (10 ± 1 days) with a statistically significant difference (0.037). During the US follow-up, on days 7, 15, and 30, the number of patients affected by seroma and the volumes were lower in the experimental group. Conclusions: The adsorbable hemostatic powder proved to be effective both in reducing the volume of drained fluid postoperatively and in decreasing the number and volume of reported seromas during the US follow-up.
Non-Completely Displaced Traumatic Rib Fractures: Potentially Less Crucial for Pulmonary Adverse Outcomes, Regardless of Classification
Authors: Kim Hongrye , Yoon Su Young , Han Jonghee , Seok Junepill , Kang Wu Seong
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Two major classification systems exist for rib fracture (RFX) displacement. One system uses a 50% displacement threshold: Grade I (<50%), Grade II (≥50% to <100%), and Grade III (completely dislocated). Another proposes a 10% threshold: Undisplaced (<10%), Offset (≥10% to <100%), and Displaced (completely dislocated). We analyzed risk factors for adverse outcomes for pulmonary complications and mortality according to both classification criteria. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed trauma registry and medical records from January 2019 to December 2023. All radiographic parameters were recorded based on initial computed tomography. Primary outcomes were pneumonia and other pulmonary complications requiring surgery. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was conducted to select risk factors and minimize overfitting. Multivariable logistic regression (MLR) was performed after LASSO. Results: Among the 621 patients, 61 (9.8%) had one or more adverse outcomes. In MLR, regardless of both classifications, the age (p < 0.001), ISS (p < 0.001), and number of completely displaced RFX (p = 0.001) were statistically significant. After excluding 280 patients with completely displaced RFX, we conducted a subgroup analysis with the remaining 341 patients. In this analysis, 22 (6.5%) patients experienced one or more adverse outcomes. Regardless of both classifications, the AIS head (p = 0.006), AIS extremities (p = 0.012), and number of segmental RFX (p < 0.001) were statistically significant in MLR. The area under the receiver operating curve for both MLR models was 0.757 in the total patient group and 0.823 in the subgroup that excluded patients with completely displaced RFX. Conclusions: Completely displaced RFX is the most crucial factor, regardless of the classification criteria. Unless ribs are completely displaced, the degree of displacement may not be crucial, and the number of segmental RFX was a significant risk factor.
Al-5Er-Ti Master Alloy with Both Grain Refinement and Microalloying Effects
Authors: Ma Jingrui , Lei Zhiguo , Wen Shengping , Yang Guang , Wei Wu , Huang Hui , Nie Zuoren
Published: January 2025

The phase structure, grain refinement, and microalloying effect of the Al-5Er-Ti master alloy were analyzed by a refining experiment, microhardness test, OM, SEM, and XRD. The results show that when the Er/Ti atomic ratio is 2.7, the refining effect of the Al-5Er-0.5Ti master alloy is significantly better than Al-5Er, which is due to the Ti2Al20Er phase. There are three crystal orientations of Ti2Al20Er and α-Al that satisfy the E2E model, among which (620)Ti2Al20Er<260>Ti2Al20Er//(111)Al<110>Al is the least mismatched one. When the Er/Ti atomic ratio is reduced to below 1.3, the Ti-containing phase of the Al-5Er-Ti master alloy is composed of Ti2Al20Er and Al3Ti. The primary phase size of the Al-5Er-1.5Ti master alloy decreases with the increase in cooling rate, and the grain refining effect improved more significantly. The optimum size of the Ti2Al20Er phase and Al3Ti phase is 6.0 μm and 9.5 μm, respectively. The grain size of pure aluminum is reduced from 14,000 μm to 300 μm by Al-5Er-1.5Ti master alloy refinement, and the refinement rate is 97.9%. Direct aging of the refined sample did not have a precipitation strengthening effect. After the solution and aging treatment, the peak aging of the refined sample was reached in 15 min, and the microhardness increased by 41%.
Microstructural Analysis and Constitutive Modeling of Superplastic Deformation Behavior of Al-Mg-Zn-Cu-Zr-xNi Alloys with Different Ni Contents
Authors: Turaeva Zarnigor S. , Mosleh Ahmed O. , Yakovtseva Olga A. , Kotov Anton D. , Mikhaylovskaya Anastasia V.
Published: January 2025

