Russia's aggression against Ukraine has unfolded in two phases: the onset of the Donbas war and the annexation of Crimea in 2014, and the full-scale invasion in 2022. We examined the changes in Ukrainian scholarly publishing across these disruption periods. Using Web of Science Core Collection and InCites data (1991-2024), we analyzed publication trends in Ukraine and Croatia, disciplinary composition, leading universities, city-level output in occupied territories, and international collaboration. Interrupted time series (ITS) models were specified with breakpoints at 2014 and 2022. Ukraine's output increased from 331 articles in 1991 to 12,475 in 2021, then declined by 14.6% to 10,649 in 2024, whereas Croatia's output remained comparatively stable. The segmented ITS showed significant growth before 2014, a steeper upward trend after 2014, and a decline after 2022. Croatia showed continued growth with a smaller, non-significant post-2022 slowdown. In Ukraine, the largest post-2022 declines were observed in Physical Sciences and Social Sciences, while Engineering and Technology appeared more resilient. City-level analyses in occupied territories showed an early break in 2014 in Donetsk and Luhansk, while output linked to Simferopol and Sevastopol was rapidly reclassified after 2014, with records increasingly indexed under Russia. After 2022, collaboration with Russia collapsed, whereas partnerships with Poland, Germany, and the USA expanded. Ukrainian scholarly publishing showed phase-specific shifts in output and collaboration patterns that coincided with major geopolitical disruptions.
The synthesis and phase behavior of two liquid crystalline racemates containing four aromatic rings, differing in the number of methylene groups, were reported. These materials form smectic phases, as was confirmed by dielectric spectroscopy. The mesomorphic properties of the studied racemates were compared with those of the appropriate (S) enantiomers previously synthesized. Since these materials are racemic mixtures, they were subjected to chiral separation by high-performance liquid chromatography. This research was conducted on two chiral columns based on polysaccharides. We identified optimal conditions that enable the baseline separation of these racemates, which can be scaled up for preparative purposes. Then, there is no need for repeated synthesis of chiral equivalents.
The aim of this study was to produce and characterize a magnetic biocomposite based on aspen biochar, sodium alginate, and Phaffia rhodozyma yeast biomass, as well as to evaluate its suitability for removing methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solutions. The sorbent structure was confirmed by FTIR, XRD, and SEM, demonstrating successful immobilization of biotic components in an amorphous polymer matrix. Kinetic studies demonstrated a rapid process, with dynamic equilibrium established after 180 min. Experimental data from equilibrium studies (3 h and 24 h) were analyzed using the Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich models. The theoretical maximum sorption capacity (qd) determined was 39.31 mg/g, with higher sorption values observed for 24 h confirming the contribution of intrapore diffusion and yeast biosorption activity. In temperature-effect studies, the highest process efficiency (qe = 1.43 mg/g) was observed at 25 °C, while its decrease at 35 °C indicated the exothermic nature of the phenomenon and the thermal sensitivity of the biological structure. VSM analysis revealed superparamagnetic properties of the composite (Ms = 9.3 A·m2/kg), which enabled full phase separation. Regeneration studies demonstrated that despite the high efficiency of mineral acids, the use of ethanol as an eluent allows for maintaining the structural integrity of the sorbent and its effective use in at least four cycles. The results indicate that the developed biocomposite is a promising, low-cost, and easily recoverable alternative to conventional sorbents in industrial wastewater treatment technologies.