Superplastic forming is a process that enables the production of complex-shaped parts using metallic alloys. To design the optimal forming regimes and ensure the success of forming operations, it is essential to use mathematical models that accurately represent the superplastic deformation behavior. This paper is concerned with the study of the microstructure and superplastic deformation behavior, with the construction of a constitutive model, of Al-Mg-Zn-Cu-Zr aluminum alloys with varying Ni contents. The aluminum solid solution and coarse precipitates of the T(Mg32(Al,Zn)49 and Al3Ni second phases were formed in the studied alloy and Cu dissolved in both second phases. The deformation behavior was investigated in the temperature range of 400–480 °C and the strain rate range of 10−3–10−1 s−1. Due to the fine Al3Zr precipitates, the alloys exhibit a partially recrystallized grain structure before the onset of superplastic deformation. Coarse precipitates of the second phases facilitate dynamic recrystallization and enhance superplasticity at the strain rates and temperatures studied. The alloys with ~6–9% particles exhibit high-strain-rate superplasticity at temperatures of 440–480 °C and strain rates of 10−2–10−1 s−1. The presence of high fractions of ~9% Al3(Ni,Cu) and ~3% T-phase precipitates provided high-strain-rate superplasticity with elongations of 700–800% at a low temperature of 400 °C. An Arrhenius-type constitutive model with good agreement between the predicted and experimental flow stresses was developed for the alloys with different Ni contents.
Signatures of Plastic Instabilities and Strain Localization in Acoustic Emission Time-Series
Authors: Vinogradov Alexey
Published: January 2025

Acoustic emission (AE) is a powerful tool for investigating the intermittency of plastic flow by capturing elastic waves generated by dislocation rearrangements under load. This study explores the correlation between AE and plastic instabilities, such as Lüders bands, the Portevin–Le Chatelier (PLC) effect, and necking, each showing distinct AE signatures. Lüders and PLC bands generate significant AE during discontinuous yielding, with a sharp rise in AE levels and a shift in the spectrum to lower frequencies—characteristic of localized deformation. In contrast, necking exhibits limited AE activity, due to reduced strain hardening and dislocation mobility during late-stage deformation. A phenomenological model, based on dislocation dynamics and initially devised for uniform deformation, is discussed to explain the observed AE spectral features during localized plastic flow. This study underscores AE’s potential for non-destructive evaluation and failure prediction in structural metals, emphasizing its sensitivity to microstructural changes and instabilities. Understanding AE behavior across deformation stages offers valuable insights into improving material reliability and predicting failure.
Human Milk Archaea Associated with Neonatal Gut Colonization and Its Co-Occurrence with Bacteria
Authors: Salas-López Maricarmen , Vélez-Ixta Juan Manuel , Rojas-Guerrero Diana Laura , Piña-Escobedo Alberto , Hernández-Hernández José Manuel , Rangel-Calvillo Martín Noé , Pérez-Cruz Claudia , Corona-Cervantes Karina , Juárez-Castelán Carmen Josefina , García-Mena Jaime
Published: January 2025

Archaea have been identified as early colonizers of the human intestine, appearing from the first days of life. It is hypothesized that the origin of many of these archaea is through vertical transmission during breastfeeding. In this study, we aimed to characterize the archaeal composition in samples of mother-neonate pairs to observe the potential vertical transmission. We performed a cross-sectional study characterizing the archaeal diversity of 40 human colostrum-neonatal stool samples by next-generation sequencing of V5–V6 16S rDNA libraries. Intra- and inter-sample analyses were carried out to describe the Archaeal diversity in each sample type. Human colostrum and neonatal stools presented similar core microbiota, mainly composed of the methanogens Methanoculleus and Methanosarcina. Beta diversity and metabolic prediction results suggest homogeneity between sample types. Further, the co-occurrence network analysis showed associations between Archaea and Bacteria, which might be relevant for these organisms’ presence in the human milk and neonatal stool ecosystems. According to relative abundance proportions, beta diversity, and co-occurrence analyses, the similarities found imply that there is vertical transmission of archaea through breastfeeding. Nonetheless, differential abundances between the sample types suggest other relevant sources for colonizing archaea to the neonatal gut.
Sequencing Analysis of Invasive Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates Secondary to Gastrointestinal Colonization
Authors: Maugeri Gaetano , Calvo Maddalena , Bongiorno Dafne , Bivona Dalida , Migliorisi Giuseppe , Privitera Grete Francesca , Scalia Guido , Stefani Stefania
Published: January 2025

Klebsiella pneumoniae represent a common invasive infection etiological agent, whose potential carbapenem-resistance and hypermucoviscosity complicate the patient’s management. Infection development often derives from gastrointestinal colonization; thus, it is fundamental to monitor asymptomatic K. pneumoniae colonization through surveillance protocols, especially for intensive care and immunocompromised patients. We described a six-month routine screening protocol from the Policlinico of Catania (Italy), while blood samples were collected from the same patients only in cases of a systemic infection suspicion. All the patients who had dissemination episodes were furtherly investigated through next-generation sequencing, analyzing both colonizing and disseminating strains. This study documents emerging invasive sequence types such as ST101, ST307, and ST395, mainly revealing blaNDM or blaKPC genes, along with siderophores and hyperproduction capsule markers as virulence factors. Most of the detected factors are presumably related to a specific plasmid content, which are extremely varied and rich. In conclusion, active surveillance through sequencing is essential to enhance awareness of local epidemiology within high-risk multi-drug resistance areas. A random sequencing analysis on the most warning microorganisms could enhance sequence typing (ST) awareness within specific settings, allowing for better prevention control strategies on their eventual persistence or diffusion.
Rift Valley Fever in Rwanda Is Urging for Enhancing Global Health Security Through Multisectoral One Health Strategy
Authors: Muvunyi Claude Mambo , Ngabonziza Jean Claude Semuto , Siddig Emmanuel Edwar , Ahmed Ayman
Published: January 2025

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a devastating zoonotic mosquito-borne viral hemorrhagic fever disease that threats human and animal health and biodiversity in Africa, including in Rwanda. RVF is increasingly outbreaking in Africa, leading to devastating impacts on health, socioeconomic stability and growth, and food insecurity in the region, particularly among livestock-dependent communi-ties. This systematic review synthesizes existing evidence on RVF’s epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and the prevention and control measures implemented in Rwanda. Our findings high-light the rapidly increasing prevalence of RVF and the expansion of its geographical distribution and host range in Rwanda. Furthermore, the review reveals gaps in local evidence, including the existence of competent vectors of RVFV and the risk factors associated with the emergence and spread of RVF in the country. This underscores the urgent need for prospective research to inform evidence-based health policymaking, strategic planning, and the development and implementation of cost-effective preventive and control measures, including diagnosis and surveillance for early detection and response. It also calls for the institutionalization of a cost-effective, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary One Health strategy for reducing the burden and risk of climate climate-sensitive and zoonotic diseases, including RVF, in the country. We recommend exploring cost-effective human and/or animal vaccination mechanisms for RVF, integrating AI-powered drones into dis-ease vectors surveillance and control, and the routine implementation of genomics-enhanced xenosurveillance to monitor changes in pathogens and vectors dynamics in order to inform poli-cymaking and guide the control interventions.
Impact of Wall Material Composition (Maltodextrin vs. Inulin vs. Nutriose) and Emulsion Preparation System (Nano- vs. Microemulsion) on Properties of Spray-Dried Linseed Oil
Authors: Ogrodowska Dorota , Konopka Iwona Zofia , Dąbrowski Grzegorz , Piłat Beata , Warechowski Józef , Dajnowiec Fabian , Tańska Małgorzata
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to compare the functional properties of linseed oil powders made of three types of wall material (OSA starch + maltodextrin, OSA starch + nutriose, and OSA starch + inulin) and two types of emulsion phases (micro- and nanoemulsion). For these independent variables, the properties of the prepared emulsions (flow curves and viscosity) and the resulting powders (encapsulation efficiency, particle size distribution, water activity, bulk and tapped density, Carr’s index, color parameters, and thermal stability) were determined. The results showed that emulsion viscosity and most powder properties were affected by the emulsion type. All emulsions demonstrated Newtonian-like behavior, with viscosity values ranging from 29.07 to 48.26 mPa·s. The addition of nutriose induced the most significant variation in this parameter, with nanoemulsification leading to a 1.6-fold increase in viscosity compared to microemulsification. The application of nanoemulsification to prepare the emulsions prior to spray-drying resulted in powders with lower surface oil content (by 78.8–88.5%), tapped density (by 1.7–14.2%), and Carr’s index (by 7.6–14.0%), as well as higher encapsulation efficiency (by 5.9–17.0%). The decreased oxidative stability (by 30.9–51.1%) of powders obtained from nanoemulsified emulsions was related to 4.7–15.9-fold lower surface oil content. Powders produced using inulin as the wall material had the smallest and most uniform particle sizes, showing minimal variation between powders derived from nano- and microemulsified emulsions.
In Situ Synthesis of Ternary Ni-Fe-Mo Nanosheet Arrays for OER in Water Electrolysis
Authors: Lu Zhi , Guo Yifan , Li Shilin , Ding Jiaqi , Ren Yingzi , Tang Kun , Wang Jiefeng , Li Chengxin , Shi Zishuo , Sun Ziqi , Meng Hongbo , Wang Guangxin
Published: January 2025