Despite improvement in treatment, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) management remains inconsistent. To evaluate the worldwide disparities in the use of biological and targeted molecules (advanced) RA therapies, focusing on differences across continents and socioeconomic strata, and to identify factors associated with their utilisation. Cross-sectional analysis of the international COVAD-2 cohort, including demographics, socioeconomic factors, disease characteristics, patient-reported outcomes, and treatments. Primary outcomes assessed treatment distribution by continent, secondary outcomes evaluated distribution by Human Development Index (HDI), with predictors analysed using multivariable logistic regression. At the time of analysis, COVAD2 included 10,739 participants; 2007 had RA, 1997 with geographical data included in this study (mean age 50.9 years, 88.1% women). Most patients came from Europe (39.4%) and Asia (24.8%); 61.3% and 23.7% were from very high- and high-HDI countries, respectively. Overall, 29.6% of patients used advanced therapies, with the highest rate in Europe (44.0%), followed by North America and Oceania (33.9%), South America (31.1%), Asia (11.7%), and Africa (5.3%) (p < 0.001). Usage correlated strongly with HDI: 2.7% in low-HDI to 38.8% in very-high-HDI countries (Compared to very-high income, Odds Ratio for high 0.561 (95% CI 0.403;0.782), for medium 0.288 (95% CI 0.153;0.539), and for low income 0.275 (95% CI 0.034;2.199); p < 0.001). Regions with limited access relied more on glucocorticoids. Disparities across continents and HDI categories remained after adjusting for confounders(demographic characteristics, disease activity, comorbidities, and patient-reported outcomes. Marked continent- and HDI-based inequities in biologic and targeted DMARD use persist globally, demanding coordinated action from the rheumatology community to ensure equitable RA care across resource settings.
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This paper presents the results of tests on concrete modified with waste powder from the production of epoxy powder coating, planned using design of experiment's (DOE) experimental design methods. The scope of the investigation included detailed identification of the waste itself (TG/DTA, FTIR, SEM + EDS, laser diffraction), as well as evaluation of selected properties of concretes containing this waste, including compressive strength, density, and durability parameters such as frost resistance and chemical resistance. The scope of the experiment was defined by varying modifier content in the range of 4 to 11% of the cement mass and a water-cement ratio between 0.44 and 0.56. The concrete mixes obtained were characterized by good workability, fluidity, and consistency stability over time, despite the use of the modifier as an additional component in the concrete mix. No adverse effect of the waste used on the durability of the concrete was observed. Concretes modified with waste from the production of epoxy powder coating achieved a frost resistance class of F150 and showed good resistance to chemically aggressive environments (sulfates and chlorides). No products indicating adverse reactions between waste powder and reagents were found. The use of the DOE approach made it possible to determine, in the form of functional relationships, the influence of the modifier content depending on the water-cement ratio (w/c) of the concrete on its compressive strength and density. In general, a decrease in the compressive strength of concrete containing a waste powder modifier was observed, ranging from approximately 11% to 26% compared to unmodified concrete. However, the trend of decreasing compressive strength was reduced as the water-cement ratio of concrete decreased. At a water-cement ratio (w/c) of 0.443, no further decrease in compressive strength was observed. Concrete with 11% waste powder and a w/c ratio of 0.443 achieved 4.7% higher compressive strength than unmodified concrete with the same water-cement ratio. A beneficial interaction was found between a carboxylate-based plasticizer and the waste powder from the production of epoxy powder coatings. The proposed method of using waste as a concrete component is promising and may contribute to reducing the problem of waste management, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.
Supraclavicular nerves (SCNs) emerge from the cervical plexus and provide sensation to the skin over and below the clavicle. Detailed knowledge of their course and variation is especially useful in surgeries of the clavicular and neck regions. Anatomical descriptions of the SCNs remain inconsistent across studies. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based analysis of SCN anatomy, including its course, branching pattern, and surgical relevance. A systematic search was conducted across major electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science) to identify original studies reporting morphometric and branching data on SCNs. Studies that were review articles, case reports, letters to the editor, conference abstracts, or performed on animals were excluded. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Anatomical Quality Assurance (AQUA) Tool developed by the Evidence-Based Anatomy Working Group. This review was registered in the PROSPERO database, ID CRD420251005988. A total of 5 studies, encompassing 175 dissected nerves, were included in this part of the review. Most studies originated in Europe. Supraclavicular nerves are purely sensory and arise from the cervical plexus, providing sensation to the skin over the shoulder, clavicle, sternoclavicular joint, and acromioclavicular joint. They emerge as a single trunk in 95% of cases, wrapping around the sternocleidomastoid muscle before branching over or within the posterior cervical triangle into medial, intermediate, and lateral SCNs. Supraclavicular nerves cross the clavicle in a predictable pattern, with variations in location and division relevant to clinical and surgical applications. This review synthesizes data on SCN anatomy. Precise anatomical knowledge of the SCNs is essential to minimize iatrogenic injuries during neck and clavicle surgeries. However, due to variability in study methodologies and reporting quality, further high-quality anatomical studies are needed to refine surgical guidelines and enhance clinical applications.
Prestressed concrete railway sleepers are key structural components that determine the safety, durability, and serviceability of modern railway infrastructure. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the design, testing, and acceptance of prestressed concrete sleepers in accordance with EN 13230, with particular reference to the requirements applied on the Polish railway network. The analysis integrates normative provisions, analytical calculations, finite element modeling, and experimental verification, including static, dynamic, and fatigue load tests. Special attention is given to the kt coefficient, which accounts for prestress losses, fatigue degradation, and the development of concrete strength throughout the service life. This coefficient plays a critical role in the acceptance criteria for sleepers during mandatory product testing. The influence of concrete age on the variability of kt is examined, showing that the highest variability occurs within the first 180 days of curing. Full-scale laboratory tests performed on PS-94 sleepers confirm compliance with standard requirements regarding cracking loads, crack width limits, and ultimate load capacity under both exceptional and fatigue loading conditions. Numerical simulations provide additional insight into stress and displacement distributions in critical cross-sections, supporting the experimental findings. The results indicate that most of prestressing force losses occur during the early service period. This observation supports the application of age-dependent acceptance criteria, which may improve conformity assessment procedures for prestressed concrete railway sleepers in contemporary railway engineering practice.
Lightweight structures such as Schwedler domes offer high strength-to-weight ratios for large-span applications; however, their design typically involves time-consuming iterative processes. This study proposes an integrated parametric workflow combining geometry generation, structural analysis, and automated load application to improve both design efficiency and structural performance. The methodology is based on Python scripting within Grasshopper, enabling parametric control of dome geometry and direct interoperability with Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional. Three open-apex Schwedler dome configurations were analyzed as a focused demonstration of the workflow, differing in cross-sectional typology and structural layout. The results show that the use of closed sections reduces structural mass by up to 31%, while hybrid configurations achieve significantly improved member utilization, reaching 0.87 for ribs and 0.63 for rings. Importantly, the parametric workflow enabled the rapid generation and evaluation of multiple design variants, significantly reducing modeling time and eliminating inconsistencies between geometric and analytical models. The study demonstrates that parametric modeling provides an effective framework for designing efficient dome structures, enabling both material optimization and accelerated design processes. The same parametric source is also suitable for extension into BIM and fabrication environments, as well as into life-cycle assessment, which are identified as planned continuations of this research.
Despite its advantages, 3D printing may expose users to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particle emissions. Emissions from commercially available acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)- and polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PET-G)-based filaments were analyzed to evaluate differences among material formulations from multiple manufacturers. Chamber-based measurements and complementary thermal decomposition experiments were used to characterize particle number concentrations and chemical emissions. The highest particle emissions occurred during the initial warm-up and the final stages of the printing process. The ABS-based filaments tested in this study exhibited higher VOC emissions, dominated by styrene (up to 264.75 μg/m3), and particle number concentrations approximately one order of magnitude greater than those measured for the tested PET-G-based filaments. The dominant particle sizes ranged from 55 to 90 nm. PET-G-based filaments showed higher thermal stability but emitted notable concentrations of acetaldehyde (up to 70.93 μg/m3) and phthalic acid esters. Both filament types released compounds of potential health concern, including formaldehyde and reprotoxic substances such as dibutyl phthalate and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. Differences were observed among fibers made from the same polymer type, indicating the influence of formulation-specific factors. These results underscore the importance of material selection and adequate ventilation to minimize exposure during 3D printing.