Water electrolysis is a promising path to the industrialization development of hydrogen energy. The exploitation of high-efficiency and inexpensive catalysts become important to the mass use of water decomposition. Ni-based nanomaterials have exhibited great potential for the catalysis of water splitting, which have attracted the attention of researchers around the world. Here, we prepared a novel Mo-doped NiFe-based layered double hydroxide (LDH) with a nanoarray microstructure on Ni foam. The doping amount of Mo can significantly change the microstructure of the electrocatalysis, which will further affect the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance of water splitting. This novel nanomaterial required only an overpotential of 227 mV for 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 54.8 mV/dec in 1 M KOH. Meanwhile, there was no Mo, and the NiFe-LDH needed 233 mV to attain to 10 mA cm−2. Compared to the NiFe-LDH without Mo, the NiFeMo-LDH nanosheet arrays exhibited enhanced activities with 17.1 mV/dec less Tafel in OER. The good performance of the electrocatalyst is ascribed to the special nanosheet arrays and the heterostructure of the Ni-Fe-Mo system. These features help to increase the active surface, enhancing the efficient charge transfer and the reactive activity in OER.
Recent Advances of Electrode Materials Applied in an Electrochromic Supercapacitor Device
Authors: Guo Qingfu , Sun Chao , Li Yiran , Li Kaoxue , Tai Xishi
Published: January 2025

An electrochromic supercapacitor device (ESD) is an advanced energy storage device that combines the energy storage capability of a supercapacitor with the optical modulation properties of electrochromic materials. The electrode materials used to construct an ESD need to have both rich color variations and energy storage properties. Recent advances in ESDs have focused on the preparation of novel electrochromic supercapacitor electrode materials and improving their energy storage capacity, cycling stability, and electrochromic performance. In this review, the research significance and application value of ESDs are discussed. The device structure and working principle of electrochromic devices and supercapacitors are analyzed in detail. The research progress of inorganic materials, organic materials, and inorganic/organic nanocomposite materials used for the construction of ESDs is discussed. The advantages and disadvantages of various types of materials in ESD applications are summarized. The preparation and application of ESD electrode materials in recent years are reviewed in detail. Importantly, the challenges existing in the current research and recommendations for future perspectives are suggested. This review will provide a useful reference for researchers in the field of ESD electrode material preparation and application.