Clear aligner therapy (CAT) is increasingly popular due to aesthetic and functional advantages. Recent advances allow direct 3D printing of aligners, raising questions about their cytotoxicity and biocompatibility under intraoral conditions. To review and synthesize current evidence on the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of 3D-printed and thermoformable orthodontic aligners, and to identify factors affecting cellular responses. Original research published from 2021 to 2026 evaluating the safety of orthodontic aligners; conference abstracts, editorials, and review papers were excluded. Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library; search terms "aligner" AND "biocompatibility"; last search conducted on 31 January 2026. Data on authors, publication year, material type, experimental model, cytotoxicity assessment (extraction solvent, incubation period, cell line, and cell exposure), and main results were extracted independently by two reviewers. Fourteen in vitro studies were included, seven on thermoformable aligners and seven on directly 3D-printed aligners; no clinical trials were identified. Material composition, post-processing, and oral environmental factors influenced cytotoxicity. Some materials exhibited acceptable biocompatibility, whereas others showed varying cytotoxic effects, indicating inconsistencies across studies. Directly 3D-printed and thermoformable aligners show potential for safe intraoral use, but evidence is limited to in vitro studies. Further standardized in vitro and in vivo research is needed to reliably assess cytotoxicity and ensure patient safety before widespread clinical implementation.
The two-headed brachioradialis (BR) muscle represents a rare anatomical variation. The present study aims to describe this variant and provide detailed morphometric documentation. The study was conducted during routine anatomical dissection of a formalin-fixed 92-year-old male cadaver in whom a two-headed BR muscle was identified in the right upper limb. Detailed dissection was performed, and morphometric measurements were obtained three times using a digital caliper, with mean values reported. The BR consisted of two distinct heads with separate proximal attachments on the humerus, with the upper head located more proximally than the lower head. Both heads merged into a common tendon at distances of 193.11 mm and 170.69 mm from their respective proximal attachments. The total lengths of the upper and lower heads were 297.70 mm and 276.42 mm, respectively. Each head was independently innervated by branches arising from the radial nerve before its division. This case represents a rare and comprehensively documented example of a twoheaded BR muscle. Awareness of such variations may be clinically relevant, particularly in surgical procedures, imaging interpretation, and neurovascular interventions involving the forearm.
Aim: This literature review presents the biological evaluation of light-curing 3D printing materials containing methacrylic and acrylic resin in dentistry. The sample was 42 articles published between 2008 and 2025, available on PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. The articles were analyzed following the assessment requirements of ISO 10993-2018 (Endpoint) regarding the biological evaluation of each Medical Device. The first selection criterion of the articles was based on the PRISMA schema, concerned with the application of these materials in various fields of dentistry used in 3D printing (e.g., material for crowns and bridges, night, and surgical guide, orthodontic, and denture base). The second criterion included the composition of materials (e.g., catalysts, methacrylic resins, and stabilizers) and the post-curing process. Results: The topics discussed in the literature included: (a) estrogenic interactions, sensitization, and the zebra fish model to determine acute toxicity; (b) the main post-processes affecting biocompatibility, i.e., alcohol washing and polymerization in light ovens; and (c) the modification of 3D resins using various types of nanomaterials. Conclusions: 3D resins can be used safely in dentistry to make various types of restorations, provided that the polymerization, washing with alcohol and post-polymerization in a light oven follow the manufacturer's specifications.
Chronic wounds impose a considerable clinical and economic burden, and their effective management requires objective, repeatable monitoring over time. Smartphone-based photogrammetry may enable acquisition of 3D metrics without the need for expensive dedicated scanners. This scoping review aimed to identify and organize digital methodologies applicable to wound measurement and monitoring, with particular emphasis on smartphone photogrammetry as a practical approach for routine care. A scoping review was conducted to identify digital wound measurement methodologies. The included approaches were organized according to the main pipeline stages: acquisition, reconstruction, and analysis. Reported metrics, including area, depth, volume, and tissue-assessment elements, were catalogued, and validation approaches, comparison methods, and implementation factors were summarized. In addition, a practical photogrammetry workflow with basic quality control (QC) gates is presented as pragmatic guidance informed by the reviewed literature for use during routine dressing changes. A review of the literature reveals that trend analysis, such as the percentage reduction over time appears to have high clinical relevance. Furthermore, the literature indicates that consistency and repeatability of measurement appear to be more important than single-measurement accuracy. Two-dimensional measurements can underestimate wound size on anatomically curved surfaces. In contrast, three-dimensional metrics, such as depth and volume, along with depth maps, may provide a more informative description of deep wounds. In deeper wounds, reductions in depth or volume (Z-axis changes) may precede visible reductions in the two-dimensional outline. The quality of the results appears to be strongly influenced by the acquisition conditions, such as angle, lighting, stability, and marker. The comparability of volumes is limited by the lack of clear definitions of the reference surface and inconsistent reporting of agreement and error metrics. Smartphone photogrammetry is an attractive implementation solution for clinics and telemedicine; however, its efficacy is contingent upon the standardization of acquisition, the integration of simple QC gates, and the establishment of transparent definitions of 3D metrics and compliance reporting. These measures may enhance comparability, facilitating reliable assessments between visits and centers.
The Zircaloy-4 alloy is a key structural material for nuclear reactor cores. However, its behavior under warm deformation conditions and during phase transformations requires in-depth investigation to improve technologies for producing ultrafine-grained (UFG) structures using severe plastic deformation methods. This work presents a comprehensive study of the rheological properties, phase stability, and microstructural evolution of the alloy in the temperature range from 20 to 950 °C at strain rates of 0.5 and 15 s-1. The experimental part included plastometric testing, dilatometric analysis, and microstructural characterization. It was established that the optimal window for plastic deformation corresponds to warm deformation at 650 °C. Dilatometric analysis confirmed that heating to 650 °C ensures the preservation of a stable initial α-phase structure, since the formation of secondary phases and the α→β transformation are initiated at higher temperatures, namely 694 °C (onset) and 847 °C (completion). At 650 °C, the deformation resistance decreases by approximately 70% compared to cold processing, while the strain-rate sensitivity of the flow stress is minimized. EBSD analysis showed that deformation under these conditions leads to intensive grain fragmentation via mechanisms of dynamic recovery and the initial stages of continuous dynamic recrystallization. The decisive role of the kinetic factor was demonstrated: reducing the strain rate to 0.5 s-1 promotes the formation of a finer and more homogeneous grain structure. In contrast, high strain-rate deformation (15 s-1) results in coarser grains and increased non-relaxed intragranular residual stresses. The obtained results provide a physical basis for optimizing thermomechanical processing regimes and can be used to produce UFG structures in zirconium alloys without the risk of phase degradation.
The gonadal arteries are highly variable vascular structures responsible for supplying blood to the testes and ovaries. Although a standard description of these vessels is typically given in medical texts, variations in number, origin, and course are well documented. Here, we review the literature, report an unusual origin and course of a right gonadal artery (RGA), and discuss these findings in the context of embryological hypotheses of RGA course in relation to inferior vena cava (IVC) development. During routine dissection of an 80-year-old female donor, the RGA was found to originate from the cranial aspect of the right renal artery posterior to the left renal vein. From this position it emerged inferior to the left renal vein and coursed anterior to the IVC where it began to course with the left gonadal vein. The left gonadal artery presented with the typical origin and course. To our knowledge, this case provides the third reported instance in the literature of an RGA originating at the level of or above the left renal vein and passing anterior to the IVC.
In this study, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis is used to reveal the real microstructure of C75S steel and to compare grain morphology and deformation features with numerical predictions. A micro-scale finite element model of C75S steel is developed to investigate its tensile response in order to understand how steel actually deforms and fails at the microstructure level. Subsequently, the validated microstructural model is employed to simulate the cutting process using the finite element method, focusing on stress concentration and damage initiation at the grain and interface zones. The results demonstrate that microstructural modelling provides improved insight into deformation and fracture mechanisms compared to homogenised approaches, highlighting the critical role of cementite distribution and interfacial behaviour during tensile loading and micro-scale cutting. The cementite particle sizes in C75S steel range from approximately 0.5 to 2.0 µm, with circularity values between 0.7 and 0.95 and a volume fraction of about 10-12%. The proposed framework offers a robust basis for predicting the cutting performance of high-carbon steels.
High-entropy alloys (HEAs) are typically produced using high-temperature metallurgical routes; however, alternative synthesis approaches based on wet-chemical processing remain relatively unexplored. In this study, a compositionally complex two-phase AgCuCoNiFe high-entropy alloy was synthesized using a precipitation-reduction strategy involving co-precipitation of mixed metal carbonates followed by thermal reduction in a reducing atmosphere. The objective of the work was to evaluate the feasibility of this hydrometallurgical route for preparing compositionally complex alloys and to investigate the structural evolution of the material as a function of reduction time. Quantitative MP-AES analysis confirmed efficient co-precipitation of all five elements, enabling the preparation of a precursor with near-equimolar metal composition. Structural characterization using SEM, EDS, and XRD revealed the presence of surface compositional heterogeneity in the as-reduced state, characterized by Ag-enriched domains. After controlled surface abrasion, the internal material exhibited significantly more uniform elemental distribution, although the obtained composition was not equimolar. X-ray diffraction patterns showed a transition from multiple sharp reflections at the surface to broadened peaks in the bulk, consistent with enhanced alloying within the bulk compared to the surface, while still revealing a two-phase character. Microhardness measurements indicated moderate hardness with mean values in the range of 187-221 HV with no significant dependence on reduction time, while wettability analysis revealed moderately hydrophilic behavior with contact angles in the range of approximately 75-83°. The results suggest that precipitation-reduction can be a viable alternative route for the synthesis of multicomponent HEAs, enabling the formation of chemically mixed alloy structures without the use of conventional melting-based processing. However, the obtained alloy exhibits incomplete chemical homogeneity, indicating that further optimization of the synthesis conditions is required to achieve a fully uniform composition.
This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on materials and manufacturing technologies for customized dental implants, highlighting their comparative advantages and limitations. A structured literature search (December 2024-January 2025) was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed English-language articles (mainly 2015-2025) addressing implant materials, manufacturing methods, and surface modifications were included. Data were critically analyzed and thematically organized without meta-analysis. Digital workflows are advancing implantology toward patient-specific solutions. Subtractive manufacturing (SM) ensures high precision and surface quality but is limited by material waste and geometric constraints. In contrast, additive manufacturing (AM) enables complex, porous, and customized designs, though often requires post-processing. Titanium and its alloys remain the gold standard due to strength and biocompatibility, while TiZr and β-type alloys may reduce stress shielding. Zirconia offers aesthetic benefits but is brittle, whereas PEEK shows favorable elasticity but limited bioactivity. Surface modifications enhance osseointegration and long-term performance. Combining digital workflows with SM and AM supports development of optimized, patient-specific implants. While titanium dominates clinical use, emerging materials offer specific advantages. Further clinical validation and standardization are required.
Cellular senescence, a state where cells permanently exit the cycle but remain metabolically active, plays a role in cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart failure (HF). Senescent cells accumulate in aging and stressed heart tissue, releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes that affect endothelial cells. This ongoing inflammation exacerbates cardiac damage, induces endothelial dysfunction, and triggers secondary senescence across various cardiac cell types. Senescent cardiomyocytes contribute to reduced systolic function by causing mitochondrial damage, impaired contractility, and metabolic dysfunction, leading to lower cardiac output and symptoms such as fatigue and exercise intolerance in HF patients. Additionally, inflammation from senescent endothelial cells and loss of microvasculature impair coronary blood flow and oxygen delivery, worsening symptoms such as shortness of breath, angina-like discomfort, and fluid retention by disrupting cardiac energy metabolism and increasing filling pressures. A key factor linking cellular senescence with HF is sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a histone deacetylase with antioxidant activity. SIRT1 acts as a hormetic regulator in the heart, being beneficial within a narrow range but potentially harmful when overstimulated. As drugs targeting senescence are emerging to treat CVD, it is important to evaluate how SIRT1 may influence the connection between senescence and HF to improve anti-senescent therapies. In this narrative/perspective review, we explore the molecular mechanisms underlying senescence in HF development and how SIRT1 might modulate these processes for therapeutic benefit.